bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of work‐family culture and workplace relationships on work interference with family: a multilevel model
Authors: Major Debra A. , Fletcher Thomas D. , Davis Donald D. , Germano Lisa M.
Published: October 2007

This research tested a multilevel model examining the influence of work‐family culture and supportive workplace relationships on work interference with family. Web‐based survey data were provided by 792 information technology employees from 10 organizations. Random coefficient modeling was used to test a path model examining the relationships between work‐family culture, leader‐member exchange (LMX), coworker support, and work interference with family. The direct effects of LMX and coworker support on work interference with family were significant. The indirect effect of work‐family culture on work interference with family was also significant. Results demonstrate the value of work‐family culture in understanding supportive supervisory and coworker relationships and work interference with family and highlight the need to employ multilevel models to understand these relationships. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Organizational power and culture shift at Ducati motorcycles
Authors: Omar Maktoba , Porter Marc
Published: October 2007

In this research into corporate culture at Ducati Motorcycles, Spa., the qualitative approach was used based on Johnson's theory of corporate culture, relying on structured and unstructured interviews followed up by participant observation. Corporate culture was used as a strategic tool in changing the Ducati corporate mindset. The results show that the recognition and alteration of corporate culture played a large role in the successful implementation of a new corporate strategy. The Ducati strategic initiative focused on repositioning Ducati from a traditional Italian motorcycle manufacturer to a global marketing company. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Immunomodulatory and osteogenic differentiation effects of mesenchymal stem cells by adenovirus‐mediated coexpression of CTLA4Ig and BMP2
Authors: Zhang Xiaoling , Zhang Chao , Tang Tingting , Qu Zhihu , Lou Jueren , Dai Kerong
Published: October 2007

Many reports have previously utilized a human bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2)‐expressing recombinant adenoviral vector (AdBMP2) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for osteoinductive gene therapy. However, immunosuppression is essential for osteoinduction by AdBMP2, and this is one of the major impediments to its clinical use. In the present study, in vitro propagated MSCs were transduced using an adenoviral (Ad) vector to express the gene encoding cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4‐immunoglobulin (CTLA4Ig). Lymphocyte response was induced by allogeneic‐irradiated MSCs as stimulators. We also examined the effects of cotransfection with a combination of the CTLA4Ig and the BMP2 gene on osteoblastic cell differentiation. The results showed that BMP2 gene transfected MSC elicited significant stimulatory responses, and one‐way MLR reactions were significantly blunted by CTLA4Ig. Further study demonstrates that cotransfection of MSCs with the combination of the CTLA4Ig and the BMP2 gene stimulates osteoblastic cell differentiation in vitro. The findings suggest that genetic engineering of MSCs to express an immunosuppressive molecule in combination with an osteogenic protein gene may have potential application in the treatment of several genetic diseases and in bone reconstruction. © 2007 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 26:314–321, 2008
Lifetime of Itrel II pulse generators for subthalamic nucleus stimulation in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Anheim Mathieu , Fraix Valérie , Chabardès Stéphan , Krack Paul , Benabid Alim‐Louis , Pollak Pierre
Published: October 2007

The efficacy of bilateral subthalamic nucleus (STN) stimulation in Parkinson's disease (PD) is well‐established but little is known about the lifetime of implanted pulse generators (IPG). To investigate the lifetime of the bilaterally implanted Itrel II® (Medtronic, Minneapolis) pulse generator, the first 49 consecutive patients with PD having been operated on at our center for bilateral STN chronic stimulation were reviewed with noting of the stimulation parameters in use prior to IPG replacement. The mean electrical voltage was 3.2 ± 0.3 V, mean pulse width was 65 ± 10 μs, and mean frequency was 145 ± 16 Hz. Replacement of an IPG was anticipated in 25% due to unilateral low‐battery signaling, or end of life. In either case, replacement of the contralateral IPG was undertaken simultaneously. The mean IPG lifetime was 83 ± 14 [40–113] months. The IPG lifetime correlated with the total electrical energy delivered (P = 0.002, r = −0.496). Unilateral IPG end‐of‐life generally led to subacute worsening of contralateral parkinsonism. In 25% of patients, there was also a worsening of axial symptoms leading to potential medical emergencies such as falls (10%), aspiration pneumonia (10%), or psychosis (5%). A close monitoring of patients and an anticipation of IPG replacement in the case of a low‐battery signal are recommended. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Nighttime sleep problems and daytime sleepiness in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Verbaan Dagmar , van Rooden Stephanie M. , Visser Martine , Marinus Johan , van Hilten Jacobus J.
Published: October 2007

