bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Platinum(II) Complexes Bearing a Thiolate/Thioether Ligand – Hemilability vs. Dealkylation
Authors: Guyon Fabrice , Knorr Michael , Garillon Aurélie , Strohmann Carsten
Published: December 2011

Substitution of the chloro ligands of cis‐[Pt(PEt3)2Cl2] by 4‐methylthio‐2‐thioxo‐1,3‐dithiole‐5‐thiolate (L) leads to the thiolato complexes trans‐[Pt(PEt3)2ClL] (2) and trans‐[Pt(PEt3)2L2] (1), which have been characterised by X‐ray crystallography. In the solid state, the square planar arrangement is capped by an endocyclic sulfur atom of L, which gives rise to distorted square‐pyramidal and pseudooctahedral geometries for 2 and 1, respectively. Complex 1 coexists in solution with [Pt(PEt3)(η1‐L)(η2‐L)] (3), which results from the reversible dissociation of one phosphane ligand. The combination of η1‐(thiolato) and η2‐(thiolato/thioether) L in 3 has been established by variable‐temperature 1H NMR spectroscopy and crystal structure determination. The η2‐coordination mode of L is also observed in cis‐[Pt(PEt3)2L]+ (4), which results from the abstraction of the chloro ligand of 2 by excess TlPF6. An S‐demethylation reaction occurs when 1 is heated in acetonitrile to yield the structurally‐characterised dithiolene complex [Pt(PEt3)2(dmit)] (5) (dmit2– = 2‐thioxo‐1,3‐dithiole‐4,5‐dithiolate) and MeL. Treatment of cis‐[Pt(PPh3)2Cl2] with 2 equiv. of L leads to a mixture of [Pt(PPh3)2(dmit)] (6) and [Pt(PPh3)(η1‐L)(η2‐L)] (7). Complex 7 predominates in solution over its parent compound,[Pt(PPh3)2L2]. The identification of CH3Cl by 1H NMR spectroscopy proves that [Pt(PPh3)2ClL] is involved as an intermediate in the demethylation process. The reaction of L with platinum precursors that are blocked in a cis arrangement by chelation of 1,1‐bis(diphenylphosphanyl)methane (dppm) and 1,1‐bis(diphenylphosphanyl)ethane (dppe) leads to the formation of the thiolato complexes cis‐[Pt(η2‐dppm)L2] (8) and cis‐[Pt(η2‐dppe)L2] (9). The solid‐state structure of 8 reveals the occurrence of an additional weak interaction between a thiomethyl group and the platinum centre (Pt–S 3.073 Å).
Well‐Defined Heterometallic and Unsymmetric M2O2 Complexes Arising from Binding and Activation of O2
Authors: Garcia‐Bosch Isaac , Ribas Xavi , Costas Miquel
Published: December 2011

Oxygen binding and activation reactions at dimetal sites constitute chemical processes of fundamental interest, because of the implication of these reactions in biology, chemical synthesis, and catalysis. This account collects and discusses studies of O2 binding and/or activation by inequivalent dimetal sites, and it specially focuses on systems in which O2‐bound reaction intermediates have been experimentally characterized. Homometallic unsymmetric systems and heterometallic complexes are reviewed, and their chemistry in oxidative transformations is described. Introduction of asymmetry into M2O2 cores poses important challenges to their preparation, and strategies developed to address this problem are discussed. Distinct spectroscopic and chemical properties emerge from these unsymmetric systems.
Atomic Layer Deposition of Titanium and Vanadium Oxide on Mesoporous Silica and Phenol/Formaldehyde Resins – the Effect of the Support on the Liquid Phase Epoxidation of Cyclohexene
Authors: Muylaert Ilke , Musschoot Jan , Leus Karen , Dendooven Jolien , Detavernier Christophe , Van Der Voort Pascal
Published: December 2011

Titanium and vanadium oxide layers have been grown in the pores of two 2D hexagonal ordered mesoporous materials: SBA‐15 (silica) and FDU‐15 (phenol/formaldehyde resin). The deposition of the layers was controlled by the self‐limiting reaction of the metal oxide precursor with the hydroxyl surface. Single, multiple and mixed titanium and vanadium oxide layers have been synthesised, and the influence of the layer type on the catalytic performance in the liquid phase epoxidation of cyclohexene has been evaluated. The effect of the support on the catalytic behaviour is discussed, and a reaction mechanism is proposed. The support–oxygen–metal bond is assumed to be critical for catalytic epoxidation.
Carica papaya latex: A low‐cost biocatalyst for human milk fat substitutes production
Authors: Tecelão Carla , Rivera Ivanna , Sandoval Georgina , Ferreira‐Dias Suzana
Published: December 2011

This work aims at evaluating the potential of Carica papaya lipase (CPL) self‐immobilized in papaya latex as a biocatalyst for the synthesis of human milk fat substitutes (HMFS), to be used as a low‐cost alternative to commercial lipases. Two different CPL preparations, one extracted from the papaya fruit (CPL I) and the other from petiole leaves (CPL II) of papaya tree, were tested as catalysts for the acidolysis between tripalmitin and (i) oleic acid or (ii) omega‐3 PUFA, batchwise, at 60°C, in solvent‐free media. After 24 h, molar incorporation was higher for oleic acid (22.1 mol%) when CPL I was used. This biocatalyst was selected for further studies. RSM was used to model reaction conditions: medium formulation (molar ratio oleic acid/tripalmitin, MR, 1.2:1–6.8:1) and temperature (58–72°C). Acyl migration decreased with MR increase. In batch operational stability assays at 60°C, using MR of 2:1 and 6:1, the highest stability was observed for a MR of 2:1.

