bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcription factors as tools to engineer enhanced drought stress tolerance in plants
Authors: Hussain Syed Sarfraz , Kayani Mahmood Akhtar , Amjad Muhammad
Published: October 2010

Plant growth and productivity are greatly affected by abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, and temperature. Drought stress is one of the major limitations to crop productivity worldwide due to its multigene nature, making the production of transgenic crops a challenging prospect. To develop crop plant with enhanced tolerance of drought stress, a basic understanding of physiological, biochemical, and gene regulatory networks is essential. In the signal transduction network that leads from the perception of stress signals to the expression of stress‐responsive genes, transcription factors (TFs) play an essential role. Because TFs, as opposed to most structural genes, tend to control multiple pathways steps, they have emerged as powerful tools for the manipulation of complex metabolic pathways in plants. One such class of TFs is DREB/CBF that binds to drought responsive cis‐acting elements. Transgenic plants have been developed with enhanced stress tolerance by manipulating the expression of DREB/CBF. Recently the functions of an increasing number of plant TFs are being elucidated and increased understanding of these factors in controlling drought stress response has lead to practical approaches for engineering stress tolerance in plants. The utility of the various TFs in plant stress research we review is illustrated by several published examples. The manipulation of native plant regularity networks therefore represents a new era for genetically modified crops. This review focuses on the recent understanding, latest advancements related to TFs and present status of their deployment in developing stress tolerant transgenic plants. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2011
Acyl cystamine: Small‐molecular foldase mimics accelerating oxidative refolding of disulfide‐containing proteins
Authors: Wang Guo‐Zhen , Dong Xiao‐Yan , Sun Yan
Published: October 2010

Based on the structural characteristic of Protein disulfide isomerases and DsbA that have hydrophobic regions around the active sites, hydrophobic alkyl tails are linked to cystamine to create new small molecular foldase mimics, acyl cystamine. Both the oxidizing power and oxidation specificity of cystamine are enhanced by n‐octanoyl or n‐hexanoyl tail. N‐octanoyl and n‐hexanoyl cystamine are very effective to facilitate oxidative protein refolding at strong reducing environments. In the presence of 0.42 mM DTT, the activity recovery of lysozyme is over 90% by 90‐min refolding with 0.1 mM n‐octanoyl cystamine and 0.1 mM cystamine as oxidant, while almost no activity is recovered with 0.2 mM GSSG by 160‐min refolding. For the refolding of 0.2 mg/mL lysozyme, with 0.6 mM n‐hexanoyl cystamine and 1.12 mM residual DTT as redox agents, the activity recovery reaches as high as 93% after refolding for only 20 min. For ribonuclease A (RNase A) refolding, with 0.4 mM n‐hexanoyl cystamine and 1.30 mM DTT, the recovery of activity reaches as high as 90% within 3 h. Thus, with n‐octanoyl or n‐hexanoyl cystamine as the oxidants, the necessity to remove excess DTT in the reduced and denatured protein solutions can be greatly alleviated. With a moderate hydrophobicity, n‐hexanoyl cystamine is promising for application in oxidative protein refolding at an extensive concentration range. It is observed that in the oxidative refolding of 0.2 mg/mL lysozyme and RNase A, only about half of n‐hexanoyl cystamine is needed when compared to cystamine to achieve the same kinetic effect. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2011
Protease digestion from wheat stillage within a dry grind ethanol facility
Authors: Bals Bryan , Brehmer Ben , Dale Bruce , Sanders Johan
Published: October 2010

As the current starch based ethanol market increases at its rapid pace, finding new markets for the primary coproduct, distiller's grains, has gained considerable interest. One possibility is to isolate the protein‐rich fraction for use as precursors to biochemicals and bioplastics, further decreasing fossil fuel consumption. This research focuses on enzymatic extraction of protein peptides from wheat heavy stillage using commercially available proteases. The energy saved due to this process ranged from ∼1.5 to 3.0 GJ/ton wheat stillage compared to fossil fuel‐based chemicals. Using Protex 6L (Genencor), ∼57% of the protein in the stillage was soluble 24 h after protease addition at 0.1% w/w loading. Of these proteins, ∼32% were already soluble, indicating the importance of using wet heavy stillage as the feedstock rather than dried distiller's grains. Peptide size was less than 6 kDa. Further improvements in protein removal may be obtained through a fed batch addition of protease and improved protease cocktails. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2011
A web‐based training approach for the structural steel design
Authors: Serrano‐Lopez Miguel , López‐Colina Carlos , López‐Gayarre Fernando , Armstrong Sue
Published: October 2010

Fortunately the design processes of steel buildings across Europe is eventually covered by a unified code: The Eurocode 3: “Design of steel structures.” Nevertheless, although Eurocodes will soon become mandatory documents, designs will not be standardized because each country has a set of National Annexes which must be taken into account when designing in that particular country. Furthermore, every country also has its own body of non‐conflicting complementary information. A problem then arises when engineers need to produce designs in other European countries, either for a company based in one state or as individuals. Also, allowing engineers time out of the office for attendance at the intensive training courses which are required for earning experience on the new codes of design, frequently represents an obstacle for their employers. In an attempt to solve these problems, a strong trans‐national partnership has been working to develop an ICT‐supported, flexible training approach to allow designers to apply Eurocodes in accordance with the national regulations and practices of different member states. The resulting material in seven languages shows how to design a typical building according to the different national contexts. The developed portal incorporates facilities for course presentation, forums, blogs and on‐line translation. The students thought that the portal was an effective tool that helped them to improve the quality and efficiency of their studies. In their opinion the web‐course is well structured and they found the forum for discussion and the web‐based tutoring system very helpful. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 21: 448–458, 2013
Comparison of procedural times, success rates, and safety between left versus right radial arterial access in primary percutaneous coronary intervention for acute ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Larsen Peter , Shah Saumil , Waxman Sergio , Freilich Mark , Riskalla Nabila , Piemonte Thomas , Jeon Cathy , Pyne Christopher
Published: October 2010

Objective: To evaluate if there are differences in procedural times, success rates, and safety between left and right radial approach (LRA and RRA, respectively) in primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Background: Given conflicting reports of different procedural success with LRA vs. RRA, it is unclear if the side of radial access impacts in‐room procedural times and success rates in primary PCI. At our institution the LRA has been commonly used in certain STEMI patients. Our clinical database was reviewed to see if routine use of the LRA could generate favorable technical success and reperfusion times as compared to the RRA. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 135 consecutive STEMI patients treated with primary PCI performed via the left and right radial approach at our institution. Results: There were 50 cases in the LRA group and 85 in the RRA group. There was no difference in median procedural times including total procedure time (LRA 53.5 mins vs. RRA 52 mins, P = 0.95), room‐to‐cannulation (LRA 12 min vs. RRA 13 min, P = 0.40) or room‐to‐balloon times (LRA 30 min vs. RRA 31 min, P = 0.74). There were no significant differences in procedural success rates (LRA 100% vs. RRA 97.6%, P = 0.27), or procedure‐related complications or death between the two groups. Conclusions: Left and right trans‐radial approach for primary PCI have similar in room procedural times, success rates, and comparable safety. Trans‐radial PCI through either arm is a feasible and safe approach in patients with STEMI. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Two‐dimensional quantitative coronary angiographic models for bifurcation segmental analysis
Authors: Girasis Chrysafios , Schuurbiers Johan C.H. , Onuma Yoshinobu , Aben Jean‐Paul , Weijers Bas , Boersma Eric , Wentzel Jolanda J. , Serruys Patrick W.
Published: October 2010

Background: Quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) analysis for bifurcation lesions needs to be standardized. Objectives: In vitro validation of two models for bifurcation QCA segmental analysis. Methods: In the latest edition of the Cardiovascular angiography analysis system (CAAS 5v8, Pie Medical Imaging, Maastricht, The Netherlands) a 6‐segment model for two‐dimensional coronary bifurcation analysis was implemented next to the currently available 11‐segment model. Both models were validated against 6 precision manufactured plexiglas phantoms, each of them mimicking a vessel with three successive bifurcation lesions with variable anatomy and Medina class. The phantoms were filled with 100% contrast agent and imaged with a biplane gantry. Images acquired in antero‐posterior (AP) direction by either C‐arm and at 30° right and left anterior oblique angulation were analyzed by two independent analysts, blinded to the actual dimensions. Manual correction of the contours was not allowed. Measurements for minimal lumen diameter (MLD), reference vessel diameter (RVD), percent diameter stenosis (DS) and bifurcation angle (BA) were compared with the true phantom dimensions. Results: In AP views the accuracy and precision (mean difference ± SD) of 11‐ and 6‐segment model for MLD, RVD, and DS were 0.065 ± 0.128 mm vs. 0.058 ± 0.142 mm, −0.021 ± 0.032 mm vs. −0.022 ± 0.030 mm, and −2.45% ± 5.07% vs. −2.28% ± 5.29%, respectively. Phantom MLD values ≤0.7 mm were systematically overestimated; if excluded, MLD accuracy and precision became 0.015 ± 0.106 mm and 0.004 ± 0.125 mm for the 11‐ and 6‐segment model, respectively. Accuracy and precision for BA were −2.2° ± 3.3°. Interobserver variability for MLD, RVD, DS, and BA for either model was ≤0.049 mm, ≤0.056 mm, ≤2.77%, and 1.6°, respectively. Agreement between models for MLD, RVD, and DS was ±0.079 mm, ±0.011 mm, and ±2.07%. Accuracy and precision for diameter‐derived parameters were slightly decreased in angulated projections; precision for BA measurements dropped to 6.1°. Conclusions: The results of both models are highly reproducible and for phantom MLD values >0.7mm in excellent agreement with the true dimensions. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis and Properties of Terthiophene and Bithiophene Derivatives Functionalized by BF2 Chelation: A New Type of Electron Acceptor Based on Quadrupolar Structures
Authors: Ono Katsuhiko , Nakashima Akihiro , Tsuji Yujiro , Kinoshita Takatoshi , Tomura Masaaki , Nishida Jun‐ichi , Yamashita Yoshiro
Published: October 2010

Terthiophene and bithiophene derivatives functionalized by BF2 chelation were synthesized as a new type of electron acceptor, and their properties were compared to those of bifuran and biphenyl derivatives. These new compounds are characterized by quadrupolar structures due to resonance contributors generated by BF2 chelation. The bithiophene derivative has a strong quadrupolar character compared with the bifuran and biphenyl derivatives because their hydrolytic analyses indicated that the bithiophene moiety has a larger on‐site Coulomb repulsion than the others. The terthiophene derivative has a smaller on‐site Coulomb repulsion than the bithiophene derivative due to the addition of a thiophene spacer. These BF2 complexes exhibit long‐wavelength absorptions and according to measurements of ionization potentials and absorption edges they have energetically low‐lying HOMOs and LUMOs. The crystal structure of the bithiophene derivative is of the herringbone type, with short F⋅⋅⋅S and F⋅⋅⋅C contacts affording dense crystal packing. n‐Type semiconducting behaviour was observed in organic field‐effect transistors based on these BF2 complexes.
Studies Toward an Ideal Fluorescence Method to Measure Palladium in Functionalized Organic Molecules: Effects of Sodium Borohydride, Temperature, Phosphine Ligand, and Phosphate Ions on Kinetics
Authors: Song Fengling , Carder Evan J. , Kohler Clare C. , Koide Kazunori
Published: October 2010

