bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zirconocene Alkoxides, Promising Precursors for MOCVD of Zirconium Dioxide Thin Films
Authors: Sartori Andrea , El Habra Naida , De Zorzi Chiara , Sitran Sergio , Casarin Maurizio , Cavinato Gianni , Sada Cinzia , Gerbasi Rosalba , Rossetto Gilberto
Published: May 2012

Some new volatile bis‐cyclopentadienyl zirconium alkoxides of the type Cp2Zr(OR)(OtBu) (R = iPr, Et, Me) is synthesized by the reaction of the corresponding KOR with the intermediate Cp2ZrCl(OtBu). Moreover, an alternative and convenient synthesis of Cp2Zr(OtBu)2, based on the reaction of Cp2ZrCl2 with an excess of tert‐butanol and triethylamine, is reported. The obtained compounds are identified by chemical analyses, thermogravimetric measurements, infrared (IR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry (MS). Furthermore, a crystallographic study of Cp2ZrCl(OtBu) is also reported. Cp2Zr(OtBu)2 and Cp2Zr(OiPr)(OtBu) are then used for depositing zirconia thin films of high quality and purity on Si(100) and stainless steel AISI 316 substrates by metal‐organic (MO)CVD. The microstructure and composition of the deposits are investigated by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), while their hardness and elastic recovery on the AISI 316 substrate are measured using load‐depth nano‐indentation tests. The outcomes are consistent with a significant increase in the Berkovich hardness of the coated samples compared to that of bulk AISI 316.
Production of Predominantly Anatase Thin Films on Various Grades of Steel and Other Metallic Substrates From TiCl4 and Ethyl Acetate by Atmospheric Pressure CVD
Authors: Cross Alison J. , Dunnill Charles W. , Parkin Ivan P.
Published: May 2012

TiO2 thin films are deposited by atmospheric pressure (AP)CVD of TiCl4 and ethyl acetate on various substrates heated to 500 °C. The substrates investigated are four different grades of stainless steel (304, 304L, 316, and 316L), titanium metal, gold‐coated titanium metal, and gold‐coated stainless steel (316 grade). The TiO2 films are analyzed by Raman spectroscopy (RS) to determine the percentage of anatase present. Predominantly anatase films are produced on all the substrates, demonstrating the versatility of this method. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images reveal a marked difference in particle size between regions of high anatase content and lower anatase content, indicative of a difference in growth rate between anatase and rutile particles. Selected samples are shown to be photocatalytically active by degradation of resazurin dye by UV light. The rate of degradation is significantly faster than on the self‐cleaning Saint Gobain Bioclean™.
Enhancement of Photoelectrochemical Performance of AACVD‐produced TiO2 Electrodes by Microwave Irradiation while Preserving the Nanostructure
Authors: Tahir Asif Ali , Peiris T. A. Nirmal , Wijayantha K. G. Upul
Published: May 2012

TiO2 electrodes are deposited on FTO‐glass substrates at 350 and 400 °C by aerosol‐assisted chemical vapour deposition (AACVD) and the deposited TiO2 electrodes are irradiated with microwave radiation (2.45 GHz) at various percentages (10, 25, 50, and 100%). X‐ray diffraction (XRD) pattern shows that the deposited electrodes have anatase phase TiO2 oriented in the (101) direction, and the crystallinity of these electrodes increases after microwave treatment. Field emission gun scanning electron microscopy (FEG‐SEM) surface topography analysis proves the preservation of the nanostructure after exposure to various percentages of microwave radiation. The photoelectrochemical (PEC) studies prove a threefold enhancement of photocurrent density of AACVD‐produced TiO2 electrodes after 100% microwave irradiation. This improved performance of PEC properties is attributed to improvements in the crystallinity and the particle‐necking properties. The results presented demonstrate that microwave processing is a promising alternative method to conventional sintering for TiO2 photoanodes.
Defining progressive stages in the commitment process leading to embryonic lens formation
Authors: Jin Hong , Fisher Marilyn , Grainger Robert M.
Published: May 2012

The commitment of regions of the embryo to form particular tissues or organs is a central concept in development, but the mechanisms controlling this process remain elusive. The well‐studied model of lens induction is ideal for dissecting key phases of the commitment process. We find in Xenopus tropicalis, at the time of specification of the lens, i.e., when presumptive lens ectoderm (PLE) can be isolated, cultured, and will differentiate into a lens that the PLE is not yet irreversibly committed, or determined, to form a lens. When transplanted into the posterior of a host embryo lens development is prevented at this stage, while ∼ 3 h later, using the same assay, determination is complete. Interestingly, we find that specified lens ectoderm, when cultured, acquires the ability to become determined without further tissue interactions. Furthermore, we show that specified PLE has a different gene expression pattern than determined PLE, and that determined PLE can maintain expression of essential regulatory genes (e.g., foxe3, mafB) in an ectopic environment, while specified PLE cannot. These observations set the stage for a detailed mechanistic study of the genes and signals controlling tissue commitment. genesis 50:728–740, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Selecting Policy Instruments for Better Environmental Regulation: a Critique and Future Research Agenda
Authors: Taylor Christopher , Pollard Simon , Rocks Sophie , Angus Andy
Published: May 2012

