bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agrochemical Products
Authors: Frank Rudolf
Published: January 2009

The article contains sections titled:

1.Introduction2.Securing the Nutrition of Mankind3.Crop Protection by Agrochemical Products Today4.Performance by Means of Formulations5.Requirements for an Agrochemical Product5.1.Biological Performance5.2.Application and Use of Crop‐Protection Products5.3.Protection of User5.4.Aspects of Manufacturing of Crop‐Protection Products5.5.Storage of Crop‐Protection Products5.6.Impact on the Environment5.7.The Role of Adjuvants6.Other Formulations and OutlookAcknowledgement7.References

Crop‐protection products represent an indispensable component for a secure supply of food for mankind, both for quality and quantity. Because their use implies a significant interaction with nature and the environment, there are high requirements imposed by authorities. Crop‐protection products are provided in a formulated form, typically designed to allow the user and farmer to apply them in a way that is typical for the regional crop situation and with the specific equipment. The user must rely on optimal product performance, thus the manufacturer must provide reproducible properties, be it for the active ingredient or for the formulation. This includes both biological and physical properties. Although there is a general state‐of‐the‐art among the formulation peers, each new product represents a new challenge. This article shows the need for various decisions. Applying them will lead to an optimized product that includes the current state‐of‐the‐art and also considers future foreseeable requirements.

Modern types of formulations are suspoemulsions (SE) and suspension concentrates (SC), water‐dispersible granule (WG) exhibit obvious advantages too. The decision for one or the other formulation type is a consequence of a technological and an economical evaluation. The specific requirements of the respective users have to be taken into account too. In various examples, the benefits and the detriments of different formulation types and the necessary ingredients are described. Crop‐protection products are end‐user products that are applied at varying times. Therefore, storage and packaging need also to be strongly considered during their development.

In the last few decades the understanding of the impact of agrochemicals on nature and the environment and thus on the consumer have grown significantly. Furthermore, the knowledge about means for a secure and both a qualitatively and quantitatively augmented food production has increased. This, together with the consequent adjustment to the high technical application standards, has led to the generally accepted opinion that crop‐protection products can be considered as one of the most thoroughly investigated man‐made chemicals.
Carbon Fiber Reinforced Composites
Authors: Drechsler Klaus , Heine Michael , Mitschang Peter , Baur Walter , Gruber Udo , Fischer Ludger , Öttinger Oswin , Heidenreich Bernhard , Lützenburger Nicole , Voggenreiter Heinz
Published: January 2009

The article contains sections titled:1.Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers1.1.Raw Materials1.2.Manufacturing Technologies1.3.Design and Simulation1.4.Mechanical Properties1.5.Applications1.6.Economic Aspects2.Carbon Fiber Reinforced Carbon2.1.Introduction2.1.1.History2.1.2.Definition, Nomenclature2.2.Raw Materials2.2.1.Carbon Fibers and Textile Fiber Precursors2.2.2.Matrix Resins2.2.3.Additives2.2.4.Pitch2.2.5.Pyrocarbon2.3.Manufacturing Processes2.3.1.Pressing, Manual Layup2.3.2.Winding2.3.3.Autoclave Technology2.3.4.Joining2.3.5.Densification2.3.5.1.Liquid Impregnation2.3.5.2.Gas Phase Deposition (CVI, CVD)2.3.6.Graphitization2.4.Structure and Properties2.4.1.Fiber–Matrix Binding, Structure, Crack Structure2.4.2.Material Properties2.4.2.1.Mechanical Properties2.4.2.2.Thermophysical Properties2.4.2.3.Tribological Properties2.4.3.Chemical Properties2.4.3.1.Chemical Corrosion2.4.3.2.Oxidation and Oxidation Protection2.5.Component Design and Numerical Methods2.5.1.Problems Specific to CFC2.5.2.Characteristic Material Parameters2.5.3.Design Procedure2.5.4.Experimental Studies and Component Tests2.6.Applications2.7.Outlook3.Carbon Fiber Reinforced Ceramics3.1.Introduction3.2.Manufacture3.2.1.Chemical Vapor Infiltration (CVI)3.2.2.Liquid Polymer Infiltration (LPI)3.2.3.Liquid Silicon Infiltration (LSI)3.3.Properties3.4.Applications3.4.1.Space Applications3.4.2.Aeronautics3.4.3.Friction Systems3.4.4.Low‐Expansion Structures3.4.5.Lightweight Armor3.4.6.Other Applications
Life success of males on nonoffender, adolescence‐limited, persistent, and adult‐onset antisocial pathways: follow‐up from age 8 to 42
Authors: Pulkkinen Lea , Lyyra Anna‐Liisa , Kokko Katja
Published: January 2009

