bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the impact of motivational packages on the productivity of secretaries in an organization
Authors: Alfa Mohammed , Duruh Estherose N. , Adakole Enonche
Published: July 2024

This work attempts to assess the impact of motivational packages on the productivity of secretaries in a public organization. The methodology adopted was the review of related literatures. The study examined the various theories of motivation, the extent and type of motivational packages (financial and non-financial) that could effectively impact on the productivity of secretaries vis-à-vis the prevailing challenges in the process of motivation. It was discovered that good motivation enhances job satisfaction, makes secretaries to display enthusiasm and loyalty to her boss and above all, increases in productivity. Based on the findings, we recommended that management should provide job security to their secretaries, create conductive working environment, encourage training and professional development opportunities.
Assessing the effect of motivational packages on the productivity of secretaries
Authors: Ukwueze Francisca Nwamaka
Published: July 2024

Based on the fact that the success of any organization depends on the workers output, the effectiveness of secretaries also depends on the ability of the managers to recognize their roles in the organization. This recognition means motivating them in order to increase the overall productivity of the entire workforce. This is because secretaries manage the boss, the superiors, colleagues, subordinates, materials and the entire organization. With the theories of motivation propounded by psychologists, this paper highlights the impact of motivation on the productivity of secretaries as well as its effects on the organization. It believes that if organizations adopt the strategies and motivate their secretaries, their performances as well as productivity margin will be very high.
The dynamism of secretarial profession and its challenges to the secretaries as perceived by secretaries in selected educational institutions in Bauchi metropolis
Authors: Asogwa Sylvester , Ifesi Cecilia , Abdulazeez Khadijah B.
Published: July 2024

This study assessed the dynamism of Secretarial Profession and its challenges as perceived by Secretaries in selected educational institutions in Bauchi Metroplolis. Advancement in technology has been continuous and thus has posed challenges to the performance of the Secretaries in today's office. A total of 60 Secretaries made up the population while 3 research questions guided the study. The instrument for data collection was an eleven item questionnaire using 5 Point Likert Type Rating Scale in which Mean was used to analyze data obtained. Findings revealed that the frequency of changes in the office equipment constitute serious challenges to both management and secretaries. It was recommended amongst others that the management should ensure that they update their office equipment from time to time and re-train their secretaries as the need arises.
Importance of secretarial profession in promoting effective service delivery in Nigeria
Authors: Usioboh Sunday A. , Akpomudjere O.
Published: July 2024

The quality of service delivery provided by public institution has been assumed to be very poor over the years. Sadly the inefficiency which characterized these services has crept into the private sector. Little wonder the average Nigerian citizen is daily assaulted with poor customer service delivery by operators in almost all sectors of the economy. Attempts have been made to improve quality of service provided by the government to the Nigerian populace over the years. The SERVICOM programme launched by the Federal Government in 2005 was designed to address obvious gaps in service delivery using some selected sectors as pilots. They discovered that many public services were inaccessible, of poor quality and indifferent to customer needs. This paper will examine the importance of secretarial profession in promoting effective service delivery in Nigeria, proffer solutions and recommendations.
Challenges of ethical value in the effective performance of secretaries in Nigeria tertiary institutions
Authors: Adeniyi Rafat O.
Published: July 2024

The professional Secretary as authorized business support and interpreter of rules and regulations faces an ethical dilemma of striking a balance between what ought to be and what it. However, new ethical issues are emerging in organizations such that the discussion of ethics in administrative procedures and operations should attract the interest of all progressive minds. The situation is further accentuated by the peculiar work culture in each institution, the management's disposition, organizational politics, antecedents, prejudices, the experience and level of professionalism of the practitioners. This paper addresses the concept of ethics in offices and Nigerian public service, peculiar ethics of confidential secretaries, impact of ethics in the effectiveness of secretaries, challenges distrupting strict observance of ethics and recommendations. The paper also assess the role of professional association in ensuring strict compliance with ethical rules.
Sequestration efficiency in the iron‐limited North Atlantic: Implications for iron supply mode to fertilized blooms
Authors: Le Moigne Frédéric A. C. , Moore C. Mark , Sanders Richard J. , Villa‐Alfageme Maria , Steigenberger Sebastian , Achterberg Eric P.
Published: June 2014

Estimates of the amount of carbon sequestered in the ocean interior per unit iron (Fe) supplied, as quantified by the sequestration efficiency (Ceffx), vary widely. Such variability in Ceffx has frequently been attributed to estimate uncertainty rather than intrinsic variability. Here we derive new estimates of Ceffx for the subpolar North Atlantic, where Fe stressed conditions have recently been demonstrated. Derived values of Ceffx from across the region, including areas subject to atypical external Fe fertilization events during the year of sample collection (2010), ranged from 17 to 19 kmol C (mol Fe−1). Comparing these estimates with values from other systems, considered in the context of variable bloom durations in the different oceanographic settings, we suggest that apparent variability in Ceffx may be related to the mode of Fe delivery.
Absolute versus temporal anomaly and percent of saturation soil moisture spatial variability for six networks worldwide
Authors: Brocca L. , Zucco G. , Mittelbach H. , Moramarco T. , Seneviratne S. I.
Published: June 2014

