bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, Characterization and Solvatochromism Investigation of Mixed Ligand Chelate Copper(II) Complexes with Acetyleacetonate and Three Diamine Ligands
Authors: Golchoubian Hamid , Afshar Zahra Mohseni , Moayyedi Golasa , Bruno Giuseppe , Rudbari Hadi Amiri
Published: August 2012

The syntheses of three mixed ligand chelate copper(II) complexes of the type [Cu(L)(acac)(H2O)]BPh4 where acac=acetyleacetonate; L=N,N‐dimethyl,N′‐benzylethane‐1,2‐diamine (L1), N,N‐dimethyl, N′‐2‐methylbenzylethane‐1,2‐diamine (L2) or N,N‐dimethyl,N′‐2‐chlorobenzylethane‐1,2‐diamine (L3) are reported and characterized by elemental analyses, spectroscopic and molar conductance measurements. The X‐ray structure of complex 1 shows that the central copper atom is placed in a distorted square pyramidal geometry made by acac and diamine chelate in the base and a H2O molecule on the apex. The prepared complexes are fairly soluble in a large number of organic solvents and show positive solvatochromism. Calculations of SMLR (stepwise multiple linear regression) method was utilized to find the best model explaining the observed solvatochromic behavior and showed that among different solvent parameters, donor number (DN) is a dominant factor responsible for the shift in the d‐d absorption band of the complexes to the lower wavenumber with increasing its values. The importance of substituent effect in diamine ligand on the spectral and SMLR measurements is also discussed.
Two Unusual Two‐dimensional (4,4) Network Cadmium Coordination Polymers Based on Flexible Bis(triazole) and Rigid Benzenedicarboxylate Co‐ligands
Authors: Sun Pengpeng , Zhao Shan , Yang Zhi , Li Baolong , Wu Bing
Published: August 2012

Two cadmium(II) coordination polymers {[Cd(btp)(NO2‐1,3‐bdc)(H2O)]·H2O}n (1) and {[Cd(btp)(1,2‐bdc)(H2O)]·H2O}n (2) were synthesized by the reaction of 1,3‐bis(1,2,4‐triazol‐1‐yl)propane (btp), 5‐nitroisophthalate (NO2‐1,3‐bdc), and 1,2‐benzenedicarboxylate (1,2‐bdc). 1 consists of undulated 2D (4,4) networks. Two identical undulated layers are parallel stacking to give a (2D→2D) polythreaded 2D network. A 3D supramolecular architectute is constructed through the hydrogen bond interactions. 2 has an unusual 2D (4,4) network with a thickness of ca. 10 Å. The btp ligands exhibit the anti‐gauche conformation in 1 and the anti‐anti conformation in 2. The flexible btp ligand exhibits the key role in the assembly of the topologies of 1 and 2. The luminescence and thermal stability were investigated.
Clock is not a component of Z‐bands
Authors: Wang Jushuo , Dube Dipak K. , White Jennifer , Fan Yingli , Sanger Jean M. , Sanger Joseph W.
Published: August 2012

The process of Z‐band assembly begins with the formation of small Z‐bodies composed of a complex of proteins rich in alpha‐actinin. As additional proteins are added to nascent myofibrils, Z‐bodies are transformed into continuous bands that form coherent discs of interacting proteins at the boundaries of sarcomeres. The steps controlling the transition of Z‐bodies to Z‐bands are not known. The report that a circadian protein, Clock, was localized in the Z‐bands of neonatal rat cardiomyocytes raised the question whether this transcription factor could be involved in Z‐band assembly. We found that the anti‐Clock antibody used in the reported study also stained the Z‐bands and Z‐bodies of mouse and avian cardiac and skeletal muscle cells. YFP constructs of Clock that were assembled, however, did not localize to the Z‐bands of muscle cells. Controls of Clock's activity showed that cotransfection of muscle cells with pYFP‐Clock and pCeFP‐BMAL1 led to the expected nuclear localization of YFP‐Clock with its binding partner CeFP‐BMAL1. Neither CeFP‐BMAL1 nor antibodies directed against BMAL1 localized to Z‐bands. A bimolecular fluorescence complementation assay (VC–BMAL1 and VN–Clock) confirmed the absence of Clock and BMAL1 from Z‐bands, and their nuclear colocalization. A second anti‐Clock antibody stained nuclei, but not Z‐bands, of cells cotransfected with Clock and BMAL1 plasmids. Western blots of reactions of muscle extracts and purified alpha‐actinins with the two anti‐Clock antibodies showed that the original antibody cross‐reacted with alpha‐actinin and the second did not. These results cannot confirm Clock as an active component of Z‐bands. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc
Amino Acid Ionic Liquid Modified Mesoporous Carbon: A Tailor‐made Nanostructure Biosensing Platform
Authors: Wu Lidong , Lu Xianbo , Zhang Haijun , Chen Jiping
Published: August 2012

A novel nanocomposite based on ordered graphitized mesoporous carbon (GMC) and amino acid ionic liquids (AAIL) is obtained through controlled surface modification of GMC with hydrophilic AAILs (1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium alanine, EMIM[Ala]), which is used as a platform for a tyrosinase biosensor to detect phenol. The GMC–AAIL nanocomposite possesses a better biocompatibility and improved aqueous‐phase dispersion than hydrophobic GMC alone, owing to the introduction of hydrophilic and biocompatible AAILs. Comparative studies revealed that the catalytic activity of tyrosinase for phenol in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) containing EMIM[Ala] was about ten times higher than that in pure PBS. By entrapping tyrosinase molecules into the mesopores of GMC, making use of the synergy effect of GMC and AAIL (the “interspace confinement effect”, the anti‐fouling ability, and the biocompatible microenvironment), the GMC–AAIL‐based biosensors display superior analytical performance to GMC‐based ones in terms of signal‐to‐noise ratio, stability, repeatability, and working life. After 21‐day storage, the electrode retained more than 90% of its initial response, indicating that surface modification of GMC with hydrophilic and biocompatible AAILs could significantly prolong the life of tyrosinase in vitro. The GMC10–EMIM[Ala]‐based biosensor demonstrates a linear response for phenol concentrations from 0.1 to 10 µmol L−1 with a low detection limit of 20 nmol L−1 and sensitivity of 1385 mA cm−2 M−1. The GMC–AAIL nanocomposite proves to be a promising platform for enzyme‐based biosensors and biocatalysis.
Considering gender in cannabinoid research: A step towards personalized treatment of marijuana addicts
Authors: Fattore Liana
Published: August 2012

Addiction is a complex disorder with interacting factors, including environmental factors, drug‐induced neurobiological changes, comorbidity, personality traits and stress responsivity. Numerous genetic variants that affect these factors may work in concert to affect vulnerability and severity of addiction. Traditionally, abuse of illicit drugs, including cannabis, was considered to be primarily a problem specific to men but the recent focus on drug addiction in women has brought attention to numerous sex differences in the central effects of these drugs, epidemiology of abuse‐related disorders, etiologic considerations and psychiatric comorbidity. Gender is now recognised as a major factor in the modulation of the pharmacological effects of drugs of abuse, and sex differences have been reported in various phases of the addiction cycle in both humans and animals. Recently, important gender‐dependent differences have been detected in the rates of initiation of marijuana smoking and in the frequency of use. Several animal studies, and in particular self‐administration studies, confirmed the crucial role played by sex and gonadal hormones in determining higher sensitivity to marijuana's rewarding properties and vulnerability to cannabis addiction in females than in males. In general, women also show higher rate of relapse to drug use than men, likely due to divergent withdrawal experiences and increased reactivity to internal (emotional) and external (drug‐associated) cues. According with this, craving for marijuana smoking and propensity to re‐use cannabis after abstinence may also develop differently between the sexes and require distinct treatment approaches, thus highlighting the urgent need for gender‐tailored prevention strategies and detoxification treatments. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of fatty acid‐based 3,6‐disubstituted‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydro‐phthalic acid anhydride derivatives
Authors: Eschig Steven , Philipp Claudia , Salthammer Tunga
Published: August 2012

Fatty acid‐based 3,6‐disubstituted‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydro‐phthalic acid anhydride derivatives were synthesized by Rhodium catalyzed addition of maleic anhydride to linoleic and oleic acid. The maleinization of linoleic acid leads to cyclohexenoic anhydrides having an allylic double bond. The cis‐configuration of this double bond was confirmed by synthesis of the corresponding anhydrides via Diels–Alder reaction of calendic acid, α‐eleostearic acid and β‐eleostearic acid with maleic anhydride, which was reported to be highly regio‐ and stereoselective. These compounds were co‐injected with the products of the Rh‐catalyzed maleinated linoleic acid into HPLC column so that the peaks of the resulting chromatogram could be allocated to the corresponding cyclohexenoic anhydrides. Besides the activity of the used catalysts RhCl3(H2O)3 and Rh(OAc)2, their selectivity towards the cyclohexenoic anhydrides was investigated. Furthermore, the influence of reaction temperature, equivalents of maleic anhydride and reaction time was analyzed to determine the optimum reaction conditions for the highest overall yields of the resulting 3,6‐disubstituted‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydro‐phthalic acid anhydride derivatives.

Practical applications: Fatty acid‐based 3,6‐disubstituted‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydro‐phthalic acid anhydride derivatives which can be used during polycondensation processes can be synthesized via Diels–Alder reaction of conjugated fatty acids and maleic anhydride. In this context, the substructure of the six‐membered carbon ring is of great relevance for the hardness of the resulting polyesters. The main disadvantage of this synthesis route is caused by the non‐conjugation of the most natural fatty acids, e.g. linoleic acid, which requires a further step and increase costs. The Rh‐catalyzed addition of maleic anhydride to unsaturated fatty acids enables the synthesis of such rings using MUFA, e.g. oleic acid or non‐conjugated PUFA, e.g. linoleic acid. Especially, the addition to linoleic acid leads to monomers of high interest having an allylic double bond. The synthesized cyclohexenoic anhydrides are considered to be a promising opportunity for bio‐based substitutes of, e.g. phthalic acid anhydride, trimellitic acid, and their di‐, tetra‐, or hexahydro derivatives being commonly used in polycondensation processes, which may open the door towards advanced bio‐based products, e.g. for lacquers and coatings.
Effective AAV‐mediated gene therapy in a mouse model of ethylmalonic encephalopathy
Authors: Di Meo Ivano , Auricchio Alberto , Lamperti Costanza , Burlina Alberto , Viscomi Carlo , Zeviani Massimo
Published: August 2012

Ethylmalonic encephalopathy (EE) is an invariably fatal disease, characterized by the accumulation of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a highly toxic compound. ETHE1, encoding sulfur dioxygenase (SDO), which takes part in the mitochondrial pathway that converts sulfide into harmless sulfate, is mutated in EE. The main source of H2S is the anaerobic bacterial flora of the colon, although in trace amount it is also produced by tissues, where it acts as a ‘gasotransmitter’. Here, we show that AAV2/8‐mediated, ETHE1‐gene transfer to the liver of a genetically, metabolically and clinically faithful EE mouse model resulted in full restoration of SDO activity, correction of plasma thiosulfate, a biomarker reflecting the accumulation of H2S, and spectacular clinical improvement. Most of treated animals were alive and well >6–8 months after birth, whereas untreated individuals live 26 ± 7 days. Our results provide proof of concept on the efficacy and safety of AAV2/8‐mediated livergene therapy for EE, and alike conditions caused by the accumulation of harmful compounds in body fluids and tissues, which can directly be transferred to the clinic.
How international bank transparency will affect your company
Authors: Sagner James S.
Published: August 2012

The current economic crisis has focused attention on banks here and abroad. Some have called for more international bank transparency. But how will this trend affect your company?. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Auditing financial instruments
Authors: Le Guyader Louis P.
Published: August 2012

For most people, the current Great Recession and the Wall Street failures of 2008 came as a shock. Financial institutions had invested heavily in instruments like derivatives that turned out to be extremely risky. Why didn't the auditors detect problems? The author of this article reviews the rules for auditing such financial instruments‐including those that lie at the core of our country's financial debacle. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis and physicochemical characterization of nanostructured Pd/ceria‐clinoptilolite catalyst used for p‐xylene abatement from waste gas streams at low temperature
Authors: Asgari Nazli , Haghighi Mohammad , Shafiei Sirous
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND: The effect of Pd loading, xylene concentration and GHSV on xylene oxidation was tested over Pd/CeO2(30%)‐clinoptilolite nanocatalysts at low temperatures. The catalysts were prepared by acid treatment of clinoptilolite, followed by the incipient wetness method of synthesized ceria and modified clinoptilolite in PdCl2 solution. The synthesized nanocatalysts were characterized by XRD, FESEM, EDAX, TEM, BET, FTIR and TG‐DTG analysis.

RESULTS: The XRD patterns confirmed the formation of crystalline ceria with an average crystallite size of 11.8 nm. FESEM images showed nanostructures in cavities of natural zeolite, brought about by ceria incorporation and acid activation. TEM analysis showed high dispersion of Pd with a size distribution between 6.6 and 36.7 nm. The quantitative analysis showed that the specific surface area of Pd(1%)/CeO2(30%)‐clinoptilolite was 77 m2 g−1. The results showed that Pd(1%)/CeO2(30%)‐clinoptilolite is the most appropriate catalyst, with the conversion more than 90% at 275 °C.

CONCLUSIONS: Experimental results established effective performance and durability for the catalysts. As a result, clinoptilolite modification and ceria incorporation significantly altered the samples' morphology at nanoscale, improving the structure of composites and distribution of noble metals. A reaction path was suggested based on the adsorption‐migration of species to reveal the mechanism of p‐xylene oxidation over nanocatalysts. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Using multi‐species occupancy models in structured decision making on managed lands
Authors: Sauer John R. , Blank Peter J. , Zipkin Elise F. , Fallon Jane E. , Fallon Frederick W.
Published: August 2012

Land managers must balance the needs of a variety of species when manipulating habitats. Structured decision making provides a systematic means of defining choices and choosing among alternative management options; implementation of a structured decision requires quantitative approaches to predicting consequences of management on the relevant species. Multi‐species occupancy models provide a convenient framework for making structured decisions when the management objective is focused on a collection of species. These models use replicate survey data that are often collected on managed lands. Occupancy can be modeled for each species as a function of habitat and other environmental features, and Bayesian methods allow for estimation and prediction of collective responses of groups of species to alternative scenarios of habitat management. We provide an example of this approach using data from breeding bird surveys conducted in 2008 at the Patuxent Research Refuge in Laurel, Maryland, evaluating the effects of eliminating meadow and wetland habitats on scrub‐successional and woodland‐breeding bird species using summed total occupancy of species as an objective function. Removal of meadows and wetlands decreased value of an objective function based on scrub‐successional species by 23.3% (95% CI: 20.3–26.5), but caused only a 2% (0.5, 3.5) increase in value of an objective function based on woodland species, documenting differential effects of elimination of meadows and wetlands on these groups of breeding birds. This approach provides a useful quantitative tool for managers interested in structured decision making. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
Phase‐Separation Dynamics of Aqueous Poly (N‐isopropylacrylamide) Solutions: Characteristic Behavior of the Molecular Weight and Concentration Dependences
Authors: Tsuboi Yasuyuki , Tada Takanori , Shoji Tatsuya , Kitamura Noboru
Published: August 2012

The dynamics of thermoresponsive phase‐separation processes in aqueous poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) was studied using a laser temperature‐jump technique combined with photometry. The time constant for phase separation (τ) was determined with high accuracy for various molecular weights (Mw) and concentrations (C) of PNIPAM in solution. For the C‐dependence, τ decreased with increasing concentration, and eventually converged to a constant value (≈ 50 ms) at high concentration. Such behavior can be interpreted in terms of inter‐polymer‐chain entanglement and diffusion prior to phase separation. On the other hand, there was an optimum value of Mw at which the phase separation was fastest. The origins of these experimental results are discussed within the framework of a diffusion‐controlled model.
Interpolymer Complexes and Polymer Compatibility
Authors: Eckelt A. , Eckelt J. , Wolf B. A.
Published: August 2012

A reliable method to decide whether two polymers A and B are miscible or incompatible would be very helpful in many ways. In this contribution we demonstrate why traditional procedures cannot work. We propose to use the intrinsic viscosities [η] of the polymer blends instead of the composition dependence of the viscosities as a criterion for polymer miscibility. Two macromolecules A and B are miscible because of sufficiently favorable interactions between the two types of polymer segments. For solutions of these polymers in a joint solvent, this Gibbs energetic preference of dissimilar intersegmental contacts should prevail upon dilution and lead to the formation of interpolymer complexes, manifesting themselves in deviations from the additivity of intrinsic viscosities.
In Situ Synthesis and Properties of Epoxy Nanocomposites
Authors: Bogdanova Ludmila , Kuzub Ludmila , Dzhavadjan Emma , Rabenok Evgenia , Novikov Gennady , Pomogailo Anatoly D.
Published: August 2012

silver‐epoxy nanocomposite films based on diepoxide of Mn = 450, silver tetradecanoate and triethylamine were synthesized by in situ method. The mean diameter of AgNPs in nanocomposite films as defined by SEM technique has been found within the range of 15–20 nm. Ag NPs narrow size distribution was found independent on silver tetradecanoate concentration as shown by UV‐vis spectroscopy analysis. Dielectric properties of silver‐epoxy nanocomposite films were investigated also by Broadband dielectric spectroscopy technique.
Polymer‐Protected and Au‐Containing Bi‐ and Trimetallic Nanoparticles as Novel Catalysts for Glucose Oxidation
Authors: Toshima Naoki , Zhang Haijun
Published: August 2012

Polymer‐protected metal nanoparticles (NPs) are recognized as a type of complex between a polymer and metal NPs, since the metal NPs are stabilized by coordination to the polymer. Thus, they can work as an effective catalyst in a dispersed state due to their high surface area‐to‐volume ratio and high stability by protection with poly(N‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone) (PVP). In this study, colloidal dispersions of PVP‐protected and Au‐containing bi‐ and trimetallic NPs were prepared and applied to the catalyst for the aerobic oxidation of glucose into gluconic acid in an alkaline solution. The AuAg and AuPt bimetallic NPs were more active than the Au NPs although the Ag and Pt NPs were less active than the Au NPs. The AuAgPt (Au/Ag/Pt = 7/2/1) trimetallic NPs were the most active catalyst for the same reaction. The high activity can be explained by electronic charge transfer from the Ag or Pt to the Au.
Polymerization of Dodecylammonium‐2‐acrylamido‐2‐methylpropane Sulfonate in Solvents with Different Dielectric Constants and Study of the Resulting Ionic Complexes
Authors: Bilibin Alexander Yu. , Sukhanova Tatjana M. , Matuschkin Nikolay I. , Mel'nikov Alexander B. , Zorin Ivan M.
Published: August 2012

Counterion polymerization of (DDA‐AMPS) is suggested as a new route for preparation of organosoluble polyelectrolyte‐surfactant complexes. The polymerization was performed in water and water‐dioxane mixed solvent systems. Micellar properties of the monomer were studied. High molecular weight samples of the polymer complex (above 106) were obtained in solvent systems with high and small (0–5%) content of water. The complexes were studied in organic solutions by viscometry, isothermal diffusion, and by AFM on mica and as free films.
[M6M′4] Cage Compounds with Chiral Bidentate Ligands
Authors: Shiga Takuya , Iijima Fumichika , Tetsuka Tamaki , Newton Graham N. , Oshio Hiroki
Published: August 2012

Two decanuclear cyanide‐bridged cage compounds were synthesized through the combination of chiral bidentate ligand‐capped transition metal building blocks with hexacyanometalate ions, and their structural and magnetic properties were investigated.
Using drought indices to assess climate change impacts on drought conditions in the northeast of Iran (case study: Kashafrood basin)
Authors: Sayari N. , Bannayan M. , Alizadeh A. , Farid A.
Published: August 2012

Drought has significantly affected environmental and socio‐economic conditions in Iran. In this study three drought indices were used for monitoring drought intensity and duration in the Kashafrood basin (northeast Iran). The standardized precipitation Index (SPI), Precipitation Index Percent of Normal (PNPI) and Agricultural Rainfall Index (ARI) were calculated for the base period (1990–1961). All these indices were used to assess future drought events in the Kashafrood basin under climate change attributed to low and high greenhouse gas emission scenarios (SRES B2 and A2, respectively) for three periods (2010–2039, 2040–2069 and 2070–2100). Projected changes in precipitation, temperature and potential evaporation were simulated by statistical downscaling of HadCM3 outputs. The main results showed: (1) slight increase in precipitation means, around 2.2–5.4% under the A2 scenario and 6.8 and 8.6% under the B2 scenario: (2) slight increase in maximum temperature, around 4.6–5.6 °C for the A2 scenario and 4.25 and 4.6 °C under the B2 scenario; (3) slight increase in minimum temperature, around 1.6–1.9 °C under the A2 scenario and 1 and 2.23 °C under the B2 scenario, and, (4) higher drought frequency associated with global warming was demonstrated by all indices under both scenarios. Such an increase in drought frequency would have major implications for natural resource management, water security planning, water demand management strategies and drought relief payments. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Amide proton transfer imaging of the breast at 3 T: Establishing reproducibility and possible feasibility assessing chemotherapy response
Authors: Dula Adrienne N. , Arlinghaus Lori R. , Dortch Richard D. , Dewey Blake E. , Whisenant Jennifer G. , Ayers Gregory D. , Yankeelov Thomas E. , Smith Seth A.
Published: August 2012

Chemical exchange saturation transfer imaging can generate contrast that is sensitive to amide protons associated with proteins and peptides (termed amide proton transfer, APT). In breast cancer, APT contrast may report on underlying changes in microstructural tissue composition. However, to date, there have been no developments or applications of APT chemical exchange saturation transfer to breast cancer. As a result, the aims of this study were to (i) experimentally explore optimal scan parameters for breast chemical exchange saturation transfer near the amide resonance at 3 T, (ii) establish the reliability of APT imaging of healthy fibroglandular tissue, and (iii) demonstrate preliminary results on APT changes in locally advanced breast cancer observed during the course of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Chemical exchange saturation transfer measurements were experimentally optimized on cross‐linked bovine serum albumin phantoms, and the reliability of APT imaging was assessed in 10 women with no history of breast disease. The mean difference between test–retest APT values was not significantly different from zero, and the individual difference values were not dependent on the average APT value. The 95% confidence interval limits were ±0.70% (α = 0.05), and the repeatability was 1.91. APT measurements were also performed in three women before and after one cycle of chemotherapy. Following therapy, APT increased in the one patient with progressive disease and decreased in the two patients with a partial or complete response. Together, these results suggest that APT imaging may report on treatment response in these patients. Magn Reson Med, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Efficacy and tolerability of fesoterodine versus tolterodine in older and younger subjects with overactive bladder: A post hoc, pooled analysis from two placebo‐controlled trials
Authors: DuBeau Catherine E. , Morrow Jon D. , Kraus Stephen R. , Creanga Dana , Bavendam Tamara
Published: August 2012

Aims

To assess the efficacy and tolerability of fesoterodine 8 mg versus tolterodine extended release (ER) 4 mg in subjects with overactive bladder (OAB) stratified by age (<65, 65–74, and ≥75 years).

Methods

This was a post hoc analysis of data from two double‐blind trials. Subjects reporting ≥1 urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) episode and ≥8 micturitions/24 hr at baseline were randomized to fesoterodine (4 mg for 1 week, 8 mg for 11 weeks), tolterodine ER 4 mg, or placebo. Subjects completed 3‐day bladder diaries, Urgency Perception Scale (UPS), Patient Perception of Bladder Condition (PPBC), and OAB questionnaire (OAB‐q) at baseline and week 12. The primary endpoint in both studies was change from baseline to week 12 in UUI episodes.

Results

Among subjects <65 years (n = 2,670), improvements in UUI episodes, micturitions, urgency episodes, severe urgency episodes, frequency‐urgency sum, UPS, PPBC, and all OAB‐q scales and domains were significantly greater with fesoterodine versus tolterodine ER, and diary‐dry rates were significantly higher. Among subjects 65–74 years (n = 990), improvements in mean voided volume per void, PPBC, and OAB‐q Symptom Bother and Coping were significantly greater with fesoterodine versus tolterodine ER. Among subjects aged ≥75 years (n = 448), improvements in urgency episodes, severe urgency episodes, frequency‐urgency sum, UPS, and OAB‐q Symptom Bother were significantly greater with fesoterodine versus tolterodine ER. Both active treatments produced significant improvements in most outcomes versus placebo across age groups. Adverse event rates were similar among age groups.

Conclusions

Fesoterodine 8 mg consistently improved several OAB‐related variables versus tolterodine ER 4 mg in subjects aged <65, 65–74, and ≥75 years, with some differences reaching statistical significance, and was generally well tolerated. Neurourol. Urodynam. 31:1258–1265, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
What are the factors contributing to failure in improvement of subjective symptoms following silodosin administration in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia? investigation using a pressure‐flow study
Authors: Matsukawa Yoshihisa , Hattori Ryohei , Sassa Naoto , Yamamoto Tokunori , Gotoh Momokazu
Published: August 2012

Aims

To investigate the factors responsible for failure in improvement of subjective symptoms following silodosin treatment on the basis of findings of a pressure‐flow study (PFS).

Methods

A post hoc analysis of a prospective study to investigate the efficacy of silodosin in patients with BPH was conducted, and 104 patients were analyzed. The patients were administered silodosin 8 mg/day for 4 weeks. At the baseline and after treatment, subjective symptoms were evaluated using the IPSS and OABSS. A PFS was conducted to measure storage and voiding function. The patients were divided into two groups: good responders (GR), patients with 25% or more improvement in IPSS, and poor responders (PR), <25% improvement. The clinical and objective findings for the two groups were compared.

Results

The mean IPSS and OABSS significantly improved in GR, but no significant improvement was observed in PR. PFS analysis revealed that all voiding and storage function parameters improved significantly in GR. Although PR showed a significant improvement in the voiding function parameters, it did not show significant changes in the storage function. Involuntary detrusor contraction (IDC) resolved in 68.6% of the patients in GR and in only 30% of the patients in PR, thereby showing a significant difference in the remedial effect between the two groups.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that insufficient improvement in storage function is a contributing factor to the failure in improvement of subjective symptoms after silodosin treatment in patients with BPH. Neurourol. Urodynam. 32: 266–270, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The interactions between piperonyl butoxide and E4, a resistance‐associated esterase from the peach‐potato aphid, Myzus persicae Sulzer (Hemiptera: Aphididae)
Authors: Philippou Despina , Borzatta Valerio , Capparella Elisa , Moroni Leni , Field Linda , Moores Graham
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND: It has been reported previously that piperonyl butoxide (PBO) can inhibit both P450 and esterase activity. Although the method by which PBO combines with cytochrome P450 has been identified, the way in which it acts as an esterase inhibitor has not been established. This paper characterises the interactions between PBO and the resistance‐associated esterase in Myzus persicae, E4.

RESULTS: After incubation with PBO/analogues, hydrolysis of 1‐naphthyl acetate by E4 is increased, but sequestration of azamethiphos is reduced. Rudimentary in silico modelling suggests PBO docks at the lip of the aromatic gorge.

CONCLUSIONS: PBO binds with E4 to accelerate small substrates to the active‐site triad, while acting as a blockade to larger, insecticidal molecules. Structure–activity studies with analogues of PBO also reveal the essential chemical moieties present in the molecule. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Consumption of a durable termite bait matrix by subterranean termites (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) and resulting insecticidal activity
Authors: Hamm Ronda L , DeMark Joseph J , Chin‐Heady Eva , Tolley Mike P
Published: August 2012

Background

A novel durable termite bait was developed to enable continuous bait availability and lengthen the monitoring interval to 1 year. Laboratory studies were conducted to determine the palatability and insecticidal activity of this bait to Reticulitermes flavipes (Kollar), R. virginicus (Banks), R. hesperus Banks, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki and Heterotermes aureus (Synder).

Results

Consumption of the blank durable bait matrix was significantly higher than consumption of a blank preferred textured cellulose matrix (PTC) by R. virginicus, R. flavipes and C. formosanus. R. flavipes, R. hesperus and H. aureus consumed significantly more durable bait than PTC when both contained the active ingredient noviflumuron. All bait treatments resulted in significant mortality relative to the untreated controls. Survivorship of R. virginicus, C. formosanus and H. aureus was 2% or less and not significantly different between the durable bait and PTC treatments containing noviflumuron. The durable bait matrix lagged behind the PTC matrix in mortality over time for all species tested except H. aureus.

Conclusion

The durable bait was highly palatable and effective in inducing mortality to R. flavipes, R. virginicus, R. hesperus, C. formosanus and H. aureus in the laboratory. This unique bait matrix will be available to termites continuously and allows for an annual monitoring interval. The durability of this bait matrix is unprecedented, allowing for bait to remain active for years and thus providing continuous structural protection.
A Culture of Collaboration: Meeting the Instructional Needs of Adolescent English Language Learners
Authors: Russell Felice Atesoglu
Published: August 2012

This article details a study that focused on the supports that enabled an English language learner (ELL) facilitator to contribute to a culture of collaboration between the English as a Second Language (ESL) and Language Arts Departments to more effectively meet the instructional needs of ELLs in one culturally and linguistically diverse high school. Findings emphasize the importance of (1) a supportive leadership context for inclusion of ELLs and the ELL facilitator's work, (2) schoolwide supports for ELLs, and (3) collaboration and influence of the literacy team. The article describes the contributions of the ELL facilitator to the culture of collaboration between the ESL and Language Arts Departments, analyzes the structures and organization of the school context that contributed to this collaborative work to meet the instructional needs of ELLs, and discusses the importance of these findings for both research and practice.
Points on a Continuum: ESL Teachers Reporting on Collaboration
Authors: Bell Angela B. , Baecher Laura
Published: August 2012

Today's K–12 English as a second language (ESL) teachers are encouraged to coplan or coteach with content teachers in order to support English language learners, thus moving English language support into the content area classroom, through push‐in or coteaching rather than the pull‐out model. However, results from a questionnaire of 72 K–12 ESL teachers across a wide range of settings suggest that collaboration may or may not take place within any of these models and can best be understood in terms of the intersection of the variables of frequency (limited to extensive) as well as type of practice (formal to informal). Results of this study have implications for administrator professional learning, teacher education, and teacher leadership.
An operational semantics for object-oriented concepts based on the class hierarchy
Authors: Colvin Robert J.
Published: August 2012

The formalisation of object-oriented languages is essential for describing the implementation details of specific programming languages or for developing program verification techniques. However there has been relatively little formalisation work aimed at abstractly describing the fundamental concepts of object-oriented programming, separate from specific language considerations or suitability for a particular verification style. In this paper we address this issue by formalising a language that includes the core object-oriented programming language concepts of field tests and updates, methods, constructors, subclassing, multithreading, and synchronisation, built on top of standard sequential programming constructs. The abstract syntax is relatively close to the core of typical object-oriented programming languages such as Java. A novel aspect of the syntax is that objects and classes are encapsulated within a single syntactic term, including their fields and methods. Furthermore, class terms are structured according to the class hierarchy, and objects appear as subterms of their class (and method instances as subterms of the relevant object). This helps to narrow the gap between how a programmer thinks about their code and the underlying mathematical objects in the semantics. The semantics is defined operationally, so that all actions a program may take, such as testing or setting local variables and fields, or invoking methods on other objects, appear on the labels of the transitions. A process-algebraic style of interprocess communication is used for object and class interactions. A benefit of this label-based approach to the semantics is that a separation of concerns can be made when defining the rules of the different constructs, and the rules tend to be more concise. The basic rules for individual commands may be composed into more powerful rules that operate at the level of classes and objects. The traces generated by the operational semantics are used as the basis for establishing equivalence between classes.
Effects of temperature and rainfall variation on population structure and sexual dimorphism across the geographical range of a dioecious species
Authors: Álvarez‐Cansino Leonor , Zunzunegui María , Díaz Barradas Mari Cruz , Correia Otilia , Esquivias Mari Paz
Published: August 2012

The effects of climate (precipitation and temperature) on sexual dimorphism and population structure were analysed along a broad‐scale environmental gradient covering the distributional range of the endemic dioecious species Corema album, along the west coast of the Iberian Peninsula. We aimed to assess distribution constraints and sex‐related differences in demography and size associated with higher reproductive investment in females. Nine populations were chosen from across the geographic range of C. album and ten 10 × 10 m plots were established (10 m apart) along a 200‐m transect. All male, female and non‐reproductive shrubs were quantified within each plot and plant size, photosynthetic layer, height, sex ratio, population density and structure, and spatial segregation of sexes, under environmental conditions ranging from temperate to Mediterranean climate, were recorded and analysed. Increased aridity was related to lower population density and less structured populations, indicating an effect of higher temperature and lower precipitation on regeneration. Sexual dimorphism was influenced by climate, with size differences between sexes varying with aridity. However, demographic differences between sexes reflected in sex ratio deviations or the occurrence of spatial segregation were unrelated to any climatic variable, suggesting the existence of compensatory mechanisms that may counterbalance the higher reproductive effort of female plants. The results show the vulnerability of this endemic species to the increase in aridity expected in the southernmost limit of the biogeographical area due to global climate change, and demonstrate the importance of broad scale studies in the assessment of sexual dimorphism.
Three-valued Logics in Modal Logic
Authors: Kooi Barteld , Tamminga Allard
Published: August 2012

Every truth-functional three-valued propositional logic can be conservatively translated into the modal logic S5. We prove this claim constructively in two steps. First, we define a Translation Manual that converts any propositional formula of any three-valued logic into a modal formula. Second, we show that for every S5-model there is an equivalent three-valued valuation and vice versa. In general, our Translation Manual gives rise to translations that are exponentially longer than their originals. This fact raises the question whether there are three-valued logics for which there is a shorter translation into S5. The answer is affirmative: we present an elegant linear translation of the Logic of Paradox and of Strong Three-valued Logic into S5.
Repeat Migration and Remittances as Mechanisms for Wealth Inequality in 119 Communities From the Mexican Migration Project Data
Authors: Garip Filiz
Published: August 2012

To evaluate the distributional impact of remittances in origin communities, prior research studied how migrants’ selectivity by wealth varies with migration prevalence in the community or prior migration experience of the individual. This study considers both patterns; it examines selectivity separately in low- and high-prevalence communities and for first-time and repeat migrants. Based on data from 18,042 household heads in 119 Mexican communities from the Mexican Migration Project, the analyses show that (1) first-time migrants in low-prevalence communities come from poor households, whereas repeat migrants in high-prevalence communities belong to wealthy households; and (2) higher amounts of remittances reach wealthy households. These results suggest that repeat migration and remittances may be mechanisms for wealth accumulation in the study communities. Descriptive analyses associate these mechanisms with increasing wealth disparities between households with and without migrants, especially in high-prevalence communities. The study, similar to prior findings, shows the importance of repeat migration trips, which, given sustained remittances, may amplify the wealth gap between migrants and nonmigrants in migrant-sending communities. The study also qualifies prior findings by differentiating between low- and high-prevalence communities and observing a growing wealth gap only in the latter.
Three Dimensional Tracking of Exploratory Behavior of Barnacle Cyprids Using Stereoscopy
Authors: Maleschlijski S. , Sendra G. H. , Di Fino A. , Leal-Taixé L. , Thome I. , Terfort A. , Aldred N. , Grunze M. , Clare A. S. , Rosenhahn B. , Rosenhahn A.
Published: August 2012

Surface exploration is a key step in the colonization of surfaces by sessile marine biofoulers. As many biofouling organisms can delay settlement until a suitable surface is encountered, colonization can comprise surface exploration and intermittent swimming. As such, the process is best followed in three dimensions. Here we present a low-cost transportable stereoscopic system consisting of two consumer camcorders. We apply this novel apparatus to behavioral analysis of barnacle larvae (≈800 μm length) during surface exploration and extract and analyze the three-dimensional patterns of movement. The resolution of the system and the accuracy of position determination are characterized. As a first practical result, three-dimensional swimming trajectories of the cypris larva of the barnacle Semibalanus balanoides are recorded in the vicinity of a glass surface and close to PEG2000-OH and C11NMe3+Cl− terminated self-assembled monolayers. Although less frequently used in biofouling experiments due to its short reproductive season, the selected model species [Marechal and Hellio (2011), Int Biodeterior Biodegrad, 65(1):92–101] has been used following a number of recent investigations on the settlement behavior on chemically different surfaces [Aldred et al. (2011), ACS Appl Mater Interfaces, 3(6):2085–2091]. Experiments were scheduled to match the availability of cyprids off the north east coast of England so that natural material could be used. In order to demonstrate the biological applicability of the system, analysis of parameters such as swimming direction, swimming velocity and swimming angle are performed.
Radiofrequency hot balloon catheter ablation for the treatment of atrial fibrillation: A 3‐center study in Japan
Authors: Sohara Hiroshi , Satake Shutaro , Takeda Hiroshi , Yamaguchi Yoshio , Toyama Hideko , Kumagai Koichiro , Kuwahara Taishi , Takahashi Atushi , Ohe Tohru
Published: August 2012

Background

The safety and efficacy of radiofrequency hot balloon catheter (Toray‐Satake balloon [TSB]) ablation for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) was evaluated in a 3‐center pilot study.

Methods

Thirty patients (24 men; age, 61±8 years) with drug‐resistant AF (paroxysmal, n=24; persistent, n=6) were evaluated in this study. The pulmonary veins (PVs) and PV antrum were isolated using the TSB under general anesthesia (n=12) or deep sedation (n=18).

Results

Complete PV isolation was achieved in 110 (92%) of 120 PVs, and decreased PV potentials were observed in the right superior PV in 4 patients (13%), left superior PV in 4 patients (13%), and left inferior PV in 2 patients (7%). The mean total procedure time was 104±27 min. The mean total fluoroscopic and total application times were 32±14 min and 12±2 min, respectively. After a single session, 22 (73%) and 20 (67%) of the 30 patients were free from AF after 6 and 11.4±2.2 months of follow‐up, respectively. There were no device‐related severe complications such as stroke, esophageal fistula, symptomatic PV stenosis, phrenic nerve palsy, or pyloric spasm.

Conclusion

TSB catheter ablation might be a promising approach for the treatment of drug‐resistant AF.
Optimizing anterior esthetics of a single‐tooth implant through socket augmentation and immediate provisionalization: A case report with 7‐year follow‐up
Authors: Fu Po‐Sung , Wu Yi‐Min , Wang Jen‐Chyan , Huang Ta‐Ko , Chen Wen‐Cheng , Huang Jhih‐Wei , Hung Chun‐Cheng
Published: August 2012

Tooth extraction inevitably accompanies alveolar ridge resorption with loss of pre‐existing tissue morphology. Replacing missing teeth with dental implants has become popular, but restoring anterior teeth with implant‐supported restorations is a technique‐sensitive task and poses challenges for dentists. With the progress of implant dentistry, the demand for optimal esthetics has become linked with the desire for faster, easier techniques that shorten treatment time and also satisfy patients. Immediate provisionalization of a single‐tooth implant provides significant benefits compared with traditional delayed protocols, such as aiding the contouring of peri‐implant soft tissue and enhancing patient comfort and satisfaction. This article describes a meticulous approach to a hopeless maxillary central incisor with root fracture. The defect in the extraction socket was reconstructed using autogenous bone harvested from the chin. Four months later, an implant was installed and immediately restored. After another healing period of 6 months, the peri‐implant soft tissue had been shaped and matured according to the contours of the provisional restoration. The emergence profile was used to duplicate the definitive restoration. Peri‐implant esthetics was achieved through socket augmentation and immediate provisionalization of the implant. This treatment modality attained predictable and maintainable outcomes, both functionally and esthetically.
Imperial ambitions of Russians
Authors: Kasamara Valeria , Sorokina Anna
Published: August 2012

This article is based on the findings of the Political Ideas of Russian Society project realized by the Laboratory for Political Studies since 2008. The Laboratory has already conducted about 1000 in-depth interviews with respondents of various age cohorts and various social–economic statuses. All respondents demonstrated the Great Power pathos formed by two basic components — Russia is a great power and/or nostalgia of the lost Soviet might — serves the leitmotiv of authoritarian sentiments.
The institutional change in action: Transitioning to Economic Man
Authors: Tverdohleb Evelina
Published: August 2012

This article sketches the roots and social underpinnings of both Economic Man (EM) and Soviet Man (SM) and looks at the interaction between the two archetypes during the transformation of former socialist nations since 1990. It depicts the creation of SM as the bearer of socialist “planned economy” ideology while also showing how EM was able to survive, albeit often underground, in the Soviet Union and its satellites. It also looks at the unique nature of the Soviet EM and to what extent SM has been dismantled.

This paper concludes by examining how well the Western, market-oriented economic ideology was implemented and why the process occurred differently in various former socialist countries. It illustrates the varying malleability of the human mentality and provides some insights into the possible outcomes of future efforts at sociopolitical transformation.