bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of (.+‐.)‐Bimatoprost.
Authors: Harikrishna M. , Mohan H. Rama , Dubey P. K. , Shankar M. , Subbaraju Gottumukkala V.
Published: August 2012

A facile approach for the synthesis of key intermediate (V), which can be elaborated into several ophthalmic prostaglandins, is developed starting from Corey lactone.
ChemInform Abstract: Recent Progress of Multiferroic Perovskite Manganites
Authors: Dong Shuai , Liu Jun‐Ming
Published: August 2012

Review: [99 refs.]
ChemInform Abstract: Electrodeposited Magnetic Layers in the Ultrathin Limit
Authors: Allongue P. , Maroun Fouad
Published: August 2012

Review: 64 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Conjugate Additions to Vinyl‐Substituted Aromatic N‐Heterocycles
Authors: Klumpp Douglas A.
Published: August 2012

Review: ca. 80 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Alkaloid Synthesis: Indolizidines with Ease
Authors: Shapland Peter
Published: August 2012

Review: 10 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Heterogeneous Catalytic Homocoupling of Terminal Alkynes
Authors: Alonso Francisco , Yus Miguel
Published: August 2012

Review: 64 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Electrocatalytic Reduction of CO2 to Small Organic Molecule Fuels on Metal Catalysts
Authors: Li Wenzhen
Published: August 2012

Review: 81 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Self‐Assembly of Amphipathic β‐Sheet Peptides: Insights and Applications
Authors: Bowerman Charles J. , Nilsson Bradley L.
Published: August 2012

Review: 166 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Melamine Derivatives: Synthesis and Application
Authors: Bretterbauer Klaus , Schwarzinger Clemens
Published: August 2012

Review: 133 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Thiazoles, Having Diverse Biological Activities
Authors: Kashyap Shiv Jee , Garg Vipin Kumar , Sharma Pramod Kumar , Kumar Nitin , Dudhe Rupesh , Gupta Jitendra Kumar
Published: August 2012

Review: 41 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Carbolithiation of Carbon—Carbon Multiple Bonds
Authors: Lete E. , Sotomayor N.
Published: August 2012

Review: 149 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Metal Template Synthesis of Molecular Knots and Links
Authors: Beves Jonathon E.
Published: August 2012

Review: catenanes and more complex architectures; 39 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Quantum Magnetic Oscillations in Nanowires
Authors: Alexandrov A. Sasha , Kabanov Victor V. , Thomas Iorwerth O.
Published: August 2012

Review: 73 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Basic Physical Properties, Phase Behavior and Solubility
Authors: Foster Neil R. , Lucien Frank P. , Mammucari Rafaella
Published: August 2012

Review: of supercritical fluids; 88 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Design and Applications of Artificial Restriction DNA Cutters for Site‐Selective Scission of Genomes
Authors: Komiyama Makoto , Sumaoka Jun
Published: August 2012

Review: 49 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Functionalized DNA Architectures: Fluorophore Assemblies and Nanostructures
Authors: Wagenknecht Hans‐Achim
Published: August 2012

Review: 30 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Selective and Long‐Range Effects in the Radiation Chemistry of Molecular Solids and Polymers
Authors: Feldman Vladimir I.
Published: August 2012

Review: 93 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Nonlinear Photochemistry and 3D Microfabrication with Q‐Switched Nd:YAG Microchip Lasers
Authors: Baldeck Patrice L. , Scheul Teodora , Bouriau Michel , Stephan Olivier , Malval Jean‐Pierre , Lin Chih‐Lang , Lin Chin‐Te , Tseng Chang‐Li , Huang Cheng , Chung Tien‐Tung
Published: August 2012

Review: 15 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Modification of Physicochemical Characteristics of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients and Application of Supersaturatable Dosage Forms for Improving Bioavailability of Poorly Absorbed Drugs
Authors: Kawakami Kohsaku
Published: August 2012

Review: 163 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Organic—Inorganic Nanocomposite Polymer Electrolyte Membranes for Fuel Cell Applications
Authors: Tripathi Bijay P. , Shahi Vinod K.
Published: August 2012

Review: 371 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Group Contribution Methodologies for the Prediction of Thermodynamic Properties and Phase Behavior in Mixtures
Authors: Papaioannou V. , Adjiman C. S. , Jackson G. , Galindo A.
Published: August 2012

Review: 169 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Evaluation of Models for Heterogeneous Catalysis
Authors: Mantzaras John
Published: August 2012

Review: 81 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: First‐Principles Kinetic Monte Carlo Simulations for Heterogeneous Catalysis: Concepts, Status, and Frontiers
Authors: Reuter Karsten
Published: August 2012

Review: 107 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Homonuclear 3D NMR of Biomolecules
Authors: Boelens Rolf , Kaptein Robert
Published: August 2012

Review: 105 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: 2D Methods for the Measurement of Long‐Range Proton‐Carbon Coupling Constants
Authors: Parella Teodor
Published: August 2012

Review: 28 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Heteronuclear Shift Correlation Spectroscopy
Authors: Nakashima Thomas T. , McClung R. E. D.
Published: August 2012

Review: 21 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: 2D Methods of Monitoring Exchange
Authors: Orrell Keith G.
Published: August 2012

Review: 45 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: E.COSY: Determination of Coupling Constants
Authors: Schwalbe Harald , Schmidt P. , Griesinger Christian
Published: August 2012

Review: 134 refs.
Enhanced External Counterpulsation Has No Lasting Effect on Ambulatory Blood Pressure
Authors: May Ole , Khair Wael Abdulla Mohammed
Published: August 2012

Background:

Enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) has been reported to reduce blood pressure (BP) using clinic BP readings. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of a course of EECP on BP using ambulatory BP (ABP) measurements.

