bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical investigation of the hydrodynamics of split‐and‐recombination and multilamination microreactors
Authors: Méndez‐Portillo Lionel S. , Heniche Mourad , Dubois Charles , Tanguy Philippe A.
Published: May 2012

The hydrodynamics and residence time distribution (RTD) of two microreactors based on the split‐and‐recombination (SAR), and multilamination mixing mechanisms, respectively were investigated. It was found that the design of the distribution manifolds of the SAR mechanism produces an unbalanced flow distribution. For feeding ratios different than one, bypassing and recirculation occur within the SAR manifolds. For equal flow rates the SAR flow behavior can be accurately described by the pure convection model. The manifold used in the multilamination microreactor achieves a homogeneous distribution of flow and its interdigital mixing structure generates an alternated pattern of fluid layers which is maintained for Re < 140. After this point the ordered arrangement is broken and two large segregated zones are formed. In the absence of molecular diffusion both microreactors reach limiting values of scale and intensity of segregation that were found to be independent of the energy applied to the system. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 988–1001, 2013
Infant‐Directed Communication in Lowland Gorillas (Gorilla gorilla): Do Older Animals Scaffold Communicative Competence in Infants?
Authors: LUEF EVA MARIA , LIEBAL KATJA
Published: May 2012

Infant‐directed speech is a linguistic phenomenon in which
adults adapt their language when addressing infants in order to
provide them with more salient linguistic information and aid them in language acquisition. Adult‐directed language differs from infant‐directed language in various aspects, including speech acoustics, syntax, and semantics. The existence of a “gestural motherese” in interaction with infants, demonstrates that not only spoken language but also nonvocal modes of communication can become adapted when infants are recipients. Rhesus macaques are so far the only nonhuman primates where a similar phenomenon to “motherese” has been discovered: the acoustic spectrum of a particular vocalization of adult females may be altered when the addressees are infants. The present paper describes how gorillas adjust their communicative strategies when directing intentional, nonvocal play signals at infants in the sense of a “nonvocal motherese.” Animals of ages above infancy use a higher rate of repetitions and sequences of the tactile sensory modality when negotiating play with infants. This indicates that gorillas employ a strategy of infant‐specific communication. Am. J. Primatol. 74:841‐852, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Troop Size and Human‐Modified Habitat Affect the Ranging Patterns of a Chacma Baboon Population in the Cape Peninsula, South Africa
Authors: HOFFMAN TALI S. , O'RIAIN M. JUSTIN
Published: May 2012

Differences in group size and habitat use are frequently used to explain the extensive variability in ranging patterns found across the primate order. However, with few exceptions, our understanding of primate ranging patterns stems from studies of single groups and both intra‐ and inter‐specific meta‐analyses. Studies with many groups and those that incorporate whole populations are rare but important for testing socioecological theory in primates. We quantify the ranging patterns of nine chacma baboon troops in a single population and use Spearman rank correlations and generalized linear mixed models to analyze the effects of troop size and human‐modified habitat (a proxy for good quality habitat) on home range size, density (individuals/km2), and daily path length. Intrapopulation variation in home range sizes (1.5–37.7 km2), densities (1.3–12.1 baboons/km2), and daily path lengths (1.80–6.61 km) was so vast that values were comparable to those of baboons inhabiting the climatic extremes of their current distribution. Both troop size and human‐modified habitat had an effect on ranging patterns. Larger troops had larger home ranges and longer daily path lengths, while troops that spent more time in human‐modified habitat had shorter daily path lengths. We found no effect of human‐modified habitat on home range size or density. These results held when we controlled for the effects of both a single large outlier troop living exclusively in human‐modified habitat and baboon monitors on our spatial variables. Our findings confirm the ability of baboons, as behaviorally adaptable dietary generalists, to not only survive but also to thrive in human‐modified habitats with adjustments to their ranging patterns in accordance with current theory. Our findings also caution that studies focused on only a small sample of groups within a population of adaptable and generalist primate species may underestimate the variability in their respective localities. Am. J. Primatol. 74:853‐863, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The effect of augmented real‐time image guidance on task workload during endoscopic sinus surgery
Authors: Dixon Benjamin J. , Chan Harley , Daly Michael J. , Vescan Allan D. , Witterick Ian J. , Irish Jonathan C.
Published: May 2012

Background:

Due to proximity to critical structures, the need for spatial awareness during endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) is essential. We have developed an augmented, real‐time image‐guided surgery (ART‐IGS) system that provides live navigational data and proximity alerts to the operating surgeon during ablation. We wished to test the hypothesis that task workload would be reduced when using this technology.

Methods:

A trial involved 8 otolaryngology residents and fellows performing ESS on cadaveric specimens; 1 side in a conventional method (control) and 1 side with ART‐IGS. After computed tomography scanning, anatomical contouring, and registration of the head, a three‐dimensional (3D) virtual endoscopic view, ablative tool tracking, and proximity alerts were enabled. Each subject completed ESS tasks and rated their workload during and after the exercise using the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Task Load Index (TLX). A questionnaire and open feedback interview were completed after the procedure.

Results:

There was a significant reduction in mental demand, temporal demand, effort, and frustration when using the ART‐IGS system in comparison to the control (p < 0.02). Perceived performance was increased (p = 0.02). Most subjects agreed that the system was sufficiently accurate, caused minimal interruption, and increased confidence. Optical tracking line‐of‐sight issues were frequently cited as the main limitation early in the study; however, this was largely resolved.

