bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrothermal Synthesis, Crystal Structures and Photoluminescence of Two Novel Metal‐organic Supramolecular Frameworks Based on Mixed Ligands of Dipyrazino[2,3‐f:2′,3′‐h]quinoxaline and Pyridine‐2,5‐dicarboxylic Acid
Authors: WANG Xiu‐Li , LIU Guo‐Cheng , LIN Hong‐Yan , CHEN Bao‐Kuan , FANG Jia‐Ni , ZHAO Hai‐Yan
Published: September 2008

Two novel metal‐organic frameworks [Zn2(Dpq)2(2,5‐pda)2(H2O)2]·2H2O (1) (dipyrazino[2,3‐f:2′3′‐h]quinoxaline=Dpq) and [Cd2(Dpq)2(2,5‐pda)2]·2H2O (2) (pyridine‐2,5‐dicarboxylic acid=2,5‐H2pda) have been obtained from hydrothermal reactions of two different metal(II) nitrates with the same mixed ligands Dpq and 2,5‐H2pda, and structurally characterized by elemental analyses, TG, IR spectroscopy, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analyse. Single‐crystal X‐ray analyses show that the metal ions are bridged by different coordination modes of 2,5‐pda to form a dimer in 1, 2D rhombic grid in 2, respectively. In the compound 1, adjacent dimers are packed through hydrogen bonds and ‐ aromatic stacking interactions to form a distorted α‐Po supramolecular structure. In the compound 2, adjacent polymer layers are further linked by hydrogen bonds to form a distorted α‐Po 3D supramolecular framework stabilized by ‐ stacking interactions. The different structures of compounds 1 and 2 illustrate the influence of the metal ions and ligands on the self‐assembly of polymeric coordination architectures. In addition, the title compounds exhibit blue emission in the solid state at room temperature.
Second‐order Scattering and Frequency Doubling Scattering Spectra of Thallium(III)‐Methotrexate System and Its Analytical Application
Authors: XI Cun‐Xian , LIU Zhong‐Fang , HU Xiao‐Li , LIU Shao‐Pu , DUAN Hui
Published: September 2008

In pH 4.9 Britton‐Robinson buffer solution, methotrexate (MTX) reacted with thallium(III) to form a 3:1 chelate. This resulted in great enhancement of second‐order scattering (SOS) spectra and frequency doubling scattering (FDS) spectra and appearance of new SOS and FDS spectra. Their maximum wavelengths were located at 520 and 390 nm, respectively. The increments of scattering intensities (ΔI) were directly proportional to the concentrations of MTX in the ranges of 0.022–2.0 µg·mL−1(SOS method) and 0.008–2.5 µg·mL−1(FDS method). The methods exhibited high sensitivities. The detection limits for MTX were 7.4 ng·mL−1(SOS method) and 2.3 ng·mL−1(FDS method), respectively. The optimum conditions of the reaction, the influencing factors and the effects of coexisting substances were investigated. A highly sensitive, simple and fast method for the determination of MTX has been developed. The method can be applied satisfactorily to the determination of MTX in human serum samples. In this work, the charge distribution of MTX was calculated by a CNDO quantum chemistry method. In addition, the reaction mechanism was discussed.
An HPLC Method for Determination of a New Diorganotin(IV) Benzohydroxamate in Rat Plasma and Its Application to Pharmacokinetic Studies
Authors: LI Yun‐Lan , LI Yong , LIU Jin‐Jie , YANG Li , NIU Xiao‐Qiang , LI Qing‐Shan
Published: September 2008

[(n‐Bu)2Sn{4‐ClC6H4C(O)NHO}2] (DBDCT) is a new diorganotin(IV) benzohydroxamate which shows high in vivo antitumor activity with relative low toxicity. An HPLC method for the determination of diorganotin(IV) benzohydroxamate (DBDCT) was first validated in the pharmacokinetic studies in plasma. The rat plasma was deproteinized with methanol that contained acetanilide as the internal standard and then separated. The HPLC assay was carried out using a Diamonsil ODS (4.6 mm×200 mm, 5 µm) column. The mobile phase was methanol and 0.5% trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) in water (30:70, V/V, pH 3.0) with a flow rate of 1.0 mL·min−1. The detection wavelength was set at 238 nm. This method was found to be linear within the concentration range of 0.1–25 ��g·mL−1 (r=0.9992). The limit values of quantification and detection were 50 and 10 ng·mL−1, respectively. The method was used to determine the concentration‐time profiles for DBDCT in the plasma after single intravenous administration with different doses to rats (2, 5, 12 mg·kg−1). The pharmacokinetics parameter calculations and modeling were carried out using the 3p97 pharmacokinetics software. The results showed that the concentration‐time curve of DBDCT in rat plasma could be fitted to the two‐component model.
An Unprecedented 2D 4f‐3d‐5d Multimetal‐Isonicotinic Acid Complex: Synthesis, Structural Characterization and Magnetic Properties
Authors: CHEN Wen‐Tong , ZENG Xi‐Rui , LIU Dong‐Sheng , YING Shao‐Ming , LIU Jiu‐Hui
Published: September 2008

A novel heterometallic metal‐isonicotinic acid inorganic‐organic hybrid complex [Zn0.5(H2O)]{(Hg2Cl5)‐ [Er(C6NO2H4)3(H2O)2]}(HgCl2)·0.5CH3OH·0.5H2O (1) has been successfully synthesized via a hydrothermal reaction and structurally characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Complex 1 crystallizes in the space group C2/c of the monoclinic system with eight formula units in a cell: a=34.165(4) Å, b=9.4692(8) Å, c=24.575(3) Å, β =115.090(5)°, V=7200(1) Å3, C18.50H21Cl7ErHg3N3O10Zn0.50, Mr=1495.25, Dc=2.759 g/cm3, T=293(2) K, µ(Mo Kα) =15.954 mm−1, F(000) =5400 and R1/wR2=0.0561/0.0909 for 3157 observed reflections [I>2δ(I)] and 6468 unique reflections. Complex 1 is characteristic of a novel 2D {(Hg2Cl5)[Er(C6NO2H4)3(H2O)2]} layered structure constructed from the [Er(C6NO2H4)3(H2O)2] chains interconnected by the Hg2Cl5− linkers. The 2D {(Hg2Cl5)[Er(C6NO2H4)3(H2O)2]} layers, mercury chloride and the lattice water molecules are held together via hydrogen bonds to form a three‐dimensional framework with the methanol molecules and the hydrated zinc ions located in the cavities. The magnetic properties show that complex 1 exhibits antiferromagnetic‐like interactions.
Self‐condensation of Terminal Acetylenic Ketones via Organozinc Species
Authors: GAO Jun‐Li , LIU Yong‐Kang , XUE Song
Published: September 2008

A self‐condensation reaction of α,β‐acetylenic ketones via organozinc species CF3CO2ZnEt to afford the β‐branched Morita‐Bayllis‐Hillman adducts has been developed. This reaction system provides functionalized trisubstituted olefins in good yields. Organozinc species CF3CO2ZnCH2I, an efficient cyclopropanation reagent, can also react with aromatic acetylenic ketones to provide 2,5‐dihydrofurans in moderate yields.
Synthesis of SiH Functional Poly(phenylsilane) and Organosilane Copolymers: Low‐valent Titanium Induced Polymerization of Organodichlorosilanes
Authors: LI Zhi‐Fang , HUANG Jia‐Bang , LAI Guo‐Qiao , JIANG Jian‐Xiong , ZHANG Yong‐Min
Published: September 2008

Using the low‐valent titanium reagent (Zn/TiCl4), dichlorophenylsilane underwent a reductive polymerization reaction to give Si–H functional poly(phenylsilane) (Mw/Mn=2.5, Mn=2400) in a moderate yield. Applying this method, the corresponding organosilane copolymers (2b–2f) were also obtained. The absorption maxima of these organosilane copolymers are remarkably hypsochromically shifted in comparison with those of poly(diarylsilane)s.
Preparation of Silyl Ethers Using Hexamethyldisilazane in the Presence of N‐Bromosuccinimide under Mild and Solvent‐Free Conditions
Authors: SHATERIAN Hamid Reza , DOOSTMOHAMMADI Razieh , GHASHANG Majid
Published: September 2008

A mild, simple, novel and highly efficient method for the rapid protection of various primary, secondary, tertiary aliphatic and aromatic alcohols using hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) in the presence of N‐bromosuccinimide (NBS) as an active, inexpensive, non‐toxic and readily available catalyst under solvent‐free conditions is described. Trimethylsilyl ethers were prepared in high to excellent yields with short reaction time under mild and almost neutral reaction conditions.
Synthesis of 2′,3′‐Di‐O‐acetylfrangulin A and Prinoidin, Two Novel Anthracene L‐Rhamnopyranosides Isolated from Rhamnus nepalensis
Authors: SONG Gao‐Peng , WANG Peng , ZHANG Zai‐Hong , SHI Da‐Kuo , LI Ying‐Xia
Published: September 2008

The total synthesis of 2′,3′‐di‐O‐acetylfrangulin A (1) and prinoidin (2), which were isolated from Rhamnus nepalensis and showed significant cytotoxicity to KB cell line, was achieved for the first time. The structures of the two compounds were confirmed by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, 1H‐1H COSY, HMQC and HMBC.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure and Electrochemical Studies of catena‐Poly([bis(1‐vinyl‐1H‐imidazole‐κN3)copper(II)]‐ µ ‐phthalato‐κ2O:O′)
Authors: LI Shao‐Xiang , ZHAO Guang‐Fa , LIU Fa‐Qian , HUANG Zhao‐Ge , LI Wei‐Hua , LIU Guang‐Ye
Published: September 2008

The crystal of [Cu(pa)(vim)2]n (where pa=phthalic acid dianion, vim=1‐vinyl‐1H‐imidazole) was synthesized and its structure was characterized by X‐ray single crystal diffractometry and elemental analysis. It crystallizes in monoclinic system, C2/c space group with the cell parameters of a=1.6527(3) nm, b=0.81800(16) nm, c=1.4463(3) nm, β=113.19(3)°, V=1.7973(7) nm3, Z=4, and Dc=1.537 g·cm−3. Final R indices [I>2δ(I)] are: R1=0.0476, wR2=0.1235 while R indices for all data are: R1=0.0693, wR2=0.1355. The title compound exhibits an existence of polymeric zigzag chains extended along c‐axis. Each Cu(II) ion is located at a crystallographic center of symmetry being coordinated by two N and two O atoms in a distorted square‐planar geometry. The electrochemical studies reveal that redox of Cu2+/Cu+ is a quasi‐reversible one‐electron process.
Electrochemical Reduction and Carboxylation of Ethyl Cinnamate in MeCN
Authors: WANG Huan , DU Yan‐Fang , LIN Mei‐Yu , ZHANG Kai , LU Jia‐Xing
Published: September 2008

The electrochemical reduction and carboxylation of ethyl cinnamate have been carried out in an undivided cell equipped with a Mg sacrificial anode using MeCN as solvent. Direct electroreduction led to the formation of the hydrodimers and saturated ester. And electrocarboxylation was carried out in the presence of CO2. The global yield and the ratio of mono‐ to dicarboxylic acids were strongly affected by various factors: electrode material, electrolysis potential, the substrate concentration and temperature. The high yield (78%) was obtained under an optimized reaction condition (cathode: Ni; electrolysis potential: −1.7 V; substrate concentration: 0.1 mol·L−1; and temperature: −10 °C).
Substantial family history of prostate cancer in black men recruited for prostate cancer screening
Authors: Mastalski Kathleen , Coups Elliot J. , Ruth Karen , Raysor Susan , Giri Veda N.
Published: September 2008

BACKGROUND.

Black men are at increased risk for prostate cancer (PCA), particularly with a family history (FH) of the disease. Previous reports have raised concern for suboptimal screening of black men with an FH of PCA. The extent of FH of PCA are reported from a prospective, longitudinal PCA screening program for high‐risk men.

METHODS.

Black men ages 35 to 69 years are eligible for PCA screening through the Prostate Cancer Risk Assessment Program (PRAP) regardless of FH. Rates of self‐reported FH of PCA, breast, and colon cancer at baseline were compared with an age‐matched sample of black men from the 2005 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) using standard statistical methods.

RESULTS.

As of January 2007, 332 black men with pedigree information were enrolled in PRAP and FH of PCA was compared with 838 black men from the 2005 NHIS. Black men in PRAP reported significantly more first‐degree relatives with PCA compared with black men in the 2005 NHIS (34.3% [95% confidence interval (95% CI), 29.2‐39.7] vs 5.7% [95% CI, 3.9‐7.4]). Black men in PRAP also had more FH of breast cancer compared with those in the 2005 NHIS (11.5% [95% CI, 8.2‐15.4] vs 6.3% [95% CI, 4.6‐8.0]).

CONCLUSIONS.

FH of PCA appears to be a motivating factor for black men seeking PCA screening. Targeted recruitment and education among black families should improve PCA screening rates. Efforts to recruit black men without an FH of PCA are also needed. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Cryoablation or radiofrequency ablation of the small renal mass
Authors: Kunkle David A. , Uzzo Robert G.
Published: September 2008

BACKGROUND.

The incidence of renal cell carcinoma is rising because of incidental detection of small renal masses (SRMs). Although surgical resection remains the standard of care, cryoablation and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) have emerged as minimally invasive treatment alternatives. The authors of this report performed a comparative meta‐analysis evaluating cryoablation and RFA as primary treatment for SRMs.

METHODS.

A search of the MEDLINE database was performed reviewing the world literature for clinically localized renal masses treated by cryoablation or RFA.

RESULTS.

Forty‐seven studies representing 1375 kidney lesions treated by cryoablation or RFA were analyzed. No differences were detected between ablation modalities with regard to mean patient age (P = .17), tumor size (P = .12), or duration of follow‐up (P = .53). Pretreatment biopsy was performed more often for cryoablated lesions (82.3%) than for RFA (62.2%; P < .0001). Unknown pathology occurred at a significantly higher rate for SRMs that underwent RFA (40.4%) versus cryoablation (24.5%; P < .0001). Repeat ablation was performed more often after RFA (8.5% vs 1.3%; P < .0001), and the rates of local tumor progression were significantly higher for RFA (12.9% vs 5.2%; P < .0001) compared with cryoablation. The higher incidence of local tumor progression was found to be correlated significantly with treatment by RFA on univariate analysis (P = .001) and on multivariate regression analysis (P = .003). Metastasis was reported less frequently for cryoablation (1.0%) versus RFA (2.5%; P = .06). Cryoablation usually was performed laparoscopically (65%), whereas 94% of lesions that were treated with RFA were approached percutaneously.

CONCLUSIONS.

Ablation of SRMs is a viable strategy based on short‐term oncologic outcomes. Although extended oncologic efficacy remains to be established for ablation modalities, the current data suggest that cryoablation results in fewer retreatments and improved local tumor control, and it may be associated with a lower risk of metastatic progression compared with RFA. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Renal tumor ablation is a function of patient selection and technique—Not the ablation technology
Authors: Cadeddu Jeffrey A. , Raman Jay D.
Published: September 2008

In this issue, although the authors of a meta‐analysis of the existing published literature on cryoablation and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) acknowledge multiple shortcomings in their data, they nevertheless present a conclusion that suggests the superiority of cryoablation over RFA. However, differences in ablation techniques and patient selection may influence the rates of tumor retreatment and disease recurrence, making it difficult to reach any conclusion regarding the superiority of 1 ablation technique over another.
CO Blocking of D2 Dissociative Adsorption on Ru(0001)
Authors: Ueta Hirokazu , Groot Irene M. N. , Gleeson Michael A. , Stolte Steven , McBane George C. , Juurlink Ludo B. F. , Kleyn Aart W.
Published: September 2008

The influence of pre‐adsorbed CO on the dissociative adsorption of D2 on Ru(0001) is studied by molecular‐beam techniques. We determine the initial dissociation probability of D2 as a function of its kinetic energy for various CO pre‐coverages between 0.00 and 0.67 monolayers (ML) at a surface temperature of 180 K. The results indicate that CO blocks D2 dissociation and perturbs the local surface reactivity up to the nearest‐neighbour Ru atoms. Non‐activated sticking and dissociation become less important with increasing CO coverage, and vanish at θCO≈0.33 ML. In addition, at high D2 kinetic energy (>35 kJ mol−1) the site‐blocking capability of CO decreases rapidly. These observations are attributed to a CO‐induced activation barrier for D2 dissociation in the vicinity of CO molecules.
Europium‐Doped Mesoporous Titania Thin Films: Rare‐Earth Locations and Emission Fluctuations under Illumination
Authors: Leroy Celine Marie , Cardinal Thierry , Jubera Veronique , Treguer‐Delapierre Mona , Majimel Jerome , Manaud Jean Pierre , Backov Renal , Boissière Cedric , Grosso David , Sanchez Clement , Viana Bruno , Pellé Fabienne
Published: September 2008

Herein, EuIII‐doped 3D mesoscopically ordered arrays of mesoporous and nanocrystalline titania are prepared and studied. The rare‐earth‐doped titania thin films—synthesized via evaporation‐induced self‐assembly (EISA)—are characterized by using environmental ellipsoporosimetry, electronic microscopy (i.e. high‐resolution scanning electron microscopy, HR‐SEM, and transmission electron microscopy, HR‐TEM), X‐ray diffraction, and luminescence spectroscopy. Structural characterizations show that high europium‐ion loadings can be incorporated into the titanium‐dioxide walls without destroying the mesoporous arrangement. The luminescence properties of EuIII are investigated by using steady‐state and time‐resolved spectroscopy via excitation of the EuIII ions through the titania host. Using EuIII luminescence as a probe, the europium‐ion sites can be addressed with at least two different environments within the mesoporous framework, namely, a nanocrystalline environment and a glasslike one. Emission fluctuations (5D0→7F2) are observed upon continuous UV excitation in the host matrix. These fluctuations are attributed to charge trapping and appear to be strongly dependent on the amount of europium and the level of crystallinity.
Cyano Analogues of 7‐Azaindole: Probing Excited‐State Charge‐Coupled Proton Transfer Reactions in Protic Solvents
Authors: Hsieh Cheng‐Chih , Chen Kew‐Yu , Hsieh Wan‐Ting , Lai Chin‐Hung , Shen Jiun‐Yi , Jiang Chang‐Ming , Duan Hsin‐Sheng , Chou Pi‐Tai
Published: September 2008

The interplay between excited‐state charge and proton transfer reactions in protic solvents is investigated in a series of 7‐azaindole (7AI) derivatives: 3‐cyano‐7‐azaindole (3CNAI), 5‐cyano‐7‐azaindole (5CNAI), 3,5‐dicyano‐7‐azaindole (3,5CNAI) and dicyanoethenyl‐7‐azaindole (DiCNAI). Similar to 7AI, 3CNAI and 3,5CNAI undergo methanol catalyzed excited‐state double proton transfer (ESDPT), resulting in dual (normal and proton transfer) emission. Conversely, ESDPT is prohibited for 5CNAI and DiCNAI in methanol, as supported by a unique normal emission with high quantum efficiency. Instead, the normal emission undergoes prominent solvatochromism. Detailed relaxation dynamics and temperature dependent studies are carried out. The results conclude that significant excited‐state charge transfer (ESCT) takes place for both 5CNAI and DiCNAI. The charge‐transfer specie possesses a different dipole moment from that of the proton‐transfer tautomer species. Upon reaching the equilibrium polarization, there exists a solvent‐polarity induced barrier during the proton‐transfer tautomerization, and ESDPT is prohibited for 5CNAI and DiCNAI during the excited‐state lifespan. The result is remarkably different from 7AI, which is also unique among most excited‐state charge/proton transfer coupled systems studied to date.
Host–Guest Interaction of Chaperonin GroEL and Water‐Soluble CdTe Quantum Dots and its Size‐Selective Inclusion
Authors: Dong Chaoqing , Shao Liwen , Guo Jiacheng , Ren Jicun
Published: September 2008

Some nanoparticles, such as quantum dots (QDs), are widely used in the biological and biomedical fields due to their unique optical properties. However, little is currently known about the interaction between these nanoparticles and biomolecules. Herein, we systemically investigated the interaction between chaperonin GroEL and water‐soluble CdTe QDs based on fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS), capillary electrophoresis, and fluorescence spectrometry. We observed that some water‐soluble CdTe QDs were able to enter the inner cavity of GroEL and formed an inclusion complex after the activation of chaperonin GroEL with ATP. The inclusion of GroEL was size‐selective to QDs and only small QDs were able to enter the inner cavity. The inclusion could suppress the fluorescence quenching of the QDs. Meanwhile, we evaluated the association constant between chaperonin GroEL and CdTe QDs by FCS. Our results further demonstrated that FCS was a very useful tool for study of the interaction of QDs and biomolecules.
Activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling reporter in developing mouse olfactory nerve layer marks a specialized subgroup of olfactory ensheathing cells
Authors: Wang Ya‐Zhou , Molotkov Andrei , Song Lanying , Li Yunhong , Pleasure David E. , Zhou Cheng‐Ji
Published: September 2008

Wnt reporter TOPgal mice carry a β‐galactosidase (βgal) gene under the control of the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling responsive elements. We found that the intensely immunolabeled βgal+ cells were co‐immunolabeled with Nestin and formed a tangentially oriented single‐cell layer in the “connecting or docking zone” where the olfactory sensory axons attached to the brain surface during mid‐gestation. During early postnatal development, βgal+ cells were located in the inner olfactory nerve layer (ONLi) and co‐labeled with olfactory ensheathing cell (OEC) markers S100β and NPY but not with lineage‐specific markers for neurons, oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, and microglia, demonstrating that the TOPgal marked a subpopulation of OECs. By confocal microscopy, we found that TOPgal activated processes extended along the developing glomerulus and formed multiple tunnel‐like structures that ensheathe and bridge olfactory sensory axonal bundles from ONLi to the glomerulus, which may play a key role in glomerulus formation and convergent sorting of the peripheral olfactory axons. Developmental Dynamics 237:3157–3168, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Multiple evolutionarily conserved enhancers control expression of Eya1
Authors: Ishihara Tadashi , Sato Shigeru , Ikeda Keiko , Yajima Hiroshi , Kawakami Kiyoshi
Published: September 2008

Eya1 is a homolog of eyes absent in Drosophila, and essential for various organ formations in vertebrates. Mouse and chick Eya1 shows dynamic expression pattern in early development. We identified ten independent Eya1 enhancers by screening evolutionarily conserved sequences. They exhibited enhancer activities in Hensen's node, neural tube, migrating neural crest cells, otic vesicle, olfactory placode, cranial ganglia, and somites at HH6–17 of chick embryo. The sum of the enhancer activities of the enhancers covers the endogenous expression domains of Eya1 common to chick and mouse. Enhancer activities were also observed in species‐specific expression domains such as trigeminal ganglia and brain. Mutational study of one of the enhancers revealed that the enhancer is composed of positive and negative cis‐regulatory elements. Thus, we successfully identified a comprehensive group of enhancers around Eya1 locus, which are probably involved in the control of the complex expression pattern of Eya1 in vivo. Developmental Dynamics 237:3142–3156, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nuclear receptor BgFTZ‐F1 regulates molting and the timing of ecdysteroid production during nymphal development in the hemimetabolous insect Blattella germanica
Authors: Cruz Josefa , Nieva Claudia , Mané‐Padrós Daniel , Martín David , Bellés Xavier
Published: September 2008

Postembryonic development of holometabolous and hemimetabolous insects occurs through successive molts triggered by 20‐hydroxyecdysone (20E). The molecular action of 20E has been extensively studied in holometabolous insects, but data on hemimetabolous are scarce. We have demonstrated that during the nymphal development of the hemimetabolous insect Blattella germanica, 20E binds to the heterodimeric receptor formed by the nuclear receptors BgEcR‐A and BgRXR activating a cascade of gene expression, including the nuclear receptors BgE75 and BgHR3. Herein, we report the characterization of BgFTZ‐F1, another nuclear hormone receptor involved in 20E action. BgFTZ‐F1 is activated at the end of each instar, and RNAi has demonstrated that BgHR3 is needed for BgFTZ‐F1 activation, and that BgFTZ‐F1 has critical functions of during the last nymphal instar. Nymphs with silenced BgFTZ‐F1 cannot ecdyse, arrest development, and show structures of ectodermal origin duplicated. BgFTZ‐F1 also controls the timing of the ecdysteroid molting pulse. Developmental Dynamics 237:3179–3191, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression profile and estrogenic regulation of anti‐Müllerian hormone during gonadal development in pejerrey Odontesthes bonariensis, a teleost fish with strong temperature‐dependent sex determination
Authors: Fernandino Juan Ignacio , Hattori Ricardo Shohei , Kimura Hiroyuki , Strüssmann Carlos Augusto , Somoza Gustavo Manuel
Published: September 2008

Pejerrey is a teleost fish presenting a strong temperature‐dependent sex determination. This study was conducted to clone pejerrey amh cDNA, analyze its expression profile during thermal and endocrine manipulation of gonadal differentiation, and compare its expression with that of gonadal aromatase (cyp19a1). Amh displayed higher expression at masculinizing than at feminizing temperatures during the gonadal differentiation period. Its expression at an intermediate temperature (females 1:1 males), was high in half of the larvae and low in the other half. Cyp19a1 showed a reciprocal expression pattern to that of amh both individually‐ and temperature‐wise. Increased cyp19a1 and amh expression was observed before morphological gonadal differentiation. Amh expression in larvae feminized by administration of estradiol or masculinized by the administration of an aromatase inhibitor was down‐ and up‐regulated, respectively. These results show that amh plays a critical role in testicular differentiation and it is apparently modulated by estrogens in this species. Developmental Dynamics 237:3192–3199, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A ring network with VLAN tag
Authors: Shimizu Hiroshi
Published: September 2008

The proposed Ring Network with VLAN Tag offers the features of wrapping/steering control functions and 1+1 path protection function, maintaining compatibility with the Ethernet media access control scheme. The key technology for “Path concept” is VLAN tag swapping operation. A set of primary and backup paths is defined between ring nodes, which are distinguished by a flag bit in VLAN tag field. On failure detection, the path is switched within the path set by the tag swapping. Tag swapping at the failure detection node, while tag swapping at the source node achieves steering operation, achieves Wrapping operation. The restoration behavior is almost the same as that of Resilient Packet Ring (RPR). Since the tag swapping control is based on hardware processing, high‐speed operation is also expected. Furthermore, because the paths are independently designed from the physical topology, the scheme can be applied to networks other than physical ring networks. The proposed scheme will fit to the path control for next‐generation Ethernet over WDM system. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 166(1): 60–66, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20422
Force sensorless robust tracking servo system suppressing periodic disturbance and sudden disturbance for optical disk system
Authors: Hayano Toru , Ohishi Kiyoshi , Miyazaki Toshimasa , Koide Daiichi , Tokumaru Haruki
Published: September 2008

This paper proposes a new force sensorless robust tracking servo system, which detects and suppresses both the periodic disturbance and the sudden disturbance without force sensor. The proposed system estimates both the periodic disturbance and the sudden disturbance and the sudden disturbance by using a new sudden disturbance observer and the memory of tracking error. In the proposed system, the influence of sudden disturbance is suppressed by the proposed sudden disturbance observer. On the other hand, the influence of periodic disturbance is suppressed by means of ZPET feed‐forward servo system. The experimental results point out that the proposed tracking servo system has a precise tracking response against both the periodic disturbance and the sudden disturbance. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 166(1): 82–90, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20614
Autonomous dispersed control system for independent micro grid
Authors: Kawasaki Kensuke , Matsumura Shigenori , Iwabu Koichi , Fujimura Naoto , Iima Takahito
Published: September 2008

In this paper, we show an autonomous dispersed control system for independent micro grid of which performance has been substantiated in China by Shikoku Electric Power Co. and its subsidiary companies under the trust of NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization).

For the control of grid interconnected generators, the exclusive information line is very important to save fuel cost and maintain high frequency quality of the electric power supply, but it is relatively expensive in such small micro grids. We contrived an autonomous dispersed control system without any exclusive information line for dispatching control and adjusting supply control. We have confirmed through the substantiation project in China that this autonomous dispersed control system for an independent micro grid has a very satisfactory characteristic from the viewpoint of less fuel consumption and high electric quality. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 166(1): 28–35, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20618
Development of a 3‐dimensional LIGA process and application to fabricate a spiral microcoil
Authors: Mekaru Harutaka , Kusumi Shinji , Sato Noriaki , Shimizu Masami , Yamashita Michiru , Shimada Osamu , Hattori Tadashi
Published: September 2008

LIGA process has been developed in the 2.5‐dimensional world. We introduced new technologies of a 3D X‐ray lithography and a worm injection molding with an unscrewing de‐molding mechanism, and succeeded in the deployment of a 3D LIGA process. Furthermore, we fabricated a spiral microcoil using the 3D‐LIGA process and a metallization technique combining flat and smooth electroplating and isotropic chemical etching. The microcoil diameter was 0.5 mm and the length was 1 mm. The width of coil lines was 10µm and the pitch was 20µm. Characteristics of this microcoil as an inductor combine the inductance of 91 nH and the quality factor of 5.8 at the frequency of 1 GHz. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 166(1): 43–51, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20679
Breakdown of YBCO thin films during current limiting and methods of improving current limiting performance
Authors: Ootani Akifumi , Hori Tetsuo , Endo Mikihiko , Furuse Mitsuho , Yamaguchi Iwao , Kaiho Katsuyuki , Yanabu Satoru
Published: September 2008

We performed fault current limiting tests using YBCO thin films and investigated the reasons for their breakdown during current limiting. There were two patterns of film breakdown. One occurred immediately after current limiting and the other occurred during current limiting. In film breakdown, the quench propagation speed showed almost no change with increasing energy consumption per unit time, but the energy consumption per unit area increased with increasing energy consumption per unit time. Therefore, local areas of the film reached the melting point and arcing occurred.

It is therefore concluded that the performance of the films can be improved by decreasing the energy consumption per unit time. Connecting a parallel capacitor to the film in order to limit the energy consumption per unit time is proposed and tested as a measure to improve the current limiting performance of thin films. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 166(1): 20–27, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20709
Service restoration problem in distribution power system using improved GA
Authors: Iwasaki Keisuke , Aoki Hidenori
Published: September 2008

The service restoration problem in distribution power systems has already been addressed with regard to this issue, for purposes such as the minimization of unrecovered load and power supply loss, considerations of priority sections, and preparation of switching procedures. However, since this involves the application of a number of methods, the related algorithms are complex. In this paper, in order to resolve this issue we first apply GA as an optimization method for investigation purposes, to simplify the algorithms used. Next, to confirm this proposed method's effects in reducing computing time, we consider the efficacy of the proposed method by using smaller numbers of generations and individual sizes than have been used in the past. The effectiveness of the proposed method is shown by the system when failure occurs. It is clear that the proposed method, consisting of GA only, is superior in terms of average fitness values and the ability to reduce computation times. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 166(1): 10–19, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20752
Novel Thorium Membrane Sensors with Anionic Response Based on Trioctylphosphine Oxide and Toluate Ionophores
Authors: Hassan Saad S. M. , Elnemma Eman M. , Attawiya Amr M. Y.
Published: September 2008

Two novel potentiometric polymeric membrane sensors for rapid and accurate determination of thorium are described. These are based on the use of trioctylphosphine oxide (TOPO) and thorium toluate (Th‐TA) as ionophores dispersed in poly(vinyl chloride) matrix membranes plasticized with nitrophenyloctyl ether. In strong nitric acid medium, Th(IV) nitrate is converted into [Th(NO3)6]2− complex and sensed as anionic divalent ion which exclude most cationic effect. Validation of the assay methods using the quality assurance standards (linearity range, accuracy, precision, within‐day variability, between‐day‐repeatability, lower detection limit and sensitivity) reveals excellent performance characteristics of both sensors. The sensors exhibit near‐Nernstian response for 1.0×10−6–1.0×10−1 M Th over the pH range 2.5–4.5. Calibration slopes of −32.3±0.3 and −27.2±0.2 mV/decade, precision of ±0.5 and ±0.8% and accuracy of 98.8±0.9 and 97.9±0.7% are obtained with TOPO and Th‐TA based sensors, respectively. Negligible interferences are caused by most interfering mono‐, di‐, tri‐, tetra‐, penta‐, and hexa‐valent elements commonly associated with thorium in naturally occurring minerals and ores. High concentrations of Cl−, F−, SO42−, and NO3− ions have no diverse effect. Complete removal of the effect of the interferents in complex matrices is achieved by retention of [Th(NO3)6]2− complex from 5 M nitric acid/methanol mixture (1 : 9 v/v) on a strong anion exchanger, washing out the cationic interferents followed by stripping off thorium anion complex and measurements. Both sensors are used for determining thorium in certified thorium ore samples (20–120 mg Th/kg) and some naturally occurring ores (200–600 mg Th/kg). The results obtained agree fairly well with the certified labeled values or the data obtained using X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry
Mutagenesis and DNA repair for alkylation damages in Escherichia coli k‐12
Authors: Abril Nieves , Roldán‐Arjona Teresa , Prieto‐Alamo Maria‐José , Van Zeeland Albert A. , Pueyo Carmen
Published: September 2008

In this work we report on the isolation of an Escherichia coli K‐12 mutation, which confers a high sensitivity to bacteria cells to mutagenesis by simple monofunctional alkylating agents. The mutation emerged spontaneously from a bacterial strain that already proved useful in various mutagenicity studies. By monitoring the influence of such a mutation on the frequency of induced mutation by ethylating (EMS, DES, ENU, ENNG) vs. methylating (MMS, DMS, MNU, MNNG) compounds, and on the in vivo repair capacity for different alkyl‐DNA lesions (O6‐alkG, N7‐alkG, N3‐meA), we conclude that the mutation should affect the gene (ogt) that encodes constitutive DNA repair alkyltransferase (ATase). Thus in the presence of ada, differences in mutagenicity were observed only with ethylating agents; the sensitization of cells to both the ethylating and methylating partners requiring, by contrast, the absence of the ada protein. These results support the reported in vitro substrate specificities for both ogt and ada ATases. The parental cells exhibited biphasic dose‐response curves in accordance with the idea of low basal level saturation attributed to the uninducible ogt ATase. Deficient bacterial derivatives showed, by contrast, linear mutation induction responses. The in vivo removal of alkylated bases from DNA was measured in bacterial strains deficient in the excision repair pathway (ΔuvrB) and unable to induce the adaptive response (ada::Tn10). The very low initial levels for O6‐meG and O6‐etG (1.1 and 0.2 molecules per cell, respectively) were readily repaired by the parental cells but remained unchanged in the hypermutable derivatives. This result suggests that in the absence of nucleotide excision repair and of the adaptive response, no alternative pathway, other than ogt, is available for the repair of the major mutagenic lesion, O6‐alkG, at least during the first 4 hours after alkylation. Comparatively, no differences were found in the capacity to repair the major lethal adduct, N3‐meA, in agreement with the fact that no effect on cell survival was detected. In conclusion, we propose that the biological significance of the ogt protein relies mainly on its ability to prevent mutagenesis by low levels of bulkier ethylation products (especially in the absence of uvr excision repair). This is in accordance with the relative inefficiency of these agents as inducers of the adaptive response, as well as the relative inefficiency of the ada ATase in dealing with alkylation products longer than methyl adducts. The ogt protein provided additional resistance to mutation by low doses of methylating agents, as it was observed in ada deficient bacteria. Thus the broad substrate specificity of ogt ATase would appear to be also of biological relevance.
Structure‐activity relationship in the mutagenic effect of chiral or racemic 2‐bromo‐propanamides on Salmonella typhimurium
Authors: Dolzani L. , Tamaro M. , Lagatolla C. , Monti‐Bragadin C. , Cavicchioni G. , Marchetti P. , D'Angeli F.
Published: September 2008

Some 2‐bromo‐propanamides were prepared and tested for direct mutagenicity in Salmonella typhimurium TA 100. Results confirm the mutagenic activity of 2‐bromo‐N‐benzyl‐propanamide and indicate that it is independent of enantiomeric configuration. A variation in the chemical structure, namely, the addition of a methyl group at the benzylic carbon, causes the four resulting diastereomers to be devoid of any activity. Conversely, some racemic ring‐substituted methoxy and/or hydroxy derivatives of the parent compound displayed mutagenic properties, causing an increase in the number of his+ revertants up to 524 per milligram per plate.
Mutagenicity of β‐alkyl substituted acrolein congeners in the Salmonella typhimurium strain TA100 and genotoxicity testing in the SOS chromotest
Authors: Eder Erwin , Deininger Christoph , Neudecker Tilman , Deininger Doris
Published: September 2008

The β‐alkyl substituted acrolein congeners crotonaldehyde, trans‐2‐pentenal, trans‐2‐hexenal, 2,4‐hexadienal, and trans‐2‐heptenal were clearly mutagenic in a slightly modified preincubation Ames test with Salmonella typhimurium TA100 with and without S9 mix using a three fold bacterial cell density and a 90‐min preincubation time, whereas trans‐cis‐2,6‐nonadienal did not show any mutagenic activity. The greatest impediment to adequate mutagenicity testing of these compounds is their toxicity toward bacteria. Within the congener family tested, toxicity increases as a function of both chain length and lipophilicity, and it becomes more and more difficult to demonstrate mutagenicity. Mutagenicity decreases with increasing chain length. This effect may be explained by increasing toxicity. The effect of S9 mix seems to be mostly nonenzymatic detoxication by nonspecific scavanger protection of bacterial cytotoxicity. No indication could be found that bioactivation plays a role in S9‐mediated reduction of bacterial cytotoxicity. Although positive mutagenic outcomes could be obtained with the SOS chromotest for other α, β‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds, these acrolein congeners were not genotoxic in this test, most probably because they are toxic for the Escherichia coli bacteria PQ37 and PQ243.
A kernel‐based clustering approach to finding communities in multi‐machine power systems
Authors: Xing‐Zhi Wang , Zheng Yan , Qian‐Tu Ruan , Wei Wang
Published: September 2008

When a power system is subjected to a large disturbance, effective identification of vulnerable bus and generator groupings in the complex power grid contributes to the analysis of power system dynamic behavior. Also, computationally simple and reliable identification of clusters is of primary importance in the successful application of hybrid transient stability assessment methods. In the paper, a kernel‐based clustering approach is proposed to finding communities of power grids and generators, using data clustering and multi‐machine equivalent concept. The calculation of the cluster analysis is simple and fast, as only the network topology and generator dynamic parameters along the post‐fault trajectory are required. Case studies using different scale test systems are given to illustrate the validity of the proposed method. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A hybrid interface method for three‐dimensional multiphase flows based on front tracking and level set techniques
Authors: Shin Seungwon , Juric Damir
Published: September 2008

Successful interface methods for multiphase flows need to be designed to operate well in the opposite extremes of strongly surface tension‐dominant flows on the one hand and strongly deforming flows on the other. To this end, recent advances in direct numerical simulation of multiphase flows have involved the hybridization of popular methods. One hybrid approach developed by the authors is the level contour reconstruction method (LCRM), which combines the characteristics of both the front tracking and the level set method. It was designed specifically for general 3D multiphase flow problems where very dynamic and deformable interfaces interact and where accuracy, reliability, and simplicity are essential features. In this paper, we carry the hybridization of the LCRM with the level set technique to a further level in that the explicit calculation of a distance function is introduced and plays a crucial role in the interface reconstruction procedure as well as in the calculation of the surface tension force. An accurate method of computing the distance function directly from the tracked interface is presented whereby a vector distance function is found, i.e. the minimum distance to the interface as well as the corresponding minimum distance point location on the interface itself. This information allows us to calculate a compact curvature field for the computation of the surface tension force, which decreases the level of parasitic currents to a negligible level. Various benchmark test cases to demonstrate the accuracy of the new schemes compared with other existing methods are provided. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Forecasting US inflation by Bayesian model averaging
Authors: Wright Jonathan H.
Published: September 2008

Recent empirical work has considered the prediction of inflation by combining the information in a large number of time series. One such method that has been found to give consistently good results consists of simple equal‐weighted averaging of the forecasts from a large number of different models, each of which is a linear regression relating inflation to a single predictor and a lagged dependent variable. In this paper, I consider using Bayesian model averaging for pseudo out‐of‐sample prediction of US inflation, and find that it generally gives more accurate forecasts than simple equal‐weighted averaging. This superior performance is consistent across subsamples and a number of inflation measures. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Forecasting the FOMC's interest rate setting behavior: a further analysis
Authors: Kim Hyeongwoo , Jackson John , Saba Richard
Published: September 2008

We develop a model to forecast the Federal Open Market Committee's (FOMC's) interest rate setting behavior in a nonstationary discrete choice model framework by Hu and Phillips (2004). We find that if the model selection criterion is strictly empirical, correcting for nonstationarity is extremely important, whereas it may not be an issue if one has an a priori model. Evaluating an array of models in terms of their out‐of‐sample forecasting ability, we find that those favored by the in‐sample criteria perform worst, while theory‐based models perform best. We find the best model for forecasting the FOMC's behavior is a forward‐looking Taylor rule model. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 activation inhibits microglial associated inflammation and neurotoxicity
Authors: Byrnes Kimberly R. , Stoica Bogdan , Loane David J. , Riccio Angela , Davis Margaret I. , Faden Alan I.
Published: September 2008

The Group I metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) can modulate addiction, pain, and neuronal cell death. Expression of some mGluRs, such as Group II and III mGluRs, has been reported in microglia and may affect their activation. However, the expression and role of mGluR5 in microglia is unclear. Using immunocytochemistry and Western blot, we demonstrate that mGluR5 protein is expressed in primary microglial cultures. Activation of mGluR5 using the selective agonist (RS)‐2‐chloro‐5‐hydroxyphenylglycine (CHPG) significantly reduces microglial activation in response to lipopolysaccharide, as indicated by a reduction in nitric oxide, reactive oxygen species, and TNFα production. Microglial induced neurotoxicity is also markedly reduced by CHPG treatment. The anti‐inflammatory effects of CHPG are not observed in microglial cultures from mGluR5 knockout mice and are blocked by selective mGluR5 antagonists, suggesting that these actions are mediated by the mGluR5 receptor. Anti‐inflammatory actions of mGluR5 activation are attenuated by phospholipase C and protein kinase C inhibitors, as well as by calcium chelators, suggesting that the mGluR5 activation in microglia involves the Gαq‐protein signal transduction pathway. These data indicate that microglial mGluR5 may represent a novel target for modulating neuroinflammation, an important component of both acute and chronic neurodegenerative disorders. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Competition between brand‐name and generics – analysis on pricing of brand‐name pharmaceutical
Authors: Kong Ying
Published: September 2008

The objective of this paper is to provide two‐stage game models explaining the ‘Generic Competition Paradox’ that demonstrates an increase of brand‐name drug price in response to generic entry. Under the assumption that there are two groups of consumers who are segmented by their insurance status, high insurance coverage and low insurance coverage consumers, the models indicate that the decisive factor is the market share of the high insurance coverage consumer and the size of cross‐substitute factor relative to certain characteristics of market demand. The paper analyses both the case of only true generic entry and the case of pseudo‐generic and true generic entry. The models prove that a brand‐name price will increase when both the market share of high insurance coverage consumer and the factor of cross‐substitute are small. Also, the ‘Generic Competition Paradox’ more likely occurs in the market where less pseudo‐generic products are produced. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.