bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, physicochemical characterization and biological activity of nano complexes of iron(III) of 3(2'‐hydroxyphenyl)‐5‐(4′‐substituted phenyl) pyrazolines and aspartic acid
Authors: Siddiqui Afshan , Singh Kajal , Singh Kanchan Lata , Gupta Shailendra Kumar , Ahmad Mohd Safi , Tripathi U. N.
Published: April 2012

Mixed ligand complexes of Iron(III) with aspartic acid and 3(2′‐hydroxy phenyl)‐5‐(4′‐substituted phenyl) pyrazolines of type [Fe(C4O4NH6)2(C15H12N2OX)] and [Fe(C4O4NH6)(C15H12N2OX)2], where (C4O4NH6) = aspartate, (C15H12N2OX) = deprotonated 3(2′‐hydroxyphenyl)‐5‐(4′‐substituted phenyl) pyrazolines (X = H, CH3, OCH3, Cl), have been synthesized. These newly synthesized derivatives have been physicochemically characterized by elemental analysis (C, H, N, Cl and Fe), magnetic moment data, thermogravimetric analysis, molar conductance, cyclic voltammetry, spectral analysis (UV–visible, IR, far IR and fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry). Scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray powder diffraction studies have been carried out for powdered samples, which show nanometric particles of these derivatives. Antibacterial and antifungal potential of free pyrazoline and some iron(III) complexes have been evaluated. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Statistical analysis for the Q‐factor of twin kHz QPOs
Authors: Wang J. , Chang H.K. , Zhang C.M. , Wang D.H. , Chen L.
Published: April 2012

Using the recently published data of twin kHz quasi‐period oscillations (QPOs) in neutron stars of low‐mass X‐ray binaries (LMXBs), we study the different profiles between bright Z sources and less luminous Atoll sources. The quality factors of upper kHz QPOs show a narrow distribution both for Z sources and Atoll sources, which concentrate at 7.98 and 9.75, respectively. The quality factors of lower kHz QPOs show a narrow distribution for Z sources and a broader distribution for Atoll sources, which concentrate at 5.25 and 86.22, respectively. In order to investigate the relation between the quality factor and the peak frequency of kHz QPOs, we fit the data with power‐law, linear, and exponential functions, respectively. There is an obvious trend that the quality factors increase with the peak frequencies both for upper and lower QPOs. The implications of our results are discussed (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Cyclic light and period variations of the UV Leonis system
Authors: Manzoori D.
Published: April 2012

Solutions of the new standard V‐light curves for the EA type binary UV Leo are obtained using the PHOEBE code (0.31a version). Absolute parameters of the stellar components were then determined, enabling them to be positioned on the absolute magnitude‐color (l.e. MV vs. B – V) isochrones diagram, based on which the age of the system is estimated to be >4×109 yr. Also times of minima data (“O – C curve”) have been analyzed. Apart from an almost sinusoidal variation with a period of 29.63 yr, which modulates the orbital period, and was attributed to a third body orbiting around the system, other cyclic variation in the orbital period and also brightness, with time scales of 24.25 and 22.77 yr were found, respectively. We associate this with a magnetic activity cycle newly reported here for UV Leo (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Recent photometry of symbiotic stars
Authors: Skopal A. , Shugarov S. , Vaňko M. , Dubovský P. , Peneva S.P. , Semkov E. , Wolf M.
Published: April 2012

We present new multicolour (UBVRCIC) photometric observations of classical symbiotic stars, EG And, Z And, BF Cyg, CH Cyg, CI Cyg, V1329 Cyg, TX CVn, AG Dra, Draco C1, AG Peg, and AX Per, carried out between 2007.1 and 2011.9. The aim of this paper is to present new data of our monitoring programme, to describe the main features of their light curves (LC) and to point problems for their future investigation. The data were obtained by the method of the classical photoelectric and CCD photometry (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Second‐order error propagation in the Mueller matrix of a spectropolarimeter
Authors: Ilyin I.
Published: April 2012

Accurate measurements of Stokes IQUV in spectral lines is required for precise reconstruction of stellar magnetic field geometries with Zeeman‐Dopper imaging. Spectral Zeeman features are intrinsically weak and subjected to a number of instrumental uncertainties. The aim of this work is to study the details of the instrumental uncertainties in the Stokes IQUV measurements in spectral lines and ways of their reduction. We make a practical comparison of the polarimetric performances of two high‐resolution échelle spectropolarimeters, namely SOFIN at the NOT, and HARPS at ESO. We show the residual spectra for both instruments to characterize the cross‐talk between the observed Stokes parameters. We employ a self‐calibrating least‐squares fit to eliminate some of the polarization uncertainties to derive the full Stokes vector from stellar spectra (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Kinetic helicity decay in linearly forced turbulence
Authors: Brandenburg A. , Petrosyan A.
Published: April 2012

The decay of kinetic helicity is studied in numerical models of forced turbulence using either an externally imposed forcing function as an inhomogeneous term in the equations or, alternatively, a term linear in the velocity giving rise to a linear instability. The externally imposed forcing function injects energy at the largest scales, giving rise to a turbulent inertial range with nearly constant energy flux while for linearly forced turbulence the spectral energy is maximum near the dissipation wavenumber. Kinetic helicity is injected once a statistically steady state is reached, but it is found to decay on a turbulent time scale regardless of the nature of the forcing and the value of the Reynolds number (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Methoxychlor‐Induced Ovarian Follicle Toxicity in Mice: Dose and Exposure Duration‐Dependent Effects
Authors: Paulose Tessie , Tannenbaum Lawrence V. , Borgeest Christina , Flaws Jodi A.
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND

Methoxychlor (MXC) is specifically known to target ovarian antral follicles, increasing atresia (death via apoptosis) in them. This is of concern because females are born with a finite pool of ovarian follicles. Only limited studies have explored the phenomenon of a reduced fertility threshold for effect based on the percentage of antral follicle atresia. METHODS: In this article, we report on adult female CD‐1 mice exposed intraperitoneally to various doses of MXC for 5, 10, 20, and 30 days. In the 20‐day treatment, mice were dosed with either the vehicle or MXC at 64 or 96 mg/kg/day, whereas in the 30‐day treatment, mice were dosed with vehicle or MXC at 48, 64, or 96 mg/kg/day. The mice that were dosed with MXC for 30 days were also mated with untreated males for a determination of overall fertility.