Practical applications: The use of this biocatalyst is a feasible way to valorize papaya agro‐residues which represent an important environmental problem in the producing countries. The obtained results were rather promising since, with this almost zero‐cost biocatalyst, it was possible to produce a high added‐value product (HMFS). Under optimized conditions, the obtained results were comparable with those obtained with expensive immobilized commercial lipases.
Lipidomic profiling and discovery of lipid biomarkers in snow alga Chlamydomonas nivalis under salt stress
Authors: Lu Na , Wei Dong , Chen Feng , Yang Shang‐Tian
Published: December 2011

The snow alga Chlamydomonas nivalis is a typical microalgal species that can adapt and resist to natural habitats in the polar region and similar extreme environments. In response to various stress conditions, the change of lipid profile in cell membrane systems is known to play a vital role in cell survival and reproduction. In the present work, to elucidate the involvement of intracellular lipids in the molecular mechanism of cell response and adaptation to salt stress, C. nivalis was cultured and treated with different sodium chloride (NaCl) concentrations in different time courses. The ultra performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole‐TOF‐MS (UPLC/Q‐TOF‐MS)‐based approach was developed for lipidomic profiling followed by multivariate statistical analysis including partial least squares discriminant analysis and orthogonal projection on latent structure discriminant analysis for data classification and potential biomarkers selection. Seven types and 35 kinds of polar lipid molecules were selected and identified as biomarkers, including monogalactosyldiacylglycerol, digalactosyldiacylglycerol, l, 2‐diacylglyceryl‐3‐O‐4′‐(N,N,N‐trimethyl)‐homoserine, phosphatidylglycerol, sulfoquinovosyl‐diacylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, and phosphatidylinositiol. Their functions in relation to the regulation of cell membrane stability, signal transduction and photosynthesis efficiency under salt stress are also discussed in this paper. This is the first study using UPLC/Q‐TOF‐MS‐based lipidomic profiling with multivariate statistical analysis for lipid biomarkers discovery from microalgae in response to stress conditions.
Synthesis and Characterization of Adducts Formed in the Reactions of Safrole 2′,3′‐Oxide with 2′‐Deoxyadenosine, Adenine, and Calf Thymus DNA
Authors: Shen Li‐Ching , Chiang Su‐Yin , Ho I‐Ting , Wu Kuen‐Yuh , Chung Wen‐Sheng
Published: December 2011

Safrole (1) is a natural product found in herbs and spices. Upon uptake, it can be metabolized to safrole 2′,3′‐oxide [(±)‐SFO, 2], which can react with DNA bases to form DNA adducts. The reactions of 2 with 2′‐deoxyadenosine (3) and adenine (8) under physiological conditions (pH 7.4, 37 °C) were carried out to characterize its possible adducts with adenine. Four adducts were isolated by reverse‐phase liquid chromatography and their structures were characterized by UV/Vis, 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy and MS. The reaction of 2 with 3 produced two regioisomers, N1γ‐SFO‐dAdo (4) and N6γ‐SFO‐dAdo (5), in 4.2–4.5 % yield, and the reaction of 2 with 8 generated N3γ‐SFO‐Ade (9) and N9γ‐SFO‐Ade (10) in 1.0–2.4 % yield. Using HPLC–ESI‐MS/MS, we traced the amounts of the four adducts formed when calf thymus DNA (10 mg) was treated with 2 (60 μmol) and the levels of 4, 5, and 9 were determined to be 2000, 170, and 660 adducts per 106 nucleotides, respectively. Adduct 10 was not detected under these conditions. These results suggested that stable DNA adducts of 2 were formed in vitro, and further studies on the formation of these DNA adducts in vivo may help to elucidate their role in safrole carcinogenicity.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Selective Synthesis of Naphthalenes and Indenones and Their Luminescent Properties
Authors: Chen Xiaopeng , Jin Jisong , Wang Ningning , Lu Ping , Wang Yanguang
Published: December 2011

Selective synthesis of functionalized naphthalenes and indenones by palladium‐catalyzed cyclization of o‐haloacetophenones and terminal alkynes in the presence of a secondary amine is reported. Under a nitrogen atmosphere, the palladium‐catalyzed reaction of o‐haloacetophenones with terminal alkynes in the presence of wet secondary aminesgenerated 1‐(dialkylamino)‐3‐aryl/alkylnaphthalenes. When the reaction was conducted in air, 1‐indenone‐3‐carbaldehydes were obtained. The synthesized β‐arylnaphthalenes 4a–f emit light in a range from 386 to 452 nm with quantum yields from 0.10 to 0.48 in cyclohexane. The absorption and emission efficiency of 4d were finely tuned by the acidity of the environment, and this might be useful in the use of 4d as a fluorescent pH sensor.
Total Synthesis of Indolizidine (+)‐223A
Authors: Fellah Mouloud , Lhommet Gérard , Mouriès‐Mansuy Virginie
Published: December 2011