Hypothesis:

EECP has a lasting BP lowering effect.

Methods:

Patients referred for EECP due to refractory angina pectoris were consecutively included in the study. The ABPs were measured for 24 hours using a Spacelabs Ultralite 90217 device at 5 time points during the study period: 2 months before the EECP course, just before the EECP course, just after the EECP course, and at 3 and 12 months after EECP. Antihypertensive medication was held constant during the study period. Changes in BP were tested by repeated measures analysis.

Results:

Fifty patients were included in the study. The mean age was 63 years, and 72% were male. The Canadian Cardiovascular Society Angina Grading Scale class improved from a mean of 2.6 to 1.5. The mean daytime ABPs were 114/69, 114/70, 115/71, 114/70, and 116/71 mm Hg and the mean nighttime ABPs were 107/63, 108/63, 106/62, 108/63, and 107/62 mm Hg at 2 months before the EECP course, just before the EECP course, just after the EECP course, and at 3 and 12 months after EECP, respectively (all P > 0.10). Further, when controlling for quartiles of baseline ABP level, no significant change in ABP was found.

Conclusions:

Enhanced external counterpulsation treatment has no lasting effect on ABP.

The study was supported by a grant from the Danish Heart Foundation (grant no. 06‐10‐B551‐A1204‐22346) and from “Ringkøbing Amts Sundhedsvidenskabelige Forskningsfond.” The authors have no other funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.
Spontaneous glycine‐induced calcium transients in spinal cord progenitors promote neurogenesis
Authors: Brustein Edna , Côté Sébastien , Ghislain Julien , Drapeau Pierre
Published: August 2012

Glycine and GABA are depolarizing during early development, but the purpose of this paradoxical chloride‐mediated depolarization remains unclear, especially at early stages. It was previously reported that suppressing glycine signaling from the beginning of development in zebrafish embryos caused an abnormal maintenance of the progenitor population and a specific reduction of spinal interneurons but not of other cell populations. Here, we show that cells including progenitors in the embryonic spinal cord had occasional spontaneous, glycine‐mediated calcium transients that were blocked by the glycine antagonist strychnine and the L‐type calcium channel blocker nifedipine. As shown previously for chronic block by strychnine, block of these transients by nifedipine reduced interneuron differentiation. Our results indicate that glycinergic depolarization of neural progenitors evokes spontaneous calcium transients that may enhance the interneuron neurogenic program. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2013
Choice of hydrogen uptake (Hup) status in legume‐rhizobia symbioses
Authors: Annan Henry , Golding Amber‐Leigh , Zhao Yinping , Dong Zhongmin
Published: August 2012

The
H

2 is an obligate by‐product of N‐fixation. Recycling of
H

2 through uptake hydrogenase (Hup) inside the root nodules of leguminous plants is often considered an advantage for plants. However, many of the rhizobium‐legume symbioses found in nature, especially those used in agriculture are shown to be Hup−, with the plants releasing
H

2 produced by nitrogenase activity from root nodules into the surrounding rhizosphere. Recent studies have suggested that,
H

2 induces plant‐growth‐promoting rhizobacteria, which may explain the widespread of Hup− symbioses in spite of the low energy efficiency of such associations. Wild legumes grown in Nova Scotia, Canada, were surveyed to determine if any plant‐growth characteristics could give an indication of Hup choice in leguminous plants. Out of the plants sampled, two legumes,
Securigera varia and
Vicia cracca, showed Hup+ associations.
Securigera varia exhibited robust root structure as compared with the other plants surveyed. Data from the literature and the results from this study suggested that plants with established root systems are more likely to form the energy‐efficient Hup+ symbiotic relationships with rhizobia. Conversely, Hup− associations could be beneficial to leguminous plants due to
H

2‐oxidizing plant‐growth‐promoting rhizobacteria that allow plants to compete successfully, early in the growing season. However, some nodules from
V. cracca tested Hup+, while others were Hup−. This was similar to that observed in
Glycine max and
Pisum sativum, giving reason to believe that Hup choice might be affected by various internal and environmental factors.
Unsaturated Organic Derivatives of Phosphaferrocene – Synthesis and Reactivity of Vinyl‐ and Alkynylphosphaferrocenes
Authors: Faßbender Julia , Frank Walter , Ganter Christian
Published: August 2012

Starting from 2‐formyl‐3,4‐dimethylphosphaferrocene, a series of vinyl‐substituted phosphaferrocenes was prepared by Wittig and related olefination reactions. The parent 3,4‐dimethyl‐2‐vinylphosphaferrocene (2) could be selectively converted to either the terminal or branched alcohols 8b and 8a by hydroboration/oxidation or protonation in aqueous solution, respectively. Elimination of HBr from 2‐bromovinylphosphaferrocene 9 provided access to the 2‐ethynylphosphaferrocene derivative 10, which could be converted to other alkynes by deprotonation and electrophilic quench. Additionally, the syntheses of the 2‐cyano‐ (15) and 2‐(ethoxycarbonyl)phosphaferrocene derivative 13 are reported. Several new phosphaferrocenes were converted into their respective Fe(CO)4 complexes, which were investigated by IR spectroscopy. The CO stretching vibrations were found to depend on the nature of the substituent in the 2‐position and the cyano compound 15 was identified as the least electron‐donating ligand. Reaction of the alkynylphosphaferrocenes 10 and 11 with Co2(CO)8 afforded the respective dimetallatetrahedrane complexes 24 and 25. The molecular structures of compounds 12, 21 and 25 have been determined by X‐ray diffraction analysis.
Synthesis and Reactivity of the 3‐Substituted Isoindolinone Framework to Assemble Highly Functionalized Related Structures
Authors: Petronzi Carmen , Collarile Selene , Croce Gianluca , Filosa Rosanna , De Caprariis Paolo , Peduto Antonella , Palombi Laura , Intintoli Valentina , Di Mola Antonia , Massa Antonio
Published: August 2012