Conclusion:

ART‐IGS reduces task workload for trainees performing ESS. Live navigation and alert zones may be a valuable intraoperative teaching aid. © 2012 ARS‐AAOA, LLC.
Three patients with Wolf‐Hirschhorn syndrome carrying a satellited chromosome 4p
Authors: Liang Desheng , Zhou Zhongmin , Meng Dahua , Du Juan , Wen Juan , Niikawa Norio , Wu Lingqian
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND

Wolf‐Hirschhorn syndrome (WHS) is caused by a deletion involving the 4p16.3 region. Approximately 70% of WHS patients have a de novo isolated deletion and 22% involve unbalanced translocations. However, WHS with unbalanced rearrangements involving the short arm of an acrocentric chromosome are infrequently reported.

METHODS

Cytogenetic and molecular analyses by using standard G‐banding, argyrophilic nucleolar organiser region (Ag‐NOR) staining, fluorescence in situ hybridization, and single nucleotide polymorphism array for copy number detection were performed in three patients with WHS phenotype from two Chinese families.

RESULTS

A heterozygous 2,767,380‐bp terminal 4p deletion was detected in patients 1 and 2 and a heterozygous 5,047,291‐bp terminal 4p deletion was detected in patient3. Clinical comparisons among our patients and previously reported cases have been reviewed.

CONCLUSION

Two terminal 4p deletions were identified in three WHS patients with a satellited 4p and an attempt was made to refine the genotypic‐phenotypic correlations of the deleted regions. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reversible Ser/Thr SHIP phosphorylation: A new paradigm in phosphoinositide signalling?
Authors: Edimo William's Elong , Janssens Veerle , Waelkens Etienne , Erneux Christophe
Published: May 2012

Phosphoinositide (PI) phosphatases such as the SH2 domain‐containing inositol 5‐phosphatases 1/2 (SHIP1 and 2) are important signalling enzymes in human physiopathology. SHIP1/2 interact with a large number of immune and growth factor receptors. Tyrosine phosphorylation of SHIP1/2 has been considered to be the determining regulatory modification. However, here we present a hypothesis, based on recent key publications, highlighting the determining role of Ser/Thr phosphorylation in regulating several key properties of SHIP1/2. Since a subunit of the Ser/Thr phosphatase PP2A has been shown to interact with SHIP2, a putative mechanism for reversing SHIP2 Ser/Thr phosphorylation can be anticipated. PI phosphatases are potential target molecules in human diseases, particularly, but not exclusively, in cancer and diabetes. Therefore, this novel regulatory mechanism deserves further attention in the hunt for discovering novel or complementary therapeutic strategies. This mechanism may be more broadly involved in regulating PI signalling in the case of synaptojanin1 or the phosphatase, tensin homolog, deleted on chromosome TEN.

Editor's suggested further reading in BioEssays: Pairing phosphoinositides with calcium ions in endolysosomal dynamics Abstract
Development toward rapid and efficient screening for high performance hydrolysate lots in a recombinant monoclonal antibody manufacturing process
Authors: Luo Ying , Pierce Karisa M.
Published: May 2012

Plant‐derived hydrolysates are widely used in mammalian cell culture media to increase yields of recombinant proteins and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). However, these chemically varied and undefined raw materials can have negative impact on yield and/or product quality in large‐scale cell culture processes. Traditional methods that rely on fractionation of hydrolysates yielded little success in improving hydrolysate quality. We took a holistic approach to develop an efficient and reliable method to screen intact soy hydrolysate lots for commercial recombinant mAb manufacturing. Combined high‐resolution 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and partial least squares (PLS) analysis led to a prediction model between product titer and NMR fingerprinting of soy hydrolysate with cross‐validated correlation coefficient R2 of 0.87 and root‐mean‐squared‐error of cross‐validation RMSECV% of 11.2%. This approach screens for high performance hydrolysate lots, therefore ensuring process consistency and product quality in the mAb manufacturing process. Furthermore, PLS analysis was successful in discerning multiple markers (DL‐lactate, soy saccharides, citrate and succinate) among hydrolysate components that positively and negatively correlate with titer. Interestingly, these markers correlate to the metabolic characteristics of some strains of taxonomically diverse lactic acid bacteria (LAB). Thus our findings indicate that LAB strains may exist during hydrolysate manufacturing steps and their biochemical activities may attribute to the titer enhancement effect of soy hydrolysates. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 28: 1061–1068, 2012
Rhodium(I) Complexes with Hemilabile Phosphines: Rational Design for Efficient Oxidative Amination Catalysts
Authors: Jiménez M. Victoria , Bartolomé M. Isabel , Pérez‐Torrente Jesús J. , Lahoz Fernando J. , Oro Luis A.
Published: May 2012

