bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asymmetric Carbon‐Carbon Bond Forming Reactions Catalysed by Metal(II) Bis(oxazoline) Complexes Immobilized using Supported Ionic Liquids
Authors: Goodrich P. , Hardacre C. , Paun C. , Ribeiro A. , Kennedy S. , Lourenço M. J. V. , Manyar H. , de Castro C. A. Nieto , Besnea M. , Pârvulescu V. I.
Published: April 2011

A series of bis(oxazoline) metal(II) complexes has been supported on silica and carbon supports by non‐covalent immobilisation using an ionic liquid. The catalytic performance of these solids was compared for the enantioselective Diels–Alder reaction between N‐acryloyloxazolidinone and cyclopentadiene and the Mukaiyama‐aldol reaction between methyl pyruvate and 1‐methoxy‐1‐trimethylsilyloxypropene. In both reactions the enantioselectivity was strongly influenced by the choice of support displaying enantioselectivies (ee values) up to 40% higher than those conducted under homogeneous reaction conditions.
Reply
Authors: Kojima Takahiko , Fukuzumi Shunichi
Published: April 2011

Vertraue Experimenten: DFT‐Rechnungen besagen, dass Wasserstoffbrücken von Wassermolekülen in einem siebenfach koordinierten Ruthenium‐Oxo‐Komplex den Singulettgrundzustand stabilisieren. Übereinstimmend belegen Experimente für einen neuartigen siebenfach koordinierten, pentaganol‐bipyramidalen Ruthenium‐Oxo‐Komplex einen Singulettgrundzustand. Trotzdem zeigt er die gleiche Reaktivität wie ein analoger Triplettkomplex.
Bipolar polymer semiconductor blends of C60‐end‐capped poly(4‐diphenylaminostyrene) and poly(4‐diphenylaminostyrene): One‐pot synthesis and charge‐transport properties
Authors: Natori Itaru , Natori Shizue , Sekikawa Hiroyuki , Takahashi Tomoyuki , Sato Hisaya
Published: April 2011

Three types of fullerene (C60)‐end‐capped poly(4‐diphenylaminostyrene) (C60–PDAS) and poly(4‐diphenylaminostyrene) (PDAS) blends were prepared to investigate their potential as bipolar polymer semiconductors. The concentration of C60 in the C60–PDAS/PDAS blends strongly affected the hole and electron drift mobility values; the hole drift mobility decreased with an increase in the C60 concentration. However, the electron drift mobility increased with an increase in the C60 concentration. The hole and electron drift mobility values were almost the same for the 1/2 C60–PDAS/PDAS blend; therefore, this polymer blend was thought to be a bipolar polymer semiconductor. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Construction of novel brain‐targeting gene delivery system by natural magnetic nanoparticles
Authors: Han Lei , Zhang Anling , Wang Hanjie , Pu Peiyu , Kang Chunsheng , Chang Jin
Published: April 2011

The main objective in gene therapy of brain tumors is to develop efficient, low toxic, and brain‐targeting gene delivery systems which can cross the blood‐brain barrier (BBB) and deliver therapeutic gene to the brain cancerous tissues. In this study, we designed and constructed a novel gene delivery systems (Tat‐MS‐PAMAM) by modifying the magnetosome (MS) with polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers and Tat peptides for the first time. Tat‐MS‐PAMAM readily formed polyplexes with the luciferase reporter plasmid (pGL‐3) and improved plasmid complexation and stability against polyanion and DNase I. Transfection efficiencies of Tat‐MS‐PAMAM polyplexes with pGL‐3 were studied using U251 human glioma cells in vitro. The result showed that the incorporation of external magnetic field and Tat peptides could significantly improve transfection efficiency of delivery system. Furthermore, biodistribution in vivo demonstrated that Tat‐MS‐PAMAM could efficiently transport across the BBB and assemble at brain tissue of rat detected by single photo emission computed tomography. Thus, with the multifunction of magnetic targeting, BBB transporting, and efficient gene transfecting, Tat‐MS‐PAMAM might be a novel nonviral delivery system for gene therapy of brain tumors. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
A carboxylic acid‐functionalized polyfluorene as fluorescent probe for protein sensing
Authors: Wang Guojie , Wang Yani , Bao Biqing , Dong Jie , Zhang Jian , Wang Lianhui , Yang Huai , Zhan Xiaowei
Published: April 2011

A new water‐soluble fluorescent conjugated polyelectrolyte, poly[9,9‐bis(3′‐butyrate)fluoren‐2,7‐yl] sodium (BBS‐PF), was studied as a fluorescent probe for protein sensing. The conjugated polyelectrolyte BBS‐PF shows high fluorescence sensitivity to cytochrome c, lysozyme, and bovine serum albumin (BSA). The Stern–Volmer constant (Ksv) in cytochrome c was measured to be as high as 6.1 × 107 L/mol, approximately twice as that of the other two. Interestingly, it is found that BSA slightly enhances the fluorescence of BBS‐PF rather than quenches the fluorescence at its micromolar concentrations. The excitation spectra confirm that the interaction of BBS‐PF with the proteins could be different. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Variations in the microstructure of carbon fibers prepared from liquefied wood during carbonization
Authors: Ma Xiaojun , Zhao Guangjie
Published: April 2011

