bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bangla translation, adaptation and piloting of Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale
Authors: Gausia Kaniz , Hamadani Jena D , Islam Md Manirul , Ali Mohammed , Algin Sultana , Yunus Mohammed , Fisher Colleen , Oosthuizen Jacques
Published: September 2008

Standardized questionnaires for screening common health problems in the community often need to be translated for use in non-English speaking countries. There is a lack of literature documenting the process of translation of such questionnaire/scale that would enable their application in cross-cultural settings and standardization of the procedure. This paper reports the process of translation into Bangla of the widely used Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) for use in Bangladesh. Three methods: forward translation, committee translation, and back translation were used to ensure the equivalence of the translated version. Both the English and Bangla versions were piloted among 10 social science graduates who were proficient in both the languages. The concurrence of each respondent between the two versions showed a correlation coefficient of 0.98 (p<0.01). The Bland-Altman test also showed a high degree of agreement. The piloted version was also tested with 15 women in the postnatal period and found to be suitable for women with lower educational attainment. The documentation of the translation process and the lessons learnt would be helpful in similar settings where screening questionnaires need to be adapted for local use.DOI = 10.3329/bmrcb.v33i3.1138Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2007; 33: 81-87
Clinical outcome in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting using radial artery
Authors: Hasan Md. Sharif , Adhikary Asit Baran , Rahman Mostafizur
Published: September 2008

DOI = 10.3329/bmrcb.v33i3.1143Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2007; 33: 107-108
Evaluation of Half‐Heusler Compounds as Thermoelectric Materials Based on the Calculated Electrical Transport Properties
Authors: Yang Jiong , Li Huanming , Wu Ting , Zhang Wenqing , Chen Lidong , Yang Jihui
Published: September 2008

A theoretical evaluation of the thermoelectric‐related electrical transport properties of 36 half‐Heusler (HH) compounds, selected from more than 100 HHs, is carried out in this paper. The electronic structures and electrical transport properties are studied using ab initio calculations and the Boltzmann transport equation under the constant relaxation time approximation for charge carriers. The electronic structure results predict the band gaps of these HH compounds, and show that many HHs are narrow‐band‐gap semiconductors and, therefore, are potentially good thermoelectric materials. The dependence of Seebeck coefficient, electrical conductivity, and power factor on the Fermi level is investigated. Maximum power factors and the corresponding optimal p‐ or n‐type doping levels, related to the thermoelectric performance of materials, are calculated for all HH compounds investigated, which certainly provide guidance to experimental work. The estimated optimal doping levels and Seebeck coefficients show reasonable agreement with the measured results for some HH systems. A few HHs are recommended to be potentially good thermoelectric materials based on our calculations.
Evidence that SIZN1 is a candidate X‐linked mental retardation gene
Authors: Cho Ginam , Bhat Shambhu S. , Gao Jinsong , Collins Julianne S. , Rogers R. Curtis , Simensen Richard J. , Schwartz Charles E. , Golden Jeffrey A. , Srivastava Anand K.
Published: September 2008

An estimated 1–3% of individuals within the United States are diagnosed with mental retardation (MR), yet the cause is unknown in nearly 50% of the patients. While several environmental, genetic and combined teratogenetic etiologies have been identified, many causative genes remain to be identified. Furthermore, the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying MR are known for very few of these genes. Males have a much higher incidence of MR implicating genes on the X‐chromosome. We have recently identified a novel gene, SIZN1, on the X‐chromosome and showed that it functions in modulating the BMP signaling pathway. Furthermore, we have shown this gene is necessary for basal forebrain cholinergic neuron (BFCN) specific gene expression. Given that cognitive function is impaired when BFCNs are lost or functionally disrupted, we undertook a screen of cognitively impaired males for SIZN1 mutations. We report on four different sequence variants in SIZN1 in 11 individuals with nonsyndromic X‐linked mental retardation(XLMR). Our data implicate SIZN1 as a candidate gene for XLMR and/or as a neurocognitive functional modifier. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
High prevalence of orofacial clefts in Shanxi Province in northern China, 2003–2004
Authors: Li Zhiwen , Ren Aiguo , Liu Jianmeng , Zhang Le , Ye Rongwei , Li Song , Li Zhu
Published: September 2008

Shanxi Province in northern China has been identified as an area with the highest prevalence of neural tube defects in the world; however, few reports exist on the prevalence of orofacial clefts (OFC). We examined the prevalence of OFC and their association with selected characteristics. Data came from a population‐based birth defects surveillance system in four counties of Shanxi Province. The system captures information on all live births, stillbirths of at least 20 weeks gestation, and pregnancy terminations at any gestational age after prenatal diagnosis of a birth defect. Out of 25,355 births in 2003–2004, 83 cases with orofacial clefts were identified resulting in a birth prevalence of 3.27 per 1,000. Other major external birth defects were present in 12 (14.5%) OFC cases. Cleft lip with palate (CLP), cleft lip alone (CL) and cleft palate alone (CP) accounted for 62.0%, 29.6% and 8.4% of OFC cases without additional external defects, respectively. The male to female ratio was 1.04 (95%CI: 0.67–1.60) for all OFC, 1.46 (95%CI: 0.80–2.68) for CLP, 1.23 (95%CI: 0.52–2.91) for CL, 0.46 (95%CI: 0.08–2.51) for CP without additional major external defects, and 0.31(95%CI: 0.08–1.13) for OFC with additional external defects. The prevalence of OFC without additional external defects was increased with decreased maternal age (P < 0.05) and increased maternal education (P < 0.05). The birth prevalence of OFC in Shanxi Province of northern China is among the highest worldwide. Further studies are required to define the factors associated with excess risk of clefts. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genetic counseling in Robertsonian translocations der(13;14): Frequencies of reproductive outcomes and infertility in 101 pedigrees
Authors: Engels Hartmut , Eggermann Thomas , Caliebe Almut , Jelska Anna , Schubert Regine , Schüler Herdit M. , Panasiuk Barbara , Zaremba Jacek , Latos‐Bieleńska Anna , Jakubowski Lucjusz , Zerres Klaus P. , Schwanitz Gesa , Midro Alina T.
Published: September 2008

