bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Second generation bio‐energy sources: School experiments and conceptual approaches for secondary education for the examples of biogas and hydrothermal carbonization
Authors: Jaeckel Maren Stine , Parchmann Ilka
Published: July 2010

In diesem Artikel werden zwei Umwandlungsmöglichkeiten von Biomasse in Treibstoffe mit höherer Energiedichte theoretisch vorgestellt und experimentelle Erarbeitungsmöglichkeiten für die Schulchemie aufgezeigt. Die konzeptionelle Einbindung erfolgt anhand der Gestaltung eines Seminarfachkurses, welcher unter dem Titel „Die Energieversorgung heute und morgen“ an mehreren Schulen der Region Oldenburg erprobt wurde.
The relationship between corporate governance and corporate social behavior: a structural equation model analysis
Authors: Sánchez José Luis Fernández , Sotorrío Ladislao Luna , Díez Elisa Baraibar
Published: July 2010

This paper extends previous research in corporate social responsibility from a corporate governance perspective. Through a two‐step procedure, this research develops a measurement model to measure the unobservable variable of social sensibility of corporate governance (SSCG) and tests empirically the effect of this variable on corporate social behavior using a structural model. Both models are estimated applying Full Information Maximum Likelihood (FIML) and Bayesian methods for the 125 listed companies of the Spanish Continuous Stock Market. Two important conclusions are obtained of this research: first, a firm's SSCG can be measured through two different factors (the independence and pluralism of Boards and the ownership power), and second, there is a direct relationship between the firm's social sensibility of corporate governance and its social behavior. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Covalent Attachment of Aromatic Diisocyanate to the Sidewalls of Single‐ and Double‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Jung Yong Chae , Muramatsu Hiroyuki , Hayashi Takuya , Kim Jin Hee , Kim Yoong Ahm , Endo Morinobu , Dresselhaus Mildred S.
Published: July 2010

We carried out covalent functionalization of single‐ and double‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs and DWNTs) comparatively by using isocyanate chemistry. The introduction of aromatic diisocyanate on the sidewalls of the tubes was verified by the strong IR peak around 2272 cm–1 arising from the NCO asymmetric stretching mode, by the intensified sp3 peak at 285.2 eV in the C1s photoemission spectra, and by a typical TEM image of the amorphous‐like coating. The suppression of the optical properties in a covalently isocyanate‐functionalized SWNT is due to a breakdown of the van Hove singularities, whereas the strong optical activity in a covalently isocyanate‐functionalized DWNT originates from the geometrically shielded inner tubes. The chemically active isocyanate groups at the end of the phenyl diisocyanate that are covalently attached to the sidewalls of the DWNTs will allow us to utilize isocyanate chemistry in synthesizing functional organic–inorganic hybrid materials as well as high‐performance polymer composites.
A Highly Rearranged Pentaprenylxanthonoid from the Resin of Garcinia hanburyi
Authors: Tao Si‐Jia , Guan Shu‐Hong , Li Xing‐Nuo , Guo De‐An
Published: July 2010

Gamboketanol (1), a highly rearranged pentaprenylated xanthonoid, two new caged pentaprenylated xanthonoids, gambogefic acid A (2) and gambogellic acid A (3), together with two known compounds, were isolated from the acetone extract of the resin of Garcinia hanburyi. Their structures were established on the basis of extensive spectroscopic and mass‐spectrometric analyses. The cytotoxicity of compounds 1–3 against HeLa tumor cell line was evaluated, with all of them being modestly active.
Diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma with concordant bone marrow involvement has peculiar genomic profile and poor clinical outcome
Authors: Chigrinova Ekaterina , Mian Michael , Scandurra Marta , Greiner Timothy C. , Chan Wing C. , Vose Julie M. , Inghirami Giorgio , Chiappella Annalisa , Baldini Luca , Ponzoni Maurilio , Ferreri Andrés J.M. , Franceschetti Silvia , Gaidano Gianluca , Tucci Alessandra , Facchetti Fabio , Lazure Thierry , Lambotte Olivier , Montes‐Moreno Santiago , Piris Miguel A. , Nomdedeu Josep Fr. , Uccella Silvia , Rancoita Paola M.V. , Kwee Ivo , Zucca Emanuele , Bertoni Francesco
Published: July 2010

Bone marrow (BM) involvement in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) can be morphologically discordant from the primary tumor. Concordant BM infiltration has been shown associated with a poorer outcome in patients treated with CHOP. In order to evaluate tumor‐related factors leading to BM involvement in DLBCL, we performed an integrated analysis of i) genomic profiles obtained with a high‐density genome wide SNP‐based arrays ii) immunomorphological and iii) clinical data from 133 patients uniformly treated with R‐CHOP. BM infiltration was found in 27 of 133 (20%) cases; and it was concordant in 18/27 (67%) cases. Concordant infiltration, but not discordant, influenced negatively OS, PFS and DFS and was associated with higher serum LDH, lower CR and higher PD rates. No association with cell of origin was found between BM+ and BM‐ DLBCL. As compared with BM‐ cases, BM+ DLBCL showed absence of 7q gain. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Question of ALT flare during switch to adefovir from lamivudine: A single center open‐label, randomized, safety study (June 17, 2005 to February 5, 2009)
Authors: Hann Hie‐Won L. , Dunn Stephen R. , Ahn Meejin , Park So Young
Published: July 2010

