bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KI-catalysed synthesis of 4-methylcatechol dimethylacetate and fragrant compound Calone 1951®
Authors: Zhang Ya-Zheng , Yang Qian , Huang Shao-Jian , Luo Zi-Ping , Li Wen-Ping , Dong Li-Chun
Published: February 2013

Synthesis of the fragrant compound Calone 1951® from 4-methyl catechol and methyl bromoacetate entails three successive reactions: the Williamson reaction, Dieckmann condensation, and hydrolysis-decarboxylation reaction. In this paper, the synthesis of 4-methylcatechol dimethylacetate (MCDA) via the Williamson reaction by adding KI as catalyst was investigated. It was found that the addition of an appropriate amount of KI can significantly increase the product yield due to generation of methyl iodoacetate via the reaction between KI and methyl bromoacetate. The synthesised MCDA as well as Calone 1951® were first characterised by melting points, HPLC, IR, and NMR analyses. Next, the effect of the key operating factors on MCDA synthesis by the Williamson reaction was investigated and the optimum operating conditions were obtained via a group of orthogonal experiments. The verification experiments demonstrated that, under the optimum operating conditions, the MCDA yield could be increased from 78.5 % to 95.4 % by the addition of an appropriate amount of KI; the corresponding yield of Calone 1951® increased to 68 %.
Consumer perception of beneficial effects of probiotics for human health
Authors: Rijkers G.T. , Bimmel D. , Grevers D. , den Haan N. , Hristova Y.
Published: February 2013

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, perception and buying behaviour of probiotics. 72 participants in Middelburg, the Netherlands, filled out a detailed questionnaire regarding probiotics and their customer and consumer behaviour. It can be concluded from this study that the concept of probiotics is generally poorly understood. Health-conscious consumers seem to be the group most aware of the correct meaning of the term probiotics. Almost 50% of the participants did not believe that probiotics had any health effect. Independent organisations and/or government agencies appeared to be the preferred source of information on the functionality of probiotics.
Activation of NLRP3 Inflammasome in Alveolar Macrophages Contributes to Mechanical Stretch-Induced Lung Inflammation and Injury
Authors: Wu Jianbo , Yan Zhibo , Schwartz David E. , Yu Jingui , Malik Asrar B. , Hu Guochang
Published: February 2013

Mechanical ventilation of lungs is capable of activating the innate immune system and inducing sterile inflammatory response. The proinflammatory cytokine IL-1β is among the definitive markers for accurately identifying ventilator-induced lung inflammation. However, mechanisms of IL-1β release during mechanical ventilation are unknown. In this study, we show that cyclic stretch activates the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor containing pyrin domain 3 (NLRP3) inflammasomes and induces the release of IL-1β in mouse alveolar macrophages via caspase-1– and TLR4-dependent mechanisms. We also observed that NADPH oxidase subunit gp91phox was dispensable for stretch-induced cytokine production, whereas mitochondrial generation of reactive oxygen species was required for stretch-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation and IL-1β release. Further, mechanical ventilation activated the NLRP3 inflammasomes in mouse alveolar macrophages and increased the production of IL-1β in vivo. IL-1β neutralization significantly reduced mechanical ventilation-induced inflammatory lung injury. These findings suggest that the alveolar macrophage NLRP3 inflammasome may sense lung alveolar stretch to induce the release of IL-1β and hence may contribute to the mechanism of lung inflammatory injury during mechanical ventilation.
1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D Promotes Negative Feedback Regulation of TLR Signaling via Targeting MicroRNA-155–SOCS1 in Macrophages
Authors: Chen Yunzi , Liu Weicheng , Sun Tao , Huang Yong , Wang Youli , Deb Dilip K. , Yoon Dosuk , Kong Juan , Thadhani Ravi , Li Yan Chun
Published: February 2013

The negative feedback mechanism is essential to maintain effective immunity and tissue homeostasis. 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25[OH]2D3) modulates innate immune response, but the mechanism remains poorly understood. In this article, we report that vitamin D receptor signaling attenuates TLR-mediated inflammation by enhancing the negative feedback inhibition. Vitamin D receptor inactivation leads to hyperinflammatory response in mice and macrophage cultures when challenged with LPS, because of microRNA-155 (miR-155) overproduction that excessively suppresses suppressor of cytokine signaling 1, a key regulator that enhances the negative feedback loop. Deletion of miR-155 attenuates vitamin D suppression of LPS-induced inflammation, confirming that 1,25(OH)2D3 stimulates suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 by downregulating miR-155. 1,25(OH)2D3 downregulates bic transcription by inhibiting NF-κB activation, which is mediated by a κB cis-DNA element located within the first intron of the bic gene. Together, these data identify a novel regulatory mechanism for vitamin D to control innate immunity.
The Evidence-Based Paradox
Authors: Hinojosa Jim
Published: February 2013

Many occupational therapy practitioners consider evidence-based practice (EBP) to be the means by which occupational therapy can prove the validity of its services and thus support the legitimacy of our profession. The unquestioned acceptance of EBP as the way to establish credibility concerns me; unchallenged acceptance of any idea concerns me. Do practitioners accept EBP as the paradigm for guiding occupational therapy practice and research solely because it is presented as what we must do? I believe that practitioners must examine the implications for our profession of accepting EBP without question. In this article, I review EBP, present criticisms and concerns voiced by other professions and, finally, examine the implications of adopting an EBP perspective that replaces theory-directed practice.
Dissemination: Bringing Translational Research to Completion
Authors: Clark Florence , Park Daniel J. , Burke Janice P.
Published: February 2013

Despite the availability of innovative health care research, a gap exists between research-generated knowledge and the utilization of that knowledge in real-world practice settings. This article examines the transition from research to implementation in the context of the dissemination of A. Jean Ayres’ sensory integration procedures and of the challenges currently facing the University of Southern California Well Elderly Studies research team. Drawing from the emerging field of implementation science, this article discusses how researchers can develop an implementation plan to more easily translate evidence into practice. Such plans should address the intervention’s reach (i.e., its capacity to penetrate into the intended target population), the settings for which it is applicable, the leaders who will encourage practitioner uptake, stakeholder groups, and challenges to dissemination. By taking action to ensure the more effective dissemination of research-generated knowledge, researchers can increase the likelihood that their interventions will lead to improvements in practice and more effective care for consumers.
Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention to Improve Occupational Performance in Children With Tourette Disorder
Authors: Rowe Jan , Yuen Hon K. , Dure Leon S.
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE. We evaluated the efficacy of a comprehensive behavioral intervention for tics (CBIT) program to reduce tic severity and improve occupational performance in children with tic disorder using a one-group pretest–posttest design.

METHOD. Thirty children with tic disorder completed an eight-session CBIT program. The program focused on habit reversal, relaxation training, and function-based approaches to address how the environment and social situations (antecedents and consequences) sustain or influence tic severity.

RESULTS. We observed significant reduction in the number of tics and improvement in scores on the Parent Tic Questionnaire, Subjective Units of Distress Scale, and Child Occupational Self Assessment after CBIT compared with scores at baseline.

CONCLUSION. Findings provided support that CBIT reduced the number of tic expressions, tic severity, and level of distress associated with tic and improved these children’s self-perception of their competence in and importance of performing everyday activities (i.e., occupational performance).
Quantitative Determination of the Okadaic Acid Toxins Group by a Colorimetric Phosphatase Inhibition Assay: Interlaboratory Study
Authors: Smienk Henry , Domínguez, Elena , Rodríguez-Velasco María L , Clarke David , Kapp Katrin , Katikou Panagiota , Cabado Ana G , Otero Alberto , Vieites Juan M , Razquin Pedro , Mata Luis
Published: February 2013

An interlaboratory collaborative study to validate a colorimetric phosphatase inhibition assay for quantitative determination of the okadaic acid (OA) toxins group in molluscs, OkaTest, was conducted. Eight test materials, including mussels, scallops, clams, and cockles, were analyzed as blind duplicates. Blank samples and materials containing different OA toxin levels ranging from 98 to 275 μg/kg OA equivalents were included. The study was carried out by a total of 16 laboratories from 11 different countries. Values obtained for repeatability relative standard deviations (RSDr) ranged from 5.4 to 11.2% (mean 7.5%). Reproducibility RSD (RSDR) values were between 7.6 and 13.2% (mean 9.9%). The Horwitz ratio (HorRat) values ranged between 0.4 and 0.6. A recovery assay was also carried out using a sample spiked with OA. A mean recovery of 98.0% and an RSD of 14.5% were obtained. The results obtained in this validation study indicate that the colorimetric phosphatase inhibition assay, OkaTest, is suitable for quantitative determination of the OA toxins group. OkaTest could be used as a test that is complementary to the reference method for monitoring the OA toxins group.
Biopharmaceutical Facility Design and Validation
Authors: N. Odum Jeffery
Published: February 2013

The manufacture of biotherapeutic drug substances is based on a synergy between science, product, process, and facility. This relationship is often difficult for many outside the industry to understand; manufacturing drug products from living organisms is a complex effort that must focus priority on patient safety. The guidelines that provide the foundation of compliance and regulatory oversight are supported by a number of guidance documents that provide the basis for validation, the precursor to product licensure as described in this work.
Rhodium‐Catalyzed Homogeneous Reductive Amidation of Aldehydes
Authors: Raoufmoghaddam Saeed , Drent Eite , Bouwman Elisabeth
Published: February 2013

The catalytic reductive amidation of an aldehyde (hexanal) with an amide (acetamide) is reported. Apart from the desired N‐hexylacetamide, the two isomeric unsaturated intermediates as well as hexanol are produced together with higher mass products that arise from aldol condensation and diamide coupling of the aldehyde. Screening of different catalyst precursor salts, ligands and reaction conditions led to the finding that the catalytic system based on the (cyclooctadiene)rhodium chloride dimer, [Rh(cod)Cl]2, in combination with the ligand xantphos and an acid co‐catalyst results in high selectivity for the desired product. Under optimized conditions nearly full conversion is reached with high selectivity to the desired N‐alkylamide and with a very high N‐alkylamide/alcohol ratio, while producing only small amounts of by‐products. The scope of the reaction has been investigated using different amides as well as aldehydes; the results show the general applicability of this novel reaction, but with electron‐withdrawing amides the selectivity to N‐alkylamide is lower. NMR studies showed that the nucleophilic addition of acetamide to hexanal is acid catalyzed, forming N‐(1‐hydroxyhexyl)acetamide in equilibrium with both hexanal and the dehydrated unsaturated imides. A catalytic mechanism is proposed in which a strong acid such as HOTs acts as a co‐catalyst by establishing a rapid chemical equilibrium between the aldehyde, acetamide and the intermediates. Furthermore, it is proposed that the presence of acid causes a change in catalytic species, enabling a cationic Rh/xantphos hydrogenation catalyst to selectively hydrogenate the intermediates to N‐hexylacetamide in the presence of hexanal.
Direct Terminal Alkylamino‐Functionalization via Multistep Biocatalysis in One Recombinant Whole‐Cell Catalyst
Authors: Schrewe Manfred , Ladkau Nadine , Bühler Bruno , Schmid Andreas
Published: February 2013

Direct and regiospecific amino‐functionalization of non‐activated carbon could be achieved using one recombinant microbial catalyst. The presented proof of concept shows that heterologous pathway engineering allowed the construction of a whole‐cell biocatalyst catalyzing the terminal amino‐functionalization of fatty acid methyl esters (e.g., dodecanoic acid methyl ester) and alkanes (e.g., octane). By coupling oxygenase and transaminase catalysis in vivo, both substrates are converted with absolute regiospecificity to the terminal amine via two sequential oxidation reactions followed by an amination step. Such demanding chemical three‐step reactions achieved with a single catalyst demonstrate the tremendous potential of whole‐cell biocatalysts for the production of industrially relevant building blocks.
Rhodium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydroformylation of 1,1‐Disubstituted Allylphthalimides: A Catalytic Route to β3‐Amino Acids
Authors: Zheng Xin , Cao Bonan , Liu Tang‐lin , Zhang Xumu
Published: February 2013

The high enantioselective rhodium‐catalyzed hydroformylation of 1,1‐disubstituted allylphthalimides has been developed. By employing chiral ligand 1,2‐bis[(2S,5S)‐2,5‐diphenylphospholano]ethane [(S,S)‐Ph‐BPE], a series of β3‐aminoaldehydes can be prepared with up to 95% enantioselectivity. This asymmetric procedure provides an efficient alternative route to prepare chiral β3‐amino acids and alcohols.
Enantioselective Phase‐Transfer Catalytic α‐Benzylation and α‐Allylation of α‐tert‐Butoxycarbonyllactones
Authors: Ha Min Woo , Lee Heejin , Yi Hye Yeong , Park Yohan , Kim Sori , Hong Suckchang , Lee Myungmo , Kim Mi‐hyun , Kim Taek‐Soo , Park Hyeung‐geun
Published: February 2013

A new enantioselective α‐benzylation and α‐allylation of α‐tert‐butoxycarbonyllactones was devloped. α‐Benzylation and α‐allylation of α‐tert‐butoxycarbonylbutyrolactone and α‐tert‐butoxycarbonylvalerolactone under phase‐transfer catalytic conditions (50% cesium hydroxide, toluene, −60 °C) in the presence of (S,S)‐3,4,5‐trifluorophenyl‐NAS bromide (1 mol%) afforded the corresponding α‐substituted α‐tert‐butoxycarbonyllactones in very high chemical yields (up to 99%) and optical yields (up to 99% ee). The synthetic potential of this method has been successfully demonstrated by the asymmetric synthesis of unnatural α‐quaternary homoserines, 3‐alkyl‐3‐carboxypyrrolidine and 3‐alkyl‐3‐carboxypiperidine.
A Photochemical Route to Benzo[a]carbazoles via Domino Elimination/Electrocyclization of 2‐Aryl‐3‐(1‐tosylalkyl)indoles
Authors: Protti Stefano , Palmieri Alessandro , Petrini Marino , Fagnoni Maurizio , Ballini Roberto , Albini Angelo
Published: February 2013

The photochemical synthesis of benzo[a]carbazoles from easily synthesizable 2‐aryl‐3‐(1‐tosylalkyl)indoles is presented. Irradiation of these substrates in polar aprotic solvents (acetone or THF) gives selectively the target products in satisfactory yields. This versatile and efficient procedure promises to be a useful alternative to the multistep strategies reported in the literature.
Production of polymalic acid and malic acid by Aureobasidium pullulans fermentation and acid hydrolysis
Authors: Zou Xiang , Zhou Yipin , Yang Shang‐Tian
Published: February 2013

Malic acid is a dicarboxylic acid widely used in the food industry and also a potential C4 platform chemical that can be produced from biomass. However, microbial fermentation for direct malic acid production is limited by low product yield, titer, and productivity due to end‐product inhibition. In this work, a novel process for malic acid production from polymalic acid (PMA) fermentation followed by acid hydrolysis was developed. First, a PMA‐producing Aureobasidium pullulans strain ZX‐10 was screened and isolated. This microbe produced PMA as the major fermentation product at a high‐titer equivalent to 87.6 g/L of malic acid and high‐productivity of 0.61 g/L h in free‐cell fermentation in a stirred‐tank bioreactor. Fed‐batch fermentations with cells immobilized in a fibrous‐bed bioreactor (FBB) achieved the highest product titer of 144.2 g/L and productivity of 0.74 g/L h. The fermentation produced PMA was purified by adsorption with IRA‐900 anion‐exchange resins, achieving a ∼100% purity and a high recovery rate of 84%. Pure malic acid was then produced from PMA by hydrolysis with 2 M sulfuric acid at 85°C, which followed the first‐order reaction kinetics. This process provides an efficient and economical way for PMA and malic acid production, and is promising for industrial application. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013; 110: 2105–2113. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Anti‐cell death engineering of CHO cells: Co‐overexpression of Bcl‐2 for apoptosis inhibition, Beclin‐1 for autophagy induction
Authors: Lee Jae Seong , Ha Tae Kwang , Park Jin Hyoung , Lee Gyun Min
Published: February 2013

Genetic engineering approaches to inhibit cell death in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell cultures have been limited primarily to anti‐apoptosis engineering. Recently, autophagy has received attention as a new anti‐cell death engineering target in addition to apoptosis. In order to achieve a more efficient protection of cells from the stressful culture conditions, the simultaneous targeting of anti‐apoptosis and pro‐autophagy in CHO cells (DG44) was attempted by co‐overexpressing an anti‐apoptotic protein, Bcl‐2, and a key regulator of autophagy pathway, Beclin‐1, respectively. Co‐overexpression of Bcl‐2 and Beclin‐1 exhibited a longer culture period as well as higher viability during serum‐free suspension culture, compared with the control (without co‐overexpression of Bcl‐2 and Beclin‐1) and Bcl‐2 overexpression only. In addition to the efficient inhibition of apoptosis by Bcl‐2 overexpression, Beclin‐1 overexpression successfully induced the increase in the autophagic marker protein, LC3‐II, and autophagosome formation with the decrease in mTOR activity. Co‐immunoprecipitation and qRT‐PCR experiments revealed that the enforced expression of Beclin‐1 increased Ulk1 expression and level of free‐Beclin‐1 that did not bind to the Bcl‐2 despite the Bcl‐2 overexpression. Under other stressful culture conditions such as treatment with sodium butyrate and hyperosmolality, co‐overexpression of Bcl‐2 and Beclin‐1 also protected the cells from cell death more efficiently than Bcl‐2 overexpression only, implying the potential of autophagy induction. Taken together, the data obtained here provide the evidence that pro‐autophagy engineering together with anti‐apoptosis engineering yields a synergistic effect and successfully enhances the anti‐cell death engineering of CHO cells. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013; 110: 2195–2207. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Glassy State and Cryopreservation of Mint Shoot Tips
Authors: Teixeira Aline S. , Elena González‐Benito M. , Molina‐García Antonio D.
Published: February 2013

Vitrification refers to the physical process by which a liquid supercools to very low temperatures and finally solidifies into a metastable glass, without undergoing crystallization at a practical cooling rate. Thus, vitrification is an effective freeze‐avoidance mechanism and living tissue cryopreservation is, in most cases, relying on it. As a glass is exceedingly viscous and stops all chemical reactions that require molecular diffusion, its formation leads to metabolic inactivity and stability over time. To investigate glassy state in cryopreserved plant material, mint shoot tips were submitted to the different stages of a frequently used cryopreservation protocol (droplet‐vitrification) and evaluated for water content reduction and sucrose content, as determined by ion chromatography, frozen water fraction and glass transitions occurrence by differential scanning calorimetry, and investigated by low‐temperature scanning electron microscopy, as a way to ascertain if their cellular content was vitrified. Results show how tissues at intermediate treatment steps develop ice crystals during liquid nitrogen cooling, while specimens whose treatment was completed become vitrified, with no evidence of ice formation. The agreement between calorimetric and microscopic observations was perfect. Besides finding a higher sucrose concentration in tissues at the more advanced protocol steps, this level was also higher in plants precultured at 25/−1°C than in plants cultivated at 25°C. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 29:707–717, 2013
The important role of physical activity in the prevention and management of gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Ruchat Stephanie‐May , Mottola Michelle F.
Published: February 2013

The actual pathophysiology behind gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is still unclear, but a deterioration in insulin resistance beyond that induced by pregnancy, combined with beta cell dysfunction, plays a key role. Interventions that help improve glucose tolerance by attenuating pregnancy‐induced insulin resistance or achieve glycaemic control may therefore help in preventing and managing GDM. In non‐pregnant populations, physical activity has been associated with an improvement in glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity and a risk reduction for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and is a cornerstone for T2DM treatment. However, there is still controversy regarding the benefits of physical activity in preventing and managing GDM. The objective of this review is therefore to provide a comprehensive overview of the effect of prenatal physical activity–based interventions on (1) glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity and GDM prevention and (2) glycaemic control and insulin use in GDM women. On the basis of the available literature, there is a lack of consistent evidence regarding the benefits of physical activity on improving glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity and preventing GDM. However, it appears that physical activity may help to achieve good glycaemic control and limit insulin use in GDM women. Compliance appears to be a major problem in physical activity–based intervention studies aimed at GDM prevention. Rigorous scientific research is still required to make an informed decision about the role of physical activity in the prevention and management of GDM and to develop evidence‐based physical activity guidelines for GDM prevention and management. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Graphite‐Polyurethane and Graphite‐Silicone Rubber Composite Electrodes for Electrochemical Characterization and Determination of Minoxidil
Authors: Sousa Rogerio A. , Dos‐Santos Sidney X. , Cavalheiro Eder T. G. , Brett Christopher M. A.
Published: February 2013

Graphite‐polyurethane (GPUE) and graphite‐silicone rubber (GSRE) electrodes have been used for oxidative determination of the vasodilator minoxidil in pharmaceutical samples and in plasma and urine electrolyte solutions. The electrooxidation process at 0.840 V (GPUE) and 0.860 V (GSRE) vs. SCE was characterized over a wide pH range by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Quantification using cyclic, differential pulse, and square‐wave voltammetry, gave results agreeing with high pressure liquid chromatography, that has similar micromolar detection limits, but with a simpler analytical procedure. Advantages of these composite electrodes are non‐adsorption of analyte or oxidation products, a long useful life and robustness.
Diel vertical migration: Ecological controls and impacts on the biological pump in a one‐dimensional ocean model
Authors: Bianchi Daniele , Stock Charles , Galbraith Eric D. , Sarmiento Jorge L.
Published: February 2013

Diel vertical migration (DVM) of zooplankton and micronekton is widespread in the ocean and forms a fundamental component of the biological pump, but is generally overlooked in global models of the Earth system. We develop a parameterization of DVM in the ocean and integrate it with a size‐structured NPZD model. We assess the model's ability to recreate ecosystem and DVM patterns at three well‐observed Pacific sites, ALOHA, K2, and EQPAC, and use it to estimate the impact of DVM on marine ecosystems and biogeochemical dynamics. Our model includes the following: (1) a representation of migration dynamics in response to food availability and light intensity; (2) a representation of the digestive and metabolic processes that decouple zooplankton feeding from excretion, egestion, and respiration; and (3) a light‐dependent parameterization of visual predation on zooplankton. The model captures the first‐order patterns in plankton biomass and productivity across the biomes, including the biomass of migrating organisms. We estimate that realistic migratory populations sustain active fluxes to the mesopelagic zone equivalent to between 15% and 40% of the particle export and contribute up to half of the total respiration within the layers affected by migration. The localized active transport has important consequences for the cycling of oxygen, nutrients, and carbon. We highlight the importance of decoupling zooplankton feeding and respiration and excretion with depth for capturing the impact of migration on the redistribution of carbon and nutrients in the upper ocean.
Changes in planktic and benthic foraminifer assemblages in the Gulf of Lions, off south France: Response to climate and sea level change from MIS 6 to MIS 11
Authors: Cortina Aleix , Sierro Francisco Javier , Filippelli Gabriel , Flores José Abel , Berné Serge
Published: February 2013

A multidisciplinary study involving micropaleontological and geochemical tools was carried out in borehole PRGL1 (Promess 1), with the aim of reconstructing the impact of climate change and sea level variation between 133 ka and 406 ka in the upper slope of the Gulf of Lions. We used factor analysis to obtain three main benthic assemblages related to eutrophic, mesotrophic, and oxygenated environments; planktic foraminifers were grouped as warm‐water and cold‐turbulent species. These results were compared with records of CaCO3 and major and trace elements (Al, Ca, K, Sr) as well as the C/N ratio of organic matter. Power and cross‐spectral analysis showed a straightforward relationship between precession minima and thermal stratification of the water column as well as the occurrence of eutrophic bottom conditions during lowstand periods and mesotrophic environments at times of highstand. These eutrophic‐mesotrophic oscillations, usually driven by global eustatic change, also involved regional variations in CaCO3 source to this environment. During periods of precession maxima, enhancement of northwesterly winds increased primary productivity by mixing, enhancing the percentage of cold‐turbulent species in the water column and the proportion of oxygenated benthic species on the bottom. During interglacial stages, these events were recorded by lower biogenic carbonate at the expense of higher silicate‐related components most likely due to a higher supply from Pyrenees rivers. The record of oxygenated benthic species can be a good proxy to monitor past changes in Winter Intermediate Water dynamics driven by northwesterly winds.
Aseismic slip and fault interaction from repeating earthquakes in the Loma Prieta aftershock zone
Authors: Turner R. C. , Nadeau R. M. , Bürgmann R.
Published: February 2013

Along creeping sections of the San Andreas and other faults, small asperities in the fault zone load and fail in characteristic repeating earthquake sequences which can be used as subsurface creepmeters. Here, we use these virtual creepmeters to examine and compare deep slip rates on both the northwestern end of the creeping section of the San Andreas Fault near San Juan Bautista and on the nearby subparallel Sargent Fault. While creep on the San Andreas increased dramatically due to static stress changes in response to the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, the Sargent showed very little immediate response, consistent with Loma Prieta finite slip models that put this section of the fault in a region of less than 3 bar Coulomb stress increase. After about 10 years, the San Andreas creep rate fell back close to the interseismic rate, and variations in creep became coherent in time with the Sargent, indicating a mutual driving force in the system.
Annular mode changes in the CMIP5 simulations
Authors: Gillett N. P. , Fyfe J. C.
Published: February 2013

We investigate simulated changes in the annular modes in historical and RCP 4.5 scenario simulations of 37 models from the fifth Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5), a much larger ensemble of models than has previously been used to investigate annular mode trends, with improved resolution and forcings. The CMIP5 models on average simulate increases in the Northern Annular Mode (NAM) and Southern Annular Mode (SAM) in every season by 2100, and no CMIP5 model simulates a significant decrease in either the NAM or SAM in any season. No significant increase in the NAM or North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) is simulated in response to volcanic aerosol, and no significant NAM or NAO response to solar irradiance variations is simulated. The CMIP5 models simulate a significant negative SAM response to volcanic aerosol in MAM and JJA, and a significant positive SAM response to solar irradiance variations in MAM, JJA and DJF.
Climate model genealogy: Generation CMIP5 and how we got there
Authors: Knutti Reto , Masson David , Gettelman Andrew
Published: February 2013

A new ensemble of climate models is becoming available and provides the basis for climate change projections. Here, we show a first analysis indicating that the models in the new ensemble agree better with observations than those in older ones and that the poorest models have been eliminated. Most models are strongly tied to their predecessors, and some also exchange ideas and code with other models, thus supporting an earlier hypothesis that the models in the new ensemble are neither independent of each other nor independent of the earlier generation. On the basis of one atmosphere model, we show how statistical methods can identify similarities between model versions and complement process understanding in characterizing how and why a model has changed. We argue that the interdependence of models complicates the interpretation of multimodel ensembles but largely goes unnoticed.
Are climatic or land cover changes the dominant cause of runoff trends in the Upper Mississippi River Basin?
Authors: Frans Chris , Istanbulluoglu Erkan , Mishra Vimal , Munoz‐Arriola Francisco , Lettenmaier Dennis P.
Published: February 2013

The Upper Mississippi River Basin (UMRB) has experienced a remarkable agricultural extensification since the mid‐1800s. Hydroclimatological monitoring in the 20th century also reveals positive annual precipitation and runoff trends in the UMRB. While several studies have proposed land use/land cover (LULC) change as the primary cause of runoff increase, little is known about the dominant controls of hydrologic change in the UMRB. We used a macroscale hydrology model to assess the hydrologic implications of climate and LULC changes between 1918 and 2007. Modeling results, corroborated with hydroclimatologic data analysis, emphasized climate change as the dominant driver of runoff change in the UMRB. At local scales, modeled annual runoff decreased (increased) by up to 9% (5%) where grasslands (forests) were replaced by croplands. Artificial field drainage amplified annual runoff by as much as 13%. These findings are critical for water and nitrogen management in the UMRB under change.
Biosynthesis of drosopterins, the red eye pigments of Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Kim Heuijong , Kim Kiyoung , Yim Jeongbin
Published: February 2013

Drosophila melanogaster has red eyes. Scientists have been curious about the biosynthesis of the red eye pigments and have completed a number of investigations on these compounds. Scientific contributions made over the past 50 years have improved our understanding of the red eye pigments. Researchers have elucidated the chemical structures of some pigments and have successfully purified and identified the enzymes that participate in the biosynthesis of the red eye pigments. In this article, we will review the characteristics of the Drosophila red eye pigments and of the enzymes and genes involved in its biosynthetic pathway. © 2013 IUBMB Life 65(4):334–340, 2013.
A high‐speed liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry platform using multiplexed multiple‐injection chromatography controlled by single software and its application in discovery ADME screening
Authors: Zhang Jun , Vath Marianne , Ferraro Cheryl , Li Ying , Murphy Keeley , Zvyaga Tatyana , Weller Harold , Shou Wilson
Published: February 2013

RATIONALE

Multiplexed liquid chromatography (LC) coupled with multiple‐injection‐chromatogram acquisition has emerged as the method of choice for high‐speed discovery bioanalysis, because it significantly reduces injection‐to‐injection cycle time while maintaining the chromatography quality. Historically, systems utilizing this approach had been custom built, and therefore relied on custom software tools to communicate with multiple vendor software for system control, which lacked transferability, flexibility and robustness.

METHODS

In this study, we refined a multiplexed bioanalytical system previously reported, by implementing open‐deck auto‐sampler manifold and multiple‐injection‐chromatogram acquisition, all on a commercially available system with single software control.

RESULTS

As a result of these improvements, the developed LC/tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) method on the system was nearly three times faster than the previous method, while demonstrating comparable analytical accuracy, precision and robustness. This system has been evaluated for in vitro ADME screening assays including metabolic stability, CYP inhibition and Caco‐2. The biological data generated on the developed system displayed good correlation with those from the previous LC/MS/MS approaches.

CONCLUSIONS

The developed platform demonstrated applicability to the in vitro screening assays evaluated and has been successfully implemented to support the high‐throughput metabolic stability assay, with a significantly improved bioanalytical throughput, capacity and data turnaround. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of nonpersistent pesticides on estrogen receptor, androgen receptor, and aryl hydrocarbon receptor
Authors: Medjakovic Svjetlana , Zoechling Alfred , Gerster Petra , Ivanova Margarita M. , Teng Yun , Klinge Carolyn M. , Schildberger Barbara , Gartner Michael , Jungbauer Alois
Published: February 2013

Nonpersistent pesticides are considered less harmful for the environment, but their impact as endocrine disruptors has not been fully explored. The pesticide Switch was applied to grape vines, and the maximum residue concentration of its active ingredients was quantified. The transactivation potential of the pesticides Acorit, Frupica, Steward, Reldan, Switch, Cantus, Teldor, and Scala and their active compounds (hexythiazox, mepanipyrim, indoxacarb, chlorpyrifos‐methyl, cyprodinil, fludioxonil, boscalid, fenhexamid, and pyrimethanil) were tested on human estrogen receptor α (ERα), androgen receptor (AR) and arylhydrocarbon receptor (AhR) in vitro. Relative binding affinities of the pure pesticide constituents for AR and their effect on human breast cancer and prostate cancer cell lines were evaluated. Residue concentrations of Switch's ingredients were below maximum residue limits. Fludioxonil and fenhexamid were ERα agonists (EC50‐values of 3.7 and 9.0 μM, respectively) and had time‐dependent effects on endogenous ERα‐target gene expression (cyclin D1, progesterone receptor, and nuclear respiratory factor 1) in MCF‐7 human breast cancer cells. Fludioxonil, mepanipyrim, cyprodinil, pyrimethanil, and chlorpyrifos‐methyl were AhR‐agonists (EC50s of 0.42, 0.77, 1.4, 4.6, and 5.1 μM, respectively). Weak AR binding was shown for chlorpyrifos‐methyl, cyprodinil, fenhexamid, and fludioxonil. Assuming a total uptake which does not take metabolism and clearance rates into account, our in vitro evidence suggests that pesticides could activate pathways affecting hormonal balance, even within permitted limits, thus potentially acting as endocrine disruptors. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 29: 1201–1216, 2014.
Inferring geographic origin, population structure and migration routes of a wintering population of Mediterranean gulls from resightings data
Authors: Carboneras Carles , Tavecchia Giacomo , Genovart Meritxell , Requena Susana , Olivé Marc , Oro Daniel
Published: February 2013

Winter congregations of migratory birds are made by individuals of different origins and generally assumed to be variable across space and time, but the demographic characteristics of these temporal populations are poorly known. We used 2,216 observations of 472 colour‐ringed individuals to estimate the annual local survival of Mediterranean gulls Larus melanocephalus wintering in NE Spain. In addition, by gathering the ringing information on the 19,856 individuals marked as fledglings in 18 countries between 1990 and 2009, we were able to infer the composition of population in relation to the country of origin. We coupled these estimates with geographic information to contrast hypotheses on the migratory pattern most likely used by the gulls in their first migration from their natal colonies to the wintering area. The probability of reaching the study area was negatively associated with the distance from the natal colony. Data were consistent with a migratory strategy that combines fluvial and coastal routes in an optimal way, seeking minimal distance along favourable terrain. We found that, after the first year, annual local survival at the wintering site (0.81 on average) was comparable with the one estimated at the breeding colonies, indicating a high individual fidelity to the areas used in winter. Our work shows that winter groupings may behave as real populations, shaped by breeding output and survival, and that the geographic origin of wintering birds can be explained by a simple model. The study of winter congregations can help understand a species’ population structure and movement strategies.
What will I be when I grow up? The impact of gender identity threat on adolescents' occupational preferences
Authors: Sinclair Samantha , Carlsson Rickard
Published: February 2013

The present study examined the impact of gender identity threat on adolescents' occupational preferences. Two hundred and ninety‐seven adolescents (45% girls, M age = 14.4, SD = .54) participated in the experiment. There were substantial differences between boys' and girls' occupational preferences. Importantly, adolescents who received a threat to their gender identity became more stereotypical in job preferences, suggesting a causal link between threatened gender identity and stereotypical preferences. A comparison threat to one's capability did not have this effect, indicating a unique effect of gender identity threat. Further, individual differences in gender identity concerns predicted gender stereotypical preferences, and this finding was replicated with an independent sample (N = 242). In conclusion, the results suggest that threats to adolescents' gender identity may contribute to the large gender segregation on the labor market.
A high efficient relativistic backward wave oscillator with coaxial nonuniform slow-wave structure and depth-tunable extractor
Authors: Ge Xingjun , Zhong Huihuang , Zhang Jun , Qian Baoliang
Published: February 2013

A high efficient relativistic backward wave oscillator with coaxial nonuniform slow-wave structures (SWSs) and depth-tunable extractor is presented. The physical mechanism to increase the power efficiency is investigated theoretically and experimentally. It is shown that the nonuniform SWSs, the guiding magnetic field distribution, and the coaxial extractor depth play key roles in the enhancement of the beam-wave power conversion efficiency. The experimental results show that a 1.609 GHz, 2.3 GW microwave can be generated when the diode voltage is 890 kV and the beam current is 7.7 kA. The corresponding power efficiency reaches 33.6%.
Gravity currents in non-rectangular cross-section channels: Analytical and numerical solutions of the one-layer shallow-water model for high-Reynolds-number propagation
Authors: Zemach T. , Ungarish M.
Published: February 2013

We consider the propagation of a high-Reynolds-number gravity current at the bottom of a horizontal channel along the horizontal coordinate x. The bottom and top of the channel are at z = 0, H, and the cross-section is given by the general −f1(z) ⩽ y ⩽ f2(z) for 0 ⩽ z ⩽ H. We use a one-layer, Boussinesq, shallow-water formulation to solve the time-dependent motion produced by release from rest of a fixed volume of fluid from a lock. The dependent variables are the position of the horizontal interface, h(x, t), and the speed (averaged over the area of the current), u(x, t). The non-rectangular cross-section geometry enters the formulation via f(h) and integrals of f(z) and zf(z), where f(z) = f1(z) + f2(z) is the width of the channel. For a given geometry f(z), the only input parameter in the lock-release problem is the height ratio H/h0 of ambient to lock. In general, the solution is obtained by a finite-difference numerical code. Analytical results are derived for the initial dam-break slumping motion, and for the long-time self-similar phase. The model is illustrated for various cross-section shapes: power-law (f(z) = bzα, where b, α are positive constants), trapezoidal, V-shaped valley, and circle-segment. In addition to the quantitative results, the qualitative similarities and differences between the classical rectangular and the general non-rectangular channel have been elucidated: in the first case there is always an initial “slumping” stage of propagation with speed uN = const., followed by a stage of decreasing speed, then a phase of self-similar behavior during which uN decreases like time to some power. In the non-rectangular cross-section channel, the first two stages appear, but the self-similar phase is attained only when the cross-section shape is given by a power-law. When the cross-section of the channel expands upwards, the speed of propagation is larger, and the decay of speed after the slumping stage is weaker, than in the classical rectangular counterpart. The theoretical results are in good agreement with previously published experimental data, but a sharp comparison is not feasible because the experiments were performed in full-depth-lock configurations where the one-layer model is not expected to be accurate.
Accuracy of a Markov state model generated by searching for basin escape pathways
Authors: Bhute Vijesh J. , Chatterjee Abhijit
Published: February 2013

Markov state models (MSMs) are employed extensively in literature with the kinetic Monte Carlo (KMC) method for studying state-to-state dynamics in a wide range of material systems. A MSM contains a list of atomic processes and their rate constants for different states of the system. In many situations, only few of the possible atomic processes are included in the MSM. The use of an incomplete MSM with the KMC method can lead to an error in the dynamics. In this work, we develop an error measure to assess the accuracy of a MSM generated using dynamical basin escape pathway searches. We show that the error associated with an incomplete MSM depends on the rate constants missing from the MSM. A procedure to estimate the missing rate constants is developed. We demonstrate our approach using some examples.
In-situ transmission electron microscopy of conductive filaments in NiO resistance random access memory and its analysis
Authors: Fujii Takashi , Arita Masashi , Hamada Kouichi , Takahashi Yasuo , Sakaguchi Norihito
Published: February 2013

We used thermal oxidization at various temperatures to prepare NiO/Pr-Ir for use in resistance random access memory (ReRAM) samples. In-situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to investigate the forming process of these ReRAM samples, where a needle-shaped top electrode of Pt-Ir was attached to the NiO/Pt-Ir ReRAM layer. The forming voltage initializing the NiO layer increased at an oxidization temperature of between 200 and 400 °C. In this process, conductive bridges, which are thought to be conductive filaments of a ReRAM, appeared, and their sizes showed a correlation with the injection power. It was as small as about 300 nm2 when the injection power was 10−6 W. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy was used to analyze the bridge, and it was experimentally confirmed that the oxygen content of the bridge was lower than that of the initial NiO layer. However, these bridges in the low resistance state did not show further ReRAM switching to the high resistance state inside of a TEM instrument. To check the reason of this result, we investigated samples outside of the TEM instrument, which had similar geometry to that of TEM specimens. They showed the ReRAM switching in air ambient but not in vacuum. Combining these results inside and outside of the TEM instrument, it can be concluded that the existence of oxygen around the conductive filament plays an important role. This supports the filament redox model on the ReRAM operation.
Optical and magneto-optical study of nickel and cobalt ferrite epitaxial thin films and submicron structures
Authors: Himcinschi Cameliu , Vrejoiu Ionela , Salvan Georgeta , Fronk Michael , Talkenberger Andreas , Zahn Dietrich R. T. , Rafaja David , Kortus Jens
Published: February 2013

Epitaxial films and ordered arrays of submicron structures of nickel and cobalt ferrites were deposited on Nb doped SrTiO3 by pulsed laser deposition. X-Ray diffraction and atomic force microscopy showed that the films have a good crystalline quality and smooth surfaces. A larger number of phonon bands was observed in the polarization dependent Raman spectra of the ferrite films than expected for the cubic spinel structures. This is explained by short range ordering of the Ni2+ (or Co2+) and Fe3+ cations at the octahedral sites inducing a lowering of the symmetry. The same behavior was also observed in the Raman spectra measured for the submicron structures, suggesting the same cation distribution as in the films. The diagonal components of the dielectric function for nickel and cobalt ferrites are determined from ellipsometry in the 0.73–5 eV photon energy range. The absorption edge was analyzed using a bandgap model and the energies for the indirect and direct optical transitions were calculated. It was found that both nickel and cobalt ferrites are indirect bandgap materials with bandgaps of 1.65 eV and 1.42 eV, respectively, while the first direct transitions lie at 2.69 eV and 1.95 eV, respectively. Magneto-optical Kerr effect spectroscopy in combination with spectroscopic ellipsometry allowed the off-diagonal elements of the dielectric tensor to be determined in the energy range from 1.7 eV to 5 eV.