A series of cationic square‐planar rhodium(I) complexes of type [Rh(cod){Ar2P(CH2)nZ}]+, [Rh(cod){Ar2P(CH2)nZ}2]+, and [Rh{Ar2P(CH2)nZ}2]+, which contained diverse functionalized hemilabile phosphine ligands of type Ar2P(CH2)nZ (n=1–3; Z=OMe, OEt, OnBu, NMe2, SMe), were synthesized and spectroscopically characterized. The crystal structures of representative compounds were determined by X‐ray diffraction. Most complexes were active catalysts for the anti‐Markovnikov oxidative amination of styrene with piperidine to produce (E)‐1‐styrylpiperidine. Catalyst screening showed a remarkable relationship between the hemilabile ligand, the precatalyst structure, and the catalytic activity. The more‐efficient catalysts were those that had arylphosphine ligands with a 2‐alkoxyethyl‐ or 3‐alkoxypropyl hemilabile moiety, Ar2P(CH2)nOR (n=2, 3; R=Me, Et, nBu). This study has revealed the outstanding catalytic activity of bis‐phosphine complexes [Rh{(4‐R‐C6H4)2P(CH2)3OEt}2][PF6] (R=H, Me, OMe), with unprecedented turnover frequencies of up to 80 h−1 (R=Me) and excellent enamine selectivity (96 %).
On the simulation of hydrocyclones using CFD
Authors: Ghadirian Morteza , Hayes Robert E. , Mmbaga Joseph , Afacan Artin , Xu Zhenghe
Published: May 2012

This study reports on the development of a complete solution methodology for the simulation of a hydrocyclone. A commercial software package, Ansys 12 Fluid Dynamics, is used to solve the governing conservation equations. Turbulence is modelled using the large eddy simulation, and the discrete particle model was used to predict the particle separation. Two hydrocyclones of differing geometries are explored, and the results compared with experimental values. It is shown that there are two key factors for obtaining a reliable result. The first is the domain discretisation, and the second is the generation of a consistent initial value, including the establishment of a stable air core. Using the methodology developed, superior agreement was obtained for predicted and experimental values of pressure, velocity distribution, air core profile and separation efficiency. © 2012 Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering
Erroneous Computer Electrocardiogram Interpretation of Atrial Fibrillation and Its Clinical Consequences
Authors: Bae Myung Hwan , Lee Jang Hoon , Yang Dong Heon , Park Hun Sik , Cho Yongkeun , Chae Shung Chull , Jun Jae‐Eun
Published: May 2012

Background:

The aim of this study was to determine the frequency and nature of errors made by computer electrocardiogram (ECG) analysis of atrial fibrillation (AF), and the clinical consequences.

Hypothesis:

Computer software for interpreting ECGs has advanced.

Methods:

A total of 10279 ECGs were collected, automatically interpreted by the built‐in ECG software, and then reread by 2 cardiologists. AF‐related ECGs were classified into 3 groups: overinterpreted AF (rhythms other than AF interpreted as AF), misinterpreted AF (AF interpreted as rhythms other than AF), and true AF (AF interpreted as AF by both computer ECG interpretation and cardiologists).

Results:

There were 1057 AF‐related ECGs from 409 patients. Among these, 840 ECGs (79.5%) were true AF. Overinterpretation occurred in 98 (9.3%) cases. Sinus rhythm and sinus tachycardia with premature atrial contraction and/or baseline artifact and sinus arrhythmia were commonly overinterpreted as AF. Heart rate ≤60 bpm and baseline artifact significantly increased the likelihood of overinterpreted AF. Misdiagnosis occurred in 119 (11.3%) cases, in which AF was usually misdiagnosed as sinus or supraventricular tachycardia. The presence of tachycardia and low‐amplitude atrial activity significantly increased the likelihood of misdiagnosis of AF. Among the erroneous computer ECG interpretations, 17 cases (7.8%) were not corrected by the ordering physicians and/or repeat computer‐ECG interpretation; inappropriate follow‐up studies or treatments of the patients were undertaken with no serious sequelae.

Conclusions:

Erroneous computer ECG interpretation of AF was not rare. Attention should be concentrated on educating physicians about ECG appearance and confounding factors of AF, along with ongoing quality control of built‐in software for automatic ECG interpretation. Clin. Cardiol. 2012 DOI: 10.1002/clc.22000

The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.
Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs and the risk of skin cancer
Authors: Johannesdottir Sigrun Alba , Chang Ellen T. , Mehnert Frank , Schmidt Morten , Olesen Anne Braae , Sørensen Henrik Toft
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND:

Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may prevent the development of cancer by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which are involved in carcinogenesis. Therefore, the authors of this report examined the association between NSAID use and the risk of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), basal cell carcinoma (BCC), and malignant melanoma (MM).

METHODS:

From 1991 through 2009, all incident cases of SCC (n = 1974), BCC (n = 13,316), and MM (n = 3242) in northern Denmark were identified. Approximately 10 population controls (n = 178,655) were matched to each case by age, gender, and county of residence. The use of aspirin, other nonselective NSAIDs, or selective COX‐2 inhibitors was ascertained through a prescription database. Conditional logistic regression analyses adjusted for potential confounders were used to compute odds ratios as estimates of incidence rate ratios (IRRs).

RESULTS:

For NSAIDs overall, ever use (>2 prescriptions) compared with nonuse (≤2 prescriptions) was associated with a decreased risk of SCC (IRR, 0.85; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.76‐0.94) and MM (IRR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.80‐0.95), especially for long‐term use (≥7 years) and high‐intensity use (>25% prescription coverage during the total duration of use). NSAID use was not associated with a reduced risk of BCC overall (IRR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.93‐1.01), but the risk of BCC at sites other than the head and neck was reduced in association with long‐term use (IRR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.76‐0.95) and high‐intensity use (IRR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.69‐0.91). All estimates of reduced risk were driven primarily by the use of nonselective NSAIDs and older COX‐2 inhibitors (diclofenac, etodolac, and meloxicam).

