bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
See me! A Discussion on the Quality in Performing Arts for Children Based on a Performative Approach
Authors: Nagel Lisa
Published: December 2013

In this article, the writer discusses and analyses what happens to our evaluation of quality in performing arts for children when we move from the notion of art as an object to art as an event. Erika Fischer-Lichte´s theory on the so-called performative turn in the arts and more specifically, the term the feedback loop, constitutes the article´s theoretical backdrop. Two audience-related episodes, respectively the dance performance BZz BZz-DADA dA bee by ICB Productions (3 - 6 year olds) and the theatre performance Thought Lab by Cirka Teater (for 6 year olds and above), serve as starting points for the theoretical discussion. By adopting Siemke Böhnisch’s performative approach to performance analysis, focusing on the terms henvendthet (directed-ness, the actors´ and spectators´ mutual turning to the other) and kontakt (connection) in relations to the audience, the writer makes it possible to show a dissonance (and its reverse) between the performers and the audience in the two respective performances. The term dissonance describes moments of unintended breaks in communication, moments of which the performers are most likely unaware. These moments however become apparent when the audience´s reactions are included in the analysis. The author concludes that by deferring to a performative perspective, we become almost obliged to consider the child audience as qualified judges of quality, as opposed to allowing ourselves to dismiss their interactions as either noise or enthusiasm. Such a perspective is important not only for how we see and evaluate performing arts for children, but also for how artists must think when producing performances for this audience.
The Making of FQ, or How to Pick up Pellets of Information in the Clouds of Fantasy
Authors: Bergaust Kristin
Published: December 2013

In an attempt to look at how content could be developed in dialogue with the use of visual documentary material, this article traces key ideas and references that were important to the making of an animation “FQ”. A research blog, personal notes and references are used to reflect on the work. The animation was based on historical portraits of the Norwegian political pioneer, Fredrikke Marie Qvam (1843-1938), and created for outdoor screening in the main square in her home town. Research and documentary material formed a base for an animation that was conceptually inspired by photo theories from diverse sources as well as feminist film theories of the gaze. In the process, imagination and fantasy plays into the treatment of the documentary material while the local viewing situation anchors the work in a biographical context.
Art, Age & Health: A Research Journey about Developing Reminiscence Theatre in an Age-Exchange Project
Authors: Gjærum Rikke Gürgens
Published: December 2013

In this article, the researcher studies how it is possible to develop a reminiscence theatre production in an age-exchange project, created with life stories from pensioners, and how the audience experiences the performance. The article is based on six focus group interviews with nine pensioners, a theatre production and a “reminiscence café” between the audience and the actors, arranged after the performance. The researcher designed the study, “The aged as a resource”, based on guidelines for performance ethnography, art-based research, practice-led research and artistic research, in order to combine science and art, which could be said to represent two different epistemological traditions.
Skyvelære (While Attempting to Balance)
Authors: Røed Ellen Johanne
Published: December 2013

The video Skyvelære (While Attempting to Balance) portrays the 11th International Pyrheliometer Comparison Event (IPC-XI). Here, metrologists representing 45 different countries, accomplished the meticulous calibration of their Pyrheliometers, an instrument for measuring the energy emitted form the sun. Realized by artist Ellen Røed as part of her fellowship in artistic research at Bergen National Academy of Art and Design, it constitutes a reflection on the production of knowledge. Composed of the words sliding and knowing, the norwegian term Skyvelære means caliper, a device which, by means of a set edge and a variable slide operated by the thumb, can be used to measure distance and depth in great detail. In the video, the production and use of units and set reference points are presented as a social project in which people relate to the world collectively. The video was part of the final result of Røeds fellowship project that was presented as a solo exhibition in 2013. Here, the video was presented as a projection with surround sound. In this number of In Formation the video is presented as an individual piece of video art, accompagnied with a text.
Diagnosis of high‐resolution upper ocean dynamics from noisy sea surface temperatures
Authors: Isern‐Fontanet J. , Hascoët E.
Published: December 2013

The noise present in infrared satellite measurements of sea surface temperature (SST) hampers the use of surface quasi‐geostrophic (SQG) equations to diagnose ocean dynamics at high resolutions. Here we propose a methodology to reduce the contribution of noise when diagnosing surface vorticity, divergence, and vertical velocity from SST able to retain the dynamics at scales of a few kilometers. It is based on the use of denoising techniques with curvelets as basis functions and the application of a selective low‐pass filters to improve the reconstruction of surface upwelling/downwelling patterns. First, it is tested using direct numerical simulations of SQG turbulence and then applied to diagnose low‐frequency vertical velocity patterns from real MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) images. The methodology here presented, which is not tied to the validity of SQG equations nor to the use of SST, is quite general and can be applied to a wide range of measurements and dynamical frameworks.
Observations of linear dependence between sulfate and nitrate in atmospheric particles
Authors: Kong Lingdong , Yang Yiwei , Zhang Shuanqin , Zhao Xi , Du Huanhuan , Fu Hongbo , Zhang Shicheng , Cheng Tiantao , Yang Xin , Chen Jianmin , Wu Dui , Shen Jiandong , Hong Shengmao , Jiao Li
Published: December 2013

