bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biochemical and bioinformatic analysis of the myosin‐XIX motor domain
Authors: Adikes Rebecca C. , Unrath William C. , Yengo Christopher M. , Quintero Omar A.
Published: April 2013

Mitochondrial dynamics are dependent on both the microtubule and actin cytoskeletal systems. Evidence for the involvement of myosin motors has been described in many systems, and until recently a candidate mitochondrial myosin transport motor had not been described in vertebrates. Myosin‐XIX (MYO19) was predicted to represent a novel class of myosin and had previously been shown to bind to mitochondria and increase mitochondrial network dynamics when ectopically expressed. Our analyses comparing ∼40 MYO19 orthologs to ∼2000 other myosin motor domain sequences identified instances of homology well‐conserved within class XIX myosins that were not found in other myosin classes, suggesting MYO19‐specific mechanochemistry. Steady‐state biochemical analyses of the MYO19 motor domain indicate that Homo sapiens MYO19 is a functional motor. Insect cell‐expressed constructs bound calmodulin as a light chain at the predicted stoichiometry and displayed actin‐activated ATPase activity. MYO19 constructs demonstrated high actin affinity in the presence of ATP in actin‐co‐sedimentation assays, and translocated actin filaments in gliding assays. Expression of GFP‐MYO19 containing a mutation impairing ATPase activity did not enhance mitochondrial network dynamics, as occurs with wild‐type MYO19, indicating that myosin motor activity is required for mitochondrial motility. The measured biochemical properties of MYO19 suggest it is a high‐duty ratio motor that could serve to transport mitochondria or anchor mitochondria, depending upon the cellular microenvironment. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc
Influence of gestational diabetes on circadian rhythms of children and their association with fetal adiposity
Authors: Zornoza‐Moreno Matilde , Fuentes‐Hernández Silvia , Prieto‐Sánchez María T. , Blanco José E. , Pagán Ana , Rol María‐Ángeles , Parrilla Juan J. , Madrid Juan A. , Sánchez‐Solis Manuel , Larqué Elvira
Published: April 2013

Objective

To analyse the circadian rhythm maturation of temperature, activity and sleep during the first year of life in offspring of diabetic mothers (ODM) and its relationship with obesity markers.

Methods

A prospective analysis of the children of 63 pregnant women (23 controls, 21 gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) controlled with diet and 19 GDM with insulin). Fetal abdominal circumference was evaluated ecographically during gestation. Skin temperature and rest‐activity rhythms were monitored for 3 consecutive days in children at 15 days and 1, 3 and 6 months. Anthropometrical parameters of the children were evaluated during the first year of life.

Results

Children from the GDM groups tended to higher fetal abdominal circumference z‐score than controls at the beginning of the last trimester (p = 0.077) and at delivery (p = 0.078). Mean skin temperature or activity was not different among the groups. The I < O sleep index pointed to increasing concordance with parental sleeping at 3 and 6 months but no significant GDM‐dependent differences. However, some of the parameters that define temperature maturation and also the circadian function index from the temperature‐activity variable were significantly lower at 6 months in the GDM + insulin group. Fetal abdominal circumference z‐score, as a predictor of fetal adiposity, correlated negatively with parameters related to circadian rhythm maturation as the circadian/ultradian rhythm (P1/Pult ratio).

Conclusions

Fetal adiposity correlated with a worse circadian rhythm regulation in ODM. In addition, ODM insulin‐treated showed a disturbed pattern of the circadian function index of temperature activity at 6 months of age. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification of new pathogenic candidates for diabetic macular edema using fluorescence‐based difference gel electrophoresis analysis
Authors: Hernández Cristina , García‐Ramírez Marta , Colomé Nuria , Corraliza Lidia , García‐Pascual Luis , Casado Joan , Canals Francesc , Simó Rafael
Published: April 2013

Background

Diabetic macular edema is the main cause of visual impairment in diabetic patients. The aim of the present study was to explore the differential proteomic pattern of the vitreous fluid from diabetic macular edema patients by means of fluorescence‐based difference gel electrophoresis (DIGE).

Methods

Samples of vitreous from eight type 2 diabetic patients [four with diabetic macular edema without proliferative diabetic retinopathy and four with proliferative diabetic retinopathy without diabetic macular edema), and eight from non‐diabetic subjects with idiopathic macular hole (control group) were selected from our vitreous bank for proteomic analysis. To further confirm the potential candidates identified by DIGE, 18 additional samples (six proliferative diabetic retinopathy, six diabetic macular edema and six macular hole, matched by age) were analysed by enzyme‐linked immuno sorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

Selecting an abundance ratio of 1.5‐fold, p < 0.05, as the threshold for the study, four proteins were specifically associated with diabetic macular edema. Hemopexin was significantly higher in the vitreous fluid of patients with diabetic macular edema in comparison with both control subjects and proliferative diabetic retinopathy patients. By contrast, clusterin, transthyretin and crystallin S were significantly decreased in the vitreous of patients with diabetic macular edema. The differential production of hemopexin, clusterin and transthyretin was further confirmed by ELISA.

Conclusions

Proteomic analysis by DIGE was useful in identifying new potential candidates involved in the pathogenesis of diabetic macular edema. These results could open up new strategies in the treatment of diabetic macular edema. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The efficacy of a brief group cbt program in treating patients diagnosed with bulimia nervosa: A brief report
Authors: Jones Allan , Clausen Loa
Published: April 2013

Objective

The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of a brief group cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) program in treating a large cohort of patients diagnosed with bulimia nervosa.

Method

Treatment outcome defined as reductions in bulimia related behavioral symptoms and bulimia related distress was examined in 205 consecutive new patients enrolled in an eight‐session group CBT program.

Results

Significant reductions in eating disorder pathology were found on all measures of bulimia related behavioral symptoms, as well as on all measures of bulimia related distress.

Discussion

There is strong evidence for the efficacy of brief group CBT in treating patients with bulimia nervosa. © 2013 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2013; 46:560–562)
Genetic variants associated with disordered eating
Authors: Wade Tracey D. , Gordon Scott , Medland Sarah , Bulik Cynthia M. , Heath Andrew C. , Montgomery Grant W. , Martin Nicholas G.
Published: April 2013

Objective

Although the genetic contribution to the development of anorexia nervosa (AN) has long been recognized, there has been little progress relative to other psychiatric disorders in identifying specific susceptibility genes. Here, we have carried out a genome‐wide association study on an unselected community sample of female twins surveyed for eating disorders.

Method

We conducted genome‐wide association analyses in 2,564 female twins for four different phenotypes derived from self‐report data relating to lifetime presence of 15 types of disordered eating: AN spectrum, bulimia nervosa (BN) spectrum, purging via substances, and a binary measure of no disordered eating behaviors versus three or more. To complement the variant level results, we also conducted gene‐based association tests using VEGAS software.

Results

Although no variants reached genome‐wide significance at the level of p < 10−8, six regions were suggestive (p < 5 × 10−7). The current results implicate the following genes: CLEC5A, LOC136242, TSHZ1, and SYTL5 for the AN spectrum phenotype; NT5C1B for the BN spectrum phenotype; and ATP8A2 for the disordered eating behaviors phenotype.

Discussion

As with other medical and psychiatric phenotypes, much larger samples and meta‐analyses will ultimately be needed to identify genes and pathways contributing to predisposition to eating disorders. © 2013 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2013; 46:594–608)
Kynurenine 3‐monooxygenase mediates inhibition of Th17 differentiation via catabolism of endogenous aryl hydrocarbon receptor ligands
Authors: Stephens Geoffrey L. , Wang Qun , Swerdlow Bonnie , Bhat Geetha , Kolbeck Roland , Fung Michael
Published: April 2013

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a key transcriptional regulator of Th17‐cell differentiation. Although endogenous ligands have yet to be identified, evidence suggests that tryptophan metabolites can act as agonists for the AhR. Tryptophan metabolites are abundant in circulation, so we hypothesized that cell intrinsic factors might exist to regulate the exposure of Th17 cells to AhR‐dependent activities. Here, we find that Th17 cells preferentially express kynurenine 3‐monooxygenase (KMO), which is an enzyme involved in catabolism of the tryptophan metabolite kynurenine. KMO inhibition, either with a specific inhibitor or via siRNA‐mediated silencing, markedly increased IL‐17 production in vitro, whereas IFN‐γ production by Th1 cells was unaffected. Inhibition of KMO significantly exacerbated disease in a Th17‐driven model of autoimmune gastritis, suggesting that expression of KMO by Th17 cells serves to limit their continuous exposure to physiological levels of endogenous AhR ligands in vivo.
Cytolytic effector pathways and IFN‐γ help protect against Japanese encephalitis
Authors: Larena Maximilian , Regner Matthias , Lobigs Mario
Published: April 2013

Japanese encephalitis, caused by infection with the neurotropic flavivirus, Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), is among the most important viral encephalitides in Asia. While previous studies established an essential role of Ab and type I IFN, it is still unclear if the cell‐mediated immune responses, through their direct antiviral effector functions, contribute to protection against the fatal disease. We report here that mice defective in both the granule exocytosis and death receptor pathways of cytotoxicity display increased susceptibility to JEV. The two cell contact‐dependent cytotoxic effector mechanisms act redundantly within the CNS to reduce disease severity. We also demonstrate that IFN‐γ is critical in recovery from primary infection with JEV by a mechanism involving suppression of virus growth in the CNS, and that T cells are the main source of the cytokine that promotes viral clearance from the brain. Finally, we show by in vivo depletion of NK cells that this innate immune cell population is dispensable for control of JEV infection in the periphery and in the CNS. Accordingly, cell contact‐dependent cytolytic and IFN‐γ‐dependent noncytolytic clearance of virus mediated by T cells trafficking into the CNS help in recovery from lethal infection in a mouse model of Japanese encephalitis.
Light‐Induced Excited Spin‐State Properties in 1D Iron(II) Chain Compounds
Authors: Baldé Chérif , Bauer Wolfgang , Kaps Eike , Neville Suzanne , Desplanches Cédric , Chastanet Guillaume , Weber Birgit , Létard Jean François
Published: April 2013

With the ultimate goal of rationally studying the factor able to affect the stability of the photoinduced high‐spin state, we selected three iron(II) 1D coordination polymers with the general formula [FeLeq(Lax)]·solvent with Leq = {3,3′‐[1,2‐phenylenebis(iminomethylidyne)]bis(2,4‐pentanedionato)(2‐)‐N,N′,O2,O2′}; Lax = 4,4′‐bipyridine (bipy, 1), 1,2‐bis(4‐pyridyl)ethane (bpea, 2), and 1,3‐bis(4‐pyridyl)propane (bppa, 3); and solvent MeOH. This series of complexes comprises 1D chains with structures varying from linear (for bipy) over step‐like (for bpea) to zigzag (for bppa). For all the materials, the thermal spin‐crossover properties were measured and the stabilities of the photoinduced high‐spin states were probed through determination of the T(LIESST) values associated with the light‐induced excited spin‐state trapping (LIESST) effect. For some of the investigated samples, the existence of steps in the relaxation of the photoinduced high‐spin state was discussed.
Towards the Synthesis of Lyngbyaloside B: Stereoselective Synthesis of the C1–C16 Macrolactone Core Segment
Authors: Yadav Jhillu S. , Haldar Animesh , Maity Tapas
Published: April 2013

A highly stereoselective synthesis of the C1–C16 macrolactone core segment of the cytotoxic macrolide lyngbyaloside B has been achieved. The synthetic strategy involved aldol additions of chlorotitanium enolates of N‐propionyl thiazolidinethiones to achieve non‐Evans as well as Evans syn‐propionate aldol reactions as the key steps to establish four of the seven stereogenic centres present in the macrolactone core (2). The C7 hydroxy group and tertiary hydroxy group at C13 were introduced by using different strategies for the regioselective opening of epoxides generated by Katsuki–Sharpless asymmetric epoxidation. A crucial intermolecular acyl ketene trapping by the tertiary alcohol at C13, and a subsequent ring‐closing metethesis reaction served to unite the northern and southern hemisphere subunits to construct the macrolactone core (2).
Versatile Synthesis of Acylfuranones by Reaction of Acylketenes with α‐Hydroxy Ketones: Application to the One‐Step Multicomponent Synthesis of Cadiolide B and Its Analogues
Authors: Peixoto Philippe Alexandre , Boulangé Agathe , Leleu Stéphane , Franck Xavier
Published: April 2013

Functionalized acylfuranones have been prepared in a one‐step procedure by thermal fragmentation of the corresponding dioxinones in the presence of hydroxy ketones in basic conditions. Multicomponent reactions also occur on addition of an aldehyde as a third reaction partner resulting in an expeditious access to cadiolide B and its analogues.
Nucleophilic Reactivities and Lewis Basicities of 2‐Imidazolines and Related N‐Heterocyclic Compounds
Authors: Maji Biplab , Baidya Mahiuddin , Ammer Johannes , Kobayashi Shinjiro , Mayer Peter , Ofial Armin R. , Mayr Herbert
Published: April 2013

The nucleophilicity parameters N and sN, as defined by the linear free‐energy equation log k(20 °C) = sN(N + E), of the 2‐imidazolines 1a–d and the related N‐heterocyclic compounds 2–5 have been determined by studying the rates of their reactions with differently substituted benzhydrylium ions in dichloromethane at 20 °C by stopped‐flow or laser flash photolysis techniques. It is demonstrated that the N and sN parameters thus obtained can be used to reliably predict the rate constants for their reactions with Michael acceptors of known electrophilicity E. A comparison of the nucleophilicity parameters of the imidazoline derivatives 1 with other commonly used nucleophilic organocatalysts shows that they are 10 to 103 times less nucleophilic than PPh3, 1,8‐diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec‐7‐ene, or 4‐(dimethylamino)pyridine. The structure–reactivity relationships of these heterocycles are discussed.
Enantioselective Synthesis of Hushinone, Birkenol, and Birkenal
Authors: Hirokawa Takafumi , Kuwahara Shigefumi
Published: April 2013

The first enantioselective synthesis of hushinone, a tricyclic norsesquiterpenoid with an unprecedented carbon framework identified from the essential oils of birch trees, was accomplished by using intramolecular halolactone alkylation as the key step. Two other bicyclic norsesquiterpenoids in the essential oils, birkenol and birkenal, which share the same carbon skeleton as hushinone, were also synthesized for the first time through eliminative lactone ring opening of hushinone. Comparison of the specific rotation data between the synthetic and natural products led to the confirmation of the absolute configuration of the natural products.
Improving Purity and Process Volume During Direct Electrolytic Reduction of Solid SiO2 in Molten CaCl2 for the Production of Solar‐Grade Silicon
Authors: Yasuda Kouji , Nohira Toshiyuki , Kobayashi Katsutoshi , Kani Naoya , Tsuda Tetsuya , Hagiwara Rika
Published: April 2013

The direct electrolytic reduction of solid SiO2 is investigated in molten CaCl2 at 1123 K to produce solar‐grade silicon. The target concentrations of impurities for the primary Si are calculated from the acceptable concentrations of impurities in solar‐grade silicon (SOG‐Si) and the segregation coefficients for the impurity elements. The concentrations of most metal impurities are significantly decreased below their target concentrations by using a quartz vessel and new types of SiO2‐contacting electrodes. The electrolytic reduction rate is increased by improving an electron pathway from the lead material to the SiO2, which demonstrates that the characteristics of the electric contact are important factors affecting the reduction rate. Pellet‐ and basket‐type electrodes are tested to improve the process volume for powdery and granular SiO2. Based on the purity of the Si product after melting, refining, and solidifying, the potential of the technology is discussed.
Utilization of CO2 as cushion gas for porous media compressed air energy storage
Authors: Oldenburg Curtis M. , Pan Lehua
Published: April 2013

Porous media compressed air energy storage (PM‐CAES) and geologic carbon sequestration (GCS) can potentially be combined when CO2 is used as the cushion gas. The large increase in density of CO2 around its critical pressure at near‐critical temperature means that a PM‐CAES reservoir operated around the CO2 critical pressure could potentially store more air (energy) for a given pressure rise in the reservoir. One‐dimensional (1D) radial TOUGH2 simulations of PM‐CAES with CO2 as the cushion gas have been carried out to investigate pressurization and gas‐gas mixing effects. We find that pervasive pressure gradients in PM‐CAES make it desirable to position the air‐CO2 interface close to the well, but cushion gas at such locations is subject to strong and undesirable air‐CO2 mixing and subsequent production of CO2 up the well. To avoid this negative effect, CO2 cushion gas should be located at the far outer margins of storage reservoirs where mixing will be very slow. In such a configuration, the super‐compressibility of CO2 will not be exploited, but CO2 can be stored in the GCS context potentially earning significant value for the PM‐CAES project depending on the price of carbon. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
When some is not every: Dissociating scalar implicature generation and mismatch
Authors: Shetreet Einat , Chierchia Gennaro , Gaab Nadine
Published: April 2013

Making inferences beyond the literal meaning of sentences occurs with certain scalar expressions via scalar implicatures. For example, adults usually interpret some as some but not all. On the basis of behavioral research, it has been suggested that processing implicatures is cognitively costly. However, many studies have used cases where sentences with some did not match the context in which they were presented. Our study aimed to examine whether the processing cost is linked to implicature generation, to the mismatch between the implicature and the context, or to both processes. To do so, we explored the neural patterns of implicature generation and implicature mismatch using fMRI. Thirteen participants performed a sentence‐picture matching task (where pictures determined the context) with mismatched implicatures, successful implicatures or no implicature conditions. Several brain regions were identified when comparing cases of implicature mismatch and cases without implicatures. One of these regions, left‐IFG, was jointly activated for mismatched and successful implicatures, as observed in a conjunction analysis. By contrast, left‐MFG and medial‐frontal‐gyrus, were identified when comparing cases of implicature mismatch with cases of successful implicatures. Thus, the left IFG can be interpreted as being linked to implicature generation, whereas the other two areas seem to participate in the processing of the mismatch between the implicature and its context. Our results indicate that scalar implicatures induce processing cost in different ways. This should be considered in future research. Hum Brain Mapp 35:1503–1514, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diffusion weighted imaging of prefrontal cortex in prodromal huntington's disease
Authors: Matsui Joy T. , Vaidya Jatin G. , Johnson Hans J. , Magnotta Vincent A. , Long Jeffrey D. , Mills James A. , Lowe Mark J. , Sakaie Ken E. , Rao Stephen M. , Smith Megan M. , Paulsen Jane S.
Published: April 2013

Huntington's disease (HD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease with no effective disease‐modifying treatments. There is considerable interest in finding reliable indicators of disease progression to judge the efficacy of novel treatments that slow or stop disease onset before debilitating signs appear. Diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) may provide a reliable marker of disease progression by characterizing diffusivity changes in white matter (WM) in individuals with prodromal HD. The prefrontal cortex (PFC) may play a role in HD progression due to its prominent striatal connections and documented role in executive function. This study uses DWI to characterize diffusivity in specific regions of PFC WM defined by FreeSurfer in 53 prodromal HD participants and 34 controls. Prodromal HD individuals were separated into three CAG‐Age Product (CAP) groups (16 low, 22 medium, 15 high) that indexed baseline progression. Statistically significant increases in mean diffusivity (MD) and radial diffusivity (RD) among CAP groups relative to controls were seen in inferior and lateral PFC regions. For MD and RD, differences among controls and HD participants tracked with baseline disease progression. The smallest difference was for the low group and the largest for the high group. Significant correlations between Trail Making Test B (TMTB) and mean fractional anisotropy (FA) and/or RD paralleled group differences in mean MD and/or RD in several right hemisphere regions. The gradient of effects that tracked with CAP group suggests DWI may provide markers of disease progression in future longitudinal studies as increasing diffusivity abnormalities in the lateral PFC of prodromal HD individuals. Hum Brain Mapp 35:1562–1573, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Eurogin Roadmap: Comparative epidemiology of HPV infection and associated cancers of the head and neck and cervix
Authors: Gillison Maura L. , Castellsagué Xavier , Chaturvedi Anil , Goodman Marc T. , Snijders Peter , Tommasino Massimo , Arbyn Marc , Franceschi Silvia
Published: April 2013

The EUROGIN 2012 roadmap is focused on the comparative epidemiology of human papillomavirus (HPV) associated head and neck squamous cell cancers (HNSCC) and cervical cancers. Discussed are the similarities and differences between the two cancers with regard to global disease burden, HPV prevalence and type distribution, disease cofactors, molecular pathogenesis, treatment approaches, prognostic factors and primary and secondary prevention. The global incidence of HNSCC and cervical cancer is similar; however, a minority of HNSCC in comparison to virtually all cervical cancers is caused by HPV. HPV infection prevalence is considerably lower in the oral than genital regions for reasons that are as yet unclear. Infection at both sites is strongly associated with sexual behavior, but this association does not appear to explain the male predominance of oral HPV infection. Studies of the molecular pathogenesis of HPV‐associated HNSCC (predominantly oropharyngeal cancers) are hampered by the lack of a readily detectable intermediate clinical endpoint analogous to cervix intraepithelial neoplasia. Nevertheless, similarities in chromosomal aberrations, gene expression, methylation and microRNA profiles between HPV‐positive HNSCC and cervical cancer argue for shared carcinogenic pathways. Treatment approaches to oropharyngeal and cervical cancers are remarkably similar, with the development of HPV‐targeted therapies as the ultimate treatment goal. Key research challenges include understanding oral HPV transmission and male predominance, clarifying the role of cofactors, and developing new screening and treatment methods for HPV‐associated HNSCC.
The phytotoxin fusicoccin, a selective stabilizer of 14‐3‐3 interactions?
Authors: Camoni Lorenzo , Visconti Sabina , Aducci Patrizia
Published: April 2013

Summary The study of the structure and dynamics of protein–protein interaction networks has become overwhelming in all biological systems. Most of the biological events are the consequence of several protein–protein interactions finely regulated by covalent modifications and physiological effectors. Moreover, several studies have shown that the complex interactome responsible for the progress and control of vital processes is disturbed in diseases. Besides the basic information on the mechanisms involved in the processes driven by protein–protein interactions, it appears nowadays extremely challenging to study possible regulators of the lifespan of protein networks. Small molecules able to stabilize or to inhibit protein complexes could easily find applications as potential innovative drugs. In this article, we hypothesize that a natural product, the fungal phytotoxin fusicoccin, can play a role as a stabilizer of interactions between 14‐3‐3 proteins and specific natural targets. A very specific stabilizer molecule is the ideal starting point for the development of a family of structurally related drugs able to selectively tune 14‐3‐3 interaction with their targets. © 2013 IUBMB Life, 65(6):513–517, 2013
Land contribution to natural CO2 variability on time scales of centuries
Authors: Schneck Rainer , Reick Christian H. , Raddatz Thomas
Published: April 2013

The present paper addresses the origin of natural variability arising internally from the climate system of the global carbon cycle at centennial time scales. The investigation is based on the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology, Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (MPI‐MCMIP5) preindustrial control simulations with the MPI Earth System Model in low resolution (MPI‐ESM‐LR) supplemented by additional simulations conducted for further analysis. The simulations show a distinct low‐frequency component in the global terrestrial carbon content that induces atmospheric CO2 variations on centennial time scales of up to 3 ppm. The main drivers for these variations are low‐frequency fluctuations in net primary production (NPP) of the land biosphere. The signal arises from small regions scattered across the whole globe with a pronounced source in North America. The main reason for the global NPP fluctuations is found in climatic changes leading to long‐term variations in leaf area index, which largely determines the strength of photosynthetic carbon assimilation. The underlying climatic changes encompass several spatial diverse climatic alterations. For the particular case of North America, the carbon storage changes are (besides NPP) also dependent on soil respiration. This second mechanism is strongly connected to low‐frequency variations in incoming shortwave radiation at the surface.
In vitro and in vivo mechanical properties of human ulnar and median nerves
Authors: Ma Zhijun , Hu Shihao , Tan Juay Seng , Myer Christopher , Njus Nina M. , Xia Zhenhai
Published: April 2013

Peripheral nerves are often subjected to mechanical stretching, which in excess results in various degrees of impairment of their function. An understanding of the biomechanical behavior of peripheral nerves is important to the prevention of nerve injury during surgical manipulation. Here, in vitro mechanical properties and viscoelastic behavior of human ulnar/median nerves were measured with a tensile tester. In vivo stress and deformation of an ulnar nerve was also examined in continuity during a surgical procedure. Finite element models were developed to determine in vitro and in vivo viscoelastic parameters of the nerves. The results show that in vitro mechanical properties of fresh ulnar nerve are different from those measured in vivo. Several factors that are possibly attributed to the difference were analyzed. The in situ strain of the nerves is one of the major factors that must be considered to obtain accurate strain–stress relationship in the in vivo measurement. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 2718–2725, 2013.
Minor components in oils and their effects on frying performance
Authors: Aladedunye Felix A. , Przybylski Roman
Published: April 2013

Minor components are the non‐triacylglycerol constituents of oil and constitute up to 5% of the total lipid composition. Though minor in composition, they can exert major influence on the performance of oil during frying. The effect of the minor components on frying performance depends on their chemical nature, composition and amount in the oil. Among these minor components tocopherols, phytosterols, phospholipids, γ‐oryzanol, lignans, phenolics, and carotenoids are the most important. Here, their effect on the frying performance of edible oils is discussed.
Thermal modification of vegetable oils
Authors: Doll Kenneth M. , Hwang Hong‐Sik
Published: April 2013

This article reviews old and recent literature concerning the hypothesis that the Diels‐Alder reaction is the dominant reaction in the thermal polymerization of vegetable oil. Both triacylglycerol oils and methyl esters are used to show that this mechanism is unlikely to be a significant contributor en route to the reaction products. The products formed under a range of different reaction conditions are reviewed, including dimer acid, where Diels‐Alder chemistry is not claimed, to the polymerization of mono‐unsaturated methyl oleate in the presence of oxygen. In these, and even in the system where Diels‐Alder chemistry is claimed, the polymerization of conjugated methyl linoleate, six‐membered ring structures are not found in levels detectable by 13C NMR. Since such structures are formed by a Diels‐Alder reaction, it is unlikely that any more than 5% of the reaction could be formed by that method. Other factors against the Diels‐Alder contribution to this process, such as conformation and electron withdrawing ability of the substrates are also discussed.
Pore‐Size Distribution Controls Shape‐Memory Properties on the Macro‐ and Microscale of Polymeric Foams
Authors: Sauter Tilman , Kratz Karl , Lendlein Andreas
Published: April 2013

Open porous foams with identical foam density but different pore‐size distributions (bimodal or monomodal) are prepared from a shape‐memory polyetherurethane (PEU) by thermally induced phase separation. The shape‐memory effect of the two PEU foams is explored by cyclic thermomechanical compression tests and microstructural analysis. The obtained results reveal that the PEU foam with a bimodal pore‐size distribution exhibits an increased shape‐recovery under stress‐free conditions, both on the macro‐ (foam level) as well as the microscale (pore level). While bimodal pore‐size distributions induce microscale bending during compression, buckling occurs in foams with monomodal pore‐size distributions, leading to both a reduced and delayed shape recovery.

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Molecular Modeling and Active Site Binding Mode Characterization of Aspartate β‐Semialdehyde Dehydrogenase Family
Authors: Kumar Rajender , Garg Prabha
Published: April 2013

The enzyme aspartate β‐semialdehyde dehydrogenase (ASADH) plays a vital role in biosynthesis of essential amino acids and several important metabolites in microbes and some higher plants. So this key enzyme can be targeted selectively in these microbes to exhibit anti‐bacterial and fungicidal effects. In this work, molecular modeling and comparative active site binding mode studies were performed for understanding the mode of action, in silico insight into the 3D structure, enzyme‐substrate interactions with natural substrate in this homologous enzyme family. During comparative sequence analysis, high diversity was found in the sequences of different ASADHs and exhibited the same key binding interactions with the substrate. Both, the functional carboxylic and the phosphate group of the substrate are engaged in a bidentate interaction with the guanidinium N atom of two key arginyl active site residues of ASADHs. These structural and active site binding mode characterization studies can further be used for designing the more potent and selective substrate analogues inhibitors against ASADH family.
Decreased Expression of CD9 in Bovine Oocytes After Cryopreservation and the Relationship to Fertilization Capacity
Authors: Zhou Guang‐Bin , Zeng Yan , Meng Qing‐Gang , Liu Ying , Dai Yun‐Ping , Zhu Shi‐En , Bunch Thomas D. , Hou Yun‐Peng
Published: April 2013

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of vitrification of bovine metaphase‐II (MII) oocytes on CD9 expression and fertilization capacity. Surviving vitrified/warmed oocytes were used to detect CD9 distribution (fluorescence microscopy), CD9 mRNA (qRT‐PCR), and CD9 protein expression (Western blot), and to analyze in vitro fertilization rates (number of sperm bound to or that penetrated the oocytes) after removing the zona pellucida. Fresh oocytes acted as control. The experimental results showed that the vitrification/warming procedures significantly decreased CD9 expression at the mRNA and protein levels, and changed the CD9 distribution pattern in bovine oocytes. After fertilization in vitro, the average number of sperm binding and penetration of vitrified oocytes were significantly lower than those of the non‐vitrified oocytes. In conclusion, vitrification of bovine oocytes caused a decrease in CD9 expression at the mRNA and protein levels, and an alteration of CD9 distribution pattern, which may have resulted in lowered fertilization capacity. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 80: 451–459, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A beta‐complex statistical four body contact potential combined with a hydrogen bond statistical potential recognizes the correct native structure from protein decoy sets
Authors: Sánchez‐González Gilberto , Kim Jae‐Kwan , Kim Deok‐Soo , Garduño‐Juárez Ramón
Published: April 2013

We present a new four‐body knowledge‐based potential for recognizing the native state of proteins from their misfolded states. This potential was extracted from a large set of protein structures determined by X‐ray crystallography using BetaMol, a software based on the recent theory of the beta‐complex (β‐complex) and quasi‐triangulation of the Voronoi diagram of spheres. This geometric construct reflects the size difference among atoms in their full Euclidean metric; property not accounted for in a typical 3D Delaunay triangulation. The ability of this potential to identify the native conformation over a large set of decoys was evaluated. Experiments show that this potential outperforms a potential constructed with a classical Delaunay triangulation in decoy discrimination tests. The addition of a statistical hydrogen bond potential to our four‐body potential allows a significant improvement in the decoy discrimination, in such a way that we are able to predict successfully the native structure in 90% of cases. Proteins 2013; 81:1420–1433. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sol‐Gel Synthesis and Photocatalytic Study of Visible Light Active N‐Doped KSbWO6
Authors: Reddy J. R. , Ravi G. , Veldurthi Naveen Kumar , Velchuri Radha , Pola Someshwar , Vithal Muga , Sreedhar B.
Published: April 2013

KSbWO6 was prepared by sol‐gel method. N‐doped KSbWO6 (KSbWO6–xNx) was obtained by heating KSbWO6 and urea at 400 °C. Both the compounds are characterized by powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD), TEM, SEM‐EDS, X‐ray photo electronic spectroscopy (XPS), and UV/Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV‐DRS). A shift in the peak positions of powder XRD and XPS spectra was observed. The band gap energy (Eg) of KSbWO6 and N‐doped KSbWO6 was obtained from their diffused reflectance spectra.Eg was reduced from 3.17 eV to 2.56 eV upon nitrogen doping in KSbWO6. The reduction of the Eg is attributed to the lifting of valence band of N‐doped KSbWO6, due to the mixing of O 2p states with N 2p states. The photocatalytic activity of both the samples was studied by degradation of methylene blue (MB). The nitrogen doped KSbWO6 shows higher photocatalytic activity compared to that of KSbWO6.
Carboranylamidinates
Authors: Edelmann Frank T.
Published: April 2013

This Research Report provides an overview on synthesis, structure, and reactivity of the recently discovered carboranylamidinate ligands. Carboranylamidinate anions of the type [(o‐C2B10H10C(NHR)(=NR)]– (R = iPr, cyclohexyl) are readily accessible via addition of o‐lithiocarborane to N,N′‐carbodiimides R–N=C=N–R. They combine the highly versatile characteristics of both amidinates and carboranes in one unique ligand system. Unlike simple amidinate anions, the carboranylamidinates coordinate to metal ions not as typical N,N′‐chelating ligands but adopt an unexpected κ2C, N‐bonding mode. The free imine functionality in carboranylamidinates can be further deprotonated. The resulting dianions were demonstrated to be excellent starting materials for novel boron‐rich heterocycles incorporating e.g. Si, Sn, P, or transition metals such as Ti, Zr, Rh, and Ir. Further modification of the carboranylamidinate cage structure includes the introduction of additional functional groups like –SH or –SeH as well as the selective removal of a boron atom with formation of novel nido‐type dicarbollylamidinate ligands. An initial study already showed that transition metal carboranylamidinates are potentially useful as polymerization catalysts.
Rearrangement of Mo‐Cu‐S Cluster Reflects the Structural ­Instability of Orange Protein Cofactor
Authors: Maiti Biplab K. , Avilés Teresa , Carepo Marta S. P. , Moura Isabel , Pauleta Sofia R. , Moura José J. G.
Published: April 2013

An unprecedented Mo/Cu/S cluster, [Et4N]4[Mo3Cu6S14] (1) was obtained from the smaller cluster, [Ph4P]2[MoS4CuCl], in the presence of aqueous solution of tetraethylammonium hydroxide in DMF/i‐propanol by self‐rearrangement. The crystal structure shows that butterfly‐shaped {MoS4Cu2S2} fragments are connected via μ3‐S atoms to form a cage‐like structure, [Mo3Cu6S14]4–. The rearrangement of the Mo/Cu/S cluster may reflect the structural instability of Orange protein (ORP) cofactor.
Synthesis of a Chiral, Polydentate Ligand System Setting Out from L‐Cysteine and First Nickel Complexes Thereof
Authors: Warner Dana Sabrina , Limberg Christian , Mebs Stefan
Published: April 2013

Setting out from protected L‐cysteine a 2, 5‐diketopiperazine V can be synthesized, the reduction of which with NaBH4/TiCl4 leads to (6R,8aR)‐7‐methyl‐6‐(sulfanylmethyl)‐thiazolidine [3,4‐a] piperazine, L1H as well as N,N′‐dimethyl‐(2R,5R)‐bis(sulfanylmethyl) piperazine, L2H2, which were separated and characterized. L2H2 can be obtained selectively, if V is reduced by NaBH4/TiCl4 in the presence of DIEA·HCl, and it represents a precursor for a novel, chiral ligand, as after deprotonation it provides two thiolato and two amino donor functions for the coordination of a metal atom. Deprotonation of L1H and L2H2 with NaOMe followed by treatment with NiBr2(dme) led to the isolation of the dimeric complexes [L1NiBr]2 (1) and [L2Ni]2 (2), respectively. Both were fully characterized, and cyclic voltammetry indicated the possibility of NiII → NiIII oxidations for complex 2. 2 can be regarded as a structural model for the A clusters of the acetyl coenzyme A synthase.
Copper(I) Coordination by Two Plant Metallothioneins
Authors: Wan Xiaoqiong , Schicht Oliver , Freisinger Eva
Published: April 2013

The plant metallothioneins (MTs) show high sequence diversity. Proposed to function mainly in metal ion homeostasis and detoxification these small cysteine‐rich proteins exhibit pronounced affinities to metal ions with the electron configuration d10. Having previously studied the coordination abilities of two MTs from Cicerarietinum (chickpea) for divalent metal ions we now aim to expand the knowledge to the binding characteristics for CuI. Performing titration studies followed by UV and circular dichroism spectroscopy distinct differences between the two proteins are revealed.
Evolution of Percutaneous Dilatational Tracheostomy—A Review of Current Techniques and Their Pitfalls
Authors: Cools‐Lartigue Jonathan , Aboalsaud Ali , Gill Heather , Ferri Lorenzo
Published: April 2013

Tracheostomy is the most commonly performed surgical procedure in critically ill patients with acute respiratory failure. While few absolute indications exist, this procedure is widely used in patients with upper respiratory obstruction and those requiring long‐term mechanical ventilation. The traditional approach to tracheostomy has been an open procedure performed in the operating room. This method is associated with an increased rate of complications and costs. Accordingly, percutaneous bedside tracheostomy procedures have largely replaced the traditional operative approach at many institutions. Numerous methods for percutaneous tracheostomy have thus emerged. However, the benefits of one technique versus another have not been well demonstrated. In this article, we review the evidence supporting the use of percutaneous tracheostomy procedures over the traditional operative approach. Furthermore, we review the currently available and emerging methods by which percutaneous tracheostomy can be performed. In addition, we highlight the available evidence concerning the safety and complication rates of each technique.
Contemporary Management of Adult Intussusception: Who Needs a Resection?
Authors: Varban Oliver A. , Ardestani Ali , Azagury Dan E. , Kis Bela , Brooks David C. , Tavakkoli Ali
Published: April 2013

Background

Surgical resection is often recommended in adults with intestinal intussusception (AI) because of its potential association with malignancy. We provide a contemporary algorithm for managing AI by focusing on the probability of discovering a lead point.

