bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gene Structure: Evolution
Authors: Ohta Tomoko
Published: April 2013

Two classes of genes are protein‐coding genes and
ribonucleic acid (RNA)
specifying genes. Their expression is controlled by regulatory elements: promoters and enhancers. Two fundamental processes in the evolution of gene structure in populations are the production of variations by mutations and the natural selection that filters these variations. Mutations occur randomly in genomes of germ cell lineages and are rejected or selected for, so that genes perform needed functions. Protein functions and genetic regulatory systems have been attained during the long course of evolution, and many mutations are deleterious. However, genetic systems are robust and many mutations have minute effects. As a result of minute effects of many mutations, both genetic drift and natural selection influence their fate in a population.

Key Concepts:

New genes may be acquired through genome or segmental duplication, unequal crossing‐over, gene conversion and duplicative transposition.

Because proteins, RNAs and genetic regulatory systems perform necessary functions for the organisms, most new mutations are deleterious.

Selective constraint is defined by the fraction of mutations that are removed by natural selection.

Genetic systems are robust and effects of mutations are often very small.

For mutations with very small effects, the interplay of drift and selection becomes important, that is, the near‐neutrality concept is applicable.

Under the nearly neutral process, modification and shifting of various interacting systems may occur, accompanying changes in gene structure.
Fugu: A Compact Model Vertebrate Genome
Authors: Ravi V , Venkatesh B
Published: April 2013

The genome of the Japanese pufferfish,

Takifugu rubripes

(fugu), which is among the smallest vertebrate genomes, is an attractive model vertebrate genome and was the first vertebrate genome to be sequenced after the human genome. It has proved to be valuable for discovering novel genes and evolutionarily conserved regulatory elements in the human genome. Generation of a comprehensive genetic map of fugu and its integration with the genome assembly has increased the utility of fugu in genetic and evolutionary studies. The fugu genome resources should help to unravel the genetic basis of speciation in the
Takifugu
lineage, which has experienced an explosive speciation in the marine environment within a relatively short period. Given the plans to sequence genomes of up to 10 000 vertebrates in order to understand their evolutionary origin and diversity, fugu will continue to serve as a valuable ‘reference’ vertebrate genome.

Key Concepts:

Fugu, a marine pufferfish, was proposed as a model genome to understand better the human genome, mainly because of its compact genome size (1/8th the size of human genome).

Comparison of fugu and human genomes enabled the identification of many new human genes and a few thousand gene regulatory elements in the human genome.

The availability of a high‐resolution genetic map and its integration with the genome assembly has made fugu a more attractive genome model to study the evolution of vertebrates.

A combination of two alleles of the
Amhr2
gene determines sex in fugu.

Because of its phylogenetic position and compact genome size, fugu will continue to serve as a useful ‘reference’ vertebrate genome.
Abscission
Authors: Roberts Jeremy A , González‐Carranza Zinnia H
Published: April 2013

The abscission of organs takes place at discrete sites and at specific times during the life cycle of a plant. These observations suggest that the abscission zone comprises a layer of positionally differentiated cells that undergo separation from their neighbours in response to precise developmental and environmental cues. By studying mutants of
Arabidopsis
that exhibit an attenuated capacity to shed their floral organs, it has been possible to identify a number of genes that may play a role in both the differentiation of abscission zone cells and the timing of organ shedding. Recent advances in transcript profiling have also helped us unravel the changes in gene expression that accompany cell separation and further proteomic and metabolomic advancements will add to this knowledge over the coming years. The possible applications of this knowledge to agricultural and horticultural species are discussed.

Key Concepts:

The manipulation of abscission has been crucial during the history of agriculture and a more detailed understanding of the process could contribute to increases in both the quantity and quality of crop yield.

Organ shedding takes place at discrete sites termed abscission zones that are differentiated early in development.

The timing of organ shedding is regulated by distal tissues such as the leaf, flower or fruit.

The study of mutants in
Arabidopsis
has played a key role in identifying the genes involved in abscission zone differentiation and development.

The plant hormones auxin and ethylene play an important role in regulating when abscission takes place.

Abscission involves cell wall dissolution and the molecular and biochemical events that regulate it may account for the remodelling that takes place at other sites during plant growth and development.
Environmental Enrichment Improves Novel Object Recognition and Enhances Agonistic Behavior in Male Mice
Authors: Mesa‐Gresa Patricia , Pérez‐Martinez Asunción , Redolat Rosa
Published: April 2013

Environmental enrichment (EE) is an experimental paradigm in which rodents are housed in complex environments containing objects that provide stimulation, the effects of which are expected to improve the welfare of these subjects. EE has been shown to considerably improve learning and memory in rodents. However, knowledge about the effects of EE on social interaction is generally limited and rather controversial. Thus, our aim was to evaluate both novel object recognition and agonistic behavior in NMRI mice receiving EE, hypothesizing enhanced cognition and slightly enhanced agonistic interaction upon EE rearing. During a 4‐week period half the mice (n = 16) were exposed to EE and the other half (n = 16) remained in a standard environment (SE). On PND 56–57, animals performed the object recognition test, in which recognition memory was measured using a discrimination index. The social interaction test consisted of an encounter between an experimental animal and a standard opponent. Results indicated that EE mice explored the new object for longer periods than SE animals (P < .05). During social encounters, EE mice devoted more time to sociability and agonistic behavior (P < .05) than their non‐EE counterparts. In conclusion, EE has been shown to improve object recognition and increase agonistic behavior in adolescent/early adulthood mice. In the future we intend to extend this study on a longitudinal basis in order to assess in more depth the effect of EE and the consistency of the above‐mentioned observations in NMRI mice. Aggr. Behav. 39:269–279, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Conduction Mechanisms and Structure–Property Relationships in High Energy Density Aromatic Polythiourea Dielectric Films
Authors: Burlingame Quinn , Wu Shan , Lin Minren , Zhang Q. M.
Published: April 2013