Hourly measurements of water‐soluble inorganic ionic species in ambient atmospheric particles were conducted at Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Guangzhou sampling sites in China during the period of 2009–2011. The relation between sulfate and nitrate in particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) was examined based on these measurements. Results showed that the mass fraction of sulfate was strongly negatively correlated with that of nitrate in atmospheric particles on most of the sampling days, especially when sulfate and nitrate made up the vast majority of the total soluble anions and cations (Na+, K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+) made a small contribution to the total water‐soluble ions, revealing that the formation mechanisms of sulfate and nitrate in the atmosphere are highly correlated, and there exists a significant negative correlation trend between sulfate and nitrate mass fractions in the atmospheric particles. We found that local meteorological conditions presented opposite influences on the mass fractions of sulfate and nitrate. Further analysis indicated that the two mass fractions were modulated by the neutralizing level of atmospheric aerosols, and the negative correlation could be found in acidic atmospheric particles. Strong negative correlation was usually observed on clear days, hazy days, foggy days, and respirable particulate air pollution days, whereas poor negative correlation was often observed during cloud, rain, snow, dust storm, and suspended dust events. The results can help to better understand the formation mechanisms of atmospheric sulfate and nitrate during air pollution episodes and to better explain field results of atmospheric chemistry concerning sulfate and nitrate.
Saturation Transfer Difference NMR for Fragment Screening
Authors: Begley Darren W. , Moen Spencer O. , Pierce Phillip G. , Zartler Edward R.
Published: December 2013

Fragment screening by saturation transfer difference nuclear magnetic resonance (STD‐NMR) is a robust method for identifying small molecule binders and is well suited to a broad set of biological targets. STD‐NMR is exquisitely sensitive for detecting weakly binding compounds (a common characteristic of fragments), which is a crucial step in finding promising compounds for a fragment‐based drug discovery campaign. This protocol describes the development of a library suitable for STD‐NMR fragment screening, as well as preparation of protein samples, optimization of experimental conditions, and procedures for data collection and analysis. Curr. Protoc. Chem. Biol. 5:251‐268 © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Chemiluminescent Nitrogen Detection (CLND) to Measure Kinetic Aqueous Solubility
Authors: Kestranek Aimee , Chervenak Andrew , Longenberger Justin , Placko Steven
Published: December 2013

Solubility is the dose‐limiting property for in vitro studies, and therefore is a critical physicochemical property to measure in drug discovery. Solubility data can be used to guide lead optimization, troubleshoot erratic bioassay results, and identify potential downstream liabilities such as insufficient solubility for bioassays or oral bioavailability. Typically, early in vitro studies are performed using library compounds prepared as dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) stock solutions, resulting in in vitro test solutions containing DMSO at low concentration (<5% v/v). Since DMSO can affect the apparent solubility, it is desirable to obtain solubility data under conditions mimicking the in vitro study. Kinetic solubility (from DMSO stock solutions) is often preferred over thermodynamic solubility (from dry powder) in early drug discovery. The protocols in this article describe a general procedure for assessing kinetic aqueous solubility of early drug discovery compounds using a miniaturized shake flask method with chemiluminescent nitrogen detection (CLND). Curr. Protoc. Chem. Biol. 5:269‐280 © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
High‐Efficient Deep‐Blue Light‐Emitting Diodes by Using High Quality ZnxCd1‐xS/ZnS Core/Shell Quantum Dots
Authors: Shen Huaibin , Bai Xianwei , Wang Aqiang , Wang Hongzhe , Qian Lei , Yang Yixing , Titov Alexandre , Hyvonen Jake , Zheng Ying , Li Lin Song
Published: December 2013

High‐quality violet‐blue emitting ZnxCd1‐xS/ZnS core/shell quantum dots (QDs) are synthesized by a new method, called “nucleation at low temperature/shell growth at high temperature”. The resulting nearly monodisperse ZnxCd1‐xS/ZnS core/shell QDs have high PL quantum yield (near to 100%), high color purity (FWHM) <25 nm), good color tunability in the violet‐blue optical window from 400 to 470 nm, and good chemical/photochemical stability. More importantly, the new well‐established protocols are easy to apply to large‐scale synthesis; around 37 g ZnxCd1‐xS/ZnS core/shell QDs can be easily synthesized in one batch reaction. Highly efficient deep‐blue quantum dot‐based light‐emitting diodes (QD‐LEDs) are demonstrated by employing the ZnxCd1‐xS/ZnS core/shell QDs as emitters. The bright and efficient QD‐LEDs show a maximum luminance up to 4100 cd m−2, and peak external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 3.8%, corresponding to 1.13 cd A−1 in luminous efficiency. Such high value of the peak EQE can be comparable with OLED technology. These results signify a remarkable progress, not only in the synthesis of high‐quality QDs but also in QD‐LEDs that offer a practicle platform for the realization of QD‐based violet‐blue display and lighting.
Synthesis of the Pluramycins 2: Total Synthesis and Structure Assignment of Saptomycin B
Authors: Kitamura Kei , Maezawa Yoshihiko , Ando Yoshio , Kusumi Takenori , Matsumoto Takashi , Suzuki Keisuke
Published: December 2013

A concise, highly convergent total synthesis of saptomycin B, a member of the pluramycin class of antitumor antibiotics, is reported. The target compound was assembled from four building blocks (a tricyclic platform, two sugars, and an alkynal) in 15% yield through 10 synthetic operations. The key steps included the regioselective installation of two amino sugars (L‐vancosamine and D‐angolosamine) on the tricycle and the efficient construction of the tetracyclic skeleton by an aldol reaction followed by formation of the pyranone. The unknown configuration at C14 was assigned as R.
Two‐in‐One: Inherent Anhydrous and Water‐Assisted High Proton Conduction in a 3D Metal–Organic Framework
Authors: Nagarkar Sanjog S. , Unni Sreekuttan M. , Sharma Amitosh , Kurungot Sreekumar , Ghosh Sujit K.
Published: December 2013

The development of solid‐state proton‐conducting materials with high conductivity that operate under both anhydrous and humidified conditions is currently of great interest in fuel‐cell technology. A 3D metal–organic framework (MOF) with acid–base pairs in its coordination space that efficiently conducts protons under both anhydrous and humid conditions has now been developed. The anhydrous proton conductivity for this MOF is among the highest values that have been reported for MOF materials, whereas its water‐assisted proton conductivity is comparable to that of the organic polymer Nafion, which is currently used for practical applications. Unlike other MOFs, which conduct protons either under anhydrous or humid conditions, this compound should represent a considerable advance in the development of efficient solid‐state proton‐conducting materials that work under both anhydrous and humid conditions.
Through‐Bond/Through‐Space Anion Relay Chemistry Exploiting Vinylepoxides as Bifunctional Linchpins
Authors: Chen Ming Z. , Gutierrez Osvaldo , Smith Amos B.
Published: December 2013

The development of new bifunctional linchpins that permit the union of diverse building blocks is essential for the synthetic utility of anion relay chemistry (ARC). The design, synthesis, and validation of three vinylepoxide linchpins for through‐bond/through‐space ARC are now reported. For negative charge migration, this class of bifunctional linchpins employs initial through‐bond ARC by an SN2′ reaction, followed by through‐space ARC exploiting a 1,4‐Brook rearrangement. The trans‐disubstituted vinylepoxide linchpin yields a mixture of E/Z isomers, whereas the cis‐disubstituted and the trans‐trisubstituted vinylepoxide linchpins proceed to deliver three‐component adducts with excellent E selectivity.
Novel Tacrine Analogs as Potential Cholinesterase Inhibitors in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: El‐Malah Afaf , Gedawy Ehab M. , Kassab Asmaa E. , Salam Rania M. Abdel
Published: December 2013

Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs) are used for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The increase in ACh levels ameliorates the symptoms of the disease. Tacrine is the first clinically approved drug as AChEI used in the treatment of AD. In this paper, we synthesized new tacrine analogs to act on catalytic and peripheral sites of AChE. Their inhibitory activity was evaluated. All novel compounds except 7a showed promising results toward AChE. Two compounds, 10b and 11b, are more potent than tacrine. Furthermore, molecular‐modeling studies were performed for these two compounds to rationalize the obtained pharmacological activity. Moreover, various drug‐likeness properties of the new compounds were predicted.
Climate change multi‐model projections for temperature extremes in Portugal
Authors: Andrade C. , Fraga H. , Santos J. A.
Published: December 2013

Climate change projections for spatial‐temporal distributions of temperatures in Portugal are analysed using a 13‐member ensemble of regional climate model simulations (A1B scenario for 2041–2070). Bias corrections are carried out using an observational gridded dataset (E‐OBS) and equally‐weighted ensemble statistics are discussed. Clear shifts toward higher future seasonal mean temperatures, in central tendency and also in both tails of the distributions, are found (2–4 °C), particularly for summer and autumn maximum temperatures. Furthermore, frequencies of occurrence of daily extremes are projected to increase, particularly in summer maximum temperatures over inland Portugal. Wintertime changes are weaker than in other seasons.
Plant alkaloids that cause developmental defects through the disruption of cholinergic neurotransmission
Authors: Green Benedict T. , Lee Stephen T. , Welch Kevin D. , Panter Kip E.
Published: December 2013

The exposure of a developing embryo or fetus to alkaloids from plants, plant products, or plant extracts has the potential to cause developmental defects in humans and animals. These defects may have multiple causes, but those induced by piperidine and quinolizidine alkaloids arise from the inhibition of fetal movement and are generally referred to as multiple congenital contracture‐type deformities. These skeletal deformities include arthrogyrposis, kyposis, lordosis, scoliosis, and torticollis, associated secondary defects, and cleft palate. Structure‐function studies have shown that plant alkaloids with a piperidine ring and a minimum of a three‐carbon side‐chain α to the piperidine nitrogen are teratogenic. Further studies determined that an unsaturation in the piperidine ring, as occurs in gamma coniceine, or anabaseine, enhances the toxic and teratogenic activity, whereas the N‐methyl derivatives are less potent. Enantiomers of the piperidine teratogens, coniine, ammodendrine, and anabasine, also exhibit differences in biological activity, as shown in cell culture studies, suggesting variability in the activity due to the optical rotation at the chiral center of these stereoisomers. In this article, we review the molecular mechanism at the nicotinic pharmacophore and biological activities, as it is currently understood, of a group of piperidine and quinolizidine alkaloid teratogens that impart a series of flexure‐type skeletal defects and cleft palate in animals. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 99:235–246, 2013. Published 2013 Wiley Priodicals, Inc.
Prospective assessment of the influence of pancreatic cancer resection on exocrine pancreatic function
Authors: Sikkens E C M , Cahen D L , de Wit J , Looman C W N , van Eijck C , Bruno M J
Published: December 2013

Background

Exocrine insufficiency frequently develops in patients with pancreatic cancer owing to tumour ingrowth and pancreatic duct obstruction. Surgery might restore this function by removing the primary disease and restoring duct patency, but it may also have the opposite effect, as a result of resection of functional parenchyma and anatomical changes. This study evaluated the course of pancreatic function, before and after pancreatic resection.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included patients with tumours in the pancreatic region requiring pancreatic resection in a tertiary referral centre between March 2010 and August 2012. Starting before surgery, exocrine function was determined monthly by measuring faecal elastase 1 levels (normal value over 0·200 µg per g faeces). Endocrine function, steatorrhoea-related symptoms and bodyweight were also evaluated before and after surgery. Subjects were followed from diagnosis until 6 months after surgery, or until death.

Results

Twenty-nine patients were included, 12 with pancreatic cancer, 14 with ampullary carcinoma and three with bile duct carcinoma (median tumour size 2·6 cm). Twenty-six patients underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy and three distal pancreatectomy. Thirteen patients had exocrine insufficiency at preoperative diagnosis. After a median follow-up of 6 months, this had increased to 24 patients. Diabetes was present in seven patients at diagnosis, and developed in one additional patient within 1 month after surgery.

Conclusion

Most patients with tumours in the pancreatic region requiring pancreatic resection either had exocrine insufficiency at diagnosis or became exocrine-insufficient soon after surgical resection.
Effect of downregulation of ZEB1 on vimentin expression, tumour migration and tumourigenicity of melanoma B16F10 cells and CSCs
Authors: Dou Jun , He Xiangfeng , Liu Yurong , Wang Yaqian , Zhao Fengshu , Wang Xiaoying , Chen Dengyu , Shi Fangfang , Wang Jing
Published: December 2013

Zinc‐finger E‐box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) is a master regulator of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and has been implicated in primary epithelial cancer biological processes, such as invasion and metastasis. However, the role of ZEB1 in progression of melanoma and cancer stem cells (CSCs) remains obscure. In this study, the recombinant plasmids of t3 shRNAs targeting mouse ZEB1 were constructed and transfected into melanoma B16F10 cells. The stable transfected cells were selected and the characteristics of ZEB1 downregulated B16F10 cells was assessed. The tumourigenicity of CD44+CD133+CSCs isolated from B16F10 cells stably transfected with the ZEB1‐shRNA2 recombinant was also assessed. ZEB1‐shRNAs B16F10 showed a lower expression of ZEB1 and vimentin, weaker migration, invasiveness, colony forming, and proliferation, and a lower tumourigenicity than the control cells. The tumourigenicity of the ZEB1‐shRNA2 CD44+CD133+CSCs was also inhibited. In conclusion, ZEB1‐shRNA2‐mediated downregulation of ZEB1 expression in B16F10 cells and CSCs is involved in the inhibition of the EMT process. ZEB1 may be a potential target in melanoma targeted.
Phase Transitions, Prominent Dielectric Anomalies, and Negative Thermal Expansion in Three High Thermally Stable Ammonium Magnesium–Formate Frameworks
Authors: Shang Ran , Xu Guan‐Cheng , Wang Zhe‐Ming , Gao Song
Published: December 2013

We present three Mg–formate frameworks, incorporating three different ammoniums: [NH4][Mg(HCOO)3] (1), [CH3CH2NH3][Mg(HCOO)3] (2) and [NH3(CH2)4NH3][Mg2(HCOO)6] (3). They display structural phase transitions accompanied by prominent dielectric anomalies and anisotropic and negative thermal expansion. The temperature‐dependent structures, covering the whole temperature region in which the phase transitions occur, reveal detailed structural changes, and structure–property relationships are established. Compound 1 is a chiral Mg–formate framework with the NH4+ cations located in the channels. Above 255 K, the NH4+ cation vibrates quickly between two positions of shallow energy minima. Below 255 K, the cations undergo two steps of freezing of their vibrations, caused by the different inner profiles of the channels, producing non‐compensated antipolarization. These lead to significant negative thermal expansion and a relaxor‐like dielectric response. In perovskite 2, the orthorhombic phase below 374 K possesses ordered CH3CH2NH3+ cations in the cubic cavities of the Mg–formate framework. Above 374 K, the structure becomes trigonal, with trigonally disordered cations, and above 426 K, another phase transition occurs and the cation changes to a two‐fold disordered state. The two transitions are accompanied by prominent dielectric anomalies and negative and positive thermal expansion, contributing to the large regulation of the framework coupled the order–disorder transition of CH3CH2NH3+. For niccolite 3, the gradually enhanced flipping movement of the middle ethylene of [NH3(CH2)4NH3]2+ in the elongated framework cavity finally leads to the phase transition with a critical temperature of 412 K, and the trigonally disordered cations and relevant framework change, providing the basis for the very strong dielectric dispersion, high dielectric constant (comparable to inorganic oxides), and large negative thermal expansion. The spontaneous polarizations for the low‐temperature polar phases are 1.15, 3.43 and 1.51 μC cm−2 for 1, 2 and 3, respectively, as estimated by the shifts of the cations related to the anionic frameworks. Thermal and variable‐temperature powder X‐ray diffraction studies confirm the phase transitions, and the materials are all found to be thermally stable up to 470 K.
Diethyl Fluoronitromethylphosphonate: Synthesis and Application in Nucleophilic Fluoroalkyl Additions
Authors: Opekar Stanislav , Pohl Radek , Beran Pavel , Rulíšek Lubomír , Beier Petr
Published: December 2013

Diethyl fluoronitromethylphosphonate (3), a previously unknown compound, was synthesized by electrophilic fluorination of diethyl nitromethylphosphonate with Selectfluor. Base‐induced decomposition of 3 was studied by NMR spectroscopy, which identified diethyl fluorophosphate and fluoronitromethane as the main decomposition products. CH acidities [pKa values in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)] of 3, 1‐fluoro‐1‐phenylsulfonylmethanephosphonate (1; McCarthy’s reagent), tetraethyl fluoromethylenebisphosphonate (2), and some nonfluorinated phosphonates were computed, and a good correlation between calculated and experimental pKa values was found. The calculated CH acidities increased in the sequence 2<1<3. Diethyl fluoronitromethylphosphonate (3) was applied in the Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons reaction with aldehydes and trifluoromethyl ketones to provide new 1‐fluoro‐1‐nitroalkenes with good to high stereoselectivities. Alkylation of 3 was successful only with iodomethane, however, conjugate additions of 3 to Michael acceptors such as α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds, sulfones, and nitro compounds allowed access to variously modified diethyl 1‐fluoro‐1‐nitrophosphonates.
Interactions of spout jets in a multiple‐spouted bed
Authors: Chen Dailin , Liu Xuejiao , Zhong Wenqi , Shao Yingjuan , Jin Baosheng
Published: December 2013

A three‐dimensional (3D) computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model, coupling with two‐fluid model (TFM) approach is adopted to investigate the interactions of spout jets and to evaluate the effects of baffles in a multiple‐spouted bed. For two typical flow patterns, that is single spouting and double‐spouting, characteristics of flow patterns, solid velocity and voidage are investigated with varying spouting gas flow rates. Influence of baffles set in the bottom of the bed is also studied in three typical flow patterns. Results show that for double‐spouting, the central spouting push off the lateral spouts, and the push force is increasingly obvious with increasing central spouting gas flow rate; for single spouting, when the lateral spouting gas flow rates increase, the central spout is destroyed and the gas‐solid flow becomes unstable. Baffles in different flow patterns (single spouting, double‐spouting and triple‐spouting) exert different effects on the solid movements.
Lattice boltzmann method for natural convection with multicomponent and multiphase fluids in a two‐dimensional square cavity
Authors: Qiu Ruo‐fan , Wang An‐lin , Jiang Tao
Published: December 2013

A lattice Boltzmann method for natural convection with multicomponent and multiphase fluids in a two‐dimensional square cavity is presented. The model combines a multicomponent and multiphase method with a passive‐scalar approach, which is extended to be available for multicomponent immiscible flow in this paper. It has a good computational efficiency. The natural convection of flow with two of the same immiscible fluids are simulated using the model, and the agreement with the literature data is satisfactory. A case study of natural convection with a bubble of two different immiscible fluids in a square cavity is presented to show the heat transfer in a multiphase natural convection. It also reflects the potential of the present model for simulating thermal multicomponent multiphase fluids flow with different Rayleigh numbers.
Towards Selective Inhibition of Histone Deacetylase Isoforms: What Has Been Achieved, Where We Are and What Will Be Next
Authors: Thaler Florian , Mercurio Ciro
Published: December 2013

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are widely studied targets for the treatment of cancer and other diseases. Up to now, over twenty HDAC inhibitors have entered clinical studies and two of them have already reached the market, namely the hydroxamic acid derivative SAHA (vorinostat, Zolinza) and the cyclic depsipeptide FK228 (romidepsin, Istodax) that have been approved for the treatment of cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL). A common aspect of the first HDAC inhibitors is the absence of any particular selectivity towards specific isozymes. Some of molecules resulted to be “pan”‐HDAC inhibitors, while others are class I selective. In the meantime, the knowledge of HDAC biology has continuously progressed. Key advances in the structural biology of various isozymes, reliable molecular homology models as well as suitable biological assays have provided new tools for drug discovery activities. This Minireview aims at surveying these recent developments as well as the design, synthesis and biological characterization of isoform‐selective derivatives.
Association between bone mineral density and type 1 diabetes mellitus: a meta‐analysis of cross‐sectional studies
Authors: Pan Hong , Wu Naping , Yang Tao , He Wei
Published: December 2013

A few studies have investigated the relationship between type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and bone mineral density (BMD) values. This meta‐analysis was performed to explore differences between T1DM and healthy individuals in BMD values measured at five bone sites.We searched the database of PubMed for cross‐sectional studies about the association of T1DM and BMD, and a meta‐analysis was conducted.The results suggested significant association between T1DM and decreased BMD values of total body. The pooled mean differences (MDs) were −0.06 [95% confidence interval (CI): −0.11, −0.01] for all people. As for the association between T1DM and spine BMD values, the pooled MDs were −0.04 (95% CI: −0.07, −0.01) for males and −0.03 (95% CI: −0.06, 0.00) for females <20 years old. As for femur BMD values, the pooled MDs were −0.06 (95% CI: −0.13, 0.00) for all people, −0.03 (95% CI: −0.06, −0.01) for females and −0.04(95% CI: −0.05, −0.02) for males. As for hip BMD values, the pooled MDs were −0.06 (95% CI: −0.08, −0.04) for females. As for forearm BMD values, the pooled MDs were −0.01 (95% CI: −0.02, 0.00) for females.The results of this meta‐analysis suggest the overall association between T1DM and reduced BMD values. Notably, the influence of T1DM on BMD seems to depend on gender or patient's age. Reduced BMD values may occur early after T1DM diagnosis. Future clinical and basic research studies are needed to further understand the mechanisms of decreased BMD values in T1DM patients. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Osteocalcin is inversely associated with glucose levels in middle‐aged Tibetan men with different degrees of glucose tolerance
Authors: Chen Xiang , Wu Yunhong , Liu Lin , Tian Haoming , Yu Xijie
Published: December 2013

Background

Research on the characteristics and mechanisms of diabetes in Tibetans is scant. Especially, there is no study on the relationship between osteocalcin and glucose metabolism. The objective of this study was to investigate the associations of serum total osteocalcin (tOC) and undercarboxylated osteocalcin (ucOC) with glucose and lipid metabolism in Chinese indigenous Tibetans with different degrees of glucose tolerance.

Methods

In this study, 160 middle‐aged Tibetan men were involved, including 46 subjects with normal glucose tolerance (NGT), 52 subjects with impaired glucose regulation (IGR) and 62 subjects with type 2 diabetes. The homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) parameters, including HOMA‐IR and HOMA‐B, were used to estimate insulin resistance and β‐cell function, respectively. Adiponectin, leptin, testosterone, 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D, tOC and ucOC were measured using ELISA kits.

Results

After adjustment for age and body mass index, plasma tOC level was correlated negatively with fasting and 30‐min post‐OGTT glucose, HOMA‐IR, leptin and testosterone; plasma ucOC level was correlated negatively with 30‐min post‐OGTT glucose, total cholesterol and 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D; ucOC : tOC was correlated positively with leptin. The negative association between HOMA‐IR and tOC remained significant after correcting for adiponectin; however, the association disappeared after correcting for leptin. HOMA‐IR was correlated negatively with age, adiponectin and tOC, and positively with total cholesterol, triglyceride and leptin. Stepwise linear regression analysis revealed that total cholesterol, leptin and adiponectin were independent predictors for HOMA‐IR in all subjects.

Conclusions

Our data support a link between osteocalcin and glucose metabolism in middle‐aged Tibetan men. The improved glucose tolerance exerted by tOC may be related to improved insulin sensitivity rather than improved β‐cell function. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biomarker discovery study design for type 1 diabetes in The Environmental Determinants of Diabetes in the Young (TEDDY) study
Authors: Lee Hye‐Seung , Burkhardt Brant R. , McLeod Wendy , Smith Susan , Eberhard Chris , Lynch Kristian , Hadley David , Rewers Marian , Simell Olli , She Jin‐Xiong , Hagopian Bill , Lernmark Ake , Akolkar Beena , Ziegler Anette G. , Krischer Jeffrey P. ,   The TEDDY study group
Published: December 2013

Aims

The Environmental Determinants of Diabetes in the Young planned biomarker discovery studies on longitudinal samples for persistent confirmed islet cell autoantibodies and type 1 diabetes using dietary biomarkers, metabolomics, microbiome/viral metagenomics and gene expression.

Methods

This article describes the details of planning The Environmental Determinants of Diabetes in the Young biomarker discovery studies using a nested case–control design that was chosen as an alternative to the full cohort analysis. In the frame of a nested case–control design, it guides the choice of matching factors, selection of controls, preparation of external quality control samples and reduction of batch effects along with proper sample allocation.

Results and conclusion

Our design is to reduce potential bias and retain study power while reducing the costs by limiting the numbers of samples requiring laboratory analyses. It also covers two primary end points (the occurrence of diabetes‐related autoantibodies and the diagnosis of type 1 diabetes). The resulting list of case–control matched samples for each laboratory was augmented with external quality control samples. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Host‐plant genotypic diversity and community genetic interactions mediate aphid spatial distribution
Authors: Zytynska Sharon E. , Frantz Laurent , Hurst Ben , Johnson Andrew , Preziosi Richard F. , Rowntree Jennifer K.
Published: December 2013

Genetic variation in plants can influence the community structure of associated species, through both direct and indirect interactions. Herbivorous insects are known to feed on a restricted range of plants, and herbivore preference and performance can vary among host plants within a species due to genetically based traits of the plant (e.g., defensive compounds). In a natural system, we expect to find genetic variation within both plant and herbivore communities and we expect this variation to influence species interactions. Using a three‐species plant‐aphid model system, we investigated the effect of genetic diversity on genetic interactions among the community members. Our system involved a host plant (Hordeum vulgare) that was shared by an aphid (Sitobion avenae) and a hemi‐parasitic plant (Rhinanthus minor). We showed that aphids cluster more tightly in a genetically diverse host‐plant community than in a genetic monoculture, with host‐plant genetic diversity explaining up to 24% of the variation in aphid distribution. This is driven by differing preferences of the aphids to the different plant genotypes and their resulting performance on these plants. Within the two host‐plant diversity levels, aphid spatial distribution was influenced by an interaction among the aphid's own genotype, the genotype of a competing aphid, the origin of the parasitic plant population, and the host‐plant genotype. Thus, the overall outcome involves both direct (i.e., host plant to aphid) and indirect (i.e., parasitic plant to aphid) interactions across all these species. These results show that a complex genetic environment influences the distribution of herbivores among host plants. Thus, in genetically diverse systems, interspecific genetic interactions between the host plant and herbivore can influence the population dynamics of the system and could also structure local communities. We suggest that direct and indirect genotypic interactions among species can influence community structure and processes.
A Viable Route for Lithium Ion Detection
Authors: Gulino Antonino , Lupo Fabio , Cristaldi Domenico A. , Pappalardo Sebastiano , Capici Calogero , Gattuso Giuseppe , Notti Anna , Parisi Melchiorre F.
Published: December 2013

Quartz substrates were first functionalized with 4‐ClCH2C6H4SiCl3 and then allowed to react with 5‐(4′‐pyridylazo)‐25,26,27‐tris(ethoxycarbonylmethoxy)‐28‐hydroxycalix[4]arene in a covalent fashion to yield a hybrid material with an immobilized monolayer of a chromogenic sensing agent. The structural characterization of this ionophore monolayer on silica surfaces was performed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. This technique was also used together with UV/Vis spectroscopy to investigate the ionophoric properties of the monolayer, which was found to reversibly recognize and bind lithium ions at ppm levels even in the presence (in a comparable concentration) of highly competitive cations such as Na+. Overall, our procedure shows that a single‐molecule property can be successfully transferred to a solid‐state device.
Synthesis of γ,δ‐Aziridino α‐Amino Acid Derivatives and their Stereoselective Ring Transformation to 2‐(Aminomethyl)‐1‐aminocyclopropanecarboxylic Acid Derivatives
Authors: De Brabandere Stijn , Mangelinckx Sven , Kadam Santosh T. , Nural Yahya , Augustyns Koen , Van der Veken Pieter , Törnroos Karl W. , De Kimpe Norbert
Published: December 2013

1‐Benzyl‐2‐(bromomethyl)aziridine was successfully substituted with protected glycine esters to afford alkyl 3‐(N‐benzylaziridin‐2‐yl)‐2‐aminopropanoates, as constrained heterocyclic diamino acid derivatives, in good isolated yields. These new aziridines proved to be excellent building blocks for ring transformation to the corresponding stereochemically defined 2‐(aminomethyl)‐1‐aminocyclopropanecarboxylic acid derivatives, including methyl esters, piperidyl amides, and free carboxylic acids.
A Route to Cyclooct‐2‐ynol and Its Functionalization by Mitsunobu Chemistry
Authors: Hagendorn Tobias , Bräse Stefan
Published: December 2013

A new silver‐free synthesis for cyclooctynol is introduced. The obtained alcohol was further functionalized by a Mitsunobu reaction to give an assortment of imide and phenol derivatives. It was also possible to further functionalize the cyclooctyne by treatment with a fluorescein dye. As an interesting application, we used a cyclooctyne‐maleimide conjugate as an azide‐thiol crosslinker.
Improving the Rate of Silver Nanoparticle Adhesion to ‘Sticky Electrodes’: Stick and Strip Experiments at a DMSA‐Modified Gold Electrode
Authors: Stuart Emma J. E. , Tschulik Kristina , Ellison Joanna , Compton Richard G.
Published: December 2013

The immobilisation of nanoparticles from solution at a solid surface followed by anodic stripping voltammetry is a simple technique allowing the analysis of nanoparticle concentrations and identity. We report that the modification of gold electrodes with meso‐2,3‐dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) shows a useful increase in the adsorption rate of silver nanoparticles on a gold substrate showing that the chemical modification of the electrode is analytically advantageous.
Electrochemical Detection of Glutathione Using a Poly(caffeic acid) Nanocarbon Composite Modified Electrode
Authors: Lee P. T. , Ward K. R. , Tschulik K. , Chapman G. , Compton R. G.
Published: December 2013

A modified glassy carbon electrode was prepared through electropolymerization of caffeic acid in the presence of either carbon nanotubes or nano‐carbon drop cast onto the electrode surface. The voltammetric behaviour of the electrode was characterized using the ortho‐quinone moiety on the caffeic acid unit and the surface loading optimized for current response. The nanocomposite mediated electrode was used for the sensitive detection of glutathione at concentrations as low as 500 nM.
Detection of Oxidative Damage of Synthetic Oligonucleotides Caused by Thallium(III) Complexes
Authors: Nowicka Anna M. , Krasnodebska‐Ostrega Beata , Wrzosek Beata , Jastrzebska Magdalena , Sadowska Monika , Mackiewicz Marcin , Stojek Zbigniew
Published: December 2013

Biologically important short sequences of DNA were treated with Tl(III) complexes. The chloride complex releases the Tl(III) cation and therefore oxidizes DNA components and at concentrations higher than 50 nM cuts the strands. The cuts are well seen in the EQCM plots. The change in the strand structure is well seen at CD and UV‐Vis spectra. The chelate complexes of Tl(III) do not damage the DNA strands. The SERS spectra were particularly useful in demonstration of the chemical changes and orientation vs. the surface changes of particular groups in the strands after interaction with TlCl4−.
Microparticle alpha‐2‐macroglobulin enhances pro‐resolving responses and promotes survival in sepsis
Authors: Dalli Jesmond , Norling Lucy V , Montero‐Melendez Trinidad , Canova Donata Federici , Lashin Hazem , Pavlov Anton M , Sukhorukov Gleb B , Hinds Charles J , Perretti Mauro
Published: December 2013

Incorporation of locally produced signaling molecules into cell‐derived vesicles may serve as an endogenous mediator delivery system. We recently reported that levels alpha‐2‐macroglobulin (A2MG)‐containing microparticles are elevated in plasma from patients with sepsis. Herein, we investigated the immunomodulatory actions of A2MG containing microparticles during sepsis. Administration of A2MG‐enriched (A2MG‐E)‐microparticles to mice with microbial sepsis protected against hypothermia, reduced bacterial titers, elevated immunoresolvent lipid mediator levels in inflammatory exudates and reduced systemic inflammation. A2MG‐E microparticles also enhanced survival in murine sepsis, an action lost in mice transfected with siRNA for LRP1, a putative A2MG receptor. In vitro, A2MG was functionally transferred onto endothelial cell plasma membranes from microparticles, augmenting neutrophil–endothelial adhesion. A2MG also modulated human leukocyte responses: enhanced bacterial phagocytosis, reactive oxygen species production, cathelicidin release, prevented endotoxin induced CXCR2 downregulation and preserved neutrophil chemotaxis in the presence of LPS. A significant association was also found between elevated plasma levels of A2MG‐containing microparticles and survival in human sepsis patients. Taken together, these results identify A2MG enrichment in microparticles as an important host protective mechanism in sepsis.
Ultrathin Surface Modification by Atomic Layer Deposition on High Voltage Cathode LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 for Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Fang Xin , Ge Mingyuan , Rong Jiepeng , Che Yuchi , Aroonyadet Noppadol , Wang Xiaoli , Liu Yihang , Zhang Anyi , Zhou Chongwu
Published: December 2013

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) has been used to modify the surface of the high‐voltage cathode LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 by coating ultrathin Al2O3 layers on the electrodes. The ultrathin layer can suppress the undesirable reactions during cycling while retaining the electron and ion conductivity of the electrode. The Al2O3‐coated LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 showed remarkable improvement over bare LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4. After 200 cycles, the Al2O3‐coated cathode showed 91 % capacity retention whereas the bare LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 can only maintain 75 % under the same testing conditions. In addition, the Al2O3‐coated LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 retained 63 % of its capacity 900 cycles. At an elevated temperature of 55 °C, the Al2O3‐coated LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 still delivered 116 mAh g−1 at the 100th cycle; in comparison, the capacity for bare LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 decreased to 98 mAh g−1. According to the results from charge/discharge and AC impedance experiments, the improvement is ascribed to the reduced overpotential and Li ion surface diffusion impedance. The promising results demonstrate the potential of developing high‐energy lithium ion batteries with a long cycle life by using a highly scalable preparation method for LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 and the broadly applicable ALD process.
Choline Inadequacy Impairs Trophoblast Function and Vascularization in Cultured Human Placental Trophoblasts
Authors: Jiang Xinyin , Jones Sara , Andrew Benjamin Y. , Ganti Anita , Malysheva Olga V. , Giallourou Natasa , Brannon Patsy M. , Roberson Mark S. , Caudill Marie A.
Published: December 2013

Maternal choline intake during gestation may influence placental function and fetal health outcomes. Specifically, we previously showed that supplemental choline reduced placental and maternal circulating concentrations of the anti‐angiogenic factor, fms‐like tyrosine kinase‐1 (sFLT1), in pregnant women as well as sFLT1 production in cultured human trophoblasts. The current study aimed to quantify the effect of choline on a wider array of biomarkers related to trophoblast function and to elucidate possible mechanisms. Immortalized HTR‐8/SVneo trophoblasts were cultured in different choline concentrations (8, 13, and 28 µM [control]) for 96‐h and markers of angiogenesis, inflammation, apoptosis, and blood vessel formation were examined. Choline insufficiency altered the angiogenic profile, impaired in vitro angiogenesis, increased inflammation, induced apoptosis, increased oxidative stress, and yielded greater levels of protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms δ and ϵ possibly through increases in the PKC activators 1‐stearoyl‐2‐arachidonoyl‐sn‐glycerol and 1‐stearoyl‐2‐docosahexaenoyl‐sn‐glycerol. Notably, the addition of a PKC inhibitor normalized angiogenesis and apoptosis, and partially rescued the aberrant gene expression profile. Together these results suggest that choline inadequacy may contribute to placental dysfunction and the development of disorders related to placental insufficiency by activating PKC. J. Cell. Physiol. 229: 1016–1027, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
TrematodeHimasthla elongata marinerelement (Hemar): Structure and applications
Authors: Galaktionov Nick K. , Solovyeva Anna I. , Fedorov Anton V. , Podgornaya Olga I.
Published: December 2013

We cloned and analyzedHemar1—the full‐lengthmarinerofHimasthla elongata.Hemar1amount and distribution in the genome is typical for the transposable elements.Hemar1closest relatives found in databases are the mariner‐like element (MLE) ofGirardia tigrinawith 88% similarity in the most conserved transposase domain andCemar1ofCaenorhabditis eleganswith the most similar inverted terminal repeats.Hydra's (Cnidaria) MLE are the next in similarity to Hemar1. We checked whether sequences similar toHemar1exist in intermediate and definitive hosts of the parasitic trematode and did not find obvious similarity. This fact, together with the data ofHemar1evolutionary position, argues against recent MLE‐mediated horizontal transfer in this parasite–host model. Our results demonstrate thatH. elongatagenerates genomic variability in asexual parthenogenetic generations within the snail. Transposon insertional display based on full‐length sequence showed thatHemar1could be located in the regions involved in generating clonal diversity in rediae and cercariae, that is, trematode parthenitae.J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 322B: 142–155, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Studies of New Bis[4,5‐dihydro‐1‐phenyl‐5‐thienyl‐3‐(phenyl‐4‐alkoxy)‐1H‐pyrazole] Derivatives
Authors: Yusuf Mohamad , Jain Payal
Published: December 2013

Syntheses and antimicrobial behavior of the alkyl linked new bispyrazolines 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g have been investigated. These compounds exhibited better antimicrobial activities as compared with their corresponding bischalcones. The structures of the prepared compounds (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f, 3g and 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g) were determined from the rigorous analysis of their IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and mass spectral parameters.