bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local Energy Decay Estimate of Solutions to the Thermoelastic Plate Equations in Two- and Three-Dimensional Exterior Domains
Authors: Denk Robert , Racke Reinhard , Shibata Yoshihiro
Published: January 2010

In this paper we prove frequency expansions of the resolvent and local energy decay estimates for the linear thermoelastic plate equations:

u_{tt} + ∆^2u + ∆θ = 0 \text{ and } θ_t − ∆θ − ∆u_t = 0\quad \text{in } Ω × (0, ∞),

subject to Dirichlet boundary conditions:

u|_Γ = D_ν u|_Γ = θ|_Γ = 0

and initial conditions

(u,u_t,θ)|_{t=0} = (u_0, v_0, θ_0)

. Here

Ω

is an exterior domain (domain with bounded complement) in

ℝ^n

with

n = 2

or

n= 3

, the boundary

Γ

of which is assumed to be a

C^4

-hypersurface.
On Nonlinear Volterra Integral Equations with State Dependent Delays in Several Variables
Authors: Gołaszewska Agata , Turo Jan
Published: January 2010

Lipschitz continuous solutions of nonlinear Volterra integral equations with state dependent delays in several variables are investigated. The results are based on a comparison method and the Banach fixed point principle.
Approximate Differentiability Almost Everywhere
Authors: D’Aniello Emma , de Lucia Paolo
Published: January 2010

Let

X

be a bounded measurable subset of

ℝ^k

. We provide a characterization of the functions

f : X → ℝ

approximately differentiable almost everywhere. An important tool in the proof is a Saks’ Theorem-type result.
Exploring Photosynthesis and Plant Stress Using Inexpensive Chlorophyll Fluorometers
Authors: Cessna Stephen , Demmig‐Adams Barbara , Adams William W.
Published: January 2010

Mastering the concept of photosynthesis is of critical importance to learning plant physiology and its applications, but seems to be one of the more challenging concepts in biology. This teaching challenge is no doubt compounded by the complexity by which plants alter photosynthesis in different environments. Here we suggest the use of chlorophyll fluorometers in the undergraduate plant physiology classroom as one means to enhance conceptual learning of photosynthesis and its acclimation to changing environments. We also provide an overview of current research in photosynthetic acclimation to changing conditions, review the methodological considerations of making good Fv/Fm measurements with small inexpensive fluorometers, and suggest an open‐inquiry activity for teaching concepts of photosynthesis and photo‐acclimation with fluorometers in an undergraduate plant physiology course.
Microstructure Evolution and Mechanical Properties of Linear Friction Welded Ti‐5Al‐2Sn‐2Zr‐4Mo‐4Cr (Ti17) Titanium Alloy Joints
Authors: Li Wen‐Ya , Ma Tiejun , Yang Siqian
Published: January 2010

The microstructural evolution, microhardness, tensile properties and impact toughness of Ti‐5Al‐2Sn‐2Zr‐4Mo‐4Cr (Ti17) alloy joints welded by linear friction welding (LFW) are investigated. A narrow, sound weld is formed, consisting of a superfine α + β structure in the weld center. The structure gradually changes from the weld center to the parent Ti17 in the TMAZ, with the highly deformed α and β phases oriented along the deformation direction, owing to the uneven deformation and temperature distribution. The microhardness of the TMAZ is the lowest of the distinct zones and presents a valley‐like shape. The tensile strengths of the joints are comparable to that of the parent Ti17 but with a much lower plasticity and impact toughness. The microstructure variation contributes to the resultant properties.
Multifunctional Dendrimer‐Templated Antibody Presentation on Biosensor Surfaces for Improved Biomarker Detection
Authors: Han Hye Jung , Kannan Rangaramanujam M. , Wang Sunxi , Mao Guangzhao , Kusanovic Juan Pedro , Romero Roberto
Published: January 2010

Dendrimers, with their well‐defined globular shape and high density of functional groups, are ideal nanoscale materials for templating sensor surfaces. This work exploits dendrimers as a versatile platform for capturing biomarkers with improved sensitivity and specificity. The synthesis, characterization, fabrication, and functional validation of the dendrimer‐based assay platform are described. Bifunctional hydroxyl/thiol‐functionalized G4‐polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimer is synthesized and immobilized on the polyethylene‐glycol (PEG)‐functionalized assay plate by coupling PEG‐maleimide and dendrimer thiol groups. Simultaneously, part of the dendrimer thiol groups are converted to hydrazide functionalities. The resulting dendrimer‐modified surface is coupled to the capture antibody in the Fc region of the oxidized antibody. This preserves the orientation flexibility of the antigen binding region (Fv) of the antibody. To validate the approach, the fabricated plates are further used as a solid phase for developing a sandwich‐type enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect IL‐6 and IL‐1β, important biomarkers for early stages of chorioamnionitis. The dendrimer‐modified plate provides assays with significantly enhanced sensitivity, lower nonspecific adsorption, and a detection limit of 0.13 pg mL−1 for IL‐6 luminol detection and 1.15 pg mL−1 for IL‐1β TMB detection, which are significantly better than those for the traditional ELISA. The assays were validated in human serum samples from a normal (nonpregnant) woman and pregnant women with pyelonephritis. The specificity and the improved sensitivity of the dendrimer‐based capture strategy could have significant implications for the detection of a wide range of cytokines and biomarkers since the capture strategy could be applied to multiplex microbead assays, conductometric immunosensors, and field‐effect biosensors.
Polydisperse Spindle‐Shaped ZnO Particles with Their Packing Micropores in the Photoanode for Highly Efficient Quasi‐Solid Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Shi Yantao , Zhan Chun , Wang Liduo , Ma Beibei , Gao Rui , Zhu Yifeng , Qiu Yong
Published: January 2010

In this paper, a novel hierarchically structured ZnO photoanode for use in quasi‐solid state dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSCs) is presented. The film is composed of polydisperse spindle‐shaped ZnO particles that are prepared through direct precipitation of zinc acetate in aqueous solution. Without additional pore‐forming agents, the microporous structure is well constructed through the packing of polydisperse ZnO particles. In the film, small ZnO particles are able to improve interparticle connectivity and offer a large internal surface area for sufficient dye‐adsorption; on the other hand, particles of larger size can enhance the occurrence of light‐scattering and introduce micropores for the permeation of quasi‐solid state electrolytes. Meanwhile, morphologies, particle size, and specific areas of the products are controlled by altering the reactant concentration and synthetic temperature. Combined with a highly viscous polymer gel electrolyte, a device based on this ZnO photoanode shows high conversion efficiencies, 4.0% and 7.0%, under 100 and 30 mW cm−2 illumination, respectively. Finally, the unsealed device is demonstrated to remain above 90% of its initial conversion efficiency after 7 days, showing excellent stability.
A Graphene Nanoprobe for Rapid, Sensitive, and Multicolor Fluorescent DNA Analysis
Authors: He Shijiang , Song Bo , Li Di , Zhu Changfeng , Qi Wenpeng , Wen Yanqin , Wang Lihua , Song Shiping , Fang Haiping , Fan Chunhai
Published: January 2010

Coupling nanomaterials with biomolecular recognition events represents a new direction in nanotechnology toward the development of novel molecular diagnostic tools. Here a graphene oxide (GO)‐based multicolor fluorescent DNA nanoprobe that allows rapid, sensitive, and selective detection of DNA targets in homogeneous solution by exploiting interactions between GO and DNA molecules is reported. Because of the extraordinarily high quenching efficiency of GO, the fluorescent ssDNA probe exhibits minimal background fluorescence, while strong emission is observed when it forms a double helix with the specific targets, leading to a high signal‐to‐background ratio. Importantly, the large planar surface of GO allows simultaneous quenching of multiple DNA probes labeled with different dyes, leading to a multicolor sensor for the detection of multiple DNA targets in the same solution. It is also demonstrated that this GO‐based sensing platform is suitable for the detection of a range of analytes when complemented with the use of functional DNA structures.
A Novel Cathode Material with a Concentration‐Gradient for High‐Energy and Safe Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Sun Yang‐Kook , Kim Dong‐Hui , Yoon Chong Seung , Myung Seung‐Taek , Prakash Jai , Amine Khalil
Published: January 2010

A high‐energy functional cathode material with an average composition of Li[Ni0.72Co0.18Mn0.10]O2, mainly comprising a core material Li[Ni0.8Co0.2]O2 encapsulated completely within a stable manganese‐rich concentration‐gradient shell is successfully synthesized by a co‐precipitation process. The Li[Ni0.72Co0.18Mn0.10]O2 with a concentration‐gradient shell has a shell thickness of about 1 µm and an outer shell composition rich in manganese, Li[Ni0.55Co0.15Mn0.30]O2. The core material can deliver a very high capacity of over 200 mA h g−1, while the manganese‐rich concentration‐gradient shell improves the cycling and thermal stability of the material. These improvements are caused by a gradual and continuous increase of the stable tetravalent Mn in the concentration‐gradient shell layer. The electrochemical and thermal properties of this cathode material are found to be far superior to those of the core Li[Ni0.8Co0.2]O2 material alone. Electron microscopy also reveals that the original crystal structure of this material remains intact after cycling.
Recent Progress on Silica Coating of Nanoparticles and Related Nanomaterials
Authors: Guerrero‐Martínez Andrés , Pérez‐Juste Jorge , Liz‐Marzán Luis M.
Published: January 2010

In recent years, new strategies for silica coating of inorganic nanoparticles and organic nanomaterials, which differ from the classical methodologies, have emerged at the forefront of materials science. Silica as a coating material promises an unparalleled opportunity for enhancement of colloidal properties and functions by using core–shell rational designs and profiting from its synthetic versatility. This contribution provides a brief overview of recent progress in the synthesis of silica‐coated nanomaterials and their significant impact in different areas such as spectroscopy, magnetism, catalysis, and biology.
Properties and Applications of Colloidal Nonspherical Noble Metal Nanoparticles
Authors: Sau Tapan K. , Rogach Andrey L. , Jäckel Frank , Klar Thomas A. , Feldmann Jochen
Published: January 2010

Nanoparticles of noble metals belong to the most extensively studied colloidal systems in the field of nanoscience and nanotechnology. Due to continuing progress in the synthesis of nanoparticles with controlled morphologies, the exploration of unique morphology‐dependent properties has gained momentum. Anisotropic features in nonspherical nanoparticles make them ideal candidates for enhanced chemical, catalytic, and local field related applications. Nonspherical plasmon resonant nanoparticles offer favorable properties for their use as analytical tools, or as diagnostic and therapeutic agents. This Review highlights morphology‐dependent properties of nonspherical noble metal nanoparticles with a focus on localized surface plasmon resonance and local field enhancement, as well as their applications in various fields including Raman spectroscopy, fluorescence enhancement, analytics and sensing, photothermal therapy, (bio‐)diagnostics, and imaging.
Private‐sector investment in R&D: a review of policy options to promote its growth in developing‐country agriculture
Authors: Naseem Anwar , Spielman David J. , Omamo Steven Were
Published: January 2010

Technological innovation is vital to enhancing agricultural productivity and reducing poverty in many developing countries. Public investment in research and development has historically driven technological change in agriculture; however, recent trends suggest that the private sector may play a larger role in the future. Although there is optimism about the private sector's ability to generate new technologies relevant to developing‐country agriculture, current levels of private investment remain low. The authors examine the determinants of private R&D investment in developing‐country agriculture, the market, and institutional constraints that limit the growth of investment, and incentives that can promote more rapid investment growth. [EconLit classification: O300, Q160]. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Economics of Voluntary Traceability in Multi‐Ingredient Food Chains
Authors: Souza‐Monteiro Diogo M. , Caswell Julie A.
Published: January 2010

The consumption of multi‐ingredient foods is increasing across the globe. Traceability can be used as a tool to gather information about and manage food safety risks associated with these types of products. The authors investigate the choice of voluntary traceability in three‐tiered multi‐ingredient food supply chains. They propose a framework based on vertical control and agency theory to model three dimensions of traceability systems: depth, breadth, and precision. Their analysis has three main results. First, full traceability is feasible as long as there are net benefits to a downstream firm that demands traceability across all ingredients. Second, horizontal network externalities are positive because an increase in the level of traceability in one ingredient requires a similar increase in others. Finally, vertical network effects will be positive insofar as willingness to pay and probabilities of food safety hazards increase. [EconLit Classification: Q130, L140]. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Supply response and price volatility in the Greek broiler market
Authors: Rezitis Anthony N. , Stavropoulos Konstantinos S.
Published: January 2010

The authors examine the supply response of the Greek broiler market. A generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) process is used to estimate expected price and price volatility; price and supply equations are estimated jointly. In addition to the standard GARCH model, several different symmetric, asymmetric, and nonlinear GARCH models are estimated. These models use different conditional variance specifications (linear or nonlinear) to grasp some additional empirical regularity of data like asymmetry. Asymmetric price volatility means that different volatility is recorded in the case of a fall in prices than an increase in prices by the same amount. The possible existence of asymmetry in the producer's price volatility gives useful information about market structure and possible market power. The empirical results indicate that among the estimated GARCH models the nonlinear asymmetric GARCH model (NAGARCH) seems to better describe producers' price volatility of the Greek broiler industry. Furthermore, the empirical findings show that price volatility is an important risk factor and broiler feed price is the most significant cost factor of the supply response function. Finally, the model provides forecasts for quantity supplied, producers' price, and price volatility. [EconLit. Classifications: Q110, C510, D200]. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthetic resin. XII. Synthesis and characterization of new terpolymer resins derived from 8‐hydroxyquinoline 5‐sulfonic acid, melamine, and formaldehyde
Authors: Singru R. N. , Gurnule W. B. , Zade A. B.
Published: January 2010

Terpolymers 8‐hydroxyquinoline 5‐sulphonic acid–melamine–formaldehyde (8‐HQ5‐SAMF) were synthesized through the condensation of 8‐hydroxyquinoline 5‐sulfonic acid and melamine with formaldehyde in the presence of an acid catalyst. Four different terpolymers were synthesized with various molar proportions of the reacting monomers. The terpolymer resin compositions were determined on the basis of elemental analysis. The number‐average molecular weights of these resins were determined by conductometric titration in a nonaqueous medium; viscometric measurements in dimethyl sulfoxide were carried out to ascertain the characteristic functions and constants. Ultraviolet–visible, Fourier transform infrared, 1H‐NMR, and 13C‐NMR spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis were used to elucidate the structures. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Preparation of adsorbent for palladium ions by amination of acrylonitrile grafted polypropylene nonwoven fabrics
Authors: Zu Jianhua , He Shiqiang , Nho Young Chang , Pyo Jeun Joon , Yan Feng
Published: January 2010

A new chelating fabrics are synthesized by radiation induced grafting of acrylonitrile (AN) onto polypropylene nonwoven fabrics (PP fabrics) and subsequent conversion of cyano to an imine by reaction with ethylene diimine (EDA). Influence of various parameters such as initial concentration, pH and adsorption time on the adsorption amount for palladium ions was investigated. It was found that adsorbent achieved excellent adsorption performance in palladium ion removal in the pH range of 1.88–5.70. The adsorption amount of ions increased with shaking time and initial concentration of palladium ions. The grafted and aminated fabrics were characterized by FT‐IR, TGA and SEM. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Effect of different nanoparticles on thermal, mechanical and dynamic mechanical properties of hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber nanocomposites
Authors: Choudhury Anusuya , Bhowmick Anil K. , Ong Christopher
Published: January 2010

Organically modified and unmodified montmorillonite clays (Cloisite NA, Cloisite 30B and Cloisite 15A), sepiolite (Pangel B20) and nanosilica (Aerosil 300) were incorporated into hydrogenated nitrile rubber (HNBR) matrix by solution process in order to study the effect of these nanofillers on thermal, mechanical and dynamic mechanical properties of HNBR. It was found that on addition of only 4 phr of nanofiller to neat HNBR, the temperature at which maximum degradation took place (Tmax) increased by 4 to 16°C, while the modulus at 100% elongation and the tensile strength were enhanced by almost 40–60% and 100–300% respectively, depending upon nature of the nanofiller. It was further observed that Tmax was the highest in the case of nanosilica‐based nanocomposite with 4 phr of filler loading. The increment of storage modulus was highest for sepiolite‐HNBR and Cloisite 30B‐HNBR nanocomposites at 25°C, while the modulus at 100% elongation was found maximum for sepiolite‐HNBR nanocomposite at the same loading. A similar trend was observed in the case of another grade of HNBR having similar ACN content, but different diene level. The results were explained by x‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy studies. The above results were further explained with the help of thermodynamics. Effect of different filler loadings (2, 4, 6, 8, and 16 phr) on the properties of HNBR nanocomposites was further investigated. Both thermal as well as mechanical properties were found to be highest at 8 phr of filler loading. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Characterization of microfibrillar reinforced poly(ethylene naphthalate)/polypropylene composites via polarized Raman and polarized FTIR spectroscopy
Authors: Leung Ka Lok , Easteal Allan J.
Published: January 2010

In polarized Fourier‐transformed infrared spectroscopy and polarized Raman spectra of drawn poly (ethylene naphthalate)/polypropylene (PP) blends, the intensities of the orientation‐sensitive bands of the blend components increased or decreased with increasing elongation, depending on the orientation of the corresponding vibrations. A significantly larger extent of molecular orientation was induced, when localized heating was applied to the blend during elongation (zone‐drawing). Greater degree of molecular orientation resulted in a higher strength blend. The strengths of the blends after each stage of microfibrillization, namely fibrillization and isotropization, were measured and correlated with spectral changes. After isotropization, the PP chains were randomized as shown by equal band intensities of the parallel and perpendicular spectra. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
A multifunctional hydrogel with high‐conductivity, pH‐responsive, and release properties from polyacrylate/polyptrrole
Authors: Lin Jianming , Tang Qunwei , Wu Jihuai , Li Qinghua
Published: January 2010

A simple, two‐step aqueous polymerization was introduced to synthesize a polyacrylate (PAC)/polypyrrole (PPy) hydrogel. The hydrogel had a semi‐interpenetrating network (semi‐IPN) structure with a loose, three‐dimensional PAC network and a one‐dimensional PPy conjugated chain. The presence of PPy led to a higher conductivity (9.1 mS/cm) for the PAC/PPy hydrogel. Because of the acrylate group on PAC and the imine group on PPy, the hydrogel showed typical pH sensitivity with two water absorption peaks at pH 4–6 and pH > 11. The loose semi‐IPN structure endowed the hydrogel with good load and release functions. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
The stabilization of bisphenol‐A based polycarbonate by phosphine oxide
Authors: Ozden S. , Shaov A. K. , Charaev A. M.
Published: January 2010

A Bisphenol‐A based polycarbonate was stabilized by a new polymer stabilizer named di(p‐butoxyphenyl)cyclohexylphosphine oxide. The stabilizer was mixed with the polymer in methylene chloride solution. Later, the solution was vaporized and the stabilized polymer was dried. Specimens were cut and heat treated at different temperature and durations. Small amounts of stabilizer enhanced the breaking strength and elongation at break properties of as molded and heat treated polycarbonate. The modulus of elasticity reduced with stabilization. The stabilizer had a plasticizing effect too. At high stabilizer rates (c > 1%) both thermal and mechanical properties were deteriorated. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Sulfonated poly(ether sulfone)/silica composite membranes for direct methanol fuel cells
Authors: Wen Sheng , Gong Chunli , Tsen Wen‐Chin , Shu Yao‐Chi , Tsai Fang‐Chang
Published: January 2010

A series of sulfonated poly(ether sulfone) (SPES)/silica composite membranes were prepared by sol–gel method using tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) hydrolysis. Physico–chemical properties of the composite membranes were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope–energy dispersive X‐ray (SEM–EDX), and water uptake. Compared to a pure SPES membrane, SiO2 doping in the membranes led to a higher thermal stability and water uptake. SEM–EDX indicated that SiO2 particles were uniformly embedded throughout the SPES matrix. Proper silica loadings (below 5 wt %) in the composite membranes helped to inhibit methanol permeation. The permeability coefficient of the composite membrane with 5 wt % SiO2 was 1.06 × 10−7 cm2/s, which was lower than that of the SPES and just one tenth of that of Nafion® 112. Although proton conductivity of the composite membranes decreased with increasing silica content, the selectivity (the ratio of proton conductivity and methanol permeability) of the composite membrane with 5 wt % silica loading was higher than that of the SPES and Nafion® 112 membrane. This excellent selectivity of SPES/SiO2 composite membranes could indicate a potential feasibility as a promising electrolyte for direct methanol fuel cell. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Synthesis and characterization of a new type of sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone ketone)s for proton exchange membranes
Authors: Zhang Gang , Fu Tiezhu , Wu Jing , Li Xianfeng , Na Hui
Published: January 2010

A novel series of sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone ketone)s (SPEEKKs) were prepared by aromatic nucleophilic polycondensation with different ratios of 1,3‐bis(3‐sodium sulfonate‐4‐fluorobenzoyl)benzene to 1,3‐bis(4‐fluorobenzoyl)benzene. 1H‐NMR spectroscopy was used to confirm the degrees of sulfonation (DS) of the polymers. Thermal stabilities of the SPEEKKs in acid form were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), which showed that SPEEKKs were excellently thermally stable at high temperatures. SPEEKK polymers can be easily cast into tough membranes. Both of proton conductivity and methanol diffusion coefficient have been tested in this article. Other properties of the SPEEKK membranes were investigated in detail. The results show that the SPEEKK membranes are promising in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) application. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Distribution and status of medicinal leeches (genus Hirudo) in the Western Palaearctic: anthropogenic, ecological, or historical effects?
Authors: Utevsky Serge , Zagmajster Maja , Atemasov Andrei , Zinenko Oleksandr , Utevska Olga , Utevsky Andrei , Trontelj Peter
Published: January 2010

1. Distribution and status of medicinal leeches were re‐considered in the light of the new taxonomy recognizing four Western Palaearctic species: Hirudo medicinalis, Hirudo verbana, Hirudo orientalis and Hirudo troctina.

2. Recent records and new data obtained on expeditions to Ukraine, Russia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and the Western Balkans were mapped to obtain an up‐to‐date overview of the distribution.

3. Three hypotheses explaining the current ranges of all Hirudo species were tested. The ecological hypothesis, suggesting a strong impact of large‐scale environmental factors, received the highest support, while anthropogenic influence was minimal, and no historical patterns of refugia and colonization were detected.

4. Mapped localities of all Hirudo species show extensive, belt‐shaped ranges extending from east to west. H. medicinalis is distributed from Britain and southern Norway to the southern Urals and probably as far as the Altai Mountains, occupying the deciduous arboreal zone. H. verbana has been recorded from Switzerland and Italy to Turkey and Uzbekistan, which largely corresponds to the Mediterranean and sub‐boreal steppe zone. H. orientalis is associated with mountainous areas in the sub‐boreal eremial zone and occurs in Transcaucasian countries, Iran and Central Asia. H. troctina has been found in north‐western Africa and Spain in the Mediterranean zone.

5. Based on the data gathered, and considering real and potential threats, global IUCN category Near Threatened is proposed for H. medicinalis, H. verbana, and H. orientalis, while H. troctina can only be assigned to category Data Deficient. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparisons of series and parallel systems with components sharing the same copula
Authors: Navarro Jorge , Spizzichino Fabio
Published: January 2010

The paper is devoted to study stochastic comparisons of series and parallel systems with vectors of component lifetimes sharing the same copula. We show that, under some conditions on the common copula, the series system with heterogeneous components is worse than the series system with homogeneous components having a common reliability function, which is equal to the average of the reliability functions of the heterogeneous components. However, we show that this property is not necessarily true for arbitrary copulas. We obtain similar properties for parallel systems and for general coherent systems. For these purposes, we introduce in our analysis the notion of the mean function of a copula. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The C2 domains of classical and novel PKCs as versatile decoders of membrane signals
Authors: Corbalán‐García Senena , Gómez‐Fernández Juan C.
Published: January 2010

The C2 domains of classical and novel protein kinases C play a very important role in decoding signals, which trigger the translocation of these enzymes to the plasma membrane and/or other membrane subcellular compartments. The C2 domain of classical PKCs has a long reputation as a paradigm of protein responding to intracytosolic Ca2+ elevations through a calcium‐binding region, where this cation acts as a bridge with the phosphatidylserine located in the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane. However, more recently, it has been discovered that a second site on the C2 domain interacts specifically with the phosphoinositide, PtdIns(4,5)P2. Furthermore, several in vivo studies have shown that both calcium and PtdIns(4,5)P2‐interacting regions are essential for the translocation of classical PKCs to the membrane. Other molecules like arachidonic and retinoic acid have also been observed to bind to these domains, modulating the activity of classical PKCs. The C2 domains of novel PKCs, on the other hand, were supposed to play only a secondary role with respect to the C1 domain in the activation process of these enzymes. New insights reveal that these C2 domains may also receive regulatory inputs and play an important role in the localization and activation of these enzymes. In this way, the C2 domain of PKCε has been observed to respond to phosphatidic acid and to act together with the C1 domain in the membrane anchorage and activation of the protein. These domains are also regulated by lipid‐independent events like protein–protein interactions and phosphorylation. In this review we will focus in describing the recent findings on structural and functional properties of the C2 domains of PKCs, mainly as lipid‐interacting modules able to integrate a wide variety of signals in the cell. © 2010 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.
Chain conformation and bioactivity of water‐soluble polysaccharide extracted from Rhizoma Panacis Japonici
Authors: Huang Zhiping , Ren Haibo , Duan Xiaobo , Zhang Lina
Published: January 2010

A water‐soluble α‐(1→4)‐D‐glucan heteropolysaccharide with 37% degree of branch extracted by base from Rhizoma Panacis Japonici, coded as RPS3, was fractionated into six fractions by the method of nonsolvent addition. Their weight‐average molecular mass (Mw), polydispersity index (Mw/Mn), and radius of gyration (〈s2〉z1/2) were determined with laser light scattering (LLS) and size exclusion chromatography combined with LLS. The structure of the fraction was determined by methylation analyses and 13C NMR. The dependences of intrinsic viscosity ([η]) and 〈s2〉z1/2 on Mw were established as [η] = 0.71 Mw0.27 ± 0.01 (cm3/g) and 〈s2〉z1/2 = 1.53 Mw0.27 ± 0.02 (nm) in the Mw range from 5.62 × 104 to 3.05 × 106 (g/mol) for RPS3 in 0.15M NaCl aqueous solution at 25°C. On the basis of the current theory of the polymer solution, the fractal dimension (df), unperturbed chain dimension (A), and characteristic ratio (C∞) were calculated to be 3.0, 1.48 Å, and 15.1, respectively. The results revealed that the RPS3 chains existed as spherical conformation in the aqueous solution. Transmission electron microscope further provided the evidence of the sphere shape of the RPS3 and its fractionated molecules in water. In vitro cytotoxicity assay indicated that the fractions could inhibit the tumor cells and showed no harm to normal cells at low dose. The bioactivity was relative with molecular mass of the samples. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 93: 383–390, 2010.

This article was originally published online as an acceptedpreprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office atbiopolymers@wiley.com
Mechanism of formation of the C‐terminal β‐hairpin of the B3 domain of the immunoglobulin‐binding protein G from Streptococcus. IV. Implication for the mechanism of folding of the parent protein
Authors: Lewandowska Agnieszka , Ołdziej Stanislaw , Liwo Adam , Scheraga Harold A.
Published: January 2010

A 34‐residue α/β peptide [IG(28–61)], derived from the C‐terminal part of the B3 domain of the immunoglobulin binding protein G from Streptoccocus, was studied using CD and NMR spectroscopy at various temperatures and by differential scanning calorimetry. It was found that the C‐terminal part (a 16‐residue‐long fragment) of this peptide, which corresponds to the sequence of the β‐hairpin in the native structure, forms structure similar to the β‐hairpin only at T = 313 K, and the structure is stabilized by non‐native long‐range hydrophobic interactions (Val47–Val59). On the other hand, the N‐terminal part of IG(28–61), which corresponds to the middle α‐helix in the native structure, is unstructured at low temperature (283 K) and forms an α‐helix‐like structure at 305 K, and only one helical turn is observed at 313 K. At all temperatures at which NMR experiments were performed (283, 305, and 313 K), we do not observe any long‐range connectivities which would have supported packing between the C‐terminal (β‐hairpin) and the N‐terminal (α‐helix) parts of the sequence. Such interactions are absent, in contrast to the folding pathway of the B domain of protein G, proposed recently by Kmiecik and Kolinski (Biophys J 2008, 94, 726–736), based on Monte‐Carlo dynamics studies. Alternative folding mechanisms are proposed and discussed. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 93: 469–480, 2010.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Proximal protection in recanalization of totally occluded saphenous vein grafts in acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Sganzerla Paolo , Tavasci Emanuela
Published: January 2010

Percutaneous treatment of old, degenerated saphenous vein grafts (SVG) is associated with a high likelihood of major adverse cardiac events. When an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) develops in a patient with old SVG, fresh thrombus may superimpose on an old, degenerative atheroma: a sudden increase in the athero‐thrombotic burden ensues with consequent, frequent total occlusion of the lumen. In this scenario, transluminal recanalization of the graft is usually associated with the highest chance of distal embolization and no‐reflow and positioning of an embolic protection device (EPD) is almost mandatory. However, distal EPD are difficult to place when the vessel is totally occluded and do not completely avoid distal embolization. We report two cases of totally occluded SVG in patients admitted for ACS that were recanalized with the aid of a proximal EPD system with angiographic and clinical success. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regioselective Exohedral Functionalization of La@C82 and its 1,2,3,4,5‐Pentamethylcyclopentadiene and Adamantylidene Adducts
Authors: Maeda Yutaka , Sato Satoru , Inada Koji , Nikawa Hidefumi , Yamada Michio , Mizorogi Naomi , Hasegawa Tadashi , Tsuchiya Takahiro , Akasaka Takeshi , Kato Tatsuhisa , Slanina Zdenek , Nagase Shigeru
Published: January 2010

The first regioselective functionalization of La@C82 by two different groups has been performed. Bis‐adducts of La@C82 with Cp* and adamantylidene were synthesized by using two different routes and characterized. Spectroscopic analysis and theoretical calculations reveal that the addition position is controlled by the charge density and p‐orbital axis vector value of the fullerene cage.
ChemInform Abstract: Structural, Electronic and Elastic Properties of MAX Phases M2GaN (M: Ti, V and Cr)
Authors: Bouhemadou A.
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Boron Fullerenes B32+8k with Four‐Membered Rings and B32 Solid Phases: Geometrical Structures and Electronic Properties
Authors: Sheng Xian‐Lei , Yan Qing‐Bo , Zheng Qing‐Rong , Su Gang
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Mn‐Rich BaMn1‐xFexO3‐δ Perovskite Revisited: Structural, Magnetic, and Electrical Propertis of Two New 6H′ Polytypes.
Authors: Miranda Laura , Sinclair Derek C. , Hernando Maria , Varela Aurea , Wattiaux Alain , Boulahya Khalid , Gonzalez‐Calbet Jose M. , Parras Marina
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: A New Polymorph of Cu3B2O6.
Authors: Kuratieva Natalia V. , Mikhailova Daria , Ehrenberg Helmut
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Structure and Properties of Multiferroic Oxygen Hyperstoichiometric BiFe1‐xMnxO3+δ.
Authors: Selbach Sverre M. , Tybell Thomas , Einarsrud Mari‐Ann , Grande Tor
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Nickel Foam Supported‐Co3O4 Nanowire Arrays for H2O2 Electroreduction.
Authors: Wang Guiling , Cao Dianxue , Yin Cuilei , Gao Yinyi , Yin Jinling , Cheng Lin
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: A Novel Proton Conducting Ba0.95K0.05Ce0.6Zr0.2 Gd0.16Zn0.04O3‐δ for SOFC.
Authors: Yan Ruiqiang , Chen Guihua , Wang Fang , Wang Qingfeng , Huang Weiya
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: The Tellurophosphate K4P8Te4: Phase‐Change Properties, Exfoliation, Photoluminescence in Solution and Nanospheres.
Authors: Chung In , Song Jung‐Hwan , Kim Myung Gil , Malliakas Christos D. , Karst Angela L. , Freeman Arthur J. , Weliky David P. , Kanatzidis Mercouri G.
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Noncentrosymmetric Polar Oxide Material, Pb3SeO5: Synthesis, Characterization, Electronic Structure Calculations, and Structure—Property Relationships.
Authors: Kim Sang‐Hwan , Yeon Jeongho , Halasyamani P. Shiv
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Various Valence States of Square‐Coordinated Mn in A‐Site‐Ordered Perovskites.
Authors: Long Youwen , Saito Takashi , Mizumaki Masaichiro , Agui Akane , Shimakawa Yuichi
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Hydrothermal Synthesis, Structure Characterization, Catalytic Property of Four Inorganic‐Organic Hybrid Phosphomolybdates.
Authors: Chen Qi , Cui Yan , Sun Qi , Pan Wenjun , Chen Qiang , Xu Yan
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: B Cation Ordered Double Perovskite Ba2CoMo0.5Nb0.5O6‐δ as a Potential SOFC Cathode.
Authors: Deng Z. Q. , Smit J. P. , Niu H. J. , Evans G. , Li M. R. , Xu Z. L. , Claridge J. B. , Rosseinsky M. J.
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: A New Polymorph of Layered LiCoO2.
Authors: Komaba Shinichi , Yabuuchi Naoaki , Kawamoto Yuta
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: An Unprecedented Trinuclear Dawson Sandwich Complex with Internal Lacuna: Synthesis and 31P NMR Spectroscopic Analysis of the Symmetrical [NaNi3(H2O)2 (P2W15O56)2]17‐ and [CoNi3(H2O)2 (P2W15O56)2]16‐ Anions.
Authors: Schaming Delphine , Canny Jacqueline , Boubekeur Kamal , Thouvenot Rene , Ruhlmann Laurent
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Organocascade Reactions of Enones Catalyzed by a Chiral Primary Amine.
Authors: Wu Li‐Yuan , Bencivenni Giorgio , Mancinelli Michele , Mazzanti Andrea , Bartoli Giuseppe , Melchiorre Paolo
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Targeting Structural and Stereochemical Complexity by Organocascade Catalysis: Construction of Spirocyclic Oxindoles Having Multiple Stereocenters.
Authors: Bencivenni Giorgio , Wu Li‐Yuan , Mazzanti Andrea , Giannichi Berardino , Pesciaioli Fabio , Song Mao‐Ping , Bartoli Giuseppe , Melchiorre Paolo
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Sodium Tetraarylborates as Effective Nucleophiles in Rhodium/Diene‐Catalyzed 1,4‐Addition to β,β‐Disubstituted α,β‐Unsaturated Ketones: Catalytic Asymmetric Construction of Quaternary Carbon Stereocenters.
Authors: Shintani Ryo , Tsutsumi Yosuke , Nagaosa Makoto , Nishimura Takahiro , Hayashi Tamio
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Heterocyclic Compounds Using Basic Zeolite Csβ.
Authors: Suslov E. V. , Korchagina D. V. , Volcho K. P. , Salakhutdinov N. F.
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: A Gold‐Catalyzed [4 + 3]‐Cycloaddition of Functionalized Dioxines.
Authors: Harmata Michael , Huang Chaofeng
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Enantioselective α‐Arylation of Aldehydes via Organo‐SOMO Catalysis. An ortho‐Selective Arylation Reaction Based on an Open‐Shell Pathway.
Authors: Conrad Jay C. , Kong Jongrock , Laforteza Brian N. , MacMillan David W. C.
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Reactions of 9‐Aryl‐6‐cyanopurines with Primary Amines.
Authors: Al‐Azmi Amal , Kumari K. Anita
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: A New Variant of Reformatsky—Claisen Rearrangement Mediated by Indium Chloride.
Authors: Ishihara Jun , Koyama Noriko , Nishino Yukihiro , Takahashi Keisuke , Hatakeyama Susumi
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Redox System for Perfluoroalkylation of Arenes and α‐Methylstyrene Derivatives Using Titanium Oxide as Photocatalyst.
Authors: Iizuka Mari , Yoshida Masato
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Chemoselective Selenium Dioxide Oxidation of 1,4‐Adducts Derived from Substituted Arylidene Acetophenones.
Authors: Saravanan Sivaperuman , Purushothaman Santhanagopalan , Amali Irudayaraj Bernadette , Muthusubramanian Shanmugam
Published: January 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.