bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of bakkenolide A in rat plasma using liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry and its application to a pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Pei Lixia , Dai Dongmei , Bao Yuanwu , Chen Feng , Zheng Jin , Li Ji , Liu Sheng , Chen Xiuping
Published: August 2012

A sensitive rapid analytical method was established and validated to determine the bakkenolide A (BA) in rat plasma. This method was further applied to assess the pharmacokinetics of BA in rats receiving a single dose of BA. Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry in multiple reaction monitoring mode was used in the method, and costundide was used as internal standard. A simple protein precipitation based on methanol was employed. The combination of a simple sample cleanup and short chromatographic running time (2.4 min) increased the throughput of the method substantially. The method was validated over the range of 1–1000 ng/mL with a correlation coefficient > 0.99. The lower limit of quantification was 1 ng/mL for BA in plasma. Intra‐ and inter‐day accuracies for BA were 93–112% and 103–104%, respectively, and the inter‐day precision was less than 15%. After a single oral dose of 20 mg/kg of BA, the mean peak plasma concentration (Cmax) of BA was 234.7 ± 161 ng/mL at 0.25 h. The area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC0–24 h) was 535.8 ± 223.7 h·ng/mL, and the elimination half‐life (T1/2) was 5.0 ± 0.36 h. In case of intravenous administration of BA at a dosage of 2 mg/kg, the area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC0–24 h) was 342 ± 98 h⋅ng/mL, and the elimination half‐life (T1/2) was 5.8 ± 0.7 h. Based on the results, the oral bioavailability of BA in rats at 20 mg/kg is 15.7%. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Automated analysis of fine‐root dynamics using a series of digital images
Authors: Nakano Aiko , Ikeno Hidetoshi , Kimura Toshifumi , Sakamoto Hiromichi , Dannoura Masako , Hirano Yasuhiro , Makita Naoki , Finér Leena , Ohashi Mizue
Published: August 2012

Information related to the growth of fine roots is important for understanding C allocation in trees and the mechanisms of C cycling in ecosystems. Observations using a camera or scanner embedded in the soil enabled us to obtain continuous images of fine‐root‐growth dynamics. However, these methods are still labor‐intensive because the image analysis has to be conducted manually. We developed an automated method for tracking movement or elongation of fine roots using a sequence of scanner images. We also show how data obtained with these methods can be used for calculating fine‐root behavior. Two A4‐size scanners were buried in a mixed forest in Japan and images were taken continuously from within the soil. We preprocessed these images by extracting the fine‐root area from the images and developed an automated calculation plug‐in we named A‐root for tracking growth movement of the tips of fine roots. A‐root and manual‐tracking results were compared using the same images. The results show the A‐root and manual‐tracking methods yielded similar levels of accuracy. The average growth rate of 17 fine roots tracked using the program was 0.16 mm h–1. The observation of the direction of growth in fine roots showed the direction may be influenced by the original root's growth where the fine roots branched, distribution of soil particles, other roots, and the force of gravity. The A‐root analysis also suggested there may be an interaction between speed of growth and changes in direction of growing fine roots.
Dysregulated expression of Slug, vimentin, and E‐cadherin correlates with poor clinical outcome in patients with basal‐like breast cancer
Authors: Liu Tong , Zhang Xianyu , Shang Ming , Zhang Youxue , Xia Bingshu , Niu Ming , Liu Yang , Pang Da
Published: August 2012

Background

Among the different types of breast cancer, basal‐like breast cancer (BLBC) has an extremely poor prognosis due to its high rate of recurrence and metastasis. The present study aimed to investigate the correlation between the expression of Slug, E‐cadherin, and vimentin, and the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of patients with BLBC. We further inferred from these findings whether Slug leads to a poor prognosis in patients with BLBC through epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT).

Methods

Immunohistochemistry was performed for 441 patients with breast cancer to determine the expression levels of Slug, E‐cadherin, and vimentin. The correlation between protein expression and clinicopathological characteristics of patients with BLBC was evaluated, and these patients were followed up to determine survival rate.

Results

High Slug and low E‐cadherin expression in BLBC patients closely correlated with histological grade, lymph node metastasis, tumor‐node‐metastasis (TNM) stage, and lymphatic vessel metastasis. Survival analysis revealed that the poor prognosis of BLBC is associated with TNM stage, high Slug and vimentin expression, and low E‐cadherin levels.

Conclusions

High Slug expression is closely correlated with poor prognosis in patients with BLBC. We speculate that this may be attributed to the involvement of Slug in the EMT of BLBC. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013;107:188–194. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of the 532nm pulsed KTP laser in the treatment of Reinke's edema
Authors: Pitman Michael J. , Lebowitz‐Cooper Amy , Iacob Chodrin , Tan Meilin
Published: August 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To evaluate the effect and safety of the 532nm Pulsed Potassium‐Titanyl‐Phosphate (KTP) laser in the office‐based treatment of patients with Reinke's edema using objective and subjective scaled outcome measures.

Study Design:

Case Series.

Setting:

Tertiary hospital center.

Subjects:

Seven adult females undergoing in‐office KTP laser treatment for Reinke's edema.

