bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChemInform Abstract: Multi‐Catalysis Reactions: Direct Organocatalytic Sequential One‐Pot Synthesis of Highly Functionalized Cyclopenta[b]chromen‐1‐ones.
Authors: Ramachary Dhevalapally B. , Reddy Y. Vijayendar , Kishor Mamillapalli
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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 Multicomponent Reaction to Synthesize Substituted Furo[3,2‐c]chromenes via a Pd‐Catalyzed Cascade Process.
Authors: Zhao Lizhi , Cheng Gang , Hu Youhong
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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 4‐Hydroxy‐3‐(1‐aryl‐2‐acetylethyl)‐7,8‐diaryl‐2H‐thieno (3,2‐h)chromen‐2‐ones Using Cerium(III) Chloride.
Authors: Kumar P. Naveen , Babu M. Mohan , Amaravathi M. , Chandramouli G. V. P.
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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: Directed Palladium‐Catalyzed Oxidative C—H Arylation of (Hetero)arenes with Arylboronic Acids by Using TEMPO.
Authors: Kirchberg Sylvia , Vogler Thomas , Studer Armido
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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: 4‐(Isoxazol‐3‐yl)pyrimidines from Pyrimidinyl Nitrile Oxides.
Authors: Choung Wonken , Lorsbach Beth A. , Sparks Thomas C. , Ruiz James M. , Kurth Mark J.
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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: Versatility of Alternative Reaction Media: Water‐Mediated Domino and Green Chemical Synthesis of Pyrimido[1,2‐a]benzimidazole under Nonconventional Conditions.
Authors: Dandia Anshu , Singh Ruby , Jain Anuj Kumar , Singh Dharmendra
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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: Practical Synthesis of 1‐(7‐Fluoro‐naphthalen‐1‐yl)‐piperazine Hydrochloride.
Authors: Magano Javier , Akin Anne , Chen Michael H. , Giza Kendra , Moon Jennifer , Saenz James
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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: N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes of Indazole as Reagents: Indazol‐3‐ylidene‐Mediated Syntheses of Amidines from Thiolactams of Pyrrolobenzodiazepines.
Authors: Lindner Anika , Schmidt Andreas
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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: Formation and Ring Contraction of Benzo[f][1,2]thiazepine‐1,1‐dioxides from and to Benzo[e][1,2]thiazine‐1,1‐dioxides.
Authors: Khalaj Ali , Adibpour Neda
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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: New 6‐Oxa‐2‐silabicyclo[2.2.0]hexanes by Photochemical Conversion of Acyl(allyl)(dimethyl)silanes.
Authors: Hammaecher Catherine , Portella Charles
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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: Coumarins and Flavones from Casimiroa pringlei
Authors: Maldonado Emma , Marquez Imelda , Chiang Fernando , Ortega Alfredo
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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: Reactivity of Silicate—Phosphate Glasses in Soil Environment
Authors: Waclawska I. , Szumera M.
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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: Supracrystals of Inorganic Nanocrystals: An Open Challenge for New Physical Properties
Authors: Pileni M. P.
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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: Metal‐Phosphido and ‐Phosphinidene Complexes in P—E Bond‐Forming Reactions
Authors: Waterman Rory
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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 Pentacyclic Steroids
Authors: Ibrahim‐Ouali Malika
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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: Hydroformylation and Carbonylation Processes: New Trends in the Synthesis of Pharmaceuticals
Authors: Chaudhari Raghunath V.
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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: Highly Stereoselective Aldol Reactions in the Total Syntheses of Complex Natural Products
Authors: Brodmann Tobias , Lorenz Michael , Schaeckel Romy , Simsek Serkan , Kalesse Markus
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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: HDL Therapeutics for the Treatment of Atherosclerosis: A Brief Overview of the Synthetic Approaches.
Authors: Pal Manojit
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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: Elastomeric Homo‐polypropylene: Solid State Properties and Synthesis via Control of Reaction Parameters
Authors: Hild Sabine , Cobzaru Cecilia , Troll Carsten , Rieger Bernhard
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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: Biological Implications of the Ribosome′s Stunning Stereochemistry
Authors: Zimmerman Ella , Yonath Ada
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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: Quorum Sensing and Quorum Quenching: The Yin and Yang of Bacterial Communication
Authors: Uroz Stephane , Dessaux Yves , Oger Phil
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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: Advancement of Flow‐Based Analysis with Alternative Chemical Reactions and New Devices for Environmental and Biological Samples
Authors: Sakai Tadao , Teshima Norio
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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.
Generation of digital phantoms of cell nuclei and simulation of image formation in 3D image cytometry
Authors: Svoboda David , Kozubek Michal , Stejskal Stanislav
Published: March 2009

