bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theoretical Study on the Phase Transition and the H/D Isotope Effect of Squaric Acid
Authors: Ishimoto Takayoshi , Tachikawa Masanori
Published: June 2012

We investigated the phase transition and the isotope effect in squaric acid (H2C4O4, abbreviated H2SQ), a hydrogen-bonded dielectric material. Using first-principles calculation, we found that Jahn-Teller distortion of the unit structure (C4H4O4) was the major driving force for the phase transition in the H2SQ crystal. In order to elucidate the isotope effect on the phase transition in deuterated squaric acid (D2SQ), we employed the multi-component molecular orbital (MC_MO) method, which directly takes into account the quantum effects of protons and deuterons. Using this model, we successfully predicted the difference between the phase transition temperature of H2SQ and that of D2SQ to be 192K, which is in reasonable agreement with the experimental value of 145 K. We found that the isotope effect in the H2SQ/D2SQ system was based more on shrinking distribution of the deuteron wave rather than that of the proton wave. When the MC_MO method was coupled with adequate cluster models, first-principles calculations were effective to determining the origin of the phase transition and the H/D isotope effect in hydrogen-bonded dielectric materials.
Fabrication and Study of Hot Pressed Co0.6Zn0.4Fe2O4-PVDF PbTi0.7Zr0.3O3 and Co0.6Zn0.4Fe2O4-PVDF-BaTi0.7Zr0.3O3 Multiferroic Composite Films
Authors: Yadav Kanhaiya Lal , Kumar Amit
Published: June 2012

Multiferroic composite films of (i) Co0.6Zn0.4Fe2O4(CZFO)-PbTi0.7Zr0.3O3(PZT)-poly (vinylidene-fluoride)(PVDF) and (ii) Co0.6Zn0.4Fe2O4-BaTi0.7Zr0.3O3(BZT)-PVDF were prepared by hot press method for magneto-dielectric studies. Different multiferroic composite films were named as CPT-1 (CZFO:PZT; 3:1) CPT-2 (CZFO:PZT; 3:2), CPT-3(CZFO:PZT; 3:3), CBT-1 (CZFO:BZT; 3:1), CBT-2 (CZFO:BZT; 3:2) and CBT-3 (CZFO:BZT 3:3). The entire composites were made with 70% ceramic and 30% wt. PVDF polymer. Line scanning by Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Atomic force microscopy (AFM) images shows a homogeneous distribution of constituents in the composite film. It is observed that the dielectric permittivity (ε´) follows the MaxwellWagner model. Remnant polarization (Pr) and magnetocapacitance (MC) were found to vary with an applied magnetic field at room temperature. The absolute value of the magnetocapacitance (MC) was found higher for CBT-2 (MC ~ 0.79%) than for CBT-3 (MC ~ 0.57%) but lower than for CPT-3 (MC ~ 1.2%). A linear fit of the MC with M2 yields the magnetoelectric quadratic coupling constant |γ| ~ 4.96 × 10-6 for CBT-1, which is around 150 times lower than for CPT-1 (|γ| ~ 7.92 × 10-4).
Y-Type Hexaferrites: Structural, Dielectric and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Jotania Rajshree B. , Virk Hardev Singh
Published: June 2012

This paper attempts to provide a historical survey of structure of various types of hexaferrites. It provides information about synthesis, characterization, structural, magnetic and dielectric properties of Y-type hexagonal ferrites using various chemical routes. We have prepared a series of cobalt doped Sr2Cu2-xCoxFe12O22(x = 0.0 to 1.0) hexaferrites using a wet chemical co-precipitation technique. The prepared hexaferrite precursors were calcined at 950 °C for 4 hours in a furnace and slowly cooled to room temperature. The crystal structure of Y-type hexaferrites is rather complicated. The chemical and structural changes were examined in detail by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy. X-ray diffraction studies showed that sintering temperature as low as 950°C was sufficient to produce a single-phase Y-type hexaferrite material. The dielectric measurements were carried out over the frequency range of 100 Hz to 2 MHz at room temperature using an LCR meter to study the variation of dielectric constant and loss tangent with frequency. The magnetic properties of hexaferrite samples were investigated using a vibration sample magnetometer (VSM), and a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) magnetometer in the temperature range 30K to 200K. A change from ferromagnetic state to super paramagnetic state has been observed in Co doped Sr2Cu2-xCoxFe12O22(x= 0.6 to 1.0) hexaferrite. The novel applications of all types of hexaferrite materials have been described.
In vitro signal transduction mechanism exerted by 2-ethyl-3- O -sulphamoyl-estra-1,3,5(10), 15-tetraen-3-ol-17-one in combination with dichloroacetic acid on breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) and breast non-tumorigenic (MCF-12A) cells
Authors: Stander X. X. , Stander A. , Joubert A.
Published: June 2012

In vitro evaluation of a novel antimitotic estradiol analog and dichloroacetate in breast adenocarcinoma and breast non-tumorigenic cells will contribute to the field of combination therapy in cancer.
Health Assessment of fish communities exposed to pig slurry in the Vaal River, South Africa
Authors: Pheiffer Wihan , Pieters Rialet
Published: June 2012

This study evaluated the effects of untreated pig slurry on the general health of thefish communities in the lower Vaal area by using the Fish Health Assessment Index (FHAI)together with morphological biomarkers such as Gonad Mass Index (GMI), Hepato-SomaticIndex (HSI), the Condition factor (Cf) and microbial activity.
A study of histopathological spectrum and expression of Ki-67, TP53 in primary brain tumors of pediatric age group
Authors: Sengupta Subhalakshmi , Chatterjee Uttara , Banerjee Uma , Ghosh Samarendranath , Chatterjee Sandip , Ghosh Ashit K
Published: June 2012

Objectives: The primary brain tumors are the second most common cause of death due to malignancies in children. This study was done to analyze the histological spectrum of primary brain tumors in children and also to find out the expression of p53 and Ki67 in some of the common pediatric brain tumors. Materials and Methods: This study was done over a period of 2.5 years. The patients were followed up until 6 months to determine the outcome. We examined H and E sections from 61 pediatric brain tumors and also performed immunohistochemical stains with p53 and Ki67 on 52 of these samples. Results: Of the 61 cases of pediatric brain tumors the commonest were pilocytic astrocytomas and medulloblastomas both constituting 22.9% of total cases, followed by high grade gliomas, that is, anaplastic astrocytoma and glioblastoma taken together (14.7%), diffuse astrocytomas (11.4%), ependymomas (8.1%), and oligodendrogliomas (4.9%). Other cases comprised craniopharyngiomas, astroblastomas, and gangliocytoma. The mean age of presentation was 9.3 years, male children being more commonly affected. Ki67 labeling index (LI) and p53 expression in pilocytic astrocytomas and diffuse astrocytomas were significantly lower than that of high-grade astrocytomas. However, there was no significant difference of expression of these two antigens in pilocytic astrocytomas and diffuse astrocytomas. It was found that Ki67 LI was a better marker for distinguishing between grades of astrocytoma than p53 (P=0.000 and P=0.002, respectively). The survival in cases of pilocytic astrocytomas was far better than high-grade gliomas. However, there was no significant difference in survival between pilocytic astrocytoma and diffuse infiltrating astrocytoma. There was significant positive correlation between expression of p53 and Ki67 LI in cases of medulloblastomas. Both p53 (P=0.002) and Ki67 LI (P=0.000) taken individually correlated well with survival in these cases. Also, Ki67 LI is better predictor of outcome than p53. Conclusion: From this study, it can be concluded that Ki67 and p53 score correlated well with the grade of astrocytoma; however, Ki67 is a better marker for differentiating between the grades of astrocytoma than p53. Also, Ki67 LI is a better prognostic factor than p53 in case of medulloblastomas.
Clinical evaluation of total and lipid bound sialic acid levels in oral precancer and oral cancer
Authors: Taqi Syed Ahmed
Published: June 2012

Aims: Special attention has been given to define the biochemical changes in cell-surface glycoproteins and glycolipids that take place during malignant transformation. This study was thus designed to explore the clinical utility of total and lipid bound sialic acid (LSA) in patients with oral precancer and oral cancer. Materials and Methods: Blood samples were obtained from 95 subjects divided into three groups, namely healthy individuals, oral cancer, and precancer. Serum total and LSA levels were determined using periodate-thiobarbituric acid method and Katopodis et al. method, respectively. Finally, spectrophotometricreadings were obtained. Results: Mean values of serum sialic acid (total and lipid bound) in oral cancer were significantly higher than control and the precancer group (P<0.001). The multivariate analysis data revealed progressive rise in total and LSA, which was statistically significant with clinical stage of the cancer. Conclusion: Serum sialic acid levels can differentiate between patients with oral precancer and oral cancer. It could be used as an adjunct to diagnosis, monitor response to therapy, and assess the staging of cancer.
Bilateral visual blurring as the first symptom of extra-cranial metastatic lung carcinoma
Authors: Prabhash Kumar , Pandey Avinash , Kar Ranajit , Munshi Anusheel , Naronah Vanita , Agarwal Jai Prakash
Published: June 2012

Symptomatic choroidal metastasis in a know case of metastatic lung carcinoma is rare. However recent onset blurring of vision in patient of lung carcinoma should raise strong suspicion for choroidal metastasis. Thorough ophthalmological evaluation including bilateral visual activity, fundoscopy, ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging of orbit should be done to establish the diagnosis, palliative external beam radiotherapy given for symptomatic choroidal metastasis leads to preservation of useful vision and functional independence if detected early and hence improved quality of life. We report a case of bilateral symptomatic choroidal metastasis at first sign of lung carcinoma with significant improvement of vision bilaterally after palliative radiotherapy.
Primary cutaneous large B-cell lymphoma, leg type: Report of two cases and review of literature
Authors: Mondal Santosh Kumar , Mandal Palash Kumar , Roy Shravasti , Biswas Pranab Kumar
Published: June 2012

Primary cutaneous large B-cell lymphoma, leg type (PCLBCL-LT), is very rare neoplasm presenting on and confined to leg(s). PCLBCL-LT is distinguished from other type of primary cutaneous B-cell lymphoma (PCBCL) by its frequent relapses and poorer prognosis. We report, two cases of PCLBCL-LT, occurring in two younger patients compared to published cases in literature. Both the patients were treated with chemotherapy and local radiotherapy. During the 1-year follow-up period one patient presented with extracutaneous dissemination and succumbed. The other patient is symptom free and follow-up period was uneventful.
An Internal Evaluation of the National FFA Agricultural Mechanics Career Development Event through Analysis of Individual and Team Scores from 1996–2006
Authors: Franklin Edward A. , Armbruster James
Published: June 2012

The purpose of this study was to conduct an internal evaluation of the National FFA Agricultural Mechanics Career Development Event (CDE) through analysis of individual and team scores from 1996– 2006. Data were analyzed by overall and sub–event areas scores for individual contestants and team event. To facilitate the analysis process scores were aggregated by National FFA regions. Since the population of contestants competing by states was known descriptive statistics were used to compare mean scores by regions. States from the Central Region having consistently placed teams in the top–ten include Missouri, Minnesota, Montana, and Iowa. Mean overall event scores ranged from 13.45 (out of 30) to 59.29 (out of 100). Findings revealed the scores posted by individuals and teams from the Central FFA Region were significantly higher than those of the Western, Eastern, and Southern FFA Regions. The variables of industry and marketing system score, explained 40% of the variance in the overall individual event score.
A parameterization of low visibilities for hazy days in the North China Plain
Authors: Chen J. , Zhao C. S. , Ma N. , Liu P. F. , Göbel T. , Hallbauer E. , Deng Z. Z. , Ran L. , Xu W. Y. , Liang Z. , Liu H. J. , Yan P. , Zhou X. J. , Wiedensohler A.
Published: June 2012

Abstract. Visibility degradation is a pervasive and urgent environmental problem in China. The occurrence of low visibility events is frequent in the North China Plain, where the aerosol loading is quite high and aerosols are strongly hygroscopic. A parameterization of light extinction (Kex) for low visibilities on hazy days is proposed in this paper, based on visibility, relative humidity (RH), aerosol hygroscopic growth factors and particle number size distributions measured during the Haze in China (HaChi) Project. Observational results show that a high aerosol volume concentration is responsible for low visibility at RH <90%; while for RH >90%, decrease of visibility is mainly influenced by the increase of RH. The parameterization of Kex is developed on the basis of aerosol volume concentrations and RH, taking into accounts the sensitivity of visibility to the two factors and the availability of corresponding data. The extinction coefficients calculated with the parameterization schemes agree well with the directly measured values.
Atmospheric impacts on climatic variability of surface incident solar radiation
Authors: Wang K. , Dickinson R. E. , Wild M. , Liang S.
Published: June 2012

Abstract. The Earth's climate system is driven by surface incident solar radiation (Rs). Direct measurements have shown that Rs has undergone significant decadal variations. However, a large fraction of the global land surface is not covered by these observations. Satellite-derived Rs has a good global coverage but is of low accuracy in its depiction of decadal variability. This paper shows that daily to decadal variations of Rs, from both aerosols and cloud properties, can be accurately estimated using globally available measurements of Sunshine Duration (SunDu). In particular, SunDu shows that since the late 1980's Rs has brightened over Europe due to decreases in aerosols but dimmed over China due to their increases. We find that variation of cloud cover controls Rs at a monthly scale but that aerosols determine the variability of Rs at a decadal time scale, in particular, over Europe and China. Because of its global availability and long-term history, SunDu can provide an accurate and continuous proxy record of Rs, filling in values for the blank areas that are not covered by direct measurements. By merging direct measurements collected by global energy budget archive with those derived from SunDu, we obtain a good coverage of Rs over the Northern Hemisphere. From this data, the average increase of Rs from 1982 to 2008 is estimated to be 0.87 W m−2 per decade.
A new model for the simplification of particle counting data
Authors: Fadal M. F. , Haarhoff J. , Marais S.
Published: June 2012

Abstract. This paper proposes a three-parameter mathematical model to describe the particle size distribution in a water sample. The proposed model offers some conceptual advantages over two other models reported on previously, and also provides a better fit to the particle counting data obtained from 321 water samples taken over three years at a large South African drinking water supplier. Using the data from raw water samples taken from a moderately turbid, large surface impoundment, as well as samples from the same water after treatment, typical ranges of the model parameters are presented for both raw and treated water. Once calibrated, the model allows the calculation and comparison of total particle number and volumes over any randomly selected size interval of interest.
Exploring the physical controls of regional patterns of flow duration curves – Part 1: Insights from statistical analyses
Authors: Cheng L. , Yaeger M. , Viglione A. , Coopersmith E. , Ye S. , Sivapalan M.
Published: June 2012

Abstract. The Flow Duration Curve (FDC) is a classical method used to graphically represent the relationship between the frequency and magnitude of streamflow. In this sense it represents a compact signature of temporal runoff variability that can also be used to diagnose catchment rainfall-runoff responses, including similarity and differences between catchments. This paper is aimed at extracting regional patterns of the FDCs from observed daily flow data and elucidating the physical controls underlying these patterns, as a way to aid towards their regionalization and predictions in ungauged basins. The FDCs of total runoff (TFDC) using multi-decadal streamflow records for 197 catchments across the continental United States are separated into the FDCs of two runoff components, i.e., fast flow (FFDC) and slow flow (SFDC). In order to compactly display these regional patterns the 3-parameter mixed gamma distribution is employed to characterize the shapes of the normalized FDCs (i.e., TFDC, FFDC and SFDC) over the entire data record. This is repeated to also characterize the between-year variability of "annual" FDCs for 8 representative catchments chosen across a climate gradient. Results show that the mixed gamma distribution can adequately capture the shapes of the FDCs and their variation between catchments and also between years. Comparison between the between-catchment and between-year variability of the FDCs revealed significant space-time symmetry. Possible relationships between the parameters of the fitted mixed gamma distribution and catchment climatic and physiographic characteristics are explored in order to decipher and point to the underlying physical controls. The baseflow index (a surrogate for the collective impact of geology, soils, topology and vegetation, as well as climate) is found to be the dominant control on the shapes of the normalized TFDC and SFDC, whereas the product of maximum daily precipitation and the fraction of non-rainy days was found to control the shape of the FFDC. These relationships, arising from the separation of total runoff into its two components, provide a potential physical basis for regionalization of FDCs, as well as providing a conceptual framework for developing deeper process-based understanding of the FDCs.
Effect of noncovalent chemical modification on the electrical conductivity and tensile properties of poly(methyl methacrylate)/carbon nanotube composites
Authors: Koysuren Ozcan , Karaman Mustafa , Ozyurt Demet
Published: June 2012

Noncovalent chemical modification by initiated chemical vapor deposition technique is applied to carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to reduce average agglomerate size of the nanoparticles in the polymer matrix and to improve surface interaction between the composite constituents. CNT surfaces are coated conformally with thin poly(glycidyl methacrylate) (PGMA) polymer film and coated nanoparticles are incorporated in poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) polymer matrix using solvent casting technique. Conformal PGMA coatings around individual nanotubes were identified by scanning electron microscopy analysis. Transmission electron microscopy and optical microscopy analyses show homogeneous composite morphology for composites prepared by using PGMA coated nanotubes. Fourier Transform Infrared and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses show the successful deposition of polymer with high retention of epoxide functionality. PGMA coating of CNTs exhibits improvement in electrical conductivity and tensile properties of PGMA‐CNT/PMMA systems when compared with uncoated nanoparticles. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Monitoring ceramic hydroxyapatite media degradation using dynamic image analysis and uniaxial confined bulk compression
Authors: Kaltenbrunner Oliver , Cao Shawn , Freydell Esteban , Keener Nick , Zhu Li , Jiao Nancy , Williamson Brian , Snyder Mark A. , Cummings Larry J.
Published: June 2012

Ceramic hydroxyapatite (CHT) is a multimodal chromatographic medium widely used in the pharmaceutical industry for the purification of biomolecules. CHT is a sintered form of hydroxyapatite crystals with moderate stability at acidic conditions. This moderate stability may lead to underperformance of CHT packed bed lifetime, especially under acidic conditions, which should be monitored by diagnostic tools to design optimal buffer systems for the step. This study presents the application of dynamic image analysis (DIA) and uniaxial confined bulk compression (UCBC) to monitor CHT particle degradation as a function of buffer composition. DIA was used to evaluate changes in solidity and morphology, while UCBC was used to evaluate changes in resistance to uniaxial compression. All properties were studied as a function of bed position and operational parameters. Results show that when CHT is exposed to acidic pH, adding phosphate and/or calcium at concentrations of 1 mM minimizes changes in particle solidity and mechanical strength. Changes in CHT morphological properties (i.e., convexity, aspect ratio) are also affected by the presence of calcium and/or phosphate in the inlet buffers. Furthermore, calcium and phosphate have a positive effect on the mechanical behavior of CHT, which is related to changes in the CHT particle solidity.
P‐glycoprotein (ABCB1) inhibited network of mitochondrion transport along microtubule and BMP signal‐induced cell shape in chimpanzee left cerebrum by systems‐theoretical analysis
Authors: Lin Hong , Wang Lin , Jiang Minghu , Huang Juxiang , Qi Lianxiu
Published: June 2012

We constructed the significant low‐expression P‐glycoprotein (ABCB1) inhibited transport and signal network in chimpanzee compared with high‐expression (fold change ≥2) the human left cerebrum in GEO data set, by using integration of gene regulatory activated and inhibited network inference method with gene ontology (GO) analysis. Our result showed that ABCB1 transport and signal upstream network RAB2A inhibited ABCB1, and downstream ABCB1‐inhibited SMAD1_2, NCK2, SLC25A46, GDF10, RASGRP1, EGFR, LRPPRC, RASSF2, RASA4, CA2, CBLB, UBR5, SLC25A16, ITGB3BP, DDIT4, PDPN, RAB2A in chimpanzee left cerebrum. We obtained that the different biological processes of ABCB1 inhibited transport and signal network repressed carbon dioxide transport, ER to Golgi vesicle‐mediated transport, folic acid transport, mitochondrion transport along microtubule, water transport, BMP signaling pathway, Ras protein signal transduction, transforming growth factor beta receptor signaling pathway in chimpanzee compared with the inhibited network of the human left cerebrum, as a result of inducing inhibition of mitochondrion transport along microtubule and BMP signal‐induced cell shape in chimpanzee left cerebrum. Our hypothesis was verified by the same and different biological processes of ABCB1 inhibited transport and signal network of chimpanzee compared with the corresponding activated network of chimpanzee and the human left cerebrum, respectively. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Coumarin‐Based Octopamine Phototriggers and their Effects on an Insect Octopamine Receptor
Authors: Schaal Janina , Dekowski Brigitte , Wiesner Burkhard , Eichhorst Jenny , Marter Kathrin , Vargas Carolyn , Keller Sandro , Eremina Nadejda , Barth Andreas , Baumann Arnd , Eisenhardt Dorothea , Hagen Volker
Published: June 2012

We have developed and characterized efficient caged compounds of the neurotransmitter octopamine. For derivatization, we introduced [6‐bromo‐8‐(diethylaminomethyl)‐7‐hydroxycoumarin‐4‐yl]methoxycarbonyl (DBHCMOC) and {6‐bromo‐7‐hydroxy‐8‐[(piperazin‐1‐yl)methyl]coumarin‐4‐yl}methoxycarbonyl (PBHCMOC) moieties as novel photo‐removable protecting groups. The caged compounds were functionally inactive when applied to heterologously expressed octopamine receptors (AmOctα1R). Upon irradiation with UV–visible or IR light, bioactive octopamine was released and evoked Ca2+ signals in AmOctα1R‐expressing cells. The pronounced water solubility of compounds 2–4 in particular holds great promise for these substances as excellent phototriggers of this important neurotransmitter.
Enantioselective Kinetics of α‐Hexachlorocyclohexane in Earthworm (Eisenia fedtia) and Forest Soil
Authors: Zhou Gaoxin , Liu Donghui , Ma Ruixue , Li Jindong , Sun Mingjing , Zhou Zhiqiang , Wang Peng
Published: June 2012

The enantioselective bioaccumulation and elimination behaviors of α‐hexachlorocyclohexane (α‐HCH) enantiomers in earthworm and soil were investigated by chiral gas chromatography. Enantiomer fraction values were calculated as indicators of the enantioselectivity. The mature earthworms were exposed to 0.10 µg g−1wwt(0.14 µg g−1dwt) spiked soil continuously for the bioaccumulation, and the elimination was conducted after an enrichment period in the soil. The results showed that both the bioaccumulation and elimination processes followed monophasic kinetics, body residues of α‐HCH in earthworm increased to high level at the fifth day, and enantioselectivity was found in the bioaccumulation process with the rate constant (k) of 0.80 d−1for (+)‐α‐HCH and 0.74 d−1for (−)‐α‐HCH. The half life (t1/2) of the enantiomers obtained in the elimination process was within one day. The bioaccumulation factors of steady state of α‐HCH enantiomers were 2.82 for (+)‐α‐HCH and 2.75 for (−)‐α‐HCH. The enantiomer fractions of earthworm and soil obviously below 0.5 during uptake and elimination processes indicate significant enantioselectivity and preferential depuration of (+)‐α‐HCH in earthworm. However, earthworms do not have a great capacity for getting rid of α‐HCH in polluted soil shown by a contradistinctive experiment.Chirality 24:615–620, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Treatment outcome in older patients with childhood acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Rubnitz Jeffrey E. , Pounds Stanley , Cao Xueyuan , Jenkins Laura , Dahl Gary , Bowman W. Paul , Taub Jeffrey W , Pui Ching‐Hon , Ribeiro Raul C. , Campana Dario , Inaba Hiroto
Published: June 2012

BACKGROUND.

Older age has historically been an adverse prognostic factor in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML). To the authors' knowledge, the impact of age relative to that of other prognostic factors on the outcome of patients treated in recent trials is unknown.

METHODS.

Clinical outcome and causes of treatment failure of 351 patients enrolled on 3 consecutive protocols for childhood AML between 1991 and 2008 were analyzed according to age and protocol.

RESULTS.

The more recent protocol (AML02) produced improved outcomes for patients aged 10 years to 21 years compared with 2 earlier studies (AML91 and AML97), with 3‐year rates of event‐free survival (EFS), overall survival (OS), and cumulative incidence of refractory leukemia or recurrence (CIR) for this group being similar to those of patients aged birth to 9 years: EFS: 58.3% ± 5.4% versus 66.6% ± 4.9% (P = .20); OS: 68.9% ± 5.1% versus 75.1% ± 4.5% (P = .36); and CIR: 21.9% ± 4.4% versus 25.3% ± 4.2% (P = .59). The EFS and OS estimates for patients aged 10 to 15 years overlapped those for patients aged 16 to 21 years. However, the cumulative incidence of toxic death was significantly higher for patients aged 10 to 21 years compared with younger patients (13.2% ± 3.6% vs 4.5% ± 2.0%; P = .028).

CONCLUSIONS.

The survival rate for older children with AML has improved on the results of a recent trial and is now similar to that of younger patients. However, deaths from toxicity remain a significant problem for patients in the older age group. Future trials should focus on improving supportive care while striving to develop more effective antileukemic therapy. Cancer 2012. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Adsorption of Carbon Dioxide on Sodium and Potassium Forms of STI Zeolite
Authors: Zukal Arnošt , Zones Stacey I. , Kubů Martin , Davis Tracy M. , Čejka Jiří
Published: June 2012

Sodium and potassium forms of STI zeolite synthesized with Si/Al ratios 15, 25, and 35 were characterized using X‐ray powder diffraction and nitrogen adsorption at 77 K. To obtain detailed information on the effect of alkali metal cations on CO2 adsorption, the temperature dependence of CO2 isotherms was investigated in the temperature range from 273 to 333 K. Based on these data, isosteric heats of adsorption of CO2 were determined. It was found that the isosteric heat of CO2 adsorption attains the highest values on the sodium form of STI zeolite with a Si/Al ratio of 15. The lowest values were found with both sodium and potassium forms of STI zeolite having a Si/Al ratio of 35. Heats of adsorption of CO2 obtained for STI zeolites were discussed in detail and compared with those of FER, MFI, MEL, TUN, and IMF structural types. This comparison revealed that isosteric heats of adsorption of CO2 on STI zeolites are lower by approximately 8 kJ mol−1 compared with heats of adsorption for FER, MFI, MEL, TUN, and IMF zeolites composed of the eight‐ or/and ten‐ring channel systems as well as STI zeolites. This effect was explained on the basis of stronger interaction of alkali metal cations with oxygen atoms of the zeolitic framework.
Nucleation kinetics of the formation of low dimensional calcium sulfate dihydrate crystals in isopropyl alcohol medium
Authors: Sandhya S. , Sureshbabu S. , Varma H. K. , Komath Manoj
Published: June 2012

Calcium sulfate dihydrate, constituted as uniform crystals of low dimensions, is a potential biomaterial for clinical applications like bone graft substitution and drug delivery. In this work, isopropyl alcohol has been used as a solvent to obtain low dimensional calcium sulfate dihydrate crystals from calcium nitrate ‐ sulfuric acid system. Reactants in 0.5 molar concentration at ambient conditions generated uniform rod‐shaped crystals of length 3–5 µm. Analysis using X‐ray Diffractometry and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry showed the material to be well crystallized, phase‐pure calcium sulfate dihydrate.

The nucleation kinetics has been studied by observing the induction time of phase formation in solutions of millimolar concentrations through turbidimetry at 300 K. The data have been analysed using classical nucleation theory to deduce parameters like interfacial tension (or surface free energy), nucleation rate and critical radius. The surface free energy obtained (5.6 mJ/m2) is comparatively lower than that reported for aqueous precipitation, which could be attributed to the presence of isopropyl alcohol. On escalating the supersaturation ratio, the nucleation rate drastically increased and the critical radius decreased exponentially. Particles formed at supersaturation 1.39 showed a monomodal distribution centered at 8.2 nm in Dynamic Light Scattering analysis. Comparable particle sizes were obtained in Transmission Electron Microscopy.
Biallelic expression of Tbx1 protects the embryo from developmental defects caused by increased receptor tyrosine kinase signaling
Authors: Simrick Subreena , Szumska Dorota , Gardiner Jennifer R. , Jones Kieran , Sagar Karun , Morrow Bernice , Bhattacharya Shoumo , Basson M. Albert
Published: June 2012

Background: 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11DS) is the most common microdeletion syndrome in humans, characterized by cardiovascular defects such as interrupted aortic arch, outflow tract defects, thymus and parathyroid hypo‐ or aplasia, and cleft palate. Heterozygosity of Tbx1, the mouse homolog of the candidate TBX1 gene, results in mild defects dependent on genetic background, whereas complete inactivation results in severe malformations in multiple tissues. Results: The loss of function of two Sprouty genes, which encode feedback antagonists of receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) signaling, phenocopy many defects associated with 22q11DS in the mouse. The stepwise reduction of Sprouty gene dosage resulted in different phenotypes emerging at specific steps, suggesting that the threshold up to which a given developmental process can tolerate increased RTK signaling is different. Tbx1 heterozygosity significantly exacerbated the severity of all these defects, which correlated with a substantial increase in RTK signaling. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that TBX1 functions as an essential component of a mechanism that protects the embryo against perturbations in RTK signaling that may lead to developmental defects characteristic of 22q11DS. We propose that genetic factors that enhance RTK signaling ought to be considered as potential genetic modifiers of this syndrome. Developmental Dynamics 241:1310–1324, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Influence of dietary specialization and resource availability on geographical variation in abundance of butterflyfish
Authors: Lawton Rebecca J. , Pratchett Morgan S.
Published: June 2012

Empirical evidence indicates that both niche breadth and resource availability are key drivers of a species’ local abundance patterns. However, most studies have considered the influence of either niche breath or resource availability in isolation, while it is the interactive effects that are likely to influence local abundance. We examined geographic variation in the feeding ecology and distribution of coral‐feeding butterflyfish to determine the influence of dietary specialization and dietary resource availability on their local abundance. Dietary composition and abundance of five butterflyfish and coral dietary resource availability were determined at 45 sites across five locations (Lizard Island and Heron Island, Great Barrier Reef; Kimbe Bay, Papua New Guinea; Noumea, New Caledonia; and Moorea, French Polynesia). Multiple regression models using variables representative of total dietary resource availability, availability of specific dietary resources, and interspecific competition were used to determine the best predictors of local abundance across all sites and locations for each species. Factors influencing local abundance varied between butterflyfish with specialized and generalized diets. Dietary resource availability had the strongest influence on the abundance of Chaetodon trifascialis—the most specialized species. Local abundance of C. trifascialis was best predicted by availability of the Acropora corals that it preferentially feeds on. In contrast, abundance of generalist butterflyfish was poorly described by variation in availability of specific resources. Rather, indices of total dietary resource availability best predicted their abundance. Overall, multiple regression models only explained a small proportion of the variation in local abundance for all five species. Despite their relatively specialized diets, dietary resource availability has limited influence on the local abundance of butterflyfish. Only the most specialized species appear to be consistently limited by prey availability. Local and total abundance of species are influenced by a wide range of different factors and there is definite need to conduct independent species assessments.
Syntheses, Dynamic Behaviour and Theoretical Studies of [(Piperidinomethyl)silyl]methyl‐Cyclopalladated Dimetallic Complexes
Authors: Colquhoun Victoria P. , Schildbach Daniel , Martín‐Romo Raquel , Strohmann Carsten , Villafañe Fernando
Published: June 2012

The cationic complex [Pd{CH2SiPh2(CH2NC5H10)‐κ2C,N}(NCMe)2]BF4 (CH2NC5H10 = piperidinomethyl) is obtained from the reaction of [Pd{CH2SiPh2(CH2NC5H10)‐κ2C,N}(μ‐Cl)]2 with TlBF4 in the presence of NCMe. It reacts with KO2CCH3 leading to the dimetallic complex [Pd{CH2SiPh2(CH2NC5H10)‐κ2C,N}(μ‐O2CCH3‐κO:κ′O)]2, which exists only as the transoid isomer in solution. A dynamic process due to inversion of the acetato bridges is detected by variable‐temperature 1H NMR spectroscopy. The reaction of the same parent complex with Kdmpz (dmpz = dimethylpyrazolate) leads to the dinuclear complex [Pd{CH2SiPh2(CH2NC5H10)‐κ2C,N}(μ‐dmpz‐κN:κ′N)]2, which in solution exists as a mixture of cisoid and transoid isomers, but no inversion of the bridging pyrazolato groups has been observed. The reaction between equimolar amounts of these two complexes in CH2Cl2 affords low yields of the expected mixed acetato/pyrazolato‐bridged complex [Pd2{CH2SiPh2(CH2NC5H10)‐κ2C,N}2(μ‐O2CCH3‐κO:κ′O)(μ‐dmpz‐κN:κ′N)]. The mixed chlorido‐pyrazolato‐bridged complex [Pd2{CH2SiPh2(CH2NC5H10)‐κ2C,N}2(μ‐Cl)(μ‐dmpz‐κN:κ′N)] is obtained by mixing equimolar amounts of the parent dichlorido‐ and bis(dimethylpyrazolato)‐bridged dinuclear complexes, and exhibits a dynamic process in solution corresponding to the inversion of the bridges. Only the cisoid isomers are detected for both dimetallic complexes with mixed bridging ligands. The experimental findings of the preferred transoid or cisoid structure in these dinuclear Pd complexes were supported by quantum chemical calculations.
Synthesis of an Ionic Paramagnetic Ruthenium(III) Complex and Its Application as an Efficient and Recyclable Catalyst for the Transfer Hydrogenation of Ketones
Authors: Zhou Chengliang , Zhang Jing , Đaković Marijana , Popović Zora , Zhao Xiaoli , Liu Ye
Published: June 2012

A novel ionic complex, bis[1‐butyl‐2‐(diphenylphosphanyl)‐3‐methylimidazolium]tetrachloridoruthenium(III) hexafluorophosphate (2), has been synthesized and fully characterized. The single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis showed that 2 is composed of an Ru complex cation and PF6– anion. The cation has a highly symmetrical Ru‐centered octahedron geometry with four Cl atoms in the equatorial plane and two imidazolium‐substituted phosphane ligands in the axial positions. It exhibits paramagnetism due to the presence of one unpaired electron in the phosphane‐ligated low‐spin RuIII complex. Complex 2 exhibited good catalytic performance in the transfer hydrogenation of a wide range of ketones by using alcohols as hydrogen donors. Owing to its high polarity, good thermal stability, and insensitivity to moisture and oxygen, complex 2 could be used in six catalytic cycles in the transfer hydrogenation of acetophenone without any obvious loss of activity.
Sawhorse‐Type Tetracarbonyldiruthenium Tweezers
Authors: Johnpeter Justin P. , Mohanraj John , Armaroli Nicola , Therrien Bruno
Published: June 2012

Molecular tweezers built from sawhorse‐type dinuclearruthenium units and carboxyphenyl porphyrin derivatives{5‐(4‐carboxyphenyl)‐10,15,20‐triphenyl‐21H,23H‐porphyrin,[5‐(4‐carboxyphenyl)‐10,15,20‐triphenylporphyrin]zinc, 5,10‐bis(4‐carboxyphenyl)‐15,20‐diphenyl‐21H,23H‐porphyrin, and [5,10‐bis(4‐carboxyphenyl)‐15,20‐diphenylporphyrin]zinc} are presented. Molecular modeling shows that in all cases the two porphyrin moieties are adequately positioned to encapsulate guest molecules. Therefore, the host–guest interactions between the sawhorse‐type tetracarbonyldiruthenium tweezers and different guest molecules [fullerene (C60), pyridine (pyr), 4,4′‐bipyridine (bpy), 1,2‐bis(4‐pyridyl)ethylene (bpe), 5,10‐bis(4‐pyridyl)‐15,20‐diphenyl‐21H,23H‐porphyrin (5,10‐dpp), and 5,15‐bis(4‐pyridyl)‐10,20‐diphenyl‐21H,23H‐porphyrin (5,15‐dpp)] have been studied in solution by using optical spectroscopic methods.
Synthesis of Cyclodextrins with Carboxylic Acids at the Secondary Rim and an Evaluation of Their Properties as Chemzymes for Glycoside Hydrolysis
Authors: Zhou You , Lindbäck Emil , Marinescu Lavinia G. , Pedersen Christian Marcus , Bols Mikael
Published: June 2012

Seven β‐cyclodextrin‐mono‐, ‐di‐ or ‐tetra‐O‐acetic acids were prepared and investigated for their propertiesas catalysts of the hydrolysis of four nitrophenyl glycosides.
Igf2 pathway dependency of the Trp53 developmental and tumour phenotypes
Authors: Haley Victoria L. , Barnes David J. , Sandovici Ionel , Constancia Miguel , Graham Christopher F. , Pezzella Francesco , Bühnemann Claudia , Carter Emma J. , Hassan A. Bassim
Published: June 2012

Insulin‐like growth factor 2 (IGF2) and the transformation related protein 53 (Trp53) are potent regulators of cell growth and metabolism in development and cancer. In vitro evidence suggests several mechanistic pathway interactions. Here, we tested whether loss of function of p53 leads to IGF2 ligand pathway dependency in vivo. Developmental lethality occurred in p53 homozygote null mice that lacked the paternal expressed allele of imprinted Igf2. Further lethality due to post‐natal lung haemorrhage occurred in female progeny with Igf2 paternal null allele only if derived from double heterozygote null fathers, and was associated with a specific gene expression signature. Conditional deletion of Igf2fl/fl attenuated the rapid tumour onset promoted by homozygous deletion of p53fl/fl. Accelerated carcinoma and sarcoma tumour formation in p53+/− females with bi‐allelic Igf2 expression was associated with reductions in p53 loss of heterozygosity and apoptosis. Igf2 genetic dependency of the p53 null phenotype during development and tumour formation suggests that targeting the IGF2 pathway may be useful in the prevention and treatment of human tumours with a disrupted Trp53 pathway.

→ See accompanying article http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/emmm.201201509
Microglia and neurodegeneration: The role of systemic inflammation
Authors: Cunningham Colm
Published: June 2012

It is well accepted that CNS inflammation has a role in the progression of chronic neurodegenerative disease, although the mechanisms through which this occurs are still unclear. The inflammatory response during most chronic neurodegenerative disease is dominated by the microglia and mechanisms by which these cells contribute to neuronal damage and degeneration are the subject of intense study. More recently it has emerged that systemic inflammation has a significant role to play in the progression of these diseases. Well‐described adaptive pathways exist to transduce systemic inflammatory signals to the brain, but activation of these pathways appears to be deleterious to the brain if the acute insult is sufficiently robust, as in severe sepsis, or sufficiently prolonged, as in repeated stimulation with robust doses of inflammogens such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Significantly, moderate doses of inflammogens produce new pathology in the brain and exacerbate or accelerate features of disease when superimposed upon existing pathology or in the context of genetic predisposition. It is now apparent in multiple chronic disease states, and in ageing, that microglia are primed by prior pathology, or by genetic predisposition, to respond more vigorously to subsequent inflammatory stimulation, thus transforming an adaptive CNS inflammatory response to systemic inflammation, into one that has deleterious consequences for the individual. In this review, the preclinical and clinical evidence supporting a significant role for systemic inflammation in chronic neurodegenerative diseases will be discussed. Mechanisms by which microglia might effect neuronal damage and dysfunction, as a consequence of systemic stimulation, will be highlighted. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mobilizing Company Members' Full Innovative Potential
Authors: Velasco Eva , Zamanillo Ibon , Del Valle Teresa Garcia
Published: June 2012

Most of the literature on innovation management highlights the fundamental role played by people in the innovation process and the need to fully develop the creative and innovative potential of organizations' members. This article offers the result of extensive research carried out among some of the most innovative companies in the Basque Country, a highly innovative region located in the north of Spain. It draws interesting conclusions about how these innovative companies combine strong leadership, human resource practices, and an organizational culture that enhances innovation capabilities among the company's employees. More specifically, it answers questions such as the following: Are human resources policies, leadership, and innovation culture implemented equally in Basque innovative companies? Do companies make the same effort in deploying these elements or routines and practices related to them? Can we see a pattern in the use of these elements among innovative firms? © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
AKL'12 and Innovation Award Laser Technology 2012
Authors: Dreissigacker Oliver , Teutsch Carmen
Published: June 2012

The Innovation Award Laser Technology is a European research prize awarded biannually by the association Arbeitskreis Lasertechnik e.V. and the European Laser Institute ELI at the AKL laser conference. The aim of the award is to honor an individual researcher or a project group for their achievements in the field of laser technology. The project must focus on laser materials processing or methods of producing laser light and yield a commercial value. The award includes a prize money worth 10,000 Euro as well as the titles “AKL Fellow” and “ELI Fellow”.
Ablation of Lithium Niobate with Pico‐ and Nanosecond Lasers
Authors: Haehnel Falk
Published: June 2012

A comparison between picosecond and nanosecond laser sources for the ablation of the technically interesting lithium niobate will be presented in this article. We investigated the influence of the used wavelength and pulse duration on the quality and the possibility to generate thinnest membranes under industrial conditions. It was possible to get structures of few mm2 with a membrane thickness smaller than 50 μm. Using different laser sources we could reduce the processing time with the same quality as before. We also investigated the heat affected zone by using pico‐ and nanosecond laser sources with a transmission electron microscope. This way, it was possible to see the expansion of thermal deformation in the solid material. With these basic research results, some interesting applications in the field of sensors, nozzle drilling and optical elements could be generated.
Smooth Surfaces with High Accuracies
Authors: Mahdi Shaimaa , Grehn Moritz , Meister Stefan , Ashkenasi David , Höfner Michael
Published: June 2012

Optical silicon‐on‐insulator (SOI) waveguides were scored by a femtosecond laser. Cleaving method leads to smooth facet surface of air covered SOI waveguides. The prepared end facets were investigated using an atomic force microscope and scanning electron microscopy. The roughness average of the prepared end facets of silicon waveguides was measured to be 0.25 nm.
Diode Lasers and Aluminum — A Success Story on the Rise
Authors: Rütering Markus , Luft Axel
Published: June 2012

Diode lasers, in spite of their prefix “high‐power”, until a few years ago, were applicable merely as systems for surface modification, heat treatment, and in applications with low prerequisites in terms of beam quality. Today, they are widely used in key hole welding as well.
Effect of Crosslinking on Shape‐Memory Behavior of Zinc Stearate/Ionomer Compounds
Authors: Dong Jing , Weiss R. A.
Published: June 2012

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) based on blends of fatty acid or fatty acid salts and an elastomeric ionomer, sulfonated poly{ethylene‐r‐propylene‐r‐(5‐ethylidene‐2‐norbornene)} are described. The permanent network is formed by nanophase separation of intermolecularly associated metal sulfonate groups, and the temporary network is developed by dispersed fatty acid crystals with strong dipolar interactions with the ionomer. The permanent network, however, creeps under load. SMPs with fixing efficiencies >95% and shape recovery efficiency of ≈100% were achieved by covalently crosslinking the ionomer.

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