bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Response to the Critical Comments on “One Molecule, Two Atoms, Three Views, Four Bonds?”
Authors: Danovich David , Shaik Sason , Rzepa Henry S. , Hoffmann Roald
Published: April 2013

Die Kritik, die von Frenking und Hermann bezüglich der Vierfachbindung in C2 geäußert wurde, wird in diesem zweiten Trialog mit harten Fakten beantwortet. Sowohl experimentelle als auch errechnete Daten deuten auf eine Stärke der vierten Bindung von 16 kcal mol−1. Die Autoren stimmen zu, dass sich chemische Forschung über die Grenzen der „synthetischen“ Chemie hinaus erstreckt.
New chiral α‐diimine nickel(II) complexes bearing ortho‐sec‐phenethyl groups for ethylene polymerization
Authors: Wang Fuzhou , Yuan Jianchao , Song Fengying , Li Jing , Jia Zong , Yuan Bingnian
Published: April 2013

A series of new α‐diimine nickel(II) catalysts bearing bulky chiral sec‐phenethyl groups have been synthesized and characterized. The molecular structure of representative chiral ligand, bis[N,N′‐(4‐methyl‐2,6‐di‐sec‐phenethylphenyl)imino]‐1,2‐dimethylethane rac‐1c and chiral complexes, {bis[N,N′‐(4‐methyl‐2‐sec‐phenethylphenyl)imino]‐2,3‐butadiene}dibromidonickel rac‐2a and bis{bis[N,N′‐(4‐methyl‐2‐sec‐phenethylphenyl)imino]‐2,3‐butadiene}dibromidonickel rac‐2b, were confirmed by X‐ray crystallographic analysis. Complex rac‐2c bearing two chiral sec‐phenethyl groups in the ortho‐aryl position and a methyl group in the para‐aryl position, activated by diethylaluminum chloride (DEAC), showed highly catalytic activity for the polymerization of ethylene [4.12 × 106 g PE (mol Ni.h.bar)−1], and produced highly branched polyethylenes under low ethylene pressure (branching degree: 104, 118 and 126 branches/1000 C at 20, 40 and 60°C, respectively). Chiral 20‐electron bis‐α‐diimine Ni(II) complex rac‐2b also exhibited high activity toward ethylene polymerization [1.71 × 106 g PE (mol Ni · h · bar)−1]. The type and amount of branches of the polyethylenes obtained were determined by 1H and 13C NMR. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pd(OAc)2@SBA‐15/PrEn nanoreactor: a highly active, reusable and selective phosphine‐free catalyst for Suzuki–Miyauracross‐coupling reaction in aqueous media
Authors: Rostamnia Sadegh , Xin Hongchuan
Published: April 2013

A series of ordered mesoporous organic–inorganic hybrid material was designed by using the amine‐functionalized SBA‐15 (PdX2@SBA‐15/NY, Y = 1, 2) as solid support for palladium complexes. Among them, the Pd(OAc)2/ethylenediamine complex encapsulated into SBA‐15 (Pd(OAc)2@SBA‐15/PrEn or Pd(OAc)2@SBA‐15/PrNHEtNH2) exhibits higher activity and selectivity toward Suzuki cross‐coupling reaction under aerobic conditions and water solvent mixture. The SBA‐15/PrEn supported palladium pre‐catalyst could be separated easily from reaction products and used repetitively several times, showing its superiority over homogeneous catalysts for industrial and chemical applications. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and Characterization of 5‐(1,2,4‐Triazol‐3‐yl)tetrazoles with Various Energetic Functionalities
Authors: Dippold Alexander A. , Klapötke Thomas M.
Published: April 2013

In this contribution the synthesis and full structural as well as spectroscopic characterization of three 5‐(1,2,4‐triazol‐3‐yl)tetrazoles along with selected energetic moieties like nitro, nitrimino, and azido groups are presented. The main goal is a comparative study on the influence of those variable energetic moieties on structural and energetic properties. A complete characterization including IR and Raman as well as multinuclear NMR spectroscopy of all compounds is presented. Additionally, X‐ray crystallographic measurements were performed and reveal insights into structural characteristics as well as inter‐ and intramolecular interactions. The standard enthalpies of formation were calculated for all compounds at the CBS‐4M level of theory and reveal high positive heats of formation for all compounds. The calculated detonation parameters (using the EXPLO5.05 program) are in the range of 8000 m s−1 (8097 m s−1 (5), 8020 m s−1 (6), 7874 m s−1 (7)). As expected, the measured impact and friction sensitivities as well as decomposition temperatures strongly depend on the energetic moiety at the triazole ring. The CC connection of a triazole ring with its opportunity to introduce a large variety of energetic moieties and a tetrazole ring, implying a large energy content, leads to the selective synthesis of primary and secondary explosives.
Potential routes for thermochemical biorefineries
Authors: Haro Pedro , Ollero Pedro , Villanueva Perales Ángel L. , Vidal‐Barrero Fernando
Published: April 2013