Earlier clinical studies have reported an ALT flare greater than 10 times the upper limit of normal in some patients with chronic hepatitis B when their lamivudine (LAM) treatment was switched to adefovir (ADV) therapy. The current study compared the safety of switching directly to ADV versus overlapping LAM and ADV for 3 months followed by ADV monotherapy. Patients with chronic hepatitis B receiving LAM therapy for ≥6 months were eligible for the study regardless of the presence of LAM resistance, HBeAg status or serum ALT levels. Eighteen patients (13 males) were randomized to direct switch to ADV and 17 patients (10 males) to overlap. HBV‐DNA, ALT, albumin, and total bilirubin were assayed at baseline, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. Study drugs were discontinued at the end of 12 months with the follow up at 3 and 6 months. The decision to continue antiviral therapy was made at the discretion of the investigator. Baseline ALT levels were similar between the direct switch and overlap group: median ALT (U/L) was 44.0 (16–266) and 33.0 (19–367) for direct switch for overlap group, respectively (P = 0.42). No ALT flare was noted at 3 months in either group: median ALT decreased from 44.0 to 34.5 U/L in the direct switch group, and from 33.0 to 23.0 in the overlap group. Furthermore, no patient in either group exhibited ALT flare throughout the 12 months. This study did not show an ALT flare during switch to ADV at 3 months or at any time later. J. Med. Virol. 82:1489–1493, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Distribution of human papillomavirus genotypes among cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and invasive cancers in Macao
Authors: Hlaing Thazin , Yip Yuk‐Ching , Ngai Karry L.K. , Vong Heong‐Ting , Wong Sio‐In , Ho Wendy C.S. , Batalha Sellma L.S.C. , Chan Paul K.S.
Published: July 2010

Macao is a densely populated city situated in East Asia where a relatively high prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) types 52 and 58 has been reported in women with invasive cervical cancer. To provide data for a population‐specific estimation on the impact of HPV vaccines, paraffin‐embedded tissues collected from women with invasive cervical cancer or cervical intrapeitheilal neoplasia grade 2 or 3 confirmed histologically were examined for HPV using the INNO‐LiPa kit. Of the 35 HPV‐positive patients with invasive cancer, one HPV type was detected in 68.6%, and 31.4% were co‐infected with more than one HPV type. Overall, HPV 16, HPV 18, HPV 52, and HPV 54 were the most common types found respectively in 57.1%, 17%, 11.4%, and 8.5% of patients with invasive cervical cancer. Among the 59 HPV‐positive patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2/3, 55.9% hardbored one HPV type, and 44.1% had co‐infections. The common HPV types found included HPV 16 (52.5%), HPV 52 (23.7%), HPV 58 (18.7%), and HPV 33 (17%). Although HPV 11 (a low‐risk type) was also found commonly in invasive cervical cancers (14.3%) and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2/3 (15.3%), the fact that they all existed as co‐infections with another high‐risk type suggested HPV 11 was not the cause of the lesion. The current vaccines targeting HPV 16/18 are expected to cover 62.9–74.3% of invasive cervical cancers and 32.2–55.9% of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2/3 in Macao. Widespread HPV vaccination is expected to reduce substantially the disease burden associated with cervical neoplasia in Macao. J. Med. Virol. 82:1600–1605, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Patterns of antibodies against latent and lytic antigens of human herpesvirus 8 in an endemic population and patients with Kaposi's sarcoma in Mozambique
Authors: Caterino‐de‐Araujo Adele , Magri Mariana Cavalheiro , Manuel Rolanda Carmen Rafael
Published: July 2010

The patterns of antibodies against latent and lytic antigens of human herpesvirus 8 (HHV‐8) were assessed using immunofluorescence assays of samples from 155 persons seropositive for HHV‐8 seen at public health centers and 24 patients with Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) from Mozambique. Of the 155 persons without KS, 48 (31%) had antibodies against latent antigens only, 29 (18.7%) had antibodies against lytic antigens only, and 78 (50.3%) had antibodies against both types of antigen. The HHV‐8 antibody titer tended to increase with age until age 40, after which it began to decrease. High titers of antibodies against latent and lytic antigens of HHV‐8 were detected mostly in persons co‐infected with HIV, and these increased titers could have a predictive value. All patients with KS except four patients who were seronegative for HHV‐8 had elevated titers of HHV‐8 antibodies, predominantly against latent antigens. The data suggest the potential for an increase in the development of KS in this endemic area for HHV‐8. J. Med. Virol. 82:1576–1581, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Observation of resonance electronic and non‐resonance‐enhanced vibrational natural Raman optical activity
Authors: Merten Christian , Li Honggang , Lu Xuefang , Hartwig Andreas , Nafie Laurence A.
Published: July 2010