The analysis of the spatial‐temporal variability of soil moisture can be carried out considering the absolute (original) soil moisture values or relative values, such as the percent of saturation or temporal anomalies. Over large areas, soil moisture data measured at different sites can be characterized by large differences in their minimum, mean, and maximum absolute values, even though in relative terms their temporal patterns are very similar. In these cases, the analysis considering absolute compared with percent of saturation or temporal anomaly soil moisture values can provide very different results with significant consequences for their use in hydrological applications and climate science. In this study, in situ observations from six soil moisture networks in Italy, Spain, France, Switzerland, Australia, and United States are collected and analyzed to investigate the spatial soil moisture variability over large areas (250–150,000 km2). Specifically, the statistical and temporal stability analyses of soil moisture have been carried out for absolute, temporal anomaly, and percent of saturation values (using two different formulations for temporal anomalies). The results highlight that the spatial variability of the soil moisture dynamic (i.e., temporal anomalies) is significantly lower than that of the absolute soil moisture values. The spatial variance of the time‐invariant component (temporal mean of each site) is the predominant contribution to the total spatial variance of absolute soil moisture data. Moreover, half of the networks show a minimum in the spatial variability for intermediate conditions when the temporal anomalies are considered, in contrast with the widely recognized behavior of absolute soil moisture data. The analyses with percent saturation data show qualitatively similar results as those for the temporal anomalies because of the applied normalization which reduces spatial variability induced by differences in mean absolute soil moisture only. Overall, we find that the analysis of the spatial‐temporal variability of absolute soil moisture does not apply to temporal anomalies or percent of saturation values.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Multi‐Substituted 4‐Pyrones by a Gold‐ Catalyzed Cascade of Wolff Rearrangement/[4+2] Cycloaddition/ Elimination Reactions
Authors: Neupane Pratik , Xia Likai , Lee Yong Rok
Published: June 2014

An efficient one‐pot method is described for the synthesis of a variety of di‐ and trisubstituted 4‐pyrones based on the gold‐catalyzed cascade reactions between cyclic or acyclic diazodicarbonyl compounds and vinyl ethers. The key strategy used involves the gold‐catalyzed Wolff rearrangement of diazo compounds followed by [4+2] cycloaddition and elimination. This methodology is also applied to the synthesis of tetrasubstituted 4‐pyrones.

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Benzoic Acid‐Catalyzed Transamidation Reactions of Carboxamides, Phthalimide, Ureas and Thioamide with Amines
Authors: Wu Ji‐Wei , Wu Ya‐Dong , Dai Jian‐Jun , Xu Hua‐Jian
Published: June 2014

An efficient and simple method for the transamidation of carboxamides, phthalimide, ureas and thioamide with amines catalyzed by commercially available benzoic acid under metal‐free conditions is described. Furthermore, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first report about the transamidation of an aromatic thioamide with amines.

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Iminoxyl Radical‐Based Strategy for Intermolecular CO Bond Formation: Cross‐Dehydrogenative Coupling of 1,3‐Dicarbonyl Compounds with Oximes
Authors: Krylov Igor B. , Terent'ev Alexander O. , Timofeev Vladimir P. , Shelimov Boris N. , Novikov Roman A. , Merkulova Valentina M. , Nikishin Gennady I.
Published: June 2014

Cross‐dehydrogenative CO coupling of 1,3‐diketones and 1,3‐keto esters with oximes was realized for the first time. The reaction proceeds in the presence of the oxidants [KMnO4, Mn(OAc)2/KMnO4, Mn(OAc)3⋅2 H2O, MnO2, Mn(acac)3, Fe(ClO4)3, Cu(ClO4)2⋅6 H2O, Cu(NO3)2⋅2.5 H2O, and (NH4)2Ce(NO3)6]. Twenty cross‐coupling products were synthesized using potassium permanganate (KMnO4), manganese(II) acetate dihydrate [Mn(OAc)3⋅2 H2O], or the manganese(II) acetate/potassium permanganate [Mn(OAc)2/KMnO4] system; yields are 27–92%. The synthesis can be easily scaled up to gram quantities of the target products. Apparently, the reaction proceeds via a radical mechanism in which the oxidizing agent serves to generate radicals from oximes and perform the one‐electron oxidation of 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds. The formation of oxime radicals was confirmed quantitatively by electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy. The coupling described in the present study is the first example of the selective intermolecular reaction involving unstable iminoxyl radicals generated in situ.

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“Click” Dendrimer‐Stabilized Palladium Nanoparticles as a Green Catalyst Down to Parts per Million for Efficient CC Cross‐Coupling Reactions and Reduction of 4‐Nitrophenol
Authors: Deraedt Christophe , Salmon Lionel , Astruc Didier
Published: June 2014

The concept of the nanoreactor valuably contributes to catalytic applications of supramolecular chemistry. Therewith molecular engineering may lead to organic transformations that minimize the amount of metal catalyst to reach the efficiency of enzymatic catalysis. The design of the dendritic nanoreactor proposed here involves hydrophilic triethylene glycol (TEG) termini for solubilization in water and water/ethanol mixed solvents combined with a hydrophobic dendritic interior containing 1,2,3‐triazole ligands that provide smooth stabilization of very small (1 to 2 nm) palladium nanoparticles (PdNPs). The PdNPs stabilized in such nanoreactors are extraordinarily active in water/ethanol (1/1) for the catalysis of various carbon‐carbon coupling reactions (Suzuki–Miyaura, Heck and Sonogashira) of aryl halides down to sub‐ppm levels for the Suzuki–Miyaura coupling of aryl iodides and aryl bromides. The reduction of 4‐nitrophenol to 4‐aminophenol in water also gives very impressive results. The difference of reactivity between the two distinct dendrimers with, respectively, 27 (G0) and 81 (G1) TEG termini is assigned to the difference of PdNP core size, the smaller G0 PdNP core being more reactive than the G1 PdNP core (1.4 vs. 2.7 nm), which is also in agreement with the leaching mechanism.

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Deracemization of Amino Acids by Coupling Transaminases of Opposite Stereoselectivity
Authors: Park Eul‐Soo , Shin Jong‐Shik
Published: June 2014

Biocatalytic deracemization of amino acids without relying on oxidase‐based deamination of an unwanted enantiomer was demonstrated by coupling α‐ and ω‐transaminases displaying opposite stereoselectivity. This strategy employs isopropylamine and a keto acid as cosubstrates and is free of generation of hydrogen peroxide which is troublesome in the conventional oxidase‐based methods.