A random sample of 196 males, drawn from the Jyväskylä Longitudinal Study of Personality and Social Development, was divided into four groups of offenders using information from government registers of convictions between ages 21 and 47, from local police registers searched at age 21, from a Self‐Report Delinquency Scale administered at age 36, from a Life History Calendar for ages 15–42, and from personal interviews at ages 27, 36, and 42. The groups were: persistent offenders (offences before and after age 21; 29% of the men); adolescence‐limited offenders (offences before age 21; 27%); adult‐onset offenders (offences after age 21; 16%); and nonoffenders (28%). The profile of the persistent offenders included many characteristics of antisocial personality and problems of social and psychological functioning at all ages. In childhood and adolescence, the adolescence‐limited offenders tended to display higher self‐control than the other offenders indicated by less negative emotionality and higher constraint. In early middle age, they were well established in terms of work and marriage, but they differed from the nonoffenders in higher neuroticism, aggressiveness, and psychosomatic symptoms as did the other offender groups. The adult‐onset offenders displayed an emotionally unstable personality, and in adulthood, they tended to be heavy users of alcohol. Parental SES did not differentiate the groups, but the parents of the persistent offenders tended to use alcohol heavily, and the social capital of the family tended to be low compared with the other groups. Aggr. Behav. 35:117–135, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Preparation of a porous structure in a poly(4‐methyl‐1‐pentene)/diphenyl ether system with a thermally induced phase‐separation method
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Zhang Youquan , Xia Dewan , Zhao Yun , Shi Yanqiao , Jiao Qingze
Published: January 2009

Poly(4‐methyl‐1‐pentene) was used to prepare porous structures by a thermally induced phase‐separation method. Different porous structures were obtained with poly(4‐methyl‐1‐pentene), which has excellent properties as a polymer, and diphenyl ether as a diluent. The affecting factors, including the polymer concentration and cooling temperature, are discussed. Scanning electron microscopy images and porosity values were obtained to investigate the affecting factors. According to the cloud‐point temperature and crystallization temperature, a phase diagram was also obtained to explain the phase‐separation process. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Nonisothermal cure kinetics of DGEBA with 2,7‐diaminofluorene
Authors: Ghaemy M. , Barghamadi M.
Published: January 2009

Cure kinetics of diglycidyl ether of a bisphenol A‐based epoxy resin (DGEBA) with 2,7‐diaminofluorene (DAF) as curing agent have been studied by using nonisothermal differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). The values of apparent activation energy (Ea) of nonisothermal cure reaction were calculated by using isoconversional and nonisoconversional methods. The Ea values of the samples containing stoichiometric amount of 26 phr DAF revealed a dependence on the conversion (α) by the isoconversional method of Flynn–Wall–Ozawa (FWO). The Ea values by nonisoconversional methods of Ozawa and Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose (KAS) were 58.27 and 55.68 kJ/mol, respectively. The cure process showed that the autocatalytic behavior dominates the mechanism in the initial stages where the rate‐controlling steps are located, but becomes diffusion‐controlled in the final stage. Techniques of predicting isothermal cure time from nonisothermal kinetic parameters by ASTM and Vyazovkin methods were used for the cure reaction of DGEBA/DAF system. Thermal stability of the cured resin was also determined by using thermogravimetry analysis (TGA). © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Synthesis and humidity sensitive properties of pyrrole‐based polyelectrolytes
Authors: Lv Xin , Hong Li‐Jie , Li Yang , Yang Mu‐Jie
Published: January 2009

Pyrrole (Py)‐based polyelectrolytes (Py‐PE): P(Py‐COOLi), P(Py‐COONa), and P(Py‐COOK) was synthesized, characterized, and used to prepare thin film resistive humidity sensors. Their humidity sensitive properties have been investigated, and sensing mechanism was presented. The Py‐PE contains PPy as backbone and the side chain bearing carboxylic salt group, which made its sensor exhibited a very wide humidity sensing range of 0–97% relative humidity (RH), high conductivity even at very low humidity, and both ionic and electronic conduction contributed to its conductivity. Among all the Py‐PE, P(Py‐COOK) showed high sensitivity, with the impedance changing of about three orders of magnitude (103–106 Ω) from 97 to 0% RH, whereas P(Py‐COONa) showed quick response for both absorption (12.5 s) and desorption (15.2 s). Py‐PE prepared is promising for preparation of thin film resistive humidity sensors capable of detecting low humidity. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Fabrication and mechanical properties of glass fiber‐reinforced wood plastic hybrid composites
Authors: Cui Yi‐Hua , Tao Jie
Published: January 2009

