bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vivo predictive release methods for medicated chewing gums
Authors: Gajendran Jayachandar , Kraemer Johannes , Langguth Peter
Published: June 2012

Understanding the performance of a drug product in vivo plays a key role in the development of meaningful in vitro drug release methodology. In case of functional chewing gums, the mode and the mechanism of release and the site of application differ significantly from other conventional solid oral dosage forms and require a special consideration to extract meaningful information from clinical studies. In the current study, suitable drug release methodology was developed to predict the in vivo performance of an investigated chewing gum product. Different parameters of the drug release testing apparatus described in the Ph. Eur. and Pharmeuropa were evaluated. Drug release data indicate that the parameters, chewing distance, chewing frequency and twisting motion, affect the drug release. Higher drug release was observed when the frequency was changed from 40 chews/min to 60 chews/min for apparatus A and B, as was the case for the twisting motion when changed from 20º to 40º for apparatus B. As far as the chewing distance is concerned, the release rate was in the following order; apparatus A: 0.3 mm > 0.5 mm > 0.7 mm; apparatus B: 1.4 mm > 1.6 mm > 1.8 mm. A suitable apparatus set‐up for in vitro release testing was identified. The method will be useful for the establishment of in vitro in vivo correlations (IVIVC) for medicated chewing gums. Interchangeability of the apparatus for a product is not generally recommended without prior knowledge of the performance of the product, as the construction and principle of operation for the apparatus differ considerably. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
British Sikh Identity and the Struggle for Distinctiveness and Continuity
Authors: Jaspal Rusi
Published: June 2012

Sikhs constitute a high proportion of the ethnic minority population in Britain. Yet, social psychologists have largely neglected this demographically important religious group, leaving much of the theorising to anthropologists and sociologists. The present study explores how a group of British‐born Sikhs understood and defined their Sikh identities, focussing upon strategies for safeguarding the continuity and distinctiveness of this identity. Ten individuals were interviewed. Informed by identity process theory, the transcripts were subjected to thematic analysis. Three superordinate themes are reported, namely (i) “Freedom and gender equality”: the ‘essence’ of Sikh identity; (ii) Continuing the legacy of the Gurus; and (iii) Maintaining group continuity and distinctiveness in a threatening social context. Theoretical and practical implications of the research are discussed, particularly in relation to intergroup relations. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation of a Xanthine Sensor Based on the Immobilization of Xanthine Oxidase on a Chitosan Modified Electrode by Cross‐linking
Authors: Liu Yuge , Li Weiming , Wei Changbin , Lü Lingling
Published: June 2012

Here in this paper, xanthine oxidase (XOD) was immobilized onto the chitosan (CHT) modified electrode by a simple way of cross‐linking with glutaraldehyde (GTD) and 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (KH). The electrode displayed a sharp peak to the oxidation of xanthine at a potential about 0.67 V and the optimum of pH for determination was investigated. Under the optimum conditions, the biosensor fabricated on the KH/GTD/XOD/CHT modified electrode showed excellent response to the oxidation of xanthine within the range of 0.5 to 18 μmol/L with a low detection limit of 0.0215 µmol/L, a good stability and a high selectivity. The sensor can also be used for the determination of hypoxanthine. The electrochemical results indicated that the immobilized enzyme still retained its biological activity and this provided a new way for the construction of biosensors and determination of xanthine.
Photocatalytic Nanocomposite Films Fabricated by Layer‐by‐Layer Self‐assembly of TiO2 Nanoparticles and Lignosulfonates
Authors: Li Hui , Fu Shiyu , Peng Lincai , Zhan Huaiyu
Published: June 2012

Photocatalytic multilayer nanocomposite films composed of anatase TiO2 nanoparticles and lignosulfonates (LS) were fabricated on quartz slides by the layer‐by‐layer (LBL) self‐assembly technique. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV‐vis spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were used to characterize the TiO2/LS multilayer nanocomposite films. Moreover, the photocatalytic properties (decomposition of methyl orange and bacteria) of multilayer nanocomposite films were investigated. XPS results indicated that the intensities of titanium and sulfur peaks increased with the LBL deposition process. A linear increase in absorbance at 280 nm was found by UV‐Vis spectroscopy, suggesting that stepwise multilayer growth occurs on the substrate and this deposition process is highly reproducible. AFM images showed that quartz slide was completely covered by TiO2 nanoparticles when a 10‐bilayer multilayer film was formed. The decomposition efficiency of methyl orange by TiO2/LS multilayer films under the same UV irradiation time increased linearly with the number of TiO2 layers, and the results of decomposition of bacteria under UV irradiation showed that TiO2/LS multilayer nanocomposite films exhibited excellent decomposition activity of bacteria (Escherichia coil).
Ring‐opening Polymerization of L‐Lactide by an Anionic Cobalt(II) Aryloxide
Authors: Yuan Chunxiang , Xu Xiaoping , Zhang Yong , Ji Shunjun
Published: June 2012

The reaction of anhydrous CoCl2 with NaOAr (ArO=2,4,6‐tri‐tert‐butylphenoxo) in THF at room temperature in 1:3 molar ratio afforded anionic cobalt aryloxide [Na(THF)6][Co(OAr)3] (1). The definite structure of this complex was characterized by X‐ray single crystal diffraction. It was found that this anionic aryloxo cobalt(II) complex could effectively initiate the ring‐opening polymerization of L‐lactide both in solution and in bulk, leading to high molecular weight poly(L‐lactide).
BiX3 and FeX3‐Promoted Prins Cyclization of Enol Ethers in CH2Cl2
Authors: Yang Yi , Jia Pingjing , Liu Suping , Yu Wei
Published: June 2012

The Prins cyclization of enol ethers has been realized by employing BiX3 (or FeX3) as catalyst and TMSX (X=Br, Cl) as the halogen source. The presence of a tiny amount of water in the solvent dichloromethane played a key role for the reaction to proceed. The reaction is believed to be catalyzed by Lewis acid‐assisted Brønsted acids, which were generated in situ from MX3 and water in the solvent.
A Novel One‐pot Synthesis of Biaryl Derivatives by Sequential Strategies via Suzuki Coupling/Knoevenagel Condensation in Aqueous Medium at Room Temperature
Authors: Zhang Zhanyi , Zheng Jia , Du Qingwei , Zhang Wei , Li Yiqun
Published: June 2012

A novel one‐pot synthesis of biaryl derivatives has been developed starting from bromobenzaldehyde and phenylboronic acid in the presence of activated methylene compounds via sequential Suzuki coupling/Knoevenagel condensation in aqueous isopropanol medium at room temperature. Significantly, this strategy afforded a straightforward and efficient approach to construct original biaryls in which a new carbon double bond bound to activated moieties such as nitrile, ester and amide is formed from three simple substrates in a one‐pot procedure. Moreover, a wide scope of substrates could effectively participate in the process affording the target products in moderate to excellent yields.
A New Guaiane‐type Sesquiterpene with 15 Known Compounds from Wikstroemia scytophylla Diels
Authors: Jiang Hezhong , Ma Qingyun , Huang Shengzhuo , Liang Wenjuan , Wang Pengcheng , Hu Jiangmiao , Zhou Jun , Zhao Youxing
Published: June 2012

A new guaiane‐type sesquiterpene, wiksphyllamin A (1) with C‐10 and C‐11 connected, along with fifteen known compounds were isolated from the stems of Wikstroemia scytophylla Diels. All these compounds were isolated for the first time from Wikstroemia scytophylla. The structures of 1–16 were identified using spectroscopic methods.
Efficient Construction and Structure Determination of Novel Macrocycles with Calixarene Bishydrazones
Authors: Bi Xin , Sun Jing , Yan Chaoguo
Published: June 2012

A series of large macrocyclic calixarene bishydrazones were efficiently synthesized by [2+2] condensation reactions of calix[4]arene 1,3‐disubstituted aldehydes with hydrated hydrazine. The X‐ray single crystal diffraction showed that macrocycles form a distinctive calixtube‐liking shape.
A Simple and Sensitive Label‐free Immunoassay for Factor B Using Resonance Scattering Spectral Detection
Authors: Li Jishun , Xu Lili , Wang Lisheng , Liang Aihui , Jiang Zhiliang
Published: June 2012

In pH 7.2 Na2HPO4‐NaH2PO4 buffer solution and in the presence of PEG‐6000, goat‐anti‐human factor B (GABF) was combined with human factor B (BF) specifically, and aggregated to form immune complex particles that exhibited a resonance scattering (RS) peak at 400 nm. The laser scattering indicated that the average diameter of immune complex particles was 1320 nm. BF in the concentration range of 0.04 to 9.60 µg/mL was proportional to the resonance scattering intensity at 400 nm. Its regression equation was ΔI=33.61C+ 1.4, with a correlation coefficient of 0.9969, and a detection limit of 0.01 µg/mL BF. This label‐free resonance scattering spectral (RSS) method has been applied to the determination of BF in serum samples, and the results were in agreement with that of the immunoturbity.
cis‐Nitenpyram Analogues Containing 1,4‐Dihydropyridine: Synthesis, Insecticidal Activities, and Molecular Docking Studies
Authors: Sun Chuanwen , Chen Yanxia , Liu Tianyan , Wu Ying , Fang Ting , Wang Jing , Xing Jiahua
Published: June 2012

A novel series of cis‐nitenpyram analogues (2a–2p) were designed and prepared by introducing the 1,4‐dihydropyridine, with their cis‐configuration confirmed by X‐ray diffraction. Preliminary bioassays showed that most compounds exhibited good insecticidal activities at 20 mg/L against Aphis medicagini, and analogues 2a and 2d afforded the best activity, and both of them had 100% mortality at 4 mg/L. In addition, molecular docking studies were also performed to model the ligand‐receptor complexes, and the results explained the structure‐activity relationships observed in vitro, which may provide some useful information for future design of new insecticides.
Dehydrogenative Aromatization of Saturated Aromatic Compounds by Graphite Oxide and Molecular Sieves
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Xu Liang , Wang Xitao , Ma Ning , Sun Feifei
Published: June 2012

Graphite oxide (GO) has attracted much attention of material and catalysis chemists recently. Here we describe a combination of GO and molecular sieves for the dehydrogenative aromatization. GO prepared through improved Hummers method showed high oxidative activity in this reaction. Partially or fully saturated aromatic compounds were converted to their corresponding dehydrogenated aromatic products with fair to excellent conversions and selectivities. As both GO and molecular sieves are easily available, cheap, lowly toxic and have good tolerance to various functional groups, this reaction provides a facile approach toward aromatic compounds from their saturated precursors.
Thermal Decomposition Kinetics of High Impact Polystyrene/Organo Fe‐montmorillonite Nanocomposites
Authors: Liu Hong , Kong Qinghong , Cheng Yuhe , Cao Gongyuan
Published: June 2012

