bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Versatile Reactivity of Half‐Sandwich Ir and Rh Complexes toward Carboranylamidinates and Their Derivatives: Synthesis, Structure, and Catalytic Activity for Norbornene Polymerization
Authors: Yao Zi‐Jian , Su Ge , Jin Guo‐Xin
Published: October 2011

Synthesis, structure, and reactivity of carboranylamidinate‐based half‐sandwich iridium and rhodium complexes are reported for the first time. Treatment of dimeric metal complexes [{Cp*M(μ‐Cl)Cl}2] (M=Ir, Rh; Cp*=η5‐C5Me5) with a solution of one equivalent of nBuLi and a carboranylamidine produces 18‐electron complexes [Cp*IrCl(CabN‐DIC)] (1 a; CabN‐DIC=[iPrNC(closo‐1,2‐C2B10H10)(NHiPr)]), [Cp*RhCl(CabN‐DIC)] (1 b), and [Cp*RhCl(CabN‐DCC)] (1 c; CabN‐DCC=[CyNC(closo‐1,2‐C2B10H10)(NHCy)]). A series of 16‐electron half‐sandwich Ir and Rh complexes [Cp*Ir(CabN′‐DIC)] (2 a; CabN′‐DIC=[iPrNC(closo‐1,2‐C2B10H10)(NiPr)]), [Cp*Ir(CabN′‐DCC)] (2 b, CabN′‐DCC=[CyNC(closo‐1,2‐C2B10H10)(NCy)]), and [Cp*Rh(CabN′‐DIC)] (2 c) is also obtained when an excess of nBuLi is used. The unexpected products [Cp*M(CabN,S‐DIC)], [Cp*M(CabN,S‐DCC)] (M=Ir 3 a, 3 b; Rh 3 c, 3 d), formed through BH activation, are obtained by reaction of [{Cp*MCl2}2] with carboranylamidinate sulfides [RNC(closo‐1,2‐C2B10H10)(NHR)]S− (R=iPr, Cy), which can be prepared by inserting sulfur into the CLi bond of lithium carboranylamidinates. Iridium complex 1 a shows catalytic activities of up to 2.69×106 gPNB  h−1 for the polymerization of norbornene in the presence of methylaluminoxane (MAO) as cocatalyst. Catalytic activities and the molecular weight of polynorbornene (PNB) were investigated under various reaction conditions. All complexes were fully characterized by elemental analysis and IR and NMR spectroscopy; the structures of 1 a–c, 2 a, b; and 3 a, b, d were further confirmed by single crystal X‐ray diffraction.
Deprotonative Metalation of Chloro‐ and Bromopyridines Using Amido‐Based Bimetallic Species and Regioselectivity‐Computed CH Acidity Relationships
Authors: Snégaroff Katia , Nguyen Tan Tai , Marquise Nada , Halauko Yury S. , Harford Philip J. , Roisnel Thierry , Matulis Vadim E. , Ivashkevich Oleg A. , Chevallier Floris , Wheatley Andrew E. H. , Gros Philippe C. , Mongin Florence
Published: October 2011

A series of chloro‐ and bromopyridines have been deprotometalated by using a range of 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidino‐based mixed lithium–metal combinations. Whereas lithium–zinc and lithium–cadmium bases afforded different mono‐ and diiodides after subsequent interception with iodine, complete regioselectivities were observed with the corresponding lithium–copper combination, as demonstrated by subsequent trapping with benzoyl chlorides. The obtained selectivities have been discussed in light of the CH acidities of the substrates, determined both in the gas phase and as a solution in THF by using the DFT B3LYP method.
Removal of Organochlorine Pesticides from Aqueous Solution by Using Neutralized Red Mud
Authors: Ozcan Senar , Tor Ali , Aydin Mehmet Emin
Published: October 2011

This work describes the potential usability of neutralized red mud for the removal of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) from aqueous solutions. After examination on the adsorption capability of neutralized red mud for all studied OCPs, the experiments were performed by employing aldrin as a model compound. The effect of several parameters, such as contact time, pH of the solution, initial aldrin concentration, and dosage of the adsorbent was evaluated by batch experiments. The determination of OCPs was carried out using traditional liquid–liquid extraction followed by a GC coupled with µ‐electron capture detector (GC‐µECD). The results showed that adsorption equilibrium time depended upon the initial aldrin concentration and adsorption followed the second‐order kinetic model. Kinetic study also indicated that the film diffusion mechanism was a main rate control mechanism. The removal was explained by considering the electrostatic interactions between metal oxides surface of the neutralized red mud and inductively charged centers (negative charge (d−) of chlorine atoms and positive charge (d+) of π‐cloud aromatic ring) of the aldrin molecules. In comparison to the Langmuir isotherm model, the Freundlich model better represented the adsorption data. The neutralized red mud was also succesfully employed for the removal of OCPs from real water samples, including tap water and surface (lake) water, fortified with studied OCPs.
A bi‐criteria scheduling process with CoS support on grids and clouds
Authors: Kloh Henrique , Schulze Bruno , Pinto Raquel , Mury Antonio
Published: October 2011

This paper presents a workflow scheduling model, which is based on a hybrid bi‐criteria scheduling algorithm based on a class of service approach. The proposed model is based on the analysis of several related works on resource scheduling, trying to incorporate the most relevant aspects considered in these works, thus covering some shortcomings pointed out by them. The proposed model aims to optimize the criteria chosen by the users, based on their specified priority order and a variation limit specified by them. In order to validate this model, a set of tests were performed comparing the performance of the proposed model with the Join the Shortest Queue scheduling algorithm. The analysis of the obtained results showed an improvement in the overall quality and also a performance gain made available to the users – as they meet the priority criteria. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hyperthyroidism during refeeding in anorexia nervosa
Authors: Rayment Dane , Asfaha Eden Asmerom , Babiker Amir , Jaffa Tony
Published: October 2011

Objective:

We report the second case of hyperthyroidism emerging during refeeding of a severely malnourished patient with Anorexia Nervosa (AN).

