bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of NO Production by Grindelia argentina and Isolation of Three New Cytotoxic Saponins
Authors: Alza Natalia P. , Pferschy‐Wenzig Eva‐Maria , Ortmann Sabine , Kretschmer Nadine , Kunert Olaf , Rechberger Gerald N. , Bauer Rudolf , Murray Ana P.
Published: February 2014

A bioassay‐guided phytochemical analysis of the ethanolic extract of Grindelia argentina Deble & Oliveira‐Deble (Asteraceae) allowed the isolation of a known flavone, hispidulin, and three new oleanane‐type saponins, 3‐O‐β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→3)‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐2β,3β,16α,23‐tetrahydroxyolean‐12‐en‐28‐oic acid 28‐O‐β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐β‐D‐apiofuranosyl‐(1→3)‐β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→3)‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐α‐L‐arabinopyranosyl ester (2), 3‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐2β,3β,23‐trihydroxyolean‐12‐en‐28‐oic acid 28‐O‐β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐β‐D‐apiofuranosyl‐(1→3)‐β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→3)‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐α‐L‐arabinopyranosyl ester, (3) and 3‐O‐β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→3)‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐2β,3β,23‐trihydroxyolean‐12‐en‐28‐oic acid 28‐O‐β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐β‐D‐apiofuranosyl‐(1→3)‐β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→3)‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐α‐L‐arabinopyranosyl ester (4), named grindeliosides A–C, respectively. Their structures were determined by extensive 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR experiments along with mass spectrometry and chemical evidence. The isolated compounds were evaluated for their inhibitory activities against LPS/IFN‐γ‐induced NO production in RAW 264.7 macrophages and for their cytotoxic activities against the human leukemic cell line CCRF‐CEM and MRC‐5 lung fibroblasts. Hispidulin markedly reduced LPS/IFN‐γ‐induced NO production (IC50 51.4 μM), while grindeliosides A–C were found to be cytotoxic, with grindelioside C being the most active against both CCRF‐CEM (IC50 4.2±0.1 μM) and MRC‐5 (IC50 4.5±0.1 μM) cell lines.
Design, Synthesis, Lipophilic Properties, and Binding Affinities of Potential Ligands in Positron Emission Tomography (PET) for Visualization of Brain Dopamine D4 Receptors
Authors: Lacivita Enza , De Giorgio Paola , Colabufo Nicola A. , Berardi Francesco , Perrone Roberto , Niso Mauro , Leopoldo Marcello
Published: February 2014

We report the synthesis of compounds structurally related to the high‐affinity dopamine D4 receptor ligand N‐{2‐[4‐(3‐cyanopyridin‐2‐yl)piperazin‐1‐yl]ethyl}‐3‐methoxybenzamide (1e). All compounds were specifically designed as potential PET radioligands for brain D4 receptor visualization, having lipophilicity within a range for brain uptake and weak non‐specific binding (0.75<cLogP<3.15) and bearing a substituent for easy access to labeling with the positron emitter isotope 11C or 18F. The best compound of the series, N‐{2‐[4‐(4‐chlorophenyl)piperazin‐1‐yl]ethyl}‐6‐fluoropyridine‐3‐carboxamide (7a), displayed excellent selectivity over D2 and D3 receptors (>100‐fold), but its D4 receptor affinity was suboptimal for imaging of brain D4 receptors (Ki=30 nM).
Bark Essential Oil of Cedrelopsis grevei from Madagascar: Investigation of Steam‐Distillation Conditions
Authors: Rakotobe Miarantsoa , Menut Chantal , Andrianoelisoa Hanitriniaina Sahondra , Rahajanirina Voninavoko , Tsy Jean Michel Leong Pock , Rakotoarimanana Vonjison , Ramavovololona Perle , Danthu Pascal
Published: February 2014

The effect of the distillation time on the yield and chemical composition of the bark essential oil of Cedrelopsis grevei Baill. was investigated. Distillation kinetics were determined for three batches of bark sampled from two sites, i.e., Itampolo (batches IT1 and IT2) and Salary (SAL), located in a region in the south of Madagascar with characteristically large populations of C. grevei. The bark samples were subjected to steam distillation, and the essential oil was collected at 3‐h intervals. The total yield (calculated after 14 h of distillation) varied from 0.9 to 1.7%, according to the batch tested. Moreover, the essential oils obtained were characterized by GC‐FID and GC/MS analyses. During the course of the distillation, the relative percentages of the most volatile components (monoterpenes and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons) diminished progressively, whereas the least volatile ones (oxygenated derivatives) increased at a consistent rate. Principal component analysis (PCA) and agglomerative hierarchical clustering analysis (AHC) of the results, performed on 13 principal components, allowed distinguishing three chemical groups, corresponding to the three batches, irrespective of the distillation time. This indicated that the chemical variability currently observed with commercial samples is not mainly linked to the experimental conditions of the extraction process, as the distillation time did not significantly alter the chemical composition of the essential oils.
Small CyclenImidazolium‐Containing Molecules and Their Interactions with DNA
Authors: Zhang Yang , Li Chun‐Yan , Zhang Ji , Yi Wen‐Jing , Yu Xiao‐Qi
Published: February 2014

