bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Group size, group status and trait valence as determinants of intergroup bias: Stereotyping in Finland and Sweden
Authors: Liebkind Karmela , Henning‐Lindblom Anna , Solheim Erling
Published: May 2008

The effects of group size, group status and trait valence (positive or negative stereotypes of in‐ and outgroup) on intergroup bias was studied in nation‐wide probability samples of majority and minority groups in Finland and Sweden, (N = 2479). Ethnolinguistic vitality was used as a proxy for status. It is argued that the specific history of real‐life intergroup relations has to be duly acknowledged when predicting main and interactive effects on intergroup bias in natural contexts. Supporting the predictions made, numerical group size showed a stable main effect; members of numerical minorities showed more bias than members of numerical majorities, regardless of trait valence. While status had no main effect, there was a significant interaction between status and size as well as between status and trait valence: intergroup bias was highest in the high status minority, and low status groups showed less bias than high status groups on negatively valenced traits. In fact, minority members showed the reverse of PNAE. In addition, majority members favoured the outgroup on negatively valenced traits, but favoured their ingroup on positively valenced traits. Different explanations for these results are discussed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Revision of Bomarea Mirbel subgenus BaccataHofreiter (Alstroemeriaceae)
Authors: Hofreiter A.
Published: May 2008

The subgenus Baccata of Bomarea (Alstroemeriaceae) recently contains seven validly published names. The number of species is reduced to five. A key to determine the species is given. The typical growth form and its variability, habitat preferences and distribution are discussed separately for each species. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Nitric oxide promotes caspase-independent hepatic stellate cell apoptosis through the generation of reactive oxygen species
Authors: Langer Daniel A. , Das Amitava , Semela David , Kang-Decker Ningling , Hendrickson Helen , Bronk Steven F. , Katusic Zvonimir S. , Gores Gregory J. , Shah Vijay H.
Published: May 2008

Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) contribute to portal hypertension through multiple mechanisms that include collagen deposition, vasoconstriction, and regulation of sinusoidal structure. Under normal physiologic conditions, endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase–derived NO exerts paracrine effects on HSCs; however, in cirrhosis, NO generation is impaired in association with concomitant HSC activation and changes in sinusoidal structure, events that contribute significantly to the development of portal hypertension. These concepts, in combination with recent evidence that induction of HSC-selective apoptosis may represent a useful target for treatment of chronic liver disease, led us to examine if NO may further limit HSC function through apoptosis. Indeed, both NO donors and endothelial NO synthase overexpression promoted HSC apoptotic pathways. HSC death conferred by NO occurred through mitochondrial membrane depolarization and through a caspase-independent pathway. Furthermore, NO-induced apoptosis of HSC did not occur through the canonical pathways of soluble guanylate cyclase or protein nitration, but rather through the generation of superoxide and hydroxyl radical intermediates. Lastly, HSC isolated from rats after bile duct ligation were more susceptible to NO-induced apoptosis. These data indicate that NO promotes HSC apoptosis through a signaling mechanism that involves mitochondria, is mediated by reactive oxygen species, and occurs independent of caspase activation.

Conclusion:

We postulate that NO-dependent apoptosis of HSCs may maintain sinusoidal homeostasis, and may represent an additional beneficial effect of NO donors for therapy of portal hypertension.
Insight toward epithelial Na+ channel mechanism revealed by the acid‐sensing ion channel 1 structure
Authors: Stockand James D. , Staruschenko Alexander , Pochynyuk Oleh , Booth Rachell E. , Silverthorn Dee U.
Published: May 2008

The epithelial Na+ channel/degenerin (ENaC/DEG) protein family includes a diverse group of ion channels, including nonvoltage‐gated Na+ channels of epithelia and neurons, and the acid‐sensing ion channel 1 (ASIC1). In mammalian epithelia, ENaC helps regulate Na+ and associated water transport, making it a critical determinant of systemic blood pressure and pulmonary mucosal fluidity. In the nervous system, ENaC/DEG proteins are related to sensory transduction. While the importance and physiological function of these ion channels are established, less is known about their structure. One hallmark of the ENaC/DEG channel family is that each channel subunit has only two transmembrane domains connected by an exceedingly large extracellular loop. This subunit structure was recently confirmed when Jasti and colleagues determined the crystal structure of chicken ASIC1, a neuronal acid‐sensing ENaC/DEG channel. By mapping ENaC to the structural coordinates of cASIC1, as we do here, we hope to provide insight toward ENaC structure. ENaC, like ASIC1, appears to be a trimeric channel containing 1α, 1β, and 1γ subunit. Heterotrimeric ENaC and monomeric ENaC subunits within the trimer possibly contain many of the major secondary, tertiary, and quaternary features identified in cASIC1 with a few subtle but critical differences. These differences are expected to have profound effects on channel behavior. In particular, they may contribute to ENaC insensitivity to acid and to its constitutive activity in the absence of time‐ and ligand‐dependent inactivation. Experiments resulting from this comparison of cASIC1 and ENaC may help clarify unresolved issues related to ENaC architecture, and may help identify secondary structures and residues critical to ENaC function. © 2008 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 60(9): 620–628, 2008
Regulation of HMG‐CoA reductase expression by hypoxia
Authors: Pallottini Valentina , Guantario Barbara , Martini Chiara , Totta Pierangela , Filippi Irene , Carraro Fabio , Trentalance Anna
Published: May 2008