Aromatic polythiourea (ArPTU) is an amorphous, polar, glass‐phase dielectric polymer which features extremely high dielectric breakdown strength (>1.1 GV/m), low loss at high electric fields (10% at 1.1 GV/m), and a high maximum electrical energy density (>24 J/cm3). This work presents a study of the structure–property relationships and electrical conduction in ArPTU, and offers a phenomenological explanation for the experimentally observed high‐field loss characteristics which facilitate the excellent energy storage properties.
CLONING AND CHARACTERIZATION OF A MIDGUT‐SPECIFIC FATTY ACID BINDING PROTEIN IN Spodoptera litura
Authors: Huang Zhiqiang , Zhou Daohua , Gao Guiping , Zheng Sichun , Feng Qili , Liu Lin
Published: April 2013

A fatty acid binding protein (FABP) gene (Slfabp1) was cloned from the midgut of Spodoptera litura larvae. The gene consists of four exons and three introns and encodes a peptide of 134 amino acid residues with a predicted molecular mass of 14.7 kDa, which was confirmed by in vitro protein expression. Northern blot and Western blot analyses indicated that both of Slfabp1 mRNA and protein were highly and specifically expressed in the midgut during the fifth and sixth instar feeding larval stages. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry analyses confirmed the midgut‐specific localization of Slfabp1 mRNA and protein. The result of Western blot showed that expression of the protein was downregulated by starvation and upregulated by refeeding in sixth instar larvae. All of the results taken together suggest that the SlFABP1 plays important role(s) in FA uptake and transport in the midgut during the larval feeding stages of the insect.
TOXICITY OF ALLYL ESTERS IN INSECT CELL LINES AND IN SPODOPTERA LITTORALIS LARVAE
Authors: Giner Marta , Avilla Jesús , Balcells Mercè , Caccia Silvia , Smagghe Guy
Published: April 2013

We investigated the effects of five allyl esters, two aromatic (allyl cinnamate and allyl 2‐furoate) and three aliphatic (allyl hexanoate, allyl heptanoate, and allyl octanoate) in established insect cell lines derived from different species and tissues. We studied embryonic cells of the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster (S2) (Diptera) and the beet armyworm Spodoptera exigua (Se4) (Lepidoptera), fat body cells of the Colorado potato beetle Leptinotarsa decemlineata (CPB) (Coleoptera), ovarian cells of the silkmoth Bombyx mori (Bm5), and midgut cells of the spruce budworm Choristoneura fumiferana (CF203) (Lepidoptera). Cytotoxicity was determined with use of MTT [3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide] and trypan blue. In addition, we tested the entomotoxic action of allyl cinnamate against the cotton leafworm Spodoptera littoralis .The median (50%) cytotoxic concentrations (EC50s) of the five allyl esters in the MTT bioassays ranged between 0.25 and 27 mM with significant differences among allyl esters (P = 0.0012), cell lines (P < 0.0001), and the allyl ester–cell line interaction (P < 0.0001). Allyl cinnamate was the most active product, and CF203 the most sensitive cell line. In the trypan blue bioassays, cytotoxicity was produced rapidly and followed the same trend observed in the MTT bioassay. In first instars of S. littoralis, allyl cinnamate killed all larvae at 0.25% in the diet after 1 day, while this happened in third instars after 5 days. The LC50 in first instars was 0.08%. In addition, larval weight gain was reduced (P < 0.05) after 1 day of feeding on diet with 0.05%. In conclusion, the data provide evidence of the significant but differential cytotoxicity among allyl esters in insect cells of different species and tissues. Midgut cells show high sensitivity, indicating the insect midgut as a primary target tissue. Allyl cinnamate caused rapid toxic effects in S. littoralis larvae at low concentrations, suggesting further potential for use in pest control.
Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation of 3‐Aryl‐4‐pyrrolyl‐maleimides as Glycogen Synthase Kinase‐3β Inhibitors
Authors: Ye Qing , Li Meng , Zhou Yu‐Bo , Cao Jia‐Yu , Xu Lei , Li Yu‐Jin , Han Liang , Gao Jian‐Rong , Hu Yong‐Zhou , Li Jia
Published: April 2013

A series of 3‐aryl‐4‐pyrrolyl‐maleimides were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for their glycogen synthase kinase‐3β (GSK‐3β) inhibitory activity. Most compounds exhibited potent activity against GSK‐3β. Among them, compounds 11a, 11c, 11h, 11i, and 11j significantly reduced Aβ‐induced Tau hyperphosphorylation, showing the inhibition of GSK‐3β at the cellular level. Structure–activity relationships were discussed based on the experimental data obtained.
Exponential Stability and Asynchronous Stabilization of Switched Systems With Stable and Unstable Subsystems
Authors: Zhang Hongbin , Mao Yanbing , Gao Yansong
Published: April 2013

