bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corneal Biomechanical Properties and Anterior Segment Parameters in Forme Fruste Keratoconus
Authors: Kozobolis Vassilios , Sideroudi Haris , Giarmoukakis Athanassios , Gkika Maria , Labiris Georgios
Published: July 2012

Purpose.

To evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of corneal biomechanical metrics, anterior segment data, and a combination model in differentiating forme fruste keratoconus (FFK) from normal corneas.

Methods.

A total of 50 FFK eyes were identified by calculation of the KISA index and recruited FFK group. Results were compared with 50 normal eyes (NG group) randomly selected from 50 patients. The following parameters were evaluated for their diagnostic capacity by evaluation of their receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC): corneal hysteresis (CH), corneal resistance factor (CRF), corneal astigmatism (Cyl), anterior chamber depth (ACD), corneal volume (CV) at 3 mm (CV3) and at 5 mm (CV5), maximum posterior elevation value (PEL), central corneal thickness (CCT), thinnest corneal thickness (TCT) and its coordinates (TCT x, TCT y), the ratio TCT/CCT, pachymetric progression indexes (PPImin, PPIavg, and PPImax), and Ambrósio's relational thickness (ARTmin, ARTavg, and ARTmax). Logistic regression was attempted for identification of a combined diagnostic model.

Results.

Significant differences were detected in all studied parameters except the Cyl, ACD, TCT x, and CV. Among individual parameters, the highest predictive accuracy was for ARTavg (area under the curve [AUC] 95.4%, sensitivity 90%, specificity 88.9%) and TCT (AUC 95.3%, sensitivity 90.9%, specificity 89%). Sufficient predictive accuracy (AUC 99.4%, sensitivity 98.8%, specificity 94.6%) was identified in a diagnostic model that combined the CRF, ARTavg, and PEL parameters.

Conclusions.

None of the individual parameters provide sufficient diagnostic capacity in FFK. However, diagnostic models that combine biomechanical and tomographic data seem to provide high accuracy in differentiating FFK from normal corneas.
Isolation and Structure Determination of Three New Sesquiterpenoids from Achillea millefolium
Authors: Farooq Umar , Khan Afsar , Khan Saleha Suleman , Iqbal Shazia , Sarwar Rizwana , Khan Sher Bahadar , Ahmad Viqar Uddin
Published: July 2012

Phytochemical investigation of the whole plant of Achillea millefolium led to the isolation of three new sesquiterpenes which were trivially named as sesquiterpene lactone-esters A and B (1 and 2), and sesquiterpene lactone-diol (3). The structures of these compounds were determined with the help of one- and two-dimensional (1D and 2D) NMR techniques including 1H NMR, 13C NMR, HMQC, HMBC, COSY, and NOESY experiments.
Barakacin: A Thiazolyl-indole Alkaloid Isolated from a Ruminal Pseudomonas sp.
Authors: Zendah Imene , Shaaban Khaled A. , Helmke Elisabeth , Maier Armin , Fiebig Heinz H. , Laatsch Hartmut
Published: July 2012

A new thiazolyl-indole alkaloid, barakacin (1), has been isolated from the ruminal bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain ZIO. On the basis of detailed spectroscopic analyses and comparison with the data of related compounds, its structure has been determined as 2-{4-[bis-(1H-indol-3- yl)-methyl]-thiazol-2-yl}-phenol. In addition, the known compounds phenazine-1-carboxylic acid, 3-(hydroxyacetyl)-indole, indole-3-carbaldehyde, and glycolipid A were isolated. The discovery of compounds with a new skeleton emphasizes the importance for exploring new ecological niches like the rumen of bovines for the detection of new natural products. This paper describes the fermentation, isolation, structure elucidation and biological activities of compound 1.
New Sphingolipids from Abutilon pakistanicum
Authors: Ali Bakhat , Mehmood Rashad , Hussain Riaz , Malik Abdul , Imran Muhammad , Nawaz Haq , Hussain Ajaz
Published: July 2012

Pakistamides A and B (1and 2, respectively), two new sphingolipids, have been isolated from the AcOEt-soluble sub-fraction of the MeOH extract of the whole plant of Abutilon pakistanicum. Their structures were assigned by 1H and 13C NMR spectra, and by DEPT and COSY, NOESY, HMQC, HMBC, EI-MS, and FAB-MS experiments.
Millifolides A–C. New 1,10-Seco-guaianolides from the Flowers of Achillea millefolium
Authors: Li Yong , Ni Zhi-Yu , Zhu Meng-Chu , Zhang Kai , Wu Yi-Bing , Dong Mei , Shi Qing-Wen , Huo Chang-Hong , Sauriol Françoise , Kiyota Hiromasa , Gu Yu-Cheng , Cong Bin
Published: July 2012

Ten 1,10-secoguaianolides were isolated from the flowers of Achillea millefolium. Their structures were determined on the basis of spectroscopic methods. Three of them (millifolides A-C) including two dimeric sesquiterpenoids exhibit new skeletons. Seco-tanapartholide A exhibited moderate cell growth inhibitory activity against the human cancer cell line MCF7WT (IC50 = 5.51 μm) in vitro.
Two New Cd(II) and Co(II) Coordination Polymers Based on a 1,10- Phenanthroline Derivative and Tri- or Tetra-Carboxylates: Syntheses, Structures and Photoluminesce
Authors: Wang Xiu-Yan , He Yu , Liu Fei-Fei
Published: July 2012