Three small organic molecules containing different numbers of cyclen and imidazolium units were synthesized. Their interactions with plasmid DNA and their potential for gene delivery vectors were investigated. Agarose gel retardation and ethidium bromide exclusion assays revealed that these molecules can effectively condense DNA, and compounds with higher molecular weights are needed to lower w/w ratio for full condensation. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) indicated that these compounds may form nanosized spherical particles with DNA. Furthermore, the complex formed from 10, i.e., 10/DNA, can partially release DNA from compact state at a relatively higher concentration of NaCl (200 mM). In the presence of the lipid 1,2‐dioleoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphoethanolamine (DOPE), 10 could transfer plasmid DNA into BEL‐7402 cells. In addition, these compounds exhibited much lower cytotoxicity than PEI 25 kDa.
Comprehensive Study of the Phenolics and Saponins from Helleborus niger L. Leaves and Stems by Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Duckstein Sarina M. , Stintzing Florian C.
Published: February 2014

The aerial parts of the medicinal plant Helleborus niger L. comprise a substantial number of constituents with only few of them identified so far. To expand the knowledge of its secondary metabolite profile, extracts from H. niger leaves and stems were investigated by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MSn). Specific identification strategies using LC/MS are established and discussed in detail. The leaves turned out to contain acylated and non‐acylated quercetin and kaempferol oligoglycosides, protoanemonin and its precursor ranunculin, β‐ecdysone, and a variety of steroidal saponins, mainly in the furostanol form. The sapogenins were elucidated as of sarsasapogenyl, diosgenyl, and macranthogenyl structures, and confirmed by comparison with the respective reference compounds. The secondary metabolite profiles were almost identical in both plant parts except that the stems lacked kaempferol derivatives and some saponins. The ranunculin derivatives and β‐ecdysone were found in both plant parts. Correlations between the location of the compound groups and the plant's defense strategies are proposed. Additionally, the role of the detected secondary metabolites as protective substances against exogenic stress and as a defense against herbivores is discussed.
Fishing for Accessory Binding Sites at GPCRs with ‘Loop‐Hooks’ – An Approach towards Selectivity? Part I
Authors: Tröger Thomas , Langenberg Maximilian , Zhong Sicheng , Ambrosini Dario , Enzensperger Christoph
Published: February 2014

Receptor‐subtype selectivity is an important issue in medicinal chemistry and can become very difficult to achieve if the actual binding pockets of the respective receptors are highly conserved. For such cases, known unselective ligands could be equipped with a spacer that sticks outside the actual orthosteric binding pocket towards the extracellular loops. The end of the spacer bears certain functional groups to enable specific or unspecific interactions with the receptor residues outside the binding cavity. Our experiments indicated that it is possible to achieve selectivity within the dopamine D1 family with such ‘loop‐hooks’.
Interatrial pressure gradients during simulated obstructive sleep apnea: A catheter‐based study
Authors: Konecny Tomas , Khanna Amber D. , Novak Jan , Jama Abdi A. , Zawadowski George M. , Orban Marek , Pressman Gregg , Bukartyk Jan , Kara Tomas , Cetta Frank , Borlaug Barry A. , Somers Virend K. , Reeder Guy S.
Published: February 2014

Objectives

We set to measure the interatrial pressure gradient during simulated obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Background

OSA occurs when a sleeping patient attempts to inhale against an obstructed airway. How this event affects the interatrial pressure gradient has not been defined. We hypothesized that simulated OSA in a conscious subject (Mueller maneuver [MM], inspiration against obstruction) would promote increased right‐to‐left pressure gradient, and then the substrate for right‐to‐left atrial shunting.

Methods

Selected patients underwent simultaneous measurement of airway and atrial pressures (both left and right atrium [LA, RA]) using high‐fidelity micromanometry at rest, during MM, and during VM, during right heart catheterization.

Results

Ten patients (age 55 ± 11 years, two women) were successfully studied. During the onset of MM, RA pressure transiently but consistently exceeded LA pressure in response to the steep decline in intrathoracic pressure (maximum RA‐LA pressure gradient increased from 0.1 ± 1.4 mm Hg at baseline to 7.0 ± 4.3 mm Hg during MM, P < 0.001). The maximum right‐to‐left atrial pressure gradient during Mueller maneuver was higher than that achieved during the Valsalva maneuver release (P < 0.007).

Conclusions

The onset of MM increased right‐to‐left pressure gradient across the atrial septum, likely as a result of greater blood return to the RA from extrathoracic veins. The RA‐LA pressure gradient achieved during MM was greater than that observed during VM. These findings delineate the hemodynamic substrate for right to left shunting during OSA. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Classification and unscrambling a class‐inside‐class situation by object target rotation: Hungarian silver coins of the Árpád Dynasty, ad 997–1301
Authors: Christie Olav H. J. , Rácz Anita , Elek János , Héberger Károly
Published: February 2014

Classification is an important part of chemometrics and mostly based on optimization by vector rotations. The present study is a continuation of the classification of medieval Hungarian silver coins including the 16 kings of the Hungarian Árpád Dynasty (ad 997–1301) (Rácz et al.: Heritage Science 2013 1:2). The Rácz et al. paper identified three historical periods of the Árpád Dynasty from chemical data. The aim of the present study is to test whether the classification could be further refined by marker object projection‐aided classification. It offers an example of the efficiency of this method in unscrambling a class‐inside‐class situation.The frequency distribution of concentrations of the coins is skewed and to a certain extent bimodal, and the arithmetic mean value and standard deviation around the mean frequently used in parametric methods may be poor descriptors of the information carried by the data. We test a combination of principal component decomposition and the nonparametric, noniterative object target rotation method to overcome some of the theoretical limitations of parametric methods. This test includes identification of archetypical class “Ambassadors” of each of the three historical periods of the Árpád Dynasty and shows a class‐inside‐class situation. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of texture on color variation in inkjet‐printed woven textiles
Authors: Bae Ji Hyun , Hong Kyung Hwa , Lamar Traci May
Published: February 2014

