bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Grooming patterns in Verreaux's sifaka
Authors: Lewis Rebecca J.
Published: July 2010

Lemur grooming has received very little attention in the literature. Nevertheless, allogrooming in lemurs has been suggested to be fundamentally different from the grooming of anthropoids. One reason is that lemurs generally rely on oral rather than manual grooming. Lemur allogrooming has also been suggested to serve less of a social function than has been attributed to anthropoid grooming. I analyzed the allogrooming behaviors of 29 Verreaux's sifaka (Propithecus verreauxi) living in five social groups in the Kirindy Forest of Madagascar. Based upon 1,586 observation hours, I found that sifaka, like anthropoids, spend very little time mutual grooming (2±3%). Half of all allogrooming involved parts of the body that could have been easily groomed by the recipient, such as the limbs. Even though ectoparasite loads are expected to be greater during the rainy season, allogrooming did not increase during the rainy season. Allogrooming rates were influenced by both rank and sex, and increased by 50–100% during the mating season. The results of this study suggest that allogrooming in Verreaux's sifaka plays an important social function, even though it is performed with a toothcomb. Am. J. Primatol. 72:254–261, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Managing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Slowing disease progression and improving patient quality of life
Authors: Brooks Benjamin Rix
Published: July 2010

It is now possible to slow the disease progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but documented improvement in the quality of life of ALS patients has been difficult to quantitate. Putative mechanisms involved in motor neuron degeneration in ALS include oxidative damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, growth factor deficiency, and glutamate excitotoxicity. Several pharmacological agents that target these potential targets have demonstrated therapeutic potential in animal models with mutations in the gene encoding Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1). Many treatments that have been moderately effective in this animal model have not been successfully translated into effective treatments for humans with ALS. Only the glutamate modulator riluzole has demonstrated efficacy in clinical trials and is approved for treating ALS. Combination treatments may represent a potential therapeutic strategy to more robustly prolong life and preserve function, but only vitamin E with riluzole has been formally studied in clinical trials, and to date, no combination treatments have been found to be more effective than currently available single agents. Ann Neurol 2009;65 (suppl):S17–S23
Racing against the clock: Recognizing, differentiating, diagnosing, and referring the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patient
Authors: Shook Steven J. , Pioro Erik P.
Published: July 2010

Recognition of the early symptoms and signs in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, exclusion of alternative diagnoses, and referral to a tertiary center can have a significant positive impact on the lives of patients and their caregivers. This article provides the most current amyotrophic lateral sclerosis criteria, as well as helpful clinical clues to the diagnosis. An approach to laboratory testing, electrodiagnostic testing, and imaging to exclude diseases that mimic ALS also are discussed, as are atypical presentations that can confound timely diagnosis. Ann Neurol 2009;65 (suppl):S10–S16
Ferrocene‐modified thiopyrimidines: synthesis, enantiomeric resolution, antitumor activity
Authors: Simenel Alexander A. , Dokuchaeva Galina A. , Snegur Lubov' V. , Rodionov Alexey N. , Ilyin Mikhail M. , Zykova Svetlana I. , Ostrovskaya Larissa A. , Bluchterova Natalia V. , Fomina Margarita M. , Rikova Valentina A.
Published: July 2010

Ferrocenylalkyl thiopyrimidines (6a–d to 9a–d) were prepared via the reaction of the α‐(hydroxy)alkyl ferrocenes, FcCHR(OH) (1a–d; Fc = ferrocenyl; R = H, Me, Et, Ph), with 2‐thiopyrimidines (2–5) in acetone at room temperature in the presence of TFA, yielding 50–95%. The resulting enantiomers were resolved using HPLC on modified cellulose as chiral selector. The antitumor activities of S‐ferrocenylethyl 2‐thiopyrimidine (6b) against two murine solid tumor models, carcinoma 755 (Ca755) and Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) were evaluated in vivo. The strong antitumor effect of compound 6b on Ca755 and LLC was demonstrated. The index of tumor growth inhibition on Ca755 equaled 95% in comparison with control. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simultaneous allocation and data reconciliation procedure in life cycle inventory analysis using fuzzy mathematical programming
Authors: Ilagan Ethel R. , Tan Raymond R.
Published: July 2010

Life cycle assessment (LCA) is a methodology used in assessing the environmental impacts of products. Life cycle inventory analysis (LCI) is one of the four components of LCA which quantifies flows of materials and pollutants in the entire life cycle (cradle‐to‐grave) of the product. Data are commonly collected from various sources (e.g. publications, databases and site‐specific measurements) which may result in violations of mass and energy balances due to uncertainties. In such cases, the data can be adjusted using reconciliation methods to improve the reliability of the results. Another computational issue in LCI arises when two or more products are involved, known as the multi‐functionality or allocation problem. The problem is how to allocate resource and emission streams to each product. This work describes a model using fuzzy optimization for solving both allocation and data reconciliation problems simultaneously. The model is illustrated on an aluminum industry case study involving open‐loop recycling, and the approach is compared with two sequential allocation and data reconciliation methods. Copyright © 2010 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Icosahedral‐hexagonal grids on a sphere for CFD applications
Authors: Upadhyaya H. C. , Sharma Om P. , Mittal R. , Fatima H.
Published: July 2010

An efficient method for achieving the non‐uniform grids on a spherical geometry is presented here. It uses the icosahedral–hexagonal grid with successive refinement to arrive at the target grid suitable for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) applications. It reduces the complexity of search from O(n2) to O(n) on icosahedral–hexagonal grids where n refers to the refinement level. The numerical solution of the transport equation is performed using the initial conditions of a well‐known problem (solid‐body rotation); the numerical scheme is second‐order accurate. Since advection of chemically active tracers in the atmosphere and their modelling are becoming a major area of concern within the climate change scenario, this study assures the efficiency and accuracy of the numerical scheme as tested here for tracer transport. Copyright © 2010 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and properties of new fluoroelastomer nanocomposites from tailored anionic layered magnesium silicates (hectorite)
Authors: Maiti Madhuchhanda , Bhowmick Anil K.
Published: July 2010

In the field of polymer clay nanocomposites, naturally occurring smectite group of clays are the most commonly used nanofillers. In the present work, smectite group clay, hectorite was synthesized in the laboratory with an intention to understand the structure–property relationship of polymer nanocomposites, with special reference to the characteristics of the nanoclays. The nanocomposites were prepared using these synthetic clays and fluoroelastomer by a solution mixing process. The clays and their nanocomposites were characterized by using X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray fluorescence, infra‐red spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. It was observed that clay formation was a function of the concentration of the constituent materials. The gallery spacings and surface areas of synthetic clays are higher than those of the natural clay. Mechanical, dynamic mechanical, swelling, and thermal properties of these nanocomposites were also studied. The properties of these nanocomposites were compared with the nanocomposites obtained from natural clays, available commercially. Synthetic clay filled samples showed better properties than the natural clay filled samples, e.g., synthetic hectorite filled sample exhibited 75% increment in tensile strength and 24% improvement in 100% modulus compared with the natural hectorite based system. The results were explained with the help of thermodynamics and morphology. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Development and characterization of boron incorporated linseed oil polyurethanes
Authors: Akram Deewan , Sharmin Eram , Ahmad Sharif
Published: July 2010

The aim of this work was to investigate the structures and properties of boron incorporated linseed oil polyols (BPEPs) and their polyurethanes (BPEPUs). Hydroxylation was performed in situ using H2O2 and acetic acid; the syntheses of BPEPs and BPEPUs involves polyesterification and polyaddition reactions following “single‐pot, multi‐step” reactions strategy. Spectral (IR, 1H‐NMR, and 13C‐NMR), physicochemical, thermal (TGA, DSC), physico‐mechanical analyses and corrosion/chemical resistance performance of aforementioned resins confirmed the incorporation of boron in polyol and polyurethane backbone. BPEPUs followed a clear cut “three step‐ambient temperature” curing strategy. They showed very good resistance to 5 wt % HCl, 3.5 wt % NaCl (unaffected for 16 and 14 days, respectively), moderate alkali resistance and moderate to good antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus. Our investigations reveal that (i) the incorporation of boron has significant influence on the structural, physicochemical aspects, physico‐mechanical, chemical resistance behavior, and thermal stability of polyurethanes, (ii) boron linkages play dual role, both as cross linker and modifier, and (iii) BPEPUs may serve as efficient corrosion protective material, which may be safely employed upto 230°C. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Phase separation and mechanical properties of polyketone/polyamide polymer alloys
Authors: Kato Atsushi , Nishioka Maiko , Takahashi Youhei , Suda Toshiya , Sawabe Hisahiro , Isoda Ayano , Drozdova Olga , Hasegawa Toshinori , Izumi Toshihiro , Nagata Kazuya , Hikasa Shigeki , Iwabuki Hitoshi , Asano Atsushi
Published: July 2010

We have investigated polyketone (PK)/polyamide 6 (PA) polymer alloys having enhanced Charpy impact energy greater than that of polycarbonate (PC) as a result of moisture absorption. From the results of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Raman spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscope (TEM) observation of the polymer alloys, it was found that PK‐rich and PA‐rich phases exist at the nanometer level in the polymer alloys; however, a microscopic interaction phase formed between the two phases. 3D‐TEM observations, electron energy loss spectroscopy, and small‐angle X‐ray scattering measurements revealed that a co‐continuous nanolayer formed from the PA‐rich phase and lamella network of the PK‐rich phase. Moreover, the interaction and mobility of PK and PA molecular chains were investigated by using a 13C cross polarization/magic angle sample spinning NMR technique. It was found that moisture absorption markedly enhances the mobility of PA molecular chains in PK/PA alloys. This suggests that the wet (moisture‐absorbed) PA phase of PK/PA alloys allows quick deformation upon impact stimulation. On the other hand, the results of Charpy impact tests showed that the total impact energy (Etotal) of the wet polymer alloy was much higher than that of the dry one. An examination of the load‐displacement curves revealed that the wet samples showed a pronounced increase in displacement compared with the dry ones. From these results, it was concluded that the lamella network of the PK‐rich phase sustains the maximum stress and that the large displacement of the PA‐rich phase increases the impact energy. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Synthesis and distribution of structural units—Thermal property relationship of random and block butadiene‐styrene copolymers with high trans 1,4 units content produced using an initiator composed of alkyl aluminum,n‐butyl lithium, and barium alkoxide
Authors: Benvenuta‐Tapia Juan José , Tenorio‐López José Alfredo , Herrera‐Nájera Rafael , Ríos‐Guerrero Leonardo
Published: July 2010

Random, diblock, and triblock copolymers of butadiene and styrene, with a well‐defined, high number of 1,4‐trans units (c.a. 80%), were synthesized by anionic living polymerization using an initiator system composed of alkyl aluminum,n‐butyl lithium, and barium alkoxide. The thermal properties of the block copolymers obtained by sequential addition of monomers were basically determined by the 1,4‐trans units of the polybutadiene block. Kinetic data and1H‐nuclear magnetic resonance analyses showed that simultaneous polymerization of butadiene and styrene provided copolymers with a predominantly random distribution. By increasing the styrene content, the thermal properties of these copolymers were modified; polymers with 80% content of 1,4‐trans units and 5% of styrene presented an endothermic transition at or slightly below room temperature (20°C), corresponding to the crystalline monoclinic form of high 1,4‐trans polybutadiene, whereas copolymers with 25–50% styrene content were amorphous. The glass transition temperature of these copolymers increased significantly as the styrene content was increased. Both the block and random copolymers have a sufficient number of 1,4‐trans units to display a regular distribution of structural units that makes them susceptible to strain‐induced crystallization, which is important for the manufacture of products such as high‐performance tires. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Study on bulk polymerization of methyl methacrylate initiated by low intensity ultrasonic irradiation
Authors: Ma Sude , Song Guolin , Zhong Lisheng , Tang Guoyi
Published: July 2010

Methyl methacrylate (MMA) was polymerized in bulk solutions using low intensity ultrasonic radiation of 0.25 W/cm2. The polymerization occurred after 1 h of irradiation time was applied. The polymerization rate was greatly accelerated either by increasing the amount of poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) granular added into the system or by elongating the irradiation time. However, it was found that the reaction rate increased with the decreasing of the ultrasonic frequencies when the exposure time of the polymerization under the irradiation was less than 3 h. Experimental results verified that the polymerization was initiated by free radicals, which were mainly generated from the degradation of PMMA macromolecular chains, the friction between the polymer macromolecular chains and the solvent monomer. These findings were obviously different from those obtained when high intensity ultrasonic irradiation was used. The polymers fabricated in this study by using ultrasound irradiation have a narrower molecular weight distribution compared to those obtained from the polymerizations induced by the conventional initiators. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Allylic Imidate Rearrangements Catalyzed by Planar Chiral Palladacycles
Authors: Nomura Hiroshi , Richards Christopher J.
Published: July 2010

The discovery that palladacycles are efficient catalysts for the allylic imidate rearrangement has resulted in the successful application of several such complexes to this reaction based on planar chiral iron and cobalt containing metallocenes. These palladacycles enable the efficient and highly enantioselective synthesis of a wide variety of protected allylic amines, which are valuable building blocks for use in asymmetric synthesis.
Unconventional USC intersection corridors: evaluation of potential implementation in Doha, Qatar
Authors: Esawey Mohamed El , Sayed Tarek
Published: July 2010

Unconventional intersection designs have been recently proposed as a new approach to deal with heavy left turns at signalized intersections. One of these unconventional schemes, the Upstream Signalized Crossover (USC) intersection, was shown to significantly reduce average vehicle delays; particularly when the volumes entering the intersection are relatively high. The Ministry of Public Works of Qatar is considering the implementation of the USC intersection on three signalized intersections along a major urban corridor in Doha. This paper investigates the potential improvements associated with the USC implementation. VISSIM was used to analyze the proposed USC intersections and the existing conventional intersections. Analyses were carried out for AM, Midday, and PM peak hours. The results showed that most of the travel time measurement sections experienced lower delays in the USC configuration for the three peak periods. As well, the total system delay, in hours, for the USC configuration was less than that of the conventional configuration by 19.4, 14.8, and 13.6% for the AM, Midday, and PM peaks, respectively. The average control delay for each single USC intersection was lower than its conventional counterpart by between 7.6 and 22.9%. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Korrosionsverhalten von Anschweißankern aus nichtrostendem Stahl bei hinterlüfteten Außenwandbekleidungen aus Naturwerkstein
Authors: Nürnberger Ulf , Köse Cenk
Published: July 2010

In diesem Beitrag werden Betrachtungen zur Korrosion von Anschweißankern aus nichtrostendem Stahl der Werkstoff‐Nr. 1.4571 bei Naturwerksteinfassaden angestellt. Weiterhin werden Ergebnisse korrosionstechnischer Untersuchungen an derartigen Ankern aus bestehenden, bis zu 23 Jahre alten Bauwerken wiedergegeben. Bei sachgerechter Interpretation der dargestellten Zusammenhänge kann gefolgert werden, dass die im Regelwerk geforderten Maßnahmen zur grundsätzlichen Entfernung von Anlauffarben und zum Verschließen von Spalten bei atmosphärisch beanspruchten geschweißten Verbindungen im Fall der hinterlüfteten Außenwandbekleidungen aus Sicht der Korrosion technisch nicht begründet und unnötig sind.

Corrosion behaviour of stainless steel weld‐on anchors of claddings for external walls ventilated at the rear and made of natural stone. In the contribution considerations are made about the corrosion of stainless steel weld‐on anchors of the material No. 1.4571 of claddings for external walls ventilated at the rear. Furthermore, results of corrosiontechnical investigations on such anchors of buildings which are up to 23 years old are reported. With proper interpretation of the shown connections it must necessarily be concluded that the measures in the set of rules concerning the removal of temper colours and the closing of crevices of atmospherically exposed weld‐on anchors are technically not founded and unnecessary from the corrosion point of view if ventilated facades are taken into consideration.
Neubau der Kultur‐ und Gesellschaftswissenschaftlichen Fakultät der Universität Salzburg
Authors: Mathes Donald , Stengler Matthias , Lugenheim Matthias
Published: July 2010

Mit der Planung und Errichtung des Neubaus für die Kultur‐ und Gesellschaftswissenschaftliche Fakultät (KGW) der Universität Salzburg entsteht ein Gebäude, das dank seiner exponierten und herausfordernden Architektur, aber auch wegen der Problematik des anstehenden Baugrunds höchste Anforderungen an die Aus‐ und Durchbildung des gesamten Tragwerks stellt, über das zu berichten lohnt. Dabei bedingen die unterschiedlichsten gestalterischen und funktionalen Anforderungen des Gebäudes bauteilkonkret spezifische Antworten, die frühzeitig in der Planung an zudenken und bezüglich ihrer Wirtschaftlichkeit zu bewerten waren. Die entwurfsbedingt weitgehende Freistellung der mittleren Geschosse des Baus von Stützelementen erfordert die Ausbildung weitspannender Tragwerke in den Obergeschossen, wobei hier nur begrenzt Platz für die Erzielung statischer Höhen zur Verfügung stand. Andererseits mussten die konzentriert angreifenden, beträchtlichen Lasten der Obergeschosse mit weit gespannten Gründungskonstruktionen verteilt und in den begrenzt tragfähigen Baugrund abgeleitet werden.

The new building for the Faculty of Cultural & Social Sciences of the University of Salzburg — A remarkable building with an exceptional supporting structure. Due to its prominent and provocative architecture as well as because of the difficult ground conditions the new building for the Faculty of Cultural & Social Sciences (KGW) of the University of Salzburg becomes a building that requires the highest standards for the development and reali zation of the static superstructure, which is worth to mention.

The most different design and functional requirements of the building call for component‐specific answers which had to be tackled early in the design and to be assessed regarding their economics.

The design‐related extensive clearance of the middle floors from supporting elements requires the construction of large‐span supporting structures in the upper floors leaving only limited space to achieve static heights.

Contrary to that, the immense acting forces of the upper floors had to be distributed through large‐span foundations and transferred into the inadequate loadbearing ground.
Stochastische Abschätzung der Versagenswahrscheinlichkeit von Spannbetontragwerken infolge Spannungsrisskorrosion unter Berücksichtigung verschiedener Schädigungsverteilungen
Authors: Bauer Thomas , Müller Michael , Patz Rüdiger , Wilhehm Tobias , Schwarz Johannes , Tue Nguyen Viet
Published: July 2010

Der bis 1965 hergestellte vergütete Spannstahl weist eine hohe Empfindlichkeit gegenüber Spannungsrisskorrosion auf. Ein Ausfall des Spannstahls in einzelnen Bauteilen während der Nutzung kann nicht ausgeschlossen werden, sowohl bei Brücken als auch bei Hochbauten. In diesem Beitrag wird mit Hilfe der Stochastik jedoch gezeigt, dass die Wahrscheinlichkeit eines Versagens ohne An kün digung durch die Rissbildung bei Spannbetonbauteilen mit meh reren Spanngliedern, wie dies bei Brücken in der Regel der Fall ist, im Allgemeinen sehr gering ist. Für eine bessere statistische Aussage ist eine gezielte Untersuchung zur Feststellung des Schadenablaufs von Spannstahl im Bauwerk sehr wünschenswert.

Stochastic estimation for failure probability of prestressed concrete members due to stress corrosion considering different failure processes of tendons. The hardened and tempered prestressing steel, which was manufactured by 1965, exhibits a high sensibility to stress corrosion. The loss for the bearing capacity of the individual tendon during the service life can not be excluded, both for bridges and building structures. However, in this contribution, by using stochastic method, it is demonstrated that the failure probability for existing prestressed concrete structures without prior announcement by cracking is very small. For a better statistical estimation, the inspection of the failure processes of the tendons in structures is very helpful.
Bemessung eines Stützbauwerks nach Eurocode — Teil 2: Erdbebenbemessung
Authors: Strauss Alfred , Wendner Roman , Suda Jürgen , Bergmeister Konrad , Hofmann Robert
Published: July 2010

Dieser Beitrag behandelt den Erdbebennachweis für die Bemessung von Gewichtsmauern aus Beton und Stahlbeton nach Eurocode 2 (EN 1992‐x), Eurocode 7 (EN 1997‐1) und Eurocode 8 (EN 1998‐x) anhand eines durchgerechneten Beispiels.

Design of concrete retaining structures according to Eurocode standards — Part 2: Earth quake design. This contribution treats the design of concrete retaining structures under earth quake impact based on Eurocode 2 (EN 1992‐x), Eurocode 7 (EN 1997‐1) and Eurocode 8 (EN 1998‐x) by means of an application example.
A multi‐component approach to the treatment of chronic rumination
Authors: Wrigley Monica , Kahn Katherine , Winder Pam , Vollmer Timothy R. , Sy Jolene R.
Published: July 2010

A multi‐component intervention was used to treat chronic rumination exhibited by an adult female diagnosed with a developmental disability. The intervention consisted of: (a) interruption of precursor behavior, (b) the alternation of 10‐min periods of continued instruction that involved walking and working with (c) 10‐min periods in which instructions were not delivered but a variable time 5‐s schedule of noncontingent attention was programmed, and (d) a 1‐min differential reinforcement of other behavior (DRO) schedule. During the intervention, rumination decreased by 82% relative to baseline. Next, components of the multi‐component intervention were systematically removed to evaluate their individual contribution. Results suggested that each individual component contributed to the overall treatment effects. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NIR fluorescent ytterbium compound for in vivo fluorescence molecular imaging
Authors: Aita Kazuki , Temma Takashi , Kuge Yuji , Seki Koh‐ichi , Saji Hideo
Published: July 2010

We have developed a new NIR fluorescent probe based on an ytterbium(III) (E)‐1‐(pyridin‐2‐yl‐diazenyl)naphthalen‐2‐ol (PAN) complex. This probe emits near‐infrared luminescence derived from the Yb ion through excitation of the PAN moiety with visible light (λex = 530 nm, λem = 975 nm). The results support the possible utility of the probe for in vivo fluorescence molecular imaging. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and luminescence properties of Zn(Cu0.01Cd0.02Mg0.02)S phosphor
Authors: Zhang Wentao , Lee Hong‐Ro
Published: July 2010

To improve the luminescence properties of ZnS : Cu, a multi‐doped method was used to prepare Zn(Cu0.01Cd0.02Mg0.02)S in this paper. As a new designed semiconductor compound, particular properties of Zn(Cu0.01Cd0.02Mg0.02)S were investigated, especially luminescence intensity and lifetime. Structure and compositions of Zn(Cu0.01Cd0.02Mg0.02)S phosphor were analyzed by XRD and TEM respectively. Luminescence intensity and luminescence lifetime of the prepared Zn(Cu0.01Cd0.02Mg0.02)S phosphor were investigated by luminescence spectrometry. As a result, compared with pure ZnS or doped ZnS phosphors, Zn(Cu0.01Cd0.02Mg0.02)S showed remarkably improved luminescence properties. The optimum ratio of three dopants was obtained for solving luminescence problems. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Model‐Independent fluorescence polarization for measuring order in a biological assembly
Authors: Burghardt Thomas P.
Published: July 2010

In the first part of this paper, we developed a model‐independent method of describing the order in the arrangement of elements in a general, anisotropic, time‐independent biologic structure, where elemental order is reported by dipolar (e.g., fluorescent) probes. This method begins with the description of the elemental order of a biologic assembly as an arbitrary angular distribution of molecular frames, with one frame fixed in each element of the structure. The angular distribution is then expanded in a complete set of orthonormal angular functions and the moments of the series expansion are related to observable quantities. These moments describe the physical properties of the elemental order of the system without a model and without reference to the method of observation. The method is developed here for fluorescence polarization measurements, when each elemental subunit is specifically fluorescence‐labeled, and the elemental order is reported by the polarization of the emission from the fluorescent probe after polarized excitation. This approach establishes the theoretical limitations of the fluorescence polarization technique for determining elemental order in a system and indicates analytical and experimental strategies for obtaining all the order information in the observed signal. A version of this method has been successfully applied to the study of the order of arrangement of the myosin cross‐bridge in intact muscle fibers [Burghardt, Ando, and Borejdo (1983) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 80, 7515–7519]. These results are discussed briefly in this paper. In the second part of this paper we extend the model‐independent analysis to the time‐dependent, anisotropic system where the fluorescence‐labeled elements are undergoing restricted rotational motion. The model‐independent analysis is used to measure the angular potential that restricts the rotational motion of the elements. The method does not require time‐resolved measurements.
Molecular mechanical studies of base‐pair opening in d(CGCGC):d(GCGCG), dG5·dC5, d(TATAT):d(ATATA), and dA5·dT5 in the B and Z forms of DNA
Authors: Keepers Joe , Kollman Peter A. , James Thomas L.
Published: July 2010

Molecular mechanical energy refinement of double‐helical pentanucleotide tetra‐phosphates, d(CGCGC):d(GCGCG), dG5·dC5, d(TATAT):d(ATATA), and dA5 ·dT5 geometries, are presented in order to examine the energy required to open the Nl(purine) …︁ N3(pyrimidine) distance (base‐pair opening) of a Watson‐Crick base pair from its normal value of 3 Å to a value of 6 Å. The structural consequences of forcing base‐pair opening is sequence dependent. For both dA5 ·dT5 and d(TATAT):d(ATATA), forcing the Nl (AdeKN3 (Thy) distance of the central base pair to a value of 6 Å slides the bases perpendicular to the helix axis forming a low‐energy non‐Watson‐Crick base pair having an adenine amine hydrogen …︁ thymine carbonyl oxygen hydrogen bond. The two GC sequences behave differently from both AT sequences and differently from each other. Forcing the Nl(Gua) …︁ N3(Cyt) distance to 6 Å leads to unconventional structures in which hydrogen bonds are formed between the separated bases and the bases above or below them. These structures appear to be trapped in true local minima 6–10 kcal/mol higher in energy than the Watson‐Crick structures. Preliminary simulations on d(CGCGC):d(GCGCG) in the Z geometry suggest the reason the Z form may be more refractory to proton exchange than the B form, consistent with experimental observations.
Helical conformation of amylose in aqueous solution. I. Viscosity measurements
Authors: Elmgren Hans
Published: July 2010

Two amylose samples, amylose V (DPw = 2300) and amylose HE 15 (a low‐substituted hydroxyethylamylose, DPW = 1600) were studied. The intrinsic viscosity of the polymers in aqueous solution was measured with regard to its dependence on the alkalinity (0 to 5MNaOH), the ionic strength (0 to 5M), and the temperature (0 to 75°C). Additionally, the temperature dependence of the viscosity of the amylose‐iodine complex was measured. It was found that the two amylose samples show the same dependence on the studied parameters. Therefore, it was concluded that the conformation is unchanged by the hydroxyethylation in the present case. In a discussion, steric, hydrodynamic, and thermodynamic data on amylose in solution are compared with the corresponding data on cellulose and dextran. The comparison leads to the conclusion that amylose in a neutral solution must have a helical conformation, corresponding to the well‐accepted rod conformation of cellulose. The helical conformation also explains several viritual anomalies in the behavior of amylose. The results of the experiments support the helix model for amylose. The conclusion of the whole work, therefore, is that the amylose molecule in neutral aqueous solution can be regarded as a random coil, built up by helical segments. The average number of monomers per segment exceeds 100. This value decreases with increasing alkalinity.
Helical conformation of amylose in aqueous solution. II. Electron spin resonance, fluorescence depolarization, and sedimentation measurements
Authors: Ebert Bernd , Elmgren Hans
Published: July 2010

In the previous study [Elmgren, H. (1984) Biopolymers 23, 2525–2541] concerning the conformation of amylose in aqueous solution, it was stated that amylose in a neutral aqueous solution is a random coil consisting of helical segments. In terms of Kuhn statistics, each segment contains more than 100 monomers. The number of monomers per segment decreases by alkali addition. In an attempt to verify these statements, a combined electron spin resonance (esr) and ultracentrifugation (uc) study of a weakly hydroxyethylated amylose sample in water and alkaline solvents was performed. This combination of measuring techniques makes it possible to estimate the Brownian motion, and thus the mass of the polymer segments. As a control for the obtained esr data, fluorescence depolarization (fdp) measurements were performed on the polymer sample in a bicarbonate buffer at pH 10. The result of the study confirms that the amylose segments are very heavy in water. In strong alkaline solvents, the segment mass corresponds to that of a few monomers. Our findings thus support the statements made in the preceding article, and the data obtained by others. [Kitamura S., Yunokawa H., & Kuge T., (1982) Polym. J. 14, 85–91; Kitamura S., Yunokawa H., Mitsu'ie S., & Kuge T., (1982) Polym J. 14, 93–99].
Fluorescent cholangiography illuminating the biliary tree during laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: Ishizawa T , Bandai Y , Ijichi M , Kaneko J , Hasegawa K , Kokudo N
Published: July 2010

Background

Although intraoperative cholangiography has been recommended for avoiding bile duct injury during laparoscopic cholecystectomy, radiographic cholangiography is time consuming and may itself cause injury to the bile duct. Recently, a novel fluorescent cholangiography technique using the intravenous injection of indocyanine green (ICG) has been developed.

Methods

In 52 patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy, 2·5 mg ICG was injected intravenously 30 min before the patient entered the operating room or following intubation. A fluorescent imaging system, which consisted of a xenon light source and a laparoscope with a charge-coupled device camera that could filter out light wavelengths below 810 nm, was used. Fluorescent cholangiography was performed during dissection of Calot's triangle, and its ability to delineate biliary anatomy was compared with that of preoperative cholangiography.

Results

Fluorescent cholangiography delineated the cystic duct in all 52 patients, and the cystic duct–common hepatic duct junction was visible before dissection of Calot's triangle in 50 patients. Fluorescent imaging also identified all accessory bile ducts that had been diagnosed before surgery in eight patients.

Conclusion

Fluorescent cholangiography enables real-time identification of biliary anatomy during dissection of Calot's triangle. This simple technique may become standard practice for avoiding bile duct injury during laparoscopic cholecystectomy, replacing radiographic cholangiography.
On the assessment and self‐assessment in a students teamwork based course on software engineering
Authors: Budimac Zoran , Putnik Zoran , Ivanović Mirjana , Bothe Klaus , Schuetzler Kay
Published: July 2010

For the previous 7 years, under the auspices of a “Stability Pact of South‐Eastern Europe” and DAAD, a joint project for developing an undergraduate course in “Software Engineering” has been conducted. The intention of the project was to enable a usage of shared materials for software engineering courses at wide range of universities in countries participating in the project. During school year 2004/2005: for the first time the same course; with the same case study; and the same assignments; have been conducted at the Humboldt University Berlin and University of Novi Sad. In this article, we share some of the experiences obtained during conducting the same course for the last several school years. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 19: 1–9, 2011
Towards complete product development teaching employing combined CAD–CAM–CAE technologies
Authors: Lorenzo‐Yustos Hector , Lafont Pilar , Diaz Lantada Andres , Navidad Antonio Fdez‐Florez , Muñoz Sanz Jose Luis , Munoz‐Guijosa Juan Manuel , Muñoz‐Garcia Julio , Echavarri Otero Javier
Published: July 2010

Problem based learning and teamwork activities often turn out to be the student's first point of contact with what Industry is really like and becomes a fundamental milestone in their learning throughout their degree course. The complete development of products and machines provides opportunities for active learning projects where students can apply computer aided design, engineering and manufacturing technologies, as well as the most advanced rapid prototyping technologies, so highly valued by Industry. We present complete product developments that have been undertaken by teams of students, as a way to the practical application of design and manufacturing concepts acquired in the subject “Design and Manufacture with Plastic Materials.” This subject is taught in the 5th course at Universidad Politécnica de Madrid—U.P.M. as part of the Mechanical Engineering Degree. The use of the “Rapid Prototyping Technologies” available in the U.P.M.'s Product Development Laboratory, has enabled prototypes to be manufactured, which means the pre‐production stage has been attained. The use of these technologies for teaching purposes constitutes a whole new experience in the U.P.M. Important information for improvements has been obtained from students' surveys and the correspondence between students' dedication and the European Credits assigned to the subject is very satisfactory. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 18: 661–668, 2010; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com; DOI 10.1002/cae.20270
Transcatheter closure of moderate to large patent ductus arteriosus with the Amplatzer duct occluder
Authors: Wang Jou‐Kou , Wu Mei‐Hwan , Hwang Juey‐Jen , Chiang Fu‐Tein , Lin Ming‐Tai , Lue Hung‐Chi
Published: July 2010

Objectives:

To investigate the acute and follow‐up results of transcatheter closure of moderate to large patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) with the Amplatzer duct occluder.

Methods:

Between April 2000 and June 2005, 237 patients underwent attempted transcatheter closure of PDA, of whom Amplatzer duct occluder was used in 68 patients with moderate‐to‐large‐sized PDA (45 females, with ages ranging from 56 days to 75 years, median 3.3 years). Moderate to large PDA is defined as ductus diameter ≥2.5 mm (≥3 mm in early phase of this study) in infants and young children, or ≥4 mm in adolescents and adults. The size of device selected was generally at least 1–2 mm larger than ductus diameter.

Results:

The ductus diameter ranged from 2.5 to 8.5 mm (4.1 ± 1.3 mm). Amplatzer duct occluder was successfully deployed in 66 out of 68 patients. The size of device deployed ranged from 4 to 12 mm (6.3 ± 1.6 mm). The causes of failure in the 2 patients included calcification of ductus resulting, in failure in advancing a sheath to descending aorta in 1 and kinking of a Cook sheath in the other. Distal embolization of the device occurred several hours later in one. After the device was retrieved percutaneously, the patient was sent to surgery. No other significant complications occurred. In the 3‐month follow‐up, complete occlusion was achieved in all patients. No patient had left pulmonary artery stenosis.

Conclusions:

Transcatheter closure of moderate‐to‐large‐sized ductus with Amplatzer ductus occluder is effective and safe. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Results of transcatheter Fontan fenestration to treat protein losing enteropathy
Authors: Vyas Himeshkumar , Driscoll David J. , Cabalka Allison K. , Cetta Frank , Hagler Donald J.
Published: July 2010

Transcatheter fenestration to create an interatrial communication has been used to treat patients with protein losing enteropathy (PLE) after Fontan operation. No systematic data have been reported assessing the results of this procedure. Our institutional database was queried to identify patients after Fontan operation who had transcatheter fenestration to treat PLE. Clinical notes, laboratory data, echocardiograms, and cardiac catheterization data were reviewed. From 1995 to 2005, 16 transcatheter fenestration procedures were performed in seven patients. Median age at fenestration was 18 years (range 13–41 years). Median duration of follow‐up was 3.6 years (range 0.2–10.4 years). Techniques for fenestration included blade/balloon septostomy, stent placement, Amplatzer‐fenestrated ASD device, and balloon dilation of previous stent. Size of the fenestration created was 5.2 ± 1.1 mm. Systemic venous pressure remained unchanged after fenestration. Cardiac index increased significantly. Reduction of ascites and edema was noted after 9 of the 16 procedures. Ten of 16 (63%) of fenestrations spontaneously occluded. Three patients are free of ascites although recurrence of PLE occurred in all. One patient with a patent fenestration continues to have ascites. Two patients had Fontan takedown. One patient had conversion to a fenestrated extracardiac conduit Fontan and died postoperatively. The results of transcatheter Fontan fenestration are often disappointing. Maintaining fenestration patency is difficult. Even after “successful” fenestration, resolution of PLE may be incomplete and recurrences have occurred in all. Early consideration should be given to Fontan takedown or cardiac transplant in severely symptomatic patients with PLE who do not respond to fenestration. Transcatheter fenestration may be a bridge to a definitive procedure. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
iCoapsys mitral valve repair system: Percutaneous implantation in an animal model
Authors: Pedersen Wes R. , Block Peter , Leon Martin , Kramer Paul , Kapadia Samir , Babaliaros Vasilis , Kodali Susheel , Tuzcu E. Murat , Feldman Ted
Published: July 2010

Objective: Determine if the iCoapsys device could be accurately and safely implanted using a novel transcatheter system. Background: Functional mitral regurgitation is a ventricular disease characterized by mitral insufficiency in the absence of structural valve abnormalities. It occurs in the presence of ischemic or non‐ischemic cardiomyopathy. The Coapsys (surgical) transventricular device, currently undergoing randomized evaluation, offers a more integrated treatment strategy. Methods: The iCoapsys transcatheter mitral valve repair system was developed for percutaneous delivery of an implant designed to emulate the surgical (i.e. Coapsys) device. Nine operators tested the ability of this novel catheter system to successfully deliver and position the iCoapsys implant in 12 adult sheep. Results: Post mortem evaluation in this acute model demonstrated precise percutaneous delivery and implantation in all 12 animals using fluoroscopic, coronary angiographic, and epicardial echo guidance. There was no excessive bleeding, hemodynamic compromise or sustained arrhythmias. Conclusions: A novel transcatheter methodology was developed to consistently deliver and accurately position the iCoapsys implant. The percutaneous iCoapsys system was successfully implanted without complication in this acute animal model series. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Long‐term clinical outcomes after drug‐eluting stent implantation in unprotected left main coronary artery disease
Authors: Tamburino Corrado , Angiolillo Dominick J. , Capranzano Piera , Di Salvo Marilena , Ussia Giampaolo , La Manna Alessio , Guzman Luis A. , Galassi Alfredo R. , Bass Theodore A.
Published: July 2010

Objective: To investigate long‐term outcomes of unprotected left main coronary artery (ULMCA) disease treatment using drug‐eluting stents (DES). Background: In several studies, DES implantation in ULMCA appeared safe and effective at mid‐term; however, to date, there is limited long‐term data. Methods: All consecutive patients undergoing sirolimus‐ or paclitaxel‐eluting stent implantation in ULMCA disease at a single institution were evaluated. The primary endpoint was long‐term major adverse cardiac events (MACE) defined as cardiac death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, or target lesion revascularization (TLR). Stent thrombosis (ST), according to Academic Research Consortium definitions, was also evaluated. Results: A total of 210 patients were assessed. In‐hospital MACE rate was 1%. During a mean follow‐up of 28.0 ± 14.5 months, MACE occurred in 26 patients (12.5%): cardiac death in nine patients (4.3%) and TLR in 17 patients (8.2%). The cumulative MACE‐free survival rate was 89.0, 87.4, and 85.4% at 1, 2, and 3 years, respectively. ST occurred in three patients (1.4%): one case was definite and the other two were probable/possible ST; there were no cases of very late ST. Binary restenosis occurred in 8.3%. The EuroScore >6 was the only independent predictor of MACE [hazard ratio (HR) 2.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.05–4.77, P = 0.04]. There was a trend toward an increased risk of MACE associated with distal ULMCA location (HR 2.14, 95% CI 0.87–5.29, P = 0.10). Conclusions: Our study showed DES implantation in ULMCA to be feasible, safe, and effective at long term. Randomized trials comparing percutaneous versus surgical revascularization are warranted to define the treatment of choice for ULMCA disease. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Magnetic Properties of Two New Fe4 Single‐Molecule Magnets in the Solid State and in Frozen Solution
Authors: Schlegel Christoph , Burzurí Enrique , Luis Fernando , Moro Fabrizio , Manoli Maria , Brechin Euan K. , Murrie Mark , van Slageren Joris
Published: July 2010

Two novel tetranuclear, star‐shaped iron(III) clusters, [Fe4(acac)6(Br‐mp)2] and [FeIII4(acac)6(tmp)2], are described. Both have S=5 ground states resulting from antiferromagnetic nearest‐neighbour superexchange interactions, with J=−8.2 cm−1 and J=−8.5 cm−1 for 1 and 2, respectively. Energy barriers for the relaxation of the magnetisation of approximately 12 cm−1 were derived from AC susceptibility measurements. Magnetic resonance measurements revealed a zero‐field splitting parameter D=−0.34 cm−1 for both complexes. AC susceptibility measurements in solution demonstrated that the complexes are reasonably stable in solution. Interestingly, the magnetisation relaxation slows down significantly in frozen solution, in contrast to what is generally observed for single‐molecule magnets. This was shown to result from a large increase in τ0, the prefactor in the Arrhenius equation, with the energy barrier remaining unchanged.
Unraveling the Mechanism of the Singlet Oxygen Ene Reaction: Recent Computational and Experimental Approaches
Authors: Alberti Mariza N. , Orfanopoulos Michael
Published: July 2010

The mechanism of the singlet oxygen ene reaction has been a subject of renewed interest within the last few years. The main question being whether this reaction proceeds through a concerted mechanism or if it involves discrete intermediates. In general, the majority of experimental and computational studies support a traditional stepwise mechanism involving a perepoxide‐like intermediate. In this minireview we highlight the most prominent and recent theoretical, as well as experimental results relating to the challenging mechanism of the singlet oxygen ene oxyfunctionalization.
ChemInform Abstract: Thieme Chemistry Journal Awardees — Where Are They Now? Regio‐ and Stereoselective Radical Additions of Thiols to Ynamides
Authors: Sato Akinori , Yorimitsu Hideki , Oshima Koichiro
Published: July 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Predictions of the Pt8Ti Phase in Unexpected Systems.
Authors: Taylor Richard H. , Curtarolo Stefano , Hart Gus L. W.
Published: July 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Li13.7Rh8Si18.3 — A Non‐Centrosymmetric Variant of the R‐Phase Structure.
Authors: Dinges Tim , Hoffmann Rolf‐Dieter , Poettgen Rainer
Published: July 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.