RESULTS

A significantly increased percentage (50%) of atretic antral follicles was observed only after 20 and 30 days of treatment. Specifically, mice treated with MXC64 for 20 and 30 days had an increased percentage of atretic antral follicles compared with vehicle‐treated mice. Interestingly, mice dosed with MXC96 had an increased percentage of atretic antral follicles after 30 days, but not after 20 days of treatment compared with vehicle‐treated mice. Overall fertility of the mice was not different compared with controls.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that as much as a 50% increase in atretic antral follicles does not affect the immediate fertility of the mice. Birth Defects Res (Part B) 00:1–6, 2012. Published 2012 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Similarity in Venom Alkaloid Chemistry of Alate Queens of Imported Fire Ants: Implication for Hybridization between Solenopsis richteri and S. invicta in the Southern United States
Authors: Chen Li , Lu Yong‐Yue , Hu Qiong‐Bo , Fadamiro Henry Y.
Published: April 2012

Both cis‐ and trans‐2‐methyl‐6‐undecylpiperidines, MC11P, have been previously reported as the major components of the venom of alate queens of the imported fire ants, Solenopsis richteri (black) and S. invicta (red). To identify the minor components of venom alkaloids from alate queens and compare the venom alkaloid chemistry of alate queen of their hybrid (S. richteri×S. invicta) with that of the two parental fire ant species (S. richteri and S. invicta), silica‐gel short‐column chromatography was utilized for separating cis‐stereoisomers of venom alkaloids from trans‐stereoisomers. GC/MS Analyses of venom‐alkaloid chemistry of alate queens demonstrated that fewer alkaloid peaks were detected in the chromatograms of the alate queens compared to those of workers. Three new compounds, 7, 12, and 13, were detected as minor components in the venom of alate queens of all three fire ant species. Alate queens of hybrid fire ants showed cis‐ and trans‐alkaloid patterns similar to those of the parental species. Similarity in venom‐alkaloid chemistry of alate queens of S. richteri and S. invicta, and their hybrid may indicate their reproductive compatibility in the hybrid zone in southern United States, where all three species occur sympatrically.
Chemical Diversity of Essential Oils from Asteriscus graveolens (Forssk.) Less.: Identification of cis‐8‐Acetoxychrysanthenyl Acetate as a New Natural Component
Authors: Cristofari Gregory , Znini Mohamed , Majidi Lhou , Mazouz Hamid , Tomi Pierre , Costa Jean , Paolini Julien
Published: April 2012

Asteriscus graveolens is an endemic medicinal plant mainly distributed in south‐western Algeria and south‐eastern Morocco. The essential oils of leaves, stems, and flowers of A. graveolens had been studied by GC, GC/MS, and 13C‐NMR. The spectral data of two nerolidol derivatives, 6‐oxo‐ and 6‐hydroxycyclonerolidol, were reassigned by 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR spectroscopy. These compounds can be considered as chemical markers of this genus. The structure of a monoterpenic diester with a chrysanthenane skeleton, i.e., cis‐8‐acetoxychrysanthenyl acetate, was determined for the first time on the basis of GC/MS, and 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR. The stem and leaf oils were characterized by high content of oxygenated sesquiterpenes with 6‐oxo‐ and 6‐hydroxycyclonerolidol as major components, and the flower essential oils were dominated by the new monoterpenic compound cis‐8‐acetoxychrysanthenyl acetate.
Micromorphological and Chemotaxonomical Traits of Micromeria croatica (Pers.) Schott
Authors: Kremer Dario , Stabentheiner Edith , Dunkić Valerija , Müller Ivna Dragojević , Vujić Lovorka , Kosalec Ivan , Ballian Dalibor , Bogunić Faruk , Bezić Nada
Published: April 2012

A study on the types and distribution of trichomes, pollen morphology, chemical composition of essential oil (analyzed by GC‐FID and GC/MS), and the content of macroelements (Na, K, Ca, and Mg) and trace elements (B, Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn, Al, Pb, Cr, Cd, Ni, Hg, and As) analyzed by ICP‐AES (=inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy) was conducted on Micromeria croatica (Pers.) Schott. Non‐glandular trichomes, peltate trichomes (typical hairs of Lamiaceae), small capitate trichomes (composed of one basal epidermal cell and one head cell), and larger capitate trichomes (composed of one basal epidermal cell, two to three stalk cells, and one head cell with subcuticular space) were observed on leaves, stems, the calyx, and corolla. Pollen of M. croatica had six apertures (hexacolpate) which were set in the equatorial pollen belt (zonocolpate) and showed medium reticulate ornamentation (hetrobrochate type). The essential oil contained from 27 to 39 constituents, the most representative of which were caryophyllene oxide and E‐caryophyllene. Among the investigated macroelements, the content of K was highest (8730–10080 mg/kg). The content of trace elements ranged from 0.12 mg/kg (Cr) to 78.00 mg/kg (Fe), while the content of Cd, Ni, Hg, and As were lower than the limit of quantification.
Stabilized Hemiacetal Complexes as Precursors for the Controlled Release of Bioactive Volatile Alcohols
Authors: Buchs Barbara , Fieber Wolfgang , Drahoňovský Dušan , Lehn Jean‐Marie , Herrmann Andreas
Published: April 2012

