bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Colloid‐Rich” follicular neoplasm/suspicious for follicular neoplasm thyroid fine‐needle aspiration specimens: Cytologic, histologic, and molecular basis for considering an alternate view
Authors: Ohori N. Paul , Wolfe Jenna , Hodak Steven P. , LeBeau Shane O. , Yip Linwah , Carty Sally E. , Duvvuri Umamaheswar , Schoedel Karen E. , Nikiforova Marina N. , Nikiforov Yuri E.
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND

Typically, thyroid follicular neoplasm/suspicious for follicular neoplasm (FN/SFN) cases show moderate to marked cellularity and scant or absent colloid. Recently, cases have been noted with microfollicular cellularity in the background of moderate to abundant amount of colloid. The purpose of this study was to compare these “colloid‐rich” FN/SFN cases to the typical FN/SFN cases.

METHODS

Thyroid cytology specimens with the features of FN/SFN were searched in cytopathology files from September 2008 to June 2012. Cases with absent or minimal colloid were designated “typical colloid‐poor” FN/SFN and cases with moderate to abundant colloid were designated “colloid‐rich” FN/SFN. From these cases, those with surgical pathology resection follow‐up were identified. Cytologic, surgical pathology resection, and molecular features (BRAF, RAS, RET/PTC, and PAX8‐PPARγ) were investigated for the typical colloid‐poor FN/SFN cases and were compared with those of the colloid‐rich FN/SFN cases.

RESULTS

Of 431 FN/SFN cases with surgical pathology resection follow‐up, 360 (83.5%) cases showed features of typical colloid‐poor FN/SFN and 71 (16.5%) cases showed features of colloid‐rich FN/SFN. Papillary carcinoma was the most common malignant outcome for the 2 groups. Although the proportion of malignant outcome was similar for the 2 groups, the “colloid‐rich” FN/SFN cases showed a greater proportion of nodular hyperplasia among the cases with benign outcome. In addition, the “colloid‐rich” FN/SFN cases demonstrated a greater proportion of cases with a mutation.

CONCLUSIONS

Approximately one‐sixth of cases of FN/SFN show “colloid‐rich” features. Comparison to the typical colloid‐poor FN/SFN demonstrated similar risk for malignancy but contrasting resection outcome and molecular characteristics. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2013;121:718–728. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Grading epithelial atypia in endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms: An international interobserver concordance study
Authors: Pitman Martha B. , Centeno Barbara A. , Genevay Muriel , Fonseca Ricardo , Mino‐Kenudson Mari
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND

Preoperative cytological analysis of cyst fluid from intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN) contributes to risk stratification for malignancy. To the authors' knowledge, agreement among pathologists in grading epithelial atypia in IPMN cyst fluids has not been studied to date.

METHODS

Blinded to the histological grade, 4 observers independently graded 60 cell groups from endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration samples of 24 IPMNs of various grades as either 0 (nonlesional), 1 (low‐grade dysplasia), 2 (intermediate‐grade dysplasia [IGD]), 3 (high‐grade dysplasia), or 4 (invasive adenocarcinoma). The percentage of agreement and the kappa (k) coefficient were calculated for these 5 tiers and a reduced 2‐tier grouping (low‐grade [LG] [0‐1 and 0‐2] vs high‐grade [HG] [2‐4 and 3‐4]). Agreement between the 2 most experienced reviewers established a consensus diagnosis that was compared with the histological grade.

RESULTS

Among the 4 reviewers there was poor agreement using a 5‐tiered system and fair agreement with the 2‐tiered system. LG and HG grouping of IGD did not appear to greatly affect agreement, with 54% agreement for grouping 0 to 2 and 3 to 4 (k = 0.45) and 52% agreement for grouping 0 to 1 and 2 to 4 (k = 0.44). The 2 most experienced reviewers had 87% agreement for the 0 to 2 and 3 to 4 grouping (k = 0.74) and 88% for the 0 to 1 and 2 to 4 grouping (k = 0.71). HG atypia on cytology with IGD grouped as LG yielded a sensitivity of 82%, with a specificity of 70% for detecting a cyst with HG morphology.

CONCLUSIONS

Grading cellular atypia in cyst fluids requires experience, which results in very good interobserver agreement and good correlation with histology using a 2‐tiered LG and HG grading system and IGD classified as LG. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2013;121:729–736. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Alzheimer's disease pathology in the neocortex and hippocampus of the western lowland gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla)
Authors: Perez Sylvia E. , Raghanti Mary Ann , Hof Patrick R. , Kramer Lynn , Ikonomovic Milos D. , Lacor Pascale N. , Erwin Joseph M. , Sherwood Chet C. , Mufson Elliott J.
Published: July 2013

The two major histopathologic hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease (AD) are amyloid beta protein (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFT). Aβ pathology is a common feature in the aged nonhuman primate brain, whereas NFT are found almost exclusively in humans. Few studies have examined AD‐related pathology in great apes, which are the closest phylogenetic relatives of humans. In the present study, we examined Aβ and tau‐like lesions in the neocortex and hippocampus of aged male and female western lowland gorillas using immunohistochemistry and histochemistry. Analysis revealed an age‐related increase in Aβ‐immunoreactive plaques and vasculature in the gorilla brain. Aβ plaques were more abundant in the neocortex and hippocampus of females, whereas Aβ‐positive blood vessels were more widespread in male gorillas. Plaques were also Aβ40‐, Aβ42‐, and Aβ oligomer‐immunoreactive, but only weakly thioflavine S‐ or 6‐CN‐PiB‐positive in both sexes, indicative of the less fibrillar (diffuse) nature of Aβ plaques in gorillas. Although phosphorylated neurofilament immunostaining revealed a few dystrophic neurites and neurons, choline acetyltransferase‐immunoreactive fibers were not dystrophic. Neurons stained for the tau marker Alz50 were found in the neocortex and hippocampus of gorillas at all ages. Occasional Alz50‐, MC1‐, and AT8‐immunoreactive astrocyte and oligodendrocyte coiled bodies and neuritic clusters were seen in the neocortex and hippocampus of the oldest gorillas. This study demonstrates the spontaneous presence of both Aβ plaques and tau‐like lesions in the neocortex and hippocampus in old male and female western lowland gorillas, placing this species at relevance in the context of AD research. J. Comp. Neurol. 521:4318–4338, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparative neuroanatomical parcellation of the human and nonhuman primate temporal pole
Authors: Insausti Ricardo
Published: July 2013

The temporal pole is unique to nonhuman and human primates, although other species also present temporal cortex. A clear distinction is made between the gross anatomical, macroscopic temporal pole, located at the tip of the temporal lobe, and the temporal polar cortex, which is a general term that encompasses all reported divisions and can be applied to both nonhuman and human primates. In the 19th century early neuroanatomists identified the temporal polar cortex as a different entity, independent from the remainder of the temporal lobe. More recently, the temporal polar cortex has been subdivided into different fields. The analysis of the different portions that make up the temporal polar cortex was first described in the nonhuman primate, and later on in humans. In this review we examine the historical course of the concepts about the extension, structure, and main cytoarchitectonic areas. The different descriptions are presented in chronological order and their relevance is discussed. In general, some common features arise in nonhuman and human primates temporopolar cortex, namely, an increased thickness of this cortical area, a predominant dysgranular type of cortex, and a more restricted extension in humans relative to earlier accounts. A common pattern of cytoarchitectonic areas results from the criteria of previous authors, although the sulcal anatomy of the human temporal pole has great variability. The understanding of the extension, composition, and limits of the temporal polar cortex is crucial for identification of separate regions in neuroimaging studies. J. Comp. Neurol. 521:4163–4176, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Medial temporal cortices in ex vivo magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Augustinack Jean C. , van der Kouwe André J.W. , Fischl Bruce
Published: July 2013

This review focuses on the ex vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) modeling of medial temporal cortices and associated structures, the entorhinal verrucae and the perforant pathway. Typical in vivo MRI has limited resolution due to constraints on scan times and does not show laminae in the medial temporal lobe. Recent studies using ex vivo MRI have demonstrated lamina in the entorhinal, perirhinal, and hippocampal cortices. These studies have enabled probabilistic brain mapping that is based on the ex vivo MRI contrast, validated to histology, and subsequently mapped onto an in vivo spherically warped surface model. Probabilistic maps are applicable to other in vivo studies. J. Comp. Neurol. 521:4177–4188, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Learning in Alzheimer's disease is facilitated by social interaction
Authors: Duff Melissa C. , Gallegos Diana R. , Cohen Neal J. , Tranel Daniel
Published: July 2013

Seminal work in Gary Van Hoesen's laboratory at Iowa in the early 1980s established that the hallmark neuropathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD; neurofibrillary tangles) had its first foothold in specific parts of the hippocampal formation and entorhinal cortex, effectively isolating the hippocampus from much of its input and output and causing the distinctive impairment of new learning that is the leading early characteristic of the disease (Hyman et al., 1984). The boundaries and conditions of the anterograde memory defect in patients with AD have been a topic of intense research interest ever since (e.g., Graham and Hodges, 1977; Nestor et al., 2006). For example, it has been shown that patients with AD may acquire some new semantic information through methods such as errorless learning, but learning under these conditions is typically slow and inefficient. Drawing on a learning paradigm (a collaborative referencing task) that was previously shown to induce robust and enduring learning in patients with hippocampal amnesia, we investigated whether this task would be effective in promoting new learning in patients with AD. We studied five women with early‐stage AD and 10 demographically matched healthy comparison participants, each interacting with a familiar communication partner. AD pairs displayed significant and enduring learning across trials, with increased accuracy and decreased time to complete trials, in a manner indistinguishable from healthy comparison pairs, resulting in efficient and economical communication. The observed learning here most likely draws on neural resources outside the medial temporal lobes. These interactive communication sessions provide a potent learning environment with significant implications for memory intervention. J. Comp. Neurol. 521:4356–4369, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development of reconfigurable distributed embedded systems with a model‐driven approach
Authors: Krichen Fatma , Hamid Brahim , Zalila Bechir , Jmaiel Mohamed , Coulette Bernard
Published: July 2013

In this paper, we propose a model‐driven approach allowing to build reconfigurable distributed real‐time embedded (DRE) systems. The constant growth of the complexity and the required autonomy of embedded software systems management give the dynamic reconfiguration a big importance. New challenges to apply the dynamic reconfiguration at model level as well as runtime support level are required. In this direction, the development of reconfigurable DRE systems according to traditional processes is not applicable. New methods are required to build and to supply reconfigurable embedded software architectures. In this context, we propose an model‐driven engineering based approach that enables to design reconfigurable DRE systems with execution framework support. This approach leads the designer to specify step by step his/her system from a model to another one more refined until the targeted model is reached. This targeted model is related to a specific platform leading to the generation of the most part of the system implementation. We also develop a new middleware that supports reconfigurable DRE systems. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tailoring the network to the problem: topology configuration in hybrid electronic packet switched/optical circuit switched interconnects
Authors: Christodoulopoulos Kostas , Katrinis Kostas , Ruffini Marco , O'Mahony Donal
Published: July 2013

We consider a hybrid electronic packet switched and optical circuit switched interconnection network for future high performance computing and datacenter systems. Given the logical task‐to‐task communication graph of an application, our objective is to cluster the logical parallel tasks to compute resources and configure the (reconfigurable) optical part of the hybrid interconnect to efficiently serve application communication requirements. We formulate the clustering and topology configuration problem in such a network, prove that it is NP‐complete, and provide an optimal algorithm to solve it based on an integer linear programming formulation. The integer linear programming algorithm is used to optimally solve small‐scale instances of the problem for the purpose of obtaining performance bounds. Aiming at large‐scale, we also present a heuristic based on simulated annealing that trades‐off performance for responsiveness. We measure the performance of a hybrid interconnect employing the proposed algorithm using real workloads, as well as extrapolated traffic, and compare it against application mapping on conventional fixed, electronic‐only interconnects based on toroidal topologies. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Superhydrophobic Conducting Polymers Based on Hydrocarbon Poly(3,4‐Ethylenedioxyselenophene)
Authors: Dunand Oceane , Darmanin Thierry , Guittard Frederic
Published: July 2013

We report the first studied example of wettability of conducting polymers based on poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxyselenophene). Hydrocarbon 3,4‐ethylenedioxyselenophene (C2H5 to C12H25) derivatives are synthesized and electropolymerized in propylene carbonate using lithium tetrafluoroborate (LiBF4) and lithium bistrifluoromethanesulfonimidate (LiTf2N) as electrolyte. Highly structured films are obtained from a C8H17 chain independent of the electrolyte used. Superhydrophobic properties with high adhesion are specifically reached if using a C12H25 chain and LiBF4. The surface morphology is porous and highly structured as the films consist of assemblies of nanofibrils.
Imidazolium‐Based Poly(ionic liquid)s as New Alternatives for CO2 Capture
Authors: Privalova Elena I. , Karjalainen Erno , Nurmi Mari , Mäki‐Arvela Päivi , Eränen Kari , Tenhu Heikki , Murzin Dmitry Yu. , Mikkola Jyri‐Pekka
Published: July 2013

Solid imidazolium‐based poly(ionic liquid)s with variable molecular weights that contain the poly[2‐(1‐butylimidazolium‐3‐yl)ethyl methacrylate] (BIEMA) cation and different counter anions were evaluated in terms of CO2 capture and compared with classical ionic liquids with similar counter anions. In addition to poly(ionic liquid)s with often‐applied ions such as BF4−, PF6−, NTf2−, trifluoromethanesulfonate (OTf−) and Br−, for the first time [BIEMA][acetate] was synthesised, which revealed a remarkably high CO2 sorption performance that exceeded the poly(ionic liquid)s studied previously on average by a factor of four (12.46 mg gPIL−1). This study provides an understanding of the factors that affect CO2 sorption and a comparison of the CO2 capture efficiency with the frequently used sorbents. Moreover, all the studied sorbents were reusable if regenerated under carefully selected conditions and can be considered as suitable candidates for CO2 sorption.
Custom‐Made Morphologies of ZnO Nanostructured Films Templated by a Poly(styrene‐block‐ethylene oxide) Diblock Copolymer Obtained by a Sol–Gel Technique
Authors: Sarkar Kuhu , Rawolle Monika , Herzig Eva M. , Wang Weijia , Buffet Adeline , Roth Stephan V. , Müller‐Buschbaum Peter
Published: July 2013

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructured films are synthesized on silicon substrates to form different morphologies that consist of foamlike structures, wormlike aggregates, circular vesicles, and spherical granules. The synthesis involves a sol–gel mechanism coupled with an amphiphilic diblock copolymer poly(styrene‐block‐ethylene oxide), P(S‐b‐EO), which acts as a structure‐directing template. The ZnO precursor zinc acetate dihydrate (ZAD) is incorporated into the poly(ethylene oxide) block. Different morphologies are obtained by adjusting the weight fractions of the solvents and ZAD. The sizes of the structure in solution for different sol–gels are probed by means of dynamic light scattering. Thin‐film samples with ZnO nanostructures are prepared by spin coating and solution casting followed by a calcination step. On the basis of various selected combinations of weight fractions of the ingredients used, a ternary phase diagram is constructed to show the compositional boundaries of the investigated morphologies. The evolution and formation mechanisms of the morphologies are addressed in brief. The surface morphologies of the ZnO nanostructures are studied with SEM. The inner structures of the samples are probed by means of grazing incidence small‐angle X‐ray scattering to complement the SEM investigations. XRD measurements confirm the crystallization of the ZnO in the wurtzite phase upon calcination of the nanocomposite film in air. The optical properties of ZnO are analyzed by FTIR and UV/Vis spectroscopy.
Drug concentrations in post‐mortem femoral blood compared with therapeutic concentrations in plasma
Authors: Launiainen Terhi , Ojanperä Ilkka
Published: July 2013

Therapeutic drug concentrations measured in plasma are of limited value as reference intervals for interpretation in post‐mortem (PM) toxicology. In this study, drug concentration distributions were studied in PM femoral venous blood from 57 903 Finnish autopsy cases representing all causes of death during an 11‐year period. Cause‐of‐death information was obtained from death certificates issued by forensic pathologists. Median, mean, and upper percentile (90th, 95th, 97.5th) concentrations were calculated for 129 drugs. To illustrate how PM median concentrations relate to established therapeutic ranges in plasma, a PM blood/plasma relationship was calculated for each drug. Males represented 75% of the subjects and showed a lower median age (55 yrs) than females (59 yrs). In 43% of these cases, blood alcohol concentration was higher than 0.2‰, and the median was 1.8‰. Sixty‐one (47%) of the 129 drugs showed a PM blood/plasma relationship of 1. For 22 drugs (17%), the relationship was <1, and for 46 drugs (35%), the relationship was >1. No marked correlation was found between the PM blood/plasma relationship and the volume of distribution (Vd). For 36 drugs, more than 10% of cases were fatal poisonings attributed to this drug as the main finding. These drug concentration distributions based on a large database provide a helpful reference not only to forensic toxicologists and pathologists but also to clinical pharmacologists in charge of interpreting drug concentrations in PM cases. © 2013 The Authors. Drug Testing and Analysis published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Heat stress but not inbreeding affects offensive sperm competitiveness in Callosobruchus maculatus
Authors: van Lieshout Emile , Tomkins Joseph L. , Simmons Leigh W.
Published: July 2013

Environmental and genetic stress have well‐known detrimental effects on ejaculate quality, but their concomitant effect on male fitness remains poorly understood. We used competitive fertilization assays to expose the effects of stress on offensive sperm competitive ability in the beetle Callosobruchus maculatus, a species where ejaculates make up more than 5% of male body mass. To examine the effects of environmental and genetic stress, males derived from outcrosses or sib matings were heat shocked at 50°C for 50 min during the pupal stage, while their siblings were maintained at a standard rearing temperature of 28°C. Heat‐shocked males achieved only half the offensive paternity success of their siblings. While this population exhibited inbreeding depression in body size, sperm competitiveness was unaffected by inbreeding, nor did the effect of heat shock stress on sperm competitiveness depend on inbreeding status. In contrast, pupal emergence success was increased by 34% among heat‐stressed individuals, regardless of their inbreeding status. Heat‐shocked males' ejaculate size was 19% reduced, but they exhibited 25% increased mating duration in single mating trials. Our results highlight both the importance of stress in postcopulatory sexual selection, and the variability among stressors in affecting male fitness.
Landscape heterogeneity drives intra‐population niche variation and reproduction in an arctic top predator
Authors: L'Hérault Vincent , Franke Alastair , Lecomte Nicolas , Alogut Adam , Bêty Joël
Published: July 2013

While intra‐population variability in resource use is ubiquitous, little is known of how this measure of niche diversity varies in space and its role in population dynamics. Here we examined how heterogeneous breeding environments can structure intra‐population niche variation in both resource use and reproductive output. We investigated intra‐population niche variation in the Arctic tundra ecosystem, studying peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus tundrius,White) breeding within a terrestrial‐marine gradient near Rankin Inlet, Nunavut,Canada. Using stable isotope analysis, we found that intra‐population niches varied at the individual level; we examined within‐nest and among‐nest variation, though only the latter varied along the terrestrial‐marine gradient (i.e., increased among‐nest variability among birds nesting within the marine environment, indicating higher degree of specialization). Terrestrial prey species (small herbivores and insectivores) were consumed by virtually all falcons. Falcons nesting within the marine environment made use of marine prey (sea birds), but depended heavily on terrestrial prey (up to 90% of the diet). Using 28‐years of peregrine falcon nesting data, we found a positive relationship between the proportion of terrestrial habitat surrounding nest sites and annual nestling production, but no relationship with the likelihood of successfully rearing at least one nestling reaching 25 days old. Annually, successful inland breeders raised 0.47 more young on average compared to offshore breeders, which yields potential fitness consequences for this long‐living species. The analyses of niche and reproductive success suggest a potential breeding cost for accessing distant terrestrial prey, perhaps due to additional traveling costs, for those individuals with marine nest site locations. Our study indicates how landscape heterogeneity can generate proximate (niche variation) and ultimate (reproduction) consequences on a population of generalist predator. We also show that within‐individual and among‐individual variation are not mutually exclusive, but can simultaneously arise and structure intra‐population niche variation.
Permafrost thaw affects boreal deciduous plant transpiration through increased soil water, deeper thaw, and warmer soils
Authors: Cable Jessica M. , Ogle Kiona , Bolton W. Robert , Bentley Lisa P. , Romanovsky Vladimir , Iwata Hiroki , Harazono Yoshinobu , Welker Jeffrey
Published: July 2013

The effect of thawing permafrost on boreal ecosystem water cycling represents a significant knowledge gap of how climate change will affect northern landscapes. Evapotranspiration, particularly transpiration, may be changing in response to changes in permafrost conditions, vegetation, and climate. This study focuses on the effect of permafrost thaw on boreal plant transpiration over two summers with contrasting weather conditions. We quantified the response of stomatal conductance (gs), from which transpiration was calculated, of deciduous and evergreen plants to soil environmental factors that permafrost thaw affects: soil water content (S), depth of seasonal thaw (D), and soil temperature (T). We found that gs was least sensitive to T compared with S and D at both sites and across both years. At the thawing site, gs was more sensitive to S in a dry year (2009) and to D in a wet year (2010). In the wet year, S of ~50 cm represented a threshold wherein the sensitivity of gs to T and D switched between positive (S < 50 cm) and negative (S > 50 cm). However, the sensitivities to T and D were negative when S was consistently less than 50 cm in the dry year. This is one of the first studies to explore the effect of permafrost thaw on boreal plant gs and transpiration, and our model predicted higher transpiration rates from deciduous plants located on thawing permafrost. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Forest ecohydrological response to bimodal precipitation during contrasting winter to summer transitions
Authors: Mahmood Taufique H. , Vivoni Enrique R.
Published: July 2013

The ecohydrological response of forested landscapes in the Southwestern United States depends on the relative magnitude of precipitation during the winter and summer seasons. Prior climate studies have identified an inverse relation in the bimodal regime such that wet winter periods are followed by dry summers and vice versa. Despite this key prediction, the impact of contrasting winter to summer transitions on hillslope hydrology has not been investigated. In this study, we use the Triangulated Irregular Network‐based Real‐time Integrated Basin Simulator distributed hydrologic model with modifications in the snow module to generate a consistent set of high‐resolution hydrologic estimates in a ponderosa pine hillslope in northern New Mexico, United States. The model is evaluated against available observations of snow depth, soil moisture and runoff over two water years yielding reliable spatial distributions during the winter to summer transitions. We find that a wet winter followed by a dry summer promotes evapotranspiration losses that gradually dry the soil and disconnect lateral fluxes in the forested hillslope, leading to soil moisture patterns resembling vegetation patches. Conversely, a dry winter prior to a wet summer results in soil moisture increases that promote lateral connectivity and soil moisture patterns with the signature of terrain curvature. An opposing temporal switch between infiltration and saturation excess runoff is also identified. These contrasting responses indicate that the inverse relation has significant consequences on hillslope water availability and its spatial distribution with implications on other ecohydrological processes including vegetation phenology, groundwater recharge and geomorphic development. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ni Dithiolenes – A Theoretical Study on Structure–Property Relationships
Authors: Avramopoulos Aggelos , Reis Heribert , Mousdis George A. , Papadopoulos Manthos G.
Published: July 2013

The linear and nonlinear optical (L&NLO) properties, the energy difference between the highest occupied molecular orbital and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (HOMO–LUMO gap), the first excitation energy (Eexc), and four indices for the evaluation of the diradical character (DC) of a series of Ni dithiolene derivatives have been computed by employing density functional theory (DFT). The selected DFT functionals provide reliable results for several properties [e.g., excitation energies and (hyper)polarizabilities]. An Atoms in Molecules analysis has been performed and several related properties have been reported (e.g., the average delocalization index, charge density, and its Laplacian). The selected derivatives with regular structural changes allow us to trace correlations between the (hyper)polarizabilities and some of the computed properties (e.g.,Eexcand the DC indices). A small change in the structure may lead to a very large change of the diradical character and the L&NLO properties. Several of the studied derivatives have an exceptionally large second hyperpolarizability. Thus, the considered set of Ni dithiolene derivatives is likely to have applications in the development of photonic devices.
Diazonium Exchange and Migration of Pivaloyl Group upon Azo Coupling of β‐Enaminones
Authors: Šimůnek Petr , Bertolasi Valerio , Macháček Vladimír
Published: July 2013

4,4‐Dimethyl‐1‐methylamino‐1‐phenyl‐2‐(substituted phenyldiazenyl)pent‐1‐en‐3‐ones (prepared upon azo coupling of 4,4‐dimethyl‐1‐methylamino‐1‐phenylpent‐1‐en‐3‐one 6a with the corresponding benzenediazonium tetrafluoroborates) react with another molecule of substituted benzenediazonium tetrafluoroborate (in dichloromethane in the presence of anhydrous sodium acetate) to form substituted 4,4‐bis(substituted phenyldiazenyl) derivatives 8. The second azo coupling is reversible. Derivatives 8 undergo either reverse cleavage of a diazonium ion or [1,3] sigmatropic rearrangement forming substituted formazane 9. In the case of the sequential use of two different diazonium tetrafluoroborates, the less electrophilic group splits off more easily. The structures of the products 9 were studied by means of X‐ray, 1H, 13C, 19F and 15N NMR and MALDI HRMS analyses. The formazans 9 exhibit a reduced mobility of the phenyl group adjacent to the pivaloyl group, giving rise to anisochronism of proton and carbon atoms, to eventually form conformers. The reduced mobility was observed by means of NMR spectroscopy. A temperature dependence of the spectral behaviour was also studied.
NADH Electrocatalytic Oxidation on Gold Nanoparticle‐Modified PVC/TTF‐TCNQ Composite Electrode. Application as Amperometric Sensor
Authors: García‐Pineda Inmaculada , Mayén Manuel , Rodríguez‐Mellado José Miguel , Rodríguez‐Amaro Rafael
Published: July 2013

We herein report on the electrocatalytic activity towards the oxidation of NADH of a PVC/TTF‐TCNQ composite electrode modified with gold nanoparticles. This electrocatalytic property allows proposing this system as a new alternative for amperometric determination of NADH, without need to add another mediator. The sensor shows a linear response to NADH over a concentration range from 5.0×10−6 M up to 5.0×10−4 M, with a sensitivity of 11.22±0.5 mA M−1 and a detection limit (S/N=3) of 4.0×10−6 M for measurements in batch and similar data in FIA.
The optimum production parameters of methyl ester from acorn kernel oil
Authors: Karabas Hülya
Published: July 2013

In this article, the production of biodiesel through transesterification of acorn (Quercus frainetto L.) kernel oil was studied. Acorn kernel oil with high free fatty acid content was used as feedstock to produce biodiesel. Two stages were used to produce biodiesel after obtaining the acorn kernel oil in the presence of a base catalyst (KOH) to yield methyl esters of fatty acids and glycerin. The various process variables such as alcohol:oil molar ratio, reaction temperature, catalyst concentration, and reaction time were optimized with the objective of producing acorn kernel oil biodiesel with maximum yield. The optimum conditions for transesterification of acorn kernel oil with methanol and KOH as catalyst were stated as 50°C reaction temperature, 1 h reaction time, 8:1 molar ratio of acorn kernel oil to alcohol, and 1% catalyst (w/w). All of the other measured fuel properties of the acorn kernel methyl ester met the international standards EN 14214. Thus, the produced acorn kernel oil methyl ester was characterized to be used as a fuel in engines. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 625–628, 2014
Effects of low levels of herbicides on prairie species of the Willamette Valley, Oregon
Authors: Olszyk David , Blakeley-Smith Matthew , Pfleeger Thomas , Lee E. Henry , Plocher Milton
Published: July 2013

The relative sensitivity of 17 noncrop plant species from Oregon's Willamette Valley was determined in response to glyphosate, tribenuron methyl (tribenuron), and fluazifop-p-butyl (fluazifop) herbicides. For glyphosate, Elymus trachycaulus, Festuca arundinacea, Madia elegans, Potentilla gracilis, and Ranunculus occidentalis were the most sensitive species, based on a concentration calculated to reduce shoot dry weight by 25% (IC25 values) of 0.02 to 0.04 × a field application rate of 1112 g active ingredient (a.i.) per hectare. Clarkia amoena and Lupinus albicaulis were the most tolerant to glyphosate, with IC25 values near the field application rate. Clarkia amoena, Prunella vulgaris, and R. occidentalis were the most sensitive to tribenuron, with IC25 values of 0.001 to 0.004 × a field application rate of 8.7 g a.i. ha−1 for shoot dry weight. Five grass species were tolerant to tribenuron with no significant IC25 values. For fluazifop, 2 native grasses, E. trachycaulus and Danthonia californica, were the most sensitive species, with IC25 values of 0.007 and 0.010 × a field application rate of 210 g a.i. ha−1, respectively, for shoot dry weight, while a native grass, Festuca roemeri, and nearly all forbs showed little or no response. These results also indicated that the 3 introduced species used in the present study may be controlled with 1 of the tested herbicides: glyphosate (F. arundinacea), tribenuron (Leucanthemum vulgare), and fluazifop (Cynosurus echinatus). Environ Toxicol Chem 2013;32:2542–2551. © 2013 SETAC
Fully computable a posteriori error bounds for stabilised FEM approximations of convection–reaction–diffusion problems in three dimensions
Authors: Ainsworth Mark , Allendes Alejandro , Barrenechea Gabriel R. , Rankin Richard
Published: July 2013

Fully computable upper bounds are developed for the discretisation error measured in the natural (energy) norm for convection–reaction–diffusion problems in three dimensions. The upper bounds are genuine upper bounds in the sense that the numerical value of the estimated error exceeds the actual numerical value of the true error regardless of the coarseness of the mesh or the nature of the data for the problem. All constants appearing in the bounds are fully specified. Examples show the estimator to be reliable and accurate even in the case of complicated three‐dimensional problems. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Selective Preparation of Functionalized Dienes from Allylic Phosphonium Salts through the Wittig Reaction
Authors: Sá Marcus M. , Meier Lidiane
Published: July 2013

A convenient and general method for the synthesis of stereochemically defined dienes from allylic phosphonium salts under simple conditions is described. Selective preparation of trisubstituted dienes was performed with good‐to‐excellent yields in mild basic aqueous medium. Preparation of 3‐deuterated products was also readily achieved when H2O was replaced with D2O as the solvent.
Substitutional potential of mephedrone: an analysis of the subjective effects
Authors: Kapitány‐Fövény Máté , Kertész Máté , Winstock Adam , Deluca Paolo , Corazza Ornella , Farkas Judit , Zacher Gábor , Urbán Róbert , Demetrovics Zsolt
Published: July 2013

Objective

In the past 25–30 years, a large number of synthetic and non‐synthetic drugs have appeared on the recreational scene, but with the exception of 4‐methylmethcathinone (mephedrone), none of these substances reached the popularity of ecstasy [3,4‐methylenedioxy‐N‐methylamphetamine, (MDMA)]. Authors aimed to determine the subjective effects of mephedrone in order to understand how mephedrone can serve as a potential substitute for entactogens, such as MDMA.

Methods

One hundred forty‐five mephedrone users—recruited by snowball method—filled out a questionnaire on their patterns of use and experienced subjective effects of mephedrone.

Results

Factor analysis revealed six factors of mephedrone‐induced subjective effects: positive emotions, sensibility, adverse somatic effects, adverse psychological effects, stimulant effects, and psychedelic effects. A preference list of subjective effects indicates that mephedrone is popular primarily for its psychostimulant and entactogen effects. Latent class analysis identified two classes of mephedrone users, with closely parallel profiles. The two classes differed in severity of subjective experience in a way that was consistent across the six dimensions.

Conclusions

By having similar subjective effects as MDMA and other entactogens, mephedrone seems able to substitute other enactogenic stimulants. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel psychoactive substances as a novel challenge for health professionals: results from an Italian survey
Authors: Simonato Pierluigi , Corazza Ornella , Santonastaso Paolo , Corkery John , Deluca Paolo , Davey Zoe , Blaszko Ursula , Schifano Fabrizio
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Novel psychoactive substances (NPS; a.k.a. ‘legal highs’ or ‘smart drugs’) are advertised online as ‘safe’ and ‘legal’ natural/synthetic analogues of controlled illicit drugs. However, only little research has been carried out in identifying the health professionals' knowledge and expertise relating to the intake of these compounds.

Methods

Data presented here refer to the Italian component of the European Union‐wide, European Commission‐funded, ReDNet project survey. An ad‐hoc questionnaire was administered to professionals from the departments of Addiction, Psychiatry, Paediatrics and Emergency Room Services in Italy.

Results

The interviewees' sample included 243 professionals, mostly from the departments of Addiction (35%) and Psychiatry (28.4%). Overall, interviewees self‐reported a poor technical knowledge relating to NPS; some 27% of respondents confirmed of not being aware if their patients presented with a previous history of NPS misuse.

Discussion

Novel psychoactive substances prevalence of misuse was not considered to be an unusual phenomenon in Italy, and most health professionals appeared to have concerns relating to associated medical and psychopathological risks, especially in terms of aggression/psychomotor agitation. Overall, most respondents reported the need to have better access to NPS‐related reliable sources of information. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Classical and novel psychoactive substances: rethinking drug misuse from an evolutionary psychiatric perspective
Authors: St John‐Smith Paul , McQueen Daniel , Edwards Lindsey , Schifano Fabrizio
Published: July 2013

In this article, ontogenetic and phylogenetic causes of drug abuse and links to human emotional development are considered. Some evolutionary perspectives (e.g. that under certain conditions, consumption of otherwise toxic alkaloids may confer both physical and cultural advantages) are reviewed. As described in the ‘mismatch theory’, the capacity of the human genome to evolve defences against toxins has been outstripped by the pace of cultural change and technological development, such as purposeful fermentation of alcohol and more recently distillation of alcohol; purification and chemical manipulation of plant alkaloids; and the engineering of entirely novel psychoactive substances (NPS). The functions of the neurobiological substrates that mediate substance misuse and dependence are reviewed. Reasons are given why NPSs present greater cause for concern than plant‐derived substances of abuse. We argue that evolutionary biology provides an important orientation for the research agenda in substance misuse. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Consumption of new psychoactive substances in a Spanish sample of research chemical users
Authors: González Débora , Ventura Mireia , Caudevilla Fernando , Torrens Marta , Farre Magi
Published: July 2013

Objective

To know the pattern of use of new psychoactive substances (NPSs) in a Spanish sample of research chemical (RC) users and to deepen the RC user profile and risk reduction strategies employed.

Methods

This study is a cross‐sectional survey by means of a specific questionnaire. Recruitment was carried out at music festivals, at non‐governmental organizations (NGOs), and through announcements on an online forum. Two RC user profiles were defined, according to whether they search information through online forums.

Results

A total of 230 users participated. The most frequent RCs were hallucinogenic phenethylamines (2C‐B 80.0%, 2C‐I 39.6%) and cathinones (methylone 40.1%, mephedrone 35.2%). The most frequent combination of RC with other illegal drugs was with cannabis (68.6%) and 2C‐B with MDMA (28.3%). Subjects who are consulting drug forums (group 1) use more RC, obtain RC by Internet, and use more frequently risk prevention strategies. Regarding the risk‐reduction strategies in this group, users sought information concerning RC before consuming them (100%), used precision scales to calculate dosage (72.3%), and analyzed the contents before consumption (68.8%).

Conclusions

There is a specific RC user profile with extensive knowledge and consumption of substances, using different strategies to reduce risks associated to its consumption. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the Efficiency of Bankruptcy Law: Empirical Evidence in Spain
Authors: Camacho‐Miñano María‐del‐Mar , Pascual‐Ezama David , Urquía‐Grande Elena
Published: July 2013

The current economic crisis is showing one of the main problems that many companies in financial distress have to face, namely, the impact of bankruptcy law in relation to companies and firms. This paper aims to analyze the bankruptcy law ex‐ante efficiency when companies are in financial distress. To test it out, two research questions are submitted: (i) Is solvency, the criterion used in the Spanish law, the best one to assess the relative significance of the main indicators, which determine bankrupt firms? (ii) Is the Spanish bankruptcy law efficient according to solvency or are there better criteria? To answer them, a logistic regression model is conducted. The sample embraces 1,387 firms in Spain, the data being obtained from 12 Commercial Justice Courts complemented with financial information. The main conclusion is that the solvency criterion is adequate to classify bankrupt companies although currently Spanish Bankruptcy law is not as efficient as it could be. Additionally, the relevant companies' indicators, which explain the financial distress procedure, are presented. Copyright © 2013 INSOL International and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Effects of nutrient enrichment and activity of invertebrate shredders on leaf litter breakdown in low order streams
Authors: Fleituch Tadeusz
Published: July 2013

This study compares leaf breakdown rates of two common plant species (alder and oak) in pristine and low‐to‐moderately polluted streams and investigates changes in the functioning of invertebrate consumers across the Western Carpathians (Poland). No positive effect of elevated nutrient concentration on litter breakdown rates was observed regardless of leaf species and litter bag mesh size. The litter breakdown rate was low at impacted sites, which was probably due to the combined effect of toxic compounds in waste water and oxygen depletion. Small shredders (e.g. stoneflies) were most abundant in pristine streams. In contrast, in some impacted streams larger gammarids or dipterans were more abundant. Shredder densities in the two stream types did not differ significantly but the diversity of shredders was significantly lower in impacted streams. Dipterans preferred more alder than oak litter. Feeding behavior of gammarids and dipterans in impacted streams may reflect their specific physiological adaptation of alimentary canals for food assimilation. Changes in impacted stream ecosystems were better explained by modifications in the shredder composition than by changes in litter breakdown rates.
Intimacy and the Relational Self
Authors: Downey Laurel
Published: July 2013

This paper is a review of current ideas about intimacy and some ideas of my own about definitions of intimacy which come from a desire for respectful, egalitarian, lively and challenging relationships. I suspect that many current ideas about intimacy are overly influenced by the culture of romantic love, in which intimacy is portrayed as the warm, all encompassing feelings of unconditional love, where never a cross word is said. For me, intimacy includes all those feelings of closeness and warmth, but also those moments of brutal honesty, extreme anger, standing up for oneself and saying no. The myth that intimacy is easily obtained, and always pleasant, will be challenged in this paper.
Intimacy, Gender and Self Psychology: Considerations for Relationship Counselling
Authors: Brown Jac
Published: July 2013

This paper reviews major conceptualisations of intimacy and the blocks, frequently attributed to gender, which are thought to contribute to problems in couple relationships. The paper concludes that gender is often not the limiting factor that inhibits intimacy in heterosexual couples. It may be more productive to consider individual rather than couple therapy to deal with impasses that appear to be associated with gender. Ideas from self psychology provide insights into how some requests for intimacy may be related to immature self‐object needs, which may better be handled through individual rather than couple therapy. A range of therapeutic goals and strategies that focus directly on intimacy are then outlined.
Journey of Resilience and Adaptation: Counselling Vietnamese People
Authors: Hart Justin
Published: July 2013

Despite the substantial number of Vietnamese residing in Australia, many Australians' knowledge and attitudes are still shaped by the Vietnam War and the resulting exodus of refugees. This superficial impression contributes little to a meaningful understanding of the rich heritage of the Vietnamese people. The purpose of this article is to broaden the understanding of helping professionals who come into contact with Vietnamese Australians, so as to evoke responses that are more sensitive, appropriate and helpful. A brief history of Vietnam is followed by an exploration of historical insights and cultural variables that aid our understanding of the people, and by an examination of the applicability of these factors for counselling.
Family Constellation — A Therapy Beyond Words
Authors: Stiefel Ingeborg , Harris Poppy , Zollmann Andreas W. F.
Published: July 2013

Family Constellation, a psychotherapeutic approach associated with the name Bert Hellinger, has become a popular yet also controversial form of systemic therapy in the German‐speaking therapy community. ‘Family Constellation’ (Familienstellen) means the individual client's physical‐emotional positioning and re‐positioning of substitute family members in relation to each other, with help of a therapeutic group. Family Constellation is a one‐session approach that addresses family‐of‐origin issues. The therapeutic process is highly experiential, utilising multiple sensory modalities. Hellinger locates his model within phenomenology, and his practice has roots in several therapy schools. His model offers complementary therapeutic techniques in our ‘languaged’ world of family therapy.
Family of Origin Work in Training: Essential or Dangerous?
Authors: Mason Barry , Gibney Paul , Crago Hugh
Published: July 2013

In relation to family of origin work in the training of family therapist, the authors discuss the appropriate age of trainees, the interface between personal and academic segments of the course, and potential risks and benefits involved. Two of the authors, Barry Mason and Paul Gibney, participated in a panel discussion on this topic at the Inaugural Pan Pacific Family Therapy Congress in Melbourne, 2001.