Natural resonance electronic Raman optical activity (ROA) is observed for the first time. Coincidently, the first example of vibrational ROA enhanced by low‐lying electronic transition is reported. These new phenomena were measured using the rare‐earth complex Eu(tfc)3 (+)‐tris[3‐trifluoroacetyl‐D‐camphorato]europium(III), where electronic resonance occurs between the 532‐nm laser excitation and the 7F1 → 5D1 transition of the Eu3+ metal center. Electronic Raman spectra involve the Raman transitions terminating on the low‐lying electronic states of Eu(tfc)3. The observed vibrational ROA spectra are enhanced relative to typical ROA spectra by the proximity of vibrational states of Eu(tfc)3 to its low‐lying electronic states with significant magnetic‐dipole character, whereas the parent vibrational Raman spectra do not appear to be resonance‐enhanced since the 532‐nm vibrational Raman spectrum has similar relative intensities to the corresponding Raman spectrum measured with 1064‐nm laser excitation. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Immobilization of His‐Tagged Endoglucanase on Gold via Various Ni‐NTA Self‐Assembled Monolayers and Its Hydrolytic Activity
Authors: Nakamura Itsuko , Makino Akira , Ohmae Masashi , Kimura Shunsaku
Published: July 2010

A genetically modified His‐tagged endoglucanase, EGIIcore2, with two active sites in series was immobilized on gold via three different kinds of anchor molecules, and its hydrolytic activity was studied. Immobilization of EGIIcore2 was influenced by the chain length and hydrophilicity of anchor molecules. The hydrolytic activity of the immobilized EGIIcore2 was nearly the same on either anchor molecule. Interestingly, the immobilized EGIIcore2 apparently retained the inherent hydrolytic activity similarly to free EGIIcore2. It is therefore considered that the local high concentration of EGIIcore2 on the surface should promote the successive hydrolysis of the transient products to show the high hydrolytic activity despite of immobilization.

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Integration of Small‐Molecule Discovery in Academic Biomedical Research
Authors: Ohlmeyer Michael , Zhou Ming‐Ming
Published: July 2010

Rapid advances in biomedical sciences in recent years have drastically accelerated the discovery of the molecular basis of human diseases. The great challenge is how to translate the newly acquired knowledge into new medicine for disease prevention and treatment. Drug discovery is a long and expensive process, and the pharmaceutical industry has not been very successful at it, despite its enormous resources and spending on the process. It is increasingly realized that academic biomedical research institutions ought to be engaged in early‐stage drug discovery, especially when it can be coupled to their basic research. To leverage the productivity of new‐drug development, a substantial acceleration in validation of new therapeutic targets is required, which would require small molecules that can precisely control target functions in complex biological systems in a temporal and dose‐dependent manner. In this review, we describe a process of integration of small‐molecule discovery and chemistry in academic biomedical research that will ideally bring together the elements of innovative approaches to new molecular targets, existing basic and clinical research, screening infrastructure, and synthetic and medicinal chemistry to follow up on small‐molecule hits. Such integration of multidisciplinary resources and expertise will enable academic investigators to discover novel small molecules that are expected to facilitate their efforts in both mechanistic research and new‐drug target validation. More broadly academic drug discovery should contribute new entities to therapy for intractable human diseases, especially for orphan diseases, and hopefully stimulate and synergize with the commercial sector. Mt Sinai J Med 77:350–357, 2010. © 2010 Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Enantioselektive organokatalytische Kaskadenreaktionen
Authors: Rüping Magnus
Published: July 2010

Enamin‐Iminium‐katalysierte Umsetzungen sind Vorbilder an Effizienz und Eleganz, von der reduktiven Michael‐Cyclisierung bis zur Multikomponentenreaktion.
Novel fiber reinforced bismaleimide/diallyl bisphenol A/microcapsules composites
Authors: Yuan Li , Liang Guozheng , Gu Aijuan
Published: July 2010

Three kinds of poly(urea‐formaldehyde) (PUF) microcapsules filled with epoxy resins (MCEs) were applied to bismaleimide (BMI)/O,O′‐diallyl bisphenol A (BA) system to develop novel fiber reinforced BMI/BA/MECs composites. The effects of MCEs on the mechanical properties, the hot‐wet resistance, and the dynamic mechanical properties of fiber reinforced BMI/BA composites were investigated. The morphologies of fiber reinforced BMI/BA/MCEs composites were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and optical microscope (OM). Results indicate that the appropriate contents of MCEs can significantly improve the mechanical properties and the hot‐wet resistance of fiber reinforced BMI/BA composites. In this study, MCEs may decrease the storage modulus of fiber reinforced BMI/BA composite but they have no significant influence on the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the composite. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Poly(butylene terephthalate)‐functionalized MWNTs by in situ ring‐opening polymerization of cyclic butylene terephthalate oligomers
Authors: Wu Fangjuan , Yang Guisheng
Published: July 2010

Poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT) had been covalently attached onto the surface of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) by a “grafting from” method based on in situ ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of cyclic butylene terephthalate oligomers (CBT) using MWNT‐supported initiator (MWNT‐g‐Sn). The SnO bond grafted on the surface of MWNTs, which was confirmed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, provided the initiating sites for ROP of CBT. Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance were used to confirm the chemical structure of MWNT‐graft‐PBT copolymer and emission transmission electron microscope was utilized to observe the nanostructure of the PBT functionalized MWNTs. A distinct core–shell structure with PBT layer as the shell could be observed after functionalization of PBT despite it was not uniform. The results of thermogravimetric analysis indicated that the grafting ratio of PBT was about 59.3%. Furthermore, the solubility of the PBT functionalized MWNTs in phenol/tetrachloroethane had also been investigated. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Theoretical approach to estimate laser process parameters for drilling in crystalline silicon
Authors: Baier T. , Schulz‐Ruthenberg M. , Ametowobla M. , Schlenker T. , Manz D.
Published: July 2010