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Enantioselective Copper‐Catalyzed Decarboxylative Propargylic Alkylation of Propargylic Esters with β‐Keto Acids
Authors: Zhu Fu‐Lin , Wang Ya‐Hui , Zhang De‐Yang , Hu Xin‐Hu , Chen Song , Hou Chuan‐Jin , Xu Jie , Hu Xiang‐Ping
Published: June 2014

The first copper‐catalyzed intermolecular enantioselective decarboxylative propargylic alkylation of propargylic esters with β‐keto acids as surrogates of ketones has been successfully developed by using a ketimine P,N,N‐ligand. High yields and excellent enantioselectivities (up to 98% ee) have been achieved under the mild reaction conditions.

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Laccase/2,2,6,6‐Tetramethylpiperidinoxyl Radical (TEMPO): An Efficient Catalytic System for Selective Oxidations of Primary Hydroxy and Amino Groups in Aqueous and Biphasic Media
Authors: Díaz‐Rodríguez Alba , Martínez‐Montero Lía , Lavandera Iván , Gotor Vicente , Gotor‐Fernández Vicente
Published: June 2014

Copper salts/2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidinoxyl radical (TEMPO) catalytic systems enable efficient aerobic oxidations of primary alcohols but they generally show a reduced reactivity in aqueous medium. Herein, we report an oxidative catalytic system composed of Trametes versicolor laccase and TEMPO, which is able to work in buffer solutions at room temperature using ambient air. Although this catalytic system displays great efficiency in aqueous systems, the addition of methyl tert‐butyl ether allows the reduction of TEMPO loading, also enhancing the solubility of hydrophobic compounds. This practical methodology promotes the chemoselective aerobic oxidation of hydroxy or amino groups, leading to interesting organic derivatives such as aldehydes, lactones, hemiaminals or lactams.

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Chiral N,N′‐Dioxide–Scandium(III)‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Epoxidation of 2‐Arylidene‐1,3‐diketones with Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Chu Yangyang , Hao Xiaoyu , Lin Lili , Chen Weiliang , Li Wei , Tan Fei , Liu Xiaohua , Feng Xiaoming
Published: June 2014

The catalytic asymmetric epoxidation of 2‐arylidene‐1,3‐diketones using aqueous 30% H2O2 as oxidant has been successfully realized by a N,N′‐dioxide–scandium(III) triflate [Sc(OTf)3] complex, giving the corresponding products in moderate to good yields (up to 85%) with excellent enantioselectivities (up to 99% ee) under mild reaction conditions without extra additives.

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Asymmetric Synthesis of α‐Amino Acids under Operationally Convenient Conditions
Authors: Jörres Manuel , Chen Xia , Aceña José Luis , Merkens Carina , Bolm Carsten , Liu Hong , Soloshonok Vadim A.
Published: June 2014

A new multipurpose glycine equivalent for the general asymmetric synthesis of α‐amino acids is introduced. The chiral reagent can be transformed to various amino acids by alkylations with alkyl halides as well as aldol and Michael addition reactions under operationally convenient reaction conditions at room temperature with virtually complete stereochemical control.

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Intergenerational effects of early life nutrition: Maternal leg length predicts offspring placental weight and birth weight among women in rural Luzon, Philippines
Authors: Chung Green C. , Kuzawa Christopher W.
Published: June 2014

Objectives

Leg length is the component of stature most sensitive to early life nutrition; as such, it provides an opportunity to retrospectively evaluate the relationship between a woman's infancy and early childhood nutrition and offspring birth weight (BW). Here we explore the relationship between maternal leg length and offspring BW in a rural Philippine community, while also investigating the potential role of placental size as a pathway.

Methods

Anthropometric and questionnaire data were obtained among pregnant women (ages 17–42 years) at a birthing clinic in Antipolo City, Philippines (n = 80). Offspring BW and placental weight were collected upon delivery.

Results

Maternal leg length, but not trunk length, was a positive predictor of infant BW. This relationship was strengthened after adjusting for gestational age and maternal body mass index (BMI). Further adjustment for placental weight attenuated the relationship between leg length and BW, while placental weight was unrelated to maternal trunk length. The relationship between maternal BMI and BW was also attenuated after adjustment for placental weight.

Conclusion

Maternal leg length is the component of stature that most strongly predicts offspring placental weight and BW in this sample. These findings suggest that fetal nutrition and growth in the present generation are influenced, in part, by the mother's own early life growth conditions. Our results add to evidence that fetal nutrition tracks the mother's past nutritional experiences, while also suggesting that ensuring favorable growth conditions during infancy and early childhood may benefit not only the present generation, but future offspring. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 26:652–659, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The changing patterns of psychosocial exposures at work in the South of Europe: Spain as a labor market laboratory
Authors: Utzet Mireia , Moncada Salvador , Molinero Emilia , Llorens Clara , Moreno Neus , Navarro Albert
Published: June 2014

Aims

To examine the pattern of psychosocial risk exposures at work among wage‐earners in Spain in 2005 and 2010, and to analyze changes in exposure inequalities by gender and job category.

Methods

Psychosocial exposures were compared using the COPSOQ‐ISTAS21 method, based on two surveys representative of the Spanish wage‐earning population (2005 and 2010). Statistical analysis was conducted using correspondence analysis.

Results

There was an increase in exposure to high Double Presence, low Social Support, high Work Pace, and high Insecurity about finding a job; and reduction in exposure to high Insecurity about losing a job, and to high Insecurity over worsening of employment conditions. A gender‐ and occupation‐related gradient was maintained.

