bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of HCl and ClO time series in the upper stratosphere using satellite data sets
Authors: Jones A. , Urban J. , Murtagh D. P. , Sanchez C. , Walker K. A. , Livesey N. J. , Froidevaux L. , Santee M. L.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. Previous analyses of satellite and ground-based measurements of hydrogen chloride (HCl) and chlorine monoxide (ClO) have suggested that total inorganic chlorine in the upper stratosphere is on the decline. We create HCl and ClO time series using satellite data sets extended to November 2008, so that an update can be made on the long term evolution of these two species. We use the HALogen Occultation Experiment (HALOE) and the Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment Fourier Transform Spectrometer (ACE-FTS) data for the HCl analysis, and the Odin Sub-Millimetre Radiometer (SMR) and the Aura Microwave Limb Sounder (Aura-MLS) measurements for the study of ClO. Altitudes between 35 and 45 km and two mid-latitude bands: 30° S–50° S and 30° N–50° N, for HCl, and 20° S–20° N for ClO and HCl are studied. ACE-FTS and HALOE HCl anomaly time series (with QBO and seasonal contributions removed) are combined to produce all instrument average time series, which show HCl to be reducing from peak 1997 values at a linear estimated rate of −5.1 % decade−1 in the Northern Hemisphere and −5.2 % decade−1 in the Southern Hemisphere, while the tropics show a linear trend of −5.8 % per decade (although we do not remove the QBO contribution there due to sparse data). Trend values are significantly different from a zero trend at the 2 sigma level. ClO is decreasing in the tropics by −7.1 % ± 7.8 % decade−1 based on measurements made from December 2001 to November 2008. The statistically significant downward trend found in HCl after 1997 and the apparent downward ClO trend since 2001 (although not statistically significant) confirm how effective the 1987 Montreal protocol objectives and its amendments have been in reducing the total amount of inorganic chlorine.
From flapping wings to underactuated fingers and beyond: a broad look to self-adaptive mechanisms
Authors: Birglen L.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. In this paper, the author first reviews the different terminologies used in underactuated grasping and illustrates the current increase of activity on this topic. Then, the (probably) oldest known self-adaptive mechanism is presented and its performance as an underactuated finger is discussed. Its original application, namely a flapping wing, is also shown. Finally, it is proposed that the mechanisms currently used in underactuated grasping have actually other applications similarly to the previously discussed architecture could be used for both an underactuated finger and a flapping wing. This paper was presented at the IFToMM/ASME International Workshop on Underactuated Grasping (UG2010), 19 August 2010, Montréal, Canada.
A constrained optimization framework for compliant underactuated grasping
Authors: Ciocarlie M. , Allen P.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. This study focuses on the design and analysis of underactuated robotic hands that use tendons and compliant joints to enable passive mechanical adaptation during grasping tasks. We use a quasistatic equilibrium formulation to predict the stability of a given grasp. This method is then used as the inner loop of an optimization algorithm that can find a set of actuation mechanism parameters that optimize the stability measure for an entire set of grasps. We discuss two possible approaches to design optimization using this framework, one using exhaustive search over the parameter space, and the other using a simplified gripper construction to cast the problem to a form that is directly solvable using well-established optimization methods. Computations are performed in 3-D, allow arbitrary geometry of the grasped objects and take into account frictional constraints. This paper was presented at the IFToMM/ASME International Workshop on Underactuated Grasping (UG2010), 19 August 2010, Montréal, Canada.
The use of underactuation in prosthetic grasping
Authors: Kyberd P. J. , Clawson A. , Jones B.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. Underactuation as a method of driving prosthetic hands has a long history. The pragmatic requirements of such a device to be light enough to be worn and used regularly have meant that any multi degree of freedom prosthetic hand must have fewer actuators than the usable degrees of freedom. Aesthetics ensures that while the hand needs five fingers, five actuators have considerable mass, and only in recent years has it even been possible to construct a practical anthropomorphic hand with five motors. Thus there is an important trade off as to which fingers are driven, and which joints on which fingers are actuated, and how the forces are distributed to create a functional device. This paper outlines some of the historical solutions created for this problem and includes those designs of recent years that are now beginning to be used in the commercial environment. This paper was presented at the IFToMM/ASME International Workshop on Underactuated Grasping (UG2010), 19 August 2010, Montréal, Canada.
Thermoelectric Property Studies on Cu‐Doped n‐type CuxBi2Te2.7Se0.3 Nanocomposites
Authors: Liu Wei‐Shu , Zhang Qinyong , Lan Yucheng , Chen Shuo , Yan Xiao , Zhang Qian , Wang Hui , Wang Dezhi , Chen Gang , Ren Zhifeng
Published: June 2011

Combining high energy ball‐milling and hot‐pressing, significant enhancements of the thermoelectric figure‐of‐merit (ZT) have been reported for p‐type Bi0.4Sb1.6Te3 nanocomposites. However, applying the same technique to n‐type Bi2Te2.7Se0.3 showed no improvement on ZT values, due to the anisotropic nature of the thermoelectric properties of n‐type Bi2Te2.7Se0.3. Even though texturing was effective in improving peak ZT of Bi2Te2.7Se0.3 from 0.85 to 1.04, reproducibility from batch to batch remains unsatisfactory. Here, we show that good reproducibility can be achieved by introducing an optimal concentration of 0.01 copper (Cu) per Bi2Te2.7Se0.3 to make Cu0.01Bi2Te2.7Se0.3 samples. A peak ZT value of 0.99 was achieved in Cu0.01Bi2Te2.7Se0.3 samples without texturing. With texturing by re‐pressing, the peak ZT was increased to 1.06. Aging in air for over 5 months did not deteriorate but further improved the peak ZT to 1.10. The mechanism by which copper improves the reproducibility, enhances the carrier mobility, and reduces the lattice thermal conductivity is also discussed.
Diphosphine Capsules for Transition‐Metal Encapsulation
Authors: Koblenz Tehila S. , Dekker Henk L. , de Koster Chris G. , van Leeuwen Piet W. N. M. , Reek Joost N. H.
Published: June 2011

Self‐assembly and characterization of novel heterodimeric diphosphine capsules formed by multiple ionic interactions and composed of one tetracationic diphosphine ligand and one complementary tetraanionic calix[4]arene are described. Encapsulation of a palladium atom within a diphosphine capsule is achieved successfully by using the metal complex of the tetracationic diphosphine ligand for the assembly process. In this templated approach to metal encapsulation, the transition‐metal complex is an integrated part of the capsule with the transition metal located inside the capsule and is not involved in the assembly process. We present two approaches for capsule assembly by mixing solutions of the precharged building blocks in methanol and mixing solutions of the neutral building blocks in methanol. The scope of the diphosphine capsules and the metallodiphosphine capsules is easily extended by applying tetracationic diphosphine ligands with different backbones (ethylene, diphenyl ether, and xanthene) and cationic binding motifs (p‐C6H4‐CH2‐ammonium, m‐C6H4‐ammonium, and m‐C6H4‐guanidinium). These tetracationic building blocks with different flexibilities and shapes readily associate into capsules with the proper capsular structure, as is indicated by 1H NMR spectroscopy, 1D NOESY, ESI‐MS, and modeling studies.
Synthesis of 3,4‐Dimethylidene Oxacycles through Prins‐Type Cyclization of Allenylmethylsilanes
Authors: Ullapu Punna Reddy , Kim Young Seub , Lee Jae Kyun , Pae Ae Nim , Kim Youseung , Min Sun‐Joon , Cho Yong Seo
Published: June 2011

An efficient synthesis of 3,4‐dimethylidene oxacycles including oxolanes and oxepanes through Prins‐type cyclization of hydroxy(allenylmethyl)silanes is described. We have shown that 2‐substituted tetrahydrofuran derivatives could be produced by using this strategy although the 5‐endo‐trig cyclization mode is stereoelectronically disfavored. We also applied our method to the stereoselective synthesis of 2,7‐cis‐3,4‐dimethylidene oxepanes, which were used for constructing more complex ring systems, such as polyether bicycles or tricycles.
Hydrothermal Synthesis and Properties of Controlled α‐Fe2O3 Nanostructures in HEPES Solution
Authors: Li Hui , Lu Zhong , Li Qin , So Man‐Ho , Che Chi‐Ming , Chen Rong
Published: June 2011

A facile, template‐free, and environmentally friendly hydrothermal strategy was explored for the controllable synthesis of α‐Fe2O3 nanostructures in HEPES solution (HEPES=2‐[4‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)‐1‐piperazinyl]ethanesulfonic acid). The effects of experimental parameters including HEPES/FeCl3 molar ratio, pH value, reaction temperature, and reaction time on the formation of α‐Fe2O3 nanostructures have been investigated systematically. Based on the observations of the products, the function of HEPES in the reaction is discussed. The different α‐Fe2O3 nanostructures possess different optical, magnetic properties, and photocatalytic activities, depending on the shape and size of the sample. In addition, a novel and facile approach was developed for the synthesis of Au/α‐Fe2O3 and Ag/α‐Fe2O3 nanocomposites in HEPES buffer solution; this verified the dual function of HEPES both as reductant and stabilizer. This work provides a new strategy for the controllable synthesis of transition metal oxide nanostructures and metal‐supported nanocomposites, and gives a strong evidence of the relationship between the property and morphology/size of nanomaterials.
Improved robust stability criteria for uncertain systems with time‐varying delay
Authors: Qian Wei , Wang Lei , Sun Youxian
Published: June 2011

This paper is concerned with the delay‐dependent stability and robust stability for uncertain systems with time‐varying delay. Through constructing an appropriate type of Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional and proving its positive definiteness, using slack matrices and a convex combination condition, the delay‐dependent stability criteria, which are less conservative, are derived in terms of linear matrix inequalities. Numerical examples are also given to illustrate the improvement on the conservatism of the delay bound over some existing results.

Copyright © 2011 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society
Design of Absorption Columns – New Challenges for a well‐known Task
Authors: Grünewald Marcus , Zheng Guanghua , Kopatschek Manuela
Published: June 2011

Untersuchungen zur Auslegung von Absorptionskolonnen werden vorgestellt. Ausgehend von der bisher verwendeten Auslegungsmethodik nach Billet und Schultes erfolgt eine Analyse und Bewertung der Grenzen dieser in der Technik häufig verwendeten Vorgehensweise. Dabei werden auf der Grundlage eigener Experimente entsprechende Änderungsvorschläge in der bisherigen Auslegungsweise für Packungskolonnen beschrieben. Neben der Anpassung einzelner empirischer Gleichungen zur flexiblen Beschreibung des Bereiches zwischen Stau‐ und Flutpunkt, wird insbesondere die auf der Messung lokaler Prozessgrößen basierende Einteilung in Wand‐ und Kernphasen der Packungskolonnen vorgeschlagen.
Glyoxalate‐Derived Aldimines in Cycloaddition Reactions with Olefins
Authors: Palacios Francisco , Alonso Concepción , Fuertes María , Ezpeleta Jose M. , Rubiales Gloria
Published: June 2011

The reaction of aldimine 1a, derived from ethyl glyoxalate, with activated dienophiles, such as styrene and indene, gave the tetrahydro‐1,5‐naphthyridine derivatives 3 with regio‐ and stereoselective control of three stereocenters through a [4+2] cycloaddition process via endo transition states. However, when aldimine 1a was used in the reaction with strained olefins, such as norbornene or dicyclopentadiene, the corresponding [4+2] and [2+2] cycloadducts were obtained, through exclusive exo π‐facial stereoselective cycloaddition. The addition of a second strained C=C bond in the olefin, such as norbornadiene, increased the multifunctional character of the olefin and a mixture of the corresponding exo [4+2] 11a and exo [2+2] 12a cycloadducts, as well as the corresponding HOMO cycloadduct 13a, was obtained. Reaction between norbornadiene and aldimines derived from p‐nitro‐ and o,p‐dinitroanilines and ethyl glyoxalate gave exo [4+2] cycloadducts 11b,c, HOMO cycloadducts 13b,c and α‐amino γ‐lactones 15b,c. A mechanistic explanation for the formation of the new products is suggested.
What works for whom, where, why, for what, and when? Using evaluation evidence to take action in local contexts
Authors: Gargani John , Donaldson Stewart I.
Published: June 2011

This chapter describes a concrete process that stakeholders can use to make predictions about the future performance of programs in local contexts. Within the field of evaluation, the discussion of validity as it relates to outcome evaluation seems to be focused largely on questions of internal validity (Did it work?) with less emphasis on external validity (Will it work?). However, recent debates about the credibility of evaluation evidence have called attention to how evaluations can inform predictions about future performance. Using this as a starting point, we expand upon the traditional framework regarding external validity that is closely associated with Donald Campbell. The result is a process for making predictions and taking action that is collaborative, systematic, feasible, and transparent. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc., and the American Evaluation Association.
Conflict of interest and Campbellian validity
Authors: House Ernest R.
Published: June 2011

The conflicting interests of evaluators are biasing the findings of some evaluations and experiments, even technically rigorous studies. One improvement would be to emphasize evaluator and investigator conflict‐of‐interest threats in conceptions of validity. Such discussions could suggest ways to assess and avoid conflicts of interest. I explore the possibilities in one highly regarded framework, the Campbellian conception of experimental validity. However, all evaluations and experiments, whatever their methods, are vulnerable, and all conceptions of validity should address such threats. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc., and the American Evaluation Association.
The truth about validity
Authors: Shadish William R.
Published: June 2011

The chapters in Advancing Validity in Outcome Evaluation: Theory and Practice, like the literature on validity in general, are extremely diverse. They range from a narrow focus on particular criticisms of validity in one recent work in the Campbell tradition to very broad overviews of methods for improving the generalizability of evaluation results. The author reviews and comments on each chapter, and discusses some general themes prompted by this issue of New Directions for Evaluation. Those themes include the ambivalent treatment of randomized experiments within the American Evaluation Association (AEA), the need for fresh ideas about outcome evaluations from outside the AEA community, and the desirability of an empirical program of evaluation theory in which data play a central role in our validity recommendations. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc., and the American Evaluation Association.
Effects of self‐esteem on state and trait components of interpersonal dependency and depression in the workplace
Authors: Takagishi Yukihiro , Sakata Masatsugu , Kitamura Toshinori
Published: June 2011

This longitudinal study was undertaken to clarify the relationships among self‐esteem, interpersonal dependency, and depression, focusing on a trait and state component of interpersonal dependency and depression. In a sample of 466 working people, self‐esteem, interpersonal dependency, job stressor, and depression were assessed at 2 points of time. A structural equation model (SEM) was created to differentiate the trait component of interpersonal dependency, depression and the state component of interpersonal dependency, depression. The model revealed that self‐esteem influenced trait interpersonal dependency and trait depression but not state interpersonal dependency or depression. Setting a latent variable as a trait component to differentiate trait and state in interpersonal dependency and depression in SEM was found to be effective both statistically and clinically. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 67:1–9, 2011.
Synthesis and antimicrobial activity of a new class of methyleneamine‐linked bis‐heterocycles
Authors: Reddy A. Babul , Hymavathi R. V. , Chandrasekhar T. , Naveen M. , Swamy G. Narayana
Published: June 2011

A new class of methyleneamine‐linked bis‐heterocycles that exhibit antimicrobial activity was synthesized. Bromination of 1 followed by condensation with thiourea gave 3. The reaction of 3 with propargyl bromide in dry toluene under inert atmosphere led to the formation of 4. Its subsequent reaction with different aromatic azides 5 using CuSO4.5H2O‐sodiumascorbate system in a 2:1 mixture of water and tert‐butylalcohol yielded the title compounds 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f, 6g, 6h, 6i, 6j in good yields. The identities of these compounds were confirmed following elemental analysis, IR, 1H, 13C NMR, and mass spectral studies. All the title compounds exhibited pronounced in vitro antibacterial and antifungal activities. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2011).
Bio‐control and plant growth promotion potential of siderophore producing endophytic Streptomyces from Azadirachta indica A. Juss.
Authors: Verma V. C. , Singh S. K. , Prakash Satya
Published: June 2011

Three endophytic actinomycetes strains recovered from surface sterilized root tissues of Azadirachta indica A. Juss. (Meliaceae), plants were selected through tests for their potential as bio‐control and plant growth promoting agents. It was also observed that the seed treated with the spore suspension of three selected strains of Streptomyces, significantly promoted plant growth and antagonized the growth of Alternaria alternata, causal agent of early blight disease in tomato plant. It was observed that the three selected strains prolifically produce IAA and siderophores that play vital role in promotion of plant growth and in suppression of Alternaria alternata. Interestingly, Streptomyces strain AzR‐051 produced the highest amount of IAA at 13.73 μmol ml–1, compared to strains AzR‐049 and AzR‐010 9.22 μmol ml–1 and 10.43 μmol ml–1 respectively. It also produces siderophores higher than the other two strains. Thus these endophytic isolates have the potential as plant growth promoters as well as a bio‐control agent, which is a useful trait for crop production in nutrient deficient soils. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Variation in biofilm formation among symbiotic and free‐living strains of Vibrio fischeri
Authors: Chavez‐Dozal Alba , Nishiguchi Michele K.
Published: June 2011

Persistence and survival under various environmental stresses has been attributed to the capacity of most bacteria to form biofilms. In aquatic environments, the symbiotic bacterium Vibrio fischeri survives variable abiotic conditions during its free‐living stage that dictates its ability to colonize the squid host. In the present study, the influence of different abiotic factors such as salt concentration, temperature, static/dynamic conditions, and carbon source availability were tested to determine whether biofilm formation occurred in 26 symbiotic and free‐living V. fischeri strains. Statistical analysis indicate that most strains examined were strong biofilm producers under salinity concentrations that ranged between 1–5%, mesophilic temperatures (25–30 °C) and static conditions. Moreover, free‐living strains are generally better biofilm formers than the symbiotically competent ones. Geographical location (strain origin) also correlated with biofilm formation. These findings provide evidence that abiotic growth conditions are important for determining whether mutualistic V. fischeri have the capacity to produce complex biofilms, allowing for increased competency and specificity during symbiosis. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Screening and characterization of potential cadmium biosorbent Alcaligenes strain from industrial effluent
Authors: Kumar Abhijit , Singh Cameotra Swaranjit , Gupta Saurabh
Published: June 2011

Cadmium (Cd) is a heavy metal that is easily accumulated in the living organisms in connection with anthropogenic activities which may result in serious health problems. In the present study, five potential cadmium tolerant bacterial strains were isolated from industrial effluent with heavy metal contamination and were screened for biosorption potential with their active growth in different media. After growth in shake flasks containing mineral salt media and tryptone soya broth, cell pellet of AS‐5 removed by centrifugation sequestered almost 98% and 69% of cadmium (a.i. 25 mg/l Cd) respectively. Other strains accumulated variable amounts of Cd. 16S rRNA gene sequence of AS‐5 and its homology analysis using BLAST reveals its phylogenetic relationship with family β‐proteobacteriaceae and 98% homology with Alcaligenes sp., a facultative anaerobe. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Reproductive Ecology of American Black Bears in the Alleghany Mountains of Virginia, USA
Authors: Bridges Andrew S. , Vaughan Michael R. , Fox Josephine A.
Published: June 2011

We studied reproduction of American black bears (Ursus americanus) in western Virginia from 1994 to 2003. We handled 326 ≥2‐year‐old female black bears 672 times during summer trapping and followed 176 of these individuals through 424 winter den seasons. We examined 183 litters consisting of 455 cubs. Primiparity occurred at mean and modal ages of 3.8 and 3 years, respectively. Composite mean litter size was 2.49 (SE = 0.06) cubs/litter; 3‐ and 4‐year‐olds had smaller litters than older bears. We tracked reproductive synchrony using 5 indices and documented a resetting of this synchrony, likely in response to hard‐mast failure. The amplitude of oscillations in synchrony indices dampened through time after the synchronizing events. Documentation and quantification of relationships between nutrient availability, reproduction and population dynamics can be used to inform population modeling efforts and more accurately forecast harvest. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Growth and characterization of N‐polar GaN and AlGaN/GaN HEMTs on (111) silicon
Authors: Keller Stacia , Dora Yuvaraj , Chowdhury Srabanti , Wu Feng , Chen Xu , DenBaars Steven P. , Speck James S. , Mishra Umesh K.
Published: June 2011

Smooth, high quality N‐polar GaN‐on‐silicon films with treading dislocation densities comparable to Ga‐polar GaN‐on‐Si films and N‐polar GaN/AlGaN/GaN transistors were demonstrated by metal‐organic chemical vapour deposition on (111) Si substrates misoriented 3.5° toward [11$ \bar 2 $]. The N‐polarity was established through high magnesium doping during deposition of the AlGaN strain management layers. The results encourage future exploration of N‐polar (Al,Ga,In)N‐on‐silicon hetero‐structures. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Ageing mechanisms of 420 nm GaN HBLED
Authors: Trivellin Nicola , Meneghini Matteo , Zanotto Alberto , Meneghesso Gaudenzio , Zanoni Enrico
Published: June 2011

This paper analyzes the effects of ageing on 1 W 420 nm GaN LEDs. Devices have been subjected to 350 mA dc stress at fixed case temperatures (60‐100 °C). Results indicate that two different ageing mechanisms take place during ageing: (i) a fast decrease in capacitance well correlated with the increase in series resistance of the device; this effect is probably related with a rapid p‐type doping decrease caused by the flow of carrier through the Mg doped region, and (ii) a gradual but substantial increase of the low current optical output during the ageing; only slight decrease is instead detected in the high current region. A possible explanation could be the increase of injected current efficiency related to a decrease of low forward bias diagonal tunnelling (DT) during ageing. This hypothesis is supported by a variation of the charge distribution in the quantum well region during ageing. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Approaching the ultimate open circuit voltage in thiophene based single junction solar cells by applying diindenoperylene as acceptor
Authors: Hörmann Ulrich , Wagner Julia , Gruber Mark , Opitz Andreas , Brütting Wolfgang
Published: June 2011

The efficiency of a photovoltaic cell is directly proportional to its open circuit voltage. This in turn is eventually set by the donor‐acceptor energy gap, i.e. the energy of the intermolecular charge‐transfer state in organic solar cells. In this letter we study diindenoperylene (DIP) as a new molecular acceptor. We show that planar heterojunctions of thiophene derivatives and DIP yield extraordinarily high open circuit voltages (Voc) of approximately 1.2 V for poly(3‐hexylthiophene) and almost 1.4 V for heat treated α‐sexithiophene. Those values are close to the maximum Voc attainable for these material systems.

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(© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Introduction—The Politics of Civic
Education
Authors: Westheimer Joel
Published: June 2011

“Democracy is not a silent business.”—Anthony D. Romero, American
Civil Liberties Union
Natural Environment Research Council - Data Policy
Authors: Thorley Mark
Published: June 2011

The Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) has a policy on data in order to:(a) Ensure the continuing availability of environmental data of long-term value for research, teaching, and for wider exploitation for the public good, by individuals, government, business and other organisations;(b) Support the integrity, transparency and openness of the research it supports;(c) Help in the formal publication of data sets, as well as enabling the tracking of their usage through citation and data licences;(d) Meet relevant legislation and Government guidance on the management and distribution of environmental information.
Effects of Combined Exenatide and Pioglitazone Therapy on Hepatic Fat Content in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Sathyanarayana Padma , Jogi Medhavi , Muthupillai Raja , Krishnamurthy Ramkumar , Samson Susan L. , Bajaj Mandeep
Published: June 2011

We examined the effects of combined pioglitazone (peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ (PPAR‐γ) agonist) and exenatide (GLP‐1 receptor agonist) therapy on hepatic fat content and plasma adiponectin levels in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Twenty‐one T2DM patients (age = 52 ± 3 years, BMI = 32.0 ± 1.5, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) = 8.2 ± 0.4%) on diet and/or metformin received additional treatment with either pioglitazone 45 mg/day for 12 months (n = 10) or combined therapy with pioglitazone (45 mg/day) and exenatide (10 µg subcutaneously twice daily) for 12 months (n = 11). At baseline, hepatic fat content and plasma adiponectin levels were similar between the two treatment groups. Pioglitazone reduced fasting plasma glucose (FPG) (P < 0.05), fasting free fatty acid (FFA) (P < 0.05), and HbA1c (Δ = 1.0%, P < 0.01), while increasing plasma adiponectin concentration by 86% (P < 0.05). Hepatic fat (magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS)) was significantly reduced following pioglitazone treatment (11.0 ± 3.1 to 6.5 ± 1.9%, P < 0.05). Plasma triglyceride concentration decreased by 14% (P < 0.05) and body weight increased significantly (Δ = 3.7 kg). Combined pioglitazone and exenatide therapy was associated with a significantly greater increase in plasma adiponectin (Δ = 193%) and a significantly greater decrease in hepatic fat (12.1 ± 1.7 to 4.7 ± 1.3%) and plasma triglyceride (38%) vs. pioglitazone therapy despite the lack of a significant change in body weight (Δ = 0.2 kg). Hepatic injury biomarkers aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were significantly decreased by both treatments; however, the reduction in ALT was significantly greater following combined pioglitazone and exenatide therapy. We conclude that combined in patients with T2DM, pioglitazone and exenatide therapy is associated with a greater reduction in hepatic fat content as compared to the addition of pioglitazone therapy (Δ = 61% vs. 41%, P < 0.05).
Organometallic Chemistry
Authors: Humphrey M G , de Bruin Bas , O'Hara Charles , Higham Lee , Wheatley Andrew E H , Wright Dominic S , Layfield Richard
Published: June 2011

A series of critical reviews and perspectives focussing on specific aspects of organometallic chemistry interfacing with other fields of study are provided. For this volume, the critical reviews cover topics such as the activation of "inert" carbon-hydrogen bonds, ligand design and organometallic radical species. For example, Charlie O'Hara discusses how mixed-metal compounds may perform the highly selective activation of C-H bonds and, in particular, how synergic relationships between various metals are crucial to this approach. The chemistry of a remarkable series of air-stable chiral primary phosphine ligands is discussed in some depth by Rachel Hiney, Arne Ficks, Helge M³ller-Bunz, Declan Gilheany and Lee Higham. This article focuses on the preparation of these ligands and also how they may be applied in various catalytic applications. Bas De Bruin reports on how ligand radical reactivity can be employed in synthetic organometallic chemistry and catalysis to achieve selectivity in radical-type transformations. As well as highlighting ligand-centered radical transformations in open-shell transition metals, an overview of the catalytic mechanism of Co(II)-catalysed olefin cyclopropanation is given, showing that enzyme-like cooperative metal-ligand-radical reactivity is no longer limited to real enzymes. Valuable and informative comprehensive reviews in the field of organometallic chemistry are also covered in this volume. For example, organolithium and organocuprate chemistry are reviewed by Joanna Haywood and Andrew Wheatley; aspects in Group 2 (Be-Ba) and Group 12 (Zn-Hg) compounds by Robert Less, Rebecca Melen and Dominic Wright; metal clusters by Mark Humphrey and Marie Cifuentes; and recent developments in the chemistry of the elements of Group 14 - focusing on low-coordination number compounds by Richard Layfield. This volume therefore covers many synthetic and applied aspects of modern organometallic chemistry which ought to be of interest to inorganic, organic and applied catalysis fields.
The isotropic spectrum of the CO2 Raman 2ν3 overtone: A line-mixing band shape analysis at pressures up to several tens of atmospheres
Authors: Verzhbitskiy I. A. , Kouzov A. P. , Rachet F. , Chrysos M.
Published: June 2011

A line-mixing shape analysis of the isotropic remnant Raman spectrum of the 2ν3 overtone of CO2 is reported at room temperature and for densities, ρ, rising up to tens of amagats. The analysis, experimental and theoretical, employs tools of non-resonant light scattering spectroscopy and uses the extended strong collision model (ESCM) to simulate the strong line mixing effects and to evidence motional narrowing. Excellent agreement at any pressure is observed between the calculated spectra and our experiment, which, along with the easy numerical implementation of the ESCM, makes this model stand out clearly above other semiempirical models for band shape calculations. The hitherto undefined, explicit ρ-dependence of the vibrational relaxation rate is given. Our study intends to improve the understanding of pressure-induced phenomena in a gas that is still in the forefront of the news.
FLOWERING LOCUS T
duplication coordinates reproductive and vegetative growth in perennial poplar
Authors: Hsu Chuan-Yu , Adams Joshua P. , Kim Hyejin , No Kyoungok , Ma Caiping , Strauss Steven H. , Drnevich Jenny , Vandervelde Lindsay , Ellis Jeffrey D. , Rice Brandon M. , Wickett Norman , Gunter Lee E. , Tuskan Gerald A. , Brunner Amy M. , Page Grier P. , Barakat Abdelali , Carlson John E. , dePamphilis Claude W. , Luthe Dawn S. , Yuceer Cetin
Published: June 2011

Annual plants grow vegetatively at early developmental stages and then transition to the reproductive stage, followed by senescence in the same year. In contrast, after successive years of vegetative growth at early ages, woody perennial shoot meristems begin repeated transitions between vegetative and reproductive growth at sexual maturity. However, it is unknown how these repeated transitions occur without a developmental conflict between vegetative and reproductive growth. We report that functionally diverged paralogs
FLOWERING LOCUS T1
(
FT1
) and
FLOWERING LOCUS T2
(
FT2
), products of whole-genome duplication and homologs of
Arabidopsis thaliana
gene
FLOWERING LOCUS T
(
FT
), coordinate the repeated cycles of vegetative and reproductive growth in woody perennial poplar (
Populus
spp.). Our manipulative physiological and genetic experiments coupled with field studies, expression profiling, and network analysis reveal that reproductive onset is determined by
FT1
in response to winter temperatures, whereas vegetative growth and inhibition of bud set are promoted by
FT2
in response to warm temperatures and long days in the growing season. The basis for functional differentiation between
FT1
and
FT2
appears to be expression pattern shifts, changes in proteins, and divergence in gene regulatory networks. Thus, temporal separation of reproductive onset and vegetative growth into different seasons via
FT1
and
FT2
provides seasonality and demonstrates the evolution of a complex perennial adaptive trait after genome duplication.
Gene Discovery and Tissue-Specific Transcriptome Analysis in Chickpea with Massively Parallel Pyrosequencing and Web Resource Development
Authors: Garg Rohini , Patel Ravi K. , Jhanwar Shalu , Priya Pushp , Bhattacharjee Annapurna , Yadav Gitanjali , Bhatia Sabhyata , Chattopadhyay Debasis , Tyagi Akhilesh K. , Jain Mukesh
Published: June 2011

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum) is an important food legume crop but lags in the availability of genomic resources. In this study, we have generated about 2 million high-quality sequences of average length of 372 bp using pyrosequencing technology. The optimization of de novo assembly clearly indicated that hybrid assembly of long-read and short-read primary assemblies gave better results. The hybrid assembly generated a set of 34,760 transcripts with an average length of 1,020 bp representing about 4.8% (35.5 Mb) of the total chickpea genome. We identified more than 4,000 simple sequence repeats, which can be developed as functional molecular markers in chickpea. Putative function and Gene Ontology terms were assigned to at least 73.2% and 71.0% of chickpea transcripts, respectively. We have also identified several chickpea transcripts that showed tissue-specific expression and validated the results using real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. Based on sequence comparison with other species within the plant kingdom, we identified two sets of lineage-specific genes, including those conserved in the Fabaceae family (legume specific) and those lacking significant similarity with any non chickpea species (chickpea specific). Finally, we have developed a Web resource, Chickpea Transcriptome Database, which provides public access to the data and results reported in this study. The strategy for optimization of de novo assembly presented here may further facilitate the transcriptome sequencing and characterization in other organisms. Most importantly, the data and results reported in this study will help to accelerate research in various areas of genomics and implementing breeding programs in chickpea.
General kinetic and dynamic principles and their application to continuous infusion anaesthesia
Authors: SEAR J. W.
Published: June 2011

The use of intravenous anaesthetic agents by continuous infusion requires knowledge of their pharmacokinetic properties. In this article, the general pharmacokinetic principles behind the use of infusions of intravenous agents are presented and the literature with regard to the individual drugs used in this way is reviewed.
Pharmacokinetics as applied to total intravenous anaesthesia
Authors: SCHÜTTLER J. , SCHWILDEN H. , STOEKEL H.
Published: June 2011

In six patients undergoing gynaecological surgery computer assisted total intravenous anaesthesia (CATIA) was performed using etomidate and alfentanil. Constant plasma levels of etomidate (0.3 μg/ml) from the very beginning onwards were achieved using the so called B.E.T. infusion scheme. Alfentanil plasma concentrations of 0.45 μg/ml were maintained by the same infusion scheme beginning with skin incision until 20 minutes prior to the end of surgery. The proposed concept of CATIA provided an adequate analgesic and hypnotic effect during anaesthesia for abdominal surgery with a recovery period of short duration.
Signalling defect in FMLP‐induced neutrophil respiratory burst in myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: Nakaseko Chiaki , Asai Takayoshi , Wakita Hisashi , Oh Hakumei , Saito Yasushi
Published: June 2011

Summary. Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are clonal haematological disorders and MDS neutrophils have various abnormal functions which cause an increased risk of infective mortality. We examined luminol‐dependent chemiluminescence and cytoplasmic Ca2+ increase in order to characterize the mechanisms of a signalling defect in MDS neutrophil respiratory burst. In MDS patients, chemiluminescence stimulated with n‐formyl‐l‐methionyl‐l‐leucil‐ l‐phenylalanine (FMLP) and calcium ionophore A23187 was defective (17·2 ± 13·7 v 44·3 ± 16·6, P= 0·001; 42·2 ± 21·3 v 82·0 ± 23·6, P < 0·05, respectively), but phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA) chemiluminescence was normal (73·4 ± 26·9 v 79·5 ± 23·8, P= 0·52). There were no statistical significances in cytoplasmic Ca2+ increase stimulated with FMLP and recombinant human interleukin‐8 (rhIL‐8) compared with controls (251·1 ± 104·3 v 272·7 ± 41·2, P= 0·295; 238·6 ± 65·0 v 253·9 ± 38·3, P= 0·567, respectively). Flow cytometric analysis of MDS neutrophils disclosed that most MDS patients showed normal neutrophil cytoplasmic Ca2+ response to FMLP and rhIL‐8. However, two patients with refractory anaemia with excess of blasts displayed a significant decrease of both chemiluminescence and cytoplasmic Ca2+ response to FMLP, and they also displayed low expression of FMLP receptor. These data suggest that most MDS patients have low FMLP chemiluminescence which is not due to a defect in the FMLP receptor. It is proposed that defective FMLP chemiluminescence in MDS results from a putative defect in protein kinase C‐ and Ca2+‐independent cell‐signalling mechanisms. Only a small group of patients have numerical or structural defects in the FMLP receptor, causing significant decrease of neutrophil respiratory burst.
Treatment options for carcinoma in situ testis
Authors: Mortensen M. S. , Gundgaard M. G. , Daugaard G.
Published: June 2011

Carcinoma in situ testis (CIS) is known as the precursor of germ cell cancer of the testis. International guidelines on diagnosis and treatment are inconsistent. Some countries offer routine biopsies of the contralateral testicle in relation to orchidectomy for testicular cancer, whereas other countries only offer this to high‐risk patients. The treatment options range from orchidectomy and chemotherapy to radiotherapy and in rare cases surveillance. Results of the different treatment strategies are presented in this review. The optimal radiation dose is still not clarified. Most patients have been treated in the dose range of 16–20 Gy. Higher doses involve a higher risk of androgen insufficiency. Radiotherapy is recommended in patients with contralateral CIS. Orchidectomy should be offered in extragonadal germ cell cancer and CIS in one testicle, whereas patients with bilateral CIS should be offered radiation therapy. Patients who have undergone chemotherapy for testicular cancer are still at risk of developing CIS and we also recommend radiotherapy to the affected testicle in these patients. Cryopreservation should be offered before treatment is initiated and all patients should have their androgen status measured on a regular basis to find those cases where hormone substitution is needed.
Biogenic ammonia modifies antibiotic resistance at a distance in physically separated bacteria
Authors: Bernier Steve P. , Létoffé Sylvie , Delepierre Muriel , Ghigo Jean‐Marc
Published: June 2011

Bacteria release low‐molecular‐weight by‐products called secondary metabolites, which contribute to bacterial ecology and biology. Whereas volatile compounds constitute a large class of potential infochemicals, their role in bacteria–bacteria interactions remains vastly unexplored. Here we report that exposure to gaseous ammonia released from stationary‐phase bacterial cultures modifies the antibiotic resistance spectrum of all tested Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria. Using Escherichia coli K12 as a model organism, and increased resistance to tetracycline as the phenotypic read‐out, we demonstrate that exposure to ammonia generated by the catabolism of l‐aspartate increases the level of intracellular polyamines, in turn leading to modifications in membrane permeability to different antibiotics as well as increased resistance to oxidative stress. We show that the inability to import ammonia via the Amt gas channel or to synthesize polyamines prevent modification in the resistance profile of aerially exposed bacteria. We therefore provide here the first detailed molecular characterization of widespread, long‐range chemical interference between physically separated bacteria.
Variability in aggressiveness of Quambalaria pitereka isolates
Authors: Pegg G. S. , Shuey L. S. , Carnegie A. J. , Wingfield M. J. , Drenth A.
Published: June 2011

Quambalaria shoot blight, caused by the fungal pathogen Quambalaria pitereka, is a serious disease of eucalypt plantations in Australia. The aggressiveness of four Q. pitereka isolates was compared on a range of host genera, species, provenances and clones. Isolates differed substantially in their aggressiveness, with two consistently showing higher levels of aggressiveness based on incidence and severity of disease and lesion size. Isolates derived from Corymbia citriodora subsp. variegata (Ccv) and C. torelliana were shown to have a relatively restricted host range, with lesions but no sporulation found on Eucalyptus species, Angophora species other than A. costata and Corymbia species other than Ccv, the host of origin. The level of aggressiveness toward the different provenances of spotted gum and C. torelliana varied between isolates and there was evidence of some isolate × host interaction within provenances of Ccv. The two methods of inoculation used in this study, spray and spot inoculation, gave similar results. However, the fact that the spot inoculation method was labour‐intensive was a disadvantage limiting the numbers of isolates and hosts that can be tested.
Expression and clinical significance of lung‐specific X protein mRNA in bronchial brushing specimens from patients with or without lung cancer
Authors: LV MING , WU MING‐ZHE , ZHAO YU‐JIE , YANG DI , WANG EN‐HUA , WU GUANG‐PING
Published: June 2011

Background and objective:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic utility of lung‐specific X protein (LUNX) mRNA expression in bronchial brushing specimens from patients with lung cancer.

Methods:  LUNX mRNA levels were assessed by performing RT‐PCR on liquid‐based cytology bronchial brushing specimens from patients with lung cancer (n = 104) or benign lung disease (n = 91).

Results:  LUNX mRNA expression was significantly more frequent in patients with all carcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas, adenocarcinomas, as well as patients with central, peripheral and diffuse carcinomas (P < 0.01), and non‐small cell lung carcinomas (P < 0.05) compared with patients with benign disease. The diagnostic performance of RT‐PCR analysis of LUNX mRNA was significantly better than that of cytology in terms of sensitivity (93.3 ± 4.8% vs 64.4 ± 9.2%), negative predictive value (91.6 ± 6.0% vs 71.1 ± 7.9%) and accuracy (88.7 ± 4.4% vs 81.0 ± 5.5%), whereas specificity (83.5 ± 7.6%) and positive predictive value (86.6 ± 6.3%) were lower than those of cytology (100%).

Conclusions:  Liquid‐based cytology and RT‐PCR can be performed to detect LUNX mRNA expression in bronchial brushing specimens, and this technique may be a useful adjunct to cytological diagnosis of lung cancer. The sensitivity of the technique was greater than that of cytology but its lower specificity should be taken into account.
Soft tissue metastasis of an immature teratoma of the ovary
Authors: Chun Byun Jae , Jung Choi Il , Seok Han Myoung , Cheol Lee Seung , Sook Roh Mee , Seok Cha Moon
Published: June 2011

In patients with immature teratoma of the ovary, blood‐borne metastasis to organ parenchyma, such as the lungs, liver, or brain, are uncommon. Moreover, soft tissue metastasis is extremely rare. We describe a 31‐year‐old woman with an immature teratoma of the left ovary, which metastasized to soft tissue of the right thigh after surgery. Because of the rarity of this condition, we report the results of treatment and review the literature.
Disrupted Exchange and Declining Corporatism: Government Authority and Interest Group Capability in Scandinavia
Authors: Öberg PerOla , Svensson Torsten , Christiansen Peter Munk , Nørgaard Asbjørn Sonne , Rommetvedt Hilmar , Thesen Gunnar
Published: June 2011

Denmark, Norway and Sweden are still among the most corporatist democracies in the world. Although corporatism has declined in Scandinavia over the last decades, it still exists, albeit at a lower level. Based on comparative and longitudinal data, we argue that this is a consequence of the disruption of some of the prerequisites to corporatist exchange. Neither governments nor the relevant interest groups in Scandinavia control what their exchange partner desires to the same extent as they did during the heyday of corporatism. Despite the involvement of different factors in the three countries, the main pattern is the same. Consequently, the character of state–interest group relations in Scandinavia is not as distinctive as it used to be.
Identification of Antigenic Targets for Immunodetection of Balamuthia mandrillaris Infection
Authors: Kucerova Zuzana , Sriram Rama , Wilkins Patricia P. , Visvesvara Govinda S.
Published: June 2011

The free-living amoebaBalamuthia mandrillariscauses granulomatous amoebic encephalitis (GAE) in humans. Rapid identification of balamuthiasis is critical for effective therapeutic intervention and case management. In the present study we identified target antigens for the development of a serological assay forB. mandrillarisinfection. We demonstrated by silver staining that protein profiles for all eight isolates ofB. mandrillaris, independent of human or animal origin or geographic origin, appeared to be similar except for some minor differences, indicating the molecular homogeneity of these strains. The profiles of all isolates, which ranged from 200 to 10 kDa, were similar, with a prominent protein visible around 30 kDa; all appeared considerably different from protein profiles of the control E6 cells andAcanthamoeba castellaniiandNaegleria fowleriisolates. Western blot analysis with rabbit hyperimmune serum identified the major immunodominant antigens of 25, 50, 75, and 80 kDa; positive human sera reacted strongly with proteins around 25, 40, 50, and 75 kDa. Proteins around 40 kDa detected by human serum were not recognized by hyperimmune rabbit serum. None of the target proteins were detected by uninfected control sera. Reactivities of five patients' sera with 4 different isolates ofB. mandrillaris(2 strains of human and 2 strains of animal origins) revealed that patients' sera reacted slightly differently with differentB. mandrillarisisolates, although major proteins of approximately 25, 50, and 75 kDa were present in all extracts.