bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of UV-B Radiation on Oxalate Content of Silver Beet Leaves
Authors: Presswood H. A. , Hofmann R. , Savage G. P.
Published: September 2012

Silver beet (Beta vulgaricus var. cicla) a common vegetable in New Zealand is known to contain high levels of oxalates in the leaves. Silver beet plants were grown in afield trial under glass and perspex sheets which filtered sunlight reaching the plants. After eight weeks of growth, the plants were harvested and the total, soluble and insoluble oxalate content of the leaves of the plants grown under the two filter treatments and a no-frame control were measured. Perspex allowed the transmission of UV-A, UV-B and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), whereas glass excluded UV-B radiation. No significant differences between the perspex treatment and the no-frame control were observed when the data was compared on a wet matter (WM) or dry matter (DM) basis Shielding the growing plants with glass significantly reduced the total oxalate and soluble oxalates to 83 and 84% respectively when compared to the perspexand no-frame treatments.
Improvement of Spectrophotometric Method for the Determination of Atrazine in Contaminated Water by Inducing of Mannich Reaction
Authors: Rima Karine , Rima Jamil
Published: September 2012

The objective of this study is to develop a simple and economic spectrophotometric method for the quantitative determination of atrazine. This method is based on the complexation of atrazine derivatization (dechlorinated atrazine [DA]) with a mixture of formaldehyde and ketone compound, as described by Mannich reaction. The complex was determined by UV-Vis absorption measurement and the ketone compound used was the uranine due to its high coefficient absorption. The UV spectrum of the complex shows maxima of absorption at 207 nm and at 227 nm. An internal standard was used to quantify the atrazine. There is a good linearity between the absorbance and the concentration in the range of 0.1 - 10 ug.mL-1 of atrazine. The recovery value was 97 % and the limit of detection was 0.01 ug.mL-1. Real samples collected from irrigation local area were analyzed using this method and the estimated concentration of atrazine found in the mentioned river is 0.29 ± 0.011 ug.mL-1.
In-vivo Effect of Probiotics on Escherichia coli O157:H7 Isolated from Salad Vegetables
Authors: Uzeh Roseline Ekiomado , Okolo Chinwe Amaka , Iwalokun Bamidele Abiodun
Published: September 2012

This study was undertaken to isolate Escherichia coli O157:H7 from salad vegetables, determine its pathogenicity and effect on the gastrointestinal tract of mice and sensitivity to probiotics; Lactobacillus lactis ATCC12315 and Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC4356 in-vivo. Twenty seven samples made up of eight different types of salad vegetables which includes carrot, cabbage, cucumber, lettuce, peas, green pepper, green beans and spring onions were collected from different locations; markets, farm and street vendors in Lagos, Nigeria. Sampling was done between 13th October 2009 and 17th March 2010. In all experiments with mice the protocol for care of animal was carried out according to National Institute of Health (NIH). The mice given only E. coli O157:H7 developed diarrhea which led to loss of body weight and death of majority of them. On the other hand mice that were not given any microbial suspension (control), those given only probiotics, combination of E. coli O157:H7 and probiotics showed no symptom of diarrhea and there was increase in their body weight. The histopathology of the intestines of this group of mice showed that their intestines were not damaged, while those given only E. coli O157:H7 showed lymphoid hyperplasia, mucosal sloughing and inflammation (enteritis). The maintenance of good health by probiotics has again been re-emphasized.
Optimization of an Autonomous Car Controller Using a Self-Adaptive Evolutionary Strategy
Authors: Kim Tae Seong , Na Joong Chae , Kim Kyung Joong
Published: September 2012

Autonomous cars control the steering wheel, acceleration and the brake pedal, the gears and the clutch using sensory information from multiple sources. Like a human driver, it understands the current situation on the roads from the live streaming of sensory values. The decision-making module often suffers from the limited range of sensors and complexity due to the large number of sensors and actuators. Because it is tedious and difficult to design the controller manually from trial-and-error, it is desirable to use intelligent optimization algorithms. In this work, we propose optimizing the parameters of an autonomous car controller using self-adaptive evolutionary strategies (SAESs) which co-evolve solutions and mutation steps for each parameter. We also describe how the most generalized parameter set can be retrieved from the process of optimization. Open-source car racing simulation software (TORCS) is used to test the goodness of the proposed methods on 6 different tracks. Experimental results show that the SAES is competitive with the manual design of authors and a simple ES.
Multimodal Biometric System Based on the Recognition of Face and Both Irises
Authors: Kim Yeong Gon , Shin Kwang Yong , Lee Eui Chul , Park Kang Ryoung
Published: September 2012

The performance of unimodal biometric systems (based on a single modality such as face or fingerprint) has to contend with various problems, such as illumination variation, skin condition and environmental conditions, and device variations. Therefore, multimodal biometric systems have been used to overcome the limitations of unimodal biometrics and provide high accuracy recognition. In this paper, we propose a new multimodal biometric system based on score level fusion of face and both irises' recognition.

Our study has the following novel features. First, the device proposed acquires images of the face and both irises simultaneously. The proposed device consists of a face camera, two iris cameras, near-infrared illuminators and cold mirrors. Second, fast and accurate iris detection is based on two circular edge detections, which are accomplished in the iris image on the basis of the size of the iris detected in the face image. Third, the combined accuracy is enhanced by combining each score for the face and both irises using a support vector machine. The experimental results show that the equal error rate for the proposed method is 0.131%, which is lower than that of face or iris recognition and other fusion methods.
Study of Inverted Pendulum Robot Using Fuzzy Servo Control Method
Authors: Wang Dazhong , Wu Shujing , Zhang Liqiang , Okubo Shigenori
Published: September 2012

The inverted pendulum robot is a classical problem in controls. The inherit instabilities in the setup make it a natural target for a control system. Inverted pendulum robot is suitable to use for investigation and verification of various control methods for dynamic systems. Maintaining an equilibrium position of the pendulum pointing up is a challenge as this equilibrium position is unstable. As the inverted pendulum robot system is nonlinear it is well-suited to be controlled by fuzzy logic. In this paper, Lagrange method has been applied to develop the mathematical model of the system. The objective of the simulation to be shown using the fuzzy control method can stabilize the nonlinear system of inverted pendulum robot.
Which Robot Features Can Stimulate Better Responses from Children with Autism in Robot-Assisted Therapy?
Authors: Lee Jaeryoung , Takehashi Hiroki , Nagai Chikara , Obinata Goro , Stefanov Dimitar
Published: September 2012

This study explores the response of autistic children to a few design features of the robots for autism therapy and provides suggestions on the robot features that have a stronger influence on the therapeutic process. First, we investigate the effect of selected robot features on the development of social communication skills in autistic children. The results indicate that the toy's “face” and “moving limb” usually draw the children's attention and improve children's facial expression skills, but do not contribute to the development of other social communication skills. Secondly, we study the response of children with low-functioning autism to robots with verbal communication functionalities. Test results show that children interacted with the verbal-featured robot more intensively than with the experimenter. We conclude that robots with faces and moving limbs can engage autistic children in a better way. Facial expression of the robots can elicit a greater response than prompting by humans.
Near-Optimal Tracking Control of a Nonholonomic Mobile Robot with Uncertainties
Authors: Wang Kai
Published: September 2012

A combined kinematic/torque control law is developed by using a backstepping design approach for a nonholonomic mobile robot with two driving wheels mounted on the same axis to track a reference trajectory. The auxiliary velocity control inputs are designed for the kinematic steering system to make the posture error asymptotically stable. Next, a computed-torque controller is designed such that the mobile robot's velocities converge on the given velocity inputs in an optimal manner by converting the tracking control problem into the regulation problem whereby the uncertainties in the dynamics of mobile robots are considered. The proposed online and forward-in-time policy iteration (PI) algorithm based on approximate dynamic programming (ADP) is used to solve the optimal control problem with unknown internal dynamics by using single neural networks (NNs) to approximate the cost function. Afterwards, the near-optimal control policy can be computed directly according to the cost function, which removes the action network appearing in the ordinary ADP method. The stability of the dynamical extension system is demonstrated using Lyapunov methods. The simulation results are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Congestion Avoidance for Multiple Micro-Robots Using the Behaviour of Fish Schools
Authors: Touahmi Yaniss , Burlutskiy Nikolay , Lee Kongwoo , Lee Beomhee
Published: September 2012

This article summarizes a research topic which discusses one of the most common problems in multiple micro-robots' navigation, namely congestion avoidance. This situation occurs when troops of micro-robots moving in different directions meet each other at a common area causing congestion situations. To avoid this risky state - which can create an inextricable scenario - firstly, we established a local and a global communication network that manages the robots' displacement through formation control. This warns each of them of the existence of a risk of congestion and manages the choice of the priority group, which is a new concept that we introduce in order to deal with this kind of congestion conflict. Secondly, we consider a new algorithm based on chaotic equations and inspired by the behaviour of schools of fish, which solves the congestion problem by creating a bifurcation of the troop's configuration and enables the proper avoidance of the conflict exhibited by congestion.
Design of Shape Memory Alloy-Based and Tendon-Driven Actuated Fingers towards a Hybrid Anthropomorphic Prosthetic Hand
Authors: Kaplanoglu Erkan
Published: September 2012

This paper presents the design of tendon-driven actuated fingers using a shape memory alloy for a hybrid anthropomorphic prosthetic hand. The ring and little (pinky) fingers are selected for shape memory activation due to their lower degree of movement during multiple grasping configurations. The fingers' tendon system is based on shape memory alloy (SMA) wires that form artificial muscle pairs for the required flexion/extension of the finger joints. The finger has four degrees of freedom such that three of them are active. An experimental setup was developed to evaluate the performance of the ring and little fingers. An electromyography (EMG) controlled Pulse Width Modulated (PWM) technique is preferred for the actuation of joint motions using a high speed microcontroller.
Robot-Environment Interaction Control of a Flexible Joint Light Weight Robot Manipulator
Authors: Xiong Genliang , Chen Haichu , Zhang Ruihua , Liang Fayun
Published: September 2012

This paper presents a weighted path planning approach for a light weight robot coming into compliant contact with the environment, as well as robot-environment interaction enabled impedance control. Using a joint torque sensor, Cartesian impedance control is introduced to realize the manipulator compliance control. Then the weighted path planning approach is developed to detect the contact condition and to control the interaction. Experiments are carried out on a 5-DOF light weight manipulator. The experimental results validate the developed control approach enhanced by the weighted path planning scheme.
Bringing to Market Technological Innovation: What Distinguishes Success from Failure
Authors: Frattini Federico , De Massis Alfredo , Chiesa Vittorio , Cassia Lucio , Campopiano Giovanna
Published: September 2012

Commercialization is a critical step in technological innovation. Nevertheless, many scholars believe that it is often the least well-managed activity of the whole innovation process. The launch stage seems to be particularly critical in high-technology markets because of the volatility, interconnectedness and the proliferation of new technologies they experience. However, academic and practitioners' literature has not, so far, developed a clear understanding of the factors that distinguish an effective commercialization from an unsuccessful one, especially in high-technology environments. This paper discusses the results of a research project that aimed to understand the ingredients for success in the commercialization of a technological innovation. The first stage of the research consisted of a comparative historical analysis of 18 innovations, which were commercialized in consumer high-tech markets in the last 30 years. The analysis advocates that an effective commercialization comprises three sub-strategies: Early adoption strategy, Adoption network configuration strategy and Mainstream adoption strategy, with each one characterized by a coherent set of commercialization dimensions. The relative importance of each sub-strategy in determining the innovation commercial success depends on the type of innovation that is commercialized, be it radical or incremental and discontinuous or continuous.
Patients’ demographic and clinical characteristics and level of care associated with lost to follow‐up and mortality in adult patients on first‐line ART in Nigerian hospitals
Authors: Odafe Solomon , Idoko Ochanya , Badru Titilope , Aiyenigba Bolatito , Suzuki Chiho , Khamofu Hadiza , Onyekwena Obinna , Okechukwu Emeka , Torpey Kwasi , Chabikuli Otto N
Published: September 2012

Introduction

Clinical outcome is an important determinant of programme success. This study aims to evaluate patients’ baseline characteristics as well as level of care associated with lost to follow‐up (LTFU) and mortality of patients on antiretroviral treatment (ART).

Methods

Retrospective cohort study using routine service data of adult patients initiated on ART in 2007 in 10 selected hospitals in Nigeria. We captured data using an electronic medical record system and analyzed using Stata. Outcome measures were probability of being alive and retained in care at 12, 24 and 36 months on ART. Potential predictors associated with time to mortality and time to LTFU were assessed using competing risks regression models.

Results

After 12 months on therapy, 85% of patients were alive and on ART. Survival decreased to 81.2% and 76.1% at 24 and 36 months, respectively. Median CD4 count for patients at ART start, 12, 18 and 24 months were 152 (interquartile range, IQR: 75 to 242), 312 (IQR: 194 to 450), 344 (IQR: 227 to 501) and 372 (IQR: 246 to 517) cells/µl, respectively. Competing risk regression showed that patients’ baseline characteristics significantly associated with LTFU were male (adjusted sub‐hazard ratio, sHR=1.24 [95% CI: 1.08 to 1.42]), ambulatory functional status (adjusted sHR=1.25 [95% CI: 1.01 to 1.54]), World Health Organization (WHO) clinical Stage II (adjusted sHR=1.31 [95% CI: 1.08 to 1.59]) and care in a secondary site (adjusted sHR=0.76 [95% CI: 0.66 to 0.87]). Those associated with mortality include CD4 count <50 cells/µl (adjusted sHR=2.84 [95% CI: 1.20 to 6.71]), WHO clinical Stage III (adjusted sHR=2.67 [95% CI: 1.26 to 5.65]) and Stage IV (adjusted sHR=5.04 [95% CI: 1.93 to 13.16]) and care in a secondary site (adjusted sHR=2.21 [95% CI: 1.30 to 3.77]).

Conclusions

Mortality was associated with advanced HIV disease and care in secondary facilities. Earlier initiation of therapy and strengthening systems in secondary level facilities may improve retention and ultimately contribute to better clinical outcomes.
An output regulation perspective on the model reference adaptive control problem
Authors: Serrani A.
Published: September 2012

The paper presents a connection between the classic model reference adaptive control and recent developments in the theory of adaptive output regulation. Specifically, it is shown how the certainty–equivalence model reference controller realizes an internal model of an extended exogenous system comprising the zero dynamics of the plant driven by the steady‐state trajectories of the reference model. Furthermore, the classic nonminimal realization of the certainty–equivalence controller required for adaptive redesign is equivalent to a canonical parameterization of the internal model in question, achieved via a nonobservable (but detectable) system immersion.Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of Phase Separation in High Performance PbTe–PbS Thermoelectric Materials
Authors: Girard Steven N. , Schmidt‐Rohr Klaus , Chasapis Thomas C. , Hatzikraniotis Euripides , Njegic B. , Levin E. M. , Rawal A. , Paraskevopoulos Konstantinos M. , Kanatzidis Mercouri G.
Published: September 2012

Phase immiscibility in PbTe–based thermoelectric materials is an effective means of top‐down synthesis of nanostructured composites exhibiting low lattice thermal conductivities. PbTe1‐x Sx thermoelectric materials can be synthesized as metastable solid solution alloys through rapid quenching. Subsequent post‐annealing induces phase separation at the nanometer scale, producing nanostructures that increase phonon scattering and reduce lattice thermal conductivity. However, there has yet to be any study investigating in detail the local chemical structure of both the solid solution and nanostructured variants of this material system. Herein, quenched and annealed (i.e., solid solution and phase‐separated) samples of PbTe–PbS are analyzed by in situ high‐resolution synchrotron powder X‐ray diffraction, solid‐state 125Te nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and infrared (IR) spectroscopy analysis. For high concentrations of PbS in PbTe, e.g., x >16%, NMR and IR analyses reveal that rapidly quenched samples exhibit incipient phase separation that is not detected by state‐of‐the‐art synchrotron X‐ray diffraction, providing an example of a PbTe thermoelectric “alloy” that is in fact phase inhomogeneous. Thermally‐induced PbS phase separation in PbTe–PbS occurs close to 200 °C for all compositions studied, and the solubility of the PbS phase in PbTe at elevated temperatures >500 °C is reported. The findings of this study suggest that there may be a large number of thermoelectric alloy systems that are phase inhomogeneous or nanostructured despite adherence to Vegard's Law of alloys, highlighting the importance of careful chemical characterization to differentiate between thermoelectric alloys and composites.
Ohne dirigierende Gruppen: übergangsmetallkatalysierte C‐H‐Aktivierung einfacher Arene
Authors: Kuhl Nadine , Hopkinson Matthew N. , Wencel‐Delord Joanna , Glorius Frank
Published: September 2012

Der Einsatz von koordinierenden Gruppen als dirigierende Gruppen ist eine zuverlässige Methode zur Kontrolle von Reaktivität und Selektivität bei der Aktivierung von Aryl‐C‐H‐Bindungen. Im Hinblick auf die Anwendbarkeit von C‐H‐Aktivierungen in der Synthese besteht derzeit ein großes Interesse daran, Reaktionen zu entwickeln, in denen völlig auf dirigierende Gruppen verzichtet werden kann und somit die Funktionalisierung einfacher Benzolderivate möglich wird. Dieser Ansatz erfordert jedoch neue Strategien zur Reaktivitäts‐ und Selektivitätskontrolle. In diesem Kurzaufsatz werden aktuelle Fortschritte in dem noch jungen Gebiet der nicht‐chelatvermittelten C‐H‐Aktivierung diskutiert, wobei einige inspirierende Beispiele zur Reaktivitäts‐ und Selektivitätsinduktion hervorgehoben werden.
Redoxaktive Liganden in der Katalyse
Authors: Praneeth Vijayendran K. K. , Ringenberg Mark R. , Ward Thomas R.
Published: September 2012

Die in Metalloenzymen beobachtete Verwendung redoxaktiver Einheiten zusammen mit 3d‐Übergangsmetallionen ist eine leistungsfähige Strategie für katalytische Mehrelektronenreaktionen. Die redoxaktiven Einheiten in Metalloenzymen können Redoxäquivalente “speichern”, wodurch Intermediate hoher Energie vermieden werden. Chemiker haben biomimetische Strategien entwickelt, um katalytische Varianten anspruchsvoller Umwandlungen auf der Grundlage redoxaktiver Einheiten in Nachbarschaft zu Metallzentren zu entwerfen. Diese Herangehensweise bietet die Möglichkeit, wenig toxischen und kostengünstigen 3d‐Übergangsmetallen wie Fe oder Cu in katalytischen Mehrelektronenreaktionen einen Edelmetallcharakter zu verleihen.
Interaction of trialkyltin(IV) chlorides with sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase
Authors: García‐Carrillo Scheherezade , Aranda Francisco J. , Ortiz Antonio , Teruel José A.
Published: September 2012

The interaction of the organotin compounds trimethyltin(IV) and tributyltin(IV) chlorides with the calcium pump from sarcoplasmic reticulum membranes was studied. It was found that the presence of calcium fully protects against the inhibitory effect of both organotin compounds. However, the apparent affinity of the protein for tributyltin chloride is two orders of magnitude higher than for trimethyltin chloride (K0.5 values of 14 µ m and 1.4 m m, respectively). Studies of intrinsic fluorescence of the Ca2+‐ATPase and enzyme phosphorylation by ATP and Pi support the hypothesis that the inhibitory properties of trialkyltin compounds are due to the inhibition of calcium binding to the high‐affinity binding sites of the Ca2+‐ATPase. This suggests that there is a specific interaction between the trialkyltin compounds and the calcium binding sites of the protein. The effect of trialkyltin compounds on Ca2+‐ATPase was also addressed by differential scanning calorimetry to assess the thermal transition of the protein denaturation, and by infrared spectroscopy in the absorption region corresponding to the amide I band (1600–1700 cm−1) to observe changes in the secondary structure of the protein. We conclude that the interaction of trialkyltin compounds with Ca2+‐ATPase reduces the affinity and cooperativity for calcium binding and, consequently, the inhibition of ATPase activity. These events are accompanied by changes in the secondary structure of the protein, including loss of α‐helix structure and a concomitant increase in protein aggregation or unfolding. The activity of trialkyltin compounds on the Ca2+‐ATPase is discussed in relation to their solubility in water and in the lipid phase. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Curcumin uptake and metabolism
Authors: Metzler Manfred , Pfeiffer Erika , Schulz Simone I. , Dempe Julia S.
Published: September 2012

Curcumin (CUR) is the major orange pigment of turmeric and believed to exert beneficial health effects in the gastrointestinal tract and numerous other organs after oral intake. However, an increasing number of animal and clinical studies show that the concentrations of CUR in blood plasma, urine, and peripheral tissues, if at all detectable, are extremely low even after large doses. The evidence and possible reasons for the very poor systemic bioavailablity of CUR after oral administration are discussed in this brief review. Major factors are the chemical instability of CUR at neutral and slightly alkaline pH, its susceptibility to autoxidation, its avid reductive and conjugative metabolism, and its poor permeation from the intestinal lumen to the portal blood. In view of the very low intestinal bioavailablity, it is difficult to attribute the putative effects observed in peripheral organs to CUR. Therefore, metabolites and/or degradation products of CUR should be taken into consideration as mediators of the pharmacological activity. © 2012 BioFactors, 39(1):14–20, 2013.
Dissociation of c‐Met phosphotyrosine sites in human cells in response to mouse hepatocyte growth factor but not human hepatocyte growth factor: the possible roles of different amino acids in different species
Authors: Ikebuchi Fumie , Oka Kiyomasa , Mizuno Shinya , Fukuta Kazuhiro , Hayata Daichika , Ohnishi Hiroyuki , Nakamura Toshikazu
Published: September 2012

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is essential for embryogenesis, tissue regeneration and tumour malignancy through the activation of its receptor, c‐Met. We previously demonstrated that HGF α‐chain hairpin–loop, K1 domain and β‐chain are required for c‐Met signalling. The sequential phosphorylation of tyrosine residues, from c‐Met kinase domain to multidocking regions, is required for HGF‐signalling transduction. Herein, we provide evidence that the disconcerted activation of c‐Met tyrosine regions fails to induce biological functions. When human cells were incubated with ‘mouse HGF’, kinase domain activation (i.e. phospho‐Tyr‐1230/34/35) became evident, but the multidocking site (i.e. Tyr‐1349) was not phosphorylated, resulting in unsuccessful induction of migration and mitogenesis. The binding ability of mouse HGF α‐chain, or of β‐chain, to human c‐Met was lower than that of human HGF, as evidenced by HGF–chimera assay. Notably, only four amino acid positions in HGF α‐chain hairpin–loop and K1 domain and six positions in β‐chain differed between human HGF and mouse HGF. The human‐specific amino acids (such as Gln‐95 in hairpin–loop, Arg‐134 in K1 domain and Cys‐561 in β‐chain) may be important for accurate c‐Met assembly and signalling transduction. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crystal Structure of a Soluble Form of Human CD73 with Ecto‐5′‐Nucleotidase Activity
Authors: Heuts Dominic P. H. M. , Weissenborn Martin J. , Olkhov Rouslan V. , Shaw Andrew M. , Gummadova Jennet , Levy Colin , Scrutton Nigel S.
Published: September 2012

CD73 is a dimeric ecto‐5′‐nucleotidase that is expressed on the exterior side of the plasma membrane. CD73 has important regulatory functions in the extracellular metabolism of certain nucleoside monophosphates, in particular adenosine monophosphate, and has been linked to a number of pathological conditions such as cancer and myocardial ischaemia. Here, we present the crystal structure of a soluble form of human soluble CD73 (sCD73) at 2.2 Å resolution, a truncated form of CD73 that retains ecto‐5′‐nucleotidase activity. With this structure we obtained insight into the dimerisation of CD73, active site architecture, and a sense of secondary modifications of the protein. The crystal structure reveals a conserved loop that is directly involved in the dimer‐dimer interaction showing that the two subunits of the dimer are not linked by disulfide bridges. Using biophotonic microarray imaging we were able to confirm glycosylation of the enzyme and show that the enzyme is decorated with a variety of oligosaccharide structures. The crystal structure of sCD73 will aid the design of inhibitors or activator molecules for the treatment of several diseases and prove useful in explaining the possible roles of single nucleotide polymorphisms in physiology and disease.
The Applied and Workforce Baccalaureate at South Texas College: Specialized Workforce Development Addressing Economic Development
Authors: Mejia Juan E.
Published: September 2012

This chapter describes the impact of two workforce baccalaureates of applied technology degrees of South Texas College on higher education access for predominately Hispanic students. The addition of the workforce baccalaureates serves as an example of how such degrees increase participation rates for minority students.
Synthesis of Deoxynucleoside Triphosphates that Include Proline, Urea, or Sulfonamide Groups and Their Polymerase Incorporation into DNA
Authors: Hollenstein Marcel
Published: September 2012

To expand the chemical array available for DNA sequences in the context of in vitro selection, I present herein the synthesis of five nucleoside triphosphate analogues containing side chains capable of organocatalysis. The synthesis involved the coupling of L‐proline‐containing residues (dUtPTP and dUcPTP), a dipeptide (dUFPTP), a urea derivative (dUBpuTP), and a sulfamide residue (dUBsTP) to a suitably protected common intermediate, followed by triphosphorylation. These modified dNTPs were shown to be excellent substrates for the Vent (exo−) and Pwo DNA polymerases, as well as the Klenow fragment of E. coli DNA polymerase I, although they were only acceptable substrates for the 9°Nm polymerase. All of the modified dNTPs, with the exception of dUBpuTP, were readily incorporated into DNA by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Modified oligonucleotides efficiently served as templates for PCR for the regeneration of unmodified DNA. Thermal denaturation experiments showed that these modifications are tolerated in the major groove. Overall, these heavily modified dNTPs are excellent candidates for SELEX.
Synthesis of End‐Functionalized Polyacetylenes that Contain Polar Groups by Employing Well‐Defined Palladium Catalysts
Authors: Rodriguez Castanon Jesus , Kuwata Keiko , Shiotsuki Masashi , Sanda Fumio
Published: September 2012

A series of [(dppf)PdBr(R)]‐type complexes (dppf=1,1′‐bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene; R=p‐cyanophenyl (1 a), o‐hydroxymethylphenyl (1 b), and triphenylvinyl (1 c)), in combination with silver trifluoromethanesulfonate (AgOTf), were demonstrated to be active for the polymerization of monosubstituted polar acetylene monomers HCCCONHC4H9 (2), HCCCO2C8H17 (3), HCCCH2OCONHC6H13 (4), HCCCH2OCO2C6H13 (5), and HCCCH(CH3)OH (6). The yields and molecular weights of the polymers depended on the combination of the Pd catalyst and monomer that was employed. Matrix‐assisted laser‐desorption/ionization–time of flight (MALDI‐TOF) mass spectrometric analysis indicated the formation of polymers that contained the “R” and “H” groups at the chain ends. IR spectroscopic analysis supported the R‐end‐functionalization of the polymers. NMR spectroscopy and MS identified the presence of species that were formed by single, double, and triple insertion of the monomers into the Pd‐C6H4‐p‐CN bond, thereby giving solid evidence for an insertion mechanism for the present system. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations suggested the preference for 1,2‐insertion of the monomer compared to 2,1‐insertion.
CO2 on a Tightrope: Stabilization, Room‐Temperature Decarboxylation, and Sodium‐Induced Carboxylate Migration
Authors: Häußermann Achim , Rominger Frank , Straub Bernd F.
Published: September 2012

A sterically shielded 3‐substituted zwitterionic N,N‐dimethylisotryptammonium carboxylate has been synthesized by consecutive chemoselective double alkylation of indole. The carboxylate undergoes a quantitative and unusually facile decarboxylation in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or dimethyl formamide (DMF) at room temperature. The breaking of a nearly equidistant hydrogen bond by solvent molecules initiates heterolytic CC cleavage. The decarboxylation rate decreases with increasing CO2 partial pressure, proving the competitiveness of protonation and re‐carboxylation of the carbanionic intermediate. Corresponding spiro compounds containing silylene and stannylene moieties show high thermal stability. Addition of an excess of methyllithium to the sodium salt triggers a reaction sequence comprising a deprotonation, carboxylate transfer, and nucleophilic trapping of the rearranged carboxylate by another equivalent of methyllithium. Hydrolytic work‐up of the geminal diolate leads to an acetyl product. The role of the sodium counterion and the mechanism of the rearrangement have been unraveled by deuteration experiments.
ChemInform Abstract: A Novel Crystal Polymorph of Volborthite, Cu3V2O7 (OH)2·2H2O.
Authors: Ishikawa Hajime , Yamaura Jun‐ichi , Okamoto Yoshihiko , Yoshida Hiroyuki , Nilsen Goeran J. , Hiroi Zenji
Published: September 2012

A new polymorph of the title compound is hydrothermally synthesized from a solution of CuO and V2O5 in 1% aq, HNO3 (autoclave, 443 K, 10 d).
ChemInform Abstract: Chalcopyrite CuGaTe2: A High‐Efficiency Bulk Thermoelectric Material.
Authors: Kurosaki Ken , et al. et al.
Published: September 2012

The title compound is obtained from a stoichiometric mixture of Cu2Te and Ga2Te3 (silica tubes, 1173 K for 12 h; annealing at 773 K for 3 d).
ChemInform Abstract: A Superior Visible Light‐Driven Photocatalyst: Europium‐Doped Bismuth Tungstate Hierarchical Microspheres.
Authors: Tian Yu , Zhang Lide , Zhang Junxi
Published: September 2012

Eu/Bi2WO6 hierarchical microspheres are hydrothermally synthesized from mixtures of Bi(NO3)3, Na2WO4, and Eu(NO3)3 in diluted nitric acid (autoclave, 180 °C, 20 h).
ChemInform Abstract: High‐Pressure Synthesis and Characterization of the Rare‐Earth Borate La4B10O21.
Authors: Hinterregger Ernst , Heymann Gunter , Hofer Thomas S. , Huppertz Hubert
Published: September 2012

The title compound is synthesized by reaction of La2O3, LaF3, and B2O3 in a molar ratio of 2:1:6 (Walker‐type multianvil apparatus, 2.6 GPa, 750 °C).
ChemInform Abstract: (C6N4H21)2 [Ge7O14F6]: A New Germanate Compound Constructed from Alternately Stacked Pseudo Triple‐Sheet Layers.
Authors: Ren Xiaoyan , Liu Jiancong , Li Yi , Yu Jihong
Published: September 2012

The title compound is solvothermally prepared from a mixture of GeO2, tetraethylene glycol, H2O, tris(2‐aminoethyl)amine, and HF in the molar ratio 1:23:30:10:1.4 (autoclave, 180 °C, 3 d).
ChemInform Abstract: Pb5In3Bi5S17 [Pb4.94(3)In3.05(3)Bi4.99 (3)S17] and Its Structural Relationship with Pb4In3Bi7S18.
Authors: Winkler H. P. , Topa D. , Keller E.
Published: September 2012

The new quaternary title compound is prepared by chemical vapor transport reaction starting with a mixture of PbS, In2S3, Bi2S3, and I2 as transport agent (quartz ampule, temp.
ChemInform Abstract: Recyclable Silica‐Supported Prolinamide Organocatalysts for Direct Asymmetric Aldol Reaction in Water.
Authors: Monge‐Marcet Amalia , Cattoen Xavier , Alonso Diego A. , Najera Carmen , Man Michel Wong Chi , Pleixats Roser
Published: September 2012

Asymmetric organocatalytic materials based on a prolinamide scaffold are synthesized according to different routes from a monosilylated precursor.
ChemInform Abstract: Formal [3 + 3] Cyclocondensations of 1,3‐Bis(silyloxy)‐1,3‐butadienes with 1‐Chloro‐1,1‐difluoro‐4,4‐dimethoxybut‐3‐en‐2‐one and 1,1‐Difluoro‐4,4‐dimethoxybut‐3‐en‐2‐one. Regioselective Synthesis of Fluorinated Salicylates and Pyran‐4‐ones.
Authors: Langer Peter , et al. et al.
Published: September 2012

A variety of fluorinated salicylates (III) is prepared by regioselective TiCl4‐mediated cyclocondensation.
ChemInform Abstract: Intramolecular Aryl—Aryl Coupling of Fluoroarenes Through Al2O3‐Mediated HF Elimination.
Authors: Amsharov K. Yu. , Merz P.
Published: September 2012

The title reaction allows a new and facile access to a number of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
ChemInform Abstract: Asymmetric Fluorination of Enamides: Access to α‐Fluoroimines Using an Anionic Chiral Phase‐Transfer Catalysts.
Authors: Phipps Rober J. , Hiramatsu Kenichi , Toste F. Dean
Published: September 2012

The scope of the enantioselective fluorination of enamides is demonstrated for five‐, six‐, and seven‐membered as well as heterocyclic rings.
ChemInform Abstract: Simultaneous Dehalogenation and Hydrogenation Reduction of Halogen‐Heteroaromatic Aldehydes.
Authors: Chen Xi‐Bo , Hu Qiu‐Peng , Yuan Qian‐Jia , Ding Wei , Ren Jiangmeng , Zeng Bu‐Bing
Published: September 2012

A mild method for the simultaneous dehalogenation and hydrogenation of halogenated heterocyclic aldehydes to the corresponding halogen free substituted methylalcohols is presented using catalytic hydrogenation under atmospheric pressure.
ChemInform Abstract: Sulfated Tungstate Catalyzed Highly Accelerated N‐Formylation.
Authors: Pathare Sagar P. , Sawant Ravindra V. , Akamanchi Krishnacharya G.
Published: September 2012

The improved conditions are applied to a broad spectrum of amino compounds to produce the desired formylated products with good to excellent yields within a short time.
ChemInform Abstract: Palladium‐Catalyzed Amidation of Aryl Halides Using 2‐Dialkylphosphino‐2′‐alkoxy‐1,1′‐binaphthyl as Ligands.
Authors: Ma Fangfang , Xie Xiaomin , Zhang Lei , Peng Zhiyong , Ding Lina , Fu Lei , Zhang Zhaoguo
Published: September 2012

The ligands efficiently promote the coupling of aryl halides with amides, lactams, and carbamates.
ChemInform Abstract: Enantioselective Copper‐Catalyzed Reductive Coupling of Alkenylazaarenes with Ketones.
Authors: Saxena Aakarsh , Choi Bonnie , Lam Hon Wai
Published: September 2012

The first examples are described for the catalytic enantioselective reductive coupling of alkenylazaarenes.
ChemInform Abstract: Engineering Metal—Organic Frameworks Immobilize Gold Catalysts for Highly Efficient One‐Pot Synthesis of Propargylamines.
Authors: Lili Liu , Xin Zhang , Jinsen Gao , Chunming Xu
Published: September 2012

A series of gold‐functionalized IRMOF‐3 catalysts are synthesized and applied in the one‐pot synthesis of propargylamines (IV) from aldehydes (I), amines (II) and alkynes (III).
ChemInform Abstract: Phosphite‐Gold(I)‐Catalyzed [2 + 2] Intermolecular Cycloaddition of Enol Ethers with N‐Allenylsulfonamides.
Authors: Suarez‐Pantiga Samuel , Hernandez‐Diaz Cristina , Piedrafita Maria , Rubio Eduardo , Gonzalez Jose M.
Published: September 2012

Intermolecular [2 + 2]‐cycloaddition of allenes and alkenes substituted by electron‐donor groups furnishes cyclobutane derivatives with complete stereoselectivity using low catalyst loading.
ChemInform Abstract: Efficient Synthesis of Substituted Styrenes and Biaryls (or Heteroaryls) with Regioselective Reactions of ortho‐, meta, and para‐Bromobenzyl Bromide.
Authors: Anselmi Elsa , Abarbri Mohamed , Duchene Alain , Langle‐Lamande Sandrine , Thibonnet Jerome
Published: September 2012

The regioisomeric dibromides (I) undergo selective cross‐coupling at the benzyl site to yield the corresponding bromophenyl derivatives.
ChemInform Abstract: Titanium Amido‐ and Imido‐Complexes Supported by a Tridentate Pyrrolyl Ligand: Syntheses, Characterization and Catalytic Activities.
Authors: Chen Zhou , Li Lei , Chen Yanmei , Hu Bin , Wu Jian , Wang Xiufang , Lei Tao , Li Yahong
Published: September 2012

Among four Ti complexes tested the catalyst shown in the scheme is the most efficient for the hydroamination of phenylacetylene.
ChemInform Abstract: Convenient Synthesis of α‐Bromo Ketones by the Meerwein Reaction.
Authors: Ostapiuk Yu. V. , Matiichuk V. S. , Pidlypnyi N. I. , Obushak N. D.
Published: September 2012

A new procedure for the synthesis of α‐bromo ketones (III) (17 examples) via Cu(II)‐catalyzed reaction of arenediazonium bromides with methyl vinyl ketone is developed.
ChemInform Abstract: Continuous Flow Synthesis of Secondary Amides by Tandem Azidation—Amidation of Anilines.
Authors: Spiteri Christian , Moses John E.
Published: September 2012

The process is advantageous with respect to improved safety and allows the preparation of multi‐gram quantities of amides via azide formation.
ChemInform Abstract: Chemoselective Schmidt Reaction Mediated by Triflic Acid: Selective Synthesis of Nitriles from Aldehydes.
Authors: Rokade Balaji V. , Prabhu Kandikere Ramaiah
Published: September 2012

Treatment of aldehydes with NaN3 and TfOH allows an efficient and selective access to a wide range of nitriles.
ChemInform Abstract: 2,2′‐Azobenzothiazole as a New Recyclable Oxidant for Heterogeneous Thiocyanation of Aromatic Compounds with Ammonium Thiocyanate.
Authors: Iranpoor Nasser , Firouzabadi Habib , Shahin Rezvan , Khalili Dariush
Published: September 2012

A simple method for the synthesis of aminoaryl and heteroaryl thiocyanates (III) and (V) is given using 2,2′‐azobis(benzothiazole) as oxidant.
ChemInform Abstract: P,N‐Type Benzimidazolyl Phosphine Ligands for the Palladium‐Catalyzed Suzuki Coupling of Potassium Aryltrifluoroborates and Aryl Chlorides.
Authors: Wong Shun Man , So Chau Ming , Chung Kin Ho , Luk Chi Him , Lau Chak Po , Kwong Fuk Yee
Published: September 2012

A P,N‐type benzimidazolyl phosphine proves to be an efficient ligand for the Pd‐catalyzed Suzuki coupling of aryltrifluoroborates and aryl chlorides.
ChemInform Abstract: Diastereocontrol in the Synthesis of 2,3,4‐Trisubstituted Pyrrolidines and Tetrahydrofurans via a Palladium(II)‐Catalyzed Three‐Component Coupling Reaction.
Authors: Raikar Sandeep , Pal Benoy Kumar , Malinakova Helena C.
Published: September 2012

Starting with the Pd‐catalyzed condensation of boronic acids with allenes and imines or aldehydes, multistep routes to trisubstituted pyrrolidines and tetrahydrofurans are developed.
ChemInform Abstract: Regioselective Iridium(I)‐Catalyzed Remote Borylation of Oxygenated Naphthalenes.
Authors: Hume Paul , Furkert Daniel P. , Brimble Margaret A.
Published: September 2012

Oxygenated naphthalenes are regioselectively borylated with pinacolborane.
ChemInform Abstract: Rhodium(III)‐Catalyzed Oxidative Olefination of N‐(Naphthalen‐1‐yl)amides.
Authors: Wang Xiaowei , Li Xuting , Xiao Jian , Jiang Yi , Li Xingwei
Published: September 2012

The oxidative coupling of the title compounds with acrylates or allylbenzene leads to formation of tricyclic olefination—cyclization products, whereas styrenes give only products of simple olefination.
ChemInform Abstract: Gold‐Catalyzed Skeletal Rearrangement of 1‐[2‐(1H‐Isochromen‐3yl)aryl]ethanones with Alcohols.
Authors: Wei Wen‐Ting , Xie Peng , Xia Jia‐Dong , Xie Ye‐Xiang , Song Ren‐Jie , Xiang Jian‐Nan , Li Jin‐Heng
Published: September 2012

Ring opening/ring closure produces a broad spectrum of indenone derivatives.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Spirofuranopyrimidine—Piperidines.
Authors: Darout Etzer , McClure Kim F. , Mascitti Vincent
Published: September 2012

Title compound (IV) is prepared as an unprecedented heterocyclic template for studies on the structure—activity relationship between the G‐protein coupled receptor 119 (GPR119) and conformationally restricted ligands.
ChemInform Abstract: A New Layered Metal—Organic Framework as a Promising Heterogeneous Catalyst for Olefin Epoxidation Reactions.
Authors: Zhang Jingming , Biradar Ankush V. , Pramanik Sanhita , Emge Thomas J. , Asefa Tewodros , Li Jing
Published: September 2012

A novel cobalt complex is prepared and successfully applied as a heterogeneous catalyst for the epoxidation of alkenes (I).
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Functionalized and Fused Furans and Pyrans from the Morita—Baylis—Hillman Acetates of Nitroalkenes.
Authors: Nair Divya K. , Mobin Shaikh M. , Namboothiri Irishi N. N.
Published: September 2012

Open chain and six‐membered dicarbonyl compounds (with exception of Meldrum′s and barbituric acid) react via a Michael‐5‐exo‐trig‐oxa‐Michael cascade to produce furan skeletons.
ChemInform Abstract: One‐Pot Asymmetric Synthesis of 2‐ and 2,3‐Disubstituted Tetrahydrofuran Derivatives.
Authors: Ramachandran P. Veeraraghavan , Nair Hari N. G. , Gagare Pravin D.
Published: September 2012

A new, convenient, and enantioselective method to prepare 2‐ and 2,3‐substituted tetrahydrofuran derivatives is reported.
ChemInform Abstract: Palladium‐Catalyzed Direct 1,4‐Addition of Heteroarenes to α,β‐Unsaturated Ketones via C—H Activation.
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Yu Xiaoqiang , Feng Xiujuan , Bao Ming
Published: September 2012

The reaction generally proceeds to give the corresponding Michael adducts.
ChemInform Abstract: An Organocatalyzed Highly Regioselective One‐Pot Approach to the Synthesis of Tetrahydrobenzofuranones.
Authors: Chawla Ruchi , Singh Atul K. , Yadav Lal Dhar S.
Published: September 2012

A simple protocol allows the preparation of various title compounds via pyrrolidine‐catalyzed reaction of 1,3‐cyclohexanediones with epoxides.
ChemInform Abstract: Copper‐Catalyzed Sulfenylation of Pyrroles with Disulfides or Thiols: Directly Synthesis of Sulfenyl Pyrroles.
Authors: Alves Diego , Lara Renata G. , Contreira Maria E. , Radatz Catia S. , Duarte Luis F. B. , Perin Gelson
Published: September 2012

Optimized reaction conditions are developed to give 2‐thiosubstituted pyrroles (III) predominantly.
ChemInform Abstract: Cu(II)‐Mediated Aminooxygenation of Alkenylimines and Alkenylamidines with TEMPO.
Authors: Sanjaya Stephen , Chua Sze Hui , Chiba Shunsuke
Published: September 2012

The process allows the preparation of dihydropyrrole and dihydroimidazole units bearing an oxymethyl function.
ChemInform Abstract: Transition‐Metal‐Free Stereoselective and Regioselective Hydroamination of 2‐Benzoylethynyl‐4,5,6,7‐tetrahydroindoles with Amino Acids.
Authors: Sobenina Lyubov N. , Tomilin Denis N. , Ushakov Igor A. , Mikhaleva Albina I. , Trofimov Boris A.
Published: September 2012

Nucleophilic addition of various amino acids to the triple bond of ethynyl indoles (I) proceeds highly selectively to yield a new family of unnatural amino acids.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthetic Utility of Sugar‐Derived Cyclic Nitrones: A Diastereoselective Synthesis of Linear 4‐Azatriquinanes.
Authors: Bandaru Anandaraju , Kaliappan Krishna P.
Published: September 2012

A convenient 3‐step sequence is used to prepare the precursors from the corresponding nitrones.
ChemInform Abstract: Filling the Gap: Chemistry of 3,5‐Bis(trifluoromethyl)‐1H‐pyrazoles.
Authors: Maspero Angelo , Giovenzana Giovanni B. , Monticelli Damiano , Tagliapietra Silvia , Palmisano Giovanni , Penoni Andrea
Published: September 2012

An improved access to 3,5‐bis(trifluoromethyl)‐1H‐pyrazoles (II) and the subsequent conversion to the hitherto unknown 4‐substituted derivatives (III) ‐ (VII) are reported.
ChemInform Abstract: Simple and Efficient Synthesis of Substituted 1H‐Indazoles.
Authors: Sagitullina Galina P. , Garkushenko Anna K. , Poendaev Nikolay V. , Sagitullin Reva S.
Published: September 2012

A new approach for the synthesis of functionalized indazoles (VI) starting from 3,5‐diaroyl‐2,6‐dimethylpyridines is developed.
ChemInform Abstract: Efficient Procedure for High‐Yield Synthesis of 4‐Substituted 3,5‐Dinitropyrazoles Using 4‐Chloro‐3,5‐dinitropyrazole.
Authors: Dalinger Igor L. , Vatsadze Irina A. , Shkineva Tatyana K. , Popova Galina P. , Shevelev Svyatoslav A.
Published: September 2012

The reactions of readily prepared 4‐chloro‐3,5‐dinitropyrazole (II) and its N‐methyl analogue with O,S, and N‐nucleophiles are studied.
ChemInform Abstract: Formal Asymmetric Enone Aminohydroxylation: Organocatalytic One‐Pot Synthesis of 4,5‐Disubstituted Oxazolidinones.
Authors: Cruz David Cruz , Sanchez‐Murcia Pedro A. , Joergensen Karl Anker
Published: September 2012

A formal asymmetric organocatalytic aminohydroxylation reaction of enones (I) is achieved via an aziridination ‐ double SN2 sequence.
ChemInform Abstract: Palladium‐Catalyzed C—H Cyclization in Water: A Milder Route to 2‐Arylbenzothiazoles.
Authors: Inamoto Kiyofumi , Nozawa Kanako , Kondo Yoshinori
Published: September 2012

The optimized conditions A) render possible the synthesis of various benzothiazole derivatives.
ChemInform Abstract: An Efficient and General Urazole Synthesis.
Authors: Chai Weirui , Chang Yuan , Buynak John D.
Published: September 2012

A simple two‐step protocol allows the synthesis of urazoles (IV) which are further converted into bicyclic heterocycles of type (VI).
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Intramolecular Heterocyclization of β‐Amino Ketone Thiosemicarbazones.
Authors: Klochkova I. N. , Anis'kov A. A. , Shchekina M. P. , Voronina E. A.
Published: September 2012

Intramolecular heterocyclization of the title thiosemicarbazones (III) gives previously dihydrothiadiazole derivatives in good yields.