To fully utilize the resource in the municipal solid waste (MSW) and improve the strength and toughness of wood plastic composites, glass fiber (GF)‐reinforced wood plastic hybrid composites (GWPCs) were prepared through compounding of recycled high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) from MSW, waste wood fibers, and chopped GF. Mechanical tests of GWPCs specimens with varying amounts of GF content were carried out and the impact fractured surface of GWPCs was observed through scanning electron microscope (SEM). The tensile strength of GWPCs and the efficiency coefficient values were predicted by Kelly‐Tyson method. The results indicated that the tensile strength and impact strength of GWPCs could be improved simultaneously by adding type L chopped GF (L‐GF), and would be dropped down when type S chopped GF (S‐GF) was included. The tensile strength of GWPCs was well accordant with the experimental result. The efficiency coefficient values of S‐GF and L‐GF are −0.19 and 0.63, respectively. Inspection of SEM micrographs indicated that L‐GF had achieved full adhesion with the plastic matrix through addition of maleic anhydride‐g‐polyethylene. The main fracture modes of GWPCs included pullout of GF, broken of matrix, and interfacial debonding. Because of the synergistic effects between hybrid components in GF/wood fiber/HDPE hybrid system, a special 3D network microstructure was formed, which was the main contribution to the significant improvement in the tensile strength and impact strength of L‐GF‐reinforced hybrid composites. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Flocculation of fine particles in ceramic wastewater using new types of polymeric flocculants
Authors: Cengiz Ismail , Sabah Eyup , Ozgen Selcuk , Akyildiz Hatice
Published: January 2009

It appears to be quite a few national and international studies were reported regarding flocculation and settling properties of ceramic industry wastewater containing various mineral matters. Cleaning of ceramic industry wastewaters with ever increasing environmental standards needs effective and economical solid–liquid separation processes. In this study, quantity and type of optimum flocculant concentration were investigated for solid–liquid separation of Umpac ceramic plant (located at Usak, Turkey) wastewaters. A new generation of flocculants namely unique molecular architecture (UMA) are used to obtain high settling velocity along with high solid content waste and circulation water with low turbidity values. Zeta potential of the tailings including quartz, feldspar, clorite, and mica was also measured at different pH values. The flocculation tests were performed in the presence of different types of polymers at different polymer dosages. It seems that Magnafloc 5250 shows higher performance than the anionic flocculant SPK 508 and other anionic UMA flocculants Magnafloc 6260 and Magnafloc 3230. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Benefits of low kenaf loading in biobased composites of poly(L‐lactide) and kenaf fiber
Authors: Ogbomo Sunny M. , Chapman Kent , Webber Charles , Bledsoe Robert , D'Souza Nandika A.
Published: January 2009

Bast fibers from stems of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus, L.), a warm‐season tropical herbaceous annual plant, were dispersed into poly‐L‐lactide (PLLA) matrix by melt‐mixing followed by compression molding. Low fiber fractions (1–5%) were investigated. The composites showed a slight lowering of thermal stability when evaluated by thermogravimentric analysis. X‐ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry indicated an influence of kenaf on the crystallization of PLLA. The fiber dispersion in the polymer matrix was established by polarized optical microscopy. Scanning electron microscopy showed good fiber–matrix adhesion as revealed by the combination of dispersion, interaction, and crystallinity, which enabled an increase in the mechanical properties of the composite that scaled with concentration. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Preparation of core‐shell latexes for paper coatings
Authors: Koskinen Mia , Wilén Carl‐Eric
Published: January 2009

Novel core‐shell latices with a partially crosslinked hydrophilic polymer core and a hard hydrophobic shell of polystyrene were prepared to improve optical properties of coated paper such as gloss and brightness. These core‐shell latices were prepared by sequential addition of a monomer mixture of styrene, n‐butylacrylate and methacrylic acid. Different crosslinkers were used to form the polymer core and in the second stage styrene to form the hard shell component. In addition, attempts were made to further improve optical properties by introducing a new polymerizable optical brightener, i.e., 1‐[(4‐vinylphenoxy)methyl]‐4‐(2‐phenylethylenyl)benzene during polymerization either into the core or into the shell. The prepared core‐shell latex particles were used as specialty plastic pigments for paper coating together with kaolin as the primary pigment. The runability of paper coating formulation by either using a laboratory scale Helicoater or pilot scale JET‐coating machine was very good. The produced coated papers were printed on both sides employing a heat set web offset (HSWO) printer to study the quality of image reproduction in terms of print gloss, print mottle, print through, etc. The core‐shell latices improved the overall print quality. Furthermore, the results demonstrated that by optimizing polymer composition one can significantly enhance the optical properties and surface smoothness of coated paper. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Deformation and alignment of lamellae in melt extension of blends of a styrene‐butadiene block copolymer with polystyrene
Authors: Handge Ulrich A. , Buschnakowski Matthias , Michler Goerg H.
Published: January 2009

The development of the morphology and the alignment of lamellae in melt elongation of blends of an asymmetric linear styrene‐butadiene block copolymer (LN3) and polystyrene (PS 158K) was investigated. PS 158K and LN3 formed two‐phase polymer blends with PS 158K resp. LN3 inclusions, depending on the concentration of polystyrene. The block copolymer was arranged in a lamellar phase with a lamellae thickness of ∼ 13 nm. Our rheological experiments revealed that the complex modulus, the elongational viscosity and the recovered stretch of the blends primarily resulted from a superposition of the properties of the blend components. In melt elongation, pure LN3 started to crumple at a small Hencky strain. In the blends, the presence of the PS 158K inclusions led to a macroscopically more uniform elongation, but with an anisotropic Poisson ratio. The LN3 inclusions in the PS 158K matrix were deformed into a filament‐like shape. In the blends with a LN3 matrix the alignment of the block copolymer lamellae parallel to the loading direction increased with applied extensional strain. In the latter case, the lamellae thickness did not decrease significantly. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Rheological characterization of UV‐curable epoxy systems: Effects of o‐Boehmite nanofillers and a hyperbranched polymeric modifier
Authors: Corcione Carola Esposito , Frigione Mariaenrica , Acierno Domenico
Published: January 2009

An organo‐modified Boehmite (o‐Boehmite) was used to prepare nanocomposite UV‐curing coatings, based on a cycloaliphatic epoxy resin (3,4‐epoxycyclohexylmethyl‐3′,4′‐epoxycyclohexane carboxylate). A hyperbranched polymer (HBP) based on highly branched polyester, was also added to the resin, with the aim to modify its reactivity, such as a possible route to increase the toughness of the resin. Different amounts of the nanofiller and the HBP, ranging from 5 up to 20 wt % of resin, were dispersed into the resin in the presence of triarylsulfonium hexafluoroantimonate, as a photoinitiator for the UV curing of the resin. The rheological behavior of the formulations produced was studied as function of the shear rate and of the content of each filler using a cone and plate rheometer. A general increase in viscosity was observed with increasing the volume fraction of each filler and a moderate pseudoplastic behavior was observed when o‐Boehmite filler was added. A non‐Newtonian behavior was observed with the incorporation of the HBP. The viscosity of the epoxy/boehmite resin mixtures was analyzed as function of the nanofiller volume fraction. In the case of epoxy/hyperbranched resin mixtures, the Cross equation was used to predict the viscosity of each formulation as a function of the shear rate and an appropriate relationship to predict the viscosity of each formulation as a function of the filler volume fraction, was determined. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Neural tube defects in Australia: Trends in encephaloceles and other neural tube defects before and after promotion of folic acid supplementation and voluntary food fortification
Authors: Bower Carol , D'Antoine Heather , Stanley Fiona J.
Published: January 2009

BACKGROUND:

Use of periconceptional folic acid supplementation has been promoted in Western Australia since late 1992, and voluntary fortification of some foods with folic acid has been permitted in Australia since 1996. Reduced rates of neural tube defects (NTDs) have been observed since 1995. Aboriginal infants have a higher rate of NTDs, but no fall in rates has been documented. Encephaloceles have not been examined separately.

METHODS:

Data on anencephaly, spina bifida, and encephalocele were obtained from the Western Australian Birth Defects Registry. The prevalence ratio for each type of NTD was calculated, comparing 1993 to 1995 (promotion of supplements, no fortification) and 1996 to 2006 (promotion of supplements and voluntary fortification) with 1980 to 1992 (no promotion or fortification).

RESULTS:

From 1996 to 2006, there was a 32% reduction in anencephaly, 23% in spina bifida, and 34% in encephalocele compared with 1980 to 1992. There were no differences seen from 1993 to 1995 compared with 1980 to 1992. For Aboriginal infants, the rates were higher than for non‐Aboriginal infants, for each type of NTD. The prevalence ratios, comparing 1996 to 2006 with 1980 to 1995, were 0.70 (CI, 0.61–0.79) for non‐Aboriginal infants and 0.90 (CI, 0.61–1.32) for Aboriginal infants.

CONCLUSIONS:

Overall, the rates of encephalocele, anencephaly, and spina bifida have fallen to a similar extent in association with promotion of folic acid supplements and voluntary fortification. No such falls were seen for Aboriginal infants. These data will provide a useful baseline against which to monitor the effects of mandatory fortification on NTDs when it is introduced in Australia in September 2009. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regulation of folate receptor 1 gene expression in the visceral endoderm
Authors: Salbaum J. Michael , Finnell Richard H. , Kappen Claudia
Published: January 2009

BACKGROUND:

Nutrient supply to the developing mammalian embryo is a fundamental requirement. Before completion of the chorioallantoic placenta, the visceral endoderm plays a crucial role in nurturing the embryo. We have found that visceral endoderm cells express folate receptor 1, a high‐affinity receptor for the essential micronutrient folic acid, suggesting that the visceral endoderm has an important function for folate transport to the embryo. The mechanisms that direct expression of FOLR1 in the visceral endoderm are unknown.

METHODS:

Sequences were tested for transcriptional activation capabilities in the visceral endoderm utilizing reporter gene assays in a cell model for extraembryonic endoderm in vitro, and in transgenic mice in vivo.

RESULTS:

With F9 embryo carcinoma cells as a model for extraembryonic endoderm, we demonstrate that the P4 promoter of the human FOLR1 gene is active during differentiation of the cells towards visceral endoderm. However, transgenic mouse experiments show that promoter sequences alone are insufficient to elicit reporter gene transcription in vivo. Using sequence conservation as guide to choose genomic sequences from the human FOLR1 gene locus, we demonstrate that the sequence termed F1CE2 exhibits specific enhancer activity in F9 cells in vitro, in the visceral endoderm, and later the yolk sac in transgenic mouse embryos in vivo. We further show that the transcription factor HNF4‐alpha can activate this enhancer sequence.

CONCLUSIONS:

We have identified a transcriptional enhancer sequence from the FOLR1 locus with specific activity in vitro and in vivo, and suggest that FOLR1 is a target for regulation by HNF4‐alpha. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of maternal hyperthermia on myogenesis‐related factors in developing upper limb
Authors: Lee Jin , Mirkes Philip E. , Paik Doo Jin , Kim Won Kyu
Published: January 2009

BACKGROUND:

Maternal hyperthermia is one causative factor in various congenital anomalies in experimental animals and humans. In the present study, we assessed the effects of high temperature on limb myogenesis in mice.

METHODS:

Pregnant mice, C57BL/6 strain, were exposed to hyperthermia (43°C, 5 minutes) on embryonic day (ED) 8. Fetuses on ED 11, 13, 15, and 17 and neonates on postnatal day (PD) 1 were collected. To characterize the effects of hyperthermia on myogenesis‐related factors Pax3, MyoD, myogenin, and myosin heavy chain (MyHC) during skeletal muscle development, we performed RT‐PCR, western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and transmission electron microscopy.

RESULTS:

Pax3 gene expression was still detected on ED 13 in hyperthermia‐exposed fetuses. The expression of MyoD protein was down‐regulated in fetuses exposed to hyperthermia. In contrast, myogenin and MyHC protein expression were up‐regulated on PD 1 and ED 17, respectively, in the group exposed to hyperthermia. Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed the findings from western blot analysis. Compared with control neonates, a TEM study revealed immature muscle fibers in PD 1 hyperthermia neonates. Thus, our studies showed that maternal hyperthermia induced delayed expression of Pax3 and inhibited expression of MyoD proteins, which are known to play important roles in migration of myogenic progenitor cells, and in myoblast proliferation. In addition, maternal hyperthermia also delayed the expression of myogenin protein for the formation of myotubes, and MyHC protein, which is one of the final muscle differentiation factors.

CONCLUSION:

Our data suggest that maternal hyperthermia delays limb myogenesis in part by disregulating the expression of key myogenesis‐related factors. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Understanding the causes and prevention of neural tube defects: Insights from the splotch mouse model
Authors: Greene Nicholas D.E. , Massa Valentina , Copp Andrew J.
Published: January 2009

Splotch mutant mice develop neural tube defects (NTDs), comprising exencephaly and/or spina bifida, as well as neural crest–related defects and abnormalities of limb musculature. Defects in splotch mice result from mutations in Pax3, and some human NTDs may also result from mutations in the human PAX3 gene. Pax3 encodes a transcription factor whose function may influence expression of multiple downstream genes associated with a variety of cellular properties (including apoptosis, adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation), that could be important for neural tube closure. The frequency of NTDs varies between mutant alleles and is also influenced by genetic background and environmental factors. Notably, splotch provides a model for folic acid–preventable NTDs, and conversely, dietary folate deficiency exacerbates NTDs. Understanding the molecular and cellular basis of splotch NTDs, as well as the mechanisms by which the frequency of defects is influenced by genetic and environmental factors (such as sub‐optimal folate status), may provide insight into the causation of these severe congenital malformations in humans. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Maternal serum homocysteine and risk for neural tube defects in a Texas‐Mexico border population
Authors: Felkner Marilyn , Suarez Lucina , Canfield Mark A. , Brender Jean D. , Sun Qin
Published: January 2009

BACKGROUND:

To better understand the neural tube defect (NTD) causal pathway, the authors measured homocysteine, an indicator of tissue micronutrient deficiencies. The authors examined independent and joint associations of serum homocysteine, B12, and folate and red blood cell (RBC) folate with NTD‐affected pregnancies.

METHODS:

Case women in this population‐based study had NTD‐affected pregnancies and resided and delivered in one of the 14 Texas‐Mexico border counties from 1995 through 2000. Control women were study area residents delivering normal live births during the same period. The authors measured homocysteine levels using tandem mass spectroscopy; competitive binding was used for other biomarkers.

RESULTS:

Homocysteine testing was done on 103 cases and 139 controls. Odds ratios (ORs) were increased in all upper homocysteine quintiles compared to the lowest quintile (1.7, 1.3, 2.8, 2.4). Women with high homocysteine values had increased ORs regardless of high versus low levels for B12 (OR = 3.5, 4.8, respectively) or RBC folate (OR = 2.9, 3.5, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS:

High serum homocysteine levels are associated with NTD‐affected pregnancies. Moreover, high homocysteine levels have a detrimental effect on NTD‐risk even when serum B12 or RBC folate levels are high. Excess homocysteine might play an independent role in the development of NTDs. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparative study of clinical characteristics of amniotic rupture sequence with and without body wall defect: Further evidence for separation
Authors: Jamsheer Aleksander , Materna‐Kiryluk Anna , Badura‐Stronka Magdalena , Wiśniewska Katarzyna , Więckowska Barbara , Mejnartowicz Jan , Balcar‐Boroń Anna , Borszewska‐Kornacka Maria , Czerwionka‐Szaflarska Mieczysława , Gajewska Elżbieta , Godula‐Stuglik Urszula , Krawczynski Marian , Limon Janusz , Rusin Józef , Sawulicka‐Oleszczuk Henryka , Szwałkiewicz‐Warowicka Ewa , Świetliński Janusz , Walczak Mieczysław , Latos‐Bieleńska Anna
Published: January 2009

BACKGROUND: Amniotic rupture sequence (ARS) is a disruption sequence presenting with fibrous bands, possibly emerging as a result of amniotic tear in the first trimester of gestation. Our comparative study aims to assess whether there is a difference in the clinical pattern of congenital limb and internal organ anomalies between ARS with body wall defect (ARS‐BWD) and ARS without BWD (ARS‐L). METHODS: Among 1,706,639 births recorded between 1998 and 2006, 50 infants with a diagnosis of ARS were reported to the Polish Registry of Congenital Malformations. The information on 3 infants was incomplete, thus only 47 cases were analyzed. These infants were classified into groups of ARS‐L (38 infants) and ARS‐BWD (9 infants). RESULTS: The ARS‐BWD cases were more frequently affected by various congenital defects (overall p < 0.0001), and in particular by urogenital malformations (p = 0.003). In both groups, limb reduction defects occurred in approximately 80% of cases; however, minor and distal limb defects (phalangeal or digital amputation, pseudosyndactyly, constriction rings) predominated in the ARS‐L group (p = 0.0008). The ARS‐L group also had a higher frequency of hand and upper limb involvement. CONCLUSIONS: This observation suggests that amniotic band adhesion in ARS‐L takes place at a later development stage. Although limited by a small sample size, our study contributes to the growing evidence that both ARS entities represent two nosologically distinct conditions. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Bcl‐xL overexpression does not enhance specific erythropoietin productivity of recombinant CHO cells grown at 33°C and 37°C
Authors: Kim Yeon‐Gu , Lee Gyun Min
Published: January 2009

Overexpression of bcl‐xL in recombinant Chinese hamster ovary (rCHO) cells has been known to suppress apoptotic cell death and thereby extend culture longevity during batch culture. However, its effect on specific productivity (q) of rCHO cells is controversial. This study attempts to investigate the effect of bcl‐xL overexpression on q of rCHO cells producing erythropoietin (EPO). To regulate the bcl‐xL expression level, the Tet‐off system was introduced in rCHO cells producing EPO (EPO‐off‐bcl‐xL). The bcl‐xL expression level was tightly controlled by doxycycline concentration. To evaluate the effect of bcl‐xL overexpression on specific EPO productivity (qEPO) at different levels, EPO‐off‐bcl‐xL cells were cultivated at the two different culture temperatures, 33°C and 37°C. The qEPO at 33°C and 37°C in the presence of 100 ng/mL doxycycline (without bcl‐xL overexpression) were 4.89 ± 0.21 and 3.18 ± 0.06 μg/106cells/day, respectively. In the absence of doxycycline, bcl‐xL overexpression did not affect qEPO significantly, regardless of the culture temperature, though it extended the culture longevity. Taken together, bcl‐xL overexpression showed no significant effect on the qEPO of rCHO cells grown at 33°C and 37°C. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2009
Fluorescence Detection of a Protein‐Bound 2Fe2S Cluster
Authors: Hoff Kevin G. , Goodlitt Rochelle , Li Rui , Smolke Christina D. , Silberg Jonathan J.
Published: January 2009

A fluorescent biosensor is described for 2Fe2S clusters that is composed of green fluorescent protein (GFP) fused to glutaredoxin 2 (Grx2), as illustrated here. 2Fe2S detection is based on the reduction of GFP fluorescence upon the 2Fe2S‐induced dimerization of GFP‐Grx2. This assay is sufficiently sensitive to detect submicromolar changes in 2Fe2S levels, thus making it suitable for high‐throughput measurements of metallocluster degradation and synthesis reactions.

magnified image
A Peptide Antagonist of the TLR4–MD2 Interaction
Authors: Slivka Peter F. , Shridhar Mitesh , Lee Gui‐in , Sammond Deanne W. , Hutchinson Mark R. , Martinko Alexander J. , Buchanan Madison M. , Sholar Page W. , Kearney Jeffrey J. , Harrison Jacqueline A. , Watkins Linda R. , Yin Hang
Published: January 2009

Toll‐like receptors are an integral part of innate immunity in the central nervous system (CNS); they orchestrate a robust defense in response to both exogenous and endogenous danger signals. Recently, toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) has emerged as a therapeutic target for the treatment of CNS‐related diseases such as sepsis and chronic pain. We herein report a chemical biology approach by using a rationally designed peptide inhibitor to disrupt the TLR4–MD2 association, thereby blocking TLR4 signaling.

magnified image
Assisted circulation using the TandemHeart® during very high‐risk PCI of the unprotected left main coronary artery in patients declined for CABG
Authors: Vranckx Pascal , Schultz Carl Johann , Valgimigli Marco , Eindhoven Janette A. , Kappetein Arie P. , Regar Evelin S. , Van Domburg Ron , Serruys Patrick W
Published: January 2009

Objectives: In a single center experience, we retrospectively evaluated the short‐term safety and efficacy of the TandemHeart® percutaneous transseptal left ventricular assist (PTVA®) system to deliver extracorporeal circulatory support during catheter based treatment of the unprotected left main coronary artery (ULMCA). Background: Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) of the ULMCA usually has been restricted to patients who are hemodynamically unstable or ineligible for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). High‐risk patients for CABG should be considered at increased risk for PCI as well. In these patients the TandemHeart PTVA System (p‐LVAD) may provide a valuable safeguard to reduce procedural risks. Methods and Results: Between July 2002 and May 2008 the TandemHeart was used in 9 very high risk patients (Logistic Euro score: 13.64 (7.46–29.67); Syntax score:43 (41–50); Mayo Clinic Risk score (MCRS) 7 (6–8); age: median 65 (range 55–71) undergoing elective PCI for the novo lesions on the ULMCA. All patients were declined for CABG by a heart team. A ‘‘true’’ percutaneous insertion technique was used in all patients, technical success rate was 100%. The median (range) time for implementation of circulatory support was 27 min (24–30). A median (range) pump flow up to 4.36 (3.40–5.54) L/min was achieved with significant reduction of left ventricular filling pressures, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure and a small increase of systemic arterial pressures. Median (range) duration of support was 93 min (50.4–102). Successful weaning was achieved in all patients. There was no in hospital death, survival at 6 months was (89%), whereas vascular access site complications were seen in 4 patients (44.4%). Conclusions: In very high risk PCI, assisted circulation using the TandemHeart‐PTVA provides effective, total left ventricular support and may contribute to a reduced procedural risk and improved survival. The rate of device related cardiac and vascular complications was acceptable. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
ChemInform Abstract: Crystal Structure of Li2B12H12: A Possible Intermediate Species in the Decomposition of LiBH4.
Authors: Her Jae‐Hyuk , Yousufuddin Muhammed , Zhou Wei , Jalisatgi Satish S. , Kulleck James G. , Zan Jason A. , Hwang Son‐Jong , Bowman Robert C. Jr. , Udovic Terrence J.
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Structural Chemistry and Magnetic Properties of Nd18Li8Fe5O39 and Nd18Li8Co4O39: The Interplay of Cation and Spin Ordering.
Authors: Dutton Sian E. , Battle Peter D. , Grandjean Fernande , Long Gary J. , Oh‐ishi Katsuyoshi
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: The Single Crystal Structures of the Copper Usovites Ba2CaCuV2F14 and Ba2CaCuCr2F14.
Authors: Le Lirzin Antoine , Darriet Jacques , Tressaud Alain , Babel Dietrich
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Ag3Bi14Br21: A Subbromide with Bi24+ Dumbbells and Bi95+ Polyhedra — Synthesis, Crystal Structure and Chemical Bonding.
Authors: Wahl Bernhard , Ruck Michael
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Structural and Magnetic Properties of A‐Site‐Ordered Perovskites ACu3Sn4O12 with A: Ca2+, Sr2+, and Pb2+.
Authors: Shiraki Hiroshi , Saito Takashi , Shimakawa Yuichi
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Room Temperature Antiferromagnetic Order in the Mn(II) Oxide 4H‐Ba0.5Sr0.5MnO2+δ.
Authors: Adkin Josephine J. , Hayward Michael A.
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: A New Bright Chemiluminescent Reaction: Interaction of Acetone with Solid Potassium Peroxymonosulfate in the Complex of Europium Nitrate.
Authors: Kazakov Dmitrii , Safarov Farit E. , Kazakov Valerii P. , Schmidt Reinhardt
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Polytellurides and Polyselenides — Compounds Containing ∞1 [Te6—Te4]4‐ and [Sn(Se4)3]2‐ Anions.
Authors: Wang Jian‐Qiang , Hoffmann Stephan D. , Faessler Thomas F.
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Heterometallic Group 13 Nanoclusters and Inks for Oxide Thin‐Film Transistors.
Authors: Mensinger Zachary L. , Gatlin Jason T. , Meyers Stephen T. , Zakharov Lev N. , Keszler Douglas A. , Johnson Darren W.
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Sheets of La6(C2) Octahedra in Lanthanum Carbide Chlorides — Undulated and Plane.
Authors: Mattausch Hansjuergen , Simon Arndt , Kienle Lorenz , Koehler Juergen , Hoch Constantin , Nuss Juergen
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Hydrothermal Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Magnetic Properties of a New Inorganic Vanadium(III) Phosphate with a Chain Structure.
Authors: Ferdov Stanislav , Reis Mario S. , Lin Zhi , Ferreira Rute A. Sa
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: An Approach to the Synthesis of Polyoxometalate Encapsulating Different Kinds of Oxoanions as Heteroions: Bisphosphitopyrophosphatotriacontamolybdate [(HPO3)2 (P2O7)Mo30O90]8‐.
Authors: Maeda Sayuri , Goto Takuya , Takamoto Masayo , Eda Kazuo , Himeno Sadayuki , Takahashi Hiroki , Hori Toshitaka
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Octa‐ and Nonanuclear Nickel(II) Polyoxometalate Clusters: Synthesis and Electrochemical and Magnetic Characterizations.
Authors: Pichon Celine , Mialane Pierre , Dolbecq Anne , Marrot Jerome , Riviere Eric , Bassil Bassem S. , Kortz Ulrich , Keita Bineta , Nadjo Louis , Secheresse Francis
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Temperature Driven Reactant Solubilization Synthesis of BiCuOSe.
Authors: Stampler Evan S. , Sheets William C. , Bertoni Mariana I. , Prellier Wilfrid , Mason Thomas O. , Poeppelmeier Kenneth R.
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Construction of 1D Chain from Diphosphopentamolybdate Cluster and Copper Complex: Synthesis and Characterization of {Cu(DETA)}2 [{Cu(DETA)(H2O)}Mo5P2O23] ×4.5H2O.
Authors: Wang Jingping , Wang Jianjuan , Ma Pengtao , Niu Jingyang
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Catalytic Asymmetric Hydroperoxidation of α,β‐Unsaturated Ketones: An Approach to Enantiopure Peroxyhemiketals, Epoxides, and Aldols.
Authors: Reisinger Corinna M. , Wang Xingwang , List Benjamin
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Development of Catalytic Asymmetric 1,4‐Addition and [3 + 2] Cycloaddition Reactions Using Chiral Calcium Complexes.
Authors: Tsubogo Tetsu , Saito Susumu , Seki Kazutaka , Yamashita Yasuhiro , Kobayashi Shu
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Rate Acceleration of Triethylamine‐Mediated Guanidine‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Michael Reaction.
Authors: Jiang Zhiyong , Ye Weiping , Yang Yuanyong , Tan Choon‐Hong
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Facile Synthesis of Carbotetracycles via Gold(I)‐Catalyzed Cyclization of Unactivated Cyclic 1‐Aryl‐6,8‐dien‐1‐ynes.
Authors: Yeh Ming‐Chang P. , Tsao Wen‐Cheng , Lee Bo‐Jen , Lin Tzu‐Ling
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: A New One‐Pot Procedure for a Ring Contraction Reaction Using Iodine/H2O2.
Authors: Ferreira Sabrina B. , Kaiser Carlos R. , Ferreira Vitor F.
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Development of a New Class of C1‐Symmetric Bisphosphine Ligands for Rhodium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation.
Authors: Dai Qian , Li Wei , Zhang Xumu
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: 3‐Butyl‐1‐methylimidazolinium Borohydride ([bmim][BH4]) — A Novel Reducing Agent for the Selective Reduction of Carbon—Carbon Double Bonds in Activated Conjugated Alkenes.
Authors: Wang Jiayi , Song Gonghua , Peng Yanqing , Zhu Yidong
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: NaIO4—KI—NaN3 as a New Reagent System for C—H Functionalization in Hydrocarbons.
Authors: Chouthaiwale Pandurang V. , Suryavanshi Gurunath , Sudalai Arumugam
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Enantioselective Direct Amination of α‐Cyanoketones Catalyzed by Bifunctional Organocatalysts.
Authors: Kim Sun Mi , Lee Ju Hee , Kim Dae Young
Published: January 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.