Image cytometry still faces the problem of the quality of cell image analysis results. Degradations caused by cell preparation, optics, and electronics considerably affect most 2D and 3D cell image data acquired using optical microscopy. That is why image processing algorithms applied to these data typically offer imprecise and unreliable results. As the ground truth for given image data is not available in most experiments, the outputs of different image analysis methods can be neither verified nor compared to each other. Some papers solve this problem partially with estimates of ground truth by experts in the field (biologists or physicians). However, in many cases, such a ground truth estimate is very subjective and strongly varies between different experts. To overcome these difficulties, we have created a toolbox that can generate 3D digital phantoms of specific cellular components along with their corresponding images degraded by specific optics and electronics. The user can then apply image analysis methods to such simulated image data. The analysis results (such as segmentation or measurement results) can be compared with ground truth derived from input object digital phantoms (or measurements on them). In this way, image analysis methods can be compared with each other and their quality (based on the difference from ground truth) can be computed. We have also evaluated the plausibility of the synthetic images, measured by their similarity to real image data. We have tested several similarity criteria such as visual comparison, intensity histograms, central moments, frequency analysis, entropy, and 3D Haralick features. The results indicate a high degree of similarity between real and simulated image data. © 2009 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
HLA‐DRneg patients without acute promyelocytic leukemia show distinct immunophenotypic, genetic, molecular, and cytomorphologic characteristics compared to acute promyelocytic leukemia
Authors: Oelschlaegel Uta , Mohr Brigitte , Schaich Markus , Schäkel Ulrike , Kroschinsky Frank , Illmer Thomas , Ehninger Gerhard , Thiede Christian
Published: March 2009

Background:

Loss of HLA‐DR and CD34 is a well‐known characteristic of malignant promyelocytes in acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). However, this immunophenotype is not specific for APL. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether further biological characterization of the HLA‐DRneg acute myeloid leukemia patients would allow more clearly define criteria to separate APL from non‐APL patients.

Methods:

Immunophenotyping, cytogenetics, molecular analyses, and cytomorphology were prospectively performed within routine leukemia diagnostics of 800 patients included in different prospective acute myeloid leukemia multicenter trials.

Results:

Beside 60 APL, an additional 62 HLA‐DRneg non‐APL patients were identified. The main differential characteristics of HLA‐DRneg non‐APL included high CXCR‐4 expression in most patients and almost all leukemia cells, a significantly higher proportion of patients presenting with NPM1 mutations as well as the significant association with cup‐like nuclear morphology. The biological distinctness of both leukemia subtypes was further emphasized by the complete absence of aberrant CD2 expression and increased leukocyte and platelet counts in HLA‐DRneg non‐APL patients. Even in the CD34pos subgroup of HLA‐DRneg non‐APL all those features contributed in at least the same way to the separation from APL.

Conclusions:

The results of the present study show that an immunophenotypic, molecular, and cytomorphologic separation of both HLA‐DRneg leukemia subgroups is possible indicating that both groups are biologically distinct. © 2009 Clinical Cytometry Society
Schistosoma mansoni egg antigens induce Treg that participate in diabetes prevention in NOD mice
Authors: Zaccone Paola , Burton Oliver , Miller Nigel , Jones Frances M. , Dunne David W. , Cooke Anne
Published: March 2009

Schistosoma mansoni soluble egg antigens (SEA) profoundly regulate the infected host's immune system. We previously showed that SEA prevents type 1 diabetes in NOD mice and that splenocytes from SEA‐treated mice have reduced ability to transfer diabetes to NOD.scid recipients. To further characterize the mechanism of diabetes prevention we examined the cell types involved and showed that CD25+ T‐cell depletion of splenocytes from SEA‐treated donors restored their ability to transfer diabetes. Furthermore, SEA treatment increased the number and proportional representation of Foxp3+ T cells in the pancreas of NOD mice. We have used in vitro systems to analyze the effect of SEA on the development of NOD Foxp3+ T cells. We find that SEA can induce Foxp3 expression in naïve T cells in a TGF‐β‐dependent manner. Foxp3 induction requires the presence of DC, which we also show are modified by SEA to upregulate C‐type lectins, IL‐10 and IL‐2. Our studies show that SEA can have a direct effect on CD4+ T cells increasing expression of TGF‐β, integrin β8 and galectins. These effects of SEA on DC and T cells may act in synergy to induce Foxp3+ Treg in the NOD mouse.
Natural Treg cells spontaneously differentiate into pathogenic helper cells in lymphopenic conditions
Authors: Duarte João H. , Zelenay Santiago , Bergman Marie‐Louise , Martins Ana C. , Demengeot Jocelyne
Published: March 2009

Induction of Forkhead‐box p3 (Foxp3) expression in developing T cells upon peptide‐MHC encountering has been proposed to define a lineage of committed Treg cells. However, sustained expression of Foxp3 is required for Treg function and what maintains Foxp3 expression in peripheral Treg remains obscure. To address this issue, we monitored natural Treg phenotype and function upon adoptive transfer into lymphocyte‐deficient mice. We first show that about 50% of Foxp3‐GFP+ Treg isolated from Foxp3gfp KI animals loose Foxp3 expression in severe lymphopenic conditions. We next evidence that the cytokine IL‐2, either produced by co‐transferred conventional T cells or administrated i.v. prevents Foxp3 downregulation. Moreover, we document that Treg that lost Foxp3 expression upon adoptive transfer produce IL‐2 are not suppressive and promote tissue infiltration and damage upon secondary transfer into alymphoid mice. Our findings that Treg convert into pathogenic Th cells in absence of IL‐2 provide new clues to the success of Treg‐based immune therapies.
Proteomic analysis for process development and control of therapeutic protein separation from human plasma
Authors: Yang Xinli , Clifton James , Huang Feilei , Kovac Spomenka , Hixson Douglas C. , Josic Djuro
Published: March 2009

The use of proteomics technology during the development of a new process for plasma protein separation was demonstrated. In a two‐step process, the two most abundant proteins, HSA and IgG, were removed in a first step of anion‐exchange chromatography using a gel with very high capacity. Subsequently, two fractions containing medium and low abundance proteins were re‐chromatographed on a smaller column with the same type of gel. Collected fractions were separated by SDS‐PAGE and 2‐D electrophoresis, and excised proteins were digested with trypsin and identified by LC‐ESI‐MS/MS. This proteomic analysis proved to be a useful method for detection of low abundance therapeutic proteins and potential harmful contaminants during process development. Based on this method, low abundance therapeutic proteins, such as vitamin‐K‐dependent clotting factors and inhibitors, could be identified as present in target fractions after chromatographic separation. In addition, the tracking of potentially dangerous impurities and designing proper steps for their removal are important outcomes when developing, refining or controlling a new fractionation schema. For the purpose of in‐process control, in‐solution digestion of complete fractions followed by protein identification with LC‐ESI‐MS/MS was demonstrated as a rapid and simple alternative to the entire analysis including 1‐D or 2‐D electrophoretic steps.
Boosting diffusion indices
Authors: Bai Jushan , Ng Serena
Published: March 2009

In forecasting and regression analysis, it is often necessary to select predictors from a large feasible set. When the predictors have no natural ordering, an exhaustive evaluation of all possible combinations of the predictors can be computationally costly. This paper considers ‘boosting’ as a methodology of selecting the predictors in factor‐augmented autoregressions. As some of the predictors are being estimated, we propose a stopping rule for boosting to prevent the model from being overfitted with estimated predictors. We also consider two ways of handling lags of variables: a componentwise approach and a block‐wise approach. The best forecasting method will necessarily depend on the data‐generating process. Simulations show that for each data type there is one form of boosting that performs quite well. When applied to four key economic variables, some form of boosting is found to outperform the standard factor‐augmented forecasts and is far superior to an autoregressive forecast. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative ultrastructure of nonwounded Mexican lime and Yuzu leaves infected with the citrus canker bacterium Xanthomonas citri pv. citri
Authors: Lee In Jung , Kim Ki Woo , Hyun Jae Wook , Lee Yong Hoon , Park Eun Woo
Published: March 2009

Ultrastructural aspects of citrus canker development were investigated in nonwounded leaves of citrus species by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). A susceptible species Mexican lime and a resistant species Yuzu were spray‐inoculated with a virulent strain of Xanthomonas citri pv. citri. Initial symptoms occurred on Mexican lime ∼9 days after inoculation, whereas they appeared on Yuzu mostly 11 days after inoculation. In Mexican lime leaves, the bacterial invasion was usually accompanied by host cell wall dissolution and cellular disruption. Fibrillar materials from degenerated cell walls were usually found in intercellular spaces. Damaged host cells with necrotic cytoplasm showed the localized separation of plasma membrane from the cell wall. Bacterial multiplication and electron‐transparent capsule‐like structures around bacteria were commonly observed. Meanwhile, cell wall protuberances were prominent outside host cell walls in response to bacterial invasion in Yuzu leaves. Occlusion of intercellular spaces was also formed by the fusion of two or more individual cell wall protuberances originated from two adjacent host cells. Papillae‐like materials accumulated locally within host cells in close proximity to bacteria. Some bacteria were found to be undergoing degeneration in xylem vessels. Also, the shrunken, inactive bacteria were surrounded by electron‐translucent fibrillar materials in intercellular spaces, implying bacterial immobilization. These cellular responses are thought to be the consequences of defense responses of Yuzu leaves to invading bacteria. In both citrus species, X. citri pv. citri contained polyphosphate bodies showing electron‐dense and elliptical structures in cytoplasm. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of the content of unmethylated CpG dinucleotides in plasmid DNA on the sustainability of transgene expression
Authors: Mitsui Masaru , Nishikawa Makiya , Zang Lei , Ando Mitsuru , Hattori Kayoko , Takahashi Yuki , Watanabe Yoshihiko , Takakura Yoshinobu
Published: March 2009

Background

Nonviral gene transfer generally suffers from short‐term expression of transgenes. We have previously demonstrated that plasmids with reduced CpG content exhibited a more prolonged expression of murine interferon (IFN)‐β or IFN‐γ, which was effective in inhibiting metastatic tumor growth. A further extension of the duration of transgene expression could be achieved by controlling the number and location of CpG motifs in plasmid DNA.

Methods

Luciferase‐expressing plasmids with differing CpG content were injected into the tail vein of mice by the hydrodynamic injection method. The effects of CpG content on the duration of transgene expression were examined, focusing on cytosine methylation and pro‐inflammatory cytokines. Based on the findings, IFN‐γ‐expressing plasmids were constructed and their transgene expression and inhibitory effect on pulmonary metastasis were evaluated.

Results

Plasmids with a few CpG motifs showed a prolonged luciferase activity in the liver. Methylation of CpG motifs in plasmids reduced the expression and the extent of this reduction was greater for plasmids with a high CpG content. Pro‐inflammatory cytokines hardly affected the expression. pCpG‐Muγ, the IFN‐γ‐expressing plasmid, which contains 20 CpG motifs only in the cDNA region, exhibited a sustained IFN‐γ concentration at therapeutic levels, and had a great inhibitory effect on the pulmonary metastasis of tumor cells.

Conclusions

The duration of transgene expression of IFN‐γ was successfully increased by reducing the CpG content of IFN‐expressing plasmid vector, which resulted in an increased anticancer activity of IFN gene transfer. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of pyrido[2,3‐d]pyrimidines in the reaction of 6‐amino‐2,3‐dihydro‐2‐thioxo‐4(1H)‐pyrimidinone with chalcones
Authors: Quiroga Jairo , Insuasty Braulio , Sanchez Adolfo , Nogueras Manuel , Meier Herbert
Published: March 2009

6‐Amino‐2,3‐dihydro‐2‐thioxo‐4(1H)‐pyrimidinone (1) reacts in boiling DMF with α,/β‐unsaturated ketones 2 yielding the pyrido[2,3‐d]pyrimidine systems 5 and 6, respectively. The orientation in the addition process can be determined by nmr measurements, especially by NOE difference spectroscopy. The products do not correspond to a normal Skraup or Doebner‐v. Miller synthesis.
Synthesis and transformations of 2,6‐bis(1,1‐dimethylethyl)‐4‐[2‐(thiazolyl)ethenyl]phenols
Authors: Unangst Paul C. , Connor David T.
Published: March 2009

(Thiazolylethenyl)phenols were prepared as potential antiinflammatories by reaction of thiazole 4‐ and 5‐acetic acid derivatives with 3,5‐di‐tert‐butyl‐4‐hydroxybenzaldehyde. Alternatively, an arylethenyl methyl ketone was brominated and the bromoketone product reacted with methyl dithiocarbamate, ammonium dithiocarbamate, or thiourea.
Synthesis of [(4,5‐disubstituted‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3‐yl)thio]alkanoic acids and their analogues as possible antiinflammatory agents
Authors: Sung Kuangsen , Lee An‐Rong
Published: March 2009

A series of [(4,5‐disubstituted‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3‐yl)thio]alkanoic acids 40–56 and their analogues 57–61 were synthesized for their possible antiinflammatory activities.
Molecular associations of hydrazones of heterocyclic systems.XI
Authors: Bruni Paolo , Conti Carla , Giorgini Elisabetta , Maurelli Eziana , Tosi Giorgio
Published: March 2009

Complexes of hydrazones of heterocyclic compounds with organic acceptors are investigated through the evaluation of spectroscopic and thermodynamic properties. Values of the formation constants and comparison between uv‐visible and ft‐ir determinations on liquid and solid phases indicate these systems are weak complexes. Contributions from hydrogen bonding and the effects of π−π* or n−π* transitions on the spectroscopic and thermodynamic properties of the complexes are discussed.
Public sector institutions, politics and outsourcing: Reforming the provision of primary healthcare in Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Khan Iram A.
Published: March 2009

Lodhran/Rahim Yar Khan (RYK) model of primary healthcare is a home‐grown experiment in Pakistan. The model envisaged transferring the management of primary healthcare facilities to a public sector NGO. The paper finds that through the re‐alignment of interest groups, the model was replicated in several other districts of the province. It also examines the evolution of stakeholders' behaviour, interest, position and influence in its implementation over a period of time. The study concludes that sustainability of the model remains doubtful unless public sector health bureaucracy is restructured and made to work effectively. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conditionality covenants: Commitment versus discretion in sovereign credit contracts
Authors: Khalifa Sherif
Published: March 2009

This paper investigates the impact of imposing conditionality covenants on the performance of the signatories to a sovereign credit contract. A two period model is developed in which creditors provide a loan to a sovereign conditional upon the implementation of investments. Commitment to these covenants overcome the debt repudiation problem, as it increases the likelihood of repayment, if the implemented conditionalities contribute to an increase in the sovereign's productive capacity. A three period model is also developed to entertain the possibility that the sovereign engage in credit activities in subsequent periods, where in the final period the debtor has obligations towards junior and senior creditors. This allows for dynamic inconsistency, as the sovereign may be tempted to increase its debt in the second period, thus increasing the probability of repudiation in the third period. Imposing conditionality covenants by senior creditors that increase the portion they can appropriate in case of repudiation, relative to junior creditors, reduces the supply of credit by junior creditors in the second period and thus overcomes the debt dilution problem. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Secular and multidecadal warmings in the North Atlantic and their relationships with major hurricane activity
Authors: Enfield David B. , Cid‐Serrano Luis
Published: March 2009

Analysis of recent literature finds weaknesses in arguments to the effect that the Atlantic multidecadal oscillation (AMO)—roughly 50–90 year fluctuations in North Atlantic sea surface temperatures—is externally forced by anthropogenic aerosols and greenhouse gases rather than an internal climate mode, plus indications from other sources that the contrary may be true. We are led to the conclusion that the AMO is probably comprised of both natural and anthropogenic forcing in ways that preclude a physically based separation of the two, using the limited historical data sets. A straightforward quadratic fitting of trend to temperature data accounts for some of the 20th century nonlinearity in secular warming and separates the secular and multidecadal components of variability without inherent assumptions about the nature of the multidecadal fluctuations. Doing this shows that the 20th century secular ocean warming in the North Atlantic is about equal to the peak‐to‐peak amplitude of the multidecadal fluctuations. However, over the last quarter‐century (1975–2000) the most recent multidecadal warming has been almost three times the secular sea surface temperature (SST) increase over the main development region (MDR) for major Atlantic hurricanes. In the last quarter‐century the multidecadal increase in late summer Atlantic warm pool (AWP) size (area of SSTs in excess of 28 °C) has been 36%, and the secular increase, 14%. Projections to the year 2025 show that the cumulative change in summer warm pool size since 1975 will depend critically on whether a subsequent cooling in the multidecadal cycle occurs, comparable to the warming between 1975 and 2000 AD. This places a high premium on understanding to what extent the AMO is a man‐made or a natural phenomenon. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Classification of CIE standard skies using probabilistic neural networks
Authors: Li Danny H. W. , Tang H. L. , Lee Eric W. M. , Muneer Tariq
Published: March 2009

In 2003, the International Commission on Illumination (CIE) adopted 15 standard skies that cover a broad spectrum of the usual skies found in the world. Each sky represents a unique sky luminance distribution, which is the most effective way to classify the 15 CIE Standard Skies. However, luminance distributions for the whole sky vault are far from being widely available. Alternatively, the standard skies can be categorized by various climatic parameters but the criteria to distinguish individual skies are not always clear‐cut and may lead to ambiguous results. The artificial neural networks (ANNs) represent a powerful tool for pattern recognition. This paper presents the work on the classification of the standard skies using a new form of neural network architecture, namely the probabilistic neural network (PNN), which is particularly apposite in classification problems. Five meteorological variables, viz. zenith luminance, global, direct‐beam and sky‐diffuse illuminance, and solar altitude are employed as input data. Totally, 9000 samples covering the time span between 1999 and 2005 are shuffled. The findings suggest that the PNN is an appropriate tool for sky classification. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Effects of selenate addition on selenium accumulation and plant growth of two Prunus rootstock genotypes
Authors: Pezzarossa Beatrice , Remorini Damiano , Piccotino Diletta , Malagoli Mario , Massai Rossano
Published: March 2009

A pot experiment was conducted with two Prunus genotypes (GF 677 and Mr.S.2/5, commercial rootstocks for peach), which are widely used in Italy and other European countries. Selenium (Se) was added as sodium selenate to 3‐month‐old micropropagated plants at a rate of 0 (control), 1.0, 2.5, and 5.0 mg Se (kg soil)–1. Plant growth, gas exchange, and Se accumulation were studied. Selenium added at a rate of 2.5 and 5.0 mg Se kg–1 appeared to be highly toxic for the two young peach rootstocks. Thirty‐three days after the treatment, the plants showed a high mortality rate. The fast growing rootstock, GF 677, appeared to be more sensitive to Se toxicity, the mortality rate reaching 52%. The higher the Se concentration in the soil, the higher it also was in the plant. In general, both genotypes were able to take up Se and to translocate high amounts from root to leaf. After selenate addition to the soil, both GF 677 and Mr.S.2/5 plants showed reduced plant growth with the highest Se treatments. Furthermore, Se induced a partial stomatal closure, as evidenced by the values of stomatal conductance, resulting in a reduction in net assimilation, and thus a decrease in dry‐matter production. Selenate applied at a low rate (1 mg Se kg–1) stimulated plant growth in GF 677. One year after the Se treatment, a remobilization of Se from the storage organs to the young shoots was detected. This study demonstrates genotypic variation in Se uptake and accumulation in peach rootstocks.
Lattice dynamics and low‐temperature Raman spectroscopy studies of PMN–PT relaxors
Authors: Lima J. A. , Paraguassu W. , Freire P. T. C. , Souza Filho A. G. , Paschoal C. W. A. , Filho J. Mendes , Zanin A. L. , Lente M. H. , Garcia D. , Eiras J. A.
Published: March 2009

In this work we present a Raman scattering study of a specific region of the morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) of the [Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3]1−x (PbTiO3)x relaxor system. We performed low‐temperature measurement for the x = 0.4 composition in the 20–300 K temperature range, and a detailed analysis of Raman spectra of x = 0.4 and x = 0.37 compositions at 180 K. The analysis of Raman spectra indicates a structural phase transition at around 170 K for x = 0.4. The comparison of Raman data from x = 0.4 and x = 0.37 compositions suggests different phases for these samples at 180 K. These results are in accordance with the tetragonal to monoclinic structural phase transition observed in the PMN–PT MPB and contribute to improve the knowledge of the MPB of this solid solution. Additionally, we have performed the lattice dynamics phonon calculation of the (1 − x) PMN–xPT relaxor in order to best understand its complex Raman spectral properties. The normal mode analyses (at q ∼ 0) were performed by considering tetragonal symmetry for the (1 − x) PMN–xPT system and using the rigid ion model and mean field approximation. Our calculated wavenumber values are in good agreement with experimental and calculated results reported for PbTiO3 thus providing a reliable assignment of the various Raman modes. The low wavenumber modes are interpreted as arising from a lifting of the degeneracy of the vibrational modes related to Mg, Nb and Ti sites.
Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Direct visual evidence for the chemical mechanism of surface‐enhanced resonance Raman scattering via charge transfer: (II) Binding‐site and quantum‐size effects
Authors: Sun Mengtao , Liu Shasha , Li Zhipeng , Duan Jianmin , Chen Maodu , Xu Hongxing
Published: March 2009

We describe quantum‐size and binding‐site effects on the chemical and local field enhancement mechanisms of surface‐enhanced resonance Raman scattering (SERRS), in which the pyridine molecule is adsorbed on one of the vertices of the Ag20 tetrahedron. We first investigated the influence of the binding site on normal Raman scattering (NRS) and excited state properties of optical absorption spectroscopy. Second, we investigated the quantum‐size effect on the electromagnetic (EM) and chemical mechanism from 300 to 1000 nm with charge difference density. It is found that the strong absorption at around 350 nm is mainly the charge transfer (CT) excitation (CT between the molecule and the silver cluster) for large clusters, which is the direct evidence for the chemical enhancement mechanism for SERRS; for a small cluster the strong absorption around 350 nm is mainly intracluster excitation, which is the direct evidence for the EM enhancement mechanism. This conclusion is further confirmed with the general Mie theory. The plasmon peak in EM enhancement will be red‐shifted with the increase of cluster size. The influence of the binding site and quantum‐size effects on NRS, as well as chemical and EM enhancement mechanisms on SERRS, is significant. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of short‐term N2 treatment on quality and antioxidant ability of loquat fruit during cold storage
Authors: Gao Haiyan , Tao Fei , Song Lili , Chen Hangjun , Chen Wenxuan , Zhou Yongjun , Mao Jinlin , Zheng Yonghua
Published: March 2009

BACKGROUND: Loquat fruit is susceptible to microbial decay and quality deterioration during postharvest distribution. In this study, in a search for effective alternatives to methods currently used for quality maintenance, the effects of short‐term pre‐storage N2 treatment on the quality and antioxidant ability of loquat fruit were investigated.

RESULTS: Loquat fruits were exposed to 100% N2 for 6 h at 20 °C and then stored at 5 °C for 35 days. Short‐term N2 treatment significantly delayed the increase in fruit decay rate and decreases in total soluble solid and titratable acidity contents, thereby maintaining better eating quality and extending the storage life of fruits. It also markedly delayed increases in membrane permeability, malondialdehyde content and superoxide anion production rate. In addition, N2‐treated fruits exhibited significantly higher superoxide dismutase and catalase activities and lower lipoxygenase activity than control fruits.

CONCLUSION: Short‐term pre‐storage N2 treatment effectively reduced fruit decay and maintained quality in loquat fruits during cold storage. The reduction in fruit decay and quality deterioration by the treatment was correlated with enhanced antioxidant ability and reduced lipid peroxidation. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
An evaluation of satisfaction levels among Chinese tourists in Vietnam
Authors: Truong Thuy‐Huong , King Brian
Published: March 2009

This paper examines the extent to which Vietnam satisfies the various destination attributes sought by Chinese tourists. The research investigates a number of variables, including socio‐demographics and travel characteristics, and compares the importance that travellers attach to various destination attributes with their associated satisfaction with Vietnam's various tourism products. By investigating the relationship between importance and satisfaction from the perspective of Chinese tourists, the paper makes a contribution to the literature. The findings should provide Vietnamese service providers with insights into the perceptions and satisfaction levels of Chinese tourists. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Progress in Cr2+and Fe2+doped mid‐IR laser materials
Authors: Mirov S. , Fedorov V. , Moskalev I. , Martyshkin D. , Kim C.
Published: March 2009

Recent progress in chromium and iron doped II‐VI semiconductor materials makes them the laser sources of choice when one needs a compact system with tunability over 1.9–5.1 μm. Output powers exceeding 10 W and efficiency up to 70% were demonstrated in several Cr doped semiconductors. The unique combination of technological (low‐cost ceramic material) and spectroscopic characteristics makes these materials ideal candidates for mid‐IR tunable laser systems. This article reviews transition metal doped II–VI materials and recent progress in Cr‐ and Fe‐doped solid‐state mid‐IR lasers.
Non‐Isothermal Kinetics of Hard α‐Keratin Thermal Denaturation
Authors: Istrate Daniel , Popescu Crisan , Möller Martin
Published: March 2009

DSC measurements carried out at different heating rates were used for the kinetic analysis of the endothermic process assigned to the denaturation of the helical material from human hair in water excess. We found that the kinetic mechanism is autocatalytic and that the value of the activation energy is close to disulphide bond scission rather than to protein denaturation. This allowed us to propose a multistep mechanism for the thermal denaturation of hard α‐keratins in water excess that relies on the 3‐phase model which describes their structure. The limiting step of the thermal denaturation process is then the scission of S–S bonds between the main morphological components, namely IF and matrix (IFAP). The theoretical proposed model shows a good agreement with the experimental recorded data.

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Preparation and Properties of Degradable Shape Memory Material Based on Partial α‐Cyclodextrin–Poly(ε‐caprolactone) Inclusion Complex
Authors: Luo Haiya , Fan Minmin , Yu Zhijun , Meng Xianwei , Li Bangjing , Zhang Sheng
Published: March 2009

A series of supramolecular degradable inclusion complex (IC) films were formed by threading α‐cyclodextrin (α‐CD) molecules over poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) according to the designed ratio of α‐CD–PCL. Due to containing both α‐CD–PCL inclusion crystallites and uncovered PCL crystallites, the resulting supramolecular α‐CD–PCL IC partial films displayed a shape memory effect. The properties of the materials were investigated by 1H NMR, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and swelling measurement. It was found that the casting temperature and solvent have great influence on the formation and properties of the α‐CD–PCL partial ICs. The modes of complexes on different conditions were proposed. In addition, the introduction of inclusion structure accelerates the degradation of materials strongly.

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Visualisation of Nanoclay Dispersion in Polymer Matrix by High‐Resolution Electron Microscopy Combined with Electron Tomography
Authors: Ray Suprakas Sinha
Published: March 2009

In order to establish the structure‐property relationship in the case of clay containing polymer nanocomposites, detailed understanding of silicate layers dispersion into the polymer matrix is necessary. In this study, biodegradable poly[(butylene succinate)‐co‐adipate] (PBSA) was chosen as a model polymer and the nanocomposite of PBSA with organically modified montmorillonite (OMMT) was prepared via the melt‐mixing in a batch mixer. The degree of dispersion of silicate layers in the PBSA matrix was investigated by means of wide angle X‐ray diffraction, small angle X‐ray scattering, high‐annular‐angle‐dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy, and high resolution transmission electron microscopy combined with electron tomography. Results demonstrated the homogeneous dispersion of clay platelets in the PBSA matrix. However, the true exfoliation of silicate layers in the polymer matrix is quite difficult to achieve, although there are strong favourable interactions between the polymer matrix and the OMMT surface.

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Processed allografts and type I collagen conduits for repair of peripheral nerve gaps
Authors: Whitlock Elizabeth L. , Tuffaha Sami H. , Luciano Janina P. , Yan Ying , Hunter Daniel A. , Magill Christina K. , Moore Amy M. , Tong Alice Y. , Mackinnon Susan E. , Borschel Gregory H.
Published: March 2009

Autografting is the gold standard in the repair of peripheral nerve injuries that are not amenable to end‐to‐end coaptation. However, because autografts result in donor‐site defects and are a limited resource, an effective substitute would be valuable. In a rat model, we compared isografts with Integra NeuraGen® (NG) nerve guides, which are a commercially available type I collagen conduit, with processed rat allografts comparable to AxoGen's Avance® human decellularized allograft product. In a 14‐mm sciatic nerve gap model, isograft was superior to processed allograft, which was in turn superior to NG conduit at 6 weeks postoperatively (P < 0.05 for number of myelinated fibers both at midgraft and distal to the graft). At 12 weeks, these differences were no longer apparent. In a 28‐mm graft model, isografts again performed better than processed allografts at both 6 and 22 weeks; regeneration through the NG conduit was often insufficient for analysis in this long graft model. Functional tests confirmed the superiority of isografts, although processed allografts permitted successful reinnervation of distal targets not seen in the NG conduit groups. Processed allografts were inherently non‐immunogenic and maintained some internal laminin structure. We conclude that, particularly in a long gap model, nerve graft alternatives fail to confer the regenerative advantages of an isograft. However, AxoGen processed allografts are superior to a currently available conduit‐style nerve guide, the Integra NeuraGen®. They provide an alternative for reconstruction of short nerve gaps where a conduit might otherwise be used. Muscle Nerve, 2008
Treatment strategies and regimens of graduated intensity for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia in low‐income countries: A proposal
Authors: Hunger Stephen P. , Sung Lillian , Howard Scott C.
Published: March 2009

Cure rates for children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) are 80–85% in high‐income countries (HICs) in North America and Western Europe. However, cure rates are much lower in many low‐income countries (LICs), where most cases of ALL occur. Over the past several decades partnerships (“twinning”) between HIC and LIC pediatric oncology programs have led to major improvements in outcome for children with ALL in some LICs, often by developing time and resource intensive relationships that allow LIC centers to treat children with regimens similar or identical to those used in HICs. However, the resources are not available in most LICs to allow immediate introduction of intensive ALL treatment regimens similar to those used in HICs. With these thoughts in mind, we present a proposal for a systematic and graduated approach to ALL diagnosis, risk classification, and treatment in LICs. We have based the strategy and the proposed regimens on those developed by the Children's Cancer Group (CCG) and Children's Oncology Group (COG) over the past several decades, beginning with a first level regimen similar to CCG therapy of the early 1980s and then layering on successive treatment intensifications proven effective in randomized clinical trials. Simple monitoring rules are included to help centers decide when they are ready to add new treatment components. This proposal provides a framework that LIC centers can use to provide effective ALL therapy, particularly in regions of the world where few children are currently being cured. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:559–565. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Start‐up of slot die coating
Authors: Chang Yi‐Rong , Lin Chi‐Feng , Liu Ta‐Jo
Published: March 2009

A flow visualization technique was employed to observe the start‐up of slot die coating. The effects of five variables, i.e., prewetting on the die surface, fluid viscosity, slot gap, coating gap, and die lip length on the start‐up time were investigated. Prewetting on the die surface can effectively reduce the start‐up time. Any variable that enlarges the steady‐state coating bead would increase the start‐up time. Therefore, increasing the fluid viscosity, coating gap, slot gap and decreasing the die lip length can be helpful in reducing the start‐up time. It was found that there exist four distinct modes for the establishment of steady‐state coating bead. The four distinct modes can be distinguished by a Reynolds number, which is defined as the ratio of the inertial force of the coating solution impinging on the moving web to the viscous force needed to pull the coating solution on the web. Comparison of the experimental observation with the theoretical prediction based on the commercial package Flow3D was also performed; the four modes can be found in the numerical simulations, the start‐up time computed to reach steady state is shorter. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers