bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delayed open access: An overlooked high‐impact category of openly available scientific literature
Authors: Laakso Mikael , Björk Bo‐Christer
Published: May 2013

Delayed open access (OA) refers to scholarly articles in subscription journals made available openly on the web directly through the publisher at the expiry of a set embargo period. Although a substantial number of journals have practiced delayed OA since they started publishing e‐versions, empirical studies concerning OA have often overlooked this body of literature. This study provides comprehensive quantitative measurements by identifying delayed OA journals and collecting data concerning their publication volumes, embargo lengths, and citation rates. Altogether, 492 journals were identified, publishing a combined total of 111,312 articles in 2011; 77.8% of these articles were made OA within 12 months from publication, with 85.4% becoming available within 24 months. A journal impact factor analysis revealed that delayed OA journals have citation rates on average twice as high as those of closed subscription journals and three times as high as immediate OA journals. Overall, the results demonstrate that delayed OA journals constitute an important segment of the openly available scholarly journal literature, both by their sheer article volume and by including a substantial proportion of high‐impact journals.
Exogenous 1,4‐butyrolactone stimulates A‐factor‐like cascade and validamycin biosynthesis in Streptomyces hygroscopicus 5008
Authors: Tan Gao‐Yi , Bai Linquan , Zhong Jian‐Jiang
Published: May 2013

γ‐Butyrolactones (GBLs), such as A‐factor, are one type of signaling molecules produced by Streptomyces species and have been reported to regulate secondary metabolism. However, they are usually produced in very small amount, which has hindered their structural elucidation and application for antibiotic overproduction. In this work, 1,4‐butyrolactone (1,4‐BL), as an easily accessible and cheap analogue of GBLs, was applied to the fermentation of validamycin A (VAL‐A), an important antifungal antibiotic produced by Streptomyces hygroscopicus 5008. The addition of 1,4‐BL enhanced VAL‐A production by 30% in both shaking flasks and bioreactors. The transcriptional levels of the adpA homologue (adpA–H) and VAL‐A biosynthetic genes were significantly increased. Among the three A‐factor receptor homologous genes identified in the genome of S. hygroscopicus 5008, shbR3 was proved to be responsible for the inducing activity of 1,4‐BL by gene disruption and circular dichroism analysis, and ShbR3 could bind to the promoter region of adpA–H as indicated by EMSA analysis. Furthermore, the mutation of adpA–H abolished the transcription of VAL‐A biosynthetic genes and VAL‐A productivity. In EMSA analysis, AdpA–H could directly bind to the promoter regions of VAL‐A gene cluster. Moreover, addition of the 1,4‐BL also improved the VAL‐A production in a high‐yielding strain TL01. The results showed that 1,4‐BL could stimulate A‐factor‐like cascade and subsequently enhance VAL‐A production in S. hygroscopicus 5008. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013;110: 2984–2993. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transdisciplinary Research in Sustainable Operations – An Application to Closed‐Loop Supply Chains
Authors: Sahamie Ramin , Stindt Dennis , Nuss Christian
Published: May 2013

This contribution provides implications for academic research and practitioners, as it identifies the lack, necessity and major benefits of transdisciplinary research and the collaboration of academics and industry in order to fulfill the goals of a sustainable supply chain. Closed‐loop supply chain management is a major contributor to implementing sustainable operations. An essential prerequisite for successful realization is the expertise and cooperation of representatives from engineering, management and natural sciences as well as practice. We identify a need for transdisciplinary collaboration within two steps. First, a literature review points out that various research disciplines as well as practice mostly operate in isolation. Second, we develop a framework that highlights the benefits of collaboration between these research areas. This paper provides an overview to better understand current trends in this complex field, which is a rich area for research that is still in its infancy. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
ChemInform Abstract: Crystal Structure and Phase Transition Mechanisms in CsFe2F6.
Authors: Molokeev M. S. , Bogdanov E. V. , Misyul S. V. , Tressaud A. , Flerov I. N.
Published: May 2013

Single crystals of CsFe2F6 are obtained by solid state reaction of a stoichiometric mixture of CsF, FeF2, and FeF3 (sealed Pt crucible, 750 °C, controlled cooling).
ChemInform Abstract: Structural and Magnetic Properties of the M2Ga2Fe2O9 (M: In, Sc) Oxides.
Authors: Ciomaga Hatnean Monica , Pinsard‐Gaudart Loreynne , Fernandez‐Diaz Maria Theresa , Petit Sylvain , Dixit Ambesh , Lawes Gavin , Suryanarayanan R.
Published: May 2013

In2Ga2Fe2O9 and Sc2Ga2Fe2O9 are prepared by solid state reaction of stoichiometric mixtures of M2O3 (M: In, Sc), Ga2O3, and Fe2O3 (air, 11375—1400 °C, 24—30 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Investigation of a New Willemite‐Type Compound, (Li, Na, H)0.16Zn1.92SiO4.
Authors: Park S.‐H. , Chucholowski C. J. , Lara L. Garcia B. , Hoelzel M. , Paulmann C.
Published: May 2013

The title compound is synthesized by solid state reaction of SiO2, ZnO, Li2CO3, and Na2CO3 using an optimized ratio of 1:0.63:0.04:0.13 resp.
ChemInform Abstract: The Dimeric [V2O2F8]4‐ Anion: Structural Characterization of a Magnetic Basic‐Building‐Unit.
Authors: Lu Hongcheng , Gautier Romain , Li Zuo‐Xi , Jie Wanqi , Liu Zhengtang , Poeppelmeier Kenneth R.
Published: May 2013

