bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fetal growth restriction and 18‐year growth and nutritional status: Aboriginal birth cohort 1987–2007
Authors: Sayers Susan , Mott Susan , Singh Gurmeet
Published: December 2010

The main objective of the work is to compare the growth and nutritional status of Australian Aboriginal term infants born with (n = 81) and without fetal growth restriction (n = 260). A prospective birth cohort study of 341 Aboriginal babies from the Top End of the Northern Territory of Australia was recruited at birth (1987–1990) and re‐examined at a mean age of 18.3 years (2006–2008) for outcome measures of growth and nutrition status. Those with growth restriction at birth were 3 cm shorter (P = 0.0026) and 9 kg lighter (P = 0.0001) with head circumferences 0.95 cm smaller (P = 0.0008) than those without growth restriction. The proportions of growth restricted participants with body mass index <18.5 kg/m2 were significantly greater (P = 0.028), and those with BMI > 25 kg/m2 and with fat percentage >85th percentile were significantly smaller (P = 0.012 and 0.004, respectively). In this cohort, those Aboriginal babies born smaller and lighter have remained smaller and lighter at 18 years of age. However, the highest risk of later chronic noncommunicable disease has been reported in subjects who were born small and become relatively larger in later life. The continued study of this Aboriginal birth cohort will give us an opportunity to determine if and when in later life the effects of birth weight are modified by environmental nutritional factors. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Altered growth patterns of a mountain Ok population of Papua New Guinea over 25 years of change
Authors: Adhikari Amita , Sen Ananda , Brumbaugh Robert C. , Schwartz Jessica
Published: December 2010

Context

The Mountain Ok (Mt Ok) people of Telefomin, who live at the interior of Papua New Guinea (PNG), were documented over 25 years ago to be one of the shortest populations on record, with average adult height below the fifth percentile (US). Serum Growth Hormone was detectable, Insulin‐like Growth Factor‐1 and serum indicators of protein nutritional status fell within the normal range, suggesting that these were not primary factors for their relative short stature.

Objective

Since the Telefolmin people have experienced recent socioeconomic changes, they were re‐evaluated in 2008, to examine height, weight, and body mass index (BMI), for insight into relative contributions of environment and other factors that modulate stature in children and adults.

Study Design and Setting

Cross‐sectional anthropometric data were collected from 474 individuals at Telefomin in 2008, and compared with anthropometric data from 342 individuals measured in 1983.

Results

The height of Telefolmin subjects, below the fifth percentile in 1983, remained below the fifth percentile in 2008. Weight and BMI of peripubertal and adult age groups increased from 1983 to 2008. Male and female heights at peripubertal ages were significantly greater in 2008. Nevertheless, final adult height did not change significantly over the 25 years.

Conclusions

Recent socioeconomic changes appear to contribute to increased weight, BMI, and stature at younger ages in the Mt Ok at Telefomin. In contrast, unchanging adult stature may reflect a delay in the impact of socioeconomic changes, or genetic influences that modulate responsiveness to other growth regulators. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Evaluation of specific metabolic rates of major organs and tissues: Comparison between men and women
Authors: Wang ZiMian , Ying Zhiliang , Bosy‐Westphal Anja , Zhang Junyi , Heller Martin , Later Wiebke , Heymsfield Steven B. , Müller Manfred J.
Published: December 2010

Objectives

The specific resting metabolic rates (Ki, in kcal/kg per day) of major organs and tissues in the Reference Man were suggested in 1992 by Elia: 200 for liver, 240 for brain, 440 for heart and kidneys, 13 for skeletal muscle, 4.5 for adipose tissue and 12 for the residual mass. However, it is unknown whether gender influences the Ki values. The aim of the present study was to compare the Ki values observed in nonelderly nonobese men to the corresponding values in women.

Methods

Elia's Ki values were evaluated based on a mechanistic model: REE = Σ(Ki × Ti), where REE is whole‐body resting energy expenditure measured by indirect calorimetry and Ti is the mass of major organs and tissues measured by magnetic resonance imaging. Marginal 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the model‐estimated Ki values were calculated by stepwise univariate regression analysis. Subjects were nonelderly (age 20–49 years) nonobese (BMI 18.5–29.9 kg/m2) men (n = 49) and women (n = 57).

Results

The measured REE (REEm) and the mass of major organs and skeletal muscle were all greater in the men than in women. The predicted REE by Elia's Ki values were correlated with REEm in men (r = 0.87) and women (r = 0.86, both P < 0.001). Elia's Ki values were within the range of 95% CIs for both men and women groups, revealing that gender adjustment is not necessary.

Conclusions

Elia's proposed adult Ki values are valid in both nonelderly nonobese men and women. Further studies are needed to explore the potential influences of age and obesity on Ki values in humans. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Occupational asthma in the aluminum smelters of Australia and New Zealand: 1991–2006
Authors: Donoghue A. Michael , Frisch Neale , Ison Michael , Walpole Gerry , Capil Ron , Curl Clive , Di Corleto Ross , Hanna Bill , Robson Raewyn , Viljoen Deon
Published: December 2010

Objective

To examine the incidence of occupational asthma in the seven aluminum smelters of Australia and New Zealand from 1991 to 2006.

Methods

Incidence and exposure data were collected by survey from the smelters prospectively during the study period.

Results

The incidence of occupational asthma across all smelters combined was highest in 1992 at 9.46/1,000/year, declining to 0.36/1,000/year in 2006; a 96.2% reduction. The incidence of occupational asthma was correlated with geometric mean total fluoride concentration, measured as personal samples from employees undertaking anode changing (rs = 0.497, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The control of exposures, respiratory protection and pre‐placement medical assessments undertaken during the study period seem to have contributed to the substantial decline in occupational asthma incidence. Am. J. Ind. Med. 54:224–231, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
An epidermis‐specific chitin synthase CDNA in Choristoneura fumiferana: cloning, characterization, developmental and hormonal‐regulated expression
Authors: Ampasala Dinakar R. , Zheng Sichun , Zhang Dayu , Ladd, Tim , Doucet Daniel , Krell Peter J. , Retnakaran Arthur , Feng Qili
Published: December 2010

Chitin synthase catalyzes chitin synthesis in the exoskeleton, tracheal system and gut during insect development. A chitin synthase 1 (CfCHS1) cDNA was identified and cloned from the spruce budworm, Choristoneura fumiferana. The CfCHS1 cDNA is 5,300 bp in length and codes a 1,564‐amino acid protein with a molecular mass of 178 kDa. The deduced protein contains 16 transmembrane helixes in its domains A and C. The single copy CfCHS1 gene expressed during each of the larval molts from the 3rd to the 6th instar. The gene expressed highly and periodically in the epidermis during each of molts, whereas no transcripts were detected in the midgut and fat body. 20‐hydroxyecdysone and the ecdysone agonist RH5992 suppressed CfCHS1 expression, whereas the juvenile hormone analog methoprene induced CfCHS1 expression. These results implicate that CfCHS1 is involved in the chitin synthase and new chitin formation during molting in the insect. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
5‐Nitroimidazole‐based 1,3,4‐Thiadiazoles: Heterocyclic Analogs of Metronidazole as Anti‐Helicobacter pylori Agents
Authors: Moshafi Mohammad Hassan , Sorkhi Maedeh , Emami Saeed , Nakhjiri Maryam , Yahya‐Meymandi Azadeh , Negahbani Amir Soheil , Siavoshi Farideh , Omrani Maryam , Alipour Eskandar , Vosooghi Mohsen , Shafiee Abbas , Foroumadi Alireza
Published: December 2010

A series of 5‐nitroimidazole‐based 1,3,4‐thiadiazoles were prepared and tested for antibacterial activity against Helicobacter pylori. The anti‐H. pylori activity of target compounds along with the commercially available antimicrobial metronidazole was evaluated by comparing the inhibition‐zone diameters determined by the paper disc diffusion bioassay. From our bioassay results against 20 clinical isolates it is evident that piperazinyl, 4‐methylpiperazinyl, 3‐methylpiperazinyl, and 3,5‐dimethylpiperazinyl analogs (6a, 6b, 6e, and 6f, respectively) and pyrrolidine derivative 7 had strong activity at 0.5 µg/disc (average of inhibition zone >20 mm) while metronidazole had no activity at this dose. Compound 6f containing the 3,5‐dimethylpiperazinyl moiety at the 2‐position of the 5‐(1‐methyl‐5‐nitro‐1H‐imidazol‐2‐yl)‐1,3,4‐thiadiazole skeleton was the most potent compound tested at low concentrations.
Synthesis and in‐vitro Anti‐hepatitis B Virus Activity of Ethyl 6‐Bromo‐8‐hydroxyimidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine‐3‐carboxylates
Authors: Chen Dong , Liu Yajing , Zhang Shulan , Guo Dexiang , Liu Chunhong , Li Sai , Gong Ping
Published: December 2010

A series of ethyl 6‐bromo‐8‐hydroxyimidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine‐3‐carboxylate derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their anti‐hepatitis B virus (HBV) activity and cytotoxicity in HepG2.2.15 cells. Nearly half of the tested compounds were proved to be highly effective in inhibiting the replication of HBV DNA with IC50 values ranging from 1.3 to 9.1 µM. Among them, 10o and 10s were identified as the most promising compounds.
Gold(III) Complexes of Asymmetrically Aryl‐Substituted 1,2‐Dithiolene Ligands Featuring Potential‐Controlled Spectroscopic Properties: An Insight into the Electronic Properties of bis(Pyren‐1‐yl‐ethylene‐1,2‐dithiolato)Gold(III)
Authors: Aragoni M. Carla , Arca Massimiliano , Devillanova Francesco A. , Isaia Francesco , Lippolis Vito , Pintus Anna
Published: December 2010

The electrochemical, UV/Vis–NIR absorption, and emission‐spectroscopic features of (TBA+)(1−) and the corresponding neutral complex 1 were investigated (TBA+=tetrabutylammonium; 1−=[AuIII(Pyr,H‐edt)2]−; Pyr,H‐edt2−=pyren‐1‐yl‐ethylene‐1,2‐dithiolato). The intense electrochromic NIR absorption (λmax=1432 nm; ε=13000 M−1 cm−1 in CH2Cl2) and the potential‐controlled visible emission in the range 400–500 nm, the energy of which depends on the charge of the complex, were interpreted on the grounds of time‐dependent DFT calculations carried out on the cis and trans isomers of 1, 1−, and 12−. In addition, to evaluate the nonlinear optical properties of 1x− (x=0, 1), first static hyperpolarizability values βtot were calculated (βtot=78×10−30 and 212×10−30 esu for the cis isomer of 1− and 1, respectively) and compared to those of differently substituted [Au(Ar,H‐edt)2]x− gold dithiolenes [Ar=naphth‐2‐yl (2), phenyl (3); x=0, 1].
Low CD38 expression in lymphoblastoid cells and haplotypes are both associated with autism in a family‐based study
Authors: Lerer Elad , Levi Shlomit , Israel Salomon , Yaari Maya , Nemanov Lubov , Mankuta David , Nurit Yirmiya , Ebstein Richard P.
Published: December 2010