This paper deals with the exponential stability and asynchronous stabilization of continuous‐time switched systems. By delicately constructed piecewise Lyapunov‐like functions and the minimum dwell time switching method, exponential stability of the switched systems with stable or unstable subsystems is obtained. Based on the result of the stability, the problem of controller design of the switched systems under asynchronous switching is also solved, and the delay that causes asynchronous phenomena can be unbounded. The stability results and control laws of the switched systems are formulated in the form of linear matrix inequalities that are numerically feasible. Finally, two illustrative numerical examples are presented to show the effectiveness of the obtained theoretical results.
A Nonlinear Observer Based Analytical Redundancy for Predictive Fault Tolerant Control of a Steer‐by‐Wire System
Authors: Anwar Sohel , Niu Wei
Published: April 2013

In this paper, a nonlinear sliding mode observer, along with a long range linear predictor, is presented for fault tolerant control of a steer by wire system. The long‐range predictor is based on Diophantine identity aimed at improving the fault detection efficiency. The overall predictive fault tolerant control strategy was then implemented and validated on a steer by a wire hardware in loop bench. The experimental results show that the overall robustness of the steer by wire system was not sacrificed through the usage of analytical redundancy for sensors along with the designed fault detection, isolation, and identification algorithm. Moreover, the experimental results indicated that the fault detection speed is improved using the proposed analytical redundancy‐based algorithms for both attenuating and amplifying type faults. The proposed fault detection algorithm was also found to be robust against a wide range of fault types.
Effect of 1 mT sinusoidal electromagnetic fields on proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of rat bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells
Authors: Liu Chaoxu , Yu Jizhe , Yang Yong , Tang Xiangyu , Zhao Dongming , Zhao Wenchun , Wu Hua
Published: April 2013

Electromagnetic field (EMF) stimulation is clinically beneficial for fracture nonunion and a wide range of bone disorders. However, no consensus has been reached on the optimal parameters of the EMF. The exact mechanism by which EMFs enhance osteogenesis has also not been defined. In the present study, a sinusoidal 1 mT EMF at frequencies of 10, 30, 50, and 70 Hz were administered to rat bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (rBMSCs) in the cyclic mode of 2 h exposures followed by 4 h of culture without exposure. The cell viability, proliferation, expression of some osteogenic genes, and mineralization of the extracellular matrix were investigated. It was found that the cell viability was decreased by EMF exposures of 50 and 70 Hz. The proliferation of rBMSCs was elevated significantly in the 10 Hz EMF‐treated group during the culture periods. The expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and osteocalcin (OC), two early‐phase osteogenic differentiation markers, was up‐regulated by the 1 mT, 10 Hz EMF after 1 week. However, the expression of genes that marked the later‐phase osteogenic differentiation and maturation of osteoblasts was elevated by the stimulation of 50 Hz EMFs after 2 weeks. In addition, it was observed that the mineralization of the extracellular matrix was enhanced by 50 Hz EMF exposure. These results indicated that the 1 mT EMF at different frequencies had disparate effects on the viability, proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of rBMSCs, and may be beneficial for developing novel therapeutic approaches in bone regenerative medicine. Bioelectromagnetics. 34:453–464. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multiplicity considerations for subgroup analysis subject to consistency constraint
Authors: Alosh Mohamed , Huque Mohammad F.
Published: April 2013

A significant heterogeneity in response across subgroups of a clinical trial implies that the average response from the overall population might not characterize the treatment effect; and as noted by different regulatory guidances, can cause concerns in interpreting study findings and might lead to restricting treatment labeling. However, along with the challenges raised by the heterogeneity, recently there has been growing interest in taking advantage of the expected variability in response across subgroups to increase the chance of success of a trial by designing the trial with objectives of establishing efficacy claims for the total population and a targeted subgroup. For such trials, there have been several approaches to address the multiplicity issue with the two paths of success. This manuscript advocates the utility of setting a threshold on the treatment effect for the subgroups at the design stage to guide determination of the population labeling when significant findings for the total population have been established. Specifically, it proposes that licensing treatment for the total population requires, in addition to significant findings for this population, that the treatment effect in the least benefited (complementary) subgroup meets the treatment effect threshold at a minimum; otherwise, the treatment would be restricted to the targeted subgroup only. Setting such a threshold can be based on clinical considerations, including toxicity and adverse events, in addition to treatment effect in the subgroup. This manuscript expands some of the multiplicity approaches to account for the threshold requirement and investigates the impact of the threshold requirement on study power.
Introduction altmetrics: What, why and where?
Authors: Piwowar Heather
Published: April 2013

Editor's Summary

The ASIS&T Bulletin special section on altmetrics presents alternative metrics as a new and critically needed approach to measuring the impact of scholarly research. With long‐established citation‐based metrics unable to capture the increasing variety of online references to a scholar's work, alternative indicators offer a different view of the influence of that work. Contributed papers demonstrate how altmetrics can work on a personal level to enhance a scholar's CV and on a broad, even global level, to transform scholarly communication through its interaction with open access, digital repositories and research in emerging countries. One article suggests altmetrics should soon be included among mainstream metrics, and other contributions describe specific indicators and altmetric software considerations. The need for innovative measurement and the advantages of altmetrics in particular bode well for their wide acceptance and continuing development.
Distinctive roles of receptor‐interacting protein kinases 1 and 3 in caspase‐independent cell death of L929
Authors: Park Seung Yeon , Shim Jung Hyun , Cho Young Sik
Published: April 2013