This paper presents a simple method for estimating the ablation rate during drilling processes in crystalline silicon wafers. Using data from literature, the physical process of material heating, melting, and ejection can be estimated on a time scale and leads to a temporal separation of the pulse duration in two parts. The latter one offers a theoretical determination of the expected average ablation rate. The results of this approximation coincide with experimental values and offer solutions to increase drilling efficiency. The experiments were done with a q‐switched solid‐state laser emitting at 1064 nm wavelength at pulse durations between 810 ns and 1440 ns. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Photocurrent enhancement in thin film amorphous silicon solar cells with silver nanoparticles
Authors: Eminian C. , Haug F.‐J. , Cubero O. , Niquille X. , Ballif C.
Published: July 2010

Silver nanoparticles embedded in a dielectric material have strong scattering properties under light illumination, due to localized surface plasmons. This effect is a potential way to achieve light trapping in thin‐film solar cells. In this paper we study light scattering properties of nanoparticles on glass and ZnO, and on silver coated with ZnO, which represent the back reflector of a solar cell. We find that large nanoparticles embedded in the dielectric at the back contact of amorphous silicon solar cells lead to a remarkable increase in short circuit current of 20% compared to co‐deposited cells without nanoparticles. This increase is strongly correlated with the enhanced cell absorption in the long wavelengths and is attributed to localized surface plasmons. We also discuss the electrical properties of the cells. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Catalytic synthesis of styryl‐capped isotactic polypropylenes
Authors: Huang Huahua , Cao Chengang , Niu Hui , Dong Jin‐Yong
Published: July 2010

Bis‐styrenic molecules, 1,4‐divinylbenzene (DVB) and 1,2‐bis(4‐vinylphenyl)ethane (BVPE), were successfully combined with hydrogen (H2) to form consecutive chain transfer complexes in propylene polymerization mediated by an isospecific metallocene catalyst (i.e., rac‐dimethylsilylbis(2‐methyl‐4‐phenylindenyl)zirconium dichloride, I) activated with methylaluminoxane (MAO), rendering a catalytic access to styryl‐capped isotactic polypropylenes (i‐PP). The chain transfer reaction took place in a unique way where prior to the ultimate chain transfer DVB/H2 or BVPE/H2 caused a copolymerization‐like reaction leading to the formation of main chain benzene rings. A preemptive polymer chain reinsertion was deduced after the consecutive actions of DVB/H2 or BVPE/H2, which gave the styryl‐terminated polymer chain alongside a metal‐hydride active species. It was confirmed that the chain reinsertion occurred in a regio‐irregular 1,2‐fashion, which contrasted with a normal 2,1‐insertion of styrene monomer and ensured subsequent continuous propylene insertions, directing the polymerization to repeated DVB or BVPE incorporations inside polymer chain. Only as a competitive reaction, the insertion of propylene into metal‐hydride site broke the chain propagation resumption process while completed the chain transfer process by releasing the styryl‐terminated polymer chain. BVPE was found with much higher chain transfer efficiency than DVB, which was attributed to its non‐conjugated structure with much divided styrene moieties resulting in higher polymerization reactivity but lower chain reinsertion tendency. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 48: 3709–3713, 2010
Preparation of bimodal HDPEs with metallocene on Cr‐montmorillonite support
Authors: Yamamoto Kazuhiro , Ishihama Yoshiyuki , Sakata Kazuya
Published: July 2010

Previously described Cr‐montmorillonite (Cr‐MMT) was found to retain reactivity in the ethylene polymerization reaction regardless of which alkyl‐metal was used for workup in the preparation process, as long as alkylaluminium was used as a cocatalyst in the actual polymerization reaction. Introduction of hydrogen pressure was found to regulate the polymerization to give the product polymer with a narrower weight distribution, albeit with a somewhat smaller average molecular weight. Supporting metallocene onto Cr‐MMT produced a binuclear catalyst system which gave rise to bimodal polyethylene (PE). Polymer composition of the produced high density polyethylenes (HDPEs) could be controlled by changing factors such as the polymerization conditions and the identity of the metallocene compounds. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 48: 3722–3728, 2010
Chemical modification of the pendant structure of wholly aromatic polyamides: Toward functional high‐performance materials with tuned chromogenic and fluorogenic behavior
Authors: Estévez Pedro , El‐Kaoutit Hamid , García Félix Clemente , Serna Felipe , de la Peña José Luis , García José Miguel
Published: July 2010

This work describes the preparation of functional aromatic polyamides with pendant fluorescent chemical structures. The preparation of a parent copolyamide with a lateral fluorene moiety anchored to the main chain through a urea group is described, along with the chemical modification of the fluorene moieties to render six copolymers with different fluorescent behaviors. The easy and clean chemical modification of the polyamide structure permits the preparation of high‐performance materials with “a la carte” fluorescence properties. The characteristics of these materials make them useful for cutting‐edge technologies associated with the fluorescence of the pendant fluorene moiety and with the host behavior of the urea motif, that is, fluorescent sensing of analytes or hybrid luminescent converter—light‐emitting diode systems. The chemical modification of the polymer structure was carried out with chemicals and conditions optimized for polyamide models. The influence of the chemical structure of the pendant fluorene core has also been addressed in terms of thermal properties, solubility, water uptake, and so forth. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 48: 3823–3833, 2010
Synthesis of Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) latexes using poly(N‐vinylpyrrolidone)‐based copolymers as reactive stabilizers
Authors: Mumtaz Muhammad , Labrugère Christine , Cloutet Eric , Cramail Henri
Published: July 2010