Methods:

Participants were studied pre‐ and posttreatment. Vocal function was evaluated by objective aerodynamic and acoustic analysis. Subjective changes were evaluated using the GRBAS scale, Voice Handicap Index, and videostroboscopy. Histologic effects of the laser were investigated by comparing one patient treated with laser one year prior to excision, one treated with laser just prior to excision, and one control patient who underwent excision without prior laser treatment.

Results:

At an average postoperative follow up of 17.8 weeks (range 5–78), maximum phonation time trended toward improvement. The median VHI score decreased from 37 to 26 (p=0.150). There was a reduction in each component of the GRBAS scoring and the median fundamental frequency increased from 162 to 186 (p=0.625). Stroboscopic findings demonstrated an intact posttreatment mucosal wave. Histologic comparison of the tissue effects of laser in three patients demonstrated changes in vocal fold vascularity but no acute or long‐term damage to the overlying epithelium.

Conclusion:

Objective and subjective scaled measures suggest that treatment of Reinke's edema in the office with a 532nm KTP laser may result in improved voice. It appears safe with histologic preservation of the vocal fold vibratory epithelium and persistence of mucosal wave. Laryngoscope, 2012
Polystyrene Solutions: Characterization of Molecular Motional Modes by Spectrally Resolved Low‐ and High‐Field NMR Relaxation
Authors: Cudaj Markus , Cudaj Judith , Hofe Thorsten , Luy Burkhard , Wilhelm Manfred , Guthausen Gisela
Published: August 2012

Polystyrene solutions in CDCl3 were examined by different NMR techniques. Diffusion measurements and spectrally resolved frequency‐dependent 1H longitudinal relaxation studies give some insight into the complex molecular motional modes and their frequency dependence, that is, the dispersion of the longitudinal relaxation rate. The newly available spectral resolution at low magnetic field around 20 MHz 1H‐Larmor frequency additionally allows the differentiation of aliphatic and aromatic spectral contributions and, therefore, a more detailed description of the molecular mobility in the frequency range of several MHz compared to the well‐known time‐domain or field‐cycling NMR studies.
Preparation of Soft Microactuators in a Continuous Flow Synthesis Using a Liquid‐Crystalline Polymer Crosslinker
Authors: Fleischmann Eva‐Kristina , Ohm Christian , Serra Christophe , Zentel Rudolf
Published: August 2012

We present the synthesis of a polymeric liquid crystalline (LC) crosslinker and its usage in the preparation of soft microactuators. The microactuators, composed of thermoresponsive liquid crystalline elastomers (LCE), are fabricated in a microfluidic device in a continuous “on the fly” process. The LC polymer crosslinker is miscible with the LC monomer and provides for a rapid polymerization and crosslinking. Most importantly, it promotes an enantiotropic mesophase of the mobile monomer phase, which is not provided by conventional nonmesogenic crosslinkers. This allows an isothermal handling inside the microfluidic setup. Temperature‐driven shape changes up to 65% could be achieved by judiciously optimizing the crosslinking density of the LCE particles.
Integral representation for the solution of the stationary Schrödinger equation in a cone
Authors: Qiao Lei , Deng Guantie
Published: August 2012

In this paper, we consider the Dirichlet problem for the stationary Schrödinger equation in a cone with continuous boundary data. For a solution u of the stationary Schrödinger equation in a cone, we prove that if its positive part u+ satisfying a slowly growing condition, then its negative part u− can also be dominated by a similar slowly growing condition. Meanwhile, u can be represented by its integral in the boundary of the cone.
Weighted Hardy spaces and BMO spaces associated with Schrödinger operators
Authors: Liu Heping , Tang Lin , Zhu Hua
Published: August 2012

In this paper, we characterize the weighted Hardy space \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$H_{\mathcal {L}}^{1}(\omega )$\end{document} related to the Schrödinger operator \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathcal {L}=-\Delta +V$\end{document}, with V a non‐negative potential satisfying a reverse Hölder inequality, by atomic decomposition and Riesz transforms. We also get a characterization of its dual space \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$B\hspace*{-1.0pt}M\hspace*{-1.0pt}O_{\mathcal {L}}(\omega )$\end{document} through a weighted Carleson measure. Then we prove the boundedness of some classical operators associated to \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathcal {L}$\end{document} on the weighted BMO space \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$B\hspace*{-1.0pt}M\hspace*{-1.0pt}O_{\mathcal {L}}(\omega )$\end{document}.
Gray blood magnetic resonance for carotid wall imaging and visualization of deep‐seated and superficial vascular calcifications
Authors: Koktzoglou Ioannis
Published: August 2012

White blood and black blood magnetic resonance imaging methods are often used for lumenography and visualization of the arterial wall, respectively. However, the use of white blood imaging invariably obscures arterial wall boundaries, and thus, impedes precise measurement of arterial wall area. Conversely, black blood imaging imposes strict limits on sequence timing to suppress the arterial lumen, and by itself, precludes separation of superficial calcification from the hypointense arterial lumen. In this work, a three‐dimensional arterial wall imaging methodology providing gray blood image contrast is described that remedies the above limitations. When applied to the carotid arteries, the described gray blood imaging method is found to clearly depict the inner and outer arterial wall boundaries as well as superficial and deep‐seated vascular calcifications. A tailored phase‐encoding schedule is also presented that enables concurrent gray and black blood, or “dual contrast,” imaging of the arterial wall with no increase in the acquisition time. Taken together, presented data demonstrate that gray and dual blood contrast magnetic resonance imaging provide an efficient means for viewing and characterizing the composition of atherosclerotic plaques. Magn Reson Med, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Direct imaging of hyperpolarized 129Xe alveolar gas uptake in a mouse model of emphysema
Authors: Iguchi Satoshi , Imai Hirohiko , Hori Yuki , Nakajima Junichi , Kimura Atsuomi , Fujiwara Hideaki
Published: August 2012