Method:

Available patient records and biochemical data were evaluated. Previous case reports of hyperthyroidism in eating disorders were reviewed.

Discussion:

Refeeding can be associated with the onset of hyperthyroidism in patients with AN. AN and hyperthyroidism share a number of symptoms which can make identification of hyperthyroidism difficult. Lack of weight gain because of hyperthyroidism may be interpreted as noncompliance with refeeding treatment. The report shows that not taking antithyroid treatment can be employed as a method of weight control, highlighting the importance of extra consideration regarding treatment regimen and adequate support with medication compliance. © 2011 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2012)
B‐1 cells in the bone marrow are a significant source of natural IgM
Authors: Choi Youn Soo , Dieter Jacquelyn A. , Rothaeusler Kristina , Luo Zheng , Baumgarth Nicole
Published: October 2011

Natural IgM antibodies secreted in the absence of antigenic challenge are important contributors to antimicrobial immunity and tissue homeostasis. Early studies identified BM and, to a lesser extent the spleen, as main tissue sources of this spontaneously secreted IgM. However, the responsible B‐cell subset has never been identified. Using multicolor flow cytometry, cell sorting and chimeric mice in which B‐1 and B‐2 cells and their secreted antibodies are distinguished by their Ig‐allotype, we unequivocally identify the natural IgM‐secreting cells in spleen and, for the first time, in the BM as IgM+ IgDlo/‐CD19hi CD43+ CD5+/− B‐1 cells. The newly identified population of BM B‐1 cells shows many of the phenotypic characteristics of splenic B‐1 cells but is distinct from B‐1 cells in the peritoneal cavity, which generate at best very small amounts of IgM. Antibody‐secreting spleen and BM B‐1 cells are distinct also from terminally differentiated plasma cells generated from antigen‐induced conventional B cells, as they express high levels of surface IgM and CD19 and lack expression of CD138. Overall, these data identify populations of non‐terminally differentiated B‐1 cells in spleen and BM as the most significant producers of natural IgM.
IL‐21 enhances the potential of human γδ T cells to provide B‐cell help
Authors: Bansal Raj R. , Mackay Charles R. , Moser Bernhard , Eberl Matthias
Published: October 2011

Vγ9/Vδ2 T cells are a minor subset of T cells in human blood and differ from all other lymphocytes by their specific responsiveness to (E)‐4‐hydroxy‐3‐methyl‐but‐2‐enyl pyrophosphate (HMB‐PP), a metabolite produced by a large range of microbial pathogens. Vγ9/Vδ2 T cells can be skewed towards distinct effector functions, in analogy to, and beyond, the emerging plasticity of CD4+ T cells. As such, depending on the microenvironment, Vγ9/Vδ2 T cells can assume features reminiscent of Th1, Th2, Th17 and Treg cells as well as professional APCs. We here demonstrate that Vγ9/Vδ2 T cells express markers associated with follicular B helper T (TFH) cells when stimulated with HMB‐PP in the presence of IL‐21. HMB‐PP induces upregulation of IL‐21R on Vγ9/Vδ2 T cells. In return, IL‐21 plays a co‐stimulatory role in the expression of the B‐cell‐attracting chemokine CXCL13, the CXCL13 receptor CXCR5 and the inducible co‐stimulator by activated Vγ9/Vδ2 T cells, and enhances their potential to support antibody production by B cells. The interaction between HMB‐PP‐responsive Vγ9/Vδ2 T cells, IL‐21‐producing TFH cells and B cells in secondary lymphoid tissues is likely to impact on the generation of high affinity, class‐switched antibodies in microbial infections.
A dynamic perspective on subsidiary autonomy
Authors: Ambos Björn , Asakawa Kazuhiro , Ambos Tina C.
Published: October 2011

Prior investigations treated subsidiary autonomy more or less as a static concept, but the headquarters‐subsidiary relationship is likely to evolve and result in changing power positions over time. This article examines the static and dynamic impacts of external/internal embeddedness on the autonomy of overseas R&D subsidiaries. Based on data from 73 overseas R&D subsidiaries of German firms, we show that a dynamic perspective indeed produces counterintuitive results, namely that high internal embeddedness in the past may help laboratories gain higher levels of autonomy in the future, whereas high external embeddedness may lead to lower levels of autonomy in the future. Our results indicate that building trust and linking up with headquarters are important strategies for subsidiaries wishing to be granted autonomy in the future.
Fluorophore‐Functionalized and Top‐Covered Resorcin[4]arene Cavitands
Authors: Pochorovski Igor , Diederich François
Published: October 2011

This review describes our recent developments in the field of resorcin[4]arene cavitands. We present the syntheses of cavitands bearing pyrene, anthracene, and BODIPY dyes as fluorophores on the cavitand walls. These systems have been used to examine the conformational switching process between the closed vase and the open kite forms that are characteristic for this class of cavitands. In a second research direction, we prepared top‐covered resorcin[4]arene‐based, switchable container molecules, and investigated their binding and switching properties.
Benzothiophene carboxamide derivatives as inhibitors of Plasmodium falciparum enoyl‐ACP reductase
Authors: Banerjee Tanushree , Sharma Shailendra Kumar , Kapoor Neha , Dwivedi Vishnu , Surolia Namita , Surolia Avadhesha
Published: October 2011

Benzothiophene derivatives like benzothiophene sulphonamides, biphenyls, or carboxyls have been synthesized and have found wide pharmacological usage. Here we report, bromo‐benzothiophene carboxamide derivatives as potent, slow tight binding inhibitors of Plasmodium enoyl‐acyl carrier protein (ACP) reductase (PfENR). 3‐Bromo‐N‐(4‐fluorobenzyl)‐benzo[b]thiophene‐2‐carboxamide (compound 6) is the most potent inhibitor with an IC50 of 115 nM for purified PfENR. The inhibition constant (Ki) of compound 6 was 18 nM with respect to the cofactor and 91 nM with respect to crotonoyl‐CoA. These inhibitors showed competitive kinetics with cofactor and uncompetitive kinetics with the substrate. Thus, these compounds hold promise for the development of potent antimalarials. © 2011 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 63(12): 1101–1110, 2011
Synthesis of tritium‐labeled levetiracetam ((2S)‐2‐(2‐oxopyrrolidin‐1‐yl)butanamide) with high specific activity
Authors: Hildenbrand Simone , Baqi Younis , Müller Christa E.
Published: October 2011

A method for the preparation of [³H]levetiracetam with a high specific activity of 98 Ci/mmol (3.6 TBq/mmol) is described. The radioligand proved to be highly useful for the labeling of specific levetiracetam binding sites in rat brain membrane preparations. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptors on ouabain activation of nuclear factor‐κB in the rat hippocampus
Authors: Kawamoto E.M. , Lima L.S. , Munhoz C.D. , Yshii L.M. , Kinoshita P.F. , Amara F.G. , Pestana R.R.F. , Orellana A.M.M. , Cipolla‐Neto J. , Britto L.R.G. , Avellar M.C.W. , Rossoni L.V. , Scavone C.
Published: October 2011

It has been shown that ouabain (OUA) can activate the Na,K‐ATPase complex and mediate intracellular signaling in the central nervous system (CNS). Inflammatory stimulus increases glutamatergic transmission, especially at N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors, which are usually coupled to the activation of nitric oxide synthase (NOS). Nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) activation modulates the expression of genes involved in development, plasticity, and inflammation. The present work investigated the effects of OUA on NF‐κB binding activity in rat hippocampus and the influence of this OUA‐Na,K‐ATPase signaling cascade in NMDA‐mediated NF‐κB activation. The findings presented here are the first report indicating that intrahippocampal administration of OUA, in a concentration that did not alter Na,K‐ATPase or NOS activity, induced an activation of NF‐κB, leading to increases in brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (Bdnf), inducible NOS (iNos), tumor necrosis factor‐α (Tnf‐α), and B‐cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 (Bcl2) mRNA levels. This response was not linked to any significant signs of neurodegeneration as showed via Fluoro‐Jade B and Nissl stain. Intrahippocampal administration of NMDA induced NF‐κB activation and increased NOS and α2/3‐Na,K‐ATPase activities. NMDA treatment further increased OUA‐induced NF‐κB activation, which was partially blocked by MK‐801, an antagonist of NMDA receptor. These results suggest that OUA‐induced NF‐κB activation is at least in part dependent on Na,K‐ATPase modulatory action of NMDA receptor in hippocampus. The interaction of these signaling pathways could be associated with biological mechanisms that may underlie the basal homeostatic state linked to the inflammatory signaling cascade in the brain. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Longevity and reuse of black bear dens in managed forests of coastal British Columbia
Authors: Davis Helen , Hamilton Anthony N. , Harestad Alton S. , Weir Richard D.
Published: October 2011

We evaluated longevity and reuse of denning structures by American black bears (Ursus americanus) in coastal temperate rainforests of British Columbia from 1992 to 2010 to assess potential impacts of forest management on these critical habitat features over time. We identified 67 dens during a 4‐yr intensive radio‐telemetry study (1992–1995): 40 dens of 21 radio‐collared black bears and 27 dens found incidentally. Dens occurred in or beneath large diameter trees or wooden structures derived from trees (i.e., logs, root boles, and stumps;${\bar {x}}$ = 143 cm diameter, SD = 49 cm). Longevity of dens varied by type, tree species that formed the den, and forest management that occurred at or near the den. Twenty‐four of 28 dens of radio‐collared bears that were monitored were still usable in 2010, whereas only 5 of 14 dens found incidentally were still usable in 2010. We assessed reuse of bear dens 3 times following initial identification: during the radio‐telemetry study, again in 2000, and finally in 2010. Radio‐collared bears reused dens from previous years on 7 of 25 potential occasions during the course of the radio‐telemetry study. Upon assessment in 2000 and 2010, 17 of 24 (71%) available dens first used by radio‐collared bears were reused at least once between 1993 and 2010. The high rate of reuse may indicate low availability of den structures in our study area. Because black bears in coastal British Columbia only used trees or structures derived from trees for winter dens and forest harvesting reduces the supply of these necessary structures, conservation and recruitment of suitable den trees is necessary if maintaining black bear populations is a management goal in these areas. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Platelet proteomics
Authors: Zufferey Anne , Fontana Pierre , Reny Jean‐Luc , Nolli Severine , Sanchez Jean‐Charles
Published: October 2011

Platelets are small cell fragments, produced by megakaryocytes, in the bone marrow. They play an important role in hemostasis and diverse thrombotic disorders. They are therefore primary targets of antithrombotic therapies. They are implicated in several pathophysiological pathways, such as inflammation or wound repair. In blood circulation, platelets are activated by several pathways including subendothelial matrix and thrombin, triggering the formation of the platelet plug. Studying their proteome is a powerful approach to understand their biology and function. However, particular attention must be paid to different experimental parameters, such as platelet quality and purity. Several technologies are involved during the platelet proteome processing, yielding information on protein identification, characterization, localization, and quantification. Recent technical improvements in proteomics combined with inter‐disciplinary strategies, such as metabolomic, transcriptomics, and bioinformatics, will help to understand platelets biological mechanisms. Therefore, a comprehensive analysis of the platelet proteome under different environmental conditions may contribute to elucidate complex processes relevant to platelet function regarding bleeding disorders or platelet hyperreactivity and identify new targets for antiplatelet therapy. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev 31:331–351, 2012
On Vector Equilibria, Vector Optimization and Vector Variational Inequalities
Authors: Raith Andrea , Ehrgott Matthias
Published: October 2011

It is well‐known that, under certain conditions, network equilibrium, optimization and variational inequality problems are equivalent. Hence, solution algorithms to solve any of the three problems can be used to solve the other problems. Vector network equilibrium problems lead to analogous definitions of vector optimization (VOP) and vector variational inequality (VVI) problems. Investigating whether a similar equivalence exists in the vector valued case suggests itself, in particular to derive solution algorithms for vector equilibrium problems (VEQ). Unfortunately, the three problems are no longer equivalent in the vector valued case. We show under which assumptions a solution of VOP solves VEQ. Even though a solution of VVI is a solution of VEQ, the converse is not true. We demonstrate structural properties of solutions of VEQ that prevent them from being solutions of VVI and show under which assumptions VVI and VEQ are equivalent. We also comment in more detail on some results within the literature related to concepts of vector equilibria. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reduction of post‐traumatic neuroma and epineural scar formation in rat sciatic nerve by application of microcrystallic chitosan
Authors: Marcol Wieslaw , Larysz‐Brysz Magdalena , Kucharska Magdalena , Niekraszewicz Antoni , Slusarczyk Wojciech , Kotulska Katarzyna , Wlaszczuk Pawel , Wlaszczuk Adam , Jedrzejowska‐Szypulka Halina , Lewin‐Kowalik Joanna
Published: October 2011

Injury of peripheral nerve is associated with the development of post‐traumatic neuroma at the end of the proximal stump, often being the origin of neuropathic pain. This type of pain is therapy‐resistant and therefore extremely nagging for patients. We examined the influence of the microcrystallic chitosan gel applied to the proximal stump of totally transected sciatic nerve on the neuroma formation and neuropathic pain development in rats. In 14 rats, right sciatic nerve was transected and the distal stump was removed to avoid spontaneous rejoining. In the chitosan (experimental) group (n = 7), the proximal stump was covered with a thin layer of the microcrystallic chitosan gel. In control animals (n = 7), the cut nerve was left unsecured. Autotomy, an animal model of neuropathic pain, was monitored daily for 20 weeks following surgery. Then, the animals were perfused transcardially and the proximal stumps of sciatic nerves were dissected and subjected to histologic evaluation. The presence, size, and characteristics of neuromas as well as extraneural fibrosis were examined. In chitosan group, the incidence and the size of the neuroma were markedly reduced, as compared with the control group; however, there was no difference in autotomy behavior between groups. In addition, extraneural fibrosis was significantly reduced in chitosan group when compared to the control group. The results demonstrate beneficial influence of microcrystallic chitosan applied to the site of nerve transection on the development of post‐traumatic neuroma and reduction of extraneural fibrosis, however without reduction of neuropathic pain. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2011.
Free‐flap resurfacing of tissue defects in the foot due to large gouty tophi
Authors: Lin Chin‐Ta , Chang Shun‐Chen , Chen Tim‐Mo , Dai Niann‐Tzyy , Fu Ju‐Peng , Deng Shou‐Cheng , Tzeng Yuan‐Sheng , Chen Shyi‐Gen
Published: October 2011

Background: Large or extensive gouty tophi on the feet can cause functional impairment, drainage sinus, and infected necrosis, finally resulting in complex soft‐tissue defects with tendon, joint, bone, nerve, and vessel exposure. Reconstruction of complex soft‐tissue defects of the foot is still challenging. The purpose of this report was to review the outcomes of free‐flap reconstructive surgery for treating the metatarsal joint defects of the feet caused by chronic tophaceous gout. Methods: Ten patients who had large tophus masses (>5 cm) and ulceration on the feet were admitted to our hospital between September 2006 and September 2010. Six patients underwent free‐flap reconstruction after debridement to resurface the circumferential wound, protect the underlying structures, and provide a gliding surface for exposed tendons. The patients' age, sex, comorbidities, location and size of the defects, reconstructive procedures, surgical outcomes, complications, follow‐ups, and recurrence of tophaceous gout were reviewed and recorded. Results: The mean patient age was 49.8 years (range, 36–72 years). The average skin defect size was 92.2 cm2. Five patients were treated using free anterolateral thigh flaps, and 1, using a free medial sural flap. These free flaps were safely raised and showed excellent functional and cosmetic results, with a mean follow‐up of 31.7 months (range, 7–50 months). Conclusion: Chronic tophaceous gout can cause severe skin infection and necrosis, even resulting in deformity or sepsis if left untreated. Surgical debridement is inevitable in patients with extensive wounds. We reconstructed the large, ulcerative skin and soft‐tissue defects on the dorsum of the foot by performing free‐flap reconstruction after adequate debridement and achieved good functional and cosmetic results. © C 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2011.
Thermoregulatory response of anterolateral thigh flap compared with latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap: An evaluation of flaps cutaneous flow and velocity due to thermal stress
Authors: Rahmanian‐Schwarz Afshin , Schiefer Jennifer L , Amr Amro , Rothenberger Jens , Schaller Hans‐Eberhard , Hirt Bernhard
Published: October 2011

Introduction: Although, the success of free flaps has increased in the last years, more details about its characteristics might improve the clinical outcome of the flaps. This study examined the thermoregulatory ability as a sign of neural re‐innervation of two different types of microsurgical free flaps in the postoperative course. Methods: A total of 22 patients were examined after grafting two different flap types: The latissimus dorsi myocutaneous (LDM) flap (n = 11) and the anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap (n = 11). Patients were examined 6 and 9 months postoperatively. After exposure to cold and warm water (10°C and 35°C), multiple measurements were performed with the focus on blood velocity and flow using the “O2C” device. Results: Both examined flaps showed a tendency for improvement in local blood flow and velocity due to thermal stress. We recorded a more physiological thermoregulation during thermal stress for the LDM flap, when compared with the ALT flap over a measured period of time. Conclusion: We believe that the presence of the muscle portion in the LDM flap may offer better conditions for thermoregulation based on the improvement of neural and vascular regeneration. However, further studies should clarify the pathophysiological backgrounds, to make these interesting results clinically applicable. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2011.
Statistical approximation properties of the Durrmeyer type q‐Bleimann, Butzer, and Hahn operators
Authors: Cai Qing‐Bo , Zeng Xiao‐Ming
Published: October 2011

In this paper, we introduce a Durrmeyer‐type generalization of q‐Bleimann, Butzer, and Hahn operators based on q‐integers and obtain statistical approximation properties of these operators with the help of the Korovkin type statistical approximation theorem. We also compute rates of statistical convergence of these q‐type operators by means of the modulus of continuity and Lipschitz‐type maximal function, respectively. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Uncertainty and Opportunities in Patients with Established Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Mattsson M. , Möller B. , Stamm T. , Gard G. , Boström C.
Published: October 2011

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic disease which can affect any organ, and the impact of the condition will affect each person differently. There are few qualitative studies including the experiences of both women and men with a diagnosis of SLE corresponding to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria where both negative and positive impacts of the disease have been presented.

Purpose

The aim was to describe how patients with established SLE experience their illness in everyday life, including both negative and positive aspects.

Method

Four focus group interviews were conducted with 16 women and three men with SLE according to ACR criteria, with varied disease activity and no or little organ damage. The interviews were tape recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Results

Two themes emerged: multifaceted uncertainty contained the categories ‘an unreliable body’, ‘obtrusive pain and incomprehensible fatigue’, ‘mood changes and worries’, ‘reliance on medication and health care’; Focus on health and opportunities included ‘learning process implying personal strength’, ‘limitations and possibilities in activities and work’, ‘a challenge to explain and receive support’ and ‘living an ordinary life incorporating meaningful occupations’.

Conclusions

While we expected to find a mainly negative impact, positive aspects were also described. Our findings were complex and showed that patients with established SLE can experience both uncertainty and opportunities. This highlights the importance for healthcare professionals of gaining a better understanding of patients' uncertainty, to enable them to support patients, allowing them to focus on health and opportunities. Measurement instruments that capture different aspects of uncertainty and opportunities needs to be developed. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the convergence of right transforming iterations for the numerical solution of PDE‐constrained optimization problems
Authors: Linsenmann Christopher
Published: October 2011

We present an iterative solver, called right transforming iterations (or right transformations), for linear systems with a certain structure in the system matrix, such as they typically arise in the framework of Karush–Kuhn–Tucker (KKT) conditions for optimization problems under PDE constraints. The construction of the right transforming scheme depends on an inner approximate solver for the underlying PDE subproblems. We give a rigorous convergence proof for the right transforming iterative scheme in dependence on the convergence properties of the inner solver. Provided that a fast subsolver is available, this iterative scheme represents an efficient way of solving first‐order optimality conditions. Numerical examples endorse the theoretically predicted contraction rates. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Perturbation analysis of continuous‐time absorbing Markov chains
Authors: Caswell Hal
Published: October 2011

The behavior of Markov chains depends on the transition intensities or probabilities; in applications, these transitions are often written as functions of parameters. In this paper, matrix calculus is used to provide the sensitivities and elasticities of the behavior of continuous time‐absorbing Markov chains to arbitrary parameters, which could include the transition intensities themselves or parameters in which those intensities depend. The results include the sensitivity and elasticity of the moments, variances, standard deviations, and coefficients of variation of the time spent in transient states and the time to absorption. The number of visits to transient states is also analyzed, using the embedded discrete‐time chain. For models with multiple absorbing states, the sensitivity of the probability of absorption in each absorbing state is presented. As an example, a published model for the progress of colorectal cancer is analyzed in detail. Transient states in this model are defined by disease status, and the model includes two absorbing states: death from cancer and death from other causes. The perturbation analysis provides a quantitative comparison of the effect of changing transition and mortality rates. Such information may be useful for evaluating treatment or screening programs. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On parametrization of totally nonpositive matrices and applications
Authors: Huang Rong
Published: October 2011

The problem of accurate computations for totally non‐negative matrices has been studied; however, it remains open for other sign regular matrices. One major obstacle is that there is no known parametrization of these matrices. The main contribution of the present work is that we provide such parametrization of nonsingular totally nonpositive matrices. A useful application of our results is that these parameters can determine accurately the entries of the inverse of a nonsingular totally nonpositive matrix. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Robust H∞ output feedback control for Markovian jump systems with actuator saturation
Authors: Shi Ting , Su Hongye , Chu Jian
Published: October 2011

This paper concerns the output feedback control problem for a class of uncertain continuous‐time Markovian jump systems with actuator saturation. The controller is nonlinear in nature and will be first parameterized in the quasi‐linear parameter varying form. Conditions under which the closed‐loop system is stochastically stable with γ disturbance attenuation are then derived in terms of an LMI approach. The problem of designing an output feedback controller such that the estimate of the domain of attraction is enlarged is then formulated and solved as an optimization problem with LMI constraints. The case where the transition rate matrix of the Markov process is unknown is considered, and the robust H∞ output feedback controller is then derived. Finally, a numerical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed results. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Physical properties of PVC/aminosilane‐treated wood flour/organoclay composites
Authors: Yim Hyunjong , Kim Dae Su
Published: October 2011

Most physical properties of a wood plastic composite (WPC) with poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) matrix are lower than those of corresponding neat PVC because of poor interfacial adhesion between hydrophobic PVC and hydrophilic wood. In this study, to improve the interfacial adhesion, wood flour was pre‐treated with N‐2(aminoethyl)‐3‐aminopropyltrimethoxysilane, and the surface modification was characterized and confirmed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Furthermore, to improve the performance of PVC/wood composites, a type of organoclay was added as nanofiller. PVC/wood/clay composites were prepared by melt blending a heavy metal‐free PVC compound, the aminosilane‐treated wood flour, and the organoclay, and their physical properties were tested by universal testing machine and thermal gravimetric analyzer. X‐ray diffractometer (XRD) analyses of the WPCs showed an intercalated structure of the organoclay. The scanning electron microscope images for the fracture surfaces of the WPCs confirmed the positive effect of the aminosilane pre‐treatment by showing reduced debonding of wood flour from the PVC matrix. The performance of the WPCs was improved by the aminosilane pre‐treatment of the wood flour and the organoclay. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Establishment and Application of a Metabolomics Workflow for Identification and Profiling of Volatiles from Leaves of Vitis vinifera by HS‐SPME‐GC‐MS
Authors: Weingart Georg , Kluger Bernhard , Forneck Astrid , Krska Rudolf , Schuhmacher Rainer
Published: October 2011

Introduction

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) occurring in leaves of plants carry information about the physiological state of the plant. Monitoring of VOCs assists in detecting plant stress before visible signs are present.

Objective

To establish and apply a simple workflow for the automated extraction, measurement and annotation/identification of Vitis vinifera cv. Pinot Noir leaf metabolites.

Methodology

Leaf samples were harvested, cooled with liquid nitrogen and homogenised under cooled conditions. VOCs were extracted and enriched by solid phase microextraction (SPME) and analysed by GC‐MS. Samples were measured on two columns with different polarity of stationary phases. Mass spectral deconvolution and identification was done by AMDIS software. Strict identification criteria were applied: match factor ≥ 90; relative retention index deviation ≤ 2% from reference value on both columns. Data of two sampling dates were analysed with multivariate statistics.

Results

We found ~600 components in a single chromatogram. Applying the mentioned criteria resulted in annotation of 63 metabolites of which 47 were confirmed with authentic standards. For the majority of the compounds technical variability was < < 40% (RSD), biological variability among plants was 7–119%. Principal component analysis (PCA) scores plot of leaf samples from two different sampling dates showed two clearly separated clusters. The presented workflow enabled for the first time the detection and identification of 19 metabolites that have so far not been described for Vitis spp.

Conclusion

The developed workflow enabled the identification of grapevine leaf metabolites, which allowed the separation of leaves from two sampling dates by PCA. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chemistry of Pyrotechnics: Basic Principles and Theory, John A. Conkling, Christopher J. Mocella
Authors: Koch Ernst‐Christian
Published: October 2011

2nd Edition, CRC Press Taylor & Francis Group, Boca Raton, 2010, 225 pp., ISBN 978‐1‐57444‐740‐8, 77,60 USD (USA).
Multiple drugs and multiple targets: An analysis of the electrostatic determinants of binding between non‐nucleoside HIV‐1 reverse transcriptase inhibitors and variants of HIV‐1 RT
Authors: Minkara Mona S. , Davis Pamela H. , Radhakrishnan Mala L.
Published: October 2011

We present a systematic, computational analysis of the electrostatic component of binding of three HIV‐1 RT inhibitors—nevirapine (NVP), efavirenz (EFV), and the recently approved rilpivirine (RPV)—to wild‐type (WT) and mutant variants of RT. Electrostatic charge optimization was applied to determine how suited each molecule's charge distribution is for binding WT and individual mutants of HIV‐1 RT. Although the charge distributions of NVP and EFV are rather far from being optimal for tight binding, RPVs charge distribution is close to the theoretical, optimal charge distribution for binding WT HIV‐1 RT, although slight changes in charge can dramatically impact binding energetics. Moreover, toward the L100I/K103N double mutant, RPVs charge distribution is quite far from optimal. We also determine the contributions of chemical moieties on each molecule toward the electrostatic component of binding and show that different regions of a drug molecule may be used for recognition by different RT variants. The electrostatic contributions of certain RT residues toward drug binding are also computed to highlight critical residues for each interaction. Finally, the charge distribution of RPV is optimized to promiscuously bind to three RT variants rather than to each one in turn, with the resulting charge distribution being a compromise between the optimal charge distributions to each individual variant. Taken together, this work demonstrates that even in a binding site considered quite hydrophobic, electrostatics play a subtle yet varying role that must be considered in designing next‐generation molecules that recognize rapidly mutating targets. Proteins 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Optimized grid‐based protein–protein docking as a global search tool followed by incorporating experimentally derivable restraints
Authors: Huang Wei , Liu Haiyan
Published: October 2011

Unbound protein docking, or the computational prediction of the structure of a protein complex from the structures of its separated components, is of importance but still challenging. A practical approach toward reliable results for unbound docking is to incorporate experimentally derived information with computation. To this end, truly systematic search of the global docking space is desirable. The fast Fourier transform (FFT) docking is a systematic search method with high computational efficiency. However, by using FFT to perform unbound docking, possible conformational changes upon binding must be treated implicitly. To better accommodate the implicit treatment of conformational flexibility, we develop a rational approach to optimize “softened” parameters for FFT docking. In connection with the increased “softness” of the parameters in this global search step, we use a revised rule to select candidate models from the search results. For complexes designated as of low and medium difficulty for unbound docking, these adaptations of the original FTDOCK program lead to substantial improvements of the global search results. Finally, we show that models resulted from FFT‐based global search can be further filtered with restraints derivable from nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) chemical shift perturbation or mutagenesis experiments, leading to a small set of models that can be feasibly refined and evaluated using computationally more expensive methods and that still include high‐ranking near‐native conformations. Proteins 2011. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Coherent X‐ray nanodiffraction on single GaAs nanowires
Authors: Gulden J. , Mariager S. O. , Mancuso A. P. , Yefanov O. M. , Baltser J. , Krogstrup P. , Patommel J. , Burghammer M. , Feidenhans'l R. , Vartanyants I. A.
Published: October 2011

Coherent X‐ray nanodiffraction was applied to investigate single GaAs nanowires. Using the nanofocus hard X‐ray setup at ID13 of the ESRF, the diffraction signal from isolated nanowires was measured. The diffraction patterns were recorded for different rotations of the sample. These diffraction patterns were then combined to yield three‐dimensional information around a Wurzite [101] Bragg peak.
Comparative study of reflectance properties of nanodiamonds, onion‐like carbon and multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Kuznetsov V. L. , Moseenkov S. I. , Elumeeva K. V. , Larina T. V. , Anufrienko V. F. , Romanenko A. I. , Anikeeva O. B. , Tkachev E. N.
Published: October 2011

Carbon nanomaterials are the promising candidates for potential broadband limiting applications and extremely low reflectance coatings, particularly in the infrared, visible and UV spectral regions. In this paper we have performed the comparative study of diffuse reflectance of nanodiamond (ND), sp2/sp3 composites, onion‐like carbon (OLC) and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) in visible and UV regions. ND, sp2/sp3 composites and OLC produced via high temperature annealing of the same set of NDs allow us to vary sp2/sp3 carbon ratio, size of primary particle agglomerates and concentration of defects while MWNT set provides possibility to vary NT diameters and length, order/disorder degree (via high temperature MWNTS annealing). The diffuse reflectance of carbon nanomaterials depends mainly on the electronic configuration, defect concentration, size of graphene‐like ordered fragments and agglomerates of nanoparticles along with their morphology.

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Saddle‐shape warpage of thick 3C‐SiC wafer: Effect of nonuniform intrinsic stress and stacking faults
Authors: Sun Yu , Izumi Satoshi , Sakai Shinsuke , Yagi Kuniaki , Nagasawa Hiroyuki
Published: October 2011

The technique of thick cubic silicon carbide (3C‐SiC) film (up to 300 µm) deposition on undulant‐Si substrates is very effective in reducing stacking faults and other planar defects of 3C‐SiC wafers. However, after removing the Si substrate, 3C‐SiC wafers show anisotropic warpage involving large convex curvature in the direction perpendicular to the ridge of undulation and slight concave curvature in the parallel direction, i.e., saddle shape. In this paper, we have discussed the origin of the warpage of 3C‐SiC wafers. From ex situ curvature measurements and stress calculation, we found that large compressive intrinsic stress was generated during high‐temperature growth (1623 K) in both parallel and perpendicular directions. To investigate the intrinsic stress distribution along the 3C‐SiC film thickness direction, we performed reactive ion etching (RIE) on 3C‐SiC film and determined the dependence of the SiC/Si system curvature on the remaining 3C‐SiC thickness. The intrinsic stress component perpendicular to the ridge of undulation showed nonuniform distribution along the film thickness. Below the 50 µm thickness region, the distribution presented large variation. The obtained intrinsic stress distribution was very similar to the stacking fault distribution, which showed high density near the SiC/Si interface and rapidly decreased within 50 µm apart from the interface. The simulation by finite element method (FEM) has clearly explained that the anisotropic warpage of SiC wafer was led by the intrinsic stress distribution in a quantitative manner. Microstructure changes induced by the stacking fault reduction process (stacking fault collision) would be the cause of the intrinsic stress variation.
High field surface magnetic study of Fe3O4 nanoparticles
Authors: Kihal A. , Fillion G. , Bouzabata B. , Barbara B.
Published: October 2011

Magnetic properties of magnetite (Fe3O4) powders, milled for various times up to 15 h, are studied by magnetization measurements. For the starting powder, like in the bulk single crystal, the approach to magnetic saturation is mainly ruled by the usual 1/H and 1/H2 terms. But for the milled samples, as the grain size decreases, a 1/H1/2 term rises as the leading term and is interpreted in the framework of the theory of Chudnovsky et al. accounting for the effect of a random anisotropy generated near the surface, aside from a large constant high field susceptibility related to the canted spins at the surface.
Gastrointestinal Stimulant Effect of Urginea indica Kunth. and Involvement of Muscarinic Receptors
Authors: Abbas Saima , Bashir Samra , Khan Aslam , Mehmood Malik Hassan , Gilani Anwarul Hassan
Published: October 2011

Urginea indica Kunth. (Family; Liliaceae) was studied for its gastrointestinal stimulant effect to rationalize the traditional medicinal uses as a digestive aid, stomachic and laxative. The crude aqueous‐methanol extract of Urginea indica bulb (Ui.Cr) was tested on mice and isolated gut preparations. Ui.Cr, which was tested positive for alkaloids, tannins and coumarins, increased faecal output and accelerated charcoal meal transit in mice (6–12 mg/kg, p.o.), similar to that caused by carbachol (10 mg/kg). Ui.Cr (0.01–1 mg/mL) caused a spasmogenic effect in guinea‐pig ileum that was reproduced in rabbit jejunum (0.01–0.3 mg/mL) followed by relaxation at a higher concentration. Like carbachol, the stimulant effect of Ui.Cr was blocked by atropine, suggesting the activation of muscarinic receptors mediating the prokinetic effect. Ui.Cr (0.01–5.0 mg/mL) also inhibited K+ (80 mm)‐induced contraction in rabbit jejunum and shifted the Ca2+ concentration‐response curves to the right, similar to verapamil, a standard calcium channel blocker. These data, indicating the presence of a gastrointestinal stimulant effect in Urginea indica possibly mediated through a cholinergic mechanism, provide a rationale for the use of Urginea indica in indigestion and constipation. The presence of a calcium antagonist effect in the plant may help to alleviate untoward effects of the plant that may result from an excessive increase in gut motility. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Human Cardiac Progenitor Cell Grafts as Unrestricted Source of Supernumerary Cardiac Cells in Healthy Murine Hearts
Authors: Forte Giancarlo , Pietronave Stefano , Nardone Giorgia , Zamperone Andrea , Magnani Eugenio , Pagliari Stefania , Pagliari Francesca , Giacinti Cristina , Nicoletti Carmine , Musaró Antonio , Rinaldi Mauro , Ribezzo Marco , Comoglio Chiara , Traversa Enrico , Okano Teruo , Minieri Marilena , Prat Maria , Di Nardo Paolo
Published: October 2011

Human heart harbors a population of resident progenitor cells that can be isolated by stem cell antigen-1 antibody and expanded in culture. These cells can differentiate into cardiomyocytes in vitro and contribute to cardiac regeneration in vivo. However, when directly injected as single cell suspension, less than 1%-5% survive and differentiate. Among the major causes of this failure are the distressing protocols used to culture in vitro and implant progenitor cells into damaged hearts. Human cardiac progenitors obtained from the auricles of patients were cultured as scaffoldless engineered tissues fabricated using temperature-responsive surfaces. In the engineered tissue, progenitor cells established proper three-dimensional intercellular relationships and were embedded in self-produced extracellular matrix preserving their phenotype and multipotency in the absence of significant apoptosis. After engineered tissues were leant on visceral pericardium, a number of cells migrated into the murine myocardium and in the vascular walls, where they integrated in the respective textures.

The study demonstrates the suitability of such an approach to deliver stem cells to the myocardium. Interestingly, the successful delivery of cells in murine healthy hearts suggests that myocardium displays a continued cell cupidity that is strictly regulated by the limited release of progenitor cells by the adopted source. When an unregulated cell source is added to the system, cells are delivered to the myocardium. The exploitation of this novel concept may pave the way to the setup of new protocols in cardiac cell therapy.