bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon Black and Carbon Nano-Tubes Produced from Acetylene Using Non-Thermal Plasmas at Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: Zhang Yue-ping , Liu Chang-jun , Zhang Min-hua
Published: May 2005

DC pulsed corona discharge plasmas have been applied for the co-generation of carbon black and carbon nano-tubes from acetylene and hydrogen under ambient conditions. The carbon nano-tubes thus produced were analyzed by transmission electron microscopy. In the case of pure acetylene feed, only carbon black is produced.
Rapid Synthesis of New Emitting Ir(III) Polypyridine Complexes
Authors: Yoshikawa Naokazu , Masuda Yoshitaka , Matsumura-Inoue Takeko
Published: May 2005

A microwave-assisted synthesis of photosensitive iridium(III) polypyridine complexes has been developed. The spectroscopic and electrochemical properties of the newly prepared complexes were studied. These complexes were characterized by intense phosphorescence emission from 505 nm to 630 nm.
Synthesis and Characterization of p-tert-Butylcalix[6]-1,4-crown-4-2,6-crown-5, p-tert-Butylcalix[6]-1,4-benzocrown-4-2,3-crown-5
Authors: Chen Yuan-Yin , Li Hai-Bing
Published: May 2005

Two new types of calix[6]-bis-crowns, p-tert-butylcalix[6]-1,4-crown-4-2,6-crown-5 and p-tert-butylcalix[6]-1,4-benzocrown-4-2,3-crown-5, have been synthesized and characterized. The conformation of p-tert-butylcalix[6]-1,4-crown-4-2,6-crown-5 may be (u,d,d,u,d,d) or (u,d,u,u,u,d), and can not be further assigned, the latter adopts (u,u,u,u,u,u) conformation at room temperature.
Nano-Phase Separation in the Monolayer Composed of α-Helical Copolypeptide at Air/Water Interface
Authors: Yokoi Hidenori , Kinoshita Takatoshi , Tsujita Yoshiharu , Yoshimizu Hiroaki
Published: May 2005

Nanometer-scale stripe pattern in the monolayer composed of α-helical copolypeptide was characterized with atomic force microscope (AFM). This monolayer was formed with the copolypeptide composed of poly(ε-benzyloxycarbonyl l-lysine)x-poly[(γ-methyl l-glutamate)y-z/(l-glutamic acid)z] (PLLZx–P(MLGy-z/LGAz)). AFM image of Langmuir–Blodgett (LB) film of this copolypeptide showed a nanometer-scale stripe pattern. This pattern seems to be based on the nanophase-separated structure in the copolypeptide monolayer at air/water interface.
Design of Homooxacalix[3]arene–Porphyrin Heterocapsules Which Provide Novel Cavities for Molecular Recognition
Authors: Ikeda Atsushi , Sonoda Kenshi , Shinkai Seiji
Published: May 2005

A novel heterocapsular molecule has been obtained in a self-assembled manner by a multi-point interaction between pyridine-appended homooxacalix[3]arene and a Zn(II) porphyrin trimer. The cavity delineated by π-basic components can accept [60]fullerene with K = 60 dm3 mol−1 at −30 °C.
Synthesis and Crystal Structure of a New Two-Dimensional Coordination Polymer, {[CoII(imbz)2]·H2O}n [imbz− = 4′-(Imidazol-1-ylmethyl)benzoate Anion]
Authors: Sun Wei-Yin , Zhang Yan-An , Okamura Taka-aki , Ye Tao , Ueyama Norikazu
Published: May 2005

A new coordination polymer, {[CoII(imbz)2]·H2O}n [imbz− = 4′-(imidazol-1-ylmethyl)benzoate anion] was synthesized and characterized by X-ray crystallography. Each Co(II) atom is coordinated by four imbz ligands, two of which using N atoms of imidazole and the other two using O atoms of benzoate, and each imbz ligand connects two Co(II) to generate an infinite 2D network. The crystal water molecules locate in the voids of two adjacent layers through C–H---O and O–H---O hydrogen bonds.
Radical-Mediated Synthesis of Substituted Quinones with Organotellurium Compounds
Authors: Yamago Shigeru , Hashidume Masahiro , Yoshida Jun-ichi
Published: May 2005

Carbon-centered radicals generated from the corresponding organotellurium compounds react with a variety of quinones under photo–thermal conditions to give the monoaddition product in good to excellent yield. The reaction can be used for the synthesis of polyprenyl quinoid natural products.
Diels–Alder Reaction of Tribenzo[b,g,l]thiopheno[3,4-q]porphyrazine as a New Path for Porphyrazine Core Modification
Authors: Nemykin Victor N , Polshina Ann E , Kobayashi Nagao
Published: May 2005

Diels–Alder reaction between tribenzo[b,g,l]thiopheno[3,4-q]porphyrazine and dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate at ca. 200 °C produced a substituted tribenzo[b,g,l]porphyrazine and 3:1 unsymmetrically substituted phthalocyanine, which were characterized by UV-VIS, MCD, NMR, and mass spectroscopies.
Polysaccharide–Polynucleotide Complexes (III): A Novel Interaction between the β-1,3-Glucan Family and the Single-Stranded RNA Poly(C)
Authors: Kimura Taro , Koumoto Kazuya , Sakurai Kazuo , Shinkai Seiji
Published: May 2005

We measured circular dichroism spectra to examine the complex-formation capability of various kinds of polysaccharides with poly(C). The results show that schizophyllan and lentinan can interact with poly(C), on the other hand, amylose, pullulan, dextran, and curdlan cannot. This difference clearly indicates that the water soluble β-1,3-glucan can bind with polynucleotides. The molecular weight dependence of the complex formation has established that at least 30 glucose sequence length is necessary to incorporate the most bases into the complex.
Different Crystal Structures of Novel Cyano-Bridged Complexes: One-Dimensional Chain of [Sm(DMA)2(H2O)4Fe(CN)6·5H2O]n and Trinuclear {[Gd(DMA)3(H2O)4]2Fe(CN)6}Fe(CN)6·3H2O
Authors: Yan Bing , Chen Zhida
Published: May 2005

Two novel cyano-bridged rare earth-iron complexes have been synthesized based on the reaction of K3Fe(CN)6, Ln(NO3)3·6H2O (Ln = Sm, Gd) and N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMA). It is interesting that the two complexes exhibit the different coordination form and crystal structure, in which [Sm(DMA)2(H2O)4Fe(CN)6·5H2O]n ([SmFe]n), shows one-dimensional chain structure with approximately parallel two CN bridging ligands between Sm atom and Fe atom, while {[Gd(DMA)3(H2O)4]2Fe(CN)6}Fe(CN)6·3H2O ([Gd2Fe]) is an isolated trinuclear Gd(1)–Fe–Gd(2) complex with two approximately perpendicular CN bridging ligands between the two Gd atoms and Fe atom. Among [SmFe]n complex exhibits critical temperature Tc = 3.5 K.
Resolution of Unfunctionalized Epoxides by Cholic Acid Inclusion Compounds
Authors: Bortolini Olga , Fantin Giancarlo , Fogagnolo Marco , Medici Alessandro , Pedrini Paola
Published: May 2005

A simple method for the optical resolution of several unfunctionalized epoxides by inclusion in cholic acid is presented. (ee values up to 95%).
Tetracyanoquinodimethane Deposited from Solution onto the Atomically Smooth Native Oxide Surface of an Al(111) Film Characterized by X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy and Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Higo Morihide , Yoshidome Toshifumi , Ozono Yoshihisa
Published: May 2005

Tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ) deposited from acetonitrile solutions onto atomically smooth native oxide surfaces of Al(111) films was characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The XP spectra and the bearing analysis of the AFM images show that TCNQ is adsorbed onto the oxide surface as both a uniform film of anions on a nanometer scale and micron sized particles of neutral molecules.
Adsorption of Zinc-Metallated Chlorophyllous Pigments on FSM-Type Mesoporous Silica
Authors: Furukawa Hiroyasu , Kuroda Kazuyuki , Watanabe Tadashi
Published: May 2005

The spectroscopic properties of zinc chlorophyll (Zn-Chl) derivatives within FSM-type mesoporous silica were examined. Visible absorption and resonance Raman spectroscopies suggest that chlorophyllous pigments are successfully incorporated and form hydrogen bonds to silanol groups on silica.
Enantioselective Aggregation of Cobalt(III) Octahedrons in a One-Dimensional S-Bridged CoIIIAgI Array That Leads to Spontaneous Resolution
Authors: Konno Takumi , Tokuda Keiji , Okamoto Ken-ichi , Hirotsu Masakazu
Published: May 2005

The reaction of [Co(aet)(en)2](NO3)2 (1(NO3)2; aet = 2-aminoethanethiolate; en = ethylenediamine) with AgNO3 in water produced a novel S-bridged CoIIIAgI chain complex-polymer, [Ag{Co(aet)(en)2}](NO3)3 (3(NO3)3), by way of a CoIIIAgICoIII trinuclear complex, [Ag{Co(aet)(en)2}2](NO3)5 (2(NO3)5). The crystal structure of 3(NO3)3, which crystallizes as a conglomerate, was determined by X-ray crystallography.
Remarkable Enhancement of Nucleophilicity of Tin Enolates toward Nitro- or Cyanoalkenes by Tetrabutylammonium Halides
Authors: Yasuda Makoto , Ohigashi Noriyuki , Baba Akio
Published: May 2005

The reaction of tin enolates with nitroalkenes was effectively catalyzed by tetrabutylammonium bromide (Bu4NBr) to give γ-nitroketones. When the substituted tin enolates at the β-carbon in the olefinic moiety were used, the diastereoselective addition proceeded through the acyclic transition state. Tetrabutylammonium chloride (Bu4NCl) strongly accelerated the reaction with the cyanoalkene to give the γ-cyanoketone.
Modification of Chiral Monodentate Phosphine (MOP) Ligands for Palladium-Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrosilylation of Styrenes
Authors: Hayashi Tamio , Hirate Seiji , Kitayama Kenji , Tsuji Hayato , Torii Akira , Uozumi Yasuhiro
Published: May 2005

In the palladium-catalyzed asymmetric hydrosilylation of styrene with trichlorosilane, several chiral monophosphine ligands, (R)-2-diarylphosphino-1,1′-binaphthyls (2), were examined for their enantioselectivity. The highest enantioselectivity was observed in the reaction with (R)-2-bis[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]phosphino-1,1′-binaphthyl (2g), which gave (S)-1-phenylethanol of 98% ee after oxidation of the hydrosilylation product.
A Novel Organic Conductor with Three-Dimensional Molecular Array: (TM-TPDS)2AsF6
Authors: Misaki Yohji , Kaibuki Tadahiro , Taniguchi Masateru , Tanaka Kazuyoshi , Kawamoto Tadashi , Mori Takehiko , Nakamura Toshikazu
Published: May 2005

The title material, where TM-TPDS is 2-[4,5-bis(methylthio)-1,3-diselenol-2-ylidene]-5-(thiopyran-4-ylidene)-1,3,4,6-tetrathiapentalene, has three-dimensional (3D) donor array, in which 1D donor columns are tetragonally arranged with each other. It shows metal-like conducting behavior down to TMI = 100 K.
Mechanism for NO Photooxidation over the Oxygen-Deficient TiO2 Powder under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Nakamura Isao , Sugihara Shinichi , Takeuchi Koji
Published: May 2005

The mechanism for the photooxidation of NO over hydrogen plasma-treated TiO2 under visible light irradiation was studied by in situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. It was found that the oxidation of NO over plasma-treated TiO2 under visible light proceeded consecutively as NO → NO2− → NO3−, where the oxidation process of NO2− to NO3− was newly created by irradiation of visible light.
Molecular Recognition and Photopolymerization of Nucleobase Monolayer Containing Diacetylene Group at the Air–Water Interface
Authors: Matsumoto Jin , Ijiro Kuniharu , Shimomura Masatsugu
Published: May 2005

An amphiphilic diacetylene with thymine (DA–Thy) was newly synthesized. The amphiphile can form solid-state monolayer and photopolymerize with UV light irradiation at the air–water interface to form blue and red forms of polydiacetylene. Shapes of the crystalline domain of the polydiacetylene monolayer were changed by base pair formation between DA–Thy and adenine nucleobase dissolved in the water subphase.
Effects of Cation Recognition on 1,3-Dipolar Cycloaddition of Crowned Diphenyldiazomethanes with Maleic Anhydride
Authors: Kokubo Ken , Kanematsu Yasuyuki , Oshima Takumi
Published: May 2005

The rates of 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of 12–21 membered ring crowned diphenyldiazomethanes with maleic anhydride were ion-selectively decelerated by addition of alkali metal perchlorates on account of the diminished FMO interaction associated with the cation recognition.
Photoluminescent Oxygen Sensing Using Tris(acethylacetonato) 1,10-Phenanthroline Terbium(III) Complex Doped on Alumina Film
Authors: Amao Yutaka , Okura Ichiro , Miyashita Tokuji
Published: May 2005

A new photoluminescent oxygen sensor based on the luminescence intensities of tris(acethylacetonato) 1,10-phenanthroline terbium(III) complex (Tb(acac)3phen) doped in alumina film was developed. The luminescence intensity of the Tb(acac)3phen film decreased with increasing the oxygen concentration. Tb(acac)3phen film sensor is calibrated by the modified Stern–Volmer equation.
Effect of Alkali Metal Ion on the Ionic Conductivity of a Novel Liquid Crystal Containing a Dibenzo-18-Crown-6 Unit
Authors: Hirose Takuji , Tanaka Shin-ya , Aoki Yoshio , Nohira Hiroyuki
Published: May 2005

A novel liquid crystal containing a dibenzo-18-crown-6 unit was prepared. The ionic conductivity was increased 1.5 orders of magnitude by the addition of an equimolar amount of K+. However neither Na+ nor Li+ yielded suitable samples corresponding to the ion-size matching of the crown ether unit.
Graded Alignment of Polymer Liquid Crystalline Film Prepared under Magnetic Field
Authors: Yamato Masafumi , Kimura Tsunehisa
Published: May 2005

A liquid crystalline polymer film with a graded alignment was prepared using a magnetic field with a field gradient. The graded alignment was confirmed by X-ray diffraction.
Stereocontrolled Synthesis of a Tetracyclic Sesterterpene, (+)-Scalarenedial
Authors: Soetjipto Hartati , Furuichi Noriyuki , Hata Toshiyuki , Katsumura Shigeo
Published: May 2005

A stereocontrolled, formal synthesis of a tetracyclic sesterterpene, (+)-scalarenedial, was achieved by means of repeating the same ring construction method and a simple resolution of the intermediary tetracyclic β-ketoester with a chiral auxiliary.
Remarkably Fast Direct Synthesis of Thiols from Alcohols under Mild Conditions
Authors: Bandgar B P , Sadavarte V S , Uppalla L S
Published: May 2005

One pot rapid synthesis of thiols from alcohols via trifluoroacetates using polymer supported hydrosulfide in acetonitrile under mild conditions has been described.
Electrodeposition of PbO2 Thin Films at the Interface of Two Immiscible Liquids
Authors: Tada Eiji , Kaneko Hiroyuki
Published: May 2005

PbO2 thin films were electrodeposited by anodic oxidation at the n-decane / lead(II) acetate(aq) interface. SEM observations and X-ray analyses revealed that the film consisted of two layers, one the organic-side layer less than 1 µm thick and the other the aqueous-side thicker layer, which were different in the crystal orientation each other. A film of PbO2 grew along the interface by anodic deposition, similarly to the metallic film by cathodic deposition.
A Novel in situ Ultraviolet Irradiation Polymerization–Photolysis Technique for Fabrication of Polyacrylamide-MS (M = Cd, Pb, Zn) Nanocomposites at Room Temperature
Authors: Zhou Yong , Hao Lingyun , Hu Yuan , Zhu Yurui , Chen Zuyao
Published: May 2005

Polyacrylamide (PAM)-MS (M = Cd, Zn, Pb) inorganic-polymer nanocomposites with homogeneously dispersed semiconductor nanoparticles of narrow size distribution in the polymer matrices were prepared by a novel in situ ultraviolet irradiation polymerization–photolysis (UIPP) technique at room temperature.
Decomposition of Aromatic Compounds by Active Oxygen Generator
Authors: Murakami Takurou N , Takahashi Mitsuo , Kawashima Norimichi
Published: May 2005

An active oxygen generator system using UV irradiation and ozone aeration was developed. The purpose of this study was to decompose benzoic acid using the active oxygen generator. The product of decomposition reaction was measured by UV absorption spectrum, and was analyzed by FT-IR. This active oxygen generator was confirmed to decompose benzoic acid effectively.
High-Pressure Infrared Spectroscopy of Molecular Conformations of Diblock Oligomers α-Decyl-ω-hydroxyoligo(oxyethylene)s in the Solid State
Authors: Fukuhara Koichi , Shoden Maki , Matsuura Hiroatsu
Published: May 2005

Molecular conformations of diblock oligomers H(CH2)10(OCH2CH2)mOH (m = 2, 4, and 6) in the solid state were studied at high pressures (1–2 Gpa) by IR spectroscopy. The oxyethylene chain in the oligomers with m = 2 and 4 assumes the all-trans planar conformation, while that in the oligomer with m = 6 assumes the helical conformation. The stabilized planar structure of the oxyethylene chain at high pressures is explained by increased intermolecular cohesive forces in the alkyl block reinforced by external pressures.
Synthesis and Fluorescence of Copolymer of Triphenylamine and trans-Stilbene from Oxidative-Coupling Reaction
Authors: Zhan Caimao , Cheng Zhangang , Ji Qiaoning , Hu Junli , Zhen Jin , Yang Xi , Qin Jingui
Published: May 2005

A conjugated polymer was prepared by an oxidation-coupling polymerization of triphenylamine (TPA) and trans-stilbene. The structure of the copolymer was characterized by elemental analysis, 1H NMR, UV-vis and FT-IR spectra. The copolymer has good solubility in common organic solvents and high glass transition temperature. Fluorescence spectra showed that the copolymer is violet-blue light emitting material.
Novel Protonation-Induced Structural Conversion of an Ethynylene-Bridged Ferrocene–Anthraquinone Complex
Authors: Murata Masaki , Fujita Takako , Yamada Mami , Kurihara Masato , Nishihara Hiroshi
Published: May 2005

1-Ferrocenylethynylanthraquinone undergoes a structural arrangement into the fulvene-cumulene constitution by the protonation.
Synthesis of Cooligomers of Titanium-Bridged Silsesquioxanes and Octakis(hydridosilsesquioxane)
Authors: Wada Kenji , Yamada Koichi , Izuhara Daisuke , Kondo Teruyuki , Mitsudo Take-aki
Published: May 2005

New titanium-bridged silsesquioxanes having olefinic groups, Ti[(c-C5H9)7Si7O12(SiMe2R)]2 (R = vinyl, allyl), react with octakis(hydridosilsesquioxane) under hydrosilylation reaction conditions to give oligomeric materials. The local structure around the titanium atoms of the starting silsesquioxanes is unchanged even in the oligomeric materials.
Catalytic Behavior of Au Core / Pd Shell Bimetallic Nanoparticles on Silica Prepared by Sonochemical and Sol–Gel Processes
Authors: Okitsu Kenji , Murakami Masatoshi , Tanabe Shuji , Matsumoto Hiroshige
Published: May 2005

A unique catalyst, Au core and Pd shell bimetallic nanoparticles immobilized on porous silica exhibiting a considerable high activity for the hydrogenation of cyclohexene, was prepared via two steps composed of the sonochemical reduction method and the sol–gel process under a low temperature condition.
Mini-Scale Solid-Phase Collection and Concentration of Ultra-Trace Elements in Natural Waters for the Simultaneous Multielement Determination by Air-Flow Injection/ ICP-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Oshima Mitsuko , Lee Kyue-Hyung , Gao Yunhua , Motomizu Shoji
Published: May 2005

A mini-scale solid-phase collection and concentration method for the multielement determination of ultra-trace rare earth elements (REEs) in natural water samples was developed by using a newly designed small-scale filtration apparatus. A small-size chelating resin disk (iminodiacetate type: IDA; 10 µm pore size; 5 mm diameter; 0.5 mm thickness) was used for high-enrichment preconcentration of REEs and for elimination of alkali and alkaline earth metals in sample solutions. At pH 5.5, REEs in artificial river waters were quantitatively collected on the chelating resin disk, and most of alkali and alkaline earth metals were removed. The REEs on the chelating resin disk were completely recovered by ultrasonication of the disk with 1 cm3 or less of 0.1 mol dm−3 nitric acid. A small amount (25 µL) of the concentrated sample solution was automatically injected and measured by inductively coupled plasma – mass spectrometry (ICP–MS) coupled with an air flow injection (AFI) system.
Fabrication of Hollow Zeolite Fibers through Layer-by-Layer Adsorption Method
Authors: Wang Y J , Tang Y , Wang X D , Yang W L , Gao Z
Published: May 2005

Hollow fibers with nanozeolite walls are firstly fabricated through layer-by-layer (LbL) technique, using carbon fibers as templates, coupled with removal of the templates by calcination. The thickness and the composition of the walls can be readily controlled by varying the number of the deposition cycles and the zeolite types used, respectively.
Dual Effects of the Substrate and Pterins on the Kinetics of CO Binding to Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase: A Laser Flash Photolysis Study
Authors: Bengea Simona N , Araki Yasuyuki , Ito Osamu , Igarashi Jotaro , Kurokawa Hirofumi , Shimizu Toru
Published: May 2005

Derivatives of pterin, an important cofactor for neuronal nitric oxide synthase, markedly changed the kinetics of CO binding to the enzyme-bound heme. In the absence of the substrate, l-Arg, CO binding was dependent on the CO concentration for pterin complexes, whereas in the presence of l-Arg, it became CO-independent for most pterin complexes. This suggests dual effects of substrate and pterin binding on the kinetics and access of CO to the ligand channel.
Trimethylsilyl Triflate Mediated New Carbon–Carbon Bond Forming Reactions between Benzyl Diphenylphosphinates and Organosilicon Compounds
Authors: Kobashi Yohei , Minowa Tomofumi , Mukaiyama Teruaki
Published: May 2005

The trimethylsilyl triflate mediated reaction of benzyl diphenylphosphinate with allyltrimethylsilane or trimethylsilyl enolate afforded the corresponding cross-coupling products in good yields.
A Novel Technique to Determine the Rate Constants for the Gas-phase Reactions of Low-volatile Compounds with OH Radical Using a Relative-rate Method in CCl4 Liquid Phase-system
Authors: Kameda Takayuki , Asano Kohei , Inazu Koji , Hisamatsu Yoshiharu , Takenaka Norimichi , Bandow Hiroshi
Published: May 2005

For low-volatile aromatic compounds, a good linear relationship was found between the rate-constant ratio for the liquid-phase reaction with NO3 radical in CCl4 and that for the gas-phase reaction with OH radical when naphthalene was employed as a reference compound. Based on the relationship, the rate constants for the OH radical reaction have been successfully determined for fluoranthene and pyrene, which are important airborne polycyclic aromatic compounds.
A Chemically Modified Green-Fluorescent Protein that Responds to Cleavage of an Engineered Disulphide Bond by Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET)-Based Changes
Authors: Zhang Wei , Suzuki Miho , Ito Yoichiro , Douglas Kenneth T
Published: May 2005

The mixed disulfide of a Green-Fluorescent Protein with an Alexa 532 fluorescent label showed FRET, with quenching of the GFP emission. Reductive cleavage of this disulfide bond destroyed the FRET, giving a change in the ratios of fluorescence intensity at the wavelengths corresponding to the GFP and the Alexa dye. Cleavage by glutathione (second order rate constant at pH 7.4 was 1.18 ± 0.02 × 102 M−1 min−1) was faster than for sodium cyanoborohydride.
Performance Improvement by Inserting an Electrodeposited ZnO into ITO/Organic Solid Interface in Organic Solid-state Solar Cells
Authors: Takahashi Kohshin , Nishi Taiki , Suzaka Syouko , Sigeyama Yasunori , Yamaguchi Takahiro , Nakamura Jun-ichi , Murata Kazuhiko
Published: May 2005

When an electrodeposited ZnO was inserted into the ITO/PV (PV: bisbenzimidazo[2,1-a:2′,1′-a′]antra[2,1,9-def:6,5,10-d′e′f′] diisoquinoline-6,11-dione) interface in ITO/PV/MEH-PPV/Au sandwich-type solar cells (MEH-PPV: poly[2-methoxy-5-(2′-ethylenehexyloxy)-1,4-phenylenvinylene], the cell performance was remarkably improved, resulting in 1.24% of energy conversion yield under the irradiation of AM 1.5–100 mW/cm2.
Continuous Analysis of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in the Research Practice
Authors: Yamada Etsu , Matsushita Kazumasa , Nakamura Mitsuaki , Fuse Yasuro , Miki Sadao , Morita Hiroyoshi , Shimada Osamu
Published: May 2005

A small, rapid and sensitive instrument for the continuous analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) was developed and applied to the measurement of VOCs in the research practice of university.
Fucosylation of serum glycoproteins in lung cancer patients
Authors: Kossowska Barbara , Ferens-Sieczkowska Mirosława , Gancarz Roman , Passowicz-Muszyńska Ewa , Jankowska Renata
Published: May 2005

Increased expression of sialyl Lewis X or A antigens on metastatic cancer cells leads to their selectin-mediated extravasation. Profound fucosylation of the serum microenvironment may be a factor that interrupts adhesion and influences the formation of metastases. In this study we quantitatively analyzed fucosylation of serum glycoproteins in small-cell and non-small-cell lung cancer patients. Fucosylation of four chosen glycoprotein bands was measured as the reactivity with
Association of cytochrome P450 2E1 genetic polymorphisms with squamous cell carcinoma of the oesophagus
Authors: Li Dongping , Dandara Collet , Parker M. Iqbal
Published: May 2005

Squamous cell carcinoma of the oesophagus is one of the most common cancers among black males in South Africa. Genetic polymorphism in the cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) gene, coding for one of the main enzymes involved in the bioactivation of tobacco- and alcohol-related substances, was investigated for its role in the development of oesophageal cancer. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms −1053C→T, −1293G→A (both give rise to
The effect of antioxidant supplementation on superoxide dismutase activity, Cu and Zn levels, and total antioxidant status in erythrocytes of patients with Graves' disease
Authors: Bacic-Vrca Vesna , Skreb Franjo , Cepelak Ivana , Mayer Ljiljana , Kusic Zvonko , Petres Blanka
Published: May 2005

The effects of supplementation with a fixed combination of antioxidants (vitamins C and E, β-carotene and selenium) on superoxide dismutase activity, copper and zinc concentrations, and total antioxidant status were monitored in erythrocytes derived from a group of patients with Graves' disease treated with methimazole, with respect to the rate of achieving euthyroidism. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroid hormones and the above-mentioned parameters were measured before therapy, and on days 30 and 60 after therapy initiation. The patients receiving antioxidant supplementation along with methimazole therapy (group A, n=27) achieved euthyroidism at a faster rate than those treated with methimazole alone (group B, n=28). The activity of superoxide dismutase decreased significantly in both patient groups during the treatment; however, there was no significant difference between the groups. There was no significant change in the erythrocyte concentration of copper, whereas the zinc concentration and total antioxidant status showed significant between-group differences. The study results clearly show that antioxidant supplementation in the treatment of Graves' disease is justified, while zinc and total antioxidant status in erythrocytes seem to be sensitive indicators of the efficacy of supplemental therapy.
Concentrations of calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, potassium, sodium and zinc in adult female hair with different body mass indexes in Taiwan
Authors: Wang Chin-Thin , Chang Wei-Tun , Zeng Weng-Feng , Lin Chang-Hua
Published: May 2005

We investigated concentrations of calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, potassium, sodium and zinc using atomic absorption spectroscopy in the hair of four groups of adult females (n=392), ranging in age from 20 to 50years, with different body mass index (BMI): BMI<18, slim group; BMI 18–25, normal group; BMI 26–35, overweight or obese group; and BMI>35, morbidly obese group. We found that the group with BMI<18 had the highest ratios for [Ca]/[Mg], [Fe]/[Cu] and [Zn]/[Cu], but the lowest ratio for [K]/[Na] in hair. On the contrary, the group with BMI>35 had the highest ratio for [K]/[Na], but the lowest for [Fe]/[Cu] and [Zn]/[Cu] in hair. Furthermore, when we compared concentrations of Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, K, Na and Zn between the groups with BMI<18 and BMI>35, we found that there were significant differences (p<0.05) in zinc concentrations between these two groups. In addition, there were significant differences in Ca, Cu, Mg, K and Na concentrations, with p<0.01 at least. From this point of view, we suggest that hair concentrations of Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, K, Na and Zn may be correlated with adult female BMI, but further studies are needed.
How accurate are clinical activity indices for scoring of disease activity in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)?
Authors: Jørgensen Lone G. M. , Fredholm Lisbeth , Hyltoft Petersen Per , Hey Henrik , Munkholm Pia , Brandslund Ivan
Published: May 2005

Clinical activity indices are essential instruments in monitoring inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). To subclassify components of disease indices in CD and UC, investigate technical noise in estimation of the indices, establish a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), evaluate correlation between indices and calculate the reference change value (RCV) for selected biochemical variables in individual cases, 50 patients with CD and 49 patients with UC were included in the study. Qualitative index variables were assessed for scoring errors. The standard deviation (SD) was estimated according to a rectangular model, while SD in biochemical variable scoring was estimated according to a Gaussian model; a combined SD was also calculated. These values were investigated for their individual contribution to variation. The 95% CI of an index value was based on ±1.96×SD
An iterative method for improved estimation of the mean of peer-group distributions in proficiency testing
Authors: Ichihara Kiyoshi , Kawai Tadashi
Published: May 2005

In proficiency testing (PT), the peer-group mean is conventionally computed after twice removing values exceeding the mean±3 SD. However, this adjustment fails if there are many outliers. In this study an iterative method was evaluated as a more robust way to estimate the means. The methodology repeatedly removes a proportion of the population (usually those exceeding the mean±1.6 SD), assuming the presence of a Gaussian distribution in the central portion, and reinflates the SD to compensate for the trimming. A computer simulation revealed that the estimated mean of a known Gaussian distribution was less affected by a subpopulation that overlaps the main population than was the conventional method. When the overlapping portions were removed, the iterative method predicted the true mean correctly. The method was applied to external PT results for 44 analytes. Although most peer-group distributions were clearly non-Gaussian, the segment included by the predicted mean±1.6 SD was regarded as Gaussian in 85.9% by the new method and 73.4% by the conventional method. The proposed methodology appears to be an improved way of estimating peer-group means.
Impact of a common CV evaluation scheme on overall laboratory performance: 8-year experience of a large national proficiency testing program in Japan
Authors: Ichihara Kiyoshi , Kawai Tadashi
Published: May 2005

In proficiency testing (PT), it is difficult to set rational criteria for determining target values and allowable limits. In Japan, the largest national PT program has for the past 8years used an evaluation scheme based on a “common coefficient of variation” (cCV) to overcome this difficulty. The cCV, the average within-method variation, is derived by one-way analysis of variance from data of peer groups after excluding those with large variations. A unit interval used for grading participants is obtained by multiplying the cCV by the peer-group mean which is computed using an iterative method featuring repeated removal of a large portion of the tails of the distribution and reinflation of the standard deviation (SD) to compensate for the trimming. The evaluation scheme gives a relatively better grade to those participants in peer groups with small CVs, compared to use of individual peer-group CVs. The scheme has expedited the transition to more reproducible methods, resulting in a notable overall improvement in laboratory performance. The cCV evaluation scheme is uniformly applicable to any analyte measured quantitatively. The iterative method, an integral part of the scheme, effectively precludes bias in the evaluation.
Significance of small dense low-density lipoproteins as coronary risk factor in diabetic and non-diabetic Korean populations
Authors: Yoon Yeomin , Song Junghan , Park Hyung Doo , Park Kyoung-Un , Kim Jin Q.
Published: May 2005

Small dense low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) have been associated with coronary heart disease (CHD) and type 2 diabetes in previous studies. However, the significance of small dense LDLs as a coronary risk factor for subjects with type 2 diabetes remains unclear. We measured mean LDL particle diameter by gradient gel electrophoresis (Quantimetrix Lipoprint™ LDL System) in 44 type 2 diabetes patients, 100 CHD patients, 35 CHD patients with type 2 diabetes and 88 age-matched control subjects. Mean LDL particle sizes were significantly smaller (p<0.05, Mann-Whitney test) in diabetes mellitus-only patients (25.7±0.8nm), CHD-only patients (25.2±1.4nm), and CHD patients with diabetes mellitus (24.9±1.6nm) than in controls (26.2±1.4nm). As for the mean LDL particle size, the prevalence of small dense LDLs (mean diameter ≤25.5nm) was higher (p<0.05, χ
Erythrocyte ferritin concentration: analytical performance of the immunoenzymatic IMx-Ferritin (Abbott) assay
Authors: Novembrino Cristina , Porcella Antonella , Conte Dario , de Vecchi Amedeo F. , Buccianti Gherardo , Lonati Silvia , Duca Lorena , Ciani Alberto , Bamonti-Catena Fabrizia
Published: May 2005

Together with serum ferritin, erythrocyte ferritincan be a valuable diagnostic tool for evaluating the degree of impaired iron metabolism in different diseases. We collected peripheral blood samples from 64 subjects (22 healthy volunteers, 20 patients with hereditary hemochromatosis, and 22 patients on regular hemodialysis with secondary anemia) to evaluate whether an immunoenzymatic method generally used for serum ferritin can also be used to determine erythrocyte ferritin levels under various conditions of body iron status. Serum and erythrocyte ferritin levels were assayed in parallel using a microparticle enzyme immunoassay (MEIA) IMx-Ferritin kit and an IMx analyzer. The inter-assay imprecision of the serum and erythrocyte ferritin assays was 4.9% and 5.05%, the intra-assay imprecision was 2.2% and 2.3%, and the mean recovery was 102% (range 96–105%) and 101% (range 99–105%), respectively. Both serum and erythrocyte ferritin assays showed a detection limit of 1μg/L and good linearity (R
Neptunium(IV) complexation by humic substances studied by X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy
Authors: Schmeide K. , Reich T. , Sachs S. , Brendler V. , Heise K. H. , Bernhard G.
Published: May 2005

We studied the coordination environment of neptunium(IV) in complexes with various natural and synthetic humic and fulvic acids at pH 1 by X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectroscopy. The results were compared to those obtained for the interaction of neptunium(IV) with Bio-Rex70, a cation exchange resin having solely carboxylic groups as metal binding functional groups. In both neptunium humate complexes and neptunium Bio-Rex70 sorbates, Np4+is surrounded by about 10 oxygen atoms at an average distance of 2.36±0.02 Å. This verifies that the carboxylic groups are the main complexing sites of the humic substances responsible for binding neptunium(IV) in the acidic pH range. The data suggest a predominant monodentate coordination of the carboxylate groups to neptunium(IV) ions.
Detection and quantification of Pu(III, IV, V, and VI) using a 1.0-meter liquid core waveguide
Authors: Wilson Richard E. , Hu Yung-Jin , Nitsche Heino
Published: May 2005

Detection and quantification of the aquo ions of Pu in 1 M HClO4was carried out using a 1-meter liquid core waveguide (LCW) coupled to a fiber optic UV-Vis spectrometer. Detection limits of 7 × 10−7M for Pu(VI), 1.6 × 10−5M for Pu(V), 5 × 10−6M for Pu(IV) and 8 × 10−6M for Pu(III) were achieved. The limits of detection represent increases of 18 to 33 times those achievable using a conventional 1-cm path length. Because of the much lower detection limits of the LCW, routine identification of the oxidation states in dilute Pu solutions can be made.
Characterization of Sr2+uptake on natural minerals of kaolinite and magnesite using XRPD, SEM/EDS, XPS, and DRIFT
Authors: Shahwan T. , Erten H. N.
Published: May 2005

The sorption behavior of Sr2+ions on natural minerals rich in kaolinite and magnesite was studied using SEM/EDS, XPS, XRPD, AAS/AES and DRIFT techniques. Quantitative analysis of the XPS data shows that magnesite is more effective in Sr2+uptake than kaolinite. DRIFT spectra and XRPD patterns indicate that the structures of both minerals were not affected upon Sr2+sorption. Intercalation of DMSO in kaolinite lamellae aiming at increasing the interlayer space did not significantly enhance the sorption capacity of the clay towards Sr2+probably due to the lack of a negative charge on the accessible sites. EDS mapping indicated that while the sorbed Sr is equally distributed on surface of natural kaolinite, it was associated – to a larger extent – with the regions richer in Mg in the case of natural magnesite. Comparing the uptake mechanisms of natural magnesite with that of pure MgCO3, it was seen that while natural magnesite sorbed Sr2+mainly through an ion exchange type mechanism, the formation of SrCO3coprecipitate was detected on the surface of the MgCO3at higher loadings.
Influence of the nutritional mechanism of fungi (mycorrhize/saprophyte) on the uptake of radionuclides by mycelium
Authors: Baeza A. , Guillén J. , Hernández S. , Salas A. , Bernedo M. , Manjón J. L. , Moreno G.
Published: May 2005

Field studies have shown that the uptake of radionuclides by fungi depends on its nutritional mechanism (mycorrhizal or saprophytic), but this fact is only fully demonstrated for radiocaesium. To extend this conclusion to other radionuclides likely to be released in semi-natural ecosystems, we carried out a series of experiments under controlled laboratory conditions of the growth of mycelium of mycorrhizal and saprophytic fungi (Pleurotus eryngii and Hebeloma cylindrosporum respectively) on liquid culture media containing known added activities of 60Co, 85Sr, and 134Cs. The radionuclide incorporated most efficiently into Pleurotus eryngii was 134Cs, and into Hebeloma cylindrosporum was 60Co. For 134Cs and 85Sr, we also analysed the influence that the content of the chemically analogue elements K and Ca respectively in the culture medium had on its uptake. For both species, the uptake of 134Cs is not correlated with the content of K in the media, but it is the uptake of 85Sr increasing with it. These results seem to be independent of the nutritional mechanism. The influence of linearity in the uptake of 134Cs and 85Sr with increasing concentrations of Cs and Sr in the culture medium was also studied. For Pleurotus eryngii it was observed a decrease in the uptake of 134Cs with increasing Cs content in the medium, and an increase in the uptake of 85Sr with increasing Sr content in the medium.
Effect of Infant Feeding on the Risk of Obesity Across the Life Course: A Quantitative Review of Published Evidence
Authors: Owen Christopher G. , Martin Richard M. , Whincup Peter H. , Smith George Davey , Cook Derek G.
Published: May 2005

Objective. To examine the influence of initial infant feeding on obesity in later life.

Methods. A systematic review of published studies investigating the association between infant feeding and a measure of obesity was performed with Medline (1966 onward) and Embase (1980 onward) databases, supplemented with manual searches. Data extraction was conducted by 2 authors. Analyses were based on odds ratios of obesity among initially breastfed subjects, compared with formula-fed subjects, pooled with fixed-effects models.

Results. Sixty-one studies reported on the relationship of infant feeding to a measure of obesity in later life; of these, 28 (298900 subjects) provided odds ratio estimates. In these studies, breastfeeding was associated with a reduced risk of obesity, compared with formula feeding (odds ratio: 0.87; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.85–0.89). The inverse association between breastfeeding and obesity was particularly strong in 11 small studies of <500 subjects (odds ratio: 0.43; 95% CI: 0.33–0.55) but was still apparent in larger studies of ≥500 subjects (odds ratio: 0.88; 95% CI: 0.85–0.90). In 6 studies that adjusted for all 3 major potential confounding factors (parental obesity, maternal smoking, and social class), the inverse association was reduced markedly (from an odds ratio of 0.86 to 0.93) but not abolished. A sensitivity analysis examining the potential impact of the results of 33 published studies (12505 subjects) that did not provide odds ratios (mostly reporting no relationship between breastfeeding and obesity) showed little effect on the results.

Conclusions. Initial breastfeeding protects against obesity in later life. However, a further review including large unpublished studies exploring the effect of confounding factors in more detail is needed.
Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Children: Quantifying the Burden on Patients and Their Families Including Decrease in Quality of Life
Authors: Shoham Yaron , Dagan Ron , Givon-Lavi Noga , Liss Zvika , Shagan Tomer , Zamir Orly , Greenberg David
Published: May 2005

Objectives. Childhood respiratory infections have an important impact on society and are a frequent cause of physician visits, consumption of antibiotics and over-the-counter drugs, work loss, and reduction of quality of life. The aim of this study was to assess the burden of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) on children and their families, including quantification of expenses and decrease in quality of life.

Methods. Patients <3 years old with pneumonia were enrolled in 3 sites in southern Israel: pediatric wards, the pediatric emergency department, and a primary health clinic. In the primary health clinic, the diagnosis was based on clinical judgment, and in the hospital the diagnosis was based on the World Health Organization Standardization of Interpretation of Chest Radiographs for the diagnosis of CAP in children. Data regarding the children’s medical history and various aspects of direct and indirect burden were gathered every 2 to 3 days during the 29 days of follow-up. The patients’ parents were asked to give the names of 2 healthy children who could serve as controls from among the child’s friends, neighbors, or day care center attendees.

Results. Two-hundred thirteen children with pneumonia were enrolled: 34 (16.0%) in the pediatric wards, 73 (34.2%) in the pediatric emergency department, and 106 (49.8%) in the primary pediatric clinic. The control group consisted of 99 children. During the 29 follow-up days, hospitalized children had the most severe and prolonged symptoms, followed in decreasing order by children seen at the emergency department, primary health clinic, and controls: The mean ± standard deviation (SD) of febrile days was 4.9 ± 2.8, 4.8 ± 3.1, 3.3 ± 2.5, and 1.4 ± 3.3, respectively (statistically significant between any patient group and the control group). The mean duration of respiratory distress ± SD was 3.8 ± 5.6, 2.8 ± 4.4, 2.2 ± 4.4, and 0.4 ± 1.8 days, respectively (statistically significant between any patient group and the control group). The median duration of nonroutine days as judged by the parents was 13, 8, 7, and 0, respectively. The mean number of workdays lost by working mothers ± SD was 4.2 ± 4.8, 2.0 ± 2.6, 1.7 ± 1.9, and 0.2 ± 0.9, respectively (between any patient group and the control group). The quality-of-life–questionnaire analysis reveals statistically significant differences with regard to all 11 questions asked between any of the patient groups and the control group. There was a clear trend toward decreasing quality of life from the control group to the primary health clinic, pediatric emergency department, and pediatric wards groups.

Conclusions. CAP in children causes a significant burden on both patients and their families, including substantial expenses, loss of routine, and decrease in quality of life.
Influence of Swaddling on Sleep and Arousal Characteristics of Healthy Infants
Authors: Franco Patricia , Seret Nicole , Van Hees Jean-Noël , Scaillet Sonia , Groswasser José , Kahn André
Published: May 2005

Objective. Swaddling is an old infant care practice. It was reported to favor sleep and to reduce crying among irritable infants. There are few data on the physiologic effects of swaddling on infants' sleep-wake characteristics. This study was conducted to evaluate whether swaddling influences infants' arousal thresholds for environmental auditory stress.

Design. Sixteen healthy infants, with a median age of 10 weeks (range: 6–16 weeks), underwent polygraphic recording in their usual supine position during one night. The infants were successively recorded swaddled and nonswaddled, or vice versa. In both conditions, the infants were exposed to white noise of increasing intensity, from 50 to 100 dB(A), during rapid eye movement sleep, to determine their arousal thresholds.

Results. Swaddling was associated with increases in the infants' sleep efficiency and in the time spent in non–rapid eye movement sleep. When swaddled, the infants awakened spontaneously less often. However, significantly less-intense auditory stimuli were needed during rapid eye movement sleep to induce cortical arousals when swaddled than when not swaddled.

Conclusions. Swaddling promotes more-sustained sleep and reduces the frequency of spontaneous awakenings, whereas induced cortical arousals are elicited by less-intense stimuli. These findings could indicate that, although swaddling favors sleep continuity, it is associated with increased responsiveness to environmental auditory stress.
CHIP Shots: Association Between the State Children's Health Insurance Programs and Immunization Rates
Authors: Joyce Ted , Racine Andrew
Published: May 2005

Objective. The Balanced Budget Act of 1997 established the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), which makes health insurance available to children in near-poor families who are ineligible for Medicaid. SCHIP mandates that all state plans cover the cost and administration of childhood vaccines. Whether SCHIP has narrowed immunization coverage rates between near-poor and nonpoor children is unknown. The objective of this study was to use data from the National Immunization Survey from 1995 to 2002 to analyze changes in immunization coverage rates among poor, near-poor, and nonpoor children before and after implementation of SCHIP.

Methods. A prepost analysis was made of changes in immunization rates among poor, near-poor, and nonpoor children before and after implementation of SCHIP in all 50 states and 28 Immunization Action Plan areas from 1995 to 2002. All children in the National Immunization Survey for whom information on vaccinations was available from the respondents' shot cards and/or from the children's immunization providers (N = 264214) were studied. Up-to-date status for the 4:3:1 (4 doses of diphtheria-tetanus toxoids-pertussis vaccine/3 doses of poliovirus vaccine/1 dose of measles-mumps-rubella vaccine) and the 4:3:1:3:3 (4 doses of diphtheria-tetanus toxoids-pertussis vaccine/3 doses of poliovirus vaccine/1 dose of measles-mumps-rubella vaccine/3 doses of Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine/3 doses of hepatitis B vaccine) series as well at the hepatitis B and varicella vaccines was measured.

Results. The probability that a poor or near-poor child was up to date for the 4:3:1:3:3 vaccine series increased ∼11 percentage points after implementation of SCHIP. However, we observed a similar increase for nonpoor children. The proportion of poor and near-poor children who were up to date for the varicella vaccine increased between 7 and 8 percentage points more than among nonpoor children after implementation of SCHIP. Relative increases among poor and near-poor children were greater in the 28 Immunization Action Plan areas, in states with high rates of uninsured children, and among Hispanics.

Conclusion. SCHIP seems not to be associated with changes in the up-to-date status of poor and near-poor children for the 4:3:1 and the 4:3:1:3:3 vaccine series. Vaccine coverage rates increased broadly among all income groups between 1995 and 2002.