Green single crystals of [dpaH2]2[V2O2F8] are prepared by hydrothermal reaction of 2,2′‐dipyridylamine (dpa) and VO2 in aqueous HF (200 °C, 24 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Rhodium—Cobalt Bimetallic Nanoparticles: A Catalyst for Selective Hydrogenation of Unsaturated Carbon—Carbon Bonds with Hydrous Hydrazine.
Authors: Lin Jin , Chen Jing , Su Weiping
Published: May 2013

This simple protocol shows high tolerance to functional groups.
ChemInform Abstract: A Simple Metal‐Promoted Three‐Step Access to n/5/m Angular Carbocyclic Systems
Authors: Barluenga Jose , Alvarez‐Fernandez Ana , Suarez‐Rodriguez Tatiana , Suarez‐Sobrino Angel L. , Tomas Miguel
Published: May 2013

using a cyclopentannulation of propargylmalonates and Fischer carbenes as key step
ChemInform Abstract: An Ullmann C—O Coupling Reaction Catalyzed by Magnetic Copper Ferrite Nanoparticles.
Authors: Yang Shuliang , Wu Cunqi , Zhou Hua , Yang Yanqin , Zhao Yongxia , Wang Chenxu , Yang Wei , Xu Jingwei
Published: May 2013

An efficient Ullmann C—O coupling reaction is developed, which tolerates a wide range of different functional groups.
ChemInform Abstract: Heterocoupling of 2‐Naphthols Enabled by a Copper‐N‐heterocyclic Carbene Complex.
Authors: Holtz‐Mulholland Michael , de Leseleuc Mylene , Collins Shawn K.
Published: May 2013

The reactivity of a Cu‐NHC‐catalyst for oxidative coupling is modulated by a small molecule additive, diethyl malonate, that slows over‐oxidation of 2‐naphthols (I) and (II).
ChemInform Abstract: Aerobic Dehydrogenative Heck Reactions of Heterocycles with Styrenes: A Negative Effect of Metallic Co‐Oxidants.
Authors: Vasseur Alexandre , Harakat Dominique , Muzart Jacques , Le Bras Jean
Published: May 2013

Aerobic dehydrogenative Heck reactions of heterocycles with styrene derivatives are shown to be more efficient in the absence of metallic co‐oxidants.
ChemInform Abstract: An Entry to Polysubstituted Furans via the Oxidative Ring‐Opening of Furan Ring Employing NBS as an Oxidant.
Authors: Yu Huiyue , Zhong Weiqiang , He Tingyu , Gu Wenxiang , Yin Biaolin
Published: May 2013

The reaction proceeds through NBS‐mediated oxidative dearomatization of the furan ring followed by spirocyclization and aromatization.
ChemInform Abstract: Tandem Reaction Between Chalcone Epoxides and 2‐Naphthyl Ethers to Construct Complex Naphtho[2,1‐b]furans.
Authors: Huo Congde , An Jinzhu , Xu Xiaolan , Jia Xiaodong , Wang Xicun , Kang Lisheng
Published: May 2013

Annulation of 2‐naphthyl ethers with chalcone epoxides in the presence of a stable triarylium hexachloroantimonate is followed by aerobic oxidative aromatization.
ChemInform Abstract: Convenient Method for the Preparation of the 2‐Methyl Thiophen‐3‐yl Magnesium Bromide Lithium Chloride Complex and Its Application to the Synthesis of 3‐Substituted 2‐Methylthiophenes.
Authors: Kogami Masakazu , Watanabe Nobuhide
Published: May 2013

LiCl significantly accelerates the formation of Grignard reagent from inactive 3‐bromo‐2‐methylthiophene (I) and thus provides access to a variety of 3‐substituted 2‐methylthiophenes (15 examples).
ChemInform Abstract: New Bispyrazoline Derivatives Built Around Aliphatic Chains: Synthesis, Characterization and Antimicrobial Studies.
Authors: Yusuf Mohamad , Jain Payal
Published: May 2013

Most of the new bispyrazolines (V) (8 examples) possess good antimicrobial activities.
ChemInform Abstract: Iron Sulfide Catalyzed Redox/Condensation Cascade Reaction Between 2‐Amino/Hydroxy Nitrobenzenes and Activated Methyl Groups: A Straightforward Atom Economical Approach to 2‐Hetarylbenzimidazoles and ‐benzoxazoles.
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Binh , Ermolenko Ludmila , Al‐Mourabit Ali
Published: May 2013

The reaction does not require any oxidizing or reducing agent and proceeds without any solvent.
ChemInform Abstract: A New and Efficient Synthesis of 1,3,4‐Oxadiazole Derivatives Using TBTU.
Authors: Maghari Shokoofeh , Ramezanpour Sorour , Darvish Fatemeh , Balalaie Saeed , Rominger Frank , Bijanzadeh Hamid Reza
Published: May 2013

This is a simple and environmentally benign procedure with mild reaction conditions compared to other reported methods.
ChemInform Abstract: Discovery of Novel 1,4‐Dihydropyridine‐Based PDE4 Inhibitors.
Authors: Poondra Rajamohan R. , et al. et al.
Published: May 2013

A series of novel 1,4‐dihydropyridine derivatives (IV) (30 examples) are synthesized via a modified Hantzsch reaction and evaluated for their inhibitory potencies against phosphodiesterase 4.
ChemInform Abstract: Rh(III)‐Catalyzed Regioselective Synthesis of Pyridines from Alkenes and α,β‐Unsaturated Oxime Esters.
Authors: Neely Jamie M. , Rovis Tomislav
Published: May 2013