Background: Impairments in social processes characterize one of the core deficits in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and accumulating evidence suggests that oxytocin neurotransmission is implicated in mediating social adaptation in ASD. Using a mouse model, CD38, a transmembrane protein expressed in immune cells but also in brain, was found to be critical for social behavior via regulation of oxytocin secretion. This prompted us to both examine CD38 expression in human lymphoblastoid cell lines (LBC) as well as to test association between SNPs across the CD38 gene and ASD. Methods: LBC's were derived from 44 ASD lines and 40 “unaffected” parents. Family‐based association (UNPHASED) was examined by genotyping 11 tagging SNPs spanning the CD38 gene identified using HapMap data in 170 trios. An additional SNP (rs3796863) associated in a study by Munesue et al. with ASD was also genotyped. Results: A highly significant reduction in CD38 expression was observed in immortalized lymphocytes derived from ASD subjects compared to their “unaffected” parents (F = 17.2, P = 0.00024, df = 1). Haplotype analysis showed significant association (permutation corrected) between three and seven locus haplotypes and DSM IV ASD in low functioning (IQ<70) subjects. Conclusions: The current report supports a role for CD38 in conferring risk for ASD. Notably, our study shows that this gene is not only associated with low functioning ASD but that CD38 expression is markedly reduced in LBC derived from ASD subjects compared to “unaffected” parents, strengthening the connection between oxytocin and ASD.
High intake of folic acid disrupts embryonic development in mice
Authors: Pickell Laura , Brown Katharine , Li Deqiang , Wang Xiao‐Ling , Deng Liyuan , Wu Qing , Selhub Jacob , Luo Li , Jerome‐Majewska Loydie , Rozen Rima
Published: December 2010

BACKGROUND

Folic acid fortification and supplementation has increased folate intake and blood folate concentrations and successfully reduced the incidence of neural tube defects. However, the developmental consequences of high folate intake are unknown. This study investigated the impact of high folate intake, alone or with methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) deficiency, on embryonic and placental development in mice.

METHODS

Mthfr +/+ or +/− pregnant mice on a control diet (CD; recommended intake of folic acid for rodents) or folic acid‐supplemented diet (FASD; 20‐fold higher than the recommended intake) were examined for embryonic loss, delay, and defects at 10.5 and 14.5 days post coitum (dpc); 10.5‐dpc placenta, and 14.5‐dpc embryo hearts were studied histologically.

RESULTS

Total plasma folate was 10‐fold higher in FASD compared to CD mice; plasma homocysteine levels were not affected by diet. At 10.5 dpc, the FASD was associated with embryonic delay and growth retardation, and may confer susceptibility to embryonic defects. The FASD did not adversely affect 10.5‐dpc placental development. At 14.5 dpc, embryos from the FASD Mthfr +/+ group were delayed and the FASD was associated with thinner ventricular walls in embryonic hearts. There was a significant interaction between maternal MTHFR deficiency and a high folate diet for several developmental outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that high folate intake may have adverse effects on fetal mouse development and that maternal MTHFR deficiency may improve or rescue some of the adverse outcomes. These findings underscore the need for additional studies on the potential negative impact of high folate intake during pregnancy. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stem Leydig cells: From fetal to aged animals
Authors: Chen Haolin , Stanley Erin , Jin Shiying , Zirkin Barry R.
Published: December 2010

Leydig cells are the testosterone‐producing cells of the testis. The adult Leydig cell (ALC) population ultimately develops from undifferentiated mesenchymal‐like stem cells present in the interstitial compartment of the neonatal testis. Distinct stages of ALC development have been identified and characterized. These include stem Leydig cells (SLCs), progenitor Leydig cells, immature Leydig cells, and ALCs. This review describes our current understanding of the SLCs in the fetal, prenatal, peripubertal, adult, and aged rat testis, as well as recent studies of the differentiation of steroidogenic cells from the stem cells of other organs. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 90:272–283, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Adult hippocampal neurogenesis in aging and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Varela‐Nallar Lorena , Aranguiz Florencia C. , Abbott Ana C. , Slater Paula G. , Inestrosa Nibaldo C.
Published: December 2010

Adult neurogenesis occurs in the subgranular zone of the hippocampal dentate gyrus and the subventricular zone of the lateral ventricles. This process is highly regulated by intrinsic and extrinsic factors, which may control the proliferation and/or maturation of neural progenitor cells. Adult‐born neurons are integrated in preexisting networks and may have functional implications for adult brain. Here we attempt to summarize relevant findings concerning the physiological role of adult neurogenesis mainly focused on the subgranular zone, and to discuss the reduced neurogenesis observed during aging and the factors that have been involved in this phenomenon. Finally, we focus on hippocampal neurogenesis in Alzheimer's disease, reviewing animal models of the disease used for the study of this process and the conclusions that have been drawn in this context. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 90:284–296, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Enhanced Photocatalytic Properties of SnO2 Nanocrystals with Decreased Size for ppb‐level Acetaldehyde Decomposition
Authors: Chu Deren , Mo Jinhan , Peng Qing , Zhang Yinping , Wei Yongge , Zhuang Zhongbin , Li Yadong
Published: December 2010

Ultrafine SnO2 nanocrystals are synthesized through a surfactant‐assisted solvothermal route in water–ethanol mixed media. SnO2 photocatalysts with sizes of about 4, 8, and 12 nm are prepared through controllable annealing of the as‐synthesized nanocrystals. Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) specific surface areas of calcined SnO2 samples increase dramatically as their sizes decrease. Photocatalytic performances of the as‐obtained catalysts for decomposing ppb‐level (parts per billion) acetaldehyde are tested in a continuous glass‐plate reactor. Result shows that SnO2 photocatalysts of about 4 nm with a large BET surface area of 130 m2 g−1 exhibit the best photocatalytic oxidation properties, which is comparable to that of Degussa P25 TiO2. Analysis by using the unimolecular Langmuir–Hinshelwood reaction model indicates that the abilities of adsorption have well synergized with the photocatalytic reaction activities in the as‐obtained SnO2 samples. This synergism finally enhances the photocatalytic performance of the as‐prepared SnO2 photocatalysts.
The Normal and Tangential Coefficient of Restitution of Different Types of Granules
Authors: Müller Peter , Antonyuk Sergiy , Tomas Jürgen , Heinrich Stefan
Published: December 2010

Die normale und tangentiale Stoßzahl von dominant elastischen γ‐Al2O3‐, elastisch‐plastischen Zeolith 4A‐ und dominant plastischen Natriumbenzoatgranulaten wurden mit einer elektromagnetischen Schussapparatur und einer Fallapparatur experimentell ermittelt. Der Einfluss der Feuchtebeladung auf das Stoßverhalten wurde ebenfalls bestimmt. Die normale Stoßzahl zeigte sich im untersuchten Geschwindigkeitsbereich als annähernd unabhängig von der Aufprallgeschwindigkeit während mit zunehmender Feuchtebeladung der Granulate die Stoßzahl abnahm.
Die Veränderung fachbezogener Vorstellungen angehender Chemielehrkräfte über Unterricht während der Ausbildung – eine Cross‐Level Studie
Authors: Markic Silvija , Eilks Ingo
Published: December 2010

In einer Cross‐Level Studie wurden Vorstellungen angehender Lehrkräfte der Chemie über das Lehren und Lernen zu verschiedenen Zeitpunkten ihrer Ausbildung erhoben. Genutzt wurden Zeichnungen von Studierenden und Referendaren einer für sie typischen Unterrichtssituation. Ausgewertet wurden diese mit einem Kodierschema, das über Grounded Theory entwickelt und inzwischen in verschiedenen Studien verwendet worden ist. Auswertungskategorien waren: Vorstellungen über die Organisation im Klassenraum, Vorstellungen über die Lernziele und epistemologische Vorstellungen. Verglichen wurden drei Stichproben von zukünftigen Lehrkräften am Anfang ihres Studiums, in der Mitte des Studiums nach einem Praxissemester und während des Referendariats. Der Vergleich legt die Möglichkeit eines grundlegenden Wandels der Vorstellungen über Unterricht während der Ausbildung nahe. Von sehr traditionellen und lehrerzentrierten Sichtweisen können sich die Vorstellungen hin zu stärker theoriekonformen Vorstellungen wandeln, angelehnt an Schülerorientierung und konstruktivistisches Lernen.
Effects of Watershed Land Use and Lake Morphometry on the Trophic State of Chinese Lakes: Implications for Eutrophication Control
Authors: Liu Wenzhi , Zhang Quanfa , Liu Guihua
Published: December 2010

Water quality in lakes is influenced by a large number of watershed and lake characteristics. In this study, we examined the relative effects of watershed land use and lake morphology on the trophic state of 19 lakes in the Yunnan plateau and lower Yangtze floodplain, the two most eutrophic regions in China. Trophic state parameters consisted of total nitrogen, total phosphorus, chemical oxygen demand, chlorophyll‐a, Secchi depth, and trophic state index, while lake morphometric variables included area, maximum depth, mean depth, water residence time (WRT), volume, and length to width ratio. Percentages of forest, grassland, cropland, unused land, built‐up land, and water body in each lake's watershed were extracted from a land use map interpreted from Landsat TM images. At‐test indicated that lower Yangtze floodplain lakes were shallower and had higher percentages of cropland and built‐up land in watersheds than Yunnan plateau lakes. Pearson's correlation analysis indicated that both watershed land use and lake morphometric variables were significantly related to most of the trophic state parameters. However, stepwise regression analyses demonstrated that the trophic state of the lower Yangtze floodplain lakes was mainly controlled by the percentages of cropland and built‐up land in watersheds, while that of Yunnan plateau lakes was mostly determined by the lake depth and WRT. These results suggest that the relative effects of watershed land use and lake morphology on lake trophic state are dependent on the lake's location. This study can provide some useful information in watershed land use management for controlling eutrophication in Chinese lakes.
Role of Hydrogen in the CVD of Wide Bandgap Nitride Semiconductors
Authors: Pearton Stephen J. , Polyakov Alexander Y.
Published: December 2010

Hydrogen is an important component of the gas‐phase growth chemistry for GaN, which is typically based on NH3 and (CH3)3Ga, and also the processing environment for subsequent device fabrication (e.g., SiH4 for dielectric deposition, NH3 or H2 annealing ambients), and is found to readily permeate heteroepitaxial material at temperatures ≤200 °C. Its main effect has been the passivation of Mg acceptors in p‐GaN through the formation of neutral Mg‐H complexes, which can be dissociated through minority‐carrier (electron) injection or simple thermal annealing. Atomic hydrogen is also found to passivate a variety of other species in GaN, as detected by a change in the electrical or optical properties of the material. The injection of hydrogen during a large variety of device fabrication steps has been detected by secondary ion mass sprectrometry (SIMS) profiling using 2H isotopic labeling. Basically all of the acceptor species in GaN, i.e., Mg, C, Ca, and Cd, are found to form complexes with hydrogen.
One‐to‐one recommendation system in apparel online shopping
Authors: Sekozawa Teruji , Mitsuhashi Hiroyuki , Ozawa Yukio
Published: December 2010

We propose an apparel online shopping site with a fashion adviser existing on the Internet. The fashion adviser, who has detailed knowledge about the fashions in the real shop, selects and coordinates the clothes of the customer's preference. Because customers without a detailed knowledge of fashion were not able to choose clothes suitable for their preferences from among the large selection on conventional apparel shopping sites, we created a system that analyzes the customer's preferences by the AHP technique, forms a cluster by correlation of clothes, and analyzes the market basket. As a result, this system can coordinate clothes appropriate to the taste of an individual customer. It can also make recommendations of other clothes based on past sales data. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 94(1): 51–60, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10261
3D head pose tracking using a particle filter with nose template matching
Authors: Kubota Hitoshi , Takeshi Masami , Saito Hideo
Published: December 2010

In this paper, we propose a method for real‐time tracking of the driver's head pose in a real vehicle environment by using multiple NIR cameras. In order to achieve real‐time performance and high accuracy, the head pose is estimated with six degrees of freedom by a particle filter with a restricted state space. First, the 3D position of the nostrils is measured by template matching of stereo images. Because the nostrils are the darkest area in the captured NTR images, we can detect the position of the nose robustly and very precisely. From the 3D position of the nose, we can make an initial estimate of the head pose. Then, each hypothesis is updated by prior probability with the constraint of the nose position. Thus, it is possible to reduce the number of particles while maintaining accuracy. Experimental results indicate that this method is effective for head pose tracking. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 94(1): 34–42, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10268
Solid insulated switchgear and investigation of its mechanical and electrical reliability
Authors: Sato Junichi , Kinoshita Susumu , Sakaguchi Osamu , Miyagawa Masaru , Shimizu Toshio , Homma Mitsutaka
Published: December 2010

SF6gas is widely employed in medium‐voltage switchgear because of its high insulation reliability and down‐sizing ability. However, SF6gas was placed on the list of greenhouse gases under the Kyoto Protocol in 1997. Since then, research on low‐SF6or SF6‐free insulation has been carried out actively. Therefore, we focused on solid materials with higher dielectric strength than SF6, and we have now developed solid insulated switchgear (SIS) that uses molding of all main circuits. A new epoxy casting material is used which contains a large amount of spherical silica and a small amount of rubber particles. This new material has high mechanical strength, high thermal resistance, high toughness, and also high dielectric strength because of direct molding of the vacuum bottle, as well as reduced size and high reliability. This paper describes the technology of the new epoxy casting material which makes possible SIS. In addition, mechanical and electrical reliability tests of SIS using a new epoxy resin were performed, and the effectiveness of the developed material and the mechanical and electrical reliability of the SIS were verified. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 174(4): 28–36, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.21057
The Role of the C–H···π Interactions in the Cyclisation Reactions Leading to New Aryl‐Bridged Tetraazamacrocyclic Complexes of Copper and Nickel
Authors: Kamiński Radosław , Kowalski Jarosław , Mames Iwona , Korybut‐Daszkiewicz Bohdan , Domagała Sławomir , Woźniak Krzysztof
Published: December 2010

A series of neutral macrocyclic transition metal complexes of CuII and NiII, with bridging polyether linkers joining them to aromatic fragments, has been synthesised and their crystal and molecular structures have been established by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. These molecules adopt an “equatorial” conformation of the bridge due to formation of C–H···π interactions. Because of these interactions only cyclic products are formed in the SN2 reaction. DFT calculations also confirm experimental results.
Facile Synthesis of a Rare Chlorosilylene–BH3 Adduct
Authors: Azhakar Ramachandran , Tavčar Gašper , Roesky Herbert W. , Hey Jakob , Stalke Dietmar
Published: December 2010

The first stable chlorosilylene–BH3 adduct was synthesized in the reaction of N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) stabilized dichlorosilylene either with equivalent amounts of LiBH4 or with equivalent amounts of a BH3·THF solution. The chlorosilylene–BH3 adduct was characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray structural analysis, NMR and IR spectroscopy, EI mass spectrometry, and elemental analysis.
Egg phosphatidylcholine and dioleoylphosphatidylethanolamine liposomes containing acid proteinoid: Comparison of pH‐sensitivity
Authors: Hong Yeon‐Ji , Seo Hee Jin , Kim Jong Dai , Shin Won Cheol , Kim Jin‐Chul
Published: December 2010

pH‐Sensitive liposomes were prepared by modifying the surfaces of egg phosphatidylcholine (EPC) liposomes and dioleoylphosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE) liposomes with an acidic proteinoid. The acidic proteinoid (Prot AL) was prepared by a melt‐condensation of aspartic acid and leucine (98.5:1.5 mol/mol). The maximum amount of Prot AL accommodated by EPC liposomes without loss of the fluorescence quenching of calcein occurred when the ratio of Prot AL to EPC was 1:2. The EPC liposomes exhibited pH‐dependent release but the degree of release in 5 min was less than 10% in the range of pH 6.0–8.0. A marked increase in release was observed at pH 5.5 and the degree of release was about 38%. Acidification‐induced contraction of Prot AL may impose a mechanical stress on the liposomal membrane, deforming and demaging the membrane. On the other hand, a high fluorescence quenching, more than 60%, was obtained when the ratio of Prot AL to DOPE was 5.5:10. The pH‐sensitivity of DOPE liposomes bearing the proteinoid was much higher than that of egg PC liposomes bearing the same proteinoid. Following the changes in the size with varying pH, DOPE liposomes seemed to be disintegrated.
1,2,4‐Triazine vs. 1,3‐ and 1,4‐Oxazinones in Normal‐ and Inverse‐Electron‐Demand Hetero‐Diels–Alder Reactions: Establishing a Status Quo by Computational Analysis
Authors: Rooshenas Parham , Hof Kira , Schreiner Peter R. , Williams Craig M.
Published: December 2010

We present an analysis of the well‐known normal‐ and inverse‐electron‐demand hetero‐Diels–Alder reaction involving 1,2,4‐triazine, 1,3‐oxazin‐6‐one, and 1,4‐oxazin‐2‐one, with alkenes and alkynes, utilizing density functional theory (DFT) at the SCS‐MP2/cc‐pVDZ//B3LYP/6‐31G(d) level to establish a theoretical status quo for synthetic practioners regarding the relative reactivities and stereochemical outcomes for these useful heterocycles. The results suggest that in the unsubstituted cases 1,2,4‐triazine is less reactive in comparison to 1,3‐oxazin‐6‐one and 1,4‐oxazin‐2‐one for both reaction modes, whereas the cycloaddition regioselectivities depend largely on the diene. For example, 1,3‐oxazin‐6‐one leads to kinetic meta isomers, in comparison to 1,2,4‐triazine and 1,4‐oxazin‐2‐one, which give rise to para isomers.
Potentiometric Screen‐Printed Bisensor for Simultaneous Determination of Chromium(III) and Chromium(VI)
Authors: Sánchez‐Moreno Raúl A. , Gismera Mª Jesús , Sevilla Mª Teresa , Procopio Jesús R.
Published: December 2010

A disposable dual screen‐printed electrode was designed and evaluated for the direct and simultaneous determination of chromium(VI) and chromium(III) in batch and flow analysis. For this purpose a carbon screen‐printed bielectrode was modified with a graphite‐epoxy composite which contains diphenylcarbazide and another graphite‐epoxy composite prepared with di(2‐hydroxyphenylimino)ethane. The principal analytical parameters of the potentiometric responses in batch and flow analysis were optimized and calculated. The bisensor shows optimal detection limits of 7.7×10−7 M and 7.9×10−6 M in static mode, and 9.0×10−7 M and 1.2×10−5 M in flow analysis for hexavalent and trivalent chromium, respectively. This potentiometric device was employed with successful results to determine both chromium species in leachates from municipal solid waste landfills.
Determination of Antioxidant Capacity by Using Xanthine Oxidase Bioreactor Coupled with Flow‐through H2O2 Amperometric Biosensor
Authors: Lates Vasilica , Marty Jean‐Louis , Popescu Ionel Catalin
Published: December 2010

A new flow system for antioxidant capacity (AOC) estimation, consisting of a bioreactor, containing immobilized xanthine oxidase (XOD), coupled with a H2O2 amperometric biosensor, based on Os‐wired horseradish peroxidase, was developed. The H2O2, resulting from the enzymatic reaction between xanthine (XA) and XOD, was amperometrically monitored at −0.1 V vs. Ag/AgCl/KClsat, in order to avoid the electrochemical interferences. Two protocols were used to perform the AOC evaluation: “steady‐state”, when the antioxidant (AOX) was injected in the XA flow, and “transient state”, when XA and AOX were simultaneously injected in the carrier flow. The AOC of some commercial beverages were evaluated and compared with those obtained with 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical and Folin–Ciocalteu methods.
A Sensitive Electrochemical Approach for Melamine Detection Using a Disposable Screen Printed Carbon Electrode
Authors: Liao Chen‐Wei , Chen Yue‐Ru , Chang Jen‐Lin , Zen Jyh‐Myng
Published: December 2010

We report here a simple and easy electrochemical approach for sensitive detection of non‐electroactive melamine using a disposable screen printed carbon electrode (SPCE) with uric acid as the recognition element. It is based on the competitive adsorptive behavior of melamine at the preanodized SPCE causing suppression in the oxidation current of uric acid. A linear range up to 126 ppb with a detection limit of 1.6 ppb (S/N=3) is achieved at the preanodized SPCE by differential pulse voltammetry. The electrochemical method is successfully applied to detect the melamine content in tainted milk powder and dog food.
Leidenschaft Spätmittelalter
Authors: August Kristine
Published: December 2010

Zwischen Cambridge und Heidelberg: Der Historiker Jörg Peltzer denkt europäisch — in seinen Forschungen zu Fürstentümern wie in seinem akademischen Werdegang
Stability of clinical condition in mild cognitive impairment is related to cortical sources of alpha rhythms: An electroencephalographic study
Authors: Babiloni Claudio , Frisoni Giovanni B. , Vecchio Fabrizio , Lizio Roberta , Pievani Michela , Cristina Geroldi , Fracassi Claudia , Vernieri Fabrizio , Rodriguez Guido , Nobili Flavio , Ferri Raffaele , Rossini Paolo M.
Published: December 2010

Previous evidence has shown that resting eyes‐closed cortical alpha rhythms are higher in amplitude in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) than Alzheimer's disease (AD) subjects (Babiloni et al. [2006a]: Human Brain Mapp 27:162–172; [2006b]: Clin Neurophysiol 117:252–268; [2006c]: Neuroimage 29:948–964; [2006d]: Ann Neurol 59:323–334; [2006e]: Clin Neurophysiol 117:1113–1129; [2006f]: Neuroimage 31:1650–1665). This study tested the hypothesis that, in amnesic MCI subjects, high amplitude of baseline cortical alpha rhythms is related to long‐term stability of global cognition on clinical follow‐up. Resting electroencephalographic (EEG) data were recorded in 100 amnesic MCI subjects during eyes‐closed condition. EEG rhythms of interest were delta (2–4 Hz), theta (4–8 Hz), alpha1 (8–10.5 Hz), alpha2 (10.5–13 Hz), beta1 (13–20 Hz), and beta2 (20–30 Hz). Cortical EEG sources were estimated by low‐resolution brain electromagnetic tomography (LORETA). Global cognition was indexed by mini mental state evaluation (MMSE) score at the time of EEG recordings (baseline) and about after 1 year. Based on the MMSE percentage difference between baseline and 1‐year follow‐up (MMSEvar), the MCI subjects were retrospectively divided into three arbitrary groups: DECREASED (MMSEvar ≤ −4%; N = 43), STABLE (MMSEvar ≈ 0; N = 27), and INCREASED (MMSEvar ≥ +4%; N = 30). Subjects' age, education, individual alpha frequency, gender, and MMSE scores were used as covariates for statistical analysis. Baseline posterior cortical sources of alpha 1 rhythms were higher in amplitude in the STABLE than in the DECREASED and INCREASED groups. These results suggest that preserved resting cortical neural synchronization at alpha frequency is related to a long‐term (1 year) stable cognitive function in MCI subjects. Future studies should use serial MMSE measurements to confirm and refine the present results. Hum Brain Mapp, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Exploring the after‐effects of theta burst magnetic stimulation on the human motor cortex: A functional imaging study
Authors: Cárdenas‐Morales Lizbeth , Grön Georg , Kammer Thomas
Published: December 2010

Theta burst stimulation (TBS) is a protocol of subthreshold repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) inducing changes in cortical excitability. From functional imaging studies with conventional subthreshold rTMS protocols, it remains unclear what type of modulation occurs (direction and dependency to neural activity) and whether putative effects are bound to unspecific changes in cerebral perfusion or require a functional challenge. In a within‐subjects (n = 17) repeated measurement design including real TBS and a control session without stimulation, we examined neural activation in a choice‐reaction task after application of intermittent TBS, a protocol, which enhances cortical excitability over the left motor cortex (M1). Brain activity was monitored by blood oxygenation level‐dependent (BOLD) functional magnetic resonance imaging interleaved with measuring regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) at rest using MR‐based perfusion imaging. On a separate day, TMS‐induced compound muscle action potentials (cMAPs) amplitude of the right hand was measured after excitatory TBS. Compared to control, a significant decrease in BOLD signal due to right hand motor activity during the choice‐reaction task was observed mainly in the stimulated M1 and motor‐related remote areas after stimulation. This decrease might represent a facilitating effect, because cMAPs amplitude increased upon TBS compared to control. No changes in rCBF at rest were observed. The data demonstrate that subthreshold intermittent TBS targets both the stimulated cortical area as well as remote areas. The facilitation changing the efficacy of neural signal transmission seems to be reflected by a BOLD signal decrease, whereas the network at rest does not appear to be affected. Hum Brain Mapp, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molecular Therapy for Obesity and Diabetes Based on a Long-Term Increase in Hepatic Fatty-Acid Oxidation §Δ
Authors: Orellana-Gavaldà Josep M. , Herrero Laura , Malandrino Maria Ida , Pañeda Astrid , Sol Rodríguez-Peña Maria , Petry Harald , Asins Guillermina , Van Deventer Sander , Hegardt Fausto G. , Serra Dolors
Published: December 2010

Obesity-induced insulin resistance is associated with both ectopic lipid deposition and chronic, low-grade adipose tissue inflammation. Despite their excess fat, obese individuals show lower fatty-acid oxidation (FAO) rates. This has raised the question of whether burning off the excess fat could improve the obese metabolic phenotype. Here we used human-safe nonimmunoreactive adeno-associated viruses (AAV) to mediate long-term hepatic gene transfer of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A (CPT1A), the key enzyme in fatty-acid β-oxidation, or its permanently active mutant form CPT1AM, to high-fat diet-treated and genetically obese mice. High-fat diet CPT1A- and, to a greater extent, CPT1AM-expressing mice showed an enhanced hepatic FAO which resulted in increased production of CO2, adenosine triphosphate, and ketone bodies. Notably, the increase in hepatic FAO not only reduced liver triacylglyceride content, inflammation, and reactive oxygen species levels but also systemically affected a decrease in epididymal adipose tissue weight and inflammation and improved insulin signaling in liver, adipose tissue, and muscle. Obesity-induced weight gain, increase in fasting blood glucose and insulin levels, and augmented expression of gluconeogenic genes were restored to normal only 3 months after AAV treatment. Thus, CPT1A- and, to a greater extent, CPT1AM-expressing mice were protected against obesity-induced weight gain, hepatic steatosis, diabetes, and obesity-induced insulin resistance. In addition, genetically obese

db/db

mice that expressed CPT1AM showed reduced glucose and insulin levels and liver steatosis.

Conclusion

: A chronic increase in liver FAO improves the obese metabolic phenotype, which indicates that AAV-mediated CPT1A expression could be a potential molecular therapy for obesity and diabetes. (Hepatology 2011)
Reflectance measurement using digital camera and a protecting dome with built in light source
Authors: Välisuo Petri , Harju Toni , Alander Jarmo
Published: December 2010

The reflectance of the skin reveals the chemical and physical changes of the skin as well as many metabolic changes. The reflectance measurement is an important method for medical diagnosis, follow‐up and screening. This article concentrates on designing and validating an imaging system, based on a digital camera. The proposed system can measure the reflectance of the skin with high spatial and currently four channel spectral resolution, in the range of 450 nm to 980 nm. The accuracy of the system is determined by imaging a colour checker board and comparing the obtained values with both given values and spectrometer measurements. The diffuse interreflections of both, the integrating sphere and the lighting dome of the imaging system, is compensated with a correction factor. The accuracy of the proposed system is only slightly weaker than the spectrometer. The imaging system characteristics are independent of the camera characteristics. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Monitoring treatment response of childhood acute lymphocytic leukemia with certain molecular and biochemical markers
Authors: Barakat Maged , Elkhayat Zakareya , Kholoussi Naglaa , Elnady Hala , Ismail Manal , Raafat Jackleen
Published: December 2010

Apoptosis is the primary mechanism through which most chemotherapeutic agents induce tumor cell death. The purpose of this study was to monitor the expression of pro‐ and anti‐apoptotic proteins CD95, Bcl‐2, as well as copper and zinc levels in the peripheral blood of children with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) prior to and 6 months after the beginning of chemotherapy. Blood parameters and bone marrow blast count were also assessed. Twenty of 26 patients who received treatment showed amelioration in apoptotic response, which is reflected in the elevation of CD95, whereas Bcl‐2 protein was significantly lowered. In these patients, the elevated serum copper level was not significantly affected whereas the low serum zinc level was significantly raised. Improvement in blood parameters and bone marrow blast count were also achieved. Taken together, the data suggested that assessment of apoptosis signaling molecules might have a predictive impact on treatment outcome. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 24:343–350, 2010; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/jbt.20344
Synthesis of some new azole, pyrimidine, pyran, and benzo/naphtho[b]furan derivatives incorporating thiazolo[3,2‐a]benzimidazole moiety
Authors: Farag Ahmad M. , Dawood Kamal M. , Abdel‐Aziz Hatem A. , Hamdy Nehal A. , Fakhr Issa M. I.
Published: December 2010

Reaction ofE‐3‐(N,N‐dimethylamino)‐1‐(3‐methylthiazolo[3,2‐a]benzimidazol‐2‐yl)prop‐2‐en‐1‐one (1) with someN‐nucleophiles, such as anilines2a,2b,2c, 4‐amino‐N‐pyridin‐2‐yl‐benzenesulfonamide (4a), 4‐amino‐N‐pyrimidin‐2‐yl‐benzenesulfonamide (4b), hydrazine, hydroxylamine, thiourea, and guanidine afforded the corresponding arylaminoprop‐2‐en‐1‐one derivatives3a,3b,3c,5a,5b, the pyrazole, isoxazole, pyrimidinethione and aminopyrimidine derivatives7a,7b,9a, and9b, respectively. The utility of compound1, as a versatile building block, for the synthesis of the pyranone13, benzo[b]furan17a, and naphtho[1,2‐b]furan17bwas also explored via its reaction with 2‐benzamidoacetic acid (10), 1,4‐benzoquinone (14a), and 1,4‐naphthoquinone (14b), respectively. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2011).
Synthesis and structure characterization of new [1,2,4]triazolo[5,4‐d][1,5]benzothiazepine derivatives through 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reaction
Authors: Wu Xiao‐Long , Liu Fang‐Ming , Zhou Ying‐Lei
Published: December 2010

Reaction of 1,5‐benzothiazepines 3, obtained from chalcones 2 and o‐aminobenzenthiol, with the (phenylhydrazino) chloromethylenecarboxylates 4 in the presence of Et3N leads to a series of new [1,2,4]triazolo[5,4‐d][1,5]benzothiazepine derivatives 5. Their structures were established using spectroscopic methods and that of compound 5d was confirmed using X‐ray diffraction analysis. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2011).
Design and synthesis of new imidazolinone derivatives as potential antifungal agents
Authors: Patel Navin B. , Patel Hemant R.
Published: December 2010

A new series of chalcones, pyrimidines, and imidazolinone is described; chalcones (4a,4b,4c,4d,4e,4f,4g,4h,4i,4j,4k,4l,4m,4n,4o) were prepared from the lead 4‐[2‐(5‐ethylpyridin‐2‐yl)ethoxy]benzaldehyde. Pyrimidines (5a,5b,5c,5d,5e,5f,5g,5h,5i,5j,5k,5l,5m,5n,5o) were prepared from the reaction of chalcones and guanidine nitrate in alkali media. Imidazolinones (6a,6b,6c,6d,6e,6f,6g,6h,6i,6j,6k,6l,6m,6n,6o) were synthesized from the reaction of pyrimidine and oxazolone derivatives (prepared by Erlenmeyer azlactone synthesis). The structures of the synthesized compounds were assigned on the basis of elemental analyses, IR,1H‐NMR, and13C‐NMR spectral data. All the products were screened against different strains of bacteria and fungi. Most of these compounds showed better inhibitory activity in comparison with the standard drugs. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2011).
The marriage of logos and mythos: Transforming leadership
Authors: Jones Michael
Published: December 2010

Leadership is about knowledge, skills, and abilities for transformation. It is also increasingly about worldviews or visions of life—beliefs, values, and principles. But worldviews are also ways of life, for beliefs direct us, values guide us, and principles motivate us to certain kinds of action and behavior.

How, then, do worldviews have an impact on leadership for transformation? If worldviews are glasses or filters by which we view the world, mental models of the bigger picture, frameworks by which we make sense of the world, and narratives by which we orient our lives, then how do they influence human thoughts, ideas, and behaviors when it comes to transformative leadership?

This was the subject matter of an International Leadership Association Conference panel discussion held in November 2009 in Prague, entitled Leadership for Transformation: The Impact of Worldviews. It is also the subject matter of this issue's symposium, in which we bring you the four papers and the response presented at the conference. Members of the panel were characterized by gender, disciplinary, religious, and global diversity.

Nathan Harter, organizational leadership professor at Purdue University in the United States, begins the discussion with some preliminary remarks about worldviews. Ali Mohammed Mir, medical doctor and director of programs of Population Council, Pakistan, speaks of leadership from an Islamic perspective. Michael Jones, accomplished composer, pianist, and leadership educator, writer, and speaker from Orillia, Canada, reflects on how a “marriage of mythos and logos” can transform leadership today. Lisa Ncube, originally from Zimbabwe and currently assistant professor of organizational leadership at Purdue University, speaks about Ubuntu as an alternative leadership philosophy emerging from Africa. John Valk, associate professor of worldview studies at Renaissance College, University of New Brunswick, Canada, speaks of leadership for transformation from a Christian worldview perspective. Jonathan Reams, associate professor in the Department of Education at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Trondheim, responds to all of the papers and opens a venue for further discussion.

We hope that you will find this symposium engaging. We hope it will give food for thought and that it might stimulate further thinking regarding the role worldviews play in leadership for transformation.