There is a lack of evidence on regulatory effectiveness available to support policy makers with the selection of appropriate instruments to deliver better environmental regulation. We identify the types of evidence required to enable regulatory reform, characterize evidence gaps, and explore how these may be filled through future research. A typology of regulatory instruments is presented, and evidence of what has worked when and why is examined, drawing on international experience and recent cases from the United Kingdom (UK). Evidence of the capabilities of good environmental regulators for regulatory effectiveness is lacking, and it is proposed that ethnographic research that captures the nuances of regulatory practice will prove necessary to address this. This paper is of value to policy makers and regulators around the world considering the selection and deployment of the full range of environmental regulatory instruments to respond to environmental risks and in support of economic growth. It can inform the selection of suitable approaches and the design of institutions capable of delivering them. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Template‐Induced Structural Isomerism of Pyridine‐2,3‐dicarboxylate and PbII with Similar High Stability and Different Fluorescent Properties
Authors: Jia Yanyuan , Li Huijun , Guo Qianqian , Zhao Bei , Zhao Ying , Hou Hongwei , Fan Yaoting
Published: May 2012

Two template‐induced supramolecular isomers [Pb(2,3‐pyde)]n (1 and 2; 2,3‐pyde = pyridine‐2,3‐dicarboxylate) have been synthesized under hydrothermal conditions. Complex 1 displays a 2D network with a point symbol of (42·64)2, whereas complex 2 exhibits a 3D framework with a point symbol of (46·64)2. The study of the stability of the isomers demonstrates that they have high thermal stability and excellent chemical resistance to boiling water and common organic solvents. Interestingly, the two polymers evidently possess different fluorescent properties although they have the same chemical component.
An efficient and expeditious synthesis of phytostanyl esters in a solvent‐free system
Authors: Zhou Yang , Jia Chengsheng , Li Rui , Zhang Xiaoming , He Wensen , Li Jingjing , Feng Biao , Xia Qiuyu
Published: May 2012

Esterification of natural phytostanols with various fatty acids by using Lewis acid‐surfactant combined catalyst was investigated. For synthesis of phytostanol esters of saturated fatty acids, cuprum dodecyl sulfate [Cu(DS)2] was the most desirable catalyst due to its high selectivity, reusability, activity, and less corrosivity, whereas stanol selectivity with other catalysts, such as ZnCl2 and tungstophosphoric acid. The substrate molar ratio of 1.2:1 (lauric acid/phytostanols) was the optimal. For synthesis of phytostanol esters of unsaturated fatty acids, cerium dodecyl sulfate [Ce(DS)3] was better than [Cu(DS)2] which was based on the oxidation of the unsaturated fatty acids during the reaction. The chemical structure of the sitostanyl stearate, sitostanyl oleate, and sitostanyl linoleate were confirmed by FTIR, MS, and NMR, respectively. As a result, the [Cu(DS)2] and [Ce(DS)3] were screened to synthesize phytostanyl esters of fatty acids for commercial production.

Practical applications: Phytostanols are important for human health and nutrition. Unfortunately, due to the poor solubility of free stanols (unesterified) in fats and oils, there is a demand for a good way to improve the solubility or bioavailability of phytostanols, such as esterification of phytostanols with fatty acids. This study aims at finding an efficient and expeditious synthesis of phytostanyl esters. At the same time, environmental impact and the oxidation of the unsaturated fatty acids during the reaction should be considered.
Functionalized Phosphanyl‐Phosphonic Acids as Unusual Complexing Units as Analogues of Fosmidomycin
Authors: Montel Sonia , Midrier Camille , Volle Jean‐Noël , Braun Ralf , Haaf Klaus , Willms Lothar , Pirat Jean‐Luc , Virieux David
Published: May 2012

Fosmidomycin (1a) and FR‐90098 are potent inhibitors of 1‐deoxy‐D‐xylulose‐5‐phosphate reductoisomerase (DXR), the second enzyme of the non‐mevalonate (MEP) pathway responsible for the biosynthesis of isoprenoids. This paper describes the synthesis of four types of targets bearing a phosphanyl‐phosphonic acid motif as the common core for the inhibition of DXR. In these structures, the hydroxamic acid was replaced by various chelators based on a phosphinic acid linked to different functional groups capable of forming five‐ or six‐membered chelating rings.
Convenient Direct Syntheses of Selectively para‐Substituted Di‐, Tri‐ and Tetra‐Formylated Thiacalix[4]arenes
Authors: Yang Weiping , Wang Wei , Guo Rong , Gong Linbo , Gong Shuling
Published: May 2012

An efficient direct method for di‐, tri‐ and tetraformylation of thiacalix[4]arenes substituted on the para positions is described. Di‐ and triformylated thiacalix[4]arenes were obtained by formylation of partially propyl‐ or benzoyl‐substituted thiacalix[4]arenes. Complete para‐formylation was successfully achieved by formylation and dealkylation of tetraisopropoxythiacalix[4]arene conformers in one step. This experimental procedure is a simpler synthesis for completely formylated thiacalix[4]arene than the indirect method reported previously from brominated thiacalix[4]arene.
Modular Solid‐Phase Synthesis of Teroxazoles as a Class of α‐Helix Mimetics
Authors: Pinto Gomes Cristiano , Metz Alexander , Bats Jan W. , Gohlke Holger , Göbel Michael W.
Published: May 2012

α‐Helices are ubiquitous structural elements of proteins and are important in molecular recognition. Small molecules mimicking α‐helices have proven to be valuable biophysical probes or modulators of protein‐protein interactions. Here, we present modeling studies and the modular solid‐phase synthesis of teroxazole derivatives as a new class of α‐helix mimetics. The synthesis is compatible with a variety of functional groups and should thus be generally applicable for generating diversely substituted oligo‐oxazole scaffolds. The teroxazole scaffold is predicted to be polar and to project peptidomimetic side chains at positions i, i+3, and i+6 of an α‐helix, which complements projection patterns of existing helix mimetics. The scaffold retains sufficient conformational flexibility to conform to induced‐fit models of protein‐protein interaction inhibition.
A method for semi‐automated objective quantification of linear bedforms from multi‐scale digital elevation models
Authors: Cazenave Pierre W. , Dix Justin K. , Lambkin David O. , McNeill Lisa C.
Published: May 2012

The increasing availability of large, detailed digital representations of the Earth's surface demands the application of objective and quantitative analyses. Given recent advances in the understanding of the mechanisms of formation of linear bedform features from a range of environments, objective measurement of their wavelength, orientation, crest and trough positions, height and asymmetry is highly desirable. These parameters are also of use when determining observation‐based parameters for use in many applications such as numerical modelling, surface classification and sediment transport pathway analysis. Here, we (i) adapt and extend extant techniques to provide a suite of semi‐automatic tools which calculate crest orientation, wavelength, height, asymmetry direction and asymmetry ratios of bedforms, and then (ii) undertake sensitivity tests on synthetic data, increasingly complex seabeds and a very large‐scale (39 000 km2) aeolian dune system. The automated results are compared with traditional, manually derived, measurements at each stage. This new approach successfully analyses different types of topographic data (from aeolian and marine environments) from a range of sources, with tens of millions of data points being processed in a semi‐automated and objective manner within minutes rather than hours or days. The results from these analyses show there is significant variability in all measurable parameters in what might otherwise be considered uniform bedform fields. For example, the dunes of the Rub' al Khali on the Arabian peninsula are shown to exhibit deviations in dimensions from global trends. Morphological and dune asymmetry analysis of the Rub' al Khali suggests parts of the sand sea may be adjusting to a changed wind regime from that during their formation 100 to 10 ka BP. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NATURAL EXPERIMENT EVIDENCE ON THE EFFECT OF MIGRATION ON BLOOD PRESSURE AND HYPERTENSION
Authors: Gibson John , Stillman Steven , McKenzie David , Rohorua Halahingano
Published: May 2012

Over 200 million people worldwide live outside their country of birth and typically experience large gains in material well‐being by moving to where wages are higher. But, the effect of this migration on other dimensions of well‐being such as health are less clear and existing evidence is ambiguous because of potential for self‐selection bias. In this paper, we use a natural experiment, comparing successful and unsuccessful applicants to a migration lottery to experimentally estimate the impact of migration on measured blood pressure and hypertension. Hypertension is a leading global health problem, as well as being an important health measure that responds quickly to migration. We use various econometric estimators to form bounds on the treatment effects because there appears to be selective non‐compliance in the natural experiment. Even with these bounds, the results suggest significant and persistent increases in blood pressure and hypertension, which are likely to have implications for future health budgets given recent increases in developing to developed country migration. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multi‐Criteria Usability Evaluation of Electronic Devices in a Fuzzy Environment
Authors: Atalay Kumru Didem , Eraslan Ergün
Published: May 2012

The user‐oriented design is the most important competition issue in today's market. In recent years, user‐oriented design (i.e., usability) has become expected, particularly in electronic devices. Usability considers high user satisfaction in conjunction with user performance. Usability of electronic products is essential for high customer satisfaction as well as product life cycles in companies. Therefore, MP3 players were selected among the electronic products. Designing usable MP3 players is extremely important for users who have close interaction with them. In this study, MP3 players of different types and sizes were selected and their usability evaluated. The usability criteria used in the MP3 players' evaluation were divided into two major categories: performance and emotional expectations. The alternatives were ranked with fuzzy multi‐criteria decision‐making methods, namely, Fuzzy TOPSIS (FTOPSIS), Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP), and Fuzzy Axiomatic Design Theory (FADT), and the results were compared. Although the same decision matrices and data obtained from semantic differential experiment were used for all fuzzy multi‐criteria decision‐making methods, it is shown that different rankings were obtained. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Structural informatics, modeling, and design with an open‐source Molecular Software Library (MSL)
Authors: Kulp Daniel W. , Subramaniam Sabareesh , Donald Jason E. , Hannigan Brett T. , Mueller Benjamin K. , Grigoryan Gevorg , Senes Alessandro
Published: May 2012

We present the Molecular Software Library (MSL), a C++ library for molecular modeling. MSL is a set of tools that supports a large variety of algorithms for the design, modeling, and analysis of macromolecules. Among the main features supported by the library are methods for applying geometric transformations and alignments, the implementation of a rich set of energy functions, side chain optimization, backbone manipulation, calculation of solvent accessible surface area, and other tools. MSL has a number of unique features, such as the ability of storing alternative atomic coordinates (for modeling) and multiple amino acid identities at the same backbone position (for design). It has a straightforward mechanism for extending its energy functions and can work with any type of molecules. Although the code base is large, MSL was created with ease of developing in mind. It allows the rapid implementation of simple tasks while fully supporting the creation of complex applications. Some of the potentialities of the software are demonstrated here with examples that show how to program complex and essential modeling tasks with few lines of code. MSL is an ongoing and evolving project, with new features and improvements being introduced regularly, but it is mature and suitable for production and has been used in numerous protein modeling and design projects. MSL is open‐source software, freely downloadable at http://msl‐libraries.org. We propose it as a common platform for the development of new molecular algorithms and to promote the distribution, sharing, and reutilization of computational methods. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Destroying Noncomplete Regular Components in Graph Partitions
Authors: Rabern Landon
Published: May 2012

We prove that if G is a graph and such that then can be partitioned into sets such that and contains no noncomplete ‐regular components for each . In particular, the vertex set of any graph G can be partitioned into sets, each of which induces a disjoint union of triangles and paths.
Contrast‐enhanced multidetector‐row computed tomography vs. Time‐resolved magnetic resonance angiography vs. contrast‐enhanced perfusion MRI: Assessment of treatment response by patients with inoperable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Ohno Yoshiharu , Koyama Hisanobu , Yoshikawa Takeshi , Nishio Mizuho , Matsumoto Sumiaki , Matsumoto Keiko , Aoyama Nobukazu , Nogami Munenobu , Murase Kenya , Sugimura Kazuro
Published: May 2012

Purpose:

To compare therapeutic effect assessment capability of multidetector‐row computed tomography (MDCT), magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), and dynamic perfusion MRI for chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) patients.

Materials and Methods:

Twenty‐four consecutive CTEPH patients treated with conventional therapy underwent pre‐ and posttherapeutic MDCT, MRA, dynamic perfusion MRI, 6‐minute walk distance (6‐MWD), cardiac ultrasound (US), and right heart catheterization. According to therapeutic results, all patients were divided into response (n = 13) and nonresponse (n = 11) groups. CTEPH indexes for MDCT (CTEPHCT) and MRA (CTEPHMRA) were calculated on the basis of embolic burden. Pulmonary perfusion parameter maps were generated from all perfusion MR data, followed by determination of improvements in mean perfusion parameter at regions of interest (ROIs) for each patient. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC)‐based positive tests were performed to determine the feasible threshold values for distinguishing two groups. Finally, diagnostic capabilities were compared by means of McNemar's test.

Results:

When feasible threshold values adapted, specificity (90.9 〈10/11〉%, P < 0.05) and accuracy (95.8 〈23/24〉%, P < 0.05) for improvement in pulmonary blood flow were significantly higher than those for CTEPHCTA (specificity: 36.4 〈4/11〉%, accuracy: 70.8 〈17/24〉%).

Conclusion:

Dynamic perfusion MRI has better capability for assessment of therapeutic effect on CTEPH patients than does MDCT. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2012;36:612–623. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ferric ion could facilitate osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption through the production of reactive oxygen species
Authors: Jia Peng , Xu You Jia , Zhang Zeng Li , Li Kai , Li Bingyan , Zhang Wen , Yang Huilin
Published: May 2012

Iron overload is widely regarded as a risk factor for osteoporosis. It has been demonstrated that iron can inhibit osteoblast differentiation. However, the effects of iron on osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption remain controversial. In this study, we found that ferric ion promoted Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor κ B Ligand (RANKL)‐induced osteoclast (OC) formation in both RAW264.7 cells and bone marrow‐derived macrophages (BMMs), and this effect was accompanied by elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress. Moreover, this effect was attenuated by the administration of antioxidant N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NAC). Therefore, we conclude that ferric ion can promote osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption through the production of ROS. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:1843–1852, 2012
INTRODUCED EUCALYPTUS UROPHYLLA PLANTATIONS CHANGE THE COMPOSITION OF THE SOIL MICROBIAL COMMUNITY IN SUBTROPICAL CHINA
Authors: Wu J. P. , Liu Z. F. , Sun Y. X. , Zhou L. X. , Lin Y. B. , Fu S. L.
Published: May 2012

Fast‐growing tree species are widely used as pioneers for reforestation. These plantations strongly affect the ecosystem productivity and nutrient cycling, whereas their effect on the soil microbial community is still unclear. In a reforestation chronosequence in subtropical China consisting of Eucalyptus plantation with ages of 1, 2, 4 or 5 years, we examined the response of the soil microbial community and its function. The results showed that soil bulk density and dissolved organic carbon decreased significantly along the chronosequence. Soil pH was highest in the 5‐year‐old plantation. The amount of bacterial phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs) and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal PLFAs increased, but the ratio of fungal‐to‐bacterial PLFAs decreased with increasing forest age. The composition of the soil microbial community obviously changed after 5 years' development. Redundancy analysis showed that dissolved organic carbon was the major factor associated with the changes of soil microbial community composition. The short‐rotation Eucalyptus plantation could affect the composition of soil microbial communities through changing soil available carbon when planted in subtropical region at the early developmental stage. We suggest that soil microbial community composition should be taken into consideration in the large‐scale reforestation activities. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A MULTIDISCIPLINARY MODEL FOR ASSESSING DEGRADATION IN MEDITERRANEAN RANGELANDS
Authors: Ibañez J. , Valderrama J. M. , Papanastasis V. , Evangelou C. , Puigdefabregas J.
Published: May 2012

This paper presents an annual multidisciplinary, non‐spatial model which formalizes the relationships linking the dynamics of shrubs, herbs, soil, livestock and farmers' behaviour with possible exogenous drivers of degradation, such as weather and prices. The model does not represent a pasture–livestock system but a shrub–soil one and is applied to a rangeland in Lagadas County (Northern Greece). A sensitivity analysis of the model is also presented. It shows that livestock, in general, and factors increasing farmers' profits, in particular, are currently helping to combat shrub invasion in Lagadas while having low impacts on erosion rates. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel Reaction Kinetic Model for Anionic Polyamide‐6
Authors: Teuwen Julie J. E. , van Geenen Ab A. , Bersee Harald E. N.
Published: May 2012

Semi‐adiabatic temperature measurements are recorded and used to define semi‐empirical equations for the simulation and prediction of the anionic polyamide‐6 (APA‐6) reaction kinetics. The resin mixture used has a long infusion window before the reaction starts. The prediction of the induction time and its corresponding initial temperature of reaction is explored. By means of this semi‐empirical approach and an optimised fitting procedure, the reaction kinetics of APA‐6 can successfully be described. The adiabatic polymerisation can be predicted on the basis of an autocatalytic Kamal‐Sourour model for thermoset resins, and the crystallisation can be described using the isothermal crystallisation model.

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Taste preferences of infants for sweetened or unsweetened foods
Authors: Brown Marie S. , Grunfeld Carol C.
Published: May 2012

The authors would like to express appreciation to the following: Pediatric Lakewood Office of Colorado Permanente Medical Group, particularly chief pediatrician Virgil A. LaFleur, M.D., for assisting in the recruitment of subjects; Dr. Laura Driscoll and Dr. Patricia Prescott for their extensive contribution of time, effort, and expertise in analyzing data; Gerber Baby Food Company, Apple Tree Fruit Juice Company, Del Monte Fruit Company, Tillie Lewis Diet Foods, and Welch's Grape Juice for donations of sugar‐free fruits and juices. This is a report of research on whether or not the addition of sugar to foods consumed by babies early in their feeding significantly alters later preference for sweetened or unsweetened foods. Twenty control babies were fed regular baby food (which already has additional sugar) for the first 3 months of their solid‐food feeding experience; 20 experimental babies were fed a diet with no added sugar for a similar time period. The two groups were then studied during a 4‐week period in which they were randomly assigned to four different sequences of sweetened and unsweetened food. Their reactions to sweetened and unsweetened food were scored according to parental interpretation of their preferences and according to how much food they consumed. Neither group was found to prefer sweetened or unsweetened food. This finding is in contradiction of other studies and common lay and clinical views that infants prefer sweetened foods. It would seem that if babies do not prefer sweet foods, there is certainly no reason to add sugar to commercial products.
Measuring identification with the mothering role
Authors: Rees Barbara Lippincott
Published: May 2012

Three summated rating scales entitled Feelings of Motherliness (FOM), Conception of the Fetus as a Person (CFP), and Appropriateness of Fantasies about the Baby‐to‐be (AFB) were constructed. During instrument development, data were collected from a sample of 169 women selected using the criteria of gravidity, ethnicity, and experience. Thirty‐four of these women were used to test the final versions of the scales. Coefficient alphas for FOM, CFP, and AFB were .87, .89, and .67, respectively. Coefficient alphas for the subscales ranged from .88 to 1.0. Content validity was built into the scales. The data supported the concept validity of FOM and CFP, but not AFB. Three subscales of the Parental Attitude Research Instrument were used as criterion measures; criterion validity was not established. Construct validity was assessed using convergent and discriminant measures. Data provided support for convergent validity, but not for discriminant validity. Further modification and testing of the scales are needed.
The effect of environmental sound and communication on CCU patients' heart rate and blood pressure
Authors: Baker Carol F. , Garvin Bonnie J. , Kennedy Carol W. , Polivka Barbara J.
Published: May 2012

The effects of high ambient stressors (equipment sounds) and social stressors (conversation) on heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) were examined in coronary care patients. Simultaneously occurring sound level in decibels, actual sound, electrocardiogram, and BP were recorded three times/day over 2 days for 20 subjects. Repeated measures ANOVA and pairwise comparisons revealed maximum HR to be significantly higher during conversation than during low ambient sounds (quiet). High ambient stressors did not affect HR for these subjects. BP did not significantly change during any of the sound conditions. Further research is needed to delineate cardiovascular effects of specific social stressors.
Focus on psychometrics single‐item indicators in nursing research
Authors: Youngblut Joanne M. , Casper Gail R.
Published: May 2012

Single‐item indicators that ask respondents for their global rating of a specific concept are congruent with nursing's emphasis on wholism and individualism. They allow the subject to take personally salient features of the situation into account when providing a response. The psychometric performance of single‐item indicators in published research and in a sample data set using measures of the mother's choice and satisfaction with her employment decision support the validity and reliability of the measures, suggesting that these indicators deserve more attention in nursing research. Recommendations for the use of single‐item indicators are provided.
Dotcauses for sustainability: combining activism and entrepreneurship
Authors: van den Broek Tijs A. , Ehrenhard Michel L. , Langley David J. , Groen Aard J.
Published: May 2012

The Internet allows advocacy organizations to reach a large audience in an efficient way. When such advocacy organizations predominantly act online, they are termed dotcauses. Dotcauses play an increasingly important role in creating and maintaining social movements that are aimed at promoting sustainability. Yet, like offline social movements, dotcauses still need to exploit and mobilize resources, such as donations, media attention, and moral support, and they still need to be efficient and creative for the promotion of their social cause. Unfortunately, the social movement and social entrepreneurship streams of research have tended to produce separate literatures despite their potential synergies. We bring together both streams by using process models from social entrepreneurship and social movement theory to analyze the actions of dotcauses for sustainability. Additionally, we explore to what extent the Internet supports the actions of dotcauses and reveal which ethical considerations arise from combining entrepreneurship and activism. We collect data on eight dotcauses via semi‐structured interviews and desk research. Our cross‐case analysis reveals two types of dotcauses: online social entrepreneurs that partner up with firms and online entrepreneurial activists that target firms for protest. These two types differ substantially with regard to their collective identity and their ethical considerations. Our findings show that the Internet enables advocacy organizations to act in a more entrepreneurial and open manner. We suggest directions for future research, including a combination of social movement theory and social entrepreneurship theory to describe and explain the role of the Internet in processes of organizational change. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Profiling unusual diffusion by scanning photoluminescence
Authors: Gerten Robert , Strauß Florian , Wolf Herbert , Deicher Manfred , Wichert Thomas
Published: May 2012

Using scanning photoluminescence spectroscopy (µPL) the diffusion of implanted Au atoms in p ‐type CdTe was investigated. After annealing at 800 K under Cd‐rich atmosphere, uphill diffusion was observed in agreement with former radiotracer studies using the isotope 193Au. In addition, the µPL technique delivered information about the concentration profiles of intrinsic defects and residual impurities. The measurements support the model that describes uphill diffusion of acceptor dopants in terms of intrinsic defects, i.e. the Cd vacancy and Cd self‐interstitial. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
New ultraviolet avalanche photodiodes (APDs) of organic (PEDOT: PSS)–inorganic (ZnSSe) hybrid structure
Authors: Inagaki Yusuke , Ebisu Masahiro , Otsuki Masashi , Ayuni Nor , Shimizu Tomoyuki , Abe Tomoki , Kasada Hirofumi , Ando Koshi
Published: May 2012

We have developed new organic (PEDOT:PSS)‐inorganic (ZnSSe) hybrid structure avalanche photodiodes (APDs). The device wafers are grown by MBE on n‐GaAs substrates, and PEDOT:PSS is formed by spin‐coating method on the semiconductor ZnSSe layers. We revealed an energy barrier height of 1.0 eV in the interface of i‐ZnSSe and PEDOT:PSS layer by photoresponse method. The device exhibits external quantum efficiency of 90% at 325 nm. We confirmed intrinsic avalanche breakdown at about 28 V and mutiplicaton factor showed 650 at a reverse bias of 34.2 V (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Lattice relaxation of ZnS grown on GaP investigated by high‐resolution X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Ichino Kunio , Nishigaki Akinori , Yamauchi Akiyoshi
Published: May 2012

The lattice‐relaxation process of ZnS grown on (001) GaP substrates has been investigated in detail by using high‐resolution X‐ray diffraction (HRXRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Reciprocal space maps (RSMs) of 224 XRD peaks for ZnS and GaP clearly show transition from coherent growth to relaxed growth with increasing the thickness. For a 32nm‐thick ZnS layer the RSM indicates almost coherent growth to GaP substrate; it also shows, however, a sign of the initiation of lattice relaxation. The cross‐sectional lattice image of the 32 nm thick ZnS layer observed by TEM exhibits defects probably resulting from lattice relaxation, while no such defects are seen for the 21 nm thick layer. Therefore, the critical thickness of ZnS on GaP seems to be between 21 nm and 32nm. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Study of thermal stability of CdSe/ZnSe quantum dot heterostructures
Authors: Borkovska L. V. , Korsunska N. O. , Kushnirenko V. I. , Stara T. R. , Kladko V. P. , Kryshtab T. G.
Published: May 2012

Here we report on the effect of post‐growth thermal annealing at 200‐440 °C on the photoluminescence (PL) characteristics of CdSe/ZnSe quantum dot (QD) and CdZnSe/ZnSe quantum well (QW) heterostructures grown by molecular beam epitaxy. After heat treatment at temperatures lower than 270 °C, the PL intensity from both type of structures increases, while at temperatures above 270‐340 °C it decreases. A blue shift of the excitonic band position caused by Cd out‐diffusion from the QDs (QWs) is observed above 320‐340 °C and is five times larger for the QD‐related PL band than for the QW one. It is found that the energy of the excitonic transitions in the wetting layers does not change upon annealing. Lower thermal stability of the QDs as compared to that of the wetting layer and of the QW is explained by lateral Cd/Zn interdiffusion in the wetting layers via column II vacancies (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Modification by thermal annealing of the luminescent characteristics of CdSe quantum dots in gelatin films
Authors: Borkovska L. V. , Korsunska N. O. , Stara T. R. , Dzhagan V. M. , Stroyuk O. L. , Raevska O. Ye. , Kryshtab T. G.
Published: May 2012

The influence of thermal annealing on the photoluminescence (PL), PL excitation (PLE) and Raman scattering spectra of CdSe quantum dots (QDs) in gelatin films is studied. The X‐ray diffraction reveals the presence of CdSe QDs with a size of about 3 nm in the film. Thermal annealing of the QDs at 100 ºC in air results in a red shift of the PL bands as well as in changes in the temperature dependence of the PL intensity. In the PLE spectra the maximum associated with the light absorption by the QDs shifts to the red region also. The effects are found to be reversible. The passivation of CdSe nanocrystals with ZnS shell reduces the effects. In the Raman scattering spectra, the position of LO phonon peak of CdSe QDs does not change upon annealing. The effects are explained by the break of the bonds of cadmium surface atoms with functional groups of gelatin molecules (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Local study of the energy spectrum of electrons in CdSe/ZnSe QD structure by current DLTS cooperated with AFM
Authors: Litvinov Vladimir , Kozlovsky Vladimir , Sadofyev Yuri , Rybin Nikolay
Published: May 2012

CdSe/ZnSe QD structure was investigated by current deep level transient spectroscopy (DLTS) with Laplace transform cooperated with atomic force microscopy (AFM). Cathodoluminescence (CL) measurements were carried out too. Basing on Laplace current DLTS with AFM and CL data an activation energy of electron emission from the quantized levels in a small group of CdSe QDs was measured. We have demonstrated the advanced capabilities of the new method of studying the electrical properties of nano‐objects. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Imputation of missing variance data using non‐linear mixed effects modelling to enable an inverse variance weighted meta‐analysis of summary‐level longitudinal data: a case study
Authors: Boucher Martin
Published: May 2012

Missing variances, on the basis of the summary‐level data, can be a problem when an inverse variance weighted meta‐analysis is undertaken. A wide range of approaches in dealing with this issue exist, such as excluding data without a variance measure, using a function of sample size as a weight and imputing the missing standard errors/deviations. A non‐linear mixed effects modelling approach was taken to describe the time‐course of standard deviations across 14 studies. The model was then used to make predictions of the missing standard deviations, thus, enabling a precision weighted model‐based meta‐analysis of a mean pain endpoint over time. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian approaches were implemented with example code to illustrate how this imputation can be carried out and to compare the output from each method. The resultant imputations were nearly identical for the two approaches. This modelling approach acknowledges the fact that standard deviations are not necessarily constant over time and can differ between treatments and across studies in a predictable way. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Emodin Regulates Apoptotic Pathway in Human Liver Cancer Cells
Authors: Yu Jian‐Qing , Bao Wei , Lei Jia‐Chuan
Published: May 2012

Emodin, a natural anthraquinone, has been reported to possess antiproliferative effects in many cancer cell lines. However, anticancer mechanism against human liver cancer remains unclear. In this study, we observed that emodin induced apoptosis in HepG2 cells and caused a significant accumulation of cells in the G1 phase. Western blot data showed that emodin treatment caused the increasing of release of cytochrome c into cytosol from mitochondria and the activation of caspase‐8 and caspase‐9, which suggest that the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways could be involved. Emodin treatment also resulted in a dose‐dependent accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, emodin increased the protein level of p53 and decreased the protein level of NF‐κB/p65 in HepG2 cells, which indicated these two regulators might play a role in emodin‐induced apoptosis. Computational modeling showed that emodin could directly bind to the BH3 domain of Bcl‐2 through forming one hydrogen bond with Ala146 residue in Bcl‐2. From these examinations, emodin not only significantly downregulated expression of Bcl‐2 but also inhibited the heterodimerization of Bcl‐2 with Bax because of strong interaction between emodin and Bcl‐2. These suggest that emodin induces apoptosis in liver cancer cell line through a multifaceted complex cascade of events. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preventive effects of North American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) on Diabetic Retinopathy and Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Sen Subhrojit , Chen Shali , Wu Yuexiu , Feng Biao , Lui Edmund K , Chakrabarti Subrata
Published: May 2012

Ginseng (Araliaceae) has multiple pharmacological actions because of its diverse phytochemical constituents. The aims of the present study are to evaluate the preventive effects of North American ginseng on diabetic retinopathy and cardiomyopathy and to delineate the underlying mechanisms of such effects. Models of both type 1 (C57BL/6 mice with streptozotocin‐induced diabetes) and type 2 diabetes (db/db mice) and age‐matched and sex‐matched controls were examined. Alcoholic ginseng root (200 mg/kg body weight, daily oral gavage) extract was administered to groups of both type 1 and type 2 diabetic mice for 2 or 4 months. Dysmetabolic state in the diabetic mice was significantly improved by ginseng treatment. In both the heart and retina of diabetic animals, ginseng treatment significantly prevented oxidative stress and diabetes‐induced upregulations of extracellular matrix proteins and vasoactive factors. Ginseng treatment in the diabetic animals resulted in enhancement of stroke volume, ejection fraction, cardiac output, and left ventricle pressure during systole and diastole and diminution of stroke work. In addition, mRNA expressions of atrial natriuretic factor and brain natriuretic factor (molecular markers for cardiac hypertrophy) were significantly diminished in ginseng‐treated diabetic mice. These data indicate that North American ginseng prevents the diabetes‐induced retinal and cardiac biochemical and functional changes probably through inhibition of oxidative stress. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Utility‐driven construction of balanced data routing trees in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Behzadan Afshin , Anpalagan Alagan , Woungang Isaac , Ma Bobby
Published: May 2012

In wireless sensor networks, achieving load balancing in an energy‐efficient manner to improve the network lifetime as much as possible is still a challenging problem because in such networks, the only energy resource for sensor nodes is their battery supplies. This paper proposes a game theoretical‐based solution in the form of a distributed algorithm for constructing load‐balanced routing trees in wireless sensor networks. In our algorithm, load balancing is realized by adjusting the number of children among parents as much as possible, where child adjustment is considered as a game between the parents and child nodes; parents are considered as cooperative players, and children are considered as selfish players. The gained utility by each node is determined by means of some utility functions defined per role, which themselves determine the behavior of nodes in each role. When the game is over, each node gains the maximum benefit on the basis of its utility function, and the balanced tree is constructed. The proposed method provides additional benefits when in‐network aggregation is applied. Analytical and simulation results are provided, demonstrating that our proposed algorithm outperform two recently proposed benchmarking algorithms [1, 2], in terms of time complexity and communication overhead required for constructing the load‐balanced routing trees. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis, Crystal Structures, Thermal Decomposition and Explosive Properties of a Series of Novel Energetic Nitrophenol Salts of Dihydrazino‐s‐tetrazine
Authors: Zhang Jian‐Guo , Liang Yan‐Hui , Feng Jin‐Ling , Wang Kun , Zhang Tong‐Lai , Zhou Zun‐Ning , Yang Li
Published: May 2012

Three nitrophenol salts of 3, 6‐dihydrazino‐s‐tetrazine were synthesized by the reaction of dihydrazino‐s‐tetrazine with either trinitrophenol, trinitroresorcinol, or trinitrophloroglucinol. Their structures were characterized by elemental analysis, FT‐IR, 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry. The crystal structure of the salt of 3, 6‐dihydrazino‐s‐tetrazine and trinitrophloroglucinol was determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The thermal decomposition characteristics of the title compounds were investigated using differential scanning calorimetry and thermal gravimetry‐differential thermal gravimetry and the kinetic and thermodynamic parameters were calculated. Sensitivity tests revealed that the three salts were very sensitive to external stimulus.
A twistor description of six-dimensional $ \mathcal{N} = \left( {1,1} \right) $ super Yang-Mills theory
Authors: Sämann Christian , Wimmer Robert , Wolf Martin
Published: May 2012

Abstract

We present a twistor space that describes super null-lines on six-dimensional
$ \mathcal{N} = \left( {1,1} \right) $
superspace. We then show that there is a one-to-one correspondence between holomorphic vector bundles over this twistor space and solutions to the field equations of
$ \mathcal{N} = \left( {1,1} \right) $
super Yang-Mills theory. Our constructions naturally reduce to those of the twistorial description of maximally supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory in four dimensions.
Effective approach to greatly enhancing selective secretion and expression of three cytoplasmic enzymes in Escherichia coli through synergistic effect of EDTA and lysozyme
Authors: Liu Sen-Lin , Du Kun , Chen Wei-Zhao , Liu Gang , Xing Miao
Published: May 2012

An effective approach to greatly enhancing the selective secretion and expression of recombinant cytoplasmic enzymes in Escherichia coli was successfully developed through the synergistic effect of ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA) and lysozyme. The method was applied to two endoglucanases (EGs) and an amylase. The optimal culture conditions of temperature and concentration of isopropyl-β-d-1-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG) were 23–30 °C and 0.2 mM, respectively, under which the three enzymes could be expressed in active form. Among all the chemicals tested, EDTA was found to be most suitable for enhancing the secretion of EG-I-1A into the medium. Addition of lysozyme alone had little influence on the secretion and expression. In contrast, on the basis of the addition of 5 g EDTA/L at the induction time of 12 h, the simultaneous addition of 0.15 g lysozyme/L further significantly increased the secretion and expression of the three enzymes, demonstrating the synergistic effect of EDTA and lysozyme. The production of EG-I-1A in the culture medium by adding 5 g EDTA/L and 0.15 g lysozyme/L under the optimal culture conditions of 23 °C and 0.2 mM IPTG was over 260-fold higher than that without EDTA and lysozyme under the standard conditions of 37 °C and 1 mM IPTG. In summary, the advantage of this novel cultivation approach for secretion was that not only did it selectively enhance the secretion of the proteins of interest, but also greatly increased the expression of the three enzymes by over 80 %.
The relationships among caregiver and adolescent identity status, identity distress and psychological adjustment
Authors: Wiley Rachel E. , Berman Steven L.
Published: May 2012

The present study addresses the relationships of caregiver identity status on their adolescent children's identity distress and psychological symptom severity among a sample of adolescents (age 12–19) in treatment at a community mental health center (N = 60 caregiver–child dyads). A significant proportion of caregivers (10%) and their adolescent children (21.7%) met DSM‐IV criteria for Identity Problem. Caregiver identity commitment, significantly predicted adolescent identity distress over and above the adolescents' identity variables, while caregiver identity exploration significantly predicted adolescent psychological symptom severity. These findings and implications are discussed in further detail.