This critical review focuses on potential routes for the multi‐production of chemicals and fuels in the framework of thermochemical biorefineries. The up‐to‐date research and development in this field has been limited to BTL/G (biomass‐to‐liquids/gases) studies, where biomass‐derived ‐synthesis gas (syngas) is converted into a single product with/without the co‐production of ‐electricity and heat. Simultaneously, the interest on biorefineries is growing but mostly refers to the biochemical processing of biomass. However, thermochemical biorefineries (multi‐product plants using thermochemical processing of biomass) are still the subject of few studies. This scarcity of studies could be attributed to the limitations of current designs of BTL/G for multi‐production and the limited number of considered routes for syngas conversion. The use of a platform chemical (an intermediate) brings new opportunities to the design of process concepts, since unlike BTL/G processes they are not restricted to the conversion of syngas in a single‐reaction system. Most of the routes presented here are based on old‐fashioned and new routes for the processing of coal‐ and natural‐gas‐derived ‐syngas, but they have been re‐thought for the use of biomass and the multi‐production plants (−thermochemical ‐biorefinery). The considered platform chemicals are methanol, DME, and ethanol, which are the ‐common products from syngas in BTL/G studies. Important keys are given for the integration of reviewed routes into the design of thermochemical biorefineries, in particular for the selection of the mix of co‐products, as well as for the sustainability (co‐feeding, CO2 capture, and negative ‐emissions). © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Species Differences in Developmental Toxicity of Epoxiconazole and Its Relevance to Humans
Authors: Schneider Steffen , Hofmann Thomas , Stinchcombe Stefan , Moreno Maria Cecilia Rey , Fegert Ivana , Strauss Volker , Gröters Sibylle , Fabian Eric , Thiaener Jutta , Fussell Karma C. , van Ravenzwaay Bennard
Published: April 2013

Epoxiconazole, a triazole‐based fungicide, was tested in toxicokinetic, prenatal and pre‐postnatal toxicity studies in guinea pigs, following oral (gavage) administration at several dose levels (high dose: 90 mg/kg body weight per day). Maternal toxicity was evidenced by slightly increased abortion rates and by histopathological changes in adrenal glands, suggesting maternal stress. No compound‐related increase in the incidence of malformations or variations was observed in the prenatal study. In the pre‐postnatal study, epoxiconazole did not adversely affect gestation length, parturition, or postnatal growth and development. Administration of epoxiconazole did not alter circulating estradiol levels. Histopathological examination of the placentas did not reveal compound‐related effects. The results in guinea pigs are strikingly different to those observed in pregnant rats, in which maternal estrogen depletion, pathological alteration of placentas, increased gestation length, late fetal death, and dystocia were observed after administration of epoxiconazole. In the studies reported here, analysis of maternal plasma concentrations and metabolism after administration of radiolabeled epoxiconazole demonstrated that the different results in rats and guinea pigs were not due to different exposures of the animals. A comprehensive comparison of hormonal regulation of pregnancy and birth in murid rodents and primates indicates that the effects on pregnancy and parturition observed in rats are not applicable to humans. In contrast, the pregnant guinea pig shares many similarities to pregnant humans regarding hormonal regulation and is therefore considered to be a suitable species for extrapolation of related effects to humans. Birth Defects Res (Part B) 98:230–246, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Structural variations, the regulatory landscape of the genome and their alteration in human disease
Authors: Spielmann Malte , Mundlos Stefan
Published: April 2013

High‐throughput genomic technologies are revolutionizing human genetics. So far the focus has been on the 1.5% of the genome, which is coding, in spite of the fact that the great majority of genomic variants fall outside the coding regions. Recent efforts to annotate the non‐coding sequence show that over 80% of the genome is biochemically active. The genome is divided into regulatory domains consisting of sequence regions that enhance and/or silence the expression of nearby genes and are, in some cases, separated by boundaries with insulator activity. In this paper, we review the recent advances in the identification of variations that influence gene regulation and their consequences for human disease. We hypothesize that structural variations outside of the coding genome can interfere with normal gene regulation by disrupting the regulatory landscape. Therefore, the regulatory landscape of the genome has also to be taken into consideration when investigating the pathology of human disease.
Homeostatic housecleaning effect of selenium: Evidence that noncytotoxic oxidant‐induced damage sensitizes prostate cancer cells to organic selenium‐triggered apoptosis
Authors: Chiang Emily C. , Bostwick David G. , Waters David J.
Published: April 2013

The anti‐cancer activity of organic selenium has been most consistently documented at supra‐nutritional levels at which selenium‐dependent, antioxidant enzymes are maximized in both expression and activity. Thus, there is a strong imperative to identify mechanisms other than antioxidant protection to account for selenium's anti‐cancer activity. In vivo work in dogs showed that dietary selenium supplementation decreased DNA damage but increased apoptosis in the prostate, leading to a new hypothesis: Organic selenium exerts its cancer preventive effect by selectively increasing apoptosis in DNA‐damaged cells. Here, we test whether organic selenium (methylseleninic acid; MSA) triggers more apoptosis in human and canine prostate cancer cells that have more DNA damage (strand breaks) created by hydrogen‐peroxide (H2O2) at noncytotoxic doses prior to MSA exposure. Apoptosis triggered by MSA was significantly higher in H2O2‐damaged cells. A supra‐additive effect was observed—the extent of MSA‐triggered apoptosis in H2O2‐damaged cells exceeded the sum of apoptosis induced by MSA or H2O2 alone. However, neither the persistence of H2O2‐induced DNA damage, nor the activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinases was required to sensitize cells to MSA‐triggered apoptosis. Our results document that selenium can exert a “homeostatic housecleaning” effect— a preferential elimination of DNA‐damaged cells. This work introduces a new and potentially important perspective on the anti‐cancer action of selenium in the aging prostate that is independent of its role in antioxidant protection. © 2013 BioFactors 39(5):575–588, 2013
How Young Is Too Young? The Evidence of Children Under Five in the English Criminal Justice System
Authors: Marchant Ruth
Published: April 2013

Perceptions of children's competence as witnesses have shifted repeatedly in the last few decades. Recent international research confirms that very young children can provide reliable descriptions of past events when properly interviewed. In England, the legislative foundations are now in place to enable the evidence of very young children to be heard and tested: clear guidance is available for interviewing teams, prosecutors and advocates, and the judiciary.

