bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, Electronic, and Electro‐Optical Properties of Emissive Solvatochromic Phenothiazinyl Merocyanine Dyes
Authors: Hauck Martina , Stolte Matthias , Schönhaber Jan , Kuball Hans‐Georg , Müller Thomas J. J.
Published: July 2011

Phenothiazinyl merocyanine dyes with variable substitution patterns on the peripheral benzene ring were synthesized in good yields by Knoevenagel condensation of the corresponding phenothiazinyl aldehydes andN‐methylrhodanine or indan‐1,3‐dione. The electronic properties were investigated by cyclic voltammetry, absorption, electro‐optical absorption, and emission spectroscopy. All these merocyanines reveal reversible redox behavior that stems from the phenothiazinyl‐centered oxidation to give stable radical cations. The redox potentials strongly correlate with Hammettσpparameters. All merocyanines reveal large Stokes shifts. They also display a pronounced emissive solvatochromism, which is caused by large dipole moment changes upon excitation from the ground to the excited state. These findings are supported by solvatochromism studies and time‐dependent DFT computations.
High‐Efficiency Tris(8‐hydroxyquinoline)aluminum (Alq3) Complexes for Organic White‐Light‐Emitting Diodes and Solid‐State Lighting
Authors: Pérez‐Bolívar César , Takizawa Shin‐ya , Nishimura Go , Montes Victor A. , Anzenbacher Pavel
Published: July 2011

Combinations of electron‐withdrawing and ‐donating substituents on the 8‐hydroxyquinoline ligand of the tris(8‐hydroxyquinoline)aluminum (Alq3) complexes allow for control of the HOMO and LUMO energies and the HOMO–LUMO gap responsible for emission from the complexes. Here, we present a systematic study on tuning the emission and electroluminescence (EL) from Alq3 complexes from the green to blue region. In this study, we explored the combination of electron‐donating substituents on C4 and C6. Compounds 1–6 displayed the emission tuning between 478 and 526 nm, and fluorescence quantum yield between 0.15 and 0.57. The compounds 2–6 were used as emitters and hosts in organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). The highest OLED external quantum efficiency (EQE) observed was 4.6 %, which is among the highest observed for Alq3 complexes. Also, the compounds 3–5 were used as hosts for red phosphorescent dopants to obtain white light‐emitting diodes (WOLED). The WOLEDs displayed high efficiency (EQE up to 19 %) and high white color purity (color rendering index (CRI≈85).
Cyclopropyl Carbinol Rearrangement for Benzo‐Fused Nitrogen Ring Synthesis
Authors: Kothandaraman Prasath , Huang Chuhui , Susanti Dewi , Rao Weidong , Chan Philip Wai Hong
Published: July 2011

A synthetic method that relies on gold‐catalysed cyclopropyl carbinol rearrangement of 2‐tosylaminophenyl cyclopropylmethanols to prepare 2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐benzo[b]azepines and 2‐vinylindolines efficiently is reported. The reactions were shown to be chemoselective, with secondary and tertiary alcohol substrates exclusively providing benzo‐fused five‐ and seven‐membered ring products, respectively. The ring‐forming process was also found to proceed in moderate to excellent yields under mild conditions only in the presence of the gold and silver catalyst combination. The mechanism is thought to involve activation of the alcohol by the (p‐CF3C6H4)3PAuCl/AgOTf (Tf=triflate) catalyst, resulting in ionization of the starting material. The tertiary carbocationic intermediate generated in situ in this manner then triggers ring‐opening of the cyclopropane moiety and trapping by the tethered aniline group to give the 2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐benzo[b]azepine. Cyclopropane ring fragmentation of the secondary carbocationic analogue, on the other hand, results in diene formation followed by subsequent intramolecular hydroamination to afford the 2‐vinylindoline.
Identification of a mechanical hybrid system switched by the absolute value of velocity or displacement
Authors: Hirata Mitsuo , Noguchi Sakae , Adachi Shuichi
Published: July 2011

In this paper we propose a system identification method for hybrid systems switched according to the absolute value of the velocity or displacement. First, it is shown that the regression vector space of a mechanical system switched according to the absolute value of the velocity or displacement cannot be separated by a hyperplane. Then a method based on support vector machines with a polynomial kernel is proposed. The effectiveness of this method is shown by simulations using a spring‐mass‐damper system. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 94(8): 65–72, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10202
Decomposition and reconstruction of signal in high‐speed processing method of real‐time spectral analysis
Authors: Nakatsuji Hideto , Omatu Shigeru
Published: July 2011

In recent years, wavelet transforms based on multiresolution analysis have been considered as a concrete algorithm for an integral wavelet transform that performs spectral analysis in the time–frequency domain. On the other hand, we have proposed a new method of analysis that updates the spectrum using input data only. The new method consists of analysis approach 1, which is a fundamental analysis method, and analysis approach 2, which is an analysis method that achieves high‐speed processing. Decomposition and reconstruction of the signal based on analysis approach 1 has already been proposed by us. This paper describes the decomposition and reconstruction of a signal based on analysis approach 2. The decomposition wave in analysis approach 2 cannot be obtained by the same method as in the case of analysis approach 1, but requires mathematical processing. In the processing, the decomposition wave in analysis approach 2 is identical to the decomposition wave in analysis approach 1. Therefore, the decomposition and reconstruction of the signal in analysis approach 2 results in the decomposition and reconstruction of the signal in analysis approach 1. As an example of numerical analysis, we illustrate the decomposition and reconstruction of the Japanese vocal sound /i/. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 94(8): 47–56, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10250
Map retrieval based on geometric spatial relations
Authors: Shimizu Toru , Ikezaki Masakazu , Ushiama Taketoshi , Watanabe Toyohide
Published: July 2011

Until now, many researchers have proposed spatial relations between geographical objects in the field of geographical information systems and spatial databases. However, these proposals have focused on binary relations to represent the features of geographical objects, but have not concentrated on the complexity among geographical objects. In this paper, we aim to model the complex structure among geographical objects. To represent the structure among geographical objects, we define the geometric spatial relation, which is composed of an overlapping relation, an adjoining relation, and a neighboring relation. Additionally, we discuss a retrieval function which finds similar locations by using a sketch as a query. In order to find locations, we generate a graph structure for representing the relationships among geographical objects using the three relations. We find a similar structure by comparing two graph structures. To judge the occurrence of a similar structure, we define the similarity which is calculated by correspondence among relations. The correspondence among relations is a value which shows the difference between a query and data. By using this similarity, we can find not only subgraphs but also similarity graphs. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 94(8): 27–36, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10345
Syntheses, Structures and Reactivity of New Intramolecularly Coordinated Tin Alkoxides Based on an Enantiopure Ephedrine Derivative
Authors: Iovkova‐Berends Ljuba , Berends Thorsten , Dietz Christina , Bradtmöller Gerrit , Schollmeyer Dieter , Jurkschat Klaus
Published: July 2011

The syntheses of the tin compounds [LSn]2 (2), spiro‐L2Sn (3), [LSnW(CO)5]2 (4), [LSnBr2]2 (5), spiro‐L2Sn·SnBr4 (6) and LSn[OC(O)Ph]2 (8), where L = MeN(CH2CMe2O)[(S)‐CH(Me)‐(R)‐CH(Ph)O], and (Ph4P)2SnBr6 (7) are reported. The compounds were characterized by elemental analysis, multinuclear NMR spectroscopy including 119Sn cross polarisation–magic angle spinning NMR (CP–MAS) (2, 3–6), electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (2–4) and single crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis (2, 2·C7H8, 3a, 3b, 4·C7H8, 5, 6·C7H8, 7).
Enantioselective Total Synthesis of (–)‐Subglutinols A and B: Potential Immunosuppressive Agents Isolated from a Microorganism
Authors: Kikuchi Takuya , Mineta Mayuko , Ohtaka Jingo , Matsumoto Naoko , Katoh Tadashi
Published: July 2011

Potential immunosuppressive diterpenoid pyrones (–)‐subglutinols A and B were efficiently synthesized in an enantioselective manner starting from a known trans‐decalone derivative. The synthetic method involved the following key steps: (i) [2,3]‐Wittig rearrangement of a stannyl methyl ether to access the requisite decalin segment; (ii) coupling of the decalin segment with a γ‐pyrone moiety to set up the desired carbon framework; (iii) construction of a characteristic tetrahydrofuran ring in one‐pot fashion through an internal SN2‐type cyclization, and (iv) conversion of a γ‐pyrone moiety into an α‐pyrone ring to yield the target (–)‐subglutinols A and B.
Textural developments in chromite deforming under eclogite‐facies conditions from the Neoarchaean Sittampundi anorthosite complex, southern India
Authors: Ghosh Biswajit , Konar Ritam
Published: July 2011

We describe the textural evolution of chromites from the Neoarchaean Sittampundi anorthosite complex in southern India. A series of micro‐structural developments in chromites with increasing temperature is recorded. The intracrystalline deformation started with a high strain rate at elevated temperature. At higher temperature, crystal plastic deformation like recovery/recrystallization was initiated developing subgrains in chromites. Diffusion processes played a major role during deformation as documented from grain boundary geometry of chromites with adjacent silicates, distribution of silicate inclusions in the host chromites as well as in the new grains, and the development of sector Al–Cr zoning. At the highest temperatures, diffusion might have overstepped the recovery. After deformation stopped, static recrystallization by grain boundary area reduction resulted in grain growth. A high‐strain steady‐state, heterogeneous deformation, as evidenced from the chromite micro‐structures is suggested for the Sittampundi chromites. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A one‐pot synthesis of alkynyl sulfides from terminal alkynes
Authors: Zheng Weixin , Zheng Fenfen , Hong Ya , Hu Linfeng
Published: July 2011

A one‐pot synthesis of alkynyl sulfide from terminal alkyne has been reported via lithiation of the alkyne, oxidative addition of sulfur, consecutively followed by the nucleophilic substitution of lithium alkynyl thiolate to various halides. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 23:105–110, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/hc.20745
Computational modeling and analysis of thermal characteristics of a rotating spacecraft subjected to solar radiation
Authors: Gadalla Mohamed A. , Wahba Essam
Published: July 2011

This paper presents a computational modeling for the temperature distribution of a rotating thick‐walled cylindrical spacecraft subjected to solar radiation. The inner surface of the spacecraft is thermally insulated while the outer surface is subjected to concurrent events of solar incidence and radiative heat dissipation to space. The governing equation for the normalized temperature is discretized using a finite difference scheme and Successive Line Over‐Relaxation (SLOR) is used to solve the resulting system of algebraic equations. Numerical simulations of temperature distribution on the spacecraft for different spinning speeds, angular positions, and different radii are discussed and evaluated for both linearized and nonlinear boundary conditions. Comparative analysis between the computational modeling and the exact analytical solution for the linearized boundary condition is presented. The results indicate that the outer surface temperature distribution of the spacecraft is nearly independent of the angular position; at sub‐cylindrical surface, this independence is achieved at low angular velocity. Moreover, numerical simulations show that the use of the linearized boundary condition at the outer surface presents a good approximation for the case of high‐speed spinning spacecrafts, while it results in significant errors in the temperature field in the case of stationary and low‐speed spinning spacecrafts. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heat Trans Asian Res; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/htj). DOI 10.1002/htj.20368
Pharmacokinetic parameters from 3‐Tesla DCE‐MRI as surrogate biomarkers of antitumor effects of bevacizumab plus FOLFIRI in colorectal cancer with liver metastasis
Authors: Hirashima Yoshinori , Yamada Yasuhide , Tateishi Ukihide , Kato Ken , Miyake Mototaka , Horita Yosuke , Akiyoshi Kohei , Takashima Atsuo , Okita Natsuko , Takahari Daisuke , Nakajima Takako , Hamaguchi Tetsuya , Shimada Yasuhiro , Shirao Kuniaki
Published: July 2011

Bevacizumab (BV) is an antivascular endothelial growth factor antibody. When administered with other chemotherapeutic drugs, BV‐combined regimens prolong survival of colorectal cancer patients. We conducted a phase II trial to confirm the pharmacokinetic parameters from 3‐Tesla dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‐MRI) as surrogate biomarkers of BV + FOLFIRI regimen efficacy in colorectal cancer with liver metastases. DCE‐MRI was performed before treatment, on the seventh day after first treatment and every 8 weeks thereafter using a 3‐Tesla MRI system. DCE‐MRI parameters‐area under the contrast concentration versus time curve at 90 and 180 s (AUC90 and AUC180, respectively) after contrast injection, and volume transfer constant of contrast agents (Ktrans and Kep) were calculated from liver metastases. Fifty‐eight liver metastases were analyzed. Univariate analysis revealed that a decrease in Ktrans ratios (ΔKtrans), Kep ratios (ΔKep), AUC90 ratios (ΔAUC90) and AUC180 ratios (ΔAUC180) correlated with higher response (all p < 0.0001) and longer time to progression (TTP) (ΔKtrans: p = 0.001; ΔKep: p = 0.004; ΔAUC90: p = 0.006; ΔAUC180: p < 0.0001). Multivariate analysis showed that ΔAUC180 was correlated with higher response (p = 0.009), and ΔKtrans and ΔAUC180 were correlated with longer TTP (ΔKtrans: p = 0.001; ΔAUC180: p = 0.024). ΔKtrans and ΔAUC180 are pharmacodynamic biomarkers of the blood perfusion of BV + FOLFIRI. Our data suggest that ΔKtrans and ΔKep can predict response to chemotherapy at 1 week. Changes in 3‐Tesla DCE‐MRI parameters confirmed the potential of these biomarkers of blood perfusion as surrogate predictors of response and TTP.
Clinicopathologic factors associated with HER2‐positive gastric cancer and its impact on survival outcomes—A systematic review
Authors: Chua Terence C. , Merrett Neil D.
Published: July 2011

With the availability of a therapeutic target and an effective agent in trastuzumab, a systematic examination of the literature to investigate the role of human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2) as a prognostic factor for survival and its association with clinicopathologic markers may improve treatment. An electronic search of the MEDLINE and PubMed databases (January 1990 to January 2011) was undertaken to identify translational studies that correlated HER2 with clinicopathologic markers and/or survival outcome. This review included 49 studies totaling 11,337 patients. Forty‐four percent of patients had Stage I/II, and 56% had Stage III/IV disease. Immunohistochemistry was most commonly used to assess HER2 expression, identifying a median rate of 18% (range, 4–53%) of gastric cancer demonstrating HER2 overexpression. In patients with and without HER2 overexpression, the median 3‐year disease‐free survival rate was 58% (range, 50–88%) and 86% (range, 62–97%), respectively. Of the 35 studies reporting the impact of HER2 overexpression on survival, 20 studies (57%) reported no difference in overall survival, two studies (6%) reported significantly longer overall survival in patients with HER2 overexpression and 13 studies (37%) reported significantly poorer overall survival in patients with HER2 overexpression. The median overall survival and 5‐year survival rate was 21 (range, 10–57) months and 42%, and 33 (range, 13–80) months and 52% in patients with and without HER2 overexpression, respectively. HER2 overexpression appears to be associated with poorer survival and with intestinal‐type gastric cancer in this group of patients for whom majority undergone curative gastrectomy.
Endocrine and testicular changes induced by olanzapine in adult Wistar rats
Authors: de Siqueira Bringel Simone , de Amorim Júnior Adelmar Afonso , Amorim Marleyne José Afonso Accioly Lins , Brito Lorena Tavares , Morais Rosana Nogueira , de Torres Sandra Maria , Tenorio Bruno Mendes , da Silva Junior Valdemiro Amaro
Published: July 2011

Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic drug that has been increasingly used in acute treatment of, and therapeutic support for, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and other psychoses. Considering that olanzapine acts on the dopaminergic receptor and this receptor is detected in germ cells, the present study aims to investigate the effects of treatment with different doses of olanzapine on spermatogenesis, plasma testosterone and weight of androgen‐dependent organs in rats. Results showed reduced plasma testosterone levels, and reduced testis, epididymis and prostate weights. Histopathologic and histomorphometric analysis of spermatogenesis indicated testicular degeneration. Furthermore, germ cell desquamation, syncytial multinucleated cells, Sertoli cell vacuolization and presence of necrotic and apoptotic germ cells wwew observed. Olanzapine treatment in rats promoted endocrinological changes and lesions in the testis, leading to a disturbance in spermatogenesis. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular basis of calcium binding by polyguluronate chains. Revising the egg‐box model
Authors: Plazinski Wojciech
Published: July 2011

The egg‐box model is the commonly accepted description of the calcium alginate/guluronate structure. It assumes that calcium ions are bound in the periodic chelation sites located between two polyuronate chains. This study was focused on elucidating the nature of interactions between calcium and polyuronates, responsible for the Ca2+‐induced association of polyuronate chains in the aqueous solutions. Both molecular dynamics and semiempirical (ZINDO‐1/Monte Carlo) methods were used for this purpose. Based on the obtained results, new structural models of Ca2+‐polyguluronate complexes were proposed both for parallel and antiparallel pairing. Contrary to the classical egg‐box model, Ca2+ ions are coordinated by four carboxyl oxygens from two opposite carboxyl groups belonging to two different polyguluronate chains and, additionally, by four oxygen atoms belonging to water molecules. Such a coordination pattern can be interpreted as the result of competition between water molecules and carboxylic groups of polyguluronate for calcium ions. Other structural details (the network of hydrogen bonds, for instance) are close to those corresponding to the “shifted” egg‐box model proposed by Braccini and Pérez (Biomacromolecules 2001, 2, 1089) and remain in agreement with the experimental data. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2011
Src family kinases regulate renal epithelial dedifferentiation through activation of EGFR/PI3K signaling
Authors: Zhuang Shougang , Duan Meili , Yan Yan
Published: July 2011

Dedifferentiation, a process by which differentiated cells become mesenchymal‐like proliferating cells, is the first step in renal epithelium repair and occurs in vivo after acute kidney injury and in vitro in primary culture. However, the underlying mechanism remains poorly understood. In this report, we studied the signaling events that mediate dedifferentiation of proximal renal tubular cells (RPTC) in primary culture. RPTC dedifferentiation characterized by increased expression of vimentin concurrent with decreased expression of cytokeratin‐18 was observed at 24 h after the initial plating of freshly isolated proximal tubules and persisted for 72 h. At 96 h, RPTC started to redifferentiate as revealed by reciprocal expression of cytokeratin‐18 and vimentin and completed at 120 h. Phosphorylation levels of Src, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), AKT (a target of phosphoinositide‐3‐kinase (PI3K)), and ERK1/2 were increased in the early time course of culture (<72 h). Inhibition of Src family kinases (SFKs) with PP1 blocked EGFR, AKT, and ERK1/2 phosphorylation, as well as RPTC dedifferentiation. Inhibition of EGFR with AG1478 also blocked AKT and ERK1/2 phosphorylation and RPTC dedifferentiation. Although inactivation of the PI3K/AKT pathway with LY294002 inhibited RPTC dedifferentiation, blocking the ERK1/2 pathway with U0126 did not show such an effect. Moreover, inhibition of SFKs, EGFR, PI3K/AKT, but not ERK1/2 pathways abrogated RPTC outgrowth and SFK inhibition decreased RPTC proliferation and migration. These findings demonstrate a critical role of SFKs in mediating RPTC dedifferentiation through activation of the EGFR/PI3K signaling pathway. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 2138–2144, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Growth factors, CD34 positive cells, and fibrin network analysis in concentrated growth factors fraction
Authors: Rodella Luigi Fabrizio , Favero Gaia , Boninsegna Ramon , Buffoli Barbara , Labanca Mauro , Scarì Giorgio , Sacco Luigi , Batani Tiziano , Rezzani Rita
Published: July 2011

An interesting clinical option for optimizing healing tissue is the use of platelet concentrate. Platelets contain high quantities of growth factors, among these TGF‐β1 and VEGF, which are known to be implicated in tissue regeneration. CGF is produced by processing blood samples with a special centrifuge device; three layers are formed: top acellular plasma (PPP), middle CGF and bottom red blood cells (RBC) layers. Given that to date there are no data concerning the biological characteristic of CGF, the aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of TGF‐β1 and VEGF in CGF and also in PPP and RBC layers. In addition, since circulating stem cells are recruited from blood to injured tissue for healing we also evaluated the presence of CD34 positive cells. Our data show the presence of TGF‐β1 and VEGF in CGF and RBC layers. In addition, we show CD34 positive cells in CGF. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synergistic anticancer activity of curcumin and catechin: An in vitro study using human cancer cell lines
Authors: Manikandan R. , Beulaja M. , Arulvasu C. , Sellamuthu S. , Dinesh D. , Prabhu D. , Babu G. , Vaseeharan B. , Prabhu N.M.
Published: July 2011

The most practical approach to reduce morbidity and mortality of cancer is to delay the process of carcinogenesis by usage of anticancer agents. This necessitates that safer compounds are to be critically examined for anticancer activity especially, those derived from natural sources. A spice commonly found in India and the surrounding regions, is turmeric, derived from the rhizome of Curcuma longa and the major active component is a phytochemical termed curcumin. Green tea is one of the most popular beverages used worldwide, produced from the leaves of evergreen plant Camellia sinensis and the major active ingredients are polyphenolic compounds known as catechins. In this study, synergistic anticancer activity of curcumin and catechin was evaluated in human colon adenocarcinoma HCT 15, HCT 116, and human larynx carcinoma Hep G‐2 cell lines. Although, both curcumin or catechin inhibited the growth of above cell lines, interestingly, in combination of both these compounds highest level of growth control was observed. The anticancer activity shown is due to cytotoxicity, nuclear fragmentation as well as condensation, and DNA fragmentation associated with the appearance of apoptosis. These results suggest that curcumin and catechin in combination can inhibit the proliferation of HCT 15, HCT 116, as well as Hep G‐2 cells efficiently through induction of apoptosis. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hamilton cycle and Hamilton path extendability of Cayley graphs on abelian groups
Authors: MiklaviČ Štefko , Šparl Primož
Published: July 2011

In this paper the concepts of Hamilton cycle (HC) and Hamilton path (HP) extendability are introduced. A connected graph Γ isn‐HC‐extendableif it contains a path of lengthnand if every such path is contained in some Hamilton cycle of Γ. Similarly, Γ isweakly n‐HP‐extendableif it contains a path of lengthnand if every such path is contained in some Hamilton path of Γ. Moreover, Γ isstrongly n‐HP‐extendableif it contains a path of lengthnand if for every such pathPthere is a Hamilton path of Γ starting withP. These concepts are then studied for the class of connected Cayley graphs on abelian groups. It is proved that every connected Cayley graph on an abelian group of order at least three is 2‐HC‐extendable and a complete classification of 3‐HC‐extendable connected Cayley graphs of abelian groups is obtained. Moreover, it is proved that every connected Cayley graph on an abelian group of order at least five is weakly 4‐HP‐extendable. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory
Graphs obtained from Moufang loops and regular maps
Authors: Griggs T.S. , Širáň J. , Richter R.B.
Published: July 2011

Using ideas from regular maps, we prove the existence of infinitely many non‐vertex‐transitive Cayley graphs obtained from Moufang loops. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory
Adaptive response of single and binary Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli biofilms to benzalkonium chloride
Authors: Machado Idalina , Lopes Susana Patrícia , Sousa Ana Margarida , Pereira Maria Olívia
Published: July 2011

The main goal of this work was to examine whether the continuous exposure of single and binary P. aeruginosa and E. coli biofilms to sub‐lethal benzalkonium chloride (BC) doses can induce adaptive response of bacteria. Biofilms were formed during 24 h and then put continuously in contact with BC for more 5 days. The six‐day‐old adapted biofilms were then submitted to BC challenge, characterized and inspected by SEM. Both single and binary adapted biofilms have clearly more biomass, polysaccharides and proteins and less activity even though the number of cells was identical. After BC treatment, adapted biofilms maintained their mass and activity. SEM examination revealed that those adapted biofilms had a slimier and denser matrix that became thicker after BC treatment. Continuous exposure of bacteria to antimicrobials can lead to development of biofilms encompassing more virulent and tolerant bacteria. This adaptive resistance can be the result of a phenotypic adaptation, a genetic acquired resistance or both. Instead of eradicating biofilms and kill microorganisms, the use of a disinfectant can, favour biofilm formation and tolerance. This must be a genuine concern as it can happen in clinical environments, where the use of antimicrobials is unavoidable. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Determination of optimum harvest maturity and physico‐chemical quality of Rastali banana (Musa AAB Rastali) during fruit ripening
Authors: Kheng Tee Yei , Ding Phebe , Abdul Rahman Nor Aini
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND: A series of physico‐chemical quality (peel and pulp colours, pulp firmness, fruit pH, sugars and acids content, respiration rate and ethylene production) were conducted to study the optimum harvest periods (either week 11 or week 12 after emergence of the first hand) of Rastali banana (Musa AAB Rastali) based on the fruit quality during ripening.

RESULT: Rastali banana fruit exhibited a climacteric rise with the peaks of both CO2 and ethylene production occurring simultaneously at day 3 after ripening was initiated and declined at day 5 when fruits entered the senescence stage. De‐greening was observed in both of the harvesting weeks with peel turned from green to yellow, tissue softening, and fruits became more acidic and sweeter as ripening progressed. Sucrose, fructose and glucose were the main sugars found while malic, citric and succinic acids were the main organic acids found in the fruit.

CONCLUSION: Rastali banana harvested at weeks 11 and 12 can be considered as commercial harvest period when the fruits have developed good organoleptic and quality attributes during ripening. However, Rastali banana fruit at more mature stage of harvest maturity taste slightly sweeter and softer with higher ethylene production which also means the fruits may undergo senescence faster than fruit harvested at week 11. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Induction of mud crab (Scylla paramamosain) tropomyosin and arginine kinase specific hypersensitivity in BALB/c mice
Authors: Liu Guang‐Ming , Li Bing , Yu Hui‐Lin , Cao Min‐Jie , Cai Qiu‐Feng , Lin Jiang‐Wei , Su Wen‐Jin
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND: Shellfish hypersensitivity is among the most common food allergies. The allergens tropomyosin (TM) and arginine kinase (AK) from mud crab (Scylla paramamosain) were purified to homogeneity. BALB/c female mice were sensitized with TM and AK by intragastric administration. Mice treated with normal saline served as the negative control (NC) group.

RESULTS: Compared with NC group, mice that were treated with TM and AK developed reduced activity; meanwhile, their scratching behavior and specific‐IgE level were increased. Specific‐CD4 + T cells were significantly elevated in the splenocyte cultures of the mice upon TM and AK stimulation. However, compared with the positive control group (ovalbumin, OVA), there was no significant difference. The expression of IL‐4 in culture cells stimulated by TM, AK, and OVA group showed significant differences from the NC group, respectively.

CONCLUSION: These results indicated that a BALB/c mouse model for sensitization to TM and AK from mud crab was successfully established, and the Th2 response was observed, displaying increased immunoglobulin E levels, together with the production of interleukin 4 and allergic symptoms. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Enhancing aspalathin stability in rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) ready‐to‐drink iced teas during storage: the role of nano‐emulsification and beverage ingredients, citric and ascorbic acids
Authors: de Beer Dalene , Joubert Elizabeth , Viljoen Melvi , Manley Marena
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND: The effects of citric and ascorbic acids on the stability of aspalathin in rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) ready‐to‐drink (RTD) formulations containing fermented rooibos extract (FR), aspalathin‐enriched green rooibos extract (GR) and aspalathin‐enriched green rooibos extract ascorbic acid solubilisate (GR‐solubilisate) were investigated during storage (12 weeks at 25 °C).

RESULTS: Storage of iced tea formulations containing FR and GR extracts reduced their flavonoid content. The aspalathin content of FR iced tea without citric or ascorbic acid was reduced to undetectable levels by week 8 of storage. Addition of citric acid resulted in improved stability of aspalathin, but ascorbic acid did not impart additional stability. Iso‐orientin and orientin were less affected than aspalathin, presumably owing to partial conversion of aspalathin to these flavones. Similar results were obtained for GR iced tea formulations. Improved stability of aspalathin was noted in iced tea containing GR‐solubilisate with or without citric acid. Lower pH was shown to favour stability, especially for fermented rooibos iced teas.

CONCLUSION: Citric and ascorbic acids contribute to the stability of rooibos flavonoids during storage. Differences in stability between formulations are not due to pH differences but may be related to the matrix. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
A new high‐throughput method utilizing porous silica‐based nano‐composites for the determination of partition coefficients of drug candidates
Authors: Yu Chih H. , Tam Kin , Tsang Shik C.
Published: July 2011

We show that highly porous silica‐based nanoparticles prepared via micro‐emulsion and sol–gel techniques are stable colloids in aqueous solution. By incorporating a magnetic core into the porous silica nano‐composite, it is found that the material can be rapidly separated (precipitated) upon exposure to an external magnetic field. Alternatively, the porous silica nanoparticles without magnetic cores can be equally separated from solution by applying a high‐speed centrifugation. Using these silica‐based nanostructures a new high‐throughput method for the determination of partition coefficient for water/n‐octanol is hereby described. First, a tiny quantity of n‐octanol phase is pre‐absorbed in the porous silica nano‐composite colloids, which allows an establishment of interface at nano‐scale between the adsorbed n‐octanol with the bulk aqueous phase. Organic compounds added to the mixture can therefore undergo a rapid partition between the two phases. The concentration of drug compound in the supernatant in a small vial can be determined by UV–visible absorption spectroscopy. With the adaptation of a robotic liquid handler, a high‐throughput technology for the determination of partition coefficients of drug candidates can be employed for drug screening in the industry based on these nano‐separation skills. The experimental results clearly suggest that this new method can provide partition coefficient values of potential drug candidates comparable to the conventional shake‐flask method but requires much shorter analytical time and lesser quantity of chemicals.
Case report on the use of cognitive processing therapy–cognitive, enhanced to address heavy alcohol use
Authors: McCarthy Elissa , Petrakis Ismene
Published: July 2011

There is a high rate of co‐occurring alcohol dependence (AD) in individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Cognitive processing therapy (CPT) is an effective treatment for individuals diagnosed with PTSD. CPT–Cognitive (CPT‐C) is a modified form of CPT. This case report describes a 12‐week course of CPT‐C treatment, enhanced to address heavy alcohol use, in a combat veteran with PTSD and co‐occurring AD. By treatment end, the veteran demonstrated clinically significant improvement in both PTSD symptoms and alcohol‐related problems and sustained these gains 12‐weeks posttreatment. The results indicate promise for the use of CPT‐C, enhanced for heavy alcohol use, for individuals diagnosed with PTSD and AD.
Deoximation by cetyltrimethylammonium dichromate: A kinetic study
Authors: Sahu Sandhyamayee , Patel Sabita , Mishra Bijay K
Published: July 2011

The deoximation kinetics of some oximes was studied by using cetyltrimethylammonium dichromate (CTADC) in dichloromethane in the presence of acetic acid and a cationic surfactant. The rate of reaction is highly sensitive to the change in [CTADC], [oxime], [acid], [surfactant], polarity of the solvents, and reaction temperature. The reaction is found to be catalyzed by acid with an appreciable uncatalytic rate. The reaction is first order with respect to substrate. With increase in CTADC concentration, rate of the reaction increases with a fractional order dependency with respect to oxidant. Consistent to the observation, a mechanism has been proposed in which the substrate forms a complex with CTADC in the rate determining step followed by decomposition with a fast process to yield corresponding carbonyl compounds. The structure of the substituents has also a significant effect on the rate constant. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 43: 482–488, 2011
Kinetic study of the interaction of three glycine‐containing dipeptides with diaquaethylenediamineplatinum(II) in aqueous medium
Authors: Mallick Subhasis , Mondal Subala , Mandal Arup , Bera Biplab K. , Karmakar Parnajyoti , Ghosh Alak K.
Published: July 2011

The kinetics of the interaction of three glycine‐containing dipeptides, namely, glycine‐L‐leucine (Gly‐Leu), glycine‐L‐isoleucine (Gly‐Ile), and glycine‐valine (Gly‐Val) with [Pt(en)(H2O)2](ClO4)2 has been studied spectrophotometrically as a function of [substrate complex], [dipeptides] and temperature at a particular pH(4.0), where the substrate complex exists predominantly as the diaqua species and the dipeptides as a zwitterion. The substitution reaction shows two consecutive steps; the first is the ligand‐assisted anation and the second is the chelation step. The activation parameters for both the steps were evaluated using Eyring's equation. The low ΔH1≠ and large negative value of ΔS1≠ as well as ΔH2≠ and ΔS2≠ indicate an associative mode of activation for both the aqua ligand substitution processes. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 43: 498–506, 2011
Kinetics and mechanism of the reaction of propylene oxide with chlorine atoms and hydroxy radicals
Authors: Middala Srikar , Campbell Sean , Olea Catalina , Scruggs Austen , Hasson Alam S.
Published: July 2011

The kinetics and mechanism of gas‐phase propylene oxide (PPO) reactions were studied in a 142‐L reaction chamber by long‐path Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy at atmospheric pressure and 298 K. Rate coefficients for the reaction of PPO with ozone (O3), chlorine atoms (Cl), and hydroxyl radicals (OH) were measured using the relative rate technique. Product yields of acetic acid, acetic formic anhydride, formic acid, and carbon monoxide were determined for the following reactions: PPO with Cl both in the presence and absence of NO, PPO with OH and NO, methyl acetate with Cl both in the presence and absence of NO, and ethyl formate with Cl both in the presence and absence of NO. The measured rate coefficients for PPO with O3, Cl, and OH are <3.5 × 10−21 cm3 molecule−1 s−1, (3.0 ± 0.7) × 10−11 cm3 molecule−1 s−1, and (3.0 ± 1.0) × 10−13 cm3 molecule−1 s−1, respectively. The carbon balance for the products measured ranged from 10% (for OH + PPO) to 100% (for Cl + methyl acetate in the absence of NO). The mechanistic and atmospheric implications of these measurements are discussed. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 43: 507–521, 2011
Coherent state transforms attached to generalized Bargmann spaces on the complex plane
Authors: Mouayn Zouhaïr
Published: July 2011

We construct a family of coherent states transforms attached to generalized Bargmann spaces [C. R. Acad. Sci. Paris, t. 325, 1997] in the complex plane. This constitutes another way of obtaining the kernel of an isometric operator linking the space of square integrable functions on the real line with the true‐poly‐Fock spaces [Oper. Theory, Adv. Appl. v. 117, 2000]. © 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim
Selection of individuals to serve on major gift fundraising teams: a study of membership choice criteria
Authors: Bennett Roger
Published: July 2011

Major gift fundraising (MGF) is a crucial activity for large UK charities and is one that is normally undertaken by teams. This paper examines the criteria that the managements of large charities apply when selecting individuals to serve on MGF teams. It also explores possible connections between team composition and MGF success. A questionnaire exploring this matter was distributed to a sampling frame comprising 500 of the UK's largest fundraising charities, resulting in 151 replies. It emerged that MGF teams which contained people who had been chosen on the basis of their commitment to the MGF function, their communication and relationship nurturing abilities, and their wide‐ranging connections throughout an organisation were reported to perform better than teams that were not deliberately assembled in this way. The more background research was completed into an MGF prospect's circumstances and preferences and the more diverse an MGF team's composition, the higher the probability of success. However, team size did not exert significant effects on performance nor did (i) the personal status of any of a team's members or (contrary to expectations) (ii) the inclusion of individuals who knew a prospect personally. Teams with members who possessed extensive experience of MGF did not perform substantially better than others. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
19%‐efficient and 43 µm‐thick crystalline Si solar cell from layer transfer using porous silicon
Authors: Petermann Jan Hendrik , Zielke Dimitri , Schmidt Jan , Haase Felix , Rojas Enrique Garralaga , Brendel Rolf
Published: July 2011

We present a both‐sides‐contacted thin‐film crystalline silicon (c‐Si) solar cell with a confirmed AM1.5 efficiency of 19.1% using the porous silicon layer transfer process. The aperture area of the cell is 3.98 cm2. This is the highest efficiency ever reported for transferred Si cells. The efficiency improvement over the prior state of the art (16.9%) is achieved by implementing recent developments for Si wafer cells such as surface passivation with aluminum oxide and laser ablation for contacting. The cell has a short‐circuit current density of 37.8 mA cm−2, an open‐circuit voltage of 650 mV, and a fill factor of 77.6%. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nanoparticle‐enhanced light trapping in thin‐film silicon solar cells
Authors: Ouyang Zi , Zhao Xiang , Varlamov Sergey , Tao Yuguo , Wong Johnson , Pillai Supriya
Published: July 2011

A systematic investigation of the nanoparticle‐enhanced light trapping in thin‐film silicon solar cells is reported. The nanoparticles are fabricated by annealing a thin Ag film on the cell surface. An optimisation roadmap for the plasmon‐enhanced light‐trapping scheme for self‐assembled Ag metal nanoparticles is presented, including a comparison of rear‐located and front‐located nanoparticles, an optimisation of the precursor Ag film thickness, an investigation on different conditions of the nanoparticle dielectric environment and a combination of nanoparticles with other supplementary back‐surface reflectors. Significant photocurrent enhancements have been achieved because of high scattering and coupling efficiency of the Ag nanoparticles into the silicon device. For the optimum light‐trapping scheme, a short‐circuit current enhancement of 27% due to Ag nanoparticles is achieved, increasing to 44% for a “nanoparticle/magnesium fluoride/diffuse paint” back‐surface reflector structure. This is 6% higher compared with our previously reported plasmonic short‐circuit current enhancement of 38%. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Additional coating effects on textured ZnO : Al thin films as transparent conducting oxides for thin‐film Si solar cells
Authors: Moon Taeho , Jun Jin Hyung , Lee Hyun , Yoon Wonki , Kim Soohyun , Lee Byung‐Kee , Lee Hong‐Cheol , Kim Wooyoung , Ahn Seh‐Won , Lee Sungeun , Lee Heon‐Min
Published: July 2011

ZnO : Al films were additionally deposited on textured transparent conducting oxide thin films to improve the surface morphologies formed in the etching process. The efficiency of the µc‐Si : H cell was enhanced from 7.0% (uncoated) to 8.0% (150‐nm‐coated) because of the additional coating. The quantum efficiency evaluation with a reverse bias voltage showed that the additional coating suppressed the carrier recombination problem. To systematically analyze the change of the i‐layer quality, the changes of (μτ)eff and fill factor (FF) were analyzed using a variable illumination measurement technique, and the results clearly confirmed the enhancement of i‐layer quality due to the additional coating. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The importance of the ortho effect in the solvolyses of 2,6‐difluorobenzoyl chloride
Authors: Park Kyoung‐Ho , Kevill Dennis N.
Published: July 2011

The ortho effect of the chloro substituents in 2,6‐dichlorobenzoyl chloride sufficiently hindered attack on the acyl carbon such that an ionization mechanism was observed over the full range of solvents studied. We now compare this behavior with that of 2,6‐difluorobenzoyl chloride. The smaller fluoro substituents allow the dominant pathway to be addition–elimination (association–dissociation) in all solvents except those rich in fluoroalcohol, where ionization is dominant. Ranges of operation for both mechanisms had previously been observed for the parent benzoyl chloride but with a wider ionization range than for the 2,6‐difluoro derivative. This indicates that, relative to the parent, the electronic destabilizing influence of the fluorines on acyl cation formation outweighs the steric retardation to attack because of the presence of the two ortho‐fluorine atoms. An extended (two‐term) Grunwald–Winstein equation treatment of the solvolyses of 2,6‐difluorobenzoyl chloride is reported. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Skin care behaviors among melanoma survivors
Authors: Bowen Deborah , Jabson Jennifer , Haddock Nicole , Hay Jennifer , Edwards Karen
Published: July 2011

Introduction

Clinical recommendations for survivors of melanoma generally include skin care behaviors, including regular physician and skin self‐examination to identify any recurrences or second primary disease early, as well as sun protection. We measured skin care behaviors in a population‐based sample of melanoma survivors.

Methods

Melanoma survivors were approached through the regional National Cancer Institute‐funded cancer registry (Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results) and recruited to this study with a response rate of approximately 75%, for a total sample of n = 313.

Results

The sample was 99% Caucasian, 56% female, 44% male, 81% married, 62% college educated, and 48% with an income over 70 K annually, with an average age of 56 years. Over the last 7 days, a total of 45% reported wearing sunscreen, 59% reported wearing long sleeves, 80% reported wearing pants, 35% reported wearing something on the head, and 36% stayed in available shade. Skin self‐examination behaviors were reported at relatively low frequencies, with only 22% performing a thorough check on skin. A total of 88% of survivors reported that their physician checked their skin in the past few years by having all clothes removed. A multivariate analysis using logistic regression indicated that perceived risk was positively related to having the skin checked by a medical provider but no other skin protection behaviors. Gender effects were also detected for wearing sunscreen and wearing a hat or scarf.

Discussion

Data indicate that melanoma survivors are performing sun protection behaviors to a moderate extent. Future studies can address barriers to consistent use of these behaviors in melanoma survivors.

Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rational designs of crystal solid‐solution materials for lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Luo Ting , Zhang Caixia , Zhang Zhiyong , Zhu Yingdan , Li Jun
Published: July 2011

We present a new strategy for computer‐aided rational design of quantum supercells of crystal solid‐solution (SS) materials for lithium‐ion batteries. Layered SS materials Li(NixCoyMn1−x−y)O2 are used to demonstrate our design strategy. Crystal structures obtained by rational design agree well with those fully optimized by quantum total‐energy calculations and real materials measured from experiments. Compared with conventional first‐principles determination of structures, our approach achieves a significant increase in efficiency without loss of reliability and predictability for searching new structures. We further discuss the necessary steps to develop a generic strategy to rationally design new composite electrode materials.