The synthesis by oxidative polymerization of well‐defined poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) nano‐objects in the presence of modified and unmodified poly(N‐vinylpyrrolidone)‐based copolymers used as stabilizers in aqueous media is reported. Ammonium persulfate or a mixture of ammonium persulfate with CuCl2 or CuBr2 was used as oxidants. The effects of several parameters such as the molar mass and the concentration of the stabilizer as well as the nature of the oxidants on the size, morphology, and the conductivity of the PEDOT particles have been investigated. The distribution of the reactive moieties along the copolymer stabilizer backbone was shown to be crucial to get well‐defined PEDOT nano‐objects. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 48: 3841–3855, 2010
The joint economic‐statistical design of X and R charts for nonnormal data
Authors: Chen Huifen , Pao Yikung
Published: July 2010

We consider the joint economic‐statistical design of X and R control charts under the assumption that the quality measurement and the in‐control time have Johnson and Weibull distributions. The Johnson distribution is general in that it can be made to fit all possible values of skewness and kurtosis. The four parameters—the sample size n, time h between successive samples, and the control factors k1 and k2 for the X and R charts—are determined so that the mean hourly loss‐cost is minimized under constraints on the Type I and II error probabilities. We have generalized the Costa model to accommodate the Johnson and Weibull distributions. Sensitivity to nonnormality, shift, and Weibull scale parameter is considered in our analysis. Our sensitivity analysis shows that the optimal design parameters are sensitive to nonnormality. Comparisons of the fully economic and economic‐statistical designs are given. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The development of a target‐focused process capability index with multiple characteristics
Authors: Goethals Paul L. , Cho Byung Rae
Published: July 2010

Within an industrial manufacturing environment, Process Capability Indices (PCIs) enable engineers to assess the process performance and ultimately improve the product quality. Despite the fact that most industrial products manufactured today possess multiple quality characteristics, the vast majority of the literature within this area primarily focuses on univariate measures to assess process capability. One particular univariate index, Cpm, is widely used to account for deviations between the location of the process mean and the target value of a process. While some researchers have sought to develop multivariate analogues of Cpm, modeling the loss in quality associated with multiple quality characteristics continues to remain a challenge. This paper proposes a multivariate PCI that more appropriately estimates quality loss, while offering greater flexibility in conforming to various industrial applications, and maintaining a more realistic approach to assessing process capability. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of non‐normality on the monitoring of simple linear profiles
Authors: Noorossana, R. , Vaghefi A. , Dorri M.
Published: July 2010

In some statistical process control (SPC) applications, it is assumed that a quality characteristic or a vector of quality characteristics of interest follows a univariate or multivariate normal distribution, respectively. However, in certain applications this assumption may fail to hold and could lead to misleading results. In this paper, we study the effect of non‐normality when the quality of a process or product is characterized by a linear profile. Skewed and heavy‐tailed symmetric non‐normal distributions are used to evaluate the non‐normality effect numerically. The results reveal that the method proposed by Kimtextitet al. (J. Qual. Technol. 2003; 35:317–328) can be designed to be robust to non‐normality for both highly skewed and heavy‐tailed distributions. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Indicators for sustainable development: Relationship between indicators related to climate change and explanatory factors
Authors: Gallego‐Álvarez Isabel
Published: July 2010

The objectives of this research are (i) to determine sustainable development indicators, (ii) to develop the indicator corresponding to greenhouse gas emissions according to EC2 financial implications due to climate change, and (iii) to analyze how certain variables affect this sustainability indicator.

The sample used comprises firms from different countries and industries. The activity sectors selected to undertake this research are consistent with those established in the Green Paper on Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading within the European Union from 2000 and in the Kyoto Protocol.

Our findings show that analyzing indicators deriving from the proposals of the EC2 financial implications due to climate change, allows us to observe the effects of factors that explain the voluntary disclosure of environmental information. More specifically, our results point to a direct relationship between companies which have their headquarters in countries that have ratified the Kyoto Protocol, size, environmental performance and the disclosure of information the indicators proposed for greenhouse gas emissions based on the proposals of the EC2 financial implications due to climate change. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Digital forensics of WLM 8.1 via check point methodology within corporate intranet in future communication security
Authors: Chu Hai‐Cheng , Deng Der‐Jiunn , Chao Han‐Chieh
Published: July 2010

Windows Live Messenger (WLM) is one of the most prevalent ubiquitous Instant Messaging (IM) application programs being used by voluminous people worldwide to establish their cyber social lives. It dramatically changes the way of communication for human beings in the past decade in all aspects. However, WLM is like a sharp double‐edge sword, especially the exploited vulnerabilities concerning information security. Consequently, there is an urgent necessity for Digital Forensics (DF) to be strongly enforced within the organizations in order to specifically identify the real causes of the information breaches when utilize WLM. Few researches have formally incorporated the DF of WLM into generic guidelines for the associate personnel to follow. In this paper, we provide the system architecture of the experiment accompanied with our proposed Check Point (CP) methodology trying to disclose the possible digital evidences that could be explicitly collected and scientifically presented as probative evidences with respect to the persistently mushrooming information security incidents in the next generation wireless communication networks. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polymer Carpets
Authors: Amin Ihsan , Steenackers Marin , Zhang Ning , Beyer André , Zhang Xianghui , Pirzer Tobias , Hugel Thorsten , Jordan Rainer , Gölzhäuser Armin
Published: July 2010