After spinning by adding hexamethylenetetramine and the curing treatment, carbon fibers from liquefied wood (LWCFs) were prepared by direct carbonization. Microstructure change of LWCFs during carbonization is studied by X‐ray, Raman spectroscopy, and FTIR. Raman spectroscopy shows both the D peak at 1360 cm−1 and the G peak at 1595 cm−1 exist after 600°C, and a significant decrease is found in ID/IG during carbonization. X‐ray diffraction shows the crystallite size (Lc(002) and La(100)) of LWCFs firstly decreases before 800°C and then increases with heat treatment temperature (HTT) increasing, whereas the interlayer spacing (d002) gradually decreases during carbonization. It is also found that the crystallite shape (La/Lc) and the degree of graphitization (G) all increase with increasing HTT. It is also found that structure of the precursor fibers from liquefied wood has been completely changed after carbonization. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Polymer dynamics in epoxy/alumina nanocomposites studied by various techniques
Authors: Kyritsis Apostolos , Vikelis Georgios , Maroulas Panayiotis , Pissis Polycarpos , Milosheva Boryana , Kotsilkova Rumiana , Toplijska Antonia , Silvestre Clara , Duraccio Donatella
Published: April 2011

Epoxy/alumina nanocomposites of various compositions were prepared by dispersing modified and nonmodified boehmite nanoparticles in diglycidyl ether of bisphenol‐A using diethylenetriamine as curing agent. Measurements of the viscosity of the nanodispersions provided information on particle–particle and particle–resin interactions. The structure of the nanocomposites was studied by scanning electron microscopy on fractured samples. Effects of nanoparticles on polymer dynamics was studied in detail by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis and two dielectric techniques, broadband dielectric relaxation spectroscopy and thermally stimulated depolarization currents. Three secondary relaxations, γ, β, and ω, the segmental α relaxation associated with the glass transition, and an interfacial relaxation, in the order of increasing frequency/decreasing temperature, were observed and studied. A correlation between viscosity (of the nanodispersions), storage modulus, glass transition temperature, real part of dielectric permittivity, and ductility of the nanocomposites was observed. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Highly sensitive method for the determination of adenosine by LC‐MS/MS‐ESI: method validation and scope of application to a pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic study
Authors: Sharma Kuldeep , Singh Radheraman , Giri Sanjeev , Rajagopal Sriram , Mullangi Ramesh
Published: April 2011

A highly sensitive, rapid assay method has been developed and validated for the estimation of adenosine in rat plasma with liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry with electro‐spray ionization in the positive‐ion mode. The assay procedure involves extraction of adenosine and phenacetin (internal standard, IS) from rat plasma with a simple protein precipitation extraction process. The method was validated using rat plasma with extinguished adenosine endogenous levels. Chromatographic separation was achieved using a binary gradient using mobile phase A (acetonitrile) and B (0.2% formic acid in water) at a flow rate of 0.50 mL/min on an Atlantis dC18 column with a total run time of 4.0 min. The MS/MS ion transitions monitored were 268 → 136 for adenosine and 180 → 110 for IS. Method validation was performed as per FDA guidelines and the results met the acceptance criteria. The lower limit of quantitation achieved was 0.48 ng/mL and the linearity range extended from 0.48 to 1210 ng/mL. The intra‐ and inter‐day precisions were in the ranges 2.32–12.7 and 4.01–9.40%, respectively. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thiolate Chemistry: A Powerful and Versatile Synthetic Tool for Immobilization/Functionalization of Oligothiophenes on a Gold Surface
Authors: Tran Truong Khoa , Bricaud Quentin , Oçafrain Maïténa , Blanchard Philippe , Roncali Jean , Lenfant Stéphane , Godey Sylvie , Vuillaume Dominique , Rondeau David
Published: April 2011

The synthesis and characterization of a series of quaterthiophenes (4Ts) with thiolate groups protected with 2‐cyanoethyl (CNE), 2‐trimethylsilylethyl (TMSE), and acetyl (Ac) groups are described. Sequential cleavage of these different protecting groups allows for the preparation of 4Ts derivatized with ferrocene and/or alkanethiol chains. The electrochemical behavior of these compounds has been analyzed in solution by cyclic voltammetry (CV). A ferrocene‐derivatized dithiol 4T14and a dithiol 4T15with two TMSE‐protected thiolate groups have been immobilized on a gold surface as monolayers that have been characterized by CV, ellipsometry, contact‐angle measurement, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results show that molecules14and15are doubly grafted with a horizontal orientation of the conjugated system relative to the surface. Furthermore, application of the deprotection/alkylation sequence of the remaining protected thiolate groups on a monolayer of15allows for efficient post‐functionalization.
Relationship between auditory thresholds, central spontaneous activity, and hair cell loss after acoustic trauma
Authors: Mulders W.H.A.M. , Ding D. , Salvi R. , Robertson D.
Published: April 2011

Acoustic trauma caused by exposure to a very loud sound increases spontaneous activity in central auditory structures such as the inferior colliculus. This hyperactivity has been suggested as a neural substrate for tinnitus, a phantom hearing sensation. In previous studies we have described a tentative link between the frequency region of hearing impairment and the corresponding tonotopic regions in the inferior colliculus showing hyperactivity. In this study we further investigated the relationship between cochlear compound action potential threshold loss, cochlear outer and inner hair cell loss, and central hyperactivity in inferior colliculus of guinea pigs. Two weeks after a 10‐kHz pure tone acoustic trauma, a tight relationship was demonstrated between the frequency region of compound action potential threshold loss and frequency regions in the inferior colliculus showing hyperactivity. Extending the duration of the acoustic trauma from 1 to 2 hours did not result in significant increases in final cochlear threshold loss, but did result in a further increase of spontaneous firing rates in the inferior colliculus. Interestingly, hair cell loss was not present in the frequency regions where elevated cochlear thresholds and central hyperactivity were measured, suggesting that subtle changes in hair cell or primary afferent neural function are sufficient for central hyperactivity to be triggered and maintained. J. Comp. Neurol. 519:2637–2647, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
PCP4 (PEP19) overexpression induces premature neuronal differentiation associated with Ca2+/Calmodulin‐Dependent kinase II‐δ activation in mouse models of down syndrome
Authors: Mouton‐Liger François , Thomas Sophie , Rattenbach Revital , Magnol Laetitia , Larigaldie Vanessa , Ledru Aurelie , Herault Yann , Verney Catherine , Créau Nicole
Published: April 2011