Two new coordination polymers constructed with the 1,10-phenanthroline derivative 2-(2-chloro- 6-fluorophenyl)-1H-imidazo[4,5-f][1,10]-phenanthroline (L) and different carboxylates, namely, [Cd2(L)2(1,3,5-BTC)(Cl)]·H2O (1) and [Co2(L)2(1,2,4,5-BTC)(H2O)2] (2), have been synthesized under hydrothermal conditions (1,3,5-BTC = 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylate anion and 1,2,4,5-BTC = 1,2,4,5-benzenetetracarboxylate anion). Crystal data for 1: C47H25Cd2Cl3F2N8O7, triclinic, space group P¯1, a = 10:1084(5), b = 14:9285(7), c = 15:2930(4)Å , α = 72:1050(10), β = 86:160(2), γ = 79:6000(10)°, V = 2159:88(16) °A3, Z = 2. Crystal data for 2: C24H13ClCoFN4O5, triclinic, space group P1¯, a = 7:4767(15), b = 10:094(2), c = 14:772(3)Å , α = 91:23(3), β = 100:95(3), γ = 106:57(3)°, V = 1045:8(4) Å3, Z = 2. Their crystal structures have been determined by singlecrystal X-ray diffraction analyses, and the compounds further characterized by physico-chemical and spectroscopic methods. In 1, each 1,3,5-BTC anion connects five Cd(II) atoms to form a double chain. These chains are extended into 2D supramolecular networks through μ - μ interactions. N-H...Cl, N - H...O and O - H...N hydrogen bonding interactions further stabilize the network of 1. In 2, each 1,2,4,5-BTC anion bridges four Co(II) atoms to yield a chain. μ-μ interactions among adjacent chains result in a 2D supramolecular architecture.
A Two-fold Interpenetrated Diamondlike 3D Metal-Organic Cd(II) Complex Based on 5-Iodo-isophthalic Acid and 1,3-Bi(4-pyridyl)propane
Authors: Dong Ming-Ming , Zhu Deng-Yong , Zhao Yan , Li Xiao-Yuan , Zang Shuang-Quan
Published: July 2012

A metal-organic framework based on 5-iodo-isophthalic acid (5-iipaH2) and the ancillary nitrogen ligand 1,3-bi(4- pyridyl)propane (bpp), namely [Cd(5-iipa)(bpp)(H2O)]n (1), has been synthesized, and characterized by IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, thermogravimetry, and X-ray crystallography. Complex 1shows a two-fold interpenetrating 3D diamond-like architecture that is stabilized by hydrogen bonding, μ...μ, I...μ, and C-H...p interactions.
Solid-state 119Sn NMR and M¨ossbauer Spectroscopic Studies of the Intermediate-valent Stannide CeRuSn
Authors: Schappacher Falko M. , Khuntia Panchanana , Rajarajan Anakot K. , Baenitz Michael , Mydosh John A. , Chevalier Bernard , Matar Samir F. , Pöttgen Rainer
Published: July 2012

The ternary stannide CeRuSn is a static mixed-valent cerium compound with an ordering of trivalent and intermediate-valent cerium on two distinct crystallographic sites. 119Sn Mössbauer spectra showed two electronically almost identical tin atoms at 323 K, while at 298 K and below (77 and 4:2 K) two tin sites can clearly be distinguished. Solid-state 119Sn NMR experiments were performed to probe the local hyperfine fields at the two different Sn sites. Powder 119Sn NMR spectra are nicely fitted with two Sn sites with nearly the same magnetic anisotropy, but with different absolute shift values. Both Sn sites are strongly affected by crossover-like transitions between 100 and 280 K. This local-site study confirms the superstructure modulations found in previous investigations. Towards lower temperatures the powder NMR spectra are broadened giving strong precursor evidence for the antiferromagnetically ordered ground state.
Molecular and Crystal Structure of Sildenafil Base
Authors: Stepanovs Dmitrijs , Mishnev Anatoly
Published: July 2012

Sildenafil citrate monohydrate, well known as Viagra®, is a drug for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Here we present the X-ray crystal structure of the sildenafil base, C22H30N6O4S. The compound crystallizes in the monoclinic system, space group P21/c with the unit cell parameters a = 17:273(1), b=17:0710(8), c=8:3171(4) Å , b =99:326(2), Z = 4, V = 2420:0(3) Å3. A comparison with the known crystal structures of sildenafil citrate monohydrate and sildenafil saccharinate is also presented.
Intercalation of the Microbial Biopolymers Welan Gum and EPS I into Layered Double Hydroxides
Authors: Plank Johann , Ng Serina , Foraita Sebastian
Published: July 2012

Three microbial polysaccharides, namely welan gum, scleroglucan, and EPS I, a novel polysaccharide obtained from a newly isolated bacillus species with structural similarities to xanthan gum, were employed in the fabrication of bio-nanocomposites based on layered double hydroxides (LDH). Synthesis was performed by direct co-precipitation of Zn(NO3)2 and Al(NO3)3 in the polysaccharide solutions at pH ~ 8.5. The reaction products were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), elemental and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM). It was found that welan gum is successfully intercalated into the Zn-Al-LDH structure, giving a d-spacing of 2:38 nm for the interlayer distance, while neutral scleroglucan failed to be intercalated. Instead, this biopolymer was only surface-adsorbed on inorganic CaAl-OH-LDH platelets, as was evidenced by de-washing experiments. These results indicate that the anionic functionality of the polysaccharides presents a main driving force behind their intercalation. In contrast to regular xanthan gum, EPS I was intercalated into the LDH structure to give a sharp X-ray reflection representing a d-spacing of 2:77 nm. This behavior proves that slight modifications of the polysaccharide can greatly improve its intercalation ability.
Structural Characterization of N,NBis( diphenylphosphanyl)propylamine
Authors: Mayer Tobias , Böttcher Hans-Christian
Published: July 2012

The synthesis and structural characterization of the Nsubstituted bis(diphenylphosphanyl)amine Ph2PN(R)PPh2 (R = n-propyl, 1) is reported. Single crystals of 1grown from dichloromethane/acetonitrile have been analyzed by Xray crystallography. The crystallographic study revealed that the diphenylphosphanyl groups in 1are staggered relative to the PNP backbone as observed for other closely related molecules.
Lipodystrophy among HIV‐infected children and adolescents on highly active antiretroviral therapy in Uganda: a cross sectional study
Authors: Piloya Thereza , Bakeera‐Kitaka Sabrina , Kekitiinwa Adeodata , Kamya Moses R
Published: July 2012

