bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study by ESI‐FTICRMS and ESI‐FTICRMSn of zinc and cadmium thiophenolate complexes used as precursors for the synthesis of II–VI nanosemiconductors
Authors: Arl Didier , Aubriet Frédéric , Gaumet Jean‐Jacques
Published: January 2009

[M4(SC6H5)10][(CH3)N]2, [M10L4(SC6H5)16][(CH3)N]4 and [Cd17S4(SC6H5)28][(CH3)N]2(M = Cd or Zn, and L = S or Se) zinc and cadmium thiophenolates have been studied by electrospray ionization (ESI) Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FTICR) mass spectrometry (ESI‐FTICRMS) and tandem ESI‐FTICRMS (ESI‐FTICRMSn). ESI‐FTICRMS demonstrated its ability to characterize and study such compounds, which may be used as precursors of II–VI nanomaterials. The obtained mass spectrum has been found to be highly relevant of the investigated thiophenolate and the fragmentation behavior of some of the detected ions is indicative of its stability. More specifically, it has been demonstrated that ESI in‐source activation or fragmentation experiments conducted in the Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FTICRMS) cell induced the formation of a very stable entity, which corresponds to the general formula M4L4 (M = Zn or Cd and L = S or Se). The elimination of SC6H5− and/or M(SC6H5)2 moieties by various activation processes from the studied thiophenolates led systematically to this structure. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modelling daily precipitation features in the Volta Basin of West Africa
Authors: Laux P. , Wagner S. , Wagner A. , Jacobeit J. , Bárdossy A. , Kunstmann H.
Published: January 2009

The combination of a conventional Markov chain model (zero and first order) and a gamma distribution model are found to be applicable to derive meaningful agricultural features from precipitation in the Volta Basin (West Africa). Since the analysis of the monthly or annual precipitation amount does not provide any adequate information on rainfall timing and sufficiency of crop water requirement, rainfall modelling was performed on a daily time scale for 29 rainfall stations. The modelled rainfall features follow distinct spatial patterns, which will be presented as maps of(1) rainfall occurrence probabilities and (2) recommendations of optimal planting dates. In addition, the effective drought index (EDI) working on daily time scales is calculated in order to assess drought properties of five different rainfall regions within the Volta Basin. Apart from the common way of separately modelling the duration and intensity due to their different distributions, a copula approach is chosen in this study to construct a bivariate drought distribution. Application of the measures derived to agricultural decision support will be discussed briefly. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Environmental conditions in relation to stress in cherry tomato fruits in two experimental Mediterranean greenhouses
Authors: Rosales Miguel A , Ríos Juan J , Cervilla Luis M , Rubio‐Wilhelmi María M , Blasco Begoña , Ruiz Juan M , Romero Luis
Published: January 2009

BACKGROUND: Considering the economic importance of tomato and its nutritional benefits to human health, a study was conducted on how different environmental factors (temperature, solar radiation and vapour pressure deficit (VPD)) influence hydrogen peroxide detoxification and several stress indicators in cherry tomato (Solanum lycopersicum cv. Naomi) fruits grown in two experimental Mediterranean greenhouses of parral (low‐technology) type and multispan (high‐technology) type.

RESULTS: Three fruit samplings were made at the beginning, middle and end of the fruit production period. Values of temperature, solar radiation and VPD peaked at the third sampling in both greenhouses, being higher in the parral‐type greenhouse, while there was a reduction in market production at the third sampling. Peroxidation (malondialdehyde content and lipoxygenase activity) increased significantly at the third sampling, indicating the presence of oxidative stress caused by the rise in temperature, solar radiation and VPD. The ascorbate content, the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase and ascorbate peroxidase and other stress indicators (proline and sucrose degradation) also increased at the third sampling.

CONCLUSION: This study showed that conditions of higher environmental stress occurred at the third sampling and in the parral‐type greenhouse, leading to the accumulation of ascorbic acid in cherry tomato fruits and therefore to higher nutritional quality. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Capillary affinity electrophoresis and ab initio calculation studies of valinomycin complexation with Na+ ion
Authors: Ehala Sille , Dybal Jirí , Makrlík Emanuel , Kašička Václav
Published: January 2009

In a combined experimental and theoretical approach, the interactions of valinomycin (Val), macrocyclic depsipeptide antibiotic ionophore, with sodium cation Na+ have been investigated. The strength of the Val–Na+ complex was evaluated experimentally by means of capillary affinity electrophoresis. From the dependence of valinomycin effective electrophoretic mobility on the sodium ion concentration in the BGE (methanolic solution of 20 mM chloroacetic acid, 10 mM Tris, 0–40 mM NaCl), the apparent binding (stability) constant (Kb) of the Val–Na+ complex in methanol was evaluated as log Kb = 1.71 ± 0.16. Besides, using quantum mechanical density functional theory (DFT) calculations, the most probable structures of the nonhydrated Val–Na+ as well as hydrated Val–Na+·H2O complex species were proposed. Compared to Val–Na+, the optimized structure of Val–Na+·H2O complex appears to be more realistic as follows from the substantially higher binding energy (118.4 kcal/mol) of the hydrated complex than that of the nonhydrated complex (102.8 kcal/mol). In the hydrated complex, the central Na+ cation is bound by strong bonds to one oxygen atom of the respective water molecule and to four oxygens of the corresponding C=O groups of the parent valinomycin ligand.
Application of continual injection liquid‐phase microextraction method coupled with liquid chromatography to the analysis of organophosphorus pesticides
Authors: Raharjo Yanuardi , Sanagi Mohd Marsin , Ibrahim Wan Aini Wan , Naim Ahmedy Abu , Aboul‐Enein Hassan Y.
Published: January 2009