Methods

This is a retrospective study of adult patients with computed tomography (CT)‐confirmed intussusception who underwent operative management of AI between 1996 and 2011 at a single academic institution.

Results

Sixty‐four patients were diagnosed with AI by CT scan and then managed operatively. The incidence of colonic (CI), small bowel (SBI), and retrograde intussusception (RI) was 14, 55, and 31 %, respectively. All patients with CI had a lead point, whereas none were found among patients with RI. Some 46 % of patients with SBI had a lead point. The probability of discovering a lead point in SBI was increased by past history of malignancy (RR, 3.7, p < 0.001), a mass seen on preoperative CT scan (RR, 2.9, p = 0.005), and age over 60 years (RR, 2.2, p = 0.07).

Conclusions

A pathologic lead point is likely with CI but not with RI. Patients with SBI who are over the age of 60 years and have a history of malignancy or a mass noted on CT scan have a higher likelihood of harboring a pathologic lead point.
Integrated Interpretation of Satellite Imagery, Aeromagnetic, Aero-radiometric and Ground Exploration Data-sets to Delineate Favorable Target Zones for Unconformity Related Uranium Mineralization, Khariar Basin, Central India
Authors: Patra I. , Chaturvedi A. K. , Srivastava P. K. , Ramayya M. S.
Published: April 2013

The Mesoproterozoic Khariar basin, to the SE of Chhattisgarh basin, comprises 1000 m thick arenaceous-argillaceous sediments. For the first time, a multidisciplinary approach has been made to the integrate interpreted satellite imagery, aero-magnetic and aero-radiometric data with available ground exploration data sets with an objective to understand structural fabric and to establish various parameters for unconformity related uranium mineralization in the environs of Khariar basin. Total Magnetic Intensity (TMI) anomaly image has been useful to mark major faults (ENE-WSW), magnetic bodies and overall basement characteristics. Combination of first vertical derivative (1VD) and tilt derivative magnetic images brought out presence of NW-SE magnetic linear (dominant) with minor ENE-WSW and NNE-SSW trends. Basic dykes and quartz veins are the surface manifestations of NW-SE trend in basement. Radially averaged power spectrum indicates the approximate basement configuration. Enhanced Thematic Mapper satellite imagery (Landsat ETM+) interpretation has shown lineaments along NW-SE, NNE-SSW, ENE-WSW and ENW-WSE directions. These observations are corroborated by interpreted results of magnetic data. Analysis of both results indicate NW-SE and ENE-WSW trends as post depositional. Aero-radiometric images (U, Th, K and ternary U-Th-K) show overall radio-elemental distribution for various litho-units. Besides, Th and K images along with interpreted ETM+ satellite imagery (RGB : 432/752/751) are useful to map small outliers and to modify basement-sediment contact. Geochemical data from basement rocks around Khariar basin suggests the younger Bundeli granitoids and its equivalents are good source of uranium in the western margin. Presence of labile uranium is inferred from higher concentration of uranium in water samples. The Airborne gamma-ray spectrometry (AGRS) and hydro-geochemical anomalies fall along fault zones and intersection of fault zones. The western and southern margin of Khariar basin are also characterized by presence of paleosol at unconformity, which are favorable factors for unconformity type uranium mineralization. Based on the present study, part of western and southern margin emerge as potential target areas for further exploration of uranium.
Petrogenesis of Ultramafic-Mafic to Felsic Plutonic Rock Associations from Southern Portion of Chhotanagpur Gneissic Complex in Central India: A Multi-stage Crust-mantle Interaction Process
Authors: Chakraborty Kasturi , Roy Abhinaba
Published: April 2013

A granite-granodiorite-gabbro-ultramafic rock association occurs in the southern sector of Chhotanagpur Gneissic Complex in Central India. Field relations show mingling and mixing of mafic and granodioritic magmas along the contacts of the intrusives. Petrographic studies, coupled with analyses of phase compositions and bulk rock major and trace element compositions favor origin of mafic magma from partial melting of sub-continental hybridized lithospheric mantle and subsequent two stage emplacement. Initial ponding of mafic magma at basal crust elevated the geothermal gradient so as to cause partial melting of lower crustal materials and generation of granodioritic melt. Simultaneous emplacement of granodioritic and mafic magmas tapped from basal crustal reservoir at mid-crustal depth resulted in restricted mingling-mixing along the contacts of the contrasting magma types locally producing rocks of dioritic composition. The mode of evolution of this cogenetic mafic-felsic association, when combined with available geochronological data, has important implications in demarcation of the extent of Grenvellian orogen that resulted in amalgamation of the Southern Crustal Province of India (SCP) with the Bundelkhand Craton or Northern Crustal Province (NCP).