Pcp4/pep19 is a modulator of Ca2+‐CaM, a key molecule for calcium signaling, expressed in postmitotic neuroectoderm cells during mouse embryogenesis. The PCP4 gene is located on human chromosome 21 and is present in three copies in Down syndrome (DS). To evaluate the consequences of three copies of this gene on the development of these cells in the nervous system, we constructed a transgenic (TgPCP4) mouse model, with one copy of human PCP4, and investigated the effects in this model and in the Ts1Cje, a mouse model of DS. During embryogenesis, we analyzed 1) the level of pcp4 transcript and protein in the two models; 2) the extent of colabeling for markers of neuronal differentiation (βIII‐tubulin, Map2c, calbindin, and calretinin) and pcp4 by immunofluorescence analysis and overall protein levels of these markers by Western blotting; and 3) the rate of activation of CaMKII, a Ca2+‐CaM target, to evaluate the impact of pcp4 overexpression on the Ca2+‐CaM signaling pathway. We showed that three copies of the pcp4 gene induced the overexpression of transcripts and proteins during embryogenesis. Pcp4 overexpression 1) induced precocious neuronal differentiation, as shown by the distribution and levels of early neuronal markers; and 2) was associated with an increase in CaMKIIδ activation, confirming involvement in neuronal differentiation in vivo via a Pcp4−Ca2+−CaM pathway. TgPCP4 and Ts1Cje mice developed similar modifications, demonstrating that these mechanisms may account for abnormal neuronal development in DS. J. Comp. Neurol. 519:2779–2802, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Glutamic acid decarboxylase isoform 65 immunoreactivity in the motor thalamus of humans and monkeys: γ‐aminobutyric acidergic connections and nuclear delineations
Authors: Kultas‐Ilinsky K. , Ilinsky I.A. , Verney C.
Published: April 2011

The neurotransmitter γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) plays an important role in the motor thalamic nuclei. This report analyzes the distribution of the GABA‐producing enzyme glutamic acid decarboxylase isoform 65 (GAD65), stained with monoclonal antibody, in human and rhesus monkey thalami and compares it with staining patterns of some widely used cytoskeletal and calcium binding protein markers. GAD65 immunoreactivity distinctly labeled two systems: fibers and terminals of basal ganglia thalamic afferents and local circuit neurons, revealing fine features of GABAergic circuitry in the human thalamus. Gross distribution patterns of GAD65 were identical in human and rhesus monkey thalami. The area displaying specific staining of large‐caliber beaded fibers coincided with nigro‐ and pallidothalamic afferent territories previously identified in monkeys with anterograde tracers. Accordingly, a similarly stained region in the human thalamus was considered basal ganglia territory. Except for cytoarchitecture, no specific markers differentiating between the nigro‐ and pallidothalamic projection zones within this territory were found. GAD65 staining in the cerebellar afferent territory reflected organization of its local circuit neuron network, distinguishing it from adjacent nuclei. Specific GAD65 staining pattern and negative calcium binding protein immunoreactivity identify the cerebellar afferent territory in humans. It is subdivided further into ventral and dorsal regions based on the cytoskeletal protein SMI31 staining pattern. The nuclear outlines revised according to the results are compared with those of Hassler (Schaltenbrand G and Bailey P [1959] Einfuhrung in die stereotaktishen Operationen mit einem Atlas des menschlichen Gehirns, vol 3. Stuttgart: Thieme) and discussed in light of the ongoing controversy regarding delineations of the motor thalamic nuclei in humans. J. Comp. Neurol. 519:2811–2837, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Recurrent Shewanella putrefacians in a chronic peritoneal dialysis patient
Authors: Vickers Jean A. , Ullian Michael E.
Published: April 2011

The gram‐negative marine bacterium Shewanella putrefaciens is an uncommon human pathogen. Five cases of S. putrefacians peritonitis during peritoneal dialysis (one acute and four chronic) have been reported previously. We report a case of S. putrefaciens peritonitis in a patient undergoing continuous cycler peritoneal dialysis. Our case is the first to be reported in a patient from the United States, with recurrence after initial treatment, and with acquired antibiotic resistance. Dial. Transplant.
Supramolecular Assemblies Directed by Hydrogen Bonds and π–π Interactions and Based on N‐Heterocyclic‐Ligand‐Modified β‐Octamolybdate – Structure and Catalytic Application in Olefin Epoxidation
Authors: Du Juan , Yu Jiehui , Tang Jianyuan , Wang Jing , Zhang Wenxiang , Thiel Werner R. , Jia Mingjun
Published: April 2011

A series of supramolecular assemblies based on POMs modified by organic ligands, including (Himi)4[(imi)2(Mo8O26)]·H2O (1), (H2bbi)2[Mo8O26] (2), and (H2bbi)[(Hbbi)2 (Mo8O26)]·H2O (3), were synthesized by a one‐step hydrothermal method. All of them are active catalysts for the epoxidation of olefins with tert‐butyl hydroperoxide as the oxidant. Most interestingly, (Himi)4[(imi)2(Mo8O26)]·H2O (1) exhibits very high catalytic activity and stability, which makes it a truly efficient heterogeneous catalyst for olefin epoxidation.
A first‐order autoregressive model for the joint distribution of a time dependent random variable and its derivative
Authors: Mole Nils , Chan Lawrence
Published: April 2011

A first‐order autoregressive (AR(1)) model is analysed to investigate the relationship between a time dependent random variable Γt and its derivative . This is motivated by the problem of the turbulent dispersion of a gas cloud or plume in the atmosphere, where the square of the derivative, , is also of interest. It is shown that in general Γt and Dt are correlated, with their correlation proportional to the skewness of Γt. The probability distributions of the innovations and of Yt and Dt, and the joint distributions of Γt and Yt, and of Γt and Dt, are derived for a number of assumed distributions for Γt. The latter include the normal, exponential, gamma (of integer order), uniform, and sum of uniform distributions. The lack of time reversibility of the AR(1) model is apparent in the asymmetric distributions of the derivative when Γt has the exponential or gamma distribution. Comparisons are made with some experimental observations. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Design of UHV AC transmission line in China
Authors: Liang Zheng‐ping , Li Yong‐shuang , Hu Hong‐chun , Jia Jiang‐bo
Published: April 2011

Ultra High Voltage (1000 kV; UHV) AC transmission technology is the most advanced AC transmission mode with the highest voltage until now. Based on the construction experience of 1000 kV Jindongnan–Nanyang–Jingmen UHV AC Pilot Demonstration Project, the major design principles and the key technical solutions of UHV AC transmission line (including large crossing) are introduced, such as the choosing of conductor and earth wire, overvoltage and insulation coordination, lightening protection and grounding, insulator string and fittings, clearance to obstacles, tower and foundation. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stone tool analysis and human origins research: Some advice from uncle Screwtape
Authors: Shea John J.
Published: April 2011

The production of purposefully fractured stone tools with functional, sharp cutting edges is a uniquely derived hominin adaptation. In the long history of life on earth, only hominins have adopted this remarkably expedient and broadly effective technological strategy. In the paleontological record, flaked stone tools are irrefutable proof that hominins were present at a particular place and time. Flaked stone tools are found in contexts ranging from the Arctic to equatorial rainforests and on every continent except Antarctica. Paleolithic stone tools show complex patterns of variability, suggesting that they have been subject to the variable selective pressures that have shaped so many other aspects of hominin behavior and morphology. There is every reason to expect that insights gained from studying stone tools should provide vital and important information about the course of human evolution. And yet, one senses that archeological analyses of Paleolithic stone tools are not making as much of a contribution as they could to the major issues in human origins research.
Sexual conflict in primates
Authors: Stumpf Rebecca M. , Martinez‐Mota Rodolfo , Milich Krista M. , Righini Nicoletta , Shattuck Milena R.
Published: April 2011

Sexual conflict is increasingly recognized as a major force for evolutionary change and holds great potential for delineating variation in primate behavior and morphology. The goals of this review are to highlight the rapidly rising field of sexual conflict and the ongoing shift in our understanding of interactions between the sexes. We discuss the evidence for sexual conflict within the Order Primates, and assess how studies of primates have illuminated and can continue to increase our understanding of sexual conflict and sexual selection. Finally, we introduce a framework for understanding the behavioral, anatomical, and genetic expression of sexual conflict across primate mating systems and suggest directions for future research.
Control of kinetics by cooperative interactions
Authors: Hellmann N.
Published: April 2011

Cooperative effects in ligand binding and dissociation kinetics are much less investigated than steady state kinetics or equilibrium binding. Nevertheless, cooperativity in ligand binding leads necessarily to characteristic properties with respect to kinetic properties of the system. In case of positive cooperativity as found in oxygen binding proteins, a typical property is an autocatalytic ligand dissociation behavior leading to a time dependent, apparent ligand dissociation rate. To follow systematically the influence of the various potentially involved parameters on this characteristic property, simulations based on the simple MWC model were performed which should be relevant for all types of models based on the concept of an allosteric unit. In cases where the initial conformational distribution is very much dominated by the R‐state, the intrinsic kinetic properties of the T‐state are of minor influence for the observed ligand dissociation rate. Even for fast conformational transition rates, the R‐state properties together with the size of the allosteric unit and the allosteric equilibrium constant define the shape of the curve. In such a case, a simplified model of the MWC‐scheme (the irreversible n‐chain model) is a good approximation of the full scheme. However, if in the starting conformational distribution some liganded T‐molecules are present (a few percent is enough), the average off‐rates can be significantly altered. Thus, the assignment of the initial rates to R‐state properties has to be done with great care. However, if the R‐state strongly dominates initially it is even possible to get an estimation of the lower limit for the number of interacting subunits from kinetic data: similar to the Hill‐coefficient for equilibrium conditions, a measure for “kinetic cooperativity” can be derived by comparing initial and final ligand dissociation rates. © 2011 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 63(5): 329–336, 2011
Modifications to the Vilsmeier‐Haack formylation of 1,4‐dimethylcarbazole and its application to the synthesis of ellipticines
Authors: Deane Fiona M. , Miller Charlotte M. , Maguire Anita R. , McCarthy Florence O.
Published: April 2011

An improved method for the preparation of 3‐formyl‐1,4‐dimethylcarbazole, a key intermediate in the synthesis of ellipticine, is presented. Conditions of the Vilsmeier‐Haack reaction have been modified to facilitate the production of 3‐formyl‐1,4‐dimethylcarbazole as a major product leading to an overall improvement in yield of ellipticine from 3% to 14%. This approach was also applied to the synthesis of 6‐methylellipticine and 9‐methoxyellipticine. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2011).
Synthesis and antimicrobial activity of some 7‐aryl‐5,6‐dihydro‐14‐aza[1]benzopyrano[3,4‐b]phenanthren‐8H‐ones
Authors: Brahmbhatt Dinker I. , Patel Niraj H. , Patel Anil K. , Patel Mehul A. , Patel Varun G.
Published: April 2011

The title compounds, 7‐aryl‐5,6‐dihydro‐14‐aza[1]benzopyrano[3,4‐b]phenanthren‐8H‐ones 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f, 3g, 3h, 3i, 3j, 3k, 3l have been synthesized by reacting various 4‐hydroxy coumarins 1a, 1b, 1c with 2‐arylidene‐1‐tetralones 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d in the presence of ammonium acetate and acetic acid under Krohnke's reaction condition. The structures of all the synthesized compounds were supported by analytical, IR, 1H‐NMR, and 13C‐NMR data. All the synthesized compounds 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f, 3g, 3h, 3i, 3j, 3k, 3l have been screened for their antibacterial activities against Escherichia coli (Gram −ve bacteria), Bacillus subtilis (Gram +ve bacteria), and antifungal activity against Candida albicans (Fungi). J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2011).
Ultrasound‐assisted emulsification microextraction based on solidification of floating organic droplet combined with HPLC‐UV for the analysis of antidepressant drugs in biological samples
Authors: Ebrahimzadeh Homeira , Saharkhiz Zahra , Tavassoli Marya , Kamarei Fahimeh , Asgharinezhad Ali Akbar
Published: April 2011

Ultrasound‐assisted emulsification microextraction based on the solidification of floating organic droplet combined with high‐performance liquid chromatography‐ultra violet (HPLC‐UV) detection was applied for the extraction and determination of fluoxetine, citalopram, and venlafaxine as antidepressants drugs in biological samples. In total, 30 μL of undecanol was injected slowly into a glass‐centrifuge tube containing 5 mL alkaline sample solution that was located inside the ultrasonic water bath. The formed emulsion was centrifuged and the fine droplets of solvent were floated at the top of the test tube. The test tube was then cooled in an ice bath and the solidified solvent transferred into a conical vial; it melted quickly at room temperature. Then the analysis of the extracts was carried out by high‐performance liquid chromatography. Under optimal conditions, the preconcentration factors were between 174 and 316. Detection limits (LODs) of 3 μg/L were obtained and the calibration graphs were linear within the range of 10–1000 μg/L. Finally, the feasibility of the proposed method was successfully confirmed by extraction and determination of the antidepressant drugs in human urine and plasma samples in the range of microgram per liter and suitable results were obtained.
Headspace solid‐phase microextraction combined with GC×GC‐TOFMS for the analysis of volatile compounds of Coptis species rhizomes
Authors: Gao Xin , Yang Xiuwei , Mitrevski Blagoj S. , Marriott Philip J.
Published: April 2011

In this study, the investigation of the volatile compounds of dried rhizomes of Coptis chinensis Franch, C. deltoidea C. Y. Cheng et Hsiao, and C. teeta Wall was carried out to complete the chemical composition of these valuable natural products. Volatile profiles were established and compared after headspace solid‐phase microextraction (HS‐SPME) using a polydimethylsiloxane/divinylbenzene (PDMS/DVB, 65 μm) fibre coupled to comprehensive 2D gas chromatography time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (GC×GC‐TOFMS). Analyses were performed and compared on two column‐phase combinations (non‐polar/polar and polar/non‐polar). The majority of the identified compounds eluted as well‐separated (pure) components as a result of high‐resolution capability of the GC×GC method, which significantly reduces co‐elution. Therefore, this increases the likelihood that pure mass spectra can be obtained. More than 290 volatile and semi‐volatile organic compounds were tentatively characterized by means of GC×GC in tandem with TOFMS detection. Improved result interpretations were obtained in terms of compound classification based on the organized structure of the peaks of structurally related compounds in the GC×GC contour plot. These compounds are distributed over the chemical groups of hydrocarbons, acids, alkenes, alkynes, aldehydes, ketones, alcohols, esters, furans, and terpenoids. Among all the chemical groups, terpenoids present the higher number of identified compounds (44), alkenes (41), and aldehydes and ketones (28). This study completed the volatile phytochemical analysis of the headspace composition of various Coptis species rhizomes, and should serve as a means to identify the difference between the rhizomes and may also be useful to confirm individual species based on their volatile chemical profile.
Selective separation of flavonoid glycosides in Dalbergia odorifera by matrix solid‐phase dispersion using titania
Authors: Xu Lingyan , Shi Hui , Liang Tu , Feng Jiatao , Jin Yu , Ke Yanxiong , Liang Xinmiao
Published: April 2011

Dalbergia odorifera contains high concentrations of flavonoid aglycones and trace flavonoid glycosides. In this study, trace flavonoid glycosides were separated from D. odorifera by titania with matrix solid‐phase dispersion (MSPD). Before the MSPD experiment, four standards, including two isoflavone glycosides (genistin and formononetin‐8‐C‐apiosyl (1–6)‐glucoside) and their aglycones (genistein and formononetin), were used to compare their retention on a titania column. The effect of acetonitrile concentration and pH on their retention was investigated and a conclusion was drawn that high acetonitrile concentration and pH lead to the greatest difference in the retention of flavonoid as glycosides and aglycones. Besides hydrophilic interaction and ligand‐exchange interaction may exist between sugar moiety of flavonoid glycoside and titania, so that flavonoid glycosides have stronger retention than that of aglycones. Based on the chromatographic rule of flavonoid as glycosides and aglycones on the titania column, the MSPD method was optimized to elute high concentration flavonoid aglycones first with 90% acetonitrile and 10% water containing 100 mM ammonium acetate buffer, and then to elute trace flavonoid glycosides with 20% acetonitrile and 80% water containing 1% trifluoroacetate (TFA). Isolated flavonoid glycosides were further analyzed by UPLC‐MS/MS, and their fragmentation in MS2 showed they are C‐glycosyl flavonoids.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Pegylated Fluorescent Nanoparticles by RAFT Miniemulsion Polymerization Using a Phase Inversion Process
Authors: Grazon Chloé , Rieger Jutta , Méallet‐Renault Rachel , Clavier Gilles , Charleux Bernadette
Published: April 2011

Water‐soluble and fluorescent core–shell nanoparticles (FNP) are synthesized in a miniemulsion reversible addition‐fragmentation transfer (RAFT) polymerization and are shown to respond to pH. The particles are obtained from a hydrophilic PEO‐b‐PAA macromolecular RAFT agent which is block‐extended with styrene and a fluorescent BODIPY monomer. A miniemulsion is then formed with the residual hydrophobic monomers. After completion of the polymerization, FNP of ≈ 60 nm in diameter are obtained. The fluorescence of the BODIPY dye in the particles is found to remain (0.2 quantum yield). The particles can be precipitated in acidic pH and redispersed upon addition of base without loss of their integrity or noticeable rearrangement.

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Decatungstate (W10O)/Silane: A New and Promising Radical Source Under Soft Light Irradiation
Authors: Lalevée Jacques , Blanchard Nicolas , Tehfe Mohamad‐Ali , Fouassier Jean Pierre
Published: April 2011

The use of decatungstate ${\left( {{\rm W}_{{\rm 10}} {\rm O}_{{\rm 32}}^{{\rm 4}{-} } } \right)}$ in combination with silanes to generate silyl radicals under green fluorescence bulb irradiation as well as sunlight exposure is described. The mechanisms are investigated by ESR and laser flash photolysis experiments. The high potential of this reaction is evidenced here when using a decatungstate/silane/diphenyl iodonium salt combination as an initiating system for the ring opening photopolymerization of epoxides.

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MicroRNA profiling for the identification of cancers with unknown primary tissue‐of‐origin
Authors: Ferracin Manuela , Pedriali Massimo , Veronese Angelo , Zagatti Barbara , Gafà Roberta , Magri Eros , Lunardi Maria , Munerato Gardenia , Querzoli Giulia , Maestri Iva , Ulazzi Linda , Nenci Italo , Croce Carlo M , Lanza Giovanni , Querzoli Patrizia , Negrini Massimo
Published: April 2011

Cancer of unknown primary (CUP) represents a common and important clinical problem. There is evidence that most CUPs are metastases of carcinomas whose primary site cannot be recognized. Driven by the hypothesis that the knowledge of primary cancer could improve patient's prognosis, we investigated microRNA expression profiling as a tool for identifying the tissue of origin of metastases. We assessed microRNA expression from 101 formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) samples from primary cancers and metastasis samples by using a microarray platform. Forty samples representing ten different cancer types were used for defining a cancer‐type‐specific microRNA signature, which was used for predicting primary sites of metastatic cancers. A 47‐miRNA signature was identified and used to estimate tissue‐of‐origin probabilities for each sample. Overall, accuracy reached 100% for primary cancers and 78% for metastases in our cohort of samples. When the signature was applied to an independent published dataset of 170 samples, accuracy remained high: correct prediction was found within the first two options in 86% of the metastasis cases (first prediction was correct in 68% of cases). This signature was also applied to predict 16 CUPs. In this group, first predictions exhibited probabilities higher than 90% in most of the cases. These results establish that FFPE samples can be used to reveal the tissue of origin of metastatic cancers by using microRNA expression profiling and suggest that the approach, if applied, could provide strong indications for CUPs, whose correct diagnosis is presently undefined. Copyright © 2011 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Magnetocaloric effect and size‐effect related thermal hysteresis reduction in MnAs1‐xPx compounds
Authors: Sun Naikun , Xu Songning , Li Da , Zhang Zhidong
Published: April 2011

In MnAs1‐xPx compounds (x = 0.006 and 0.01), prepared by mechanical alloying, the thermal hysteresis is greatly reduced from about 10–30 K in MnAs‐based compounds, prepared by conventional melting, to 2 K for x = 0.01 (or 4 K for x = 0.006). Such obvious hysteretic reduction is ascribed to the grain‐size effect, largely due to the preparation method of mechanical alloying. Meanwhile, a maximum value of the magnetic‐entropy change ΔSM of 11.3 J/kg K for a field change of 2 T is obtained at 294.5 K for MnAs0.994P0.006. The study on the MnAs1‐xPx system and also the effect of the preparation technology may be beneficial for the realization of magnetic refrigerants for application at room temperature.
Heterogeneous background‐error covariances for the analysis and forecast of fog events
Authors: Ménétrier Benjamin , Montmerle Thibaut
Published: April 2011

An ensemble assimilation, which is based on the operational cloud‐resolving model Applications de la Recherche à l’Opérationnel à Méso‐Echelle (AROME) and its 3D‐Var assimilation system, is used to diagnose background‐error covariances separately in areas with and without fog.

The fog and haze analysis system Cartographies des Analyses du RIsque de BrOUillard (CARIBOU) is used as reference to calibrate the best fog predictor from model fields, which was found to be a low‐level nebulosity. It appears that the physical processes in fog layers lead to very specific balances between control variables as well as much shorter vertical correlation length‐scales at low levels in background‐error covariances. In order to spread the information from surface and satellite observations with adequate structures in fog areas, a binary heterogeneity based on the use of geographical masks is added to the background‐error covariances. After the elimination of discontinuities at the mask borders, the positive impact of this formalism on the analysis‐increment structure is discussed. Impact studies based on long‐term real cases indicate that the global impact is closely related to the quality of the fog mask, for which future improvements are awaited. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Investment Institutions' Beliefs About and Attitudes Toward Socially Responsible Investment (SRI): A Comparison Between SRI and Non‐SRI Management
Authors: Jansson Magnus , Biel Anders
Published: April 2011

This paper investigates psychological drivers and financial motives that may influence major Swedish investments institutions to adopt socially responsible investment (SRI). Based on an instrument that captures concepts in the Value‐Belief‐Norm theory, and potential financial beliefs that may influence the SRI intentions of investors, a survey was addressed to all major Swedish investments institutions. Fifty‐eight respondents from 17 different investment institutions participated in the survey of whom 31 were conventional (non‐SRI) investors and 27 were socially responsible investors. Our results show that conventional and SRI investors share similar beliefs about short‐term and long‐term performance on SRI investments in that SRI gives less return in the short term but slightly more than conventional investments in the longer term. However, SRI investors express significantly more interest in increasing their future SRI investments than conventional investors do. We discover that future SRI is not influenced by social and environmental concerns. Rather, financial beliefs about risk and beliefs about increased market shares drive SRI forward. The business case for SRI seems therefore to be the only reason for major investment institutions to adopt SRI. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Rf‐GDOES analysis of composite metal/ceramic electroplated coatings with nano‐ to microceramic particles' size: issues in plasma sputtering of Ni/micro‐SiC coatings
Authors: Lanzutti A. , Marin E. , Lekka M. , Chapon P. , Fedrizzi L.
Published: April 2011

Ni matrix composite coatings reinforced with nano‐ and microceramic particles were analyzed by radio frequency glow discharge optical emission spectrometry (Rf‐GDOES). An interesting phenomenon related to the sputtering and excitation modes of this technique was observed. During plasma sputtering with Rf‐GDOES, the micro‐SiC particles were detached from metal matrix and did not contribute to the analytical signals. The same was not found in composite coatings containing nanoceramic particles. This anomalous behavior was confirmed by atomic force microscopy (AFM) investigation and scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations into Rf‐GDOES craters that showed the presence of residual non‐sputtered microparticles. Various attempts were done in order to minimize this problem, mainly by varying the analysis parameters of the used instrumentation, but without any relevant success. Some suggestions were then proposed for explaining the observed phenomenon, moreover possible solutions (e.g. by using a strong magnetic field or changing plasma gas to be more energetic) are discussed. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tackling frontal lobe–related functions in PKU through functional brain imaging: a Stroop task in adult patients
Authors: Sundermann Benedikt , Pfleiderer Bettina , Möller Harald E. , Schwindt Wolfram , Weglage Josef , Lepsien Jöran , Feldmann Reinhold
Published: April 2011

Background

Profound mental retardation in phenylketonuria (PKU) can be prevented by a low phenylalanine (Phe) diet. However, even patients treated early have inconsistently shown deficits in several frontal lobe–related neuropsychological tasks such as the widely accepted Stroop task. The goal of this study was to investigate whether adult patients exhibit altered brain activation in Stroop‐related locations in comparison to healthy controls and if an acute increase in blood Phe levels in patients has an effect on activation patterns.

Methods

Seventeen male, early‐treated patients with classic PKU (mean ± SD age: 31.0 ± 5.2 years) and 15 male healthy controls (32.1 ± 6.4 years) were compared using a color‐word matching Stroop task in a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study at 3T. Participants were scanned twice, and an oral Phe load (100 mg/kg body weight) was administered to patients prior to one of the fMRI sessions (placebo‐controlled). Activity in brain regions that are known to be involved in Stroop tasks was assessed.

Results

PKU patients exhibited poorer accuracy in incongruent trials. Reaction times were not significantly different. There were no consistent differences in BOLD activations in Stroop‐associated brain regions. The oral Phe administration had no significant effect on brain activity.

Conclusions

Neither a generally slower task performance nor distinctively altered functioning of brain networks involved in a task representing a subset of dopamine‐dependent executive functions could be proven. Decreased accuracy and inconsistent findings in posterior areas necessitate further study of frontal‐lobe functioning in PKU patients in larger study samples.
Ultrasound-guided core-needle biopsy of breast lesions
Authors: Apesteguía Luis , Pina Luis Javier
Published: April 2011

Objective

To review the role of ultrasound-guided core-needle biopsy (CNB) in the management of breast lesions.

Methods

Review of the most relevant literature on this topic.

Results

This technique shows a high sensitivity value of about 97.5% and it offers many advantages over other imaging techniques to guide a biopsy: non-ionising radiation, low cost, full control of the needle in real time, accessibility in difficult locations, multidirectional punctures and excellent comfort for patients and radiologists. All of these advantages have made this technique the most widespread used to perform a biopsy for a suspicious breast lesion. The most important limitation is the failure to perform a biopsy for lesions that are not seen on ultrasound. An adequate radiological–pathological correlation is necessary to minimise the false-negative results.

Conclusion

Ultrasound-guided CNB has proven to be a reliable technique for performing a biopsy for breast lesions that can be clearly seen on ultrasound.
Biologically inspired motion synthesis method of two-legged robot with compliant feet
Authors: Zielinska Teresa , Chmielniak Andrzej
Published: April 2011

This work presents biologically inspired method of gait generation. It uses the reference to the periodic signals generated by biological central pattern generator. The coupled oscillators with correction functions are used to produce leg joint trajectories. The human gait is the reference pattern. The features of generated gait are compared to the human walk. The spring-loaded foot design is presented together with experimental results.
Feeding, growth, and nutrition in children with congenitally malformed hearts
Authors: Medoff-Cooper Barbara , Naim Maryam , Torowicz Deborah , Mott Antonio
Published: April 2011

In the United States of America, approximately 40,000 infants are born annually with congenitally malformed hearts. Children with defects that require complex surgical palliation, or definitive repair, face many challenges in achieving optimal short-term and long-term growth. The presence of associated chromosomal abnormalities, cyanosis, and cardiac failure adds to the complexity and challenge. In this review, we address three themes related to feeding, growth, and nutrition of infants after neonatal cardiac surgery: nutritional challenges after chylothorax; breastfeeding after surgery; and the challenges of feeding after discharge. Chylothorax is a rare complication following cardiothoracic surgery in children. Children with chylothorax have nutritional depletion secondary to protein losses in chylous fluid, hypovolaemia, and electrolyte losses. In spite of the evidence supporting the use of human milk and breastfeeding in preterm infants, barriers to its use appear to persist in infants with critical cardiac disease. Yet, human milk is the preferred form of nutrition for well, preterm, or ill infants. It is well documented that after complex neonatal cardiac surgery medical teams and families struggle with infant feeding problems. Parents have described feeding their children as difficult, time consuming, and anxiety producing. Medical complications such as chylothorax, limited access to human milk, and parental concerns and stress about feeding are but three of the myriad of factors that may contribute to poor outcomes regarding nutrition and growth. Compelling evidence exists that this multi-factorial problem must be addressed with both physiological and behavioural strategies.
Women have Farther to Fall: Gender Differences Between Normal Elderly and Alzheimer's Disease in Verbal Memory Engender Better Detection of Alzheimer's Disease in Women
Authors: Chapman Robert M. , Mapstone Mark , Gardner Margaret N. , Sandoval Tiffany C. , McCrary John W. , Guillily Maria D. , Reilly Lindsey A. , DeGrush Elizabeth
Published: April 2011

We analyzed verbal episodic memory learning and recall using the Logical Memory (LM) subtest of the Wechsler Memory Scale-III to determine how gender differences in AD compare to those seen in normal elderly and whether or not these differences impact assessment of AD. We administered the LM to both an AD and a Control group, each comprised of 21 men and 21 women, and found a large drop in performance from normal elders to AD. Of interest was a gender interaction whereby the women's scores dropped 1.6 times more than the men's did. Control women on average outperformed Control men on every aspect of the test, including immediate recall, delayed recall, and learning. Conversely, AD women tended to perform worse than AD men. Additionally, the LM achieved perfect diagnostic accuracy in discriminant analysis of AD versus Control women, a statistically significantly higher result than for men. The results indicate the LM is a more powerful and reliable tool in detecting AD in women than in men. (JINS, 2011, 17, 654–662)
‘Say it with Georges Auric’: Film Music and theesprit nouveau
Authors: ROUST COLIN
Published: April 2011

Although he composed more than 120 film scores during his career, Georges Auric (1899–1983) did not compose his first until well after his thirtieth birthday. However, as a disciple of Guillaume Apollinaire'sesprit nouveauhe was interested in the genre much earlier. Between 1919 and 1928 he published three pieces of film music criticism that are couched in the rhetoric of Apollinaire and Jean Cocteau. In 1931 he composed his second film score, for René Clair's 1931 filmA Nous, la Liberté!Although the music was composed after theesprit nouveaumovement had effectively faded away, it is one of the clearest examples of that aesthetic. Because of the extraordinary collaborative relationship between Clair and Auric, the film also presents one of the most striking early solutions to the problem of how sound could be incorporated into the artistic rhetoric of silent cinema.
Disorienting Race: Humanizing the Musical Savage and the Rise of British Ethnomusicology
Authors: Zon Bennett
Published: April 2011

Although definitions of orientalism and racism seldom achieve consensus, the significance of their interplay is universally acknowledged amongst theorists of non-Western cultures. Tony Ballantyne, in his recentOrientalism and Race: Aryanism in the British Empire, describes their relationship in terms of mutuality, and Ziauddin Sardar, inOrientalism, describes them as ‘circles within circles’. Edward Said, of course, deals with their relationship exhaustively inOrientalism, and describes them as inextricably linked. Writing of the nineteenth century, he suggests that ‘Theses of Oriental backwardness, degeneracy, and inequality with the West most easily associated themselves early in the nineteenth century with ideas about the biological bases of racial inequality.’