bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engineering novel Lec1 glycosylation mutants in CHO–DUKX cells: Molecular insights and effector modulation of N‐acetylglucosaminyltransferase I
Authors: Zhong Xiaotian , Cooley Cecilia , Seth Nilufer , Juo Z. Sean , Presman Ella , Resendes Nicole , Kumar Ravi , Allen Martin , Mosyak Lidia , Stahl Mark , Somers Will , Kriz Ronald
Published: January 2012

Many secreted or cell surface proteins are post‐translationally modified by carbohydrate chains which are a primary source of heterogeneity. The Lec1 mutant, which is defective in Golgi N‐acetylglucosaminyltransferase I (GnTI) activity, produces relatively homogeneous Man5GlcNAc2 glycan modifications, and is widely used for various applications. To facilitate the investigation of GnTI, its Man5 glycan endproduct, and the impact of Man5 on effector function, the present study has established several novel Lec1 mutants in dhfr− CHO–DUKX cells through chemical mutagenesis and lectin selection. A total of nine clonal lines exhibiting the Lec1‐phenotype are characterized, six of which harbor non‐sense mutations leading to a truncated GnTI, and three (R415K, D291N, and P138L) of which are novel loss‐of‐function sense mutations. Analysis of the rabbit GnTI structure (Unligil et al., 2000) indicates that D291 is the proposed catalytic base and R415 is a crucial residue in forming the substrate binding pocket, whereas P138 is key to maintaining two β strands in proximity to the substrate binding pocket. Computational modeling reveals that the oligomannose glycan backbone of a glycoprotein (the acceptor substrate) fits nicely into the unoccupied channel of the substrate binding pocket partly through hydrogen bonding with R415 and D291. This finding is consistent with the ordered sequential Bi Bi kinetic mechanism suggested for GnTI, in which binding of UDP–GlcNAc (the donor substrate)/Mn2+ induces conformational changes that promote acceptor binding. When an anti‐human CD20 antibody protein is stably expressed in one CHO–DUKX–Lec1 line, it is confirmed that N‐glycans are predominantly Man5GlcNAc2 and they do not contain an α1,6‐fucose linked to the innermost GlcNAc. Furthermore, this Man5GlcNAc2 modified antibody exhibits a significantly increased ADCC activity than the wild‐type protein, while displaying a lower CDC activity. The data support the hypothesis that modulating GnTI activity can influence antibody effector functions for proteins with an IgG1 immunoglobulin Fc domain. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2012; 109:1723–1734. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prediction of dynamic metabolic behavior of Pediococcus pentosaceus producing lactic acid from lignocellulosic sugars
Authors: Adler Philipp , Song Hyun‐Seob , Kästner Katharina , Ramkrishna Doraiswami , Kunz Benno
Published: January 2012

A dynamic metabolic model is presented for Pediococcus pentosaceus producing lactic acid from lignocellulose‐derived mixed sugars including glucose, mannose, galactose, arabinose, and xylose. Depending on the pairs of mixed sugars, P. pentosaceus exhibits diverse (i.e., sequential, simultaneous or mixed) consumption patterns. This regulatory behavior of P. pentosaceus is portrayed using the hybrid cybernetic model (HCM) framework which views elementary modes of the network as metabolic options dynamically modulated. Comprehensive data are collected for model identification and validation through fermentation experiments involving single substrates and various combinations of mixed sugars. Most sugars are metabolized rather sequentially while co‐consumption of galactose and arabinose is observed. It is demonstrated that the developed HCM successfully predicts mixed sugar data based on the parameters identified mostly from single substrate data only. Further, we discuss the potential of HCMs as a tool for predicting intracellular flux distribution with comparison with flux balance analysis. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2012
Antioxidant Phenolic Compounds from the Stems of Entada phaseoloides
Authors: Dong Yuqiong , Shi Haiming , Yang Haisha , Peng Yunhua , Wang Mengyue , Li Xiaobo
Published: January 2012

The EtOH extract of the stems of Entada phaseoloides displayed potent antioxidant activity when assessed by the 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′‐azinobis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical‐scavenging, reducing power, β‐carotene‐bleaching, and superoxide radical‐scavenging analyses. Fractionation of the EtOH extracts showed that the AcOEt fraction is the most active, followed by the H2O fraction, while BuOH fraction was least active. Further activity‐guided fractionation studies on the active fractions resulted in the isolation of 22 compounds. The identities of these compounds were established based on extensive spectroscopic studies. Furthermore, the antioxidant activities of the isolated compounds were evaluated by using the above‐mentioned five assays. The results demonstrated that the EtOH extract of E. phaseoloides stems exhibits an excellent antioxidant activity and thus presents a great potential as a source of natural antioxidants.
Haemolytic Activity and Immunological Adjuvant Effect of a New Steroidal Saponin from Allium ampeloprasum var. porrum
Authors: Adão Camila Rodrigues , Pereira da Silva Bernadete , Tinoco Luzineide Wanderley , Parente José Paz
Published: January 2012

A new steroidal saponin was isolated from the bulbs of Allium ampeloprasum L. var. porrum. On the basis of chemical evidence, comprehensive spectroscopic analyses, and comparison with known compounds, its structure was established as (3β,5α,6β,25R)‐3‐{(O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→3)‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐O‐[O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→3)]‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→4)‐β‐D‐galactopyranosyl)oxy}‐6‐hydroxyspirostan‐2‐one (1). Results of the present study indicated that 1 exhibited haemolytic activity in the in vitro assays, and immunological adjuvant activity on the cellular immune response against ovalbumin antigen.
One‐Pot Synthesis of New (1,3‐Thiazolo[5,4‐b]pyridin‐2‐yl)benzenediols and Their Antiproliferative Activities against Human Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Matysiak Joanna , Karpińska Monika M. , Niewiadomy Andrzej , Wietrzyk Joanna , Kłopotowska Dagmara
Published: January 2012

A one‐pot synthesis of new 4‐(1,3‐thiazolo[5,4‐b]pyridin‐2‐yl)benzene‐1,3‐diols has been described. The compounds were prepared by the reaction of sulfinylbis[(2,4‐dihydroxyphenyl)methanethione] derivatives, with various substituents in the aryl rings, with 2‐chloropyridin‐3‐amines. Their structures were deduced from IR and, 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR spectroscopic, mass spectrometric, and elemental analyses. The antiproliferative properties of some of the products against human cancer cell lines were comparable to those of cisplatin. Structureactivity analysis showed that the presence of hydrophobic substituents in both heterocyclic fused and phenyl rings of the compounds improves their biological effects. Further, an additional OH group in the resorcinol moiety reduced the antiproliferative activity.
New Insights into the Characterization of ‘Insoluble Black HCN Polymers’
Authors: Ruiz‐Bermejo Marta , de la Fuente José L. , Rogero Celia , Menor‐Salván César , Osuna‐Esteban Susana , Martín‐Gago José A.
Published: January 2012

The data presented here provide a novel contribution to the understanding of the structural features of HCN polymers and could be useful in further development of models for prebiotic chemistry. The interpretation of spectroscopic and analytical data, along with previous results reported by other authors, allowed us to propose a mechanism for the aqueous polymerization of HCN from its primary and simplest isolated oligomer, the diaminomaleonitrile (DAMN) tetramer. We suggest that ‘insoluble black HCN polymers’ are formed by an unsaturated complex matrix, which retains a significant amount of H2O and important bioorganic compounds or their precursors. This polymeric matrix can be formed by various motifs of imidazoles and cyclic amides, among others. The robust formation of HCN polymers assayed under several conditions seems to explain the plausible ubiquity of these complex substances in space.
Chemical Variation of Essential Oil Constituents of Ocimum gratissimum L. from Benin, and Impact on Antimicrobial Properties and Toxicity against Artemia salinaLeach
Authors: Kpadonou Kpoviessi Bénédicta G. H. , Ladekan Eléonore Yayi , Kpoviessi D. S. Salomé , Gbaguidi Fernand , Yehouenou Boniface , Quetin‐Leclercq Joëlle , Figueredo Gilles , Moudachirou Mansourou , Accrombessi Georges C.
Published: January 2012

To determine the period of harvest that optimizes the antimicrobial activities of the essential oil of Ocimum gratissimum L. from Benin, aerial plant parts were collected at two vegetative stages (pre‐ and full‐flowering) and three sampling times (7 am, 1 pm, and 7 pm). Extraction by hydrodistillation yielded between 0.65 and 0.78% of essential oils. Characterization of the oils by GC‐FID and GC/MS analysis revealed the presence of monoterpenes (87.26–93.81%), sesquiterpenes (5.57–11.34%), and aliphatic compounds (0.15–0.18%), with p‐cymene (1; 28.08–53.82%), thymol (2; 3.32–29.13%), γ‐terpinene (3; 1.11–10.91%), α‐thujene (4; 3.37–10.77%), and β‐myrcene (5; 4.24–8.28%) as major components. Two chemotypes were observed, i.e., a p‐cymene/thymol and a p‐cymene chemotype, for plants harvested at 7 am for the former and at 1 pm or 7 pm for the latter, respectively. The oils were fungicidal against Candida albicans, with the sample from full‐flowering plants collected at 7 am being the most active (MIC = 0.06±0.00 mg/ml). The chemical variation of the oils also influenced the antimicrobial effect against Staphylococcus aureus; the most active oil was obtained from plants at the pre‐flowering stage collected at 7 am (MIC=0.24±0.01 mg/ml). Escherichia coli was insensitive to the chemical variation of the oils (MICs of ca. 0.48±0.02 mg/ml for all oils). Moreover, the essential oils showed low toxicity against Artemia salina Leach larvae, with LC50 values in the range of 43–146 μg/ml. This is the first study of the interaction between the daytime of collection and vegetative stage of the plants and the antimicrobial properties and toxicity of the essential oil of O. gratissimum from Benin.
Antimicrobial Efficacy of Achillea ligusticaAll. (Asteraceae) Essential Oils against Reference and Isolated Oral Microorganisms
Authors: Cecchini Cinzia , Silvi Stefania , Cresci Alberto , Piciotti Andrea , Caprioli Giovanni , Papa Fabrizio , Sagratini Gianni , Vittori Sauro , Maggi Filippo
Published: January 2012

The aim of this study was to verify the effectiveness of Achillea ligustica essential oils against several oral microorganisms in comparison with a commercial essential oil‐containing mouthrinse (Listerine®) and clove oil (containing 89% eugenol). The inhibition efficacy of A. ligustica essential oils alone and in combination with Listerine® was evaluated by the micro‐dilution method. The most susceptible microorganisms were Bacillus cereus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Candida albicans. The efficacy was similar to that of the clove oil. The antiseptic mouthwash Listerine® did not exert a strong inhibition on microbial strains tested, whereas its effectiveness increased significantly when essential oil was added. The study provides additional evidence for the in vitro inhibitory activity of A. ligustica essential oils on several pathogens, suggesting their usefulness in mouthrinse formulations as an adjunct to mechanical oral hygiene regimens. Essential oil‐containing mouthrinses can be beneficial, safe components of daily oral health routines, representing an efficient and without side effect alternative to prevent and control oral infections.
Monocillin II Inhibits Human Breast Cancer Growth Partially by Inhibiting MAPK Pathways and CDK2 Thr160 Phosphorylation
Authors: Wei Huanhuan , Xu Liangxiong , Yu Min , Zhang Ling , Wang Huijie , Wei Xiaoyi , Ruan Yuanyuan
Published: January 2012

