bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of human butyrylcholinesterase with an engineered glycosylation profile resembling the plasma‐derived orthologue
Authors: Schneider Jeannine D. , Castilho Alexandra , Neumann Laura , Altmann Friedrich , Loos Andreas , Kannan Latha , Mor Tsafrir S. , Steinkellner Herta
Published: October 2013

Human butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) is considered a candidate bioscavenger of nerve agents for use in pre‐ and post‐exposure treatment. However, the presence and functional necessity of complex N‐glycans (i.e. sialylated structures) is a challenging issue in respect to its recombinant expression. Here we transiently co‐expressed BChE cDNA in the model plant Nicotiana benthamiana with vectors carrying the genes necessary for in planta protein sialylation. Site‐specific sugar profiling of secreted recombinant BChE (rBChE) collected from the intercellular fluid revealed the presence of mono‐ and di‐sialylated N‐glycans, which largely resembles to the plasma‐derived orthologue. Attempts to increase that sialylation content of rBChE by the over‐expression of an additional glycosylation enzyme that generates branched N‐glycans (i.e. β1,4‐N‐acetylglucosaminyl‐transferase IV), allowed the production of rBChE decorated with tri‐sialylated structures (up to 70%). Sialylated and non‐sialylated plant‐derived rBChE exhibited functional in vitro activity comparable to that of its commercially available equine‐derived counterpart. These results demonstrate the ability of plants to generate valuable proteins with designed sialylated glycosylation profiles optimized for therapeutic efficacy. Moreover, the efficient synthesis of carbohydrates present only in minute amounts on the native protein (tri‐sialylated N‐glycans) facilitates the generation of a product with superior efficacies and/or new therapeutic functions.
A factor analysis of posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms using data pooled from two venlafaxine extended‐release clinical trials
Authors: Stein Dan J. , Rothbaum Barbara O. , Baldwin David S. , Szumski Annette , Pedersen Ronald , Davidson Jonathan R. T.
Published: October 2013

Background

Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fourth Edition) (DSM‐IV) three‐factor posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnostic criteria was conducted to determine fit for this patient population. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) of alternate symptom structures was planned to identify symptoms that cluster in this population. The response of symptom factors to treatment with venlafaxine extended release (ER) was explored.

Methods

Baseline 17‐item Clinician‐Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS‐SX17) data were pooled from patients enrolled in two double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trials. The CFA was conducted using maximum likelihood and weighted, least‐squares factor extraction methods. The EFA was performed using a polychoric correlation covariance matrix and Pearson correlation matrix.

Results

Data from a pooled population of 685 patients (venlafaxine ER: n = 339; placebo: n = 346) were analyzed. CFA rejected the DSM‐IV three‐factor structure. The EFA identified a different three‐factor structure as the best fit: factor 1 included reexperiencing symptoms, factor 2 included symptoms of altered mood and cognition, whereas factor 3 comprised avoidance and arousal symptoms. All DSM‐IV symptom factors and all factors in the identified three‐factor model responded positively to venlafaxine ER treatment.

Conclusions

Data are consistent with literature failing to confirm the three‐factor structure of DSM‐IV PTSD, and they support the DSM‐5 inclusion of a symptom cluster addressing altered mood and cognition in PTSD. The efficacy of venlafaxine ER in reducing a range of symptom clusters in PTSD is consistent with its multiple mechanisms of action.
Differentiated Customer Pressures and Environmental Policies in China
Authors: Wu Jie
Published: October 2013

Drawing on the resource dependence theory, the stakeholder perspective and environmental management capabilities, this study examined the relationship between the heterogeneity of customer pressures and the varying levels of environmental policies in China. Data on 1215 Chinese manufacturing firms were analyzed to demonstrate that environmental pressures emanating from different types of customer have different impacts on firm environmental conduct and that the pressures from multinational consumers have a stronger effect on local Chinese suppliers’ propensity to reduce product environmental risks than those from local consumers. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Brain Trauma, PET Scans and Forensic Complexity
Authors: Moriarty Jane Campbell , Langleben Daniel D. , Provenzale James M.
Published: October 2013

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a medical imaging technique that can be used to show brain function. Courts have admitted PET scan evidence in cases involving brain damage, injury, toxic exposure, or illness (“brain trauma”) and to support claims of diminished cognitive abilities and impulse control. Despite the limited data on the relationships between PET, brain trauma and behavior, many courts admit PET scan evidence without much critical analysis. This article examines the use of PET as proof of functional impairment and justification of abnormal behavior by explaining its diagnostic use and limitations, the limited support for claims of its relationship to behavior, and evidentiary considerations that should govern its admission into court as evidence. The authors urge courts to consider PET evidence, claims of experts, and the scope of the proposed testimony with greater deference to the clinical scope of PET, as outlined by the American College of Radiology's appropriateness criteria and the Working Group Report of the American Psychiatric Association. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of toxicity and outcomes of concurrent radiotherapy with carboplatin/paclitaxel or cisplatin/etoposide in stage III non–small cell lung cancer
Authors: Liew Mun Sem , Sia Joseph , Starmans Maud H. W. , Tafreshi Ali , Harris Sam , Feigen Malcolm , White Shane , Zimet Allan , Lambin Philippe , Boutros Paul C. , Mitchell Paul , John Thomas
Published: October 2013

Concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) has become the standard of care for patients with unresectable stage III non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The comparative merits of two widely used regimens: carboplatin/paclitaxel (PC) and cisplatin/etoposide (PE), each with concurrent radiotherapy, remain largely undefined. Records for consecutive patients with stage III NSCLC treated with PC or PE and ≥60 Gy chest radiotherapy between 2000 and 2011 were reviewed for outcomes and toxicity. Survival was estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method and Cox modeling with the Wald test. Comparison across groups was done using the student's t and chi‐squared tests. Seventy‐five (PC: 44, PE: 31) patients were analyzed. PC patients were older (median 71 vs. 63 years; P = 0.0006). Other characteristics were comparable between groups. With PE, there was significantly increased grade ≥3 neutropenia (39% vs. 14%, P = 0.024) and thrombocytopenia (10% vs. 0%, P = 0.039). Radiation pneumonitis was more common with PC (66% vs. 38%, P = 0.033). Five treatment‐related deaths occurred (PC: 3 vs. PE: 2, P = 1.000). With a median follow‐up of 51.6 months, there were no significant differences in relapse‐free survival (median PC 12.0 vs. PE 11.5 months, P = 0.700) or overall survival (median PC 20.7 vs. PE 13.7 months; P = 0.989). In multivariate analyses, no factors predicted for improved survival for either regimen. PC was more likely to be used in elderly patients. Despite this, PC resulted in significantly less hematological toxicity but achieved similar survival outcomes as PE. PC is an acceptable CCRT regimen, especially in older patients with multiple comorbidities.
Chemical Studies on Taxus canadensis
Authors: Li Yong , Qin Fang , Wang Si‐Ming , Guo Rui‐Xia , Zhang Yue‐Feng , Gu Yu‐Cheng , Shi Qing‐Wen
Published: October 2013

A series of new taxanes, 1–93, have been isolated, together with 37 known taxoids including Taxol® (paclitaxel) and cephalomannine, from the Canadian yew, Taxus canadensis (Taxaceae) in the past 30 years. These new taxoids possess various skeletons containing 5/7/6, 6/10/6, 6/5/5/6, 6/8/6, and 6/12 ring systems and six new taxanes with four novel skeletons, i.e., a taxane with a 6/6/8/6 ring system, a taxane with a [3.3.3] propellane skeleton, three taxanes with [3.3.3] [3.4.5] dipropellane sytems, as well as a novel taxane with a unique 5/5/4/6/6/6 hexacyclic skeleton, containing a unique [3.3.2] propellane, were isolated for the first time from natural sources. It should be emphasized that 13‐acetyl‐9‐dihydrobaccatin III, a very useful starting material for the semisynthesis of Taxol® and Taxotere®, represents the most abundant taxane in the needles of this yew tree. These findings establish the above mentioned yew tree as significantly different from the remaining species. On the other hand, some chemical modifications on the taxanes isolated from this plant were carried out.
Phytochemistry of the Carnivorous Sundew Genus Drosera (Droseraceae) – Future Perspectives and Ethnopharmacological Relevance
Authors: Egan Paul A. , van der Kooy Frank
Published: October 2013

Species of the carnivorous genus Drosera L. have long been a source of valuable natural products. The various phytochemicals characteristic of these species, particularly 1,4‐naphthoquinones and flavonoids, have contributed to the diverse utilization of sundews in traditional medicine systems worldwide. A growing number of studies have sought to investigate the comparative phytochemistry of Drosera species for improved sources of pharmaceutically important compounds. The outcomes of these studies are here collated, with emergent trends discussed in detail. Important factors which affect production of secondary metabolites in plants are critically examined, such as environmental influences and in vitro culture, and recommendations subsequently presented based on this. Explicitly, the current review aims to i) present an updated, comprehensive listing of the phytochemical constituents of the genus (including quantitative data where available), ii) summarize important factors which may influence the production of phytopharmaceuticals in plants, and iii) recommend guidelines for future research based on the above, including improved standardization and quality control. We have also included a section discussing future perspectives of research on Drosera spp. based on three different research lines i) the potential to produce much needed lead compounds for treatment of tuberculosis, ii) the potential role of anthocyanins in nitrogen transport, and iii) research into ‘Natural Deep Eutectic’ solvents produced by Drosera spp. in the droplets or ‘dew’ employed to capture insect prey.
Radioprotectors – the Evergreen Topic
Authors: Kuntić Vesna S. , Stanković Miroslava B. , Vujić Zorica B. , Brborić Jasmina S. , Uskoković‐Marković Snežana M.
Published: October 2013

To protect organisms from ionizing radiation (IR), and to reduce morbidity or mortality, various agents, called radioprotectors, have been utilized. Because radiation‐induced cellular damage is attributed primarily to the harmful effects of free radicals, molecules with radical‐scavenging properties are particularly promising as radioprotectors. Early development of such agents focused on thiol synthetic compounds, known as WR protectors, but only amifostine (WR‐2721) has been used in clinical trials as an officially approved radioprotector. Besides thiol compounds, various compounds with different chemical structure were investigated, but an ideal radioprotector has not been found yet. Plants and natural products have been evaluated as promising sources of radioprotectors because of their low toxicity, although they exhibit an inferior protection level compared to synthetic thiol compounds. Active plant constituents seem to exert the radioprotection through antioxidant and free radical‐scavenging activities. Our research established that plants containing polyphenolic compounds (raspberry, blueberry, strawberry, grape, etc.) exhibit antioxidative activities and protect genetic material from IR.
Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of the Essential Oil of Athanasia browniiHochr. (Asteraceae) Endemic to Madagascar
Authors: Rasoanaivo Philippe , Fortuné Randriana Richard , Maggi Filippo , Nicoletti Marcello , Quassinti Luana , Bramucci Massimo , Lupidi Giulio , Petrelli Dezemona , Vitali Luca A. , Papa Fabrizio , Vittori Sauro
Published: October 2013