Background

With widespread use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and prolonged survival of HIV‐infected children, toxicities like lipodystrophy are becoming more evident. Little is known about lipodystrophy in children in Uganda yet there is increased use of ART. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with fat redistribution and metabolic abnormalities among HIV‐infected children on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in Uganda.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study of 364 HIV positive children aged between 2 and 18 years on ART were enrolled after consent and assent as appropriate. Sociodemographic, clinical and immunological data were collected and recorded in a questionnaire. Fat redistribution was assessed clinically for physical findings of lipohypertrophy and lipoatrophy. A fasting blood sample was taken for lipid profile and blood glucose analysis. Lipodystrophy was defined as presence of abnormal fat redistribution or metabolic abnormalities or both. The proportion of children with fat redistribution and metabolic abnormalities was calculated. We conducted multivariate analysis for factors associated with lipodystrophy among children with lipodystrophic features and those without.

Results

The median age of the participants was eight years (range 2 to 18), with 43% of these aged ≥10 years and a male to female ratio of 1.1:1. Majority (65%) had advanced HIV (WHO Stage III/IV) at ART initiation with a mean duration on ART of 3.8 years (±1.2). The prevalence of fat redistribution and hyperlipidemia was 27.0% and 34.0%, respectively. None of the children had hyperglycaemia. Among the children with hyperlipidemia, 16.8% exhibited hypercholesterolemia and 83% had hypertriglyceridemia. Only 29% of children with fat redistribution had hyperlipidemia. We found significant association between fat redistribution and Tanner stages 2 to 5 OR=2.3 (95%CI 1.3 to 3.8), age≥5 years OR=3.9 (95%CI 1.5 to 9.9) and d4T exposure OR=3.4 (95%CI 2.0 to 5.8). A Tanner stage 2 to 5 was independently associated with hyperlipidemia. No significant association was observed with HIV clinical stage and any of the anthropometric measurements.

Conclusion

The prevalence of lipodystrophy is high among HIV‐infected children on ART with a likelihood of developing fat redistribution and metabolic abnormalities increased during puberty.
Feasibility of Disaster Mental Health Preparedness Training for Black Communities
Authors: Laborde Danielle J. , Magruder Kathryn , Caye Joanne , Parrish Theodore
Published: June 2012

Objectives

To test the feasibility of developing evidence-based mental health training to build capacity to respond to natural disasters in black communities and the adaptation of a train-the-trainer (TTT) model for black community leaders and clinical providers in distressed areas at risk of natural disasters.

Methods

A core curriculum was developed based on a training needs assessment and resource review. Participants were recruited using network sampling in eastern North Carolina. The core curriculum was tested for usability, revised, and then pilot tested among five mental health providers. Three of the five were trained to lead one-day workshops tailored for black community leaders and clinical providers. Process data were collected, and workshop participants completed posttraining knowledge tests, evaluation forms, and debriefing focus groups.

Results

Ten providers and 13 community leaders pilot tested the training. Posttest knowledge scores were generally higher among clinical providers. Perceived effectiveness of training was higher among community-based organization leaders than clinical providers. Evaluations indicated that the workshop components were culturally relevant and well received by all participants. We identified ways to facilitate recruitment, provide optional e-learning, evaluate effectiveness, and extend trainer support in future field trials.

Conclusion

The curriculum and TTT model provide culturally competent disaster mental health preparedness training for black communities. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2013;7:302-312)
A Non‐Mulberry Silk Fibroin Protein Based 3D In Vitro Tumor Model for Evaluation of Anticancer Drug Activity
Authors: Talukdar Sarmistha , Kundu Subhas C.
Published: July 2012

The limitations of clinical chemotherapy are credited primarily to drug resistance. Effective development and screening of new drugs require appropriate in vitro tumor models that resemble the in vivo situation to evaluate drug efficiency and to decrease the use of experimental animals. 3D in vitro model systems that are able to mimic in vivo microenvironments are now highly sought after in cancer research. Here, the characteristics of breast cancer cell line MDA‐MB‐231 cells on 3D, and 2D Antheraea mylitta silk matrices and tissue culture plates are compared. After long term culture of breast cancer cells in the silk scaffold, the engineered tumor construct shows different zones of cell proliferation, such as an avascular tumor. Silk fibroin matrix 3D tumor models are studied for the evaluation of various anticancer drugs. The cytotoxic effects of three different drugs (Paclitaxel, Celecoxib, and ZD6474) at different concentrations are evaluated for MDA‐MB‐231 grown on 2D films as well as on a 3D fibroin scaffold. Higher drug concentrations are required to achieve a comparable reduction in cell viability and invasive potential in 3D culture. Combinatorial treatment of drugs at IC50 concentrations result in up to 84% death of cancer cells. The results indicate that 3D in vitro tumor models may be better systems to evaluate cancer treatment strategies.
Positively K+‐Responsive Membranes with Functional Gates Driven by Host–Guest Molecular Recognition
Authors: Liu Zhuang , Luo Feng , Ju Xiao‐Jie , Xie Rui , Luo Tao , Sun Yi‐Meng , Chu Liang‐Yin
Published: July 2012

