bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Special Working Women: Problems at offices in Islamabad, Pakistan
Authors: Ali Syed Rashid , Hazra Safi , Shah Dr. Mussawar , Abdullah M. , Imran M. , Bangash Arshad Khan
Published: April 2012

This study aims to investigate the effects of problems and difficulties faced by special working women at offices in Islamabad, Pakistan. For this purpose four institutions from the Ministry of Social welfare were selected for carrying out the present study. Eight special working women were employees in these four selected institutions, all of them were interviewed. A case study method was used to highlight the issue. During literature review it was found that till this time no special policy is formulated for special working women by the Government of Pakistan. The results of the study showed that special working women faced somewhat attitudinal problems in offices. Their suggestions are not valued by the high-ups during meetings at offices. Government buildings are not constructed according to their disabilities. Homes are neither constructed by the concerned ministry according to special persons needs and nor near to offices. Key words: special working women, disabilities, problems, office.
Cambodia’s Higher Education Development in Historical Perspectives (1863-2012)
Authors: Rany Sam , Zain Ahmad Nurulazam Md , Jamil Hazri
Published: April 2012

Similar to other Southeast Asian countries in the world, Cambodia has established her higher education institutions to develop human capitals with high knowledge and professional ethics for serving the country in the longstanding contemporary history. Remarkably, colonization, political ideologies, and global economic development tendencies have directly influenced on Cambodian public higher education institutions within her various political regimes and social transformation. The purpose of this study is to examine the Cambodian higher education development in the seven different regimes of historical perspectives from the French colony to the present. This paper mainly uses predominantly descriptive approach with secondary sources such as academic papers, textbooks, government documents, non government organization documents, and development partner reports. Therefore, this research could be significant for researchers, academicians, and policymakers to deeper understand about Cambodian higher educational history in order to reform its system for the profits of education quality and student academic success.   Keywords: Cambodia, higher education institutions, development, historical perspectives, public university, education system, tertiary education
Comparison of 3 Pupillometers for Determining Scotopic Pupil Diameter
Authors: Altan Cigdem , Kaya Vedat , Basarir Berna , Celik Ugur , Azman Engin , Akar Serpil , Demirok Ahmet , Yilmaz Omer Faruk
Published: April 2012

Purpose.

The pupil diameter under low ambient illumination is diagnostically valuable for refractive surgery. The aim of study was to compare the NeurOptics® Pupillometer, Sirius®, and Ocular Wavefront Analyser® in determining scotopic pupil diameter.

Methods.

A total of 96 eyes of 48 subjects were included. The scotopic pupil size was measured with 3 instruments and the measurements repeated following instillations of 1% cyclopentolate. Agreement between the instruments was assessed.

Results.

The mean measurement obtained by Sirius was significantly larger than Ocular Wavefront Analyser and NeurOptics. The Ocular Wavefront Analyser measured significantly smaller than the others. The mean cycloplegic pupillary diameters (7.73±0.70 mm with NeurOptics, 7.42±0.45 mm with Ocular Wavefront Analyser, and 8.06±0.76 mm with Sirius) were significantly different obtained by 3 instruments (p<0.001, for each; one-way analysis of variance and paired t tests).

Conclusions

The differences between measured pupil diameters with or without cycloplegia obtained by the NeurOptics, Sirius, and Ocular Wavefront Analyser were significant and have unacceptable levels of disagreement. These results may not be related to illumination and accommodation only, but also to measurement algorithms and technical differences of the devices.
A Mid-Term Reults of Arthroscopic Versus Open Repair for Large and Massive Rotator Cuff Tears
Authors: Wang Seong Il , Park Jong Hyuk
Published: April 2012

PURPOSE: To compare the mid-term clinical results of arthroscopic and open repair for large to massive rotator cuff tear.MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 48 patients who underwent either arthroscopic or open repair for large to massive rotator cuff tear. 28 patients underwent arthroscopic repair and 20 patients had open repair. The clinical outcome for the 2 groups was evaluated using range of motion, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain and function, American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) score and Korean Shoulder Scoring System (KSS) score.RESULTS: The range of motion, VAS for pain and function and ASES score was improved significantly in both groups at the final follow-up visit compared with preoperative values. However, there were no significant differences between the two groups statistically (p>0.05). There were no significant differences between the two groups statistically at the final follow-up KSS score (p>0.05) either.CONCLUSION: We could obtain improved mid-term clinical outcomes in both arthroscopic repair and open repair without any statistically significant differences between the two groups.
UV Illumination Room-Temperature ZnO Nanoparticle Ethanol Gas Sensors
Authors: Chang Sheng-Po , Chen Kuan-Yu
Published: April 2012

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticle gas sensor was formed by spin coating. We annealed the film at 400, 600, and 800°C for 1 hour in air to make gas sensor. The responses of gas sensor to ethanol with UV light illumination were investigated. It could be observed that the ZnO nanoparticle film annealing at 800°C has the highest sensitivity. It can be attributed to the defects of ZnO nanoparticle film annealing at 800°C much more than other annealing temperatures. The study shows that the ZnO nanoparticles have potential applications as RT ethanol sensors.
The Role of Transoral Robotic Surgery in the Management of Oropharyngeal Cancer: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Dowthwaite Samuel A. , Franklin Jason H. , Palma David A. , Fung Kevin , Yoo John , Nichols Anthony C.
Published: April 2012