Residual metals in fine chemicals are currently detected by using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, which requires expensive instrumentation and does not have high‐throughput capabilities. Although fluorescent probes can be amenable to high‐throughput analyses of metals, the utility of such analyses is limited due to the lack of generality. Herein, we report a significant improvement (≈19‐fold) to our previously reported catalysis‐based fluorescent probe for palladium. Specifically, we found that slightly elevated temperature dramatically improved the generality of the method and that the deallylation reaction of the nonfluorescent compound 1 was accelerated by phosphate ions in aqueous media. This method was capable of detecting 0.2 ppb palladium. We demonstrated reasonably accurate palladium detection in various active pharmaceutical ingredients and highly functionalized organic compounds.
Reactivity of Polyoxoniobates in Acidic Solution: Controllable Assembly and Disassembly Based on Niobium‐Substituted Germanotungstates
Authors: Li Shu‐Jun , Liu Shu‐Xia , Li Cong‐Cong , Ma Feng‐Ji , Liang Da‐Dong , Zhang Wei , Tan Rui‐Kang , Zhang Yuan‐Yuan , Xu Lin
Published: October 2010

The reactivity of polyoxoniobates has been studied in acidic solution by grafting niobium onto trivacant Keggin‐type germanotungstates. Four niobium‐containing compounds were obtained in the course of this study. Cs6.5K0.5[GeW9(NbO2)3O37]⋅6H2O (Cs6.5K0.5‐1) synthesized by the reaction of K7H[Nb6O19] and A‐α‐Na10[GeW9034] in H2O2 solution is a tris(peroxoniobium)‐substituted A‐α‐GeW9 derivative. Cs6.5K0.5[GeW9Nb3O40]⋅ 10H2O (Cs6.5K0.5‐2) is a peroxo‐free compound obtained by eliminating the peroxo groups in 1. Monomers 1 and 2 as precursors can each afford two nanoscale POMs, dimer Cs5[H15Ge2W18Nb8O88]⋅18H2O (Cs5‐3) and tetramer Cs8K3H9[Ge4W36Nb16O166]⋅ 27H2O (Cs8K3H9‐4), through the formation of NbONb bridges. Disassembly through the cleavage of NbONb bonds from 4 to 2 and 1 was achieved by controlling the pH and by adding H2O2, respectively. The transition from 1 to 2 can be achieved by simply adding H2O2 to a solution of 1. All four compounds were characterized in the solid state by elemental analysis, infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. 183W NMR analysis proved that the solid‐state structures of polyanions 1–4 were retained after dissolution. Disassembly from 4 to 1 and 2 in solution was observed by 183W NMR spectroscopy. The UV/Vis spectra of 1 at different pH confirmed that it is stable in the pH range of 0.1–14.0 at room temperature.
Cu(I)‐catalyzed asymmetric chlorination of β‐keto esters in the presence of chiral phosphine‐schiff base type ligands
Authors: Jiang Jia‐Jun , Huang Jian , Wang De , Yuan Zhi‐Liang , Zhao Mei‐Xin , Wang Fei‐Jun , Shi Min
Published: October 2010

Chiral phosphine‐Schiff base type ligand L8 prepared from (R)‐(−)‐2‐(diphenylphosphino)‐1,1'‐binaphthyl‐2'‐amine was found to be a fairly effective ligand for Cu(I)‐promoted enantioselective chlorination of β‐keto esters to give the corresponding products in high yields and with moderate enantioselectivities. Chirality 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Low triglyceride and nonuse of statins is associated with cancer in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Yang Xilin , Ma Ronald C.W. , So Wing Yee , Yu Linda W. L. , Kong Alice P. S. , Ko Gary T. C. , Xu Gang , Ozaki Risa , Tong Peter C. Y. , Chan Juliana C. N.
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND:

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) have increased cancer risks. The authors reported nonlinear associations of cancer with triglyceride and other lipids in T2DM. Crosstalk between lipid metabolism and the renin‐angiotensin system may increase cancer risk via activation of insulin‐like growth factor‐1 pathway in T2DM. In this analysis, the authors explored associations of cancer risk with high/low triglyceride in T2DM and possible modifying effects of statins on this risk association, if any.

METHODS:

A consecutive cohort of 5166 Chinese patients with T2DM, free of cancer at enrollment and not using statins at or before enrollment, was analyzed using Cox models. Biological interactions were estimated using relative excess risk because of interaction, attributable proportion because of interaction, and synergy index. Relative excess risk because of interaction >0, attributable proportion because of interaction >0, or synergy index >1 indicates biological interaction.

RESULTS:

During 5.25 years of follow‐up (median), 4.7% (n = 243) patients developed cancer. Triglyceride <1.70 mmol/L was associated with increased cancer risk in the entire cohort and in statin nonusers, but not in statin users. Patients with triglyceride <1.70 mmol/L plus nonuse of statins during follow‐up had 2.74‐fold increased cancer risk compared with their counterparts with either triglyceride ≥1.70 mmol/L or use of statins or both. There was significant interaction between triglyceride <1.70 mmol/L and nonuse of statins (relative excess risk because of interaction, 0.99; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.07‐1.90 and attributable proportion because of interaction, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.02‐0.70).

CONCLUSIONS:

In Chinese T2DM patients, triglyceride <1.70 mmol/L might be associated with increased cancer risk, which was attenuated in the presence of use of statins. Cancer 2011. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Expression status and prognostic significance of mammalian target of rapamycin pathway members in urothelial carcinoma of urinary bladder after cystectomy
Authors: Schultz Luciana , Albadine Roula , Hicks Jessica , Jadallah Sana , DeMarzo Angelo M. , Chen Ying‐Bei , Neilsen Matthew E. , Gonzalgo Mark L. , Sidransky David , Schoenberg Mark , Netto George J.
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND:

Bladder urothelial carcinoma has high rates of mortality and morbidity. Identifying novel molecular prognostic factors and targets of therapy is crucial. Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway plays a pivotal role in establishing cell shape, migration, and proliferation.

METHODS:

Tissue microarrays were constructed from 132 cystectomies (1994‐2002). Immunohistochemistry was performed for Pten, c‐myc, p27, phosphorylated (phos)Akt, phosS6, and 4E‐BP1. Markers were evaluated for pattern, percentage, and intensity of staining.

RESULTS:

Mean length of follow‐up was 62.6 months (range, 1‐182 months). Disease progression, overall survival (OS), and disease‐specific survival (DSS) rates were 42%, 60%, and 68%, respectively. Pten showed loss of expression in 35% of bladder urothelial carcinoma. All markers showed lower expression in invasive bladder urothelial carcinoma compared with benign urothelium with the exception of 4E‐BP1. Pten, p27, phosAkt, phosS6, and 4E‐BP1 expression correlated with pathologic stage (pathological stage; P<.03). Pten, 4E‐BP1, and phosAkt expression correlated with divergent aggressive histology and invasion. phosS6 expression inversely predicted OS (P = .01), DSS (P = .001), and progression (P = .05). c‐myc expression inversely predicted progression (P = .01). In a multivariate analysis model that included TNM stage grouping, divergent aggressive histology, concomitant carcinoma in situ, phosS6, and c‐myc expression, phosS6 was an independent predictor of DSS (P = .03; hazard ratio [HR], −0.19), whereas c‐myc was an independent predictor of progression (P = .02; HR, −0.38). In a second model substituting organ‐confined disease and lymph node status for TNM stage grouping, phosS6 and c‐myc remained independent predictors of DSS (P = .03; HR, −0.21) and progression (P = .03; HR, −0.34), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

We found an overall down‐regulation of mTOR pathway in bladder urothelial carcinoma. phosS6 independently predicted DSS, and c‐myc independently predicted progression. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Stability of estrogen receptor status in breast carcinoma
Authors: Gong Yun , Han Eric Yulong , Guo Ming , Pusztai Lajos , Sneige Nour
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND:

The purposes of this study were to address a persistent controversy as to whether the ER status of a primary tumor remains stable during progression to metastasis and to evaluate the influence of disease course and prior systemic therapy on ER status.

METHODS:

Breast carcinomas from 227 women with known ER status in both primary tumor and paired metastasis were retrospectively reviewed. ER status was compared between primary and metastatic tumors with respect to metastatic site, interval between two ER assays, and intervening chemotherapy and endocrine therapy. Semiquantitative comparison of ER values was performed for 92 tumor pairs.

RESULTS:

ER status agreed in 210 (92.5%) patients, including 147 positive and 63 negative. Of the 17 patients (7.5%) with discordant ER status, both negative to positive conversion (n = 7) and positive to negative conversion (n = 10) were observed. ER discordance was not significantly associated with metastatic site (locoregional vs distant), time interval between assays (<5 years vs. ≥5 years), or intervening chemotherapy and endocrine therapy. Semiquantitative levels of ER expression were similar between primary and metastatic tumors. In discordant cases, variations in testing methods and marginal scores were common.

CONCLUSIONS:

ER status in breast carcinoma is generally stable during progression to metastasis. Preanalytical and analytical variability may contribute to discordance in some cases. Given the importance of ER status for clinical management, ER testing in metastatic breast carcinoma should be repeated, especially for patients whose clinical courses are not compatible with stated ER status. Cancer 2011. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
ISENGARD: an infrastructure for supporting e‐science and grid application development
Authors: Kurniawan Donny , Abramson David
Published: October 2010

Grid computing facilitates the aggregation and coordination of resources that are distributed across multiple administrative domains for large‐scale and complex e‐Science experiments. Writing, deploying, and testing grid applications over highly heterogeneous and distributed resources are complex and challenging. The process requires grid‐enabled programming tools that can handle the complexity and scale of the infrastructure. However, while a large amount of research has been undertaken into grid middleware, little work has been directed specifically at the area of grid application development tools. This paper presents the design and implementation of ISENGARD, an infrastructure for supporting e‐Science and grid application development. ISENGARD provides services, tools, and APIs that simplify grid software development. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A multi‐GPU algorithm for large‐scale neuronal networks
Authors: de Camargo Raphael Y. , Rozante Luiz , Song Siang W.
Published: October 2010

Large‐scale simulations of parts of the brain using detailed neuronal models to improve our understanding of brain functions are becoming a reality with the usage of supercomputers and large clusters. However, the high acquisition and maintenance cost of these computers, including the physical space, air conditioning, and electrical power, limits the number of simulations of this kind that scientists can perform. Modern commodity graphical cards, based on the CUDA platform, contain graphical processing units (GPUs) composed of hundreds of processors that can simultaneously execute thousands of threads and thus constitute a low‐cost solution for many high‐performance computing applications. In this work, we present a CUDA algorithm that enables the execution, on multiple GPUs, of simulations of large‐scale networks composed of biologically realistic Hodgkin–Huxley neurons. The algorithm represents each neuron as a CUDA thread, which solves the set of coupled differential equations that model each neuron. Communication among neurons located in different GPUs is coordinated by the CPU. We obtained speedups of 40 for the simulation of 200k neurons that received random external input and speedups of 9 for a network with 200k neurons and 20M neuronal connections, in a single computer with two graphic boards with two GPUs each, when compared with a modern quad‐core CPU. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transverse Relaxation of Scalar‐Coupled Protons
Authors: Segawa Takuya F. , Baishya Bikash , Bodenhausen Geoffrey
Published: October 2010

In a preliminary communication (B. Baishya, T. F. Segawa, G. Bodenhausen, J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2009, 131, 17538–17539), we recently demonstrated that it is possible to obtain clean echo decays of protons in biomolecules despite the presence of homonuclear scalar couplings. These unmodulated decays allow one to determine apparent transverse relaxation rates R2app of individual protons. Herein, we report the observation of R2app for three methyl protons, four amide HN protons, and all 11 backbone Hα protons in cyclosporin A. If the proton resonances overlap, their R2app rates can be measured by transferring their magnetization to neighboring 13C nuclei, which are less prone to overlap. The R2app rates of protons attached to 13C are faster than those attached to 12C because of 13C–1H dipolar interactions. The differences of these rates allow the determination of local correlation functions. Backbone HN and Hα protons that have fast decay rates R2app also feature fast longitudinal relaxation rates R1 and intense NOESY cross peaks that are typical of crowded environments. Variations of R2app rates of backbone Hα protons in similar amino acids reflect differences in local environments.
Controllable synthesis, characterization and optical properties of Ag@AgCl coaxial core‐shell nanocables
Authors: Li Fei , Liu Xueqin , Yuan Yuliang , Wu Jianfang , Li Zhen
Published: October 2010

Core‐shell structures often exhibit improved physical and chemical properties. Developing a relatively general, facile, and low temperature synthetic approach for core‐shell structures with complex compositions is still a particularly challenging work. Here we report a general chemical conversion route to prepare high quality Ag@AgCl coaxial core‐shell nanocables via the redox reaction between Ag nanowires and FeCl3 in solution. The powder X‐ray diffraction of the Ag@AgCl coaxial core‐shell nanocables shows additional diffraction peaks corresponding to AgCl crystals apart from the signals from the Ag nanowire cores. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy images of the Ag@AgCl coaxial core‐shell nanocables reveal that the Ag nanowires are coated with AgCl nanoparticles. The effect of the molar ratio of Fe:Ag on the morphology and optical absorption of the Ag@AgCl coaxial core‐shell nanocables is systematically investigated. The result shows that the optical absorption of Ag nanowires decreases gradually and that of AgCl nanoparticles improves gradually with the increase of the molar ratio of Fe:Ag. The formation process of the Ag@AgCl coaxial core‐shell nanocables has been discussed in detail. The present chemical conversion approach is expected to be employed in a broad range of applications to fabricate innovative core‐shell structures with different compositions and shapes for unique properties. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Honor: The Sulha's main dispute resolution tool
Authors: Pely Doron
Published: October 2010

Honor, as a “folkloristic, emotive” value (Wikan, 1984), has long been recognized as central to the Middle Eastern inter‐ and intracommunal dispute resolution tradition of Sulha (Lang, 2002). This article highlights the centrality of honor to conciliation facilitation in Sulha and demonstrates the utilitarian, rather than folkloristic, use of honor within Sulha's distinct functional stages. Further, it shows how disputants and interveners alike wield honor extensively as a purposeful, task‐specific tool to maneuver for position before and during the deliberations, move the process along (or postpone its progress), facilitate an agreement, and ensure the durability of the agreement.
The effects of value on the perception of corporate social responsibility implementation: A study of Chinese youth
Authors: Wang Lei , Juslin Heikki
Published: October 2010

This study tries to determine the effects of personal values on individual perceptions of CSR issues. We investigated 980 Chinese young people, finding that: (1) Chinese youth display a mixed value structure of traditional and emerging western values, stronger self‐transcendent values than self‐enhancement values, and stronger openness values than conservation values. (2) Chinese youth have negative perceptions of corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance of corporations in China, especially on the environmental dimension. (3) Personal values have a significant effect on perception of Chinese youth of CSR, with young Chinese who value self‐transcendence or openness more having more negative perceptions of the CSR performance of Chinese corporations. In contrast, those who value self‐enhancement or conservation more have more positive perceptions. The practical contribution of this study is to suggest that value cultivation is a good way to develop ethical behaviour and responsibility, which in turn affect the development of CSR in China. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Novel insights into the relationship between diabetes and osteoporosis
Authors: de Paula Francisco J. A. , Horowitz Mark C. , Rosen Clifford J.
Published: October 2010

Only three decades ago adipose tissue was considered inert, with little relationship to insulin resistance. Similarly, bone has long been thought of purely in its structural context. In the last decade, emerging evidence has revealed important endocrine roles for both bone and adipose tissue. The interaction between these two tissues is remarkable. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells give rise to both osteoblasts and adipocytes. Leptin and adiponectin, two adipokines secreted by fat tissue, control energy homeostasis, but also have complex actions on the skeleton. In turn, the activities of bone cells are not limited to their bone remodelling activities but also to modulation of adipose cell sensitivity and insulin secretion. This review will discuss these new insights linking bone remodelling to the control of fat metabolism and the association between diabetes mellitus and osteoporosis. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diabetes and fasting during Ramadan
Authors: Hui Elaine , Devendra Devasenan
Published: October 2010