The reaction with activated alkenes is exceptionally regioselective.
ChemInform Abstract: A Mild and Efficient Synthesis of a Chiral Pyridazinone Derivative.
Authors: Kojima Akihiko , Kohno Yasushi
Published: May 2013

The key‐step of this synthesis is a one‐pot hydrazide generation / cyclization sequence under mild conditions without racemization.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of 7‐Cycloalkylimino Substituted 3‐Amino‐6‐fluoro‐2‐methyl‐3H‐quinazolin‐4‐ones.
Authors: Nosova Emiliya V. , Lipunova Galina N. , Slepukhin Pavel A. , Charushin Valery N.
Published: May 2013

The title compounds (V) are obtained by nucleophilic amination‐defluorination reaction of the 6,7‐difluoro derivative of 3‐amino‐2‐methyl‐3H‐quinazolin‐4‐one (III).
ChemInform Abstract: One‐Pot Synthesis of Unsymmetrical Benzils and N‐Heteroarenes Through Nucleophilic Aroylation Catalyzed by N‐Heterocyclic Carbene.
Authors: Suzuki Yumiko , Murofushi Mai , Manabe Kei
Published: May 2013

N‐phenylbenzimidoyl chlorides (I) are readily obtained by chlorination of benzanilides.The method is applied to the synthesis of quinoxalines (IV) and pyrazines (VII).
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of 1‐(6‐Methylpyridin‐2‐yl)‐5‐(quinoxalin‐6‐yl)‐1,2,3‐triazoles as Transforming Growth Factor‐β Type 1 Receptor Kinase Inhibitors.
Authors: Li Fei , Park Yunjeong , Hah Jung‐Mi , Ryu Jae‐Sang
Published: May 2013

A variety of the title triazole derivatives (VI) (11 examples) are designed, synthesized using click chemistry, and evaluated as novel ALKS inhibitors.
ChemInform Abstract: A Flexible Metal‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Highly Substituted Aryl Phenanthrenyl Selenides.
Authors: Lim Wontaeck , Rhee Young Ho
Published: May 2013

An efficient and highly selective method for the synthesis of the title compounds, which are important in biology and materials science, proceeds under very mild conditions and within short reaction times.
ChemInform Abstract: Hydration of Terminal Alkynes Catalyzed by Water‐Soluble Cobalt Porphyrin Complexes.
Authors: Tachinami Tadashi , Nishimura Takuho , Ushimaru Richiro , Noyori Ryoji , Naka Hiroshi
Published: May 2013

The reaction represents the first example of the cobalt‐catalyzed hydration of alkynes.
ChemInform Abstract: Lysilactones A—C (Ia‐c), Three 6H‐Dibenzo[b,d]pyran‐6‐one Glycosides from Lysimachia clethroides, Total Synthesis of Lysilactone A (Ia).
Authors: Liang Dong , Luo Huan , Liu Yan‐Fei , Hao Zhi‐You , Wang Yan , Zhang Chun‐Lei , Zhang Qing‐Jian , Chen Ruo‐Yun , Yu De‐Quan
Published: May 2013

This is the first report of 6H‐dibenzo[b,d]pyran‐6‐one glycosides from natural sources.
ChemInform Abstract: Strongly Coupled Inorganic—Nano‐Carbon Hybrid Materials for Energy Storage
Authors: Wang Hailiang , Dai Hongjie
Published: May 2013

Review: 289 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Computational Chemistry Approach for White LED (Oxy)nitride Phosphors
Authors: Mikami Masayoshi
Published: May 2013

Review: 75 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Bioconjugation on Cube‐Octameric Silsesquioxanes
Authors: Fabritz Sebastian , Hoerner Sebastian , Avrutina Olga , Kolmar Harald
Published: May 2013

Review: 131 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Iodine in Modern Oxidation Catalysis
Authors: Finkbeiner Peter , Nachtsheim Boris J.
Published: May 2013

Review: ca. 150 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Structural Aspects of Gut Peptides with Therapeutic Potential for Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Hewage Chandralal M. , Venneti Kalyana C.
Published: May 2013

Review: about 100 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: π‐Extended Isomeric and Expanded Porphyrins
Authors: Roznyatovskiy Vladimir V. , Lee Chang‐Hee , Sessler Jonathan L.
Published: May 2013

Review: 50 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Frustrated Crystallization and Hierarchical Self‐Assembly Behavior of Comb‐Like Polymers
Authors: Shi Haifeng , Zhao Ying , Dong Xia , Zhou Yong , Wang Dujin
Published: May 2013

Review: 231 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Controlled Synthesis of Colloidal Silver Nanoparticles in Organic Solutions: Empirical Rules for Nucleation Engineering
Authors: Sun Yugang
Published: May 2013

Review: 76 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Tensors and Rotations in NMR
Authors: Mueller Leonard J.
Published: May 2013

Review: 26 refs.
Caudo‐rostral brain spreading of α‐synuclein through vagal connections
Authors: Ulusoy Ayse , Rusconi Raffaella , Pérez‐Revuelta Blanca I. , Musgrove Ruth E. , Helwig Michael , Winzen‐Reichert Bettina , Monte Donato A. Di
Published: May 2013

α‐Synuclein accumulation and pathology in Parkinson's disease typically display a caudo‐rostral pattern of progression, involving neuronal nuclei in the medulla oblongata at the earliest stages. In this study, selective expression and accumulation of human α‐synuclein within medullary neurons was achieved via retrograde transport of adeno‐associated viral vectors unilaterally injected into the vagus nerve in the rat neck. The exogenous protein progressively spread toward more rostral brain regions where it could be detected within axonal projections. Propagation to the pons, midbrain and forebrain followed a stereotypical pattern of topographical distribution. It affected areas such as the coeruleus–subcoeruleus complex, dorsal raphae, hypothalamus and amygdala ipsilateral and, to a lesser extent, contralateral to the injection side. Spreading was accompanied by evidence of neuritic pathology in the form of axonal varicosities intensely immunoreactive for human α‐synuclein and containing Thioflavin‐S‐positive fibrils. Thus, overexpression of human α‐synuclein in the lower brainstem is sufficient to induce its long‐distance caudo‐rostral propagation, recapitulating features of Parkinson's disease and mechanisms of disease progression.
Effect of Viscous Dissipation and Internal Heat Generation/Absorption on Heat Transfer Flow Over a Moving Wedge With Convective Boundary Condition
Authors: Ahmad Rashid , Khan Waqar Ahmed
Published: May 2013

In this study, the effects of viscous dissipation and internal heat generation/absorption on heat transfer viscous flow over a moving wedge in the presence of suction or injection with a convective boundary condition have been carried out numerically for various values of dimensionless parameters. With the help of similarity transformation, the momentum and energy equations are reduced to a set of coupled non‐linear ordinary differential equations. These equations are solved using the Runge–Kutta fourth‐order method with a shooting technique. The variation in the dimensionless temperature, velocity, heat transfer coefficient, and shear stress have been presented in tabular as well as in graphical form for a range of controlling parameters. It is shown that the dimensionless heat transfer rate is a strong function of viscous dissipation and convective parameters and heat transfer shows an enhanced behavior with the stretching parameter for both the favorable and unfavorable regimes. It is also shown that in the presence of a heat source, the dimensionless temperature and its gradients in thermal boundary layers are found to be high for a high value of the convection parameter. The comparison of present results with the available data shows a good agreement. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heat Trans Asian Res, 42(7): 589–602, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/htj). DOI 10.1002/htj.21055
Use of multi-criteria decision analysis in regulatory alternatives analysis: A case study of lead free solder
Authors: Malloy Timothy F , Sinsheimer Peter J , Blake Ann , Linkov Igor
Published: May 2013

Regulators are implementing new programs that require manufacturers of products containing certain chemicals of concern to identify, evaluate, and adopt viable, safer alternatives. Such programs raise the difficult question for policymakers and regulated businesses of which alternatives are “viable” and “safer.” To address that question, these programs use “alternatives analysis,” an emerging methodology that integrates issues of human health and environmental effects with technical feasibility and economic impact. Despite the central role that alternatives analysis plays in these programs, the methodology itself is neither well-developed nor tailored to application in regulatory settings. This study uses the case of Pb-based bar solder and its non-Pb-based alternatives to examine the application of 2 multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) methods to alternatives analysis: multi-attribute utility analysis and outranking. The article develops and evaluates an alternatives analysis methodology and supporting decision-analysis software for use in a regulatory context, using weighting of the relevant decision criteria generated from a stakeholder elicitation process. The analysis produced complete rankings of the alternatives, including identification of the relative contribution to the ranking of each of the highest level decision criteria such as human health impacts, technical feasibility, and economic feasibility. It also examined the effect of variation in data conventions, weighting, and decision frameworks on the outcome. The results indicate that MCDA can play a critical role in emerging prevention-based regulatory programs. Multi-criteria decision analysis methods offer a means for transparent, objective, and rigorous analysis of products and processes, providing regulators and stakeholders with a common baseline understanding of the relative performance of alternatives and the trade-offs they present. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2013;9:652–664. © 2013 SETAC
Osteogenesis of Heterotopically Transplanted Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in Rat Models of Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Kramann Rafael , Kunter Uta , Brandenburg Vincent M , Leisten Isabelle , Ehling Josef , Klinkhammer Barbara M , Knüchel Ruth , Floege Jürgen , Schneider Rebekka K
Published: May 2013

The current study is based on the hypothesis of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) contributing to soft-tissue calcification and ectopic osteogenesis in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Rat MSCs were transplanted intraperitoneally in an established three-dimensional collagen-based model in healthy control animals and two rat models of CKD and vascular calcification: (1) 5/6 nephrectomy + high phosphorus diet; and (2) adenine nephropathy. As internal controls, collagen gels without MSCs were transplanted in the same animals. After 4 and 8 weeks, MSCs were still detectable and proliferating in the collagen gels (fluorescence-activated cell sorting [FACS] analysis and confocal microscopy after fluorescence labeling of the cells). Aortas and MSC-containing collagen gels in CKD animals showed distinct similarities in calcification (micro–computed tomography [µCT], energy-dispersive X-ray [EDX] analysis, calcium content), induction of osteogenic markers, (ie, bone morphogenic protein 2 [BMP-2], Runt related transcription factor 2 [Runx2], alkaline phosphatase [ALP]), upregulation of the osteocytic marker sclerostin and extracellular matrix remodeling with increased expression of osteopontin, collagen I/III/IV, fibronectin, and laminin. Calcification, osteogenesis, and matrix remodeling were never observed in healthy control animals and non-MSC–containing collagen gels in all groups. Paul Karl Horan 26 (PKH-26)-labeled, 3G5-positive MSCs expressed Runx2 and sclerostin in CKD animals whereas PKH-26-negative migrated cells did not express osteogenic markers. In conclusion, heterotopically implanted MSCs undergo osteogenic differentiation in rat models of CKD-induced vascular calcification, supporting our hypothesis of MSCs as possible players in heterotopic calcification processes of CKD patients. © 2013 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Higher dose dobutamine stress MR imaging in repaired tetralogy of fallot: Observer variance of volumetric assessment compared with normal volunteers
Authors: Parish Victoria , Valverde Israel , Kutty Shelby , Head Catherine , Greil Gerald F. , Schaeffter Tobias , Razavi Reza , Beerbaum Philipp
Published: May 2013

Purpose

To investigate changes in image quality and observer variance between rest and higher‐dose dobutamine stress MR imaging (DS‐MR) in tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) patients and in a group of normal healthy volunteers using both axial and short axis orientation for cardiac volumetric assessment.

Materials and Methods

Eighteen adult patients (age 34 ± 13) with TOF and severe pulmonary regurgitation and 10 healthy volunteers underwent ventricular MR volumetry at baseline and during dobutamine infusion of 10 μg/kg/min and 20 μg/kg/min. Inter‐observer and intra‐observer agreement was calculated by coefficient of variance (COV).

Results

Inter‐observer comparison showed good agreement for left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle (RV) end‐diastolic volumes at rest and both stress levels in TOF patients (axial geometry) and in normal volunteers (short axis). During dobutamine stress, the COV in TOF patients increased for LV end‐systolic volume (LV‐ESV) with each level, suggesting less agreement between observers. In contrast, RV‐ESV was much more comparable with a COV < 10 at each condition. All volumetric measurements in normal volunteers showed good inter‐observer agreement. Excellent intra‐observer agreement could be seen for all volumetric parameters with COV levels below 7.

Conclusion

Volumetric assessment during DS‐MR shows excellent inter‐observer agreement, except for LV‐ESV in the TOF patients at higher doses of dobutamine. The axial geometry appears to be reproducible for assessment of RV parameters, and could be considered superior to short axis imaging in patients with repaired TOF. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;38:1356–1361. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A 22‐channel receive array with Helmholtz transmit coil for anesthetized macaque MRI at 3 T
Authors: Janssens Thomas , Keil Boris , Serano Peter , Mareyam Azma , McNab Jennifer A. , Wald Lawrence L. , Vanduffel Wim
Published: May 2013

The macaque monkey is an important model for cognitive and sensory neuroscience that has been used extensively in behavioral, electrophysiological, molecular and, more recently, neuroimaging studies. However, macaque MRI has unique technical differences relative to human MRI, such as the geometry of highly parallel receive arrays, which must be addressed to optimize imaging performance. A 22‐channel receive coil array was constructed specifically for rapid high‐resolution anesthetized macaque monkey MRI at 3 T. A local Helmholtz transmit coil was used for excitation. Signal‐to‐noise ratios (SNRs) and noise amplification for parallel imaging were compared with those of single‐ and four‐channel receive coils routinely used for macaque MRI. The 22‐channel coil yielded significant improvements in SNR throughout the brain. Using this coil, the SNR in peripheral brain was 2.4 and 1.7 times greater than that obtained with single‐ or four‐channel coils, respectively. In the central brain, the SNR gain was 1.5 times that of both the single‐ and four‐channel coils. Finally, the performance of the array for functional, anatomical and diffusion‐weighted imaging was evaluated. For all three modalities, the use of the 22‐channel array allowed for high‐resolution and accelerated image acquisition. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Taphonomic Analysis of Micromammal Remains from Striped Owl (Pseudoscops clamator) Pellets in Northeastern Buenos Aires Province, Argentina: Implications for Archaeological Sites Formation
Authors: Rudzik S. M. , Fernández F. J. , Carrera J. D.
Published: May 2013

The main objective of this study was to determine the taxonomic and taphonomic characteristics of the micromammal remains recovered from pellets ofPseudoscops clamator(striped owl), collected at three localities in northeastern Buenos Aires Province, Argentina (Punta Lara Natural Reserve, 34°49'02,6''S, 58°03'03,9''W; Costanera Sur Ecological Reserve, 34°36'6,44" S, 58°21'33,22" W; Los Robles Park, 34°40'22,03''S, 58°52'18,88''W). The main taphonomic variables (e.g. evidence of digestive action, breakage patterns and relative abundance of skeletal elements) suggest that this owl mainly produces intermediate to moderate modification. On the other hand,P.clamatorpreyed mainly upon large‐sized (>150 g) micromammals (e.g.Lutreolina crassicaudata,Cavia aperea,Holochilus brasiliensisandRattussp.), and to a lesser degree on medium‐ (50–150 g) and small‐sized species (<50 g) (e.g.Scapteromys aquaticus,Calomyssp.,Oligoryzomys flavescens,Akodon azaraeandMus musculus). Fossil assemblages with a dominance of large‐sized micromammals are commonly associated with humans as agents of accumulation. However, this study demonstrates that this owl produces assemblages with abundant large‐sized micromammals, which introduces an equifinality problem. In that sense, digestive corrosion marks, breakage patterns and the relative abundance of skeletal remains are the main attributes to differentiateP.clamatorfrom humans, as agents of accumulation. Finally, our results might serve as an analytical model for the taphonomic interpretation of the fossil record of micromammals from paleontological and archaeological sites, which fall within the distributional range and habitat ofP.clamator. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pilot study of cisplatin, etoposide, bleomycin, and escalating dose cyclophosphamide therapy for children with high risk germ cell tumors: A report of the children's oncology group (COG)
Authors: Malogolowkin Marcio H. , Krailo Mark , Marina Neyssa , Olson Thomas , Frazier A. Lindsay
Published: May 2013

Background

To establish the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and toxicity profile of cyclophosphamide with cisplatin, etoposide, and bleomycin (C‐PEB) in children with high‐risk malignant germ cell tumors (HR‐MGCT).

Procedure

Eligibility criteria included untreated patients ≤ 21 years of age with stage III/IV extragonadal, extra cranial MGCT. Patients received four cycles (repeated every 3 weeks) of cisplatin (20 mg/m2/day × 5 days), etoposide (100 mg/m2/day × 5 days), and bleomycin (15 mg/m2 on Day 1) with escalating doses of cyclophosphamide on Day 1, assigned at the time of enrollment (1.2, 1.8, or 2.4 g/m2). Patients with complete response had therapy discontinued. Patients with residual disease underwent second‐look surgery, those with pathologic evidence of residual MGCT or whose markers had not normalized received two more cycles. All other patients had protocol therapy stopped.

Results

Nineteen patients were enrolled between July 2004 and August 2007. Three patients were non‐evaluable. Sixteen patients completed four cycles. Eleven had complete response, one had progressive disease and four had partial response. All four with partial response underwent second look surgery followed by two more cycles. Only one patient, on dose 1.8 g/m2, experienced dose‐limiting toxicity (DLT) during the first cycle of therapy (grade 3 hyperglycemia). The 4‐year EFS and OS (± standard deviation) were 74 ± 7% and 89 ± 10%, respectively.

Conclusion

The addition of cyclophosphamide to the standard PEB regimen (cisplatin, etoposide, and bleomycin) is feasible and well‐tolerated at all dose levels used on this study. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013;60:1602–1605. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Routine clonal expansion of mesenchymal stem cells derived from amniotic fluid for perinatal applications
Authors: Zia Silvia , Toelen Jaan , Mori da Cunha Marina , DeKoninck Philip , de Coppi Paolo , Deprest Jan
Published: May 2013

Introduction

Stem cells (SCs) isolated from amniotic fluid (AF) are a promising source for autologous perinatal cell therapy. The aim of this study was to develop a routine isolation, selection, and expansion protocol of clonal SC lines from redundant clinical amniocentesis samples.

Materials and methods

Amniotic fluids were collected between 15 and 22 weeks of gestation, and SCs were isolated by CD117‐based and mechanical selection protocols. SCs were characterized by mesenchymal SC marker expression and differentiation protocols. Cells were manipulated with a lentiviral vector system expressing the β‐galactosidase reporter gene and were injected into immunodeficient newborn mouse pups. Qualitative assessment was performed to detect the infused cells after 1 week.

Results

A total of 78 clonal AF SC populations were successfully isolated by mechanical selection from 21 consecutive amniocentesis samples. They were positive for mesenchymal SC cluster of differentiation markers and could be differentiated into the different lineages. SCs were stably labeled using β‐galactosidase and were detected in the lungs and hearts of the neonatal mice.

Conclusion

We demonstrate that mesenchymal SCs can be routinely isolated and clonally expanded from mid‐gestation human AF using mechanical isolation. They can easily be transduced and be tested for perinatal treatment in animal models. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of echocardiographic findings in fetuses at less than 15 weeks' gestation with later cardiac evaluation
Authors: Zidere V. , Bellsham‐Revell H. , Persico N. , Allan L. D.
Published: May 2013

Objective

To compare the echocardiographic findings in fetuses at < 15 weeks' gestation with a later follow‐up scan, and determine both the accuracy of early diagnosis and the frequency of findings that change between scans.

Methods

For the period 2002 to the end of 2009, we searched our database for all patients who had had a detailed fetal echocardiogram at less than 15 completed weeks' gestation and a repeat scan at least 6 weeks later.

Results

Of 1200 patients fulfilling our selection criteria, the cardiac findings were normal at both scans in 1069. In 46 cases the same cardiac abnormality was seen at both scans. There was a false‐positive diagnosis at early scan in seven cases. In 50 cases, there were mildly abnormal functional findings early in pregnancy with no abnormality found later. In 29 fetuses, there was discordance between the early and later morphological diagnosis, 15/29 being considered significant differences, with 10/15 representing true progression of findings between the early and later scans, rather than missed or incorrect diagnoses.

Conclusions

A high degree of accuracy in the identification of congenital heart disease can be achieved by early fetal echocardiography (sensitivity 84.8 (95% CI, 75.0–91.9)%, specificity 95.3 (95% CI, 93.9–96.4)%), although the identification of every case of tetralogy of Fallot and small atrioventricular septal defects presents particular diagnostic challenges at this gestational age. A small but significant group showed progression of findings during this stage of rapid fetal heart growth, particularly in obstructive lesions. Copyright © 2013 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Role of continental recycling in intraseasonal variations of continental moisture as deduced from model simulations and water vapor isotopic measurements
Authors: Risi Camille , Noone David , Frankenberg Christian , Worden John
Published: May 2013

Climate models suggest an important role for land‐atmosphere feedbacks on climate, but exhibit a large dispersion in the simulation of this role. We focus here on the role of continental recycling in the intraseasonal variability of continental moisture, and we explore the possibility of using water isotopic measurements to observationally constrain this role. Based on water tagging, we design a diagnostic, named D1, to estimate the role of continental recycling on the intraseasonal variability of continental moisture simulated by the general circulation model LMDZ. In coastal regions, the intraseasonal variability of continental moisture is mainly driven by the variability in oceanic moisture convergence. More inland, the role of continental recycling becomes important. The simulation of this role is sensitive to model parameters modulating evapotranspiration. Then we show that δD in the low‐level water vapor is a good tracer for continental recycling, due to the enriched signature of transpiration. Over tropical land regions, the intraseasonal relationship between δD and precipitable water, named D1_iso, is a good observational proxy for D1. We test the possibility of using D1_iso for model evaluation using two satellite data sets: GOSAT and TES. LMDZ captures well the spatial patterns of D1_iso, but underestimates its values. However, a more accurate description of how atmospheric processes affect the isotopic composition of water vapor is necessary before concluding with certitude that LMDZ underestimates the role of continental recycling.
Migrant Networks and International Migration: Testing Weak Ties
Authors: Liu Mao-Mei
Published: May 2013

This article examines the role of migrant social networks in international migration and extends prior research by testing the strength of tie theory, decomposing networks by sources and resources, and disentangling network effects from complementary explanations. Nearly all previous empirical research has ignored friendship ties and has largely neglected extended-family ties. Using longitudinal data from the Migration between Africa and Europe project collected in Africa (Senegal) and Europe (France, Italy, and Spain), this article tests the robustness of network theory—and in particular, the role of weak ties—on first-time migration between Senegal and Europe. Discrete-time hazard model results confirm that weak ties are important and that network influences appear to be gendered, but they do not uphold the contention in previous literature that strong ties are more important than weak ties for male and female migration. Indeed, weak ties play an especially important role in male migration. In terms of network resources, having more resources as a result of strong ties appears to dampen overall migration, while having more resources as a result of weaker ties appears to stimulate male migration. Finally, the diversity of resources has varied effects for male and female migration.
Profiling spontaneous speech decline in Alzheimer's disease: a longitudinal study
Authors: Forbes-McKay Katrina , Shanks Michael F , Venneri Annalena
Published: May 2013

Objective

This study aims to document the nature and progression of spontaneous speech impairment suffered by patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) over a 12-month period, using both cross-sectional and prospective longitudinal design.

Methods

Thirty one mild–moderate AD patients and 30 controls matched for age and socio-cultural background completed a simple and complex oral description task at baseline. The AD patients then underwent follow-up assessments at 6 and 12 months.

Results

Cross-sectional comparisons indicated that mild–moderate AD patients produced more word-finding delays (WFDs) and empty and indefinite phrases, while producing fewer pictorial themes, repairing fewer errors, responding to fewer WFDs, produce shorter and less complex phrases and produce speech with less intonational contour than controls. However, the two groups could not be distinguished on the basis of phonological paraphasias. Longitudinal follow-up, however, suggested that phonological processing deteriorates over time, where the prevalence of phonological errors increased over 12 months.

Discussion

Consistent with findings from neuropsychological, neuropathological and neuroimaging studies, the language deterioration shown by the AD patients shows a pattern of impairment dominated by semantic errors, which is later joined by a disruption in the phonological aspects of speech.
On the Possibility of Habitable Moons in the System of HD 23079: Results from Orbital Stability Studies
Authors: Cuntz M. , Quarles B. , Eberle J. , Shukayr A.
Published: May 2013

The aim of our study is to investigate the possibility of habitable moons orbiting the giant planet HD 23079b, a Jupiter-mass planet, which follows a low-eccentricity orbit in the outer region of HD 23079’s habitable zone. We show that HD 23079b is able to host habitable moons in prograde and retrograde orbits, as expected, noting that the outer stability limit for retrograde orbits is increased by nearly 90% compared with that of prograde orbits, a result consistent with previous generalised studies. For the targeted parameter space, it was found that the outer stability limit for habitable moons varies between 0.05236 and 0.06955 AU (prograde orbits) and between 0.1023 and 0.1190 AU (retrograde orbits), depending on the orbital parameters of the Jupiter-type planet if a minimum mass is assumed. These intervals correspond to 0.306 and 0.345 (prograde orbits) and 0.583 and 0.611 (retrograde orbits) of the planet's Hill radius. Larger stability limits are obtained if an increased value for the planetary mass mp is considered; they are consistent with the theoretically deduced relationship of m1/3p. Finally, we compare our results with the statistical formulae of Domingos, Winter, & Yokoyama, indicating both concurrence and limitations.
Cross-sectional study of factors that influence the 25-hydroxyvitamin D status in pregnant women and in cord blood in Germany
Authors: Wuertz Catrin , Gilbert Peter , Baier Wolfgang , Kunz Clemens
Published: May 2013

There is increasing evidence of an association between a low maternal vitamin D status and a high risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. In a cross-sectional study, we investigated the vitamin D status of pregnant women to determine potentially influencing factors. Between December 2010 and February 2012, 261 maternal blood samples and 328 cord blood samples were collected for the analysis of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), intact parathyroid hormone, alkaline phosphatase and Ca concentrations. Demographical characteristics and clinical data were recorded by a questionnaire and from medical files. The overall median maternal and cord blood 25(OH)D levels were 25·0 (interquartile range 12·6–45·5) nmol/l and 34·1 (interquartile range 17·7–58·6) nmol/l, respectively. During the winter months, 98 % of the maternal blood samples and 94 % of the cord blood samples had 25(OH)D levels < 50 nmol/l. In the summer months, 49 % of the women and 35 % of the cord blood samples were vitamin D deficient. Using logistic regression models, significant risk factors for maternal vitamin D deficiency were found to be physical inactivity (adjusted OR (aOR) 2·67, 95 % CI 1·06, 6·69, P= 0·032) and a non-European country of origin (aOR 3·21, 95 % CI 1·0, 10·28, P= 0·047) after controlling for season and independent risk factors. These results are the first 25(OH)D data for pregnant women in Germany. They indicate the need for urgent implementation of strategies to prevent vitamin D deficiency by healthcare authorities that are in charge of preventing vitamin D deficiency, especially during these sensitive stages of life.
Ideas, Executive Federalism and Institutional Change: Explaining Territorial Inclusion in Canadian First Ministers' Conferences
Authors: Alcantara Christopher
Published: May 2013

Abstract.Official participation in Canadian First Ministers' Conferences has long been exclusive to federal and provincial first ministers. In March 1992, however, the membership of this intergovernmental arena was expanded permanently to include territorial premiers. Using the tools of historical institutionalism and drawing upon relevant literature and eleven elite interviews with former first ministers and senior civil servants, this paper seeks to explain why this instance of incremental institutional change occurred. It finds that significant friction between the institutional and ideational layers of the Canadian federation during a period of mega-constitutional reform allowed federal, provincial and territorial actors to draw upon ideas about democracy and the political and constitutional maturation of the territorial North to expand permanently the membership of First Ministers' Conferences.

Résumé.Pendant longtemps, seuls les premiers ministres fédéral et provinciaux étaient admis officiellement à la conférence des premiers ministres du Canada. Toutefois, en mars 1992, ce sommet intergouvernemental était élargi en permanence de façon à accueillir les premiers ministres des territoires. À l'aide des outils de l'institutionnalisme historique, et en tirant parti de la documentation pertinente ainsi que de 11 entrevues menées auprès d'un groupe sélect d'ex-premiers ministres et de hauts fonctionnaires, cet article tente d'expliquer pourquoi nous avons assisté à un tel degré de changement constitutionnel. Nous en concluons que d'importantes frictions entre les niveaux institutionnel et idéationnel de la fédération canadienne au cours d'une période de réforme mégaconstitutionnelle ont permis aux acteurs fédéraux, provinciaux et territoriaux de s'inspirer d'idées portant sur la démocratie et sur le processus de maturation politique et constitutionnel du Nord territorial afin d'accroître en permanence le nombre de participants aux conférences des premiers ministres.
Global distribution of root climbers is positively associated with precipitation and negatively associated with seasonality
Authors: Durigon Jaqueline , Durán Sandra Milena , Gianoli Ernesto
Published: May 2013

Root climbers constitute a distinctive group within climbing plants and some evidence suggests that they are associated with high precipitation and low light availability at local scales, which is in contrast with general patterns of liana distribution in the tropics. The influence of precipitation and seasonality on the occurrence of root climbers was evaluated both globally and in the tropics. The presence/absence of root climbers was recorded in 174 sites of Alwyn H. Gentry Forest Transect Data Set. The effects of mean annual precipitation and dry-season length (and temperature) on their occurrence were analysed using logistic regressions. Root climbers were significantly more frequent in sites with greater precipitation and reduced seasonality. Increasing temperature reduced root-climber occurrence in tropical sites, but this effect was marginally significant at a global scale. Dry and open habitats appear unsuitable for root climbers. This can be explained by the susceptibility to desiccation of adventitious roots and/or the low acclimation ability of these climbers to high irradiance.
The physiological roles of histone deacetylase (HDAC) 1 and 2: complex co-stars with multiple leading parts
Authors: Kelly Richard D.W. , Cowley Shaun M.
Published: May 2013

HDACs (histone deacetylases) 1 and 2 are ubiquitous long-lived proteins, which are often found together in three major multiprotein co-repressor complexes: Sin3, NuRD (nucleosome remodelling and deacetylation) and CoREST (co-repressor for element-1-silencing transcription factor). Although there is a burgeoning number of non-histone proteins within the acetylome, these complexes contain multiple DNA/chromatin-recognition motifs, which, in combination with transcription factors, target HDAC1/2 to chromatin. Their physiological roles should therefore be viewed within the framework of chromatin manipulation. Classically, HDACs were thought to be recruited predominantly by transcriptional repressors to facilitate local histone deacetylation and transcriptional repression. More recently, genome-wide assays have mapped HDAC1/2 and their associated proteins to transcriptionally active loci and have provided alternative context-specific functions, whereby their repressive functions are subtly exerted to balance transcriptional activation and repression. With a few significant exceptions (early embryogenesis, brain development), HDAC1 and HDAC2 are functionally redundant. In most mouse knockout studies, deletion of both enzymes is required in order to produce a substantial phenotype. HDAC1/2 activity has been implicated in the development of numerous tissue and cell types, including heart, skin, brain, B-cells and T-cells. A common feature in all HDAC1/2-knockout, -knockdown and small-molecule inhibitor studies is a reduction in cell proliferation. A generic role in cell cycle progression could be exploited in cancer cells, by blocking HDAC1/2 activity with small-molecule inhibitors, making them potentially useful drug targets.
ZF-CxxC domain-containing proteins, CpG islands and the chromatin connection
Authors: Long Hannah K. , Blackledge Neil P. , Klose Robert J.
Published: May 2013

Vertebrate DNA can be chemically modified by methylation of the 5 position of the cytosine base in the context of CpG dinucleotides. This modification creates a binding site for MBD (methyl-CpG-binding domain) proteins which target chromatin-modifying activities that are thought to contribute to transcriptional repression and maintain heterochromatic regions of the genome. In contrast with DNA methylation, which is found broadly across vertebrate genomes, non-methylated DNA is concentrated in regions known as CGIs (CpG islands). Recently, a family of proteins which encode a ZF-CxxC (zinc finger-CxxC) domain have been shown to specifically recognize non-methylated DNA and recruit chromatin-modifying activities to CGI elements. For example, CFP1 (CxxC finger protein 1), MLL (mixed lineage leukaemia protein), KDM (lysine demethylase) 2A and KDM2B regulate lysine methylation on histone tails, whereas TET (ten-eleven translocation) 1 and TET3 hydroxylate methylated cytosine bases. In the present review, we discuss the most recent advances in our understanding of how ZF-CxxC domain-containing proteins recognize non-methylated DNA and describe their role in chromatin modification at CGIs.