bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unusual Regenerable Porous Metal–Organic Framework Based on a New Triple Helical Molecular Necklace for Separating Organosulfur Compounds
Authors: Li Shun‐Li , Lan Ya‐Qian , Sakurai Hiroaki , Xu Qiang
Published: November 2012

Desulfurization of fuels is receiving more and more attention all over the world due to the increase of stringent environmental regulations and fuel specifications. The metal–organic framework (MOF) is a new class of crystalline materials, and high porosity, one of the most important properties of MOFs, plays a central role in the functional properties. However, the investigation of MOFs, being employed as sorbents for adsorptive desulfurization, is still scarce. In this regard, we have constructed a new 3D porous compound 1 by using rigidly designed carboxylate ligands, which, for the first time, exhibit an unusual triple molecular necklace‐like helix. The N2 sorption isotherms of 1 show that it has a large Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area and pore volume. With the stable pore structure and appropriate pore sizes, compound 1 has been used as a sorbent for adsorptive desulfurization. The results indicate that compound 1 shows an excellent adsorption property and, more importantly, displays excellent stability, repeatability, and regenerability. Thus, the design and synthesis of targeted MOFs with appropriate pore size and increased interactions between organosulfur compounds and ligands/metals from MOFs is crucial for adsorptive desulfurization, which might be an effective guide to find an efficient and green adsorbent for desulfurization.
Understanding the Determinants of RiskMetrics/ISS Ratings of the Quality of UK Companies' Corporate Governance Practice
Authors: Hussainey Khaled , Al‐Najjar Basil
Published: November 2012

We examine the determinants of RiskMetrics/ISS Ratings of the quality of UK companies' corporate governance practice and investigate whether corporate governance mechanisms and firm specific characteristics affect these ratings. We also investigate the association between firms' financial distress and these ratings. Using data for nonfinancial Financial Times Stock Exchange (FTSE) 250 firms over the 2003 to 2009 period, we find that board independence, managerial ownership, institutional ownership, firm size, and profitability are associated with firms' corporate governance ratings. In addition, we find that more independent directors on the board, more institutional ownership, and larger size lead to a high level of board‐related ratings. Finally, we find no association between corporate governance ratings and financial distress. Copyright © 2012 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fate of Pesticides and Their Transformation Products: First Flush Effects in a Semi‐Arid Catchment
Authors: Olsson Oliver , Khodorkovsky Miriam , Gassmann Matthias , Friedler Eran , Schneider Mandy , Dubowski Yael
Published: November 2012

Although it is known for many years, that transformation products (TPs) of pesticides are often more persistent, mobile, and sometimes more toxic than the parent compound, former catchment scale studies of substance release and flushing effects focused only on the parent compound. In this study, four river points were sampled in the Hula Valley, Israel, and samples were analyzed in the lab for chlorpyrifos (CP) and endosulfan residues (including transformation products; TPs). Sampling results of the first rainfall in autumn 2009 identified a strong release of most substances to the rivers. First flush effects of these substances were assessed regarding the risk for drinking water supply and ecology, like fresh water invertebrates and fish. Although, these substances were found in Jordan River water during the first significant rainfall the observed levels are below international drinking water guideline values with no adverse effects on human health in the region. However, the observed CP and chlorpyrifos oxon (CPO) levels are above the acute toxicity for fresh water invertebrates and fish. The study shows that the Hula Valley was an important source of pesticides and TPs at the Upper Jordan River basin and that substance flushing is extremely important for pesticides‐monitoring campaigns.
Variation of Antioxidant System in Pinus armandii under Elevated O3 in an Entire Growth Season
Authors: Yan Kun , He Xingyuan , Chen Wei , Lu Tao , Xu Sheng , Shao Hongbo , Zhang Guoyou
Published: November 2012

Impact of elevated O3 (80 nmol mol−1) was studied on antioxidant system in the previous‐year needles (P‐needles) of Pinus armandii under the background of global climate change. CAT (catalase) did not play an important role in defensing O3 pollution, as no significant change was observed in its activity in P‐needles exposed to elevated O3 during the entire growth season. Ascorbate (AsA) was more sensitive to elevated O3, as the O3‐induced decrease in its content was observed at Day 45. It suggests that AsA consumption was a crucial way for protecting against O3 pollution. After 75 days of O3 exposure, increase in superoxide dismutase and ascorbate peroxidase activities occurred in P‐needles (p < 0.05), whereas glutathione reductase activity was significantly increased after 105 days of O3 treatment (p < 0.05). Dehydroascorbate reductase and monoascorbate reductase activities also increased after 75 days of elevated O3 exposure. However, the elevated antioxidant capability did not suppress the generation of reactive oxygen species, and as a result, increase in malondialdehyde content was noted (p < 0.05). Noticeably, no change was observed in electrolyte leakage during the entire growth season under elevated O3 fumigation. It indicates that O3‐induced oxidative stress was not severe in the needles of P. armandii. In other words, P. armandii has certain tolerance to O3 pollution.
Combined application of cytology and molecular urine markers to improve the detection of urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Todenhöfer Tilman , Hennenlotter Jörg , Esser Michael , Mohrhardt Sarah , Tews Veronika , Aufderklamm Stefan , Gakis Georgios , Kuehs Ursula , Stenzl Arnulf , Schwentner Christian
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND

The sensitivity of cytology for the detection of urothelial carcinoma (UC) is limited. Newer methods such as fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), immunocytology (uCyt+), and protein markers have been developed to improve urine‐based detection of UC. As only little is known regarding the combined application of these markers, we investigated whether combinations of 4 of the most broadly available tests (cytology, FISH, uCyt+, and nuclear matrix protein 22 [NMP22‐ELISA]) may improve their diagnostic performance.

METHODS

The study was comprised of 808 patients who were suspected of having UC. All patients underwent urethrocystoscopy and upper urinary tract imaging and, in the case of positive findings, transurethral resection/biopsy. FISH, uCyt+, cytology, and NMP22‐ELISA were performed in all patients.

RESULTS

UC was diagnosed in 115 patients (14.2%). Cytology and FISH were found to be the single tests with the best overall performance (area under the curve [AUC], 0.78/0.79). Combinations of 2, 3, and 4 markers were found to increase the AUC to various extents compared with the use of single markers. Combining cytology and FISH improved the sensitivity and performance (AUC, 0.83) compared with the single tests and identified 12 tumors that were not detected by cytology alone. The percentage of WHO grade 3/carcinoma in situ tumors not detected by cytology was reduced by 62.5% when FISH was performed in cytology‐negative patients. The addition of uCyt+ as a third test further improved performance (AUC, 0.86), whereas the addition of NMP22‐ELISA was not found to have any additional influence on the performance of the test combination.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the current study support the combined use of urine markers and may form the basis of further studies investigating whether risk stratification based on urine marker combinations may individualize diagnostic algorithms and the surveillance of patients suspected of having UC. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2013;121:252–60. © 2012 American Cancer Society
Cytoskeletal changes during development and aging in the cortex of neurofilament light protein knockout mice
Authors: Liu Yao , Staal Jerome A. , Canty Alison J. , Kirkcaldie Matthew T. K. , King Anna E. , Bibari Olivier , Mitew Stan T. , Dickson Tracey C. , Vickers James C.
Published: November 2012

The neurofilament light (NFL) subunit is considered as an obligate subunit polymer for neuronal intermediate filaments comprising the neurofilament (NF) triplet proteins. We examined cytoskeletal protein levels in the cerebral cortex of NFL knockout (KO) mice at postnatal day 4 (P4), 5 months, and 12 months of age compared with age‐matched wild‐type (WT) mice of a similar genetic background (C57BL/6). The absence of NFL protein resulted in a significant reduction of phosphorylated and dephosphorylated NFs (NF‐P, NF‐DP), the medium NF subunit (NFM), and the intermediate filament α‐internexin (INT) at P4. At 5 months, NF‐DP, NFM, and INT remained significantly lower in knockouts. At 12 months, NF‐P was again significantly decreased, and INT significantly increased, in KOs compared with wild type. In addition, protein levels of class III neuron‐specific β‐tubulin and microtubule‐associated protein 2 were significantly increased in NFL KO mice at P4, 5 months, and 12 months, whereas β‐actin levels were significantly decreased at P4. Immunocytochemical studies demonstrated that NF‐DP accumulated abnormally in the perikarya of cortical neurons by 5 months of age in NFL KO mice. Neurons that lacked NF triplet proteins, such as calretinin‐immunolabeled nonpyramidal cells, showed no alterations in density or cytoarchitectural distribution in NFL KO mice at 5 months relative to WT mice, although calretinin protein levels were decreased significantly after 12 months in NFL KO mice. These findings suggest that a lack of NFL protein alters the expression of cytoskeletal proteins and disrupts other NF subunits, causing intracellular aggregation but not gross structural changes in cortical neurons or cytoarchitecture. The data also indicate that changes in expression of other cytoskeletal proteins may compensate for decreased NFs. J. Comp. Neurol. 521:1817–1827, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hypothalamic and other connections with dorsal CA2 area of the mouse hippocampus
Authors: Cui Zhenzhong , Gerfen Charles R. , Young W. Scott
Published: November 2012

The CA2 area is an important, although relatively unexplored, component of the hippocampus. We used various tracers to provide a comprehensive analysis of CA2 connections in C57BL/6J mice. Using various adeno‐associated viruses that express fluorescent proteins, we found a vasopressinergic projection from the paraventricular nuclei of the hypothalamus (PVN) to the CA2 as well as a projection from pyramidal neurons of the CA2 to the supramammillary nuclei. These projections were confirmed by retrograde tracing. As expected, we observed CA2 afferent projections from neurons in ipsilateral entorhinal cortical layer II as well as from bilateral dorsal CA2 and CA3 using retrograde tracers. Additionally, we saw CA2 neuronal input from bilateral medial septal nuclei, vertical and horizontal limbs of the nucleus of diagonal band of Broca, supramammillary nuclei (SUM), and median raphe nucleus. Dorsal CA2 injections of adeno‐associated virus expressing green fluorescent protein revealed axonal projections primarily to dorsal CA1, CA2, and CA3 bilaterally. No projection was detected to the entorhinal cortex from the dorsal CA2. These results are consistent with recent observations that the dorsal CA2 forms disynaptic connections with the entorhinal cortex to influence dynamic memory processing. Mouse dorsal CA2 neurons send bilateral projections to the medial and lateral septal nuclei, vertical and horizontal limbs of the diagonal band of Broca, and SUM. Novel connections from the PVN and to the SUM suggest important regulatory roles for CA2 in mediating social and emotional input for memory processing. J. Comp. Neurol. 521:1844–1866, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Laminar and connectional organization of a multisensory cortex
Authors: Foxworthy W. Alex , Clemo H. Ruth , Meredith M. Alex
Published: November 2012

