bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparative analysis of conventional and pretargeted radioimmunotherapy of B-cell lymphomas by targeting CD20, CD22, and HLA-DR singly and in combinations
Authors: Pagel John M. , Orgun Nural , Hamlin Donald K. , Wilbur D. Scott , Gooley Theodore A. , Gopal Ajay K. , Park Steven I. , Green Damian J. , Lin Yukang , Press Oliver W.
Published: January 2009

Relapsed B-cell lymphomas are currently incurable with conventional chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Radiolabeled antibodies directed against B-cell surface antigens have emerged as effective and safe therapies for relapsed lymphomas. We therefore investigated the potential utility of both directly radiolabeled 1F5 (anti-CD20), HD39 (anti-CD22), and Lym-1 (anti-DR) antibodies (Abs) and of pretargeted radioimmunotherapy (RIT) using Ab-streptavidin (SA) conjugates, followed by an N-acetylgalactosamine dendrimeric clearing agent and radiometal-labeled DOTA-biotin, for treatment of lymphomas in mouse models using Ramos, Raji, and FL-18 human lymphoma xenografts. This study demonstrates the marked superiority of pretargeted RIT for each of the antigenic targets with more complete tumor regressions and longer mouse survival compared with conventional one-step RIT. The Ab-SA conjugate yielding the best tumor regression and progression-free survival after pretargeted RIT varied depending upon the lymphoma cell line used, with 1F5 Ab-SA and Lym-1 Ab-SA conjugates yielding the most promising results overall. Contrary to expectations, the best rates of mouse survival were obtained using optimal single Ab-SA conjugates rather than combinations of conjugates targeting different antigens. We hypothesize that clinical implementation of pretargeted RIT methods will provide a meaningful prolongation of survival for patients with relapsed lymphomas compared with currently available treatment strategies.
Synthesis of Melatonin Receptor Agonist Ramelteon via Rh-catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation of an Allylamine
Authors: Yamashita Masayuki , Yamano Toru
Published: January 2009

In the course of developing a practical synthetic method for the selective melatonin MT1/MT2 receptor agonist Ramelteon, a rhodium Josiphos complex was found to be an excellent catalyst for asymmetric hydrogenation of the key precursor, allylamine 1.
Sequential Introduction of Carbon Nucleophiles onto Silicon Atoms Using Methyl as a Leaving Group
Authors: Horie Hiroaki , Kajita Yuichi , Matsubara Seijiro
Published: January 2009

A molecular structure, which has a trimethylsilyl group in close proximity to a hydroxy group spatially, converts methyl on silicon into a good leaving group.
Nanoparticles of Hybrid Liposomes for the Inhibition of Breast Tumor Growth along with Apoptosis
Authors: Shimoda Shinya , Ichihara Hideaki , Matsumoto Yoko , Ueoka Ryuichi
Published: January 2009

Hybrid liposomes (HLs) composed of l-α-dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine and polyoxyethylene (25) dodecyl ether having 80 nm in diameter were produced. It is noteworthy that the therapeutic effects of HLs along with apoptosis without side effect were obtained using xenograft mice models of human breast cancer in vivo for the first time.
A Facile Procedure for Acetalization of Aldehydes and Ketones Catalyzed by Cerium(III) Trifluoromethanesulfonate
Authors: Ono Fumiaki , Inatomi Yoshiko , Tada Yuusuke , Mori Masaki , Sato Tsuneo
Published: January 2009

Aldehydes and ketones are readily protected in the presence of trialkyl orthoformate and a catalytic amount of cerium(III) trifluoromethanesulfonate under mild conditions to give the corresponding acetals in good to excellent yields. Due to the mild reaction conditions, this method is compatible with acid-sensitive substrates.
Dynamic Cost Reduction Through Process Improvement in Assembly Networks
Authors: Bernstein Fernando , Kök A. Gürhan
Published: January 2009

We consider a decentralized assembly system in which a buyer purchases components from several first-tier suppliers. We examine the dynamics of suppliers' investments in cost-reduction initiatives over the life cycle of a product under different procurement approaches. We model the suppliers' investment decisions under cost-contingent contracts, with wholesale prices determined on the basis of the prevailing component costs, as a dynamic game in closed-loop strategies. We show that there always exists an equilibrium in which the suppliers' investments are synchronized, that is, in each period either all suppliers invest in process improvement or no supplier does. We also consider target-price contracts, under which the assembler announces the rate of component cost reduction to be achieved over the product's life cycle at the beginning of the contractual relationship. We show that target-price contracts lead to higher investment levels and profits if the rates are properly specified. In general, the equilibrium investments of the suppliers are lower than those under centralized control. The buyer can eliminate this inefficiency by subsidizing a certain fraction of the costs of investments. We extend the model to a setting with two competing assemblers and knowledge spillover at the suppliers. We find that the level of inefficiency under decentralized control decreases with increased competition and spillover rate.
Conversion of Angulimala in the Samyukta-agama
Authors: Anālayo Bhikkhu
Published: January 2009

The present article offers a translation and comparative study of the conversion of Angulimala as recorded in the Samyukta-agama preserved in Chinese, with particular emphasis on what transformed a killer into a saint.
Differences in Seed Morphometric and Germination Traits of Crofton Weed (Eupatorium adenophorum) from Different Elevations
Authors: Li Yang-Ping , Feng Yu-Long
Published: January 2009

Crofton weed is a noxious invasive weed worldwide. However, the mechanisms underlying its invasiveness are still not well understood. We hypothesize that genetic differentiation and plasticity may help the plant invade heterogeneous habitats. To test this hypothesis, we compared the differences in seed morphometric and germination traits among 14 populations of the plant located at different elevations (640–2,430 m) in south Yunnan Province of southwest China. Germination capacity (GC) and index (GI) were markedly different among the 14 populations at the same temperature or water treatment. The results indicated genetic differentiations in these traits; maternal effects were not excluded. GC and GI were also different for each population across temperature or water treatments, showing phenotypic plasticity. Croton weed seed size and weight also responded genetically or plastically (or both) to different elevations. Seed width, weight, GC, and GI at each temperature increased with the increase of the elevation of origin, showing clinal variation patterns that reveal local adaptations to habitats encountered by the plant. The large seeds, high GC, and high GI could improve emergence, establishment, growth, and survival of seedlings at high elevation; the low GI could prevent seed germination before the onset of the rainy season at low elevation. On the basis of the results, genetic differentiation and plasticity in seed size and germination traits may help crofton weed acclimate to different elevations, facilitating its invasiveness.
Response of Asiatic Dayflower (Commelina communis) to Glyphosate and Alternatives in Soybean
Authors: Ulloa Santiago M. , Owen Micheal D. K.
Published: January 2009

Asiatic dayflower has recently become a troublesome weed in eastern Iowa. This weed demonstrates an extended emergence period and there is anecdotal evidence of glyphosate tolerance. Thus, Asiatic dayflower is difficult to manage in glyphosate-resistant (GR) corn and soybean. Greenhouse experiments were conducted to evaluate the response of Asiatic dayflower to glyphosate applied at different rates and growth stages. Field research was conducted in 2005 and 2006 to evaluate different herbicides for Asiatic dayflower control in soybean. PRE herbicides were applied at planting and POST herbicides were applied 21 and 42 d after planting (DAP). In addition, shikimate accumulation in response to glyphosate was compared among Asiatic dayflower and GR and non-GR corn and soybean. Under greenhouse conditions, a single application of glyphosate (0.84 kg ae ha−1) did not control Asiatic dayflower. Only the highest rate evaluated, 13.44 kg ae ha−1 (16X), was lethal to Asiatic dayflower. Even when applied at an early growth stage (two leaves) and using high rates (3.36 kg ae ha−1), glyphosate controlled Asiatic dayflower just 28%. In the field, metribuzin and KIH-485 controlled Asiatic dayflower 80 and 73%, respectively. Early POST applications (21 DAP) of cloransulam or lactofen controlled Asiatic dayflower 80 and 67%, respectively. A single glyphosate application of 0.86 kg ae ha−1 controlled Asiatic dayflower approximately 50%. Glyphosate-treated Asiatic dayflower and non-GR corn and soybeans accumulated shikimate after application. GR corn and soybeans did not accumulate shikimate in response to glyphosate. Twenty-one days after treatment, all the non-GR soybean and corn plants died; however, Asiatic dayflower plants survived.
Factors Affecting Seed Germination of Cadillo (Urena lobata)
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Ferrell Jason , MacDonald Gregory , Sellers Brent
Published: January 2009

Cadillo is an invasive species commonly found in pastures, rangelands, and disturbed areas. It is becoming a significant problem weed in Florida pastures and natural areas. The objectives of this research were to determine effective techniques to break seed dormancy and the effect of light, temperature, pH, water stress, and depth of seed burial on Cadillo germination. Cadillo seeds had significant levels of innate dormancy imposed by a hard seed coat; chemical scarification was the most effective technique for removing dormancy. Seeds germinated from 15 to 40 C, with an optimal temperature of 28 C. Germination was unaffected by pH levels. Water stress below −0.2 MPa reduced seed germination. Cadillo germination was not light-dependent and seeds emerged from depths up to 9 cm, with the greatest occurring emergence near the soil surface. Considering that Cadillo seed can germinate under a wide range of environmental conditions, it is not surprising that it has become a serious invasive weed in Florida.
Distribution of Glyphosate-Resistant Horseweed (Conyza canadensis) and Relationship to Cropping Systems in The Central Valley of California
Authors: Hanson Bradley D. , Shrestha Anil , Shaner Dale L.
Published: January 2009

Horseweed is an increasing problem in perennial crops and noncrop areas of the Central Valley of California. Similar to the situation in glyphosate-tolerant crops in other regions, glyphosate-based weed-management strategies in perennial crops and noncrop areas have resulted in selection of a glyphosate-resistant horseweed biotype in California. Research was conducted to determine the level of resistance to glyphosate in horseweed using an in vivo enzyme assay and to determine the distribution of the resistant horseweed biotype in central California. The resistant biotype was 4.8-fold more resistant to in vivo glyphosate exposure compared with the susceptible biotype, although enzyme function was inhibited in both biotypes at high glyphosate concentrations. An intermediate in vivo glyphosate dose was used to discriminate between glyphosate-resistant and glyphosate-susceptible individuals in a roadside survey conducted in 2006 to 2007. Overall, 62% of the individuals tested from the Central Valley were classified as resistant to glyphosate. Resistant individuals were found at most locations throughout the Central Valley, although the proportion of resistant individuals was slightly lower in the northern-most area. No correlation could be made between proportion of resistant or susceptible individuals and land use patterns likely because of long-distance seed dispersal or different selection pressure for resistant biotypes on field margins compared with that within fields. Horseweed with an economically significant level of resistance to glyphosate is already widely distributed in the Central Valley of California. Grower awareness of the problem and adoption of best management practices are needed to minimize the effects of horseweed in this highly productive and diverse agricultural region.
Time Domain Modelling of First Return Stroke of Lightning
Authors: Kumar Udaya , Raysaha Rosy B. , Dileep Kumar K.P.
Published: January 2009

The four most important factors that govern the return stroke evolution can be identified as: (i) electric field due to charge distributed along the channel, (ii) transient enhancement of conductance by several orders at the bridging regime (iii) the non-linear increase in channel conductance at the propagating current front and (iv) the associated dynamic electromagnetic field which support the evolution of current along the channel. For a more realistic modelling of the lightning return stroke, the present work attempts to consider these aspects in suitable manner. The charge simulation method is employed for evaluating the quasi-static field due to (i). For the dynamic field, the problem involves conduction along a thin structure with open boundary on one side. Further, in order to efficiently represent a vertically extended grounded strike object, as well as, channel of quite arbitrary geometry, boundary based approach is believed to be the ideal choice. Considering these, a time-dependent electric field integral equation (TD-EFIE) along with a sub-sectional collocation form of the method of moments (MoM) is chosen for the numerical field evaluation. The dynamic variation of conductance in the channel other than the bridging zone is modelled by a first order arc equation. For the bridging zone, arc equation which explicitly portray in some sense, accumulation of energy is considered. Accordingly, formulations given by Barannik, Popovic and Toepler were scrutinized for their suitability. After some preliminary simulation studies, a self contained model for the first return stoke of a lightning flash is presented. The stability of the model is verified by running the program for longer durations with different cloud base potentials and cloud base heights. Simulation results are in agreement with the field data on current and velocity decay rate for the first one kilometer height. Also, the relation between the charge density at channel tip and the return stroke current peak favorably compares with the literature.
Evidence for Black Duck Winter Distribution Change
Authors: BROOK RODNEY W. , ROSS R. KENYON , ABRAHAM KENNETH F. , FRONCZAK DAVID L. , DAVIES J. CHRIS
Published: January 2009

ABSTRACT The Mississippi Flyway midwinter population survey (MWS) indicates that American black ducks (Anas rubripes) have been rapidly declining for the last 10 years. We found a negative relationship between MWS and Ontario (Canada) midwinter counts for black ducks. Thus, as number of black ducks in the MWS decreased, Ontario midwinter counts increased. A shift in midwinter distribution of black ducks may be partly responsible for the decreasing trend in MWS counts. We recommend that midwinter black duck surveys be expanded to more sites in southern Canada and northeastern United States that currently are not sampled to better assess winter habitat use and improve the midwinter black‐duck population index.
Chukar Seasonal Survival and Probable Causes of Mortality
Authors: ROBINSON AARON C. , LARSEN RANDY T. , FLINDERS JERRAN T. , MITCHELL DEAN L.
Published: January 2009

ABSTRACT  Chukars (Alectoris chukar) have been introduced throughout the world. Despite this widespread distribution, limited information regarding seasonal survival, probable causes of mortality, and other basic life history characteristics is available to manage this harvested species. We estimated the probable cause of mortality for chukars with radiotransmitters by examining evidence at kill sites. We used model selection to evaluate influences of seasonal effects (fall raptor migration, peak migration, and reproductive period), demographic effects (age and sex), radio weight, and year on survival of chukars in western Utah, USA, by using a known‐fate model in Program MARK and 2 years of telemetry data. We captured and randomly fitted 125 individual chukars with 2 different‐sized radiotransmitters (97 F, 20 M, 8 sex undetermined). Model selection results showed our top 3 models accounted for 99% of Akaike's Information Criterion weight, and each one had seasonal and year effects. Two‐week survival estimates were lower during peak raptor migration in both years and significantly (P < 0.05) so in year 2 (2‐week S = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.77–0.94) compared with other year 2 intervals (2‐week S > 0.91). Annual survival was lower in 2005 (S = 0.03, 95% CI = 0.01–0.09) compared with 2006 (S = 0.19, 95% CI = 0.12–0.31). We documented 95 deaths and classified 56% unknown, 33% avian predation, 8% hunter harvest, and 3% mammalian predation. Our research suggests that predation on chukars is substantial during the peak fall raptor migratory period and that the hunting take under current regulations is relatively small and likely compensatory.
Enhancing the Perceived Threat of Vehicle Approach to Deer
Authors: BLACKWELL BRADLEY F. , SEAMANS THOMAS W.
Published: January 2009

ABSTRACT  In North America and Europe, deer (Cervidae)—vehicle collisions (DVCs) are common and result not only in injury and death to the animals involved, but also human injury and property damage. Given that most DVCs occur during crepuscular periods, we questioned whether the perceived threat to deer posed by vehicle approach could be enhanced. We hypothesized that a vehicle‐based lighting system that better complements peak visual capabilities of deer at night relative to standard tungsten‐halogen (TH) lighting alone would elicit a greater flight‐initiation distance (FID) by free‐ranging white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). Our lighting system comprised 2 TH lamps and one Xenarc high‐intensity discharge (HID) lamp. We defined an a priori logistic model comprising 4 variables potentially explaining deer FID relative to vehicle approach: 1) starting distance of the approach, 2) lighting treatment, 3) season, and 4) deer group size. Deer exposed to the combination of TH lamps and constant illumination of the HID lamp exhibited a mean (SD) FID of 136 (127) m. In contrast, deer exposed to TH lamps only initiated flight on average at 116 (127) m, and those exposed to the combination of TH lamps and the HID lamp pulsed at 2 Hz exhibited a mean FID of 89 (98) m. We contend that the pulsing of the HID lamp while TH lamps were illuminated resulted in consistent loss (over approx. 0.5‐sec intervals) of a portion of the image on approach, possibly interfering with sensory information relative to the position of the potential threat. In contrast, the combination of TH lamps and constant illumination of the HID lamp contributed (P = 0.033) to the probability of a FID ≥94 m. We suggest, therefore, that deer FID can be increased by combining currently available TH and HID lamps, or use of HID lamps alone, to enhance detection of an approaching vehicle at night. Also, we encourage research into new lamp designs to better complement deer visual capabilities as well as continued research to quantify deer FID in response to vehicle approach at night and lamp‐specific properties that can enhance deer detection of the vehicle.
Putting the Idea of the Research-Driven or Research-Intensive University in Europe in its Context
Authors: Livesey David
Published: January 2009

Research intensive universities have important roles in society and cannot be valued solely on the basis of their contribution to economic growth. Their activities are only part of the diverse spectrum of the higher education system which advanced societies need. League tables of universities discourage diversity, distort the goals of higher education institutions and grossly simplify the transmission of knowledge and the advancement of learning. Universities are complex clusters of networks of individual active learners engaged to their mutual benefit in a variety of ways with the rest of society through a myriad of equally complex network of active learners. These engagements are beneficial provided that the do not distort the roles of universities.
Developing Research Structures and Research Capacity: The Swedish National Postgraduate School in Educational Work (NaPA)
Authors: Arreman Inger Erixon , Erixon Per-Olof
Published: January 2009

This article focuses on the emergence and development of new research structures and research capacity within Swedish teacher education at the beginning of the new millennium. Since 2001, it has been possible in Sweden to undertake postgraduate and research studies within teacher education — something that was previously impossible. As a result of a national reform, a new research discipline, educational work, was established at several Swedish universities. At the same time, the National Postgraduate School in Educational Work (NaPA) was created, the responsibility for which was given to Umeå University, one of the larger Swedish teacher education providers. The aim of the article is to provide a picture of Swedish national teacher education policies in the first years of the millennium that have generated new research structures, which, in turn, have enabled a rapid and nationally distributed expansion of research within the field of Swedish teacher education. It draws on a combination of policy documents, research carried out by the two authors and reflections on their own experiences, as a former Ph.D. student who now has a doctoral qualification in educational work and as the head of NaPA respectively.
Desmids of some selected areas of Bangladesh. 3. Docidium, Pleurotaenium, Triplastrum and Triploceras
Authors: Islam AKM Nurul , Akter Nasima
Published: January 2009

23 taxa belonging to Pleurotaenium, 2 under Triploceras and 1 each under Docidium and Triplastrum have been recorded in this paper from some selected areas of Bangladesh. Of these, 11 are new records for the country. Keywords: Desmids, Docidium, Pleurotaenium, Triplastrum, Triploceras, Bangladesh DOI: 10.3329/bjpt.v12i1.608 Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 12(1): 11-23, 2005 (June)
Hydrobiological studies within the tea gardens at Srimangal, Bangladesh. III. Chlorophyceae (excluding Desmids)
Authors: Islam AKM Nurul , Irfanullah Haseeb Md
Published: January 2009

A total of 83 algal taxa belonging to 40 genera of Chlorophyceae (excluding desmids) have been recorded from some acidic water bodies within the tea gardens at Srimangal, Maulvi Bazar. Of these 14 are new records for Bangladesh. Key words Acidic habitats, phytoplankton, periphyton, Chlorophyceae, new records, Bangladesh DOI: 10.3329/bjpt.v12i2.600 Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 12(2): 19-37, 2005 (December)
Hydrobiological studies within the tea gardens at Srimangal, Bangladesh. VI. Desmids (Xanthidium, Arthrodesmus, Staurodesmus and Staurastrum)
Authors: Islam AKM Nurul , Irfanullah Haseeb Md
Published: January 2009

In this last instalment of the series, 78 desmid taxa belonging to four genera, namely Xanthidium (8 taxa), Arthrodesmus (3 taxa), Staurodesmus (11 taxa) and Staurastrum (56 taxa) have been recorded from different aquatic habitats located within the tea gardens at Srimangal, Maulvi Bazar. Of these, nine are described as new records for Bangladesh. An overall assessment of the algal flora of the study area reveals desmids as the single largest group consisting of 230 taxa out of 421 recorded algal taxa. The paper comments on the conservation potentials of the studied aquatic habitats as monitoring tools of land use pattern like tea-gardening. Key words: Acidic habitats, Species diversity, Conservation, Phytoplankton, New records DOI: 10.3329/bjpt.v13i2.583 Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 13(2): 111-129, 2006 (December)
Scrophulariaceous taxa in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Mohammad Oliur
Published: January 2009

This paper presents a total of 59 Scrophulariaceous species distributed in 23 genera from Bangladesh. An updated nomenclature, brief diagnostic characters, flowering and fruiting period and distribution within and outside Bangladesh have been furnished under each species. Chromosome number has also been cited whenever possible. Key words: Schrophulariaceae, Bangladesh DOI: 10.3329/bjpt.v13i2.585 Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 13(2): 139-154, 2006 (December)
A preliminary checklist of the Angiospermic flora of Ghagotia Union under Kapasia Upazila in Gazipur District, Bangladesh
Authors: Alam Mohammad Shah , Hassan Md Abul , Uddin Mohammad Zashim
Published: January 2009

Angiospermic flora of Ghagotia Union representing Magnoliopsida (Dicots) and Liliopsida (Monocots) have been inventoried after survey during the years of 2004 and 2005. A total of 187 species have been recorded from the area. These have been assigned to 65 families and 160 genera. Magnoliopsida is represented by 50 families, 113 genera and 133 species, whereas Liliopsida is represented by 15 families, 47 genera and 54 species. Key words: Preliminary checklist, Angiospermic flora, Ghagotia Union, Gazipur, Bangladesh DOI: 10.3329/bjpt.v13i2.586 Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 13(2): 155-170, 2006 (December)
Aleuritopteris grisea (Blanford) Panigrahi : A new pteridophytic record for Bangladesh
Authors: Mirza Momtaz Mahal , Nur-E-Alam Muhammad , Ahmed Rezina
Published: January 2009

Not available. Key words: Aleuritopteris grisea, New record, Bangladesh DOI: 10.3329/bjpt.v13i2.588 Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 13(2): 173-175, 2006 (December)
A new species of the genus Phoebe Nees (Lauraceae) from North-East India
Authors: Gangopadhyay M , Sarmah A
Published: January 2009

Not available. Key words: Lauraceae, New species, Phoebe DOI: 10.3329/bjpt.v14i2.534 Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 14(2): 163-165, 2007 (December)
Addition to Oedogoniaceous algae of Bangladesh: Bulbochaete Agardh
Authors: Naz Sabrina , Azam Shah Md. Golam Gousul , Nahar Umma , Diba Nasrin Jahan
Published: January 2009

A total of nine taxa of Bulbocheate Agardh are reported from the north-west Barind tract of Bangladesh as new records for the country. These are Bulbochaete crassa Pringsh., B. debaryana Wittr. & Lund. in Wittr., B. elatior Pringsh. var. elatior, B. iyengarii Sarma & Mukh., B. keralense Venk. & Natr., B. minuta West & West, B. nana Wittr. var. chungkingensis Jao, B. pygmaea Pringsh. var. erecta Jao, and B. suberecta (Coll.) Tiff.Keywords: Oedogoniales, Bulbochaete, New records, BangladeshDOI: 10.3329/bjpt.v15i2.1738Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 15(2): 81-87, 2008 (December)Â
Systematic studies in the family Liliaceae from Bangladesh
Authors: Afroz Sumona , Hassan Md. Abul
Published: January 2009

The family Liliaceae A.L. de Jussieu has been revised for Bangladesh and a total of 34 species with one variant under 16 genera have been recorded. Artificial dichotomous keys to the genera and species have been given. Descriptions have been provided for each taxon, and local names, flowering and fruiting periods have been added wherever available. Out of 34 species, 16 species are native/naturalized and 18 species, including 1 variant, are exotic. Four genera, ten species and one variant have been documented for the first time in Bangladesh.Keywords: Liliaceae, Systematic studies, BangladeshÂ DOI: 10.3329/bjpt.v15i2.1741Â Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 15(2): 115-128, 2008 (December)
Scanning electron microscopic studies on the testa surface pattern of Bauhinia nervosa and B. wallichii (Fabaceae: Caesalpinioideae)
Authors: Pathak M. K. , Bhaumik M. , Bandyopadhyay S.
Published: January 2009

Not available.Keywords: Bauhinia, Testa surface pattern, Scanning electron microscopic studiesÂ DOI: 10.3329/bjpt.v15i2.1754Â Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 15(2): 159-161, 2008 (December)
Fighting Tobacco Smoking - a Difficult but Not Impossible Battle
Authors: Man-Kit Leung Christopher , Leung Alexander K. C. , Ellis Hon Kam-Lun , Yim-Fai Kong Albert
Published: January 2009

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tobacco-related disease is the single largest preventable cause of death in the world today, killing around 5.4 million people a year – an average of one person every six seconds. The total number of death caused by tobacco consumption is higher than that of tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS and malaria combined. Unlike other communicable diseases, however, tobacco-related disease has a man-made consensus vector – the tobacco companies that play an active role to promote tobacco consumption, which directly heightens the disease morbidity. Any public health policy designed to curb smoking behavior has to prepare for opposite lobbying actions from tobacco companies that undermine the effects of the health measures. Another unique nature of the tobacco epidemic is that it can be cured, not by medicines or vaccines, but on the concerted actions of government and civil society. Many countries with a history of tobacco control measures indeed experienced a reduction of tobacco consumption. As most of these governments launched a range of measures simultaneously, it is hard to quantify the relative merits of different control strategies that contributed to the drop in the number of smokers. These packages of strategies can come in different forms but with some common features. Political actions with government support, funding, and protection are crucial. Without these, antismoking efforts in any part of the world are unlikely to be successful.
Working memory interference during processing texts and pictures: Implications for the explanation of the modality effect
Authors: Rummer Ralf , Schweppe Judith , Fürstenberg Anne , Seufert Tina , Brünken Roland
Published: December 2008

Auditory text presentation improves learning with pictures and texts. With sequential text–picture presentation, cognitive models of multimedia learning explain this modality effect in terms of greater visuo‐spatial working memory load with visual as compared to auditory texts. Visual texts are assumed to demand the same working memory subsystem as pictures, while auditory texts make use of an additional cognitive resource. We provide two alternative assumptions that relate to more basic processes: First, acoustic‐sensory information causes a retention advantage for auditory over visual texts which occurs no matter if a picture is presented or not. Second, eye movements during reading hamper visuo‐spatial rehearsal. Two experiments applying elementary procedures provide first evidence for these assumptions. Experiment 1 demonstrates that, regarding text recall, the auditory advantage is independent of visuo‐spatial working memory load. Experiment 2 reveals worse matrix recognition performance after reading text requiring eye movements than after listening or reading without eye movements. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Straightforward Procedure for the [2+2+2] Cycloaddition of Enediynes
Authors: Geny Anaïs , Gaudrel Sophie , Slowinski Franck , Amatore Muriel , Chouraqui Gaëlle , Malacria Max , Aubert Corinne , Gandon Vincent
Published: December 2008

Enediynes undergo intramolecular [2+2+2] cycloaddition in the presence of cobalt(II) iodide (CoI2), manganese and an N‐heterocyclic carbene (IPr) generated in situ from the corresponding imidazolium salt and butyllithium (BuLi). Polycyclic cyclohexadienes are obtained selectively. This new method represents an interesting alternative to those employing air‐sensitive cyclopentadienylcobalt [CpCoL2 (L=CO, C2H4)] catalysts. Moreover, the N‐heterocyclic carbene can be used catalytically, which is a significant improvement compared to the corresponding phosphine‐based system which requires an excess of ligand.
Prevalence and risk of asthma symptoms among firefighters in São Paulo, Brazil: A population‐based study
Authors: Ribeiro Marcos , de Paula Santos Ubiratan , Bussacos Marco Antonio , Terra‐Filho Mario
Published: December 2008

The firefighters are at increased risk of respiratory disease as a result of exposure to smoke and dust. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk associated with respiratory symptoms among city firefighters in São Paulo, Brazil.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study utilizing the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) questionnaire was administered to firefighters and police officers, in order to evaluate their respiratory symptoms.

Results

Complete respiratory data were obtained from 1,235 firefighters and 1,839 police officers. Among the firefighters, there were 55.5% never‐smokers, 22.4% current smokers and 18.2% former smokers (P < 0.05). Among the police officers, there were 63.4%, 18.6%, and 9.6% who were never‐smokers, current smokers and former smokers (P < 0.05), respectively. Compared to police, firefighters experienced an increase in wheezing [OR = 1.63 (95% CI: 1.43–1.87)], wheezing with breathlessness [OR = 1.34 (95% CI: 1.10–1.64)], wheezing without a cold [OR = 1.60 (95% CI: 1.32–1.95)], waking with tightness in the chest [OR = 1.20 (95% CI: 1.02–1.42)], and rhinitis [OR = 1.12 (95% CI: 1.03–1.22)]. The prevalence of adult‐onset asthma in never‐smokers was 9.3% and 6.7% for firefighters and police officers [OR = 1.23 (95% CI: 1.01–1.56)]. An independent association was observed between years employed, smoking, history of rhinitis, and work as a firefighter and respiratory and nasal symptoms. We observed a high prevalence of asthma‐like symptoms in firefighters who presented respiratory symptoms beginning immediately after firefighting.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and asthma in firefighters is higher than those in police officers. Work‐as a firefighter, rhinitis and years employed were risk factors for respiratory symptoms of asthma. Am. J. Ind. Med. 52:261‐269, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nichtlineare Effekte in der asymmetrischen Katalyse
Authors: Satyanarayana Tummanapalli , Abraham Susan , Kagan Henri B.
Published: December 2008

Zahlreiche Anwendungen in der Chemie erfordern die Synthese enantiomerenreiner Verbindungen. Einen effizienten Ansatz hierfür bietet die asymmetrische Katalyse. Hierbei wird der chirale Katalysator gewöhnlich aus einem chiralen Auxiliar erzeugt, das z. B. von einem Naturstoff abgeleitet wurde oder aus der Racematspaltung racemischer Vorstufen stammt. Die Verwendung nicht‐enantiomerenreiner chiraler Auxiliare in der asymmetrischen Katalyse scheint aus präparativer Sicht ungünstig, da man erwarten sollte, dass der Enantiomerenüberschuss (ee) des Reaktionsprodukts zum ee‐Wert des chiralen Auxiliars proportional ist (Linearität). Tatsächlich kann es jedoch zu Abweichungen von der Linearität kommen. Derartige nichtlineare Effekte können sehr aufschlussreich für den Mechanismus einer Reaktion sein und außerdem in der Synthesechemie genutzt werden (asymmetrische Verstärkung). Dieser Aufsatz fasst die Fortschritte der letzten zehn Jahre bei der Anwendung des nichtlinearen Effekts in der metallorganischen und organischen Katalyse zusammen.
Nonlinear Effects in Asymmetric Catalysis
Authors: Satyanarayana Tummanapalli , Abraham Susan , Kagan Henri B.
Published: December 2008

There is a need for the preparation of enantiomerically pure compounds for various applications. An efficient approach to achieve this goal is asymmetric catalysis. The chiral catalyst is usually prepared from a chiral auxiliary, which itself is derived from a natural product or by resolution of a racemic precursor. The use of non‐enantiopure chiral auxiliaries in asymmetric catalysis seems unattractive to preparative chemists, since the anticipated enantiomeric excess (ee) of the reaction product should be proportional to the ee value of the chiral auxiliary (linearity). In fact, some deviation from linearity may arise. Such nonlinear effects can be rich in mechanistic information and can be synthetically useful (asymmetric amplification). This Review documents the advances made during the last decade in the use of nonlinear effects in the area of organometallic and organic catalysis.
“If Pigs Could Fly” Chemistry: A Tutorial on the Principle of Microscopic Reversibility
Authors: Blackmond Donna G.
Published: December 2008

Through a glass darkly: Several recent autocatalytic reaction models for the origin of homochirality have suggested ways in which one enantiomer of the product might be reconverted into the other by a recycling reaction in a closed system. These models are revealed to violate the principle of microscopic reversibility, a powerful tool for assessing the plausibility of proposed reaction networks even at far‐from‐equilibrium conditions.

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A Light‐Resistant Organic Sensitizer for Solar‐Cell Applications
Authors: Yum Jun‐Ho , Hagberg Daniel P. , Moon Soo‐Jin , Karlsson Karl Martin , Marinado Tannia , Sun Licheng , Hagfeldt Anders , Nazeeruddin Mohammad K. , Grätzel Michael
Published: December 2008

Finely tuned: A stable dye‐sensitized solar cell that contains a molecularly engineered organic dye has been prepared. The efficiency of the cell remains at 90 % after 1000 h of light soaking at 60 °C. The remarkable stability of the cell is also reflected in the open‐circuit voltage value (Voc), short‐circuit photocurrent‐density value (Jsc), and the fill factor, which also show barely no decline (see picture).

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Synthetic Lectins
Authors: Kubik Stefan
Published: December 2008

Improving on Mother Nature? The carbohydrate recognition demonstrated by supramolecular systems in water can now compete with that of natural systems, both in terms of affinity and selectivity. A synthetic carbohydrate receptor displays similar affinity for N‐acetyl‐D‐glucosamine derivatives as the lectin wheat germ agglutinin and even greater selectivity (see picture: gray C, white H, blue N, red O).

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Synthesis and characterizations of N,N′‐bis(diphenylphosphino)‐2‐(aminomethyl)aniline derivatives: application of a palladium(II) complex as pre‐catalyst in Heck and Suzuki cross‐coupling reactions
Authors: Aydemir Murat , Baysal Akın , Öztürk Gülşen , Gümgüm Bahattin
Published: December 2008

The reaction of 2‐(aminomethyl)aniline with 2 equivalents of PPh2Cl in the presence of Et3N, proceeds in CH2Cl2 to give N,N′‐bis(diphenylphosphino)‐2‐(aminomethyl)aniline 1 in good yield. Oxidation of 1 with aqueous H2O2, elemental sulfur or gray selenium gave the corresponding oxide, sulfide and selenide dichalcogenides [Ph2P(E)NHC6H4CH2NHP(E)Ph2] (E: O, 2a; S, 2b; Se, 2c), respectively. The reaction of [Ph2PNHC6H4CH2NHPPh2] with PdCl2(cod), PtCl2(cod) and [Cu(MeCN)4]PF6 gave the corresponding chelate complexes, PdCl21, PtCl21 and [Cu(1)2]PF6. The new compounds were fully characterized by NMR, IR spectroscopy and elemental analysis. The catalytic activity of the Pd(II) complex was tested in the Suzuki coupling and Heck reactions. The Pd(II) complex catalyzes the Suzuki coupling and Heck reaction, affording biphenyls and stilbenes respectively, in good yields. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of the surface modification of a filler on the properties of high‐impact polystyrene composites
Authors: Wenguang Cui , Yanlei Gao , Qing Wei , Wei Mu
Published: December 2008

A novel technique of surface modification was used to treat nanomodified aluminum trihydrate (nano‐CG‐ATH). The results of the surface modification were characterized with transmission electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectra. The effects of the surface modification on the properties of high‐impact polystyrene (HIPS) composites were studied with limiting oxygen index (LOI) and mechanical tests. The dispersion of nano‐CG‐ATH in the HIPS matrix and the interfacial adhesion between them were observed with transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The experimental results demonstrate that the surface of nano‐CG‐ATH was successfully grafted by an organic substance, and the dispersion of treated nano‐CG‐ATH in ethanol was better than that of untreated nano‐CG‐ATH. At high loadings, the mechanical properties and LOI values of the HIPS composites with treated nano‐CG‐ATH were higher than those of the HIPS composites with untreated nano‐CG‐ATH. The dispersion of treated nano‐CG‐ATH in the HIPS matrix was better than that of untreated nano‐CG‐ATH in the HIPS matrix. Also, the interfacial adhesion between the HIPS matrix and treated nano‐CG‐ATH was better than that between the HIPS matrix and untreated nano‐CG‐ATH. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
B‐staged epoxy/single‐walled carbon nanotube nanocomposite thin films for composite reinforcement
Authors: Warren Graham L. , Sun Luyi , Hadjiev Viktor G. , Davis Daniel , Lagoudas Dimitris , Sue Hung‐Jue
Published: December 2008

B‐staged epoxy/single‐walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) nanocomposite thin films at 50% cure were prepared to improve the conductivity and mechanical performance of laminated composites. The SWCNTs were functionalized by oxidation and subsequent grafting with polyamidoamine generation‐zero dendrimers. The epoxy nanocomposites containing SWCNTs were successfully cast into thin films by the manipulation of the degree of cure and the viscosity of the epoxy. Raman microscopy characterization revealed that the thin films exhibited a high degree of SWCNT dispersion in the epoxy. The B‐staged thin films were seamlessly integrated into laminated composite systems upon heating and could serve as interleaves to improve the conductivity and mechanical strength of laminated fiber composite systems. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Characterization of flexible polyurethane foams based on soybean‐based polyols
Authors: Das Sudipto , Dave Mahendra , Wilkes G. L.
Published: December 2008

Two series of flexible polyurethane foams were fabricated by substituting conventional petroleum‐based polyols with increasing amounts of soy‐based polyols (SBP) having different hydroxyl numbers. The mechanical properties of the foams were characterized by stress–strain analysis in the compression mode and DMA in tension mode, the cellular morphology was analyzed by SEM and the microphase‐separation of the foams was noted by SAXS. Our results showed that the cellular morphology and mechanical properties of the flexible foams were affected significantly by the foam fabrication method and SBP hydroxyl numbers. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Swelling behavior of poly(acrylamide)/clay nanocomposite hydrogels in acrylamide aqueous solution
Authors: Jiang Yongmei , Zhu Meifang , Li Biao , Liu Yang , Qin Zongyi , Chen Long , Chen Yanmo
Published: December 2008

The swelling behaviors of poly(acrylamide) (PAAm)/clay nanocomposite hydrogels (hereinafter abbreviated as NC gels) in acrylamide (AAm) aqueous solution have been investigated. As‐prepared PAAm/clay hydrogels (S‐M gels) were posttreated by immersing them in AAm aqueous solution. It was found that the swelling ratio of the NC gels increased greatly when the concentration of the solution is below a critical concentration (c*), whereas the gels were disintegrated in the solution when the concentration of the solution is above the c*. Some disc‐like particles were found in the AAm solution accompanying with the unusual swelling behaviors. This unusual swelling behavior is resulted from the change of network structure of the NC gels in AAm aqueous solution, which was further convinced by transmission electron microscopy and element analyses. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Electrical conductivity of carbon‐filled polypropylene‐based resins
Authors: King Julia A. , Johnson Beth A. , Via Michael D. , Ciarkowski Charles J.
Published: December 2008

Adding conductive carbon fillers to insulating thermoplastic resins increases composite electrical conductivity. Often, as much of a single type of carbon filler is added to achieve the desired conductivity and still allow the material to be molded into a bipolar plate for a fuel cell. In this study, various amounts of three different carbons (carbon black, synthetic graphite particles, and carbon nanotubes) were added to polypropylene resin. The resulting single‐filler composites were tested for electrical resistivity (1/electrical conductivity). The effects of single fillers and combinations of the different carbon fillers were studied via a factorial design. The percolation threshold was 1.4 vol % for the composites containing only carbon black, 2.1 vol % for those containing only carbon nanotubes, and 13 vol % for those containing only synthetic graphite particles. The factorial results indicate that the composites containing only single fillers (synthetic graphite followed closely by carbon nanotubes and then carbon black) caused a statistically significant decrease in composite electrical resistivity. All of the composites containing combinations of different fillers had a statistically significant effect that increased the electrical resistivity. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Preparation and characterization of petroleum‐pitch‐based carbon aerogels
Authors: Zeng Xianhua , Wu Dingcai , Fu Ruowen
Published: December 2008

Carbon aerogels were prepared by the sol–gel polymerization of petroleum pitches followed by ambient‐pressure drying and then carbonization. Furfural and sulfuric acid were found to be the best crosslinking agent and best catalyst for the reaction system, respectively. It was necessary to add acetic acid as a cosolvent, and the volume ratio of toluene to acetic acid played an important role in the mass densities of the samples. The average diameters of the nanonetwork particles of the typical carbon aerogels thus obtained were about 30–40 nm, and their surface areas were over 360 m2/g. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Preservation causes shrinkage in seahorses: implications for biological studies and for managing sustainable trade with minimum size limits
Authors: Nadeau Julie L. , Curtis Janelle M.R. , Lourie Sara A.
Published: December 2008

The implications of shrinkage associated with desiccation and ethanol preservation for seahorses (genusHippocampus) were investigated usingHippocampus guttulatus(European long‐snouted seahorse) as a model. Specifically, this research addressed the implications of preservation for taxonomy and life history studies and the application of minimum size limits (MSL) for managing seahorse trade.

In 2004, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) listed all seahorse species on its Appendix II, and recommended a 10 cm MSL as an interim means of ensuring sustainable international trade. Inconsistencies in seahorse measurement methods and repeatability posed challenges for applying the MSL. Moreover, the shrinking effect of desiccation on body length observed in other fish was assumed to be negligible for seahorses because of their high degree of ossification.

Changes in seahorse sizes were measured following immersion in ethanol and desiccation.H. guttulatusshrank on average by 0.1–2.3% when preserved in ethanol and 3.0–6.4% when dried, depending on the trait measured. Similar trends were observed in a sample ofH. kuda(yellow seahorse). Specimen posture during drying, and measurement methods also influenced estimates of size.

Based on the shrinkage observed, 14–44% of captured seahorses that are dried could shrink to below the recommended MSL, even if all seahorses were longer than the MSL at capture. This demonstrates that small changes in body lengths can have significant implications for trade of species managed with size limits.

Recommendations are to (1) standardize seahorse measurement methods, (2) consider the effects of preservation and measurement technique on body lengths, and apply appropriate corrections in comparative studies and when developing fisheries management strategies, and (3) adjust size limits at the point of capture to ensure retained seahorses comply with the CITES recommended MSL.

Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.