Hemiacetals of pyridine‐2‐carbaldehyde derivatives and volatile alcohols can be stabilized in organic solution in the presence of protons or different metal cations. Despite the inherent instability of hemiacetals in H2O, stabilizing them with zinc(II) triflate and adding them to a cationic surfactant formulation resulted in the slow release of the alcohol from cotton surfaces being treated with the hemiacetal complex. Stabilized hemiacetals might thus be suitable delivery systems of bioactive volatiles by rapid hydrolysis in H2O‐based media.
Structurally Diverse Cyclisation Linkers Impose Different Backbone Conformations in Bicyclic Peptides
Authors: Chen Shiyu , Morales‐Sanfrutos Julia , Angelini Alessandro , Cutting Brian , Heinis Christian
Published: April 2012

Combinatorial libraries of structurally diverse peptide macrocycles offer a rich source for the development of high‐affinity ligands to targets of interest. In this work we have developed linkers for the generation of genetically encoded bicyclic peptides and tested whether the peptides cyclised by them have significant variations in their backbone conformations. Two new cyclisation reagents, each containing three thiol‐reactive groups, efficiently and selectively cyclised linear peptides containing three cysteine moieties. When the mesitylene linker of the bicyclic peptide PK15, a potent inhibitor of plasma kallikrein (Ki=2 nM), was replaced by the new linkers, its inhibitory activity dropped by a factor of more than 1000, suggesting that the linkers impose different conformations on the peptide. Indeed, structural analysis by solution‐state NMR revealed different NOE constraints in the three bicyclic peptides, indicating that these relatively small linkers at the centres of bicyclic peptide structures significantly influence the conformations of the peptides. These results demonstrate the prominent structural role of linkers in peptide macrocycles and suggest that application of different cyclisation linkers in a combinatorial fashion could be an attractive means to generate topologically diverse macrocycle libraries.
Photochemical Modulation of Ras‐Mediated Signal Transduction Using Caged Farnesyltransferase Inhibitors: Activation by One‐ and Two‐Photon Excitation
Authors: Abate‐Pella Daniel , Zeliadt Nicholette A. , Ochocki Joshua D. , Warmka Janel K. , Dore Timothy M. , Blank David A. , Wattenberg Elizabeth V. , Distefano Mark D.
Published: April 2012

The creation of caged molecules involves the attachment of protecting groups to biologically active compounds such as ligands, substrates and drugs that can be removed under specific conditions. Photoremovable caging groups are the most common due to their ability to be removed with high spatial and temporal resolution. Here, the synthesis and photochemistry of a caged inhibitor of protein farnesyltransferase is described. The inhibitor, FTI, was caged by alkylation of a critical thiol group with a bromohydroxycoumarin (Bhc) moiety. While Bhc is well established as a protecting group for carboxylates and phosphates, it has not been extensively used to cage sulfhydryl groups. The resulting caged molecule, Bhc‐FTI, can be photolyzed with UV light to release the inhibitor that prevents Ras farnesylation, Ras membrane localization and downstream signaling. Finally, it is shown that Bhc‐FTI can be uncaged by two‐photon excitation to produce FTI at levels sufficient to inhibit Ras localization and alter cell morphology. Given the widespread involvement of Ras proteins in signal transduction pathways, this caged inhibitor should be useful in a plethora of studies.
Temporary Silicon‐Tethered Ring‐Closing Metathesis: Recent Advances in Methodology Development and Natural Product Synthesis
Authors: Čusak Alen
Published: April 2012

Temporary silicon‐tethered ring‐closing metathesis represents an important cross‐coupling strategy for the formation of medium‐sized silacycles. These intermediates are valuable synthons in organic synthesis due to their propensity to undergo a facile refunctionalization through protodesilylation, oxidation, silane‐group transfer or transmetallation. A particularly attractive utility of this methodology is an application in the synthesis of biologically important natural products. The purpose of this review article is to highlight the recent progress in methodology development and its strategic application toward the target‐directed synthesis.
Heteroleptic Silylamido Phenolate Complexes of Calcium and the Larger Alkaline Earth Metals: β‐Agostic Ae⋅⋅⋅SiH Stabilization and Activity in the Ring‐Opening Polymerization of L‐Lactide
Authors: Liu Bo , Roisnel Thierry , Guégan Jean‐Paul , Carpentier Jean‐François , Sarazin Yann
Published: April 2012