Upon tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) stimulation, cells respond actively by way of cell survival, apoptosis or programmed necrosis. The receptor‐interacting proteins 1 (RIP1) and 3 (RIP3) are responsible for TNFα‐mediated programmed necrosis. To delineate the differential contributions of RIP3 and RIP1 to programmed necrosis, L929 cells were stimulated with TNFα, carbobenzoxy‐valyl‐alanyl‐aspartyl‐[O‐methyl]‐fluoromethylketone (zVAD) or zVAD along with TNFα following RNA interference against RIP1 and RIP3, respectively. RIP1 silencing did not protect cells from TNFα‐mediated cell death, while RIP3 down‐regulation made them refractory to TNFα. The heat shock protein 90 inhibitor geldanamycin (GA) down‐regulated both RIP1 and RIP3 expression, which rendered cells resistant to zVAD/TNFα‐mediated cell death but not to TNFα‐mediated cell death alone. Therefore, the protective effect of GA on zVAD/TNFα‐stimulated necrosis might be attributed to RIP3, not RIP1, down‐regulation. Pretreatment of L929 cells with rapamycin mitigated zVAD‐mediated cell death, while the autophagy inhibitor chloroquine did not affect necrotic cell death. Meanwhile, necrotic cell death by zVAD and TNFα was caused by reactive oxygen species generation and effectively diminished by lipid‐soluble butylated hydroxyanisole. Taken together, the results indicate that RIP1 and RIP3 can independently mediate death signals being transduced by two different death stimuli, zVAD and TNFα. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Terpene‐Derived Bifunctional Thioureas in Asymmetric Organocatalysis
Authors: Narayanaperumal Senthil , Rivera Daniel G. , Silva Rodrigo C. , Paixão Márcio W.
Published: April 2013

Chiral hydrogen‐bond donors have played a crucial role in the progress of asymmetric catalysis as an essential tool in modern organic synthesis. Among these donors, thioureas have been found to be one of the most powerful systems in organocatalytic approaches. Within the last three years, a new generation of bifunctional thiourea catalysts has emerged as an effective way to promote highly demanding chemical transformations, frequently with success rates that are intriguingly higher than with other traditional thioureas. This new class of organocatalysts incorporates a bulky, rigid, and chiral terpene skeleton as one of the thiourea substituents, thus providing an additional and effective rigidifying (entropic) effect on the electrophile activation profile of thioureas. Structural integrations, either with additional Lewis basic nucleophile‐activating motifs or with amino groups for enamine catalysis, have enabled their implementation in a wide repertoire of stereocontrolled catalytic processes. This Review charts the development of these new catalysts, as well as their applications in a wide variety of reactions and reaction sequences, with the hope of encouraging further progress in the field of thiourea‐catalyst discovery and of bringing attention to the countless possibilities that are opened up by the tremendous success of terpene‐derived thiourea catalysts.
The Molecular Pathway to ZIF‐7 Microrods Revealed by In Situ Time‐Resolved Small‐ and Wide‐Angle X‐Ray Scattering, Quick‐Scanning Extended X‐Ray Absorption Spectroscopy, and DFT Calculations
Authors: Goesten Maarten , Stavitski Eli , Pidko Evgeny A. , Gücüyener Canan , Boshuizen Bart , Ehrlich Steven N. , Hensen Emiel J. M. , Kapteijn Freek , Gascon Jorge
Published: April 2013

We present an in situ small‐ and wide‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS/WAXS) and quick‐scanning extended X‐ray absorption fine‐structure (QEXAFS) spectroscopy study on the crystallization of the metal–organic framework ZIF‐7. In combination with DFT calculations, the self‐assembly and growth of ZIF‐7 microrods together with the chemical function of the crystal growth modulator (diethylamine) are revealed at all relevant length scales, from the atomic to the full crystal size.
Interaction Modes and Absolute Affinities of α‐Amino Acids for Mn2+: A Comprehensive Picture
Authors: Khodabandeh M. Hassan , Reisi Hamid , Davari Mehdi D. , Zare Karim , Zahedi Mansour , Ohanessian Gilles
Published: April 2013

Manganese is involved as a cofactor in the activation of numerous enzymes as well as the oxygen‐evolving complex of photosystem II. Full understanding of the role played by the Mn2+ ion requires detailed knowledge of the interaction modes and energies of manganese with its various environments, a knowledge that is far from complete. To bring detailed insight into the local interactions of Mn in metallopeptides and proteins, theoretical studies employing first‐principles quantum mechanical calculations are carried out on [Mn‐amino acid]2+ complexes involving all 20 natural α‐amino acids (AAs). Detailed investigation of [Mn‐serine]2+, [Mn‐cysteine]2+, [Mn‐phenylalanine]2+, [Mn‐tyrosine]2+, and [Mn‐tryptophan]2+ indicates that with an electron‐rich side chain, the most stable species involves interaction of Mn2+ with carbonyl oxygen, amino nitrogen, and an electron‐rich section of the side chain of the AA in its canonical form. This is in sharp contrast with aliphatic side chains for which a salt bridge is formed. For aromatic AAs, complexation to manganese leads to partial oxidation as well as aromaticity reduction. Despite multisite binding, AAs do not generate strong enough ligand fields to switch the metal to a low‐ or even intermediate‐spin ground state. The affinities of Mn2+ for all AAs are reported at the B3LYP and CCSD(T) levels of theory, thereby providing the first complete series of affinities for a divalent metal ion. The trends are compared with those of other cations for which affinities of all AAs have been previously obtained.
Nonlinear Absorption Dynamics Using Field‐Induced Surface Hopping: Zinc Porphyrin in Water
Authors: Röhr Merle I. S. , Petersen Jens , Wohlgemuth Matthias , Bonačić‐Koutecký Vlasta , Mitrić Roland
Published: April 2013