An efficient potassium carbonate‐catalyzed synthesis of 3‐substituted isoindolinones through tandem aldol/cyclization reactions of active methylene compounds with 2‐cyanobenzaldehyde is described. The utility of the obtained isoindolinones has been demonstrated through an exploration of the chemical space by employing a series of interesting methodologies that led to diverse, highly functionalized compounds. Among them, a surprisingly straightforward potassiumcarbonate‐catalyzed double tandem reaction led to tricyclic hemiaminal derivatives.
Configurationally Stable Tris(tetrathioaryl)methyl Molecular Propellers
Authors: Driesschaert Benoît , Robiette Raphaël , Le Duff Cécile S. , Collard Laurent , Robeyns Koen , Gallez Bernard , Marchand‐Brynaert Jacqueline
Published: August 2012

Tris(tetrathioaryl)methanols and tris(tetrathioaryl)methanes are direct precursors and metabolites, respectively, of tris(tetrathioaryl)methyl radicals, which are very attractive paramagnetic spin probes for many magnetic resonance applications. Due to steric hindrance, these propeller‐shaped molecules display slow interconversion between their two enantiomeric conformations (right‐handed and left‐handed propeller conformations). Syntheses and HPLC resolutions carried out on a chiral stationary phase have been achieved. The influence of the hybridization of the central carbon atom as well as the para substitutient on the conformational stability were experimentally and theoretically studied. Depending on their particular structure, the free activation energy for the isomerization process determined by kinetics of racemization varies from 24.4 to 26.4 kcal mol–1 and corresponds to racemization half‐lives of 12 and 343 h, respectively. Computational and NOESY/exchange spectroscopy (EXSY) studies are consistent with a two‐ring flip mechanism for the isomerization process of tris(tetrathioaryl)methanols, radicals and tris(tetrathioaryl)methanes.
The occurrence of genetic polymorphism and related non‐allelic proteins increases the compositional complexity of goat α(s1)‐CN
Authors: Garro Giuseppina , Ferranti Pasquale , De Pascale Sabrina , Nicolai Maria Adalgisa , Mauriello Rosalba , Quarto Maria , Pilla Fabio , Chianese Lina
Published: August 2012

A genetic survey on three autochthonous goat breeds reared in Italy was carried out by a proteomic approach. This methodology, further to providing the phenotypic frequency of identified αs1 genetic variants, allowed to determine (i) the additional constitutive presence of a non‐allelic ‘αs1‐casein (CN) F like’ protein in goat ‘strong’ αs1 variants; (ii) an αs1‐CN B2 like protein, expressed at very low quantitative level, in goat ‘weak’ αs1‐CN variants, and, as main focus; (iii) the occurrence of a new αs1‐CN D1 variant characterised by the lack of αs1 (f59‐69) sequence otherwise encoded by exon 9 in goat αs1 B2 reference. The same exon skipping event had been identified since 1990, as responsible of the ‘weak quantitative class’ of αs1‐CN D variant (0.6 g/L), while the new αs1‐CN D1, has been ‘quantitatively’ classified as an ‘intermediate’ variant, since 1.8 g/L per allele was assessed in the milk.
Enzyme stabilization by nano/microsized hybrid materials
Authors: Hwang Ee Taek , Gu Man Bock
Published: August 2012

Immobilization is a key technology for successful realization of enzyme‐based industrial processes, particularly for production of green and sustainable energy or chemicals from biomass‐derived catalytic conversion. Different methods to immobilize enzymes are critically reviewed. In principle, enzymes are immobilized via three major routes (i) binding to a support, (ii) encapsulation or entrapment, or (iii) cross‐linking (carrier free). As a result, immobilizing enzymes on certain supports can enhance storage and operational stability. In addition, recent breakthroughs in nano and hybrid technology have made various materials more affordable hosts for enzyme immobilization. This review discusses different approaches to improve enzyme stability in various materials such as nanoparticles, nanofibers, mesoporous materials, sol–gel silica, and alginate‐based microspheres. The advantages of stabilized enzyme systems are from its simple separation and ease recovery for reuse, while maintaining activity and selectivity. This review also considers the latest studies conducted on different enzymes immobilized on various support materials with immense potential for biosensor, antibiotic production, food industry, biodiesel production, and bioremediation, because stabilized enzyme systems are expected to be environmental friendly, inexpensive, and easy to use for enzyme‐based industrial applications.
Development of earthquake vulnerability functions for tall buildings
Authors: Jayaram Nirmal , Shome Nilesh , Rahnama Mohsen
Published: August 2012

This study focuses on the development of vulnerability functions for tall buildings. A systematic simulation approach based on the Pacific Earthquake Engineering Research loss assessment framework is used to develop building vulnerability functions that provide estimates of losses to buildings under ground motions of various intensities. The steps involved in the procedure are: quantifying ground‐motion hazard using a vector of spectral accelerations; predicting building response parameters such as story drifts, floor accelerations, and residual drifts under the quantified hazard; accounting for structural collapse and demolition; and predicting story‐wise losses and total building loss using the building response information. Emphasis is placed on capturing the effects of epistemic and aleatory uncertainties in random variables, such as ground motions, structural response parameters, loss costs, etc., to quantify the uncertainty in the final loss estimate. The risk assessment approach is used for developing vulnerability functions for six tall buildings, namely, 20‐story and 40‐story steel moment resisting frame buildings based on 1973 and 2006 codes, a 42‐story concrete core wall building and a 42‐story concrete dual system building. The vulnerability functions are used to perform loss assessments for individual buildings assumed to be located in Los Angeles. The vulnerability and the loss assessment procedures are illustrated in detail for the 2006 20‐story steel moment frame building, and a summary of the final loss estimates are provided for all other buildings. It is seen that epistemic uncertainties in both ground motion hazard and building vulnerability cause significant epistemic uncertainties in the loss assessment results. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
GenomicBCR‐ABL1breakpoints in pediatric chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Krumbholz Manuela , Karl Matthias , Tauer Josephine T. , Thiede Christian , Rascher Wolfgang , Suttorp Meinolf , Metzler Markus
Published: August 2012

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a rare disease in children and adolescents and various aspects—from molecular genesis to therapy regimen—have been taken over from studies on the more prevalent adult CML. However, differences have been observed between malignancies with identical underlying chromosomal translocations, but occurring at different age groups, suggesting some diversity in the mechanisms of formation and leukemogenesis. A multiplex long‐range PCR‐based assay was developed to allow fast and reliable amplification of patient‐specificBCR‐ABL1fusion sequences from genomic DNA. The localization of breakpoints was analyzed with respect to distribution within the breakpoint cluster regions, sequence features, and association to repetitive elements or motifs associated with DNA recombination. The genomic fusion sites of 59 pediatric CML patients showed a bimodal breakpoint distribution inBCRthat was different from the distribution in adult CML cases, but with similarities toBCR‐ABL1‐positive, acute lymphoblastic leukemia in adults.BCRbreakpoints were found more frequently positioned within, or close to,Alurepeats than would be expected based on their overall sequence proportion. Technical aspects of the highly sensitive DNA‐based quantification of residual CML cells by specific fusion sequence during tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy are exemplified in a subcohort of pediatric CML patients. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Carers for older people with co‐morbid cognitive impairment in general hospital: characteristics and psychological well‐being
Authors: Bradshaw Lucy E. , Goldberg Sarah E. , Schneider Justine M. , Harwood Rowan H.
Published: August 2012

Objective

This analysis sought to describe the characteristics and well‐being of carers of older people with mental health problems admitted to a general hospital.

Methods

General medical and trauma orthopaedic patients aged 70 years or older admitted to an acute general teaching hospital were screened for mental health problems. Those screened positive, together with a carer, were invited to undergo further assessment with a battery of health status measurements. Carers were interviewed to ascertain strain (caregiver strain index (CSI)), psychological distress (12‐item General Health Questionnaire) and quality of life (EQ‐5D).

Results

We recruited 250 patients to the study, of whom 180 were cognitively impaired and had carers willing to take part. After 6 months, 57 patients (32%) had died, and we followed up 100 carers. Carers' own health, in terms of mobility, usual activities, and anxiety, was poor in a third of cases. At the time of admission, high carer strain was common (42% with CSI ≥ 7), particularly among co‐resident carers (55%). High levels of behavioural and psychiatric symptoms at baseline were associated with more carer strain and distress. At follow‐up, carer strain and distress had reduced only slightly, with no difference in outcomes for carers of patients who moved from the community to a care home.

Conclusion

Hospital staff should be alert to sources of carer strain and offer carers practical advice and emotional support. Interventions are required to prevent and manage behavioural and psychiatric symptoms at the time of acute physical illness or to alleviate their effects on carers. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Acute effects of a low‐dose atropine/scopolamine mixture as a food contaminant in human volunteers
Authors: Perharič Lucija , Juvan Katja Ažman , Stanovnik Lovro
Published: August 2012

To verify the assumptions in our previous risk assessment of an atropine/scopolamine mixture in buckwheat flour, we performed a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled cross‐over study in 20 healthy, adult volunteers. The volunteers ingested a traditional Slovenian buckwheat meal, made of boiled buckwheat flour to which alkaloids were added. In addition to the placebo they ingested 0.12/0.10, 0.37/0.29, 1.22/0.95, 3.58/2.81 and 12.10/9.50 µg kg–1 body mass (BM) of the atropine/scopolamine mixture. The changes in body temperature, heart rate, salivary and sweat secretion, pupil size, near‐point vision and subjective symptoms were recorded regularly for 4 h after the ingestion. Decreased salivary and sweat secretion, increased heart rate and pupil size and reduced near‐point vision accompanied by characteristic subjective symptoms were observed at 12.10/9.50 µg kg–1 BM. At doses of 0.37/0.29 and 1.22/0.95 µg kg–1 BM, a significant decrease in the heart rate was noted, which we consider to be a critical effect of a low‐dose exposure to the atropine/scopolamine mixture. Although this did not have any clinical relevance in our subjects, it may have serious implications if it occurred in people with pre‐existent cardiac conditions or those on medications that may cause bradycardia. No significant changes in the observed end points were noted at 0.12/0.10 µg kg–1 BM. We estimate that the NOAEL (No Observed Adverse Effect Level) for the atropine/scopolamine mixture lies between the lower two administered doses. Applying the uncertainty factor of 10, we propose a new provisional Acute Reference Doses (ARfDs) of the mixture, i.e. 0.01 µg kg–1 BM for each alkaloid, and a further refinement using higher‐tier approaches. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Formulation and evaluation of in situ forming PLA implant containing tinidazole for the treatment of periodontitis
Authors: Qin Yuyue , Yuan Minglong , Li Lin , Li Wei , Xue Jing
Published: August 2012

Periodontitis is caused by periodontopathic bacteria and antibacterial agents are placed in a periodontal pocket with the intention of enhancing the local effect. To maximize the therapeutic effects while reducing the adverse effects, tinidazole was delivered by in situ forming system. One approach for reducing burst release rate was to testify in situ forming effect. The effect of 0%–10% (w/w) polyethylene glycol 400 and 3% (w/w) glycerol on the tinidazole release from a poly(DL‐lactide) (PLA) injectable implant was evaluated. The results showed that the in vitro initial burst release rate was decreased in the presence of poly(ethyleneglycol) PEG 400 and glycerol. A formulation containing 30% (w/w) PLA (Mw 7300) dissolved in 62% (w/w) N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone, 5% (w/w) PEG 400, and 3%(w/w) glycerol with 5% (w/w) tinidazole was shown to be optimum. Twelve adult beagle dogs were used in the periodontitis model. The treatment group I, II, and positive control group was administrated with gel containing 5%(w/w) tinidazole, 2.5%(w/w) tinidazole, and periocline, respectively. Dog studies revealed that periocline and the developed formulation could significantly decrease symptoms of periodontitis, and they were better than gel containing 2.5% (w/w) tinidazole. The developed formulation could sustain the release of tinidazole for local delivery over 7 days. These findings suggested that the developed formulation was a viable alternative to conventional drug to cure periodontitis. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2012.
Metal‐Nanoparticle Catalyzed Hydrogen Generation from Liquid‐Phase Chemical Hydrogen Storage Materials
Authors: Li Pei‐Zhou , Xu Qiang
Published: August 2012

Due to the diversified merits of hydrogen energy, the search for applicable hydrogen storage materials to satisfy the increasing demand for the efficient and sufficient clean energy supply has become extremely important. Aqueous ammonia borane, hydrazine, and formic acid have been extensively investigated as promising hydrogen storage materials based on their relatively high hydrogen contents. Significant advances have been made in the metal nanoparticle‐catalyzed hydrogen generation from hydrolysis of ammonia borane and selective decomposition of hydrous hydrazine and formic acid.
Quaternary‐ammonium Based Ionic Liquid Mixed with Organic Solvent Electrolyte System
Authors: Lin Chun‐Yun , Chang Chia‐Chin
Published: August 2012

Ionic liquids (ILs) have been proposed as electrolytes for long‐lived and safe LIBs, since they are nonflammability and have low volatility. The interactions between of cathodes (as olivine LiFePO4 or layered LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2 (NMC)) and ionic liquid mixed with organic solvent electrolyte were investigated by cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), coin cell test, and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The mixed electrolyte contains ethylene carbonate (EC), dimethyl carbonate (DMC) and ionic liquid such as bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (TFSI) and tetraethylammonium (N2222). The results show that the LiFePO4 cathode in this mixed electrolyte had better cycling performance than the NMC cathode.
Synthesis of Porous Si Particles by Metal‐assisted Chemical Etching for Li‐ion Battery Application
Authors: Lin Chun‐Chieh , Yen Yu‐Chan , Wu Hung‐Chun , Wu Nae‐Lih
Published: August 2012

As an anode for Li‐ion batteries, Si has a high theoretical capacity but suffers from dramatic volume variations during cycles of lithiation/de‐lithiation (L/D). Attempt is made to increase cycle stability of Si electrode by incorporating “pre‐set” voids into the electrode matrix to partially accommodate volume expansion. A metal‐assisted chemical etching (MACE) method, in which Si is partially etched in the solution containing AgNO3 and HF, has been evaluated for synthesize porous Si particles. It has been found that the particle porosity exhibits complex dependence on etching time, oxidant concentration and temperature. Porous Si particles containing predominantly mesopores have been produced by the MACE method, but the maximumporosity has been limited to be ca. 25%. The resulting porous Si is subsequently coated with a C layer and subjected to cycles of electrochemical L/D. The C‐coated porous Si electrode exhibits high capacity and remarkably improved cycle stability as compared with non‐porous Si electrode.
First μ‐CT‐based 3d reconstruction of a dipteran larva—the head morphology of protanyderus (tanyderidae) and its phylogenetic implications
Authors: Wipfler Benjamin , Courtney Greg W. , Craig, Douglas A. , Beutel Rolf G.
Published: August 2012

Cover illustration. The cover image shows the head of a larval Protanyderus spec., a representative of the ancestral dipteran Tanyderidae. The image is a sagittally sectioned reconstruction with foregut, muscles and brain. In this study by Wipfler et al. (pp. 968–980) a detailed documentation of the head structures using innovative morphological methods, especially μ‐computer tomography combined with 3D reconstruction, is presented and the morphological data are used to solve a long standing phylogenetic problem of basal relationship among Diptera.
The mural paintings of Ala di Stura (Piedmont, Italy): a hidden treasure investigated
Authors: Aceto Maurizio , Gatti Giorgio , Agostino Angelo , Fenoglio Gaia , Giordano Valentina , Varetto Michelangelo , Castagneri Giorgio
Published: August 2012

In the small mountain hamlet of Ala di Stura (Piedmont, Lanzo Valleys), a large but relatively unknown artistic heritage is present, made of 110 mural paintings divided among meridians and paintings with religious themes. These artworks are datable among XVI and XXI century. To support the work of touristic promotion carried out by the Commune of Ala di Stura, micro samples have been withdrawn from the most relevant artworks in order to execute Raman and scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive X‐ray (SEM‐EDX) analysis and to have useful information concerning conservation, dating and global knowledge on the artworks themselves that are little known outside Piedmont. Analyses allowed to elucidate phenomena of chromatic alteration (changing of lead pigments), to individuate pigments acting as time markers (synthetic ultramarine blue, arsenical green pigments) and to have information on the origin and exploitation of pictorial materials used by the artists who worked in Ala di Stura. Of particular interest is the fact that all pigments identified in the older paintings, and many among those identified in the newer ones, could be derived from minerals sources present in the Lanzo Valleys, among which is olivenite, a rare copper arsenate used as a green pigment that has rarely cited in the scientific literature. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A compact optical parametric oscillator Raman microscope for wavelength‐tunable multianalytic microanalysis
Authors: Londero Pablo , Lombardi John R. , Leona Marco
Published: August 2012

We have developed a high‐throughput microscope for wavelength‐tunable microscopic studies of materials by Raman, surface‐enhanced Raman, fluorescence, and reflectance spectroscopy. Narrow‐band excitation over a broad tuning range (410–2200 nm) is provided by a solid‐state, compact, and relatively inexpensive new class of diode‐pumped Nd:YAG optical parametric oscillator emitting approximately 1‐mJ, 10‐ns pulses at a rate up to 100 Hz. Rayleigh rejection over the tuning range is obtained with an array of angle‐tuned custom dielectric filters. Although high‐power, low duty‐cycle light sources have so far had only very limited use for tunable Raman and surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy, we show that undesirable nonlinear effects that arise from the high peak power of the output can be mitigated to produce good results with the proper choice of additional microscope elements. Measurements can be performed across the visible range with 20% sample‐to‐detector throughput and 10 cm−1 resolution. The system is also fitted with a fiber optic imaging system to perform fluorescence and reflectance spectroscopy measurements with a spatial resolution of 5 µm. We demonstrate the instrument's analytical capabilities by recording resonance Raman and surface‐enhanced Raman emissions from a commercial lake pigment and crystal violet, respectively, colorants of interest in cultural heritage studies and forensic science. We also isolate and measure the reflectance spectrum of a commercial lake pigment and the ultraviolet fluorescence spectrum of a single fiber of cochineal‐dyed silk. The tunability, flexibility, compactness, and spatial resolution of the device provide novel capability for multianalytic materials research in fields such as forensic science and cultural heritage studies. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simultaneous determination of seven major diterpenoids in Siegesbeckia pubescensMakino by high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with evaporative light scattering detection
Authors: Huo Linan , Jiang Zhen , Li Huining , Wang Mingsheng , Ye Xiaoxia , Ji Bin , Guo Xingjie
Published: August 2012

A novel HPLC method with evaporative light scattering detection was developed for the simultaneous quantification of seven major diterpenoids of two types, including ent‐pimarane type: Kirenol, Hythiemoside B, Darutigenol, and ent‐kaurane type: ent‐16β,17,18‐trihydroxy‐kauran‐19‐oic acid, ent‐17,18‐dihydroxy‐kauran‐19‐oic acid, ent‐16β,17‐dihydroxy‐kauran‐19‐oic acid, 16α‐hydro‐ent‐kauran‐17,19‐dioic acid in the aerial parts of Siegesbeckia pubescens Makino, an important traditional Chinese medicinal herb. Chromatographic separation was achieved on a Waters Symmetry ShieldTM RP18 column (250 mm× 4.6 mm id, 5 μm) with a gradient mobile phase (A: 0.3% v/v aqueous formic acid and B: acetonitrile) at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. The drift tube temperature of evaporative light scattering detection was set at 103°C, and nitrogen flow rate was 3.0 L/min. The method was validated for accuracy, precision, LOD, and LOQ. All calibration curves showed a good linear relationship (r > 0.999) in test range. Precision was evaluated by intra‐ and interday tests that showed RSDs were less than 3.5%. Accuracy validation showed that the recovery was between 96.5 and 102.0% with RSDs below 2.8%. The validated method was successfully applied to determine the contents of seven diterpenoids in the different parts of Siegesbeckia pubescens Makino from two sources and to determine the contents of ent‐pimarane, ent‐kaurane, and total diterpenoids.
Determination of desipramine in biological samples using liquid–liquid–liquid microextraction combined with in‐syringe derivatization, gas chromatography, and nitrogen/phosphorus detection
Authors: Saraji Mohammad , Mehrafza Narges , Bidgoli Ali Akbar Hajialiakbari , Jafari Mohammad Taghi
Published: August 2012

A method was established for the determination of desipramine in biological samples using liquid–liquid–liquid microextraction followed by in‐syringe derivatization and gas chromatography–nitrogen phosphorus detection. The extraction method was based on the use of two immiscible organic solvents. n‐Dodecane was impregnated in the pores of the hollow fiber and methanol was placed inside the lumen of the fiber as the acceptor phase. Acetic anhydride was used as the reagent for the derivatization of the analyte inside the syringe barrel. Parameters that affect the extraction efficiency (composition of donor and acceptor phase, ionic strength, sample temperature, and extraction time) as well as derivatization efficiency (amount of acetic anhydride and reaction time and temperature) were investigated. The limit of detection was 0.02 μg/L with intra and interday RSDs of 2.6 and 7.7%, respectively. The linearity of the method was in the range of 0.2–20 μg/L (r2 = 0.9986). The method was successfully applied to determine desipramine in human plasma and urine.
Evaluation of the suitability of low hazard surfactants for the separation of phenols and carotenoids from red‐flesh orange juice and olive mill wastewater using cloud point extraction
Authors: Katsoyannos Evagelos , Gortzi Olga , Chatzilazarou Arhontoula , Athanasiadis Vasilios , Tsaknis John , Lalas Stavros
Published: August 2012

Natural antioxidants derived from plant sources attract considerable scientific interest. While classic extraction methods consume high volumes of toxic organic solvents, cloud point extraction requires surfactant not exceeding 15% of the waste volume. In preliminary tests, the suitability of various low hazard surfactants (Span 20, PEG 400, Tween 80 and 20) was explored for separation of phenols and carotenoids from olive mill wastewater and red‐flesh orange juice. Tween 80 showed the highest recovery and further applied to the next experiments. The most appropriate surfactant concentrations were 5% (for olive mill wastewater) and 7% (for orange juice) as indicated by recovery % and the rest cloud point extraction parameters (analyte concentration, concentration factor, and phase volume ratio). A double step CPE with 5% + 5% of Tween 80 recovered up to 94.4% of the total phenols from olive mill wastewater, while a 7% + 7% of Tween 80 recovered up to 72.4% of the total carotenoids from orange juice. Evaluation of the final effects and extraction efficiency of single and double step cloud point extraction shows that double step scheme seems to be preferable in both cases. Finally, phenols and carotenoids recovered by Tween 80 maintained high antiradical activity (DPPH test).
Synthesis and Characterization of Stereo Multiblock Poly(lactic acid)s with Different Block Lengths by Melt Polycondensation of Poly(L‐lactic acid)/Poly(D‐lactic acid) Blends
Authors: Rahaman Md. Hafezur , Tsuji Hideto
Published: August 2012

Stereo multiblock PLAs with different block lengths are synthesized by melt polycondensation of low‐molecular‐weight poly(L‐lactic acid)/poly(D‐lactic acid) blends with a wide variety of $\overline {M} _{{\rm w}} $ in the range of 1.1–5.2 × 103 g · mol–1. The average block length (νav) of the stereo multiblock PLAs increases with increasing $\overline {M} _{{\rm w}} $ of the blend and with the reaction temperature, whereas $\overline {M} _{{\rm w}} $ and PDI of the stereo multiblock PLAs increases with increasing $\overline {M} _{{\rm w}} $ of the blend, the reaction time, and the temperature. Stereo multiblock PLAs with νav > 7 are crystallizable to form stereocomplex crystallites, and the crystallinity and melting temperature of the stereo multiblock PLAs increases with increasing νav and $\overline {M} _{{\rm w}} $ of the stereo multiblock PLAs.

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A phase I trial of vorinostat and bortezomib in children with refractory or recurrent solid tumors: A Children's Oncology Group phase I consortium study (ADVL0916)
Authors: Muscal Jodi A. , Thompson Patrick A. , Horton Terzah M. , Ingle Ashish M. , Ahern Charlotte H. , McGovern Renee M. , Reid Joel M. , Ames Matthew M. , Espinoza‐Delgado Igor , Weigel Brenda J. , Blaney Susan M.
Published: August 2012

Background

A pediatric Phase I trial was performed to determine the maximum‐tolerated dose, dose‐limiting toxicities (DLTs), and pharmacokinetics (PK) of vorinostat and bortezomib, in patients with solid tumors.

Procedure

Oral vorinostat was administered on days 1–5 and 8–12 of a 21‐day cycle (starting dose 180 mg/m2/day with dose escalations to 230 and 300 mg/m2/day). Bortezomib (1.3 mg/m2 i.v.) was administered on days 1, 4, 8, and 11 of the same cycle. PK and correlative biology studies were performed during Cycle 1.

Results

Twenty‐three eligible patients [17 male, median age 12 years (range: 1–20)] were enrolled of whom 17 were fully evaluable for toxicity. Cycle 1 DLTs that occurred in 2/6 patients at dose level 3 (vorinostat 300 mg/m2/day) were Grade 2 sensory neuropathy that progressed to Grade 4 (n = 1) and Grade 3 nausea and anorexia (n = 1). No objective responses were observed. There was wide interpatient variability in vorinostat PK parameters. Bortezomib disposition was best described by a three‐compartment model that demonstrated rapid distribution followed by prolonged elimination. We did not observe a decrease in nuclear factor‐κB activity or Grp78 induction after bortezomib treatment in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from solid tumor patients.

Conclusion

The recommended Phase 2 dose and schedule is vorinostat (230 mg/m2/day PO on days 1–5 and 8–12) in combination with bortezomib (1.3 mg/m2/day i.v. on days 1, 4, 8, and 11 of a 21‐day cycle) in children with recurrent or refractory solid tumors. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013; 60: 390–395. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The aspect ratio of epoxy matrix nanocomposites reinforced with graphene stacks
Authors: Corcione Carola Esposito , Freuli Fabrizio , Maffezzoli Alfonso
Published: August 2012

The improvement of physical and mechanical properties of nanofilled matrices significantly depends on the average size of dispersed fillers. In particular, the aspect ratio of lamellar nanofillers, such as graphene stacks, results from a combination of both filler morphology and processing techniques. In this study, nanocomposites were obtained dispersing three different graphene precursors in an epoxy resin: expanded graphite, commercial graphene nanoplatelets, and natural graphite. Epoxy matrix nanocomposites reinforced with graphene stacks, ranging from 1 wt% to 3 wt% were prepared and characterized. The structural, mechanical, and thermal properties of expanded graphite‐based nanocomposites, as well as the rheological properties of liquid resin/filler suspensions, were studied and compared with those of the unfilled epoxy matrix and of the matrix filled with natural graphite and commercial nanoplatelets. The comparison of mechanical and rheological properties with simple mathematical models indicated that the aspect ratio of expanded graphite is in the order of 1000, i.e., a dispersion of nanoscale graphene stacks was obtained. This result suggests that the measurement of engineering properties of nanocomposites not only represents an objective but can also provide information about the average degree of dispersion. POLYM. ENG. SCI. 2013. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Capillary electrophoresis‐mass spectrometry for analysis of complex samples
Authors: Zhao Shuai Sherry , Zhong Xuefei , Tie Cai , Chen David D.Y.
Published: August 2012

CE features superior separation efficiency, small solvent consumption, as well as the ability to analyze most biomolecules with an open tube fused‐silica column. When coupled with MS, the separation power of CE is enhanced by adding another separation dimension based on mass‐to‐charge ratios. CE‐MS reduces the dependence on CE separation so that faster analysis can be achieved. It also yields higher sensitivity as well as the capability for analyte identification and structural elucidation. The use of CE‐MS for biomolecule analysis has increased significantly in the last 5 years. New methods are being developed for large molecules, while analyses of smaller molecules are moving toward the study in more complex tissues and other matrices. In this article, the applications of CE‐ESI‐MS for complex samples in 2007–2011 are reviewed. The applications are categorized according to the types of analytes studied, including the analysis for proteins and peptides, carbohydrates, and small biomolecules. Sample preparation methods, coatings for capillary inner wall, online processing strategies, and other aspects are also reviewed in each category.
Expression of proton‐coupled oligopeptide transporter (POTs) in prostate of mice and patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer (PCa)
Authors: Sun Dongli , Tan Fuqing , Fang Danbo , Wang Yuqing , Zeng Su , Jiang Huidi
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND

Proton‐coupled oligopeptide transporters (POTs) serve as integral membrane protein for the cellular uptake of di/tripeptide. Prostate has a large requirement of nutriment for its function to produce and secrete prostatic fluid. Besides, prostate suffered from limited therapy effect of drug treatment. Thus present study was performed to evaluate the expression of POTs in prostate of mice and human with the aim to provide information for potential role of POTs in absorption of nutriment and peptidomimetic drugs in prostate.

METHODS

Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and Western blot methods were applied to study the mRNA, protein expression of POTs in prostate, human prostate cancer cells (PC‐3), and human prostate epithelial cells (RWPE‐1).

RESULTS

qRT‐PCR study showed different characteristic of POTs mRNA expression in mouse prostate. Among these transporters, protein expression of PepT2 was detected and increasing during the development of mouse prostate, while PepT1, PHT1, and PHT2 protein was not detected. Furthermore, different characteristic of regulation by inflammation on POTs mRNA expression was found in RWPE‐1 and PC‐3. In addition, mRNA expression of PepT2 and PHT1 in prostate of patients with PCa was demonstrated be lower compared with BPH.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings provide the first evidence for the expression of POTs in prostate of mice and patients with BPH or PCa and suggest that POTs are likely to play a role in the transport of di/tripeptides and peptidomimetics in prostate. Prostate 73: 287–295, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Management of preschool children presenting with wheeze
Authors: Paul Siba Prosad , O'Keeffe Paul
Published: August 2012

Our series Prescribing in children gives practical advice on the management of childhood problems in general practice. Here, the authors discuss the recommended management of wheezing in preschool children.
Improvements in the stratospheric transport achieved by a chemistry transport model with ECMWF (re)analyses: identifying effects and remaining challenges
Authors: Monge‐Sanz B. M. , Chipperfield M. P. , Dee D. P. , Simmons A. J. , Uppala S. M.
Published: August 2012

Stratospheric simulations from a chemistry transport model (CTM) are used to evaluate the stratospheric Brewer–Dobson circulation and mixing processes in different datasets produced by the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). A comparison between ERA‐40 and ERA‐Interim shows that the recent ECMWF reanalysis greatly improves on past problems detected for ERA‐40. CTM simulations with ERA‐Interim provide improved age‐of‐air distributions, in very good agreement with observations in the lower stratosphere. In a multiannual model run (1990–2009), we find a small but statistically significant increasing trend in age over Northern Hemisphere midlatitudes above 24 km. This is in contrast with most model results in existing literature, but in agreement with recent studies based on SF6 and CO2 observations. Lagrangian calculations also show that the constraint of vertical and horizontal mixing has been very significantly improved in the new ECMWF dataset. Causes of the improvements achieved by the new reanalysis are explored, revealing the roles that the assimilation technique and the analysis frequency play in the successful description of stratospheric transport. The implementation of correction techniques such as the use of forecasts is shown to have a smaller effect in CTM simulations with ERA‐Interim than in those with ERA‐40. The effect of using winds from the ECMWF data assimilation system (DAS) or from the underlying general circulation model (GCM) is also contrasted. For this, the CTM uses a set of ECMWF GCM winds from a free‐running model version equivalent to the system employed to produce ERA‐40. The GCM winds were archived every 12 h, which also allows an evaluation of the CTM analysis read‐in frequency effects on stratospheric transport. Some of the problems attributed in the past to data assimilation, such as the excess of vertical mixing in the lower stratosphere, are here shown to be caused also by too low read‐in frequencies in the CTM simulations. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society