We described the diastereoselective total synthesis of indolizidine (+)‐223A in 10 % overall yield over 14 steps starting from 6‐chlorohex‐2‐ynoate. Our strategy involved chain elongation through aldolization, the formation of the indolizidine skeleton by cyclization, and stereocontrolled hydrogenation.
One‐Pot Synthesis of 3,4‐Disubstituted Coumarins under Catalysis of Mn3O4 Nanoparticles
Authors: Sun Huayin , Zhang Yonghui , Guo Fengfeng , Yan Yizhe , Wan Changfeng , Zha Zhenggen , Wang Zhiyong
Published: December 2011

The one‐pot synthesis of 3,4‐disubstituted coumarins from substituted 2‐(hydroxymethyl)phenols with β‐keto esters catalyzed by Mn3O4 nanoparticles was developed. A series of 3,4‐disubstituted coumarin derivatives were obtained in good yields.
Communication between Components in Metal‐Directed Assemblies of Oriented Calix[6]arene‐Based Pseudorotaxanes and Rotaxanes
Authors: Arduini Arturo , Bussolati Rocco , Masseroni Daniele , Royal Guy , Secchi Andrea
Published: December 2011

Oriented calix[6]arene‐based pseudorotaxanes and rotaxanes where the axial component bears a terpyridine ligand as a stopper positioned at the upper rim of the calixarene have been synthesized. The binding ability of the terpyridine unit present in the axle toward zinc salts is affected by the presence of the wheel, its distance with respect to the calix[6]arene upper rim, and the nature of the counterion of the zinc salt employed. Metal coordination at the terpyridine unit changes the electrochemical behavior of the 4,4′‐bipyridinium unit of the axle inside the wheel in both the pseudorotaxanes and rotaxanes.
Organic monoliths for hydrophilic interaction electrochromatography/chromatography and immunoaffinity chromatography
Authors: Gunasena Dilani N. , El Rassi Ziad
Published: December 2011

This article is aimed at providing a review of the progress made over the past decade in the preparation of polar monoliths for hydrophilic interaction LC (HILIC)/capillary electrochromatography (HI‐CEC) and in the design of immuno‐monoliths for immunoaffinity chromatography that are based on some of the polar monolith precursors used in HILIC/HI‐CEC. In addition, this review article discusses some of the applications of polar monoliths by HILIC and HI‐CEC, and the applications of immuno‐monoliths. This article is by no means an exhaustive review of the literature; it is rather a survey of the recent progress made in the field with 83 references published in the past decade on the topics of HILIC and immunoaffinity chromatography monoliths.
Using the gene ontology to scan multilevel gene sets for associations in genome wide association studies
Authors: Schaid Daniel J. , Sinnwell Jason P. , Jenkins Gregory D. , McDonnell Shannon K. , Ingle James N. , Kubo Michiaki , Goss Paul E. , Costantino Joseph P. , Wickerham D. Lawrence , Weinshilboum Richard M.
Published: December 2011

Gene‐set analyses have been widely used in gene expression studies, and some of the developed methods have been extended to genome wide association studies (GWAS). Yet, complications due to linkage disequilibrium (LD) among single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and variable numbers of SNPs per gene and genes per gene‐set, have plagued current approaches, often leading to ad hoc “fixes.” To overcome some of the current limitations, we developed a general approach to scan GWAS SNP data for both gene‐level and gene‐set analyses, building on score statistics for generalized linear models, and taking advantage of the directed acyclic graph structure of the gene ontology when creating gene‐sets. However, other types of gene‐set structures can be used, such as the popular Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Our approach combines SNPs into genes, and genes into gene‐sets, but assures that positive and negative effects of genes on a trait do not cancel. To control for multiple testing of many gene‐sets, we use an efficient computational strategy that accounts for LD and provides accurate step‐down adjusted P‐values for each gene‐set. Application of our methods to two different GWAS provide guidance on the potential strengths and weaknesses of our proposed gene‐set analyses.
Lifetime romantic attachment style and social adaptation in late‐onset depression
Authors: Paradiso Sergio , Naridze Rachelle , Holm‐Brown Erika
Published: December 2011

Background

Measuring social adjustment (including attachment style and current social adaptation) in late‐life depression may support planning secondary prevention, rehabilitation, and treatment. Insecure attachment style is a risk factor for developing new depression, and social adjustment may constitute a problem after symptoms abatement. Few studies have examined attachment style and social adjustment in late‐onset depression.

Design

Subjects 50 years of age and older with early‐onset (n = 35), late‐onset DSM‐IV unipolar depression (n = 38), and never‐depressed volunteers (n = 47) were assessed with a widely used measure of attachment style (the Experiences in Close Relationship Scale). Social adjustment was measured using the Social Adjustment Scale.

Results

Both early‐onset and late‐onset patients with depression showed greater insecure attachment and poorer social adaptation compared with never‐depressed volunteers. No difference was found between early‐onset and late‐onset patients with depression on attachment style or social adjustment. There were no significant differences between late‐life depression in remission or current on attachment or social adaptation.

Conclusion

Insecure attachment style may be a risk factor for late‐life depression irrespective of the age of onset. Social maladaptation may persist among individuals with late‐life depression in remission. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Case study of a college that closed: Saint Mary's College
Authors: Brown Alice W.
Published: December 2011

Having outlived its mission as a women's college, Saint Mary's School made a successful transition to its original mission, with the guidance of a college president who helped the college to see the advantages of closing.
A college that reinvented itself: The Wilson College story
Authors: Armacost Mary‐Linda Merriam
Published: December 2011

When trustees vote to close a college, and alumnae and students sue them, courts can override the decision, although winning the right to stay open is only part of the battle. A president instrumental in the revival of the college offers her viewpoint.
Case study of reinvention: College of Charleston
Authors: Brown Alice W.
Published: December 2011

A small struggling private college convinced the state to make it the public university for the region.
Antioch College: A celebrated history and an uncertain future
Authors: Hayford Elizabeth R.
Published: December 2011

The story of Antioch College includes closing four times (in 1862, 1881, 1919, and 2008) and reopening each time (in 1865, 1882, 1921, and 2011).
Secreted amyloid precursor proteins promote proliferation and glial differentiation of adult hippocampal neural progenitor cells
Authors: Baratchi Sara , Evans Jane , Tate Warren P. , Abraham Wickliffe C. , Connor Bronwen
Published: December 2011

Amyloid precursor protein (APP) is an integral membrane glycoprotein present at high levels in nerve cells. Two soluble secreted forms, sAPPα and sAPPβ, are processed from APP by two mutually exclusive proteolytic pathways. sAPPα shows a range of neuroprotective and growth factor properties, including reduction of neuronal injury and improvement in memory performance, in contrast to the generally less potent sAPPβ. In addition, sAPPα has been shown to increase the proliferation of both embryonic neural stem cells and neural progenitor cells (NPCs) derived from the subventricular zone (SVZ) of the adult brain. However, an effect of sAPPα (or sAPPβ) on adult hippocampal progenitor cell proliferation and differentiation has not previously been observed. In this study, we examined the effect of both the α‐ and β‐cleaved ectodomains of sAPP on adult NPCs isolated from the subgranular zone (SGZ) of the rat hippocampus in the presence or absence of depolarizing conditions. Assays were performed to examine the effect of sAPPα and sAPPβ on SGZ‐derived adult NPC proliferation in parallel with SVZ‐derived cells and on differentiation with SGZ‐derived cells. We observed both sAPPα and sAPPβ increased the proliferation of SGZ‐derived NPCs in vitro. Further, treatment of SGZ‐derived NPCs with either sAPPα or sAPPβ increased the number of cells expressing the astrocytic marker GFAP and promoted cell survival. The effect on differential fate was observed in both the presence and absence of depolarizing conditions. Thus, both sAPPα and sAPPβ exert a complex range of effects on SGZ‐derived adult NPCs, including increasing NPC proliferation, maintaining cell viability, yet promoting glial over neuronal differentiation. These findings provide the first direct support for the secreted forms of APP regulating SGZ‐derived NPCs, and raise the possibility some or all of the effects may have therapeutic benefit in models of neurological disease. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
BENCHMARKING FOR WATER USERS ASSOCIATIONS TO ENHANCE PERFORMANCE OF THE SAMRAT ASHOK SAGAR MAJOR IRRIGATION SCHEME
Authors: Phadnis Sanjay Sitaram , Kulshrestha Mukul
Published: December 2011

Water is one of the most scarcely available natural resource on earth. Its effective utilisation is a major concern felt worldwide. Water crisis is a situation felt in every sector using it (domestic, power, industry and irrigation). Exploitation of water resources in an unplanned manner has resulted in deterioration of environmental and social conditions and has resulted in an alarming situation. The Samrat Ashok Sagar Major Irrigation Scheme of the Madhya Pradesh Water Resources Department, India, was selected as a study area for the benchmarking of irrigation performance assessment by the Water Users Associations for the years 2003–2004 to 2007–2008. The Indian National Committee for Irrigation and Drainage (ICID) and the Water Resources Department, Maharashtra, India, recommended selected indicators for benchmarking of the irrigation and drainage sector. The objective of this study was to implement internal benchmarking to improve the performance of the system by creating competition between water users associations working in a major irrigation scheme. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Homology of the internal sac components in the leaf beetle subfamily criocerinae and evolutionary novelties related to the extremely elongated flagellum
Authors: Matsumura Yoko , Yoshizawa Kazunori
Published: December 2011

Extremely elongated intromittent organs are found in a wide range of taxa, especially among insects. This phenomenon is generally thought to result from sexual selection, but it is predicted that limited storage space in the body cavity and the difficulty of using the elongated organs should have constrained the evolution of extreme elongation, neutralizing any selective advantage. Therefore, in groups with long intromittent organs, features that overcome these constraints may have evolved or coevolved together with intromittent organ elongation. Using a comparative morphological approach and outgroup comparisons, we identified potential constraints and key novelties that may neutralize such constraints in the leaf beetle subfamily Criocerinae. Observations of the internal sac structure throughout Criocerinae were performed. Comparing the results with preceding studies from outgroups, a ground plan of the criocerine internal sac was constructed. Our analysis also identified specific features that are always correlated with extreme elongation: the rotation of whole internal‐sac sclerites and the possession of a pocket in which to store the elongated flagellum. The pocket is thought to be formed by the rotation of the sclerites, markedly altering internal sac shape from the criocerine ground plan. Onlythe clades that have acquired this derived state contain species with an elongated flagellum that distinctly exceeds the median lobe length. It is presumed that these character correlations evolved independently three times. The detected character correlations corroborate the hypothesis that there are latent adaptive constraints for the evolution of extremely elongated intromittent organs. The constraints may have been neutralized by the alteration from the criocerine ground plan resulting in the formation of a storage pocket. In conclusion, deviation from the criocerine ground plan isconsidered to be the evolutionary innovation that neutralized the latent adaptive constraints of flagellum elongation in the subfamily Criocerinae. J. Morphol., 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The determination of percentage dissociation of zircon (ZrSiO4) to plasma‐dissociated zircon (ZrO2.SiO2) by Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Kock L. D. , Lekgoathi M. D. S. , Snyders E. , Wagener J. B. , Nel J. T. , Havenga J. L.
Published: December 2011

