bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enzymatic degradation of lignin‐carbohydrate complexes (LCCs): Model studies using a fungal glucuronoyl esterase from Cerrena unicolor
Authors: d'Errico Clotilde , Jørgensen Jonas O. , Krogh Kristian B. R. M. , Spodsberg Nikolaj , Madsen Robert , Monrad Rune Nygaard
Published: November 2014

Lignin‐carbohydrate complexes (LCCs) are believed to influence the recalcitrance of lignocellulosic plant material preventing optimal utilization of biomass in e.g. forestry, feed and biofuel applications. The recently emerged carbohydrate esterase (CE) 15 family of glucuronoyl esterases (GEs) has been proposed to degrade ester LCC bonds between glucuronic acids in xylans and lignin alcohols thereby potentially improving delignification of lignocellulosic biomass when applied in conjunction with other cellulases, hemicellulases and oxidoreductases. Herein, we report the synthesis of four new GE model substrates comprising α‐ and ɣ‐arylalkyl esters representative of the lignin part of naturally occurring ester LCCs as well as the cloning and purification of a novel GE from Cerrena unicolor (CuGE). Together with a known GE from Schizophyllum commune (ScGE), CuGE was biochemically characterized by means of Michaelis–Menten kinetics with respect to substrate specificity using the synthesized compounds. For both enzymes, a strong preference for 4‐O‐methyl glucuronoyl esters rather than unsubstituted glucuronoyl esters was observed. Moreover, we found that α‐arylalkyl esters of methyl α‐D‐glucuronic acid are more easily cleaved by GEs than their corresponding ɣ‐arylalkyl esters. Furthermore, our results suggest a preference of CuGE for glucuronoyl esters of bulky alcohols supporting the suggested biological action of GEs on LCCs. The synthesis of relevant GE model substrates presented here may provide a valuable tool for the screening, selection and development of industrially relevant GEs for delignification of biomass. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2015;112: 914–922. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An Examination of “Don't Know” Responses in Forensic Interviews with Children
Authors: Earhart Becky , La Rooy David J. , Brubacher Sonja P. , Lamb Michael E.
Published: November 2014

Most experimental studies examining the use of pre‐interview instructions (ground rules) show that children say “I don't know” more often when they have been encouraged to do so when appropriate. However, children's “don't know” responses have not been studied in more applied contexts, such as in investigative interviews. In the present study, 76 transcripts of investigative interviews with allegedly abused children revealed patterns of “don't know” responding, as well as interviewers’ reactions to these responses. Instructions to say “I don't know” when appropriate did not affect the frequency with which children gave these responses. Interviewers rejected “don't know” responses nearly 30% of the time, and typically continued to ask about the same topic using more risky questions. Children often answered these follow‐up questions even though they had previously indicated that they lacked the requested information. There was no evidence that “don't know” responses indicated reluctance to talk about abuse. Implications for forensic interviewers are discussed. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Topographic anatomy of the fetal inferior vena cava, coronary sinus, and pulmonary veins: Variations in Chiari's network
Authors: Naito Michiko , Yu Hee Chul , Kim Ji Hyun , Rodríguez‐Vázquez José Francisco , Murakami Gen , Cho Baik Hwan
Published: November 2014

To understand anomalies in Chiari's network better, we assessed the topographical anatomy of the fetal inferior vena cava (IVC), coronary sinus, and atria. We examined sagittal serial paraffin sections of 15 human fetuses of crown–rump length 24–36 mm, corresponding to a gestational age of 8 weeks. Although their outflow tract morphologies were similar, these 15 specimens could be classified into two groups. In eight specimens, the left common cardinal vein reached the body wall, whereas in the other seven the vein was obliterated near the left pulmonary vein. Irrespective of the group in which the specimen was included, the anteroposterior arrangement of the coronary sinus, the sinus septum (septum), and the right sinus valve (right valve) could be classified into three types: the right valve–septum–coronary sinus arrangement in seven specimens; the right valve–coronary sinus–septum arrangement in five; and the coronary sinus–right valve–septum arrangement in three. Depending on differences in topographical anatomy, the sinus septum separated the coronary sinus opening from either the right or the left atrium. Likewise, the coronary sinus opening was either adjacent to or distant from the IVC terminal. Rather than the counter‐side position of the right valve being at the IVC terminal, the left sinus valve protruded leftward, forming an incomplete interatrial septum. Fetal variations seemed to be closely connected with individual variations and a high frequency of Chiari's network anomalies in adults. Clin. Anat. 28:627–637, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electrochemical Study of Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) in Acetonitrile
Authors: Lee Jazreen H. Q. , Yue Yanni , Ganguly Rakesh , Webster Richard D.
Published: November 2014

Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and controlled potential electrolysis (CPE) experiments revealed that at a Pt electrode, pyridoxine undergoes a one‐electron chemically irreversible oxidation at approximately 0.50 V versus Fc/Fc+, likely generating a dimeric product. Fouling of the electrode surface could be detected with repeated scans during CV and during preparative scale CPE oxidation experiments. These adsorption effects were overcome by performing bulk oxidation of pyridoxine with NOSbF6 as a chemical oxidant. At Pt electrodes, a cathodic wave associated with the reduction of pyridoxine was detected at approximately −1.60 V versus Fc/Fc+. The reduction process appeared to be chemically reversible on the shorter timeframe of CV, but not under the prolonged timescale of CPE. The reduction of pyridoxine involves a direct discharge of pyridoxine at the Pt surface, generating an oxide anion, which upon treatment with iodomethane yields N‐methylated pyridoxine rather than its O‐methylated analogue.
Rechargeable Seawater Battery and Its Electrochemical Mechanism
Authors: Kim Jae‐Kwang , Lee Eungje , Kim Hyojin , Johnson Christopher , Cho Jaephil , Kim Youngsik
Published: November 2014