Twenty‐two β‐resorcylic acid lactones (RALs) were evaluated for cytotoxicity against human breast cancer cells to find their structure–activity relationship (SAR). Monocillin II, a trans‐enone RAL without epoxy and conjugated dienone, was found to have higher activity in inhibiting tumor cell growth in both in vitro experiment and in vivo nude xenografted mice model than its analogue radicicol, an anticancer lead compound. We demonstrated for the first time that monocillin II could arrest breast cancer cell cycle in G1 phase, which might partially be the result of its inhibition effect on the phosphorylation of the Thr160 residue of cyclin dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), a key enzyme in cell‐cycle regulation. Moreover, monocillin II exhibited inhibition of heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) and depleted its target proteins, Raf‐1 and A‐Raf, which are involved in Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Remarkably, we found that monocillin II could inhibit activation of MAPKs including ERK, JNK and p38, which might be involved in the inactivation of CDK2. These results suggest that monocillin II has potential therapeutic benefits in breast cancer prevention and intervention.
Controlled Synthesis of Uniform and Monodisperse Upconversion Core/Mesoporous Silica Shell Nanocomposites for Bimodal Imaging
Authors: Liu Jianan , Bu Wenbo , Zhang Shengjian , Chen Feng , Xing Huaiyong , Pan Limin , Zhou Liangping , Peng Weijun , Shi Jianlin
Published: January 2012

Here we report the design and controlled synthesis of monodisperse and precisely size‐controllable UCNP@mSiO2 nanocomposites smaller than 50 nm by directly coating a mesoporous silica shell (mSiO2) on upconversion nanocrystals NaYF4:Tm/Yb/Gd (UCNPs), which can be used as near‐infrared fluorescence and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) agents and a platform for drug delivery as well. Some key steps such as transferring hydrophobic UCNPs to the water phase by using cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), removal of the excess amount of CTAB, and temperature‐controlled ultrasonication treatment should be adopted and carefully monitored to obtain uniform upconversion core/mesoporous silica shell nanocomposites. The excellent performance of the core–shell‐structured nanocomposite in near‐infrared fluorescence and magnetic resonance imaging was also demonstrated.
Ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence (IBTR) in patients with operable breast cancer who undergo breast‐conserving treatment after receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Ishitobi Makoto , Ohsumi Shozo , Inaji Hideo , Ohno Shinji , Shigematsu Hideo , Akiyama Futoshi , Iwase Takuji , Akashi‐Tanaka Sadako , Sato Nobuaki , Takahashi Kaoru , Oura Shoji
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND:

There is limited information about the risk factors for ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence (IBTR) after patients undergo breast‐conserving surgery plus radiotherapy (breast‐conserving treatment [BCT]) subsequent to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). The objective of the current study was to analyze these risk factors.

METHODS:

The authors collected data from 375 patients who underwent BCT and received NAC and analyzed the risk of IBTR associated with undergoing BCT after NAC. The usefulness of the MD Anderson Prognostic Index (MDAPI) for IBTR also was validated using the current data set.

RESULTS:

The median follow‐up was 47.8 months, and the 4‐year IBTR‐free survival rate was 95.6%. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that estrogen receptor (ER) status and multifocality of the residual tumor were associated significantly with IBTR‐free survival. In addition, patients who had ER‐positive and human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2)‐negative tumors did not develop IBTR during the observation period. Although prognostic stratification according to MDAPI was relatively good for the prediction of IBTR in the study patients, the IBTR rate in the high‐risk group was not very high and was lower than that in the intermediate‐risk group. Multivariate analyses demonstrated that IBTR was an independent predictive factor for overall survival.

CONCLUSIONS:

ER status and multifocality of the residual tumor after NAC were independent predictors of IBTR after BCT. The MDAPI was barely adaptable to the study patients in terms of predicting IBTR. Patients with ER‐positive and HER2‐negative tumors had a favorable prognosis, whereas patients who developed IBTR after NAC had significantly worse overall survival. The authors propose a new IBTR prognostic index using the 2 factors that were identified as predictive of IBTR: ER status and multifocality of the residual tumor. Cancer 2012. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Resumption of high‐dose methotrexate after acute kidney injury and glucarpidase use in pediatric oncology patients
Authors: Christensen Anthony M. , Pauley Jennifer L. , Molinelli Alejandro R. , Panetta John C. , Ward Deborah A. , Stewart Clinton F. , Hoffman James M. , Howard Scott C. , Pui Ching‐Hon , Pappo Alberto S. , Relling Mary V. , Crews Kristine R.
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND:

High‐dose methotrexate (HDMTX)‐induced acute kidney injury is a rare but life‐threatening complication. The methotrexate rescue agent glucarpidase rapidly hydrolyzes methotrexate to inactive metabolites. The authors retrospectively reviewed glucarpidase use in pediatric cancer patients at their institution and evaluated whether subsequent resumption of HDMTX was tolerated.

METHODS:

Clinical data and outcomes of all patients who received glucarpidase after HDMTX administration were reviewed.

RESULTS:

Of 1141 patients who received 4909 courses of HDMTX, 20 patients (1.8% of patients, 0.4% of courses) received 22 doses of glucarpidase. The median glucarpidase dose was 51.6 U/kg (range, 13‐65.6 U/kg). At the time of administration, the median plasma methotrexate concentration was 29.1 μM (range, 1.3‐590.6 μM). Thirteen of the 20 patients received a total of 39 courses of HDMTX therapy after glucarpidase. The median time to complete methotrexate excretion was 355 hours (range, 244‐763 hours) for the HDMTX course during which glucarpidase was administered, 90 hours (range, 66‐268 hours) for the next HDMTX course, and 72 hours (range, 42‐116 hours) for subsequent courses. The median peak serum creatinine level during these HDMTX courses was 2.2 mg/dL (range, 0.8‐9.6 mg/dL), 0.8 mg/dL (range, 0.4‐1.6 mg/dL), and 0.6 mg/dL (range, 0.4‐0.9 mg/dL), respectively. One patient experienced nephrotoxicity upon rechallenge with HDMTX. Renal function eventually returned to baseline in all patients, and no patient died as a result of methotrexate toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS:

The current results indicated that it is possible to safely resume HDMTX therapy after glucarpidase treatment for HDMTX‐induced acute kidney injury. Cancer 2012. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Erectile function, incontinence, and other quality of life outcomes following proton therapy for prostate cancer in men 60 years old and younger
Authors: Hoppe Bradford S. , Nichols Romaine C. , Henderson Randal H. , Morris Christopher G. , Williams Christopher R. , Costa Joseph , Marcus Robert B. , Mendenhall William M. , Li Zuofeng , Mendenhall Nancy P.
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND:

This study sought to evaluate patient‐reported health‐related quality of life following proton therapy for prostate cancer in men ≤60 years old.

METHODS:

Between August 2006 and January 2010, 262 hormone‐naive men ≤60 years old were treated with definitive proton therapy for prostate cancer. Before treatment and every 6 months after treatment, patients filled out the Expanded Prostate Index Composite (EPIC) and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaires. Potency was defined as successful sexual intercourse in the prior month or an EPIC sexual summary (SS) score ≥60.

RESULTS:

Median follow‐up was 24 months; 90% of men completed follow‐up EPIC forms within the last year. For EPIC urinary, bowel, and hormone subscales, the average decline from baseline to 2 years was ≤5 points, except for bowel function (5.2 points). SS scores declined 12.6 points after 2 years. Potency rates declined by 11% from baseline at 2 years, but 94% of men were potent with a baseline IIEF > 21, body mass index < 30, and no history of diabetes. At 2 years after treatment, only 1.8% of men required a pad for urge incontinence. On multivariate analysis, factors associated with a significant decline in SS score were mean penile bulb dose ≥40 cobalt Gy equivalents (P = .012) and radiation dose ≥80 cobalt Gy equivalents (P = .017); only diabetes was significantly associated with impotence (P = .015).

CONCLUSIONS:

Young men undergoing proton therapy for treatment of prostate cancer have excellent outcomes with respect to erectile dysfunction, urinary incontinence, and other health‐related quality of life parameters during the first 2 years after treatment. Longer follow‐up is needed to confirm these findings. Cancer 2012. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Augmenting advance care planning in poor prognosis cancer with a video decision aid
Authors: Volandes Angelo E. , Levin Tomer T. , Slovin Susan , Carvajal Richard D. , O'Reilly Eileen M. , Keohan Mary Louise , Theodoulou Maria , Dickler Maura , Gerecitano John F. , Morris Michael , Epstein Andrew S. , Naka‐Blackstone Anastazia , Walker‐Corkery Elizabeth S. , Chang Yuchiao , Noy Ariela
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND:

The authors tested whether an educational video on the goals of care in advanced cancer (life‐prolonging care, basic care, or comfort care) helped patients understand these goals and had an impact on their preferences for resuscitation.

METHODS:

A survey of 80 patients with advanced cancer was conducted before and after they viewed an educational video. The outcomes of interest included changes in goals of care preference and knowledge and consistency of preferences with code status.

RESULTS:

Before viewing the video, 10 patients (13%) preferred life‐prolonging care, 24 patients (30%) preferred basic care, 29 patients (36%) preferred comfort care, and 17 patients (21%) were unsure. Preferences did not change after the video, when 9 patients (11%) chose life‐prolonging care, 28 patients (35%) chose basic care, 29 patients (36%) chose comfort care, and, 14 patients (18%) were unsure (P = .28). Compared with baseline, after the video presentation, more patients did not want cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) (71% vs 62%; P = .03) or ventilation (80% vs 67%; P = .008). Knowledge about goals of care and likelihood of resuscitation increased after the video (P < .001). Of the patients who did not want CPR or ventilation after the video augmentation, only 4 patients (5%) had a documented do‐not‐resuscitate order in their medical record (kappa statistic, −0.01; 95% confidence interval, −0.06 to 0.04). Acceptability of the video was high.

CONCLUSIONS:

Patients with advanced cancer did not change care preferences after viewing the video, but fewer wanted CPR or ventilation. Documented code status was inconsistent with patient preferences. Patients were more knowledgeable after the video, reported that the video was acceptable, and said they would recommend it to others. The current results indicated that this type of video may enable patients to visualize “goals of care,” enriching patient understanding of worsening health states and better informing decision making. Cancer 2012. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Cytoarchitecture, areas, and neuron numbers of the Etruscan Shrew cortex
Authors: Naumann R.K. , Anjum F. , Roth‐Alpermann C. , Brecht M.
Published: January 2012

The Etruscan shrew, Suncus etruscus, is one of the smallest mammals. Etruscan shrews can recognize prey shape with amazing speed and accuracy, based on whisker‐mediated tactile cues. Because of its small size, quantitative analysis of the Etruscan shrew cortex is more tractable than in other animals. To quantitatively assess the anatomy of the Etruscan shrew's brain, we sectioned brains and applied Nissl staining and NeuN (neuronal nuclei) antibody staining. On the basis of these stains, we estimated the number of neurons of 10 cortical hemispheres by using Stereoinvestigator and Neurolucida (MBF Bioscience) software. On average, the neuron number per hemisphere was found to be ∼1 million. We also measured cortical surface area and found an average of 11.1 mm2 (n = 7) and an average volume of 5.3 mm3 (n = 10) per hemisphere. We identified 13 cortical regions by cytoarchitectonic boundaries in coronal, sagittal, and tangential sections processed for Nissl substance, myelin, cytochrome oxidase, ionic zinc, neurofilaments, and vesicular glutamate transporter 2 (VGluT2). The Etruscan shrew is a highly tactile animal with a large somatosensory cortex, which contains a barrel field, but the barrels are much less clearly defined than in rodents. The anatomically derived cortical partitioning scheme roughly corresponds to physiologically derived maps of neocortical sensory areas. J. Comp. Neurol. 520:2512–2530, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Modeling shear waves through a viscoelastic medium induced by acoustic radiation force
Authors: Lee Kristen H. , Szajewski Benjamin A. , Hah Zaegyoo , Parker Kevin J. , Maniatty Antoinette M.
Published: January 2012

In this study, a finite element model of a tissue‐mimicking, viscoelastic phantom with a stiffer cylindrical inclusion subjected to an acoustic radiation force (ARF) is presented, and the resulting shear waves through the heterogeneous media are simulated, analyzed, and compared with experimental data. Six different models for the ARF were considered and compared. Each study used the same finite element model, but applied the following: (1) full radiation push; (2) focal region push; (3) single element focal point source; or (4) various thresholds of the full radiation push. For each case, displacements at discrete locations were determined and compared. The finite element simulation results for the full radiation push matched well with the experimental data with respect to replicating the shear wave speed and attenuation in the peak displacements through the background medium and inclusion, but did not illustrate comparable recovery after the peak displacements. As a result of this study, it has been shown that a focal region or point source push is not adequate to accurately model the effects of the full radiation push, but thresholding the full push can produce comparable results and reduce computation time. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Supercapacitors Based on c‐Type Cytochromes Using Conductive Nanostructured Networks of Living Bacteria
Authors: Malvankar Nikhil S. , Mester Tünde , Tuominen Mark T. , Lovley Derek R.
Published: January 2012

Supercapacitors have attracted interest in energy storage because they have the potential to complement or replace batteries. Here, we report that c‐type cytochromes, naturally immersed in a living, electrically conductive microbial biofilm, greatly enhance the device capacitance by over two orders of magnitude. We employ genetic engineering, protein unfolding and Nernstian modeling for in vivo demonstration of charge storage capacity of c‐type cytochromes and perform electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry and charge–discharge cycling to confirm the pseudocapacitive, redox nature of biofilm capacitance. The biofilms also show low self‐discharge and good charge/discharge reversibility. The superior electrochemical performance of the biofilm is related to its high abundance of cytochromes, providing large electron storage capacity, its nanostructured network with metallic‐like conductivity, and its porous architecture with hydrous nature, offering prospects for future low cost and environmentally sustainable energy storage devices.
Cell analysis in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) using Sysmex® hematology analyzers XT‐4000i and XE‐5000: Evaluation with CSF controls of the Joint German Society for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (DGKL)
Authors: Kleine Tilmann O. , Nebe Carl Thomas , Löwer Christa , Geilenkeuser Wolf‐Jochen , Dorn‐Beineke Alexandra
Published: January 2012

In cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, hematology analyzers (HAs) Sysmex® XT‐4000i and XE‐5000, equipped with flow cytometry (FCM), were used to count cells and differentiate leukocytes into mononuclear and polymorphonuclear cells (MNCs, PMCs) applying body fluid mode. FCM was evaluated with 20 DGKL CSF controls containing viable human leukocytes and erythrocytes. HA values were compared with reference values by Passing/Bablok regression analysis to reveal conformity. Conformity of white blood cells (WBCs) was obtained with native leukocytes, counted in calibrated Fuchs–Rosenthal chamber as reference; red blood cell counts proved inaccurate. CV <40% with WBC counts <20 per μL impairs accuracy. Reference WBC differentiation was assayed using FACS Canto II™ and FC‐500 SN with anti‐CD45, anti‐CD14, anti‐CD16, anti‐CD16/56 [Becton Dickinson (BD); Beckman Coulter (BC)]. BD FACS lysing solution®‐no‐wash‐procedure was applied. BC pretreatment with Versalyse lysing solution was not recommended. MNCs (lymphocytes + monocytes) were significantly lower (∼14%) on both HAs; PMCs (granulocytes or sum of neutrophils + eosinophils + basophils: range 1–86 M/L) were significantly higher (∼2.2‐fold). WBC HA differentiation is not reliable because MNC/PMC differentiation yielded lower and higher values than FACS–FCM references, respectively. This is attributed to incorrect discrimination of leukocytes with rounded/nonrounded nuclei; adding leukocytes with nonrounded nuclei to too low HA MNCs (about 40% not‐activated) yielded P/B conformity; subtraction of leukocytes with nonrounded nuclei from elevated HA PMCs showed conformity (about 85% activated). Nucleus/activation state of leukocytes was assessed using microhistology. Sysmex XT‐4000i and XE‐5000 HAs systems are inappropriate for complete CSF cell analysis. © 2012 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Dynamical consensus seeking of heterogeneous multi‐agent systems under input delays
Authors: Liu Cheng‐Lin , Liu Fei
Published: January 2012

A dynamical consensus algorithm is adopted for the heterogeneous multi‐agent systems with agents' dynamics modeled by single integrators and double integrators. Based on frequency‐domain analysis method, consensus conditions, which depend on the input delay and the control parameters, are obtained for the heterogeneous multi‐agent systems with symmetric coupling weights under identical input delay and different input delays, respectively. Numerical simulation illustrates the correctness of the results. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prenatal stress effects on emotion regulation differ by genotype and sex in prepubertal rats
Authors: Schroeder Mariana , Sultany Tom , Weller Aron
Published: January 2012

Behavioral effects of different prenatal stress (PNS) schedules were examined in prepubertal “depressive/anxious‐like” WKY and control Wistar rats. Pregnant dams received 1 hr daily restraint stress on gestational days 14–20 or on 7 randomly scheduled days, or remained undisturbed. Offspring were tested during postnatal days 29–35 in social play, forced swim‐test, open field, and novelty tests. PNS induced an increase in anxiety‐like behaviors in WKY, particularly in females, while seemingly reducing depressive‐like behavior in the swim test. However, very high post‐stress corticosterone levels were found, suggesting that the reductions in swim‐test immobility reflect an extremely over‐responsive HPA axis, rather than normalization in stress reactivity leading to a less depressive‐like profile. In Wistar, PNS produced weight loss, hyperactivity and risk taking behavior, especially in males. The results support the importance of the environment during gestation and its interaction with sex and genetics on long‐term anxiety and depressive like behaviors. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 55: 176–192, 2013
Straightforward Synthesis of Dipyrido‐Annelated NHC‐Palladium(II) Complexes by Oxidative Addition
Authors: Gierz Verena , Seyboldt Alexander , Maichle‐Mössmer Cäcilia , Fröhlich Roland , Rominger Frank , Kunz Doris
Published: January 2012

A straightforward synthesis method for mixed phosphane dipyrido‐annelated N‐heterocyclic carbene (dipiy) palladium(II) complexes is presented. The key step is the oxidative addition of 6‐bromodipyridoimidazolium bromides that can be prepared easily from dipyridine in a two step reaction. This new procedure avoids any generation of the free carbene as well as any transmetallation step.
Amide and Urea Ferrocene‐Containing Macrocycles Capable of the Electrochemical Sensing of Anions
Authors: Evans Nicholas H. , Serpell Christopher J. , Christensen Kirsten E. , Beer Paul D.
Published: January 2012

Two novel macrocycles that incorporate the redox‐active ferrocene motif have been synthesized. The amide‐containing macrocycle is capable of sensing basic oxoanions such as dihydrogen phosphate and benzoate despite only exhibiting weak binding of these anions. The second macrocycle, which incorporates urea functionality, is capable of binding and sensing a greater range of anions with a maximum shift of the ferrocene/ferrocenium redox couple of –170 mV observed upon addition of an excess amount of dihydrogen phosphate.
A procedure on ground motion selection and scaling for nonlinear response of simple structural systems
Authors: Ay Bekir Özer , Akkar Sinan
Published: January 2012

This study presents a ground‐motion selection and scaling methodology that preserves the basic seismological features of the scaled records with reduced scatter in the nonlinear structural response. The methodology modifies each strong‐motion recording with known fundamental seismological parameters using the estimations of ground‐motion prediction equations for a given target hazard level. It provides robust estimations on target building response through scaled ground motions and calculates the dispersion about this target. This alternative procedure is not only useful for record scaling and selection but, upon its further refinement, can also be advantageous for the probabilistic methods that assess the engineering demand parameters for a given target hazard level. Case studies that compare the performance of the proposed procedure with some other record selection and scaling methods suggest its usefulness for building performance assessment and loss models. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A node‐pair finite element/volume mesh adaptation technique for compressible flows based on a hierarchical approach
Authors: Fossati M. , Guardone A. , Vigevano L.
Published: January 2012

A grid adaptation technique for two‐dimensional unstructured grids of triangles and quadrilaterals is presented. The error estimation procedure is formulated in terms of a node pair‐based data structure that allows for a unified description of the finite element and finite volume schemes. The adaptation algorithm is based on a strategy of hierarchical corrections, where a suitable number of intermediate adapted grids are generated and successively corrected by employing a simple node insertion technique at the midpoint of the element edges. Coarsening of the grid is obtained in an implicit fashion by avoiding the insertion of new nodes during the correction phase. The adaptation history, from the initial to the current grid, including all intermediate grids, is stored and updated through the whole process. No intermediate grid is therefore required to be stored explicitly. The adapted grid is anisotropic, thanks to the adoption of both regular triangular and quadrilateral elements with high aspect ratio that are gathered in, for example, boundary layer or wake regions. Numerical experiments of steady compressible flows, including both inviscid and viscous flows, are presented to support the suitability of the adaptation technique. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preoperative imaging and surgical margins in maxillectomy patients
Authors: Kreeft Anne Marijn , Smeele Ludwig E. , Rasch Coen R. N. , Hauptmann Michael , Rietveld Derk H. F. , Leemans C. René , Balm Alfons J. M.
Published: January 2012

Background

High rates of positive surgical margins are reported after a maxillectomy. A large part of tumors that are preoperatively considered “operable” can thus not be resected with tumor‐free margins.

Methods

This was a retrospective study on medical files of 69 patients that underwent maxillectomy as primary treatment for a squamous cell carcinoma.

Results

More than one third (39%) of all resections performed is incomplete, with dorsal or dorsocranial‐positive surgical margins in two thirds. Correlation of tumor extension on preoperative imaging to surgical margins status revealed that dorsal and cranial tumor extension were significant prognostic factors for tumor positive surgical margins (p = .006 and p = .031, respectively). Positive margins were associated with a 2‐fold increased risk of death (hazard ratio, 2.4; 95% confidence interval, 1.2–4.9).

Conclusion

Cranial or dorsal tumor extension on preoperative imaging was a significant risk factor for positive surgical margins after maxillectomy with significant negative influence on overall survival. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Flavonoid Constituents from Spiraea brahuica
Authors: Mughal Uzma Rasheed , Mehmood Rashad , Malik Abdul , Ali Bakhat , Tareen Rasool Bakhsh
Published: January 2012

Sparins A–C (1–3, resp.), three new flavonoids, were isolated from the CHCl3 subfraction of the EtOH extract of the whole plant of Spiraea brahuica, along with 3′,7‐di‐O‐methylquercetin (4) and luteolin 7‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (5), reported for the first time from this species. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by spectroscopic techniques including MS and 2D‐NMR spectroscopy.
Aluminium Nitrate Nonahydrate (Al(NO3)3⋅9 H2O): An Efficient Oxidant Catalyst for the One‐Pot Synthesis of Biginelli Compounds from Benzyl Alcohols
Authors: Kolvari Eskandar , Zolfigol Mohammad Ali , Mirzaeean Maryam
Published: January 2012

A clean and efficient tandem oxidative cyclocondensation process is reported for the synthesis of 3,4‐dihydropyrimidin‐2(1H)‐one or ‐thione derivatives from primary aryl alcohols, β‐keto esters, and urea or thiourea in the presence of Al(NO3)3⋅9 H2O as oxidant catalyst (Scheme, Table 5).
A One‐Pot Tandem Ugi Multicomponent Reaction (MCR)/Click Reaction as an Efficient Protecting‐Group‐Free Route to 1H‐1,2,3‐Triazole‐Modified α‐Amino Acid Derivatives and Peptidomimetics
Authors: Niu Teng‐Fei , Cai Chun , Yi Lan
Published: January 2012

By a one‐pot tandem Ugi multicomponent reaction (MCR)/click reaction sequence not requiring protecting groups, 1H‐1,2,3‐triazole‐modified Ugi‐reaction products 6a–6n (Scheme 1 and Table 2), 7a–7b (Table 4), and 8 (Scheme 2) were synthesized successfully. i.e., terminal, side‐chain, or both side‐chain and terminal triazole‐modified Ugi‐reaction products as potential amino acid units for peptide syntheses. Different catalyst systems for the click reaction were examined to find the optimal reaction conditions (Table 1, Scheme 1). Finally, an efficient Ugi MCR+Ugi MCR/click reaction strategy was elaborated in which two Ugi‐reaction products were coupled by a click reaction, thus incorporating the triazole fragment into the center of peptidomimetics (Scheme 3). Thus, the Ugi MCR/click reaction sequence is a convenient and simple approach to different 1H‐1,2,3‐triazole‐modified amino acid derivatives and peptidomimetics.
Multicomponent Transformation of Isoindoline‐1,3‐diimine (=1H‐Isoindole‐1,3(2H)‐diimine), Acetylenic Esters, and Triphenylphosphine to Novel Dihydropyrimido[2,1‐a]isoindole Derivatives
Authors: Baharfar Robabeh , Mohajer Saadieh
Published: January 2012

The three‐component reaction of the zwitterions generated from dialkyl acetylenedicarboxylates (=dialkyl but‐2‐ynedioates and triphenylphosphine (Ph3P) with isoindoline‐1,3‐diimine (=1H‐isoindole‐1,3(2H)‐diimine) is described (Scheme 1). This reaction affords the corresponding special type of substituted dihydropyrimido[2,1‐a]isoindole derivatives in good yields without using any catalyst and activation (Table).
New Secondary Metabolites from Asphodelus tenuifolius
Authors: Safder Muhammad , Mehmood Rashad , Ali Bakhat , Mughal Uzma Rasheed , Malik Abdul , Jabbar Abdul
Published: January 2012

Asphorins A and B (1 and 2, resp.), two new triterpene glycosides, have been isolated along with a new chromone, 3, from the AcOEt subfraction of the MeOH extract of the whole plant of Asphodelus tenuifolius. Their structures were elucidated by spectral analysis including 2D‐NMR spectroscopic experiments.
IsosteviolProline Conjugates as Highly Efficient Amphiphilic Organocatalysts for Asymmetric Three‐Component Mannich Reactions in the Presence of Water
Authors: An Ya‐Jie , Wang Chuan‐Chuan , Liu Zi‐Ping , Tao Jing‐Chao
Published: January 2012

In this work, six isosteviolamino acid conjugates were designed and synthesized through simple condensation on a large scale without protecting group (Scheme). These amphiphilic organocatalysts mediated asymmetric three‐component Mannich reactions of cyclohexanone and anilines with aromatic aldehydes in the presence of H2O. Meanwhile, the isosteviolproline conjugate 3b has been established as a highly efficient catalyst (Table 1), and afforded syn‐Mannich products with excellent diastereoselectivities (syn/anti up to 98 : 2) and enantioselectivities (up to >99% ee; Table 3). The transition state of the reaction in the presence of H2O is proposed (Fig. 2).
Synthesis of Functionalized Pyrazines and Quinoxalines from Nef‐Isocyanide Adducts and 1,2‐Diamines
Authors: Yavari Issa , Pashazadeh Ramin , Hosseinpour Reza
Published: January 2012

Alkyl 3‐(alkylamino)‐5,6‐dicyanopyrazine‐2‐carboxylates and alkyl 3‐(alkylamino)quinoxaline‐2‐carboxylates were obtained in good yields by treatment of Nef‐isocyanide adducts with 1,2‐diamines in MeCN.
Maintenance of redox state and pancreatic beta‐cell function: Role of leptin and adiponectin
Authors: Chetboun Moria , Abitbol Guila , Rozenberg Konstantin , Rozenfeld Hava , Deutsch Avigail , Sampson Sanford R. , Rosenzweig Tovit
Published: January 2012

Whereas oxidative stress is linked to cellular damage, reactive oxygen species (ROS) are also believed to be involved in the propagation of signaling pathways. Studies on the role of ROS in pancreatic beta‐cell physiology, in contrast to pathophysiology, have not yet been reported. In this study we investigate the importance of maintaining cellular redox state on pancreatic beta‐cell function and viability, and the effects of leptin and adiponectin on this balance. Experiments were conducted on RINm and MIN6 pancreatic beta‐cells. Leptin (1–100 ng/ml) and adiponectin (1–100 nM) increased ROS accumulation, as was determined by DCFDA fluorescence. Using specific inhibitors, we found that the increase in ROS levels was mediated by NADPH oxidase (Nox), but not by AMP kinase (AMPK) or phosphatidyl inositol 3 kinase (PI3K). Leptin and adiponectin increased beta‐cell number as detected by the XTT method, but did not affect apoptosis, indicating that the increased cell number results from increased proliferation. The adipokines‐induced increase in viability is ROS dependent as this effect was abolished by N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NAC) or PEG‐catalase. In addition, insulin secretion was found to be regulated by alterations in redox state, but not by adipokines. Finally, the effects of the various treatments on activity and mRNA expression of several antioxidant enzymes were determined. Both leptin and adiponectin reduced mRNA levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD)1. Adiponectin also decreased SOD activity and increased catalase and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities in the presence of H2O2. The results of this study show that leptin and adiponectin, by inducing a physiological increase in ROS levels, may be positive regulators of beta‐cell mass. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 1966–1976, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Biogenesis, functions and fate of plant microRNAs
Authors: Naqvi Afsar Raza , Sarwat Maryam , Hasan Shirin , Roychodhury Nirupam
Published: January 2012

microRNAs (miRNAs), a recently discovered class of small RNAs, are endogenously transcribed non‐coding RNAs that are known to control diverse developmental processes and defense responses. They regulate these pathways by fine‐tuning the levels of transcripts to which they bind and cause their cleavage or translation repression. Several studies on the processing of miRNA precursors have shed light on the essential structural features for precise release of miRNA duplexes. The identification of a protein that degrade single stranded small RNA has provided us with some understanding of how miRNA flux is maintained in plants. This review focuses on the genome organization, biogenesis, miRNA activity, and the fate of miRNAs. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 3163–3168, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Histology and histochemistry of the gekkotan notochord and their bearing on the development of notochordal cartilage
Authors: Jonasson Kristin A. , Russell Anthony P. , Vickaryous Matthew K.
Published: January 2012

The persistence of the notochord into the skeletally mature life stage is characteristic of gekkotans, but is otherwise of rare occurrence among amniotes. The taxonomic diversity of Gekkota affords the opportunity to investigate the structure and development of this phylogenetically ancestral component of the skeleton, and to determine its basic characteristics. The gekkotan notochord spans almost the entire postcranial long axis and is characterized by a moniliform morphology with regularly alternating zones of chordoid and chondroid tissue. Chordoid tissue persists in the region of intervertebral articulations and occupies the cavitations that lie between the centra of the amphicoelous vertebrae. Chondroid tissue is restricted to zones in which the diameter of the notochord is reduced, corresponding to mid‐vertebral locations. In the tail, these zones of chondroid tissue are associated with the autotomic fracture planes. Chondroid tissue first manifests during late embryogenesis, appears to differentiate from pre‐existing chordoid tissue, and has the histological and histochemical characteristics of cartilage. Our observations lend support to the hypothesis that cartilage can be derived directly from notochordal tissue, and suggest that the latter may be an evolutionary and developmental precursor to chordate cartilage. The persistence of chordoid tissue in the intervertebral regions of amphicoelous vertebrae is consistent with a suite of paedomorphic traits exhibited by gekkotans and suggests that the typical hydrostatic nature of notochordal tissue may play a role in mechanically governing patterns of displacement between adjacent amphicoelous vertebrae that lack extensive centrum‐to‐centrum contact. Morphol., 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analysis of cutoff wavelength of elliptical waveguide by regularized meshless method
Authors: Song Rencheng , Chen Xudong
Published: January 2012

In this paper, the regularized meshless method (RMM) combined with the determinant rule is taken to analyze the cutoff wavelength of elliptical waveguide with arbitrary eccentricity. First, an improved desingularization technique of subtracting and adding back is introduced for RMM to discretize this problem. Then, the novel local minimum finding technique on the basis of Chebfun is applied to extract the cutoff wavelength from the determinant of the interpolation matrix of RMM. The numerical examples show that the RMM obtains consistent results with the conventional method of fundamental solutions but has advantage of well‐conditioning and no fictitious boundary. Our method provides another highly effective and stable candidate to solve the cutoff wavelength of elliptical waveguide. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.