Total synthesis of clathculins A and B.

Clathculins A and B represent a new class of vic-diamine alkaloids containing a PA2 unit as the basic structure. We report the first total syntheses of 1 and 2, which confirm the assigned structure of each. Dependence of their NMR spectroscopic behavior as a function of protonation state has been observed.

Amphiphilic polyanhydrides for protein stabilization and release.

The overall goal of this research is to design novel amphiphilic biodegradable systems based on polyanhydrides for the stabilization and sustained release of peptides and proteins. Accordingly, copolymers of the anhydrides, 1,6-bis(p-carboxyphenoxy)hexane (CPH) and 1,8-bis(p-carboxyphenoxy)-3,6-dioxaoctane (CPTEG), which are monomer-containing oligomeric ethylene glycol moieties, have been synthesized. Microspheres of different CPTEG:CPH compositions have been fabricated by two non-aqueous methods: solid/oil/oil double emulsion and cryogenic atomization.

Theme-based tests: Teaching in context.

Theme-based tests provide an assessment tool that instructs as well by providing a single general context for a broad set of biochemical concepts. A single story line connects the questions on the tests and models applications of scientific principles and biochemical knowledge in an extended scenario. Theme-based tests are based on a set of interrelated journal articles or a fictional story derived from popular culture or local events that interweaves biochemical principles into a story line.