bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morita context and generalized (α, β)−derivations
Authors: Rehman Nadeem Ur , AL-Omary Radwan Mohammed , Al-Shomrani Mohammed M.
Published: August 2012

Let $R$ and $S$ be rings of a semi-projective Morita context, and $\alpha, \beta$ be automorphisms of $R$. An additive mapping $F$: $R\to R$ is called a generalized $(\alpha,\beta)$-derivation on $R$ if there exists an $(\alpha,\beta)$-derivation $d$: $R\to R$ such that $F(xy)=F(x)\alpha(y)+\beta(x)d(y)$ holds for all $x,y \in R$. For any $x,y \in R$, set $[x, y]_{\alpha, \beta} = x \alpha(y) - \beta(y) x$ and $(x \circ y)_{\alpha, \beta} = x \alpha(y) + \beta(y) x$. In the present paper, we shall show that if the ring $S$ is reduced then it is a commutative, in a compatible way with the ring $R$ . Also, we obtain some results on bialgebras via Cauchy modules.
A note on the generalized q-Genocchi measures with weight
Authors: Jolany Hassan , Araci Serkan , Acikgoz Mehmet , Seo Jong-Jin
Published: August 2012

In this paper we investigate special generalized q-Genocchi measures. We introduce q-Genocchi measures with weight alpha. The present paper deals with q-extension of Genocchi measure. Some earlier results of T. Kim in terms of q-Genocchi polynomials can be deduced. We apply the method of generating function, which are exploited to derive further classes of q-Genocchi polynomials and develop q-Genocchi measures. To be more precise, we present the integral representation of p-adic q-Genocchi measure with weight alpha which yields a deeper insight into the effectiveness of this type of generalizations. Generalized q-Genocchi numbers with weight alpha possess a number of interesting properties which we state in this paper.
On inextensible flows of tangent developable of biharmonic B-Slant helices according to Bishop frames in the special 3-dimensional Kenmotsu manifold
Authors: Asil Vedat , Körpınar Talat , Turhan Essin
Published: August 2012

In this paper, we study inextensible flows of tangent developable surfaces of biharmonic B-slant helices in the special three-dimensional Kenmotsu manifold K with η-parallel ricci tensor. We express some interesting relations about inextensible flows of this surfaces.
Decay of Small Solutions for the Zakharov-Kuznetsov Equation posed on a half-strip
Authors: Larkin Nikolai , Tronco Eduardo
Published: August 2012

We formulate in a half-strip an initial boundary value problem for the Zakharov-Kuznetsov equation. Assuming the existence of a regular global solution, we prove an exponential decay for small initial data.
The Reilly’s integral formula on semi-Riemannian manifolds with nondegenerate boundary
Authors: Ergüt Mahmut , Kulahci Mihriban
Published: August 2012

In this paper, we obtained the Reillys integral formula on semi-Riemannian manifolds with nondegenerate boundary.
Workers’ Perception of Performance Appraisal in Selected Public and Private Organizations in Lagos Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Ikemefuna Cyril Oseloka , Chidi Christopher Odogwu
Published: August 2012

This study set out to examine empirically workers’ perception of performance appraisal in selected public and private organisations operating in Lagos metropolis. The study adopted the survey research design. A total of 205 research subjects were drawn from the target population using the simple random sampling technique. However 174 copies of questionnaire were returned upon which the data analysis was based. This represents 85percent response rate. Data analysis was carried out with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 16. The findings of this study showed that workers have an optimistic view of performance appraisal as a means for promoting, evaluating and equitably compensating employees, and forming the basis for many employee training programmes as well as its motivational effect on workers’ performance. The authors recommend that for appraisal to yield the desired outcomes, adequate attention should be paid to the avoidance of appraisal politics and the pursuance of fairness and transparency in the process. More so, training programmes could be initiated by organisations to offer tips for avoiding appraisal errors. Open-reporting system as opposed to closed-reporting system should be encouraged for performance appraisal to have a motivational effect on workers’ performance.   Keywords: Workers’ Perception, Performance Appraisal, Public, Private, Performance Management, Organisations.
Fight against Absenteeism in the Public Service in France and the United Kingdom: Towards a Comprehensive approach of the Problem
Authors: Barreix Claude
Published: August 2012

The purpose of this study was to put forward the concerns related to absenteeism due to sickness in the public services and the ways to fight against it.Based on two examples drawn from UK Royal Mail company and French local authority  experiences,  this study considers first of all two main means of tackling absenteeism, currently used in numerous entities both public and private: coercive measures through medical controls and financial incentives. Even if these bodies got good results in using these two levers, these turned out not to be sufficient enough, on their own, to really tackle absenteeism.However Royal mail and certain French local authorities have met this better challenge in implementing a comprehensive approach of the phenomenon which did not neglect repressive and reward actions but introduced the measure and monitor of sick leaves. They also introduced in their human resource management appropriate managerial measures, particularly related to communication, and specific actions tending to improve the employees’ health and well being at workThe study presents some assessing elements tending to show the efficiency of a holistic approach of absenteeism. Keywords: Absenteeism Control; Incentive; Managerial Actions; Health, Well-Being At Work
Modeling Transport and Flow Regulatory Mechanisms of the Kidney
Authors: Layton Anita T.
Published: August 2012

The kidney plays an indispensable role in the regulation of whole-organism water balance, electrolyte balance, and acid-base balance, and in the excretion of metabolic wastes and toxins. In this paper, we review representative mathematical models that have been developed to better understand kidney physiology and pathophysiology, including the regulation of glomerular filtration, the regulation of renal blood flow by means of the tubuloglomerular feedback mechanisms and of the myogenic mechanism, the urine concentrating mechanism, and regulation of renal oxygen transport. We discuss how such modeling efforts have significantly expanded our understanding of renal function in both health and disease.
On Pre-Hilbert Noncommutative Jordan Algebras Satisfying
Authors: Benslimane Mohamed , Moutassim Abdelhadi
Published: August 2012

Let be a real or complex algebra. Assuming that a vector space is endowed with a pre-Hilbert norm satisfying for all . We prove that is finite dimensional in the following cases. (1) is a real weakly alternative algebra without divisors of zero. (2) is a complex powers associative algebra. (3) is a complex flexible algebraic algebra. (4) is a complex Jordan algebra. In the first case is isomorphic to or and is isomorphic to in the last three cases. These last cases permit us to show that if is a complex pre-Hilbert noncommutative Jordan algebra satisfying for all , then is finite dimensional and is isomorphic to . Moreover, we give an example of an infinite-dimensional real pre-Hilbert Jordan algebra with divisors of zero and satisfying for all .
A Comparative Study on Performance of Analysis Nudging and 3DVAR in Simulation of a Heavy Rainfall Event Using WRF Modeling System
Authors: Routray Ashish , Osuri Krishna K. , Kulkarni Makarand A.
Published: August 2012

The present study focuses on the performance-based comparison of simulations carried out using nudging (NUD) technique and three-dimensional variational (3DVAR) data assimilation system (3DV) of a heavy rainfall event occurred during 25–28 June 2005 along the west coast of India. The Indian conventional and nonconventional observations are used in the 3DV experiment. Three numerical experiments are conducted using WRF modeling system, the model is integrated upto 54 hours from the initial time 0000 UTC of 25 June 2005. It is noticed that the meteorological parameters are improved in the resulting high-resolution analyses prepared by NUD and 3DV compared to without data assimilation experiment (i.e., called CNTL experiment). However, after the successful inclusion of observations using the 3DVAR data assimilation technique, the model is able to simulate better structure of the convective organization as well as prominent synoptic features associated with the mid-tropospheric cyclones (MTC) than the NUD experiment and well correlated with the observations. The simulated location and intensity of rainfall is also improved in 3DV simulation as compared with other experiments. Similar results are noticed in the root mean squar errors, correlation coefficients, and Equitable Threat Scores between TRMM and model simulated rainfall for all the three experiments.
Symptoms and Risk Factors of Ovarian Cancer: A Survey in Primary Care
Authors: Gajjar Ketan , Ogden Gemma , Mujahid M. I. , Razvi Khalil
Published: August 2012

In spite of the increased awareness of ovarian cancer symptoms, the predictive value of symptoms remains very low. The aim of this paper is to obtain the views of general practitioners (GPs) in relation to symptom-based detection of ovarian cancer and to assess their knowledge for family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer as a predisposing factor for ovarian cancer. In this questionnaire survey, postal questionnaires were sent to 402 GPs in 132 primary care clinics, out of which we obtained 110 replies (27.4%). Approximately 26% of respondent GPs thought that the symptoms were more likely to be frequent, sudden, and persistent, and one-fifth were unsure of the importance of family history of breast cancer in relation to ovarian cancer. The participant GPs scored a set of symptoms for their relevance to ovarian cancer from 0 (not relevant) to 10 (most relevant). The highest scored symptoms were abdominal swelling (mean ± SD, 8.19±2.33), abdominal bloating (7.01±3.01), and pelvic pain (7.46±2.26). There was a relative lack of awareness for repetitive symptoms as well as gastrointestinal symptoms as an important feature in a symptom-based detection of ovarian cancer.
Compressive Strength and Setting Time of MTA and Portland Cement Associated with Different Radiopacifying Agents
Authors: Tanomaru-Filho Mario , Morales Vanessa , da Silva Guilherme F. , Bosso Roberta , Reis José M. S. N. , Duarte Marco A. H. , Guerreiro-Tanomaru Juliane M.
Published: August 2012

Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the compressive strength and setting time of MTA and Portland cement (PC) associated with bismuth oxide (BO), zirconium oxide (ZO), calcium tungstate (CT), and strontium carbonate (SC). Methods. For the compressive strength test, specimens were evaluated in an EMIC DL 2000 apparatus at 0.5 mm/min speed. For evaluation of setting time, each material was analyzed using Gilmore-type needles. The statistical analysis was performed with ANOVA and the Tukey tests, at 5% significance. Results. After 24 hours, the highest values were found for PC and PC + ZO. At 21 days, PC + BO showed the lowest compressive strength among all the groups. The initial setting time was greater for PC. The final setting time was greater for PC and PC + CT, and MTA had the lowest among the evaluated materials (P<0.05). Conclusion. The results showed that all radiopacifying agents tested may potentially be used in association with PC to replace BO.
Contribution to the Modelling of the Tribological Surface Transformations
Authors: Antoni G.
Published: August 2012

When solids are subjected to tribological loads, structural changes can occur both at the surface and in depth, immediately below the loaded area; in the case of some materials, especially metals, these changes are known as solid-solid phase transformations or Tribological Surface Transformations (TSTs). A thermomechanical model is presented in the present study in order to describe these TSTs. The ability of the model to take account TSTs is assessed with a 2D finite element analysis.
How to Raise Postrecession Capital Funds
Authors: Jewett Brian
Published: August 2012

Has your utility entered the bond market recently? Have you noticed a change in the lending environment? Do you know what it takes to secure debt financing for your utility as we crawl out from under the effects of the Great Recession? Even if your utility has issued bonds in the past, economic challenges have forever changed the landscape of the U.S. bond market. Savvy managers need to be aware of how the political and economic climates have affected the bond market by identifying current trends in the bond market and understanding how those trends affect the bond‐rating process.
The Kantian Sleep: On the Limits of the “Foucault Effect”
Authors: Luisetti Federico
Published: August 2012

This paper analyzes the connection, established by Michel Foucault in The Order of Things, between the appearance of “man” as an anthropological presupposition of scientific and philosophical discourses, and the construction of a transcendental dispositif of thought. In accordance with this presupposition, the notion of life is conceived by Foucault as a by-product of Kantian modernity and inscribed within a Heideggerian ontotheology. By stressing the vitalist alternatives to this paradigm, the essay questions the hegemony of Western transcendentalism and proposes a naturalistic reorientation of Foucault’s intellectual project.
Using Directed Self Assembly of Block Copolymer Nanostructures to Modulate Nanoscale Surface Roughness: Towards a Novel Lithographic Process
Authors: Chuang Ya‐Mi , Jack Kevin S. , Cheng Han‐Hao , Whittaker Andrew K. , Blakey Idriss
Published: August 2012

Nanoscale surface roughness is an important factor in determining the properties of surfaces and can affect the performance of a range of devices prepared by lithographic methods. Here, a method is reported, which enables modulation of the nanoscale roughness of surfaces through the directed self assembly (DSA) of positively charged polymersomes, composed of specifically designed block copolymers, onto negatively charged surfaces. Assembly of the polymersomes on surfaces can result in an increase in the nanoscale surface roughness; however, through a controlled annealing step we can also significantly reduce the nanoscale roughness of the original surface. The ability to decrease the roughness of lithographic patterns is expected to have a significant impact on the manufacture of integrated circuits.
Optoelectronic Properties of Single‐Wall Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Nanot Sébastien , Hároz Erik H. , Kim Ji‐Hee , Hauge Robert H. , Kono Junichiro
Published: August 2012

Single‐wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), with their uniquely simple crystal structures and chirality‐dependent electronic and vibrational states, provide an ideal laboratory for the exploration of novel 1D physics, as well as quantum engineered architectures for applications in optoelectronics. This article provides an overview of recent progress in optical studies of SWCNTs. In particular, recent progress in post‐growth separation methods allows different species of SWCNTs to be sorted out in bulk quantities according to their diameters, chiralities, and electronic types, enabling studies of (n,m)‐dependent properties using standard macroscopic characterization measurements. Here, a review is presented of recent optical studies of samples enriched in ‘armchair’ (n = m) species, which are truly metallic nanotubes but show excitonic interband absorption. Furthermore, it is shown that intense ultrashort optical pulses can induce ultrafast bandgap oscillations in SWCNTs, via the generation of coherent phonons, which in turn modulate the transmission of a delayed probe pulse. Combined with pulse‐shaping techniques, coherent phonon spectroscopy provides a powerful method for studying exciton‐phonon coupling in SWCNTs in a chirality‐selective manner. Finally, some of the basic properties of highly aligned SWCNT films are highlighted, which are particularly well‐suited for optoelectronic applications including terahertz polarizers with nearly perfect extinction ratios and broadband photodetectors.
Highly Diastereoselective Synthesis of Atropisomeric Bridged P,N‐Ligands and Their Applications in Asymmetric Suzuki–Miyaura Coupling Reaction
Authors: Wu Wenhao , Wang Shouliang , Zhou Yougui , He Yuwei , Zhuang Yue , Li Lanning , Wan Pin , Wang Longshu , Zhou Zhongyuan , Qiu Liqin
Published: August 2012

Three novel atropisomeric bridged P,N‐ligands were prepared using a highly efficient central‐to‐axial transfer strategy as the protocol. The new chiral ligands were successfully applied in the palladium‐catalyzed asymmetric Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction, Up to 98% yield and 82% ee were obtained in the enantioselective synthesis of axially chiral biarylphosphonates.
Synthesis of Pyrimidopyrimidinediones in a Deep Eutectic Reaction Mixture
Authors: Gore Sangram , Baskaran Sundarababu , Koenig Burkhard
Published: August 2012

An efficient and general synthesis of hexahydropyrimidopyrimidinediones has been developed employing a low melting L‐(+)‐tartaric acid‐dimethylurea mixture as reaction medium. The melt acts at the same time as solvent, catalyst and reactant. Functionalized hexahydropyrimidopyrimidinediones are obtained in good to excellent yields after simple work‐up.
Quadri‐Synergetic Effect for Highly Effective Carbon Dioxide Fixation and Its Application to Indoloquinolinone
Authors: Li Suhua , Ma Shengming
Published: August 2012

The first copper‐catalyzed cyclic anti‐nucleometallation–carboxylation of 2‐alkynylanilines with carbon dioxide in the presence of dimethylzinc (ZnMe2) and cesium fluoride (CsF) for the effective synthesis of indolyl‐3‐carboxylic acids and indolodihydropyran‐2‐one is described. Through a mechanistic study, it is unveiled that the metal ions Cu2+, Zn2+, Cs+ and F− are working together for this CO2‐based highly efficient carboxylation.
Rare copy number variants in neuropsychiatric disorders: Specific phenotype or not?
Authors: Van Den Bossche Maarten J. , Johnstone Mandy , Strazisar Mojca , Pickard Benjamin S. , Goossens Dirk , Lenaerts An‐Sofie , De Zutter Sonia , Nordin Annelie , Norrback Karl‐Fredrik , Mendlewicz Julien , Souery Daniel , De Rijk Peter , Sabbe Bernard G. , Adolfsson Rolf , Blackwood Douglas , Del‐Favero Jurgen
Published: August 2012

From a number of genome‐wide association studies it was shown that de novo and/or rare copy number variants (CNVs) are found at an increased frequency in neuropsychiatric diseases. In this study we examined the prevalence of CNVs in six genomic regions (1q21.1, 2p16.3, 3q29, 15q11.2, 15q13.3, and 16p11.2) previously implicated in neuropsychiatric diseases. Hereto, a cohort of four neuropsychiatric disorders (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and intellectual disability) and control individuals from three different populations was used in combination with Multilpex Amplicon Quantifiaction (MAQ) assays, capable of high resolution (kb range) and custom‐tailored CNV detection. Our results confirm the etiological candidacy of the six selected CNV regions for neuropsychiatric diseases. It is possible that CNVs in these regions can result in disturbed brain development and in this way lead to an increased susceptibility for different neuropsychiatric disorders, dependent on additional genetic and environmental factors. Our results also suggest that the neurodevelopmental component is larger in the etiology of schizophrenia and intellectual disability than in mood disorders. Finally, our data suggest that deletions are in general more pathogenic than duplications. Given the high frequency of the examined CNVs (1–2%) in patients of different neuropsychiatric disorders, screening of large cohorts with an affordable and feasible method like the MAQ assays used in this study is likely to result in important progress in unraveling the genetic factors leading to an increased susceptibility for several psychiatric disorders. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A common TPH2 haplotype regulates the neural processing of a cognitive control demand
Authors: Kennedy Ashley P. , Binder Elisabeth B. , Bowman Dubois , Harenski Keith , Ely Timothy , Cisler Josh M. , Tripathi Shanti P. , VanNess Sidney , Kilts Clinton D.
Published: August 2012

The monoamine neurotransmitter, serotonin, critically regulates the function of the cerebral cortex and is involved in psychiatric disorders. Tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH) is the rate‐limiting enzyme in the synthesis of serotonin with the neuron‐specific TPH2 isoform present exclusively in the brain and encoded by the TPH2 gene on chromosome 12q21. The haplotype structure of TPH2 was defined for 16 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in a healthy subject population and a haplotype block analysis confirmed the presence of a six SNP haplotype in a yin configuration that has previously been associated with risk for suicidality, depression, and anxiety disorders. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to assess the influence of TPH2 variation on brain function related to cognitive control using the Multi‐Source Interference Task (MSIT). The MSIT‐related blood oxygen level‐dependent (BOLD) response was increased with increasing copies of the TPH2 yin haplotype for the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC), right inferior frontal cortex (IFC), and anterior striatum. A functional connectivity analysis further revealed that increasing numbers of the TPH2 yin haplotype was associated with diminished functional coupling between the dACC and the right IFC, precentral gyrus, parietal cortex and dlPFC. A moderation analysis indicated that the relationship between neural processing networks and cognitive control was significantly modulated by allelic variation for the TPH2 yin haplotype. These findings suggest that the association of risk for psychiatric disorders with a common TPH2 yin haplotype is related to the inefficient functional engagement of cortical areas involved in cognitive control and alterations in the mode of functional connectivity of dACC pathways. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dissecting the Genetic Heterogeneity of Depression Through Age at Onset
Authors: Power Robert A. , Keers Robert , Ng Mandy Y. , Butler Amy W. , Uher Rudolf , Cohen‐Woods Sarah , Ising Marcus , Craddock Nick , Owen Michael J. , Korszun Ania , Jones Lisa , Jones Ian , Gill Michael , Rice John P. , Hauser Joanna , Henigsberg Neven , Maier Wolfgang , Zobel Astrid , Mors Ole , Placentino Anna S. , Rietschel Marcella , Souery Daniel , Kozel Dejan , Preisig Martin , Lucae Susanne , Binder Elisabeth B. , Aitchison Katherine J. , Tozzi Federica , Muglia Pierandrea , Breen Gerome , Craig Ian W. , Farmer Anne E. , Müller‐Myhsok Bertram , McGuffin Peter , Lewis Cathryn M.
Published: August 2012

Genome‐wide studies in major depression have identified few replicated associations, potentially due to heterogeneity within the disorder. Several studies have suggested that age at onset (AAO) can distinguish sub‐types of depression with specific heritable components. This paper investigates the role of AAO in the genetic susceptibility for depression using genome‐wide association data on 2,746 cases and 1,594 screened controls from the RADIANT studies, with replication performed in 1,471 cases and 1,403 controls from two Munich studies. Three methods were used to analyze AAO: First a time‐to‐event analysis with controls censored, secondly comparing controls to case‐subsets defined using AAO cut‐offs, and lastly analyzing AAO as a quantitative trait. In the time‐to‐event analysis three SNPs reached suggestive significance (P < 5E−06), overlapping with the original case–control analysis of this study. In a case–control analysis using AAO thresholds, SNPs in 10 genomic regions showed suggestive association though again none reached genome‐wide significance. Lastly, case‐only analysis of AAO as a quantitative trait resulted in 5 SNPs reaching suggestive significance. Sex specific analysis was performed as a secondary analysis, yielding one SNP reaching genome‐wide significance in early‐onset males. No SNPs achieved significance in the replication study after correction for multiple testing. Analysis of AAO as a quantitative trait did suggest that, across all SNPs, common genetic variants explained a large proportion of the variance (51%, P = 0.04). This study provides the first focussed analysis of the genetic contribution to AAO in depression, and establishes a statistical framework that can be applied to a quantitative trait underlying any disorder. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diet of the Critically Endangered Brown Spider Monkey (Ateles hybridus) in an Inter‐Andean Lowland Rainforest in Colombia
Authors: LINK ANDRÉS , GALVIS NELSON , MARQUEZ MATEO , GUERRERO JANE , SOLANO CAMILA , STEVENSON PABLO R.
Published: August 2012

Brown spider monkeys (Ateles hybridus) are one of the least known and more threatened primates in the Neotropics. Recognized as a species about a decade ago, field studies on these endangered primates have mainly focused on estimating local population densities. Since 2006, we habituated a group of wild brown spider monkeys at Serranía de Las Quinchas, Colombia, and studied their feeding ecology during 2.5 years using focal “subgroup” sampling, and conducted phenological surveys in order to estimate habitat‐wide fruit availability. Based on 847 hr of behavioral follows, brown spider monkeys spent approximately 25% of their time in feeding activities, and fed from fruits and leaves on at least 123 plant species. Ripe fruits were the most important item in the diet ofA. hybridusat Las Quinchas comprising 92% of their feeding time. Probably due to the minor variation in the monthly proportion of fruits in brown spider monkey's diet throughout this study, there was no relation between habitat‐wide fruit availability and the proportion of fruit included in their monthly diet. The diet of brown spider monkeys at Las Quinchas is toward the high end of fruit intake, even within other wild spider monkeys’ populations, suggesting that these endangered primates might also be facing the challenges of being a large bodied fruit specialist under a regional scenario of habitat loss and fragmentation. Am. J. Primatol. 74:1097‐1105, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dispersion of Reduced Graphene Oxide in Multiple Solvents with an Imidazolium‐Modified Hexa‐peri‐hexabenzocoronene
Authors: Wei Hengxing , Li Ying‐Ying , Chen Jinping , Zeng Yi , Yang Guoqiang , Li Yi
Published: August 2012

An imidazolium‐modified hexa‐peri‐hexabenzocoronene derivative (HBC‐C11‐MIM[Cl−]) was designed and synthesized as a stabilizer to fabricate reduced graphene oxide (RGO). The resulting RGO/HBC‐C11‐MIM[Cl−] hybrid shows excellent dispersivity (5.0 mg mL−1) and stability in water. RGO/HBC‐C11‐MIM[Cl−] was comprehensively characterized by using atomic force microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and Raman spectroscopy, thus revealing that one HBC‐C11‐MIM[Cl−] group can stabilize about 178 carbon atoms on the graphene sheets. The obtained hybrid film exhibits a high conductivity of 286 S m−1. Furthermore, the HBC‐C11‐MIM[Cl−]‐modified RGO sheets can be readily dispersed in polar organic solvents upon exchange of the hydrophilic Cl− ions for hydrophobic bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl) amide (NTf2−) ions.
Stress‐induced mutation via DNA breaks in Escherichia coli: A molecular mechanism with implications for evolution and medicine
Authors: Rosenberg Susan M. , Shee Chandan , Frisch Ryan L. , Hastings P. J.
Published: August 2012

Evolutionary theory assumed that mutations occur constantly, gradually, and randomly over time. This formulation from the “modern synthesis” of the 1930s was embraced decades before molecular understanding of genes or mutations. Since then, our labs and others have elucidated mutation mechanisms activated by stress responses. Stress‐induced mutation mechanisms produce mutations, potentially accelerating evolution, specifically when cells are maladapted to their environment, that is, when they are stressed. The mechanisms of stress‐induced mutation that are being revealed experimentally in laboratory settings provide compelling models for mutagenesis that propels pathogen–host adaptation, antibiotic resistance, cancer progression and resistance, and perhaps much of evolution generally. We discuss double‐strand‐break‐dependent stress‐induced mutation in Escherichia coli. Recent results illustrate how a stress response activates mutagenesis and demonstrate this mechanism's generality and importance to spontaneous mutation. New data also suggest a possible harmony between previous, apparently opposed, models for the molecular mechanism. They additionally strengthen the case for anti‐evolvability therapeutics for infectious disease and cancer.
The electrophoretic mobility of DNA fragments differing by a single 3′‐terminal nucleotide in an automated capillary DNA sequencer
Authors: Nguyen Trung V. , Murray Vincent
Published: August 2012

The electrophoretic mobility of DNA fragments that differ by a single 3′‐terminal nucleotide was assessed by capillary electrophoresis. This was accomplished using dideoxy sequencing with a 5′‐fluorescently labelled primer to generate DNA fragments with 3′‐hydrogen ends. The resulting DNA fragments were electrophoresed on the ABI 3730 automated capillary sequencer, and the data were analysed with the GeneMapper software to determine the electrophoretic mobility differences on addition of a 3′‐terminal nucleotide. It was found that the 3′‐terminal nucleotide gave rise to different electrophoretic mobility profiles depending on the identity of the terminal nucleotide. The apparent electrophoretic mobility was (faster) –C > −A > −T > −G (slower). The C‐terminated fragments were the fastest and the G‐terminated fragments the slowest, relative to other nucleotides. It was proposed that the terminal nucleotide effect was due to changes in partial net charges on the nucleotides that resulted in alterations in the electrophoretic mobility of the DNA fragments in the automated capillary DNA sequencer. Other alternative explanations are also discussed. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitation and characterization of process impurities and extractables in protein‐containing solutions using proton NMR as a general tool
Authors: Skidmore Ken , Hewitt Daniel , Kao Yung‐Hsiang
Published: August 2012

The ability to detect and quantitate a variety of components in solution has become increasingly important in carrying out efficient and rigorous validation studies for biopharmaceutical manufacturing processes. Here, we demonstrate the general applicability of NMR spectroscopy for the identification and quantitation of leachables and other impurities in protein‐based drugs, at low levels previously unattainable in protein‐containing solutions. With improved NMR technology (i.e., CryoProbes) and the application of a Carr‐Purcell‐Meiboom‐Gill pulse sequence (CPMG) to attenuate protein signals, we have been able to use NMR to quantify impurities in a protein‐based biopharmaceutical product at ∼1 μg mL−1. The data indicate that NMR spectra can be used to quantitate a range of impurities, from small molecule components to higher molecular weight leachables, without removing protein from solution. Furthermore, quantitation of impurities by NMR is reliable and accurate enough for biopharmaceutical process validation, even for high molecular weight extractables whose structures are not precisely known. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2012
Cloning and expression of a functional core streptavidin in Pichia pastoris: Strategies to increase yield
Authors: Casteluber Marisa C. F. , Damasceno Leonardo M. , da Silveira Wendel B. , Diniz Raphael H. S. , Passos Frederico J. V. , Passos Flávia M. L.
Published: August 2012

Streptavidin is widely used as an analytical tool and affinity tag together with biotinylated surfaces or molecules. We report for the first time a simple strategy that yields high biomass of a Pichia pastoris strain containing a methanol induced core streptavidin (cStp) gene. Three factors were evaluated for biomass production: glycerol concentration, aeration, and feed flow rates in a bioreactor. Recycling of recombinant cells, either free or immobilized, was investigated during induction. Concentration of 2.0 M glycerol, feeding flow rate of 0.11 mL min−1, and aeration by air injection dispersed with a porous stone combined with agitation at 500 rpm were the set of conditions resulting into maximum biomass yield (150 g L−1). These parameters yielded 4.0 g L−1 of cStp, after 96 h of induction. Recombinant biomass was recycled twice before being discarded, which can reduce production costs and simplify the process. Immobilized P. pastoris biomass produced 2.94 and 1.70 g L−1 of cStp in the first and second induction cycle, respectively. Immobilization and recycling of recombinant P. pastoris biomass opens new possibilities as a potential strategy to improve volumetric productivity for heterologous protein expression. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2012
Use of enzymes in extraction of polyhydroxyalkanoates produced by Cupriavidus necator
Authors: Neves Andréia , Müller José
Published: August 2012

Poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) (P(3HB)) and its copolymer poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) (P(3HB‐co‐3HV), are biodegradable thermoplastic polymers. They are members of the polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) family, synthesized and accumulated as a carbon and energy reserve by a variety of microorganisms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of the proteases Corolase® L10, Alcalase® 2.4L, Corolase® 7089 and Protemax® FC and glycosidases Celumax® BC, Rohament® CL and Rohalase® Barley for the recovery of P(3HB) and P(3HB‐co‐3HV) synthesized by Cupriavidus necator. The enzyme Celumax® BC provided better lysis of the bacterial cell membrane and the results for the optimization of the operating conditions showed that this enzyme is most stable in acetate buffer at pH 4.0, bath at 60°C, hydrolysis time of 1 h and concentration of 0.02% (w/w). The optimization of the operating conditions showed that the enzyme Celumax® BC provided better lysis of the bacterial cell in acetate buffer at pH 4.0, bath at 60°C, hydrolysis time of 1 h and concentration of 0.02% (w/w). These conditions resulted in lysis of the membrane of the bacteria with a recovery of 93.2% P(3HB‐co‐3HV) with 94% purity. The results showed that the use of enzymes for the polymer extraction is an efficient process that assists in the cell disruption of Cupriavidus necator. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2012
Type‐I Dyotropic Reactions: Understanding Trends in Barriers
Authors: Fernández Israel , Bickelhaupt F. Matthias , Cossío Fernando P.
Published: August 2012

To understand the factors that control the activation barrier of type‐I 1,2‐dyotropic reactions (X‐EH2‐CH2‐X*→X*‐EH2‐CH2‐X, with E=C and Si, X=H, CH3, SiH3, F to I) and trends therein as a function of the migrating groups X, we have explored ten archetypal model reactions of this class using relativistic density functional theory (DFT) at ZORA‐OLYP/TZ2P. The main trends in reactivity are rationalized using the activation strain model of chemical reactivity, which had to be extended from bimolecular to unimolecular reactions. Thus, the above type‐I dyotropic reactions can be conceived as a relative rotation of the CH2CH2 and [X⋅⋅⋅X] fragments in X‐CH2‐CH2‐X. The picture that emerges from these analyses is that reduced CX bonding in the transition state is the origin of the reaction barrier. Also the trends in reactivity on variation of X can be understood in terms of how sensitive the CX interaction is towards adopting the transition‐state geometry. A valence bond analysis complements the analyses and confirms the picture emerging from the activation strain model.
β‐Cyclodextrin Duplexes That Are Connected through Two Disulfide Bonds: Potent Hosts for the Complexation of Organic Molecules
Authors: Grishina Anastasia , Stanchev Stancho , Kumprecht Lukáš , Buděšínský Miloš , Pojarová Michaela , Dušek Michal , Rumlová Michaela , Křížová Ivana , Rulíšek Lubomír , Kraus Tomáš
Published: August 2012

New tubular host molecules, which are composed of two β‐cyclodextrin macrocycles that are connected through two disulfide bonds, have been prepared by the air‐promoted oxidation of 6I,6IV‐dideoxy‐6I,6IV‐disulfanyl‐β‐cyclodextrin in aqueous solution. This reaction leads to three products: monomeric intramolecular disulfide and two dimeric species, which are termed as “non‐eclipsed” and “eclipsed” cyclodextrin duplexes. Oxidation at a concentration of the starting thiol of 0.1 mM gave the intramolecular disulfide as the major product whereas a concentration in the millimolar range afforded the dimeric species as the dominant products. The tubular structure of the “non‐eclipsed” isomer was unequivocally determined by X‐ray analysis. The binding affinities of the duplexes to a wide range of compounds, including fluorescent dyes and clinically used drugs Imatinib and Esomeprazol, were studied in water by ITC. For most guest compounds, the experimentally determined Ka values were in the range 107–108 M−1. These binding affinities are significantly higher than those found in the literature for analogous complexes with native cyclodextrins. In cases of binding of neutral or anionic guest molecules cyclodextrin duplexes outperformed cucurbiturils. A complex between a duplex and Nile blue was used to investigate its ability to penetrate the cytoplasmic membrane of HeLa cells. We found that the complex accumulated in the cell membrane but did not pass into cytosol. Importantly, the complex did not decompose to a significant extent under high dilution in the cellular environment.
Vapochromic Ionic Liquids from Metal–Chelate Complexes Exhibiting Reversible Changes in Color, Thermal, and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Funasako Yusuke , Mochida Tomoyuki , Takahashi Kazuyuki , Sakurai Toshihiro , Ohta Hitoshi
Published: August 2012

Vapor‐ and gas‐responsive ionic liquids (ILs) comprised of cationic metal‐chelate complexes and bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (Tf2N) have been prepared, namely, [Cu(acac)(BuMe3en)][Tf2N] (1 a), [Cu(Bu‐acac)(BuMe3en)][Tf2N] (1 b), [Cu(C12‐acac)(Me4en)][Tf2N] (1 c), [Cu(acac)(Me4en)][Tf2N] (1 d), and [Ni(acac)(BuMe3en)][Tf2N] (2 a) (acac=acetylacetonate, Bu‐acac=3‐butyl‐2,4‐pentanedionate, C12‐acac=3‐dodecyl‐2,4‐pentanedionate, BuMe3en=N‐butyl‐N,N′,N′‐tetramethylethylenediamine, and Me4en=N,N,N′,N′‐trimethylethylenediamine). These ILs exhibited reversible changes in color, thermal properties, and magnetic properties in response to organic vapors and gases. The CuII‐containing ILs are purple and turn blue‐purple to green when exposed to organic vapors, such as acetonitrile, methanol, and DMSO, or ammonia gas. The color change is based on the coordination of the vapor molecules to the cation, and the resultant colors depend on the coordination strength (donor number, DN) of the vapor molecules. The vapor absorption caused changes in the melting points and viscosities, leading to alteration in the phase behaviors. The IL with a long alkyl chain (1 d) transitioned from a purple solid to a brown liquid at its melting point. The NiII‐containing IL (2 a) is a dark red diamagnetic liquid, which turned into a green paramagnetic liquid by absorbing vapors with high DN. Based on the equilibrium shift from four‐ to six‐coordinated species, the liquid exhibited thermochromism and temperature‐dependent magnetic susceptibility after absorbing methanol.
Electrochemical Design of Mesoporous Pt–Ru Alloy Films with Various Compositions toward Superior Electrocatalytic Performance
Authors: Wang Hongjing , Imura Masataka , Nemoto Yoshihiro , Wang Liang , Jeong Hu Young , Yokoshima Tokihiko , Terasaki Osamu , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: August 2012

Mesoporous Pt–Ru alloy films with various compositions were synthesized by electrochemical plating in an aqueous surfactant solution. After the removal of surfactants, continuous mesoporous Pt–Ru alloy films possessing uniform mesopores with diameter about 7 nm were obtained. The Ru content in the films could be controlled from 0 to 13 at % by changing the precursor compositions. For all the films, the mesostructural periodicities and the mesopore sizes in the films were not changed. Due to the mesoporous structure and the doped Ru content, our mesoporous Pt–Ru films showed superior electrocatalytic activity for methanol oxidation reaction in comparison with the commercially available Pt catalyst.
Is there a role for targeting vascular endothelial growth factor/receptor axis in the treatment of patients with metastatic melanoma?
Authors: Kim Kevin B.
Published: August 2012

Bevacizumab and other drugs targeting vascular endothelial growth factor and/or its receptor have shown encouraging clinical outcomes in early‐phase studies when they are combined with cytotoxic chemotherapy drugs. The success of bevacizumab or other antiangiogenic drugs in the treatment of patients with advanced melanoma will depend on a better understanding of tumoral neovascularization and its effect on tumor stromal tissues, as well as on selecting patients with appropriate relevant biomarkers to yield improved clinical outcomes.
Toll‐like receptor‐4 signaling in mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Wang Lijuan , Zhao Yi , Qian Jianfei , Sun Luhong , Lu Yong , Li Haiyan , Li Yi , Yang Jing , Cai Zhen , Yi Qing
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND:

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is an incurable B‐cell malignancy, and patients with this disease have the poorest prognosis among all patients with B‐cell lymphomas. The signaling pathways that trigger MCL escape from immune surveillance are unclear. Because Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) initiate innate and adaptive immune responses against invading pathogens, the authors investigated the impact of TLR signaling in MCL cells.

METHODS:

TLR expression was examined in MCL cell lines and in primary tumors. The examination focused on TLR4 and its ligand lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on MCL cells and their function on MCL proliferation and immune evasion.

RESULTS:

MCL cells expressed multiple TLRs, and TLR4 was among the highest expressed molecules. The activation of TLR4 signaling in MCL cells by LPS induced MCL proliferation and up‐regulated the secretion of cytokines like interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), IL‐10, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). LPS‐pretreated MCL cells inhibited the proliferation and cytolytic activity of T cells by secreted IL‐10 and VEGF, and neutralizing antibodies against these cytokines restored their functions. Similar results were observed in TLR4‐positive/myeloid differentiation 88 (MyD88)‐positive primary lymphoma cells but not in TLR4‐positive/MyD88‐negative primary lymphoma cells from patients with MCL. Knockdown of TLR4 on MCL cells abrogated the effect of LPS on MCL cells in term of cell growth or secretion of the cytokines and evasion of the immune system.

CONCLUSIONS:

The current results indicated that TLR4 signaling triggers a cascade that leads to MCL growth and evasion from immune surveillance. Thus, TLR4 signaling molecules may be novel therapeutic targets in patients with MCL. Cancer 2013. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Subjective binge eating with compensatory behaviors: A variant presentation of bulimia nervosa
Authors: Watson Hunna J. , Fursland Anthea , Bulik Cynthia M. , Nathan Paula
Published: August 2012

Objectives:

To determine whether a variant bulimic‐type presentation, whereby one meets criteria for bulimia nervosa (BN) except that binge eating episodes are not objectively large (i.e., “subjective bulimia nervosa,” SBN), has comparable clinical severity to established eating disorders, particularly BN.

Method:

Treatment‐seeking adults with BN (N = 112), SBN (N = 28), anorexia nervosa restricting type (AN‐R) (N = 45), and AN‐binge/purge type (AN‐B/P) (N = 24) were compared.

Results:

Overall, SBN could not be meaningfully distinguished from BN. SBN and BN had equivalent eating pathology, depression and anxiety symptoms, low quality of life, impulsivity, Axis I comorbidity, and lifetime psychiatric history, and comparable clinical severity to AN‐R and AN‐B/P.

Discussion:

Individuals with SBN, differing from BN only by the smaller size of their binge eating episodes, had a form of eating disorder comparable in clinical severity to threshold AN and BN and warranting clinical attention. Health professionals and the community require greater awareness of this variant to optimize detection, treatment‐seeking, and outcomes. © 2012 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2013)
Improved bi‐mesa structures optimized for resonator mounting
Authors: Goka Shigeyoshi , Mase Yusuke , Sekimoto Hitoshi
Published: August 2012

An improved bi‐mesa structure optimized for resonator mounting is proposed. To evaluate mounting influences, the frequency differences between clamped and free X‐edge conditions are calculated using a two‐dimensional finite element method in the X–Y′ region. When the outer mesa height was lower than 20% of the thick area, the frequency differences are less than 10% of standard‐type bi‐mesa resonator values. These results indicate that the improved bi‐mesa structure has good separation from the mounting influences. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 95(9): 54–60, 2012; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11385
Model‐based defect detection in multidimensional vector spaces
Authors: Honda Toshifumi , Obara Kenji , Harada Minoru , Igarashi Hajime
Published: August 2012

222222222222222A highly sensitive inspection algorithm is proposed that extracts defects in multidimensional vector spaces from multiple images. The proposed algorithm projects subtraction vectors calculated from test and reference images to control the noise by reducing the dimensionality of vector spaces. The linear projection vectors are optimized using a physical defect model, and the noise distribution is calculated from the images. Because the noise distribution varies with the intensity or texture of the pixels, the target image is divided into small regions and the noise distribution of the subtraction images are calculated for each divided region. The bidirectional local perturbation pattern matching (BD‐LPPM), which is an enhanced version of the LPPM, is proposed to increase the sensitivity when calculating the subtraction vectors, especially when the reference image contains more high‐frequency components than the test image. The proposed algorithm is evaluated using defect samples for three different scanning electron microscopy images. The results reveal that the proposed algorithm increases the signal‐to‐noise ratio by a factor of 1.32 relative to that obtained using the Mahalanobis distance algorithm. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 95(9): 44–53, 2012; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11390