Robertsonian translocations 13/14 are the most common chromosome rearrangements in humans. However, most studies aimed at determining risk figures are more than 20 years old. Their results are often contradictory regarding important topics in genetic counseling such as infertility and unfavorable pregnancy outcomes. Here, we present a study on a sample of 101 previously unreported pedigrees of der(13;14)(q10;q10). In order to minimize problems of partial ascertainment, we included families with a wide range of reasons of ascertainment such as birth of a child with congenital anomalies, prenatal diagnosis due to maternal age, fertility problems and recurrent pregnancy loss. No evidence of increased infertility rates of female and male carriers was found. The detected miscarriage frequency of female carriers was higher than previously reported (27.6 ± 4.0% of all spontaneous pregnancies). This may be explained by an over‐correction of earlier studies, which excluded all unkaryotyped miscarriages. In three out of 42 amniocenteses, translocation trisomies 13 were diagnosed (7.1 ± 4.0% of all amniocenteses). The frequency of stillbirths was 3.3 ± 1.6% for female carriers and 1.4 ± 1.4% for male carriers. A low risk for the live birth of translocation trisomy 13 children was confirmed since no live born children with trisomy 13 or Pätau syndrome were detected in the ascertainment‐corrected sample. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Popcorn calcification in osteogenesis imperfecta: Incidence, progression, and molecular correlation
Authors: Obafemi Abimbola A. , Bulas Dorothy I. , Troendle James , Marini Joan C.
Published: September 2008

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a heritable disorder characterized by osteoporosis and increased susceptibility to fracture. All children with severe OI have extreme short stature and some have “popcorn” calcifications, areas of disorganized hyperdense lines in the metaphysis and epiphysis around the growth plate on lower limb radiographs. Popcorn calcifications were noted on radiographs of two children with non‐lethal type VIII OI, a recessive form caused by P3H1 deficiency. To determine the incidence, progression, and molecular correlations of popcorn calcifications, we retrospectively examined serial lower limb radiographs of 45 children with type III or IV OI and known dominant mutations in type I collagen. Popcorn calcifications were present in 13 of 25 type III (52%), but only 2 of 20 type IV (10%), OI children. The mean age of onset was 7.0 years, with a range of 4–14 years. All children with popcorn calcifications had this finding in their distal femora, and most also had calcifications in proximal tibiae. While unilateral popcorn calcification contributes to femoral growth deficiency and leg length discrepancy, severe linear growth deficiency, and metaphyseal flare do not differ significantly between type III OI patients with and without popcorn calcifications. The type I collagen mutations associated with popcorn calcifications occur equally in both COL1A1 and COL1A2, and have no preferential location along the chains. These data demonstrate that popcorn calcifications are a frequent feature of severe OI, but do not distinguish cases with defects in collagen structure (primarily dominant type III OI) or modification (recessive type VIII OI). © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sex reversal from functional disomy of Xp: Prenatal and post‐mortem findings
Authors: Piccione Maria , Maresi Emiliano , Zollino Marcella , Sanfilippo Cinzia , Seminara Laura , Neri Giovanni , Corsello Giovanni
Published: September 2008

Translocations involving the short arms of the X and Y chromosomes are uncommon and are often associated with anomalies in gonadal development. Segmental duplications of the X chromosome interfere with the formation of the testis in patients with a 46,XY karyotype. The gene products located within the duplicated segment, when present in double dose, may affect on male sex development. We report on a fetus with karyotype 46,XY,der (14)t(X;14) (p10;p10)dn. Attached to chromosome 14 is the entire short arm of the X chromosome. Therefore, the fetus is affected with a disomy of Xp, resulting in complete male to female sex reversal, as well as other structural defects. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first description of an XY fetus with a pure duplication of the entire short arm of X chromosome. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Investigation on the proton exchange membrane water electrolyzer using supported anode catalyst
Authors: Sui Sheng , Ma Lirong , Zhai Yuchun
Published: September 2008

The proton exchange membrane water electrolyzer (PEMWE) was investigated using a novel supported anode catalyst. The supported catalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) was synthesized by chemical reduction and deposition under ultrasonic dispersion. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) reveals that iridium (Ir) particles with sizes of about 10–40 nm are mainly dispersed on the outside surface of titanium carbide (TiC). The PEMWE using the supported Ir/TiC (40 wt% Ir) as the anode catalyst shows the best performance among the supported catalysts of three different Ir contents. Increasing the cell temperature in the PEMWE can enhance the activity of the catalyst and lower the over‐potential of the electrodes, which can improve the performance of the PEMWE. At a cell temperature of 80 °C and atmospheric pressure, the current densities of the best PEMWE at the potential of 1.8 and 2.0 V are 1002 and 1736 mA/cm2, respectively. Copyright © 2008 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electrical transport properties of aliovalent cation‐doped CeO2
Authors: Pearce Mark C. , Thangadurai Venkataraman
Published: September 2008

We report the comparative electrical properties of monovalent (Na+), divalent (Ca2+, Sr2+), trivalent (In3+, La3+) and coupled substitution of divalent and trivalent (Ca2+ + Sm3+) cation‐doped CeO2. The investigated samples were prepared by solid‐state reaction (ceramic) using the corresponding metal oxides and salts in the temperature range 1000–1600 °C in air. Powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), laser particle size analysis (LPSA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and ac impedance spectroscopy measurements were employed for structural, morphology, and electrical characterization. PXRD studies reveal the formation of single‐phase cubic fluorite‐type structures for all investigated samples except those doped with In3+. The variation of lattice parameters is consistent with ionic radii (IR) of the dopant metal ions, with the exception of Na+‐doped CeO2. Our attempt to substitute In3+ for Ce4+ in CeO2 using both ceramic and wet chemical methods was unsuccessful. Furthermore, diffraction peaks attributed to CeO2 and In2O3 were observed up to sintering conditions of 1600 °C. Among the single‐phase compounds investigated, Ce0.85Ca0.05Sm0.1O1.9 exhibits the highest bulk conductivity of 1.3 × 10−3 S/cm at 500 °C with activation energy of 0.64 eV in air. The electrical conductivity data obtained for Ce0.85Ca0.05Sm0.1O1.9 in air and Ar were found to be very similar over the investigated temperature range, indicating the absence of p‐electronic conduction in the high oxygen partial pressure (pO2) range which is consistent with literature reported on Sm‐doped CeO2. Copyright © 2008 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Triboelectricity in the pairs of polymeric materials
Authors: Truncyte D. , Gutauskas M. , Zebrauskas S. , Virbalis J.
Published: September 2008

The influence of electricity of polymeric films and knitted fabrics on friction parameters is analyzed in this work. The variations of the dynamic friction force were determined (under standard DIN 53375) in polymer sliding on the stands made of glass (organic and nonorganic). The dependencies of these variations on the polymer nature and stand mode were analyzed. The determined values of dynamic friction coefficient and dynamic friction force of 10 polymeric materials from the point of view of different stands are presented. The dependencies of friction parameters on triboelectricity and its influence on the formation of adhesion bonds between the components of the sliding pair are described. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Relationship between the deep peroneal nerve and dorsalis pedis artery in the foot: A cadaveric study
Authors: Ranade A.V. , Rajanigandha V. , Rai R. , Ebenezer David A.
Published: September 2008

The aim of our work was to study the relationship between deep peroneal nerve (DPN) and dorsalis pedis artery (DPA) so that the frequency of these variations can be kept in mind by the angiographers and surgeons to ensure safe surgical approach during flap surgery. Ninety‐two legs in 46 cadavers were dissected to study the relationship between DPN and DPA on the dorsum of the foot. The relationship of neurovascular bundle of the dorsum of the foot was classified into four types. Type I: division of the DPN distal to the midpoint between the two malleoli (observed in 26 limbs). In Type II, the division of the DPN was midway between the two malleoli (seen in 20 limbs). Both Type I and II are further divided into two subtypes (a and b) depending upon the crossing pattern of terminal branches of the DPN over DPA. In Type III, multiple branches of DPN were noted in two limbs. In Type IV, the looping pattern of DPN around the DPA was considered and was seen in eight limbs. Awareness of possible variations in the relationship of the DPA to DPN on the dorsum of the foot is important for vascular and reconstructive surgeons. Because it might help in decreasing confusion when considering treatment options like microvascular anastomosis in reconstruction of the leg. Clin. Anat. 21:705–712, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis and Biological Properties of Cylindramide Derivatives: Evidence for Calcium‐Dependent Cytotoxicity of Tetramic Acid Lactams
Authors: Cramer Nicolai , Helbig Sarah , Baro Angelika , Laschat Sabine , Diestel Randi , Sasse Florenz , Mathieu Daniel , Richter Christian , Kummerlöwe Grit , Luy Burkhard , Schwalbe Harald
Published: September 2008

To gain insight into the biological properties of tetramic acid lactam cylindramide 1, the analogues 4 a–d bearing a cyclopentane ring instead of the pentalene unit were prepared by tandem conjugate addition/enolate trapping of cyclopentenone 10; a Sonogashira or Stille coupling, followed by a Julia–Kocienski olefination, macrolactamisation and Lacey–Dieckmann cyclisation were the key steps. The previous NMR structure of cylindramide 1, which was based on NOE and J coupling restraints, could be refined by including residual dipolar coupling data measured for a sample of cylindramide that was aligned in polyacrylonitrile (18 %). Biological screening of cylindramide 1 and its analogues 2‐epi‐1, 20 and 4 revealed promising antiproliferative activity against several tumour cell lines. It turned out that the activity is strongly correlated to the functionalised pentalene system. The configuration of the cyclopentane ring and an intact tetramic acid lactam with the correct configuration seem to play an equal role in the cytotoxicity. The antiproliferative activity was found to be calcium dependent. Phenotypic characterisation of the mode of action showed vacuolisation and vesicle formation in the endoplasmic reticulum.
Interventional cardiac catheterization procedures in pediatric cardiac transplant patients: Transplant surgery is not the end of the road
Authors: Morchi Gira S. , Pietra Biagio , Boucek Mark M. , Chan Kak‐Chen
Published: September 2008

Objectives: The objectives of this study are to report the spectrum of cardiac lesions in pediatric patients post‐orthotopic heart transplantation (OHT), the characteristics of patients who develop these lesions, and the feasibility of transcatheter intervention in treating these lesions. Background: Indications for OHT in the pediatric population range from cardiomyopathy to complex congenital heart defects with and without prior palliation. These patients may have residual vascular access and great vessel abnormalities. Methods: Data was collected through retrospective review of all OHT patients at our institution from 1988 to 2005. Results: During the study period, 276 heart transplants were performed. Forty‐seven patients, age 1.6 [0.1–26] years with a weight of 9.5 [3.5–96.0] kilograms, underwent 69 procedures. Patients with original diagnoses of hypoplastic left heart syndrome and failed palliations required intervention most frequently. Sixteen patients, all with a history of left sided disease, developed aortic arch obstruction. Fifteen were successfully treated with balloon angioplasty while one has recurrent supravalve aortic obstruction. Fourteen patients had superior vena cava obstruction treated with balloon angioplasty and/or stent placement. Twelve patients required no further intervention and two required further stent placement. Ilio‐femoral vein occlusion was treated with balloon angioplasty alone in 4 patients and stent placement in 10 patients to achieve vessel patency. Other procedures included treatment of branch pulmonary artery and pulmonary vein stenosis. Conclusion: Anastomotic aortic arch and venous obstructive lesions should be sought following pediatric OHT as they occur in almost 20% of patients and can be successfully addressed using interventional techniques. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Concurrence of angiographic coronary artery disease in patients with apical ballooning syndrome (tako‐tsubo cardiomyopathy)
Authors: Winchester David E. , Ragosta Michael , Taylor Angela M.
Published: September 2008

Objective: To determine the coexistence of coronary artery disease (CAD) in an unselected cohort of patients with apical ballooning syndrome (ABS). Background: ABS is a clinical condition of unknown etiology with symptoms that mimic an acute coronary syndrome and is characterized by the presence of transient left ventricular dysfunction primarily affecting the apex of the heart. Methods: We conducted a retrospective case series in a single tertiary care hospital. Patients were identified by searching for several inclusive discharge diagnoses in all hospitalized patients. Suspected cases were analyzed using prespecified diagnostic criteria. Demographic, clinical, and imaging data were collected. Coronary lesions were assessed by quantitative angiography. Results: Thirty‐one cases of ABS were identified. The majority of the cases were female, and ischemia was documented in all patients by electrocardiographic or cardiac biomarker criteria. Nineteen patients (61.3%) had angiographic evidence of CAD, with multivessel involvement in seven (23%). Nine patients (29%) had luminal stenosis severity greater than 50% in at least one epicardial vessel. Conclusions: In an unselected cohort of patients with ABS, coronary atherosclerosis is commonly present. Whether CAD simply coexists or is related to the pathophysiology of ABS is unclear. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The use of tapered self‐expanding stents and embolic protection devices in the treatment of stenotic ectatic coronary arteries: A report of two cases
Authors: Le Vu , Abu‐Fadel Mazen , Hennebry Thomas A.
Published: September 2008

Objective: The Usage of tapered self‐expanding stents and embolic protection devices in the treatment of stenotic ectatic coronary arteries. Background: Coronary artery ectasia (CAE) is an uncommon disease that is occasionally found during cardiac catheterization. A high incidence of artherosclerotic disease is associated with CAE. Currently, there is no evidence‐based approach for the management of stenotic ectatic coronary arteries (SEC). Methods: Percutaneous intervention with carotid stenting system and embolic protection system to recanalize SEC. Results: We describe two patients who presented with acute coronary syndrome and were found to have CAE with significant stenosis. Both patients underwent percutaneous intervention with RX ACCULINK™ Carotid stenting system and ACCUNET™ embolic protection system (Abbott Laboratories, Abbott Park, IL), successfully. This carotid stenting system is approved by FDA for stenting of extracranial carotid artery stenosis. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report illustrating the usage of these devices as an alternative for the treatment of SEC. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Treatment of aortic isthmus atresia with a covered stent
Authors: Eicken Andreas , Kaemmerer H. , Ewert Peter
Published: September 2008

We report on successful treatment of an elderly patient with congenital aortic isthmus atresia with a covered stent. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A New Route to the Considerable Enhancement of Glucose Oxidase (GOx) Activity: The Simple Assembly of a Complex from CdTe Quantum Dots and GOx, and Its Glucose Sensing
Authors: Cao Lihua , Ye Jian , Tong Lili , Tang Bo
Published: September 2008

A new complex consisting of CdTe quantum dots (QDs) and glucose oxidase (GOx) has been facilely assembled to achieve considerably enhanced enzymatic activity and a wide active temperature range of GOx; these characteristics are attributed to the conformational changes of GOx during assembly. The obtained complex can be simultaneously used as a nanosensor for the detection of glucose with high sensitivity. A mechanism is put forward based on the fluorescence quenching of CdTe QDs, which is caused by the hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) that is produced from the GOx‐catalyzed oxidation of glucose. When H2O2 gets to the surface of the CdTe QDs, the electron‐transfer reaction happens immediately and H2O2 is reduced to O2, which lies in electron hole traps on CdTe QDs and can be used as a good acceptor, thus forming the nonfluorescent CdTe QDs anion. The produced O2 can further participate in the catalyzed reaction of GOx, forming a cyclic electron‐transfer mechanism of glucose oxidation, which is favorable for the whole reaction system. The value of the Michaelis–Menton constant of GOx is estimated to be 0.45 mM L−1, which shows the considerably enhanced enzymatic activity measured by far. In addition, the GOx enzyme conjugated on the CdTe QDs possesses better thermal stability at 20–80 °C and keeps the maximum activity in the wide range of 40–50 °C. Moreover, the simply assembled complex as a nanosensor can sensitively determine glucose in the wide concentration range from micro‐ to millimolar with the detection limit of 0.10 μM, which could be used for the direct detection of low levels of glucose in biological systems. Therefore, the established method could provide an approach for the assembly of CdTe QDs with other redox enzymes, to realize enhanced enzymatic activity, and to further the design of novel nanosensors applied in biological systems in the future.
Racial segregation and disparities in breast cancer care and mortality
Authors: Haas Jennifer S. , Earle Craig C. , Orav John E. , Brawarsky Phyllis , Keohane Marie , Neville Bridget A. , Williams David R.
Published: September 2008

BACKGROUND.

Questions have existed as to whether residential segregation is a mediator of racial/ethnic disparities in breast cancer care and breast cancer mortality, or has a differential effect by race/ethnicity.

METHODS.

Data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results–Medicare database on white, black, and Hispanic women aged 66 to 85 years with breast cancer were examined for the receipt of adequate breast cancer care.

RESULTS.

Blacks were less likely than whites to receive adequate breast cancer care (odds ratio [OR], 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.71‐0.86). Individuals, both black and white, who lived in areas with greater black segregation were less likely to receive adequate breast cancer care (OR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.64‐0.82). Black segregation was a mediator of the black/white disparity in breast cancer care, explaining 8.9% of the difference. After adjustment, adequate care for Hispanics did not significantly differ from whites, but individuals, both Hispanic and white, who lived in areas with greater Hispanic segregation were less likely to receive adequate breast cancer care (OR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.61‐0.89). Although Blacks experienced greater breast cancer mortality than whites, black segregation did not substantially mediate the black‐white disparity in survival, and was not significantly associated with mortality (hazards ratio, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.87‐1.21). Breast cancer mortality did not differ between Hispanics and whites.

CONCLUSIONS.

Among seniors, segregation mediates some of the black‐white disparity in breast cancer care, but not mortality. Individuals who live in more segregated areas are less likely to receive adequate breast cancer care. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Phase 2 trial of temozolomide using protracted low‐dose and whole‐brain radiotherapy for nonsmall cell lung cancer and breast cancer patients with brain metastases
Authors: Addeo Raffaele , De Rosa Carmine , Faiola Vincenzo , Leo Luigi , Cennamo Gregorio , Montella Liliana , Guarrasi Rosario , Vincenzi Bruno , Caraglia Michele , Del Prete Salvatore
Published: September 2008

BACKGROUND.

Temozolomide (TMZ), an oral methylating imidazotetrazinone, has antitumor activity against gliomas, malignant melanomas, and brain metastasis and is presently administered as a 5‐day oral schedule every 4 weeks.

METHODS.

A single‐institution phase 2 clinical trial was conducted to determine the efficacy and the safety profile of a new regimen based on a dose‐intensified, protracted course of TMZ after whole‐brain radiotherapy (WBRT). Patients were eligible if they had at least 1 bidimensionally measurable brain metastasis from breast cancer and nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Twenty‐seven patients were treated with 30 grays (Gy) of WBRT with concomitant TMZ (75 mg/m2/day) for 10 days, and subsequent TMZ at a dose of 75 mg/m2 per day for 21 days every 4 weeks, for up to 12 cycles.

RESULTS.

Two complete responses (7.4%) and 11 partial responses (40.7%) were achieved. The schedule appeared to be well tolerated, with grade 3 toxicity (graded according to National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria) observed in only 2 patients. The overall median survival was 8.8 months and the median progression‐free survival was 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS.

The concomitant use of WBRT and protracted low‐dose TMZ appears to be an active, well‐tolerated regimen. The observed antitumor activity suggests the need for further investigation of this schedule in combination with other anticancer agents for the concomitant treatment of brain metastases and primary cancers. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Two‐level preconditioner via a rigid body‐based aggregation for the Schur complement system
Authors: Ko Jin Hwan , Eom Jaesung
Published: September 2008

Most aggregation multigrid (MG) methods employ rigid body modes in constructing the prolongators and are famous for fast convergence with good efficiency. However, it is nontrivial to extend these methods to the Schur complement (SC) system, which is a partitioned and condensed system, because the rigid body modes utilize the nodal coordinates. In this work, we proposed a prolongator in an explicit form by transforming the SC system into an alternative system. The two‐level preconditioner derived from the proposed prolongator guaranteed the convergence to be the same as a two‐level MG in a single‐domain system. As demonstrated in a typical shell problem, the two‐level preconditioner showed much faster convergence rate, which is estimated by the condition number based on the Lanczos connection, and also improved the dependency of the convergence on the size of elements and subdomains as compared with a single‐level preconditioner. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Time‐Dependent Density Functional Theory Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Liquid Water Radiolysis
Authors: Tavernelli Ivano , Gaigeot Marie‐Pierre , Vuilleumier Rodolphe , Stia Carlos , Hervé du Penhoat Marie‐Anne , Politis Marie‐Françoise
Published: September 2008

The early stages of the Coulomb explosion of a doubly ionized water molecule immersed in liquid water are investigated with time‐dependent density functional theory molecular dynamics (TD–DFT MD) simulations. Our aim is to verify that the double ionization of one target water molecule leads to the formation of atomic oxygen as a direct consequence of the Coulomb explosion of the molecule. To that end, we used TD–DFT MD simulations in which effective molecular orbitals are propagated in time. These molecular orbitals are constructed as a unitary transformation of maximally localized Wannier orbitals, and the ionization process was obtained by removing two electrons from the molecular orbitals with symmetry 1B1, 3A1, 1B2and 2A1in turn. We show that the doubly charged H2O2+molecule explodes into its three atomic fragments in less than 4 fs, which leads to the formation of one isolated oxygen atom whatever the ionized molecular orbital. This process is followed by the ultrafast transfer of an electron to the ionized molecule in the first femtosecond. A faster dissociation pattern can be observed when the electrons are removed from the molecular orbitals of the innermost shell. A Bader analysis of the charges carried by the molecules during the dissociation trajectories is also reported.
IR, Raman, and UV/Vis Spectra of Corannulene for Use in Possible Interstellar Identification
Authors: Rouillé Gaël , Jäger Cornelia , Steglich Mathias , Huisken Friedrich , Henning Thomas , Theumer Gabriele , Bauer Ingmar , Knölker Hans‐Joachim
Published: September 2008

The spectroscopic characterization of corannulene (C20H10) is carried out by several techniques. The high purity of the material synthesized for this study was confirmed by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS). During a high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) process, the absorption spectrum of corannulene in the ultraviolet (UV) and visible (vis) ranges is obtained. The infrared (IR) absorption spectrum is measured in CsI pellets, and the Raman scattering spectrum is recorded for pure crystal grains. In addition to room temperature measurements, absorption spectroscopy in an argon matrix at 12 K is also performed in the IR and UV/Vis ranges. The experimental spectra are compared with theoretical Raman and IR spectra and with calculated electronic transitions. All calculations are based on the density functional theory (DFT), either normal or time‐dependent (TDDFT). Our results are discussed in view of their possible application in the search for corannulene in the interstellar medium.
System synchronization and channel estimation analysis for IEEE 802.16e OFDMA downlink system
Authors: Zhang Zhaoyang , Cheng Peng , Zhou Xiangwei , Qiu Peiliang
Published: September 2008

System synchronization and channel estimation are two key problems of IEEE 802.16e Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplex Access (OFDMA) downlink system. According to the standard, system synchronization is completed through the cell search procedure, which includes two steps: frame detection and cell‐ID identification. First, based on the special time‐domain (TD) and frequency‐domain (FD) structures of the preamble, we propose two novel frame detection ms: the TD algorithm and the FD algorithm. Their robustness performance is nearly the same, and the complexity of the FD algorithm is only${{1} \over{31}}$of that of the TD algorithm. Then, an efficient cell‐ID identification algorithm is proposed, in which the necessary correlation length can be dramatically shortened even without anya priorichannel knowledge. Thereby, it greatly reduces the cell search time. As for the problem of channel estimation, a cluster‐based channel estimation method is proposed. It is based on the special pilot distribution of IEEE 802.16e and utilizes the continuity of channel variations to mitigate the impact of time‐variant channel. System simulation results show that the proposed algorithms are both robust and efficient. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A mouse line expressing Foxa2‐driven Cre recombinase in node, notochord, floorplate, and endoderm
Authors: Uetzmann Lena , Burtscher Ingo , Lickert Heiko
Published: September 2008

Foxa2 is a forkhead transcription factor expressed in the node, notochord, floorplate, and definitive endoderm and is required in the foregut endoderm for the normal development of the endoderm‐derived organs, such as the liver, lung and pancreas. To conditionally inactivate genes in these tissues and organs, we have targeted a Cre recombinase into Exon 1 of the Foxa2 gene. We show, upon crossing to the ROSA26 reporter mice, that Cre expression from the Foxa2iCre knock‐in allele specifically activates β‐galactosidase expression in the node, notochord, floorplate, and endoderm. In addition, we detect Cre recombination activity in the endoderm‐derived organs including lung, liver, pancreas, and gastrointestinal tract throughout development. These results demonstrate that the Foxa2iCre knock‐in mice are a valuable tool to analyze gene function in endoderm progenitors and endoderm‐derived organs. Moreover, the widespread β‐galactosidase reporter activity in the endoderm suggests that Foxa2 marks a progenitor cell population, which gives rise to the majority of cells in endoderm‐derived organs. genesis 46:515–522, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis and Characterization of Linear Trinuclear Pd, Co, and Pd/Co Pyrazolate Complexes
Authors: Miras Haralampos N. , Zhao Hong , Herchel Radovan , Rinaldi Carlos , Pérez Soribel , Raptis Raphael G.
Published: September 2008

A family of dinuclear and linear trinuclear Co/Pd pyrazolate compounds, namely, [Bu4N]2[Co2(μ‐4‐Cl‐3,5‐Me2‐pz)2Cl4] (1), [Bu4N]2[Co2(μ‐4‐Br‐3,5‐Me2‐pz)2Br4] (2), [Bu4N]2[Co2(4‐I‐3,5‐Me2‐pz)2Cl4] (3), [Et4N]2[Pd2Co(4‐Br‐3,5‐Me2‐pz)4Cl4] (4), [Et3NH]4[PdCo2(4‐Br‐3,5‐Me2‐pz)4Cl4][NO3]2 (5), [Et3NH]2[Pd Co2(3‐Me‐5‐Ph‐pz)4Cl4] (6), [Et3NH]2[Pd3(4‐Br‐3,5‐Me2‐pz)4Cl4] (7), and [Co3(3,5‐Me2‐pz)4(3,5‐Me2‐pzH)2(CH3CO2)2] (8) was synthesized. The single‐phase nature of the solids was established by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, thermal analysis, and spectroscopic techniques. Moreover, the magnetic behavior is studied and a magnetostructural comparison to the corresponding carboxylate analogues is made. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
A (Nitrido)chromium(V) Function Incorporated in a Keggin‐Type Polyoxometalate: [PW11O39CrN]5– – Synthesis, Characterization and Elements of Reactivity
Authors: Lahootun Vanina , Karcher Jeff , Courillon Christine , Launay Franck , Mijares Kristopher , Maatta Eric , Proust Anna
Published: September 2008

The (nitrido)chromium(V) derivative [PW11O39{CrN}]5– (1a) was synthesized by the reaction of the monolacunary [H3PW11O39]4– polyanion with a {CrN}2+ function generated in situ. The EPR spectrum of the formed polyoxometalate confirmed the presence of a paramagnetic CrV complex, and the presence of the nitrido bond was inferred by IR spectroscopy. The reactivity of [PW11O39{CrN}]5– was investigated and evidence of nucleophilic behaviour towards trifluoroacetic anhydride, forming the acylimido derivative [PW11O39{CrVNCOCF3}]4– (2a), is also reported. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Nano‐CuO‐Catalyzed Ullmann Coupling of Phenols with Aryl Halides under Ligand‐Free Conditions
Authors: Zhang Jintang , Zhang Zuhui , Wang Ye , Zheng Xiaoqi , Wang Zhiyong
Published: September 2008

Nano copper oxide has been found to be a highly efficient and reusable catalyst for the C–O cross‐coupling of phenols with aryl halides under ligand‐free conditions. With DMSO as solvent, Cs2CO3 and KOH are suitable bases for the cross‐coupling reactions with phenyl iodides and bromides, respectively. Diaryl ethers with different substituted groups can be synthesized in moderate‐to‐good yields. The catalyst can be recycled at least five times without obvious loss in catalytic activity.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Rearrangement of Differentially Protected N‐Arylhydroxylamines
Authors: Porzelle Achim , Woodrow Michael D. , Tomkinson Nicholas C. O.
Published: September 2008

The rearrangement of a series of N,O‐difunctionalised N‐arylhydroxylamines to generate protected 2‐aminophenols has been investigated. N‐Boc‐N‐Aryl‐O‐acylhydroxylamines are stable, isolable compounds which rearrange smoothly at temperatures between 110 and 140 °C. The corresponding N‐Boc‐N‐aryl‐O‐sulfonylhydroxylamines were not isolated and rearrange to 1,2‐difunctionalised aminophenols at room temperature in excellent yield. Deprotection of either the N‐ or O‐substituents under standard conditions allows for further synthetic manipulation of either the aniline or phenol functionality.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
The Intricate Assembling of gem‐Diphenylpropargylic Units
Authors: Maraval Valérie , Duhayon Carine , Coppel Yannick , Chauvin Remi
Published: September 2008

While optimized procedures for selective propargylic – versus allenic – attack (in particular by alkynylsilanes) have proven to be compatible with many substitution patterns at the propargylic center, the case of diarylpropargyl electrophiles has remained problematic. The intrinsic reactivity of 1,1‐diphenylpropargylic alcohols [R–C≡C–C(Ph2)OH (R = TMS, H, Me)] in the presence of various acids (and in the absence of additional nucleophile) has thus been systematically investigated. Whereas the monophenyl analogues [R–C≡C–CH(Ph)OH] afford the expected bis(phenylpropargyl) ethers, the diphenyl versions undergo complex but quite selective processes to afford various structural types: depending on the acid used, a diallene, an allenyne, an indenylallene, an indanone or a condensed tetra‐ and pentacycles were obtained. When the reactions were conducted in the presence of an alkynylsilane capable of playing the role of a competing nucleophile, the expected propargylic substitution products – dialkynyldiphenylmethanes or their isomers – were never observed. The hitherto unknown simple hydrocarbons diethynyl‐ and dipropynyl‐diphenylmethane could, however, be obtained in low yields through a four‐step sequence involving allenylidene‐ and alkynylruthenium intermediates.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Catalytic Enantioselective α‐Oxysulfonylation of Ketones Mediated by Iodoarenes
Authors: Altermann Sabine M. , Richardson Robert D. , Page T. Keri , Schmidt Ruth K. , Holland Edward , Mohammed Umal , Paradine Shauna M. , French Andrew N. , Richter Christine , Bahar A. Masih , Witulski Bernhard , Wirth Thomas
Published: September 2008

The α‐oxysulfonylation of ketones catalysed by enantioenriched iodoarenes using mCPBA as stoichiometric oxidant is reported to give useful synthetic intermediates in good yield and modest enantioselectivity. We believe this to be the first report of an enantioselective organocatalytic reaction involving hypervalent iodine reagents which should open up a new field for enantioselective organocatalysis of oxidation reactions. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Archaeal Lipids: Innovative Materials for Biotechnological Applications (Eur. J. Org. Chem. 28/2008)
Authors: Benvegnu Thierry , Lemiègre Loïc , Cammas‐Marion Sandrine
Published: September 2008

The cover picture shows the molecular structure of monopolar diether‐type and bipolar tetraether‐type lipids found in archaea membranes as well as a schematized representation of an archaeosome–DNA complex based on archaeal lipids. The background offers a view of archaeosomes (cross‐fractured vesicles made from synthetic archaeal bipolar lipids) observed by freeze‐fracture electron microscopy. Details of the structure and properties of these original natural or synthetic lipids and their potential biotechnological applications are presented in the Microreview by T. Benvegnu et al. on p. 4725 ff.
The effects of authentic and contrived dissent on escalation of commitment in group decision making
Authors: Greitemeyer Tobias , Schulz‐Hardt Stefan , Frey Dieter
Published: September 2008

Escalation of commitment refers to the tendency to persist with or even intensify losing courses of action. In this study, we examined whether authentic and contrived dissent reduces escalation in group decision making. Participants first individually indicated their preference on how to allocate money between two alternatives. Based on these individual preferences, homogeneous and heterogeneous three‐person groups were formed. In addition, group discussion was either structured by assigning one group member to play the role of a devil's advocate or was not structured. Results revealed that escalation tendencies over multiple decisions were reduced in heterogeneous groups that used the devil's advocacy procedure. The rationality of this behavior is discussed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Voltammetric Studies on the Recognition of a Copper Complex to Single‐ and Double‐Stranded DNA and Its Application in Gene Biosensor
Authors: Wang Qing Xiang , Gao Feng , Jiao Kui
Published: September 2008

A mixed‐ligands copper complex [Cu(phendione)(DAP)]SO4 (phendione=1,10‐phenanthroline‐5,6‐dione, DAP=2,3‐diaminophenazine) was synthesized. Cyclic voltammetry showed that the complex underwent an obvious decrease of redox peak currents and positive shift of formal potential after interaction with double‐stranded DNA (dsDNA), suggesting that the copper complex behaved as a typical metallointercalator for dsDNA, The recognition properties of the copper complex to single‐stranded DNA (ssDNA) and dsDNA were assessed using surface‐based electrochemical methods and the results suggested that the complex had obviously different redox signals at ssDNA and dsDNA modified electrodes. The copper complex was further used as an electroactive indicator for the detection of cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) 35S promoter gene.
Self‐Assembled Redox System for Bioelectrocatalytic Assay of L‐Ascorbylphosphate and Alkaline Phosphatase Activity
Authors: Kazakevičienė Birutė , Valinčius Gintaras , Kažemėkaitė Marytė , Razumas Valdemaras
Published: September 2008

Ferrocene‐terminated self‐assembled monolayer (Fc‐SAM) on gold was used as an electron‐transfer mediator in the electrochemical assay of L‐ascorbic acid 2‐phosphate (AAP). The assay is based on the enzymatic action of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), which triggers the release of vitamin C (L‐ascorbic acid, AA) from AAP. The latter is easily oxidized on the Fc‐SAM under the diffusion limiting conditions that favors quantitative measurement of the AA concentration on a rotating disk electrode. We demonstrate the utility of the electrochemically active Fc‐SAM to probe the mechanism and to determine the kinetic parameters of an enzymatic reaction. The electrochemical technique was compared to a conventional spectrophotometric method of ALP activity detection using p‐nitrophenylphosphate (p‐NPP) as a substrate. We demonstrate that our new technique is also suitable for the analytical determination of ALP activity. The detection limits for both AAP and ALP were found to be 13 μM and 2 pM, respectively.
Analysis of air quality monitoring networks by functional clustering
Authors: Ignaccolo R. , Ghigo S. , Giovenali E.
Published: September 2008

Air quality monitoring networks are important tools in management and evaluation of air quality. Classifying monitoring stations via homogeneous clusters allows e dentification of similarities in pollution, of representative sites, and of spatial patterns. Instead of summaries by statistical indicators, we propose to consider the air pollutant concentrations as functional data. We then classify using functional cluster analysis, where Partitioning Around Medoids (PAM) algorithm is embedded. The proposed data analysis approach is applied to the air quality monitoring network in Piemonte (Northern Italy); we consider the three more critical pollutants: NO2, PM10, and O3. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An idealised model of turbulent dispersion: two rectangular pulse initial condition
Authors: Mole Nils , Ring Rebecca
Published: September 2008

An idealised model of turbulent dispersion was introduced by Zimmerman and Chatwin in 1995 and it was further developed by Mole and Yeun in 2007, for the case of an initial concentration field consisting of one rectangular pulse. Here we extend this model to the case of two initial pulses in order to investigate the effect of varying concentration. We present analytical and numerical results for the dependence of the variance, skewness, kurtosis and probability density function of concentration on time and on the pulse locations and concentrations. For moderately large concentration difference between the pulses, one pulse dominates and the behaviour is close to that for the one pulse case. This suggests that a model incorporating distributions of pulse separations and concentrations can be constructed by averaging over an ensemble of one pulse cases. The distributions used would be those appropriate to the ‘strands’ of highest concentration. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Network bias in air quality monitoring design
Authors: Loperfido Nicola , Guttorp Peter
Published: September 2008

We develop a statistical model for the bias resulting from designing an air quality monitoring network with the aim of finding large values, and then using the data obtained in studies of health effects of air quality. Appropriate conditional distributions are shown to be well‐known generalizations of the normal one. Theoretical results are applied to an ozone monitoring network in the state of Washington, USA. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.