Background. Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) is an emerging treatment option for the treatment of head and neck malignancies, particularly for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). Preliminary studies have demonstrated excellent oncologic and functional outcomes that have led to a resurgence of interest in the primary surgical management of OPSCC. The aim of the present study was to review the evidence base supporting the use of TORS in OPSCC. Methods. Studies evaluating the application of TORS in the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), and more specifically OPSCC, were identified for review. Further searches were made of reference lists for complete evaluation of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) in treating OPSCC. Results. Seventeen results relating to the application of TORS in treatment of OPSCC were identified. Further results relating to the role of transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) in OPSCC were included for review. Feasibility, oncologic, and functional data is summarized and discussed. Discussion. Management strategies for patients with OPSCC continue to evolve. Minimally invasive surgical techniques including TORS and TLM offer impressive functional and oncologic outcomes particularly for patients with early T-classification and low-volume regional metastatic disease. Potential exists for treatment deintensification, particularly in patients who are HPV positive.
Evaluation of Headspace Solid-Phase Microextraction for Analysis of Phosphine Residues in Wheat
Authors: Ren Yong Lin , Padovan Benjamin , Desmarchelier James M
Published: April 2012

In headspace (HS) analysis, a fumigant is released from a commodity into a gas-tight container by grinding, heating, or microwaves. A new technique uses HS-solid-phase microextraction (SPME) for additional preconcentration of fumigant. HS-SPME was tested for detection of phosphine (PH3), chosen for examination because of its wide use on stored commodities. PH3 was applied to 50 g wheat in separate 250 mL sealed flasks, which were equipped either with a septum for conventional HS analysis or with one of four HS-SPME fibers [100 μm polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), 85 μm carboxen (CAR)/PDMS, 75 μm CAR/PDMS, and 65 μm PDMS/divinylbenzene (DVB)]. The wheat was heated at 45°C for 20 min. In conventional HS analysis, a gaseous aliquot (80 μL) was taken from the HS and injected into the GC instrument. In the HS-SPME procedure, the fiber was removed from the HS and exposed in the heated injection port of the GC instrument. In all cases, PH3 was determined under the same chromatographic conditions with a GC pulsed flame photometric detector. In a comparison of the efficacy of the fibers, the bipolar fibers (CAR/PDMS and PDMS/DVB) contained more PH3 than the aliquot in the conventional HS analysis; larger size bipolar fibers extracted PH3 more efficiently than smaller fibers (e.g., 85 > 75 > 65 μm). The nonpolar fiber (PDMS) contained no PH3. Four fortification levels of PH3 on wheat were tested: 0.01, 0.05, 0.1, and 0.3 μg/g. The response of each bipolar fiber increased with the fortification levels, but the conventional HS analysis detected no fumigant at the lowest fortification level of 0.01 mg/g. Under the conditions of the validation study, the LOD was in the range of 0.005–0.01 ng PH3/g wheat.
Determination of Volatile Compounds in Wine by Gas Chromatography-Flame Ionization Detection: Comparison Between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 3σ Approach and Hubaux-Vos Calculation of Detection Limits Using Ordinary and Bivariate Least Squares
Authors: Caruso Rosario , Scordino Monica , Traulo Pasqualino , Gagliano Giacomo
Published: April 2012

A capillary GC-flame ionization detection (FID) method to determine volatile compounds (ethyl acetate, 1,1-diethoxyethane, methyl alcohol, 1-propanol, 2-methyl-1-propanol, 2-methyl-1-butanol, 3-methyl-1-butanol, 1-butanol, and 2-butanol) in wine was investigated in terms of calculation of detection limits and calibration method. The main objectives were: (1) calculation of regression coefficient parameters by ordinary least-squares (OLS) and bivariate least-squares (BLS) regression models, taking into account errors in both axes; (2) estimation of linear dynamic range (LDR) according to International Conference on Harmonization recommendations; (3) performance evaluation of a method by using three different internal standards (ISs) such as acetonitrile, acetone, and 1-pentanol; (4) evaluation of LODs according to the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 3σ approach and the Hubaux-Vos (H-V) method; (5) application of H-V theory to a gas chromatographic analytical method and to a food matrix; and (6) accuracy assessment of the method relative to methyl alcohol content through a Unione Italiana Vini (UIV) interlaboratory proficiency test. Calibration curves calculated via BLS and OLS show similar slopes, while intercepts are closer to zero in the first case, independent of the chosen IS. The studied ISs show a substantially equivalent behavior, even though the IS closer to the analyte retention time seems to be more appropriate in terms of LDR and LOD. Results indicate an underestimation of LODs using the EPA 3σ approach instead of the more realistic H-V method, both with OLS and BLS regression models. Methanol contents compared with UIV average values indicate recovery between 90 and 110%.
Comparison of Slurry Mixing and Dry Milling in Laboratory Sample Preparation for Determination of Ochratoxin A and Deoxynivalenol in Wheat
Authors: Lippolis Vincenzo , Pascale Michelangelo , Valenzano Stefania , Visconti Angelo
Published: April 2012

The significance of laboratory sample preparation for the determination of two important mycotoxins, ochratoxin A (OTA) and deoxynivalenol (DON), in wheat was investigated by comparing water-slurry mixing and dry-milling procedures. The distribution of OTA and DON in 10 kg samples of naturally contaminated wheat was established by analyzing one hundred 100 g subsamples of each sample. A normal distribution and a good repeatability of DON measurements was observed for both water-slurry mixing (mean 2290 μg/kg, CV 4.6%, median 2290 μg/kg) and dry milling (mean 2310 μg/kg, CV 6.4%, median 2290 μg/kg) procedures. For OTA determinations, reliable results could be obtained only by slurry mixing sample preparation (mean 2.62 μg/kg, CV 4.0%, median 2.62 μg/kg), whereas dry-milling comminution resulted in an inhomogeneous distribution with a high variability (mean 0.83 μg/kg, CV 75.2%, median 0.60 μg/kg) and a positive skewness (2.12). Ad hoc experiments were performed on different size portions of the same sample (10 kg) to assess accuracy and precision of the comminution/homogenization procedures (slurry mixing and dry milling). Very good results were obtained for DON determination with both procedures in terms of accuracy (>98.7% of the “weighted value”) and precision (CV <3%). For OTA determination good results were only obtained by slurry mixing (99.4% of the “weighted value,” CV 10%), whereas dry milling provided results with low accuracy (43.2% of the “weighted value”) and high variability (CV 110%). This study clearly demonstrated that sample preparation by slurry mixing is strictly necessary to obtain reliable laboratory samples for OTA determination in wheat to minimize misclassification of acceptable/rejectable lots, mainly within official control.
A Quantitative Method for Residues of Macrolide Antibiotics in Porcine Kidney by Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Dickson Leslie C , O'Byrne Collin , Chan Wayne
Published: April 2012

An LC/MS/MS-based multiresidue quantitative method was developed for the macrolides erythromycin A, neospiramycin I, oleandomycin, spiramycin I, tilmicosin, and tylosin A in porcine kidney tissues. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) had as part of its analytical scope an LC/UV method for quantification of residues of two macrolide antibiotics, tilmicosin and tylosin A, in the kidney, liver, and muscle of cattle, swine, and poultry. The method could not reliably detect concentrations below 10 μg/kg. To increase the scope of the CFIA's analytical capabilities, a sensitive multiresidue quantitative method for macrolide residues in food animal tissues was required. Porcine kidney samples were extracted with acetonitrile and alkaline buffer and cleaned-up using silica-based C18 SPE cartridges. Sample extracts were analyzed using LC/MS/MS with positive electrospray ionization. Fitness for purpose was verified in a single- laboratory validation study using a second analyst. The working analytical range was 5 to 50 μg/kg. LOD and LOQ were 0.5 to 0.6 μg/kg and 1.5 to 3.0 μg/kg, respectively. Limits of identification were 0.5 to 2.0 μg/kg. Relative intermediate precisions were 8 to 17%. Average absolute recoveries were 68 to 76%.
Reveal®Listeria 2.0 Test for Detection of Listeria spp. in Foods and Environmental Samples
Authors: Alles Susan , Curry Stephanie , Almy David , Jagadeesan Balamurugan , Rice Jennifer , Mozola Mark
Published: April 2012

A Performance Tested MethodSM validation study was conducted for a new lateral flow immunoassay (Reveal®Listeria 2.0) for detection of Listeria spp. in foods and environmental samples. Results of inclusivity testing showed that the test detects all species of Listeria, with the exception of L. grayi. In exclusivity testing conducted under nonselective growth conditions, all non-listeriae tested produced negative Reveal assay results, except for three strains of Lactobacillus spp. However, these lactobacilli are inhibited by the selective Listeria Enrichment Single Step broth enrichment medium used with the Reveal method. Six foods were tested in parallel by the Reveal method and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration/Bacteriological Analytical Manual (FDA/BAM) reference culture procedure. Considering data from both internal and independent laboratory trials, overall sensitivity of the Reveal method relative to that of the FDA/BAM procedure was 101%. Four foods were tested in parallel by the Reveal method and the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) reference culture procedure. Overall sensitivity of the Reveal method relative to that of the USDA-FSIS procedure was 98.2%. There were no statistically significant differences in the number of positives obtained by the Reveal and reference culture procedures in any food trials. In testing of swab or sponge samples from four types of environmental surfaces, sensitivity of Reveal relative to that of the USDA-FSIS reference culture procedure was 127%. For two surface types, differences in the number of positives obtained by the Reveal and reference methods were statistically significant, with more positives by the Reveal method in both cases. Specificity of the Reveal assay was 100%, as there were no unconfirmed positive results obtained in any phase of the testing. Results of ruggedness experiments showed that the Reveal assay is tolerant of modest deviations in test sample volume and device incubation time.
Determination of Vitamin B12 in Infant Formula and Adult Nutritionals by Liquid Chromatography/UV Detection with Immunoaffinity Extraction: First Action 2011.08
Authors: Campos-Giménez Esther , Fontannaz Patric , Trisconi Marie-José , Kilinc Tamara , Gimenez Catherine , Andrieux Pierre , Nelson Maria
Published: April 2012

At the “Standards Development and International Harmonization: AOAC INTERNATIONAL Mid-Year Meeting,” on June 29, 2011, an Expert Review Panel agreed that the method “Determination of Vitamin B12 in Infant Formulas and Adult Nutritionals by Liquid Chromatography/UV Detection with Immunoaffinity Extraction” be adopted AOAC Official First Action status. The method is applicable for the determination of vitamin B12, which includes added cyanocobalamin and natural forms, making it applicable to both fortified and nonfortified products. Vitamin B12 is extracted from the sample in sodium acetate buffer in the presence of sodium cyanide (100°C, 30 min). After purification and concentration with an immunoaffinity column, vitamin B12 is determined by LC with UV detection (361 nm). A single-laboratory validation study was conducted on a range of products, including milk- and soy-based infant formulas, cereals, cocoa beverages, health care products, and polyvitamin premixes. The method demonstrated linear response over a large range of concentrations, recovery rates of 100.8 ± 7.5% (average ± SD), repeatability RSD (RSDr) of 2.1%, and intermediate reproducibility (RSDiR) of 4.3%. LOD and LOQ values were 0.10 and 0.30 μg/100 g, respectively, and correlation with the reference microbiological assay was good (R2 = 0.9442). The results of the study were published in J. AOAC Int. 91, 786–793 (2008). The performance characteristics of the method met the standard method performance requirements set forth by the Stakeholder Panel on Infant Formula and Adult Nutritionals; thus, the method was determined to be appropriate for First Action status.
Determination of Vitamin B12 in Infant Formula and Adult Nutritionals by HPLC: First Action 2011.10
Authors: Schimpf Karen , Spiegel Renee , Thompson Linda , Dowell Dawn
Published: April 2012