Abstinence from food and liquid during daylight hours is observed by Muslim individuals during the month of Ramadan. Even though the Koran exempts the sick from fasting, many people with diabetes still fast during this religious period. It is essential for patients, family and healthcare professionals to be aware of the religious attitude to and health implications of fasting. Major changes in dietary habits, daily physical activities and sleeping patterns during Ramadan have significant impact on the glycaemic control, lipid profile, weight and dietary intake. Hence, the patient is encouraged to have appropriate pre‐Ramadan assessment and education in order to stratify and modify his or her risk with fasting. Dose and timing adjustments to insulin and to some oral hypoglycaemic agents, especially sulphonylureas, may well be necessary during Ramadan. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of NMDA NR2 subunits and their roles in critical period maturation of neocortical GABAergic interneurons
Authors: Zhang Zhi , Sun Qian‐Quan
Published: October 2010

The goals of this research are to (1) determine the changes in the composition of NMDA receptor (NMDAR) subunits in GABAergic interneurons during critical period (CP); and (2) test the effect of chronic blockage of specific NR2 subunits on the maturation of specific GABAergic interneurons. Our data demonstrate that: (1) The amplitude of NMDAR mediated EPSCs (EPSCsNMDAR) was significantly larger in the postCP group. (2) The coefficient of variation (CV), τdecayand half‐width of EPSCsNMDARwere significantly larger in the preCP group. (3) A leftward shift in the half‐activation voltages in the postCP vs. preCP group. (4) Using subunit‐specific antagonists, we found a postnatal shift in NR2 composition towards more NR2A mediated EPSCsNMDAR. These changes occurred within a two‐day narrow window of CP and were similar between fast‐spiking (FS) and regular spiking (RSNP) interneurons. (5) Chronic blockage of NR2A, but not NR2B, decreased the expression of parvalbumin (PV), but not other calcium binding proteins in layer 2/3 and 4 of barrel cortex. (6) Chronic blockage of NR2A selectively affected the maturation of IPSCs mediated by FS cells. In summary, we have reported, for the first time, developmental changes in the molecular composition of NMDA NR2 subunits in interneurons during CP, and the effects of chronic blockage of NR2A but not NR2B on PV expression and inhibitory synaptic transmission from FS cells. These results support an important role of NR2A subunits in developmental plasticity of fast‐spiking GABAergic circuits during CP. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 71: 221–245, 2011.
New Oxyfluoride Pyrochlores Li2–xLa(1+x)/3□(2x–1)/3B2O6F (B = Nb, Ta): Average and Local Structure Characterization by XRD, TEM and 19F Solid‐State NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Galven Cyrille , Legein Christophe , Body Monique , Fourquet Jean‐Louis , Buzaré Jean‐Yves , Le Berre Françoise , Crosnier‐Lopez Marie‐Pierre
Published: October 2010

Two new solid solutions Li2–xLa(1+x)/3□(2x–1)/3B2O6F (B = Ta, Nb) have been synthesized in powder form by solid‐state synthesis. Their composition domain corresponds to 0.6 ≤ x ≤ 1.1 for the Ta compounds and to 0.7 ≤ x ≤ 1.0 for the Nb compounds. The structural study has been performed by XRD on two single crystals with the compositions Li1.00La0.67□0.33Ta2O6F and Li1.25La0.58□0.17Nb2O6F. It shows that both structures adopt the pyrochlore type A2B2X6X′ structure [SG: Fd$\bar {3}$m, Z = 8, a = 10.448(1) Å for the Ta compound and a = 10.448(7) Å for the Nb compound]. The BO6 octahedra built the classical pyrochlore [B2X6]2– array, while the F– ions are strictly ordered on the 8b positions, which correspond to the centre of the pyrochlore cages. The Li+, La3+ ions and vacancies located in the hexagonal tunnels are assumed to occupy statistically the A sites in the 16d position. The local structure has been more precisely studied by HREM and 19F solid‐state NMR techniques. The HREM study reveals significant population fluctuations in the 16d site. 19F MAS NMR spectroscopy evidences six different environments for the fluoride ion, [FLi3□] (or [FLi4]), [FLi3La], [FLi2La□], [FLi2La2], [FLiLa2□] and [FLa2□2], whereas fifteen different types of environment are expected if a random distribution of Li+, La3+ and vacancies in the 16d site is assumed. The solid solution composition domains are limited for the highest Li+ ions content (low x value) and for the highest La3+ ions and vacancies content (high x value) because of the low stability of environments rich in Li+ or La3+ ions. It has been shown that La(Li)–F distances decrease with the CN of F– ions, from [FLi3La] to [FLi2La□] and from [FLi2La2] to [FLa2□2] environments. Fluoride ions occupying tetrahedra involving vacancies are brought closer to the corners occupied by Li+ and/or La3+. Finally, the stability of the oxyfluoride pyrochlore phases is discussed.
Spectroscopic and Electrochemical Investigations into the Interactions of Metal Ions with a Ferrocenoyl–Histidine Peptide Conjugate
Authors: Cheng Lan‐Ya , Long Yi‐Tao , Tian He , Kraatz Heinz‐Bernhard
Published: October 2010