CONCLUSIONS:

The current results indicated that NSAID use may decrease the risk of SCC and MM. Cancer 2012. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Surface Functionalization of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles and their Stability in Different Media
Authors: Arndt Darius , Gesing Thorsten M. , Bäumer Marcus
Published: May 2012

Size‐selective synthesis of very small iron oxide nanoparticles (IONP; 4–8 nm) was achieved by the thermal decomposition of iron acetylacetonate in diethylenglycol by a simple one‐pot reaction. The particles were functionalized on the one hand with poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) directly during the formation of the particles and on the other hand by a simple postsynthetic reaction with citrate, ascorbate, tartrate, dextran 60, gum Arabic, PVP, or poly(ethyleneglycol) (PEG). In view of medical and environmental applications, the stability of the particles was measured with dynamic light scattering in water as well as in physiological media containing buffers (4‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)‐1‐piperazineethanesulfonic acid (IP‐HEPES), phosphate buffered saline (PBS)), high salt concentrations (Elendt M7), or proteins (Dulbecco’s modified eagle medium (DMEM) with and without 10 % fetal calf serum (FCS)). The effect of the functionalization of the nanoparticles on the production of radical oxygen species (ROS) was investigated during the Fenton reaction, showing that the nature of the functionalization can raise the production of ROS drastically. To extend the range of applications, the one‐pot reaction with PVP was expanded by an additional step, allowing tagging of the particles with various fluorescein derivatives. In this way, fluorescent nanoparticles exhibiting emissions in the range of 475–553 nm were obtained.
Neonatal handling induces deficits in infant mother preference and adult partner preference
Authors: Raineki Charlis , Lutz Maiara Lenise , Sebben Vanise , Ribeiro Rosane Aparecida , Lucion Aldo Bolten
Published: May 2012

Neonatal handling is an experimental procedure used to understand how early‐life adversity can negatively affect neurobehavioral development and place animals on a pathway to pathology. Decreased preference for the maternal odor during infancy is one of many behavioral deficits induced by neonatal handling. Here, we hypothesize that deficits in maternal odor preference may interfere with partner preference in the adult. To test this hypothesis, we assessed infant maternal odor preference and adult partner preference in different reproductive stages in both male and female rats that received neonatal handling. Our results indicate that only neonatally handled females present deficits in maternal odor preference during infancy, but both male and females present deficits in adult partner preference. However, sexual experience was effective in rescuing partner preference deficits in males. These results indicate that, considering infant and adult social interactions, females are more susceptible to the effects of neonatal handling than males. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 55: 496–507, 2013
Using clones and copper to resolve the genetic architecture of metal tolerance in a marine invader
Authors: McKenzie Louise A. , Johnston Emma L. , Brooks Robert
Published: May 2012

The global spread of invasive species may be facilitated by adaptation to the practices that humans use to manage those species. For example, marine invertebrates that adapt to metal‐based antifouling biocides on ship hulls may be more likely to be introduced to and establish in metal‐polluted environments. We tested this idea by studying clonal variation in tolerance to, and ability to recover from, exposure to copper in a widespread invasive marine bryozoan, Watersipora subtorquata. We cloned colonies of this organism to independently test multiple environments in a genotype by environment design, and then created a genetic variance–covariance matrix. Genotypes were exposed to a gradient of copper concentrations and growth measured during exposure and after a recovery period. There was a significant genotype × environment interaction in growth during exposure and recovery. We found clonal variation in tolerance and ability to recover from exposure to copper, with growth during exposure apparently trading off against growth after exposure. A weak genetic correlation between growth during and after exposure further indicated that they are separate traits. Overall, the genetic variation within this population indicates that there is considerable potential for adaptation to copper, but this comes at a cost to growth in unpolluted environments.
A time‐series model for assessing instantaneous physical conditions in carp habitats
Authors: Li J. , Xia Z. , Wang Y.
Published: May 2012

The four main Chinese carps, collectively abbreviated as MCHA, include the black carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus), grass carp (Ctenop haryngodon idellus), silver carp (Hypoph thal michthys molitrix), and the big‐head carp (Aristichyths nobilis). MCHA constitutes a significant catch of China's fresh water fishery. The construction of the Gezhouba and Three Gorges Dams greatly affects the physical habitat conditions of these four main carp species. This paper presents a time‐series model for the assessment of instantaneous physical conditions in MCHA habitats. The model incorporates the effects of various hydrological variables (e.g. water level fluctuation, water temperature and sediment concentration) on MCHA habitat quality. The model is tested for the Yichang‐Zhijiang reaches of the Yangtze River – a suitable region for analysing the effects of dam construction on the physical conditions of MCHA habitat. The model analyses instream ecological flow (IEF) characteristics of the study area in the spawning season of MCHA. On the basis of the analysis, the min, max and optimal IEFs are 6200, 51000 and 14 500 m3/s, respectively. The model introduces an efficient method for calculating the instantaneous habitat area on the basis of IEF and other physical conditions. If properly applied, the model is an efficient tool for assessing the effects of variations in flow conditions on MCHA habitat quality. The model could also be used in real time to analyse the combined effect of ecological regulations (e.g. as induced by the Three Gorges and Gezhouba Dams) on MCHA spawning conditions. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
pH‐Dependent Imidazolato Bridge Formation in Dicopper Complexes: Magnetic, Electrochemical, and Catalytic Repercussions
Authors: Monte‐Pérez Inés , Sosa Ana M. , Bernès Sylvain , Aliaga‐Alcalde Núria , Ugalde‐Saldívar Víctor M. , Gasque Laura
Published: May 2012

The dicopper complexes of two dinucleating ligands derived from 2‐methylimidazole and 2 equiv. of an L‐amino acid are presented (H3bphenim derived from L‐phenylalanine and H3bleuim derived from L‐leucine). For each ligand L, three different protonation states for the complex, Cu2HL2+, Cu2L+, and Cu2LOH, have been characterized in solution by potentiometric, spectrophotometric, and electrochemical techniques. X‐ray diffraction studies enabled the characterization, in the solid state, of the [Cu2(bphenim)]+ and [Cu2Hbleuim]2+ cations. Magnetic measurements showed that while only a very slight coupling could be detected in [Cu2Hbleuim]2+, [Cu2(bphenim)]+ is strongly antiferromagnetically coupled. The extent of this coupling can also be appreciated from room temperature, pH‐dependent EPR spectroscopic studies, where the signal is quenched at pH values where the imidazolato‐bridged species is predominant. These observations are consistent with the cyclic voltammetric studies. The catecholase activity of the complexes in the form [Cu2L]+ is low, however, an important increase in activity is observed above pH = 8.5 where the concentration of the species [Cu2LOH] starts to become significant.
Metal Complexation of a D‐Ribose‐Based Ligand Decoded by Experimental and Theoretical Studies
Authors: Cisnetti Federico , Maréchal Jean‐Didier , Nicaise Magali , Guillot Régis , Desmadril Michel , Lambert François , Policar Clotilde
Published: May 2012

A combination of experimental and theoretical methods have been used to elucidate the complexation properties of a new sugar‐derived hexadentate ligand, namely methyl 2,3,4‐tri‐O‐(2‐picolyl)‐β‐D‐ribopyranoside (L). The coordination bond lengths in the complexes with MnII, CoII, NiII, and ZnII show substantial deviations from ideal octahedra with deformation towards trigonal‐prismatic geometries, which is indicative of a conformationally constrained ligand. The metal‐cation–ligand interactions were studied for L and the acyclic analogue L′ [1,2,3‐tri‐O‐(2‐picolyl)‐1,2,3‐propanetriol] by spectroscopic methods and isothermal calorimetric titrations for the series MnII, CoII, NiII, ZnII, and CuII. The results indicate a stabilization of the complexes obtained with L compared with L′, depending on the nature of the metal. Molecular modeling studies showed that the presence of the sugar moiety strongly favors conformations compatible with metal binding, which suggests an entropic origin of the stabilization of L complexes with regards to L′ complexes. Moreover, the differences in the metal chelation profiles of L and L′ are related to the constraints in the sugar group in the metal‐bound structures. This study shows that foreseeing the degree of preorganization of flexible ligands may drive the design of a new generation of chelating compounds.
Meiotic chromosome number and behaviour of Onobrychis alborzensis (Fabaceae): a new species from northern Iran
Authors: Ranjbar Massoud , Hajmoradi Fatemeh , Karamian Roya
Published: May 2012

The present study is focused on the cytogenetic and morphological criteria for distinguishing a new taxon belonging to Onobrychis sect. Hymenobrychis. The new species, O. alborzensis RANJBAR & HAJMORADI is described from Alborz Province and illustrated. It is closely related to O. talagonica RECH. F. and O. michauxii DC., but differs from them in a few morphological characters such as plant indumentum, stipule size and shape and size of the leaflets, standard and calyx. Meiotic chromosome number and behaviour were studied in O. alborzensis and O. talagonica. This report is the first cytogenetic analysis of these taxa. O. alborzensis is a diploid plant and possesses the chromosome number 2n = 2x = 14, inconsistent with the base number of O. talagonica witch shows 2n = 2x = 16. The general meiotic behaviour in both species was regular, with bivalent pairing and normal chromosome segregation at meiosis. However, some meiotic abnormalities were observed including varied degrees of sticky chromosomes with laggards, precocious division of centromeres in metaphase I, bridges in anaphase I, laggard chromosomes, micronucleus, asynchronous nucleus, cytomixis and tripolar cells in telophase II. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Unidentified Genetic Variants Influence Pancreatic Cancer Risk: An Analysis of Polygenic Susceptibility in the PanScan Study
Authors: Pierce Brandon L. , Tong Lin , Kraft Peter , Ahsan Habibul
Published: May 2012

Genome‐wide association (GWA) studies have identified several pancreatic cancer (PanCa) susceptibility loci. Methods for assessment of polygenic susceptibility can be employed to detect the collective effect of additional association signals for PanCa. Using data on 492,651 autosomal single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from the PanScan GWA study (2,857 cases, 2,967 controls), we employed polygenic risk score (PRS) cross‐validation (CV) methods to (a) confirm the existence of unidentified association signals, (b) assess the predictive value of PRSs, and (c) assess evidence for polygenic effects in specific genomic locations (genic vs. intergenic). After excluding SNPs in known PanCa susceptibility regions, we constructed PRS models using a training GWA dataset and then tested the model in an independent testing dataset using fourfold CV. We also employed a “power‐replication” approach, where power to detect SNP associations was calculated using a training dataset, and power was tested for association with “replication status” in a testing dataset. PRS scores constructed using ≥10% of genome‐wide SNPs showed significant association with PanCa (P< 0.05) across the majority of CV analyses. Associations were stronger for PRSs restricted to genic SNPs compared to intergenic PRSs. The power‐replications approach produced weaker associations that were not significant when restricting to SNPs with low pairwise linkage disequilibrium, whereas PRS results were robust to such restrictions. Although the PRS approach will not dramatically improve PanCa prediction, it provides strong evidence for unidentified association signals for PanCa. Our results suggest that focusing association studies on genic regions and conducting larger GWA studies can reveal additional PanCa susceptibility loci. Genet. Epidemiol. 36:517‐524, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
WATER CONSERVATION AROUND HOMES—THE ROLE OF AUDIT IN IMPROVING IRRIGATION SYSTEM PERFORMANCE
Authors: Maheshwari B.
Published: May 2012

A methodology for an audit of irrigation systems, originally developed for public open spaces and commercial landscape irrigation systems was used in this study of residential irrigation systems at 50 home sites in the Sydney Metropolitan area, Australia. The audit aimed to evaluate the influence of the irrigation system on water use efficiency, rather than the management or operation of the system. The audit identified design, installation and maintenance issues, evaluated system performance and identified opportunities for improving water use efficiency. The study highlighted that there are relatively few well‐designed systems in operation, that a typical homeowner has limited knowledge of how to design and manage an irrigation system, and that the maintenance of systems is usually forgotten. Overall, the irrigation system audit can be a useful tool in identifying irrigation system faults and issues that impact on the effectiveness of outdoor home watering. A modified audit process, involving a checklist of the systems, would yield useful information for homeowners, particularly if it contained information on what was working, what was not working and recommendations on what needed to be fixed up or improved. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
p38 Inhibitor SB203580 sensitizes the resveratrol‐induced apoptosis in human lung adenocarcinoma (A549) cells
Authors: Li Haiyang , Wang Xiaoping , Chen Tongsheng , Qu Junle
Published: May 2012

Based on our recent findings that resveratrol, a natural plant polyphenol found in red grape skins as well as other food products, induces apoptosis via a caspase‐independent intrinsic pathway in human lung adenocarcinoma cells, this study is designed to explore whether SB203580, a p38 inhibitor, potentiates the resveratrol‐induced apoptosis of human lung adenocarcinoma (A549) cells. We found that pretreatment with SB203580 enhanced the resveratrol‐induced apoptosis by accelerating the intrinsic apoptotic pathway including Bax activation, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, and activation of both caspase‐9 and −3. Although treatment with resveratrol alone did not induce caspase‐8 activation, cotreatment with both SB203580 and resveratrol not only enhanced FasL cleavage but also activated caspase‐8, indicating that the extrinsic apoptotic pathway may be involved in the synergistic effect. Collectively, we for the first time demonstrate that SB203580 synergistically enhances the resveratrol‐induced apoptosis by accelerating Bax‐mediated intrinsic pathway and initiating extrinsic pathway, suggesting a possible alternative therapeutic strategy for human lung cancer. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 26:251–257, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/jbt.21413
Antigenotoxic properties of two newly synthesized β‐aminoketones against N‐methyl‐N′‐nitro‐N‐nitrosoguanidine and 9‐aminoacridine‐induced mutagenesis
Authors: Ozturkcan S. Arda , Turhan Kadir , Turgut Zuhal , Karadayi Mehmet , Gulluce Medine
Published: May 2012

The aim of this study was to determine the antigenotoxic potential of two newly synthesized β‐aminoketones against N‐methyl‐N′‐nitro‐N‐nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) and 9‐aminoacridine (9‐AA)‐induced mutagenesis. The mutant bacterial tester strains were MNNG‐sensitive Escherichia coli WP2 uvrA and 9‐AA‐sensitive Salmonella typhimurium TA1537. Both test compounds showed significant antimutagenic activity at various tested concentrations. The inhibition rates ranged from 29.5% (compound 1: 2 mM/plate) to 47.5% (compound 2: 1.5 mM/plate) for MNNG and from 25.0% (compound 2: 1 mM/plate) to 52.1% (compound 2: 2.5 mM/plate) for 9‐AA genotoxicity. Moreover, the mutagenicity of the test compounds was investigated by using the same strains. Neither test compound has mutagenic properties on the bacterial strains at the tested concentrations. Thus, the findings of the present study give valuable information about chemical prevention from MNNG and 9‐AA genotoxicity by using synthetic β‐aminoketones. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 26:258–263, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/jbt.21414
Study on organochlorine pesticide levels in chronic kidney disease patients: Association with estimated glomerular filtration rate and oxidative stress
Authors: Siddharth Manushi , Datta Sudip K. , Bansal Savita , Mustafa Mohammad , Banerjee Basu D. , Kalra Om P. , Tripathi Ashok K.
Published: May 2012

Nephrotoxicity of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) has been established in experimental animal models. This study was designed to evaluate the relationship of the blood OCPs level with the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and oxidative stress (OS) in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Patients in different stages of CKD (n = 150) and age, sex matched healthy controls (n = 96) were recruited. The blood OCPs level were analyzed by gas chromatography, and plasma levels of several OS parameters such as malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl, advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), and total thiols were quantified by standard spectrophotometric methods. We observed significantly higher levels of hexachlorocyclohexane (α, γ), endosulfan, aldrin, p,p′‐dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), and total pesticides in CKD patients. Negative correlation was also observed for aldrin, p,p′‐DDE and total pesticides (p < 0.05) with eGFR. Plasma levels of MDA and AOPP showed significant positive association with the total pesticides level, indicating augmentation of OS with increased accumulation of OCPs in CKD patients. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 26:241–247, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/jbt.21416
Maternal Smad3 deficiency compromises decidualization in mice
Authors: Zhao Kun‐Qing , Lin Hai‐Yan , Zhu Cheng , Yang Xiao , Wang Hongmei
Published: May 2012

Transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β and activin, members of TGF‐β superfamily, are abundantly expressed in the endometrium and regulate decidualization of endometrial stroma. Smad2 and Smad3 are receptor‐regulated Smads (R‐Smads) that transduce extracellular TGF‐β/activin/Nodal signaling. In situ hybridization results showed that Smad3 was highly expressed in the decidual zone during the peri‐implantation period in mice. By using artificial decidualization, we found that Smad3 null mice showed partially compromised decidualization. We therefore hypothesized that Smad2 might compensate for the function of Smad3 during the process of decidualization. Smad2 was also highly expressed in the decidual zone and phosphorylated Smad2 was much more abundantly increased in the deciduoma of Smad3 null mice than for wild‐type (WT) mice. We further employed an in vitro uterine stromal cell decidualization model, and found that decidual prolactin‐related protein (dPRP) and cyclin D3, which are well‐known markers for decidual cells, were significantly down‐regulated in Smad3 null decidual cells, and were much more significantly reduced when the expression of Smad2 was simultaneously silenced by its siRNA (P < 0.05). However, the expression levels of dPRP and cyclin D3 remained the same when Smad2 was silenced in WT decidual cells. Collectively, these findings provide evidence for an important role of Smad3 in decidualization and suggest that Smad2 and Smad3 may have redundant roles in decidualization. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 3266–3275, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Arrangement of nuclear structures is not transmitted through mitosis but is identical in sister cells
Authors: Orlova Darya Yu. , Stixová Lenka , Kozubek Stanislav , Gierman Hinco J. , Šustáčková Gabriela , Chernyshev Andrei V. , Medvedev Ruslan N. , Legartová Soňa , Versteeg Rogier , Matula Pavel , Stoklasa Roman , Bártová Eva
Published: May 2012

Although it is well known that chromosomes are non‐randomly organized during interphase, it is not completely clear whether higher‐order chromatin structure is transmitted from mother to daughter cells. Therefore, we addressed the question of how chromatin is rearranged during interphase and whether heterochromatin pattern is transmitted after mitosis. We additionally tested the similarity of chromatin arrangement in sister interphase nuclei. We noticed a very active cell rotation during interphase, especially when histone hyperacetylation was induced or transcription was inhibited. This natural phenomenon can influence the analysis of nuclear arrangement. Using photoconversion of Dendra2‐tagged core histone H4 we showed that the distribution of chromatin in daughter interphase nuclei differed from that in mother cells. Similarly, the nuclear distribution of heterochromatin protein 1β (HP1β) was not completely identical in mother and daughter cells. However, identity between mother and daughter cells was in many cases evidenced by nucleolar composition. Moreover, morphology of nucleoli, HP1β protein, Cajal bodies, chromosome territories, and gene transcripts were identical in sister cell nuclei. We conclude that the arrangement of interphase chromatin is not transmitted through mitosis, but the nuclear pattern is identical in naturally synchronized sister cells. It is also necessary to take into account the possibility that cell rotation and the degree of chromatin condensation during functionally specific cell cycle phases might influence our view of nuclear architecture. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 3313–3329, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Arachidonic acid induces an increase of β‐1,4‐galactosyltransferase I expression in MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells
Authors: Villegas‐Comonfort Socrates , Serna‐Marquez Nathalia , Galindo‐Hernandez Octavio , Navarro‐Tito Napoleon , Salazar Eduardo Perez
Published: May 2012

Arachidonic acid (AA) is a common dietary n‐6 cis polyunsaturated fatty acid that under physiological conditions is present in an esterified form in cell membrane phospholipids, and it might be present in the extracellular microenvironment. AA and its metabolites are implicated in FAK activation and cell migration in MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells, and an epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal‐like transition process in mammary non‐tumorigenic epithelial cells MCF10A. During malignant transformation is present an altered expression of glycosiltransferases, which promote changes on the glycosilation of cell‐surface proteins. The β‐1,4‐galactosyltransferase I (GalT I) is an enzyme that participates in a variety of biological functions including cell growth, migration, and spreading. However, the participation of AA in the regulation of GalT I expression and the role of this enzyme in the cell adhesion process in breast cancer cells remains to be investigated. In the present study, we demonstrate that AA induces an increase of GalT I expression through a PLA2α, Src, ERK1/2, and LOXs activities‐dependent pathway in MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells. Moreover, MDA‐MB‐231 cells adhere to laminin via GalT I expression and pretreatment of cells with AA induces an increase of cell adhesion to laminin. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate, for the first time, that AA promotes an increase of GalT I expression through an AA metabolism, Src and ERK1/2 activities‐dependent pathway, and that GalT I plays a pivotal role in cell adhesion to laminin in MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 3330–3341, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Polyaniline/SiO2 Nanocomposite Catalyzed Efficient Synthesis of Quinoxaline Derivatives at Room Temperature
Authors: Yelwande Ajeet A. , Navgire Madhukar E. , Arbad Balasaheb R. , Lande Machhindra K.
Published: May 2012

Polyaniline/SiO2 nanocomposite material has been synthesized by using chemical oxidative method. Prepared catalytic material was characterized by means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermal analysis (TG‐DTA), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR). Solvent stability for the catalyst has been screened using UV‐Visible spectroscopy. Polyaniline/SiO2 catalyzed route has found to be an efficient and rapid protocol for the synthesis of quinoxaline derivatives by cyclocondensation of 1,2‐diketones and o‐phenylenediamines at room temperature. This protocol has several advantages such as high yield, good thermal stability, simple work up procedure, non‐toxic, clean, and easy recovery and reusability of the catalytic system.
Single‐wall Boron Nitride Nanotube with Various Diameters under the Influence of Electric Field, A Computational Investigation
Authors: Farmanzadeh Davood , Ghazanfary Samereh
Published: May 2012

Structural and electrical response of the (4, 0), (5, 0) and (6, 0) zigzag model of single‐walled boron nitride nanotube (BNNT) with H‐terminated at the open ended, have been investigated under the external electric field (EF) with intensities 0–1.6 × 10−2 a.u. using the DFT B3LYP/6‐31G* level of theory. Results of this study show that with increasing BNNTs diameter, the HOMO‐LUMO gap (HLG) values increase, and with increasing the EF intensity, the HLG values decrease. In both cases with increasing EF intensity and the BNNT diameters, the electric dipole moment is increased significantly. Also the calculated natural bond orbital (NBO) atomic charges on the atoms of the BNNT show that the separation of the center of the positive and the center of the negative electric charges of the boron nitride nanotubes are increases in both case. We have found that the properties of the BNNTs are dependent on their diameters and can be tuned by applied electric fields intensity.
Bifunctional Ion‐Selective Electrode Based on C60‐Cryptand 22 for Silver and Iodine Ions
Authors: Mai Ching‐Ching , Shih Jeng‐Shong
Published: May 2012

Fullerence C60‐cryptand 22 was prepared and successfully applied as the electric carrier in the PVC electrode membrane of a bifunctional ion‐selective electrode for cations, e.g., Ag+ ions as well as anions, e.g., I− ions. The bifunctional ion‐selective electrode based on C60‐cryptand 22 can be applied as a Silver (Ag+) ion selective electrode with an internal electrode solution of 10−3 M AgNO3 in water (pH = 6.3), or as an Iodide (I−) ion selective electrode with an acidic internal electrode solution of 10−4 M KI(aq) (pH = 2) in which the cryptand 22 is protonated, and the C60‐cryptand 22 is changed to C60‐Cryptand22–H+ and becomes an anionic electro‐carrier to absorb the I− ion. The Ag+ ion selective electrode based on C60‐cryptand 22 gave a linear response with a near‐Nernstian slope (59.5 mV decade−1) within the concentration range 10−1‐10−3 M Ag+(aq). The Ag+ ion electrode exhibited comparatively good selectivity for silver ions, over other transition‐metal ions, alkali and alkaline earth metal ions. The Ag+ ion selective electrode with good stability and reproducibility was successfully used for the titration of Ag+(aq) with Cl− ions. The Iodide (I−) Ion selective electrode based on protonated C60–cryptand22‐H+ also showed a linear response with a nearly Nernstian slope (58.5 mV decade−1) within 10−1 ‐ 10−3 M I− (aq) and exhibited good selectivity for I− ions and had small selectivity coefficients (10−2–10−3) for most of other anions, e.g., F− , OH−, CH3COO−, SO42−, CO32−, CrO42−, Cr2O72− and PO43− ions.
Excited‐State Hydrogen Bonding Strengthening and Weakening with Intramolecular Charge Transfer in Resorufin‐Water Complexes: A TD‐DFT Study
Authors: Yang Da‐Peng , Liu Yu‐Fang
Published: May 2012

The geometric structures, infrared spectra and hydrogen bond binding energies of the various hydrogen‐bonded Res−‐water complexes in states S0 and S1 have been calculated using the density functional theory (DFT) and time‐dependent density functional theory (TD‐DFT) methods, respectively. Based on the changes of the hydrogen bond lengths and binding energies as well as the spectral shifts of the vibrational mode of the hydroxyl groups, it is demonstrated that hydrogen bonds HB‐II, HB‐III and HB‐IV are strengthened while hydrogen bond HB‐I is weakened in the four singly hydrogen‐bonded Res−‐Water complexes upon photoexcitation. When the four hydrogen bonds are formed simultaneously between one resorufin anion and four water molecules in the Res−‐4Water complex, all the hydrogen bonds are weakened in both the ground and excited states compared with those in the corresponding singly hydrogen‐bonded Res−‐Water complexes. Furthermore, in complex Res−‐4Water, hydrogen bonds HB‐II and HB‐IV are strengthened while hydrogen bonds HB‐I and HB‐III are weakened after the electronic excitation. The hydrogen bond strengthening and weakening in the various hydrogen‐bonded Res−‐water complexes should be due to the redistribution of the charges among the four heteroatoms (O1‐3 and N1) within the resorufin molecule upon the optical excitation.