Conclusion

Although this study analyzes wage‐earner “survivors” after the outbreak of the current economic crisis, it shows a worsening of harmful exposures to some psychosocial risks. In a context of job destruction, concerns about worsening working conditions appear to be subordinate to insecurity about job loss. Am. J. Ind. Med. 57:1032–1042, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cancer incidence in California farm workers, 1988–2010
Authors: Mills Paul K. , Shah Purvi
Published: June 2014

Background

Farmers and farm workers have previously been found to experience decreased risk of some causes of death but elevated risks of certain types of cancer. A previous report on cancer incidence in a farm worker labor union between 1987 and 1997 found increased leukemia, brain, stomach, and uterine cervix cancer rates in this working population.

Methods

A roster of farm workers was created and electronically linked to the database of the California Cancer Registry. Proportionate cancer incidence (PCIR), stage, and age at diagnosis and histological subtypes of cancer were compared between the United Farm Workers (UFW) members and the Hispanic population of California as well as to the non‐Hispanic whites (NHW).

Results

In this population of 139,000 farm workers in California, more than 3,600 cancer diagnoses were recorded between 1988 and 2010. Proportionately more cancer was noted in the UFW than among California NHW for kidney and renal pelvis cancer (PCIR = 1.60), liver (PCIR = 4.24), prostate (PCIR = 1.13), and uterine cervix cancer (PCIR = 2.08). Proportionately less breast (PCIR = 0.85), lung (PCIR = 0.75), skin melanoma (PCIR = 0.18), and urinary bladder cancer (PCIR = 0.59) was found. Stage at diagnosis was more advanced in the farm workers for several cancer sites, although, not for colorectal cancer.

Conclusions

These farm workers experience proportionally more prostate, kidney and renal pelvis, brain, liver, stomach, cervix and leukemia and less breast, melanoma, and colorectal cancer than reference populations. For many sites, cancer is not diagnosed as early in the farm workers as in the comparison groups, except for colorectal cancer in females and melanoma in males. Am. J. Ind. Med. 57:737–747, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fatal and non‐fatal occupational injuries and diseases among migrant and native workers in South Korea
Authors: Cha Seungman , Cho Youngtae
Published: June 2014

Background

Migrant workers now represent an increasing percentage of workers in Korea, but few studies have evaluated work‐related health risks in this population. In this study, we explored the relative risk of occupational injuries and diseases in migrant workers compared with native Korean workers.

Method

An analysis of work‐related injuries and diseases among migrant workers in Korea during 2005–2007 was conducted in each industrial subsector using nationwide data.

Results

Risks of fatal and non‐fatal occupational injuries for migrant workers were considerably higher than their Korean counterparts. The industry‐adjusted standard mortality ratios of fatal occupational injuries were 1.89 (1.45–2.47), 2.29 (1.81–2.88), and 1.73 (1.36–2.22) for 2005, 2006, and 2007, respectively.

Conclusions

A greater proportion of migrant workers is exposed to higher risks of occupational safety and health issues than their Korean counterparts, demonstrating that the occupational safety and health of migrant workers requires more attention than that of Korean workers. Am. J. Ind. Med. 57:1043–1052, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prebiotic Cell Membranes that Survive Extreme Environmental Pressure Conditions
Authors: Kapoor Shobhna , Berghaus Melanie , Suladze Saba , Prumbaum Daniel , Grobelny Sebastian , Degen Patrick , Raunser Stefan , Winter Roland
Published: June 2014

Attractive candidates for compartmentalizing prebiotic cells are membranes comprised of single‐chain fatty acids. It is generally believed that life may have originated in the depth of the protoocean, that is, under high hydrostatic pressure conditions, but the structure and physical–chemical properties of prebiotic membranes under such conditions have not yet been explored. We report the temperature‐ and pressure‐dependent properties of membranes composed of prebiotically highly‐plausible lipids and demonstrate that prebiotic membranes could not only withstand extreme temperatures, but also serve as robust models of protocells operating in extreme pressure environments. We show that pressure not only increases the stability of vesicular systems but also limits their flexibility and permeability to solutes, while still keeping the membrane in an overall fluid‐like and thus functional state.
Highly Enantioselective Construction of Tricyclic Derivatives by the Desymmetrization of Cyclohexadienones
Authors: Martín‐Santos Cecilia , Jarava‐Barrera Carlos , del Pozo Sandra , Parra Alejandro , Díaz‐Tendero Sergio , Mas‐Ballesté Rubén , Cabrera Silvia , Alemán José
Published: June 2014

The asymmetric synthesis of tricyclic compounds by the desymmetrization of cyclohexadienones is presented. The reaction tolerated a large variety of substituents at different positions of the cyclohexadienone, and heterocyclic rings of different sizes were accessible. Density functional theory calculations showed that the reaction proceeds through an asynchronous [4+2] cycloaddition.
Dynamic and Quantitative Control of the DNA‐Mediated Growth of Gold Plasmonic Nanostructures
Authors: Shen Jianlei , Xu Lifeng , Wang Chunpeng , Pei Hao , Tai Renzhong , Song Shiping , Huang Qing , Fan Chunhai , Chen Gang
Published: June 2014

Reproducible and controllable growth of nanostructures with well‐defined physical and chemical properties is a longstanding problem in nanoscience. A key step to address this issue is to understand their underlying growth mechanism, which is often entangled in the complexity of growth environments and obscured by rapid reaction speeds. Herein, we demonstrate that the evolution of size, surface morphology, and the optical properties of gold plasmonic nanostructures could be quantitatively intercepted by dynamic and stoichiometric control of the DNA‐mediated growth. By combining synchrotron‐based small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) with transmission electron microscopy (TEM), we reliably obtained quantitative structural parameters for these fine nanostructures that correlate well with their optical properties as identified by UV/Vis absorption and dark‐field scattering spectroscopy. Through this comprehensive study, we report a growth mechanism for gold plasmonic nanostructures, and the first semiquantitative revelation of the remarkable interplay between their morphology and unique plasmonic properties.
Enantioselective Organocatalytic Michael/Aldol Sequence: Anticancer Natural Product (+)‐trans‐Dihydrolycoricidine
Authors: McNulty James , Zepeda‐Velázquez Carlos
Published: June 2014