A liquid‐phase microextraction coupled with LC method has been developed for the determination of organophosphorus pesticides (methidation, quinalphos and profenofos) in drinking water samples. In this method, a small amount (3 μL) of isooctane as the acceptor phase was introduced continually to fill‐up the channel of a 1.5 cm polypropylene hollow fiber using a microsyringe while the hollow fiber was immersed in an aqueous donor solution. A portion of the acceptor phase (ca. 0.4 μL) was first introduced into the hollow fiber and additional amounts (ca. 0.2 μL) of the acceptor phase were introduced to replenish at intervals of 3 min until set end of extraction (40 min). After extraction, the acceptor phase was withdrawn and transferred into a 2 mL vial for a drying step prior to injection into a LC system. Parameters that affect the extraction efficiency were studied including the organic solvent, length of fiber, volume of acceptor and donor phase, stirring rate, extraction time, and effect of salting out. The proposed method provided good enrichment factors of up to 189.50, with RSD ranging from 0.10 to 0.29%, analyte recoveries of over 79.80% and good linearity ranging from 10.0 to 1.25 mg/L. The LOD ranged from 2.86 to 82.66 μg/L. This method was applied successfully to the determination of organophosphorus pesticides in selected drinking water samples.
Influence of a Self‐Assembling Peptide, RADA16, Compared with Collagen I and Matrigel on the Malignant Phenotype of Human Breast‐Cancer Cells in 3D Cultures and in vivo
Authors: Mi Kun , Wang Guixia , Liu Zijia , Feng Zhihua , Huang Ben , Zhao Xiaojun
Published: January 2009

Cancer‐cell phenotype is not only the result of malignant progression, but also dependent on the microenvironment surrounding them, including influences from the extracellular matrix and its structural properties. We have investigated the influence of the nanofiber matrix of the self‐assembling peptide, RADA16, in comparison with collagen I and Matrigel on the malignant phenotype of the human breast‐cancer cell, MDA‐MB‐231, in 3D cultures, including the morphology, survival, proliferation rate, migration potential and the effect of these matrices on the malignancy of the cancer cells in vivo. Our data indicate that these tumor cells change their morphology in response to the different 3D matrix in vitro cultures and the RADA16 self‐assembling peptide scaffold mimics an extracellular matrix and could effectively reduce the malignant phenotype of the tumor cells in vitro and in vivo.

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Dependence of Protein Recognition of Temperature‐Sensitive Imprinted Hydrogels on Preparation Temperature
Authors: Turan Eylem , Özçetin Gökçen , Caykara Tuncer
Published: January 2009

Temperature‐sensitive imprinted and non‐imprinted hydrogels composed of N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPA) and 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methyl‐propanosulfonic acid (AMPS) have been prepared by free‐radical crosslinking copolymerization in aqueous solution at three different temperatures: 10 °C (below the lower critical solution temperature, LCST), 33 °C (at the LCST), and 40 °C (above the LCST). Myoglobin (Mb, MW 17 kDa) is used as the template biomolecule. The effects of the initial concentration and adsorption time over the Mb adsorption capacity of the hydrogels have been analyzed and found to be strongly dependent on the preparation temperature (Tprep). The maximum Mb adsorption for the imprinted hydrogel prepared at 10 °C is 97.40 ± 2.35 mg Mb · g−1 dry gel in 0.32 mg · mL−1 Mb solution at 22 °C. Moreover, batch adsorption equilibrium and selectivity studies have been performed using a reference molecule, hemoglobin (Hb, MW 65 kDa). The imprinted hydrogels have a 2.8–3.3 times higher adsorption capacity for Mb than the non‐imprinted hydrogels prepared at the same Tpreps, and also have a 1.8–2.7 times higher selectivity for the imprinted molecule.

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Frequency‐independent performance of elliptic profile TEM horns
Authors: Malherbe Jag
Published: January 2009

The TEM horn with elliptic E‐plane profile has been shown to give extremely wide bandwidth performance as far as VSWR and gain is concerned. In this article, the variation in radiation pattern versus frequency is explored, and it is shown that, dependant on choice, E‐plane or H‐plane radiation patterns that are virtually independent of frequency can be obtained. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 607–612, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24109
A novel wideband butler matrix using multi‐layer technology
Authors: Traii Mbarek , Nedil Mourad , Gharsallah Ali , Denidni Tayeb A.
Published: January 2009

This article presents a novel design of a 4 × 4 two‐layer wideband Butler matrix using slot coupled directional couplers and wideband crossover. With this new configuration, the proposed matrix was designed to minimize the number of crossovers for reducing the size, the loss of the network and the complexity of the design, which leads with a broad bandwidth of ∼1.5 GHz. A four‐antenna array was connected to the matrix to build a beam‐forming system for beam steering. As a result, four orthogonal beams are produced at −45°, −15°, 15°, and 45°. This matrix is suitable for wideband communication systems. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 659–663, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24116
Improving in‐body ultra wideband communication using near‐field coupling of the implanted antenna
Authors: Khaleghi Ali , Balasingham Ilangko
Published: January 2009

Ultra wideband (UWB) signal transmission from in‐body implanted antenna to on‐body or outside body is considered for biomedical applications. The received energy density of the UWB signal in terms of the distance from the body surface of a human anatomy model is computed. Time‐domain finite integral equation (FIE) and frequency‐dependent body tissue properties are used for field calculations. Path loss factors of the UWB channel for different distances from the body surface and different implanted antenna depths are derived. It is shown that the energy coupling because of the nonradiative near‐field of the body implanted antenna is dominant for the signal transmission. The communication link quality can be significantly improved in the range of 14.5–18 dB by exploiting the near‐field components. As a result, we propose to use the nonradiative near‐field region of the implanted antenna for improving the communication link quality by designing and placing the receiving antenna close to the body surface and then by relaying the signal to the off‐body communication device. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 585–589, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24126
Design and implementation of UWB CPW‐fed planar monopole antenna
Authors: Maeng Joong Ho , Lee Yong Joo , Yang Woon Geun
Published: January 2009

In this article, we designed a CPW‐fed planar monopole antenna suitable for ultra wideband (UWB) wireless communication. The proposed antenna has a rectangular patch with four rectangular notches and bottom elements with a CPW‐fed line embedded inside the bottom elements. A HFSS (High Frequency Structure Simulator) is used to analyze the proposed antenna in the design process and to compare it with the experimental results. The bandwidth of the proposed antenna is measured as 3.083–11.000 GHz for voltage standing wave ratio <2. Measured maximum gain is ∼5.7 dBi at 10.00 GHz. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 650–653, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24127
Optical generation of microwave signal for FMCW radar applications
Authors: Faci S. , Tripon‐Canseliet C. , Benlarbi‐Delaï A. , Alquié G. , Formont S. , Chazelas J.
Published: January 2009

An optically shifted oscillator has been designed in integrated technology and tested in order to use as a signal generator for frequency modulated continuous wave radar applications. Simulation and measurement results demonstrate a 200 MHz microwave frequency tuning range when the applied optical power varies from 0 to 100 mW at a wavelength of 800 nm. Illumination is applied on a photoconductive switch inserted within the circuit to achieve a quasi‐linear oscillation frequency shift with a linear variation of optical power. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 690–693, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24146
A 2 mW, 55.8‐GHz CMOS injection‐locked frequency divider with 7.1‐GHz locking range
Authors: Hsu Wei‐Lun , Chen Chang‐Zhi , Lin Yo‐Sheng
Published: January 2009

A low‐power and wide‐locking‐range 55.8‐GHz (V‐band) injection‐locked frequency‐divider (ILFD) using standard 0.13 μm CMOS technology is reported. To enhance locking range, a shunt inductor was introduced in the source node of the cross‐coupled pair to maximize the equivalent load impedance of the tail transistor, i.e. to maximize the internal power, over the frequency band of interest. In addition, the inductors and capacitors of the LC‐tank were implemented by low‐Q micro‐stripline inductors and high‐Q varactors, respectively, to further improve the locking range of the ILFD. The result shows that a wide‐locking‐range of 7.1 GHz (from 48.7 GHz to 55.8 GHz, 13.6%) was achieved. The power consumption of the ILFD is only 2 mW from a 1.1 V power supply. The chip area was only 0.66 × 0.48 mm2excluding the test pads. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 702–706, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24148
A 40‐W balanced GaN HEMT class‐E power amplifier with 71% efficiency for WCDMA base station
Authors: Lee Yong‐Sub , Lee Mun‐Woo , Jeong Yoon‐Ha
Published: January 2009

A balanced class‐E power amplifier (PA) using a push‐pull GaN HEMT for high power and high efficiency is represented. For validation, a class‐E PA is designed and implemented using a push‐pull type GaN HEMT and tested for a single tone of 2.14 GHz. The measured results show that the balanced GaN HEMT class‐E PA shows a drain efficiency and power‐added efficiency (PAE) of 71% and 67.4% at an output power of 40 W with a gain of 13 dB through the significant harmonic suppression of below −51 dBc. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 842–845, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24150
Miniaturized defected ground structure using lumped capacitor
Authors: Sung Y. J.
Published: January 2009

In this letter, the miniaturized bandstop filter with lumped capacitor element is presented. The resonator is based on a stopband characteristic of U‐shaped defected ground structure (DGS) section. Lumped capacitor element is embedded into DGS section without altering the geometry. The resonant frequency of DGS section is significantly lowered in accordance with increase of capacitor value. The DGS section with different capacitance values is designed and fabricated. From the measured results, size reduction over 60% is achieved by this method. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 802–804, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24152
Small CPW‐fed triple band microstrip monopole antenna for WLAN applications
Authors: Song Xiaodi
Published: January 2009

In this article, a small triple band monopole antenna fed by a coplanar waveguide (CPW) is presented. The proposed antenna has been developed for IEEE802.11 wireless local area network applications in three service bands of 2.4–2.48, 5.15–5.35, and 5.725–5.825 GHz. The small monopole has compact dimensions of 14‐mm height and 26‐mm width. Fed by CPW, it can be integrated with other communication devices easily. The designed antenna is simulated by HFSS software and a good agreement with experimental results is demonstrated. The three operated bandwidths are about 20%, 8%, and 7%. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 747–749, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24166
Experimental study of the influence of moisture and dry density on a silt soil using a monopole probe
Authors: Sagnard F. , Beck Y.‐L.
Published: January 2009

ABSTRACT: Dielectric measurements have been made on a silt soilboard with three moisture contents and different densities using a short monopole probe at microwave frequencies. A detailed analysis has been made to obtain the variation law of the real permittivity with the volumetric moisture content and the dry density of the soil studied. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 820–826, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24185
General equations for the design and evaluation of a stack of two bulk acoustic wave resonators
Authors: Menéndez Óscar , de Paco Pedro , Gemio Joan
Published: January 2009

This article presents a number of general equations for the primary design and evaluation of a stack of two bulk acoustic wave resonators, a structure traditionally known as a stacked crystal filter. The reported equations are validated against the work of other authors, finding a very good agreement between the results. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 752–755, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24188
Finite cover method with multi‐cover layers for the analysis of evolving discontinuities in heterogeneous media
Authors: Kurumatani Mao , Terada Kenjiro
Published: January 2009

We extend the finite cover method (FCM), which is known as a generalized finite element method, to crack simulations for quasi‐brittle heterogeneous solids by using only a regular structured mathematical mesh. The proposed version of the FCM is powered by a method of modeling arbitrary numbers of physical cover layers. This ‘multi‐cover layer modeling’ relies crucially on not only the introduction of multiple layers of physical covers, each of which is associated with a single physical domain, but also the identification of the values of level‐set functions for discontinuities, which can be evaluated from their digital image information. Several numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the successful mesh‐based mesh‐free analyses of heterogeneous solids with arbitrarily evolving cracks and interfacial debonding thanks to the introduction of multiple cover layers. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An advancing front technique for filling space with arbitrary separated objects
Authors: Löhner Rainald , Oñate Eugenio
Published: January 2009

An advancing front technique for filling space with arbitrary, separated objects has been developed. The input required consists of the specification of the desired object type, the mean object size, the distance between objects in space, as well as an initial triangulation of the surface. The objects are assumed to be described by a coarse mesh of tetrahedra. One face at a time is removed from the active front, and, if possible, surrounded by admissible new objects. This operation is repeated until no active faces are left. Two techniques to obtain maximum packing are discussed: closest object placement (during generation) and move/enlarge (after generation). Several examples are included that demonstrate the capabilities of the technique. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The particular solutions for thin plates resting on Pasternak foundations under arbitrary loadings
Authors: Tsai Chia‐Cheng
Published: January 2009

Analytical particular solutions of splines and monomials are obtained for problems of thin plate resting on Pasternak foundation under arbitrary loadings, which are governed by a fourth‐order partial differential equation (PDEs). These analytical particular solutions are valuable when the arbitrary loadings are approximated by augmented polyharmonic splines (APS) constructed by splines and monomials. In our derivations, the real coefficient operator in the governing equation is decomposed into two complex coefficient operators whose particular solutions are known in literature. Then, we use the difference trick to recover the analytical particular solutions of the original operator. In addition, we show that the derived particular solution of spline with its first few directional derivatives are bounded as r → 0. This solution procedure may have the potential in obtaining analytical particular solutions of higher order PDEs constructed by products of Helmholtz‐type operators. Furthermore, we demonstrate the usages of these analytical particular solutions by few numerical cases in which the homogeneous solutions are complementarily solved by the method of fundamental solutions (MFS). © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2010
An investigation of the electrochemical performance of polyaniline coated LiFePO4 materials
Authors: Lei Gangtie , Yi Xiaohua , Wang Lei , Li Zhaohui , Zhou Ji
Published: January 2009

A series of polyaniline‐LiFePO4 (PAn‐LiFePO4) composites were synthesized by in situ polymerization. The samples were characterized by thermogravimetry (TG) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Electrochemical impedance measurements showed that the polyaniline significantly decreased the charge‐transfer resistance of LiFePO4 electrodes. Charge–discharge properties of composites as cathode materials for lithium‐ion batteries were studied. The results indicated that PAn‐LiFePO4 composites had higher discharge capacity and better cycling property. The PAn‐LiFePO4 composite with 25 wt% polyaniline showed the best electrochemical performance. Its first specific discharge capacity was 140.3 mAh/g at 0.1 C and its specific discharge capacity was 118.7 mAh/g after 50 cycles at 1 C. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Warpage–crystallinity relations in rotational molding of polypropylene
Authors: Glomsaker T. , Hinrichsen E.L. , Larsen Å. , Doshev P. , Ommundsen E.
Published: January 2009

The authors present a study of the crystalline properties of selected series of polypropylene (PP) materials in relation to their warpage at conditions relevant for rotational molding. The PP materials have different crystallization temperatures and kinetics. The authors study the crystalline features of the materials using hot‐press experiments and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). In the DSC, the authors do constant cooling rate runs as well as isothermal crystallization and subsequent heating. A multimode crystallization kinetics model was fitted to the DSC cooling runs. Regression analysis was done to relate the results from the crystallization experiments to warpage. The derived empirical model shows that the crystallization temperature, crystallization half‐time, and heat of fusion are the most significant parameters influencing warpage. Materials with warpage deviating from the model average are discussed taking aspects of the multimode kinetics into account. The present work could represent a basic platform for understanding and predicting the warpage during rotational molding process. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Deleterious effects of psychotherapy and counseling in the schools
Authors: Nicholson Heather , Foote Catherine , Grigerick Sarah
Published: January 2009

Providing individual and group counseling has become an identified role for school psychologists working in the school setting. There is an extensive research base that highlights positive outcomes and supports the use of a variety of counseling methods when working with children and adolescents. However, there may exist a host of other outcomes, including deleterious effects, when counseling school‐age children and adolescents. This article looks to identify and summarize some of the possible deleterious effects in school‐based counseling across a variety of disorders and to make school psychologists cognizant of possible negative outcomes when designing and implementing treatment plans. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Preventing boys' problems in schools through psychoeducational programming: A call to action
Authors: O'Neil James M. , Luján Melissa L.
Published: January 2009

Controversy currently exists on whether boys are in crises and, if so, what to do about it. Research is reviewed that indicates that boys have problems that affect their emotional and interpersonal functioning. Psychoeducational and preventive programs for boys are recommended as a call to action in schools. Thematic areas for boys' programming are enumerated including life skills and issues with masculinity ideology and gender role conflict. An example of a program that promotes positive and affirmative masculinity is given. Some of the barriers and strategies to implement programs for boys are discussed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Modified female calling behaviour in Cry1Ac‐resistant Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Zhao Xin C , Wu Kong M , liang Ge M , Guo Yu Y
Published: January 2009

BACKGROUND: The resistance risk in Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) to transgenic cotton that expresses Cry1Ac from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) has raised concerns about the sustainable deployment of Bt cotton. Mating behaviour between resistant and susceptible individuals is an important factor that affects resistance evolution of the insect. The female calling behaviours of the Cry1Ac‐resistant strain and its susceptible control were compared in the laboratory to understand the difference in mating biology.

RESULTS: The proportion of females of the resistant strain calling was significantly reduced by 14%, and the age of the calling peak was delayed by 1 night compared with that of the susceptible strain. During the scotophase, females of the resistant strain started calling more than 100 min later on nights 3 to 7, and spent 30–100 min less time on nights 2 to 7 than the susceptible females. The onset time of calling advanced and the time spent calling increased as a function of age in both susceptible and resistant strains.

CONCLUSION: These results indicate that there is a fitness cost in terms of the female calling behaviour of the resistant strain. The lower proportion of females of the resistant strain showing calling behaviour could reduce the mating frequency of the resistant strain. The delayed onset time of calling in the resistant strain could reduce its mating time, and a reduction in the time spent calling could reduce the attractiveness of resistant females; this could also reduce the mating frequency of the resistant strain. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Surface‐applied insecticide treatments for quarantine control of Japanese beetle, Popillia japonica Newman (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), larvae in field‐grown nursery plants
Authors: Oliver Jason B , Reding Michael E , Youssef Nadeer N , Klein Michael G , Bishop Bert L , Lewis Phil A
Published: January 2009

BACKGROUND: Japanese beetles, Popillia japonica Newman, are a quarantine challenge for nursery shipments from infested to non‐infested states. Marathon (imidacloprid) and Discus (imidacloprid + cyfluthrin) are approved preharvest nursery treatments (US Domestic Japanese Beetle Harmonization Plan; DJHP). This study evaluated approved and non‐approved (acephate, carbaryl, clothianidin, dinotefuran, halofenozide, thiamethoxam, trichlorfon) preharvest treatments, optimal rates (labeled 1×, 0.3–0.75× or 2–3×) and optimal timings (June, July, August and September) to control early‐instar (grubs) P. japonica in field nurseries.

RESULTS: Most insecticides effectively reduced grub densities, except for acephate, carbaryl and trichlorfon. Clothianidin, thiamethoxam and halofenozide provided grub control equivalent to DJHP standards during most years. Across all test years and timings, percentage grub reductions were: Marathon (1×: 59.2–100; 3×: 78.9–100), Discus (1×: 60.7–100), clothianidin (1×: 96.1–100; 3×: 97.4–100), thiamethoxam (1×: 75.0–100; 3×: 80.0–100), halofenozide (1×: 70.0–100; 3×: 90.0–100) and dinotefuran (1×: 13.2–88.2; 3×: 71.1–93.4).

CONCLUSIONS: July application was more consistent and effective than other timings, and higher rates (2× and 3×) did not generally improve grub control. Overall, clothianidin, thiamethoxam and halofenozide (and dinotefuran applied in August) were equivalent to current DJHP standards. These insecticides may be suitable for DJHP Category 2 states, potentially lowering grower costs. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Anticoagulant resistance: a relevant issue in sewer rat (Rattus norvegicus) control?
Authors: Heiberg Ann‐Charlotte
Published: January 2009

BACKGROUND: The majority of rat problems in cities are thought to be related to defective sewers, and the use of anticoagulant rodenticides in such places is often implemented as part of regular urban rodent control. Knowledge pertaining to the resistance status of sewer rat populations is non‐existent, which may be leading to control problems in cities. It has become crucial to provide knowledge on the prevalence of resistance and how different control strategies have affected its prevalence among sewer rat populations. The prevalence of resistance was investigated in six sewer locations in Copenhagen and its suburban area by means of the blood clotting response (BCR) test and amplification refractory mutation system polymerase chain reaction (ARMS PCR) analysis, and by additional sequencing of the VKORC1 gene. The sewer locations were chosen to represent three different control strategies: (i) no anticoagulant use for approximately 20 years; (ii) no anticoagulant use for the last 5 years; (iii) continuous use for several decades up to the present.

RESULTS: A low level of anticoagulant resistance was found in the sewers regardless of control strategy. Surprisingly, none of the rats, including the resistant rats, had resistance‐related mutations in the VKORC1 gene.

CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that the genetic background of anticoagulant resistance may have to be redefined in respect of resistance‐related changes in the VKORC1 gene. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Bioassay‐guided fractionation of lemon balm (Melissa officinalisL.) using anin vitromeasure of GABA transaminase activity
Authors: Awad Rosalie , Muhammad Asim , Durst Tony , Trudeau Vance L. , Arnason John T.
Published: January 2009

A novel pharmacological mechanism of action for the anxiolytic botanicalMelissa officinalisL. (lemon balm) is reported. The methanol extract was identified as a potentin vitroinhibitor of rat brain GABA transaminase (GABA‐T), an enzyme target in the therapy of anxiety, epilepsy and related neurological disorders. Bioassay‐guided fractionation led to the identification and isolation of rosmarinic acid (RA) and the triterpenoids, ursolic acid (UA) and oleanolic acid (OA) as active principles. Phytochemical characterization of the crude extract determined RA as the major compound responsible for activity (40% inhibition at 100 µg/mL) since it represented approximately 1.5% of the dry mass of the leaves. Synergistic effects may also play a role. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cardioprotective effect of sasanquasaponin preconditioning via bradykinin‐NO pathway in isolated rat heart
Authors: Liao Zhangping , Yin Dong , Wang Wufeng , Zeng Guohua , Liu Dan , Chen Heping , Huang Qiren , He Ming
Published: January 2009

Sasanquasaponin (SQS) is an effective component of Camellia oleifera Abel. This study was designed to investigate the cardioprotective effect of SQS against ischemia‐reperfusion (I/R) injury and the possible mechanism in isolated rat hearts. These hearts were pretreated by SQS only or SQS and HOE140 in different groups, and then subjected to I/R injury. Hemodynamic parameters, oxidative injury, and NO level were measured. The results showed that SQS preconditioning could decrease the incidences of arrhythmias and improve the heart functions. In addition, SQS preconditioning could protect isolated I/R injured heart against lipid peroxidation, as evidenced by increases in SOD and GSH‐Px activity, and by decreases in contents of MDA, ROS generation. However, HOE140 treatment reversed all these indexes. NO production was significantly decreased after a treatment with HOE140. So we can propose that SQS preconditioning could induce the cardioprotective effects and the possible mechanism was that the activation of bradykinin‐NO system by SQS preconditioning had an inhibition effect on ROS generation in isolated heart. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Magnolol enhances pentobarbital‐induced sleeping behaviors: possible involvement of GABAergic systems
Authors: Ma Hong , Kim Chung‐Soo , Ma Yuan , Nam Sang‐Yoon , Kim Dong‐Seon , Woo Sung‐Sick , Hong Jin‐Tae , Oh Ki‐Wan
Published: January 2009

This study was performed to investigate whether magnolol enhances pentobarbital‐induced sleeping behaviors through the GABAergic systems. Magnolol prolonged the sleeping time induced by pentobarbital. In addition, magnolol increased chloride influx in primary cultured cerebellar granule cells. The expression of the GABAA receptor α‐subunit was increased selectively by magnolol, but magnolol had no effect on the abundance of β‐ or γ‐subunits. The expression of glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) was not influenced by magnolol. It is suggested that magnolol may enhance pentobarbital‐induced sleeping behaviors through the activation of GABAergic systems. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of yokukansan, a traditional Japanese medicine, on aggressiveness induced by intracerebroventricular injection of amyloid β protein into mice
Authors: Sekiguchi Kyoji , Yamaguchi Takuji , Tabuchi Masahiro , Ikarashi Yasushi , Kase Yoshio
Published: January 2009

The effects of yokukansan, a traditional Japanese medicine, on aggressiveness and motor activities were examined in mice after injection of amyloid β protein (Aβ) into the lateral ventricle of the brain. The results were compared with those of conventional (haloperidol) and atypical (risperidone) antipsychotic medicines. A significant increase in aggressiveness was observed on day 7 after injection of Aβ, and it lasted until day 28. A single oral administration of yokukansan (1.0 g/kg) did not ameliorate the aggressiveness observed on day 7. However, a tendency toward amelioration of the aggressiveness was observed after the administration of yokukansan (0.5 and 1.0 g/kg) for 1 week (days 7–14). The 3 week administration (days 7–28) of yokukansan significantly ameliorated the aggressiveness in a dose‐dependent manner without inhibition of motor activity. In contrast, a single administration of intraperitoneal haloperidol (0.03–0.1 mg/kg) or oral risperidone (0.1–0.3 mg/kg) on day 28 significantly reduced aggressiveness in a dose‐dependent manner. However, motor activities were significantly suppressed. These results suggest yokukansan reduces aggressiveness without suppressing physical activity. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chemometric Analysis of the Gelatinization and Pasting Properties of Long‐grain Rice Starches in Relation to Fine Structure
Authors: Patindol James , Gu Xiaofang , Wang Ya‐Jane
Published: January 2009

Chemometric tests were carried out to better understand the multidimensional facet of starch fine structure‐relationship concerning gelatinization and pasting properties. With Ward's hierarchical cluster analysis 20 long‐grain rice starch samples were sorted out into three clusters based on similarities in functional properties, particularly, paste peak (PV) and final viscosity (FV). The three clusters (arbitrarily named Clusters A, B, and C) exhibited a pasting profile trend of PVFV, respectively. Cluster A samples were also lower in peak temperature, range and enthalpy of gelatinization, and swelling power. These attributes were associated with higher amylose content (AM), β‐amylolysis limit, and percentage of B1 chains (DP13‐24), but lower amylopectin weight‐average molar mass (Mw) and percentage of A chains (DP6‐12). A 5‐variable linear discriminant function correctly predicted 85% of the Ward's cluster membership of the individual cultivars. The discriminant function included the variables A, B1, and B2 (DP25‐36) chains, average chain length (ACL), and gyration radius (Rz). Fine structure variance was fully explained by a total of nine principal components, with the first three components cumulatively accounting for 74%. The leading variables included in the three rotated components pertained to amylopectin chain length distribution (A, B2, and B3+ or DP≥37 chains, and ACL) and amylopectin molar mass (Mw, Rz, and polydispersity). AM and Mw were loaded most frequently in the 4‐variable, best‐fit linear regression models for predicting gelatinization and pasting properties. A combination of at least two fine structure variables controls the functionality of rice starch.
Screening of Starch Quality Traits in Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz)
Authors: Sánchez Teresa , Salcedo Enna , Ceballos Hernán , Dufour Dominique , Mafla Graciela , Morante Nelson , Calle Fernando , Pérez Juan C. , Debouck Daniel , Jaramillo Gustavo , Moreno Isabel Ximena
Published: January 2009

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is one of the most important sources of starch in the tropics. There is limited and contradictory information regarding cassava starch characteristics. The International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) holds in trust FAO's cassava germplasm collection. Starches from 3272 landraces (including 12 wild relatives) and 772 improved clones were extracted and analyzed over a period of several years. In most cases only one starch sample per genotype was analyzed. Average cyanogenic potential was 327 ppm but considerably higher in the landraces (340 ppm) than in improved clones (267 ppm). Average total and reducing sugars were slightly higher in improved clones (4.06 and 1.56%, respectively) than in landraces (3.68 and 1.25%, respectively). Amylose content was similar in both types of germplasm with an average of 20.7%. Average pasting temperature was 65.3°C. Maximum viscosity was 777.5 mPa s, breakdown was 298.1 mPa s, consistency was 155.8 mPa s and setback was ‐144.5 mPa s. The large sample of starches analyzed provides very robust information regarding the actual characteristics of cassava starch.
Cadmium‐induced infertility in male mice
Authors: Monsefi Malihezaman , Alaee Sanaz , Moradshahi Ali , Rohani Lahya
Published: January 2009

The effects of cadmium in a concentration similar to that found in Maharloo Lake (Shiraz, Iran) on male reproductive system was studied in adult Balb/c male mice that received 0, 23, and 50 mg/kg of cadmium chloride in 0.5 mL distilled water for 45 days. Sperm count and motility, sperm nuclear maturity and chromatin structure tests were carried out. Testis of each mouse was examined histologically. The treated male mice were mated with females. Prostatic and nonprostatic acid phosphatase activity in blood serum, testis, and prostate, lipid peroxidation and cadmium accumulation in testis, seminal vesicle, and middle 1/3 of the quadericeps femoris muscle were measured. The sperm count, sperm motility, sperm maturity, and the level of testosterone decreased significantly in the high dose adminstered group. Histological studies showed a severe necrosis and atrophy in the testis of high dose group, consequently, there was no successful mating in some groups. The number of newborns and their weights and crown rump lengths reduced. Cadmium accumulation in testis and middle of the quadriceps femoris muscle was significantly higher in animals receiving 50 mg/kg cadmium chloride. Nonprostatic acid phosphatase activity decreased, whereas prostatic acid phosphatase activity increased significantly in serum of animals receiving 50 mg/kg cadmium chloride. Also prostatic acid phosphatase activity decreased significantly in prostate of animals receiving 50 mg/kg cadmium chloride. Lipid peroxidation was significantly higher in testis of animals treated with 50 mg/kg cadmium chloride compared with control group. Cadmium affects male reproductive system activity and can cause infertility in mice as an animal model. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 2010.
Assessment of the toxicological interaction of sertraline with cholinesterase inhibiting insecticides in aquatic insects using the black fly, Simulium vittatum IS‐7
Authors: Overmyer Jay P. , Smith Paul F. , Kellock Kristen A. , Kwon Jeong‐Wook , Armbrust Kevin L.
Published: January 2009

Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) prescribed as an antidepressant. Although SSRIs are known to block serotonin reuptake sites on cell membranes, they also have been shown to inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity. Thus, the interaction of these chemicals with other AChE inhibitors, namely, organophosphate and carbamate insecticides, is of interest. In addition, these insecticides have been shown to interact with serotonergic neuronal pathways creating questions as to how these chemicals might interact. In this study, the interactive effect of sertraline (SSRI) in binary combinations with carbaryl (carbamate insecticide) and diazinon (organophosphate insecticide) was assessed using a 48‐h acute toxicity test with black fly larvae, Simulium vittatum IS‐7. Results showed that observed mortality was bracketed by the independent action model and concentration addition model with the independent action model slightly underestimating mortality and the concentration addition model slightly overestimating mortality. Varying the concentration of the chemicals in the mixture did not indicate that sertraline was interacting with the insecticides to make them more toxic or vice versa. These results indicate that sertraline and the insecticides are likely eliciting toxicity at separate neuronal pathways since no interaction was observed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 2010.
Vitamin D deficiency in patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria
Authors: Spelt J. M. C. , de Rooij F. W. M. , Wilson J. H. P. , Zandbergen A. A. M.
Published: January 2009

Background:

The main symptom of patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is painful photosensitivity, starting within minutes of sun exposure and leading to sun‐avoidance. As 80–100% of vitamin D is synthesized under the influence of sunlight, we investigated whether the avoidance of sunlight exposure in the Dutch EPP patient population causes vitamin D deficiency. Furthermore, we studied the relation between vitamin D levels, total erythrocyte protoporphyrin and quality of life.

Methods:

In a cross‐sectional study of 48 Dutch EPP patients (mean age 41.4 years; range 16–77; 23 male, 25 female), we assessed serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels between June and November 2007, as well as total erythrocyte protoporphyrin (TEP) levels and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) scores.

Results:

Mean serum 25(OH)D was 66 nmol/L (range 18–140, quartiles 36, 87). Twenty‐two patients (46%; 15 male, 7 female) were vitamin D deficient. There was a significant difference (p = 0.029) in mean serum 25(OH)D between female (mean 75 nmol/L, range 18–140) and male patients (mean 55 nmol/L, range 18–115). The level of serum 25(OH)D showed a negative correlation with total erythrocyte protoporphyrin (TEP) (Pearson rank correlation (rp) = −0.337; p = 0.034). Serum 25(OH)D was inversely associated with scores of the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) (Spearman's rho correlation (rs) = −0.486; p = 0.001).

Conclusions:

The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is high in the Dutch EPP population, especially in male patients, and correlates with the severity of EPP. Screening for and treatment of vitamin D deficiency should therefore be implemented in the care of these patients.
Effects of Growth Conditions on Structural Properties of ZnO Nanostructures on Sapphire Substrate by Metal–Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Wu CC , Wuu DS , Lin PR , Chen TN , Horng RH
Published: January 2009

ZnO was grown on sapphire substrate by metal–organic chemical vapor deposition using the diethylzinc (DEZn) and oxygen (O2) as source chemicals at 500 °C. Influences of the chamber pressure and O2/DEZn ratio on the ZnO structural properties were discussed. It was found that the chamber pressure has significant effects on the morphology of ZnO and could result in various structures of ZnO including pyramid-like, worm-like, and columnar grain. When the chamber pressure was kept at 10 Torr, the lowest full width at half-maximum of ZnO (002) of 175 arc second can be obtained. On the other hand, by lowering the DEZn flow rate, the crystal quality of ZnO can be improved. Under high DEZn flow rate, the ZnO nanowall-network structures were found to grow vertically on the sapphire substrate without using any metal catalysts. It suggests that higher DEZn flow rate promotes three-dimensional growth mode resulting in increased surface roughness. Therefore, some tip on the ZnO surface could act as nucleation site. In this work, the growth process of our ZnO nanowall networks is said to follow the self-catalyzed growth mechanism under high-DEZn flow rate.
Introduction and characterization of a polymerase‐dead point mutation into the POLK gene in vertebrates
Authors: Takenaka Katsuya , Miki Yoshio
Published: January 2009

The chicken DT40 cell line is widely used for gene knock‐outs. We attempted to introduce a polymerase‐dead point mutation into Polκ, a polymerase for translesion DNA synthesis, taking advantage of the highly efficient targeted integration in DT40 cells. The resulting cells (REV3
−/−
POLK
/

pol‐dead
) proliferated with the same kinetics as the parental REV3
−/− cells. Though the mock‐treated REV3
−/−
POLK
/

mock
cells showed the same sensitivity as the parental REV3
−/− cells to methyl methanesulfonate, the REV3
−/−
POLK
/

pol‐dead
cells demonstrated the same sensitivity as the REV3
−/−
POLK
/− double knock‐out cells. This implies that the presence of the polymerase‐dead Polκ does not interfere with other polymerases repairing monoalkylation damage.