Raman spectroscopy and multivariate calibration techniques are used to determine the percentage conversion of zircon (ZrSiO4) to plasma‐dissociated zircon, ZrO2.SiO2 (PDZ). The integrated area of a consistent ZrO2 (monoclinic) Raman band at 477 cm–1 assigned to the Ag symmetry type from different conversion percentages of the PDZ spectra is used in a multivariate analysis scheme (partial least squares) to develop a predictive model for the subsequent determination of percentage dissociation of zircon to PDZ. In contrast to wet chemical methods, this approach eliminates the use of corrosive acids, e.g. hydrofluoric acid, thus leading to significant reductions in analysis time and material wastage, and it is a quick method that can be used online in a PDZ production facility. These results show best correlation with determination coefficient (R2) values in the range between 99.45 and 99.99% for zircon percentage dissociation in cross‐validation tests. This illustrates not only the versatility of the Raman technique in industrial applications but also the importance of noninvasive testing in the study of zircon and related materials. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental assessment of the phonon confinement in TiO2 anatase nanocrystallites by Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Georgescu Dumitru , Baia Lucian , Ersen Ovidiu , Baia Monica , Simon Simion
Published: December 2011

TiO2 aerogels prepared by sol‐gel method and followed by supercritical drying have been annealed at temperatures ranging between 400 and 550 °C. The obtained TiO2 anatase crystallites with the mean size between 6.4 and 13.9 nm, as obtained from transmission electron microscopy measurements, have been further investigated by Raman spectroscopy. It was found that the peak position and full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the TiO2 anatase Raman bands located around 144, 398, and 638 cm−1 are influenced by crystallite dimension. These spectral changes can be assigned to the combined action of several nanosize effects such as phonon confinement, phonon coupling, strain, and stoichiometry defects. Surprisingly, the best discrimination of the FWHM change with the nanocrystallite mean size was achieved for the 638 cm−1 band, whereas the best discrimination for the peak position was found for the 398 cm−1 band. The critical size values obtained from the peak position and FWHM evaluation were between 12.7 and 13.1 nm. Taking into consideration that only the phonon confinement and inhomogeneous strain can induce an asymmetric broadening of the Raman signal, the bands asymmetry was evaluated, and the critical size values of the nanocrystallites were determined to be between 10 and 11 nm. For a symmetric size distribution of TiO2 anatase crystallites with dimensions between 6.4 and 13.9 nm, the obtained result indicates that the phonon confinement contribution to the overall size effects is more than 75%. No evidence about the influence of the phonon coupling and vacancies on the Raman features was observed. The comparison of the data derived from the experimental analysis with those obtained by applying the theoretical phonon confinement model indicates the necessity of developing an improved phonon confinement model. The asymmetry approach can be applied for a great variety of nanostructures, as a measure of the confinement effect. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Agronomical factors influencing the legumin/vicilin ratio in pea (Pisum sativum L.) seeds
Authors: Mertens Cécile , Dehon Lydie , Bourgeois Audrey , Verhaeghe‐Cartrysse Christine , Blecker Christophe
Published: December 2011

BACKGROUND: Many research studies have investigated the impact of agronomical factors on the protein content of pea (Pisum sativum). This study aimed to establish if a correlation exists between protein content and legumin/vicilin (L/V) ratio in pea seeds and to identify agronomical factors that have an impact on this ratio.

RESULTS: The L/V ratio was positively correlated with protein content (r = 0.58, P⩽0.01), but no linear regression was applicable (adjusted R2 = 0.31). Both variety and cultivation year had a highly significant effect on the ratio (P < 0.001). The interaction between these two factors was also highly significant (P < 0.001), some varieties being less sensitive to climatic conditions than others. Cultivation location had a highly significant effect (P < 0.01). There was no interaction between variety and location. Seeding density had a highly significant effect on the ratio (P < 0.01), with a saturation effect above 60 seeds m−2.

CONCLUSION: Further studies should establish if a linear regression model can be applied to pea varieties independently. Varieties with a stable L/V ratio can prove to be useful in the food industry. Other agronomical factors (soil type and seeding density) should be considered for the production of pea seeds with a specific L/V ratio. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Monitoring Svalbard rock ptarmigan: Distance sampling and occupancy modeling
Authors: Pedersen Åshild Ø. , Bårdsen Bård‐Jørgen , Yoccoz Nigel G. , Lecomte Nicolas , Fuglei Eva
Published: December 2011

The only resident terrestrial herbivorous bird species in high‐Arctic Svalbard, Norway is the endemic Svalbard rock ptarmigan (Lagopus muta hyperborea) of which little is known of its population dynamics. We assessed temporal and spatial variability of the pre‐breeding population of Svalbard rock ptarmigan males using: 1) distance sampling to estimate density (2000–2009) and 2) occupancy modeling to determine the proportion of survey points being occupied in relation to a habitat index for ptarmigan habitat suitability (2005–2009). Data were collected using a point‐transect sampling design. We split the analysis according to type of survey point (non‐random, random, and survey points combined). Our estimated spring densities were low (1.3–3.1 territorial male/km2, non‐random survey points, 2000–2009) with limited annual variability. The best models describing occupancy rates of territorial males at 2 different spatial scales (ptarmigan males observed ≤250 m and ≤450 m from the sampling point) were independent of spatial scales and the type of survey points. Occupancy dynamics were related to the habitat index whereas detection probability was year dependent. Extinction probability was negatively related to habitat quality (good habitats had lower extinction probability). We could not estimate the habitat effect on colonization precisely because initial occupancy rates were high at both spatial scales (estimated average initial occupancy at scale ≤250 m = 0.96; scale ≤450 m = 0.97). Colonization appeared to be positively related to the habitat index for the random survey points (including mainly marginal habitats), but the small sample size led to large uncertainty in the parameter estimate. Detection probabilities varied greatly between study years, thus demonstrating the importance of estimating detection probability annually. We recommend that future surveys are stratified with respect to habitat quality and to integrate the 2 methodologies in population monitoring of Svalbard rock ptarmigan. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Selection of nest‐site habitat by interior least terns in relation to sandbar construction
Authors: Sherfy Mark H. , Stucker Jennifer H. , Buhl Deborah A.
Published: December 2011

Federally endangered interior least terns (Sternula antillarum) nest on bare or sparsely vegetated sandbars on midcontinent river systems. Loss of nesting habitat has been implicated as a cause of population declines, and managing these habitats is a major initiative in population recovery. One such initiative involves construction of mid‐channel sandbars on the Missouri River, where natural sandbar habitat has declined in quantity and quality since the late 1990s. We evaluated nest‐site habitat selection by least terns on constructed and natural sandbars by comparing vegetation, substrate, and debris variables at nest sites (n = 798) and random points (n = 1,113) in bare or sparsely vegetated habitats. Our logistic regression models revealed that a broader suite of habitat features was important in nest‐site selection on constructed than on natural sandbars. Odds ratios for habitat variables indicated that avoidance of habitat features was the dominant nest‐site selection process on both sandbar types, with nesting terns being attracted to nest‐site habitat features (gravel and debris) and avoiding vegetation only on constructed sandbars, and avoiding silt and leaf litter on both sandbar types. Despite the seemingly uniform nature of these habitats, our results suggest that a complex suite of habitat features influences nest‐site choice by least terns. However, nest‐site selection in this social, colonially nesting species may be influenced by other factors, including spatial arrangement of bare sand habitat, proximity to other least terns, and prior habitat occupancy by piping plovers (Charadrius melodus). We found that nest‐site selection was sensitive to subtle variation in habitat features, suggesting that rigor in maintaining habitat condition will be necessary in managing sandbars for the benefit of least terns. Further, management strategies that reduce habitat features that are avoided by least terns may be the most beneficial to nesting least terns. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Linking alternative food sources to winter habitat selection of herbivores in overbrowsed landscapes
Authors: Massé Ariane , Côté Steeve D.
Published: December 2011

During winter, ungulates in boreal forests must cope with high energetic costs related to locomotion in deep snow and reduced forage abundance and quality. At high density, ungulates face additional constraints, because heavy browsing reduces availability of woody browse, the main source of forage during winter. Under these severe conditions, large herbivores might forage on alternative food sources likely independent of browsing pressure, such as litterfall or windblown trees. We investigated the influence of alternative food sources on winter habitat selection, by studying female white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) living in 2 landscapes with contrasted browse abundance, recently logged and regenerated landscapes, in a population at high density and on a large island free of predators. We fitted 21 female white‐tailed deer with Global Positioning System (GPS) collars and delineated winter home ranges and core areas. We measured snow conditions in different habitat categories and sampled vegetation in the core areas and in the rest of the home ranges to determine how forage abundance, protective cover, and snow conditions influenced habitat selection within the home range. In both landscapes, deer were less likely to use open habitat categories as snow accumulated on the ground. At a finer scale, deer inhabiting the regenerated landscape intensively used areas where balsam fir cover was intermediate with greater balsam fir browse density than in the rest of the home range. In the recently logged landscape, deer were more likely to be found near edges between clear‐cuts and balsam fir stands and in areas where windblown balsam fir trees were present; the latter being the most influential variable. Although balsam fir browse was sparse and mainly out of reach in this landscape, deer increased the use of areas where it was present. Our results offer novel insights into the resource selection processes of northern ungulates, as we showed that access to winter forage, such as woody browse and alternative food sources, depends on climatic conditions and stochastic events, such as abundant compacted snow or windthrows. To compensate for these scarce and unpredictable food supplies, deer selected habitat categories, but mostly areas within those habitat categories, where the likelihood of finding browse, litterfall, and windblown trees was greatest. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Trends in volume migration chronology in spring staging Pacific black brant
Authors: Smith Barry D. , Hagmeier Katherine R. , Boyd W. Sean , Dawe Neil K. , Martin Terri D. , Monty Guy L.
Published: December 2011

We used a robust dataset of count and mark‐resighting data for Pacific black brant from 1989–2004, and a novel mark‐recapture model capable of analyzing such data, to calculate the annual variability and timing of brant as they migrated through the Parksville–Qualicum Beach area, a traditional spring staging site in coastal British Columbia, Canada. Our analysis indicated that the date of departure from this site to northern breeding sites advanced between 10 and 20 days over this period because of a combination of earlier arrival and shorter residence times. Given this change in migration behavior, and the potential implications for population dynamics, we recommend that targeted research on brant wintering, migration, and reproductive strategies should be examined within a greater Pacific‐wide context. In this way, the consequences of proximate factors (e.g., disturbance, food, and climate) can be understood in terms of individual fitness and population dynamics. Finally, at the local level, conservation actions are needed to ensure the long term sustainability of Parksville–Qualicum Beach as an important spring staging site for Pacific black brant. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Creating the owner's mindset
Authors: Prosek Jennifer
Published: December 2011