The factors governing the stability and the reactivity towards cyclic esters of heteroleptic complexes of the large alkaline earth metals (Ae) have been probed. The synthesis and stability of a family of heteroleptic silylamido and alkoxide complexes of calcium [{LOi}CaNu(thf)n] supported by mono‐anionic amino ether phenolate ligands (i=1, {LO1}−=4‐(tert‐butyl)‐2,6‐bis(morpholinomethyl)phenolate, Nu−=N(SiMe2H)2−, n=0, 4; i=2, {LO2}−=2,4‐di‐tert‐butyl‐6‐{[2‐(methoxymethyl)pyrrolidin‐1‐yl]methyl}phenolate, Nu−=N(SiMe2H)2−, n=0, 5; i=4, {LO4}−=2‐{[bis(2‐methoxyethyl)amino]methyl}‐4,6‐di‐tert‐butylphenolate, Nu−=N(SiMe2H)2−, n=1, 6; Nu−=HCCCH2O−, n=0, 7) and those of the related [{LO3}AeN(SiMe2H)2] ({LO3}−=2‐[(1,4,7,10‐tetraoxa‐13‐azacyclopentadecan‐13‐yl)methyl]‐4,6‐di‐tert‐butylphenolate Ae=Ca, 1; Sr, 2; Ba, 3) have been investigated. The molecular structures of 1, 2, [(4)2], 6, and [(7)2] have been determined by X‐ray diffraction. These highlight Ae⋅⋅⋅HSi internal β‐agostic interactions, which play a key role in the stabilization of [{LOi}AeN(SiMe2H)2] complexes against ligand redistribution reactions, in contrast to regular [{LOi}AeN(SiMe3)2]. Pulse‐gradient spin‐echo (PGSE) NMR measurements showed that 1, 4, 6, and 7 are monomeric in solution. Complexes 1–7 mediate the ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of L‐lactide highly efficiently, converting up to 5000 equivalents of monomer at 25 °C in a controlled fashion. In the immortal ROP performed with up to 100 equivalents of exogenous 9‐anthracenylmethanol or benzyl or propargyl alcohols as a transfer agent, the activity of the catalyst increased with the size of the metal (1<2<3). For Ca‐based complexes, the enhanced electron‐donating ability of the ancillary ligand favored catalyst activity (1>6>4≈5). The nature of the alcohol had little effect over the activity of the binary catalyst system 1/ROH; in all cases, both the control and end‐group fidelity were excellent. In the living ROP of L‐LA, the HCCCH2O− initiating group (as in 7) proved superior to N(SiMe2H)2− or N(SiMe3)2− (as in 6 or [{LO4}CaN(SiMe3)2] (B), respectively).
Potential Analysis of Smart Flow Processing and Micro Process Technology for Fastening Process Development – Use of Chemistry and Process Design as Intensification Fields
Authors: Hessel Volker , Gürsel Iris Vural , Wang Qi , Noël Timothy , Lang Jürgen
Published: April 2012

Konti‐Prozesse mit mikrostrukturierten Reaktoren ermöglichen Paradigmenwechsel in der Prozessentwicklung und damit auch kürzere Entwicklungszeiten bis hin zur Produktionsanlage. Der Schlüssel liegt hier in analogen Prozesszuständen in der Entwicklungskette (Numbering‐up), Standardisierung (Modularität) und Intensivierung. Das Resultat ist letztendlich eine reduzierte Apparateanzahl und ‐größe und eine höhere Voraussagekraft im Scale‐out der Anlagen. Dies wird bislang meistens über die Transport‐Intensivierung in mikrostrukturierten Reaktoren bewirkt. Ein neuer, mehr und mehr genutzter Ansatz ist die Chemie‐Intensivierung durch Einsatz harscher Chemie bei ungewöhnlichen Reaktionsparametern und maßgeschneiderter Reaktionsumgebung. Eine ganz neuer Ansatz besteht zudem in der Prozessdesign‐Intensivierung – zum einen brauchen selektivitätsoptimierte Durchflussprozesse weniger Reinigungsaufwand, zum anderen haben mikrostrukturierte Reaktoren aufgrund ihrer kleinen Baugröße und der Möglichkeit zur internen Funktionalisierung großes Potenzial für die Systemintegration. Beide Maßnahmen verändern und vereinfachen das gesamte Prozessschema grundlegend. Der modulare Aufbau der kleinen Konti‐Einheiten erlaubt eine einfache Implementation in moderne modulare Anlagenumgebungen, in denen alle Testzyklen (Labor, Pilot, Produktion) in einer Anlagenumgebung durchgeführt werden sollen, wie z. B. Container‐Anlagen.
Nanoroses of Nickel Oxides: Synthesis, Electron Tomography Study, and Application in CO Oxidation and Energy Storage
Authors: Fihri Aziz , Sougrat Rachid , Rakhi Raghavan Baby , Rahal Raed , Cha Dongkyu , Hedhili Mohamed Nejib , Bouhrara Mohamed , Alshareef Husam N. , Polshettiwar Vivek
Published: April 2012

Nickel oxide and mixed‐metal oxide structures were fabricated by using microwave irradiation in pure water. The nickel oxide self‐assembled into unique rose‐shaped nanostructures. These nickel oxide roses were studied by performing electron tomography with virtual cross‐sections through the particles to understand their morphology from their interior to their surface. These materials exhibited promising performance as nanocatalysts for CO oxidation and in energy storage devices.
A transient‐improved low‐dropout regulator with nested flipped voltage follower structure
Authors: Chen Hua , Leung Ka Nang
Published: April 2012

In this article, the existing low‐dropout regulator (LDO) based on cascoded flipped voltage follower (CAFVF) is reviewed. A new method to simulate the open‐loop gain of an LDO with a CAFVF structure is conveyed. The drawback of CAFVF‐based LDO is that the nondominant pole locates at low‐frequency and pole‐zero cancellation using a large equivalent series resistance of loading capacitor is required for stability. To tackle this problem, a novel LDO structure based on a nested CAFVF is proposed and analyzed in this article. It is shown that the nondominant pole is pushed to a high frequency and the LDO stability is improved. The proposed circuit is fabricated using a commercial 0.35‐µm CMOS technology, and the load‐transient response between 0.5 and 60 mA settles at approximately 5 µs. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Island Homoaromaticity in the W‐Shaped 2,4‐Diphospha‐3‐arsapentadienide Anion and Related Compounds – Theoretical and Experimental Investigations
Authors: Rozhenko Alexander B. , Ruban Alexander , Thelen Vera , Nieger Martin , Airola Karri , Schoeller Wolfgang W. , Niecke Edgar
Published: April 2012