Herein, we explore the electrochemical mechanism of a novel rechargeable seawater battery system that uses seawater as the cathode material. Sodium is harvested from seawater while charging the battery, and the harvested sodium is discharged with oxygen dissolved in the seawater, functioning as oxidants to produce electricity. The seawater provides both anode (Na metal) and cathode (O2) materials for the proposed battery. Based on the discharge voltage (∼2.9 V) with participation of O2 and the charge voltage (∼4.1 V) with Cl2 evolution during the first cycle, a voltage efficiency of about 73 % is obtained. If the seawater battery is constructed using hard carbon as the anode and a Na super ion conductor as the solid electrolyte, a strong cycle performance of 84 % is observed after 40 cycles.
Intramolecularly Stabilised Group 10 Metal Stannyl and Stannylene Complexes: Multi‐pathway Synthesis and Observation of Platinum‐to‐Tin Alkyl Transfer
Authors: Warsink Stefan , Derrah Eric J. , Boon Cornelis A. , Cabon Yves , de Pater Jeroen J. M. , Lutz Martin , Klein Gebbink Robertus J. M. , Deelman Berth‐Jan
Published: November 2014

Reaction of [PdClMe(P^N)2] with SnCl2 followed by Cl‐abstraction leads to apparent PdC bond activation, resulting in methylstannylene species trans‐[PdCl{(P^N)2SnClMe}][BF4] (P^N=diaryl phosphino‐N‐heterocycle). In contrast, reaction of Pt analogues with SnCl2 leads to PtCl bond activation, resulting in methylplatinum species trans‐[PtMe{(P^N)2SnCl2}][BF4]. Over time, they isomerise to methylstannylene species, indicating that both kinetic and thermodynamic products can be isolated for Pt, whereas for Pd only methylstannylene complexes are isolated. Oxidative addition of RSnCl3 (R=Me, Bu, Ph) to M0 precursors (M=Pd or Pt) in the presence of P^N ligands results in diphosphinostannylene pincer complexes trans‐[MCl{(P^N)2SnCl(R)}][SnCl4R], which are structurally similar to the products from SnCl2 insertion. This showed that addition of RSnCl3 to M0 results in formal SnCl bond oxidative addition. A probable pathway of activation of the tin reagents and formation of different products is proposed and the relevancy of the findings for Pd and Pt catalysed processes that use SnCl2 as a co‐catalyst is discussed.
Selective and Sensitive Aqueous‐Phase Detection of 2,4,6‐Trinitrophenol (TNP) by an Amine‐Functionalized Metal–Organic Framework
Authors: Joarder Biplab , Desai Aamod V. , Samanta Partha , Mukherjee Soumya , Ghosh Sujit K.
Published: November 2014

Highly selective and sensitive aqueous‐phase detection of nitro explosive 2,4,6‐trinitrophenol (TNP) by a hydrolytically stable 3D luminescent metal–organic framework is reported. The compound senses TNP exclusively even in the presence of other nitro‐compounds, with an unprecedented sensitivity in the MOF regime by means of strategic deployment of its free amine groups. Such an accurate sensing of TNP, widely recognized as a harmful environmental contaminant in water media, establishes this new strategic approach as one of the frontiers to tackle present‐day security and health concerns in a real‐time scenario.
Selective Transformation of Syngas into Gasoline‐Range Hydrocarbons over Mesoporous H‐ZSM‐5‐Supported Cobalt Nanoparticles
Authors: Cheng Kang , Zhang Lei , Kang Jincan , Peng Xiaobo , Zhang Qinghong , Wang Ye
Published: November 2014

Bifunctional Fischer–Tropsch (FT) catalysts that couple uniform‐sized Co nanoparticles for CO hydrogenation and mesoporous zeolites for hydrocracking/isomerization reactions were found to be promising for the direct production of gasoline‐range (C5–11) hydrocarbons from syngas. The Brønsted acidity results in hydrocracking/isomerization of the heavier hydrocarbons formed on Co nanoparticles, while the mesoporosity contributes to suppressing the formation of lighter (C1–4) hydrocarbons. The selectivity for C5–11 hydrocarbons could reach about 70 % with a ratio of isoparaffins to n‐paraffins of approximately 2.3 over this catalyst, and the former is markedly higher than the maximum value (ca. 45 %) expected from the Anderson–Schulz–Flory distribution. By using n‐hexadecane as a model compound, it was clarified that both the acidity and mesoporosity play key roles in controlling the hydrocracking reactions and thus contribute to the improved product selectivity in FT synthesis.
A circuit for synchronizing external stimuli and events to the pulse sequence of a clinical magnetic resonance scanner
Authors: Qiu Yujie , Yao Wei , Kwok Wing‐Chi Edmund , Hornak Joseph P.
Published: November 2014

Interfacing experiments to a clinical magnetic resonance imaging scanner which require synchronization with an imaging pulse sequence can be challenging unless access to a trigger‐out is available. We present a simple, alternative approach to synchronize an experiment to a scanner using an external trigger to drive the scanner through the peripheral optical pulse rate monitor and cardiac trigger available on most clinical imagers. A trigger circuit and pulse rate monitor interface are described for applying a stimulus in the form of a pulsed voltage to a sample at a specific time in a spin‐echo, echo planar imaging sequence. The apparatus and approach could be used for many other types and numbers of experimental stimuli or events. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Concepts Magn Reson Part B (Magn Reson Engineering) 44B: 50–52, 2014
Dendrodendritic synapses in the mouse olfactory bulb external plexiform layer
Authors: Bartel Dianna L. , Rela Lorena , Hsieh Lawrence , Greer Charles A.
Published: November 2014

Odor information relayed by olfactory bulb projection neurons, mitral and tufted cells (M/T), is modulated by pairs of reciprocal dendrodendritic synaptic circuits in the external plexiform layer (EPL). Interneurons, which are accounted for largely by granule cells, receive depolarizing input from M/T dendrites and in turn inhibit current spread in M/T dendrites via hyperpolarizing reciprocal dendrodendritic synapses. Because the location of dendrodendritic synapses may significantly affect the cascade of odor information, we assessed synaptic properties and density within sublaminae of the EPL and along the length of M/T secondary dendrites. In electron micrographs the M/T to granule cell synapse appeared to predominate and was equivalent in both the outer and inner EPL. However, the dendrodendritic synapses from granule cell spines onto M/T dendrites were more prevalent in the outer EPL. In contrast, individual gephyrin‐immunoreactive (IR) puncta, a postsynaptic scaffolding protein at inhibitory synapses used here as a proxy for the granule to M/T dendritic synapse was equally distributed throughout the EPL. Of significance to the organization of intrabulbar circuits, gephyrin‐IR synapses are not uniformly distributed along M/T secondary dendrites. Synaptic density, expressed as a function of surface area, increases distal to the cell body. Furthermore, the distributions of gephyrin‐IR puncta are heterogeneous and appear as clusters along the length of the M/T dendrites. Consistent with computational models, our data suggest that temporal coding in M/T cells is achieved by precisely located inhibitory input and that distance from the soma is compensated for by an increase in synaptic density. J. Comp. Neurol. 523:1145–1161, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An open‐label clinical trial of the effects of age and gender on the pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics and safety of the ghrelin receptor agonist anamorelin
Authors: Leese Philip T. , Trang John M. , Blum Robert A. , de Groot Eleanor
Published: November 2014

Purpose

To assess the effect of age and gender on the pharmacokinetics (PK) of the ghrelin receptor agonist anamorelin.

Methods

Three demographic cohorts of healthy subjects were enrolled in this single‐center, open‐label study. Subjects received a single oral dose (25 mg) of anamorelin HCl. Serial blood samples were collected over 24 hours to assess anamorelin PK and circulating growth hormone (GH) levels. Data were compared with a reference cohort.

Results

Anamorelin was rapidly absorbed in all cohorts; peak concentrations were observed 30–45 minutes and 2–4 hours post‐dose, which declined biexponentially with mean terminal half‐lives of 6–7 hours. An age effect on Cmax and AUC∞ was not apparent; however, mean AUC∞ values were approximately 1.8–1.9‐fold higher in the female cohorts than in the reference male cohort. GH increase was rapid and virtually identical in both sexes, though attenuated in elderly subjects. No clinically significant safety or tolerability findings were observed.

Conclusions

While PK parameters do suggest higher exposure in females, this effect is considered to be modest given the variability of the 6–8 subjects per cohort. Moreover, no such effect was observed in the pharmacodynamic responses, thus, dose adjustment for age and gender is considered unnecessary.
Two novel low power and very high speed pulse triggered flip‐flops
Authors: Razmdideh Ramin , Saneei Mohsen
Published: November 2014

Two novel low power and high‐speed pulse triggered flip‐flops were presented in this paper. Short circuit current was controlled, and race condition between pull‐up and pull‐down branches was removed, which caused reduction of power consumption. On the other hand, the number of stack transistors in the discharging path was reduced which decreased delay of the flip‐flops. The first proposed flip‐flop reduced the number of transistors and the second proposed flip‐flop used conditional data mapping and removed floating node of the first flip‐flop. Post‐layout simulation result showed that the first proposed flip‐flop reduced 21% of power delay product and the second proposed flip‐flop reduced 16% of power delay product in comparison with other flip‐flops in 50% of data switching activities. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On comparing heterogeneity across biomarkers
Authors: Steininger Robert J. , Rajaram Satwik , Girard Luc , Minna John D. , Wu Lani F. , Altschuler Steven J.
Published: November 2014

Microscopy reveals complex patterns of cellular heterogeneity that can be biologically informative. However, a limitation of microscopy is that only a small number of biomarkers can typically be monitored simultaneously. Thus, a natural question is whether additional biomarkers provide a deeper characterization of the distribution of cellular states in a population. How much information about a cell's phenotypic state in one biomarker is gained by knowing its state in another biomarker? Here, we describe a framework for comparing phenotypic states across biomarkers. Our approach overcomes the current limitation of microscopy by not requiring costaining biomarkers on the same cells; instead, we require staining of biomarkers (possibly separately) on a common collection of phenotypically diverse cell lines. We evaluate our approach on two image datasets: 33 oncogenically diverse lung cancer cell lines stained with 7 biomarkers, and 49 less diverse subclones of one lung cancer cell line stained with 12 biomarkers. We first validate our method by comparing it to the “gold standard” of costaining. We then apply our approach to all pairs of biomarkers and use it to identify biomarkers that yield similar patterns of heterogeneity. The results presented in this work suggest that many biomarkers provide redundant information about heterogeneity. Thus, our approach provides a practical guide for selecting independently informative biomarkers and, more generally, will yield insights into both the connectivity of biological networks and the complexity of the state space of biological systems. © 2014 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Liquid‐based cytology and HPV DNA testing using intra‐anal specimens from HIV‐negative women with and without genital HPV‐induced lesions
Authors: Eleutério José , Benício Givanildo Carneiro , Giraldo Paulo César , Gonçalves Ana Katherine Silveira , Eleutério Renata Mírian Nunes , Oliveira Denise Nunes , Jacyntho Cláudia
Published: November 2014

Background

Screening for anal cancer using cytology has not been considered in immunocompetent women. The aim of this study was to identify cytological atypia and human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA in intra‐anal specimens from human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐negative women with and without genital HPV lesions.

Methods

This study was a cross‐sectional analysis of 142 women who were negative for the HIV: 80 with genital lesions that were associated with HPV and 62 without HPV‐induced lesions. The women were evaluated at the Federal University of Ceará from October 2011 to June 2012. The statistical analysis included the Fisher exact test and the odds ratio (CI 95%).

Results

Atypical anal cytology was observed in 24 (29.3%) patients in the study group and in 11 (17.8%) patients in the control group. In cases with at least two sites of HPV‐associated lesions, 12 (41.4%) presented atypical cytology (P = 0.0220; OR = 2.7621, 1.1579–6.5889). When the practice of anal sex was evaluated, atypical cytology was observed in 22/43 (34%) [P = 0.0214; OR = 2.519, 1.146–5.534]. HPV DNA was detected in 17/27 (63%) cases with at least two sites of lesions (P = 0.0293, OR = 2.4855, 1.0960–5.6367). In the 33 cases who presented positive HPV DNA test results, the liquid‐based cytology results were atypical (P = 0.0212, OR = 2.8, 1.1665–6.7208).

Conclusion

Based on the results, liquid‐based cytology may be used to detect intra‐anal lesions, especially among women who have a history of anal intercourse or who have genital HPV‐associated lesions at multiple sites. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2015;43:360–365. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Four Cobalt(II)‐Containing Coordination Polymers: Effects of pH Value and Temperature on Synthesis, Gas‐Sorption, and Magnetic Properties
Authors: He Yuan‐Chun , Zhang Xiaoying , Liu Ying‐Ying , Liu Hai‐Yan , Ma Jian‐Fang
Published: November 2014

Four 3D CoII‐containing coordination polymers – namely, [Co2(L)(OH)(H2O)]·1.5H2O (1), [Co(HL)(H2O)] (2), [Co4(HL)(L)(trz)3(H2O)]·6H2O (3), and [Co3(HL)2(trz)2(H2O)2] (4) {H3L = 5‐(benzonic‐4‐ylmethoxy)isophthalic acid; Htrz = 1,2,4‐triazole} – based on a semirigid carboxylate ligand have been successfully synthesized under hydrothermal conditions. Compounds 1/2 and 3/4 were obtained by using the pH value and temperature as the only independent variable, respectively. Compound 1 possesses a (4,8)‐connected net based upon tetranuclear CoII clusters, whereas 2 shows a (3,6)‐connected net based on binuclear CoII units. Compound 3 displays a 4‐nodal (3,4,7)‐connected framework with 1D channels, whereas 4 reveals a (3,10)‐connected net based upon trinuclear CoII clusters. The CO2‐selective adsorption property of compound 3 was studied. In addition, the variable‐temperature magnetic susceptibilities of compounds 1–4 were also investigated.
C–O Bond Activation by a Tantalum‐Bonded Pincer Ligand – Ligand Modification Effects on the Selectivity of C–H Bond Cleavage Processes
Authors: Fandos Rosa , Hernández Carolina , Otero Antonio , Rodríguez Ana , Ruiz María José
Published: November 2014

The tantalum complexes [TaCp*Me{(OCH2)(OCHCO2)py‐κ4‐N,O,O,O}]2 (2, Cp* = η5‐C5Me5, py = pyridyl) and [TaCp*Me{(OCH2)(OCHCONAr)py‐κ4‐N,O,O,O}]2 (3, Ar = p‐tolyl) have been synthesized by the reactions of [TaCp*Me{(OCH2)(OCH)py‐κ3‐N,O,O}] (1) with CO2 and p‐tolyl isocyanate, respectively. The reaction of 3 with an excess of water renders the corresponding tantalum hydroxide [TaCp*Me(OH){(OCH2)(OCHCONHAr)py‐κ3‐N,O,O}] (4). Compound 1 reacts with pyridyl triflate (pyOTf) to afford the new pyridyl‐functionalized pincer derivative [TaCp*Me{(OCH2)(OCHpy)py‐κ3‐N,O,O}(OTf)] (5). Compound 5 reacts with water to yield the aqua adduct [TaCp*Me(OH2){(OCH2)(OCHpy)py‐κ3‐N,O,O}]OTf (6). The reaction of 5 with LiN(SiMe3)2 gives rise to the new tantalum compound [TaCp*Me{(OCH2)(OCpy)py‐κ3‐N,O,O}] (7). Complex 7 reacts with pyOTf to give the dipyridyl‐functionalized pincer derivative [TaCp*Me{(OCH2)(OCpy2)py‐κ3‐N,O,O}(OTf)] (8). The molecular structures of complexes 2, 4 and 6 have been established by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies.
Dibenzoporphycene – Platform for the Generation of Fused Porphycenes
Authors: Brenner Wolfgang , Jux Norbert
Published: November 2014

Fused porphycenes have attracted growing interest in recent years. However, the molecules generated to date suffer from different drawbacks such as multistep syntheses, low yields, and the lack of a convenient synthetic strategy. Here, we present our latest results concerning the synthesis of a suitable platform for the generation of large fused porphycenes.
Ligand‐ and Base‐Free CuII‐Mediated Selective S‐Arylation of α‐Enolic Dithioesters by Chan–Lam Coupling at Room Temperature
Authors: Koley Suvajit , Chowdhury Sushobhan , Chanda Tanmoy , Ramulu B. Janaki , Anand Namrata , Singh Maya Shankar
Published: November 2014

The ligand‐ and base‐free copper(II)‐mediated Chan–Lam cross‐coupling of arylboronic acids with α‐enolic dithioesters has been achieved at room temperature under aerobic neutral conditions to afford unsymmetrical α‐oxoketene S,S‐acetals for the first time. This operationally simple, mild protocol tolerates a wide range of arylboronic acids and α‐enolic dithioesters. Typical features of this novel strategy include short reaction times (5 min), good yields and highly selective C=S functionalization leading to S‐arylation in one pot.
Preparation of Multivalent Carbohydrate Mimetics Based on Enantiopure 1,2‐Oxazines by Sonogashira Coupling and Subsequent Reductive Ring‐Opening
Authors: Kandziora Maja , Reissig Hans‐Ulrich
Published: November 2014

A modular approach to aryl C‐glycosides and their multivalent analogues is presented. Sonogashira coupling reactions connected the key compounds, enantiopure bicyclic 1,2‐oxazine derivatives bearing p‐bromophenyl substituents, with alkynes. Subsequent hydrogenolyses or a combination of hydrogenolysis and samarium diiodide mediated reductions converted the coupling products into new unnatural amino carbohydrate mimetics with a D‐talose configuration. By Glaser coupling reactions we obtained products with a 1,3‐diyne linker and divalent compounds derived therefrom. Through Sonogashira reactions of compound 8 with several iodobenzene derivatives, di‐, tri‐, and tetravalent compounds were prepared in high yields. The subsequent reductive processes converted the 1,2‐oxazine moieties into the corresponding aminopyrans. Severe purification problems were solved in most cases by following the appropriate strategies as an apt sequence of steps or by acetylation of the intermediates.
Efficient Synthesis of cis‐3‐Substituted Prolines by Bidentate‐Assisted Palladium Catalysis
Authors: Feng Ruokun , Wang Binjie , Liu Yue , Liu Zhanxiang , Zhang Yuhong
Published: November 2014

A highly effective protocol for the synthesis of C‐3‐substituted prolines has been developed. Pd‐catalyzed C(sp3)–H activation is used for the straightforward functionalization of prolines. The use of an 8‐aminoquinolinecarboxamide directing group allows direct arylation, alkenylation, and alkylation at the C‐3 position of prolines in moderate to high yields with diverse iodo‐ or bromo precursors. The resulting 3‐substituted proline derivatives are important units in many biologically active compounds and are useful promoters for a variety of functional group transformations.
Chemical Synthesis of 1‐Deoxy‐L‐fructose and L‐Sorbose Through Carbonyl Translocation
Authors: Wu Hsin‐Pei , Hsu Nai‐Yun , Lu Tai‐Ni , Chang Che‐Chien
Published: November 2014

Two rare sugars – 1‐deoxy‐L‐fructose and L‐sorbose – were synthesized from inexpensive starting materials by a carbonyl translocation method developed in our laboratory. Reduction of a known starting compound gave a 1,5‐diol derivative. Selective protection of the corresponding primary alcohol and oxidation of the secondary alcohol provided the desired product in acyclic, protected form. Subsequent deprotection resulted in the production of 1‐deoxy‐L‐fructose from the known starting material in five steps and in a total yield of 42 %. This approach represents the first report of a chemical synthesis of 1‐deoxy‐L‐fructose. A similar strategy was applied to convert inexpensive D‐glucose into L‐sorbose, which was prepared in five steps from a known starting material in a total yield of 55 %. The synthetic methods represent a complementary method to biological approaches for the synthesis of vitamin C.
Synthesis of Tetrasubstituted Symmetrical Pyrazines from β‐Keto γ‐Amino Esters: A Mild Strategy for Self‐Dimerization of Peptides
Authors: Ganesh Kumar Mothukuri , Thombare Varsha J. , Bhaisare Rupal D. , Adak Anindita , Gopi Hosahudya N.
Published: November 2014

A facile synthesis of highly symmetrical tetrasubstituted pyrazines through simple aerial oxidation of β‐keto γ‐amino esters is reported. The scope of the reaction was examined by use of various amino acid side‐chain functional groups and peptides. The mild and efficient transformation of β‐keto γ‐amino esters into pyrazines may serve as an attractive strategy for self‐dimerization of peptides.
Characterization of a Disposable Electrochemical Biosensor Based on Putrescine Oxidase from Micrococcus rubens for the Determination of Putrescine
Authors: Henao‐Escobar W. , Domínguez‐Renedo O. , Alonso‐Lomillo M. A. , Cascalheira J. F. , Dias‐Cabral A. C. , Arcos‐Martínez M. J.
Published: November 2014

Putrescine oxidase (PUO) from Micrococcus rubens has been characterized, as a biocatalytic component for the development of electrochemical biosensors for the determination of putrescine. PUO was immobilized by cross‐linking on screen‐printed carbon electrodes (SPCEs) containing tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) as mediator (TTF/SPCEs). Isothermal titration calorimetry was used for investigation of kinetic properties of immobilized PUO. These PUO/TTF/SPCEs showed a linear response range from 10 a 74 µM, a capability of detection of 10.1±0.6 µM (n=4, α=β=0.05) and a precision of 6.7 %. Octopus and zucchini samples have been analysed using HPLC as a reference technique.
Study of the enantioseparation capability of chiral dual system based on chondroitin sulfate C in CE
Authors: Chen Jiaquan , Du Yingxiang , Zhu Fenxia , Chen Bin , Zhang Qi , Du Shuaijing , Li Ping
Published: November 2014

It has been reported that chiral dual system is able to improve the enantioseparation of enantiomers in many cases. Currently, the dual systems involved in CE chiral separation are mostly dual CDs systems, and the polysaccharides‐based chiral dual system was reported in only one paper. To the best of our knowledge, the use of chondroitin sulfate C (CSC)‐based dual system for enantiomeric separation has not been reported previously. Herein, four CSC‐based chiral dual systems, namely CSC/glycogen, CSC/chondroitin sulfate A (CSA), CSC/hydroxypropyl‐β‐CD (HP‐β‐CD), as well as CSC/β‐CD (β‐CD), were evaluated for the first time for their enantioseparation capability by CE in this paper. During the course of the work, the influences of chiral selector concentration and buffer pH values on enantioseparation in dual systems were systematically investigated. Under the optimized conditions, the dual system consisting of CSC and glycogen exhibited better separations toward nefopam, duloxetine, sulconazole, atenolol, laudanosine, and cetirizine enantiomers compared to the single CSC or glycogen system. The combination of CSC and HP‐β‐CD improved the separation of amlodipine and chlorphenamine enantiomers. However, no synergistic effect was observed in the CSC/CSA and CSC/β‐CD systems.
Enhancement of electrophoretic mobility of microparticles near a solid wall—Experimental verification
Authors: Liang Qian , Zhao Cunlu , Yang Chun
Published: November 2014

Although the existing theories have predicted enhancement of electrophoretic mobility of microparticles near a solid wall, the relevant experimental studies are rare. This is mainly due to difficulties in experimentally controlling and measuring particle‐wall separations under dynamic electrophoretic conditions. This paper reports an experimental verification of the enhancement of electrophoretic mobility of a microparticle moving near the wall of a microchannel. This is achieved by balancing dielectrophoretic and lift forces against gravitational force acting on the microparticle so as to control the gap of particle‐wall separation. A simple experimental setup is configured and a fabrication method is developed to measure such separation gap. The experiments are conducted for various particle sizes under different electric field strengths. Our experimental results are compared against the available theoretical predictions in the literature.
Badass geomorphology
Authors: Phillips Jonathan D.
Published: November 2014

The archetypal badass is individualistic, non‐conformist, and able to produce disproportionate results. The badass concept is applied here to geomorphology. The individualistic concept of landscape evolution (ICLE) is introduced, based on three propositions: excess evolution space, capacity of all landforms to change, and variable selection pressure from environmental factors within and encompassing landscapes. ICLE indicates that geomorphic systems are idiosyncratic to some extent, and that even where two systems are similar, this is a happenstance of similar environmental selection, not an attractor state. As geomorphic systems are all individualistic, those that are also non‐conformist with respect to conventional wisdoms and have amplifier effects are considered badass. Development of meander bends on a section of the Kentucky River illustrates these ideas. The divergence of karst and fluvial forms on the inner and outer bends represents unstable amplifying effects. The divergence is also individualistic, as it can be explained only by combining general laws governing surface and subsurface flow partitioning with a specific geographical and environmental setting and the history of Quaternary downcutting of the Kentucky River. Landscape evolution there does not conform to any conventional theories or conceptual frameworks of geomorphology. The badass traits of many geomorphic systems have implications for the systems themselves, attitudes toward geomorphic practice, and appreciation of landforms. Badass geomorphology and the ICLE reflect a view, and approach to the study of, landforms as the outcome of the interplay of general laws, place‐specific controls, and history. Badass geomorphology also implies a research style receptive to contraventional wisdoms. Aesthetically, amplifier effects and individualism guarantee an essentially infinite variety of landforms and landscapes that geoscientists can appreciate both artistically and scientifically. Non‐conformity makes the interpretation and understanding of this variety more challenging – and while that increases the degree of difficulty, it also makes for more interesting and compelling professional challenges. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mathematical methods in biomedical imaging
Authors: Burger Martin , Modersitzki Jan , Tenbrinck Daniel
Published: November 2014

Biomedical imaging is an important and exponentially growing field in life sciences and clinical practice, which strongly depends on the advances in mathematical image processing. Biomedical data presents a number of particularities such as non‐standard acquisition techniques. Thus, biomedical imaging may be considered as an own field of research. Typical biomedical imaging tasks, as outlined in this paper, demand for innovative data models and efficient and robust approaches to produce solutions to challenging problems both in basic research as well as daily clinical routine.

This paper discusses typical specifications and challenges of reconstruction and denoising, segmentation, and image registration of biomedical data. Furthermore, it provides an overview of current concepts to tackle the typically ill‐posed problems and presents a unified framework that captures the different tasks mathematically. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Prony methods for recovery of structured functions
Authors: Plonka Gerlind , Tasche Manfred
Published: November 2014

In this survey, we describe the classical Prony method and whose relatives. We sketch a frequently used Prony–like method for equispaced sampled data, namely the ESPRIT method. The case of nonequispaced sampled data is discussed too. For the reconstruction of a sparse eigenfunction expansion, a generalized Prony method is presented. The Prony methods are applied to the recovery of structured functions (such as exponential sums and extended exponential sums) and of sparse vectors. The recovery of spline functions with arbitrary knots from Fourier data is also based on Prony methods. Finally, some numerical examples are given. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Growth arrest and DNA damage‐inducible 34 regulates liver regeneration in hepatic steatosis in mice
Authors: Inaba Yuka , Furutani Tomoko , Kimura Kumi , Watanabe Hitoshi , Haga Sanae , Kido Yoshiaki , Matsumoto Michihiro , Yamamoto Yasuhiko , Harada Kenichi , Kaneko Shuichi , Oyadomari Seiichi , Ozaki Michitaka , Kasuga Masato , Inoue Hiroshi
Published: November 2014

The liver has robust regenerative potential in response to damage, but hepatic steatosis (HS) weakens this potential. We found that the enhanced integrated stress response (ISR) mediated by phosphorylation of the alpha subunit of eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF2α) impairs regeneration in HS and that growth arrest and DNA damage‐inducible 34 (Gadd34)‐dependent suppression of ISR plays a crucial role in fatty liver regeneration. Although mice fed a high‐fat diet for 2 weeks developed moderate fatty liver with no increase in eIF2α phosphorylation before 70% hepatectomy, they showed impaired liver regeneration as a result of reduced proliferation and increased death of hepatocytes with increased phosphorylation of eIF2α and ISR. An increased ISR through Gadd34 knockdown induced C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP)‐dependent apoptosis and receptor‐interacting protein kinase 3‐dependent necrosis, resulting in increased hepatocyte death during fatty liver regeneration. Furthermore, Gadd34 knockdown and increased phosphorylation of eIF2α decreased cyclin D1 protein and reduced hepatocyte proliferation. In contrast, enhancement of Gadd34 suppressed phosphorylation of eIF2α and reduced CHOP expression and hepatocyte apoptosis without affecting hepatocyte proliferation, clearly improving fatty liver regeneration. In more severe fatty liver of leptin receptor‐deficient db/db mice, forced expression of hepatic Gadd34 also promoted hepatic regeneration after hepatectomy. Conclusion: Gadd34‐mediated regulation of ISR acts as a physiological defense mechanism against impaired liver regeneration resulting from steatosis and is thus a possible therapeutic target for impaired regeneration in HS. (Hepatology 2015;61:1343–1356)
Analysis of aberrant pre‐messenger RNA splicing resulting from mutations in ATP8B1 and efficient in vitro rescue by adapted U1 small nuclear RNA
Authors: van der Woerd Wendy L. , Mulder Johanna , Pagani Franco , Beuers Ulrich , Houwen Roderick H.J. , van de Graaf Stan F.J.
Published: November 2014

ATP8B1 deficiency is a severe autosomal recessive liver disease resulting from mutations in the ATP8B1 gene characterized by a continuous phenotypical spectrum from intermittent (benign recurrent intrahepatic cholestasis; BRIC) to progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC). Current therapeutic options are insufficient, and elucidating the molecular consequences of mutations could lead to personalized mutation‐specific therapies. We investigated the effect on pre‐messenger RNA splicing of 14 ATP8B1 mutations at exon‐intron boundaries using an in vitro minigene system. Eleven mutations, mostly associated with a PFIC phenotype, resulted in aberrant splicing and a complete absence of correctly spliced product. In contrast, three mutations led to partially correct splicing and were associated with a BRIC phenotype. These findings indicate an inverse correlation between the level of correctly spliced product and disease severity. Expression of modified U1 small nuclear RNAs (snRNA) complementary to the splice donor sites strongly improved or completely rescued splicing for several ATP8B1 mutations located at donor, as well as acceptor, splice sites. In one case, we also evaluated exon‐specific U1 snRNAs that, by targeting nonconserved intronic sequences, might reduce possible off‐target events. Although very effective in correcting exon skipping, they also induced retention of the short downstream intron. Conclusion: We systematically characterized the molecular consequences of 14 ATP8B1 mutations at exon‐intron boundaries associated with ATP8B1 deficiency and found that the majority resulted in total exon skipping. The amount of correctly spliced product inversely correlated with disease severity. Compensatory modified U1 snRNAs, complementary to mutated donor splice sites, were able to improve exon definition very efficiently and could be a novel therapeutic strategy in ATP8B1 deficiency as well as other genetic diseases. (Hepatology 2015;61:1382–1391)
Enhancing the functional maturity of induced pluripotent stem cell–derived human hepatocytes by controlled presentation of cell–cell interactions in vitro
Authors: Berger Dustin R. , Ware Brenton R. , Davidson Matthew D. , Allsup Samuel R. , Khetani Salman R.
Published: November 2014

Induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived human hepatocyte‐like cells (iHeps) could provide a powerful tool for studying the mechanisms underlying human liver development and disease, testing the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals across different patients (i.e., personalized medicine), and enabling cell‐based therapies in the clinic. However, current in vitro protocols that rely upon growth factors and extracellular matrices (ECMs) alone yield iHeps with low levels of liver functions relative to adult primary human hepatocytes (PHHs). Moreover, these low hepatic functions in iHeps are difficult to maintain for prolonged times (weeks to months) in culture. Here, we engineered a micropatterned coculture (iMPCC) platform in a multiwell format that, in contrast to conventional confluent cultures, significantly enhanced the functional maturation and longevity of iHeps in culture for at least 4 weeks in vitro when benchmarked against multiple donors of PHHs. In particular, iHeps were micropatterned onto collagen‐coated domains of empirically optimized dimensions, surrounded by 3T3‐J2 murine embryonic fibroblasts, and then sandwiched with a thin layer of ECM gel (Matrigel). We assessed iHep maturity by global gene expression profiles, hepatic polarity, secretion of albumin and urea, basal cytochrome P450 (CYP450) activities, phase II conjugation, drug‐mediated CYP450 induction, and drug‐induced hepatotoxicity. Conclusion: Controlling both homotypic interactions between iHeps and heterotypic interactions with stromal fibroblasts significantly matures iHep functions and maintains them for several weeks in culture. In the future, iMPCCs could prove useful for drug screening, studying molecular mechanisms underlying iHep differentiation, modeling liver diseases, and integration into human‐on‐a‐chip systems being designed to assess multiorgan responses to compounds. (Hepatology 2015;61:1370–1381)
The effectiveness of a bundled intervention to improve resident progress notes in an electronic health record
Authors: Dean Shannon M. , Eickhoff Jens C. , Bakel Leigh Anne
Published: November 2014

Providers nationally have observed a decline in the quality of documentation after implementing electronic health records (EHRs). In this pilot study, we examined the effectiveness of an intervention bundle designed to improve resident progress notes written in an EHR and to establish the reliability of an audit tool used to evaluate notes. The bundle consisted of establishing note‐writing guidelines, developing an aligned note template, and educating interns about the guidelines and using the template. Twenty‐five progress notes written by pediatric interns before and after this intervention were examined using an audit tool. Reliability of the tool was evaluated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The total score of the audit tool was summarized in terms of means and standard deviation. Individual item responses were summarized using percentages and compared between the pre‐ and postintervention assessment using the Fisher exact test. The ICC for the audit tool was 0.96 (95% confidence interval: 0.91–0.98). A significant improvement in the total note score and in questions related to note clutter was seen. No significant improvement was seen for questions related to copy‐paste. The study suggests that an intervention bundle can lead to some improvements in note writing.Journal of Hospital Medicine2015;10:104–107. © 2014 Society of Hospital Medicine
Effects of implicit achievement motivation, expected evaluations, and domain knowledge on creative performance
Authors: Schoen Jeremy L.
Published: November 2014

This paper explores the effect of achievement motivation on creative performance. I also describe how expectations of differing types of evaluations and knowledge of the domain moderate the relationship between implicit achievement motivation and creativity. Results suggest achievement motivation, measured implicitly, is related to creative performance. Additionally, the effect of achievement motivation at the implicit level on creative performance is moderated by expectation of evaluation and domain knowledge in a three‐way interaction. The main effect for achievement motivation, assessed at the implicit level, as a predictor of creative performance holds when controlling for other factors previously tested as predictors of creativity, including a self‐report assessment achievement motivation. I conclude by discussing the implications of this research and provide suggestions for future research opportunities. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Microfinance, Crowdfunding, and Sustainability: A Case Study of Telecenters in a South Asian Developing Country
Authors: Royal Carol , Windsor G. Sampath S.
Published: November 2014

Crowdfunding could be the path to assist Nenasalas in the future, considering traditional financial institutions have largely ignored this grass‐roots initiative.
Controlled trial for long‐term low‐dose erythromycin after sinus surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Haxel Boris R. , Clemens Meike , Karaiskaki Niki , Dippold Uta , Kettern Lisanne , Mann Wolf J.
Published: November 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

The efficacy of macrolides in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is still under controversy. To date, only two double‐blind, placebo‐controlled studies have been published with differing results. None of these studies investigated the possible benefit of macrolides in the postoperative period. We conducted an investigator‐initiated clinical trial using 250‐mg erythromycin once a day over a period of 3 months, beginning the administration of either erythromycin or placebo 2 weeks after a surgical intervention for CRS.

Study Design

Randomized double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial.

Methods

The concentrations of eosinophilic cationic protein (ECP) and myeloperoxidase in nasal secretion were chosen as primary outcome measures. Additionally, as a secondary outcome measure, changes in the Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test‐20 score, olfaction, saccharin transit time, nasal endoscopy score, and self‐rating of nasal health using a visual analogue scale were evaluated.

Results

Sixty‐seven patients after surgery for CRS with or without nasal polyps were screened, and 58 patients were randomized to the study groups. For the primary outcomes, the concentrations of ECP changed from 176.4 µl/l ± 79.0 to 226.1 µl/l ± 200.6 in the erythromycin group and from 186.9 µl/l ± 36.0 to 192.9 µl/l ± 189.2 in the placebo group; no statistical differences were found. Of the secondary outcomes, only the nasal endoscopy score showed a statistically significant improvement in the erythromycin group (from 2.6 ± 1.4 to 1.9 ± 1.5 points) compared to the placebo group (from 2.5 ± 1.3 to 2.6 ± 1.5 points). The subgroup of patients without nasal polyps in the erythromycin group showed a tendency to improvement in some secondary outcome criteria.

Conclusions

A general recommendation for long‐term, low‐dose erythromycin treatment after surgery for CRS cannot be given. In patients with CRS without nasal polyps, a tendency to improved parameters was detected.

Level of Evidence

Ib. Laryngoscope, 125:1048–1055, 2015