MRI of hyperpolarized 129Xe dissolved in pulmonary tissues, and blood has the potential to offer a new tool for regional evaluation of pulmonary gas exchange and perfusion; however, the extremely short T and low magnetization density make it difficult to acquire the image. In this study, an ultrashort echo‐time sequence was introduced, and its feasibility to quantitatively assess emphysema‐like pulmonary tissue destruction by a combination of dissolved‐ and gas‐phase 129Xe lung MRI was investigated. The ultrashort echo‐time has made it possible to acquire dissolved 129Xe images with reasonably high spatial resolution of 0.625 × 0.625 mm2 and to obtain T of 0.67 ± 0.30 ms in a spontaneously breathing mouse at 9.4 T. The regional dynamic alveolar gas uptake as well as subsequent transport by pulmonary blood flow was also visualized. The ratio of 129Xe magnetization that diffused into the septa relative to the gas‐phase magnetization F was regionally evaluated. The mean F value of elastase‐treated mice was 2.28 ± 0.46%, which was significantly reduced from that of control mice 3.41 ± 0.48% (P = 0.0052). This reflects the reduced uptake efficiency due to alveolar tissue destruction and is correlated with the histologically derived alveolar surface‐to‐volume ratio. Magn Reson Med, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mitigation of B1+ inhomogeneity on single‐channel transmit systems with TIAMO
Authors: Orzada Stephan , Johst Sören , Maderwald Stefan , Bitz Andreas K. , Solbach Klaus , Ladd Mark E.
Published: August 2012

In magnetic resonance imaging, there has been a constant drive to higher static magnetic field strengths (B0) to achieve a higher signal‐to‐noise ratio and new or enhanced contrasts. In today's high‐field systems, severe problems regarding the homogeneity of the transmission field are encountered. Recently, an acquisition scheme called Time‐Interleaved Acquisition of Modes has been proposed to tackle the inhomogeneity problems in high‐field magnetic resonance imaging. The basic premise is to excite two (or more) different B modes using static radiofrequency shimming in an interleaved acquisition, where the complementary radiofrequency patterns of the two modes can be exploited to improve overall signal homogeneity. In its usual implementation, a multichannel transmit system is required. In this work, the goal is to present a simple and inexpensive hardware setup which makes it possible to use time‐interleaved acquisition of modes on any single‐channel transmit system while making use of the vendor‐provided single‐channel radiofrequency safety system. To demonstrate the efficacy of this setup, spin echo images from the pelvis are acquired at 7 T exhibiting no complete signal dropouts. Magn Reson Med, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Surgical treatment of hepatoblastoma
Authors: Meyers Rebecka L. , Czauderna Piotr , Otte Jean‐Bernard
Published: August 2012

Surgical resection remains the cornerstone of cure in hepatoblastoma (HB). Meticulous review of contrast enhanced CT/MR imaging facilitates PRETEXT and POST‐TEXT grouping to determine optimal timing and desired extent of liver resection. Excellent knowledge of liver anatomy is essential and the dissection must ensure protection of the vascular inflow and outflow to the remaining liver at all times. Referral to a liver specialty center in advanced cases may facilitate resectability. Potential surgical complications include bleeding, vascular injury, cardiac arrest, liver failure, and bile leak. The risk of complications can be minimized with preoperative planning, appropriate referral, and precise surgical technique. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 59: 800–808. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Uptake of invasive prenatal tests in pregnancies conceived via assisted reproductive technologies: the experience in Queensland, Australia
Authors: Hunt Lauren , Peterson Madelyn , Sinnott Stephen , Sutton Bridget , Cincotta Robert , Duncombe Gregory , Chua Jackie , McInerney‐Leo Aideen
Published: August 2012

Objective

Prenatal diagnosis of a chromosomal abnormality currently involves the use of an invasive procedure, which has a risk of fetal loss. The aim of this study was to identify whether pregnancies conceived via assisted reproductive technologies were more or less likely to be subjected to an invasive procedure compared with pregnancies that were conceived spontaneously.

Method

Population data were collated from three private ultrasound clinics across southeast Queensland, Australia.

Results

Of the 15 032 spontaneously conceived pregnancies, 775 (5.2%) had invasive testing, while 95 (6.0%) of the 1581 pregnancies conceived through assisted reproductive technologies had invasive testing. When the uptake of testing is adjusted by the maternal age the assisted reproductive population was significantly less likely to pursue invasive testing (p = 0.003). Similarly when adjusted for the combined first trimester screen risk estimate, the assisted reproduction population is significantly less likely to undergo invasive testing than the spontaneous population (p = 0.005).