The ability to maintain O2 homeostasis is essential to the survival of all invertebrate and vertebrate species. The transcriptional factor, hypoxia inducible factor 1 (HIF‐1), is the principal regulator of oxygen homeostasis. Under hypoxic condition HIF‐1 induces the transcription of several hypoxia‐responsive genes by binding to hypoxia‐response elements (HRE) in their promoters. In recent years it has been demonstrated that hypoxia could be related to metabolic variations such as hyper‐cholesterolemia in mouse models. On the basis of this observation, the present study was performed to verify the involvement of HIF‐1, and in particular the effect of chemical and environmental induction of HIF‐1α (the oxygen sensitive isoform) accumulation in 3‐hydroxy 3‐methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMG‐CoAR, the key and rate limiting enzyme of cholesterol biosynthetic pathway) regulation. Our results show that HIF‐1α accumulation is able to increase level and activity of HMG‐CoAR by stimulating its transcription. The raised transcription of the reductase could be related to an induction by HIF‐1α even if a parallel action of SREBP‐2 actively translocated to nucleus by the increased level of SCAP cannot be excluded. J. Cell. Biochem. 104: 701–709, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Transcription factor RFX4 binding to the testis‐specific histone H1t promoter in spermatocytes may be important for regulation of H1t gene transcription during spermatogenesis
Authors: Wolfe Steven A. , vanWert Jane M. , Grimes Sidney R.
Published: May 2008

The X‐box binding protein RFX4 is highly expressed in testis in contrast with other tissues, but its function there is unknown. Another family member abundant in testis, RFX2, has been shown to bind to the X‐Box elements in the promoter of the testis specific histone H1t, which is expressed only in pachytene spermatocytes. RFX proteins are known to dimerize, and there is the possibility that the abundant testis RFX4, which is also expressed in pachytene spermatocytes as shown by RT‐PCR and Western blotting, may interact with RFX2 in these cells. In EMSA anti‐RFX2 polyclonal antibodies produce a supershifted complex with testis extracts and an X‐Box probe. On the other hand, RFX4 polyclonal antibodies do not supershift the complex but appear to enhance formation of the complex. RFX4 appears to co‐precipitate with RFX2 in immunoprecipitation, and to co‐purify with RFX2 in an affinity purification using a biotinylated X‐box affinity probe. In ChIP assays RFX4 also binds to the H1t promoter in vivo. These data suggest a possible regulatory role for RFX4 in transcription of the histone H1t gene during spermatogenesis. J. Cell. Biochem. 105: 61–69, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Un‐nicked BoNT/B activity in human SHSY‐5Y neuronal cells
Authors: Shi Xuerong , Garcia Gregory E. , Nambiar Madhusoodana P. , Gordon Richard K.
Published: May 2008

BoNT/B holotoxin (HT) from the native source is a mixture of nicked and un‐nicked forms. A previous study showed that while un‐nicked HT could be transcytosed by intestinal epithelial cells, they did not correlate this with proteolytic activity or biological effect(s). Un‐nicked HT is likely to be present in BoNT biological warfare agents (BWA), so it is important to investigate the relative toxicity of un‐nicked HT in this BWA. To address this issue, we purified un‐nicked HT from commercial sources and evaluated its ability to cleave substrates both in vitro and in vivo, and its effects on vesicle trafficking. The un‐nicked HT was unable to cleave VAMPTide™ substrate used for in vitro proteolytic assays. Brief digestion of the un‐nicked toxin with trypsin resulted in significant activation of the toxin proteolytic ability. SHSY‐5Y human neuroblastoma cells were used to examine HT uptake and activation in vivo. Vesicle trafficking can be measured following K+ stimulation of cells preloaded with [3H]‐noradrenaline (NA). We found that highly purified un‐nicked HT did inhibit NA release but at much reduced levels compared to the nicked toxin. That the reduction in NA release was due to BoNT effects on SNARE proteins was supported by the finding that VAMP‐2 protein levels in un‐nicked toxin treated cells was greater than those treated with nicked toxin. These results demonstrate that although un‐nicked HT has markedly reduced toxicity than the nicked form, due to the preponderance in BoNT/B preparations from the native bacteria, it is a major source of toxicity. J. Cell. Biochem. 105: 129–135, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mitotic partitioning of transcription factors
Authors: Delcuve Geneviève P. , He Shihua , Davie James R.
Published: May 2008

Mitosis is a highly orchestrated process involving numerous protein kinases and phosphatases. At the onset of mitosis, the chromatin condensation into metaphase chromosomes is correlated with global phosphorylation of histone H3. The bulk of transcription is silenced while many of the transcription‐associated proteins, including transcription and chromatin remodeling factors, are excluded from chromatin, typically as a consequence of their phosphorylation. Components of the transcription machinery and regulatory proteins are recycled and equally partitioned between newly divided cells by mechanisms that may involve microtubules, microfilaments or intermediate filaments. However, as demonstrated in the case of Runx2, a subset of transcription factors involved in lineage‐specific control, likely remain associated with their target genes to direct the deposition or removal of epigenetic marks. The displacement and re‐entry into daughter cells of transcription and chromatin remodeling factors are temporally defined and regulated. Reformation of daughter nuclei is a critical time to re‐establish the proper gene expression pattern. The mechanisms involved in the marking and re‐establishment of gene expression has been elucidated for few genes. The elucidation of how the memory of a programmed expression profile is transmitted to daughter cells represents a challenge. J. Cell. Biochem. 105: 1–8, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Role of homeobox genes in the patterning, specification, and differentiation of ectodermal appendages in mammals
Authors: Duverger Olivier , Morasso Maria I.
Published: May 2008

Homeobox genes are an evolutionarily conserved class of transcription factors that are key regulators during developmental processes such as regional specification, patterning, and differentiation. In this review, we summarize the expression pattern, loss‐ and/or gain‐of‐function mouse models, and naturally occurring mouse and human mutations of known homeobox genes required for the development of ectodermal appendages. J. Cell. Physiol. 216: 337–346, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
TPRA40/GPR175 regulates early mouse embryogenesis through functional membrane transport by Sjögren's syndrome‐associated protein NA14
Authors: Aki Toshihiko , Funakoshi Takeshi , Nishida‐Kitayama Junko , Mizukami Yoichi
Published: May 2008

TPRA40/GPR175 is an orphan receptor whose physiological functions have not been found to date. In an attempt to generate transgenic mice that express an shRNA of TPRA40, we observed that the cell division of early mouse embryos that injected the short hairpin RNA expression vector was significantly accelerated compared with the control vector. The regulation of cell division by TPRA40 was also observed in HeLa cells. Since the C‐terminal region of TPRA40 has been shown to be essential for the regulation of cell division, we performed yeast two‐hybrid screening using the C‐terminal region as bait. Nuclear antigen of 14 kDa (NA14), an autoantigen of Sjögren's syndrome, was identified as a binding protein to the C‐terminal region of TPRA40. The binding of TPRA40 and NA14 was confirmed by GST pull‐down assay and co‐immunoprecipitation assay. FLAG‐TPRA40 is transported from the cytosol to the plasma membrane in time‐dependent manner and the translocation was inhibited by GFP‐NA14ΔN, an N‐terminal deletion mutant that cannot bind to microtubules but binds to TPRA40. TPRA40ΔC, which cannot bind to NA 14, shows impaired transport to the plasma membrane. Finally, we found that the effect of TPRA40 on mouse embryogenesis is strengthened by GFP‐NA14, but not by GFP or GFP‐NA14ΔN. These observations indicate that the functional plasma membrane transport of TPRA40 that regulates cell division of mouse embryos is mediated by NA14. J. Cell. Physiol. 217: 194–206, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Different expression of caspase‐3 in rat hippocampal subregions during postnatal development
Authors: Liu Jin Ping , Chang Li Rong , Gao Xiu Lai , Wu Yan
Published: May 2008

Recent studies indicate that caspase‐3 has distinct characteristics in postmitotic and neuronal progenitor apoptosis. Pyramidal neurons in CA1 and CA3 of the hippocampus become postmitotic during early postnatal development, whereas granule cells in the dentate gyrus (DG) undergo self‐renewal throughout life. The distribution of caspase‐3 in the hippocampal subfields during postnatal development is largely unknown. We used immunofluorescent staining for two isoforms of caspase‐3 (an active 17 kDa isoform and an inactive 35 kDa precursor) and the Hoechst 33342 staining for nuclear chromatin to assess caspase‐3 expression in the CA1, CA3, and DG of rat hippocampus during postnatal development. The expression of active caspase‐3 reached a peak at P7 in CA1, at P2 in CA3, and then decreased with age. Whereas in DG, active caspase‐3 expression increased slightly after P7, and remained at high levels for the rest of the investigated period. Procaspase‐3 immunoreactivity was strong at P2 and decreased gradually to a basal plateau by P21 in the three regions examined. In addition, the number of apoptotic cells in the three regions all reached maximum levels at P7, and then decreased with age. These data indicate that there were specific spatio‐temporal patterns of expression of active and precursor caspase‐3 in the postnatally developing rat hippocampal subregions, and that the activation of caspase‐3 in neuronal progenitor cells of DG and that in the postmitotic neurons of CA1 and CA3 may have distinct roles and mechanisms during postnatal development. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Function‐preserving parotid surgery for benign tumors involving the deep parotid lobe
Authors: Roh Jong‐Lyel , Park Chan Il
Published: May 2008

Background

Parotid deep lobe tumors have usually been removed by total parotidectomy, which has functional and aesthetic side effects. Limited partial parotidectomy may result in fewer side effects.

Methods

We evaluated functional outcomes in 19 patients undergoing limited partial parotidectomy for benign tumors, 11 with deep lobe tumors and 8 with tumors involving both superficial and deep lobes, who underwent partial parotidectomy with preservation of normal glandular parenchyma and limited dissection of the facial nerve. Complications and salivary and cosmetic functions were evaluated at 6 and 12 months after surgery.

Results

Median operation time was 1.5 hr. Five patients experienced temporary facial weakness, and 1 developed Frey's syndrome. All patients experienced full recovery of facial nerve function within 6 months. Mean stimulated parotid salivary flow on the operated side was 74% of the preoperative level. All patients had symmetrical facial contours without sunken defects. No patient had tumor recurrence after a median follow‐up of 40 months.

Conclusion

Limited resection of benign tumors involving the parotid deep lobe may result in improved functional outcomes, including preserved salivary flow and beneficial cosmetic aspects, without compromising local tumor control. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;98:42–45. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The functional −443T/C osteopontin promoter polymorphism influences osteopontin gene expression in melanoma cells via binding of c‐Myb transcription factor
Authors: Schultz Julia , Lorenz Peter , Ibrahim Saleh M. , Kundt Günther , Gross Gerd , Kunz Manfred
Published: May 2008

In the present report, the possible role of a recently described functional polymorphism of the osteopontin (OPN) promoter at position −443 (−443T/C) for OPN expression in melanoma cells was addressed. As shown by real‐time PCR analysis, melanoma metastases that were homozygous for the −443C allele expressed significantly higher levels of OPN mRNA compared with those that were either heterozygous (−443T/C) or homozygous for the −443T allele. In line with this, immunoblotting showed significantly enhanced baseline and bFGF‐induced OPN protein expression in melanoma cell lines which were homozygous for the −443C allele, compared with cell lines with other allelic variants. Similar results were obtained in in vitro luciferase assays. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) demonstrated binding of c‐Myb to the −443 OPN promoter region, and binding could significantly be enhanced after bFGF stimulation. Moreover, as shown by electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA), recombinant DNA‐binding domain of c‐Myb bound in a sequence‐specific manner to this region. Finally, the role of c‐Myb for OPN gene regulation via binding to the −443 promoter region could be further substantiated by ectopic overexpression of c‐Myb in melanoma cells, using different reporter gene constructs. Taken together, it is demonstrated that the −443 promoter region exerts influence on OPN gene expression in melanoma cells, and differential binding of c‐Myb transcription factor appears to play a major role in this process. These findings might be a feasible explanation for different OPN expression levels in metastatic tumors and may also have prognostic and therapeutic relevance. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification of differentially expressed genes in the uterine endometrium on day 12 of the estrous cycle and pregnancy in pigs
Authors: Ka Hakhyun , Seo Heewon , Kim Mingoo , Choi Yohan , Lee Chang‐Kyu
Published: May 2008

Maternal recognition of pregnancy in pigs occurs approximately on Day (D) 12 of pregnancy and is critical for embryo implantation. The presence of the conceptus in the uterine lumen during this period changes uterine endometrial function to prepare for attachment of the conceptus to the endometrial epithelial cells and maintain luteal function in the ovary. Although much is known about endometrial gene expression, the genes expressed in the uterine endometria and the cellular and molecular mechanisms of those gene products during the period of implantation and maternal recognition of pregnancy in pigs are still not completely defined. To better understand the interactions between the maternal uterus and conceptus during the implantation process, we searched genes differentially expressed in the endometria on D12 of pregnancy compared to those on D12 of the estrous cycle. A new reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR)‐based method that involves annealing control primers (ACPs) was employed. Using 120 ACPs, we sequenced 12 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and identified those genes using the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST). Northern blot hybridization analysis confirmed the differential expression of those DEGs in the uterine endometrium. In situ hybridization analysis determined the cell‐type specific expression of the DEGs in the uterine endometrium. Further analysis of the DEGs found in this study will provide insights into the cellular and molecular basis of maternal and fetal interactions during the period of maternal recognition of pregnancy in the pig. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 76: 75–84, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sojourn times in G/M/1 fork‐join networks
Authors: Ko Sung‐Seok , Serfozo Richard F.
Published: May 2008

We consider a processing network in which jobs arrive at a fork‐node according to a renewal process. Each job requires the completion of m tasks, which are instantaneously assigned by the fork‐node to m task‐processing nodes that operate like G/M/1 queueing stations. The job is completed when all of its m tasks are finished. The sojourn time (or response time) of a job in this G/M/1 fork‐join network is the total time it takes to complete the m tasks. Our main result is a closed‐form approximation of the sojourn‐time distribution of a job that arrives in equilibrium. This is obtained by the use of bounds, properties of D/M/1 and M/M/1 fork‐join networks, and exploratory simulations. Statistical tests show that our approximation distributions are good fits for the sojourn‐time distributions obtained from simulations. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2008
A methyl‐deficient diet modifies histone methylation and alters Igf2 and H19 repression in the prostate
Authors: Dobosy Joseph R. , Fu Vivian X. , Desotelle Joshua A. , Srinivasan Rajini , Kenowski Michelle L. , Almassi Nima , Weindruch Richard , Svaren John , Jarrard David F.
Published: May 2008

Background

Folate and methyl‐group deficiency has been linked to prostate cancer susceptibility, yet the mechanisms underlying these observations are incompletely understood. The region of the genome containing the imprinted genes insulin‐like growth factor 2 (Igf2) and H19, both of which display oncogenic functions, may be particularly sensitive to environmental influences.

Methods

To determine whether a methyl‐deficient diet impacts epigenetic controls at the Igf2–H19 locus, we placed C57BL/6 mice containing a polymorphism at the imprinted Igf2–H19 locus on a choline and methionine deficient (CMD) diet. We interrogated this locus for expression and epigenetic changes in prostate tissues.

Results

A significant increase in both Igf2 and H19 expression was found in CMD prostate tissues compared to controls. These expression changes were reversible with shorter exposure to the CMD diet. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) revealed significant decreases in repressive histone modifications (dimethyl‐H3K9) within the H19 promoter, as well as Igf2 P2 and P3 promoters. DNA methylation within these promoters was not altered. No significant change in Igf2 or H19 imprinting was observed.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the plasticity of the epigenome in an epithelial organ vulnerable to neoplastic change. They further suggest that chromatin modifications are more susceptible to methyl‐deficient diets than DNA methylation at this locus. Prostate 68: 1187–1195, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of Mn2+ spin frustrations on spin dynamics of charge carriers in (BEDT‐TTF)2Mn[N(CN)2]3 crystals
Authors: Morgunov Roman , Kurganova Evgenia , Mushenok Fedor
Published: May 2008

The effect of spin frustrations of Mn2+ planar lattice on the spin relaxation rate in conductive BEDT‐TTF layers was observed. Layer‐to‐layer exchange availability was proved. Critical field of spin flop transition Hc = 32 kOe measured in our experiments makes it possible to estimate the interplanar exchange interaction as ∼10–3 K. Indirect interplanar exchange occurs through BEDT‐TTF layers due to spin polarization of conducting band electrons contributing to the exchange interaction. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Spin‐wave spectra and magnetization of ferro–ferrimagnetic double layers
Authors: Jiang Wei , Wang Wei , Zhang Fan , Jiang Yuan , Guo An‐Bang
Published: May 2008

The spin‐wave spectra and magnetization of the ferro–ferrimagnetic double layers are studied by using a linear spin‐wave approximation and retarded Green's‐function method. We obtain the four branches of the spin‐wave spectra. Two energy gaps are found to exist in the energy band. The effects of the interlayer exchange coupling, the intralayer exchange coupling and the spin quantum numbers on the spin‐wave spectra and the energy gaps are discussed. The minimum (maximum) value point on the spin‐wave spectra and energy gaps correspond to a system that has a high symmetrical magnetic structure and the balance of quantum competitions among the exchange couplings and the spin quantum numbers of the system. There is a crossover between sublattice magnetizations in ferromagnetic layer that is affected by quantum fluctuations, thermal fluctuations and frustration of spins. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Soft mode in PMN–PSN ceramics
Authors: Macutkevic J. , Grigalaitis R. , Adomavicius R. , Krotkus A. , Banys J. , Valusis G. , Bormanis K. , Sternberg A.
Published: May 2008

Various ordered and disordered (1–x)Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 –x Pb(Sc1/2Nb1/2)O3 (PMN–PSN) ceramics were studied by THz transmission spectroscopy in the temperature range of 10–300 K. It is found that the dielectric relaxation dominates in the spectra in higher temperatures, T > 170 K. In contrast, below 150 K, the strength of relaxation becomes so weak that the phonon contribution can be separated. The phonon contributribution in the investigated frequency range (200 GHz–2 THz) is presumably caused by the E component of the Last mode. The component exhibits hardening on cooling in all investigated ceramics and its critical temperature in ferroelectric PMN–PSN ceramics (x = 1, 0.95) is lower than the critical temperature in PMN–PSN relaxors (x = 0.2). (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Reactions of Cationic Isocyanide Platinum(II) Complexes with Water (from Hexafluoroacetone‐hydrate): Carboxamido and Isocyanato Complexes
Authors: Fehlhammer Wolf Peter , Bartel Klaus , Metzner Robert , Beck Wolfgang
Published: May 2008

The isocyanide complexes $\rm[Pt(Cl)(C{\equiv}NR)(PPh_{3})_{2}]^{+}BF^{-}_{4}$ (R = CH2CO2Et, CH2Ph, C6H11, CH2SO2C6H4‐p‐Me) react with hexafluoroacetone‐sesquihydrate, (F3C)2CO·1,5 H2O, in the presence of triethylamine to give the carboxamido (carbamoyl) complexes [Pt(Cl){C(=O)NHR}(PPh3)2]. Under the same conditions the isocyanoamine complexes trans‐$\rm[Pt(Cl)(C{\equiv}N-NR_{2})(PPh_{3})_{2}]^{+}BF^{-}_{4}(R = Et, Pr^{i}, 2R = \overline {CH(Me)(CH_{2})_{3}C} H(Me))$ are transformed into the isocyanato complex trans‐[Pt(Cl)(NCO)(PPh3)2].
Chiral and Achiral Malate Frameworks with Different Dimensionalities
Authors: Ghosh Anupama , Rao C. N. R.
Published: May 2008

A hybrid chain compound of the formula [Sr(L‐ C4H4O5)·3H2O]·H2O (1) and a hybrid double layered compound of the formula [Pb(L‐ C4H4O5)] (2) both with chiral structures, have been prepared strarting with L‐ malic acid, and characterized by X‐ray crystallography and other techniques. An achiral three‐dimensional hybrid compound of the composition [Pb(D,L‐ C4H4O5)·2H2O] (3) has been obtained starting with D, L‐ malic acid. A chiral coordination polymer of CuII with the formula [Cu3(L‐C4H3O5)2·4H2O]·2H2O (4) has also been characterized. The structures as well as the novel coordination modes exhibited by 1–4 are discussed.
Diradical Bis‐o‐iminosemiquinonato Zinc Complex: Spectroscopy, Magneto‐ and Electrochemistry
Authors: Poddel'sky A. I. , Smolyaninov I. V. , Skatova A. A. , Lukoyanov A. N. , Fukin G. K. , Berberova N. T. , Cherkasov V. K. , Abakumov G. A.
Published: May 2008

Bis‐o‐iminobenzosemiquinonato zinc and cadmium complexes M(ISQ‐Pri)2 (M = Zn, 1; M = Cd, 2) were found to be diradical complexes of a distorted tetrahedral geometry according to X‐band EPR spectroscopy. Tetrahedral structure of zinc complex 1 was confirmed by X‐ray diffraction analysis. The spectro‐ and electrochemistry of zinc complex 1 have been studied in details. For 1 a series of reversible one‐electron‐transfer waves leads to the formation of the anions and cations [M(L)2]2−,1−,1+,2+. All redox processes were shown to be ligand‐based. From variable temperature magnetic susceptibility measurements it has been established that at room temperature 1 possesses an S = 1 state with weak antiferromagnetic coupling between radical ligands (J = −41.4±0.4 cm−1) leading to an S = 0 ground state at low temperature.
Two‐Dimensional Layer‐Like Framework of Vanadate Clusters Bridged by [M(1,10‐phen)]2+: [M(1,10‐phen)(H2O)V2O6] (M = Fe, Zn)
Authors: Yu Li , Zhang Guoqian , Ma Pengtao , Li Suzhi , Niu Jingyang
Published: May 2008

Two organic‐inorganic hybrid vanadates [FeII(1,10‐phen)(H2O)V2O6] (1,10‐phen = 1,10‐phenanthroline) (1) and [Zn(1,10‐phen)(H2O)V2O6] (2) were synthesized hydrothermally and characterized by IR, TG, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The two compounds both crystallize in monoclinic P2(1)/c space group with a = 7.986Å, b = 21.4568Å, c = 9.5506Å, β = 112.5790(10)°, V = 1498.34(19) Å3 for 1 and a = 7.8655Å, b = 21.1761Å, c = 9.4726Å, β = 112.86(0)°, V = 1453.81(64) Å3 for 2. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis show that the two compounds contain a one‐dimensional chain‐like vanadate cluster, which are bridged by [FeII(1,10‐phen)(H2O)]2+ or [Zn(1,10‐phen)(H2O)]2+ groups further forming in a two‐dimensional layer‐like framework.
Synthese, Kristallstrukturen und thermische Eigenschaften von Bariumsalzen der 4‐Sulfobenzoesäure
Authors: Wagner Christoph , Merzweiler Kurt
Published: May 2008

Synthesis, Crystal Structures and Thermal Properties of Barium Salts of 4‐Sulfobenzoic Acid

The reaction of 4‐sulfobenzoic acid with barium hydroxide in the molar ratio 2 : 1 leads to the formation of Ba(O3SC6H4COOH)2 (1). 1·3H2O crystallizes triclinic, space group $\rm P{\bar 1}$, with a = 719.6(7), b = 1136.9(6), c = 1249.7(10) pm, α = 102.81(5), β = 91.73(7), γ = 106.95(6)° (at 293 K). The barium cations exhibit a ninefold coordination by six oxygen atoms from sulfonate and carboxyl groups and three water molecules. The linkage of the barium cations by bridging 4‐carboxybenzenesulfonate anions leads to a 3D coordination polymer. Ba(O3SC6H4COO) (2) is obtained from 4‐sulfobenzoic acid and barium hydroxide in equimolar amounts. 2·2H2O crystallizes monoclinic, space group C2/c with a = 2105.5(5), b = 704.1(1), c = 1455.4(3) pm, β = 90.49(3)° (at 220 K). The barium cations are coordinated by seven oxygen atoms from sulfonate and carboxylate groups and two water molecules. The 4‐sulfobenzoate anions act as bridging ligands to form a 3D coordination polymer.
Synthesis, Structure, and Characterization of Dichloro‐(1‐Benzyl‐4‐Acetato‐1,4,7‐Triazacyclononane)Iron(III)
Authors: Malkhasian Aramice Y. S. , Finch Maila E. , Pawlak Piotr L. , Anderson Jay M. , Brennessel William W. , Chavez Ferman A.
Published: May 2008

The synthesis, structure and aqueous solution behavior of [FeL1Cl2] (1, L1 = 1‐benzyl‐4‐acetato‐1,4,7‐triazacyclononane) is reported. The X‐ray structure of 1 reveals iron(III) in distorted octahedral geometry bonded to three amine nitrogen atoms and one carboxylate oxygen atom along with two cis chloride atoms. Electrochemical measurements of 1 in acetonitrile indicate that E1/2 = −200 mV vs Ag/AgCl. The stability of the +3 oxidation state is attributed to the hard Namine and carboxylate ligand donors. In acetonitrile, 1 is mononuclear and has an S = 5/2 spin state. The presence of a μ‐oxo bridge upon dissolution of 1 in water is supported by EPR and solution magnetic susceptibility NMR studies. pH‐metric titrations and UV‐vis studies indicate the presence of a total of four acidic protons. At low pH, L1(OH2)Fe‐O‐Fe(OH2)L1 is proposed to be stabilized while at high pH, L1(OH)Fe‐O‐Fe(OH)L1 is suggested to persist.
The Bis‐{Co2(μ‐dppm)(CO)4} Adduct of Dimethyl hex‐3‐en‐1,5‐diyne‐1,6‐dicarboxylate
Authors: Bruce Michael I. , Skelton Brian W. , White Allan H. , Zaitseva Natasha N.
Published: May 2008

The synthesis and structural characterization of a bis‐dicobalt derivative of dimethyl hex‐3‐en‐1,5‐diyne‐1,6‐dicarboxylate, [{Co2(μ‐dppm)(CO)4}2(μ:μ‐MeO2CC2CH=CHC2CO2Me)]·2CHCl3 (1) is described, permitting, in the context of previous related studies, comparison of the effects of progressive substitution of the ethene hydrogen atoms by C≡C·SiMe3 groupings.
Substituent Effects on Ru3C2 Clusters: Structural Comparisons of Some μ3‐Arylethynyl triruthenium‐carbonyl Clusters, [Ru3(μ‐X)(μ3‐C2Ar)(Y2)(CO)7], X = H, or Au(PPh3), Y2 = μ‐dppm or (CO)2
Authors: Bruce Michael I. , Gaudio Maryka , Skelton Brian W. , Werth Anja , White Allan H.
Published: May 2008

Complexes of the form [Ru3(μ‐H)(μ3‐C2X)(μ‐dppm)(CO)7] have been widely characterized structurally for diverse R = H, tBu, CMePh(OH), CPhCH2, C5H7, C5H6Me, C6F5, as well as being studied theoretically. The R = Ph derivative was found to be isotypic with its C6F5 analogue, presenting an unusual opportunity for a comparative structural study, both structures being (re‐)determined at ‘low’‐temperature, whereupon the unit cell of the Ph derivative was found to double. The structure of [AuRu3(μ‐C2C6F5)(CO)9(PPh3)] is also recorded.
Sodium Pentafluorobenzoate Monohydrate: a Novel Two‐dimensional Carboxylate Polymer with Strong Sodium‐Fluorine Interactions
Authors: Bruce Michael I. , Hall Benjamin C. , Skelton Brian W. , White Allan H.
Published: May 2008

Sodium pentafluorobenzoate monohydrate, Na+[C6F5CO2]−·H2O crystallizes with two such formula units in the asymmetric unit of a monoclinic P21 lattice. It forms a novel two‐dimensional array based on Na2O2 rhombs, which combine sequentially in one dimension to generate a ‘cubanoid stair’ structure, in the network of which ‘chair’, ‘open cubane’, and other derivative motives may be discerned, and in which unusual Na···F interactions feature.
Synthesis and Characterization of Two Linear Fe‐M‐S Clusters Coordinated by Bis(pyrid‐2‐ylmethyl)amine(BPA): [(BPA)(DMF)FeS2MS2] (M = Mo, W)
Authors: Zhang Chun‐Xia , Ma Cheng‐Bing , Zhang Yue , Hu Ming‐Qiang , Chen Chang‐Neng , Liu Qiu‐Tian
Published: May 2008

Two heterometallic linear clusters [(BPA)Fe(DMF)S2MoS2] (1), and [(BPA)Fe(DMF)S2WS2] (2) have been synthesized and characterized by X‐ray crystallography and infrared spectra. X‐ray crystallography reveals that they are isostructural with each other. The iron atoms are six coordinated in distorted octahedral N3S2O coordination. The bond lengths of Fe‐Mo [2.8441(7) Å] and Fe‐W [2.8767(10) Å] are longer than normal values in Fe‐M‐S clusters containing the FeS2MoS2 core. The obviously long Fe‐O bond lengths in 1 and 2 indicate loose coordination for DMF ligands. There exist oppositely aligned dimers bridged by intermolecular S···S interactions in both two crystal structures, which relinked by N–H···S and C–H···S hydrogen bonding interactions into layers, π‐π stacking interactions provide the linkage between neighbouring layers, giving rise to the whole crystal structures.
Xenon as a Mediator of Chemical Reactions? Case of Elusive Gold Monofluoride, AuF, and its Adduct with Xenon, XeAuF
Authors: Kurzydłowski Dominik , Grochala Wojciech
Published: May 2008

We show, using Density Functional Theory calculations, that the phase diagram at T = 0 K of the 2/3 Au0 + 1/3 AuIIIF3 mixture is greatly affected by the presence of elemental xenon. The formation of a quasimolecular Xe→AuIF adduct is expected at 16 GPa, if not precluded by a partial oxidation of Xe at pressures exceeding 7.5 GPa. The Xe→AuIF adduct should yield Xe and AuIF upon careful decompression at 14 GPa. This contrasts with the behaviour of a pure (2/3 Au, 1/3 AuF3) mixture, investigated by us recently, where direct synthesis of AuIF via a comproportionation reaction is expected at substantially larger pressures (23 GPa). Presence of Xe thus facilitates the formation reaction by decreasing the required formation pressure by about one third.

The most stable detected polymorph of Xe→AuIF is monoclinic (P21/m) and it exhibits interesting features of the electronic band structure.
Supramolecular Assemblies Formed by Cooperative Metal Coordination and Dimerization of the N‐(2‐pyrimidyl)‐N′‐(3‐pyridyl)urea Ligand via Hydrogen Bonding
Authors: Jia Chuandong , Liang Jianjun , Yang Jin , Huang Xiaojuan , Yang Xiao‐Juan , Wu Biao , Tang Ning
Published: May 2008

The supramolecular structures of two metal complexes, [CoCl2L2] (1) and [ZnCl2L2] (2), where L = N‐(2‐pyrimidyl)‐N′‐(3‐pyridyl)urea, are reported. The complexes feature zigzag chains formed by the self‐dimerization of the ligand via a pair of Nurea–H···Npyrimidyl hydrogen bonds with the $R \frac{2}{2}(8)$ motif. Only the pyridyl nitrogen atom coordinates to the metal atom whereas the two pyrimidyl N donors are involved in intra‐ and intermolecular hydrogen bonding interactions. The coordinated Cl atoms do not form any hydrogen bonds with the urea NH groups. The dimerization of the ligand (K = 90 M−1) was investigated by 1H NMR spectroscopy.
Preparation and properties of some polyglycerol esters of short and medium chain length fatty acids
Authors: Babayan V. K. , McIntyre R. T.
Published: May 2008

Mono‐ and diesters of the short and medium chain acids were prepared with polyglycerols and compared with their corresponding mono‐ and diglycerides. The physical and chemical properties of such partial esters of polyglycerols, particularly with respect to their oil, water and solvent solubility are given. Polyglycerol esters become more hydrophilic as the molecular weight of the polyol increases. Polyglycerol esters become less hydrophilic as the length of the aliphatic chain of the acid used in esterification is increased. Polyglycerol esters of such short and medium chain fatty acids show promise in applications where surface activity and emulsification, solubilization of oil and water systems is desired.
A new broad spectrum antibacterial soap I. General properties
Authors: Jungermann Eric , Taber David
Published: May 2008

The first soap germicide system to show activity against gram‐negative organisms is described. Addition of a new germicidal agent, 2‐hydroxy‐2′,4,4′‐trichlorodiphenyl ether, combination of hexachlorophene and triclocarban which has been used in a soap known to be effective against gram‐positive organisms, has broadened its antibacterial spectrum without impairing its mildness, safety and other desirable bar soap characteristics. Properties of the new system, including in vitro and in vivo tests of its antibacterial activity, efficacy and safety, are discussed.
Lipoxygenase‐oxidized soap stock as source of hydroxy conjugated octadecadienoic acids
Authors: Emken E. M. , Dutton H. J.
Published: May 2008

A laboratory procedure was developed for the production of hydroxy conjugated octadecadienoic acids (HOCD). Lipoxygenase oxidation of distilled or crude soap stock produces hydroperoxy conjugated octadecadienoic acids, which can be reduced to HOCD. Crude aqueous soy flour extracts and defatted soy flour are convenient, effective and inexpensive lipoxygenase sources. This new procedure allows high substrate concentrations of 100 mg/ml to be used while achieving 75% to 90% oxidation of the available linoleic acid during a reaction time of 20 to 40 min. Aqueous ethanol and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) solvent systems were compared. The DMSO system produced higher yields of hydroperoxy acids with low enzyme concentrations. Hydroperoxide yields are good when short reaction times, high pH levels and free radical scavengers are used.
The effect of laundering variables on the flame retardancy of cotton fabrics
Authors: Perkins R. M. , Drake G. L. , Reeves W. A.
Published: May 2008

Some durable flame retardant finishes for cotton fabrics can become ineffective if improper laundering procedures are used. For example, one flame resistant fabric will lose a significant amount of its flame resistance after 5, 10 or 20 soap launderings (yet show no reduction in phosphorus content) while another fabric treated with a different formulation will remain flame resistant. Synthetic detergents, rather than soap chips, and soft water have been recommended for some tetrakis (hydroxymethyl) phosphorium chloride‐based flame retardant fabrics to prevent a “lime soap” deposit which impairs performance. The effect of these laundering variables has been studied in relation to a variety of different types of durable flame resistant fabrics.
Protection of dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids against microbial hydrogenation in ruminants
Authors: Scott T. W. , Cook L. J. , Mills S. C.
Published: May 2008

Polyunsaturated fatty acids are normally hydrogenated by microorganisms in the rumen. Because of this hydrogenation ruminant triglycerides contain very low proportions of polyunsaturated fatty acids. A new process is described whereby polyunsaturated oil droplets are protected from ruminal hydrogenation by encapsulation with formaldehyde‐treated protein. The formaldehyde‐treated protein resists breakdown in the rumen thereby protecting the fatty acids against microbial hydrogenation. When these protected oils are fed to ruminants the formaldehydeprotein complex is hydrolyzed in the acidic conditions of the abomasum and the fatty acids are absorbed from the small intestine. This results in substantial changes in the triglycerides of plasma, milk and depot fats, in which the proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids is increased from 2–5% to 20–30%. These effects are observed in the plasma and milk within 24–48 hr of feeding while a longer period is necessary to alter the composition of sheep depot fat. The implications of these findings are discussed in relation to human and ruminant nutrition.
Autoxidation rates of 5‐olefinic monoenoic and denoic fatty acids from sea urchin lipids and meadoefoam oils
Authors: Kaneniwa Masaki , Miyashila Kazuo , Takagi Toru
Published: May 2008

Autoxidation rates of the 5‐olefinic monoenoic and dienoic fatty acids from sea urchin lipids and meadow‐foam oils were compared with those of normal monoenoic and dienoic fatty acids by gas‐liquid Chromatographic determination of the unoxidized fatty acid methyl esters remaining through the autoxidation period. The fatty acids are classified into five groups shown below according to the oxidation rate of their methyl esters: I 5‐olefinic monoenoic acids (c5‐18:l, c5‐20:l and c5‐22:1), II normal monoenoic acids (c9‐18:l, cll‐18:l, c9‐20:1, cl3‐20:l and cl3‐22:l), III 5‐olefinic dienoic acids (c5,cll‐20:2, c5,cl3‐20:2 and c5,cl3‐22:2), IV 7‐olefinic dienoic acids (c7,cl3‐22:2 and c7,cl5‐22:2) and V normal dienoic acids (c6,c9‐18:2, c9,cl2‐18:2 and cll,cl4‐20:2). The oxidation rates of these groups increased during autoxidation in order from I to V. These results show that the 5‐olefinic monoenoic and dienoic acids are more stable to autoxidation than the normal monoenoic and dienoic acids, respectively. The higher stabilities of the 5‐olefinic monoenoic and dienoic acids in organisms are shown from these results.
Enzymatic preparation of monoglycerides in microemulsion
Authors: Holmberg K. , Osterberg E.
Published: May 2008

Monoglycerides have been obtained in 80% yield by enzyme catalyzed hydrolysis of the corresponding triglyceride. The reaction was carried out in an oil‐rich microemulsion (L 2 phase) formulated without cosurfactant. Best results were obtained with the anionic surfactant sodium bis(2‐ethylhexyl)sulfosuccinate (AOT), isooctane as hydrocarbon component and a molar ratio of aqueous buffer of pH 7 to surfactant of 12. The enzyme used was a 1,3‐specific lipase which leaves the 2‐ position intact. However, the 2‐monoglyceride formed slowly undergoes acyl migration to 1‐monoglyceride which subsequently is hydrolyzed to glycerol and fatty acid. Optimal reaction time at 35 C reaction temperature was found to be three hr.
Values, Beliefs, and Welfare Recipiency: Is There a Connection?
Authors: Benjamin Lois , Stewart James B.
Published: May 2008

Relationships between values/beliefs and welfare recipiency and work attachment are examined using a sample of black and white women. The concept of self-efficacy, i.e. perceived ability to produce and regulate events is used to model paths of influence between values/beliefs and observable behaviors. No racial differences are found in the determinants of current labor force status and previous work history. Race is also found to have no significant impact on the probability of receiving public assistance. The explanatory power of measures of self-efficacy is found to be minimal with respect to receipt of public assistance or the duration of receipt of assistance.
Child Care and Female Employment in Urban Nigeria
Authors: Okpala Amon O.
Published: May 2008

Several factors influence female employment in most societies. They include family economic pressures, employability, earning potential, labor market environment and family composition. Several studies have been done on the influence of all factors but the last, family composition, that is, whether the mother has a baby-sitter. If the answer is a “yes,” then the probability that she will engage in an economic activity increases.

This article addresses the question of the role of the child-care on female employment. The results show that the influence of child-care on female employment in Lagos depends on the nature of such help.
Family Environment, Educational Aspiration and Performance in St. Vincent
Authors: Austin Roy L.
Published: May 2008

Father-absence occurs with unusual frequency among people of African descent in the Caribbean. Yet concern over possibly harmful effects of this condition to children and society which is most obvious in the United States is not informed by scientific findings from this region. The present study yielded no evidence that father-absence retards the aspiration or performance of secondary school students in St. Vincent, West Indies, although twelve different groupings of the available cases were analyzed. Findings from this and some American studies suggest that father-absence is not harmful if it is not strongly condemned by the culture with which youths identify.
Applications of phytic acid
Authors: Graf Ernst
Published: May 2008

Phytic acid (myo‐inositol hexaphosphate) constitutes 1‐3% of most plant seeds. Its tremendous chelating potential and its effects on the absorption of polycationic nutrilites such as Ca2+, Zn2+ and Fe3+ have been the subject of intense investigation for several decades. Yet in the American literature there is virtually no information available on other chemical properties of phytic acid or on its beneficial utilization. This review summarizes the present medical, dental, nutritional and industrial applications of phytic acid and suggests additional novel uses for this inexpensive and easily obtained chemical.