A series of anions with general formula (R2C=P)2Pn– (Pn = N, P, As, Sb; R = H, Me, CF3, SiH3, SiMe3, SiF3) was investigated theoretically at the DFT (RI‐BP86/TZVP) and RI‐MP2/TZVP levels of approximation. Significantly sharpened central PPnP bond angles were predicted for the species with π‐acceptor R substituents. The corresponding bond angle values decrease in the order Pn = N >> P > As > Sb. This finding is in agreement with the previously published structural data for [(Me3Si)2C=P]2P–. An island homoaromaticity was proposed as a suitable explanation for the observed effect. In more detail, it consists of shifting negative charge to the electron‐withdrawing terminal groups with formation of a homologue of an aromatic heterocyclopropylium cation as the central moiety. Calculated structures and charge distributions are in agreement with the proposed model as well as with the molecular structure of the newly synthesized 2,4‐diphospha‐3‐arsapentadienyl anion.
The estimation of estuary dimensions using a simplified form model and the exogenous controls
Authors: Townend Ian
Published: April 2012

The most common definition of an equilibrium condition for estuaries and inlets makes use of the well documented relationship between tidal prism and the cross‐sectional area of the channel. However, the tidal prism is itself a function of the morphology of the tidal basin. It would therefore be useful to be able to define the key dimensions of estuaries and inlets based on properties that are external to the estuary itself. This would then provide a more rigorous basis for understanding how systems are being ‘perturbed’ by developments, or other influences such as climate change. An idealized representation of the three–dimensional (3D) form of an estuary has been proposed and is here applied to a wide range of UK estuaries to explore its ability to predict the gross properties of a range of different estuary types. When considering just tidal flow, the model was found to provide an adequate representation, however, the inclusion of wave action was found to significantly improve the predictive power of the model. The exogenous parameters therefore provide a basis for determining the estuary dimensions and how they are likely to change over time. This in turn provokes a broader definition of an estuary than those commonly cited. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Obesity and depressive symptoms in the elderly: a survey in the rural area of Chizhou, Anhui province
Authors: Dong Qing , Liu Juan‐Juan , Zheng Rui‐Zhi , Dong Yong‐Hai , Feng Xiao‐Ming , Li Jie , Huang Fen
Published: April 2012

Objective

The aim of the present study is to examine the relationship between obesity and depressive symptoms and to test the “Jolly Fat” hypothesis among older Chinese.

Methods

A total of 736 rural Chinese aged 60 years and older participated in this cross‐sectional study. Body mass index (BMI = kg/m2) was calculated from the subjects' measured weight (kg) and height (meter). Depressive symptoms were assessed using the 30‐item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS‐30), with a cut‐off point of 11.

Results

Among 736 total participants, the prevalence of depressive symptoms was 24.1% in men and 27.9% in women. A trend about depressive symptoms decreased with increasing BMI was found in men (χ2 trend = 5.74, df = 1, p = 0.01). A weak inverse linear trend between obesity and depressive symptoms was observed among subjects. In men, obese group was less likely to suffer from depressive symptoms compared with normal weight group before or after adjustment for confounders, with odds ratios of 0.32 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.12–0.85) and 0.28 (95% CI: 0.09–0.85), respectively. However, the association between BMI and depressive symptoms in women showed no significant differences.

Conclusions

Our results supported the “Jolly Fat” hypothesis only in rural older Chinese men, but not in women. Gender differences existed in the relationship between obesity and depressive symptoms. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Norlignans and Phenylpropanoids from Metasequoia glyptostroboidesHu et Cheng
Authors: Zeng Qi , Cheng Xiang‐Rong , Qin Jiang‐Jiang , Guan Bin , Chang Rui‐Jie , Yan Shi‐Kai , Jin Hui‐Zi , Zhang Wei‐Dong
Published: April 2012

Five new compounds, i.e., the three new norlignans metasequirins G–I (1–3) and the two new phenylpropanoids 7‐(3‐ethoxy‐5‐methoxyphenyl)propane‐7,8,9‐triol (=1‐(3‐ethoxy‐5‐methoxyphenyl)propane‐1,2,3‐triol; 4) and 7‐(3‐hydroxy‐5‐methoxyphenyl)propane‐7,8,9‐triol (=1‐(3‐hydroxy‐5‐methoxy‐phenyl)propane‐1,2,3‐triol; 5), were isolated from the branches and stems of Metasequoia glyptostroboides Hu et Cheng. Their structures were elucidated by physical, chemical, and spectroscopic methods, including 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR and HR‐ESI‐MS. The cytotoxicites of the five compounds were tested against A549 and Colo 205 cell lines by the MTT method.
A Convergent Approach to Dibenzodioxocinones: Synthesis of Racemic Penicillide
Authors: Deng Chun‐Lin , Zhang Qiao , Fang Lisong , Lei Xinsheng , Lin Guoqiang
Published: April 2012

A convergent approach to dibenzodioxocinones was explored, thereby racemic penicillide ((±)‐1a) could be obtained in 13 steps in 4.2% overall yield, based on 5‐amino‐2‐methylphenol (5) (Schemes 2–4).
Synthesis of 4‐Aryl‐1,7‐naphthyridine‐2(1H)‐thiones by the Electrocyclic Reaction of 4‐(1‐Arylalk‐1‐enyl)‐3‐isothiocyanatopyridines Generated in situ from the Corresponding Isocyanides
Authors: Kobayashi Kazuhiro , Kozuki Taketoshi , Suzuki Teruhiko
Published: April 2012

A convenient synthis for 4‐substituted and 3,4‐disubstituted 1,7‐naphthyridine‐2(1H)‐thiones 7 has been developed. The method is based on the electrocyclic reaction of 4‐(1‐arylalk‐1‐enyl)‐3‐isothiocyanatopyridines 6, generated in situ by the treatment of the respective isocyanides 5 with S8 in the presence of a catalytic amount of selenium. The isocyanides 5 can be easily prepared from commercially available pyridin‐3‐amine by conventional organic reactions.
Sesquiterpenoids and 2‐(2‐Phenylethyl)‐4H‐chromen‐4‐one (=2‐(2‐Phenylethyl)‐4H‐1‐benzopyran‐4‐one) Derivatives from Aquilaria malaccensis Agarwood
Authors: Wu Bo , Lee Jin Gyun , Lim Chang Ju , Jia Shao Dong , Kwon Sung Won , Hwang Gwi Seo , Park Jeong Hill
Published: April 2012

The four new sesquiterpenoids 1–4, and the new 2‐(2‐phenylethyl)‐4H‐chromen‐4‐one (=2‐(2‐phenylethyl)‐4H‐1‐benzopyran‐4‐one) derivative 5, together with the two known sesquiterpenoids 6 and 7, the five known chromenones 8–12, and 1‐hydroxy‐1,5‐diphenylpentan‐3‐one (13), were isolated from a 70% MeOH extract of Aquilaria malaccensis agarwood chips. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of comprehensive spectral analyses and comparison with literature data.
A New Abietane Diterpenoid from Plectranthus bishopianusBenth.
Authors: Syamasundar Kodakandla Venkata , Vinodh Guvvala , Srinivas Kalavagunta Venkata Naga Satya , Srinivasulu Bogineni
Published: April 2012

Chemical examination of the MeOH extract of Plectranthus bishopianus Benth., a rare and endangered plant, resulted in isolation of a new abietane diterpene, 6β‐hydroxy‐7α‐methoxyroyleanone (1), along with two more diterpenoids, 6,7‐dehydroroyleanone, and 6β,7α‐dihydroxyroyleanone, a triterpene oleanolic acid, and two sterols, β‐sistosterol and stigmasterol. The structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic data and also by comparison with authentic samples.
Unexpected Course of the Reaction of 2‐Unsubstituted 1H‐Imidazole 3‐Oxides with Ethyl Acrylate
Authors: Mlostoń Grzegorz , Urbaniak Katarzyna , Wojciechowska Alicja , Linden Anthony , Heimgartner Heinz
Published: April 2012

The attempted ethenylation at C(2) of 2‐unsubstituted 1H‐imidazole N‐oxides with ethyl acrylate (=prop‐2‐enoate) in the presence of Pd(OAc)2 does not occur. In contrast to the other aromatic N‐oxides, the [2+3] cycloaddition of imidazole N‐oxides predominates, and 3‐hydroxyacrylates, isomeric with the cycloadducts, are key products for the subsequent reaction. The final products were identified as dehydrated 2+1 adducts of 1H‐imidazole N‐oxide and ethyl acrylate. The role of the catalyst is limited to the dehydration of the intermediate 3‐hydroxypropanoates to give 1H‐imidazol‐2‐yl‐substituted acrylates.
OVERCROWDING VERSUS LIQUIDITY IN THE EURO SOVEREIGN BOND MARKETS
Authors: Coppola Andrea , Girardi Alessandro , Piga Gustavo
Published: April 2012

With the adoption of a common currency, the degree of substitution between financial instruments supplied by EMU Member States to finance their national debts has risen. Providing the market for euro‐denominated government securities with a large volume of similar financial instruments is likely to increase liquidity and lower yields. By contrast, providing an excessive volume of the same instrument might increase the return demanded by investors. This paper aims at empirically assessing the balance between liquidity and overcrowding effects by EMU countries' issuance plans. Our results document a significant relationship between bunching in issues and bond yields. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Walking in Beauty: An American Indian Perspective on Social Justice
Authors: Eason Evan Allen , Robbins Rockey
Published: April 2012

The purpose of this article is to introduce “walking in beauty,” an American Indian spiritual perspective related to social justice that emphasizes beauty, harmony, connectedness/unity of experience, and imagination. Walking in beauty includes 3 processes: embodiment, creativity, and appreciation of the sublime. Recommendations are offered for counselors to walk in beauty with their clients. This way of being is viewed as a path to social justice.
Disguised Ideologies in Counseling and Social Justice Work
Authors: Harrist Steve , Richardson Frank C.
Published: April 2012

A social justice orientation for counseling is appealing to many but appears to some to violate counselor neutrality and respect for client freedom and rights. Confusion about neutrality and advocacy in the counseling field seems to reflect confused assumptions and values in the wider culture. As a result, counseling is guided more by a disguised ideology of liberal individualism than an objective theory or value‐neutral principles. The authors suggest that a hermeneutic, dialogical framework for counseling has the potential to resolve much of this confusion and to refine and broaden a social justice approach in needed ways.
Special Section Epilogue: A Call to Action
Authors: Winterowd Carrie L. , Crethar Hugh C.
Published: April 2012

The purpose of this article is to offer specific recommendations and a call to action for counselors who engage in social justice work. Recommendations regarding the philosophical, ethical, spiritual, and religious aspects of social justice work are emphasized in this call to action based on articles presented in this special section.
Conceptualizing Sex Offender Denial From a Multifaceted Framework: Investigating the Psychometric Qualities of a New Instrument
Authors: Jung Sandy , Daniels Melissa
Published: April 2012

The authors examined the psychometric properties of a clinician‐rated measure of sex offender denial. Convergent and discriminant validity for the measure was supported, and given its relationship to treatment attitudes, the measure demonstrated utility for assessing treatment change and readiness.
Internet Addiction: A Logotherapeutic Approach
Authors: Didelot Mary J. , Hollingsworth Lisa , Buckenmeyer Janet A.
Published: April 2012

Internet addiction (IA) is both the most rapidly growing addiction and the least understood addiction (Watson, 2005). For counselors, treatment issues surrounding the disease are also growing. At the forefront is the lack of understanding concerning treatment protocol to manage the challenging recovery and maintenance stages after IA behavior has been controlled. The authors discuss Viktor Frankl's logotherapy as an effective approach to treating IA.
Managing Perceived Stress Among College Students: The Roles of Social Support and Dysfunctional Coping
Authors: Chao Ruth Chu‐Lien
Published: April 2012

The author examined the conditions (i.e., social support and dysfunctional coping) under which perceived stress predicted psychological well‐being in 459 college students. Hierarchical regression analyses indicated a significant 2‐way interaction (Perceived Stress × Social Support) and a significant 3‐way interaction (Perceived Stress × Social Support × Dysfunctional Coping) predicting well‐being. Low social support deteriorated the association between stress and well‐being. Only the frequent use of dysfunctional coping exacerbated the association between stress and well‐being across high and low social support. Implications for counseling college students are discussed.
Assessing and Promoting Resilience: An Additional Tool to Address the Increasing Number of College Students With Psychological Problems
Authors: Hartley Michael T.
Published: April 2012

This study examined the assessment of resilience in undergraduate college students. Multigroup comparisons of the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD‐RISC; Connor & Davidson, 2003) were performed on general population students and students recruited from campus mental health offices offering college counseling, psychiatric‐support, and disability‐support services. Results found that the 10‐item CD‐RISC demonstrated strong fit and reliability, with significantly higher scores for general population students. Implications for college counseling include assessing and promoting resilience on campuses.
The Inspiration of Hope in Substance Abuse Counseling
Authors: KOEHN CORINNE , CUTCLIFFE JOHN R.
Published: April 2012

This study used a grounded theory method to explore how counselors inspire hope in clients struggling with substance abuse. Findings from 10 participants revealed that hope inspiration occurred in 3 phases and consisted of several categories of hope‐inspiring processes. Implications for counseling practice, counselor education, and research are discussed.
An Ever‐Changing Meaning: A Career Constructivist Application to Working With African Refugees
Authors: PIERCE L. MARINN , GIBBONS MELINDA M.
Published: April 2012

Refugees are expected to determine how to integrate past experiences into their lives in a new culture. Constructivist approaches to counseling allow refugees opportunities to determine how to integrate these experiences into their future career choices. Refugee experiences throughout the resettlement process and a constructivist career counseling approach following resettlement are reviewed.
Specificity of latent TGF‐β binding protein (LTBP) incorporation into matrix: Role of fibrillins and fibronectin
Authors: Zilberberg Lior , Todorovic Vesna , Dabovic Branka , Horiguchi Masahito , Couroussé Thomas , Sakai Lynn Y. , Rifkin Daniel B.
Published: April 2012

Fibrillin microfibrils are extracellular matrix structures with essential functions in the development and the organization of tissues including blood vessels, bone, limbs and the eye. Fibrillin‐1 and fibrillin‐2 form the core of fibrillin microfibrils, to which multiple proteins associate to form a highly organized structure. Defining the components of this structure and their interactions is crucial to understand the pathobiology of microfibrillopathies associated with mutations in fibrillins and in microfibril‐associated molecules. In this study, we have analyzed both in vitro and in vivo the role of fibrillin microfibrils in the matrix deposition of latent TGF‐β binding protein 1 (LTBP‐1), ‐3 and ‐4; the three LTBPs that form a complex with TGF‐β. In Fbn1−/− ascending aortas and lungs, LTBP‐3 and LTBP‐4 are not incorporated into a matrix lacking fibrillin‐1 microfibrils, whereas LTBP‐1 is still deposited. In addition, in cultures of Fbn1−/− smooth muscle cells or lung fibroblasts, LTBP‐3 and LTBP‐4 are not incorporated into a matrix lacking fibrillin‐1 microfibrils, whereas LTBP‐1 is still deposited. Fibrillin‐2 is not involved in the deposition of LTBP‐1 in Fbn1−/− extracellular matrix as cells deficient for both fibrillin‐1 and fibrillin‐2 still incorporate LTBP‐1 in their matrix. However, blocking the formation of the fibronectin network in Fbn1−/− cells abrogates the deposition of LTBP‐1. Together, these data indicate that LTBP‐3 and LTBP‐4 association with the matrix depends on fibrillin‐1 microfibrils, whereas LTBP‐1 association depends on a fibronectin network. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 3828–3836, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Laser biotechnology for more efficient bioremediation, protection of aquatic ecosystems and reclamation of contaminated areas
Authors: Dobrowolski Jan W , Śliwka Malgorzata , Mazur Robert
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: The results of field long‐term experiments (initiated by the first author) showed that laser photostimulation could significantly increase the adaptability of different plant species (the willow Salix sp., elephant grass Miscanthus giganteus, Virginian mallow Sida hermaphrodita, common reed Phragmites australis, etc.) to contaminated environment. The attempts to increase the bioremediation efficiency of contaminated soil and water were made with the application of laser biotechnology. An optimal algorithm of laser biostimulation for selected biological materials for more efficient bioremendiation of selected pollutants was verified by sensitive biotests.

RESULTS: Laser irradiation of hydrophytes Lemna minor accelerated the phytoremediation of phosphorus and nitrogen compounds from wastewater and increased the surface area of the duckweed and biomass production. Ecological efficiency of innovative bioremediation versus traditional methods could be tested using computer‐based image analysis of selected components of aquatic ecosystems (e.g. Lemna sp., Lymnaea stagnalis, Daphnia sp., Hydra sp.) and highly sensitive to different pollutants juvenile stages of the tested animals.