The fabrication of defined polymer objects of reduced dimensions such as polymer‐coated nanoparticles (zero‐dimensional (0D)), cylindrical brushes (1D), and polymer membranes (2D), is currently the subject of intense research. In particular, ultrathin polymer membranes with high aspect ratios are being discussed as novel materials for miniaturized sensors because they would provide extraordinary sensitivity and dynamic range when sufficient mechanical stability can be combined with flexibility and chemical functionality. Unlike current approaches that rely on crosslinking of polymer layers for stabilization, this report presents the preparation of a new class of polymer material, so‐called “polymer carpets,” a freestanding polymer brush grown by surface‐initiated polymerization on a crosslinked 1‐nm‐thick monolayer. The solid‐supported, as well as freestanding, polymer carpets are found to be mechanically robust and to react instantaneously and reversibly to external stimuli by buckling. The carpet mechanics and the dramatic changes of the film properties (optical, wetting) upon chemical stimuli are investigated in detail as they allow the development of completely new integrated micro‐/nanotechnology devices.
Exploring dynamics of Giddens' globalization
Authors: Georgantzas Nicholas C , Katsamakas Evangelos , Solowiej Dominik
Published: July 2010

The dynamic complexity of the social phenomena that characterize ‘globalization’ accentuates a divisive public discourse with strong arguments for and against the globalization process and its effects. To help unearth the dynamic processes underlying globalization, this paper makes three contributions. First, it shows the recursive relations among technology, institutional structures, beliefs and social behaviour, which sociologist Giddens has posited on globalization. It incorporates not only favourable conditions, such as the development of telecommunications and global economic integration, but also political transformations and transnational corporation growth. Second, selected Giddens' globalization concerns about unemployment and welfare outline the components of a system dynamics modelling example. The model analysis reveals the dynamic complexity of the phenomenon and, most importantly, it shows how welfare‐support can fail in the long run. Third, the paper calls for a wider adoption of dynamic simulation modelling in the analysis of the globalization process and its effects. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
DNA rearrangements directed by non‐coding RNAs in ciliates
Authors: Mochizuki Kazufumi
Published: July 2010

Extensive programmed rearrangement of DNA, including DNA elimination, chromosome fragmentation, and DNA unscrambling, takes place in the newly developed macronucleus during the sexual reproduction of ciliated protozoa. Recent studies have revealed that two distant classes of ciliates use distinct types of non‐coding RNAs to regulate such DNA rearrangement events. DNA elimination in Tetrahymena is regulated by small non‐coding RNAs that are produced and utilized in an RNA interference (RNAi)‐related process. It has been proposed that the small RNAs produced from the micronuclear genome are used to identify eliminated DNA sequences by whole‐genome comparison between the parental macronucleus and the micronucleus. In contrast, DNA unscrambling in Oxytricha is guided by long non‐coding RNAs that are produced from the parental macronuclear genome. These long RNAs are proposed to act as templates for the direct unscrambling events that occur in the developing macronucleus. Both cases provide useful examples to study epigenetic chromatin regulation by non‐coding RNAs. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

This article is categorized under:

Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > RNAi: Mechanisms of Action

Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > Regulatory RNAs

RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Development
The Homoleptic U(NCSe)84– Anion in (Pr4N)4U(NCSe)8·2CFCl3 and Th(NCSe)4(OP(NMe2)3)4·0.5CH3CN·0.5H2O: First Structurally Characterised Actinide Isoselenocyanates
Authors: Crawford Margaret‐Jane , Karaghiosoff Konstantin , Mayer Peter
Published: July 2010

The neutral thorium complex Th(NCSe)4(OP(NMe2)3)4 and homoleptic octa(isoselenocyanato)uranate anion U(NCSe)84– in (Pr4N)4U(NCSe)8·2CFCl3 (1) were synthesised and structurally characterised. (Pr4N)4U(NCSe)8·2CFCl3 contains the UIV anion U(NCSe)84– and was characterised using IR spectroscopy and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Th(NCSe)4(OP(N(CH3)2)3)4·0.5CH3CN·0.5H2O (2) was characterised using IR and Raman spectroscopy, as well as 31P{1H}, 15N{1H}, 14N{1H}, 13C{1H}, 1H and 77Se NMR spectroscopy and structurally characterised using single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The U(NCSe)84– anion and Th(NCSe)4(OP(N(CH3)2)3)4·0.5CH3CN·0.5H2O complex are the first structurally characterised actinide‐isoselenocyanates. The crystal structures shows an approximate square antiprismatic arrangement of the ligands around the actinide(IV) atoms.
A New 3D Manganese(II) Coordination Polymer with 4,4‐Dicarboxy‐2,2′‐bipyridine and 1,10‐Phenanthroline: Synthesis, Structural, and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Cao Ting‐Ting , Ma Yue , Yang Chun , Liao Dai‐Zheng , Yan Shi‐Ping
Published: July 2010

A new 3D MnII metal‐organic framework compound {Mn(phen)(dcbp)}n (H2dcbp = 4,4‐dicarboxy‐2,2′‐bipyridine, phen = 1,10‐phenanthroline) was isolated under hydrothermal conditions and structurally characterized. In the compound, the dcbp ligand is deprotonated to give a neutral species (metal:ligand with 1:1 stoichiometry). Along the c axis, the neighboring MnII ions are linked by two carboxylate bridges in µ2‐coordinating mode to generate a 1D zigzag chain, and these chains are interlinked by dicarboxylate groups of long dcbp ligands to generate a 3D (4,4)‐connected structure with the (42.84) net topology. IR and UV/Vis spectroscopy and variable temperature magnetic susceptibility measurements were made, which indicated weak antiferromagnetic interactions between the MnII ions of the compound.
Hypoparathyroidism after Total Parathyroidectomy plus Subcutaneous Autotransplantation for Secondary Hyperparathyroidism—Any Side Effects?
Authors: Chou Fong‐Fu , Chi Shun‐Yu , Hsieh Kun‐Chou
Published: July 2010

Background

This retrospective, case–control study was designed to find side effects of hypoparathyroidism after total parathyroidectomy plus autotransplantation.

Methods

After successful total parathyroidectomy plus autotransplantation for symptomatic secondary hyperparathyroidism, 19 patients who had intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) levels <10 pg/ml during the follow‐up period of 1 year and 38 patients, who had levels >10 pg/ml, were enrolled as the hypoparathyroid and nonhypoparathyroid groups. Data were collected on etiology, symptoms, serum levels of calcium, phosphate, alkaline phosphatase (Alk‐ptase), iPTH, and bone mineral density (BMD) at different sites. Then, 1 week, 3 months, and 1 year after surgery, serum levels of calcium, phosphate, Alk‐ptase, and iPTH were measured again. Three months later, symptoms were recorded. One year after surgery, the BMD at different sites was measured again. Patients’ daily requirements of calcium carbonate and vitamin D3 were recorded at the mean follow‐up of 24 months.

Results

Calcium, phosphate, and iPTH levels decreased significantly 1 week, 3 months, and 1 year after surgery, and Alk‐ptase levels increased at 1 week and then decreased significantly 3 months and 1 year after surgery. Symptoms improved significantly 3 months after surgery. The BMD of different sites increased significantly at 1 year. There were no differences between the two groups regarding changes of symptoms, BMD, and calcium, phosphate, and Alk‐ptase levels. Hypoparathyroid patients required significantly more calcium carbonate and vitamin D3 than nonhypoparathyroid patients did (P = 0.002).

Conclusions

Even though hypoparathyroid patients require more calcium carbonate and vitamin D3 than nonhypoparathyroid patients do, they do not have any side effects.
How did the exposed seafloor function in postglacial northward range expansion of Kalopanax septemlobus? Evidence from ecological niche modelling
Authors: Sakaguchi Shota , Sakurai Shogo , Yamasaki Michimasa , Isagi Yuji
Published: July 2010

We attempted to clarify how coastal lands temporarily exposed during the last glacial maximum (LGM) contributed to the northward colonisation of Kalopanax septemlobus (Thunb. ex Murray) Koidzumi during the postglacial period in the Japanese Archipelago. Distribution records in 30‐arc‐s pixels were related to bioclimate variables using the maximum entropy technique to model the ecological niche of this species. Bioclimatic conditions in the exposed coastal lands during the LGM were reconstructed based on simulated palaeoclimate and fine‐resolution marine topography. Potential distribution ranges were then estimated under the climatic conditions during the LGM, mid‐Holocene and the present. The ecological niche of this species was influenced mainly by the temperature component of the bioclimates, leading to northward range shift after the LGM as the climate warmed. On average, 26% of the potential range of K. septemlobus during the LGM was located on the exposed seafloor. The northern edges of the species range on both sides of Honshu Island were estimated by up to several hundred kilometres farther north, when compared to the prediction assuming no sea level change. Application of ecological niche modelling provided new insight into the role of exposed seafloor as cryptic glacial refugia for this species, which has never been evidenced by fossil records. In a temperate island system characterised by long coastlines, the northern exposed seafloor would have been more important in terms of harbouring the putative source populations for northward directional colonisation during the postglacial period.
Attention behavior and hyperactivity and concurrent neurocognitive and social competence functioning in 4-year-olds from two population-based birth cohorts
Authors: Julvez J. , Forns M. , Ribas-Fitó N. , Torrent M. , Sunyer J.
Published: July 2010

Objective

We studied the associations between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms and the neurobehavioral status in two population-based birth cohorts.

Methods

Children (n= 467) were assessed by psychologists and teachers for neuropsychological functioning (McCarthy Scales, MCSA), inattention-hyperactivity symptoms (ADHD-DSM-IV form list) and social behavior (California Preschool Social Competence Scale, CPSCS). Regression models were used with covariate adjustment.

Results

Sixteen percent of children had ADHD-DSM-IV symptoms. MCSA scores were linearly associated with ADHD symptom scores (general cognitive Beta = −0.6 [−1.0; −0.3] per symptom), specifically inattention scores (general cognitive Beta = −1.8 [−2.3; −1.2]). CPSCS scores were associated with ADHD symptoms (Beta = −2.19 [−2.5; −1.9]). MCSA scores of executive function, perceptive-performance and quantitative sub-areas had stronger associations with ADHD symptoms.

Conclusions

Preschooler ADHD symptoms are associated with concurrent decrements in neurocognitive and social competence functioning. The association patterns are similar to those found in older children with ADHD symptomology (Marks et al., 2005 [36], Seidman, 2006 [46], Sonuga-Barke et al., 2003 [48], Yochman et al., 2006 [53]).
Does The Suicide Assessment Scale Predict Risk Of Repetition? A Prospective Study Of Suicide Attempters At A Hospital Emergency Department
Authors: Waern M. , Sjöström N. , Marlow T. , Hetta J.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

To determine whether the modified version of the Suicide Assessment Scale (SUAS) can be utilised to predict risk of repeat suicidal behaviour.

Subjects and methods

Hundred and sixty-five patients aged 18 to 68 years who were admitted to emergency wards after a suicide attempt were interviewed. Follow-up interviews (n= 96) were carried out after 2 months. Associations between SUAS scores and repeat attempt (fatal/non-fatal) during the following 3 years were analysed and the instrument's ability to predict repetition was assessed.

Results

High SUAS score (>30) was associated with repetition. The ability of the SUAS to correctly predict repeat suicidal behaviour in the entire study group was low (AUC=0.65,95% CI=0.56–0.74)but better for those (n= 42) who reported ongoing psychiatric treatment at follow-up (AUC=0.78,95% CI 0.63–0.94). Among the latter group, all with baseline SUAS scores >30 made repeats.

Conclusion

The modified SUAS performed well as a screening instrument in psychiatric patients.
Association between cingulum bundle structure and cognitive performance: An observational study in major depression
Authors: Schermuly I. , Fellgiebel A. , Wagner S. , Yakushev I. , Stoeter P. , Schmitt R. , Knickenberg R.J. , Bleichner F. , Beutel M.E.
Published: July 2010

Background

Major depression can be regarded as a systemic neurobehavioral disorder resulting from dysfunction of the limbic-cortical networks. The cingulum bundle represents a major association fiber tract of those networks. The aim of our study was to determine the association of brain structural tissue markers of the cingulum bundle and cognitive function in patients with major depression.

Methods

Region-of-interest-based analyses of the middle-anterior and middle-posterior cingulum bundle fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) using color-coded diffusion-tensor imaging and neuropsychological assessment in 14 patients with major depression.

Results

FA of the middle-anterior and middle-posterior cingulum bundle was significantly correlated to the performance in a planning and divided attention task. Furthermore, MD of the middle-posterior cingulum bundle was significantly correlated to a planning task. There was no significant correlation between FA and MD of the cingulum bundle and selective attention or memory.

Conclusions

Brain structural tissue markers of the middle-anterior and middle-posterior cingulum bundle were found to be associated with executive functioning and divided attention in patients with major depression. Disconnection within the limbic-cortical networks may underlay cognitive dysfunction in major depression.
Eastern Christians, Islam, and the West: A Connected History
Authors: Heyberger Bernard
Published: July 2010

When I was preparing my PhD in 1993, the subject “Eastern Christians” or “Christians in the Islamic World” was almost nonexistent in the mass media or in scholarly works. In fact, I prepared my thesis not under the supervision of a specialist in the Middle East but rather under that of a specialist in European Catholicism during the early modern era.
A COMMENT ON MEHMET BENGÜ ULUENGIN, “SECULARIZING ANATOLIA TICK BY TICK: CLOCK TOWERS IN THE OTTOMAN EMPIRE AND THE TURKISH REPUBLIC” (IJMES42 [2010]: 17–36)
Authors: Wishnitzer Avner
Published: July 2010

In his recent article, “Secularizing Anatolia Tick by Tick: Clock Towers in the Ottoman Empire and the Turkish Republic,” Mehmet Bengü Uluengin makes a significant contribution to our understanding of late Ottoman and early republican clock towers. Uluengin shows that Ottoman clock towers carried “complex and seemingly contradictory layering of meanings” (p. 31). These buildings were at times associated with Christianity and with European power but were also seen as modern extensions of the Islamic institution of themuvakkit(timekeeper) or as symbols of the Ottoman government and its modernizing project. The cultural meanings associated with clock towers were fluid, concludes Uluengin, and it was the context that determined the way clock towers were interpreted.
SOFT REPRESSION AND MOBILIZATION: THE CASE OF TRANSNATIONAL ACTIVISM OF DANISH MUSLIMS DURING THE CARTOONS CONTROVERSY
Authors: Lindekilde Lasse
Published: July 2010

This article delivers an empirical analysis of the effects of Danish Muslims' transnational activities during the Muhammad cartoons controversy in 2005–6 on subsequent Muslim claims making in Denmark. The article argues that the envisioned “boomerang effect” of the transnational activities—the attempt to put pressure on Danish authorities by contacting political and religious authorities in the Middle East—backfired on Danish Muslims. The transnational move was successfully “securitized” by elements of the media and the political elite, inviting soft forms of repression against the Muslim actors, especially those involved in the “imam delegations” that traveled to Egypt, Lebanon, and Syria in December 2005. These actors were forced into a more defensive mode of claims making soon after their return to Denmark through processes of name calling and stigmatization. Building on this case study, the article concludes by suggesting some theoretical modifications/specifications to the boomerang model of transnational activism.