The transformation of sensory signals as they pass through cortical circuits has been revealed almost exclusively through studies of the primary sensory cortices, for which principles of laminar organization, local connectivity, and parallel processing have been elucidated. In contrast, almost nothing is known about the circuitry or laminar features of multisensory processing in higher order, multisensory cortex. Therefore, using the ferret higher order multisensory rostral posterior parietal (PPr) cortex, the present investigation employed a combination of multichannel recording and neuroanatomical techniques to elucidate the laminar basis of multisensory cortical processing. The proportion of multisensory neurons, the share of neurons showing multisensory integration, and the magnitude of multisensory integration were all found to differ by layer in a way that matched the functional or connectional characteristics of the PPr. Specifically, the supragranular layers (L2/3) demonstrated among the highest proportions of multisensory neurons and the highest incidence of multisensory response enhancement, while also receiving the highest levels of extrinsic inputs, exhibiting the highest dendritic spine densities, and providing a major source of local connectivity. In contrast, layer 6 showed the highest proportion of unisensory neurons while receiving the fewest external and local projections and exhibiting the lowest dendritic spine densities. Coupled with a lack of input from principal thalamic nuclei and a minimal layer 4, these observations indicate that this higher level multisensory cortex shows functional and organizational modifications from the well‐known patterns identified for primary sensory cortical regions. J. Comp. Neurol. 521:1867–1890, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Efferent projections of neuropeptide Y‐expressing neurons of the dorsomedial hypothalamus in chronic hyperphagic models
Authors: Lee Shin J. , Kirigiti Melissa , Lindsley Sarah R. , Loche Alberto , Madden Christopher J. , Morrison Shaun F. , Smith M. Susan , Grove Kevin L.
Published: November 2012

The dorsomedial hypothalamus (DMH) has long been implicated in feeding behavior and thermogenesis. The DMH contains orexigenic neuropeptide Y (NPY) neurons, but the role of these neurons in the control of energy homeostasis is not well understood. NPY expression in the DMH is low under normal conditions in adult rodents but is significantly increased during chronic hyperphagic conditions such as lactation and diet‐induced obesity (DIO). To understand better the role of DMH‐NPY neurons, we characterized the efferent projections of DMH‐NPY neurons using the anterograde tracer biotinylated dextran amine (BDA) in lactating rats and DIO mice. In both models, BDA‐ and NPY‐colabeled fibers were limited mainly to the hypothalamus, including the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVH), lateral hypothalamus/perifornical area (LH/PFA), and anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV). Specifically in lactating rats, BDA‐and NPY‐colabeled axonal swellings were in close apposition to cocaine‐ and amphetamine‐regulated transcript (CART)‐expressing neurons in the PVH and AVPV. Although the DMH neurons project to the rostral raphe pallidus (rRPa), these projections did not contain NPY immunoreactivity in either the lactating rat or the DIO mouse. Instead, the majority of BDA‐labeled fibers in the rRPa were orexin positive. Furthermore, DMH‐NPY projections were not observed within the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS), another brainstem site critical for the regulation of sympathetic outflow. The present data suggest that NPY expression in the DMH during chronic hyperphagic conditions plays important roles in feeding behavior and thermogenesis by modulating neuronal functions within the hypothalamus, but not in the brainstem. J. Comp. Neurol. 521:1891–1914, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Alterations in the motor neuron–renshaw cell circuit in the Sod1G93A mouse model
Authors: Wootz Hanna , FitzSimons‐Kantamneni Eileen , Larhammar Martin , Rotterman Travis M. , Enjin Anders , Patra Kalicharan , André Elodie , Van Zundert Brigitte , Kullander Klas , Alvarez Francisco J.
Published: November 2012

Motor neurons become hyperexcitable during progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This abnormal firing behavior has been explained by changes in their membrane properties, but more recently it has been suggested that changes in premotor circuits may also contribute to this abnormal activity. The specific circuits that may be altered during development of ALS have not been investigated. Here we examined the Renshaw cell recurrent circuit that exerts inhibitory feedback control on motor neuron firing. Using two markers for Renshaw cells (calbindin and cholinergic nicotinic receptor subunit alpha2 [Chrna2]), two general markers for motor neurons (NeuN and vesicular acethylcholine transporter [VAChT]), and two markers for fast motor neurons (Chondrolectin and calcitonin‐related polypeptide alpha [Calca]), we analyzed the survival and connectivity of these cells during disease progression in the Sod1G93A mouse model. Most calbindin‐immunoreactive (IR) Renshaw cells survive to end stage but downregulate postsynaptic Chrna2 in presymptomatic animals. In motor neurons, some markers are downregulated early (NeuN, VAChT, Chondrolectin) and others at end stage (Calca). Early downregulation of presynaptic VAChT and Chrna2 was correlated with disconnection from Renshaw cells as well as major structural abnormalities of motor axon synapses inside the spinal cord. Renshaw cell synapses on motor neurons underwent more complex changes, including transitional sprouting preferentially over remaining NeuN‐IR motor neurons. We conclude that the loss of presynaptic motor axon input on Renshaw cells occurs at early stages of ALS and disconnects the recurrent inhibitory circuit, presumably resulting in diminished control of motor neuron firing. J. Comp. Neurol. 521:1449–1469, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Towards patient‐specific material modeling of trabecular bone post‐yield behavior
Authors: Carretta Roberto , Lorenzetti Silvio , Müller Ralph
Published: November 2012

Bone diseases such as osteoporosis are one of the main causes of bone fracture and often result in hospitalization and long recovery periods. Researchers are aiming to develop new tools that consider the multiple determinants acting at the different scales of bone, and which can be used to clinically estimate patient‐specific fracture risk and also assess the efficacy of new therapies. The main step towards this goal is a deep understanding of the bone organ, and is achieved by modeling the complexity of the structure and the high variability of the mechanical outcome. This review uses a hierarchical approach to evaluate bone mechanics at the macroscale, microscale, and nanoscale levels and the interactions between scales. The first section analyzes the experimental evidence of bone mechanics in the elastic and inelastic regions, microdamage generation, and post‐yield toughening mechanisms from the organ level to the ultrastructural level. On the basis of these observations, the second section provides an overview of the constitutive models available to describe bone mechanics and predict patient‐specific outcomes. Overall, the role of the hierarchical structure of bone and the interplay between each level is highlighted, and their effect is evaluated in terms of modeling biological variability and patient specificity. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Geometric modeling of subcellular structures, organelles, and multiprotein complexes
Authors: Feng Xin , Xia Kelin , Tong Yiying , Wei Guo‐Wei
Published: November 2012

Recently, the structure, function, stability, and dynamics of subcellular structures, organelles, and multiprotein complexes have emerged as a leading interest in structural biology. Geometric modeling not only provides visualizations of shapes for large biomolecular complexes but also fills the gap between structural information and theoretical modeling, and enables the understanding of function, stability, and dynamics. This paper introduces a suite of computational tools for volumetric data processing, information extraction, surface mesh rendering, geometric measurement, and curvature estimation of biomolecular complexes. Particular emphasis is given to the modeling of cryo‐electron microscopy data. Lagrangian‐triangle meshes are employed for the surface presentation. On the basis of this representation, algorithms are developed for surface area and surface‐enclosed volume calculation, and curvature estimation. Methods for volumetric meshing have also been presented. Because the technological development in computer science and mathematics has led to multiple choices at each stage of the geometric modeling, we discuss the rationales in the design and selection of various algorithms. Analytical models are designed to test the computational accuracy and convergence of proposed algorithms. Finally, we select a set of six cryo‐electron microscopy data representing typical subcellular complexes to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed algorithms in handling biomolecular surfaces and explore their capability of geometric characterization of binding targets. This paper offers a comprehensive protocol for the geometric modeling of subcellular structures, organelles, and multiprotein complexes. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Large‐scale synthesis of SiC nanowires from polysiloxane and wood powder composites
Authors: Pan Jian‐mei , Lu Qing‐bo , Cheng Xiao‐nong , Yan Xue‐hua , Zhang Cheng‐hua
Published: November 2012

Large‐scale SiC nanowires were prepared by directly annealing polysiloxane and wood powder composites without catalyst assistant at 1420 °C under argon atmosphere. SiC nanowires are up to tens of micrometers in length and the diameters are in the range of 30–150 nm. Most nanowires are smooth and straight in morphology. High‐resolution TEM image shows that SiC nanowires grow along the [111] direction. The vapor–solid mechanism was proposed to explain the growth procedure of SiC nanowires. The present work provides an efficient and simple strategy for large‐scale production of SiC nanowires.
Dynamic network layer for data query in sensor network
Authors: Zhang Zusheng , Chen Liang , Wang Zhiqi , Yu Fengqi
Published: November 2012

Query processing systems in wireless sensor networks usually support tasks such as data acquisition, data aggregation, and event‐based query. The performances of query processing with these tasks are greatly varied according to different routing protocols. Most existing data query systems usually use one routing protocol to deal with all kinds of queries. This work demonstrates that proper selection of routing protocols can improve the performance of query processing. We propose a dynamic routing layer that makes protocol selection on the basis of query tasks and can automatically switch between different routing protocols. Simulation results show that dynamic routing scheme is more energy efficient than single routing protocol. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tizanidine Increases Antinociceptive Effect and Prevents Gastric Damage Induced by Ketorolac in the Rat
Authors: Rodríguez‐Silverio Juan , Sánchez‐Mendoza María Elena , Arrieta‐Valencia Jesús , Rocha‐Gonzalez Héctor Isaac , Flores‐Murrieta Francisco Javier
Published: November 2012

Preclinical Research

Ketorolac tromethamine is a nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) effective in the treatment of moderate to severe pain. Tizanidine, an α‐2‐adrenoceptor agonist with myospasmolytic action, is indicated for the treatment of back pain either as monotherapy or in combination with NSAIDs. However, side effects may limit their use. As both drugs produce side effects that are dose dependent, a combination of these drugs appears in order to reduce the dose required for efficacy and, consequently, side effects. In this study, we evaluated the potential synergistic effect of these drugs in the thermal paw stimulation model and their effect on gastric ulcer production in response in the rat. Dose‐response curves for ketorolac and tizanidine were constructed and from these, an ED40 value was obtained. Isobolographic analysis was carried out based on 0.5:0.5 proportions. In addition, protective effect of tizanidine against ketorolac‐induced gastric damage was evaluated. A synergistic interaction in thermal hyperalgesia and gastroprotective activity was observed, suggesting a good therapeutic potential of this combination in the treatment of pain.
Preparation, In Vitro, and In Vivo Antitumor Activity of Folate Receptor‐Targeted Nanoliposomes Containing Oridonin
Authors: Wang Chuan‐Jin , Zhu Guang‐Jun , Yu Li , Shi Bai‐Hui
Published: November 2012

Preclinical Research

The expression of the folate receptor (FR) is amplified in many cancer types. Oridonin (ORI, C20H28O6) is an isolate from Rabdosia rubescens (Hemsl.) Hara that has been used in the treatment of esophageal and hepatic carcinoma for decades. In order to enhance the antitumor potency of ORI, folate‐polyethylene glycol2000‐distearoylphosphatidyleth‐anolamine (folate‐PEG2000‐DSPE) was synthesized to facilitate preparation of FR‐targeted liposomal ORI (F‐L‐ORI). F‐L‐ORI and PEG2000‐DSPE‐L‐ORI were then prepared. In vitro release properties, cellular uptake, and cytotoxicity in HepG‐2 cells, as well as in vivo potency of the liposomes in murine HepG‐2 tumor‐bearing mice were evaluated. An in vitro cytotoxicity assay on F‐L‐ORI gave an IC50 value of 0.718 ± 0.023 μmol/ml and L‐ORI had an IC50 value of 2.25 ± 0.12 μmol/ml. These liposomes were able to control the release of ORI. In vitro cells binding of F‐L‐ORI exhibited higher binding to HepG‐2 cells as compared with L‐ORI. The antitumor effect studies assessed in vivo showed that F‐L‐ORI improved the antitumor activity of ORI as compared with L‐ORI and free drug. The tumor inhibition ratio for F‐L‐ORI (1.5 × 10−2 g/kg/d) was 85.6%, higher than that of L‐ORI group (1.5 × 10−2 g/kg/d) and free ORI (1.5 × 10−2 g/kg/d) that were 66.8% and 40.8%, respectively.
Is today's marijuana more potent simply because it's fresher?
Authors: Sevigny Eric L.
Published: November 2012

The average potency of illicit marijuana in the USA has increased substantially over the past four decades, and observers have suggested a number of likely reasons for this. One set of hypotheses points to a market that has evolved from foreign to domestic sources of supply, and to continuing advances in sophisticated cultivation techniques. Another set of hypotheses points to testing artifacts related to changes in the sampling, handling, and testing of illicit marijuana. The current study uses data from the federally sponsored Potency Monitoring Program, which performs ongoing forensic analysis of seized marijuana samples, to assess the extent to which the observed increase in cannabis potency in the USA between 1970 and 2010 is a function of genuine shifts in illicit marijuana markets or testing artifacts related to changes in the quality of seized marijuana. The study finds, after adjusting for marijuana quality, that the apparent 10.5 factor increase in mean reported THC% between the 1970s and the 2000s is instead on the order of a six‐ to seven‐fold increase. By this accounting, then, the reported long‐term rise in potency is roughly 57–67% as great when the quality of the tested marijuana is taken into account. This study's findings, therefore, caution against the uncritical use of potency monitoring data and highlight the importance of assessing potency measurement reliability and addressing data quality issues in future policy analytic research. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tissue‐specific responses to aberrant FGF signaling in complex head phenotypes
Authors: Martínez‐Abadías Neus , Motch Susan M. , Pankratz Talia L. , Wang Yingli , Aldridge Kristina , Jabs Ethylin Wang , Richtsmeier Joan T.
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND: The role of fibroblast growth factor and receptor (FGF/FGFR) signaling in bone development is well studied, partly because mutations in FGFRs cause human diseases of achondroplasia and FGFR‐related craniosynostosis syndromes including Crouzon syndrome. The FGFR2c C342Y mutation is a frequent cause of Crouzon syndrome, characterized by premature cranial vault suture closure, midfacial deficiency, and neurocranial dysmorphology. Here, using newborn Fgfr2cC342Y/+ Crouzon syndrome mice, we tested whether the phenotypic effects of this mutation go beyond the skeletal tissues of the skull, altering the development of other non‐skeletal head tissues including the brain, the eyes, the nasopharynx, and the inner ears. RESULTS: Quantitative analysis of 3D multimodal imaging (high‐resolution micro‐computed tomography and magnetic resonance microscopy) revealed local differences in skull morphology and coronal suture patency between Fgfr2cC342Y/+ mice and unaffected littermates, as well as changes in brain shape but not brain size, significant reductions in nasopharyngeal and eye volumes, and no difference in inner ear volume in Fgfr2cC342Y/+ mice. CONCLUSIONS: These findings provide an expanded catalogue of clinical phenotypes in Crouzon syndrome caused by aberrant FGF/FGFR signaling and evidence of the broad role for FGF/FGFR signaling in development and evolution of the vertebrate head. Developmental Dynamics 242:80–94, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The combined use of radio frequency‐electromagnetic surveys and chemical and biological analyses to study the role of groundwater discharge into the Guadiana estuary
Authors: Carvalho Dill A. M. M. , Stigter T. Y. , Brito R. , Chícharo M. A. , Chícharo L.
Published: November 2012

This paper intends to show how the radio frequency‐electromagnetic (RF‐EM) method can be successfully used in coastal wetlands, onshore and in shallow water. It characterizes and reveals geological and hydrogeological singularities that are often hidden by recent sediments and allows target sampling and consequent detection of ecological particularities. RF‐EM methods have traditionally been used to detect the presence of groundwater or the existence of subsurface contamination plumes. The great majority of such studies have been conducted on land and to a lesser extent on freshwater lakes but rarely in coastal waters. Previous research in Portugal has shown that despite the attenuation effect of salt water, very valuable information can be obtained with the use of electromagnetic methods, wherever resistivity contrasts exist. In the current case study, RF‐EM surveys were carried out in the Estuary of the Guadiana River, in order to understand the importance of geological structures on the formation of the wetland and the influence of groundwater discharge on the existing ecosystem. Structures detected on land were also identified in the tidal channels. Freshwater fault springs were localized; their biota is characterized and the nutrients analysed. The results showed a clear increase in nitrate and silica concentration near the submarine springs, with impact on the planktonic communities, which is most evident in chlorophyll a. This is especially relevant during the end of summer and autumn when a potential limitation of these nutrients exists that can increase the occurrence of toxic blooms in the salt marshes and lower estuary. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
DX5+CD4+T cells modulate CD4+T‐cell response via inhibition of IL‐12 production by DCs
Authors: el Bannoudi Hanane , Han Wanda G. H. , Stoop Jeroen N. , Louis‐Plence Pascale , Huizinga Tom W. J. , Toes René E. M.
Published: November 2012

DX5+CD4+ T cells have been shown to dampen collagen‐induced arthritis and delayed‐type hypersensitivity reactions in mice. These cells are also potent modulators of T‐helper cell responses through direct effects on CD4+ T cells in an IL‐4 dependent manner. To further characterize this T‐cell population, we studied their effect on DCs and the potential consequences on T‐cell activation. Here, we show that mouse DX5+CD4+ T cells modulate DCs by robustly inhibiting IL‐12 production. This modulation is IL‐10 dependent and does not require cell contact. Furthermore, DX5+CD4+ T cells modulate the surface phenotype of LPS‐matured DCs. DCs modulated by DX5+CD4+ T‐cell supernatant express high levels of the co‐inhibitor molecules PDL‐1 and PDL‐2. OVA‐specific CD4+ T cells primed with DCs exposed to DX5+CD4+ T‐cell supernatant produce less IFN‐γ than CD4+ T cells primed by DCs exposed to either medium or DX5−CD4+ T‐cell supernatant. The addition of IL‐12 to the co‐culture with DX5+ DCs restores IFN‐γ production. When IL‐10 present in the DX5+CD4+ T‐cell supernatant is blocked, DCs re‐establish their ability to produce IL‐12 and to efficiently prime CD4+ T cells. These data show that DX5+CD4+ T cells can indirectly affect the outcome of the T‐cell response by inducing DCs that have poor Th1 stimulatory function.
IL‐33 citrine reporter mice reveal the temporal and spatial expression of IL‐33 during allergic lung inflammation
Authors: Hardman Clare S. , Panova Veera , McKenzie Andrew N. J.
Published: November 2012

Interleukin‐33 (IL‐33) is an IL‐1 family cytokine that signals via its receptor T1/ST2, and is a key regulator of inflammation, notably the type‐2 response implicated in allergic asthma. Critical to our understanding of the role of IL‐33 is the identification of the cellular sources of IL‐33. Although progress has been made in this area, the development of a robust live cell reporter of expression would allow the localisation of IL‐33 during ongoing immune responses. We have generated a fluorescent reporter mouse line, Il33Cit/+, to define the expression profile of IL‐33 in vivo and demonstrate its temporal and spatial expression during experimental allergic asthma responses. We found that type‐2 pneumocytes constitute the major source of IL‐33 upon allergic lung inflammation following exposure to OVA, fungal extract or ragweed pollen. Using Il33Cit/Cit mice (IL‐33‐deficient), we establish a role for IL‐33 early in the initiation of type‐2 responses and the induction of nuocytes (ILC2). We also demonstrate a potential mechanism of action by which IL‐33 rapidly initiates type‐2 immune responses. Il33Cit/+ mice have enabled new insights into the initiation of type‐2 responses and will provide an important tool for further dissection of this important inflammatory pathway in vivo.
Visible‐Light Harvesting PtII Complexes as Singlet Oxygen Photosensitizers for Photooxidation of 1,5‐Dihydroxynaphthalene
Authors: Wu Wenting , Yang Pei , Ma Lihua , Lalevée Jacques , Zhao Jianzhang
Published: November 2012

Cyclometalated PtII complexes that show strong visible‐light absorption and long‐lived triplet excited states were used as efficient singlet oxygen (1O2) sensitizers for the photooxidation of 1,5‐dihydroxynaphthalene (DHN). The photooxidation velocity of the cyclometalated PtII complex is 4.4 times that of the conventional IrIII complex triplet photosensitizers that do not show strong absorption of visible light.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Two Magnetic Coordination Polymers with Different Structures Due to the Connectivity of Sulfate Ions
Authors: Zou Kang‐Yu , Zhao Jun‐Long , Liu Chao , Wang Zhang , Li Zuo‐Xi
Published: November 2012

Two new coordination polymers, {[Co3(bib)3(H2O)9](SO4)3·(H2O)5}∞ (1) and [Co(bib)2SO4]∞ (2), were synthesized through a one‐pot reaction by layering solutions of bib ligand and CoSO4·7H2O in a glass tube. In compound 1, the binuclear unit, bridged by a pair of water molecules, is further linked by bib ligands to form an extended (4,4) layer. In compound 2, the bib ligand bridges CoII centers to form a 2D (4,4) layer, which is further pillared by the SO42– ion to afford a 3D α‐Po framework. In both compounds the bib ligand acts as a bidentate linker to connect the corresponding binuclear cluster or single ion into 2D(4,4) layers. However, the different behaviors of the SO42– ion, in the non‐coordinated and μ2 modes in compounds 1 and 2, respectively, lead to differing dimensional frameworks, vividly revealing the important effect of the counterion on the generation of coordination polymers. Structure analysis reveals bicobalt and 1D [SO4Co]∞ magnetic units, which are thought to be responsible for the weak antiferromagnetism in 1 and 2, respectively. The corresponding exchange coupling constants J between CoII ions have been estimated as –2.45 and –1.63 cm–1 by fitting the experimental data.
Synthesis, Characterization, Reactivity, and Linkage Isomerization of Ru(Cl)2(L)(DMSO)2 Complexes
Authors: Roeser Stephan , Maji Somnath , Benet‐Buchholz Jordi , Pons Josefina , Llobet Antoni
Published: November 2012

The structures, spectroscopic properties, electrochemistry, and reactivity of two new isomeric [Ru(Cl)2(L)(DMSO)2] complexes are reported [L is the nonsymmetric chelating ligand 5‐phenyl‐3‐(2‐pyridyl)‐1H‐pyrazole (H3p), DMSO = dimethyl sulfoxide]. It is shown that there is S‐to‐O linkage isomerization of the ruthenium(II) sulfoxide complexes upon one electron oxidation. The thermodynamic and kinetic properties of this linkage isomerization differ for each isomeric complex and depend strongly on the protonation grade of the ligand backbone. The corresponding data for these processes were evaluated from electrochemical data. A photolytic reaction of either of these isomers in chloroform is presented and leads to the substitution of one DMSO ligand and the formation of a third complex, [Ru(Cl)3(L)(DMSO)]. The remaining coordinated DMSO ligand retains its binding mode through the sulfur atom to a ruthenium(III) metal center.
VO2+ Reaction with Hydrotalcite and Hydrotalcite‐Derived Oxide: The Effect of the Vanadium Loading on the Structure of Catalyst Precursors and on the Vanadium Species
Authors: Rabello de Castro Fernando , Lau Lam Yiu , Hawrylak Herbst Marcelo , Maciel Pereira Marcelo , Crispim da Silva Thiago , Homs Narcis , Ramirez de la Piscina Pilar
Published: November 2012

The interaction of VO2+ species with Mg6Al2(OH)16(CO3)·n(H2O) hydrotalcite (HTC) and the corresponding HTC‐derived mixed oxide (MO, obtained by calcination of HTC at 800 °C) is reported. Vanadium was loaded (2–20 wt.‐%) onto HTC and onto MO using an aqueous solution of VOSO4. After the spontaneous reaction, solids were filtered, treated at 120 °C and then characterised. The characterisation techniques used include spectroscopic, structural, textural and thermal analyses, such as FTIR, Raman, UV/Vis DRS, XRD, BET, EPR, TG/DTA and TPO/TPR. In this work, the nature of the vanadium species on HTC and MO as a function of vanadium loading was studied. The presence of VIII species in the layers of HTC and anionic VV species in the interlayers have been proposed, whereas on MO VIV species are easily oxidised by air producing oligomerised VV supported species.
Effect of In–Sn Ordering on Semiconducting Properties in InSnCo3S2 – X‐ray, 119Sn Mößbauer Spectroscopy, and DFT Studies
Authors: Rothballer Jan , Bachhuber Frederik , Pielnhofer Florian , Schappacher Falko M. , Pöttgen Rainer , Weihrich Richard
Published: November 2012

The crystallographic and electronic structure of shandite‐type InSnCo3S2 was reinvestigated. Single‐crystal and powder X‐ray diffraction, 119Sn Mößbauer spectroscopy, and DFT studies focused on the relation between the In–Sn ordering and a recently predicted semiconductor‐to‐metal transition. One aim of the combined experimental and theoretical approach was to show how the occupation of Sn and In sites causes structural distortions. The second aim was to point out effects on the electronic structure and the relative stability of structural variants with respect to In–Sn ordering. The interpretation of both X‐ray diffraction and Mößbauer spectroscopy data by DFT calculations helped to understand the effects from a nonlocal and a local point of view. This is a starting point of materials design for various applications.
Synthesis, Structure, Magnetism, and Single Molecular Conductance of Linear Trinickel String Complexes with Sulfur‐Containing Ligands
Authors: Yang Ching‐Chun , Liu Isiah Po‐Chun , Hsu Yu‐Ju , Lee Gene‐Hsiang , Chen Chun‐hsien , Peng Shie‐Ming
Published: November 2012

The synthesis, crystal structures, magnetic properties, and single molecular conductances of two linear trinickel string complexes, [Ni3(mpta)4(NCS)2] (2) and [Ni3(mpta)4(CN)2] (3), supported by sulfur‐containing Hmpta (1) ligands are presented (Hmpta = 4‐methylpyridylthiazolylamine). Compounds 2 and 3 possess a 1D trinickel backbone coordinated by four mpta– ligands. Within the trinickel framework, the two terminal high‐spin (S = 1) Ni ions are strongly antiferromagnetically coupled (J = –91 cm–1 in 2 and –79 cm–1 in 3). As the axial CN– ligand is very basic and strongly pulls the terminal Ni ions away from the central Ni ion, the Ni–Ni distances in 3 (ca. 2.52 Å) are longer than those in 2 (ca. 2.47 Å). The lengthening of the Ni–Ni bond lengths causes 3 to exhibit weaker antiferromagnetic interactions and lower single molecular conductance [R = 7.1 (±1.5) MΩ for 2 and R = 11.1 (±3.9) MΩ for 3].
Equilibrium, Kinetic and Structural Studies of AAZTA Complexes with Ga3+, In3+ and Cu2+
Authors: Baranyai Zsolt , Uggeri Fulvio , Maiocchi Alessandro , Giovenzana Giovanni B. , Cavallotti Camilla , Takács Anett , Tóth Imre , Bányai István , Bényei Attila , Brucher Ernő , Aime Silvio
Published: November 2012

A detailed study of the structures, thermodynamic stabilities and kinetics of the dissociation of Ga3+, In3+ and Cu2+ complexes formed with the heptadentate ligand AAZTA is reported. The stability constants (log KML) of the AAZTA complexes of Ga3+, In3+ and Cu2+ are 22.18, 29.58 and 22.27, respectively, which suggests that the seven‐membered‐ring skeleton is suited to the accommodation of these metal ions. The solid‐state structure of [Cu(H2AAZTA)]·H2O shows a distorted octahedral coordination. The equatorial coordination sites of Cu2+ are occupied by one of the ring N atoms, a water O atom, one of the carboxylate O atoms and the N atom of the iminodiacetate moiety. The other ring N atom and the carboxylate O atom of the iminodiacetate moiety coordinate to the Cu2+ in the axial positions. In the pH range 4.5–8.5, Ga3+ is present in the form of the highly stable [Ga(AAZTA)OH]2– (log βGaLH–1 = 17.69) The exchange reactions of [Ga(AAZTA)OH]2– with Cu2+ and transferrin are very slow and mainly occur through the spontaneous dissociation of the complex close to physiological conditions. The half‐life for the dissociation of [Ga(AAZTA)OH]2– is t1/2 = 23 h at pH = 7.5 and 25 °C in 0.025 M NaHCO3 and 0.15 M NaCl. The high conditional stability, fast formation and sufficiently slow dissociation of [Ga(AAZTA)OH]2– represent promising properties for the complexation and diagnostic applications of radioactive Ga isotopes.
Total Synthesis of Taspine and a Symmetrical Analogue: Study of Binding to G‐Quadruplex DNA by ESI‐MS
Authors: Altieri Alessandro , Franceschin Marco , Nocioni Daniele , Alvino Antonello , Casagrande Valentina , Scarpati Maria Luisa , Bianco Armandodoriano
Published: November 2012

Taspine is an alkaloid found in the latex of certain trees belonging to the family of Euphorbiaceae, commonly called “Sangre de Drago” (Dragon's blood). Its structure and antineoplastic properties are well known. Here we report the total synthesis of taspine, starting from ferulic acid and isovanillin. The successful synthetic strategy was then applied to the synthesis of a symmetrical analogue TAS2C. Both the synthesised compounds were tested by ESI‐MS (electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry) for their ability to bind different quadruplex and duplex DNA structures.
The High Selectivity of the Cp2ZrHCl Reducing Agent for Imides: A Combined Experimental and Theoretical Study on γ‐Lactam and Isoxazolidinone Derivatives
Authors: Lanza Giuseppe , Chiacchio Maria A. , Giofrè Salvatore V. , Romeo Roberto , Merino Pedro
Published: November 2012

Selective reductions of semicyclic imides either to hemiaminals (endo carbonyl reduction) or to aldehydes and amines (exo carbonyl reduction) in high yields by Schwartz's reagent (Cp2ZrHCl) are reported. Mechanistic aspects of these reactions have been investigated at the DFT ab initio level with consideration of implicit solvent effects and thermal and pressure corrections to 298 K/1 atm. The reactions proceed from the reagents to very stable final Zr‐oxo intermediates through the formation of σ complexes and subsequent four‐center transition state structures (1,2‐migratory insertion). The energetic barriers for the insertion steps depend strongly on the natures of the ancillary groups at the reducing carbonyl groups. N‐Carbamoyl groups are reduced to hemiaminals whereas N‐acyl groups react at the exo carbonyl groups. The absence of the second carbonyl group in the simple N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (less oxidized system) strongly reduces the thermodynamic drive for the formation of the metallocene oxo intermediate and allows an explanation of the remarkable chemoselectivity of the hydrozirconation. The zirconocene‐oxo intermediates hydrolyze quickly throughout an ionic mechanism in which water molecules strongly assist the process by stabilizing ion pair separation. The computational results are consistent with a large set of experimental data on reduction of γ‐lactam and isoxazolidinone derivatives under mild conditions. They provide a way to explain and predict the relative importance of the two competitive endo/exo reduction channels of semicyclic imides by considering the electronic and steric features of substituents.
Renewable Silver‐Amalgam Film Electrode for Rapid Square‐Wave Voltammetric Determination of Thiamethoxam Insecticide in Selected Samples
Authors: Putek Maria , Guzsvány Valéria , Tasić Bojan , Zarębski Jerzy , Bobrowski Andrzej
Published: November 2012

The paper presents the use of a renewable silver‐amalgam film electrode (Hg(Ag)FE) for the determination of the insecticide thiamethoxam (TMO) in Britton‐Robinson buffer pH 7.0 (LOD=0.25 µg mL−1, LOQ=0.70 µg mL−1) by direct cathodic square‐wave voltammetry (SWV). The voltammetric response for TMO obtained at this electrode was the same as that obtained with a hanging mercury drop electrode, represented by two distinct reduction peaks. Since the electron transfer processes are coupled with chemical reactions involving protons, the SWV signals strongly depend on the pH of the supporting electrolyte. The developed Hg(Ag)FE‐SWV method was tested for the determination of TMO in spiked honey and river water samples, as well as for the determination of its content in the commercial formulation Actara 25 WG.
Ground motion scaling methods for linear‐elastic structures: an integrated experimental and analytical investigation
Authors: O'Donnell A. P. , Kurama Y. C. , Kalkan E. , Taflanidis A. A. , Beltsar O. A.
Published: November 2012

The task of selecting and scaling an appropriate set of ground motion records is one of the most important challenges facing practitioners in conducting dynamic response history analyses for seismic design and risk assessment. This paper describes an integrated experimental and analytical evaluation of selected ground motion scaling methods for linear‐elastic building frame structures. The experimental study is based on the shake table testing of small‐scale frame models with four different fundamental periods under ground motion sets that have been scaled using different methods. The test results are then analytically extended to a wider range of structural properties to assess the effectiveness of the scaling methods in reducing the dispersion and increasing the accuracy in the seismic displacement demands of linear‐elastic structures, also considering biased selection of ground motion subsets. For scaling methods that are based on a design estimate of the fundamental period of the structure, effects of possible errors in the estimated period are investigated. The results show that a significant reduction in the effectiveness of these scaling methods can occur if the fundamental period is not estimated with reasonable certainty. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.