In this article, high impact polystyrene/organo Fe‐montmorillonite (HIPS/Fe‐OMT) nanocomposites were prepared by melting intercalation. The thermal stability of HIPS/Fe‐OMT nanocomposites increased significantly compared to that of HIPS examined in thermal degradation conditions. Kinetic evaluations were performed by Kissinger, Flynn‐Wall‐Ozawa, Friedman methods and multivariate nonlinear regression. Apparent kinetic parameters for the overall degradation were determined. The results showed that the activation energy of HIPS/Fe‐OMT nanocomposites was higher than that of HIPS. A very good agreement between experimental and simulated curves was observed in dynamic conditions. Their decomposition reaction model was a single‐step process of an nth‐order reaction.
Axially Chiral C2‐Symmetric N‐Heterocyclic Carbene (NHC) Palladium Complex‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Fluorination and Amination of Oxindoles
Authors: Zhang Rui , Wang De , Xu Qin , Jiang Jiajun , Shi Min
Published: June 2012

Chiral C2‐symmetric N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) palladium diaquo complex 5b prepared from (S)‐BINAM was found to be a fairly effective catalyst for the enantioselective asymmetric fluorination of oxindoles to give the corresponding products in moderate enantioselectivities along with good to excellent yields.
Influence of different disinfecting solutions on the color change of artificial irises used in ocular prostheses
Authors: Moreno Amália , Goiato Marcelo Coelho , dos Santos Daniela Micheline , Haddad Marcela Filié , Pesqueira Aldiéris Alves , Bannwart Lisiane Cristina
Published: June 2012

Making an artificial iris with an aesthetically acceptable color is an important aspect of ocular rehabilitation. This work evaluated the influence of different disinfecting solutions on changes to the color of artificial irises used in ocular prostheses. Fifty samples simulating ocular prostheses were produced with cobalt blue artificial irises and divided (n = 10) according to the disinfectant used: neutral soap, Opti‐free, Efferdent, 1% hypochlorite, and 4% chlorhexidine. The samples were disinfected for 120 days and subjected to a color readings by spectrophotometry, using the CIE L*a*b* system, before the disinfection period (B), after 60 days of disinfectant exposure (T1), and after 120 days of disinfectant exposure (T2). Color differences (ΔE) were calculated for the intervals between T1 and B (T1B), and between T2 and B (T2B). The data were evaluated by analysis of variance and the Tukey Honestly Significantly Different (α = 0.05). All disinfectant groups exhibited color changes. The mean color change observed for all groups overall during T2B (ΔE = 3.51) was significantly greater than that observed during T1B (ΔE = 2.10). All groups exhibited greater color change for the b* values when compared to the a* and L* values. There were no significant differences between the disinfectant groups. It can be concluded that the time period of disinfection and storage significantly affected the stability of artificial iris color, independent of the disinfectant used. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 39, 56–62, 2014
Universal robustness of scale‐free networks against cascading edge failures
Authors: Wang Jian‐Wei
Published: June 2012

Considering the effect of the local topology structure of an edge on cascading failures, we investigate the cascading reaction behaviors on scale‐free networks with respect to small edge‐based initial attacks. Adopt the initial load of an edge ij in a network to be Lij = (kikj)α[(∑ka)(∑kb)]β with ki and kj being the degrees of the nodes connected by the edge ij, where α and β are tunable parameters, governing the strength of the edge initial load, and Γi and Γj are the sets of neighboring nodes of i and j, respectively. Our aim is to explore the relationship between some parameters and universal robustness characteristics against cascading failures on scale‐free networks. We find by the theoretical analysis that the Baraba'si‐Albert (BA) scale‐free networks can reach the strongest robustness level against cascading failures when α + β = 1, where the robustness is quantified by a transition from normal state to collapse. And the network robustness has a positive correlation with the average degree. We furthermore confirm by the numerical simulations these results.
Strengths‐Based Cognitive–Behavioural Therapy: A Four‐Step Model to Build Resilience
Authors: Padesky Christine A. , Mooney Kathleen A.
Published: June 2012

Padesky and Mooney's four‐step Strengths‐Based cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) model is designed to help clients build positive qualities. This article shows how it can be used to build and strengthen personal resilience. A structured search for client strengths is central to the approach, and methods designed to bring hidden strengths into client awareness are demonstrated through therapist–client dialogues. Development of positive qualities requires a shift in therapy perspective and different therapy methods from those employed when therapy is designed to ameliorate distress. Required adjustments to classic CBT are highlighted with specific recommendations for clinical modifications designed to support client development of resilience such as a focus on current strengths, the constructive use of imagery and client‐generated metaphors. Although the focus of this article is on resilience, this Strengths‐Based CBT model offers a template that also can be used to develop other positive human qualities. Copyright © 2012 Christine A. Padesky

Key Practitioner Message

A four‐step strengths‐based cognitive‐behavioral therapy approach is presented.

Therapists help clients identify existing strengths that are used to construct a personal model of resilience.

Client‐generated imagery and metaphors are particularly potent to help the client remember and creatively employ new positive qualities.

Behavioral experiments are designed in which the goal is to stay resilient rather than to achieve problem resolution.

Therapists are encouraged to use constructive therapy methods and interview practices including increased use of smiling and silence.
Effects of different types of contingent tactile stimulation on crying, smiling, and sleep in newborns: An observational study
Authors: Cecchini Marco , Baroni Eleonora , Di Vito Cinzia , Piccolo Federica , Aceto Paola , Lai Carlo
Published: June 2012

Sleep, the brain and the ability to interact with the environment change a great deal over the first year of life; however, there are no studies on the possible influence of different environmental stimulations on the organization of subsequent sleep–wake cycles in infants. The hypothesis of this study was that greater continuity of contingent tactile stimulation decreases crying behavior, subsequent active sleep (AS) and its fragmentation, and increases smiling behavior and subsequent quiet sleep in newborns. Forty out of the 82 newborns (15‐ to 30‐hr old) of the initial sample satisfied the inclusion criteria and completed the first cycle of sleep during the period between two feedings. The 40 newborns were randomly assigned to four groups after 2′ of baseline observation: continuous stimulation (CS, n = 10); discontinuous nonperiodic stimulation (DnPS, n = 10); discontinuous periodic stimulation (DPS, n = 10); absent stimulation (AbS, n = 10). During baseline measurements, there were no significant differences in crying and smiling behaviors between the four groups, while during the subsequent stimulated wake, the CS group compared to the DnPS group showed more smiling (p < .05) and less crying (p < .05), longer poststimulation wake before sleep (p < .01) as well as AS with a lower percentage of grouped‐rapid eye movements [grouped REM (GREM); p < .001]. The number of GREM during AS was negatively correlated to the number of smiles (p < .05) and positively to the number of cries (p < .05) of the previous stimulated wake. These findings suggest that, after birth, different continuity levels of contingent tactile stimulations may affect crying and smiling behaviors and the organization of behavioral states. AS could have an important role in processing affective states. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 55: 508–517, 2013
Complex genetic patterns in closely related colonizing invasive species
Authors: Zhan Aibin , Darling John A. , Bock Dan G. , Lacoursière‐Roussel Anaïs , MacIsaac Hugh J. , Cristescu Melania E.
Published: June 2012

Anthropogenic activities frequently result in both rapidly changing environments and translocation of species from their native ranges (i.e., biological invasions). Empirical studies suggest that many factors associated with these changes can lead to complex genetic patterns, particularly among invasive populations. However, genetic complexities and factors responsible for them remain uncharacterized in many cases. Here, we explore these issues in the vase tunicate Ciona intestinalis (Ascidiacea: Enterogona: Cionidae), a model species complex, of which spA and spB are rapidly spreading worldwide. We intensively sampled 26 sites (N= 873) from both coasts of North America, and performed phylogenetic and population genetics analyses based on one mitochondrial fragment (cytochrome c oxidase subunit 3–NADH dehydrogenase subunit I, COX3‐ND1) and eight nuclear microsatellites. Our analyses revealed extremely complex genetic patterns in both species on both coasts. We detected a contrasting pattern based on the mitochondrial marker: two major genetic groups in C. intestinalis spA on the west coast versus no significant geographic structure in C. intestinalis spB on the east coast. For both species, geo‐graphically distant populations often showed high microsatellite‐based genetic affinities whereas neighboring ones often did not. In addition, mitochondrial and nuclear markers provided largely inconsistent genetic patterns. Multiple factors, including random genetic drift associated with demographic changes, rapid selection due to strong local adaptation, and varying propensity for human‐mediated propagule dispersal could be responsible for the observed genetic complexities.
Antigen amount dictates CD8+T‐cell exhaustion during chronic viral infection irrespective of the type of antigen presenting cell
Authors: Richter Kirsten , Brocker Thomas , Oxenius Annette
Published: June 2012

Chronic viral infections lead to CD8+ T‐cell exhaustion, characterized by impaired cytokine secretion and loss of proliferative capacity. While viral load and T‐cell dysfunction correlate, it is currently unclear whether the quality of a cell type presenting antigen determines the degree of T‐cell exhaustion or if the overall amount of antigen recognized by T cells promotes exhaustion. We found that chronic lymphocytic chorio‐meningitis virus infection led to decreased CD8+ T‐cell exhaustion in DC‐MHC class I (MHCI) mice, in which CD8+ T cells can only recognize antigen on DCs. However, this increase in CD8+ T‐cell function came at the expense of fatal immunopathology. Additional antigen recognition on nonhematopoietic cells in DC‐MHCI mice promoted T‐cell exhaustion and avoidance of immunopathology. Likewise, increased numbers of antigen‐expressing hematopoietic cells, as well as a selective elevation of the number of DCs as the only cell type presenting antigen in DC‐MHCI mice, resulted in compromised T‐cell function. These results favor a scenario in which the overall amount of antigen exposure, rather than the type of cell engaging with virus‐specific CD8+ T cells, is responsible for their functional exhaustion. Furthermore, exhaustion of virus‐specific CD8+ T cells leads to avoidance of life‐threatening immunopathology.
Synthesis and Characterisation of Thiophene‐Functionalised Lanthanoid Diketonate Clusters with Solvent‐Modulated Europium Luminescence
Authors: Andrews Philip C. , Deacon Glen B. , Gee William J. , Junk Peter C. , Urbatsch Aron
Published: June 2012

The reaction of a thiophene‐containing ligand, (Z)‐3‐hydroxy‐3‐phenyl‐1‐(thiophen‐2‐yl)prop‐2‐en‐1‐one (Hhtp), with hydrated lanthanoid chloride salts has resulted in the isolation of two tetranuclear clusters, [Ln4(μ3‐OH)2{(μ‐O)‐κ2‐htp}2{(μ‐O)2‐κ2‐htp}2(κ2‐htp)6] [Ln = Nd (1), Eu (2)] and an erbium pentanuclear cluster, [Er5(μ3‐OH)4(μ4‐OH){(μ‐O)‐κ2‐htp}4(κ2‐htp)6] (3). The clusters have been characterised by elemental analysis, mass spectrometry, infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray single‐crystal structural determination. The luminescent properties of cluster 2 have been assessed, and, at 25 °C, quenching of luminescent emission was found to predominantly occur. However, incremental addition of selected coordinating solvents was found to promote luminescence at 25 °C, showing a linear relationship at low analyte concentrations.
Mesoporous Al2O3 by Nanocasting: Relationship between Crystallinity and Mesoscopic Order
Authors: Haffer Stefanie , Weinberger Christian , Tiemann Michael
Published: June 2012

Crystalline, mesoporous alumina (Al2O3) materials with specific surface areas up to 400 m2 g–1 have been synthesized by means of structure replication (nanocasting) using CMK‐8 carbon as a structure matrix. A crucial step during this synthesis procedure is the conversion of aluminum nitrate into aluminum hydroxide by treatment with ammonia vapor. The impact of this step was investigated in some detail. Prolonged vapor treatment has a positive impact on the crystallinity of the final Al2O3 products but at the same time leads to loss of mesoscopic structural order and porosity.
Bridging Pseudohalides in Palladacycles as a Source of Different Assemblies
Authors: Arroyo Marta , Gómez‐Iglesias Patricia , Santos Melero José , Schildbach Daniel , Unkelbach Christian , Strohmann Carsten , Villafañe Fernando
Published: June 2012

The reaction of [Pd{CH2SiPh2(CH2NC5H10)‐κ2C,N}(μ‐Cl)]2 (CH2NC5H10 = piperidinomethyl) with KSCN led to the centrosymmetric dimer [Pd{CH2SiPh2(CH2NC5H10)‐κ2C,N}(μ‐SCN‐κ1S,κ1N)]2, which features side‐on bridging thiocyanate ligands. However, the analogous reaction of the chlorido‐bridged starting material with NaN3 yielded the dimer [Pd{CH2SiPh2(CH2NC5H10)‐κ2C,N}(μ‐N3‐κ1κ1N)]2, in which the azido ligands exhibit end‐on coordination. This complex persists as a mixture of cis and trans isomers in solution. Lastly, the square tetrametallic complex [Pd{CH2SiPh2(CH2NC5H10)‐κ2C,N}(μ‐CN‐κ1C,κ1N)]4 was obtained from the reaction between the parent chlorido‐bridged complex and AgCN. In solution, this compound forms an equilibrium between the tetra‐ and trimetallic species. Thermodynamic data (equilibrium constants and free energies in CDCl3 and C6D6, and enthalpy and entropy in CDCl3) were determined and show that the formation of the trimetallic isomer is thermodynamically disfavored [Keq = (1.93 ± 0.07) × 10–4 mol L–1 and ΔGeq = 20.83 ± 0.11 kJ mol–1 in CDCl3, Keq = (4.5 ± 0.2) × 10–5 mol L–1 and ΔGeq = 24.40 ± 0.14 kJ mol–1 in C6D6] and that the variation in the enthalpy and entropy are positive (ΔH = 75 ± 5 kJ mol–1 and ΔS = 186 ± 15 J mol–1 K–1 in CDCl3).
Preparation of MgO Nanosheets with Polar (111) Surfaces by Ligand Exchange and Esterification – Synthesis, Structure, and Application as Catalyst Support (Eur. J. Inorg. Chem. 17/2012)
Authors: Zhu Kake , Hua Weiming , Deng Wei , Richards Ryan M.
Published: June 2012

The cover picture shows a simple route to generate MgO nanosheets from low‐cost magnesium acetate. Magnesium acetate is esterified into methyl acetate and Mg(OH)(OCH3) under mild solvothermal treatment in methanol. The Mg(OH)(OCH3) exhibits a sheet‐like morphology and can be topotactically transformed into MgO nanosheets upon thermal decomposition. The MgO nanosheets are enclosed by Tasker III type (111) surfaces and are more reactive when employed as vanadium catalyst supports, in the oxidative dehydrogenation of ethylbenzene to styrene by CO2. Details are discussed in the article by K. Zhu, W. Hua et al. on p. 2869 ff.

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Water temperature dynamics in High Arctic river basins
Authors: Blaen Phillip J. , Hannah David M. , Brown Lee E. , Milner Alexander M.
Published: June 2012

Despite the high sensitivity of polar regions to climate change and the strong influence of temperature upon ecosystem processes, contemporary understanding of water temperature dynamics in Arctic river systems is limited. This research gap was addressed by exploring high‐resolution water column thermal regimes for glacier‐fed and non‐glacial rivers at eight sites across Svalbard during the 2010 melt season. Mean water column temperatures in glacier‐fed rivers (0.3–3.2 °C) were lowest and least variable near the glacier terminus but increased downstream (0.7–2.3 °C km–1). Non‐glacial rivers, where discharge was sourced primarily from snowmelt runoff, were warmer (mean: 2.9–5.7 °C) and more variable, indicating increased water residence times in shallow alluvial zones and increased potential for atmospheric influence. Mean summer water temperature and the magnitude of daily thermal variation were similar to those of some Alaskan Arctic rivers but low at all sites when compared with alpine glacierized environments at lower latitudes. Thermal regimes were correlated strongly (p < 0.01) with incoming short‐wave radiation, air temperature, and river discharge. Principal drivers of thermal variability were inferred to be (i) water source (i.e. glacier melt, snowmelt, groundwater); (ii) exposure time to the atmosphere; (iii) prevailing meteorological conditions; (iv) river discharge; (v) runoff interaction with permafrost and buried ice; and (vi) basin‐specific geomorphological features (e.g. channel morphology). These results provide insight into the potential changes in high‐latitude river systems in the context of projected warming in polar regions. We hypothesize that warmer and more variable temperature regimes may prevail in the future as the proportion of bulk discharge sourced from glacial meltwater declines and rivers undergo a progressive shift towards snow water and groundwater sources. Importantly, such changes could have implications for aquatic species diversity and abundance and influence rates of ecosystem functioning in high‐latitude river systems. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Estimation of winter leaf area index and sky view fraction for snow modelling in boreal coniferous forests: consequences on snow mass and energy balance
Authors: Rasmus Sirpa , Gustafsson David , Koivusalo Harri , Laurén Ari , Grelle Achim , Kauppinen Olli‐Kalle , Lagnvall Ola , Lindroth Anders , Rasmus Kai , Svensson Magnus , Weslien Per
Published: June 2012

Leaf area index (LAI) and canopy coverage are important parameters when modelling snow process in coniferous forests, controlling interception and transmitting radiation. Estimates of LAI and sky view factor show large variability depending on the estimation method used, and it is not clear how this is reflected in the calculated snow processes beneath the canopy. In this study, the winter LAI and sky view fraction were estimated using different optical and biomass‐based approximations in several boreal coniferous forest stands in Fennoscandia with different stand density, age and site latitude. The biomass‐based estimate of LAI derived from forest inventory data was close to the values derived from the optical measurements at most sites, suggesting that forest inventory data can be used as input to snow hydrological modelling. Heterogeneity of tree species and site fertility, as well as edge effects between different forest compartments, caused differences in the LAI estimates at some sites. A snow energy and mass balance model (SNOWPACK) was applied to detect how the differences in the estimated values of the winter LAI and sky view fraction were reflected in simulated snow processes. In the simulations, an increase in LAI and a decrease in sky view fraction changed the snow surface energy balance by decreasing shortwave radiation input and increasing longwave radiation input. Changes in LAI and sky view fraction affected directly snow accumulation through altered throughfall fraction and indirectly snowmelt through the changed surface energy balance. Changes in LAI and sky view fraction had a greater impact on mean incoming radiation beneath the canopy than on other energy fluxes. Snowmelt was affected more than snow accumulation. The effect of canopy parameters on evaporation loss from intercepted snow was comparable with the effect of variation in governing meteorological variables such as precipitation intensity and air temperature. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Finiteness Results in Triangle‐Free Quasi‐Symmetric Designs
Authors: Pawale Rajendra M.
Published: June 2012

Triangle‐free quasi‐symmetric 2‐ designs with intersection numbers ; and are investigated. Possibility of triangle‐free quasi‐symmetric designs with or is ruled out. It is also shown that, for a fixed x and a fixed ratio , there are only finitely many triangle‐free quasi‐symmetric designs. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Combin Designs 00: 1‐6, 2012
Erythropoietin‐activated ERK/MAP kinase enhances GATA‐4 acetylation via phosphorylation of serine 261 of GATA‐4
Authors: Jun Ji Hae , Shim Jae‐Kwang , Ryoo Hyun‐Mo , Kwak Young‐Lan
Published: June 2012

GATA‐4, a zinc finger transcription factor, plays a critical role in heart development. Previous studies have shown that p300‐targeted GATA‐4 acetylation increases GATA‐4 stability and transcriptional activity, which then stimulates hypertrophy of cardiomyocyte. Erythropoietin (EPO), an essential hypoxia‐induced hormone for normal erythropoiesis, is known to exert cardioprotective effects against heart disease of either ischemic or non‐ischemic origins. Although, various action mechanisms of EPO have been proposed in the diseased heart, its action mechanism in normal condition has not been investigated. In this study, we aimed to investigate the influence of EPO‐induced ERK signaling on the regulation of GATA‐4 protein action. EPO treatment increased the protein level of endogenous GATA‐4 via ERK signaling pathway. Inhibition of ERK activity by U0126, suppressed EPO‐induced expression of GATA‐4 protein in rat cardiac myocytes. In addition, ERK activation by over‐expression of constitutively active MEK1 strongly increased GATA‐4 phosphorylation and subsequently enhanced its acetylation in P19 cells. EPO‐induced ERK activation further increased the association of GATA‐4 with p300. On the other hand, knock‐down of p300 using siRNA diminished ERK‐induced GATA‐4 acetylation. As EPO‐induced GATA‐4 phosphorylation via ERK signaling pathway directly correlated with GATA‐4 acetylation, we investigated to identify the ERK‐dependent phosphorylation sites in GATA‐4. Site‐directed mutagenesis implicated that Ser‐261 in GATA‐4 played an important role for ERK‐mediated GATA‐4 acetylation. Taken together, these results indicated that EPO‐induced ERK signaling activation increased GATA‐4 phosphorylation and acetylation, partly via increase in the association between GATA‐4 and p300, and these processes required the phosphorylation of GATA‐4 at Ser‐261 residue. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 190–197, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparative secretome analysis of human bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells during osteogenesis
Authors: Kim Jung‐Min , Kim Jaeyoon , Kim Yun‐Hee , Kim Kyong‐Tai , Ryu Sung Ho , Lee Taehoon G. , Suh Pann‐Ghill
Published: June 2012

Osteogenesis is a tightly regulated process that involves coordinated extracellular signals from autocrine and paracrine loops. Secretory proteins during osteogenesis can inhibit cell proliferation and activate cell differentiation toward mature osteoblasts, which are characterized by mineralization. In this study, we attempted to identify these secretory proteins during osteogenesis using LC–MS/MS analysis. We compared the secretome between undifferentiated human bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) and differentiated osteoblasts. Among 315 proteins that were identified, 177 proteins were present at increased levels in osteoblasts, whereas 88 proteins were present at decreased levels. Among the identified proteins, several were validated by quantitative RT‐PCR and immunoblot analysis. Of particular interest, calcium homeostasis‐related proteins were upregulated, whereas stem cell proliferation‐related proteins and other lineage‐related proteins were downregulated during osteogenesis. These findings provide information about the dynamic changes in the expression and secretion of proteins during osteogenesis and suggest the putative role of secretory proteins in osteogenesis. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 216–224, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Inorganic phosphate enhances sensitivity of human osteosarcoma U2OS cells to doxorubicin via a p53‐dependent pathway
Authors: Spina Annamaria , Sorvillo Luca , Di Maiolo Francesca , Esposito Antonietta , D'Auria Raffaella , Di Gesto Davide , Chiosi Emilio , Naviglio Silvio
Published: June 2012

Osteosarcoma is the most common malignant primary bone tumor in children and adolescents. The clinical outcome for osteosarcoma remains discouraging despite aggressive surgery and intensive radiotherapy and chemotherapy regimens. Thus, novel therapeutic approaches are needed. Previously, we have shown that inorganic phosphate (Pi) inhibits proliferation and aggressiveness of human osteosarcoma U2OS cells identifying adenylate cyclase, beta3 integrin, Rap1, ERK1/2 as proteins whose expression and function are relevantly affected in response to Pi. In this study, we investigated whether Pi could affect chemosensitivity of osteosarcoma cells and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Here, we report that Pi inhibits proliferation of p53‐wild type U2OS cells (and not of p53‐null Saos and p53‐mutant MG63 cells) by slowing‐down cell cycle progression, without apoptosis occurrence. Interestingly, we found that Pi strongly enhances doxorubicin‐induced cytotoxicity in U2OS, and not in Saos and MG63 cells, by apoptosis induction, as revealed by a marked increase of sub‐G1 population, Bcl‐2 downregulation, caspase‐3 activation, and PARP cleavage. Remarkably, Pi/doxorubicin combination‐induced cytotoxicity was accompanied by an increase of p53 protein levels and of p53 target genes mdm2, p21 and Bax, and was significantly reduced by the p53 inhibitor pifithrine‐alpha. Moreover, the doxorubicin‐induced cytotoxicity was associated with ERK1/2 pathway inhibition in response to Pi. Altogether, our data enforce the evidence of Pi as a novel signaling molecule capable of inhibiting ERK pathway and inducing sensitization to doxorubicin of osteosarcoma cells by p53‐dependent apoptosis, implying that targeting Pi levels might represent a rational strategy for improving osteosarcoma therapy. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 198–206, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
FOXP3 expression in tumor cells and implications for cancer progression
Authors: Triulzi Tiziana , Tagliabue Elda , Balsari Andrea , Casalini Patrizia
Published: June 2012

FOXP3 is a member of the forkhead/winged‐helix family of transcriptional regulators. Defects in the FOXP3 gene cause an X‐linked autoimmune/immunodeficiency syndrome in humans and the Scurfy phenotype in mice. FOXP3 acts mainly in regulating the development and function of CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells. Although initially thought to be specific for these cells, FOXP3 expression has recently been described in non‐hematopoietic cells, including epithelial cells of multiple lineages and of different tissue origins. Moreover, FOXP3 expression has been detected in tumor cells of both epithelial and non‐epithelial tissues. The role of FOXP3 expression by tumor cells remains controversial, with in vitro studies pointing to an onco‐suppressive action, whereas studies conducted on human samples associate FOXP3 expression by tumor cells with metastatic spread. Here, we review evidence for the multi‐faceted role of FOXP3 in cancer cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 30–35, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Activation of Smad‐mediated TGF‐β signaling triggers epithelial–mesenchymal transitions in murine cloned corneal progenitor cells
Authors: Kawakita Tetsuya , Espana Edgar M. , Higa Kazunari , Kato Naoko , Li Wei , Tseng Scheffer C.G.
Published: June 2012

Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), via activation of Wnt signaling, is prevailing in embryogenesis, but postnatally it only occurs in pathological processes, such as in tissue fibrosis and tumor metastasis. Our prior studies led us to speculate that EMT might be involved in the loss of limbal epithelial stem cells in explant cultures. To examine this hypothesis, we successfully grew murine corneal/limbal epithelial progenitors by prolonging the culture time and by seeding at a low density in a serum‐free medium. Single cell‐derived clonal growth was accompanied by a gradient of Wnt signaling activity, from the center to the periphery, marked by a centrifugal loss of E‐cadherin and β‐catenin from intercellular junctions, coupled with nuclear translocation of β‐catenin and LEF‐1. Large‐colony‐forming efficiency at central location of colony was higher than peripheral location. Importantly, there was also progressive centrifugal differentiation, with positive K14 keratin expression and the loss of p63 and PCNA nuclear staining, and irreversible EMT, evidenced by cytoplasmic expression of α‐SMA and nuclear localization of S100A4; and by nuclear translocation of Smad4. Furthermore, cytoplasmic expression of α‐SMA was promoted by high‐density cultures and their conditioned media, which contained cell density‐dependent levels of TGF‐β1, TGF‐β2, GM‐CSF, and IL‐1α. Exogenous TGF‐β1 induced α‐SMA positive cells in a low‐density culture, while TGF‐β1 neutralizing antibody partially inhibited α‐SMA expression in a high‐density culture. Collectively, these results indicate that irreversible EMT emerges in the periphery of clonal expansion where differentiation and senescence of murine corneal/limbal epithelial progenitors occurs as a result of Smad‐mediated TGF‐β‐signaling. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 225–234, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sequence Divergence in the 3′‐Untranslated Region Has an Effect on the Subfunctionalization of Duplicate Genes
Authors: Tong Ying , Zheng Kang , Zhao Shufang , Xiao Guanxiu , Luo Chen
Published: June 2012

Recent studies demonstrated that sequence divergence in both transcriptional regulatory region and coding region contributes to the subfunctionalization of duplicate gene. However, whether sequence divergence in the 3′‐untranslated region (3′‐UTR) has an impact on the subfunctionalization of duplicate genes remains unclear. Here, we identified two diverging duplicate vsx1 (visual system homeobox‐1) loci in goldfish, named vsx1A1 and vsx1A2. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that vsx1A1 and vsx1A2 may arise from a duplication of vsx1 after the separation of goldfish and zebrafish. Sequence comparison revealed that divergence in both transcriptional and translational regulatory regions is higher than divergence in the introns. vsx1A2 expresses during blastula and gastrula stages and in adult retina but silences from segmentation stage to hatching stage, vsx1A1 starts expression from segmentation onward. Comparing to that zebrafish vsx1 expresses in all the developmental stages and in the adult retina, it appears that goldfish vsx1A1 and vsx1A2 are under going to share the functions of ancestral vsx1. The different but overlapping temporal expression patterns of vsx1A1 and vsx1A2 suggest that sequence divergence in the promoter region of duplicate vsx1 is not sufficient for partitioning the functions of ancestral vsx1. By comparing vsx1A1 and vsx1A2 3′‐UTR‐linked green fluorescent protein gene expression patterns, we demonstrated that the 3′‐UTR of vsx1A1 remains but the 3′‐UTR of vsx1A2 has lost the capability of mediating bipolar cell specific expression during retina development. These results indicate that sequence divergence in the 3′‐UTRs has a clear effect on subfunctionalization of the duplicate genes. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 318B:531–544, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
6‐Star‐Coloring of Subcubic Graphs
Authors: Chen Min , Raspaud André , Wang Weifan
Published: June 2012

A star coloring of an undirected graphGis a proper vertex coloring ofG(i.e., no two adjacent vertices are assigned the same color) such that no path on four vertices is 2‐colored. The star chromatic number ofGis the smallest integerkfor whichGadmits a star coloring withkcolors. In this paper, we prove that every subcubic graph is 6‐star‐colorable. Moreover, the upper bound 6 is best possible, based on the example constructed by Fertin, Raspaud, and Reed (J Graph Theory 47(3) (2004), 140–153).
SOCIAL NETWORKS, BROKERS, AND CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION: A BANGLADESHI CASE
Authors: Rotberg Fiona J.Y.
Published: June 2012

Social Network Theory is suggested as a theoretical frame within the context of adaptation to climate change. Two elements of the theory that prove useful are that network brokers bridge networks and diffuse novel information that helps lead to group innovation. Novel information is needed for adaptation to climate change. Network data from a Bangladeshi community exemplify how a rural network functions during non‐climate variable and climate variable times; which actors comprise the network and that brokers inside and outside the network diffuse information for possible adaptation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using experience sampling methodology in organizational behavior
Authors: Fisher Cynthia D. , To March L.
Published: June 2012

Experience sampling methodology and daily diary (ESM/DD) research elicits repeated reports of immediate or very recent experiences from the same sample of people for several days or weeks. Experience sampling and diary methods were almost unheard of in organizational research 15 years ago, but the past decade has seen a rapid rise in their use. These methods are helpful in studying dynamic within‐person processes involving affect, behavior, interpersonal interactions, work events, and other transient workplace phenomena over time. Assessing cross‐level effects of traits or other stable features on within‐person processes and reactivity is also possible with ESM/DD data. We provide an introduction to issues in designing and carrying out an ESM/DD study, including data collection choices and schedules, measures, technology, training and motivation of participants, and analysis of multilevel data. We offer best practice recommendations and refer readers to further resources for additional detail on conducting and analyzing ESM/DD research. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Activation of Wnt Planar cell polarity (PCP) signaling promotes growth plate column formation in vitro
Authors: Randall Rachel M. , Shao Yvonne Y. , Wang Lai , Ballock R. Tracy
Published: June 2012

Disrupting the Wnt Planar Cell Polarity (PCP) signaling pathway in vivo results in loss of columnar growth plate architecture, but it is unknown whether activation of this pathway in vitro is sufficient to promote column formation. We hypothesized that activation of the Wnt PCP pathway in growth plate chondrocyte cell pellets would promote columnar organization in these cells that are normally oriented randomly in culture. Rat growth plate chondrocytes were transfected with plasmids encoding the Fzd7 cell‐surface Wnt receptor, a Fzd7 deletion mutant lacking the Wnt‐binding domain, or Wnt receptor‐associated proteins Ror2 or Vangl2, and then cultured as three‐dimensional cell pellets in the presence of recombinant Wnt5a or Wnt5b for 21 days. Cellular morphology was evaluated using histomorphometric measurements. Activation of Wnt PCP signaling components promoted the initiation of columnar morphogenesis in the chondrocyte pellet culture model, as measured by histomorphometric analysis of the column index (ANOVA p = 0.01). Activation of noncanonical Wnt signaling through overexpression of both the cell‐surface Wnt receptor Fzd7 and receptor‐associated protein Ror2 with addition of recombinant Wnt5a promotes the initiation of columnar architecture of growth plate chondrocytes in vitro, representing an important step toward growth plate regeneration. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:1906–1914, 2012