Conclusion

Pregnancies conceived using assisted reproductive technologies are significantly less likely to be subjected to invasive testing than pregnancies conceived spontaneously in women of the same age and combined first trimester screen risk. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of low complex region peptides derived from mollusk shell matrix proteins using CID, high‐energy collisional dissociation, and electron transfer dissociation on an LTQ‐orbitrap: Implications for peptide to spectrum match
Authors: Marie Arul , Alves Sandra , Marie Benjamin , Dubost Lionel , Bédouet Laurent , Berland Sophie
Published: August 2012

Identification of proteins involved in mollusk biomineralization by proteomics approach is gaining importance. These proteins are often characterized by low‐complexity regions (LCRs) made of repeating motifs that are constituted by few amino acids (e.g. IGG, DD, KK, and GGG). In this work, we have analyzed the fragmentation of model LCR peptides under different fragmentation regimes (CID, high‐energy collisional dissociation [HCD], and electron transfer dissociation [ETD]) and its consequences on peptide to spectrum matches (PSMs) using two search algorithms (Mascot and PEAKS DB). For both search tools, higher number of PSMs was obtained using CID spectra, followed by HCD and ETD. Intense fragment ions present in the lower m/z region of HCD led to lower PSM scores and absence of low mass cut off seems to offer little advantage for the identification of LCR peptides. Generally, doubly charged peptides under ETD conditions did not fragment to yield sequence information rich spectra. The spectral quality is affected by the nature of the repeating motifs in the peptide. The performance of both Mascot and PEAKS DB (de novo based search tool) vary according to the fragment regime employed to acquire MS/MS spectra.
Health‐related quality of life does not differ between short‐term, long‐term and very long‐term cancer survivors in the Swedish general population
Authors: Wikman Anna , Djärv Therese , Johar Asif , Lagergren Pernilla
Published: August 2012

Background

Time since cancer diagnosis is rarely accounted for in population‐based studies of health‐related quality of life (HRQL) among cancer survivors. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the relationship between time since cancer diagnosis and impairments in HRQL among short‐term, long‐term and very long‐term cancer survivors in the general population.

Methods

A cross‐sectional population‐based survey of 4910 Swedish adults aged 40–79 years was conducted between April and June 2008. Three hundred and nineteen cases of cancer were identified, and 4591 participants reported no cancer. Analysis of co‐variance (95% confidence intervals), adjusting for age, gender, education, marital status and non‐cancer co‐morbidity, was performed to compare HRQL ratings, as measured by the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ‐C30, between short‐term (<5 years since diagnosis [YSD]), long‐term (5–10 YSD) and very long‐term (>10 YSD) cancer survivors, and with that of a no‐cancer control group.

Results

No significant differences were observed between the survivor groups across the HRQL scales, with the exception of fatigue and appetite loss, which were greater among the short‐term survivors compared with the very long‐term survivors. For the majority of the HRQL scales, ratings were significantly poorer in the short‐term survivors compared with controls. Long‐term survivors had significantly reduced global quality of life, physical function, social function and fatigue, compared with controls. Differences observed between groups were largely of limited clinical significance. HRQL of very long‐term survivors did not differ from controls.

Conclusions

Although HRQL was similar between short‐term, long‐term and very long‐term survivors, when compared with the background population, findings suggest that some functional impairments and symptoms are present even at 5–10 YSD. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prostate cancer treatments and their side effects are associated with increased insomnia
Authors: Savard Josée , Hervouet Séverine , Ivers Hans
Published: August 2012

Objective

Between 25% and 40% of prostate cancer patients report insomnia symptoms. Although a possible role of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and radiation therapy (RTH) and some of their side effects have been postulated, this issue has rarely been investigated. This study aimed to (1) compare the evolution of insomnia symptoms and somatic symptoms, which may affect sleep quality (i.e., hot flashes, night sweats, and urinary symptoms), in patients receiving combined ADT and RTH with that in patients receiving RTH only and (2) assess the mediating role of somatic symptoms in the relationship of ADT and RTH with insomnia symptoms.

Methods

Sixty men scheduled to receive RTH for prostate cancer, with (n = 28) or without (n = 32) ADT, were assessed prior to receiving any treatment (baseline) and at seven additional times over 16 months (1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, and 16 months) using the Insomnia Severity Index and the Physical Symptoms Questionnaire.

Results

A significant interaction effect was found indicating an increase in insomnia scores in ADT–RTH patients at 2, 4, and 6 months, as compared with baseline, and stable scores in RTH patients. A significant mediating role of hot flashes and night sweats was found in the relationship between ADT and insomnia symptoms. The relationship with RTH was also significantly mediated by these two symptoms albeit more strongly by excessive urinary frequency.

Conclusions

Androgen deprivation therapy is associated with an increased risk for insomnia, and side effects of ADT and RTH appear to play a role in the development of insomnia in this population. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stability of magnetic polarons in magnetic semiconductor single electron transistors: The effect of Coulomb interaction and external magnetic field
Authors: Lebedeva N. , Varpula A. , Novikov S. , Kuivalainen P.
Published: August 2012

In a magnetic single electron transistor (SET), which consists of a magnetic quantum dot (QD) coupled electrically to nonmagnetic source, drain, and gate electrodes, a magnetic polaron (MP) formation may occur, that is, the charge carrier spin may spin‐polarize the magnetic atoms of the QD and simultaneously the carrier becomes more tightly bound to the QD. We have studied theoretically the effect of the Coulomb interaction and magnetic field on the stability of the MPs in ferromagnetic SETs in the Coulomb blockade regime. The calculated results show that the temperature range, where MP is stable can be controlled by the gate voltage of the SET. At temperatures below the Curie temperature the stability decreases with magnetic field, whereas at higher temperatures the opposite is true. The Coulomb repulsion between two charge carriers separates the spin‐up and spin‐down energy levels, which stabilizes the MP further.
Transmission electron microscopy of single wall carbon nanotube/polymer nanocomposites: A first‐principles study
Authors: Solá F. , Xia Z. H. , Lebrón‐Colón M. , Meador M. A.
Published: August 2012

The physics of high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) image formation and electron diffraction of single wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) in a polymer matrix was investigated theoretically on the basis of the multislice method. The effect of the nanocomposite thickness on both image contrast and typical electron diffraction reflections of the nanofillers was explored. The implications of the results on the experimental applicability to study dispersion, chirality and diameter of nanofillers are discussed. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A New Perspective on the Quercetin Paradox in Male Reproductive Dysfunction
Authors: Ranawat Pavitra , Pathak Chander Mohan , Khanduja Krishan Lal
Published: August 2012

Dietary bioflavonoids represent a large class of polyphenolic compounds found in most plants. A significant number of flavonoids are reported to have beneficial health effects. Quercetin is one such flavonoid which has been reported to possess strong antioxidant properties. However, as far as male reproduction and fertility are concerned, controversial reports exist in the literature highlighting the antioxidant as well as a prooxidant character of quercetin, leaving much to the researcher's speculation. The present review therefore, aimed at addressing this paradoxical behavior of quercetin by taking into account the in vitro and in vivo studies conducted till date regarding its role in the maintenance of male reproductive potential. From the detailed survey of the published data, it appears that the conflicting biological effects of quercetin might relate to its dose and the redox state of the cell. Thus, the cellular toxicity of quercetin metabolites might overshadow the beneficial effects of its supplementation in subjects having reproductive dysfunction coupled with elevated oxidative stress leading to the paradoxical behavior of the flavonoid. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sampling properties and spatial filtering of ensemble background‐error length‐scales
Authors: Raynaud Laure , Pannekoucke Olivier
Published: August 2012

Background‐error length‐scales are key components of the correlation model since they give an idea of the distance over which the influence of an observation extends. The length‐scales can be estimated from an ensemble of perturbed forecasts, however the finite size of the ensembles in operational applications introduces a relatively large sampling noise on the estimated length‐scales.

We first give some insight into the statistical properties of the noise. On the one hand, the noise variance can be analytically expressed as a simple function of the length‐scale and the ensemble size. On the other hand, it is shown that the spatial structure of the noise is relatively small‐scale and is directly related to the heterogeneity of background error.

Such spatial properties tend to support the use of local averaging techniques to remove the noise. This is explored with the application of homogeneous and heterogeneous averagings based on the integration of the diffusion equation. It is observed that both filters improve the accuracy of the length‐scale estimates, with the heterogeneous filter being more efficient in the regions where the length‐scales are small and rapidly varying. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Kidney Podocytes as Specific Targets for cyclo(RGDfC)‐Modified Nanoparticles
Authors: Pollinger Klaus , Hennig Robert , Breunig Miriam , Tessmar Joerg , Ohlmann Andreas , Tamm Ernst R. , Witzgall Ralph , Goepferich Achim
Published: August 2012

Renal nanoparticle passage opens the door for targeting new cells like podocytes, which constitute the exterior part of the renal filter. When cyclo(RGDfC)‐modified Qdots are tested on isolated primary podocytes for selective binding to the αvβ3 integrin receptor a highly cell‐ and receptor‐specific binding can be observed. In displacement experiments with free cyclo(RGDfC) IC50 values of 150 nM for αvβ3 integrin over‐expressing U87‐MG cells and 60 nM for podocytes are measured. Confocal microscopy shows a cellular Qdot uptake into vesicle‐like structures. Our ex vivo study gives clear evidence that, after renal filtration, nanoparticles can be targeted to podocyte integrin receptors in the future. This could be a highly promising approach for future therapy and diagnostics of podocyte‐associated diseases.
Electron Beam Melting of High Niobium Containing TiAl Alloy: Feasibility Investigation
Authors: Terner Mathieu , Biamino Sara , Epicoco Paolo , Penna Andrea , Hedin Oscar , Sabbadini Silvia , Fino Paolo , Pavese Matteo , Ackelid Ulf , Gennaro Paolo , Pelissero Federica , Badini Claudio
Published: August 2012

Third generation γ‐TiAl alloys with a high niobium content, Ti–(47–48)Al–2Cr–8Nb, were processed by electron beam melting (EBM). This near‐net‐shape additive manufacturing process produces complex parts according to a CAD design. The starting powder is deposited layer by layer on the building table and selectively melted to progressively form the massive part. The EBM parameters such as layer thickness, melting temperature, scanning speed, or building strategy were set up to minimize porosity. The chemical composition of the built material is similar to the composition of the base powder despite a slight evaporation of aluminum and reveals a neglectable oxygen pick‐up. The very fine equiaxed microstructure resulting after EBM can be then set up by heat treatment (HT). According to the HT temperature in particular, an equiaxed microstructure, a duplex microstructure with different lamellar ratio and a fully lamellar microstructure is obtained. Not only test bars have been produced but also complex parts such as demo low pressure turbine blades.
Investigation on Water Model for Fluid Flow in Slab Continuous Casting Mold With Consideration of Solidified Process
Authors: Jin Xing , Chen DengFu , Xie Xin , Shen Jialong , Long Mujun
Published: August 2012

This study aims to propose suitable simulation methods, which enable to reduce the major differences between water model and real caster, such as the gradually decreased flow space, flow mass in the casting direction, and the momentum decay in the mushy zone. With consideration of solidified process, the method is concerned with the change of flow space and flow mass at the casting direction in water model. The level fluctuations, stimulus–response curves, velocities of liquid surface, and distributions of liquid slag have been changed in the water model to study the differences of flow character and the variation of fluid flow in molds. The mold with a solidified shell leads to significant differences in flow behaviors, such as higher level fluctuations, higher surface velocities, and worse liquid slag distributions. Neglecting the solidified shell causes unrealistic lower surface velocities and level fluctuations in water model. The mold with consideration of flow mass balance has higher level fluctuations and surface velocities than the mold without shell, and has lower level fluctuations and surface velocities than that of mold with a shell. The results indicate that it is necessary for water model to take the solidified process into account to acquire more accurate and reliable experiment results, especially for thinner slab.
Structure–reactivity relationships for aromatic molecules: electrostatic potentials at nuclei and electrophile affinity indices
Authors: Galabov Boris , Ilieva Sonia , Koleva Gergana , Allen Wesley D. , Schaefer III Henry F. , von R. Schleyer Paul
Published: August 2012

Recent advances have been achieved in the quantitative description of the reactivity of aromatic compounds in terms of simple parameters derived from theoretical computations. The first part of this review surveys the use ofelectrostatic potentials at nuclei(EPN) in characterizing the reactivity of substituted aromatic compounds when the reaction center is situated outside the aromatic ring. The application of EPN for several typical reactions of substituted aromatic systems is described in detail. The performance of alternative reactivity descriptors, such as theoretical atomic charges, the Parr electrophilicity index, and the experimental Hammett constants, is considered as well. The second part of this review discusses the recently proposedelectrophile affinityconstruct for quantifying reactivity and regiospecificity for the most typical reaction of arenes: electrophilic aromatic substitution. The characterization of reactivity of aromatic molecules in terms of proton affinities and arene nucleophilicity indices is surveyed briefly.

This article is categorized under:

Structure and Mechanism > Molecular Structures
σ‐Holes
Authors: Clark Timothy
Published: August 2012

σ‐Holes are regions of positive molecular electrostatic potential collinear with and opposite to covalent bonds to atoms of Groups IV–VII. They are responsible for many noncovalent bonding interactions, such as halogen bonding. σ‐Holes make ‘negatively charged’ atoms act as if they were ‘positively charged’. The existence of σ‐hole bonding emphasizes what has been called ‘the fallacy of net atomic charges’, which means that many covalently bonded atoms cannot be represented adequately by a single charge because they look negative from some directions and positive from others. Hydrogen bonding can also be regarded as a special case of σ‐hole bonding, although in this case the origin of the σ‐hole is rationalized differently than in the heavier elements. Phenomena such as the directionality of hydrogen bonds and ‘blue‐shifted’ hydrogen bonds can be explained very simply using the σ‐hole concept.

This article is categorized under:

Structure and Mechanism > Molecular Structures
Harnessing the power of patent information to accelerate innovation
Authors: Clark Kerri L. , Kowalski Stanley P.
Published: August 2012

Access to information drives innovation. Patents are a unique source of information containing not only legal but also technical, business, and potentially policy‐related information. Mining patents for information is an acquired skill that requires training and practice, familiarity with both legal and technical nomenclature and jargon, facile knowledge of the database used, and an appreciation of strategic approaches to efficient searching and information management. Once mastered patent information can facilitate the transformation of a resource‐based economy to a knowledge‐based economy. Essential to this process in developing countries is the active participation of the country in legal and technical transfer of innovations including patent searching to identify technologies of interest, patent owners, and the extent of patent rights (geographical and claims). © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

This article is categorized under:

Application Areas > Data Mining Software Tools

Application Areas > Education and Learning

Commercial, Legal, and Ethical Issues > Commercialization of DMKD

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Data Concepts
Metal Derivatives of Thiosemicarbazones: Crystal and Mole­cular Structures of Mono‐ and Dinuclear Copper(II) Complexes with N1‐Subsitituted Salicylaldehyde Thiosemicarbazones
Authors: Lobana Tarlok S. , Kumari Poonam , Butcher Ray J. , Jasinski Jerry P. , Golen James A.
Published: August 2012

Reactions of copper(II) acetate with N1‐subsitituted salicylaldehyde thiosemicarbazones [R1R2C2=N3–N2H–C1(=S)–N1HR3;R1 = 2‐HO–C6H4–, R2 = H : R3 = Me (H2L1), Et (H2L2)] are described. Copper(II) acetate was reacted with H2L1 and H2L2 ligands in the presence of polypyridyl co‐ligands, and this led to the formation ofmononuclear complexes, [Cu(κ3‐O, N, S‐L1)(κ2‐N, N‐bipy)] (1),[Cu(κ3‐O, N, S‐L)(κ2‐N, N‐phen)] [L = L1 (3), L2 (4)], [Cu(κ3‐O, N, S‐L)(κ2‐N, N‐tmphen)] [L =L1 (5), L2 (6)] and a dinuclear complex, [Cu2L22(bipy)] (2) (bipy = 2, 2′‐bipyridine, phen = 1, 10‐phenanthroline, tmphen = 3, 4, 7, 8‐tetramethyl‐1, 10‐phenanthroline). In dinuclear complex 2, one ligand is O, N3,S‐chelating, while second is O, N3,S‐chelation‐cum‐N2‐bridging; and in all others thio‐ligands are O, N3,S‐chelating. The μeff values for the complexes lie in the range of 1.79–1.83 BM. Complexes 1, 3–6 have square pyramidal arrangement, whereas complex 2 has two independent molecules in the crystal lattice, and each molecule has trigonal bipyramidal square planar (5:4) coordination pair. Complexes 2, 4, and 6 showed fluorescence properties.
Influence of the Organic Species and Oxoanion in the Synthesis of two Uranyl Sulfate Hydrates, (H3O)2[(UO2)2(SO4)3­(H2O)]·7H2O and (H3O)2[(UO2)2(SO4)3(H2O)]·4H2O, and a Uranyl Selenate‐Selenite [C5H6N][(UO2)(SeO4)(HSeO3)]
Authors: Jouffret Laurent J. , Wylie Ernest M. , Burns Peter C.
Published: August 2012

Two uranyl sulfate hydrates, (H3O)2[(UO2)2(SO4)3(H2O)]·7H2O (NDUS) and (H3O)2[(UO2)2(SO4)3(H2O)]·4H2O (NDUS1), and one uranyl selenate‐selenite [C5H6N][(UO2)(SeO4)(HSeO3)] (NDUSe), were obtained and their crystal structures solved. NDUS and NDUSe result from reactions in highly acidic media in the presence of L‐cystine at 373 K. NDUS crystallized in a closed vial at 278 K after 5 days and NDUSe in an open beaker at 278 K after 2 weeks. NDUS1 was synthesized from aqueous solution at room temperature over the course of a month. NDUS, NDUS1, and NDUSe crystallize in the monoclinic space group P21/n, a = 15.0249(4) Å,b = 9.9320(2) Å, c = 15.6518(4) Å, β = 112.778(1)°, V = 2153.52(9) Å3,Z = 4, the tetragonal space group P43212, a = 10.6111(2) Å,c = 31.644(1) Å, V = 3563.0(2) Å3, Z = 8, and in the monoclinic space group P21/n, a = 8.993(3) Å, b = 13.399(5) Å, c = 10.640(4) Å,β = 108.230(4)°, V = 1217.7(8) Å3, Z = 4, respectively.The structural units of NDUS and NDUS1 are two‐dimensional uranyl sulfate sheets with a U/S ratio of 2/3. The structural unit of NDUSe is a two‐dimensional uranyl selenate‐selenite sheets with a U/Se ratio of 1/2. In‐situ reaction of the L‐cystine ligands gives two distinct products for the different acids used here. Where sulfuric acid is used, only H3O+ cations are located in the interlayer space, where they balance the charge of the sheets, whereas where selenic acid is used, interlayer C5H6N+ cations result from the cyclization of the carboxyl groups of L‐cystine, balancing the charge of the sheets.
Non-supersymmetric conifold
Authors: Dymarsky Anatoly , Kuperstein Stanislav
Published: August 2012

Abstract

We find a new family of non-supersymmetric numerical solutions of IIB supergravity which are dual to the
$ \mathcal{N} = 1 $
cascading “conifold” theory perturbed by certain combinations of relevant single trace and marginal double trace operators with non infinitesimal couplings. The SUSY is broken but the resulting ground states, and their gravity duals, remain stable, at least perturbatively. Despite the complicated field theory dynamics the gravity solutions have a simple structure. They feature the Ricci-flat non-Kähler metric on the deformed conifold and the imaginary self-dual three-form flux accompanied by a constant dilaton.
The Impact of Participatory Research on Urban Teens: An Experimental Evaluation
Authors: Ozer Emily J. , Douglas Laura
Published: August 2012

Although there is much practice of community‐based participatory research in economically‐developing countries and increasingly in North America, there has been little systematic assessment of empowerment effects. Youth‐led participatory research holds particular promise for fostering positive development and civic participation among economically disadvantaged urban youth. The present investigation uses a clustered‐randomized, within‐school experimental design to test the effects of youth‐led participatory research on the psychological empowerment of 401 students attending urban public schools. We find that attending a participatory research elective class during the school day was associated with increases in sociopolitical skills, motivation to influence their schools and communities, and participatory behavior. We found no significant effects for perceived control at school. The implications for participatory research and related youth development interventions are discussed.
Synthesis and Aqueous Solution Properties of α‐Dimethyl Oxamino Dodecyl Acid
Authors: Li‐Yun Qi , Hao Bao , Yun Fang , Yu Hu
Published: August 2012

Starting from α‐chloro‐lauric acid which was obtained from lauric acid through selectively chlorinating at the α‐position with chlorine, a novel surfactant α‐dimethyl oxamino dodecyl acid was synthesized with high yield via an economic route. The structure of α‐dimethyl oxamino dodecyl acid was confirmed by means of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Surface tension, foaming properties and emulsifying measurements were performed to study the aqueous solution properties of the synthesized surfactant. The results showed that the behavior of the α‐dimethyl oxamino dodecyl acid strongly depend on the pH of aqueous solution: it had high surface activity, excellent foaming properties and emulsion stability for paraffin oil at acid pH while the corresponding properties decrease substantially at alkaline pH.
The crystal structure of galactitol‐1‐phosphate 5‐dehydrogenase from Escherichia coli K12 provides insights into its anomalous behavior on IMAC processes
Authors: Esteban-Torres María , Álvarez Yanaisis , Acebrón Iván , de las Rivas Blanca , Muñoz Rosario , Kohring Gert-Wieland , Roa Ana María , Sobrino Mónica , Mancheño José M.
Published: August 2012

GPDH
and
GPDH
bind by cosedimentation in solution (View interaction)
Dogs
Authors: Morey Darcy F.
Published: August 2012

This book traces the evolution of the dog, from its origins about 15,000 years ago up to recent times. The timing of dog domestication receives attention, with comparisons between different genetics-based models and archaeological evidence. Allometric patterns between dogs and their ancestors, wolves, shed light on the nature of the morphological changes that dogs underwent. Dog burials highlight a unifying theme of the whole book: the development of a distinctive social bond between dogs and people; the book also explores why dogs and people relate so well to each other. Though cosmopolitan in overall scope, the greatest emphasis is on the New World, with an entire chapter devoted to dogs of the arctic regions, mostly in the New World. Discussion of several distinctive modern roles of dogs underscores the social bond between dogs and people.
Rhetoric and Composition
Authors: Lynn Steven
Published: August 2012

Rhetoric and composition is an academic discipline that informs all other fields in teaching students how to communicate their ideas and construct their arguments. It has grown dramatically to become a cornerstone of many undergraduate courses and curricula, and it is a particularly dynamic field for scholarly research. This book offers an accessible introduction to teaching and studying rhetoric and composition. By combining the history of rhetoric, explorations of its underlying theories, and a survey of current research (with practical examples and advice), Steven Lynn offers a solid foundation for further study in the field. Readers will find useful information on how students have been taught to invent and organize materials, to express themselves correctly and effectively, and how the ancient study of memory and delivery illuminates discourse and pedagogy today. This concise book thus provides a starting point for learning about the discipline that engages writing, thinking, and argument.
Lectures on Profinite Topics in Group Theory
Authors: Klopsch Benjamin , Nikolov Nikolay , Voll Christopher
Published: August 2012

In this book, three authors introduce readers to strong approximation methods, analytic pro-p groups and zeta functions of groups. Each chapter illustrates connections between infinite group theory, number theory and Lie theory. The first introduces the theory of compact p-adic Lie groups. The second explains how methods from linear algebraic groups can be utilised to study the finite images of linear groups. The final chapter provides an overview of zeta functions associated to groups and rings. Derived from an LMS/EPSRC Short Course for graduate students, this book provides a concise introduction to a very active research area and assumes less prior knowledge than existing monographs or original research articles. Accessible to beginning graduate students in group theory, it will also appeal to researchers interested in infinite group theory and its interface with Lie theory and number theory.
Harmony, Perspective, and Triadic Cognition
Authors: Cook Norman D.
Published: August 2012

The big question in the science of psychology is: why is human cognition and behavior so different from the capabilities of every other animal species on Earth – including our close genetic relations, the chimpanzees? This book provides a coherent answer by examining those aspects of the human brain that have made triadic forms of perception and cognition possible. Mechanisms of dyadic association sufficiently explain animal perception, cognition and behavior but a three-way associational mechanism is required to explain the human talents for language, tool-making, harmony perception, pictorial depth perception and the joint attention that underlies all forms of social cooperation.
Information Theory
Authors: Csiszár Imre , Körner János
Published: August 2012

Csiszár and Körner's book is widely regarded as a classic in the field of information theory, providing deep insights and expert treatment of the key theoretical issues. It includes in-depth coverage of the mathematics of reliable information transmission, both in two-terminal and multi-terminal network scenarios. Updated and considerably expanded, this new edition presents unique discussions of information theoretic secrecy and of zero-error information theory, including the deep connections of the latter with extremal combinatorics. The presentations of all core subjects are self contained, even the advanced topics, which helps readers to understand the important connections between seemingly different problems. Finally, 320 end-of-chapter problems, together with helpful solving hints, allow readers to develop a full command of the mathematical techniques. It is an ideal resource for graduate students and researchers in electrical and electronic engineering, computer science and applied mathematics.
A Reader's Guide to Proust's 'In Search of Lost Time'
Authors: Ellison David
Published: August 2012

Proust's 'A la recherche du temps perdu' (In Search of Lost Time) is many things at once: a novel of education, a portrait of French society during the Third Republic, a masterful psychological analysis of love, a reflection on homosexuality, an essay in moral and aesthetic theory, and, above all, one of the great literary achievements of the twentieth century. This Reader's Guide analyses each volume of the 'Recherche' in order and in detail. Without jargon or technical language, David Ellison leads the reader through the work, clarifying but not oversimplifying the intricate beauty of Proust's imaginary universe. Focused both on large themes and on narrative and stylistic particularities, Ellison's readings expand our understanding and appreciation of the work and provide tools for the further study of Proust. All French quotations are translated, making this an ideal guide for students of comparative literature as well as of French.