Inkjet‐printed textiles are influenced by a wide range of parameters due to highly diverse textile structures and the resulting textures. The goal of this study is to understand the effect of texture on color appearance in inkjet‐printed woven textiles. Cotton‐woven samples were constructed with nine different weave structures. Each sample was digitally printed with identical squares of primary colors cyan, magenta, and yellow and secondary colors red, green, and blue. The amount of ink applied was controlled consistently with an image editing software. CIE L* values were calculated from the measured reflectance. 25 observers ranked the perceived texture and color lightness of each sample. Perceived visual texture and perceived color lightness scales were estimated from the rankings using the rank order method. The measured CIE L* values and the scale of perceived lightness were positively related for the primary and secondary colors. Instrumental measurements of the textile surface characteristics were positively related to the visual scale. Texture was demonstrated to cause a measurable effect on color results in inkjet printing, both using instrumental and perceptual measures. To investigate if the color differences were substantial enough to cause “out of tolerance” ratings in textiles based on common textile industry color acceptance procedures, color differences among the samples were calculated and compared to a reference sample. Results demonstrated that color variation due to texture was sufficient to lead to rejection of a printed color in comparison to a color specification. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 40, 297–303, 2015
Genetic and environmental influences on testosterone in adolescents: Evidence for sex differences
Authors: Harden K. Paige , Kretsch Natalie , Tackett Jennifer L. , Tucker‐Drob Elliot M.
Published: February 2014

The current study investigated genetic and environmental influences on salivary testosterone during adolescence, using data from 49 pairs of monozygotic twins and 68 pairs of dizygotic twins, ages 14–19 years (M = 16.0 years). Analyses tested for sex differences in genetic and environmental influences on testosterone and its relation to pubertal development. Among adolescent males, individual differences in testosterone were heritable (55%) and significantly associated with self‐reported pubertal status (controlling for age) via common genetic influences. In contrast, there was minimal heritable variation in testosterone for females, and testosterone in females was not significantly associated with pubertal status after controlling for age. Rather, environmental influences shared by twins raised together accounted for nearly all of the familial similarity in female testosterone. This study adds to a small but growing body of research that investigates genetic influences on individual differences in behaviorally relevant hormones. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 56: 1278–1289, 2014.
Habitat type and ambient temperature contribute to bill morphology
Authors: Luther David , Greenberg Russell
Published: February 2014

Avian bills are iconic structures for the study of ecology and evolution, with hypotheses about the morphological structure of bills dating back to Darwin. Several ecological and physiological hypotheses have been developed to explain the evolution of the morphology of bill shape. Here, we test some of these hypotheses such as the role of habitat, ambient temperature, body size, intraspecific competition, and ecological release on the evolution of bill morphology. Bill morphology and tarsus length were measured from museum specimens of yellow warblers, and grouped by habitat type, sex, and subspecies. We calculated the mean maximum daily temperature for the month of July, the hottest month for breeding specimens at each collecting location. Analysis of covariance models predicted total bill surface area as a function of sex, habitat type, body size, and temperature, and model selection techniques were used to select the best model. Habitat, mangrove forests compared with inland habitats, and climate had the largest effects on bill size. Coastal wetland habitats and island populations of yellow warblers had similar bill morphology, both of which are larger than mainland inland populations. Temperate but not tropical subspecies exhibited sexual dimorphism in bill morphology. Overall, this study provides evidence that multiple environmental factors, such as temperature and habitat, contribute to the evolution of bill morphology.
Identifying conservation priorities for aquatic refugia in an arid zone, ephemeral catchment: a hydrological approach
Authors: Costelloe Justin F. , Russell Kathryn L.
Published: February 2014

The conservation priorities for protecting aquatic habitat of arid zone rivers requires an understanding of the drivers of distribution, characteristics and persistence of aquatic refugia in ephemeral to intermittent arid zone rivers. We describe and analyse the aquatic refugia that persist during drought periods in a large, arid, ephemeral river, the Neales River of central Australia, concentrating on refugia for fish and the hydrological processes that influence their location, characteristics and persistence. Field data were collected on flow events, water‐level fluctuations in waterbodies during periods of no flow, waterbody dimensions and salinity. Modelling of open‐water evaporation rates, analysis of salinity changes and frequency of flow events were used to investigate the main processes determining the persistence of waterbodies. The catchment contained both fluvial waterholes and artesian springs providing aquatic refugia. In addition, anthropogenic refugia, in the form of small dams situated on the floodplain and uncontrolled flow from artesian bores, also provided potential refuge. The catchment only contained one waterhole that had a cease‐to‐flow depth sufficient to persist over a no‐flow period of 24 months, but this would also dry within 24–30 months. The capacity of the artesian springs to act as refugia is limited by their shallow depths and limited connectivity with the main river system. These data illustrate the vulnerability of the fluvial ecology of ephemeral, arid zone rivers to long‐term droughts and water resource use and assist in identifying specific refugia that require conservation management. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
[(1,3‐Bis{2,6‐bis(diphenylmethyl)‐4‐methylphenyl}imidazole‐2‐ylidene)PdCl2(NEt3)]: “Throwing Away” a Different Ancillary Ligand to Enhance the Catalytic Activity at Room Temperature
Authors: Guest Daniel , Chen Ming‐Tsz , Tizzard Graham J. , Coles Simon J. , Turner Michael Lewis , Navarro Oscar
Published: February 2014