Yet practice with very young children is erratic across England, both at investigation and at trial. Many practitioners do not feel confident to interview or cross‐examine very young children and in some areas children under five are not interviewed at all. Very few under fives give evidence in English courts, although this is beginning to change.

‘Very few under fives give evidence in English courts, although this is beginning to change’

This paper briefly summarises recent research and current guidance and explores the reasons for variability in practice. A range of practical strategies are suggested to enable very young children to give their best evidence. These strategies link the research base to the author's direct involvement as a registered witness intermediary in more than 70 investigative interviews and criminal trials with children aged two to five.Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Messages

Very young children are particularly vulnerable, both to maltreatment and to inept adult questioning.

Very young children can give reliable and accurate evidence.

There is now consistency and clarity of guidance in relation to the evidence of very young children at interview and at trial.

The communicative competence of very young child witnesses depends heavily on the competence of interviewing teams, intermediaries, advocates and the judiciary.

‘Young children are particularly vulnerable, both to maltreatment and to inept adult questioning’
Directly testing the linearity assumption for assay validation
Authors: Novick Steven J. , Yang Harry
Published: April 2013

The ICH Q2(R1) (International Conference on Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Registration of Pharmaceuticals for Human Use) guideline for testing linearity in validation of analytical procedures suggests that “linearity should be evaluated by visual inspection of a plot of signals as a function of analyte concentration or content.” The EP6‐A guideline recommends more quantitative methods that compare straight‐line and higher‐order polynomial curve fits. In this paper, a new equivalence test is proposed to compare the quality of a straight‐line fit to that of a higher‐order polynomial. By using orthogonal polynomials and generalized pivotal quantity analysis, one may estimate the probability of equivalence between a straight line and a polynomial curve fit either in the assay signal space (the Y values) or in the concentration space (the X values). In the special case of the linear‐to‐quadratic polynomial comparison, an equivalence test may be constructed via a two one‐sided T test. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Toxicity of Graphene Oxides: Dependence on the Oxidative Methods Used
Authors: Chng Elaine Lay Khim , Pumera Martin
Published: April 2013

Graphene, a class of two‐dimensional carbon nanomaterial, has attracted extensive interest in recent years, with a significant amount of research focusing on graphene oxides (GOs). They have been primed as potential candidates for biomedical applications such as cell labeling and drug delivery, thus the toxicity and behavior of graphene oxides in biological systems are fundamental issues that need urgent attention. The production of GO is generally achieved through a top‐down route, which includes the usage of concentrated H2SO4 along with: 1) concentrated nitric acid and KClO3 oxidant (Hoffmann); 2) fuming nitric acid and KClO3 oxidant (Staudenmaier); 3) concentrated phosphoric acid with KMnO4 (Tour); or 4) sodium nitrate for in‐situ production of nitric acid in the presence of KMnO4 (Hummers). It has been widely assumed that the properties of these four GOs produced by using the above different methods are roughly similar, so the methods have been used interchangeably. However, several studies have reported that the toxicity of graphene‐related nanomaterials in biological systems may be influenced by their physiochemical properties, such as surface functional groups and structural defects. In addition, considering how GOs are increasingly used in the field of biomedicine, we are interested to see how the oxygen content/functional groups of GOs can impact their toxicological profiles. Since in‐vitro testing is a common first step in assessing the health risks related with engineered nanomaterials, the cytotoxicity of the GOs prepared by the four different oxidative treatments was investigated by measuring the mitochondrial activity in adherent lung epithelial cells (A549) by using commercially available viability assays. The dose–response data was generated by using two assays, the methylthiazolyldiphenyl‐tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and the water‐soluble tetrazolium salt (WST‐8). From the viability data, it is evident that there is a strong dose‐dependent cytotoxic response resulting from the four GO nanomaterials tested after a 24 h exposure, and it is suggested that there is a correlation between the amounts of oxygen content/functional groups of GOs with their toxicological behavior towards the A549 cells.
Automated Quantification of Bubble Size Distributions in an Agitated Air/Water System
Authors: Panckow Robert , Maaß Sebastian , Emmerich Jörn , Kraume Matthias
Published: April 2013

Die exakte Bestimmung der Phasengrenzfläche in Gas/flüssig‐Systemen ist unabdingbar für die optimierte Prozessführung verfahrenstechnischer Anlagen. Die experimentelle Studie zeigt Untersuchungen an einem Luft/Wasser‐System mittels dreier Messtechniken hinsichtlich der Bestimmung der Veränderung der Blasengröße in Abhängigkeit von der Rührerdrehfrequenz. Die äußerst präzise und selbstreferenzielle Methode der foto‐optischen Analyse wird bzgl. der Bildverarbeitung näher betrachtet. Es wird gezeigt, dass die neuesten Entwicklungen im Bereich der Foto‐Optik und der Bildverarbeitung wertvolle Grundlagen zur Etablierung einer präzisen Echtzeitgrößenmesstechnik geliefert haben. Dies ist notwendig, da laserbasierte Methoden nur unzureichende Prozessdaten liefern.
Enhanced extraction of 2,3‐butanediol by medley solvent of salt and n‐butanol from aqueous solution
Authors: Wu Yan‐Yang , Chen Kui , Zhu Jia‐Wen , Wu Bin , Ji Lijun , Shen Ya‐Ling
Published: April 2013

