Selective Formation of 4,4'-Biphenols by Anodic Dehydrogenative Cross- and Homo-Coupling Reaction.

A simple and selective electrochemical synthesis by dehydrogenative coupling of unprotected 2,6- or 2,5-substituted phenols to the desired 4,4'-biphenols is reported. Using electricity as the oxidizing reagent avoids pre-functionalization of the starting materials, since a selective activation of the substrates takes place. Without the necessity for metal-catalysts or the use of stoichiometric reagents it is an economic and environmentally friendly transformation.

Mutations in the MPV17 gene are responsible for rapidly progressive liver failure in infancy.

Unlabelled: MPV17 is a mitochondrial inner membrane protein of unknown function recently recognized as responsible for a mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome. The aim of this study is to delineate the specific clinical, pathological, biochemical, and molecular features associated with mitochondrial DNA depletion due to MPV17 gene mutations. We report 4 cases from 3 ethnically diverse families with MPV17 mutations.

Delayed contrast enhancement magnetic resonance imaging in congenital aortic stenosis.

We report a case of a 12-year-old boy with severe congenital aortic stenosis in whom magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with delayed contrast enhancement demonstrated extensive subendocardial hyperenhancement within the left ventricle. The hyperenhancement was confirmed to be subendocardial infarct and fibrosis by histopathology. This case supports the utility of MRI with delayed contrast enhancement in evaluating myocardial viability in patients with congenital heart disease.

Components in seminal plasma regulating sperm transport and elimination.

Seminal plasma has been suggested to be involved in sperm transport, and as a modulator of sperm-induced inflammation, which is thought to be an important part of sperm elimination from the female reproductive tract. This article reports on recent experiments on the importance of seminal plasma components in sperm transport and elimination. In Experiment 1, hysteroscopic insemination in the presence (n = 3) or absence (n = 3) of 2 ng/mL PGE showed an increased portion of spermatozoa crossing the utero-tubal junction in the presence of PGE in two mares, while no difference was observed between treatments in a third mare.

Ischemia/reperfusion: a clinically relevant model of intestinal injury yielding systemic inflammation.

Background/purpose: Multisystem organ failure (MSOF) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the critically ill patient. Animal models of endotoxin-induced sepsis were used to develop therapeutic regimens, which thus far have failed in clinical trials. Because multiple etiologies of MSOF affect the intestine, the authors hypothesized that during sepsis the gut may act as a possible trigger of the inflammatory cascade.