All employees, not just leaders, must cultivate the mindset of an owner, Prosek asserts. Others besides you must maintain the mentality that they too have a financial stake. She describes the “Commission for Life” that has been successful in her own company. Anyone can earn a 5 percent commission (as long as they remain with the firm) on new business that has been brought in as the result of setting up a successful new business meeting. This device, Prosek finds, keeps staffers inspired, motivated, and connected.
Photocrosslinkable Polyesters and Poly(ester anhydride)s for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Seppälä Jukka , Korhonen Harri , Hakala Risto , Malin Minna
Published: December 2011

Crosslinking is a feasible way to prepare biodegradable polymers with potential in biomedical applications such as controlled release of active agents and tissue engineering. A synthesis route in which functional telechelic aliphatic polyester oligomers are used as precursors for the preparation of crosslinked polyesters and poly(ester anhydride)s is described. Mechanical properties, degradation characteristics and rate, and bioactivity can be modified widely by controlling the chemical composition and architecture of the crosslinkable oligomers. In tissue engineering, photocrosslinking allows to use crosslinkable oligomers in advanced manufacturing techniques like micromolding in capillaries, stereolithography and two‐photon polymerization.

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Biodegradable Polymers Derived From Amino Acids
Authors: Khan Wahid , Muthupandian Saravanan , Farah Shady , Kumar Neeraj , Domb Abraham J.
Published: December 2011

In the past three decades, the use of polymeric materials has increased dramatically for biomedical applications. Many α‐amino acids derived biodegradable polymers have also been intensely developed with the main goal to obtain bio‐mimicking functional biomaterials. Polymers derived from α‐amino acids may offer many advantages, as these polymers: (a) can be modified further to introduce new functions such as imaging, molecular targeting and drugs can be conjugated chemically to these polymers, (b) can improve on better biological properties like cell migration, adhesion and biodegradability, (c) can improve on mechanical and thermal properties and (d) their degradation products are expected to be non‐toxic and readily metabolized/excreted from the body. This manuscript focuses on biodegradable polymers derived from natural amino acids, their synthesis, biocompatibility and biomedical applications. It is observed that polymers derived from α‐amino acids constitute a promising family of biodegradable materials. These provide innovative multifunctional polymers possessing amino acid side groups with biological activity and with innumerous potential applications.

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Corrosion under mixed flowing gas conditions of various connector coatings
Authors: Collins M. N. , Reid M. , Dalton E. , Shannon K. , Garfias‐Mesias L. F.
Published: December 2011

This paper presents an investigation on the corrosion performance of Ni/Au, NiP/Au, Ni/NiP/Au and Ni/NiPd/Au electrical connector coating systems. The coating systems were exposed to 10 days Class III mixed flowing gas and were subsequently examined by X‐ray diffraction, focused ion beam microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy to evaluate the performance of each coating system. The Ni/Au coating system showed the worst performance followed by NiP/Au and Ni/NiP/Au. The Ni/NiPd/Au coated connector materials exhibited the least surface corrosion and this was attributed to a number of factors including a thicker coating system, more compact gold layer with fewer defects and a reduction in the electrochemical potential difference between layers reducing the local cell effect.
Species‐specific stable isotope analysis by the hyphenation of chromatographic techniques with MC‐ICPMS
Authors: Rodríguez‐González Pablo , Epov Vladimir N. , Pecheyran Christophe , Amouroux David , Donard Olivier F.X.
Published: December 2011

This work reviews the basis and all the existing publications on the hyphenation of chromatography‐based techniques to MC‐ICPMS for isotopic studies that were published until the end of 2010. A brief historical retrospective of the measurement of isotope ratios from transient signals by ICPMS with different sample introduction techniques is also included. The most important experimental parameters and data reduction strategies affecting the accurate and precise measurement of compound‐specific isotope ratios by either HPLC or GC coupled to MC‐ICPMS are discussed. All the applications are reported and critically reviewed in terms of analytical characteristics, performances, optimization, advantages and disadvantages and future applicability to the environmental, geochemical, or bioinorganic studies. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev 31:504–521, 2012
Possible involvement of Wnt11 in colorectal cancer progression
Authors: Nishioka Mitsuaki , Ueno Koji , Hazama Shoichi , Okada Toshiyuki , Sakai Kouhei , Suehiro Yutaka , Okayama Naoko , Hirata Hiroshi , Oka Masaaki , Imai Kohzoh , Dahiya Rajvir , Hinoda Yuji
Published: December 2011

Our previous report revealed that the expression of Frizzled‐7 (FZD7) in colorectal cancer (CRC) and its possible role in CRC progression. In this study we measured the expression levels of candidate FZD7 ligands, Wnt3 and Wnt11 in colon cancer cell lines (n = 7) and primary CRC tissues (n = 133) by quantitative RT‐PCR. We also examined the functional effects of Wnt11 with the use of Wnt11 transfectants of colon cancer HCT‐116 cells. Wnt11 transfectants showed the increased proliferation and migration/invasion activities compared to mock cells. Western blot analysis of transfectants revealed that phosphorylation of JNK and c‐jun was increased after Wnt11 transfection. Wnt11 mRNA expression was significantly higher in the stage I, II, III, or IV tumor tissues than in non‐tumor tissues (overall P < 0.003), while there was no significant difference in Wnt3 mRNA expression between tumor and non‐tumor tissues. In addition, Wnt11 mRNA expression was significantly higher in patients with recurrence or death after surgery than in those with no recurrence (disease free) after surgery (P = 0.018). We also compared the expression levels of Wnt11 mRNA with those of FZD7 mRNA in the same CRC samples. Wnt11 mRNA expression was significantly higher in patients with higher FZD7 mRNA levels than in those with lower FZD7 mRNA levels (P = 0.0005). The expression levels of Wnt11 mRNA were correlated with those of FZD7 mRNA (P < 0.0001). These data suggest that Wnt11 may play an important role in CRC progression. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Polycomb group protein EZH2‐mediated E‐cadherin repression promotes metastasis of oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Cheng , Liu Xiqiang , Chen Zujian , Huang Hongzhang , Jin Yi , Kolokythas Antonia , Wang Anxun , Dai Yang , Wong David T.W. , Zhou Xiaofeng
Published: December 2011

Enhancer of Zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is a critical component of the polycomb‐repressive complex 2 (PRC2) that regulates many essential biological processes, including embryogenesis and many developmental events. The oncogenic role of EZH2 has recently been implicated in several cancer types. In this study, we first confirmed that the over‐expression of EZH2 is a frequent event in oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC). We further demonstrated that EZH2 over‐expression is correlated with advanced stages of the disease and is associated with lymph node metastasis. Statistical analysis revealed that EZH2 over‐expression was correlated with reduced overall survival. Furthermore, over‐expression of EZH2 was correlated with reduced expression of tumor suppressor gene E‐cadherin. These observations were confirmed in vitro, in which knockdown of EZH2‐induced E‐cadherin expression and reduced cell migration and invasion. In contrast, ectopic transfection of EZH2 led to reduced E‐cadherin expression and enhanced cell migration and invasion. Furthermore, EZH2 may act on cell migration in part by suppressing the E‐cadherin expression. Taken together, these data suggest that EZH2 plays major roles in the progression of OTSCC, and may serve as a biomarker or therapeutic target for patients at risk of metastasis. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Association of the miR‐146aC>G, 149C>T, 196a2C>T, and 499A>G polymorphisms with colorectal cancer in the Korean population
Authors: Min Kyung Tae , Kim Jong Woo , Jeon Young Joo , Jang Moon Ju , Chong So Young , Oh Doyeun , Kim Nam Keun
Published: December 2011

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, 18‐ to 22‐nucleotide non‐coding RNAs that regulate target gene expression. Although recent studies focused on various diseases that harbor the miR‐146aC>G (rs2910164), 149C>T (rs2292832), 196a2C>T (rs11614913), and 499A>G (rs3746444) polymorphisms, the role of miRNA genetic variants in colorectal cancer is still unknown. The present study aimed to evaluate the role of four miRNA polymorphisms in patients with colorectal cancer. We enrolled 446 colorectal cancer patients and 502 control subjects from the Korean population. We found a significantly increased colorectal cancer risk with the miR‐196a2CC genotype compared with the TT/CT genotype (AOR = 1.50; 95% CI = 1.11–2.04; P = 0.01; FDR‐P = 0.04). In the stratified analyses, we observed both weak and strong association data. We found stronger associations of the miR‐196a2 variants in the non‐diabetic and rectal cancer groups than other stratified groups. Our data suggest that the miRNA variants could affect the development of colorectal cancer in the Korean population. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lysophosphatidic acid receptor‐3 increases tumorigenicity and aggressiveness of rat hepatoma RH7777 cells
Authors: Okabe Kyoko , Hayashi Mai , Kato Kohei , Okumura Mai , Fukui Rie , Honoki Kanya , Fukushima Nobuyuki , Tsujiuchi Toshifumi
Published: December 2011

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), which interacts with G protein‐coupled transmembrane LPA receptors exhibits several biological effects, such as cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. Recently, it has been reported that alteration of LPA receptor genes occurs in several cancer cells. In this study, to assess the biological role of LPA receptor‐3 (LPA3) in the pathogenesis of tumor cells, we generated the Lpar3‐expressing cells (RHa3B12 and RHa3G8) from rat hepatoma RH7777 cells, and examined their abilities of cell migration and tumorigenicity, compared with the Lpar3‐unexpressing cells. In cell motility and invasion assays, RHa3B12 and RHa3G8 cells showed significantly higher intrinsic activity without LPA treatment than control RH7777AB cells. LPA treatment further increased cell motility and invasion of these cells. The cell motility of RHa3B12 and RHa3G8 cells stimulated by LPA treatment was significantly suppressed by pretreatment with inhibitors of Gi or Gq proteins. In a soft agar assay, the large sized colonies were formed in RHa3B12 and RHa3G8 cells, but not in RH7777AB cells. The cell survival of RHa3G8 cells treated with cisplatin (CDDP) or doxorubicin (DOX) was higher than that of RH7777AB cells, correlating with the elevated expression levels of multidrug‐resistance related genes, Mdr1a, Mdr1b, and Gstp1. These results suggest that LPA3 may be involved in progression and aggressiveness of rat hepatoma RH7777 cells. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.