The essential oil obtained from hydrodistillation of flowering aerial parts of Athanasia brownii (Asteraceae) was studied for its chemical composition by GC/FID and GC/MS, and for biological activity, namely, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and chemopreventive potential, by DPPH (=2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl), ABTS (=2,2′‐azinobis[3‐ethylbenzothioline‐6‐sulfonic acid), and FRAP (=ferric reducing antioxidant power), disk diffusion test, and MTT (=3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay, respectively. The oil was characterized by a high content of oxygenated sesquiterpenes (71.2%), with selin‐11‐en‐4α‐ol (24.6%), caryophyllene oxide (8.7%), humulene epoxide II (5.1%), and (E)‐nerolidol (4.9%) as the predominant compounds. The oil showed a moderate activity against streptococci as well as radical‐scavenging potential, while the inhibitory effects against human cancer cells examined such as A375 (malignant melanoma) and HCT 116 (colon carcinoma) were significant, with IC50 values of 19.85 and 29.53 μg/ml, respectively.
Glycosidic Inhibitors of Melanogenesis from Leaves of Passiflora edulis
Authors: Zhang Jie , Koike Ryosuke , Yamamoto Ayako , Ukiya Motohiko , Fukatsu Makoto , Banno Norihiro , Miura Motofumi , Motohashi Shigeyasu , Tokuda Harukuni , Akihisa Toshihiro
Published: October 2013

A new flavonoid glycoside, chrysin 6‐C‐β‐rutinoside (chrysin α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→6)‐C‐β‐glucopyranoside; 2), and two new triterpene glycosides, (31R)‐31‐O‐methylpassiflorine (7) and (31S)‐31‐O‐methylpassiflorine (8), along with 14 known glycosides, including three flavonoid glycosides, 1, 3, and 4, six triterpene glycosides, 5, 6, and 9–12, three cyano glycosides, 13–15, and two other glycosides, 16 and 17, were isolated from a MeOH extract of the leaves of Passiflora edulis (passion flower; Passifloraceae). The structures of new compounds were elucidated on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analysis and comparison with literature data. Upon evaluation of compounds 1–17 against the melanogenesis in the B16 melanoma cells induced with α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone (α‐MSH), three compounds, isoorientin (1), 2, and (6S,9R)‐roseoside (17), exhibited inhibitory effects with 37.3–47.2% reduction of melanin content with no, or almost no, toxicity to the cells (90.8–100.2% cell viability) at 100 μM. Western blot analysis showed that compound 2 reduced the protein levels of MITF, TRP‐1, and tyrosinase, in a concentration‐dependent manner while exerted almost no influence on the level of TRP‐2, suggesting that this compound inhibits melanogenesis on the α‐MSH‐stimulated B16 melanoma cells by, at least in part, inhibiting the expression of MITF, followed by decreasing the expression of TRP‐1 and tyrosinase. In addition, compounds 1–17 were evaluated for their inhibitory effects against the EpsteinBarr virus early antigen (EBV‐EA) activation induced by 12‐O‐tetradecanoylphorbol‐13‐acetate (TPA) in Raji cells.
Cancer Chemopreventive Effect of Bergenin from Peltophorum pterocarpum Wood
Authors: Zhang Jie , Nishimoto Yuki , Tokuda Harukuni , Suzuki Nobutaka , Yasukawa Ken , Kitdamrongtham Worapong , Akazawa Hiroyuki , Manosroi Aranya , Manosroi Jiradej , Akihisa Toshihiro
Published: October 2013

The aqueous extract of Peltophorum pterocarpum (Fabaceae) wood exhibited potent inhibitory effects against EpsteinBarr virus early antigen (EBV‐EA) activation induced with 12‐O‐tetradecanoylphorbol‐13‐acetate (TPA) in Raji cells and against melanogenesis in α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone (α‐MSH)‐stimulated B16 melanoma cells, as well as potent 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical‐scavenging activity. Two phenolic acid derivatives, bergenin (1) and gallic acid (2), were isolated from the ethyl acetate (AcOEt)‐soluble fraction obtained from the extract. Compound 1 exhibited potent inhibitory effect against EBV‐EA activation and against skin tumor promotion in an in vivo two‐stage mouse skin carcinogenesis test based on 7,12‐dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) as initiator, and with TPA as promoter. Both compounds 1 and 2 exhibited melanogenesis‐inhibitory activities in α‐MSH‐stimulated B16 melanoma cells, and, in addition, compound 2 showed strong DPPH radical‐scavenging activity.
Polypyrrole‐Modified‐Carbon‐Supported Ru‐Pt Nanoparticles as Highly Methanol‐Tolerant Electrocatalysts for the Oxygen‐Reduction Reaction
Authors: Escudero Cid Ricardo , Gómez de la Fuente José Luis , Rojas Sergio , García Fierro José Luis , Ocón Pilar
Published: October 2013

The modification of mesoporous carbon black with polypyrrole (C‐PP) facilitates the incorporation of homogeneously dispersed nanosized Ru‐Pt particles (1–2 nm) onto the support. Polypyrrole‐modified carbon supports were prepared by the addition of different amounts of pyrrole, followed by in situ polymerization through oxidative treatments. The Ru‐Pt/C‐PP electrocatalysts were tested in the oxygen‐reduction reaction in methanol‐containing acidic electrolytes by using both conventional electrochemical techniques and in a direct methanol single cell. The performance of Ru‐Pt/C‐PP was far superior to that of Pt/C for the oxygen‐reduction reaction in the direct methanol fuel cell. Under severe methanol‐crossover conditions, the maximum power density that was delivered by Ru‐Pt/C‐PP after degradation tests was decreased by 20 %, whereas that of Pt/C decreased by 75 %. Thus, the presence of Ru oxides in the cathode led to more tolerant electrocatalysts towards the presence of methanol in the reaction medium during the oxygen‐reduction reaction.
Numerical Investigation of Intercalation‐Induced Stresses within Electrode Particles of Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Kespe Michael , Keller Florian , Dörfler Willy , Nirschl Hermann
Published: October 2013

Bei der Weiterentwicklung von Lithium‐Ionen‐Batterien ist die Reduzierung des messbaren Kapazitätsverlustes von besonderem Interesse. Die im Verlauf der Lithiuminterkalation innerhalb des aktiven Partikelmaterials entstehenden mechanischen Spannungen die zum Bruch der Partikel führen können, wurden als eine Ursache hierfür identifiziert. Um die Größe der entstehenden Spannungen abzuschätzen, wird ein Modell für ein aktives Einzelpartikel der positiven Elektrode entwickelt, das aus LiCoO2 besteht und die Ausbildung einer Phasentrennung berücksichtigt. Zur Verallgemeinerung der Idealvorstellung eines sphärischen Einzelpartikels ist das Modell dreidimensional ausgeführt.
200 Years in the Development of Continuous Distillation
Authors: Kockmann Norbert
Published: October 2013

Die Destillation ist eines der ältesten und heute am weitest verbreiteten Trennverfahren. 1813 hat Jean‐Baptiste Cellier‐ Blumenthal die kontinuierlich arbeitende Destillationskolonne patentiert und damit der Entwicklung von verfahrenstechnischen Apparaten einen enormen Schub gegeben. Mit der kontinuierlichen Destillation konnten neue Produktbereiche erschlossen sowie die Prozessführung wesentlich vereinfacht werden. Ein verbessertes Prozessverständnis und neue Methodenwerkzeuge führten zu kombinierten Trennverfahren, zu Strukturpackungen und verlässlichen Auslegungsvorschriften.
Regulation of cuticle pigmentation in drosophila by the nutrient sensing insulin and TOR signaling pathways
Authors: Shakhmantsir Iryna , Massad Nicole L. , Kennell Jennifer A.
Published: October 2013

Background: Insect pigmentation is a phenotypically plastic trait that plays a role in thermoregulation, desiccation tolerance, mimicry, and sexual selection. The extent and pattern of pigmentation of the abdomen and thorax in Drosophila melanogaster is affected by environmental factors such a growth temperature and access to the substrates necessary for melanin biosynthesis. This study aimed to determine the effect of nutritional status during development on adult pigmentation and test whether nutrient sensing through the Insulin/IGF and target of rapamycin (TOR) pathways regulates the melanization of adult cuticle in Drosophila. Results: Flies reared on low quality food exhibit decreased pigmentation, which can be phenocopied by inhibiting expression of the Insulin receptor (InR) throughout the entire fly during mid to late pupation. The loss of Insulin signaling through PI3K/Akt and FOXO in the epidermis underlying the developing adult cuticle causes a similar decrease in adult pigmentation, suggesting that Insulin signaling acts in a cell autonomous manner to regulate cuticle melanization. In addition, TOR signaling increases pigmentation in a cell autonomous manner, most likely through increased S6K activity. Conclusion: These results suggest that nutrient sensing through the Insulin/IGF and TOR pathways couples cuticle pigmentation of both male and female Drosophila with their nutritional status during metamorphosis. Developmental Dynamics 243:393–401, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High genetic diversity is not essential for successful introduction
Authors: Rollins Lee A. , Moles Angela T. , Lam Serena , Buitenwerf Robert , Buswell Joanna M. , Brandenburger Claire R. , Flores‐Moreno Habacuc , Nielsen Knud B. , Couchman Ellen , Brown Gordon S. , Thomson Fiona J. , Hemmings Frank , Frankham Richard , Sherwin William B.
Published: October 2013

Some introduced populations thrive and evolve despite the presumed loss of diversity at introduction. We aimed to quantify the amount of genetic diversity retained at introduction in species that have shown evidence of adaptation to their introduced environments. Samples were taken from native and introduced ranges ofArctotheca populifoliaandPetrorhagia nanteuilii. Using microsatellite data, we identified the source for each introduction, estimated genetic diversity in native and introduced populations, and calculated the amount of diversity retained in introduced populations. These values were compared to those from a literature review of diversity in native, confamilial populations and to estimates of genetic diversity retained at introduction. Gene diversity in the native range of both species was significantly lower than for confamilials. We found that, on average, introduced populations showing evidence of adaptation to their new environments retained 81% of the genetic diversity from the native range. Introduced populations ofP. nanteuiliihad higher genetic diversity than found in the native source populations, whereas introduced populations ofA. populifoliaretained only 14% of its native diversity in one introduction and 1% in another. Our literature review has shown that most introductions demonstrating adaptive ability have lost diversity upon introduction. The two species studied here had exceptionally low native range genetic diversity. Further, the two introductions ofA. populifoliarepresent the largest percentage loss of genetic diversity in a species showing evidence of substantial morphological change in the introduced range. While high genetic diversity may increase the likelihood of invasion success, the species examined here adapted to their new environments with very little neutral genetic diversity. This finding suggests that even introductions founded by small numbers of individuals have the potential to become invasive.
CG Expression of Grime on Floors and Walls Caused by Movement of Crowd
Authors: Takenaka Tsuyoshi , Tanaka Toshimitsu , Sagawa Yuji
Published: October 2013

Dirty floors and walls are commonly viewed in places where many people walk. The intensity of the grime increases in proportion to the number of people passing through the place, and the pattern of the grime changes with the walking speed of the people. Therefore, we increase the realism of CG images of floors and walls by the following method. First, the path of motion and speed of each person are computed by crowd simulation. Then foot patterns are allocated along the path after modification according to the speed. If a person walks near a wall, contact with the wall is evaluated. If contact occurs, one grime pattern selected from a database is superimposed on the wall at a height decided by a probability distribution function that was measured from sample walls. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 96(11): 82–90, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11476
Airline Network Optimization Using Evolutionary Computation
Authors: Inoue Hiroki , Kato Yasuhiko , Sakagami Tomoya
Published: October 2013

In recent years, various networks have come to exist in our surroundings. Not only the Internet and airline routes can be thought of as networks: protein interactions are also networks. An “economic network design problem” can be discussed by assuming that a vertex is an economic player and that a link represents some connection between economic players. In this paper, the Airlines network is taken up as an example of an “economic network design problem,” and the Airlines network which the profit of the entire Airlines industry is maximized is clarified. The Airlines network is modeled based on connections models proposed by Jackson and Wolinsky, and the utility function of the network is defined. In addition, the optimization simulation using the evolutionary computation is shown for a domestic airline in Japan. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 96(11): 16–25, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11531
Cantilever‐Type FePd/PZT Stacked‐Layer Magnetic Sensors with High Sensitivity
Authors: Saito Takashi , Hamashima Mio , Saito Chihiro , Nakamura Motoichi , Okazaki Teiko , Furuya Yasubumi , Muro Hideo
Published: October 2013

FePd/PZT/FePd and FePd/PZT stacked‐layer magnetic sensors were studied. A magnetic field was applied to the longitudinal direction of the sensor to cause longitudinal stress magnetostrictively, producing a piezoelectric output voltage in the PZT layer. The prototype sensors were 15 mm long and 6 mm wide and the thicknesses of the FePd layer and PZT layer were 10 and 330 µm, respectively. The theoretical sensitivities of the FePd/PZT/FePd sensor and the FePd/PZT sensor using a simple cantilever model were calculated to be 0.29 and 0.15 mV/A/m, respectively. The measured sensitivities agreed reasonably well with the calculated ones. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 96(11): 8–15, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11533
Reaction of a Bis(benzoylhydrazone) with Copper(II): Complex Formation, Hydroxylation, and DNA Cleavage Activity
Authors: Rodríguez‐Hermida Sabina , Wende Christian , Lago Ana B. , Carballo Rosa , Kulak Nora , Vázquez‐López Ezequiel M.
Published: October 2013

The reaction of the ditopic bis(benzoylhydrazone) of isophthalaldehyde (H2L) with copper(II) acetate in methanol under aerobic conditions afforded a green solid that contains the tetranuclear complex [Cu4L*2(OCH3)2] (1). The ligand L*, a bis(benzoylhydrazone) of 2,6‐diformylphenol, resulted from hydroxylation of the corresponding isophthalaldehyde derivative. H2L and 1 were characterized by different spectroscopic techniques, and their molecular structures were confirmed by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The reaction of H2L with copper(II) under argon, on the other hand, resulted in a brown diamagnetic solid [Cu2L]·H2O (2) containing copper(I), which was readily transformed into 1 when exposed to air. In contrast, the reaction with [Cu(CH3CN)4][BF4] afforded a mononuclear complex [Cu(H2L)][BF4]·H2O (3), and single crystals of [Cu(H2L)2][BF4] (4) were isolated from its dichloromethane solution. H2L cleaved plasmid DNA in the presence of copper(II) independently of any reducing agent, but more efficiently when ascorbate was present. The cleavage process is likely oxidative because the enzyme catalase, which decomposes hydrogen peroxide, quenched the reaction. In the absence of ascorbate, the ligand H2L presumably acts as the reductant in the redox reaction, as exploited also in the synthesis of 1. As a consequence, a variety of reactive oxygen species were generated, eventually also leading to the cleavage of DNA (“self‐activating” chemical nuclease).
Biomimetic syn‐Aldol Reaction of Dihydroxyacetone Promoted by Water‐Compatible Catalysts
Authors: Popik Oskar , Zambroń Bartosz , Mlynarski Jacek
Published: October 2013

The syn‐selective direct aldol reaction of unprotected dihydroxyacetone with glyceraldehyde has been catalyzed by serine‐based organocatalysts. The application of the catalysts mimics the biosynthesis of ketohexoses in aqueous solvents and leads to fructose and sorbose with excellent diastereoselectivity (up to 95:5 dr). The organocatalytic C3 + C3 methodology presented herein is a versatile direct entry to protected syn‐configured sugars of both the D and L series.
Will dawsonite form during CO2 storage?
Authors: Hellevang Helge , Aagaard Per , Jahren Jens
Published: October 2013

For more than a decade, a debate has been going on as to whether dawsonite can sequester CO2, and be the dominant secondary carbonate where reservoirs lack divalent metal cations. Numerical simulations have suggested large‐scale formation, whereas natural occurrences in present‐day or previously CO2‐charged reservoirs are scarce. Natural occurrences, such as in sequences of the Hailaer and Songliao basins, may nevertheless suggest that dawsonite can form under CO2 storage conditions (<120 °C) given the right temperature‐composition window. The exact conditions, however (CO2 pressure, alkalinity, temperature, ionic strength) are highly uncertain. Moreover, there are no data on the rate of nucleation and growth of dawsonite, and numerical predictions are forced into using simplified kinetic expressions with values of kinetic constants obtained from far‐from‐equilibrium dissolution rate experiments, a method that is questioned today. There are good indications that a range of reservoirs may become supersaturated with respect to dawsonite during CO2 storage, but this does not imply spontaneous growth. The retention time (the nucleation stage) may be long, and growth rates may be significantly lower than predicted from the far‐from‐equilibrium dissolution rates. The lack of nucleation and growth rate data for dawsonite, the lack of dawsonite growth in laboratory experiments under CO2 storage conditions (not highly alkaline), and the uncertainty in growth conditions for the natural analogues, thus render numerical predictions highly uncertain. Conclusions on the mineral carbonatization potential should therefore be taken with caution if dawsonite is the dominant secondary carbonate predicted to form. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Neuronal and glial alterations, increased anxiety, and cognitive impairment before hippocampal amyloid deposition in PDAPP mice, model of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Beauquis Juan , Vinuesa Angeles , Pomilio Carlos , Pavía Patricio , Galván Verónica , Saravia Flavia
Published: October 2013

In the context of Alzheimer's disease (AD), hippocampal alterations have been well described in advanced stages of the pathology, when amyloid deposition, inflammation and glial activation occur, but less attention has been directed to studying early brain and behavioral changes. Using an animal model of AD, the transgenic PDAPP‐J20 mouse at 5 months of age, when no amyloid plaques are present and low cerebral levels of amyloid peptides are detectable, we found structural, morphological, and cellular alterations in the hippocampus. Young transgenic mice showed a reduced hippocampal volume with less number of pyramidal and granular neurons, which additionally exhibited cell atrophy. The neurogenic capability in this zone, measured as DCX+ cells, was strongly diminished and associated to alterations in cell maturity. A decrease in presynaptic synaptophysin optical density was detected in mossy fibers reaching CA3 subfield but not in Golgi stained‐ CA1 dendritic spine density. Employing confocal microscopy and accurate stereological tools we also found a reduction in the number of GFAP+ cells, along with decreased astrocyte complexity, suggesting a potential detriment of neural support. According with untimely neuroglial alterations, young PDAPP mice failed in the novel location recognition test, that depends on hippocampal function. Moreover, multivariate statistical analysis of the behavioral outcome in the open‐field test evidenced an elevated anxiety score in Tg mice compared with age‐matched control mice. In line with this, the transgenic group showed a higher number of c‐Fos+ nuclei in central and basolateral amygdala, a result that supports the early involvement of the emotionality factor in AD pathology. Applying an integrative approach, this work focuses on early structural, morphological and functional changes and provides new and compelling evidence of behavioral alterations that precede manifest AD. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Early age‐dependent impairments of context‐dependent extinction learning, object recognition, and object‐place learning occur in rats
Authors: Wiescholleck Valentina , Emma André Marion Agnès , Manahan‐Vaughan Denise
Published: October 2013

The hippocampus is vulnerable to age‐dependent memory decline. Multiple forms of memory depend on adequate hippocampal function. Extinction learning comprises active inhibition of no longer relevant learned information concurrent with suppression of a previously learned reaction. It is highly dependent on context, and evidence exists that it requires hippocampal activation. In this study, we addressed whether context‐based extinction as well as hippocampus‐dependent tasks, such as object recognition and object‐place recognition, are equally affected by moderate aging. Young (7‐8 week old) and older (7‐8 month old) Wistar rats were used. For the extinction study, animals learned that a particular floor context indicated that they should turn into one specific arm (e.g., left) to receive a food reward. On the day after reaching the learning criterion of 80% correct choices, the floor context was changed, no reward was given and animals were expected to extinguish the learned response. Both, young and older rats managed this first extinction trial in the new context with older rats showing a faster extinction performance. One day later, animals were returned to the T‐maze with the original floor context and renewal effects were assessed. In this case, only young but not older rats showed the expected renewal effect (lower extinction ratio as compared to the day before). To assess general memory abilities, animals were tested in the standard object recognition and object‐place memory tasks. Evaluations were made at 5 min, 1 h and 7 day intervals. Object recognition memory was poor at short‐term and intermediate time‐points in older but not young rats. Object‐place memory performance was unaffected at 5 min, but impaired at 1 h in older but not young rats. Both groups were impaired at 7 days. These findings support that not only aspects of general memory, but also context‐dependent extinction learning, are affected by moderate aging. This may reflect less flexibility in revising hard‐wired knowledge or reduced adaptability to new learning challenges. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
First Total Synthesis of (−)‐Ligustiphenol
Authors: Luo Huan , Liu Yanfei , Liang Dong , Hao Zhiyou , Wang Yan , Zhang Chunlei , Zhang Qingjian , Yu Dequan
Published: October 2013

The first asymmetric total synthesis of (−)‐ligustiphenol is reported. The key step was conducted by exploiting a steric hindrance effect to control the formation of the adduct in a nucleophilic α‐Li‐phenolate addition reaction to the intermediate α‐oxo (−)‐menthyl ester. The synthesis is concise and feasible for the construction of analogous compounds and investigation of their biological activity.
Divergent Enantioselective Total Synthesis of Siphonarienal, Siphonarienone, and Pectinatone
Authors: Yadav Jhillu Singh , Chary D. Narasimha , Yadav Nagendra Nath , Sengupta Sandip , Subba Reddy Basi V.
Published: October 2013

A divergent synthesis of siphonarienal, siphonarienone, and pectinatone has been achieved from a common precursor 4, which was synthesized by using an enzymatic desymmetrization approach. The major key steps involved were Grignard reaction, Wittig reaction, Evans' asymmetric alkylation, and base‐catalyzed cyclization.
From Blue Azulenes to Blue Heptalenes – New Strongly Polarized π‐Convertible Heptalenes
Authors: Landmesser Thomas , Linden Anthony , Hansen Hans‐Jürgen
Published: October 2013

The 1,5,6,8,10‐pentamethylheptalene‐4‐carboxaldehyde (4b) (together with its double‐bond‐shifted (DBS) isomer 4a) and methyl 4‐formyl‐1,6,8,10‐tetramethylheptalene‐5‐carboxylate (15b) were synthesized (Schemes 3 and 7, resp.). Aminoethenylation of 4a/4b with N,N‐dimethylformamide dimethyl acetal (=1,1‐dimethoxy‐N,N‐dimethylmethanamine=DMFDMA) led in DMF to 1‐[(1E)‐2‐(dimethylamino)ethenyl]‐5,6,8,10‐tetramethylheptalene‐2‐carboxaldehyde (18a; Scheme 9), whereas the stronger aminoethenylation agent N,N,N′,N′,N″,N″‐hexamethylmethanetriamine (=tris(dimethylamino)methane=TDMAM) gave an almost 1 : 1 mixture of 18a and 1‐[(1E)‐2‐(dimethylamino)ethenyl]‐5,6,8,10‐tetramethylheptalene‐4‐carboxaldehyde (20b; Scheme 11). Carboxylate 15b delivered with DMFDMA on heating in DMF the expected aminoethenylation product 19b (Scheme 10). The aminoethenylated heptalenecarboxaldehydes were treated with malononitrile in CH2Cl2 in the presence of TiCl4/pyridine to yield the corresponding malononitrile derivatives 23b, 24b, and 26a (Schemes 13 and 14). The photochemically induced DBS process of the heptalenecarboxaldehydes as ‘soft’ merocyanines and their malononitrile derivatives as ‘strong’ merocyanines of almost zwitterionic nature were studied in detail (Figs. 10–29) with the result that 1,4‐donor/acceptor substituted heptalenes are cleaner switchable than 1,2‐donor/acceptor‐substituted heptalenes.
Formation of 2‐(Phenylsulfonyl)resorcinols (=2‐(Phenylsulfonyl)benzene‐1,3‐diols) from Symmetrically Substituted Maleic Anhydrides (=Furan‐2,5‐diones)
Authors: Abou‐Hadeed Khaled , Hansen Hans‐Jürgen
Published: October 2013

Treatment of symmetrically substituted maleic anhydrides (=furan‐2,5‐diones) 6 with lithium (phenylsulfonyl)methanide, followed by methylation of the adduct with MeI/K2CO3 in acetone, give the corresponding 4,5‐disubstituted 2‐methyl‐2‐(phenylsulfonyl)cyclopent‐4‐ene‐1,3‐diones 8 (Scheme 3). Reaction of the latter with lithium (phenylsulfonyl)methanide in THF (−78°) and then with 4 mol‐equiv. BuLi (−5° to r.t.) leads to 5,6‐disubstituted 4‐methyl‐2‐(phenylsulfonyl)benzene‐1,3‐diols 9 (Scheme 4).
Constructing Graphs with No Immersion of Large Complete Graphs
Authors: Collins Karen L. , Heenehan Megan E.
Published: October 2013

In 1989, Lescure and Meyniel proved, for , that every d‐chromatic graph contains an immersion of , and in 2003 Abu‐Khzam and Langston conjectured that this holds for all d. In 2010, DeVos, Kawarabayashi, Mohar, and Okamura proved this conjecture for . In each proof, the d‐chromatic assumption was not fully utilized, as the proofs only use the fact that a d‐critical graph has minimum degree at least . DeVos, Dvořák, Fox, McDonald, Mohar, and Scheide show the stronger conjecture that a graph with minimum degree has an immersion of fails for and with a finite number of examples for each value of d, and small chromatic number relative to d, but it is shown that a minimum degree of 200d does guarantee an immersion of .In this paper, we show that the stronger conjecture is false for and give infinite families of examples with minimum degree and chromatic number , , or that do not contain an immersion of . Our examples can be up to ‐edge‐connected. We show that two of Hajós' operations preserve immersions of . We conclude with some open questions, and the conjecture that a 2‐edge‐connected graph G with minimum degree and more than vertices of degree at least has an immersion of .
Copy number variation of chikungunya ECSA virus with disease symptoms among Indian patients
Authors: Dutta Sudip Kumar , Pal Tithi , Saha Bibhuti , Mandal Syamsundar , Tripathi Anusri
Published: October 2013

After a gap of three decades, from 2005 onwards, a series of Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) outbreaks occurred worldwide. This study was performed to detect CHIKV infection, its genotype among symptomatic Eastern Indian patients and to analyze any association between the presence of CHIKV genome in patient body with appearance of disease symptoms (n = 199). Plasma‐extracted viral RNA was reverse transcribed to cDNA and PCR‐amplified followed by agarose gel electrophoresis. Viral load among CHIKV‐positive patients was determined by real time RT‐PCR. CHIKV‐IgM in sera was detected by ELISA. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of plasma‐extracted PCR products was done. CHIKV genome and IgM were detected among 65.3% (n = 130) and 41.2% (n = 82) patients respectively. Joint swelling was significantly associated with CHIKV infection (P‐value: 0.0003). CHIKV PCR positive patients were grouped in two categories: Group‐I: viral load <104 copies/ml and Group‐II: viral load ≥104 copies/ml. Higher number of acute stage patients clustered in Group‐II. Fever and joint swelling were significantly more prevalent among Group‐II patients, whereas rash and diarrhoea among Group‐I patients (P‐value <0.05). Patient‐isolated CHIKV sequences clustered with CHIKV ECSA genotypes in the phylogenetic tree, with two types of CHIKV strains found to circulate among them—as indicated by their different nucleotide sequences. This is the first study detecting the presence of CHIKV ECSA genotype among Eastern Indian patients. Fever and joint swelling might have appeared first followed by rash, diarrhea during disease progression—as indicated by CHIK viral load in patients. Thus, viral load can be used as unique diagnostic and prognostic marker of Chikungunya disease pathogenesis. J. Med. Virol. 86:1386–1392, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Eemian and Early Weichselian environments in southern Sweden: a multi‐proxy study of till‐covered organic deposits from the Småland peneplain
Authors: LEMDAHL GEOFFREY , BROSTRÖM ANNA , HEDENÄS LARS , ARVIDSSON KRISTINA , HOLMGREN SOFIA , GAILLARD MARIE‐JOSÉ , MÖLLER PER
Published: October 2013

Based on their luminescence and infinite radiocarbon ages, organic deposits beneath till at two sites on the Småland peneplain, southern Sweden (Nybygget and Stora Gäddevik), are concluded to have formed before the Middle Weichselian. Applied palaeoecological methods include analyses of pollen, diatoms, charcoal fragments, macroscopic remains of vascular plants and mosses, and insect remains. Pollen‐stratigraphical correlations with previously studied interglacial/interstadial sites in southern Sweden, Denmark and northern Germany suggest that the peat at Nybygget dates from the Brørup interstadial or the final stage of the Eemian interglacial, whereas the lake sediments at Stora Gäddevik probably were emplaced during the middle Eemian. We conclude that the peat was formed in a wetland characterized by both wood swamp and open mire vegetation, and surrounded by semi‐open woodlands dominated by pine, birch and hazel. The middle Eemian sequence at the Stora Gäddevik site provides evidence of a moderately nutrient‐rich to nutrient‐rich lake environment with relatively diverse aquatic vegetation. Regional vegetation, as reconstructed using the REVEALS model, was spruce woodland mixed with pine, alder and birch, but also included more open environments with hazel, oak, grasslands and sedge‐dominated wetlands. Water shield (Brasenia schreberi), now extinct in Europe, was identified in the Eemian lake deposits, from both pollen and macroscopic remains.
Apparent OSL ages of modern deposits from Fåbergstølsdalen, Norway: implications for sampling glacial sediments
Authors: KING G. E. , ROBINSON R. A. J. , FINCH A. A.
Published: October 2013

The application of optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating within glacial settings can be limited where sediments have not had their OSL signal fully reset by sunlight exposure. Heterogeneous bleaching can result in age overestimations, and although it is recognized that certain depositional settings are more likely to have experienced sufficient sunlight exposure to bleach the OSL signal, no comprehensive study has empirically investigated the processes of sediment bleaching, or the variability in bleaching between deposits of the same type and within the same glacial catchment. A suite of modern glacial and glaciofluvial sediments from Fåbergstølsdalen, southern Norway, have been analysed to explore the controls that sedimentary processes and depositional setting have on bleaching of the OSL signal of quartz. There is considerable variability in the residual OSL ages of similar modern deposits, which reflects high sensitivity of the OSL signal to sediment source, sedimentary process, transport distance and depositional setting. Overdispersion values are greatest for the sediments which have been most heterogeneously bleached and these sediments have the lowest residual ages. Sampling strategies that incorporate sufficient consideration of the depositional framework of sample settings can minimize the effects of unbleached residuals on OSL age determinations.
Deeply rooted glaciotectonism in western Denmark: geological composition, structural characteristics and the origin of Varde hill‐island
Authors: HØYER A.‐S. , JØRGENSEN F. , PIOTROWSKI J. A. , JAKOBSEN P. R.
Published: October 2013

We investigate a hill‐island in western Denmark, a major cupola‐hill‐type thrust complex generated by ice‐marginal glaciotectonism. The study uses a unique dataset of densely spaced airborne electromagnetic data, high‐resolution seismic data and borehole information to document the complexity of deeply rooted thrust sheets comprising Miocene to middle Pleistocene deposits. The deformation spans at least 150 m of sediment thickness, placing this complex among the largest glaciotectonic features on record. The main stages of formation of the hill‐island were (1) erosion of Miocene deposits by subglacial tunnel valleys and infill of these valleys in the pre‐Elsterian and Elsterian time, (2) two phases of glaciotectonic thrusting during the Saalian glaciation, (3) erosion by the Saalian ice sheet removing a significant part of the thrust complex and (4) periglacial and postglacial erosion of the hill‐island excavating the glaciotectonic elements. Palaeoglaciological calculations suggest that the Saalian ice sheet that caused the thrusting was thick, had a steep profile, rested on a permafrost wedge and moved slowly, which contrasts with the highly mobile, thin ice lobes of the Last Glaciation.