bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Temperature Metal Hydrides as Heat Storage Materials for Solar and Related Applications
Authors: Felderhoff Michael , Bogdanović Borislav
Published: January 2009

For the continuous production of electricity with solar heat power plants the storage of heat at a temperature level around 400 °C is essential. High temperature metal hydrides offer high heat storage capacities around this temperature. Based on Mg-compounds, these hydrides are in principle low-cost materials with excellent cycling stability. Relevant properties of these hydrides and their possible applications as heat storage materials are described.
Characterization of Key Intermediates in a Complex Organocatalytic Cascade Reaction Using Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Schrader Wolfgang , Handayani Peni Purwa , Zhou Jian , List Benjamin
Published: January 2009

Ein chemisches Scrabble: Das Vorliegen vieler verschiedener Spezies erschwert mechanistische Studien komplexer organokatalytischer Kaskadenreaktionen. Mit Elektrosprayionisations‐Massenspektrometrie sind Einzelheiten einer vierfachen organokatalytischen Kaskadenreaktion zugänglich, die eine genaue Charakterisierung der Reaktion und ihrer Schlüsselintermediate ermöglichen.

magnified image
Spectral Tuning of Azobenzene Photoswitches for Biological Applications
Authors: Sadovski Oleg , Beharry Andrew A. , Zhang Fuzhong , Woolley G. Andrew
Published: January 2009

Längere Schaltwellenlängen und gute photochemische Ausbeuten und Stabilitäten des cis‐Isomers in reduzierenden wässrigen Umgebungen kennzeichnen 4,4′‐Diamido‐substituierte Azobenzole mit 2,2′‐Aminoalkyl‐Substituenten. Die Produkte eignen sich zur Photosteuerung biomolekularer Strukturen in zellulären Umgebungen, etwa zum Umschalten zwischen zwei Peptidkonfigurationen (siehe Bild).

magnified image
Fusion of a 1,3‐Diboraruthenocene to Form a Slipped μ‐Hexahydrotetraboranaphthalene Triple‐Decker Complex with Two Axial CH Bonds
Authors: Mutseneck Elena V. , Wadepohl Hubert , Enders Markus , Kudinov Alexander R. , Siebert Walter
Published: January 2009

Colliding double deckers: Addition of zinc to a reaction mixture of [{Cp*RuCl}4]/pentamethyl‐2,3‐dihydro‐1,3‐diborole (C3B2Me5H) in THF leads to three known double‐ and triple‐decker complexes of [C3B2Me5]−, and unexpectedly to the slipped triple‐decker (see picture) with two fused diborole rings. The endo CH bonds of two MeCH groups donate two additional electrons to achieve the stable 34 VE configuration.

magnified image
Structure and Phase Behavior of the Expanded‐Metal Compound 7Li(ND3)4
Authors: Ibberson Richard M. , Fowkes Amelia J. , Rosseinsky Matthew J. , David William I. F. , Edwards Peter P.
Published: January 2009

Metal lite: High‐resolution neutron powder diffraction data reveals that the body‐centered cubic crystal structure of lithium(0)tetraamine transforms to a simple cubic structure below 22 K. The detailed structure determinations will allow new insights into the coupled structural and electronic properties of the lightest metal.

magnified image
Using non‐linear GARCH model to predict silicon content in blast furnace hot metal
Authors: Zeng Jiu‐sun , Gao Chuan‐hou , Liu Xiang‐guan , Yang Ke‐ping , Luo Shi‐hua
Published: January 2009

Forecasting of silicon content in blast furnace (BF) hot metal has always been an important tool in the control of iron‐making process. To get an accurate prediction of silicon content is an urgent task for BF operators. The approach based on generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedastic (GARCH) has been introduced to predict step‐ahead silicon content in BF hot metal. The algorithm has been explained in detail and simulation results have been analyzed from different criteria. It is shown that the algorithm gives good results and is helpful for practical production. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society
A fuzzy clustering method for generating fuzzy models
Authors: Wang Hongwei , Gu Hong
Published: January 2009

A systematic fuzzy approach considering both accuracy and interpretability is developed in the paper. First, a fuzzy modeling method based on a new objective function is proposed. The proposed method can deal with the problem where the input variables have an affect on the input space of the fuzzy system while the output variables do not exert any influence on input space of fuzzy system. Then rule reduction is performed to obtain the model structure of the fuzzy system by QR decomposition of the fuzzy reference matrix. According to analysis of the rank loss of the matrix, the important rules and unimportant rules can be confirmed in this paper. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed approach can be used to build fuzzy models of nonlinear systems. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society
H∞control for a class of cascade switched nonlinear systems
Authors: Wang Min , Zhao Jun , Dimirovski Georgi M.
Published: January 2009

In this paper, we investigate theH∞control problem for a class of cascade switched nonlinear systems consisting of two nonlinear parts which are also switched systems using the multiple Lyapunov function method. Firstly, we design the state feedback controller and the switching law, which guarantees that the corresponding closed‐loop system is globally asymptotically stable and has a prescribedH∞performance level. This method is suitable for a case where none of the switched subsystems is asymptotically stable. Then, as an application, we study the hybridH∞control problem for a class of nonlinear cascade systems. Finally, an example is given to illustrate the feasibility of our results. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society
One‐dimensional wave animation using Mathematica
Authors: Chen J. T. , Chou K. S. , Kao S. K.
Published: January 2009

The work presents how one‐dimensional wave phenomenon is animated. Several methods including the D'Alembert solution, the diamond rule, the Laplace transform and the convolution integral, are employed in the Mathematica animation. All the analytical derivations were carried out by using the symbolic software. Several examples, including an infinite string with a spring, mass and damper as well as a semi‐infinite string, two‐media string, string and beam subject to support motions, were demonstrated to show the validity of the present formulation. Parameter study of impedance ratio and mass, spring, and dashpot was also examined to see the transmission and reflection coefficient. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 17: 323–339, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com); DOI 10.1002/cae.20224
A software player for providing hints in problem‐based learning according to a new specification
Authors: Muñoz‐Merino Pedro J. , Delgado Kloos Carlos
Published: January 2009

The provision of hints during problem solving has been a successful strategy in the learning process. There exist several computer systems that provide hints to students during problem solving, covering some specific issues of hinting. This article presents a novel software player module for providing hints in problem‐based learning. We have implemented it into the XTutor Intelligent Tutoring System using its XDOC extension mechanism and the Python programming language. This player includes some of the functionalities that are present in different state‐of‐the‐art systems, and also other new relevant functionalities based on our own ideas and teaching experience. The article explains each feature for providing hints and it also gives a pedagogical justification or explanation. We have created an XML binding, so any combination of the model hints functionalities can be expressed as an XML instance, enabling interoperability and reusability. The implemented player tool together with the XTutor server‐side XDOC processor can interpret and run XML files according to this newly defined hints specification. Finally, the article presents several running examples of use of the tool, the subjects where it is in use, and results that lead to the conclusion of the positive impact of this hints tool in the learning process based on quantitative and qualitative analysis. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 17: 272–284, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com); DOI 10.1002/cae.20240
Design of a Chemical Looping Combustor using a Dual Circulating Fluidized Bed (DCFB) Reactor System
Authors: Kolbitsch P. , Pröll T. , Bolhar‐Nordenkampf J. , Hofbauer H.
Published: January 2009

A dual circulating fluidized bed (DCFB) reactor system for chemical looping combustion is proposed. The reactor is designed to operate with a Ni‐based oxygen carrier and is fueled with either natural gas or designed mixtures of CH4, CO, H2, and higher hydrocarbons at 120‐kW fuel power. The main design parameters are determined and the DCFB system, which promises large scale applicability, is introduced. The DCFB reactor system features effective control of the solid circulation rate via the primary fast fluidized bed (air reactor) without changing the fluidization regime in the secondary reactor (fuel reactor). Therefore, the secondary reactor can be optimized on fuel conversion without affecting the global solid circulation rates. The air reactor design can focus on the transportation of the solids to the fuel reactor. Besides a short introduction of the auxiliary units of the reactor system, a pressure profile of the pilot rig in hot operation is presented.
Transient Calculation of the Boundary Layer Flow over Spills
Authors: Habib A. , Schalau B. , Acikalin A. , Steinbach J.
Published: January 2009

In this work, results of numerical simulations and experimental investigations of the mass flow from evaporating liquid pools are presented. Numerical simulations are based on the boundary layer equations combined with an algebraic turbulence model. The experiments were carried out on open air test sites within flat and very rough topographies, at different temperatures with ethanol and cyclohexane as the evaporating liquids. An experimental investigation of the influence of the topography on the evaporation of a liquid pool is conducted. The results of the simulation are validated against experimental data from the open air experiments. Furthermore, a comparison of the simulation results with empirical prediction models has been made.
Changes in Limestone Sorbent Morphology during CaO‐CaCO3 Looping at Pilot Scale
Authors: Hughes R. W. , Macchi A. , Lu D. Y. , Anthony E. J.
Published: January 2009

A pilot‐scale dual fluidized bed combustion system was used for CO2 capture using limestone sorbent with CaO‐CaCO3 looping. The sorbent was regenerated at high temperature using an air‐ or oxygen‐fired fluidized bed calciner with flue gas recycle firing hardwood pellets. Two limestones were evaluated for CaO‐CaCO3 looping. Changes in the sorbent morphology during the tests were identified by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX). Changes in pore size distribution and sorbent surface area that occurred during reaction were determined by N2 BET porosimetry. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was used to determine the activity of the sorbent after processing in the dual fluidized bed combustion system. It was found that oxygen‐fired calcination with high CO2 partial pressure reduced the effectiveness of the two limestone sorbents for CO2 capture when compared to material calcined under oxygen‐enhanced air combustion. A shell 1–2 μm thick, with reduced porosity, was formed around the sorbent particle and is believed to be responsible for reduced conversion of CaO to CaCO3. It is believed that ash deposition contributes to the formation of the shell.
OPLS filtered data can be obtained directly from non‐orthogonalized PLS1
Authors: Kemsley E. K. , Tapp H. S.
Published: January 2009

The well‐known Martens factorization for PLS1 produces a single y‐related score, with all subsequent scores being y‐unrelated. The X‐explanatory value of these y‐orthogonal scores can be summarized by a simple expression, which is analogous to the ‘P’ loading weights in the orthogonalized NIPALS algorithm. This can be used to rearrange the factorization into entirely y‐related and y‐unrelated parts. Systematic y‐unrelated variation can thus be removed from the X data through a single post hoc calculation following conventional PLS, without any recourse to the orthogonal projections to latent structures (OPLS) algorithm. The work presented is consistent with the development by Ergon (PLS post‐processing by similarity transformation (PLS + ST): a simple alternative to OPLS. J. Chemom. 2005; 19: 1–4), which shows that conventional PLS and OPLS are equivalent within a similarity transform. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Studies on the adaptability of different Borgen norms applied in self‐modeling curve resolution (SMCR) method
Authors: Rajkó Róbert
Published: January 2009

Lawton and Sylvestre, and later Borgen et al. provided first the analytical solution for determining feasible regions of self‐modeling curve resolution (SMCR) method for two‐ and three‐component systems, respectively. After 20 years, Rajkó and István recently revitalized Borgen's method given a clear interpretation and algorithm how to draw Borgen plots using computer geometry tools; later Rajkó proved the existence of the natural duality in minimal constrained SMCR. In both latter cases, 1‐norm was used to normalize raw data; however Borgen et al. introduced a more general class of normalization. In this paper, the definition and detailed descriptions of Borgen norms are given firstly appearing in the chemical literature. Some theoretical and practical studies on the adaptability of some Borgen norms used for SMCR method are also provided. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ChemInform Abstract: Fused Tetracycles with a Benzene or Cyclohexadiene Core: [2 + 2 + 2] Cycloadditions on Macrocyclic Systems.
Authors: Brun Sandra , Garcia Lidia , Gonzalez Ivan , Torrent Anna , Dachs Anna , Pla‐Quintana Anna , Parella Teodor , Roglans Anna
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of 3‐Fluoro‐2,5‐Disubstituted Furans and Further Derivative Reactions to Access Fluorine‐Containing 3,3′‐Bifurans and Tetrasubstituted Furans.
Authors: Li Peng , Chai Zhuo , Zhao Gang , Zhu Shi‐Zheng
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Novel Microwave‐Assisted One‐Pot Synthesis of Heterocycle Phosphor Esters and Cyclic Oxophospholes with Antibiotic Activity.
Authors: Abdou Wafaa M. , Shaddy Abeer A.
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Pestalachlorides A—C, Antifungal Metabolites from the Plant Endophytic Fungus Pestalotiopsis adusta.
Authors: Li Erwei , Jiang Lihua , Guo Liangdong , Zhang Hua , Che Yongsheng
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
Film thickness in horizontal annular flow
Authors: Luninski Yoram , Barnea Dvora , Taitel Yehuda
Published: January 2009

Film thickness in horizontal annular flow in small diameter pipes (8‐12 mm) was measured as a function of circumferential position. In addition a simple analytical model for the prediction of the film thickness at the top and bottom of the pipe is proposed.
Tar sand extractions with microemulsions II. The dispersion of bitumen in microemulsions
Authors: Desnoyers Jacques E. , Sarbar Mohammad , Lemieux Alain
Published: January 2009

Aqueous solutions containing the active components of microemulsions, i.e. surfactants and polar cosurfactants, are not effective in dissolving bitumen and consequently in extracting tar sands. On the other hand, if a light hydrocarbon such as benzene, toluene or cyclohexane is added to the active components, the microemulsion becomes a very effective extractant. To investigate this phenomenon, phase diagrams of pseudo‐ternary systems (active mixture‐hydrocarbon‐bitumen) were determined at 25°C and in some cases in the temperature range 25 to 80°C. In most experiments, the cosurfactant was taken as 2‐butoxyethanol and the hydrocarbon as toluene. Three surfactants were examined: cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, aerosol OT and sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate. Various regions can be identified on the phase diagrams: suspensions of solid surfactants, microemulsions, stable and unstable emulsions. The extent of the various regions depends significantly on the relative concentrations of the various components. In general, the extent of the dispersed bitumen region increases with temperature.
Evaluation of intergroup dialogue: A review of the empirical literature
Authors: Dessel Adrienne , Rogge Mary E.
Published: January 2009

Practitioners in the developing field of intergroup dialogue seek to address critical social issues of prejudice and intergroup conflict. Goals of dialogue work include relationship building, civic participation, and social change. Outcome evaluation of this work is necessary to further understand the processes and effectiveness of dialogue practices, improve on the work being done, and obtain funding. This literature review summarizes empirical evaluation research in the field of intergroup dialogue and presents a compendium table. Strengths and limitations of current research are discussed, with emphasis on the importance of expanding evaluation work in this field.
Stable Hybrid Silica Nanosieve Membranes for the Dehydration of Lower Alcohols
Authors: Kreiter Robert , Rietkerk Mariëlle D. A. , Castricum Hessel L. , van Veen Henk M. , ten Elshof Johan E. , Vente Jaap F.
Published: January 2009

A thirst for water: Organic–inorganic hybrid silica nanosieve membranes with narrow pore size distributions were developed for the separation of binary (bio)alcohol/water mixtures, for example, to remove water from wet biofuels during production. These membranes dehydrate lower alcohols and show a stable performance in the presence of significant amounts of acetic acid.

magnified image
Measurement of dissociation rate of biomolecular complexes using CE
Authors: Yang Peilin , Mao Yingwei , Lee Angel W.‐M. , Kennedy Robert T.
Published: January 2009

Fluorescence anisotropy (FA), non‐equilibrium CE of equilibrium mixtures (NECEEM) and high‐speed CE were evaluated for measuring dissociation kinetics of peptide–protein binding systems. Fyn‐SH3‐SH2, a protein construct consisting of the src homology 2 (SH2) and 3 (SH3) domain of the protein Fyn, and a fluorescein‐labeled phosphopeptide were used as a model system. All three methods gave comparable half‐life of∼53 s for Fyn‐SH3‐SH2:peptide complex. Achieving satisfactory results by NECEEM required columns over 30 cm long. When using Fyn‐SH2‐SH3 tagged with glutathione S‐transferase (GST) as the binding protein, both FA and NECEEM assays gave evidence of two complexes forming with the peptide, yet neither method allowed accurate measurement of dissociation rates for both complexes because of a lack of resolution. High‐speed CE, with a 7 s separation time, enabled separation of both complexes and allowed determination of dissociation rate of both complexes independently. The two complexes had half‐lives of 22.0±2.7 and 58.8±6.1 s, respectively. Concentration studies revealed that the GST‐Fyn‐SH3‐SH2 protein formed a dimer so that complexes had binding ratios of 2:1 (protein‐to‐peptide ratio) and 2:2. Our results demonstrate that although all methods are suitable for 1:1 binding systems, high‐speed CE is unique in allowing multiple complexes to be resolved simultaneously. This property allows determination of binding kinetics of complicated systems and makes the technique useful for discovering novel affinity interactions.
Bounds on outputs of the exact weak solution of the three‐dimensional Stokes problem
Authors: Cheng Zhong , Ghomeshi Shahin , Paraschivoiu Marius
Published: January 2009

A method for obtaining rigorous upper and lower bounds on an output of the exact weak solution of the three‐dimensional Stokes problem is described. Recently bounds for the exact outputs of interest have been obtained for both the Poisson equation and the advection‐diffusion‐reaction equation. In this work, we extend this approach to the Stokes problem where a novel formulation of the method also leads to a simpler flux calculation based on the directly equilibrated flux method. To illustrate this technique, bounds on the flowrate are calculated for an incompressible creeping flow driven by a pressure gradient in an endless square channel with an array of rectangular obstacles in the center. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On comparison of exact and series solutions for thin film flow of a third‐grade fluid
Authors: Abbasbandy S. , Hayat T. , Mahomed F. M. , Ellahi R.
Published: January 2009

The present investigation derives the exact and series solutions for steady thin film flow of a third‐grade fluid. The series solution is constructed by a homotopy analysis method. The obtained solutions are compared and an excellent agreement between these is achieved. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interactions between endothelial cells and electrospun methacrylic terpolymer fibers for engineered vascular replacements
Authors: Veleva A. N. , Heath D. E. , Johnson J. K. , Nam J. , Patterson C. , Lannutti J. J. , Cooper S. L.
Published: January 2009

A compliant terpolymer made of hexylmethacrylate (HMA), methylmethacrylate (MMA), and methacrylic acid (MAA) intended for use in small diameter vascular graft applications has been developed. The mechanical properties and in vitro biostability of this terpolymer have been previously characterized. The goal of this investigation was to examine the interactions between endothelial cells and the new terpolymer and to evaluate endothelial cell function. Electrospinning was used to produce both oriented and random terpolymer fiber scaffolds. Smooth solution cast films and tissue culture polystyrene were used as negative and positive controls, respectively. Human blood outgrowth endothelial cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells were incubated with the test and control samples and characterized with respect to initial cell attachment, proliferation, viability, and maintenance of the endothelial cell phenotype. It was found that the terpolymer is cytocompatible allowing endothelial cell growth, with random fibers being more effective in promoting enhanced cellular activities than oriented fibers. In addition, endothelial cells cultured on these substrates appeared to maintain their phenotype. The results from this study demonstrate that electrospun HMA:MMA:MAA terpolymer has the potential to be used successfully in fabricating small diameter blood vessel replacements. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
Hydrogel‐mediated DNA delivery confers estrogenic response in nonresponsive osteoblast cells
Authors: Dadsetan M. , Szatkowski J. P. , Shogren K. L. , Yaszemski M. J. , Maran A.
Published: January 2009

Oligo(polyethylene glycol) fumarate (OPF) hydrogel has been employed in musculoskeletal tissue engineering for photoencapsulation of chondrocytes and as a matrix for marrow stromal cells differentiation. In this study, we have studied the application of OPF hydrogel for coencapsulation of DNA and bone cells and examined whether coencapsulation can enhance gene transfer by maintaining the DNA within the cellular microenvironment. Our results showed that plasmid DNA encoding green fluorescence protein (GFP), coencapsulated with bone tumor cells, was capable of transfecting the cells, and the transfected tumor cells continuously expressed GFP protein over the time course of study (21 days). Furthermore, we have examined the coencapsulation of estrogen receptor (ER) encoding plasmid DNA and human fetal osteoblast cells (hFOB) that lack endogenous ER. Our results show that the transfected cells responded to estrogen as alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and estrogen response element (ERE)‐directed luciferase enzyme activities increased with estrogen treatment. Taken together, these studies show that OPF hydrogel could be further explored for targeted gene delivery in bone and other tissues encapsulated within the hydrogels. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
Cell micropatterning on an albumin‐based substrate using an inkjet printing technique
Authors: Yamazoe Hironori , Tanabe Toshizumi
Published: January 2009

Positioning of cells in a desired pattern on a substrate is an important technique for cell‐based technologies, including the fundamental investigation of cell functions, tissue‐engineering applications, and the fabrication of cell‐based biosensors and cell arrays. Recently, the inkjet printing technique was recognized as a promising approach to the creation of cellular patterns on substrates, and it has been achieved by the printing of living cells or cell adhesive proteins. In this article, we created complex cellular patterns by using an albumin‐based substrate and inkjet printing technique. Albumin was cross‐linked using ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether. Subsequent casting of the cross‐linked albumin solution onto glass plates prevented cells from adhering to their surfaces. Through screening various chemical reagents, we found that these cross‐linked albumin surfaces dramatically changed into cell adhesive surfaces after immersion in cationic polymer solutions. Based on this finding, cell adhesive regions were prepared with a desired pattern by printing the polyethyleneimine (PEI) solution onto a cross‐linked albumin substrate using a modified commercial inkjet printer. Various cellular patterns including figures, letters, and gradients could be fabricated by seeding mouse L929 fibroblast cells or mouse Neuro‐2a neuroblastoma cells onto the printed PEI‐patterned substrate. Compared with the printing of fragile living cells or proteins, printing of stable PEI circumvents clogging of printer head nozzles and enables reproducible printing. Therefore, the present method will allow the creation of complex cell patterns. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
Protein‐resistant polyurethane via surface‐initiated atom transfer radical polymerization of oligo(ethylene glycol) methacrylate
Authors: Jin Zhilin , Feng Wei , Zhu Shiping , Sheardown Heather , Brash John L.
Published: January 2009

Protein‐resistant polyurethane (PU) surfaces were prepared by surface‐initiated simultaneous normal and reverse atom transfer radical polymerization (s‐ATRP) of poly(oligo(ethylene glycol) methacrylate) (poly (OEGMA)). Oxygen plasma treatment was employed for initial activation of the PU surface. The grafted polymer chain length was adjusted by varying the molar ratio of monomer to sacrificial initiator in solution from 5:1 to 200:1. The modified PU surfaces were characterized by water contact angle, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Protein adsorption experiments from tris‐buffered saline (TBS) and plasma were carried out to evaluate the protein‐resistance of the surfaces. Adsorption from single and binary protein solutions as well as from plasma was significantly reduced after modification. Adsorption decreased with increasing poly(OEGMA) chain length. Fibrinogen (Fg) adsorption on the 200:1 monomer/initiator surface was in the range of 3–33 ng/cm2 representing 96–99% reduction compared with the unmodified PU. Fg adsorption from 0.01–10% plasma was as low as 1–5 ng/cm2. Moreover, binary protein adsorption experiments using Fg and lysozyme (Lys) showed that protein size is a factor in the protein resistance of these surfaces. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
Effective gait patterns for offloading the medial compartment of the knee
Authors: Fregly Benjamin J. , D'Lima Darryl D. , Colwell Clifford W.
Published: January 2009

Gait modification offers a noninvasive option for offloading the medial compartment of the knee in patients with knee osteoarthritis. While gait modifications have been proposed based on their ability to reduce the external knee adduction moment, no gait pattern has been proven to reduce medial compartment contact force directly. This study used in vivo contact force data collected from a single subject with a force‐measuring knee replacement to evaluate the effectiveness of two gait patterns at achieving this goal. The first was a “medial thrust” gait pattern that involved medializing the knee during stance phase, while the second was a “walking pole” gait pattern that involved using bilateral walking poles commonly used for hiking. Compared to the subject's normal gait pattern, medial thrust gait produced a 16% reduction and walking pole gait a 27% reduction in medial contact force over stance phase, both of which were statistically significant based on a two‐tailed Mann–Whitney U‐test. While medial thrust gait produced little change in lateral and total contact force over the stance phase, walking pole gait produced significant 11% and 21% reductions, respectively. Medial thrust gait may allow patients with knee osteoarthritis to reduce medial contact force using a normal‐looking walking motion requiring no external equipment, while walking pole gait may allow patients with knee osteoarthritis or a knee replacement to reduce medial, lateral, and total contact force in situations where the use of walking poles is possible. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 27: 1016–1021, 2009
Effect of feeding intact brown seaweed Ascophyllum nodosum on some digestive parameters and on iodine content in edible tissues in pigs
Authors: Dierick Noël , Ovyn Anneke , De Smet Stefaan
Published: January 2009

BACKGROUND: Limited research suggests that brown seaweed (extracts) may be used in pig nutrition for improving gut health and performances and for iodine enrichment of tissues. One in vitro and two in vivo experiments with dried iodine‐rich intact marine seaweed (Ascophyllum nodosum) have been conducted with weaned piglets to further unravel the mechanisms.

RESULTS: In vitro investigations revealed a statistically significant depressive effect of seaweed on pig gut flora, especially on Escherichia coli. In vivo, seaweed (10 g kg−1) had a reducing effect on the E. coli load in the stomach (P = 0.07) and small intestine (P < 0.05), while the lactobacilli/E. coli ratio was enhanced (P < 0.05) in the small intestine, indicating a beneficial shift in the microbial population. Statistically significant increases (P < 0.001) in iodine content were noted for several tissues in piglets on seaweed (20 g kg−1, corresponding to 10 mg iodine kg−1 feed) compared with the control diet (1 mg iodine kg−1 feed).

CONCLUSION: Intact A. nodosum brown seaweed may be introduced in pig nutrition as a feed material with a double strategy: improvement of pig gut health and performances and iodine enrichment of porcine tissues. This feeding strategy may alleviate, but not solve, the actual iodine deficiency in Belgium. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Phage Tailspike Proteins with β‐Solenoid Fold as Thermostable Carbohydrate Binding Materials
Authors: Barbirz Stefanie , Becker Marion , Freiberg Alexander , Seckler Robert
Published: January 2009

We have investigated the stability of three tailspike proteins (TSPs) from bacteriophages Sf6, P22, and HK620. Tailspikes are rod‐like homotrimers with comparable β‐solenoid folds and similarly high kinetic stability in spite of different amino acid sequences. As tailspikes bind polysaccharides to recognize the bacterial host cell, their stability is required for maintenance of bacteriophage infectivity under harsh extracellular conditions. They resist denaturation by SDS at ambient temperature and their unfolding is slow even in 6 M guanidinium hydrochloride (GdmHCl). This makes them interesting candidates for very stable carbohydrate binding protein materials.

magnified image
Pressure‐Sensitive Chromogenic Polyesters
Authors: Kunzelman Jill , Gupta Mohit , Crenshaw Brent R. , Schiraldi David A. , Weder Christoph
Published: January 2009

Cyano‐OPV moieties were covalently incorporated into a PETG backbone to create ductile amorphous polymers which change their PL and absorption color as a function of deformation. The cyano‐OPV concentration was systematically varied, and the composition was related to the material's optical response. This approach afforded PETG/dye copolymers which upon annealing display characteristics of aggregated dye molecules. The materials exhibit a significant color change upon compression, consistent with disassembly of the dye aggregates. This mechanochromic response is irreversible and can be detected by the unassisted eye.

magnified image
Macromol. Theory Simul. 1/2009
Authors: Grisafi Steven
Published: January 2009

Cover: The cover shows the double‐sided absorption of a gas by a polymer film. Fickian diffusion theory, as presented by Crank's double‐side diffusion solution, is inadequate to describe a mass accumulation versus time graph possessing an inflection point. Addressing the nonhomogeneity of the polymer film leads to a timevarying mass diffusion coefficient. Further details can be found in the article by S. Grisafi on page 42.
Correlated downregulation of estrogen receptor beta and the circadian clock gene Per1 in human colorectal cancer
Authors: Mostafaie Nazanin , Kállay Enikö , Sauerzapf Elisabeth , Bonner Elisabeth , Kriwanek Stefan , Cross Heide S. , Huber Klaus Roland , Krugluger Walter
Published: January 2009

There is a growing body of evidence that disturbed circadian clock gene expression is associated with tumor development and tumor progression. Based on our initial experiments demonstrating decreased period 1 (Per1) expression in colon cancer, we evaluated clock gene and estrogen receptor (ER) alpha/beta expression in colon cancer cells of primary colorectal tumors and adjacent normal colon mucosa (NM) by real‐time RT‐PCR. Analysis of gene expression in G2 and G3 colorectal tumors revealed a decrease of Per1 mRNA compared with paired NM (G2: 0.52‐fold; P = n.s. and G3: 0.48‐fold; P = 0.03). A significant gender specific difference of Per1 expression was observed in G2 tumors as compared with NM (female: 0.38‐fold; P = 0.004 vs. male: 0.73‐fold; P = n.s.). Expression of CLOCK was significantly elevated in G2 tumors of male patients (1.63‐fold, P = 0.01). The expression of ER‐beta was significantly decreased in G2 and G3 tumors (G2: 0.32‐fold; P = 0.003 and 0.27; P = 0.001). No significant gender specific differences of ER‐beta reduction in tumors were observed. A significant correlation between the decrease of Per1 and ER‐beta in colorectal tumors (r = 0.61; P < 0.001) was found. No changes in gene expression were detected for ER‐alpha and Per2. Our data demonstrate a correlated decrease of Per1 and ER‐beta in colorectal tumors, mediated probably by epigenetic mechanisms. The observed gender differences in the expression of CLOCK and Per1 in G2 tumors might suggest a gender‐specific, distinctive role of the cellular clock in colorectal tumorigenesis. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
On the Cascade Polymerization Process Consisting of Metallocene Polymerization and ATRP to Prepare i‐PP‐Based Polar Block Copolymers
Authors: Yi Qingfeng , Fan Guoqiang , Wen Xiaojing , Dong Jin‐Yong , Han Charles C.
Published: January 2009

Isotactic poly(propylene)s bearing a terminal hydroxyl group (i‐PP‐t‐OH) with high degrees of end‐group functionality were synthesized by a metallocene/methylaluminoxane (MAO)‐mediated propylene polymerization process via a preferential aluminium chain transfer reaction assisted by a hydroalumination process at the end of polymerization. Despite the highly isotactic configuration and relatively high molecular weight ($\overline M _{\rm n}$ as high as 60 800 g · mol−1) of the polymers, the hydroxyl group located at the i‐PP chain terminal was efficiently transformed to an atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) initiator moiety of i‐PP‐t‐Br via a reaction with 2‐bromopropionyl chloride at 60 °C in toluene. Well‐defined i‐PP‐b‐PMMA and i‐PP‐b‐PS block copolymers of controllable structure and compositions were then prepared with efficient ATRPs of MMA and St using i‐PP‐t‐Br.

magnified image
An exploratory analysis of the effect of the “buy it now” option on sellers' revenues in silent auctions
Authors: Page Karen
Published: January 2009

This paper tests three competing hypotheses regarding the effect of a “buy it now” option in silent auctions: that the option has a positive, negative, or neutral effect on the seller's revenues. These hypotheses were tested on 4 years of data from a university art museum's silent auctions. The results indicate that the “buy it now” option has a significant negative effect on the seller's revenues. Possible explanation, implications, and limitations are discussed.

Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of ototoxicity in young children receiving carboplatin in the context of conservative management of unilateral or bilateral retinoblastoma
Authors: Jehanne Mathilde , Lumbroso‐Le Rouic Livia , Savignoni Alexia , Aerts Isabelle , Mercier Ghislaine , Bours Danielle , Desjardins Laurence , Doz François
Published: January 2009

Background

Carboplatin plays an important role in the conservative management of retinoblastoma, but is associated with risk of ototoxicity in these young children whose sensory prognosis may be also compromised by their loss of vision. This retrospective study analyzed the impact of carboplatin on hearing in the context of conservative management of children with retinoblastoma.

Methods

Data for 175 children treated at the Institut Curie between 1994 and 2002 were analyzed.

Results

Median age at diagnosis was 8 months (0–60). Carboplatin was administered on 3 days (200 mg/m2/day) or 5 days (160 mg/m2/day) with etoposide and with diode‐laser therapy at the dose of 560 mg/m2 (chemothermotherapy). Median cumulative dose of carboplatin was 2,880 mg/m2 (560–6,160). Ototoxicity was investigated by pure‐tone audiometry and scored by Brock's grading scale before and after treatment. The median follow‐up of hearing assessment was 5 years (1.8–11). Ototoxicity was detected in 8 children: 3 grade 1, 1 grade 2, and 2 grade 4. The two patients with grade 4 hearing‐loss required a hearing aid. Two children developed bilateral high frequency hearing‐loss, considered to be secondary to carboplatin but with less than Brock grade 1. Ototoxicity was observed for a median cumulative dose of carboplatin of 3,120 mg/m2 (1,200–5,830). Only one child developed ototoxicity during treatment. All other cases were discovered after the last dose of carboplatin with a median interval of 3.7 years (0–7.6). No other risk factor for ototoxicity was able to account for these lesions.

Conclusion

Children receiving carboplatin require long‐term audiometric follow‐up. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:637–643. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Concurrent Langerhans cell histiocytosis and nephroblastoma
Authors: Narui Ryoko , Yagasaki Hiroshi , Takahashi Yoshiyuki , Hama Asahito , Nishio Nobuhiro , Muramatsu Hideki , Shimoyama Yoshie , Kojima Seiji
Published: January 2009

Both Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) and nephroblastoma are rare in children. We report herein the first case of a patient with both diseases concurrently. A 2‐year‐old female presented with bone pain and swelling of the right humerus. As a result of the local incision biopsy, she was diagnosed as LCH. A nephroblastoma of the left kidney was discovered during her staging work‐up. After complete resection of the nephroblastoma, she received standard chemoradiotherapy for nephroblastoma. She is alive without relapse 14 months after initial presentation. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:662–664. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Adverse drug reaction monitoring: comparing doctor and patient reporting for new drugs
Authors: Jarernsiripornkul N. , Kakaew W. , Loalukkana W. , Krska J.
Published: January 2009

Purpose

To compare the frequency of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) recorded by doctors with perceived ADRs reported by patients during hospitalization and post‐discharge and to compare both to formal reporting in Thailand.

Setting

Tertiary teaching hospital, North‐East Thailand.

Methods

Over a 6‐month period doctors were requested to record ADRs to 13 recently marketed index drugs, occurring during hospitalization and after discharge, using specific forms. Patient perceived ADRs were detected by daily pharmacist interviews during hospitalization and a symptom checklist questionnaire after discharge.

Results

In total, 203 in‐patients were prescribed an index drug and interviewed. Doctors recorded 13 ADRs in these patients, resulting in seven drugs being stopped. In‐patients reported 15 further symptoms, but 12 were assessed as unlikely to be an ADR. Of 160 patients who continued the index drug after discharge, 152 accepted questionnaires and 88 (58%) were returned. Patients identified 249 symptoms, of which the pharmacist assessed 190 (76%) as probably or possibly ADRs, using a previously developed method. Only 26 symptoms were noted in out‐patient department (OPD) records, although most patients claimed to have informed doctors about them. Doctors recorded only five symptoms on ADR forms, all associated with drug discontinuation. During the study period, four reports were received by the Thai FDA on these 13 drugs, none from this hospital.

Conclusions

Forms encouraging doctors to identify ADRs may be an effective method of increasing recording, particularly in the in‐patient setting. A combination of methods including patient reporting may enable pharmacists to increase formal ADR reporting. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation of ZnO nanoparticles for bio‐imaging applications
Authors: Senthilkumar K. , Senthilkumar O. , Yamauchi Kazuki , Sato Moriyuki , Morito Shigekazu , Ohba Takuya , Nakamura Morihiko , Fujita Yasuhisa
Published: January 2009

ZnO nanoparticles were prepared by using a gas evaporation method. As ZnO is a luminescent and less toxic material, it can be useful in imaging applications. The nanoparticles prepared in our laboratory showed intense exciton emission in the UV‐blue region. They were processed and surface treated to be compatible for bio‐conjugation. We were able to prepare good dispersions and water‐soluble ZnO nanoparticles from our experiments. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Growth of GaSb dots on GaAs(100) by droplet epitaxy
Authors: Kawazu Takuya , Mano Takaaki , Noda Takeshi , Akiyama Yoshihiro , Sakaki Hiroyuki
Published: January 2009

We have studied the growth of GaSb quantum dots (QDs) on GaAs by droplet epitaxy. First, Ga droplets are formed on GaAs and then exposed to Sb flux to be clad by large granular crystals of Sb; by annealing this wafer at 380 °C, GaSb QDs are successfully formed. By atomic force microscopic studies, it is found that GaSb QDs thus formed are on average 9.2 nm in height, 74 nm in diameter, and 7.8 × 109 cm2 in density. Photoluminescence properties of these QDs have been also investigated. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Electroluminescence from monolayer of quantum dots formed by multiple dip‐coating processes
Authors: Lee Chang‐Lyoul , Nam Sung‐Wook , Kim Viena , Kim Jang‐Joo , Kim Ki‐Bum
Published: January 2009

The monolayer of 4.3 nm‐size CdSe(ZnS) core‐shell quantum dots (QDs) was formed by multiple dip‐coating processes to fabricate the electroluminescent device. The particle adsorption was found to depend on both the substrate and the dipping number. The surface coverage was about 73% on PEDOT and 40% on PVK substrate, respectively. Self‐assembled monolayer of QDs showed the hexagonal close‐packed array by the van der Waals attraction between QDs. The monolayer quantum dots based organic (polymer) light emitting diodes (QD‐O(P)LEDs) showed the maximum external quantum efficiency (ηex) of 0.05% and luminous power efficiency (ηp) of 0.45 lm/W in the structure of ITO/ PEDOT(40 nm)/PVK(40 nm)/CdSe(ZnS) QDs/BCP(30 nm)/ Alq3(30 nm)/Mg:Ag/Ag. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Radix Astragali and Radix Rehmanniae, the principal components of two antidiabetic foot ulcer herbal formulae, elicit viability‐promoting effects on primary fibroblasts cultured from diabetic foot ulcer tissues
Authors: Lau T. W. , Chan Y. W. , Lau C. P. , Lau K. M. , Lau C. B. S. , Fung K. P. , Leung P. C. , Ho Y. Y.
Published: January 2009

Over 194 million people suffer from diabetes worldwide. The improper control of diabetes may result in diabetic foot ulcer or even amputation. Herbal medicine provides a means for treating diabetic foot ulcers for a large population in developing countries. The wound healing‐enhancing activities of the principal herbs, Radix Astragali (RA) and Radix Rehmanniae (RR) in two clinically efficacious Chinese herbal formulae were studied in primary fibroblasts from diabetic foot ulcer patients. The 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay showed that RA and RR significantly enhanced the viability of fibroblasts isolated from foot ulcers of diabetic patients, even from those with no response to insulin treatment. The results in this study indicate that fibroblast viability enhancement effects of RA and RR likely underlie the healing effects of F1 and F2 in diabetic foot ulcers. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gravitating toward science: Parent–child interactions at a gravitational‐wave observatory
Authors: Szechter Lisa E. , Carey Elizabeth J.
Published: January 2009

This research examined the nature of parent–child conversations at an informal science education center housed in an active gravitational‐wave observatory. Each of 20 parent–child dyads explored an interactive exhibit hall privately, without the distraction of other visitors. Parents employed a variety of strategies to support their children's understanding of unfamiliar topics, including describing evidence, giving direction, providing explanation, making connections, and eliciting predictions. Parents' education was associated with both the amount of time dyads spent exploring exhibits and the proportion of exhibits at which parents made connections to prior experiences. Parents' attitudes toward science were likewise associated with the proportion of exhibits visited. Parent–child dyads spent more time at exhibits that encouraged Active Prolonged Engagement (APE). Parents elicited predictions more often at APE exhibits, and children described evidence and gave direction more often at APE exhibits. Thus, both participant characteristics and exhibit qualities were found to contribute to parent–child interactions in an informal science setting. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Sci Ed 93:846–858, 2009