A total synthesis of the anticancer natural product (+)‐trans‐dihydrolycoricidine is reported from α‐azidoacetone and cinnamaldehyde precursors. Key elements include an asymmetric organocatalytic sequence proceeding by a regiospecific secondary‐amine‐catalyzed syn Michael addition followed by an intramolecular aldol reaction. The sequence results in the formation of an advanced intermediate, containing three stereogenic centers, in one step which and was converted into the title compound in eight steps.
Hydrogen Abstraction/Acetylene Addition Revealed
Authors: Parker Dorian S. N. , Kaiser Ralf I. , Troy Tyler P. , Ahmed Musahid
Published: June 2014

For almost half a century, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have been proposed to play a key role in the astrochemical evolution of the interstellar medium (ISM) and in the chemistry of combustion systems. However, even the most fundamental reaction mechanism assumed to lead to the simplest PAH naphthalene—the hydrogen abstraction–acetylene addition (HACA) mechanism—has eluded experimental observation. Here, by probing the phenylacetylene (C8H6) intermediate together with naphthalene (C10H8) under combustion‐like conditions by photo‐ionization mass spectrometry, the very first direct experimental evidence for the validity of the HACA mechanism which so far had only been speculated theoretically is reported.
Occurrence and spatio‐temporal distribution of sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) in the submarine canyon of Cuma (Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy)
Authors: Mussi Barbara , Miragliuolo Angelo , Zucchini Antonio , Pace Daniela S.
Published: June 2014

Boat surveys aimed at studying sperm whales in the Tyrrhenian Sea were conducted between 2002 and 2011. During 768 daily surveys, a total effort of 32 602 km was achieved within an area of 8800 km2 resulting in 92 encounters with 229 sperm whale individuals.

Average encounter rates of sperm whales was 0.5 groups per 100 km2, with a higher concentration in the vicinity of the submarine canyon of Cuma, confirming the importance for the species of this small hotspot in the Mediterranean Sea.

Encounter rates increased with increasing distance from the coast. It is possible that the intense boat traffic and anthropogenic disturbance in the area may be moving animals away from the coast leading to habitat loss.

The species–habitat relationship documented in this study has implications for conservation.

Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Variability in Premolar and Molar Root Number in a Modern Population of Pan troglodytes verus
Authors: Emonet Edouard‐Georges , Kullmer Ottmar
Published: June 2014

While teeth are the most common fossil remains for hominoids, little is known of the tooth root morphology in Primates. With the exception of modern humans, the variability of the number of roots within a species is scarcely documented and not conclusively quantified. This lack of knowledge hinders the interpretation of observed evolutionary trends, such as the reduction of the number of roots of premolars within the hominins. Here, we present the first quantification of the variability of the number of roots in a nonhuman ape population including 405 specimens. Our sample is made of a single biological population of Pan troglodytes verus from Liberia, which is compared to other extant hominoids. Both permanent and deciduous teeth were analyzed and comprise premolars and molars from maxillaries and mandibles. The estimated variability is very low for each tooth position; more than 97% of the specimens displaying the same number of roots except for P4 (94%), M1 (89%), and P4 (57%). No variability at all was observed for lacteal teeth. Males and females are statistically identical, and no difference linked to the tooth size (estimated by the occlusal surface) was observed. When compared to the observation in other hominoid species, these results emphasize that the difference of the number of roots observed between modern humans and apes is significant, and suggests that the evolution of premolar root number is mosaic, with the common ancestor of Pan and Homo probably displaying a reduced number of roots for P4 and maybe P3, but a plesiomorphic morphology of the roots of lower premolars. Anat Rec, 297:1927–1934, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quantitative evaluation of biliary elimination of gadoxetate, a magnetic resonance imaging contrast agent, via geometrical isomer‐specific transporting system in rats
Authors: Ogawa Junji , Yokota Azusa , Araki Takuya , Aomori Tohru , Nakamura Tomonori , Yamamoto Koujirou , Koshiishi Ichiro
Published: June 2014

Gadoxetate, a magnetic resonance imaging contrast agent, is eliminated into bile. Gadoxetate geometrical isomers are chromatographically classified into two groups by differences between their ionic states (GIs‐I and GIs‐II; 65:35 w/w); however, the elimination mechanism of each isomer in vivo remains controversial. Thus, the contribution of carrier‐mediated transport systems on the biliary elimination of gadoxetate was examined. Gadoxetate was injected intravenously into rats, and the time courses of the plasma concentrations and biliary elimination of GIs‐I and GIs‐II were examined by high‐performance liquid chromatography techniques. The results showed that 34.7% of GIs‐I (GIs‐I(s); 22.6% of gadoxetate) was quickly eliminated into bile within 30 min after injection. The contents of the residual GIs‐I (GIs‐I(r)) and GIs‐II in plasma similarly decreased according to a first‐order elimination process (t1/2 = 23–27 min), and 64.0% of GIs‐I(r) and GIs‐II (49.6% of gadoxetate) was eliminated into the bile within 2 h after injection. There was no significant difference between the elimination half‐lives of GIs‐I(r) and GIs‐II in rats. In conclusion, the geometrical isomer with specific conformation corresponding to 22.6% of gadoxetate was eliminated into bile in rats via a carrier‐mediated transport system no later than 30 min after intravenous injection. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
DNA Nanoarchitectures: Steps towards Biological Applications
Authors: Tintoré Maria , Eritja Ramon , Fábrega Carmen
Published: June 2014

DNA's remarkable molecular recognition properties, flexibility, and structural features make it one of the most promising scaffolds to design a variety of nanostructures. During recent decades, two major methods have been developed for the construction of DNA nanomaterials in a programmable way; both generate nanostructures in one, two, and three dimensions. The tile‐based assembly process is a useful tool to construct large and simple structures; the DNA origami method is suitable for the production of smaller, more sophisticated and well‐defined structures. Proteins, nanoparticles and other functional elements have been specifically positioned into designed patterns on these structures. They can also act as templates to study chemical reactions, help in the structural determination of proteins, and be used as platform for genomic and drug delivery applications. In this review we examine recent progresses towards the potential use of DNA nanostructures in molecular and cellular biology.
Fast Multipoint Immobilized MOF Bioreactor
Authors: Liu Wan‐Ling , Wu Cheng‐You , Chen Chien‐Yu , Singco Brenda , Lin Chia‐Her , Huang Hsi‐Ya
Published: June 2014

An enzyme–NBD@MOF bioreactor with exemplary proteolytic performance, even after successive reuse and storage, was produced through a novel, rapid and simple multipoint immobilization technique without chemical modification of the solid support. Enzyme loading and distribution could be directly monitored from the fluorescence emission of the bioreactor. The dye molecular dimension plays a role in its overall performance.
Sortagging: A Robust and Efficient Chemoenzymatic Ligation Strategy
Authors: Ritzefeld Markus
Published: June 2014

Bioorthogonal, chemoselective ligation methods are an essential part of the tools utilized to investigate biochemical pathways. Specifically enzymatic approaches are valuable methods in this context due to the inherent specificity of the deployed enzymes and the mild conditions of the modification reactions. One of the most common strategies is based on the transpeptidation catalyzed by sortase A derived from Staphylococcus aureus. The procedure is well established and a wide variety of applications have been published to date. Here, implementations of sortase A, which range from protein labeling using fluorescence dyes and the preparation of cyclic proteins to the modification of entire cells, are summarized. Furthermore, there is a focus on the optimization approaches established to solve the drawbacks of sortase‐mediated transpeptidation.
Allosteric Binding of Capsaicin by a Bis(β‐cyclodextrin)‐2,2′‐bipyridine Receptor
Authors: Kremer Christopher , Lützen Arne
Published: June 2014

A new β‐cyclodextrin‐based receptor that showed allosteric binding behavior towards capsaicin in aqueous solution was prepared. By NMR titration and nonlinear regression, we obtained binding constants, which increased more than fivefold when an effector (Zn2+) was bound to a central 2,2′‐bipyridine that acts as the allosteric center.
ChemInform Abstract: Variable Framework Structures and Centricities in Alkali Metal Yttrium Selenites, AY(SeO3)2 (A: Na, K, Rb, and Cs).
Authors: Bang Seong‐eun , Lee Dong Woo , Ok Kang Min
Published: June 2014

Single crystals of the title compounds are hydrothermally prepared from aqueous mixtures of Y(NO3)3, M2CO3 (M: Na, K, Rb, and Cs), and SeO2 (autoclave, 230 °C, 4 d, 98, 99, 99, and 90% yield for Na, K, Rb, and Cs compounds, resp.).
ChemInform Abstract: Immobilized Pd Complexes over HMMS as Catalysts for Heck Cross‐Coupling and Selective Hydrogenation Reactions.
Authors: Wang Peng , Liu Hengzhi , Liu Mengmeng , Li Rong , Ma Jiantai
Published: June 2014

A novel Pd(0) compound immobilized on the surface of hollow magnetic mesoporous spheres, with Fe3O4 nanoparticles embedded in the mesoporous shell is prepared.
ChemInform Abstract: 2‐Arylacetic Anhydrides as Ammonium Enolate Precursors.
Authors: Morrill Louis C. , Ledingham Lyndsay A. , Couturier Jean‐Philippe , Bickel Jasmine , Harper Andrew D. , Fallan Charlene , Smith Andrew D.
Published: June 2014

Readily prepared 2‐arylacetic anhydrides (I) act as convenient ammonium enolate precursors in isothiourea‐mediated catalytic asymmetric intermolecular Michael addition‐lactonization processes.
ChemInform Abstract: Diastereoselective Synthesis of a Highly Functionalized Cyclohexene Embedded with a Quaternary Stereogenic Centre by Self Diels—Alder Dimerization of a [3]Dendralene Attached to a (‐)‐Menthol Auxiliary.
Authors: Singh Rekha , Ghosh Sunil K.
Published: June 2014

Phosphonate (I) is olefinated in a Horner‐Wadsworth‐Emmons reaction by para‐bromobenzaldehyde followed by a highly diastereoselective and spontaneous Diels—Alder dimerization.
ChemInform Abstract: Carbocations as Lewis Acid Catalysts in Diels—Alder and Michael Addition Reactions.
Authors: Bah Juho , Franzen Johan
Published: June 2014

The cation Ph3C+ is an extremely efficient, mild, and selective Lewis acid catalyst for Diels—Alder reactions.
ChemInform Abstract: Rh‐Catalyzed Allylic C—F Bond Activation: The Stereoselective Synthesis of Trisubstituted Monofluoroalkenes and a Mechanism Study.
Authors: Zhang He , Lin Jin‐Hong , Xiao Ji‐Chang , Gu Yu‐Cheng
Published: June 2014

The conversion of allylic difluoro‐homoallylic alcohols (I) into trisubstituted monofluoroalkenes (II)/(III) in good yields and with high stereoselectivity is described.
ChemInform Abstract: Catalytic Conversion of Diazocarbonyl Compounds to Imines: Applications to the Synthesis of Tetrahydropyrimidines and β‐Lactams.
Authors: Mandler Michael D. , Truong Phong M. , Zavalij Peter Y. , Doyle Michael P.
Published: June 2014

The synthesis of α‐carbonylimines by rhodium(II)‐catalyzed reactions of α‐diazoesters and organic azides is developed and applied in hetero‐Diels—Alder reactions to form highly functionalized tetrahydropyrimidines (IX) and in a one‐pot, multicomponent transformation between aryldiazoacetates, p‐anisyl azide, and an enonediazoacetate to produce β‐lactams (XI) in high yields and diastereoselectivities.
ChemInform Abstract: Direct Transformation of Arylpropynes to Acrylamides via a Three‐Step Tandem Reaction.
Authors: Qiu Jun , Zhang Ronghua
Published: June 2014

A novel and metal‐free acrylamide formation between arylpropynes (I) and (III) and hydroxylamine hydrochloride through sp3 C—H and C—C bond cleavage is achieved using DDQ as an oxidant.
ChemInform Abstract: Dynamic Kinetic Asymmetric Transformations (DyKAT) of β‐Stereogenic α‐Ketoesters by Direct Aldolization.
Authors: Corbett Michael T. , Johnson Jeffrey S.
Published: June 2014

DyKAT of racemic β‐bromo‐α‐keto esters by direct aldolization of nitromethane and acetone give fully substituted α‐glycolic acid derivatives bearing a β‐stereocenter.
ChemInform Abstract: Iron‐Catalyzed Imidative Kinetic Resolution of Racemic Sulfoxides.
Authors: Wang Jun , Frings Marcus , Bolm Carsten
Published: June 2014

The title reaction offers a new method to prepare sulfoximines and sulfoxides with good to high optical purity.
ChemInform Abstract: Tertiary Amine‐Promoted Enone Aziridination: Investigations into Factors Influencing Enantioselective Induction.
Authors: Armstrong Alan , Pullin Robert D. C. , Jenner Chloe R. , Foo Klement , White Andrew J. P. , Scutt James N.
Published: June 2014

Upon several tested tertiary amines quinine shows to be the best promoter for the asymmetric aziridination of α,β‐unsaturated ketones.
ChemInform Abstract: Catalytic C—H Activation of Arylacetylenes: A Fast Assembly of 3‐(Arylethynyl)‐3‐hydroxyindolin‐2‐ones Using CuI/DBU.
Authors: Chouhan Mangilal , Senwar Kishna Ram , Kumar Kapil , Sharma Ratnesh , Nair Vipin A.
Published: June 2014

This highly efficient synthesis affords the title compounds with excellent yields, and in very short reaction times.
ChemInform Abstract: Gold‐Catalyzed Annulations of Allenes with N‐Hydroxyanilines to Form Indole Derivatives with Benzaldehyde as a Promoter.
Authors: Kawade Rahul Kisan , Huang Po‐Han , Karad Somnath Narayan , Liu Rai‐Shung
Published: June 2014

2,3‐Disubstituted indole derivatives (III) and (V) are prepared from N‐hydroxyanilines (II) and (IV) and allenes.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Novel Dispiro[1‐benzothiophene‐5,3′‐pyrrolidine‐2′,3′′‐indole] Derivatives via 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition of Azomethine Ylide.
Authors: Yan Jinlong
Published: June 2014

generated in situ from isatin and Sarcosine to 5‐arylmethylene‐benzothiophenones (III)
ChemInform Abstract: Facile Construction of Pyrrolophenanthridone Skeleton via a One‐Pot Intramolecular Heck Reaction and Oxidation.
Authors: Cong Wei , Zhao Lei , Wu Xiaoming , Xu Jinyi , Yao Hequan
Published: June 2014

A one‐pot Pd‐catalyzed intramolecular sequential Heck reaction/oxidation of N‐(ortho‐bromobenzyl) substituted 2,3‐disubstituted indoles offers a direct synthesis of pyrrolophenanthridinones, generally in good yields.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Dipyrrolo[3,4‐a:3,4‐c]carbazoles: New Kinase Inhibitors.
Authors: Pereira Elisabeth , Youssef Ali , El‐Ghozzi Malika , Avignant Daniel , Bain Jennifer , Prudhomme Michelle , Anizon Fabrice , Moreau Pascale
Published: June 2014

Depending on the applied amine the Diels—Alder reaction of (I) yields the two diastereomers (II) and (III).
ChemInform Abstract: Highly N2‐Selective Coupling of 1,2,3‐Triazoles with Indole and Pyrrole.
Authors: Wen Jian , Zhu Li‐Li , Bi Qing‐Wei , Shen Zhu‐Qing , Li Xiao‐Xiao , Li Xin , Wang Zhen , Chen Zili
Published: June 2014

In the presence of NIS or N‐iodophthalimide, 1,2,3‐triazoles are found to react with pyrroles and indoles with high degree of N2‐selectivity.
ChemInform Abstract: Construction of 3,5‐Substituted 1,2,4‐Oxadiazole Rings Triggered by Tetrabutylammonium Hydroxide: A Highly Efficient and Fluoride‐Free Ring Closure Reaction of O‐Acylamidoximes.
Authors: Otaka Hiromichi , Ikeda Junya , Tanaka Daisuke , Tobe Masanori
Published: June 2014

The title reaction proceeds in the absence of fluoride thus avoiding corrosion of reaction vessels and allowing large‐scale synthesis.
ChemInform Abstract: Broensted Acid Catalyzed Intramolecular Benzylic Cyclizations of Alkylpyridines.
Authors: Lansakara Ashabha I. , Farrell Daniel P. , Pigge F. Christopher
Published: June 2014

A series of hydroxyl lactams (II), (V), and (VIII) is prepared by benzylic cyclization of corresponding ketoamides using TfOH as a catalyst.
ChemInform Abstract: Electrophilic ipso‐Iodocyclization of N‐Benzyl‐N‐(1‐naphthyl)propiolamides: Synthesis of Complex Polycyclic Lactams.
Authors: Wang Li‐Jing , Zhu Hai‐Tao , Qiu Yi‐Feng , Liu Xue‐Yuan , Liang Yong‐Min
Published: June 2014

The first protocol involving a Friedel—Crafts‐type reaction combined with an intramolecular electrophilic ipso‐iodocyclization of title propiol amides is developed.
ChemInform Abstract: Iodine/CuI‐Mediated Alkyne—Carbonyl Metathesis Reaction: Synthesis of 1‐Aryl‐1,2‐dihydrochromeno[2,3‐b]azepine‐3,6‐dione.
Authors: Maiti Sourav , Biswas Pritam , Ghosh Jaydip , Drew Michael G.B. , Bandyopadhyay Chandrakanta
Published: June 2014

For the first time intramolecular alkyne‐carbonyl metathesis reactions are reported where I2 and catalytic amounts of CuI activate both the carbonyl and the alkyne moiety.
ChemInform Abstract: Copper/Iron‐Catalyzed Ullmann Coupling of Diiodo‐ and Dibromoarenes and Diphenols for the Synthesis of Aryl Ether Macrocycles.
Authors: Zhou Qizhong , et al. et al.
Published: June 2014

A series of macrocyclic aryl ethers are synthesized in a one‐pot procedure.
ChemInform Abstract: Biocatalyst Mediated Regio‐ and Stereo‐Selective Hydroxylation and Epoxidation of (Z)‐α‐Santalol.
Authors: Daramwar Pankaj P. , Srivastava Prabhakar Lal , Kolet Swati P. , Thulasiram Hirekodathakallu V.
Published: June 2014

The fermentation of (Z)‐α‐santalyl acetate with Mucor piriformis leads to four novel santalol metabolites (I)‐(IV).
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Substituted Exo‐Glucals via a Modified Julia Olefination and Identification as Selective β‐Glucosidase Inhibitors.
Authors: Habib Samuel , Larnaud Florent , Pfund Emmanuel , Mena Barragan Teresa , Lequeux Thierry , Ortiz Mellet Carmen , Goekjian Peter G. , Gueyrard David
Published: June 2014

A series of fluorine and non‐fluorine‐substituted C‐glucosylidenes (III)/(IV) is synthesized as mixtures of (E)/(Z)‐isomers via a modified Julia olefination.
ChemInform Abstract: Concise Synthesis of Prenylated and Geranylated Chalcone Natural Products by Regiospecific Iodination and Suzuki Coupling Reactions.
Authors: Wang Haomeng , Yan Zhihong , Lei Yanan , Sheng Kai , Yao Qingwei , Lu Kui , Yu Peng
Published: June 2014

Based on the regioselective iodination of the bis Mom‐protected methyl aryl ketones (I) a convenient synthesis of bavachalcone (VIIa) and isoxanthoangelol (VIIb) is developed.
ChemInform Abstract: Recent Advancements in the Conversion‐Type Pnictide‐Based Electrodes for Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Monconduit L.
Published: June 2014

Review: 99 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Characterization of Specific Electrode Materials for Solar Cells and Supercapacitors
Authors: Stevic Z. , Radovanovic I. , Rajcic‐Vujasinovic M. , Bugarinovic S. , Grekulovic V.
Published: June 2014

Review: 37 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis, Structure, and Dynamic Behavior of Discrete Metallacyclic Rotors
Authors: Thanasekaran Pounraj , Huang Chia‐Yuan , Lu Kuang‐Lieh
Published: June 2014

Review: [30 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Engineering in Direct Synthesis of Hydrogen Peroxide: Targets, Reactors and Guidelines for Operational Conditions
Authors: Garcia‐Serna Juan , Moreno Teresa , Biasi Pierdomenico , Cocero Maria J. , Mikkola Jyri‐Pekka , Salmi Tapio O.
Published: June 2014

Review: 150 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Bromide‐Bromate Couple of Varying Ratios for Bromination, Vicinal Functionalisation and Oxidation in a Clean Manner
Authors: Adimurthy Subbarayappa , Ranu Brindaban C. , Ramachandraiah Gadde , Ganguly Bishwajit , Ghosh Pushpito K.
Published: June 2014

Review: 214 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: 4,2′:6′,4′′‐Terpyridines: Diverging and Diverse Building Blocks in Coordination Polymers and Metallomacrocycles
Authors: Housecroft Catherine E.
Published: June 2014

Review: 44 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: 1,3‐Diyne Chemistry: Synthesis and Derivations
Authors: Shi Wei , Lei Aiwen
Published: June 2014

Review: [58 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Strategies for the Synthesis of Alkaloids and Novel Nitrogen Heterocycles
Authors: Martin Stephen F.
Published: June 2014

Review: 113 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Eight‐Membered and Larger Rings
Authors: Newkome George R.
Published: June 2014

Review: 155 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Access to Optically Active 3‐Substituted Piperidines by Ring Expansion of Prolinols and Derivatives
Authors: Gomez Pardo Domingo , Cossy Janine
Published: June 2014

Review: [51 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Solvent‐Assisted Linker Exchange: An Alternative to the de novo Synthesis of Unattainable Metal—Organic Frameworks
Authors: Karagiaridi Olga , Bury Wojciech , Mondloch Joseph E. , Hupp Joseph T. , Farha Omar K.
Published: June 2014

Review: 71 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Multichromophoric Electrochromic Polymers: Color Tuning of Conjugated Polymers Through the Side Chain Functionalization Approach
Authors: Beverina L. , Pagani G. A. , Sassi M.
Published: June 2014

Review: 164 refs.