bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3‐O‐Methylquercetin Glucosides from Ophioglossum pedunculosum and Inhibition of Lipopolysaccharide‐Induced Nitric Oxide Production in RAW 264.7 Macrophages
Authors: Wan Chuan‐Xing , Luo Jian‐Guang , Guo Chao , Kong Ling‐Yi
Published: September 2012

The three new 3‐O‐methylquercetin glucosides 1–3, together with three known congeners and 3‐O‐methylquercetin, were isolated from the fern Ophioglossum pedunculosum (quercetin=2‐(3,4‐dihydroxyphenyl)‐3,5,7‐trihydroxy‐4H‐1‐benzopyran‐4‐one). The new compounds were identified on the basis of spectroscopic analysis as 5′‐isoprenyl‐3‐O‐methylquercetin 4′,7‐di‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (1), 3‐O‐methylquercetin 4′‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside 7‐[O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside] (2), and 3‐O‐methylquercetin 7‐[O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside] (3). The effect of the isolated compounds on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced NO production was evaluated. The inhibitory activity of 3‐O‐methylquercetin derivatives decreased markedly with the increasing number of glucosyl groups in the structures.
Synthesis, Crystal Structures, and Fungicidal Activity of Novel 1,5‐Diaryl‐3‐(glucopyranosyloxy)‐1H‐pyrazoles
Authors: Liu Yuan‐Yuan , Shi Hong , He Guang‐Ke , Song Guang‐Liang , Zhu Hong‐Jun
Published: September 2012

Five novel pyrazole‐coupled glucosides, 1,5‐diaryl‐1H‐pyrazol‐3‐yl 2,3,4,6‐tetra‐O‐acetyl‐β‐D‐glucopyranosides 5a–5e, were synthesized by the phase‐transfer catalytic reaction of 1,5‐diaryl‐1H‐pyrazol‐3‐ols 4a–4e with acetobromo‐α‐D‐glucose in H2O/CHCl3 under alkaline conditions, using Bu4N+Br− as catalyst. Then, glucosides 5a–5c were deacetylated in a solution of Na2CO3/MeOH to yield the 1,5‐diaryl‐3‐(β‐D‐glucopyranosyloxy)‐1H‐pyrazoles 6a–6c. Their structures were characterized by 1H,1H‐COSY, 1H‐, 13C‐, and 19F‐NMR spectroscopy, as well as elemental analysis. The structures of 5d and 6c were also determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. A preliminary in vitro bioassay indicated that compounds 4e and 5d exhibited excellent‐to‐medium fungicidal activity against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum at the dosage of 10 μg/ml.
Electrochemical Oxidation of Catechols (=Benzene‐1,2‐diols) in the Presence of Benzoylacetonitrile: Synthesis of New Derivatives of 5,6‐Dihydroxybenzofuran
Authors: Nematollahi Davood , Atlasi‐Pak Ali Reza , Esmaili Roya
Published: September 2012

The electrochemical oxidation of catechol (=benzene‐1,2‐diol; 1a) and some of its derivatives in H2O/MeCN 1 : 1 containing benzoylacetonitrile (=β‐oxobenzenepropanenitrile; 3) as a nucleophile was studied by cyclic voltammetry and controlled‐potential coulometry. The voltammetric data showed that electrochemically generated o‐benzoquinones (=cyclohexa‐3,5‐diene‐1,2‐diones) from catechol (1a) and 3‐methylcatechol (1b) participate in a Michael‐addition reaction with 3 to form the corresponding 5,6‐dihydroxybenzofuran‐3‐carbonitrile 8 (Scheme 1). In this work, we report an efficient one‐pot method with high atom economy for the synthesis of new substituted 5,6‐dihydroxybenzofuran‐3‐carbonitriles in an undivided cell under ambient conditions.
An Efficient Synthesis of 3‐(1H‐Tetrazol‐5‐yl)coumarins (=3‐(1H‐Tetrazol‐5‐yl)‐2H‐1‐benzopyran‐2‐ones) via Domino Knoevenagel Condensation, Pinner Reaction, and 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition in Water
Authors: Tisseh Zeinab Noroozi , Dabiri Minoo , Bazgir Ayoob
Published: September 2012

A novel straightforward synthesis of 3‐(1H‐tetrazol‐5‐yl)coumarins (=3‐(1H‐tetrazol‐5‐yl)‐2H‐1‐benzopyran‐2‐ones) 6 via domino Knoevenagel condensation, Pinner reaction, and 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of substituted salicylaldehydes (=2‐hydroxybenzaldehydes), malononitrile (propanedinitrile), and sodium azide in H2O is reported (Scheme 1 and Table 2). This general protocol provides a wide variety of 3‐(1H‐tetrazol‐5‐yl)coumarins in good yields under mild reaction conditions.
Two New Triterpene Saponins from Cyclamen africanumBoiss. & Reuter
Authors: Bencharif‐Betina Soumeya , Miyamoto Tomofumi , Tanaka Chiaki , Kabouche Zahia , Mitaine‐Offer Anne‐Claire , Lacaille‐Dubois Marie Aleth
Published: September 2012

Two new oleanane‐type triterpene saponins, afrocyclamins A and B (1 and 2, resp.), were isolated from a MeOH extract of the roots of Cyclamen africanum Boiss. & Reuter, together with three known triterpenoid saponins, lysikokianoside, deglucocyclamin I, and its dicrotalic acid derivative. The structures were elucidated, on the basis of 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR experiments and mass spectrometry as (3β,20β)‐13,28‐epoxy‐16‐oxo‐3‐{O‐β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→4)‐O‐[β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→2)]‐α‐L‐arabinopyranosyl}oxy}oleanan‐29‐al (1) and (3β,16α,20β)‐16,28,29‐trihydroxy‐olean‐12‐en‐3‐yl O‐4‐O‐(4‐carboxy‐3‐hydroxy‐3‐methyl‐1‐oxobutyl)‐β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→4)‐O‐[β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→2)]‐α‐L‐arabinopyranoside (2).
New 6/8/6‐Taxanes Isolated from the Heartwood of Taxus cuspidata
Authors: Zhang Kai , Li Yong , Ni Zhi‐Yi , Zhang Man‐Li , Wang Yu‐Fang , Shi Qing‐Wen , Huo Chang‐Hong , Sauriol Françoise , Kiyota Hiromasa , Gu Yu‐Cheng , Dong Mei
Published: September 2012

Two new natural taxanes were isolated from the heartwood of Taxus cuspidata. The structures were established as rel‐(2α,5α,7β,9α,10β,12α)‐7,9‐bis(acetyloxy)‐2‐(benzoyloxy)‐11,12‐epoxy‐1,5‐dihydroxy‐10‐[(hydroxyacetyl)oxy]tax‐4(20)‐en‐13‐one (1), and (2α,5α,10β,14β)‐taxa‐4(20),11‐diene‐2,5,10,14‐tetrol 2‐acetate (2) on the basis of spectroscopic analysis.
A Convenient Synthesis of Functionalized Indenopyrazolones from Indan‐1,2,3‐trione, Benzaldehydes, and Phenylhydrazine
Authors: Yavari Issa , Seyfi Samereh , Skoulika Stavroula
Published: September 2012

A synthesis of cis‐3‐aryl‐3a,8b‐dihydro‐3a,8b‐dihydroxy‐1‐phenylindeno[1,2‐c]pyrazol‐4(1H)‐ones in good yields from the sequential reaction between benzaldehydes, phenylhydrazine, and indan‐1,2,3‐trione in MeCN is described (Scheme 1).
A Convergent Synthesis of a Twelve‐Membered Macrolide Natural Product, (6R,12S)‐6‐Hydroxy‐12‐methyl‐1‐oxacyclododecane‐2,5‐dione
Authors: Radha Krishna Palakodety , Kumar Pendyala Venkata Arun
Published: September 2012

A new polyketide metabolite, the twelve‐membered macrolide 1, isolated from the endophytic fungal strain Cladosporium tenuissimum LR 463 of Maytenus hookeri, whose structure had been determined as (6R,12S)‐6‐hydroxy‐12‐methyl‐1‐oxacyclododecane‐2,5‐dione, was synthesized for the first time by a convergent strategy via Yamaguchi esterification of 2 with 3 and ring‐closing metathesis (RCM) to afford the cyclic ester 1 that was eventually transformed to the target molecule. However, the total synthesis revealed that the assigned structure of the natural product is not correct.
Eight New 2‐(2‐Phenylethyl)chromone (=2‐(2‐Phenylethyl)‐4H‐1‐benzopyran‐4‐one) Derivatives from Aquilaria malaccensis Agarwood
Authors: Wu Bo , Kwon Sung Won , Hwang Gwi Seo , Park Jeong Hill
Published: September 2012

Eight new and eight known 2‐(2‐phenylethyl)chromone (=2‐(2‐phenylethyl)‐4H‐1‐benzopyran‐4‐one) derivatives, i.e., 1–8 and 9–16, respectively, together with the two known sesquiterpenoids 17 and 18 were isolated from a 70% MeOH extract of Aquilaria malaccensis (AM) agarwood chips. Their structures were determined based on extensive spectroscopic analysis and comparison with reported data.
The Jubilee of Methyl Jasmonate and Hedione®
Authors: Chapuis Christian
Published: September 2012

An internal historical point of view is presented on the discovery and development of both methyl jasmonate and its saturated analogue Hedione®. A discussion of the synthetic approaches performed during the last decade, and structureactivity relationships of analogous structures are also presented.
Two New N‐(O‐Carbamoylglucopyranosyl)‐N‐dimethylansamitocins from Actinosynnema pretiosum
Authors: Ma Juan , Shen Yue‐Mao , Zeng Ying , Zhao Pei‐Ji
Published: September 2012

Two new and a known N‐(O‐carbamoylglucopyranosyl)ansamitocins were isolated from Actinosynnema pretiosum ssp. auranticum ATCC 31565. The known N‐(4‐O‐carbamoyl‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl)‐N‐demethylansamitocin P 2 (=ACGP‐2; 1) was assigned according to 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR data, and the two new compounds were identified as N‐(6‐O‐carbamoyl‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl)‐N‐demethylansamitocin P 2 (=ACGP‐2′; 2) and N‐(4‐O‐carbamoyl‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl)‐N‐demethylansamitocin P 1 (=ACGP‐1; 3) on the basis of spectroscopic data interpretation including 2D‐NMR and tandem MS analysis.
Two Novel PushPull Series of Benzothiazole‐Based Dyes: Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Nourmohammadian Farahnaz , Gholami Mahnaz Davoudzadeh
Published: September 2012

New dichromophoric cyanine dyes based on benzothiazol‐2‐amines as pushpull systems were synthesized in two series of disperse and cationic forms (see 4 in Scheme 1 and 5 in Scheme 2, resp.). Their thermal stabilities, UV/VIS, fluorescence, and solvatochromic behavior, which are important parameters in pushpull systems, were also studied.
Six New Sesquiterpenes from Eupatorium lindleyanum
Authors: Wu Shuang‐Qing , Xu Nai‐Yu , Sun Qun , Han Hai‐Yan , Zhang Jian
Published: September 2012

The six new germacrane‐type sesquiterpenoid lactones 1–6 were isolated from the CHCl3 extract of Eupatorium lindleyanum DC. The structures of these compounds were determined by spectroscopic analyses, including interpretation of 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR spectra. Compounds 1–6 were tested for cytotoxicity against NB4 and K562 leukemia cell lines, showing that 2 and 5 possess potent cytotoxicity (Table 3).
Bisyinshanic Acids A and B, Two Novel Diterpene Dimers from the Roots of Euphorbia yinshanica
Authors: Zhang Ben‐Yin , Wang Huan , Luo Xiao‐Dong , Du Zhi‐Zhi , Shen Jian‐Wei , Wu Hai‐Feng , Zhang Xiao‐Feng
Published: September 2012

Two novel diterpene dimers with a bismagdalenic acid skeleton, bisyinshanic acids A and B (1 and 2, resp.), along with eight known diterpenoids (3–10), were isolated from the roots of Euphorbia yinshanica. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic evidence.
Synthesis of 3′,5′‐Cyclic Phosphate and Thiophosphate Esters of 2′‐C‐Methyl Ribonucleosides
Authors: Leisvuori Anna , Ahmed Zafar , Ora Mikko , Beigelman Leonid , Blatt Lawrence , Lönnberg Harri
Published: September 2012

2′‐C‐Methylnucleosides are known to exhibit antiviral activity against Hepatitis C virus. Since the inhibitory activity depends on their intracellular conversion to 5′‐triphosphates, dosing as appropriately protected 5′‐phosphates or 5′‐phosphorothioates appears attractive. For this purpose, four potential pro‐drugs of 2′‐C‐methylguanosine, i.e., 3′,5′‐cyclic phosphorothioate of 2′‐C‐methylguanosine and 2′‐C,O6‐dimethylguanosine, 1 and 2, respectively, the S‐[(pivaloyloxy)methyl] ester of 2′‐C,O6‐dimethylguanosine 3′,5′‐cyclic phosphorothioate and the O‐methyl ester of 2′‐C,O6‐dimethylguanosine 3′,5′‐cyclic phosphate, 3 and 4, respectively, have been prepared.
Two Unusual Methylidenecyclopropane Glucosides from Metaxya rostrata C.Presl
Authors: Kainz Kerstin P. , Virtbauer Judith , Kählig Hanspeter , Arion Vladimir , Donath Oliver , Reznicek Gottfried , Huber Werner , Marian Brigitte , Krenn Liselotte
Published: September 2012

Two new natural compounds, (1R,2E)‐2‐(6‐hydroxyhexylidene)cyclopropyl‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (1) and (6E)‐6‐[(2R)‐2‐(β‐D‐glucopyranosyloxy)cyclopropylidene]hexanoic acid (2), glucosides of a very rare methylidenecyclopropane alcohol, as well as two known glycosides of phenolic acids, namely 4‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosylcaffeic acid (3) and (E)‐4‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosylcoumaric acid (4), and methyl α‐fructofuranoside (5) were isolated for the first time from the rhizomes of the tree fern Metaxya rostrata C.Presl. The structures were elucidated on the basis of detailed spectroscopic data analysis, and the structure of 1 was additionally confirmed by X‐ray crystal‐structure analysis.
Improved DNA Clamps by Stacking to Adjacent Nucleobases
Authors: Fatthalla Maha I. , Pedersen Erik B.
Published: September 2012

Three or four aromatic rings interconnected by acetylene bridges form a stiff conjugated system with sufficient conformational freedom to make it useful to link together the two strands of a DNA clamp. Upon targeting a ssDNA, the conformational flexibility allows better stacking of the linker to the underlying non‐planar base triplet in the formed triplex. This type of triplexes has a substantially higher thermal melting temperature which can be further improved by inserting locked nucleic acids (LNAs) in the Hoogsteen part of the clamp. An extremely high sensitivity to mismatches is observed in an octamer triplex when placed in the middle of the sequence.
New Optically Active Bis‐Heterocycles Derived from (S)‐Proline
Authors: Pieczonka Adam M. , Mlostoń Grzegorz , Linden Anthony , Heimgartner Heinz
Published: September 2012

Enantiomerically pure bis‐heterocycles containing a (S)‐proline moiety have been prepared starting from (S)‐N‐benzylprolinehydrazide (2b). The reactions with isothiocyanates or butyl isocyanate in refluxing MeOH led to the corresponding thiosemicarbazide 5 and semicarbazide 9 with a N‐benzylprolinoyl residue. The structure of the tert‐butyl derivative 5d was established by X‐ray crystallography. Base‐catalyzed cyclization of 5 and 9 led to (S)‐3‐(pyrrolidin‐2‐yl)‐1H‐1,2,4‐triazole‐5(4H)‐thiones 6 and the corresponding 5(4H)‐one 8, respectively, whereas, in concentrated H2SO4, compounds 5 undergo cyclization to give (S)‐5‐amino‐2‐(pyrrolidin‐2‐yl)‐1,3,4‐thiadiazoles 7. Furthermore, 2b reacted with hexane‐2,5‐dione in boiling iPrOH to yield the (S)‐N‐(2,5‐dimethylpyrrol‐1‐yl)prolinamide 10. In the case of the bis‐heterocycle 8, treatment with HCOONH4 and Pd/C in MeOH gave the debenzylated product 12.
Perfluorooctane sulfonate induces apoptosis in lung cancer A549 cells through reactive oxygen species‐mediated mitochondrion‐dependent pathway
Authors: Mao Zhenxing , Xia Wei , Wang Jun , Chen Tian , Zeng Qianqian , Xu Bing , Li Weiyong , Chen Xi , Xu Shunqing
Published: September 2012

Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is a widespread environmental contaminant that is detected in the lung of mammals. The mechanisms underlying PFOS‐induced lung cytotoxicity remain unclear. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of PFOS on human lung cancer A549 cells and its possible molecular mechanism. A549 cells were treated with PFOS (0, 25, 50, 100 and 200 μm) and the cellular apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane potential as well as intracellular reactive oxygen species were determined. In this study, PFOS induced a dose‐dependent increase in A549 cell toxicity via an apoptosis pathway as characterized by increased percentage of sub‐G1, activation of caspase‐3 and −9, and increased ratio of Bax/bcl‐2 mRNA expression. In addition, there was obvious oxidative stress, represented by decreased glutathione level, increased malondialdehyde level and superoxide dismutase activity. N‐Acetylcysteine, as an antioxidant that is a direct reactive oxygen species scavenger, can effectively block PFOS‐induced reactive oxygen species generation, mitochondrial membrane potential loss and cell apoptosis. These data indicate that PFOS induces apoptosis in A549 cells through a reactive oxygen species‐mediated mitochondrial dysfunction pathway mechanism. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Attitudes Toward Psychological Telehealth: Current and Future Clinical Psychologists’ Opinions of Internet‐Based Interventions
Authors: Perle Jonathan G. , Langsam Leah C. , Randel Allison , Lutchman Shane , Levine Alison B. , Odland Anthony P. , Nierenberg Barry , Marker Craig D.
Published: September 2012

Objectives

The current study explored differences in acceptance of telehealth interventions amongst currently licensed and future clinicians with a focus on web camera‐based intervention. The influence of theoretical orientation was also assessed.

Method

An online survey assessed 717 participants comprising 409 licensed psychologists (40.8% female, mean age = 56.57, standard deviation [SD] = 11.01) and 308 doctoral‐level students (78.9% female, mean age = 27.66, SD = 5.9) across domains of endorsement and rejection.

Results

Binary logistic regression indicated no significant difference between currently licensed and future psychologists in their endorsement of telehealth modalities. Cognitive‐behavioral, cognitive, behavioral, and systems psychologists were significantly more accepting of telehealth interventions than were dynamic/analytic or existential therapists.

Conclusions

Increasing exposure to telehealth through education as well as continued research on efficacy for specific diagnoses may help psychologists to more effectively determine whether telehealth is the “best fit” for both clinician and client.
The Relationship Between Individual Resource Realization and Sociodemographic and Clinical Characteristics in Mentally Ill Patients
Authors: Hausberg Maria Christina , Schulz Holger , Andreas Sylke
Published: September 2012

Objective

There has been a recent effort to investigate the role of individual resources in the field of mental health, but systematic research on this topic is lacking. The overall aim of the present study was the exploration of resource realization and other related variables in patients with mental disorders to provide basic knowledge on the upcoming field of psychotherapy research, which focuses on patients’ strengths.

Method

Current resource realization was assessed with a shortened form of the Resource Realization Questionnaire in a sample of 332 inpatients with mental disorders. To explore the association between resource realization and related variables, group differences (t tests, analyses of variance) in gender, age, marital status, educational level, and type and number of diagnoses were calculated. The relationships between resource realization, symptom severity, interpersonal behavior, and therapeutic alliance were examined, and a regression tree analysis was calculated to establish relevant predictors of resource realization.

Results

There are several significant differences in current resource realization regarding marital status and number and type of diagnoses. A significant relationship between resource realization and symptom severity was found. The results regarding interpersonal behavior and therapeutic alliance were more heterogeneous. Symptom severity, gender, and chronic depression were found to be relevant predictors of resource realization.

Conclusion

The close association between resource realization and symptom severity supports further investigation of the construct of resource realization within psychotherapy research.
Cognitive‐Behavioral Approaches to Outpatient Treatment of Internet Addiction in Children and Adolescents
Authors: King Daniel L. , Delfabbro Paul H. , Griffiths Mark D. , Gradisar Michael
Published: September 2012

Excessive and potentially addictive use of the Internet among children and adolescents has emerged as a major concern in recent times. Internet addiction is often conceptualized as an impulse control disorder, with features similar to pathological gambling. However, there remains considerable debate about the core components, etiological processes, course, and maintaining factors of the disorder. This article presents a case study of a 16‐year‐old male with generalized pathological Internet use. Critical issues relevant to case conceptualization, assessment, and choice of therapy are examined. Although the evidence base is limited in this emerging area of clinical psychology, we provide a summary of empirically supported cognitive‐behavioral techniques for Internet addiction.
Extended depth of focus in optical microscopy: Assessment of existing methods and a new proposal
Authors: Piccinini Filippo , Tesei Anna , Zoli Wainer , Bevilacqua Alessandro
Published: September 2012

Due to depth of focus constraints, the acquisition of a single 2‐D completely in‐focus image of 3‐D objects characterized by a relevant depth dimension is not possible with a standard light microscope. Since the Seventies numerous methods have been proposed to overcome this problem, mainly through different fusion processing techniques to extend the microscope's depth of focus. However, given a specific application, it is very difficult to know which method yields the best results because there are no validated approaches or tested metrics that are suitable for real world cases typically lacking in a reference ground truth. Although the Universal Quality Index (UQI) is widely used to evaluate output quality in image processing, it requires a reference ground truth. Some UQI extensions have been proposed to evaluate the output of fusion methods without a ground truth, but sufficient analyses have not been carried out to confirm their equivalence to the standard UQI in terms of (evaluation) performance. We propose a new method to extend the microscope's depth of focus and, using synthetic stacks of images with ground truth attached, show that it is superior to state‐of‐the‐art methods. We also demonstrate that the output of metrics proposed as UQI extensions is different from that of the UQI. Finally, we validate a new approach to evaluate extended depth of focus methods using real world stacks of slices, as per the UQI, but without the need for a reference ground truth. Microsc. Res. Tech. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
AFM characterization of biomolecules in physiological environment by an advanced nanofabricated probe
Authors: Moretti M. , Canale C. , Canale C. , Francardi M. , Dante S. , De Angelis F. , Di Fabrizio E.
Published: September 2012

Many relevant questions in biology and medicine require both topography and chemical information with high spatial resolution. Several biological events that occur at the nanometer scale level need to be investigated in physiological conditions. In this regard Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) is one of the most powerful tools for label‐free nanoscale characterization of biological samples in liquid environment. Recently, the coupling of Raman spectroscopy to scanning probe microscopies has opened new perspectives on this subject; however, the coupling of quality AFM spectroscopy with Raman spectroscopy in the same probe is not trivial. In this work we report about the AFM capabilities of an advanced high‐resolution probe that has been previously nanofabricated by our group for coupling with Raman spectroscopy applications. We investigate its use for liquid AFM measurements on biological model samples like lipid bilayers, amyloid fibrils, and titin proteins. We demonstrate topography resolution down to nanometer level, force measurement and stable imaging capability. We also discuss about its potential as nanoscale chemical probe in liquid phase. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Morphoanatomical and phytochemical studies of Salvia lachnostachys (Lamiaceae)
Authors: Erbano Marianna , Ehrenfried Carlos Augusto , Stefanello Maria Élida Alves , Dos Santos Élide Pereira
Published: September 2012

Salvia lachnostachys Benth., Lamiaceae, is a endemic species from southern Brazil. The essential oil of its leaves and flowers is mainly constituted by aliphatic compounds, such as dodecanoic acid, with sesquiterpenes as minor constituents. This work evaluated the morphology, anatomy, microchemistry, and phytochemistry of S. lachnostachys to provide advanced knowledge of Brazilian plants with medicinal potential. Light and scanning electron microscopy techniques were used in the anatomical and microchemical studies. Compounds were isolated by chromatographic techniques, identified by analysis of their NMR spectra and compared with published data. S. lachnostachys can be distinguished from other related species mainly by its petiolate leaves, terminal inflorescence, persistent bracts, and villous‐glandular corolla. The stem and leaves of S. lachnostachys display anatomical characteristics common to the family Lamiaceae. However, this species can be distinguished from other family members by the morphology and the presence of eglandular and glandular trichomes, as well as the organization of the vascular bundles of the petiole. The phytochemical results revealed that S. lacnostachys produces oleanolic and ursolic acids in addition to the diterpene fruticuline A, which is a rare compound, previously found only in Salvia fruticulosa Benth. and S. corrugata Vahl. Ursolic and oleanolic acids are bioactive triterpenes that exhibit antiatherosclerotic, anticancer, antihypertensive, antinflammatory, antileukemic, antimutagenic, antioxidant, antiproliferative, and antiviral activities, and fruticuline A has antibacterial activity. Microsc. Res. Tech. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Requirements for the nuclear entry of polyplexes and nanoparticles during mitosis
Authors: Larsen John D. , Ross Nikki L. , Sullivan Millicent O.
Published: September 2012

Background

Nonviral gene delivery has a limited efficacy partly as a result of poor nuclear delivery, yet an understanding of the mechanisms of nuclear entry is limited. The present study aimed to test the common hypothesis that most nonviral vehicles enter the nucleus during cell division.

Methods

Polystyrene particles with diameters of 24–200 nm and carboxylate or amine surface groups, were either used as is or, alternatively, were functionalized with carboxyl‐, hydroxyl‐ or amine‐ terminated poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and subsequently microinjected into the cytoplasm of NIH/3T3 mouse fibroblast cells. The post‐mitotic locations of the particles were analyzed and compared with the locations of cytoplasmically microinjected plasmid DNA (pDNA), pDNA polyplexes or nuclear localization signal (NLS)‐functionalized pDNA polyplexes.

Results

We observed that all polystyrene particles as well as the NLS‐free polyplexes were excluded from the nucleus post‐mitosis. By contrast, free pDNA and pDNA polyplexes containing an NLS accumulated in the nucleus after division.

Conclusions

These data suggest that biochemically specific modes of association with chromatin‐associated proteins or other nuclear components are necessary for the nuclear inclusion of polyplexes and nanoparticles during mitosis. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of the olfactory and vomeronasal organs in Discoglossus pictus (Discoglossidae, Anura)
Authors: Královec Karel , Žáková Pavla , Mužáková Vladimíra
Published: September 2012