Enhanced extraction of 2,3‐butanediol by adding salt into solvent n‐butanol has been studied in this paper. Ternary phase diagrams for 2,3‐butanediol + water + salt have been determined. The influences of phase ratio, type of salts and salt content on distribution coefficient and selectivity have also been investigated systematically. With phase ratio of 0.75 (w/w) and salt content of K2HPO4 of 25% (w/w), the distribution coefficient, separation factors and recovery yield in a single extraction process by n‐butanol can reach 5.2%, 34% and 80%, respectively. Salt addition can greatly enlarge the two phase region and enhance extraction simultaneously in this system.
Study Design and Rationale of a Dose‐Ranging Trial of LX4211, a Dual Inhibitor of SGLT1 and SGLT2, in Type 2 Diabetes Inadequately Controlled on Metformin Monotherapy
Authors: Lapuerta Pablo , Rosenstock Julio , Zambrowicz Brian , Powell David R. , Ogbaa Ike , Freiman Joel , Cefalu William T. , Banks Phillip , Frazier Kenny , Kelly Mike , Sands Arthur
Published: April 2013

Sodium‐glucose cotransporters 1 (SGLT1) and 2 (SGLT2) are the major cellular transporters responsible for gastrointestinal (GI) glucose absorption and renal glucose reabsorption, respectively. LX4211, a dual inhibitor of SGLT1 and SGLT2, reduces glucose absorption from the GI tract and enhances urinary glucose excretion. Although several SGLT2‐selective inhibitors have been tested in large phase 2 studies, dual inhibition of SGLT1 and SGLT2 is novel at this stage of drug development, and it has implications for clinical‐trial design. In this article, we describe the design and rationale of a phase 2, multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel group study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of LX4211 in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus who have inadequate glycemic control on metformin monotherapy. The primary endpoint is the change in glycated hemoglobin A1c from baseline to week 12. Secondary endpoints include the proportion of subjects achieving a glycated hemoglobin A1c value of <7%, change from baseline in fasting plasma glucose and postprandial glucose (as part of an oral glucose tolerance test), body weight, and blood pressure. Safety is evaluated with particular focus on hypoglycemia, GI symptoms, and incidence of genitourinary tract infections.
Glycine‐immunoreactive neurons in the brain of a shark (Scyliorhinus canicula L.)
Authors: Anadón Ramón , Rodríguez‐Moldes Isabel , Adrio Fátima
Published: April 2013

The glycinergic cell populations in the brain of the lesser spotted dogfish were studied by a glycine immunofluorescence method. Numerous glycine‐immunoreactive (Gly‐ir) neurons were observed in different brain nuclei. In the telencephalon, Gly‐ir cells were observed in the olfactory bulb, telencephalic hemispheres, and preoptic region. In the hypothalamus, cerebrospinal fluid‐contacting Gly‐ir neurons were observed in the lateral and posterior recess nuclei. Coronet cells of the saccus vasculosus were Gly‐ir. In the diencephalon, Gly‐ir neurons were observed in the prethalamus and pretectum. In the midbrain, both the optic tectum and lateral mesencephalic nucleus contained numerous Gly‐ir neurons. In the cerebellum, many Golgi cells were Gly‐ir. In the rhombencephalon, Gly‐ir cells were observed in the medial and ventral octavolateral nuclei, vagal lobe, visceromotor nuclei, and reticular formation, including the inferior raphe nucleus. In the spinal cord, some neurons of the marginal nucleus and some cells of the dorsal and ventral horns were Gly‐ir. Comparison of dogfish Gly‐ir cell populations with those reported for the sea lamprey, Siberian sturgeon, and zebrafish revealed some shared features but also notable differences. For example, Gly‐ir cells were observed in the dogfish cerebellum, unlike the case in the Siberian sturgeon and zebrafish, whereas the absence of Gly‐ir neurons in the isthmus is shared by all these species, except for lampreys. Gly‐ir populations in the dogfish hypothalamus and telencephalon are notable in comparison with those of the other jawed vertebrates investigated to date. Together, these results reveal a complex and divergent evolution of glycinergic systems in the major groups of fishes. J. Comp. Neurol. 521: 3057–3082, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Müller cells express the cannabinoid CB2 receptor in the vervet monkey retina
Authors: Bouskila Joseph , Javadi Pasha , Casanova Christian , Ptito Maurice , Bouchard Jean‐François
Published: April 2013

The presence of the cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) has been largely documented in the rodent and primate retinae in recent years. There is, however, some controversy concerning the presence of the CB2 receptor (CB2R) within the central nervous system. Only recently, CB2R has been found in the rodent retina, but its presence in the primate retina has not yet been demonstrated. The aim of this study was twofold: 1) to characterize the distribution patterns of CB2R in the monkey retina and compare this distribution with that previously reported for CB1R and 2) to resolve the controversy on the presence of CB2R in the neural component of the retina. We therefore thoroughly examined the cellular localization of CB2R in the vervet monkey (Chlorocebus sabeus) retina, using confocal microscopy. Our results demonstrate that CB2R, like CB1R, is present throughout the retinal layers, but with striking dissimilarities. Double labeling of CB2R and glutamine synthetase shows that CB2R is restricted to Müller cell processes, extending from the internal limiting membrane, with very low staining, to the external limiting membrane, with heavy labeling. We conclude that CB2R is indeed present in the retina but exclusively in the retinal glia, whereas CB1R is expressed only in the neuroretina. These results extend our knowledge on the expression and distribution of cannabinoid receptors in the monkey retina, although further experiments are still needed to clarify their role in retinal functions. J. Comp. Neurol. J. Comp. Neurol. 521:2399–2415, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Towards a Mathematical Theory of Super‐resolution
Authors: Candès Emmanuel J. , Fernandez‐Granda Carlos
Published: April 2013

This paper develops a mathematical theory of super‐resolution. Broadly speaking, super‐resolution is the problem of recovering the fine details of an object—the high end of its spectrum—from coarse scale information only—from samples at the low end of the spectrum. Suppose we have many point sources at unknown locations in [0,1] and with unknown complex‐valued amplitudes. We only observe Fourier samples of this object up to a frequency cutoff fc. We show that one can super‐resolve these point sources with infinite precision—i.e., recover the exact locations and amplitudes—by solving a simple convex optimization problem, which can essentially be reformulated as a semidefinite program. This holds provided that the distance between sources is at least 2/fc. This result extends to higher dimensions and other models. In one dimension, for instance, it is possible to recover a piecewise smooth function by resolving the discontinuity points with infinite precision as well. We also show that the theory and methods are robust to noise. In particular, in the discrete setting we develop some theoretical results explaining how the accuracy of the super‐resolved signal is expected to degrade when both the noise level and the super‐resolution factor vary. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Recent Methodological Advances in the Analysis of Protein Tyrosine Nitration
Authors: Díaz‐Moreno Irene , García‐Heredia José M. , González‐Arzola Katiuska , Díaz‐Quintana Antonio , De la Rosa Miguel Á.
Published: April 2013

Tyrosine nitration is a common post‐translational modification affecting protein structure and function. It is based on the addition of a NO2 group at the ortho position of the phenolic hydroxyl group of tyrosine to yield 3‐nitrotyrosine (3‐NTyr). Understanding how tyrosine nitration affects the structure and functionality of proteins is of considerable interest, as it is associated with pathogenesis in diseases related to oxidative stress in all living organisms. There are several methods to nitrate tyrosine residues in native proteins. Among them, nitration by the chemical agent peroxynitrite stands out for its biological relevance. Recently, a genetically evolved suppressor tRNA has been developed to provide in vivo incorporation of 3‐NTyr into proteins. In this minireview, we discuss the advantages and limitations of these chemical and biological methods and propose a non‐damaging method to analyze the configuration and dynamics of nitrotyrosine residues in native proteins by NMR spectroscopy.
Studies on fabrication of urchin‐like WO3·H2O hollow spheres and their photocatalytic properties
Authors: Zeng Qi , Zhao Yan , Zhao Jingzhe , Hao Xinli , Lu Yan , Guo Jingnan , Song Yuehong , Gao Fangfang , Huang Zhifang
Published: April 2013

Urchin‐like tungsten oxide hydrate (WO3·H2O) hollow spheres were successfully synthesized via a self‐sacrifice template method at low temperature. The effects of reaction parameters on the preparation were studied in solution. The growth mechanism was also proposed on the basis of experimental results. In addition, the acid amount and temperature have important effects on size control of the as‐obtained samples. The achieved nanoarchitectures have typical diameters of 4–6 μm with nanoflakes of several nanometers at surface. Crystal structure, morphology, and composition of final nanostructures were characterized by X–ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Degradation experiments of organic contaminant were also performed on samples of hollow spheres and walnut‐like structures under visible‐light illumination. Hollow sphere sample exhibited better photocatalytic capability than walnut‐like sample. Possible mechanism was studied for WO3·H2O assisted photocatalytic degradation of organic contaminant under visible light.
Hyperchaos and horseshoe in a 4D memristive system with a line of equilibria and its implementation
Authors: Li Qingdu , Hu Shiyi , Tang Song , Zeng Guang
Published: April 2013

We study a four‐dimensional system modified from a three‐dimensional chaotic circuit by adding a memristor, which is a new fundamental electronic element with promising applications. Although the system has a line of infinitely many equilibria, our studies show that when the strength of the memristor increases, it can exhibit rich interesting dynamics, such as hyperchaos, long period‐1 orbits, transient hyperchaos, as well as non‐attractive behaviors frequently interrupting hyperchaos. To verify the existence of hyperchaos and reveal its mechanism, a horseshoe with two‐directional expansion is studied rigorously in detail by the virtue of the topological horseshoe theory and the computer‐assisted approach of a Poincaré map. At last, the system is implemented with an electronic circuit for experimental verification. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reduced fasting plasma levels of diazepam‐binding inhibitor in adolescents with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Conti Elisa , Tremolizzo Lucio , Bomba Monica , Uccellini Orlando , Rossi Maria Sara , Raggi Maria Elisabetta , Neri Francesca , Ferrarese Carlo , Nacinovich Renata
Published: April 2013

Objective

Altered expression and/or function, both peripherally and centrally, of various neuropeptides is involved in the neurophysiology of anorexia nervosa (AN). Diazepam‐binding inhibitor (DBI) is an interesting peptide for understanding this crosstalk. The aim of this work was to assess fasting plasma levels of DBI and leptin in patients with AN.

Method

Twenty‐four AN adolescents were recruited together with 10 age‐comparable healthy controls. Neuropeptide determinations were performed on plasma samples by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays. Patients with AN were further characterized for the presence of a depressive state or anxiety by using, respectively, the Children's Depression Inventory or the State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory form Y.

Results

Levels of both plasma DBI and leptin were reduced in patients with AN (∼40 and ∼70%, respectively). DBI levels displayed a tendency to increase in the presence of a depressive state, although not with anxiety, whereas leptin levels correlated exclusively with body mass index.

Discussion

These data further extend our knowledge of neuropeptide dysfunction in AN, and plasma DBI may represent a marker for this disease, in particular considering its correlation with comorbid mood disorders. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2013; 46:626–629)
Is outpatient cognitive remediation therapy feasible to use in randomized clinical trials for anorexia nervosa?
Authors: Lock James , Agras W. Stewart , Fitzpatrick Kathleen Kara , Bryson Susan W. , Jo Booil , Tchanturia Kate
Published: April 2013

Objective

There are limited data supporting specific treatments for adults with anorexia nervosa (AN). Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) for adults with AN are characterized by high attrition limiting the feasibility of conducting and interpreting existing studies. High dropout rates may be related to the inflexible and obsessional cognitive style of patients with AN. This study evaluated the feasibility of using cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) to reduce attrition in RCTs for AN.

Method

Forty‐six participants (mean age of 22.7 years and mean duration of AN of 6.4 years) were randomized to receive eight sessions of either CRT or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) over 2 months followed by 16 sessions of CBT for 4 months.

Results

During the 2‐month CRT vs. CBT treatment, rates of attrition were lower in CRT (13%) compared with that of CBT (33%). There were greater improvements in cognitive inefficiencies in the CRT compared with that of the CBT group at the end of 2 months. There were no differences in other outcomes.

Discussion

These results suggest that CRT is acceptable and feasible for use in RCTs for outpatient treatment of AN. CRT may reduce attrition in the short term. Adequately powered future studies are needed to examine CRT as an outpatient treatment for AN. © 2013 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2013; 46:567–575)
Sex differences in binge eating patterns in male and female adult rats
Authors: Klump Kelly L. , Racine Sarah , Hildebrandt Britny , Sisk Cheryl L.
Published: April 2013

Objective

Several efforts are underway to model binge eating in animals in order to advance neurobiological models of risk. However, knowledge of sex differences in these models is currently lacking. The goal of the present study was to examine sex differences in binge eating phenotypes using a well‐established rodent model (i.e., the binge eating resistant/binge eating prone model).

Method

Thirty male and 30 female adult Sprague‐Dawley rats were exposed to feeding tests consisting of intermittent access to palatable food (PF). Rats were then categorized as binge eating prone (BEP) based on the amount and consistency of PF consumption across tests.

Results

Across multiple methods for BEP classification, rates of BEP phenotypes were two to six times higher in female than male rats.

Discussion

Findings provide support for sex differences in rodent models of binge eating and highlight the promise of the BER/BEP model for understanding neurobiological mechanisms underlying sex differences in risk. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2013; 46:729–736)
Physical disturbance shapes vascular plant diversity more profoundly than fire in the sagebrush steppe of southeastern Idaho, U.S.A
Authors: Lavin Matt , Brummer Tyler J. , Quire Ryan , Maxwell Bruce D. , Rew Lisa J.
Published: April 2013

Fire is thought to profoundly change the ecology of the sagebrush steppe. The Idaho National Laboratory provides an ideal setting to compare the effects of fire and physical disturbance on plant diversity in high‐native‐cover sagebrush steppe. Seventy‐eight 1‐hectare transects were established along paved, green‐striped, gravel, and two‐track roads, in overgrazed rangeland, and within sagebrush steppe involving different fire histories. Transects were sampled for the diversity and abundance of all vascular plants. Alpha, beta, and phylogenetic beta diversity were analyzed as a response to fire and physical disturbance. Postfire vegetation readily rebounds to prefire levels of alpha plant diversity. Physical disturbance, in contrast, strongly shapes patterns of alpha, beta, and especially phylogenetic beta diversity much more profoundly than fire disturbance. If fire is a concern in the sagebrush steppe then the degree of physical‐disturbance should be more so. This finding is probably not specific to the study area but applicable to the northern and eastern portions of the sagebrush biome, which is characterized by a pulse of spring moisture and cold mean minimum winter temperatures. The distinction of sagebrush steppe from Great Basin sagebrush should be revised especially with regard to reseeding efforts and the control of annual grasses.
Limited contemporary gene flow and high self‐replenishment drives peripheral isolation in an endemic coral reef fish
Authors: van der Meer Martin H. , Horne John B. , Gardner Michael G. , Hobbs Jean‐Paul A. , Pratchett Morgan , van Herwerden Lynne
Published: April 2013

Extensive ongoing degradation of coral reef habitats worldwide has lead to declines in abundance of coral reef fishes and local extinction of some species. Those most vulnerable are ecological specialists and endemic species. Determining connectivity between locations is vital to understanding recovery and long‐term persistence of these species following local extinction. This study explored population connectivity in the ecologically‐specialized endemic three‐striped butterflyfish (Chaetodon tricinctus) using mt and msatDNA(nuclear microsatellites) to distinguish evolutionary versus contemporary gene flow, estimate self‐replenishment and measure genetic diversity among locations at the remote Australian offshore coral reefs of Middleton Reef (MR), Elizabeth Reef (ER), Lord Howe Island (LHI), and Norfolk Island (NI). Mt and msatDNAsuggested genetic differentiation of the most peripheral location (NI) from the remaining three locations (MR,ER,LHI). Despite high levels of mtDNAgene flow, there is limited msatDNAgene flow with evidence of high levels of self‐replenishment (≥76%) at all four locations. Taken together, this suggests prolonged population recovery times following population declines. The peripheral population (NI) is most vulnerable to local extinction due to its relative isolation, extreme levels of self‐replenishment (95%), and low contemporary abundance.
(E)‐2‐Cyano‐3‐(5′‐piperidin‐1‐yl‐2,2′‐bithien‐5‐yl)acrylic Acid: A Fluorescent Probe for Detecting Prefibrillar Oligomers
Authors: Attanasio Francesco , Bonaccorso Carmela , Bellia Francesco , Cataldo Sebastiano , Fortuna Cosimo G. , Musumarra Giuseppe , Pignataro Bruno , Rizzarelli Enrico
Published: April 2013

The synthesis of (E)‐2‐cyano‐3‐(5′‐piperidin‐1‐yl‐2,2′‐bithien‐5‐yl)acrylic acid, a novel amyloid aggregation fluorescent probe, is reported. This new probe is able to monitor soluble oligomeric aggregates after 24 h, at which time Thioflavin T emission, commonly used to monitor amyloid fibril formation, remains unchanged. Atomic force microscopy, native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and dynamic light scattering confirm that the earlier stages of aggregation are prefibrillar oligomeric species not possessing the amyloid structure. This new molecular scaffold expands the toolbox of fluorescent probes for the identification of prefibrillar oligomers, which is needed in studies aimed at the early detection of the soluble toxic aggregates that characterize the so‐called protein misfolding diseases.
Salinity and copper interactive effects on perez's frog Pelophylax perezi
Authors: Santos Bárbara , Ribeiro Rui , Domingues Inês , Pereira Ruth , Soares Amadeu M.V.M. , Lopes Isabel
Published: April 2013

The present study was intended to assess the influence of salinity on the effects of copper on 2 life stages of Pelophylax perezi. Single and combined effects of salinity (NaCl) and Cu on survival, malformations, body length, and biochemical markers (catalase [CAT], cholinesterases, lactate dehidrogenase [LDH], and glutathione S-transferase) of individuals were evaluated in a multifactorial design. Two experiments were performed, 1 with embryos and the other with tadpoles. Each of these life stages was exposed to individual and combinations of Cu (0.0–7.4 mg/L and 0.0–2.4 mg/L, respectively) and NaCl (0.0–10.2 g/L and 0.0–7.4 g/L, respectively) concentrations. Copper alone had a higher lethal toxicity to tadpoles (90%; 2.4 mg/L) than to embryos (65%; 7.4 mg/L). Conversely, NaCl alone had a higher lethal toxicity to embryos (100%; 6.9 g/L) than to tadpoles (50%; 7.4 g/L). The 4 lowest tested NaCl concentrations decreased the lethal effects of Cu to embryos and the incidence of malformations, but the same outcome was not observed for tadpoles. Regarding enzymatic activities, although significant interactions between Cu and NaCl were observed for the activity of CAT and LDH in embryo and tadpole, a consistent pattern of NaCl and Cu interactive effects was not observed. The authors' results suggest a life-stage dependence on the effects of exposure to the individual substances or their combination. Also, it was observed that moderate salinity might have a shield effect against Cu lethal toxicity for embryos of P. perezi. These results highlight the need within ecological risk evaluations to characterize the sensitivity of different amphibian life stages to individual chemicals but also their combination with other environmental conditions resulting from climate changes. Environ Toxicol Chem 2013;32:1864–1872. © 2013 SETAC
Linking survival and biomarker responses over time
Authors: Jager Tjalling , Hansen Bjørn Henrik
Published: April 2013

The practical usefulness of biomarkers is limited by the complexity of linking their responses to life-history traits of the organisms (e.g., survival, growth, reproduction) over time. Here the authors present a first attempt to model biomarker responses and survival over time simultaneously with a toxicokinetic-toxicodynamic approach. Even though more work is clearly needed, the present study provides a novel direction for interpreting biomarker responses and dynamically linking them to life-history traits. Environ Toxicol Chem 2013;32:1842–1845. © 2013 SETAC
Biotransformation model of neutral and weakly polar organic compounds in fish incorporating internal partitioning
Authors: Kuo Dave T.F. , Di Toro Dominic M.
Published: April 2013

A model for whole-body in vivo biotransformation of neutral and weakly polar organic chemicals in fish is presented. It considers internal chemical partitioning and uses Abraham solvation parameters as reactivity descriptors. It assumes that only chemicals freely dissolved in the body fluid may bind with enzymes and subsequently undergo biotransformation reactions. Consequently, the whole-body biotransformation rate of a chemical is retarded by the extent of its distribution in different biological compartments. Using a randomly generated training set (n = 64), the biotransformation model is found to be: log (HLφfish) = 2.2 (±0.3)B − 2.1 (±0.2)V − 0.6 (±0.3) (root mean square error of prediction [RMSE] = 0.71), where HL is the whole-body biotransformation half-life in days, φfish is the freely dissolved fraction in body fluid, and B and V are the chemical's H-bond acceptance capacity and molecular volume. Abraham-type linear free energy equations were also developed for lipid–water (Klipidw) and protein–water (Kprotw) partition coefficients needed for the computation of φfishfrom independent determinations. These were found to be 1) log Klipidw = 0.77E − 1.10S − 0.47A − 3.52B + 3.37V + 0.84 (in Lwat/kglipid; n = 248, RMSE = 0.57) and 2) log Kprotw = 0.74E − 0.37S − 0.13A − 1.37B + 1.06V − 0.88 (in Lwat/kgprot; n = 69, RMSE = 0.38), where E, S, and A quantify dispersive/polarization, dipolar, and H-bond-donating interactions, respectively. The biotransformation model performs well in the validation of HL (n = 424, RMSE = 0.71). The predicted rate constants do not exceed the transport limit due to circulatory flow. Furthermore, the model adequately captures variation in biotransformation rate between chemicals with varying log octanol–water partitioning coefficient, B, and V and exhibits high degree of independence from the choice of training chemicals. The present study suggests a new framework for modeling chemical reactivity in biological systems. Environ Toxicol Chem 2013;32:1873–1881. © 2013 SETAC
Copper‐induced stress in Solanum nigrum L. and antioxidant defense system responses
Authors: Fidalgo Fernanda , Azenha Manuel , Silva António F. , de Sousa Alexandra , Santiago Ana , Ferraz Pedro , Teixeira Jorge
Published: April 2013

Solanum nigrum L. plants were exposed for 28 days to 100 and 200 μmol/L copper (Cu) in a hydroponic system to analyze the antioxidant defense response. A dose‐dependent reduction in growth (fresh mass of root and shoot, shoot height, and root elongation) with increasing concentration of Cu was observed, whereas Cu treatments did funt affect total chlorophyll and carotefunids content. An enhanced lipid peroxidation, in terms of malondialdehyde (MDA) content, was quantified in shoots when the plants were subjected to the highest Cu level, while in roots MDA levels showed a dose‐dependent increase along the increasing Cu concentrations applied. An increase of proline in roots of plants exposed to 200 μmol/L Cu was found. Antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) did funt show significant changes with respect to control, in both roots and shoots, despite mRNA‐specific accumulations varied between Cu levels and organs. Ascorbate peroxidase (APX) was negatively affected in shoots by the highest Cu level. Gene expression of the subtype 2d metallothioneins (MT) revealed to be Cu‐enhanced throughout the plant body and correlated with Cu tissue levels, with the other MT1 and MT2 gene members downregulated in roots and upregulated in shoots, contributing more as antioxidants in the latter organs than in Cu homeostasis. MT3s are not involved in Cu homeostasis and phytochelatin (PC) production was enhanced in roots of plants exposed to 200 μmol/L Cu, contributing to a higher Cu accumulation in these organs.
Stetiger Wandel über Generationen
Authors: Kalter Frank , Schulz Benjamin
Published: April 2013

Der Anteil der Zuwanderer wächst, die deutsche Bevölkerung hingegen nimmt ab. Umso drängender wird die Einbindung der Migranten in die Gesellschaft. Sozialforscher beleuchten die Mechanismen der Integration — vom oft schwierigen Prozess an sich über die Probleme bei der Bildung und auf dem Arbeitsmarkt bis hin zur Bedeutung von Netzwerken.
Stets zu Diensten
Authors: Ritter Helge , Heeren Jörg
Published: April 2013

Möglichst lange selbstbestimmt leben — dazu können Roboter beitragen. Im intensiven interdisziplinären Zusammenspiel entwickeln Neuroinformatiker, Biologen, Linguisten, Mathematiker, Psychologen und Sportwissenschaftler technische Assistenzsysteme, die Arbeitsanweisungen verstehen und sich einfühlsam auf ihre Nutzer einstellen.
Controls on dissolved organic carbon quantity and chemical character in temperate rivers of North America
Authors: Hanley Kevin W. , Wollheim Wilfred M. , Salisbury Joseph , Huntington Thomas , Aiken George
Published: April 2013

Understanding the processes controlling the transfer and chemical composition of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in freshwater systems is crucial to understanding the carbon cycle and the effects of DOC on water quality. Previous studies have identified watershed‐scale controls on bulk DOC flux and concentration among small basins but fewer studies have explored controls among large basins or simultaneously considered the chemical composition of DOC. Because the chemical character of DOC drives riverine biogeochemical processes such as metabolism and photodegradation, accounting for chemical character in watershed‐scale studies will improve the way bulk DOC variability in rivers is interpreted. We analyzed DOC quantity and chemical character near the mouths of 17 large North American rivers, primarily between 2008 and 2010, and identified watershed characteristics that controlled variability. We quantified DOC chemical character using both specific ultraviolet absorbance at 254 nm (SUVA254) and XAD‐resin fractionation. Mean DOC concentration ranged from 2.1 to 47 mg C L−1 and mean SUVA254 ranged from 1.3 to 4.7 L mg C−1 m−1. We found a significant positive correlation between basin wetland cover and both bulk DOC concentration (R2 = 0.78; p < 0.0001) and SUVA254 (R2 = 0.91; p < 0.0001), while other land use characteristics were not correlated. The strong wetland relationship with bulk DOC concentration is similar to that found by others in small headwater catchments. However, two watersheds with extremely long surface water residence times, the Colorado and St. Lawrence, diverged from this wetland relationship. These results suggest that the role of riverine processes in altering the terrestrial DOC signal at the annual scale was minimal except in river systems with long surface water residence times. However, synoptic DOC sampling of both quantity and character throughout river networks will be needed to more rigorously test this finding. The inclusion of DOC chemical character will be vital to achieving a more complete understanding of bulk DOC dynamics in large river systems.