A novel positively K+‐responsive membrane with functional gates driven by host‐guest molecular recognition is prepared by grafting poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐acryloylamidobenzo‐15‐crown‐5) (poly(NIPAM‐co‐AAB15C5)) copolymer chains in the pores of porous nylon‐6 membranes with a two‐step method combining plasma‐induced pore‐filling grafting polymerization and chemical modification. Due to the cooperative interaction of host‐guest complexation and phase transition of the poly(NIPAM‐co‐AAB15C5), the grafted gates in the membrane pores could spontaneously switch from “closed” state to “open” state by recognizing K+ ions in the environment and vice versa; while other ions (e.g., Na+, Ca2+ or Mg2+) can not trigger such an ion‐responsive switching function. The positively K+‐responsive gating action of the membrane is rapid, reversible, and reproducible. The proposed K+‐responsive gating membrane provide a new mode of behavior for ion‐recognizable “smart” or “intelligent” membrane actuators, which is highly attractive for controlled release, chemical/biomedical separations, tissue engineering, sensors, etc.
New Biocide with Both N‐Chloramine and Quaternary Ammonium Moieties Exerts Enhanced Bactericidal Activity
Authors: Li Lingdong , Pu Tianyun , Zhanel George , Zhao Nan , Ens Werner , Liu Song
Published: July 2012

Considering the rise of antibiotic resistance, the development of new antibacterial agents with improved biocidal functions is urgently required. In this study, ionic 5,5‐dimethylhydantoin (DMH) analogues containing either a quaternary ammonium moiety (2)–4) or a phosphonate functional group (5),–6), were designed and synthesized to investigate the possible enhancing effect of quaternary ammonium moieties on the antibacterial performance of N‐chloramines. These ionic DMH analogues were converted to their N‐chloramine counterparts either in free form or after being covalently immobilized on a polymer surface via the “click” chemistry method. In the subsequent antimicrobial assessment against multi‐drug‐resistant Escherichia coli (MDR‐E. coli) and methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), chlorinated 2 and 3, the cyclic N‐chloramines with a structural cation, exhibited distinctly enhanced biocidal functions in solution and after immobilization on surfaces.
Wire Metamaterials: Physics and Applications
Authors: Simovski Constantin R. , Belov Pavel A. , Atrashchenko Alexander V. , Kivshar Yuri S.
Published: July 2012

The physics and applications of a broad class of artificial electromagnetic materials composed of lattices of aligned metal rods embedded in a dielectric matrix are reviewed. Such structures are here termed wire metamaterials. They appear in various settings and can operate from microwaves to THz and optical frequencies. An important group of these metamaterials is a wire medium possessing extreme optical anisotropy. The study of wire metamaterials has a long history, however, most of their important and useful properties have been revealed and understood only recently, especially in the THz and optical frequency ranges where the wire media correspond to the lattices of microwires and nanowires, respectively. Another group of wire metamaterials are arrays and lattices of nanorods of noble metals whose unusual properties are driven by plasmonic resonances.
Mixed gas and pure gas transport properties of copolyimide membranes
Authors: Chen Xiao Yuan , Kaliaguine Serge
Published: July 2012

Copolyimides were synthesized from dianhydride of 4,4′‐(hexafluoroisopropylidene)diphthalic anhydride (6FDA) with various diamine contents of 4,4′‐oxydianiline (ODA) and 2,3,5,6‐tetramethyl‐1,4‐phenylenediamine (TeMPD) by chemical imidization in a two‐step procedure. Polyimides (PIs) were characterized using thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, as well as specific volume and free volume. The gas transport properties for pure gas and blends of CO2 and CH4 for the homopolymers and 6FDA‐ODA/TeMPD copolymers were investigated at 35°C and 150 psi pressure. In pure gas permeation, permeability of CO2 and CH4 increased with increasing TeMPD content in the diamine moiety, whereas the ideal selectivity decreased with increasing TeMPD content. In the mixed gas permeation, permeabilities and separation factor were measured as a function of CO2 feed molar fraction for five PI membranes. The behavior of pure gas and mixed gas permeabilities and separation factor of CO2/CH4 mixtures as the chemical nature of the diamine and the CO2 molar fraction in the feed gas were varied and are discussed in detail. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2013
Preparation and properties of a degradable interpenetrating polymer networks based on starch with water retention, amelioration of soil, and slow release of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer
Authors: Jin Shuping , Wang Yongsheng , He Jinfang , Yang Yan , Yu Xinghai , Yue Guoren
Published: July 2012

In this study, we aimed to develop a degradable nitrogen and phosphorus (NP) fertilizer with properties of slow release, water retention, and remediation of saline soil; the nitrogen and phosphorus was coated with starch/poly(acrylic acid‐co‐acrylamide) [poly(AA‐co‐AM)] superabsorbent (SAAmF) by reverse suspension radical copolymerization. The variable influences on the water absorbency were investigated and optimized. The results of the structure and morphology characterization of SAAmF show that poly(AA‐co‐AM) was grafted partly from the chain of starch, and the different contents of starch brought about a difference in the size of the three‐dimensional net hole of the coating polymer. The property of water retention, the behaviors of slow release of nutrient, and the degradation of the SAAmF were evaluated, respectively, and the results revealed that the water transpiration ratio of soil with SAAmF was lower by approximately 8 percentage points than that of the blank test, about 60% nutrient was released from SAAmF by the 30th day, and 32 wt % of SAAmF with a content of starch of 20% was degraded after 55 days. Moreover, a considerable decrease in the conductivity was observed, which revealed a sharp reduction in the concentration of residual ions for the soil mixed with SAAmF. It may be inferred from these that the product seems to be a promising vehicle for the management of soils, including saline soils. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Poly(ethylene terephthalate), modified with bisphenol S units, with increased glass transition temperature
Authors: Lotti Nadia , Colonna Martino , Fiorini Maurizio , Finelli Lara , Berti Corrado
Published: July 2012

Novel copolyesters have been prepared by melt mixing poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) with an ethoxylated bisphenol S, with the aim to prepare new polyesters with increased Tg, to be used in a wider range of temperatures with respect to neat PET. No side reactions occur during the synthesis of the samples, as proved by NMR analysis. The insertion of the bisphenol S (sulfonyldiphenol) groups does not significantly alter the thermal stability of PET. The thermal analysis showed that Tm and crystallization rate of the copolymers decreased with incasing co‐unit content. The Tg of the copolyesters can be increased by bisphenol S insertion, up to 40°C higher with respect to neat PET, that allows the use of amorphous PET in a wider range of applications. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Evaluation of hydroxyl terminated polybutadiene‐isophorone diisocyanate gel formation during crosslinking process
Authors: Ducruet Nicolas , Delmotte Luc , Schrodj Gautier , Stankiewicz Francine , Desgardin Nancy , Vallat Marie‐France , Haidar Bassel
Published: July 2012

Crosslinking reaction of hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene (HTPB)/isophorone di‐isocyanate (IPDI) was monitored by infrared spectroscopy, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), swelling measurements, and by relaxation time (T2) measurements obtained by low‐field NMR technique. Chemical reaction monitored by FTIR shows that urethane bonds were predominantly formed throughout the whole reaction period while DMA and swelling became only effective once the three‐dimensional network was formed. NMR results allow differentiating between relaxation‐processes associated with different fractions of the reactants in the mixture prior to the network formation. The most important finding in this study is that two of the relaxation processes were found to decline whereas a new fraction with a short relaxation time which emerged specifically at an early stage of reaction and progressed along with advancement of the reaction. All results pointed out to a change in the mixture behavior around 30 h of crosslinking reaction at 60°C, reflecting an important restriction in molecules diffusion and mobilities which were attributed to the gel point formation. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Water sorption and physicomechanical properties of corn starch‐based films
Authors: Kuorwel Kuorwel K. , Cran Marlene J. , Sonneveld Kees , Miltz Joseph , Bigger Stephen W.
Published: July 2012

The mechanical performance of thermoplastic starch (TPS) films and films made of TPS blended with an aliphatic polyester (APTPS) was investigated after exposure to water mixtures of various compositions and different levels of relative humidity (RH). Conditioning of TPS films at various RH levels resulted in a noticeable absorption of moisture, particularly at high RH levels, and their mechanical properties decreased significantly. High magnification imaging of the films revealed the presence of significant microcracking on the surface of the TPS films which could potentially result in the increased water absorption and consequent reduction in mechanical integrity. The APTPS film was free of any visible microscopic defects and was also less susceptible to water ingress. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2013
Alteration in Metastasis Potential and Gene Expression in Human Lung Cancer Cell Lines by ITGB8 Silencing
Authors: Xu Zhaoguo , Wu Rong
Published: July 2012

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the world and metastasis is an essential aspect of lung cancer progression. ITGB8 has been implicated in metastasis of human tumors. However, the molecular mechanism by which ITGB8 is involved in tumor metastasis is still unclear. In this study, we compared the gene expression profiles of human lung cancer cell lines A549 and PC9 by ITGB8 gene silencing with that of parent cells and negative control cells to comprehensively investigate ITGB8‐mediated changes with respect to the metastatic potential and gene expression of human lung cancer cell lines. Our results showed that ITGB8 silencing cells exhibited significant cell cycle arrest and less adhesion and invasion abilities. We confirmed by Western blot, ELISA, and real‐time PCR that the expression of metastasis‐related genes CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL5, MMP‐2, and MMP‐9 were significantly decreased while that of E‐Cadherin and cystatin B were dramatically increased in A549‐ and PC9‐ITGB8 silencing cells. Furthermore, silencing of ITGB8 caused Snail and NF‐κB transcriptional activation, and MEK and Akt phosphorylation level changes in lung cancer cell lines. Our results indicated that ITGB8 may play an important role in metastasis of human lung cancer cells. The ITGB8 silencing may change the lung cancer cells to a less invasive phenotype through alteration in the expression of metastasis‐related genes. Anat Rec, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diastereoselective Total Synthesis of (±)‐Schindilactone A, Part 1: Construction of the ABC and FGH Ring Systems and Initial Attempts to Construct the CDEF Ring System
Authors: Sun Tian‐Wen , Ren Wei‐Wu , Xiao Qing , Tang Ye‐Feng , Zhang Yan‐Dong , Li Yong , Meng Fan‐Ke , Liu Yi‐Fan , Zhao Ming‐Zhe , Xu Ling‐Min , Chen Jia‐Hua , Yang Zhen
Published: July 2012

First‐generation synthetic strategies for the diastereoselective total synthesis of schindilactone A (1) are presented and methods for the synthesis of the ABC, FGH, and CDEF moieties are explored. We have established a method for the synthesis of the ABC moiety, which included both a Diels–Alder reaction and a ring‐closing metathesis as the key steps. We have also developed a method for the synthesis of the FGH moiety, which involved the use of a Pauson–Khand reaction and a carbonylative annulation reaction as the key steps. Furthermore, we have achieved the construction of the central 7–8 bicyclic ring system by using a [3,3]‐rearrangement as the key step. However, unfortunately, when this rearrangement reaction was applied to the construction of the more advanced CDEF moiety, the anticipated annulation reaction did not occur and the development of an alternative synthetic strategy would be required for the construction of this central core.
Operationalizing the Assessment and Management of Violence Risk in the Short‐term
Authors: Doyle Michael , Logan Caroline
Published: July 2012

Assessing risk of violence in the short term is crucial for managing and preventing violence, especially in institutions such as psychiatric units and prisons. Despite a lack of consensus on the definition of “short term”, a number of recent tools and guidelines have been developed to aid short‐term clinical decision‐making. Whereas the supporting evidence for the new tools is impressive, limitations remain in terms of the focus on prediction, limited consideration of strengths, and poor integration with formulation and risk management. The Short‐Term Assessment of Risk and Treatability (START) is a brief clinical guide for the dynamic assessment of risks, strengths and treatability. It focuses on short‐term risks and the characteristics of the individual that, if changed, might lead to an increase or decrease in risk. The START has the potential to operationalize the structured professional judgment (SPJ) approach in order to inform the evaluation of multiple risk domains relevant to everyday psychiatric clinical practice. However, explicit guidance on integrating risk assessment, formulation and management is limited in the START and this paper describes the SPJ approach, reviews recent developments in approaches to risk, and considers how the START can be used to inform SPJ approaches and link risk assessment, formulation, and management. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Social Capital and Community Group Participation: Examining ‘Bridging’ and ‘Bonding’ in the Context of a Healthy Living Centre in the UK
Authors: Kirkby‐Geddes Emma , King Nigel , Bravington Alison
Published: July 2012

Social capital has been widely advocated as a way of understanding and building community participation in the interest of health improvement. However, the concept as proposed by Putnam, has been criticised for presenting an overly romanticised account of complex community relations. This paper presents analysis from a qualitative evaluation of a Healthy Living Centre (HLC) in the North of England, to examine the utility of the concept of social capital in this context. We found the concepts of ‘bridging’ and ‘bonding’ social capital were useful – though not without limitations – in helping to make sense of the complexities and contradictions in participants’ experiences of community group participation. 'Bridging' helped provide an understanding of how the decline in shared social spaces such as local shops impacts on social relationships. 'Bonding' highlighted how community group membership can have positive and negative implications for individuals and the wider community. It was found that skilled group leadership was key to strengthening bridging capital. Politically, in the UK, community participation is seen as having an essential role in social change, for example, its centrality to the coalition government's idea of the ‘Big Society’. A micro‐examination of this HLC using the lens of social capital provides a valuable critical insight into community participation. It shows that this kind of initiative can be successful in building social capital, given conditions such as an appropriate setting and effective leadership. However, they cannot substitute for other kinds of investment in the physical infrastructure of a community. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Serum lipid profile in psoriatic patients: correlation between vascular adhesion protein 1 and lipoprotein (a)
Authors: Nemati Houshang , Khodarahmi Reza , Rahmani Ameneh , Ebrahimi Ali , Amani Mojtaba , Eftekhari Kamran
Published: July 2012

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by excessive cellular replication. Apolipoproteins are genetically determined molecule whose role has been implied in cardiovascular pathology. Vascular adhesion protein−1 (VAP−1) is an adhesion molecule with an enzymatic activity that partakes in the migration process of lymphocytes into sites of inflammation. Our purpose was to evaluate the plasma lipid profiles, apolipoproteins (A1, B) and Lp (a) and VAP−1 in order to compare the lipid profile in psoriatic patients with non‐affected persons and correlation between VAP−1 and Lp (a). We determined serum concentrations of lipids, lipoproteins , apolipoproteins and VAP−1 in 90 patients with psoriasis and 90 age matched controls. Serum Lp (a), apo A1 and apo B were measured by immunoprecipitation assays, and the lipids and lipoproteins were measured by enzymatic methods.The VAP−1 were masured by ELISA method. The mean levels of total cholesterol, LDL, apo B and VAP−1 in patients with psoriasis were found to be significantly higher than those of healthy subjects (P<0.05. In psoriatic patients, elevation of VAP‐1 correlated with elevation of Lp (a) (p = 0.025). This study shows that high serum lipid level and VAP−1, is significantly more common in psoriasis. This fact may be responsible for higher prevalence of cardiovascular accident in psoriatic patients. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dimensioning Multipartition Dividing Wall Columns
Authors: Olujić Ž. , Dejanović I. , Kaibel B. , Jansen H.
Published: July 2012

Performance simulation of multiproduct dividing wall columns (DWCs) and related optimization considerations provide information on the energy‐saving potential of various heat coupling arrangements. The control of multiproduct configurations also gains increasing attention. Information on physical implementation, i.e., the know‐how required to design in a cost‐effective way a DWC incorporating two or more partition walls arranged in parallel and in series, is still missing. Complex DWC sizing is explored that needs to be carried out with utmost care because pressure drop equalization is the key to ensuring the required vapor splits among parallel sections. The adopted methodology as well as related design challenges and peculiarities are illustrated by considering three feasible alternatives for a packed four‐product DWC.
Theoretical Investigation of the Mechanism of Primary Amines Reacting with Hexamolybdate: An Insight into the Organoimido Functionalization and Related Reactions of Polyoxometalates
Authors: Lv Chunlin , Hu Junjie , Zhou Hong , Li Zhe , Khan Rao Naumaan Nasim , Wei Yongge
Published: July 2012

The functionalization of polyoxometalates (POMs), especially with an amino group to yield organonitrogenous derivatives of POMs, is an efficient approach to the enrichment of their structures and the diversification of their properties for various applications. The mechanism for the formation of organonitrogenous‐derivatized hexamolybdates was explored by investigating the monofunctionalization of the [Mo6O19]2− ion with methylamine using the density functional theory (DFT) method. The calculations show that the direct imidoylization of hexamolybdate with methylamine is both kinetically and thermodynamically unfavorable. However, this imidoylization was found to take place readily in the presence of dimethylcarbodiimide (DMC), for which the free‐energy barrier was calculated to be +32.5 kcal mol−1 in acetonitrile. Moreover, various factors controlling the efficiency of the imidoylization were examined. The calculations show that [W5MoO19]2− has a relatively lower reactivity than [Mo6O19]2−, and that the imidoylization of [W6O19]2− is an unfavorable process. With respect to the effect of carbodiimides, it is found that the catalytic activity is directly proportional to the electron‐withdrawing effects of the substituents. As to the reactivity of RNH2, the computation results indicate that the free‐energy barriers of the substitution reactions are linearly correlated with the basicity constants (pKb) of the amino groups. It is noteworthy that the introduction of the proton dramatically decreases the free‐energy barrier of the imidoylization of [Mo6O19]2− catalyzed by DMC to 24.3 kcal mol−1 in acetonitrile.
Study of Nanocrystalline BiMnO3‐‐PbTiO3: Synthesis, Structural Elucidation, and Magnetic Characterization of the Whole Solid Solution
Authors: Hungría Teresa , Correas Covadonga , Houdellier Florent , Peña Octavio , Vila Eladio , Castro Alicia
Published: July 2012

In the last ten years, the study and the search for new multiferroic materials have been a major challenge due to their potential applications in electronic technology. In this way, bismuth‐containing perovskites (BiMO3), and particularly those in which the metal M position is occupied by a magnetically active cation, have been extensively investigated as possible multiferroic materials. From the point of view of synthesis, only a few of the possible bismuth‐containing perovskites can be prepared by conventional methods but at high pressures. Herein, the preparation of one of these potential multiferroic systems, the solid solution xBiMnO3‐(1−x)PbTiO3 by mechanosynthesis is reported. Note that this synthetic method allows the oxides with high x values, and more particularly the BiMnO3 phase, to be obtained as nanocrystalline phases, in a single step and at room temperature without the application of external pressure. These results confirm that, in the case of Bi perovskites, mechanosynthesis is a good alternative to high‐pressure synthesis. These materials have been studied from the point of view of their structural characteristics by precession electron diffraction and magnetic property measurements.
Formation of Quaternary Stereogenic Centers by NHC–Cu‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Conjugate Addition Reactions with Grignard Reagents on Polyconjugated Cyclic Enones
Authors: Tissot Matthieu , Poggiali Daniele , Hénon Hélène , Müller Daniel , Guénée Laure , Mauduit Marc , Alexakis Alexandre
Published: July 2012

The copper‐catalyzed conjugate addition of various Grignard reagents to polyconjugated enones (dienone and enynone derivatives) is reported. The catalyst system, composed of copper triflate and an NHC ligand, led to the unusual selective formation of the 1,4‐addition products. This reaction allows for the creation of all‐carbon chiral quaternary centers with enantiomeric excesses up to 99 %. The remaining unsaturation on the 1,4 adducts give access to valuable synthetic transformations.
Removing Ruthenium Residues from Olefin Metathesis Reaction Products
Authors: Vougioukalakis Georgios C.
Published: July 2012

Olefin metathesis has revolutionized the way chemists design and synthesize molecules, mostly due to the development of well‐defined ruthenium catalysts with high oxygen‐, moisture‐, and functional‐group tolerance. However, the complete removal of residual ruthenium after the end of a metathesis reaction often imposes significant challenges. This Minireview summarizes the strategies for the sequestration of ruthenium impurities from olefin metathesis post‐reaction mixtures, thus comprising a practical guide for synthetic chemists employing ruthenium‐catalyzed metathesis reactions in the synthesis of organic or polymeric materials.
ChemInform Abstract: Cyclic SiS2: A New Perspective on the Walsh Rules.
Authors: Mueck Leonie Anna , Lattanzi Valerio , Thorwirth Sven , McCarthy Michael C. , Gauss Juergen
Published: July 2012

Cyclic SiS2 is detected in the low‐current dc discharge products of a mixture of SiH4 and H2S by Fourier transform microwave spectroscopy.
ChemInform Abstract: Crystal Structure of New Ternary Compounds Al2Ln11Ge8 (Ln: Y, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er) and Thermal Properties of Al2Er11Ge8.
Authors: Zeng Lingmin , He Wei , Shen Wenjun , Lu Meiwen
Published: July 2012

The title compounds are prepared by arc‐melting of the elements followed by annealing at 1273 K for 720 h and at 673 K for 48 h.
ChemInform Abstract: Eu3+‐Doped CdMoO4 Red Phosphor Synthesized Through an Aqueous Solution Route at Room Temperature.
Authors: Wang W. S. , Zhen L. , Xu C. Y. , Shao W. Z. , Chen Z. L.
Published: July 2012

The title phosphor is synthesized by precipitation from aqueous solutions of CdCl2, Eu(NO3)3, Na2MoO4, and NaCl at room temperature.
ChemInform Abstract: Strong Green and Red Up‐Conversion Emission in Ho3+, Yb3+ and Li+ Co‐ or Tri‐Doped SrAl2O4 Ceramics.
Authors: Tang Mianmian , Wang Xusheng , Peng Dengfeng , Wang Wei , Sun Haiqin , Yao Xi
Published: July 2012

Ho3+/Yb3+ co‐doped and Ho3+/Yb3+/Li+ tri‐doped SrAl2O4 ceramics are prepared by solid state reaction of SrCO3, Al2O3, Ho2O3, Yb2O3, and Li2CO3 (1.
ChemInform Abstract: Detrimental Cationic Doping of Titania in Photocatalysis: Why Chromium Cr3+‐Doping is a Catastrophe for Photocatalysis, Both under UV‐ and Visible Irradiations
Authors: Herrmann Jean‐Marie
Published: July 2012

study of Cr‐doped TiO2 in five different test reactions under various conditions
ChemInform Abstract: Structural, Thermal Behavior and Vibrational Study of a New Mixed Cesium—Ammonium Tellurate.
Authors: Aribia Wafa Ben , Abdelmouleh Makki , Van der Lee Van der Lee , Kabadou Ahlem
Published: July 2012

The new compound [Cs0.92(NH4)0.08] 2TeCl4Br2 is precipitated from a hot solution of TeO2, CsBr, and NH4Br in aq.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Uranium Materials under Extreme Conditions: UO2[B3Al4O11(OH)], a Complex 3D Aluminoborate.
Authors: Wu Shijun , Beermann Oliver , Wang Shuao , Holzheid Astrid , Depmeier Wulf , Malcherek Thomas , Modolo Giuseppe , Alekseev Evgeny V. , Albrecht‐Schmitt Thomas E.
Published: July 2012

The title compound is synthesized from a mixture of H3BO3, Al2O3, and UO2(NO3)2·6H2O in a ratio of 3:2:1 (gold capsule, 650 °C, 200 MPa, 7 d).
ChemInform Abstract: Hydrothermal Synthesis and Characterizations of Ti Substituted Mn‐Ferrites.
Authors: Mostafa Nasser Y. , Hessien M. M. , Shaltout Abdallah A.
Published: July 2012

Mn1‐2xTixFe2O4 (x = 0.0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4) nanoparticles with diameters ranging from 39 to 59 nm are hydrothermally synthesized from mixtures of FeCl3, MnCl2, TiO2, NaOH, and H2O (autoclave, 180 °C, 20 h) and characterized by XRD, TEM, and magnetic measurements.
ChemInform Abstract: Substrate Range of the Titanium TADDOLate Catalyzed Asymmetric Fluorination of Activated Carbonyl Compounds
Authors: Bertogg Andreas , Hintermann Lukas , Huber Dominique P. , Perseghini Mauro , Sanna Maria , Togni Antonio
Published: July 2012

59 examples
ChemInform Abstract: Cooperative Catalytic Reactions Using Distinct Transition‐Metal Catalysts: Ruthenium‐ and Copper‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Propargylic Alkylation.
Authors: Ikeda Masahiro , Miyake Yoshihiro , Nishibayashi Yoshiaki
Published: July 2012

A Ru—Cu co‐catalyzed reaction of β‐ketoesters with propargylic alcohols is described, which provides the products (III) in high yields and enantioselectivities (up to 93% e.e.).
ChemInform Abstract: Asymmetric Michael Additions Catalyzed by Functionalized Quaternary Alkylammonium Ionic Liquids.
Authors: Wang Ge , Sun Huichao , Cao Xiaohui , Li Yang , Chen Ligong
Published: July 2012

A series of chiral pyrrolidine‐type quaternary alkylammonium ionic liquids is prepared and shown to be efficient catalysts for the asymmetric addition of cyclohexanone to nitroolefins.
ChemInform Abstract: Chymopapain‐Catalyzed Direct Asymmetric Aldol Reaction.
Authors: He Yan‐Hong , Li Hai‐Hong , Chen Yan‐Li , Xue Yang , Yuan Yi , Guan Zhi
Published: July 2012

Five‐, six‐, and seven‐membered cyclic ketones and acetone as aldol donors are accepted to react with aromatic and heteroaromatic aldehydes.
ChemInform Abstract: Preparation of Clay‐Supported Sn Catalysts and Application to Baeyer—Villiger Oxidation.
Authors: Hara Takayoshi , Hatakeyama Moriaki , Kim Arum , Ichikuni Nobuyuki , Shimazu Shogo
Published: July 2012

A novel clay‐intercalated tin catalyst, readily prepared by a cation exchange process from lithium taeniolite, shows extremely high performance in the Baeyer—Villiger oxidation of a variety of ketones.
ChemInform Abstract: Iron—Iron Oxide Core—Shell Nanoparticles Are Active and Magnetically Recyclable Olefin and Alkyne Hydrogenation Catalysts in Protic and Aqueous Media.
Authors: Hudson Reuben , Riviere Antoine , Cirtiu Ciprian M. , Luska Kylie L. , Moores Audry
Published: July 2012

The catalyst shows selectivity towards the less activated double bonds and tolerates the presence of air and water.
ChemInform Abstract: Dual Catalysis: Vinyl Sulfones Through Tandem Iron‐Catalyzed Allylic Sulfonation Amine‐Catalyzed Isomerization.
Authors: Jegelka Markus , Plietker Bernd
Published: July 2012

Various substituted secondary vinyl sulfones are synthesized with high (E)‐selectivity under mild conditions.
ChemInform Abstract: Copper‐Catalyzed Regio‐ and Stereoselective Conjugate Allylation of Electron‐Deficient Alkynes with Allylboronates under Mild Conditions.
Authors: Yamamoto Yoshihiko , Yamada Satoshi , Nishiyama Hisao
Published: July 2012

Conjugate allylation of a variety of electron‐deficient alkynes with allylboronate (II) proceeds smoothly in the presence of Cu(II) catalyst to afford 1,4‐dienes, e.g. (III) or (VIII), in high yields.
ChemInform Abstract: Heteroaryl Hydroxycarbonylation: An Efficient, Robust, Practically Scalable Approach Using Formyl Acetate as the CO Source.
Authors: Gadakh Amol V. , Chikanna Dinesh , Rindhe Sahebrao S. , Karale Bhausaheb K.
Published: July 2012

All products are purified by recrystallization.
ChemInform Abstract: ZSM‐5‐SO3H as a Novel, Efficient, and Reusable Catalyst for the Chemoselective Synthesis and Deprotection of 1,1‐Diacetates under Eco‐Friendly Conditions.
Authors: Massah Ahmad Reza , Kalbasi Roozbeh Javad , Shafiei Anahita
Published: July 2012

The acylation of aliphatic (I) and aromatic aldehydes (IV) with acetic anhydride proceeds smoothly in the presence of the zeolite ZSM‐5‐supported sulfuric acid under solvent‐free, heterogeneous conditions at room temperature.
ChemInform Abstract: Scalable Synthesis of Highly Reactive 1,3‐Diamino Dienes from Vinamidinium Salts and Their Use in Diels—Alder Reactions.
Authors: Zhou Sida , Sanchez‐Larios Eduardo , Gravel Michel
Published: July 2012

A facile method allows the preparation of vinamidine salts like (VI).
ChemInform Abstract: Zirconium‐Catalyzed Cyclopropanation of α‐Olefins Mediated by R′CO2R′′ and ClnAlEt3‐n.
Authors: Khafizova Leila O. , Gubaidullin Rinat R. , Dzhemilev Usein M.
Published: July 2012

The method provides aryl‐substituted alkoxycyclopropanes (III) and alkyl cyclopropanols (V).