A new ferrocene–peptide conjugate Fc‐[His(DNP)‐Gly‐OMe]2 (2) was synthesized and characterized spectroscopically. The conjugate displays the familiar 1,2′‐P helical Herrick conformation in solution and exhibits a reversible one‐electron oxidation at 380 mV versus Fc/Fc+. The interactions of the metal ions Na+, Mg2+, Fe2+, Cu2+, Zn2+, and Cd2+ with conjugate 2 were probed by using a range of techniques, including cyclic voltammetry, and NMR and CD spectroscopies. Electrochemical studies showed that the system exhibits a rare cathodic potential shift upon the addition of metal ions, which followed the order Cu2+ (–436 mV) > Fe2+ (–284 mV) > Zn2+ (–270 mV) > Cd2+ (–238 mV) > Mg2+ (–180 mV) > Na+ (–75 mV). The formation of a 1:1 metal complex was postulated on the basis of CV and NMR spectroscopic titration experiments. The complexes themselves were characterized by electrospray mass spectrometry. NMR spectroscopic studies show that the His imidazole is the site of metal coordination. As is confirmed by CD spectroscopy, metal coordination itself results in conformational changes of the ferrocene core that are dependent on the particular metal ion and its coordination preferences. Whereas P‐helicity of the conjugate is maintained during the interactions with Mg2+, Zn2+, and Cd2+, M‐helicity is adopted for Fe2+ and Cu2+.
Fluorescent Polylactides with Rhenium(bisimine) Cores for Tumour Diagnostics
Authors: Brückmann Nadine E. , Kögel Susanne , Hamacher Alexandra , Kassack Matthias U. , Kunz Peter C.
Published: October 2010

Early tumour detection, for example, by passive delivery of a polymer‐based diagnostic agent, can greatly improve the life expectancy of cancer patients. Here, we present the synthesis of biodegradable 3‐hydroxymethylpyridine‐functionalised polylactides coordinated to Re(CO)3(bisimine) cores [bisimine = bipy (2) phen (3), dppz (4)]. The Re(CO)3(bisimine) polymers 2 and 3 show fluorescence at 560 nm and 572 nm, respectively, with large Stokes shifts, which makes them distinguishable from tissue autofluorescence and therefore suitable diagnostic probes for fluorescence imaging.
Tricarbonyl ReI Complexes from Functionalised Pyridine–Triazole Derivatives: From Mononuclear to Unexpected Dimeric Complexes
Authors: Boulay Alexandre , Seridi Achour , Zedde Chantal , Ladeira Sonia , Picard Claude , Maron Laurent , Benoist Eric
Published: October 2010

As a variation of the commonly used bipy ligand in Re(CO)3 chemistry, a series of structurally related complexes in which bipy is replaced by pyridine–triazole ligands (or pyta) bearing a pendant acetyl group on the triazole ring were prepared efficiently by the click chemistry approach. Depending on the nature of the pendant arm, different ReI complexes were obtained. Surprisingly, starting from the ligand with unprotected acetyl group yielded two structural isomers of Re(CO)3 dimeric species. One isomer (compound 5a) was isolated and characterised by X‐ray crystallography. The rhenium atoms are octahedrally coordinated to three carbonyl groups in fac arrangement and to two nitrogen atoms of one pyta and an oxygen atom of the other. DFT calculations confirmed that the isolated isomer represents the thermodynamically favoured form. As expected, these complexes exhibited luminescence. To conclude, the unexpected formation of 5 represents an original strategy toward the synthesis of new luminescent rhenium(I) dimeric (multimeric) species.
Topology Control of Porous Coordination Polymers by Building Block Symmetry
Authors: Polunin Ruslan A. , Kolotilov Sergey V. , Kiskin Mikhail A. , Cador Olivier , Mikhalyova Elena A. , Lytvynenko Anton S. , Golhen Stéphane , Ouahab Lahcène , Ovcharenko Victor I. , Eremenko Igor L. , Novotortsev Vladimir M. , Pavlishchuk Vitaly V.
Published: October 2010

The coordination polymers [Fe2MO(piv)6(bipy)1.5]n [M = NiII, compound 1, and M = CoII, compound 2; piv = (CH3)3CCO2– and bipy = 4,4′‐bipyridine] were prepared by linking trinuclear heterometallic pivalates, possessing D3h symmetry, by linear molecules of bipy. The complexes are isostructural and are built from 2D doubly interpenetrated “honeycomb” layers. The structure of the starting polynuclear building blocks is retained, which opens the way for the creation of materials with predetermined properties. Zigzag channels in the crystal structures of the compounds can adsorb N2 and H2. Unusual N2 adsorption/desorption hysteresis was observed. Magnetic properties of the polymers are governed by exchange interactions in trinuclear blocks. The χMT vs. T curve for 2 was fitted by taking into account the zero‐field splitting of the CoII ion by using software specially developed for this purpose.
Exceptional Superbasicity of Bis(guanidine) Proton Sponges Imposed by the Bis(secododecahedrane) Molecular Scaffold: A Computational Study
Authors: Margetić Davor , Ishikawa Tsutomu , Kumamoto Takuya
Published: October 2010

The exceptional superbasicity of a series of bis(guanidines) with a bis(secododecahedrane) molecular scaffold was found in the course of a computational study. The 3‐syn,13‐syn‐disubstituted bis(secododecahedrane) skeleton ensures that nitrogen lone pairs of electrons are in close proximity, and the rigid framework of the polycyclic cage guarantees acid/base properties similar to those of proton sponges. Amine functionalization with alkyl substituents, imines, and guanidines leads to high basicity. Based on DFT computations, bis(guanidine)–bis(secododecahedrane) proton sponges with a (1,3‐dimethylimidazolidin‐2‐ylidene)amino moiety are predicted to have very high basicities, both in the gas phase and acetonitrile. This skeleton provides the highest proton affinity(PA) value among all the aliphatic proton sponges reported (288.7 kcal mol–1, whereas the gas‐phase basicity is 284.3 kcal mol–1, at the B3LYP/6‐311+G**//B3LYP/6‐31G* level). In acetonitrile the calculated PA is 319.4 kcal mol–1 and the estimated pKa is 38.5. Substitution of bis(secododecahedrane) with the intrinsically more basic nitrogen functionalities increases the PA to 316.3 kcal mol–1 and the pKa to 46.
Marine Toxins with Spiroimine Rings: Total Synthesis of Pinnatoxin A (Eur. J. Org. Chem. 30/2010)
Authors: Beaumont Stéphane , Ilardi Elizabeth A. , Tappin Nicholas D. C. , Zakarian Armen
Published: October 2010

The cover picture shows the building blocks for the total synthesis of pinnatoxin A as the focal point, culminating with the marine natural product at the top of the stairs. The background reflects a highlight of the Santa Barbara Mission, located in Santa Barbara, California. Founded by Franciscan Friar Fermin de Lasuen on the Feast of St. Barbara in 1786, the mission is the principal cultural and historic landmark of the city. The spiral symbolizes the universal pattern of growth and evolution, as well as the ongoing process of discovery. Details of the total synthesis of pinnatoxin A are presented in the Microreview by A. Zakarian et al. on p. 3743 ff.
Boron adsorption by clinoptilolite using factorial design
Authors: Kavak Duygu
Published: October 2010

In this article, boron removal from aqueous solutions by batch adsorption was investigated and 23 full factorial design was applied. Three parameters affected the performance and two levels of these parameters were investigated. The chosen parameters were temperature (25°C and 45°C), pH (3 and 7), and mass of adsorbent (0.1 g and 1 g). The significance of the effects was checked by analysis of variance (MINITAB‐Version 15). The model‐function equation for boron adsorption on clinoptilolite was obtained. The results showed that temperature, pH, and mass of adsorbent affected boron removal by adsorption. Boron removal increased with increasing pH and adsorbent dosage, but decreased with increasing temperature. The optimum conditions were found as pH = 7, adsorbent dosage = 1 g/25 mL solution, and temperature = 25°C by using factorial design. In addition, the effects of pH, temperature, adsorbent dosage, and initial boron concentration on boron removal were investigated. The adsorption isotherm studies were also performed. Maximum adsorbent capacity (qo) was calculated as 3.64 mg/g. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2010
Witnesses for Darwinian Theory
Authors: Glaubrecht Matthias
Published: October 2010

A visit to the freshwater snails of Sulawesi: the exotic gastropods in the tropical lakes of Southeast Asia provide fascinating insights into evolutionary pathways
Synthesis of new phosphorus ylides: Spectroscopic and X‐ray structural studies
Authors: Sabounchei Seyyed Javad , Shahriary Parisa , Nojini Zabiholla Bolboli , Khavasi Hamid Reza , Arici Cengiz , Dal Hakan
Published: October 2010

Stable phosphoranes, Ar3P = CHCOR (R = C6H5, C6H4NO2, C6H4OCH3, CH3, OCH2C6H5; Ar = p‐tolyl or phenyl), have been C‐acylated by acetic anhydride to obtain new types of phosphorus ylides. Synthesis and characterization of six phosphorus ylides of the type Ar3PC(COCH3)(COR) are reported. The reaction of {(p‐tolyl)3PCHCOC6H5} (I), {(p‐ tolyl)3PCHCOC6H4NO2} (II), {Ph3PCHCOC6H4NO2} (III), {Ph3PCHCOC6H4OCH3} (IV), {(p‐tolyl)3PCHCOCH3} (V), and {Ph3PCHCOOCH2C6H5} (VI) with acetic anhydride in dry chloroform as solvent gives (p‐tolyl)3PC(COMe)(COC6H5), α‐acetyl‐α‐benzoylmethy‐lenetriphenylphosphorane (1), {(p‐tolyl)3PC(COMe) (COC6H4NO2)} (2), {Ph3PC(COMe)(COC6H4NO2)} (3), {Ph3PC(COMe)(COC6H4OCH3)} (4), {(p‐tolyl)3 PC(COCH3)2} (5), and {Ph3PC(COMe)(COOCH2 C6H5)} (6). Single crystal X‐ray analyses for ylides 2, 5, and 6 reveal the monoclinic (2, 5) and triclinic (6) crystal systems. Characterization of the obtained compounds was also performed by elemental analysis, IR, 1H, 31P, and 13C NMR. The geometries of these compounds have been investigated using density functional theory (DFT). In addition, electronic parameters of these compounds such as HOMO and LUMO energy, Mulliken partial charge, and dipole moment were obtained. In this paper, the reactivity of these ylides is discussed in regard to the aforementioned data. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 21:475–485, 2010; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/hc.20633
Über die Wechselwirkung von Serumproteinen und Hefenucleïnsäuren
Authors: Wunderly Ch.
Published: October 2010

Es wird die Wechselwirkung beschrieben von Adenosin‐3‐phosphorsäure sowie von zwei Hefenucleïnsäuren auf die Proteine von Pferdeserum. Zur Charakterisierung wird die Löslichkeit gemessen, die Viskosität, die Säureempfindlichkeit und Fällungsbereitschaft, die Nephelogramme aufgestellt sowie das Dissolutionsvermögen mit Victoriablau geprüft. Die Lösung der drei Nucleïnsäuren im Serum wird als Kolloidpeptisation erklärt; ihre Wechselwirkung mit den Serumproteinen, selbst bei Körpertemperatur, ist gering. Für salzartige Bindung liegen keine Anzeichen vor.
Über Manganite und künstlichen Braunstein
Authors: Feitknecht W. , Marti W.
Published: October 2010

1. Die bei den verschiedenen Darstellungsverfahren entstehenden Mangan(II)‐manganite, sowie die Fremdmetallmanganite, die bei der Umsetzung von Mangan(II)‐salzlösung, die Fremdmetall enthält, gebildet werden, besitzen eine fehlgeordnete Doppelschichtenstruktur, bei der hexagonale Schichten von MnO2 unterteilt sind von ungeordneten Hydroxydschichten von niedrigerwertigem Metall.