CONCLUSIONS: Such an innovative bioremediation method and biotests would be useful for verification of new bioremediation methods and for better reproduction of biological resources and efficient protection of biodiversity in aquatic ecosystems. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Understanding the detrimental effect of nitrate presence on EBPR systems: effect of the plant configuration
Authors: Guerrero Javier , Tayà Carlota , Guisasola Albert , Baeza Juan A.
Published: April 2012

The interaction between enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EPBR) and biological nitrogen removal may result in EBPR failure in full‐scale wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). This work studies one of the common causes of this failure: the presence of nitrate in the anaerobic phase, which may act as an inhibitor for polyphosphate accumulating organisms (PAO) activity or may activate the competition between PAO and denitrifying bacteria for the carbon source. Several batch experiments were performed with different carbon sources (acetic acid, propionic acid and sucrose) at different nitrate concentrations using PAO‐enriched sludge from two different pilot plants: an anaerobic/aerobic sequential batch reactor (SBR) and an anaerobic/anoxic/aerobic (A2/O) continuous plant. The results imply that the operational conditions of the A2/O pilot plant selected a PAO population capable of i) coexisting with nitrate without an inhibitory effect and ii) outcompeting denitrifying bacteria for the carbon source, in contrast to the SBR pilot plant where nitrate had an inhibitory effect on EBPR. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Amylase production by Aspergillus oryzae in a solid‐state bioreactor with fed‐batch operation using mussel processing wastewaters as feeding medium
Authors: Torrado Ana , Vázquez José‐Antonio , Prieto Miguel‐Ángel , Fuciños Pablo , Montemayor María‐Ignacia , Pastrana Lorenzo , González María‐Pilar , Murado Miguel‐Ángel
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: The high oxygen availability in solid‐state cultures makes them especially suitable for fungal enzyme production. Glycogen‐rich mussel processing wastewaters have been used successfully as substrates for amylase production by Aspegillus oryzae in solid‐state cultures supported in polyurethane foam. The aim of this work was to study the fed‐batch mode in a scalable solid‐state bioreactor to extend the productive period and obtain high amylase production. Culture salinization due to the NaCl content of these wastewaters is the main drawback.

RESULTS: Evaporation of the excess liquid added during feeding led to progressive salt accumulation. The effect of culture salinization on amylase production was analysed and mathematically modelled, and the IC50 (65.4 g L−1 of NaCl) was calculated. An optimum operation mode for this bioreactor was designed that included foam extrusion for removing the incubated medium, washing and a final recharge with fresh medium every 72 h of incubation. This procedure kept the salt concentration under IC50 and increased the amylase production from 3000 to 12 000 UE g−1.

CONCLUSION: An operating mode with intermittent extrusions and washings of the support between feedings was found to be an appropriate procedure for preventing the accumulation of inhibitory compounds in fed‐batch solid‐state cultures. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
The effect of delay between heat treatment and cold storage on alleviation of chilling injury in banana fruit
Authors: Wang Haibo , Zhang Zhaoqi , Xu Lanying , Huang Xuemei , Pang Xuequn
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: To understand the mechanisms leading to the enhanced chilling resistance of banana by hot‐water dipping (HWD, 52 °C for 3 min), we investigated the effect of a 0.5–24 h delay between HWD and cold storage on chilling resistance and the change related to the metabolism of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

RESULTS: The HWD‐treated fruit with a delay of less than 6 h exhibited markedly less chilling injury than the non‐heated control fruit, while a delay more than 6 h resulted in significant loss in chilling resistance. Increased hydrogen peroxide content and rate of superoxide radical production were detected in the fruit at 0.5–1.5 h after HWD treatment, and the levels declined with a longer delay, which may be correlated with the enhanced gene expression levels of the gene coding for a ROS‐generating related enzyme, NADPH oxidase (MaNOX). Enhanced activities and gene expression of an ascorbate peroxidase (MaAPX) were recorded in the fruit at 1.5–6 h after the treatment, and after 6 h the ascorbate peroxidase levels decayed to the levels as the control fruit. The higher APX gene expression was maintained in the treated fruit with a 3 h delay during the subsequent cold storage at 7 °C, correlating with the enhanced chilling resistance.

CONCLUSION: The HWD‐treated fruit left at ambient temperature up to 6 h prior to cold storage maintained the effect of heat treatment and transiently increased ROS content, and the ascorbate peroxidase activity that occurred 0.5–6 h after the treatment may be correlated with the elevated chilling resistance induced by HWD treatment. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Long‐term high animal protein diet reduces body weight gain and insulin secretion in diet‐induced obese rats
Authors: Chen Haiyan , Wang Yiling , Ma Lichuan , Zhao Jiajun , Li Yinyin , Li Minglong
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: The effects of a high protein diet on insulin secretion and glucose metabolism have been quite controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of long‐term isocaloric high animal protein intake on insulin secretion in diet‐induced obese rats.

RESULTS: After the experimental period (24 weeks), the high‐fat diet‐induced obese rats that were fed isocaloric high‐protein diets (HP) had lower body weight gain (P < 0.01) and lower visceral fat (P < 0.05) than normal protein (NP) rats. Fasting plasma glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) was also reduced significantly (P < 0.05), as well as serum insulin levels at 5 min and 10 min by intravenous insulin releasing test. In addition, insulin mRNA and pancreatic duodenal homeodomain‐1 (PDX‐1), GLP‐1 protein expression were both markedly lower in HP rats (P < 0.05), while PDX‐1 mRNA in HP rats had no difference from NP rats.

CONCLUSION: These results suggest that long‐term isocaloric high animal protein intake reduces the acute insulin response in obese rats and the decrease of insulin is associated with both reduced weight gain and inhibition of PDX‐1 expression. GLP‐1 might be a negative feedback for the balance of energy metabolism secondary to changes of body weight and visceral fat. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry