bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optical and electrical characterization of (PEO+methyl violet) polymer electrolytes
Authors: Kilarkaje Subramanya , Manjunatha V. , Devendrappa H.
Published: November 2011

Optical properties and electrical conductivity of polyethylene oxide (PEO) with methyl violet dopant film have studied. The complexation of the methyl violet dopant with PEO was confirmed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic studies. The microstructure morphology have been analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) for pure and dopant films. The UV‐absorption studies were made in the wavelength range 190–1100 nm for pure and doped films. The dc electrical conductivity data was collected using two probe technique in the temperature range 303–333 K. The UV–visible spectra showed the absorption band at 190 nm for pure PEO and doped from 208–224 nm region with different absorption intensities. The absorption edge, direct and indirect band gap were estimated using Mott and Davis Model. The optical activation energy can be determined using the Urbach rule, for pure PEO it was found 2.38 eV and 1.28–4.08 eV for doped films. The absorption band was shifted toward the higher frequency, the direct and indirect band gap decreases with increasing of dopant concentration, corresponds to the allowed inter band transition of electron. The dc electrical conductivity results shows that it increases with increasing dopant weight percentage and temperature which corresponds to the enhancement of charge mobility in these dye doped polymers. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Electrospinning of poly(vinyl alcohol) and poly(4‐styrenesulfonic acid) for fuel cell applications
Authors: Martwiset Surangkhana , Jaroensuk Kulchaya
Published: November 2011

Electrospun fibers of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and PVA/poly(4‐styrenesulfonic acid) (PSSA) were obtained. By varying PVA to PSSA weight ratios, various fiber sizes and shapes were observed. The fiber diameters ranged from 176 to 766 nm, and the largest fibers were obtained from 15 wt % aqueous PVA solution. The effect of solution viscosity on fiber morphology was discussed. The presence of PSSA in electrospun fibers was confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy. The PVA fibers were thermally stable up to 250°C, and the PVA/PSSA fibers were stable up to approximately 150°C. The water stability of the fibers was improved by heat‐treatment at 120°C. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Synthesis of Some New S‐Alkylated 1,2,4‐Triazoles, Their Mannich Bases and Their Biological Activities
Authors: Alam Mohammad Mahboob , Nazreen Syed , Haider Saqlain , Shafi Syed , Yar Mohammad Shahar , Hamid Hinna , Alam Mohammad Sarwar
Published: November 2011

A series of 1‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)‐2‐[5‐{(biphenyl‐4‐yloxy)methyl}4‐(substituted phenyl)‐3‐mercapto‐(4H)‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3‐ylthio)] ethanones (6a–6s) and 4‐(substituted phenyl)‐3‐(morpholin/pyrrolidin‐4‐ylmethylthio)‐5‐(4‐phenylphenoxymethyl)‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazoles (7a–7e) were synthesized in order to obtain new compounds with potent anti‐inflammatory and analgesic activity with insignificant ulceration. Among the synthesized compounds, (6c), (6e), (6g) and (6l) from triazole series and (7b) and (7e) from Mannich base series were found to exhibit significant anti‐inflammatory activity with 59.69, 59.69, 64.69, 79.84, 54.54, 79.69% and 52.55, 57.50, 72.52, 83.03, 60.06, 84.08% inhibition of paw edema at 3 h and 5 h respectively, in comparison to the standard drug ibuprofen (78.93 and 82.58% at 3 h and 5 h). The active compounds were further tested for their analgesic activity and gastric ulceration study. Compounds 6g, 7b and 7e exhibited significant analgesic activity with reaction time (3.60, 3.22, 3.88 s) respectively at 60 min. without causing any gastric irritation. These compounds were also screened for their in vitro antimicrobial activity, Compounds 6f, 6g, 6h, 6l, 6o, 6p, 7a, 7b and 7c showed significant zone of inhibition against various antimicrobial stains. It is concluded that the compounds 6g, 7b and 7e possess a good spectrum of activities. Compound 7e may be considered potent for development of better anti‐inflammatory agent. The antimicrobial activity revealed that most of the compounds showed moderate to significant activity. Compounds containing nitro, chloro, bromo and fluoro group showing better activity. All the compounds from 7a, 7b and 7e were active against gram positive bacteria (S. aureus).
Semi‐automatic surface and volume mesh generation for subject‐specific biomedical geometries
Authors: Sazonov Igor , Nithiarasu Perumal
Published: November 2011

An overview of surface and volume mesh generation techniques for creating valid meshes to carry out biomedical flows is provided. The methods presented are designed for robust numerical modelling of biofluid flow through subject‐specific geometries. The applications of interest are haemodynamics in blood vessels and air flow in upper human respiratory tract. The methods described are designed to minimize distortion to a given domain boundary. They are also designed to generate a triangular surface mesh first and then volume mesh (tetrahedrons) with high quality surface and volume elements. For blood flow applications, a simple procedure to generate a boundary layer mesh is also described. The methods described here are semi‐automatic in nature because of the fact that the geometries are complex, and automation of the procedures may be possible if high quality scans are used. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tandem Amination/Cycloisomerization of Aryl Propargylic Alcohols with 2‐Aminopyridines as an Expedient Route to Imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines
Authors: Liu Ping , Deng Chun‐Lin , Lei Xinsheng , Lin Guo‐qiang
Published: November 2011

A new tandem route leading to imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines has been explored through the direct amination of aryl propargylic alcohols with 2‐aminopyridines and their subsequent intramolecular cycloisomerization. A ZnCl2/CuCl system has been developed to promote this transformation, which resulted in various imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines in moderate to good yields.
A [2]Catenane and Pretzelane Based on Sn–Porphyrin and Crown Ether
Authors: Han Min , Zhang Heng‐Yi , Yang Li‐Xu , Ding Zhi‐Jun , Zhuang Rui‐Jie , Liu Yu
Published: November 2011

A [2]catenane and a pretzelane that consist of one aromatic dialkylammonium spacer, one dibenzo‐24‐crown‐8 (DB24C8) unit, and one Sn–porphyrin dihydroxide component were synthesized. In the [2]catenane, dibenzo‐24‐crown‐8 and the Sn–porphyrin dihydroxide are two independent components, whereas in the pretzelane, dibenzo‐24‐crown‐8 and the Sn–porphyrin dihydroxide are linked covalently. The interlocked molecules were obtained by the axial ligation of Sn–porphyrin dihydroxide with the resorcinol moieties of both termini in the aromatic dialkylammonium spacer.
Advances in the management of recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck
Authors: Shin Dong M. , Khuri Fadlo R.
Published: November 2011

Most patients with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) undergo definitive therapy, yet locoregional recurrence and metastasis are common. Most patients ultimately require systemic treatment. Platinum/5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) has been the standard of care for patients with good performance status (median survival, 6–8 months). Cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody against epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), significantly improved median survival in combination with platinum/5‐FU compared with chemotherapy alone, establishing it as a new standard for patients with recurrent or metastatic disease. Cetuximab is also active in platinum‐refractory disease. Ongoing trials are exploring other EGFR inhibitors as well as the use of biologic agents in combination (eg, cetuximab + bevacizumab). Predictive biomarkers may help personalize therapy for SCCHN, and it is unclear whether the favorable prognostic effect of p16 or human papillomavirus in locally advanced oropharyngeal cancer is relevant for advanced disease. Head Neck, 2013
Combined p53‐related genetic variants together with HPV infection increase oral cancer risk
Authors: Wang Zhongqiu , Sturgis Erich M. , Zhang Yang , Huang Zhigang , Zhou Qi , Wei Qingyi , Li Guojun
Published: November 2011

To explore the role of polymorphisms of p53‐related genes in etiology of oral cancer, we investigated joint effects of seven putatively functional polymorphisms of p53 (codon 72 Arg/Pro), p73 (4/14 GC/AT), murine double minute 2 gene (MDM2; A2164G and T2580G) and MDM4 (rs11801299 G > A, rs10900598 G > T and rs1380576 C > G) on risk of human papillomavirus (HPV)16‐associated oral cancer in a case–control study with 325 cases and 335 cancer‐free controls. We found that HPV16 seropositivity alone was associated with an increased risk of oral cancer [adjusted odds ratio (OR), 3.1; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.1–4.6]. After combining genotypes of seven polymorphisms and using the low‐risk group (0–3 combined risk genotypes) and HPV16 seronegativity as the reference group, the medium‐risk (4 combined risk genotypes) and high‐risk groups (5–7 combined risk genotypes) and HPV16 seronegativity were associated with only an OR of 1.6 (95% CI, 1.1–2.5) and 1.2 (95% CI, 0.7–1.9) for oral cancer risk, respectively, whereas the low‐risk, medium‐risk and high‐risk groups and HPV16 seropositivity were significantly associated with a higher OR of 2.1 (95% CI, 1.2–3.6), 4.0 (95% CI, 1.8–9.1) and 19.1 (95% CI, 5.7–64.2), respectively. Notably, such effect modification by these combined risk genotypes was particularly pronounced in young subjects (aged < 50 years), never smokers and patients with oropharyngeal cancer. Taken together, these findings suggest that the combined risk genotypes of p53‐related genes may modify risk of HPV16‐associated oral cancer, especially in young patients, never‐smokers and patients with oropharyngeal cancer. Larger studies are needed to validate our findings.
MicroRNA‐34b functions as a potential tumor suppressor in endometrial serous adenocarcinoma
Authors: Hiroki Eri , Suzuki Fumihiko , Akahira Jun‐ichi , Nagase Satoru , Ito Kiyoshi , Sugawara Jun‐ichi , Miki Yasuhiro , Suzuki Takashi , Sasano Hironobu , Yaegashi Nobuo
Published: November 2011

Endometrial serous adenocarcinoma (ESC) is aggressive and carries a poor prognosis. p53 is frequently mutated in ESC. microRNAs (miRNAs) are a direct p53 target and have been implicated in cancer cell behavior. In this study, we compared miRNA expression levels in ESC with the levels in endometrial endometrioid adenocarcinoma (EEC) and normal endometria. Six miRNAs were identified as having aberrant down‐regulation specific to ESC with miR‐34b being most pronounced. miR‐34b was found to have promoter hypermethylation, which when reversed, restored miR‐34b expression in the cell lines treated with 5‐aza‐2′ deoxycytidine (DAC). Ectopic expression of miR‐34b in turn inhibited cell growth, migration and most notably invasion. Our findings suggest a relationship among p53 mutation, miR‐34b promoter methylation and tumor cell behavior. These effects are likely mediated by the downstream target of miR‐34b, the proto‐oncogene mesenchymal‐epithelial transition factor (MET), a known prognostic factor in endometrial carcinomas. The expression of MET was reduced following the restoration of miR‐34b in cell lines. In summary, our data suggest that miR‐34b plays a role in the molecular pathogenesis of endometrial cancer.
FRAX underestimates fracture risk in patients with diabetes
Authors: Giangregorio Lora M , Leslie William D , Lix Lisa M , Johansson Helena , Oden Anders , McCloskey Eugene , Kanis John A
Published: November 2011

The study objective was to determine whether diabetes is a risk factor for incident hip or major osteoporotic fractures independent of the WHO fracture risk assessment tool (FRAX). Men and women with diabetes (n = 3518) and nondiabetics (n = 36,085) aged ≥50 years at the time of bone mineral density (BMD) testing (1990 to 2007) were identified in a large clinical database from Manitoba, Canada. FRAX probabilities were calculated, and fracture outcomes to 2008 were established via linkage with a population-based data repository. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to determine if diabetes was associated with incident hip fractures or major osteoporotic fractures after controlling for FRAX risk factors. Mean 10-year probabilities of fracture were similar between groups for major fractures (diabetic 11.1 ± 7.2 versus nondiabetic 10.9 ± 7.3, p = 0.116) and hip fractures (diabetic 2.9 ± 4.4 versus nondiabetic 2.8 ± 4.4, p = 0.400). Diabetes was a significant predictor of subsequent major osteoporotic fracture (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.61, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.42–1.83) after controlling for age, sex, medication use, and FRAX risk factors including BMD. Similar results were seen after adjusting for FRAX probability directly (HR = 1.59, 95% CI 1.40–1.79). Diabetes was also associated with significantly higher risk for hip fractures (p < 0.001). Higher mortality from diabetes attenuated but did not eliminate the excess fracture risk. FRAX underestimated observed major osteoporotic and hip fracture risk in diabetics (adjusted for competing mortality) but demonstrated good concordance with observed fractures for nondiabetics. We conclude that diabetes confers an increased risk of fracture that is independent of FRAX derived with BMD. This suggests that diabetes might be considered for inclusion in future iterations of FRAX. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Evaluation of heterotrophic nitrite removal by a sulphide and acetate oxidizing mixed culture originated from an oil reservoir
Authors: An Shijie , Loden Brian , Nemati Mehdi
Published: November 2011

BACKGROUND: Shortcut biological nitrogen removal (SBNR) has attracted much attention in recent years due to lower aeration and chemical oxygen demand (COD) requirements, shorter residence time and smaller biomass production. In this work an oil reservoir denitrifying culture, with the ability to function under autotrophic and heterotrophic conditions was used for heterotrophic denitritation. Using freely suspended cells, effects of nitrite concentration (10–50 mmol L−1) and temperature (15–35 °C) on the kinetics of denitritation were investigated and a kinetic model was developed. Potential for enhancement of nitrite removal rate, and impacts of nitrite concentration and loading rate were investigated in a continuous biofilm reactor.

RESULTS: Nitrite did not impose any inhibitory effect, even at the highest applied concentration of 50 mmol L−1. Increase of temperature in the range 15–35 °C enhanced the reduction rate significantly. Fitting the experimental data into the model developed, values of biokinetic coefficients (µmax−NO2, KS−NO2, YX−NO2, YX−Ace−NO2 and Eµ‐NO2) were determined. In the biofilm reactor increases in nitrite loading rate (through flow rate or feed nitrite concentration) led to a linear increase of nitrite removal rate, with the highest removal rate of 140.6 mmol L−1 h−1 achieved with a residence time of 0.19 h.

CONCLUSION: The enrichment culture used in this study is not only a superior biocatalyst for simultaneous removal of sulphide, nitrate and BOD, it could also be used effectively in the denitritation step of an SBNR process. The kinetic model developed would certainly have beneficial applications in the design, operation and control of the SBNR process. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Trends in seasonal indices of daily temperature extremes in the Iberian Peninsula, 1929–2005
Authors: Fernández‐Montes S. , Rodrigo F. S.
Published: November 2011

Seasonal changes of extreme daily temperature indices (frequency of frost days, tropical nights, and ‘summer’ days) of 25 stations in the Iberian Peninsula (IP) from 1929 to 2005 are investigated. Cluster analysis is used to identify homogeneous groups of stations with similar thermal regimes. The Mann‐Kendall test is applied to look for statistically significant trends. The results show a significant decreasing trend (−0.6 days/decade), especially from 1965 onwards, in the frequency of frost days for coastal stations, and significant increasing trends, from 1980 onwards, especially important to the southeast of the IP (+3.8 days/decade) for summer tropical nights, and in the southern stations (+2.3 days/decade) for summer days. The behaviour of the winter frost days index is related to the evolution of winter NAO and EA patterns (with increasing trends in the last decades of the 20th century). Although multiple regression models establish a relationship between summer indices and the SCAN pattern, the behaviour of residuals indicates that summer indices must be explained by other causal mechanisms. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Viscoelastic properties of human cortical bone tissue depend on gender and elastic modulus
Authors: Wu Ziheng , Ovaert Timothy C. , Niebur Glen L.
Published: November 2011

Bone exhibits rate‐dependent failure behavior, suggesting that viscoelasticity is a factor in the damage and fracture of bone. Microdamage initiates at scales below the macroscopic porosity in bone, and, as such, is affected by the intrinsic viscoelasticity of the bone tissue. The viscoelasticity of the bone tissue can be measured by nanoindentation and recording the creep behavior at constant load. The viscoelastic properties have been used to assess differences in tissue behavior with respect to fracture healing, aging, and mouse strains. In this study, we compared the viscoelastic behavior of human cortical bone between genders by using nanoindentation at a fixed load of 10 mN to measure the creep time constant. Bones from females had a significantly greater time constant, indicating slower creep and relaxation, than bones from males. The creep time constants decreased with increasing tissue modulus. The mineralization, collagen content, and collagen cross‐link density, which were bulk measurements, were analyzed to determine if the differences in viscoelastic behavior were explained by compositional differences in the bone. However, none of the parameters differed between genders, nor were they correlated to the viscoelastic time constant. As such, the difference must depend on other matrix proteins that we did not assess or differences in the microstructural organization. This is one of the only intrinsic bone material properties that has been found to differ between males and females, and it may be important for assessing differences in fracture risk, since crack propagation is generally sensitive to viscoelastic properties. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:693–699, 2012
Effect of solid content and composition of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose–lipid edible coatings on physico‐chemical and nutritional quality of ‘Oronules’ mandarins
Authors: Contreras‐Oliva Adriana , Rojas‐Argudo Cristina , Pérez‐Gago Maria B
Published: November 2011

BACKGROUND: Citrus fruit represent an important source of vitamin C, as well as other bioactive compounds. Edible coatings have the potential to extend shelf life of citrus by providing a semi‐permeable barrier to water and gases, which depends on coating composition, solid content (SC), and cultivar. However, little is known about the effect of coatings on citrus nutritional quality. This work studies the effect of coating composition and SC of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC)–beeswax (BW)–shellac coatings on the physico‐chemical, sensory and nutritional quality of ‘Oronules’ mandarins. Coatings prepared at the same lipid content differed in the BW:shellac ratio (1:3 and 3:1) and SC of the formulations (40 and 80 g kg−1).

RESULTS: The coating with 1:3 BW:shellac ratio and 80 g kg−1 SC was the most effective controlling weight loss, although it was less effective than the commercial wax tested. Increasing SC had a greater effect than the BW:shellac ratio in fruit internal atmosphere and sensory quality, with the presence of off‐flavour when coatings were applied at 80 g kg−1 SC. Nutritional quality was not affected by the application of the different treatments.

CONCLUSION: HPMC–lipid coatings have the potential to extend shelf life of ‘Oronules’ mandarins. However, care should be taken controlling formulation SC to avoid the build‐up of off‐flavour. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of specific egg yolk antibody (IgY) on the quality and shelf life of refrigerated Paralichthys olivaceus
Authors: Xu Yafu , Lin Hong , Sui Jianxin , Cao Limin
Published: November 2011

BACKGROUND: The spoilage of fishery food has been attributed to limited types of microorganisms called specific spoilage organisms (SSO). Unlike traditional food‐preserving techniques which usually exploit broad‐spectrum antimicrobial agents, here, based on the specific antimicrobial activity of egg yolk antibodies (IgY) against two SSO in refrigerated fish (Shewanella putrefaciens and Pseudomonas fluorescens), a novel strategy for fish preservation was suggested and evaluated.

RESULTS: During storage of Paralichthys olivaceus fillets at 4 ± 1 °C, the bacteria growth (including total microorganisms and the two SSO) in test groups was significantly inhibited in comparison to that of controls (P < 0.05). This antibacterial activity of the specific IgY was also confirmed by chemical analysis (pH, total volatile base nitrogen and 2‐thiobarbituric acid value) and sensory evaluation, and the shelf life of samples was extended approximately from 9 days to 12–15 days in the presence of the specific IgY.

CONCLUSION: These results indicated a significant antimicrobial activity of the anti‐SSO IgY for refrigerated fish products, which allowed us to suggest its potential as a bio‐preservative for seafood. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Isomorphic formulae in classical propositional logic
Authors: Došen Kosta , Petrić Zoran
Published: November 2011

Isomorphism between formulae is defined with respect to categories formalizing equality of deductions in classical propositional logic and in the multiplicative fragment of classical linear propositional logic caught by proof nets. This equality is motivated by generality of deductions. Characterizations are given for pairs of isomorphic formulae, which lead to decision procedures for this isomorphism.
Imatinib has adverse effect on growth in children with chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Bansal Deepak , Shava Upender , Varma Neelam , Trehan Amita , Marwaha R.K.
Published: November 2011

Background

Long‐term adverse effects of Imatinib in children with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) are uncertain. The aim was to study the effect of imatinib on growth in children with CML.

Procedure

Children ≤13 years of age at diagnosis were enrolled retrospectively, from 2004 to 2011, from a single center in India. Patients who received imatinib for >1 year were included for growth assessment. Height standard deviation scores (SDS) were derived from WHO‐AnthroPlus, a global growth monitoring tool.

Results

Thirty‐four children received imatinib. Twenty children fulfilled the criteria for assessment of growth. Median age was 10 years (range: 2–13). Of 20 children, 13 were prepubertal at commencement of imatinib. The mean duration of imatinib in 20 children was 61.3 ± 16.2 months (range: 31–83). No patient was treated with a second‐generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor or a stem cell transplant. Highly significant reduction in height SDS's was observed (P = 0.002 at 5th year). Children who started imatinib therapy after the onset of puberty were immune to this adverse effect (P = 0.448 and 0.003 at 5th year of treatment for pubertal and prepubertal children, respectively). The 5‐year survival probability of 33 children who received imatinib in chronic phase was 80% with a median survival time of 60 months (mean: 70.2; 95% CI: 60–80.5).

Conclusions

Growth retardation is a significant adverse effect of imatinib in children with CML. The failure to gain appropriate height was most discernible when imatinib was initiated in the prepubertal period. Etiology and remedial measures need to be investigated. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012;59:481–484. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Treatment of pharyngeal non‐Hodgkin lymphoma in a patient with Wiskott‐Aldrich syndrome
Authors: Coccia Paola , Mastrangelo Stefano , Ruggiero Antonio , Scalzone Maria , Rosolen Angelo , Maurizi Palma , Riccardi Riccardo
Published: November 2011

Wiskott‐Aldrich syndrome (WAS) is characterized by primary immunodeficiency, thrombocytopenia and eczema. Patients with WAS have an increased risk to develop tumors. Non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) represents the most common malignancy occurring in WAS‐affected patients, diffuse‐large‐B‐cell lymphoma is the most frequently encountered variant. We describe a case of a patient with WAS and NHL in the pharynx, an atypical tumor site presentation. The patient was successfully treated with a reduced dose chemotherapy regimen plus anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibody. He is in complete remission 3 years from the start of treatment. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012;59:318–319. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ionic polymers with tunable liquid‐crystalline properties
Authors: Šebenik Gorazd , Huskić Miroslav , Žagar Ema , Žigon Majda
Published: November 2011

Side‐chain polyesters were synthesized from N‐octyl‐, N‐dodecyl‐ or N‐hexadecyl‐diethanolamine and succinic acid anhydride. These polyesters were then transformed into polyester hydrochlorides by protonation of the amino groups using different amounts of HCl (20–100 mol%). Above 60 mol% the reaction is not quantitative and a degree of protonation of up to 88% is obtained. The structures of the synthesized polyesters and their hydrochlorides were determined by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The thermal properties of the synthesized polyesters and their hydrochlorides were also studied using differential scanning calorimetry in relation to the side‐chain length and the degree of polyester protonation. The polyester with octyl side chains and its hydrochlorides were amorphous liquids at room temperature, while the polyester and polyester hydrochlorides with hexadecyl side chains formed a smectic crystalline phase, SmB, or its tilted analogues. The polyester with a dodecyl side chain was also an amorphous liquid at room temperature, while its hydrochlorides with various degrees of protonation were smectic liquid crystals, as determined by X‐ray diffraction. By simply varying the degree of protonation the liquid crystal isotropization temperature was increased from 32 °C to 82 °C. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Thin film solar cell with 8.4% power conversion efficiency using an earth‐abundant Cu2ZnSnS4 absorber
Authors: Shin Byungha , Gunawan Oki , Zhu Yu , Bojarczuk Nestor A. , Chey S. Jay , Guha Supratik
Published: November 2011

Using vacuum process, we fabricated Cu2ZnSnS4 solar cells with 8.4% efficiency, a number independently certified by an external, accredited laboratory. This is the highest efficiency reported for pure sulfide Cu2ZnSnS4 prepared by any method. Consistent with literature, the optimal composition is Cu‐poor and Zn‐rich despite the precipitation of secondary phases (e.g., ZnS). Despite a very thin absorber thickness (~600 nm), a reasonably good short‐circuit current was obtained. Time‐resolved photoluminescence measurements suggest a minority carrier‐diffusion length on the order of several hundreds of nanometers and relatively good collection of photo‐carriers across the entire absorber thickness. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Factor structure of child behavior scale scores in peruvian preschoolers
Authors: Meyer Erin L. , Schaefer Barbara A. , Soto Cesar Merino , Simmons Crystal S. , Anguiano Rebecca , Brett Jeremy , Holman Alea , Martin Justin F. , Hata Heidi K. , Roberts Kimberly J. , Mello Zena R. , Worrell Frank C.
Published: November 2011

Behavior rating scales aid in the identification of problem behaviors, as well as the development of interventions to reduce such behavior. Although scores on many behavior rating scales have been validated in the United States, there have been few such studies in other cultural contexts. In this study, the structural validity of scores on a Spanish translation of the six‐factor Child Behavior Scale (CBS) was assessed in a sample of 265 Peruvian preschool children who ranged from 2 to 6 years in age. Exploratory factor analysis yielded a four‐factor structure, and reliability estimates for scores on the four factors were adequate. The authors suggest replicating the study and examining the utility of CBS scores in predicting future problem behaviors in this population. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Problem analysis: Examining the selection and evaluation of data during problem‐solving consultation
Authors: Newell Markeda L. , Newell Terrance S.
Published: November 2011

The purpose of this study was to analyze how school psychologists engaged in problem analysis during problem‐solving consultation. Five aspects of the problem analysis process were examined: 1) the types of questions participants asked during problem identification, 2) the types of data participants requested, 3) the frequency of requests for each type of data, 4) the use of multiple methods and sources of data across multiple domains, and 5) the criteria used to interpret the data. Four school psychologists were recruited to each complete three fictional consultation cases within a computer‐simulated environment. A qualitative case study method was used. The results of this study revealed how school psychologists used theory, a multidimensional assessment framework, and self‐referent data to analyze a problem. Implications for future research are discussed. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Predicting teacher commitment: The impact of school climate and social–emotional learning
Authors: Collie Rebecca J. , Shapka Jennifer D. , Perry Nancy E.
Published: November 2011

The aim of this study was to investigate whether school climate and social–emotional learning impact teacher commitment. The sample included 664 public schoolteachers from British Columbia and Ontario in Canada. Participants completed an online questionnaire about teacher commitment, school climate, and social–emotional learning. Binary logistic regression analyses showed that positive school climates significantly predicted three forms of teacher commitment: greater general professional commitment, future professional commitment, and organizational commitment. Of the school climate variables, student relations and collaboration among staff predicted commitment. In addition, stronger beliefs and integration of social–emotional learning predicted two types of teacher commitment: greater general professional commitment and organizational commitment. Of the social–emotional learning variables, the support and promotion of a social–emotional learning culture across the school and comfort with and regular implementation of social–emotional learning in the classroom predicted greater teacher commitment. Implications for practice and research are discussed. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Clinical aspects of neurodegenerative diseases – 15th HUPO BPP Workshop April 8–9, 2011, Bochum, Germany
Authors: Gröttrup Bernd , Böckmann Miriam , Marcus Katrin , Wiltfang Jens , Grinberg Lea T. , Meyer Helmut E. , Park Young M.
Published: November 2011

The HUPO Brain Proteome Project (HUPO BPP) held its 15th workshop in Bochum, Germany, from April 8th to 9th, 2011 directly after the Proteomic Forum 2011 in Berlin. Like on every spring workshop, the focus was more on clinical aspects, so that especially clinicians participated in this workshop.
Enabling BioSharing – a report on the Annual Spring Workshop of the HUPO‐PSI April 11–13, 2011, EMBL‐Heidelberg, Germany
Authors: Orchard Sandra , Albar Juan Pablo , Deutsch Eric W. , Eisenacher Martin , Vizcaíno Juan A. , Hermjakob Henning
Published: November 2011

The Annual Spring workshop of the HUPO‐PSI was this year held at the EMBL International Centre for Advanced Training (EICAT) in Heidelberg, Germany. Delegates briefly reviewed the successes of the group to date. These include the wide spread implementation of the molecular interaction data exchange formats, PSI‐MI XML2.5 and MITAB, and also of mzML, the standard output format for mass spectrometer output data. These successes have resulted in enhanced accessibility to published data, for example the development of the PSICQUIC common query interface for interaction data and the development of databases such as PRIDE to act as public repositories for proteomics data and increased biosharing, through the development of consortia, for example IMEx and ProteomeXchange which will both share the burden of curating the increasing amounts of data being published and work together to make this more accessible to the bench scientist. Work then started over the three days of the workshop, with a focus on advancing the draft format for handling quantitative mass spectrometry data (mzQuantML) and further developing TraML, a standardized format for the exchange and transmission of transition lists for SRM experiments.
Pluralism in PMO Performance: The Case of a PMO Dedicated to a Major Organizational Transformation
Authors: Aubry Monique , Richer Marie-Claire , Lavoie-Tremblay Mélanie , Cyr Guylaine
Published: November 2011

The focus of this article is on the contribution made by the project management office (PMO) to organizational performance. It explores the particular case of a PMO dedicated to a major organizational transformation within a Canadian university hospital. The national government has asked hospitals to provide strict control over their budgets through implementing strong governance mechanisms. How can PMO performance be assessed within this context? Perception of two different groups has been analyzed within a competing values framework, allowing for a combination of four different performance conceptions. Results show certain similarities in the barriers to PMO performance but, most importantly, they reveal that between the two groups a paradox exists regarding what is valued in PMO performance. Results bring empirical evidence of the application of the competing values framework to the health care sector, but also to a wide variety of industries, public or private.
Multi-Paradigmatic Perspectives on a Business Transformation Program
Authors: Pellegrinelli Sergio , Murray-Webster Ruth
Published: November 2011

The study of projects and programs, and their management, is seen as becoming an increasingly vibrant and pluralistic academic field, having transcended its pragmatic and functionalist roots. Drawing upon Burrell and Morgan's (1979) four paradigms of sociological research, we briefly review research that is set within each paradigm. This plurality of perspectives has informed and sensitized our analysis and sensemaking of a major business transformation program within a European retail bank. This article presents key findings and insights from our inductive research. The research adds to our knowledge and understanding of program-based transformational change and depth, richness, and perspectives useful to practitioners.
Magnetism, optical absorbance, and 19F NMR spectra of nafion films with self‐assembling paramagnetic networks
Authors: Levin E. M. , Chen Q. , Bud'ko S. L.
Published: November 2011

Magnetization, optical absorbance, and 19F NMR spectra of Nafion transparent films as received and doped with Mn2+, Co2+, Fe2+, and Fe3+ ions with and without treatment in 1H‐1,2,4‐triazole (trz) have been studied. Doping of Nafion with Fe2+ and Co2+ and their bridging to nitrogen of triazole yields a hybrid self‐assembling paramagnetic system that exhibits interesting magnetic and optical properties. These include spin crossover phenomena between high‐spin (HS) and low‐spin (LS) states in Nafion‐Fe2+‐trz and Nafion‐Co2+‐trz accompanied by thermochromic effects in the visible range induced by temperature. A large shift of the magnetization curve induced by a magnetic field in the vicinity of the HS ↔ LS, ∼220 K, observed for Nafion‐Fe2+‐trz has a rate of ∼6 K/kOe, which is about three orders of magnitude larger than that in bulk spin crossover Fe2+ materials. Selective response of 19F NMR signals on doping with paramagnetic ions demonstrates that NMR can be used as spatially resolved method to study Nafion film with paramagnetic network. Both chemical shift and width of 19F NMR signals show that SO groups of Nafion, Fe or Co ions, and nitrogen of triazole are bonded whereas they form a spin crossover system. Based on a model of nanosize cylinders proposed for Nafion [K. Schmidt‐Rohr and Q. Chen, Nat Mater (2008), 75], we suggest that paramagnetic ions are located inside these cylinders, forming self‐assembling magnetically and optically active nanoscale networks. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 50: 129–138, 2012
Effect of the spray application technique on the deposition of entomopathogenic nematodes in vegetables
Authors: Brusselman Eva , Beck Bert , Pollet Sabien , Temmerman Femke , Spanoghe Pieter , Moens Maurice , Nuyttens David
Published: November 2011

BACKGROUND: The present study compared entomopathogenic nematode delivery at the base of savoy cabbage and cauliflower, at the lower side of savoy cabbage and cauliflower leaves and in leek stems and the ground deposition using a five‐nozzle spray boom equipped with an ISO 08 flat fan, an air induction flat fan and Twinjet spray nozzles. Additionally, an air support system and a row application system were evaluated.

RESULTS: Approximately 40% of the applied nematodes did not reach the foot of the cabbage plants. The use of an air support system or a row application system improved nematode deposition at the savoy cabbage base. Relative nematode deposition on the lower side of savoy cabbage leaves was 27.20%, while only 2.64% of the applied nematodes reached the lower side of cauliflower leaves. After spraying leek with a standard boom, a low relative nematode deposition (26.64%) was measured in the leek stem. Nozzle type affected the distribution of nematodes in droplet spots.

CONCLUSION: Nozzle type has a minor effect on the number of entomopathogenic nematodes delivered on difficult‐to‐reach targets. The use of modified spray application techniques directing the spray to the target site are necessary to increase the chances of contact of entomopathogenic nematodes with their target. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Identifying the presence of neonicotinoidresistant peach‐potato aphid (Myzus persicae) in the peach‐growing regions of southern France and northern Spain
Authors: Slater Russell , Paul Verity Laura , Andrews Melanie , Garbay Michel , Camblin Philippe
Published: November 2011

BACKGROUND: The neonicotinoid class of insecticides is a key component of pest management strategies used by stone fruit producers in Europe. Neonicotinoids are currently one of the most important tools for control of the peach‐potato aphid (Myzus persicae). Overreliance on neonicotinoids has led to the development of resistance through a combination of metabolic and target‐site resistance mechanisms in individual aphids. A resistance monitoring project was conducted by Syngenta in 2010 to determine the resistance status of M. persicae populations collected from France and Spain, and to determine the frequency of the target‐site mutation in those populations.

RESULTS: Resistance monitoring suggests that resistance to neonicotinoids is relatively widespread in populations of M. persicae collected from peach orchards in the Languedoc‐Roussillon, Provence‐Alpes‐Cote d'Azur and Rhone‐Alpes regions of France, and resistance can be associated with the frequency of the target‐site mutation (R81T). The R81T mutation in its heterozygous form is also present in Spanish populations and is associated with neonicotinoid resistance.

CONCLUSION: The widespread nature of neonicotinoid resistance in southern France and the potential for resistance development in northern Spain highlight the need for a coordinated management strategy employing insecticides with different modes of action to reduce the selection pressure with neonicotinoids. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Strong resistance to the fungicide fenhexamid entails a fitness cost in Botrytis cinerea, as shown by comparisons of isogenic strains
Authors: Billard Alexis , Fillinger Sabine , Leroux Pierre , Lachaise Hélène , Beffa Roland , Debieu Danièle
Published: November 2011

BACKGROUND: Fenhexamid, a sterol biosynthesis inhibitor effective against Botrytis, inhibits the 3‐ketoreductase (Erg27) involved in C‐4 demethylation. Several fenhexamid‐resistant phenotypes have been detected in Botrytis cinerea populations from French vineyards. The field isolates with the highest resistance levels display amino acid changes in Erg27 (F412S, F412I or F412V).

RESULTS: Fenhexamid‐resistant mutants were generated by site‐directed mutagenesis of the erg27 gene in a sensitive recipient strain to overcome the impact of different genetic backgrounds. The wild‐type erg27 allele was replaced by the three mutated alleles (erg27F412S/I/V) by homologous recombination. These isogenic strains were shown to be fenhexamid‐resistant and were used to quantify the impact of F412 mutations on fungal fitness. Several parameters, including radial growth, the production of sclerotia and conidia, freezing resistance and aggressiveness, were quantified in laboratory conditions. Analysis of variance demonstrated significant differences between the mutant and parental strains for some characters. In particular, the mutants grew more slowly than the wild‐type strain and displayed variations in the production of sclerotia and conidia with temperature and susceptibility to freezing.

CONCLUSIONS: The results highlight a moderate but significant impact of F412 mutations on the survival capacity of B. cinerea strains displaying high levels of resistance to fenhexamid in laboratory conditions, potentially limiting their dispersal and persistence, particularly in terms of overwintering, in field conditions. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Charge separation in organic semiconductor blends studied by electrical in situ characterization during film growth
Authors: Beu Max , Dragässer André , Keil Christopher , Schlettwein Derck
Published: November 2011

The influence of the substrate temperature during film growth as well as annealing of films subsequent to preparation was studied by in situ measurements of conduction and photoconduction of molecular blends of phthalocyaninatocopper (PcCu) and buckminster‐fullerene (C60). The findings are discussed in context of structural and morphological changes observed in scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and UV/Vis transmission measurements. Deposition of bulk heterojunctions (BHJs) at elevated substrate temperature featured improved percolation pathways leading to increased conductivity, photoconductivity, and exciton dissociation yield. At low concentrations of PcCu in C60 electron trapping by light‐induced hole states in PcCu was observed.
Magnetism of DyNi2B2C nanoparticle investigated with a quantum simulation model
Authors: Liu Z.‐S. , Diviš M. , Sechovský V.
Published: November 2011

We employed a quantum simulation model and a new computational algorithm we developed recently to study the magnetism of an assumed DyNi2B2C nanoparticle consisting of an inner core and an outer shell of complicated crystal and magnetic structures. Our theoretical results obtained with the new simulation model are reasonable physically, and the computational speed with the new algorithm is faster than the micromagnetism and Monte–Carlo approaches, which have been popularly utilized by most researchers worldwide for many years.
Circular polariscopic measurement of a semi‐insulating SiC wafer for evaluating strains and its relation with Raman spectra: Superiority to monochromatic Lang X‐ray topography
Authors: Takeuchi Hideo
Published: November 2011

We have explored the effectiveness of applying the circular polariscopic measurement to the mapping of the strains in a semi‐insulating 6H‐SiC wafer. Initially, monochromatic Lang X‐ray topography, which is regarded as a fundamental evaluation technique for wafers, is applied. In the monochromatic Lang X‐ray topograph, the disappearance of the images is found in various areas, which suggests that the monochromatic Lang X‐ray topographic measurement is not almighty. Next, we apply the circular polariscopic measurement, which is sensitive to strains through the photoelastic effect. The brightness of the circular polariscopic wafer map reveals that the inhomogeneous distribution of the strains. The observed phenomenon indicates that the magnitude of the crystal‐plane distortion is too strong to apply monochromatic Lang X‐ray topography. The presence of the relatively large strains is confirmed from the fact that the forbidden reflection lines are observed in the θ ‐2θ X‐ray diffraction pattern. We also measure the Raman spectra of the several region of the wafer to evaluate the stress from the phonon frequency shift. The maximum stress is estimated to be ∼490 MPa. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Time‐resolved detection of many‐particle hole states in InAs/GaAs quantum dots using a two‐dimensional hole gas up to 77 K
Authors: Nowozin T. , Marent A. , Bimberg D. , Beckel A. , Marquardt B. , Lorke A. , Geller M.
Published: November 2011

We demonstrate the detection of many‐particle hole states in self‐organized InAs/GaAs quantum dots (QDs) using an adjacent two‐dimensional hole gas (2DHG) as detector for temperatures up to 77 K. capacitance‐voltage (C‐V) measurements as well as time‐resolved current measurements in the 2DHG resolve a structure of six distinct peaks which are related to the many‐particle hole states in the QD ensemble. The time constants of the capture and emission processes for each individual many‐particle hole state are extracted and the underlying emission processes are identified. An equivalent circuit model yields the gate voltage depedent lever‐arm and the level‐splittings of the many‐particle hole states. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Hafnium oxide passivation of InGaAs/InP heterostructure bipolar transistors by electron beam evaporation
Authors: Driad R. , Schmidt R. , Kirste L. , Loesch R. , Mikulla M. , Ambacher O.
Published: November 2011

In this contribution, we investigate the passivation of InGaAs/InP heterostructures using plasma assisted e‐beam evaporated hafnium oxide (HfO2). The microstructure and optical properties of the HfO2 layers are first examined by X‐ray reflectivity and spectroscopic ellipsometry on Si substrates. The current gain and breakdown voltage of InGaAs/InP heterostructure bipolar transistors (HBTs) have subsequently been used to evaluate the impact and efficiency of the e‐beam evaporated HfO2 passivation layers. The results from these structures have been contrasted with data from similar samples encapsulated with SiO2 using conventional plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition. The HfO2 passivated InGaAs/InP HBTs show comparable current gains as compared to unpassivated structures. More importantly, in contrast to SiO2‐PECVD devices, the common emitter characteristics of HfO2 passivated HBTs show no degradation in device breakdown voltage. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Modelling of passive mode‐locking in InAs quantum‐dot lasers with tapered gain section
Authors: Rossetti Mattia , Xu Tianhong , Bardella Paolo , Montrosset Ivo
Published: November 2011

We propose a computationally efficient approach for the simulation and design of index‐guided quantum‐dot (QD) passively mode‐locked lasers with tapered gain section; the method is based on the combination of simulations based on a finite difference beam‐propagation‐method and dynamic simulations of mode‐locking via a multi‐section delayed differential equation model. The impact of varying the taper full angle on the pulse duration and peak power is investigated; simulations show that a correct choice of this parameter enables the generation of sub‐picosecond optical pulses with peak power exceeding 5 W (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)