During the “Standards Development and International Harmonization: AOAC INTERNATIONAL Mid-Year Meeting” held on June 29, 2011, an Expert Review Panel (ERP) reviewed the method “Determination of Vitamin B12 in Infant Formula and Adult Nutritionals by HPLC.” Under the new pathway to Official MethodsSM, the ERP adopted the method as Official First Action. The method is applicable to the determination of vitamin B12 in infant formula and adult nutritionals. Data showed an average overall intermediate precision of 6.64% RSD, an estimated quantitation limit of 0.8 μg/kg, and a detection limit of 0.2 μg/kg in prepared samples. The standard range of the method is 2 to 200 μg/L, which corresponds to an analytical range of 0.8 to 500 μg/kg.
Determination of Phenols and Phenates in Disinfectant Formulations by Liquid Chromatography with UV Detection: Collaborative Study
Authors: Phillips Tom , Burns Adrian ,   Collaborators:, Adams J , Bennett O , Curry M , El-Zemity S , Esselburn T , Gallegos T , Geisbert B , Griffn T , Khalil N , Marshall D , Mehta M , Park V , Pereda-Masson C , Ramey A , Ramos J , Ritts B , Rood J , Sharma M , Stroh S , Taylor J , Verdin G
Published: April 2012

Fourteen collaborating laboratories assayed o-phenylphenol (OPP), p-t-amylphenol (PTAP), and o-benzyl-p-chlorophenol (OBPCP) in formulated products, both ready-to-use and concentrates, by RP-HPLC. The actives in the samples ranged from 0.03 to 11% OPP, 0.06 to 4% PTAP, and 0.07 to 10% OBPCP either in free forms or as salts. Seven blind duplicates were analyzed. The samples were diluted/extracted with acidified methanol, filtered, and analyzed by LC on a C18 column using gradient elution and UV detection at 285 nm. The concentration of the active ingredients was calculated from a standard curve. Each laboratory weighed each test sample twice within a single analytical run. The data were analyzed using all 14 laboratory results, with appropriate statistical tests to detect outliers. The repeatability RSDs ranged from 0.98 to 3.40% for the free phenols, and 1.26 to 2.51% for the salts. The reproducibility RSDs ranged from 5.31 to 7.80% for the free phenols, and 5.50 to 8.67% for the salts. The HorRat ranged from 0.86 to 2.17 for the free phenols, and 1.54 to 2.72 for the salts.
Gluten Fragment Detection with a Competitive ELISA
Authors: Haas-Lauterbach Sigrid , Immer Ulrike , Richter Mareike , Koehler Peter
Published: April 2012

The second generation of a competitive ELISA for prolamin quantification based on the R5 antibody was studied for method performance and suitability to detect partially hydrolyzed prolamins in food. To be able to convert signal intensities to gluten concentrations, as required by the Codex Alimentarius Standard, a new calibrator consisting of a peptic-tryptic digest of wheat, rye, and barley prolamins was used for the first time. LOD and LOQ of the assay were 1.36 and 5.0 mg prolamin/kg food, respectively. Analysis of beer samples and a hydrolyzed wheat product showed that the assay provided significantly higher prolamin concentrations, compared to the sandwich ELISA based on the same antibody, which is only suitable for the detection of intact prolamins. Spiking experiments with defined concentrations of partially hydrolyzed prolamins gave recoveries ranging from 92 to 136%.
Characterization of G12 Sandwich ELISA, a Next-Generation Immunoassay for Gluten Toxicity
Authors: Halbmayr-Jech Elisabeth , Hammer Elisabeth , Fielder Richard , Coutts Jacqueline , Rogers Adrian , Cornish Michael
Published: April 2012

In this work, a monoclonal antibody called G12, raised against the most immunotoxic peptide to celiac disease patients, was used to develop a sandwich ELISA. Preliminary results on cross-reactivities, recoveries, and extraction methods of the new assay are presented. The assay calibration was performed using material from the Prolamin Working Group. The antibody's specificity was determined by cross-reactivity studies on different grains, nuts, oils, and starches. Recovery of the assay was determined by spiking experiments on common food matrixes, as well as on problematic matrixes. Furthermore, sample extraction methods using ethanol, cocktail solution, and a proprietary buffer have been compared.
Delving Deeper: Differentiated Insurance Contracts
Authors: Hecke Tanja Van
Published: April 2012

By examining pricing for insurance for a moped, students can explore the theory of systems of inequalities and the topic of distributions in statistics. Fair systems for determining the premium (taking into account cautious and reckless drivers) are considered.
The Back Page: My Favorite Lesson: Indirect Proofs
Authors: Henley Paul J.
Published: April 2012

The importance of indirect proof is discussed, and a real-world example is used as an illustration.
Incorporating Darcy's law for pure solvent flow through porous tubes: Asymptotic solution and numerical simulations
Authors: Tilton Nils , Martinand Denis , Serre Eric , Lueptow Richard M.
Published: April 2012

A generalized solution for pressure‐driven, incompressible, Newtonian flow in a porous tubular membrane is challenging due to the coupling between the transmembrane pressure and velocity. To date, all analytical solutions require simplifications such as neglecting the coupling between the transmembrane pressure and velocity, assuming the form of the velocity fields, or expanding in powers of parameters involving the tube length. Moreover, previous solutions have not been validated with comparison to direct numerical simulation (DNS). We comprehensively revisit the problem to present a robust analytical solution incorporating Darcy's law on the membrane. We make no assumptions about the tube length or form of the velocity fields. The analytic solution is validated with detailed comparison to DNSs, including cases of axial flow exhaustion and cross flow reversal. We explore the validity of typical assumptions used in modeling porous tube flow and present a solution for porous channels in Supporting Information. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2012
Extensive abdominal lipomatosis in a patient with Noonan/LEOPARD syndrome (Noonan syndrome–Multiple Lentigines)
Authors: Piard Juliette , Verloes Alain , Cavé Hélène , Peuchmaur Michel , Bennaceur Selim , Leheup Bruno
Published: April 2012

Noonan syndrome (NS) is a tumor predisposing disorder. Leukemia is observed in 1–3% of patients with NS, with rare occurrences of solid tumors. It also appears to predispose to non‐malignant tumors. We report on a 26‐year‐old female with features of Noonan syndrome–Multiple Lentigines and a heterozygous mutation: c.1517A > C–p.Gln506Pro in the PTPN11 gene. The patient developed an unusual extensive lipomatosis and we discuss possible relationship between her lipomatosis and NS. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
2,3,4,5‐Tetraphenylsilole‐Based Conjugated Polymers: Synthesis, Optical Properties, and as Sensors for Explosive Compounds
Authors: Zhang Li‐Hong , Jiang Tao , Wu Lian‐Bin , Wan Jun‐Hua , Chen Chih‐Hsien , Pei Yong‐Bing , Lu Hua , Deng Yuan , Bian Gao‐Feng , Qiu Hua‐Yu , Lai Guo‐Qiao
Published: April 2012

A series of linear 2,5‐tetraphenylsilole‐vinylene‐type polymers were successfully synthesized for the first time. The tetraphenylsilole moieties were linked at their 2,5‐positions through a vinylene bridge with p‐dialkoxybenzenes to obtain polymer PSVB and with 3,6‐carbazole to obtain polymer PSVC. For comparison, 2,5‐tetraphenylsilole‐ethyne‐type polymer PSEB was also synthesized, in which the vinylene bridge of PSVB was replaced with an ethyne bridge. Very interestingly, the bridging group (vinylene or ethyne) had a significant effect on the photophysical properties of the corresponding polymers. The fluorescence peak of PSEB at 504 nm in solution originated from the emission of its silole moieties, whereas PSVB and PSVC emitted yellow light and no blueish–green emission from the silole moieties was observed, thus demonstrating that the emissions of PSVB and PSVC were due to their polymer backbones. More importantly, the 2,5‐tetraphenylsilole‐ethyne polymer exhibited a pronounced aggregation‐enhanced emission (AEE) effect but the 2,5‐tetraphenylsilole‐vinylene polymer was AEE‐inactive. Moreover, both AEE‐active 2,5‐tetraphenylsilole‐ethyne polymer and AEE‐inactive 2,5‐tetraphenylsilole‐vinylene polymers were successfully applied as fluorescent chemosensors for the detection of explosive compounds.
Examination of factors affecting freeway incident clearance times: a comparison of the generalized F model and several alternative nested models
Authors: Ghosh Indrajit , Savolainen Peter T. , Gates Timothy J.
Published: April 2012

Traffic incidents are a principal cause of congestion on urban freeways, reducing capacity and creating risks for both involved motorists and incident response personnel. As incident durations increase, the risk of secondary incidents or crashes also becomes problematic. In response to these issues, many road agencies in metropolitan areas have initiated incident management programs aimed at detecting, responding to, and clearing incidents to restore freeways to full capacity as quickly and safely as possible. This study examined those factors that impact the time required by the Michigan Department of Transportation Freeway Courtesy Patrol to clear incidents that occurred on the southeastern Michigan freeway network. These models were developed using traffic flow data, roadway geometry information, and an extensive incident inventory database. A series of parametric hazard duration models were developed, each assuming a different underlying probability distribution for the hazard function. Although each modeling framework provided results that were similar in terms of the direction of factor effects, there was significant variability in terms of the estimated magnitude of these impacts. The generalized F distribution was shown to provide the best fit to the incident clearance time data, and the use of poorer fitting distributions was shown to result in severe over‐estimation or under‐estimation of factor effects. Those factors that were found to impact incident clearance times included the time of day and month when the incident occurred, the geometric and traffic characteristics of the freeway segment, and the characteristics of each incident. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular signatures from omics data: From chaos to consensus
Authors: Sung Jaeyun , Wang Yuliang , Chandrasekaran Sriram , Witten Daniela M. , Price Nathan D.
Published: April 2012

In the past 15 years, new “omics” technologies have made it possible to obtain high‐resolution molecular snapshots of organisms, tissues, and even individual cells at various disease states and experimental conditions. It is hoped that these developments will usher in a new era of personalized medicine in which an individual's molecular measurements are used to diagnose disease, guide therapy, and perform other tasks more accurately and effectively than is possible using standard approaches. There now exists a vast literature of reported “molecular signatures”. However, despite some notable exceptions, many of these signatures have suffered from limited reproducibility in independent datasets, insufficient sensitivity or specificity to meet clinical needs, or other challenges. In this paper, we discuss the process of molecular signature discovery on the basis of omics data. In particular, we highlight potential pitfalls in the discovery process, as well as strategies that can be used to increase the odds of successful discovery. Despite the difficulties that have plagued the field of molecular signature discovery, we remain optimistic about the potential to harness the vast amounts of available omics data in order to substantially impact clinical practice.
Ca2+‐induced binding of anticoagulation factor II from the venom of Agkistrodon acutus with factor IX
Authors: Shen Deng‐Ke , Xu Xiao‐Long , Zhang Yan , Song Jia‐Jia , Yan Xin‐Cheng , Guo Ming‐Chun
Published: April 2012