We wish to present the application of our field‐induced surface‐hopping (FISH) method to simulate nonlinear absorption dynamics induced by strong nonresonant laser fields. We provide a systematic comparison of the FISH approach with exact quantum dynamics simulations on a multistate model system and demonstrate that FISH allows for accurate simulations of nonlinear excitation processes including multiphoton electronic transitions. In particular, two different approaches for simulating two‐photon transitions are compared. The first approach is essentially exact and involves the solution of the time‐dependent Schrödinger equation in an extended manifold of excited states, while in the second one only transiently populated nonessential states are replaced by an effective quadratic coupling term, and dynamics is performed in a considerably smaller manifold of states. We illustrate the applicability of our method to complex molecular systems by simulating the linear and nonlinear laser‐driven dynamics in zinc (Zn) porphyrin in the gas phase and in water. For this purpose, the FISH approach is connected with the quantum mechanical‐molecular mechanical approach (QM/MM) which is generally applicable to large classes of complex systems. Our findings that multiphoton absorption and dynamics increase the population of higher excited states of Zn porphyrin in the nonlinear regime, in particular in solution, provides a means for manipulating excited‐state properties, such as transient absorption dynamics and electronic relaxation.
Platinum‐ and Membrane‐Free Swiss‐Roll Mixed‐Reactant Alkaline Fuel Cell
Authors: Aziznia Amin , Oloman Colin W. , Gyenge Előd L.
Published: April 2013

Eliminating the expensive and failure‐prone proton exchange membrane (PEM) together with the platinum‐based anode and cathode catalysts would significantly reduce the high capital and operating costs of low‐temperature (<373 K) fuel cells. We recently introduced the Swiss‐roll mixed‐reactant fuel cell (SR‐MRFC) concept for borohydride–oxygen alkaline fuel cells. We now present advances in anode electrocatalysis for borohydride electrooxidation through the development of osmium nanoparticulate catalysts supported on porous monolithic carbon fiber materials (referred to as an osmium 3D anode). The borohydride–oxygen SR‐MRFC operates at 323 K and near atmospheric pressure, generating a peak power density of 1880 W m−2 in a single‐cell configuration by using an osmium‐based anode (with an osmium loading of 0.32 mg cm−2) and a manganese dioxide gas‐diffusion cathode. To the best of our knowledge, 1880 W m−2 is the highest power density ever reported for a mixed‐reactant fuel cell operating under similar conditions. Furthermore, the performance matches the highest reported power densities for conventional dual chamber PEM direct borohydride fuel cells.
Multi‐factor climate change effects on insect herbivore performance
Authors: Scherber Christoph , Gladbach David J. , Stevnbak Karen , Karsten Rune Juelsborg , Schmidt Inger Kappel , Michelsen Anders , Albert Kristian Rost , Larsen Klaus Steenberg , Mikkelsen Teis Nørgaard , Beier Claus , Christensen Søren
Published: April 2013

The impact of climate change on herbivorous insects can have far‐reaching consequences for ecosystem processes. However, experiments investigating the combined effects of multiple climate change drivers on herbivorous insects are scarce. We independently manipulated three climate change drivers (CO2, warming, drought) in a Danish heathland ecosystem. The experiment was established in 2005 as a full factorial split‐plot with 6 blocks × 2 levels of CO2 × 2 levels of warming × 2 levels of drought = 48 plots. In 2008, we exposed 432 larvae (n = 9 per plot) of the heather beetle (Lochmaea suturalis Thomson), an important herbivore on heather, to ambient versus elevated drought, temperature, and CO2 (plus all combinations) for 5 weeks. Larval weight and survival were highest under ambient conditions and decreased significantly with the number of climate change drivers. Weight was lowest under the drought treatment, and there was a three‐way interaction between time, CO2, and drought. Survival was lowest when drought, warming, and elevated CO2 were combined. Effects of climate change drivers depended on other co‐acting factors and were mediated by changes in plant secondary compounds, nitrogen, and water content. Overall, drought was the most important factor for this insect herbivore. Our study shows that weight and survival of insect herbivores may decline under future climate. The complexity of insect herbivore responses increases with the number of combined climate change drivers.
Dinuclear Monomeric and Macrocyclic Organotin Dithiocarbamates Derived from 1,10‐Diaza‐18‐crown‐6 and 4,4′‐Trimethylenedipiperidine
Authors: Celis Norma A. , Villamil‐Ramos Raul , Höpfl Herbert , Hernández‐Ahuactzi Irán F. , Sánchez Mario , Zamudio‐Rivera Luis S. , Barba Victor
Published: April 2013

1,10‐Diaza‐18‐crown‐6 and 4,4′‐trimethylenedipiperidine were transformed into bis‐dithiocarbamate ligands, which were then reacted in situ with different di‐ and triorganotin(IV) chlorides to generate dinuclear monomeric or macrocyclic products. The identity of the compounds was established by elemental analysis, multinuclear NMR spectroscopy (1H, 13C, and 119Sn), IR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and for representative examples additionally by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. In combination with DFT calculations, the structural characterization showed that diaryltin and dialkyltin fragments give macrocycles of different conformation owing to changes in the coordination stereochemistry (cis vs. trans isomers). The macrocycle cavities are suitable for the inclusion of guest molecules. At the supramolecular level, the Sn complex molecules are linked through intermolecular C–H···S and C–H···Cl interactions in the solid state.
Application of the Wharton Rearrangement for the de novo Synthesis of Pyranosides with ido, manno, and colito Stereochemistry
Authors: Cuccarese Michael F. , Wang Hua‐Yu Leo , O'Doherty George A.
Published: April 2013

A de novo asymmetric synthesis of α‐ido‐pyranosides, as well as several deoxy and amino variants, has been achieved. The procedure involves a palladium(0)‐catalyzed glycosylation in combination with a Wharton rearrangement/epoxide‐opening reaction sequence to access sugars with ido, manno, and colito stereochemistry as well as several azido analogues.
Extending the Scope of the Aza‐Fischer Synthesis of 4‐ and 6‐Azaindoles
Authors: Thomae David , Jeanty Matthieu , Coste Jérome , Guillaumet Gérald , Suzenet Franck
Published: April 2013

Fischer indole cyclization has recently been described as an efficient approach to the synthesis of azaindoles bearing electron‐donating groups. We now show that this cascade reaction can be very efficient for the formation of a wider range of 4‐ and 6‐azaindoles by using microwave irradiation.
Generation of Trityl Radicals by Nucleophilic Quenching of Tris(2,3,5,6‐tetrathiaaryl)methyl Cations and Practical and Convenient Large‐Scale Synthesis of Persistent Tris(4‐carboxy‐2,3,5,6‐tetrathiaaryl)methyl Radical
Authors: Rogozhnikova Olga Yu. , Vasiliev Vladimir G. , Troitskaya Tatiana I. , Trukhin Dmitry V. , Mikhalina Tatiana V. , Halpern Howard J. , Tormyshev Victor M.
Published: April 2013

Tris(2,3,5,6‐tetrathiaaryl)methyl cations, which were generated from the corresponding triarylmethanols in the presence of strong acids, underwent reaction with nucleophiles to give trityl radicals, as the product of a one‐electron reduction of the carbocation. Depending on the nature of the nucleophile, the only byproducts were either diamagnetic quinone methides or asymmetrical monosubstituted trityl radicals. Herein, we report a protocol for the large‐scale synthesis of the Finland trityl, which has the advantage of high overall yield and reproducibility.
The First ZnII‐Catalyzed Oxidative Amidation of Benzyl Alcohols with Amines under Solvent‐Free Conditions
Authors: Wu Xiao‐Feng , Sharif Muhammad , Pews‐Davtyan Anahit , Langer Peter , Ayub Khurshid , Beller Matthias
Published: April 2013

The first zinc‐catalyzed oxidative amidation of benzyl alcohols has been developed. Both aliphatic and aromatic amines can be tolerated and applied in this reaction. Various amides were prepared in good yields under solvent‐free and mild conditions.
Direct Electrochemistry of Cytochrome c Based on Poly(diallyldimethylammonium Chloride)‐ Graphene Nanosheets/Gold Nanoparticles Hybrid Nanocomposites and Its Biosensing
Authors: Song Yonghai , Liu Hongyu , Wan Lingli , Wang Yu , Hou Haoqing , Wang Li
Published: April 2013

A novel biosensor was developed by entrapping cytochrome c (Cyt c) in thin films of the room temperature ionic liquid (RTIL) containing nanocomposites of poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride)‐graphene nanosheets‐gold nanoparticles (PDDA‐Gp‐AuNPs) at a 11‐mercaptoundecanoic acid‐6‐mercapto‐1‐hexanol modified gold electrode. The synthesized PDDA‐Gp‐AuNPs hybrid nanocomposites were characterized by UV‐vis spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. The PDDA‐Gp‐AuNPs nanocomposites could increase the effective surface of the electrode, enhance the fixed amount of Cyt c on the electrode surface, promote the electron transfer and facilitate the catalytic activity of Cyt c. The RTIL could provide a biocompatible microenvironment to keep Cyt c biological activities, act as an effective mediator to immobilize a large number of Cyt c on the electrode and have good conductivity to improve electron transfer. Therefore, the resultant electrode exhibited good electrochemical performance and electrocatalytic activity. It could be used for electrochemical detection of H2O2 with rapid response, high sensitivity, wide linear range and low detection limit, as well as good stability, repeatability and selectivity. The sensor might be promising for practical application.
Graphene Decorated with Nickel Nanoparticles as a Sensitive Substrate for Simultaneous Determination of Sunset Yellow and Tartrazine in Food Samples
Authors: Gan Tian , Sun Junyong , Wu Qiong , Jing Qiangshan , Yu Sheng
Published: April 2013

In this paper, ultrathin graphene (GN) nanosheets were uniformly decorated with nickel (Ni) nanoparticles, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. This GNNi hybrid exhibited excellent accumulation and catalytic capacity for the simultaneous detection of sunset yellow and tartrazine, two colorants commonly found mixed in foodstuffs. The electrochemical reaction mechanism of sunset yellow and tartrazine were studied in detail on the GNNi nanocomposite modified glassy carbon electrode. In square wave voltammetry measurements, the oxidation peak potentials of sunset yellow and tartrazine were separated by about 250 mV. This novel proposed voltammetric method has good selectivity which was successfully applied for the simultaneous determination of sunset yellow and tartrazine in some food sample extracts.
ECOSYSTEM SERVICES AND THE PROTECTION, RESTORATION, AND MANAGEMENT OF ECOSYSTEMS EXPOSED TO CHEMICAL STRESSORS
Authors: Maltby Lorraine
Published: April 2013

Ecosystem services—the benefits people obtain from ecosystem structures and processes—are essential for human survival and well-being. Chemicals are also an essential component of modern life; however, they may cause adverse ecological effects and reduce ecosystem service provision. Environmental policy makers are increasingly adopting the ecosystem services concept, but applying this approach to the protection, restoration, and management of ecosystems requires the development of new understanding, tools, and frameworks. There is an urgent need to understand and predict the effect of single and multiple stressors on ecosystem service delivery across different spatial scales (local to global), to develop indicators that can be used to quantify and map services and identify synergies and trade-offs between them, to establish protection goals and restoration targets defined in terms of the types and levels of service delivery required, and to develop approaches for the assessment and management of chemical risk to ecosystem services that consider the whole life cycle of products and processes. These are major research challenges for the environmental science community in general and for ecotoxicologists and risk assessors in particular. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2013;32:974–983. © 2013 SETAC
Complex adult laryngotracheal reconstruction with a prefabricated flap: A case series
Authors: Detwiller Kara Y. , Schindler Joshua S. , Schneider Daniel S. , Lindau Robert , Wax Mark K.
Published: April 2013

Background

Laryngotracheal stenosis (LTS) can cause persistent or recurrent airway obstruction. Although there is extensive literature on surgical techniques to treat LTS at onset, there are few techniques described for complex adult LTS after failed prior airway surgery. We describe a procedure used successfully in 3 patients who required structural augmentation for complex LTS.

Methods

Patients were treated with staged reconstruction using a prefabricated composite graft consisting of auricular cartilage and a radial forearm free flap.

Results

All patients underwent successful reconstruction with good wound healing and are tolerating oral diets. Two patients have been successfully decannulated.

Conclusion

A delayed prefabricated graft using auricular cartilage in a radial forearm free flap is a viable surgical intervention in patients with complex adult LTS who are not candidates for conventional approaches. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 35: E376–E380, 2013
Sedimentation in the floodplains of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Part I: suspended sediment dynamics
Authors: Hung Nguyen Nghia , Delgado José Miguel , Güntner Andreas , Merz Bruno , Bárdossy András , Apel Heiko
Published: April 2013

Suspended sediment is the primary source for a sustainable agro‐ecosystem in the Mekong Delta by providing nutrient input for the subsequent cropping season. In addition, the suspended sediment concentration (SSC) plays an important role in the erosion and deposition processes in the Delta; that is, it influences the morphologic development and may counteract the deltaic subsidence and sea level rise. Despite this importance, little is known about the dynamics of suspended sediment in the floodplains of the Mekong Delta. In particular, quantitative analyses are lacking mainly because of data scarcity with respect to the inundation processes in the floodplains. In 2008, therefore, a comprehensive in situ system to monitor the dynamics of suspended sediment in a study area located in the Plain of Reeds was established, aiming at the characterization and quantification of suspended sediment dynamics in the deeply inundated parts of the Vietnamese part of the Mekong Delta. The monitoring system was equipped with seven water quality–monitoring stations. They have a robust design and autonomous power supply suitable for operation on inundated floodplains, enabling the collection of reliable data over a long period of time with a high temporal resolution. The data analysis shows that the general seasonal dynamics of suspended sediment transport in the Delta is controlled by two main mechanisms: the flood wave of the Mekong River and the tidal backwater influences from the coast. In the channel network, SSC decreases exponentially with distance from the Mekong River. The anthropogenic influence on SSC could also be identified for two periods: at the start of the floodplain inundation and at the end of the flood period, when subsequent paddy rice crops are prepared. Based on the results, we recommend an operation scheme for the sluice gates, which intends to distribute the sediment and thus the nutrients equally over the floodplain. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An Overview of Synergistic Data Tools for Biological Scrutiny
Authors: Olender Tsviya , Safran Marilyn , Edgar Ron , Stelzer Gil , Nativ Noam , Rosen Naomi , Shtrichman Ronit , Mazor Yaron , West Michael D. , Keydar Ifat , Rappaport Noa , Belinky Frida , Warshawsky David , Lancet Doron
Published: April 2013

A network of biological databases is reviewed, supplying a framework for studies of human genes and the association of their genomic variations with human phenotypes. The network is composed of GeneCards, the human gene compendium, which provides comprehensive information on all known and predicted human genes, along with its suite members GeneDecks and GeneLoc. Two databases are shown that address genes and variations focusing on olfactory reception (HORDE) and transduction (GOSdb). In the realm of disease scrutiny, we portray MalaCards, a novel comprehensive database of human diseases and their annotations. Also shown is GeneKid, a tool aimed at generating novel kidney disease biomarkers using systems biology, as well as Xome, a database for whole‐exome next‐generation DNA sequences for human diseases in the Israeli population. Finally, we show LifeMap Discovery, a database of embryonic development, stem cell research and regenerative medicine, which links to both GeneCards and MalaCards.
Novel Multinuclear Cyclic and V‐shaped Cuprous Clusters with Short and Unsupported Cu(I)‐Cu(I) Separations
Authors: Ho Po‐Hsien , Tsai Ming‐Shih , Lee Gene‐Hsiang , Che Chi‐Ming , Peng Shie‐Ming
Published: April 2013

A series of novel cyclic and V‐shaped cuprous clusters, (HNEt3)2 [Cu6(bmsapy)4] (1), [Cu8(banlny)4] (2) and [Cu6(ansny)4Cl] (CF3SO3) (3), were synthesized. Compounds (1) and (2) possess a similar cyclic metal structural arrangement, and the metallic arrangement of compound (2) is as in (1) with an insertion of a pair of ligand‐unbridged Cu(I) atoms. Compounds (1) and (2) both have unusual ligand‐unbridged Cu(I)‐Cu(I) separations, but compound (3) does not. The ligand‐unbridged Cu(I)‐Cu(I) distances in (2) are shorter than those in (1). In absorption spectra, compound (2) displayed red shifts from (1) due to the increase in nuclearity and the number of the aromatic rings in ligands. TDDFT calculations suggest that in HOMOs, the major molecular orbital contribution is from the six Cu(I) atoms implying that the photoluminescent property of (1) is dependent on the cyclic hexacopper arrangement rather than that of (HNEt3) [Cu3(btsapy)2] (4).
Differentiation of human adipose stem cells into neural phenotype by neuroblastoma‐ or olfactory ensheathing cells‐conditioned medium
Authors: Lo Furno Debora , Pellitteri Rosalia , Graziano Adriana C.E. , Giuffrida Rosario , Vancheri Carlo , Gili Elisa , Cardile Venera
Published: April 2013

Olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) are known to be capable of continuous neurogenesis throughout lifetime and are a source of multiple trophic factors important in central nervous system regeneration. B104 neuroblastoma cells are recognized to induce differentiation of neural stem cells into oligodendrocyte precursor cells. Therefore, the aim of this study was to verify if conditioned medium (CM) obtained from OECs or B104 cells was capable of inducing differentiation of adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (AT‐MSCs) to a neuronal phenotype. In order to this goal, immunocytochemical procedures and flow cytometry analysis were used and some neural markers, as nestin, protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.5), microtubule‐associated protein 2 (MAP2), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and neuron cell surface antigen (A2B5) were examined 24 h and 7 days after the treatment. The results showed that both OECs‐ or B104‐CM treated AT‐MSCs express markers of progenitor and mature neurons (nestin, PGP 9.5 and MAP2) in time‐dependent manner, display morphological features resembling neuronal cells, and result negative for GFAP and A2B5, astrocyte and oligodendrocyte markers, respectively. This study demonstrated that AT‐MSCs can be influenced by the environment, indicating that these cells can respond to environmental cues also versus a neuronal phenotype. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 2109–2118, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
1α,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 stimulates activin A production to fine‐tune osteoblast‐induced mineralization
Authors: Woeckel V.J. , van der Eerden B.C.J. , Schreuders‐Koedam M. , Eijken M. , Van Leeuwen J.P.T.M.
Published: April 2013

In healthy bones, mineralization has to be tightly controlled to avoid pathological phenotypes. In this study, we investigated interactions between 1α,25(OH)2D3 (1,25D3) and activin A in the regulation of osteoblast induced mineralization. In human osteoblast cultures, we demonstrated that besides stimulation of mineralization, 1,25D3 also induced activin A, a strong inhibitor of mineralization. Simultaneously, follistatin (FST), the natural antagonist of activin A, was down‐regulated by1,25D3. This resulted in an increase in activin A activity during 1,25D3 treatment. We also showed that in 1,25D3‐treated osteoblasts, mineralization can be further increased when activin A activity was abrogated by adding exogenous FST. This observation implies that, besides stimulation of mineralization, 1,25D3 also controls activin A‐mediated inhibition of mineralization. Besides activin A, 1,25D3 also induces osteocalcin (BGLAP), another inhibitor of mineralization. Warfarin, which has been shown to inactivate osteocalcin, increased 1,25D3‐induced mineralization. Interaction between these two systems became evident from the synergistic increase in BGLAP expression upon blocking activin activity in 1,25D3‐treated cultures. In conclusion, we demonstrate that 1,25D3 stimulation of mineralization by human osteoblasts is suppressed by concomitant induction of inhibitors of mineralization. Mineralization induction by 1,25D3 may actually be controlled via interplay with activin A and osteocalcin. Finally, this complex regulation of mineralization substantiates the significance of tight control of mineralization to prevent excessive mineralization and consequently reduction in bone quality and strength. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 2167–2174, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.