Using histological techniques and computer‐aided three‐dimensional reconstructions of histological serial sections, we studied the development of the olfactory and vomeronasal organs in the discoglossid frog Discoglossus pictus. The olfactory epithelium in larval D. pictus represents one continuous unit of tissue not divided into two separate portions. However, a small pouch of olfactory epithelium (the “ventromedial diverticulum”) is embedded into the roof of the buccal cavity, anteromedial to the internal naris. The lateral appendix is present in D. pictus through the entire larval period and disappears during the onset of metamorphosis. The disappearance of the lateral appendix at this time suggests that it is a typical larval organ related to aquatic life. The vomeronasal organ develops during hindlimb development, which is comparatively late for anurans. The development of the vomeronasal organ in D. pictus follows the same general developmental pattern recognized for neobatrachians. As with most anurans, the vomeronasal glands appear later than the vomeronasal organ. After metamorphosis, the olfactory organ of adult D. pictus is composed of a series of three interconnected chambers: the cavum principale, cavum medium, and cavum inferius. We suggest that the ventromedial diverticulum at the anterior border of the internal naris of larval D. pictus might be homologous with the ventral olfactory epithelium of bufonids and with the similar diverticulum of Alytes. J. Morphol. 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Detection of sheep and goat milk adulterations by direct MALDI–TOF MS analysis of milk tryptic digests
Authors: Calvano Cosima Damiana , De Ceglie Cristina , Monopoli Antonio , Zambonin Carlo Giorgio
Published: September 2012

In dairy field, one of the most common frauds is the adulteration of higher value types of milk (sheep's and goat's) with milk of lower value (cow's milk). This illegal practice has an economic advantage for milk producers and poses a threat for consumers' health because of the presence ofhidden allergensas, for example, cow milk proteins, in particular,αs1‐casein andβ‐lactoglobulin. The urgent need of sensitive techniques to detect this kind of fraud brought to the development of chromatographic, immunoenzymatic, electrophoretic and mass spectrometric assays.

In the current work, we present a fast, reproducible and sensitive method based on the direct matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization–time‐of‐flight (MALDI–TOF) MS analysis of milk tryptic digests for the detection of milk adulteration by evaluating specie‐specific markers in the peptide profiles. Several pure raw and commercial milk samples and binary mixtures containing cows' and goats', cows' and sheep's and goats' and sheep's milk (concentrations of each milk varied from 0% to 100%) were prepared, and tryptic digests were analyzed by MALDI–TOF MS. The use of the new MALDI matrixα‐cyano‐4‐chlorocinnamic acid allowed to detect cow and goat milk peptide markers up to 5% level of adulteration. Finally, from preliminary data, it seems that the strategy could be successfully applied also to detect similar adulterations in cheese samples. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
LC/ESI‐MS/MS analysis outlines the different fumonisin patterns produced by F. verticillioides in culture media and in maize kernels
Authors: Falavigna Claudia , Cirlini Martina , Galaverna Gianni , Sforza Stefano , Dossena Arnaldo , Dall'Asta Chiara
Published: September 2012

Fumonisins are a family of food‐borne mycotoxins with a wide spectrum of toxicological activities, produced by Fusarium verticillioides. Twenty‐eight fumonisin analogues have been characterised so far, which can be separated into four main groups, identified as fumonisin A, B, C and P, being fumonisin B the most widely occurring in maize and corn‐based food. In this work, major and minor fumonisin analogues produced by F. verticillioides have been determined by the development of a suitable tandem mass spectrometry procedure for target compound identification and quantification. The method has been applied to the determination of the major fumonisins in culture media of F. verticillioides and in mouldy maize. In addition to the main fumonisins produced by F. verticillioides, also secondary compounds such as FB4, FB5, FAs and FCs have been detected in both fungal liquid cultures and contaminated maize samples. The use of this method for quantification of major and minor fumonisins may be useful for an exhaustive evaluation of their occurrence and toxicological relevance in food; moreover, it may be applied for a better definition of the fumonisin biosynthetic pathways in different growing media as well as in maize. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of breath by proton transfer reaction time of flight mass spectrometry in rats with steatohepatitis induced by high‐fat diet
Authors: Aprea Eugenio , Morisco Filomena , Biasioli Franco , Vitaglione Paola , Cappellin Luca , Soukoulis Christos , Lembo Vincenzo , Gasperi Flavia , D'Argenio Giuseppe , Fogliano Vincenzo , Caporaso Nicola
Published: September 2012

Breath testing has been largely used as a diagnostic tool, but the difficulties in data interpretation and sample collection have limited its application.

We developed a fast (< 20 s), on‐line, non‐invasive method for the collection and analysis of exhaled breath in awake rats based on proton transfer reaction time of flight mass spectrometry (PTR‐ToF‐MS) and applied it to investigate possible relationships between pathologies induced by dietary regime and breath composition.

As a case study, we investigated rats with dietary induced non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and modifications induced by coffee addition to the diet. We considered two different diets (standard and high fat) complemented with two different drinking possibilities (water or decaffeinated coffee) for a total of four groups with four rats each.

Several spectrometric peaks were reliable markers for both dietary fat content and coffee supplementation. The high resolution and accuracy of PTR‐ToF‐MS allowed the identification of related compounds such as methanol, dimethyl sulphide, dimethyl sulphone and ammonia.

In conclusion, the rapid and minimally invasive breath analysis of awake rats permitted the identification of markers related to diet and specific pathologic conditions and provided a useful tool for broader metabolic investigations. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ultrahigh resolution mass spectrometry and accurate mass measurements for high‐throughput food lipids profiling
Authors: Vichi Stefania , Cortés‐Francisco Nuria , Caixach Josep
Published: September 2012

In the present study, accurate mass measurements by ultrahigh resolution mass spectrometry with Orbitrap‐Exactive working at resolving power R: 100,000 (m/z 200, full width at half maximum) with an accuracy better than 2 ppm in all the mass range (m/z 200 to 2000) were used to show a detailed molecular composition of diverse edible oils and fats. Flow injection was used to introduce samples into the mass spectrometer, obtaining a complete analysis of each sample in less than 10 min, including blanks. Meticulous choice of organic solvents and optimization of the ion source and Orbitrap mass analyzer parameters were carried out, in order to achieve reproducible mass spectra giving reliable elemental compositions of the lipid samples and to prevent carry over. More than 200 elemental compositions attributable to diacylglycerols, triacylglycerols (TAGs), and their oxidation products have been found in the spectra of food lipids from different origin. Several compounds with very close molecular mass could only be resolved through ultrahigh resolution, allowing detailed and robust TAG profiling with a high characterization potential. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MS‐based characterization of αs2‐casein isoforms in donkey's milk
Authors: Saletti Rosaria , Muccilli Vera , Cunsolo Vincenzo , Fontanini Debora , Capocchi Antonella , Foti Salvatore
Published: September 2012

The primary structure of four αs2‐casein (CN) isoforms, present as minor components in the dephosphorylated CN fraction of a milk sample collected in Eastern Sicily from an individual donkey belonging to the Ragusano breed at middle lactation stage, was determined, using the known donkey's αs2‐CN (GenBank Acc. No. CAV00691; Mr 26 028 Da) as reference. Proteins, with experimentally measured Mr of 25 429, 21 939, 25 203 and 21 713 Da, were isolated by the combined use of reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC) and two‐dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The major spot of each gel, corresponding to a single protein, was digested by trypsin, α‐chymotrypsin and endoproteinase Glu‐C. The resulting peptide mixtures were analyzed by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry and capillary RP‐HPLC/nano‐electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry, and the data obtained were used for the sequence determination. The isoforms are produced from differential splicing events involving exons 4, 5 and 6 and parts of the exon 17. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of cocoa liquors by GC–MS and LC–MS/MS: focus on alkylpyrazines and flavanols
Authors: Magi Emanuele , Bono Luca , Di Carro Marina
Published: September 2012

Flavor is one of the most important characteristics of chocolate products and is due to a complex volatile fraction, depending both on the cocoa bean genotype and the several processes occurring during chocolate production (fermentation, drying, roasting and conching). Alkylpyrazines are among the most studied volatiles, being one of the main classes of odorant compounds in cocoa products. In this work, a mass spectrometric approach was used for the comparison of cocoa liquors from different countries. A headspace solid‐phase microextraction gas chromatography–mass spectrometry method was developed for the qualitative study of the volatile fraction; the standard addition method was then used for the quantitative determination of five pyrazines (2‐methylpyrazine, 2,3‐dimethylpyrazine, 2,5‐dimethylpyrazine, 2,3,5‐trimethylpyrazine and tetramethylpyrazine). Satisfactory figures of merit were obtained: Limits of quantitation were in the range 0.1–2.7 ng/g; repeatability and reproducibility varied between 3% and 7% and between 8% and 14%, respectively. The total content of the pyrazines was remarkably different in the considered samples, ranging from 99 to 708 ng/g. Tetramethylpyrazine showed the highest concentration in all samples, with a maximum value of 585 ng/g. A preliminary study was also performed on the nonvolatile fraction using LC–MS/MS, identifying some flavanols such as catechin, epicatechin and procyanidins. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification and assay of carbohydrates in olive drupes by cesium attachment electrospray tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS/MS)
Authors: Russo A. , Migliorini M. , Cecchi L. , Cherubini C. , Giusti M. , Zanoni B. , Perri E. , Nardi M. , Sindona G.
Published: September 2012

Identification and assay of sugars in olive drupes during their ripening phase is evaluated by tandem mass spectrometry. Recent achievements have shown that the quality of an extra virgin olive oil can be directly correlated to the ripening degree of the drupes that is likely linked to their saccharides content. An innovation in this peculiar food chain is now proposed that considers a high throughput assessment of the carbohydrate content by a recently introduced protocol based on the gas‐phase chemistry of sugar‐cesium adducts by ESI‐MS/MS. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reconstructed drought variability in southeastern Sweden since the 1650s
Authors: Seftigen Kristina , Linderholm Hans W. , Drobyshev Igor , Niklasson Mats
Published: September 2012

In this study, we present the first regional reconstruction of summer drought for southeastern Sweden. The June–July standardized precipitation index (SPI) was reconstructed over the period 1650–2002 based on Pinus sylvestris L. tree‐ring width data, where the reconstruction could account for 41.6% of the total variance in the instrumental record over 1901–2002. Our reconstruction suggests an overall wet 18th century and a dry 19th century. The most outstanding pluvial phase in the pre‐instrumental period took place in the mid‐1720s and lasted over 50 years, while multi‐decadal periods of below average moisture conditions were reconstructed in the 1660s–1720s, 1800s‐early 30s, and in the 1840s–50s. Several of these dry spells have previously been found in reconstructions from Sweden and Finland, indicating that our reconstruction reflects large‐scale moisture anomalies across eastern Fennoscandia. Comparison of the SPI estimates with mid‐tropospheric pressure patterns suggests that summertime drought is associated with positive pressure anomalies over British Isles and the North Sea, while an eastward movement of the Icelandic low‐pressure systems over the western part of central Fennoscandia results in wetter than normal June–July conditions over the region of interest.
Structure and Rheological Behavior of Thermoreversible Supramolecular Polymers with Weak Multiple Hydrogen Bonds
Authors: Chen Yujie , Wu Wei , Himmel Tobias , Wagner Manfred H.
Published: September 2012

Thermoreversible supramolecular polymers are prepared from polyamide oligomers as backbones with weak multiple hydrogen bonds. The supramolecular polymers behave like elastic polymers with a high rubber plateau and a low melting temperature, which is favorable for low temperature processing. The end‐capped sulfonyl isocyanate increases the diversity of the self‐complementary hydrogen bonds. The melt rheology of the supramolecular polymers is highly dependent on temperature and is related to the structure of the physical network. The supramolecular polymers are yield stress fluids with a high yield stress of about 2557 kPa. The temperature dependence of hydrogen‐bonding is analyzed. Tensile tests are performed and are discussed in relation to the network structure.

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Arrangement of C60 via the Self‐Assembly of Post‐Functionalizable Polyisocyanate Block Copolymer
Authors: Min Joonkeun , Shah Priyank N. , Chae Chang‐Geun , Lee Jae‐Suk
Published: September 2012

Poly(furfuryl isocyanate) (PFIC), which includes the reactive furan group, was synthesized by anionic polymerization using a sodium benzhydroxide (Na‐BH), self‐assembly initiator. We determined the optimum polymerization conditions by varying both the reaction time and the molar ratio of the monomer to the initiator. Block copolymer, poly(furfuryl isocyanate)‐b‐poly(n‐hexyl isocyanate), was synthesized under optimized polymerization conditions. The PFIC was modified by Diels–Alder reactions with C60 for functionalization. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to study the self‐assembly of block copolymers and modified block copolymer with C60. C60 formed highly ordered aggregates on the PFIC domains via self‐assembly of the block copolymer.
A New Approach To The Middle East Conflict: The Analytic Hierarchy Process
Authors: Saaty Thomas L. , Zoffer H.J.
Published: September 2012

In most long‐lasting conflicts, each party's grievances increase while the concessions they are willing to make decline in number, quality, and perceived value. Both parties lose sight of what they are willing to settle for, generally exaggerate their own needs, and minimize the needs of the other side over time. But, it is precisely the matter of trading that needs to be made more concrete and of higher priority for both sides, if a meaningful resolution is to be found. Without a formal way of trading off the concessions and packages of concessions, both sides are likely to suspect that they are getting the short end of the bargain. After the parties have agreed to a trade, very specific binding language about the terms of the agreement, clear implementation policies and outside guarantors are needed. The worth of the concessions traded, as perceived by both the giver and receiver, needs to be accurately determined and recorded. All of these require going beyond verbal descriptions of the concessions to more broadly include their economic, social, geographic, humanitarian, and historical worth. It is critical that all of these need to be translated into priorities derived in terms of the different values and beliefs of the parties. Priorities are universal and include the diversity of measures in terms of which economic, social, and other values are measured. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) provides a way to perform such an assessment with the participation of negotiators for the parties. It is a positive approach that makes it possible to reason and express feelings and judgements with numerical intensities to derive priorities. It has been used productively in the past to deal with the conflicts in South Africa and Northern Ireland and with other controversies throughout the world. With the assistance of panels of Israeli participants and Palestinian participants brought together in 2009 and 2010, AHP was applied for the first time to the Palestinian–Israeli conflict. The process makes it clear that moderation in different degrees by both sides is essential to arrive at acceptable agreements on concessions proposed and agreed upon by both sides. AHP makes it possible to evaluate moderate and extreme viewpoints and determine their effect on the trading of concessions. The results obtained encourage us to advocate its use in the negotiation process. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pareto‐Set Analysis: Biobjective Clustering in Decision and Objective Spaces
Authors: Ulrich Tamara
Published: September 2012

Multiobjective problems usually contain conflicting objectives. Therefore, there is no single best solution but a set of solutions that represent different tradeoffs between these objectives. Knowledge of this front can help in understanding the optimization problem better, as promising designs can be identified, and it can be seen what the achievable tradeoffs between the objective values are. Although for real‐world problems, this interpretation of the front is usually not straightforward.

This paper proposes a method to help the decision maker by clustering a given set of tradeoff solutions. It does so by extending the standard approach of clustering the solutions in objective space, such that it finds clusters that are compact and well separated both in decision space and in objective space. It is not the goal of the method to provide the decision maker with a single preferred solution. Instead, it helps the decision maker by structuring the tradeoff solutions such that he or she can learn about the problem. More precisely, a good clustering of the tradeoff solutions both in decision space and in objective space elicits information from the front about what design types lead to what regions in objective space. The novelty of the presented approach over existing work is its general nature, as it does not require the identification of distinct design variables or feature vectors. Instead, the proposed method only requires that a distance measure between a given pair of solutions can be calculated both in decision space and in objective space.

As good clusters in decision space do not necessarily correspond to good clusters in objective space, we formulate this clustering problem as a biobjective optimization problem and propose PAN, a multiobjective evolutionary algorithm, to generate promising partitionings. Tests on artificial datasets are used to identify a suitable representation and a suitable partitioning goodness measure for PAN. Results from applying PAN to a knapsack problem and a bridge construction problem show that PAN is able to find multiple tradeoffs between good clustering in decision space and in objective space. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A critique of available scales and presentation of the non‐human primate dyskinesia rating scale
Authors: Fox Susan H. , Johnston Tom H. , Li Qin , Brotchie Jonathan , Bezard Erwan
Published: September 2012

Levodopa‐induced dyskinesia (LID) is a major limitation of long‐term management of Parkinson's disease. The roadblocks that have hindered the development of new treatments for levodopa‐induced dyskinesia were discussed at a meeting organized by the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's research (New York, NY, March 2011). Among these, the lack of consensus methodology and clinical applicability for eliciting and rating LID in 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)–treated monkeys was highlighted as a particular concern. Here we present an update on the practical use of rating scales for evaluating LID in MPTP‐lesioned primate models of PD, with a focus on macaques, and present specifics on the Non‐Human Primate Dyskinesia Rating Scale. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society