Anticoagulation factor II (ACF II), a coagulation factor X‐ binding protein from the venom of Agkistrodon acutus has both anticoagulant and hypotensive activities. Previous studies show that ACF II binds specifically with activated factor X (FXa) in a Ca2+‐dependent manner and inhibits intrinsic coagulation pathway. In this study, the inhibition of extrinsic coagulation pathway by ACF II was measured in vivo by prothrombin time assay and the binding of ACF II to factor IX (FIX) was investigated by native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and surface plasmon resonance (SPR). The results indicate that ACF II also inhibits extrinsic coagulation pathway, but does not inhibit thrombin activity. ACF II also binds with FIX with high binding affinity in a Ca2+‐dependent manner and their maximal binding occurs at about 0.1 mM Ca2+. ACF II has similar binding affinity to FIX and FX as determined by SPR. Ca2+ has a slight effect on the secondary structure of FIX as determined by circular dichroism spectroscopy. Ca2+ ions are required to maintain in vivo function of FIX Gla domain for its recognition of ACF II. However, Ca2+ at high concentrations (>0.1 mM) inhibits the binding of ACF II to FIX. Ca2+ functions as a switch for the binding between ACF II and FIX. ACF II extends activated partial thromboplastin time more strongly than prothrombin time, suggesting that the binding of ACF II with FIX may play a dominant role in the anticoagulation of ACF II in vivo. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 97: 818–824, 2012.
Easy alignment and effective nucleation activity of ramie fibers in injection‐molded poly(lactic acid) biocomposites
Authors: Xu Huan , Liu Chun‐Yan , Chen Chen , Hsiao Benjamin S. , Zhong Gan‐Ji , Li Zhong‐Ming
Published: April 2012

The poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/ramie fiber biocomposites were fabricated, which exhibited considerable reinforcement effect comparable to the glass fiber at the same loading. The attempts were made to understand the flow‐induced morphology of ramie fibers and PLA crystals in the injection‐molded PLA/ramie fiber biocomposites, thus revealing its relationship to biocomposite mechanical properties. The polarized optical microscopy (POM) and two‐dimensional wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (2D‐WAXD) were for the first time used to determine the distribution of nature fibers, which interestingly showed the ramie fibers aligned well along the flow direction over the whole thickness of injection‐molded parts, instead of skin‐core structure. This easy alignment of ramie fibers during the common processing was ascribed to the intrinsically high flexibility of ramie fibers and strong interfacial interaction between PLA chains and cellulose molecules of ramie fibers. Both 2D‐WAXD and differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) measurements suggested that the PLA matrix in its ramie biocomposites had rather high orientation degree and crystallinity, which was attributed to effective heterogeneous nucleation induced by ramie fibers and local shearing field in the vicinity of fiber surface. Remarkable improvement of mechanical and thermo‐mechanical properties was achieved for PLA/ramie fiber biocomposites, without sacrifice of toughness and ductility. Addition of 30wt% ramie fibers increased the tensile strength and modulus of PLA/ramie fiber biocomposites from 65.6 and 1468 MPa for pure PLA to 91.3 and 2977 MPa, respectively. These superior mechanical properties were ascribed to easy alignment of ramie fibers, high crystallinity of PLA, and favorable interfacial adhesion as revealed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observation and theoretical analysis based on dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) data. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 97: 825–839, 2012.
ChemInform Abstract: Phase Formation in the Li2MoO4—K2MoO4 —In2(MoO4)3 System and Crystal Structures of New Compounds K3InMo4O15 and LiK2In(MoO4)3.
Authors: Khal'baeva Klara M. , Solodovnikov Sergey F. , Khaikina Elena G. , Kadyrova Yuliya M. , Solodovnikova Zoya A. , Basovich Olga M.
Published: April 2012

Phase formation in the title system is investigated and the crystal structures of the new compounds K3InMo4O15 (I) and LiK2In(MoO4)3 (II) are determined by single crystal XRD.
ChemInform Abstract: Syntheses and Crystal Structures of Two Novel Alkaline Uranyl Chromates A2(UO2)(CrO4)2 (A: Rb, Cs) with Bidentate Coordination Mode of Uranyl Ions by Chromate Anions.
Authors: Siidra Oleg I. , Nazarchuk Evgeny V. , Krivovichev Sergey V.
Published: April 2012

Single yellow‐green crystals of the title compounds are prepared by solid state reactions of 2:3:1 mixtures of MNO3 (M: Rb, Cs), CrO3, and UO2(NO3)2 (air, 270 °C, Pt crucible, 10 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Condensation of 2,6‐Diarylmethylidenecyclohexa(penta)nones with Acetylacetone and Ethyl Acetoacetate.
Authors: Gulai T. V. , Morozova A. A. , Golikov A. G.
Published: April 2012

The reactions result in formation of products of carbo‐ and heterocyclization.
ChemInform Abstract: Palladium‐Catalyzed Heck‐Type Reactions of Alkyl Iodides.
Authors: Blomme Kayla S. , McMahen Rebecca L. , Alexanian Erik J.
Published: April 2012

The intramolecular carbocyclization of unsaturated alkyl iodides gives access to a variety of cyclic products.
ChemInform Abstract: SN2‐Type Ring Opening of Substituted‐N‐tosylaziridines with Zinc(II) Halides: Control of Racemization by Quaternary Ammonium Salt.
Authors: Ghorai Manas K. , Tiwari Deo Prakash , Kumar Amit , Das Kalpataru
Published: April 2012

A simple method for the synthesis of racemic and non‐racemic β‐halo amines via the ring‐opening of N‐tosyl aziridines with Zn(II) halides is developed.
ChemInform Abstract: Microwave‐Assisted Meyer—Schuster Rearrangement of Propargylic Alcohols Catalyzed by the Oxovanadate Complex [V(O)Cl(OEt)2].
Authors: Antinolo Antonio , Carrillo‐Hermosilla Fernando , Cadierno Victorio , Garcia‐Alvarez Joaquin , Otero Antonio
Published: April 2012

A variety of both terminal and internal alkynols is isomerized using the readily accessible vanadate complex.
ChemInform Abstract: Reduction of Aromatic and Aliphatic Esters Using the Reducing Systems MoO2(acac)2 or V(O)(OiPr)3 in Combination with 1,1,3,3‐Tetramethyldisiloxane.
Authors: Pehlivan Leyla , Metay Estelle , Laval Stephane , Dayoub Wissam , Delbrayelle Dominique , Mignani Gerard , Lemaire Marc
Published: April 2012

The present new and efficient reduction of aromatic and aliphatic esters employes 1,1,3,3‐tetramethyldisiloxane as reducing agent to give the corresponding alcohols.
ChemInform Abstract: Indium‐Mediated Asymmetric Barbier‐Type Propargylations: Additions to Aldehydes and Ketones and Mechanistic Investigation of the Organoindium Reagents.
Authors: Haddad Terra D. , Hirayama Lacie C. , Buckley Jannise , Singaram Bakthan
Published: April 2012

In the presence of In, Py, and the amino alcohol ADPE, propargyl bromide (II) undergoes efficient enantioselective addition to various aldehydes to afford optically active homopropargylic alcohols.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Water‐Soluble Monotosylated Ethylenediamines and Their Application in Ruthenium and Iridium‐Catalyzed Transfer Hydrogenation of Aldehydes.
Authors: Zhou Zhongqiang , Ma Qiong , Zhang Aiqing , Wu Lamei
Published: April 2012

Three title salts are prepared and tested in the presence of Ru and Ir catalyst.
ChemInform Abstract: Palladium‐Catalyzed Allylic Alkylation of Carboxylic Acid Derivatives: N‐Acyloxazolinones as Ester Enolate Equivalents.
Authors: Trost Barry M. , Michaelis David J. , Charpentier Julie , Xu Jiayi
Published: April 2012

An optimized method for the synthesis of the enol‐carbonate substrates is elaborated.
ChemInform Abstract: A Highly Efficient Method for the Copper‐Catalyzed Selective Synthesis of Diaryl Chalcogenides from Easily Available Chalcogen Sources.
Authors: Li Yaming , Nie Caiping , Wang Huifeng , Li Xiaoying , Verpoort Francis , Duan Chunying
Published: April 2012

Symmetrical diaryl chalcogenides and unsymmetrical diarylsulfides are synthesized by the present newly developed method using Na2S or selenium powder as chalcogen sources.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Properties of Unsymmetrical N,N′‐Dialkylterrylenebis(dicarboximide) Derivatives and Their Related Derivatives.
Authors: Nagao Yukinori , Iwano Tomohiro , Hirano Maki , Arimitsu Koji , Kozawa Kozo
Published: April 2012

Some of the terrylene derivatives synthesized, e.g. (VIc), behave as n‐type semiconductor for a Schottky device.
ChemInform Abstract: An Efficient Synthesis of (R)‐3‐Aminothiolane.
Authors: Pan Xianhua , Tao Xiaohu , Ruan Libo , Li Yiming , Ou Wenhua , Liu Feng
Published: April 2012

(R)‐(VI) [based on a one‐pot tandem hydroxyl activation—intramolecular cyclization of Tos‐protected D‐methioninol (IV)].
ChemInform Abstract: An Approach to the Stereoselective Synthesis of Enantiopure Dihydropyrroles and Aziridines from a Common Sulfinyl‐Sulfinamide Intermediate.
Authors: Viso Alma , Fernandez de la Pradilla Roberto , Urena Mercedes , Bates Robert H. , del Aguila Miguel A. , Colomer Ignacio
Published: April 2012

Addition of chiral sulfinimines to vinylic sulfoxides results in stereoselective formation of the synthetic intermediates (III).
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of 3‐Pyrrol‐3′‐yloxindoles with a Carbamate Function.
Authors: Velikorodov A. V. , Kuanchalieva A. K. , Ionova V. A.
Published: April 2012

Two different ways for the synthesis of the title compounds (III) are presented.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and in vivo Evaluation of Carbonyl‐amide Linkage Based New Benzimidazole Derivatives.
Authors: Shaikh Irfan N. , Hosamani Kallappa M. , Seetharamareddy Harisha R. , Hugar Mallinath H.
Published: April 2012

The title compounds (IV) are obtained via Passerini reaction from acetic acid (I), aromatic aldehydes (II), and isocyanide (III).
ChemInform Abstract: An Efficient Synthesis of Thiazol‐2‐imine Derivatives via a One‐Pot, Three‐Component Reaction.
Authors: Heravi Majid M. , Moghimi Setareh
Published: April 2012

A simple process is presented for the one‐pot synthesis of the biologically important target compounds.
ChemInform Abstract: Stereoselective, One‐Pot, Three‐Component Synthesis of 4‐Aryltetrahydropyrans from Epoxides via Prins Cyclization Reaction.
Authors: Indukuri Kiran , Bondalapati Somasekhar , Kotipalli Trimurtulu , Gogoi Paramartha , Saikia Anil K.
Published: April 2012

The reaction involves a Prins cyclization and Friedel—Crafts cycloaddition to afford all‐cis diastereomers.
ChemInform Abstract: Rhodium‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Synthesis of 4‐Arylchroman‐2‐ones.
Authors: Allen Joseph C. , Kociok‐Koehn Gabriele , Frost Christopher G.
Published: April 2012

The use of stable silyl‐protected dioxaborinanes as donors in the 1,4‐addition to arylidene Meldrum′s acids as acceptors is found to be advantageous to achieve good yields under anhydrous conditions.
ChemInform Abstract: Vilsmeier‐Type Reaction of Dimethylaminoalkenoyl Cyclopropanes: One‐Pot Access to 2,3‐Dihydrofuro[3,2‐c]pyridin‐4(5H)‐ones.
Authors: Huang Peng , Zhang Ning , Zhang Rui , Dong Dewen
Published: April 2012

Starting from cyclopropane substrates, the desired ring system is formed via tandem formylation, intramolecular cyclization and ring enlargement.
ChemInform Abstract: Regioselective Synthesis of 2,8‐Disubstituted 4‐Aminopyrido[3,2‐d]pyrimidine‐6‐carboxylic Acid Methyl Ester Compounds.
Authors: Bouscary‐Desforges Gwenaelle , Bombrun Agnes , Augustine John Kallikat , Bernardinelli Gerald , Quattropani Anna
Published: April 2012

The use of appropriate conditions and reagents allows regioselective formation of a number of differently substituted pyridopyrimidines.
ChemInform Abstract: Dipropargyl Selenide
Authors: Amosova S. V. , Martynov A. V.
Published: April 2012

synthesis by reaction of propargyl bromide with in situ generated Na2Se
ChemInform Abstract: New Substituted C‐19‐Andrographolide Analogues with Potent Cytotoxic Activities.
Authors: Sirion Uthaiwan , Kasemsook Sakkasem , Suksen Kanoknetr , Piyachaturawat Pawinee , Suksamrarn Apichart , Saeeng Rungnapha
Published: April 2012

A series of andrographolide analogues is synthesized by modification at the three hydroxyl groups of the natural andrographolide, the major diterpenoid lactone from Andrographis paniculata.
ChemInform Abstract: Chisomicines D and E, Two New Limonoids from Chisocheton Ceramicus.
Authors: Morita Hiroshi , et al. et al.
Published: April 2012

Title compounds (I), isolated from the bark of Malaysian Chisocheton ceramicus, are found to be cytotoxically inactive against HL‐60 cell line.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Novel Difluoro‐Cyclopropyl Guanine Nucleosides and Their Phosphonate Analogues as Potent Antiviral Agents.
Authors: Li Hua , Yoo Jin Cheol , Kim Eunae , Hong Joon Hee
Published: April 2012

Novel phosphonate (XIII) demonstrates promising anti‐HIV‐1 activity in vitro, whilst new nucleoside analogue (XIV) displays moderate antiviral activity against human cytomegalovirus in MRC cells.
ChemInform Abstract: Needs and Trends in Rational Synthesis of Zeolitic Materials
Authors: Wang Zhuopeng , Yu Jihong , Xu Ruren
Published: April 2012

Review: tutorial reviews; 84 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Enantioselective Organocatalytic Fluorination Using Organofluoro Nucleophiles
Authors: Zhao Yujun , Pan Yuanhang , Sim Sui‐Boon Derek , Tan Choon‐Hong
Published: April 2012

Review: 44 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Siloles. Part 1. Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications
Authors: Corey Joyce Y.
Published: April 2012

Review: about 200 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Larock Indole Synthesis
Authors: Qiao Jennifer Xiaoxin
Published: April 2012

Review: 60 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Nanoscale Biocoordination Polymers: Novel Materials from an Old Topic
Authors: Liu Yaling , Tang Zhiyong
Published: April 2012

Review: 114 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthetic and Solid‐Form Enablement of Inhalation Candidates
Authors: Selby Matthew D. , de Koning Pieter D. , Roberts Dannielle F.
Published: April 2012

Review: 104 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Automation of Peptide Synthesis
Authors: Di Bello Carlo , Bagno Andrea , Dettin Monica
Published: April 2012

Review: 67 refs.
The influence of Hispanic ethnicity on nonsmall cell lung cancer histology and patient survival
Authors: Saeed Ali M. , Toonkel Rebecca , Glassberg Marilyn K. , Nguyen Dao , Hu Jennifer J. , Zimmers Teresa A. , Robbins David J. , Koniaris Leonidas G. , Lally Brian E.
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND:

Most studies exploring ethnic/racial disparities in nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) compare black patients with whites. Currently, the effect of Hispanic ethnicity on the overall survival of NSCLC is poorly understood. Therefore, the authors carried out a large‐scale, population‐based analysis using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) data base to determine the impact of Hispanic ethnicity the survival of patients with NSCLC.

METHODS:

The authors identified 172,398 adult patients with pathologically confirmed NSCLC from the SEER data base who were diagnosed between 1988 and 2007. A multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to determine the impact of race/ethnicity on overall survival. Pair‐wise comparisons were used to determine whether Hispanic ethnicity influenced NSCLC histology or stage at diagnosis.

RESULTS:

Compared with non‐Hispanic white patients, Hispanic white patients had a statistically significant better overall survival (hazard ratio [HR], 0.85; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.83‐0.87), and black patients had worse survival (HR, 1.091; 95% CI, 1.072‐1.109). Within the bronchioalveolar carcinoma (BAC) subtype, Hispanic‐white patients tend to be over represented (8.1% Hispanic whites vs 5.5% non‐Hispanic whites vs 3.7% blacks; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

The current study demonstrated that Hispanic‐white patients with NSCLC had a decreased risk for overall mortality compared with non‐Hispanic whites and blacks. Moreover, Hispanic patients were over represented within the BAC histologic subtype. Thus, the overall survival advantage of Hispanic NSCLC patients may be because of their predilection toward developing certain histologic subtypes of NSCLC. Further studies are warranted to determine the etiologies of such predilections and may reveal certain genetic, environmental, and/or epigenetic factors associated with Hispanic ethnicity. Cancer 2012. © 2012 American Cancer Society.