bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation and characterization of porous chitosan–tripolyphosphate beads for copper(II) ion adsorption
Authors: Wu Shao‐Jung , Liou Tzong‐Horng , Yeh Chao‐Hsien , Mi Fwu‐Long , Lin Tsung‐Kuan
Published: June 2012

Porous chitosan–tripolyphosphate beads, prepared by the ionotropic crosslinking and freeze‐drying, were used for the adsorption of Cu(II) ion from aqueous solution. Batch studies, investigating bead adsorption capacity and adsorption isotherm for the Cu(II) ion, indicated that the Cu(II) ion adsorption equilibrium correlated well with Langmuir isotherm model. The maximum capacity for the adsorption of Cu(II) ion onto porous chitosan–tripolyphosphate beads, deduced from the use of the Langmuir isotherm equation, was 208.3 mg/g. The kinetics data were analyzed by pseudo‐first, pseudo‐second order kinetic, and intraparticle diffusion models. The experimental data fitted the pseudo‐second order kinetic model well, indicating that chemical sorption is the rate‐limiting step. The negative Gibbs free energy of adsorption indicated a spontaneous adsorption, while the positive enthalpy change indicated an endothermic adsorption process. This study explored the adsorption of Cu(II) ion onto porous chitosan–tripolyphosphate beads, and used SEM/EDS, TGA, and XRD to examine the properties of adsorbent. The use of porous chitosan–tripolyphosphate beads to adsorb Cu(II) ion produced better and faster results than were obtained for nonporous chitosan–tripolyphosphate beads. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Synthesis and Anticonvulsant Properties of New Mannich Bases Derived from 3,3‐Disubstituted Pyrrolidine‐2,5‐diones. Part IV
Authors: Obniska Jolanta , Chlebek Iwona , Kamiński Krzysztof
Published: June 2012

A library of 21 new N‐Mannich bases of 3,3‐diphenyl‐ (5a–g), 3‐methyl‐3‐phenyl‐ (6a–g), and 3‐ethyl‐3‐methylpyrrolidine‐2,5‐diones (7a–g) were synthesized and evaluated for their anticonvulsant activity in the maximum electroshock (MES) and subcutaneous pentylenetetrazole (scPTZ) seizure tests after intraperitoneal injection into mice. The acute neurological toxicity was determined applying the rotarod screen. The results in mice showed that 13 compounds were effective in the MES or/and scPTZ screen. From these, seven molecules were tested in the MES seizures after oral administration in rats. The quantitative studies showed that N‐[{4‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)‐piperazin‐1‐yl}‐methyl]‐3‐methyl‐3‐phenylpyrrolidine‐2,5‐dione (6c) and N‐[(4‐benzylpiperidin‐1‐yl)‐methyl]‐3‐methyl‐3‐phenylpyrrolidine‐2,5‐dione (6f) revealed higher protection in the MES and scPTZ tests than valproic acid or ethosuximide which were used as reference antiepileptic drugs. Four compounds (5c, 6c, 6e, 6f) showed high effectiveness in the 6‐Hz psychomotor seizure model of partial and therapy resistant epilepsy.
Hierarchical Nitrogen‐Doped Flowerlike ZnO Nanostructure and Its Multifunctional Environmental Applications
Authors: Bai Hongwei , Liu Zhaoyang , Sun Darren Delai
Published: June 2012

Hierarchical nitrogen‐doped ZnO flowerlike nanostructures were synthesized on a large scale. These nanostructures were characterized by FESEM, HRTEM, XRD, FTIR, XPS, and TGA, and their suitability for multifunctional environmental applications was investigated. The experimental results demonstrated that the hierarchical N‐doped ZnO flowerlike nanostructure enhances the photodegradation of methyl blue (MB) and acid orange 7 (AO7) by presenting a large specific surface area and high light utilization rate, inhibits the growth of bacteria without light irradiation, and increases the permeate flux when used in a membrane filtration system. These advantages of the hierarchical N‐doped ZnO flowerlike nanostructure brings benefits to the environmental application fields.
Research on bodies of the executed in German anatomy: An accepted method that changed during the Third Reich. Study of anatomical journals from 1924 to 1951
Authors: Hildebrandt Sabine
Published: June 2012

While it is known that bodies of the executed were used for anatomical research in Germany during the Third Reich, it is unclear whether this type of work was unique to the time period or more common in Germany than elsewhere. The dissected persons and the anatomists involved have not been fully investigated. This study of anatomical journals from 1924 to 1951 shows that 166 out of 7,438 [2.2%] German language articles mentioned the use of “material” from the bodies of executed persons. In comparison, only 2 out of 4,702 English language articles explicitly mentioned bodies of the executed. From 1924 to1932, 33 of a total of 3,734 [1%] German articles listed the use of the executed. From 1933 to 1938 the number rose to 46 out of 2,265 [2%], and increased again from 1939 to 1945 to 73 out of 984 [7%]. After the war 15 out of 455 [3%] still dealt with “material” from the executed. German anatomists' familiarity with the use of the executed as a standard for healthy tissues even before 1933 may have contributed to the ease with which they accepted the “opportunities” (large‐scale studies and research on women) presented to them by unlimited access to bodies of the executed provided by the abusive National Socialist (NS) legislation and continued using them for some years after the war. German postwar anatomy was built in part on the bodies of NS victims. Information given in some publications will help with further identification of these victims. Clin. Anat. 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Solid‐state Circular Dichroism and Hydrogen Bonding, Part 2: The Case of Hypothemycin Re‐investigated
Authors: Pescitelli Gennaro
Published: June 2012

The impact of crystalline forces on the solid‐state circular dichroism (CD) spectrum of hypothemycin (1), a biologically active molecule extracted from natural sources, has been analyzed by means of time‐dependent density functional theory CD calculations. Input structures were extracted from the X‐ray geometry of 1 and consisted in the isolated molecule, its cluster with five water molecules, and 20 different dimers (plus water molecules) representative of all the closest neighbors found in the crystal. The effects of solid‐state intermolecular hydrogen bonds and through‐space exciton couplings in determining the solid‐state CD spectrum of hypothemycin were evaluated and compared. Chirality 24:718–724, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Influence of KRAS mutation status in metachronous and synchronous metastatic colorectal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Rose Jeffrey S. , Serna Derek S. , Martin Ludmila Katherine , Li Xiaobai , Weatherby Lynn M. , Abdel‐Misih Sherif , Zhao Weiqiang , Bekaii‐Saab Tanios
Published: June 2012

BACKGROUND:

Mutations in the v‐Ki‐ras2 Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) are present in approximately 30% to 40% of colorectal adenocarcinomas. Wild‐type (WT) KRAS mutation status is predictive of tumor response with epidermal growth factor receptor‐directed therapies, but the results from studies evaluating the prognostic value of KRAS status in localized disease have been contradictory. The prognostic value of KRAS in metastatic disease, specifically according to whether patients have synchronous or metachronous disease at presentation, is less understood.

METHODS:

One‐hundred ten consecutive patients with metastatic colorectal adenocarcinoma underwent testing for KRAS exon 2 mutations by polymerase chain reaction amplification and direct nucleotide sequencing. The clinical characteristics, treatments, and outcomes of these patients were then analyzed retrospectively, stratified according to whether patients presented with synchronous or metachronous metastasis and according to KRAS mutation status (WT or mutated).

RESULTS:

For the entire cohort, the median overall survival from the date of diagnosis of metastatic disease was 34.3 months (95% confidence interval, 28.3‐49.4 months) for patients with WT KRAS (n = 70). The median overall survival for patients with mutated KRAS (n = 40) was 40.3 months (95% confidence interval, 27.9‐51.1 months; log‐rank P = .91). Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis indicated that 3‐year overall survival and 5‐year overall survival were not statistically different. Within the subgroups of patients with synchronous and metachronous metastatic disease, no significant differences were observed in median overall survival, 3‐year overall survival, or 5‐year overall survival between the WT KRAS and mutated KRAS groups.

CONCLUSIONS:

In this study, KRAS mutation status did not influence overall survival in either synchronous or metachronous metastatic colorectal adenocarcinoma and, as such, had no prognostic role in this disease setting. Cancer 2012. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Intracytoplasmic detection of TCL1—but not ILT7—by flow cytometry is useful for blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell leukemia diagnosis
Authors: Angelot‐Delettre Fanny , Biichle Sabeha , Ferrand Christophe , Seilles Estelle , Gaugler Béatrice , Harrivel Veronique , Rosenthal‐Allieri Maria Alessandra , Deconinck Eric , Saas Philippe , Garnache‐Ottou Francine
Published: June 2012

Diagnosis of blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) or plasmacytoid dendritic cell leukemia (pDCL) is mainly based on immunophenotypical characterization of leukemic cells in blood or bone marrow samples. We tested by flow cytometry intracellular expression of the proto‐oncogene T‐cell leukemia 1 (TCL1), as well as membrane and intracellular expression of immunoglobulin‐like transcript 7 (ILT7) in 21 pDCL samples and 61 non‐pDC acute leukemia samples [i.e., 14 B‐acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B‐ALL), 9 T‐ALL and 38 acute myeloid leukemia (AML)]. TCL1 is highly expressed in all pDCL samples while at a statistically lower level in all B‐ALL and 34% of AML. Statistical analysis shows that intensity of TCL1 expression is a good marker for differential diagnosis of pDCL versus other acute leukemia (area under the receiver‐operating characteristic curve, [AUC]: 0.96). By contrast, ILT7 positivity is limited to few pDCL samples and cannot be useful for diagnosis purpose. In conclusion, high intracellular intensity of TCL1 expression is currently the best marker for pDC lineage assignment by flow cytometry, which is particularly useful to distinguish pDCL from CD4+ CD56+/− undifferentiated or monoblastic acute leukemia. Thus, intracellular TCL1 detection should be included in acute leukemia diagnosis panels used in hematology laboratories. © 2012 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Regulation of early xenopus embryogenesis by smad ubiquitination regulatory factor 2
Authors: Das Shaonli , Chang Chenbei
Published: June 2012

Background: Smad ubiquitination regulatory factor (Smurf) 1 and 2 are E3 ubiquitin ligases originally identified as inhibitors of transforming growth factor beta signaling and are shown to modulate multiple cellular activities. The roles of Smurfs in vertebrate embryogenesis, however, are not completely understood. Results: Here we investigate the function of Smurf2 during early Xenopus development. We show that distinctly from Smurf1, overexpression of Smurf2 in presumptive mesoderm interfered with mesoderm induction and caused axial defects, whereas knockdown of Smurf2 with antisense morpholino oligonucleotides resulted in expansion of the mesoderm. These results imply that Smurf2 may modulate nodal‐mediated mesodermal induction. Consistently, ventral expression of Smurf2 induced a partial secondary axis with head structures. In the ectoderm, Smurf2 resembled Smurf1 in controlling neural and epidermal marker expression and influencing head formation. Smurf1, but not Smurf2, additionally affected neural tube closure. Interestingly, both Smurfs could enhance as well as repress neural crest markers, implying that they modulate their targets dynamically during neural plate border specification. Conclusion: Our data demonstrate that Smurf1 and Smurf2 have overlapping and distinct functionalities during early frog embryogenesis; collectively, they regulate ectodermal and mesodermal induction and patterning to ensure normal development of Xenopus embryos. Developmental Dynamics 241:1260–1273, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ammonothermal Synthesis of AlkaliN,N′‐Bis(aminocarbonyl)phosphorodiamidates M[PO2(NHCONH2)2] (M = Na, K, Rb)
Authors: Wirnhier Eva , Boller Ruth Deborah , Schnick Wolfgang
Published: June 2012

Compounds M[PO2(NHCONH2)2] with M = Na, K, and Rb, which are the salts ofN,N′‐bis(aminocarbonyl)phosphorodiamidic acid, were synthesized by ammonolysis of the corresponding alkali biuretooxophosphates M[PO2(NH)3(CO)2] (M = Na, K, Rb) at 350 °C and 120–150 bar in an autoclave. The structures were solved by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and exhibit 3D frameworks in whichN,N′‐bis(aminocarbonyl)phosphorodiamidate ions connect the corresponding alkali ions. The thermal behavior was investigated by combined thermogravimetric (TG) and differential thermal analysis (DTA) as well as temperature‐dependent powder X‐ray diffraction to evaluate applicability of the alkaliN,N′‐bis(aminocarbonyl)phosphorodiamidates as precursors for the synthesis of CNP(O) networks. In this context, the concept of Le Chatelier's principle for the hindrance of premature decomposition by applying elevated pressure was examined.
Access to Side‐On Bonded Tungsten Phosphanylphosphinidene Complexes
Authors: Grubba Rafał , Baranowska Katarzyna , Chojnacki Jarosław , Pikies Jerzy
Published: June 2012

Metathesis reactions between diimido complexes of tungsten(VI) [(ArN)2WCl2] (Ar = 2,6‐iPr2C6H3) and lithium derivatives of diphosphanes R2P–P(SiMe3)Li (R = tBu and iPr) yield two anionic diimido complexes of tungsten with side‐on bonded phosphanylphosphinidene ligands, [(ArN)2WCl(η2‐R2P–P)]–. Both complexes are structurally characterized. A possible reaction mechanism and the role of donor solvents are discussed on the basis of NMR spectroscopic results.
Design and Diastereoselective Synthesis of C‐2,C‐20‐Diaryl Steroidal Derivatives
Authors: Rey Jullien , O'Riordan Timothy J. C. , Hu Haipeng , Snyder James P. , White Andrew J. P. , Barrett Anthony G. M.
Published: June 2012

A novel and efficient synthetic strategy to access unique C‐2 substituted steroid analogues 3 and 4 is described. The unusual C‐2 aryl ether analogues 3 were shown to act as virtual antagonists of LRH‐1 and were prepared as single diastereoisomers, employing a fifteen‐step sequence from pregnenolone (9). The key steps include the stereoconvergent nucleophilic displacement of an epimeric mixture of 3‐keto 2‐bromo steroids, chemoselective carbonylation of an enol triflate and conversion of a thiopyridyl ester into an aryl ketone. The related C‐2 benzyl analogues 4 were prepared in a similar manner.
The Synthesis and Characterization of a Pentafluorosulfanylated Peptide
Authors: Lim Dong Sung , Lin Jin‐Hong , Welch John T.
Published: June 2012

The design and synthesis of pentafluorosulfanyl‐containing heptad amino acid sequence was described. The three‐dimensional conformation of the peptide was investigated by using CYANA (combined assignment and dynamics algorithm for NMR applications) and the integrated autoassignment. This study shows that the one of the diastereomers assumed a very tight coiled conformation in [D6]DMSO where both pentafluorosulfanyl groups assumed a synclinal relationship. The propensity of the protected heptapeptide to form such a tight coil and of the pentafluorosulfanyl groups to align so uniformly is suggestive of the utility of pentafluorosulfanylated amino acids in promoting conformational control.
Asymmetric Friedel–Crafts Alkylation of Indoles with Nitrodienes and 2‐Propargyloxy‐β‐nitrostyrenes Catalyzed by Diphenylamine‐Linked Bis(oxazoline)–Zn­(OTf)2 Complexes
Authors: Peng Jiahuan , Du Da‐Ming
Published: June 2012

The catalytic asymmetric Friedel–Crafts reaction of indoles with nitrodienes and 2‐propargyloxy‐β‐nitrostyrenes was systematically investigated with diphenylamine‐linked bis(oxazoline)–Zn(OTf)2 complexes. Moderate to good enantioselectivities were obtained with both kinds of substrates (up to 89 % ee for nitrodienes and up to 93 % ee for β‐nitrostyrene derivatives). Further transformation of the corresponding Friedel–Crafts alkylation product of indole with 2‐propargyloxy‐β‐nitrostyrene was carried out to give the chiral isoxazolobenzoxepane derivative, which is of medicinal chemistry interest, with retained enantiomeric purity.
Recent Highlights in Ketenimine Chemistry
Authors: Alajarin Mateo , Marin‐Luna Marta , Vidal Angel
Published: June 2012

Selected recent developments in the chemistry of ketenimines are presented, demonstrating that heterocumulenes of this class are versatile reactive intermediates in the synthesis of nitrogenated heterocycles. This microreview includes examples of intramolecular nucleophilic and radical additions, biradical cyclizations, 4π‐ and 6π‐electrocyclic ring closures, [2+2], [3+2] and [4+2] cycloadditions, ketenimine‐to‐nitrile rearrangements and 1,3‐X, 1,5‐X and 1,5‐H shifts.
Catalytic Asymmetric Addition of Alkyllithium Reagents to Aromatic Aldehydes
Authors: Fernández‐Mateos Emilio , Maciá Beatriz , Yus Miguel
Published: June 2012

Herein, we report the first efficient catalytic system for the asymmetric alkylation of aldehydes with organolithium reagents in the presence of titanium(IV) isopropoxide. A variety of alkyllithium reagents can be added to aromatic aldehydes in good yields with high enantioselectivities in a simple one‐pot procedure under mild conditions.
Buchwald–Hartwig Amination of (Hetero)aryl Chlorides by Employing Mor‐DalPhos under Aqueous and Solvent‐Free Conditions
Authors: Tardiff Bennett J. , Stradiotto Mark
Published: June 2012

We report on the application of the [Pd(cinnamyl)Cl]2/Mor‐DalPhos catalyst system in the Buchwald–Hartwig amination of (hetero)aryl chlorides with primary or secondary amines conducted either under aqueous conditions without the use of co‐solvents and/or surfactants or under solvent‐free conditions (52 examples). We have established that reactions of this type can be conducted without the rigorous exclusion of air, and in the case of the solvent‐free reactions, we have demonstrated that appropriately selected liquid and solid reagents can be employed successfully.
Synthesis of N‐Methyl‐2‐indolyl‐ and N‐Methyl‐2‐benzo[b]furyl‐Substituted Sulfoximines by Pd/Cu Co‐Catalyzed Domino Cross‐Coupling/Cyclization Reactions
Authors: Schumacher Ricardo F. , Honraedt Aurélien , Bolm Carsten
Published: June 2012

Domino cross‐coupling/cyclization reactions of N‐propargyl sulfoximines and 2‐iodophenols or 2‐iodoanilides are catalyzed by a cooperative palladium/copper system to provide benzo[b]furan and indole derivatives in good to excellent yields. The reactions occur under mild conditions and tolerate a wide variety of functional groups.
Interleukin genes and associations with colon and rectal cancer risk and overall survival
Authors: Bondurant Kristina L. , Lundgreen Abbie , Herrick Jennifer S. , Kadlubar Susan , Wolff Roger K. , Slattery Martha L.
Published: June 2012

Interleukins are a group of cytokines that contribute to growth and differentiation, cell migration, and inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory responses by the immune system. In our study, we examined genetic variation in genes from various anti‐inflammatory and proinflammatory interleukins to determine association with colon and rectal cancer risk and overall survival. Data from two population‐based incident studies of colon cancer (1,555 cases and 1,956 controls) and rectal cancer (754 cases and 954 controls) were used. After controlling for multiple comparisons, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from four genes, IL3, IL6R, IL8, IL15, were associated with increased colon cancer risk, and CXCR1 and CXCR2 were significantly associated with increased rectal cancer risk. Only SNPs from genes within the IL‐8 pathway (IL8, CXCR1 and CXCR2) showed a significant association with both colon and rectal cancer risk. Several SNPs interacted significantly with IL8 and IFNG SNPs and with aspirin/non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID), cigarette smoking, estrogen use and BMI. For both colon and rectal cancer, increasing numbers of risk alleles were associated with increased hazard of death from cancer; the estimated hazard of death for colon cancer for the highest category of risk alleles was 1.74 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.18–2.56) and 1.96 (95% CI 1.28–2.99) for rectal cancer. These data suggest that interleukin genes play a role in risk and overall survival for colon and rectal cancer.
Supporting Unemployed, Middle‐Aged Men: A Psychoeducational Group Approach
Authors: Murphey Charlotte M. , Shillingford M. Ann
Published: June 2012

This article presents a comprehensive group counseling approach to support unemployed, middle‐aged men. An inclusive group curriculum designed to provide support and address potential mental health issues related to unemployment is introduced. The focus of the group is divided into 6 major areas that research has shown to have a significant impact on unemployed men in particular: expressing feelings; reducing depression, anger, and anxiety; building social support; improving interpersonal communication; confronting unrealistic role expectations associated with the male gender; and providing an improved sense of control. Practical strategies for counselors working with this population are presented.
Effect of non‐isothermal condition on heterogeneous flow through biofilter media by lattice Boltzmann simulation
Authors: Yan Wei‐Wei , Su Zhong‐Di , Zhang Hong‐Jun
Published: June 2012

BACKGROUND: Biofiltration technology has received much attention due to its effectiveness, low cost and environment friendly properties. It is used to remove odors caused chiefly by hydrogen sulfide (H2S) via biological treatments.

RESULTS: In this study, numerical simulations using the thermal lattice Boltzmann method are implemented to investigate the effect of non‐isothermal conditions on heterogeneous flow through three biofilter models that are partly filled with porous media. The generalized Navier–Stokes model based on the Brinkman‐Forchheimer–extended Darcy model is used to make several assumptions.

CONCLUSIONS: The numerical results indicate that the Rayleigh number has significant influence on the removal efficiencies of biofilters. There also exist critical Rayleigh numbers for biofilters under non‐isothermal conditions. If the Rayleigh number is less than the critical value, the flow heterogeneity will reduce with increasing Rayleigh number; otherwise, the flow heterogeneity will enhance with increasing Rayleigh number. Moreover, it was found that the performances of biofilters can be improved by designing non‐isothermal conditions between the porous media layers, i.e. by adjusting the Rayleigh number to optimize the detention time of waste air. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Investigation of liquid–liquid phase equilibria for reactive extraction of lactic acid with organophosphorus solvents
Authors: Lux Susanne , Siebenhofer Matthäus
Published: June 2012

BACKGROUND: Lactic acid is a versatile commodity chemical with a variety of applications. Synthesis of lactic acid either through fermentation of carbohydrates or through chemical synthesis is state of the art. Separation from dilute aqueous solution is complex and accounts for the major part of production costs. Reactive extraction based on reversible adduct formation is a promising alternative for the separation of lactic acid.

RESULTS: Extraction was carried out with the organophosphorus solvents tri‐n‐butyl phosphate, tri‐n‐octylphosphine oxide and Cyanex 923. Shellsol T was used as diluent. Partition coefficients increase with increasing extractant content and decreasing temperature. Cyanex 923 has several advantages compared with tri‐n‐butyl phosphate and tri‐n‐octylphosphine oxide with respect to lactic acid distribution and hydrodynamic properties. Liquid‐liquid phase equilibria for lactic acid extraction with Cyanex 923 were modeled. Selectivity of lactic acid extraction with respect to glycolic acid and formic acid was discussed.

CONCLUSION: The organophosphorus extractant Cyanex 923 was found to be an appropriate solvent for lactic acid extraction from aqueous solutions. Experimental data and model data based on the Law of Mass Action showed good agreement. Lactic acid extraction from multi‐acid solution showed good selectivity compared with glycolic acid. Lactic acid selectivity is low with respect to formic acid. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Hydration of a low‐grade magnesium oxide. Lab‐scale study
Authors: del Valle‐Zermeño R. , Chimenos J.M. , Formosa J. , Fernández A.I.
Published: June 2012

BACKGROUND: Low grade magnesium oxide (LG‐MgO) is a by‐product from the calcination of natural magnesite that is currently hydrated to magnesium hydroxide by storing it in the open for up to 6 months. It is eight to ten times cheaper than pure magnesium oxide and therefore the revalorization of this by‐product is very attractive for those applications requiring great quantities of magnesium hydroxide for which high purity is not required. Here the hydration of LG‐MgO is studied as a function of two parameters: hydrating agent and temperature.

RESULTS: Addition of acetic acid during the hydration of LG‐MgO improved the effectiveness of treatment. At 50 °C, the maximum percentage hydration was 40% in pure water and increased to 65% and 70% using aqueous solutions of 0.5 and 1.0 mol L−1 acetic acid. Increase of temperature also had a positive effect on the final degree of hydration. When the treatment was carried out with 0.5 mol L−1 acetic acid, the hydration increased from 50 to 65 and 80% at 25, 50 and 90 °C respectively. Accordingly under the optimum conditions of 90 °C and 0.5 mol L−1 acetic acid 80% hydration was achieved within 8 h.

CONCLUSIONS: The results showed that much shorter hydration times are possible and therefore an industrial alternative to the spontaneous process could satisfy an increasing demand for magnesium hydroxide. Moreover, agitation is not needed as the reaction is chemically controlled. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
An exploratory trial of Cyclamen europaeum extract for acute rhinosinusitis
Authors: Ponikau Jens U. , Hamilos Daniel L. , Barreto Angelique , Cecil John , Jones Stephen W. , Manthei Scott E. , Collins Jason
Published: June 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

An exploratory US trial in patients with acute rhinosinusitis was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Cyclamen europeaum extract, a product marketed in Europe that causes reflex nasal discharge and subsequent decongestion.

Study Design:

Prospective, randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, and parallel group.

Methods:

Outpatients (n = 29) with cardinal symptoms of acute rhinosinusitis and both endoscopic and radiographic (computed tomography [CT] scan) evidence at 25 US centers were randomized to receive intranasal, lyophilized, reconstituted Cyclamen europeaum extract (Cyclamen) or placebo spray for 7 days. Primary outcomes were reduction in percent sinus opacification on CT scans and reduction in PM predose instantaneous total symptom scores measured on a six‐point scale. Secondary outcomes included other measures of symptom score change and endoscopic signs of mucopurulence and inflammation.

Results:

Cyclamen treatment significantly reduced sinus opacification compared with placebo treatment (P < .045). Although Cyclamen treatment reduced total symptom scores from baseline more than placebo treatment (−2.4 vs. −1.4), there were no significant treatment group differences (P = .312). Cyclamen treatment was well tolerated.

Conclusions:

Cyclamen treatment significantly reduced sinus opacification in patients with acute rhinosinusitis. Further exploration of Cyclamen treatment in larger patient populations is warranted.
Crystalline Solar Cells with Selective Emitters
Authors: Pernau Thomas , Baier Tobias
Published: June 2012

Selectively higher doped areas below the metal contacts increase the efficiency of silicon solar cells. Laser doping is one of the technologies deployed for the production of such cells. Industrial applications of laser doping processes require high throughputs as in automated systems with integrated process controls.
Effect of Counter Anions on Kinetics and Stereoregularity for the Strong Brønsted Acid‐Promoted Group Transfer Polymerization of N,N‐Dimethylacrylamide
Authors: Fuchise Keita , Chen Yougen , Takada Kenji , Satoh Toshifumi , Kakuchi Toyoji
Published: June 2012

The strong Brønsted acid‐promoted group transfer polymerization (GTP) of N,N‐dimethylacrylamide (DMAA) using trifluoromethanesulfonimide (Tf2NH) and 2,3,4,5,6‐pentafluorophenyl‐1,1‐bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)methane (Tf2CHC6F5) was carried out to quantitatively evaluate the effect of the counter anions for the employed acid on the kinetics and the stereoregularity of the polymerization. The equilibrium constant for the monomer activation (K) and the rate constant for the propagation reaction (kp) were determined from the integrated rate equation derived from the presumed polymerization mechanism. Both of the constants for the polymerization using Tf2CHC6F5 were higher than those for Tf2NH. The activation parameters for the syndiotactic propagation were determined from the Fordham plot.
Nonvariational approach in the study of Kirchhoff‐type equations without symmetry and involving variable exponent
Authors: Aouaoui Sami
Published: June 2012

In this paper, we study many quasilinear problems without symmetry involving variable exponent growth conditions and nonlocal terms on the whole space . Employing several nonvariational techniques, we prove various results of existence of nonnegative solutions. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On symmetries of crystals with defects related to a class of solvable groups (S2)
Authors: Nicks Rachel , Parry Gareth P.
Published: June 2012

We find the geometrical symmetries of discrete structures which generalize the perfect lattices of crystallography so as to account for the existence of continuous distributions of defects. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stability of equilibrium states in the Zhukovski case of heavy gyrostat using algebraic methods
Authors: Comănescu Dan
Published: June 2012

We study the stability of the equilibrium points of a skew product system and analyze the possibility to construct a Lyapunov function by using a set of conserved quantities and solving an algebraic system. We apply the theoretical results to study the stability of an equilibrium state of a heavy gyrostat in the Zhukovski case. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Positive almost periodic solution for impulsive Nicholson's blowflies model with multiple linear harvesting terms
Authors: Zhou Hui , Wang Jiazheng , Zhou Zongfu
Published: June 2012

In this paper, by means of the Cauchy matrix and fixed pointed theorem, we give sufficient conditions for the existence and exponential stability of almost periodic solutions for the impulsive Nicholson's blowflies model with multiple linear harvesting terms and infinite delay. An example is provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the new results. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nonexistence of global solutions for a nonlocal nonlinear hyperbolic system with linear damping
Authors: Kerbal S.
Published: June 2012

This article concerns the Cauchy problem for the damped nonlinear hyperbolic system

math image where ϵ > 0 is a small parameter, 0 < α ≤ 1,0 < β ≤ 1,p,q ≥ 1 satisfying pq > 1 , and N ≥ 1 is an integer.

It is proved that if N ∕ 2α < max((p + 1) ∕ (pq − 1),(q + 1) ∕ (pq − 1)), then every weak solution does not exist globally whenever the initial data satisfy or  . Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification and characterization of the vitellogenin receptor in Macrobrachium rosenbergii and its expression during vitellogenesis
Authors: Roth Ziv , Khalaila Isam
Published: June 2012

In oviparous organisms, oocyte maturation depends on massive production of the egg yolk‐precursor protein, vitellogenin (Vg). Vg is taken up by the developing oocytes through receptor‐mediated endocytosis (RME), a process essential to successful reproduction. The aims of this study were to identify and characterize the yet‐unknown vitellogenin receptor (VgR) from the pleocyamate crustacean Macrobrachium rosenbergii, and to investigate its expression levels during vitellogenesis and its interaction with Vg. The VgR gene was cloned, and its translated protein was specifically located at the oocyte membrane. Moreover, for the first time, a VgR protein was identified and sequenced by mass spectrometry. The putative MrVgR displayed high sequence similarity to VgRs from crustaceans, insects, and vertebrates, and its structure includes typical elements, such as an extracellular, lipoprotein‐binding domain (LBD), EGF‐like, and O‐glycosylation domains, a transmembrane domain, and a short, C‐terminal, cytosolic tail. In this article, we identify the first crustacean VgR protein, and present data demonstrating its high affinity for a Vg column followed by elution with suramin and EDTA. Additionally we demonstrate that VgR expression in the oocyte is elevated during vitellogenesis. Our results contribute to the fundamental understanding of oocyte maturation in crustaceans, and particularly elucidate Vg uptake through RME via the VgR. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 79:478–487, 2012. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Oviductal fluid modulates the dynamics of tyrosine phosphorylation in cryopreserved boar spermatozoa during capacitation
Authors: Kumaresan A. , Johannisson Anders , Humblot Patrice , Bergqvist Ann‐Sofi
Published: June 2012

Following insemination, spermatozoa are retained in the utero‐tubal junction and isthmic region of the oviduct, where essential steps of capacitation are coordinated. Although a majority of the spermatozoa is exposed to similar conditions in the oviduct, the speed of the response varies depending on the individual male and the state of the spermatozoa. The present study evaluated individual boar variations in terms of the ability of spermatozoa to undergo tyrosine phosphorylation in response to isthmic oviductal fluid (ODF). Cryopreserved spermatozoa from four boars were incubated with pre‐ and post‐ovulatory ODF for 6 hr. Sperm kinematics, global protein tyrosine phosphorylation, and dynamics of different phosphorylation patterns were analyzed at hourly interval. The percentage of phosphorylated spermatozoa in the pre‐ovulatory ODF‐treated group was significantly (P < 0.001) higher than in the other treatment groups. Motility, velocity, and protein tyrosine phosphorylation in spermatozoa in response to ODF and control media also showed differences between boars. Spermatozoa from all four boars showed strong expression of a 19‐kDa phosphoprotein while spermatozoa from two boars showed additionally strong expression of a 32‐kDa phosphoprotein when incubated with pre‐ovulatory ODF. While phosphorylation of proteins in the acrosome and the equatorial segment of the sperm were noticed at an early stage during incubation with ODF, tail phosphorylation appeared at a later stage of capacitation. The results indicate individual variation between boars in terms of sperm proteins, including different phosphorylation patterns, in response to ODF, which might be related to fertility.Mol. Reprod. Dev. 79: 525‐540, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ex vivo pharmacology of surgical samples of the uterosacral ligament. Part II: Effects of oxytocin and relaxin on arteries and vascular plexus
Authors: Drews Ulrich , Renz Matthias , Busch Christian , Reisenauer Christl
Published: June 2012

Aims

The uterosacral ligament (USL) contains prominent vessels, the function of which is unknown. Here we study the relationship between smooth muscle of the USL and the vascular bundles.

Methods

Native samples of arteries and vascular bundles were mounted in a perfusion chamber under the stereomicroscope. The effects of noradrenalin, carbachol, oxytocin, and relaxin were monitored by digital time‐lapse video and quantified by image processing.

Results

Arteries were adrenergic and the smooth muscle in the adventitia cholinergic. Relaxin‐2 shifted the dose response curve of noradrenalin to the right and widened the arterial lumen within 30 min. Oxytocin induced contraction of the adventitial smooth muscle leading to a slow opening of the artery. In a vascular bundle the differential pattern of both reactivities was demonstrated.

Conclusions

In the USL the smooth muscle extends into the adventitial layer of blood vessels and forms a functional unit with the vascular plexus, which is regulated by relaxin and oxytocin. Neurourol. Urodynam. 31:1300–1306, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fully implicit Lagrange–Newton–Krylov–Schwarz algorithms for boundary control of unsteady incompressible flows
Authors: Yang Haijian , Prudencio Ernesto E. , Cai Xiao‐Chuan
Published: June 2012

We develop a parallel fully implicit domain decomposition algorithm for solving optimization problems constrained by time‐dependent nonlinear partial differential equations. In particular, we study the boundary control of unsteady incompressible Navier–Stokes equations. After an implicit discretization in time, a fully coupled sparse nonlinear optimization problem needs to be solved at each time step. The class of full space Lagrange–Newton–Krylov–Schwarz algorithms is used to solve the sequence of optimization problems. Among optimization algorithms, the fully implicit full space approach is considered to be the easiest to formulate and the hardest to solve. We show that Lagrange–Newton–Krylov–Schwarz, with a one‐level restricted additive Schwarz preconditioner, is an efficient class of methods for solving these hard problems. To demonstrate the scalability and robustness of the algorithm, we consider several problems with a wide range of Reynolds numbers and time step sizes, and we present numerical results for large‐scale calculations involving several million unknowns obtained on machines with more than 1000 processors. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficient ALE mesh management for 3D quasi‐Eulerian problems
Authors: Boman R. , Ponthot J.‐P.
Published: June 2012

In computational solid mechanics, the ALE formalism can be very useful to reduce the size of finite element models of continuous forming operations such as roll forming. The mesh of these ALE models is said to be quasi‐Eulerian because the nodes remain almost fixed—or almost Eulerian—in the main process direction, although they are required to move in the orthogonal plane in order to follow the lateral displacements of the solid. This paper extensively presents a complete node relocation procedure dedicated to such ALE models. The discussion focusses on quadrangular and hexahedral meshes with local refinements. The main concern of this work is the preservation of the geometrical features and the shape of the free boundaries of the mesh. With this aim in view, each type of nodes (corner, edge, surface and volume) is treated sequentially with dedicated algorithms. A special care is given to highly curved 3D surfaces for which a CPU‐efficient smoothing technique is proposed. This new method relies on a spline surface reconstruction, on a very fast weighted Laplacian smoother with original weights and on a robust reprojection algorithm. The overall consistency of this mesh management procedure is finally demonstrated in two numerical applications. The first one is a 2D ALE simulation of a drawbead, which provides similar results to an equivalent Lagrangian model yet is much faster. The second application is a 3D industrial ALE model of a 16‐stand roll forming line. In this case, all attempts to perform the same simulation by using the Lagrangian formalism have been unsuccessful. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On a discrete‐time collocation method for the nonlinear Schrödinger equation with wave operator
Authors: Vong Seak‐Weng , Meng Qing‐Jiang , Lei Siu‐Long
Published: June 2012

We consider a discrete‐time orthogonal spline collocation scheme for solving Schrödinger equation with wave operator. The scheme is proposed recently by Wang et al. (J Comput Appl Math 235 (2011), 1993–2005) and is showed to have high‐order convergence rate when a parameter θ in the scheme is not less than
\documentclass{article} \usepackage{amsmath,amsfonts, amssymb}\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}$\frac{1}{4}$\end{document}. In this article, we show that the result can be extended to include \documentclass{article} \usepackage{amsmath,amsfonts, amssymb}\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}$\theta\in(0,\frac{1}{4})$\end{document}
under an assumption. Numerical example is given to justify the theoretical result. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2013
Discontinuous Galerkin methods for solving double obstacle problem
Authors: Wang Fei
Published: June 2012

In this article the ideas in Wang et al. [SIAM J Numec Anal 48 (2010), 708–73] are extended to solve the double obstacle problem using discontinuous Galerkin methods. A priori error estimates are established for these methods, which reach optimal order for linear elements. We present a test example, and the numerical results on the convergence order match the theoretical prediction. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 2013
A retrospective study on the usage of antiepileptic drugs in Asian children from 2000 to 2009 in the largest pediatric hospital in Singapore
Authors: Tan Wei Wei , Kong Sing Teang , Chan Derrick W.S. , Ho Paul C.
Published: June 2012

Purpose

In light of the increasing usage of the newer antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in other countries, we reviewed the prescribing pattern of AEDs in Singapore over the last 10 years (2000–2009).

Methods

A retrospective review of pharmacy dispensing records solicited from the only children's hospital in Singapore was performed to analyze the trend in AEDs prescribing in the last 10 years. We also examined the correlation between the serum concentrations of valproic acid (VPA), the most‐prescribed AED, and seizure control. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were then performed on the findings.

Results

A total of 41 671 prescriptions on AEDs were retrieved and analyzed. Despite the introduction of the second‐generation AEDs, the first generation AEDs still dominate epilepsy treatment in Asian children, with VPA being the mostly prescribed AED (about 40% of the total AEDs usage). The majority of patients (62.8%) were on monotherapy. The mean VPA serum concentration in patients with good seizure control was 68.6 µg/ml (SD = 26.4 µg/ml; range = 12.2–138.0 µg/ml), which was statistically higher than the mean VPA concentration of 57.7 µg/ml (SD = 27.1 µg/ml; range = 11.1‐149.0 µg/ml) in patients with poor seizure control (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

With VPA being the most prescribed AED in our clinical practice, and the finding in this study that with careful classification of the patients' condition, serum concentrations of VPA generally correlate well with the seizure control, the correct dose titration of VPA with therapeutic drug monitoring is still of paramount importance. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exceptional and diabolical points in stability questions
Authors: Kirillov O.N.
Published: June 2012

“I never satisfy myself until I can make a mechanical model of a thing” – guided by this motto of Lord Kelvin we would like to invite a reader to look at some modern concepts such as a non‐Hermitian Hamiltonian, exceptional points, the geometric phase, and 𝒫𝒯‐symmetry, through the prism of the classical mechanics and stability theory. Mathematical and historical parallels discussed in the paper evidence that positions occupied by the non‐Hermitian physics and non‐conservative mechanics are closer to each other than one might expect.
Talking through the continuum: New manifestations of Fano‐resonance phenomenology realized with mesoscopic nanostructures
Authors: Xiao S. , Xiang S. , Yoon Y. , Kang M.‐G. , Kida M. , Aoki N. , Reno J.L. , Ochiai Y. , Mourokh L. , Fransson J. , Bird J.P.
Published: June 2012

The focus of this review is recent work in which we have demonstrated a highly‐flexible approach to the study of Fano‐resonance phenomena, by making use of the mesoscopic devices known as quantum point contacts (QPCs). Utilizing the ability of these structures to function as an “on‐demand quantum state”, we demonstrate a highly‐flexible system for the investigation of Fano resonances. Our approach involves making measurements of non‐locally coupled pairs of QPCs, one of which is used to form the discrete state needed for the Fano resonance, while the other serves as a detector whose conductance is sensitive to the energy of this state. As a demonstration of the flexibility of this approach, we show how it can be used to implement a “multi‐state” Fano resonance, in which two discrete states undergo a robust interaction that is achieved by coupling them to each other through a common continuum.
Synthesis and Crystal Structure of Ca(en)4Ca(en)3[Sn2Se6] and Ca(en)4Se4 in Superheated and Supercritical Ethylenediamine
Authors: Menezes Prashanth W. , Fässler Thomas F.
Published: June 2012

Two new compounds Ca(en)4Ca(en)3[Sn2Se6] (1) and Ca(en)4Se4 (2) were synthesized under superheated and supercritical solvothermal conditions in ethylenediamine. Compound 1 crystallizes in triclinic space group P$\bar{1}$ (No. 2) with a = 10.2708(4) Å, b = 12.2739(5) Å, c = 16.3103(6) Å, α = 93.576(3)°, β = 90.609(3)°, γ = 109.269(4)°, Z = 1 and V = 1936.09(13) Å3. The crystal structure of 1 comprises of isolated [Sn2Se6]4– anion as well as Ca(en)42+ and Ca(en)32+ cations. Compound 2 crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group Fdd2 (No. 43) with a = 27.5034(10) Å, b= 9.2738(6) Å, c = 16.9880(6) Å, Z = 8 and V = 4333.0(4) Å3. The crystal structure of 2 consists of Se42– anion and Ca(en)42+ cations. In both 1 and 2 the selenostannate, [Sn2Se6]4– and the tetraselenide, Se42– anions are interconnected to the amine group of Ca(en)42+ and/or Ca(en)32+ via hydrogen bridges forming a three‐dimensional network. Whereas in 1 CaO serves as source for Ca2+, was 2 synthesized using the Zintl phase CaSi2 and selenium powder.
Elliptic hypergeometric integrals and ’t Hooft anomaly matching conditions
Authors: Spiridonov V. P. , Vartanov G. S.
Published: June 2012

Abstract

Elliptic hypergeometric integrals describe superconformal indices of 4d supersymmetric field theories. We show that all ’t Hooft anomaly matching conditions for Seiberg dual theories can be derived from SL(3,

$\mathbb{Z}$
)-modular transformation properties of the kernels of dual indices.
Early Steroid Withdrawal Regimen Prevents New‐Onset Diabetes Mellitus in Old‐Age Recipients After Living Donor Liver Transplantation
Authors: Kim Young‐Kyu , Lee Kwang‐Woong , Kim Seong Hoon , Cho Seong Yeon , Han Sung‐Sik , Park Sang‐Jae
Published: June 2012

Background

Steroid use after liver transplantation is known to increase the risk of new‐onset diabetes mellitus (NODM). In this study, we tried to identify a patient subgroup who would benefit with regard to NODM by an early steroid withdrawal regimen (ESWR) after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT)

Methods

Among 100 adult LDLT patients, 65 were on a conventional immunosuppressive regimen (CIR), and 35 were on an ESWR. With the ESWR, the steroid was tapered off mostly within 7 days with induction of basiliximab in combination with tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF). The CIR was a combination of tacrolimus and steroid. MMF was added in selected patients. Steroid was tapered off 2–6 months after LT. The presence of NODM was investigated cross‐sectionally 6 months after LT.

Results

There was no significant difference in terms of acute cellular rejection, sepsis, or death during follow‐up. NODM had developed in 13 patients (13 %). Old recipient age (≥55) and pretransplant history of hypertension were significant risk factors for NODM. The type of immunosuppression was the single risk factor for NODM in subgroup of old‐age recipients (≥55 years) on the CIR (hazard ratio 13.34, p = 0.04).

Conclusions

ESWR can safely reduce the incidence of NODM after LDLT in old‐age recipients. Therefore, ESWR should be considered first in old‐age recipients undergoing LDLT.