A considerable effort in ligand design for catalysis in recent years has led to remarkable achievements in cross‐coupling reactions. In this work, we show that a careful selection of the ancillary ligands that complete the catalyst/precatalyst can provide an extra level of performance. Low loadings of [(IPr*)PdCl2(TEA)] {IPr* = 1,3‐bis[2,6‐bis(diphenylmethyl)‐4‐methylphenyl]imidazole‐2‐ylidene, TEA = triethylamine} catalyze the Buchwald–Hartwig amination reactions of aryl chlorides at room temperature in excellent yields, without the need for an inert atmosphere to set up or perform the reactions.
Copper‐Catalyzed Domino Homologation and Cycloisomerization Reactions for 3‐Pyrroline Synthesis
Authors: Shin Ye Ho , Maheswara Muchchintala , Hwang Joon Young , Kang Eun Joo
Published: February 2014

Copper bromide was found to be an efficient catalyst for a domino reaction sequence leading to 3‐pyrrolines. The Cu(I)‐catalyzed Crabbé reaction of propargyl sulfonamide and selective cycloisomerization of the allene intermediate were carried out using microwave irradiation conditions affording a wide range of 2‐substituted‐ and 2,5‐disubstituted‐3‐pyrrolines. Mechanistic studies of the reaction intermediates revealed two possible reaction pathways; both invoke the importance of vinyl copper intermediates.
Three‐Component Synthesis of α‐Amino‐α‐aryl Carbonitriles from Arynes, Aroyl Cyanides, and N,N‐Dimethylformamide
Authors: Zhou Chao , Wang Jing , Jin Jisong , Lu Ping , Wang Yanguang
Published: February 2014

A general and efficient synthesis of α‐amino‐α‐aryl carbonitriles through the three‐component reaction of arynes, aroyl cyanides, and DMF in a single step is described. DMF was not only used as the solvent, but it also participated in the reaction as a component. Used as the cyanide sources, the aroyl cyanides solved the toxicity and solubility problems associated with the use of HCN or metal cyanides in the Strecker synthesis. This procedure furnished α‐amino‐α‐aryl carbonitriles in moderate to good yields with broad substrate scope. Moreover, this reaction could be performed under mild conditions with high atom economy.
Impact of Compression on Effective Thermal Conductivity and Diffusion Coefficient of Woven Gas Diffusion Layers in Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells
Authors: Zhang X.‐M. , Zhang X.‐X.
Published: February 2014

The contrasting effect of compression on the ability of gas diffusion layer (GDL) in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell to conduct fluid, heat and electron implies that there is an optimal clamping force for cell performance. For a given GDL, understanding its associated optimal compression needs to know how its conductive ability changes with compressive pressure. In this paper we investigated the impact of compression on the effective diffusion coefficient and thermal conductivity of a carbon‐cloth GDL. The interior microstructures of the GDL under different compressions were acquired using X‐ray tomography; microscopic models were then developed to simulate gas diffusion and heat transfer in the microstructures in both in‐plane and through‐plane directions. The effective diffusion coefficient and thermal conductivity were calculated by volumetrically averaging the simulated gas diffusive and thermal flux rates at micron scale. The results show that both effective diffusion coefficient and thermal conductivity were anisotropic and their values in the in‐plane direction were higher than in the through‐plane direction. With porosity decreasing under the compression, the effective diffusion coefficient decreased faster in the through‐plane direction than in the in‐plane direction; the formula derived by Nam and Kaviany was capable of describing the change of the effective diffusion coefficient with porosity in the in‐plane direction but not in the through‐plane direction. For heat transfer, as the porosity decreased, the thermal conductivity increased faster in the through‐plane direction than in the in‐plane direction, and the increase in both directions could fit to the formula of Das et al.
Reinforcement of Highly Proton Conducting Multi‐Block Copolymers by Online Crosslinking
Authors: Titvinidze G. , Wohlfarth A. , Kreuer K.‐D. , Schuster M. , Meyer W. H.
Published: February 2014

Multi‐block copolymers with sulfonated polysulfones as hydrophilic blocks and polyethersulfones as hydrophobic blocks have been modified by two methods: covalent and ionic crosslinking. Both methods can easily be integrated into a membrane casting process and improve the membrane properties considerably: water uptake or swelling is decreased and the mechanical stability of the membranes is strongly increased, not only in terms of higher moduli but especially with respect to much higher fracture toughness. The phase‐separated morphology is not severely affected by crosslinking so that the advantageous properties of such membranes are retained. Covalent crosslinking is preferred since it does not sacrifice proton conductivity at all.
Real time process controlling for EPB shields / Echtzeit‐Prozesscontrolling bei Erddruckschilden
Authors: Maidl Ulrich , Stascheit Janosch
Published: February 2014

The contribution gives an overview of the state‐of‐the‐art of process controlling in mechanised tunnelling. A web‐based and ubiquitous integrated database forms the backbone of PROCON II, a software for the analysis of machine data, project specifications, shift reports and geodetic information stored in a temporally and spatially correlated data structure. The software helps to build a knowledge base that is fed by experience from the present as well as all previous projects and that helps optimising safety, efficiency and performance of a mechanised tunnelling project. Along with a brief summary of the program features of PROCON II, this contribution gives three examples of how the software can be employed to gain insight into the key mechanisms of Earth Pressure Balanced (EPB) shield tunnelling and how it can help to improve the tunnelling performance.

Der Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über den Stand der Technik des Prozesscontrolling im maschinellen Tunnelbau. Eine webbasierte und überall verfügbare integrierte Datenbank bildet das Rückgrat von PROCON II, einer Software, welche die Analyse von Maschinendaten mit Projektspezifikationen, Schichtprotokollen und geodätischen Informationen in einer räumlich und zeitlich korrelierten Datenstruktur verknüpft. Die Software unterstützt dabei den Aufbau einer Wissensbasis, die auf Erfahrungen aus dem laufenden sowie aus vorangegangenen Projekten beruht, und dabei hilft, die Sicherheit, Effizienz und Leistungsfähigkeit eines maschinellen Tunnelvortriebs zu optimieren. Neben einer kurzen Übersicht über die Programmfeatures von PROCON II beinhaltet dieser Beitrag drei Beispiele, wie die Software eingesetzt werden kann, um am Beispiel eines Erddruckschildvortriebs Einblicke in Schlüsselmechanismen zu erhalten, und wie sie dadurch helfen kann, die Vortriebsleistung zu verbessern.
Synthesis of a New Library of Pyrano‐phenazine Derivatives via a Novel Three‐Component Protocol
Authors: Shaabani Ahmad , Ghadari Rahim , Arabieh Masoud
Published: February 2014

The pyrano‐phenazine derivatives 6 were synthesized by an efficient procedure using the reaction between benzo[a]phenacin‐5‐ols with the condensation product of an aldehyde with Meldrum's acid in the presence of a catalytic amount of Et3N at ambient temperature. The procedure is very simple, and products could be separated from the reaction media by simple filtration. High functional‐group tolerance both in the benzo[a]phenazin‐5‐ol and aldehyde moieties, facile reaction procedure, medium‐to‐high yields, and simple separation of the products from the reaction media are the advantages of this route.
Two New Phenolic Compounds from Artemisia iwayomogi
Authors: Yan Xi‐Tao , Ding Yan , Li Wei , Sun Ya‐Nan , Yang Seo‐Young , Koh Young‐Sang , Kim Young‐Ho
Published: February 2014

Two new phenolic compounds, (Z)‐5′‐hydroxyjasmone 5′‐O‐{6″‐O‐[(E)‐caffeoyl]‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside} (1) and quercetin‐7‐O‐β‐D‐glucuronide methyl ester (2), along with ten known phenolic compounds, 3–12, were isolated from the aerial parts of Artemisia iwayomogi. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods, including 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR, and HR‐ESI‐TOF‐MS techniques. The inhibitory effects of compounds 1–12 on the LPS‐stimulated production of IL‐12 p40, IL‐6, and TNF‐α in bone marrow‐derived dendritic cells were evaluated.
First Synthesis of Azachlorins and Azacorrins with a N‐Atom in β‐Pyrrolic Positions
Authors: Vu Nghiem Hai , Damke Jan‐Erik , Borrmann Tobias , Latos‐Grażyński Lechosław , Montforts Franz‐Peter
Published: February 2014

Azachlorins 7 and 11, and azahexadehydrocorrin rac‐10 are novel structural types of tetrapyrrolic macrocycles. Synthesis of the target structures bearing N‐atoms in the β‐periphery of the macrotetracycles could be achieved by attaching an imidazole moiety 4 to the tricyclic Ni complex rac‐5, followed by cyclization. Depending on the central metal ion of the bilin intermediates rac‐6a and rac‐6b, chlorin‐ or corrin‐type structures were formed by cyclization.
RNA Cleavage Catalyzed by Amphoteric Bis(acyl)guanidinium Derivatives
Authors: Göbel Michael W. , Roussev Christo D. , Scheffer Ute
Published: February 2014

Described herein are two series (twelve compounds each) of very closely related guanidinium‐based receptors and their ability to catalyze hydrolytic cleavage of a unique RNA substrate – oligo‐dT flanked trans‐Activation Responsive region of the HIV‐1 mRNA, TAR RNA. The significant difference in activities of otherwise very similar compounds is discussed, and direct and indirect evidences supporting our interpretation are presented. The results indicate that improvements in catalytic efficiency could be achieved with little modification of the structure of a relatively weak catalyst, and that a crucial feature could be a finely calibrated interplay between anion‐binding and proton‐donating abilities.
Infectious, autoimmune and allergic diseases and risk of Hodgkin lymphoma in children and adolescents: A Children's Oncology Group study
Authors: Linabery Amy M. , Erhardt Erik B. , Fonstad Rachel K. , Ambinder Richard F. , Bunin Greta R. , Ross Julie A. , Spector Logan G. , Grufferman Seymour
Published: February 2014

An infectious origin for pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) has long been suspected and Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) has been implicated in a subset of cases. Increased HL incidence in children with congenital and acquired immunodeficiencies, consistent associations between autoimmune diseases and adult HL and genome‐wide association and other genetic studies together suggest immune dysregulation is involved in lymphomagenesis. Here, healthy control children identified by random digit dialing were matched on sex, race/ethnicity and age to HL diagnosed in 1989–2003 at 0–14 years at Children's Oncology Group institutions. Parents of 517 cases and 784 controls completed telephone interviews, including items regarding medical histories. Tumor EBV status was determined for 355 cases. Using conditional logistic regression, we calculated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for risk of HL. Cases were more likely to have had an infection >1 year prior to HL diagnosis (OR = 1.69, 95% CI: 0.98–2.91); case siblings were also more likely to have had a prior infection (OR = 2.04, 95% CI: 1.01–4.14). Parental history of autoimmunity associated with increased EBV+ HL risk (OR = 2.97, 95% CI: 1.34–6.58), while having a parent (OR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.01–2.14) or sibling (OR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.11–2.36) with an allergy was associated with EBV − HL. These results may indicate true increased risk for infections and increased risk with family history of autoimmune and allergic conditions that varies by tumor EBV status, or they may be attributable to inaccurate recall. In addition to employing biomarkers to confirm the role of immune‐modulating conditions in pediatric HL, future studies should focus on family based designs.
Association of serum sodium with morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients undergoing major orthopedic surgery
Authors: Mc Causland Finnian R. , Wright John , Waikar Sushrut S.
Published: February 2014

BACKGROUND

Dysnatremia may predispose to falls and fractures, and serum sodium may influence bone health. Little is known of the association of perioperative dysnatremia and clinical outcomes in those undergoing major orthopedic surgery.

OBJECTIVE

We examined the association of serum sodium (corrected for glucose) with morbidity and mortality in a sample of hospitalized patients undergoing major orthopedic procedures at 2 large academic medical centers.

DESIGN

Retrospective observational study.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Adult patients admitted to major academic teaching hospitals for a major orthopedic procedure from January 2006 to January 2011.

METHODS

The association of serum sodium with log‐transformed hospital length of stay was assessed by fitting linear regression models. The association with 30‐day mortality was assessed by fitting Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

There were 16,206 unique admissions, of which 44.8% were male, with a mean age of 62.5 years. Mean corrected serum sodium was 138.5 ± 2.9 mmol/L; 1.2% had moderate/severe hyponatremia, 6.4% had mild hyponatremia, and 2.5% were hypernatremic. In adjusted models, compared with normonatremia, moderate/severe hyponatremia, mild hyponatremia, and hypernatremia were associated with a 1.6‐, 1.4‐, and 1.4‐day‐longer hospital stay, respectively, and greater risk of 30‐day mortality (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.47, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.33‐4.59 for moderate/severe hyponatremia; HR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.21‐2.66 for mild hyponatremia; and HR: 2.99, 95% CI: 1.79‐4.98 for hypernatremia).

CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE

Dysnatremia is relatively common in the hospitalized orthopedic population and associated with greater length of stay and 30‐day mortality. Future studies should address potential mechanisms underlying these associations and whether correction of perioperative dysnatremia may improve patient outcomes. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2014;9:297–302. © 2014 Society of Hospital Medicine
Influence of systemic bisphosphonate treatment on mechanical properties of BMP‐induced calluses in a rat fracture model: Comparison of three‐point bending and twisting test
Authors: Bosemark Per , Isaksson Hanna , Tägil Magnus
Published: February 2014

The combination of autograft, BMP and bisphosphonate has been shown to produce strong calluses. In this study, without autograft we investigate the effect of bisphosphonate treatment on BMP‐induced calluses, both in bending and in rotation. Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 42) underwent femoral osteotomy and BMP‐7 treatment. At 2 weeks an injection of saline or bisphosphonate was administered. The animals were sacrificed after 6 weeks. Both femurs were tested in either three‐point bending or twisting. All femurs healed. BMP + bisphosphonate‐treatment led to larger calluses (p < 0.05) and in three‐point bending, higher ultimate force (p < 0.01) and greater stiffness (p < 0.05) than BMP alone. The BMP + bisphosphonate group was nearly 60% stronger than controls, while the BMP group did not reach the strength (p < 0.05) nor stiffness (p < 0.01) of the controls. In the twisting test, similar trends were found but less pronounced. Three‐point bending produced transverse callus associated fractures, whereas the twisting test produced spiral fractures, located in the structurally weaker distal femur. BMP + bisphosphonate‐treatment produces calluses that are mechanically superior to calluses induced by BMP alone, when tested both in three‐point bending and in twisting. For the mechanical evaluation of pharmacologically enhanced calluses with breaking strengths exceeding the native bone, the bending test is recommended. © 2014 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 32:721–726, 2014.
Non‐apical positive surgical margins after radical prostatectomy for pT2 prostate cancer is associated with the highest risk of recurrence
Authors: Røder Martin Andreas , Kawa Sandra , Scheike Thomas , Toft Birgitte Grønkær , Hansen Jacob Bjerg , Brasso Klaus , Vainer Ben , Iversen Peter
Published: February 2014

Background and Objective

To investigate how location of positive surgical margins (PSM) in pT2 tumors affect the risk of biochemical recurrence (BR).

Methods

The study includes 1,133 consecutive patients from 1995 until end of 2011, who had organ‐confined disease (pT2) following RP. The location of PSM was stratified into apical and non‐apical. BR was defined as the first PSA ≥ 0.2 ng/ml after RP. Risk of BR was analyzed with Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression analysis.

Results

Median follow‐up was 3.6 years (range: 0.5–15.5 years). The overall pT2 PSM rate was 26.3%. Overall, a pT2 with PSM had a 3.1‐fold increased risk of BR compared to margin negative patients. Patients with pT2 apical and non‐apical PSM had a 5‐year biochemical recurrence‐free survival of 84.9% (95% CI: 77.6–92.2%) and 78.6% (95% CI: 71.3–85.9%), respectively. In multivariate analysis, pT2 apical and non‐apical PSM was individually associated with a 2.2‐ and 3.8‐fold increased risk of BR compared to margin negative patients.

Conclusion

In our cohort the location of pT2 PSM was associated with time to BR, that is, patients with non‐apical pT2 PSM endured the highest risk of BR compared to apical PSM. This may indicate that not all patients with pT2 PSM should be offered adjuvant therapy. J. Surg. Oncol. 2014 109:818–822. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Whispering‐gallery mode lasing in ZnO microcavities
Authors: Xu Chunxiang , Dai Jun , Zhu Guangping , Zhu Gangyi , Lin Yi , Li Jitao , Shi Zengliang
Published: February 2014

Zinc oxide (ZnO) is considered as an ideal candidate for ultraviolet (UV) lasers due to its unique advantages of wide direct bandgap and large exciton binding energy. Recently, whispering‐gallery mode (WGM) lasing has attracted considerable attention for its high quality factor and low lasing threshold. The corresponding investigations have very important significance not only for fundamental scientific research but also for the potential applications in short‐wavelength optoelectronic devices. In this paper, progress in ZnO microlasers is reviewed systematically. The fabrication methods for ZnO WGM microcavities are introduced first. Then the characteristics of single‐photon and multiphoton pumped WGM lasing are presented. The lasing mechanisms on excitonic, electron–hole plasma and exciton–polariton lasing are reviewed in detail. Finally, recent advances in ZnO‐based microlaser devices such as heterojunction laser diodes are explored. The further research challenges and some strategies are also indicated for the promising applications.
Smart Nanocontainers: Progress on Novel Stimuli‐Responsive Polymer Vesicles
Authors: Feng Anchao , Yuan Jinying
Published: February 2014

In the past decade, polymer vesicles prepared by self‐assembly techniques have attracted increasing scientific interest based on their unique features highlighted with tunable membrane properties, versatility, stability, and capacity of transporting hydrophilic as well as hydrophobic species. Polymersomes exhibit intriguing potential applications such as cell mimicking dimensions and functions, tunable delivery vehicles, for the templating of biomineralization, nanoreactors, and as scaffolds for biological conjugation. In this Feature Article, an overview of the preparation and application of recently developed “smart” polymer vesicles, which can respond to the novel external stimuli, including carbon dioxide (CO2), electrochemical potential, ultrasound, enzyme, near‐infrared light, and magnetic field is given. The response mechanism and morphology change are explored with specific focus on the functionalization of various domains of the polymer vesicles. In addition, the current limitations are explored as well as the challenges facing the development of these nanostructures toward real‐world applications.

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Combined effect of compatibilizer and carbon nanotubes on the morphology and electrical conductivity of PP/PS blend
Authors: Chen Jie , Hou Yan‐Bei , Zhang Mei‐Li , Liu Dan , Yang Jing‐Hui , Wang Yong , Zhou Zuo‐Wan , Yuan Gui‐Ping
Published: February 2014

In this work, maleic anhydride grafted styrene–ethylene–butadiene–styrene copolymer (SEBS‐g‐MA) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were introduced into the immiscible polypropylene/polystyrene (PP/PS) blend. Among the three polymer components, SEBS‐g‐MA has the strongest affinity to CNTs; thus, it exhibits dual effects to adjust the phase morphology of the blends and the dispersion state of CNTs in the blends. The experimental observations obtained from morphology characterizations using scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope confirm the selective localization of CNTs at the interface of the immiscible PP/PS blend. As a consequence, largely decreased percolation threshold is achieved when most of CNTs are selectively localized at the interface region between PP and PS. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pharmacogenomic Testing for Neuropsychiatric Drugs: Current Status of Drug Labeling, Guidelines for Using Genetic Information, and Test Options
Authors: Drozda Katarzyna , Müller Daniel J. , Bishop Jeffrey R.
Published: February 2014

Advancements in pharmacogenomics have introduced an increasing number of opportunities to bring personalized medicine into clinical practice. Understanding how and when to use this technology to guide pharmacotherapy used to treat psychiatric and neurological (neuropsychiatric) conditions remains a challenge for many clinicians. Currently, guidelines exist to assist clinicians in the use of existing genetic information for drug selection and/or dosing for the tricyclic antidepressants, carbamazepine, and phenytoin. Additional language in the product labeling suggests that genetic information may also be useful for determining the starting and target doses, as well as drug interaction potential, for a number of other drugs. In this review, we outline the current status of pharmacogenomic testing for neuropsychiatric drugs as it pertains to information contained in drug labeling, consensus guidelines, and test panels, as well as considerations related to obtaining tests for patients.
Analysis of amphetamine‐type substances and piperazine analogues using desorption electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry
Authors: Stojanovska Natasha , Kelly Tamsin , Tahtouh Mark , Beavis Alison , Fu Shanlin
Published: February 2014

RATIONALE

Although amphetamine‐type substances (ATS) have been investigated extensively in recent years, scarce data is available on screening tests for piperazine analogues. The need for a universal technique capable of detecting an extensive range of drug compounds becomes increasingly important with the continued emergence of novel drug analogues.

METHODS

Desorption electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry (DESI‐MS) is a technique that allows examination of compounds in drug materials directly from ambient surfaces. In this study, DESI‐MS was utilised in the analysis of ATS including amphetamine (AP), methylamphetamine (MA), 3,4‐methylenedioxymethylamphetamine (MDMA), N,N‐dimethylamphetamine (DMA), 4‐methoxyamphetamine (PMA) and 4‐methoxymethylamphetamine (PMMA), and piperazine analogues including 1‐benzylpiperazine (BZP), 1‐[3‐(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]piperazine (TFMPP), 1‐(3‐chlorophenyl)piperazine (mCPP) and 1‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)piperazine (MeOPP). Semi‐porous polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE or Teflon) sheets welled with a 3 mm hole punch were used to contain the 2 μL liquid sample (spot size 7 mm2).

RESULTS

The limits of detection (LODs) of these compounds using DESI‐MS were determined to be in the range 0.02–2.80 µg/mm2. The intra‐day and inter‐day precision of the technique were <25% and <33%, respectively. DESI‐MS was successful in determining the compound of interest and reaction by‐products and impurities in the samples tested (such as 1,4‐dibenzylpiperazine in BZP samples) with the exception of those present in trace amounts. The effects of common adulterants on the detectability of MA were evaluated. The addition of magnesium stearate to MA significantly enhanced the signal response.

CONCLUSIONS

This work has demonstrated the applicability of DESI‐MS in the screening and profiling of MDMA, PMMA, BZP, TFMPP, mCPP, MeOPP as well as other complex mixtures. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Zellfreie Proteinexpression für Forschung und Produktion
Authors: End Caroline , Walczuch Christian , Buntru Matthias
Published: February 2014

Cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) is an important tool for molecular biology and can be used in applied and basic research. Especially as a high throughput technology for functional genomics and proteomics, CFPS systems offer a significant advantage compared to living cells. Toxic, membrane or viral proteins can be readily expressed in vitro. However, a low synthesis performance currently limits the use for bioproduction purposes. To overcome this limitation, new systems are being developed.
Structure of RecX protein complex with the presynaptic RecA filament: Molecular dynamics simulations and small angle neutron scattering
Authors: Shvetsov Alexey V. , Lebedev Dmitry V. , Chervyakova Daria B. , Bakhlanova Irina V. , Yung Igor A. , Radulescu Aurel , Kuklin Aleksandr I. , Baitin Dmitry M. , Isaev-Ivanov Vladimir V.
Published: February 2014

Using molecular modeling techniques we have built the full atomic structure and performed molecular dynamics simulations for the complexes formed by Escherichia coli RecX protein with a single‐stranded oligonucleotide and with RecA presynaptic filament. Based on the modeling and SANS experimental data a sandwich‐like filament structure formed two chains of RecX monomers bound to the opposite sides of the single stranded DNA is proposed for RecX::ssDNA complex. The model for RecX::RecA::ssDNA include RecX binding into the grove of RecA::ssDNA filament that occurs mainly via Coulomb interactions between RecX and ssDNA. Formation of RecX::RecA::ssDNA filaments in solution was confirmed by SANS measurements which were in agreement with the spectra computed from the molecular dynamics simulations.
Household Emergency Preparedness by Housing Type from a Community Assessment for Public Health Emergency Response (CASPER), Michigan
Authors: Murti Michelle , Bayleyegn Tesfaye , Stanbury Martha , Flanders William Dana , Yard Ellen , Nyaku Mawuli , Wolkin Amy
Published: February 2014

Objectives

We examined the association between housing type and household emergency preparedness among households in Oakland County, Michigan.

Methods

We used interview data on household emergency preparedness from a cluster design survey in Oakland County, Michigan, in 2012. We compared survey-weighted frequencies of household demographics, medical conditions, and preparedness measures in single-detached homes versus multi-unit dwellings, and determined the unadjusted odds ratios (OR) and the income-level adjusted OR for each preparedness measure.

Results

Households had similar demographics and medical conditions between housing types. Unadjusted ORs were statistically significant for single detached homes having a generator (11.1), back-up heat source (10.9), way to cook without utilities (5.8), carbon monoxide (CO) detector (3.8), copies of important documents (3.4), evacuation routes (3.1), and 3-day supply of water (2.5). Income level adjusted ORs remained statistically significant except for owning a CO detector.

Conclusions

Households in multi-unit dwellings were less likely to have certain recommended emergency plans and supplies compared to those in single detached homes. Further research is required to explore the feasibility, barriers, and alternatives for households in multi-unit dwellings in terms of complying with these measures. (Disaster Med Public Preparedness. 2014;0:1–8)
INCOMMENSURABILITY, RELATIVISM, AND THE EPISTEMIC AUTHORITY OF SCIENCE
Authors: Bland Steven
Published: February 2014

Our rational inquiries necessarily take place within conceptual and epistemic frameworks, including our rational inquiries into the frameworks themselves. This fact, together with the existence of incommensurable frameworks, is exploited by a Kuhnian argument for conceptual and epistemic relativism which can be used to threaten the epistemic authority of science. It will be argued, however, that this move can be blocked by means of dialectical arguments that provide non-circular rational support for scientific frameworks, both conceptual and epistemic. These arguments proceed by means of conceptual and methodological analyses that reveal the presuppositions that are shared by those who subscribe to incommensurable frameworks. The frameworks that are better able to capture these presuppositions are objectively better than their competitors, and it will be argued that the conceptual and epistemic frameworks of science have precisely this advantage.