Our objective is to evaluate nighttime sleep problems (NSP) and daytime sleepiness (DS) in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) compared to controls, and to assess relations with demographic, disease‐related, and clinical characteristics in patients. NSP and DS were evaluated with the SCOPA‐SLEEP questionnaire in PD patients and controls. In patients, other disease‐related and clinical characteristics were also evaluated. Four hundred twenty PD patients [mean (SD) age 61.1 (11.5) years] and 150 controls [mean (SD) age 60.9 (9.9) years] participated in the study. Compared to controls, a significantly greater proportion of patients had excessive DS (EDS) (43 vs. 10%), excessive NSP (ENSP) (27 vs. 9%), or used sleep medication (17 vs. 12%). Difficulties with falling asleep were similar in both groups. In both patients and controls, women experienced more NSP than men. In patients, depressive symptoms accounted for 21% of NSP variance and was the major contributor to the total explained variance (30%). Furthermore, NSP were related to dopamine‐agonist and levodopa dose, whereas DS was related to age, dopamine‐agonist dose, and disease severity. NSP and DS occur frequently in PD, with EDS being reported more commonly than ENSP. No strong relations were found between DS and demographic or clinical variables. The strong relation between NSP and depressive symptoms in PD calls for future studies to explore the nature of this relation. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Molding the sensory cortex: Spatial acuity improves after botulinum toxin treatment for cervical dystonia
Authors: Walsh Richard , Hutchinson Michael
Published: October 2007

Disorganization of sensory cortical somatotopy has been described in adult onset primary torsion dystonia (AOPTD). Although botulinum toxin type A (BTX‐A) acts peripherally, some studies have suggested a central effect. Our primary hypothesis was that sensory cortical reorganization occurs after BTX‐A treatment of AOPTD. Twenty patients with cervical dystonia and 18 healthy age‐matched control patients had spatial discrimination thresholds (SDTs) measured at baseline and monthly for 3 months. Mean baseline SDT (±SD) was 1.75 ±0.76 mm in the dystonia group, greater than the control group mean of 1.323 ± 0.45 mm (P = 0.05). Mean control group SDT did not vary significantly over time. A transient improvement of 23% from baseline (P = 0.005) occurred in the dystonia group 1 month after injection, which did not positively correlate with changes in physician and patient ratings of torticollis severity. The presumed mechanism of SDT improvement is a modulation of afferent cortical inputs from muscle spindles. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Long‐term follow‐up of impulse control disorders in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Mamikonyan Eugenia , Siderowf Andrew D. , Duda John E. , Potenza Marc N. , Horn Stacy , Stern Matthew B. , Weintraub Daniel
Published: October 2007

Recent studies have linked dopamine agonist (DA) usage with the development of impulse control disorders (ICDs) in Parkinson's disease (PD). Little is known about optimal management strategies or the long‐term outcomes of affected patients. To report on the clinical interventions and long‐term outcomes of PD patients who developed an ICD after DA initiation. Subjects contacted by telephone for a follow‐up interview after a mean time period of 29.2 months. They were administered a modified Minnesota Impulse Disorder Interview for compulsive buying, gambling, and sexuality, and also self‐rated changes in their ICD symptomatology. Baseline and follow‐up dopamine replacement therapy use was recorded and verified by chart review. Of 18 subjects, 15 (83.3%) participated in the follow‐up interview. At follow‐up, patients were receiving a significantly lower DA levodopa equivalent daily dosage (LEDD) (Z = −3.1, P = 0.002) and a higher daily levodopa dosage (Z = −1.9, P = 0.05), but a similar total LEDD dosage (Z = −0.47, P = 0.64) with no changes in Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale motor score (Z = −1.3, P = 0.19). As part of ICD management, 12 (80.0%) patients discontinued or significantly decreased DA treatment, all of whom experienced full or partial remission of ICD symptoms by self‐report, and 10 (83.3%) of whom no longer met diagnostic criteria for an ICD. For PD patients who develop an ICD in the context of DA treatment, discontinuing or significantly decreasing DA exposure, even when offset by an increase in levodopa treatment, is associated with remission of or significant reduction in ICD behaviors without worsening in motor symptoms. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Moving ear syndrome: The role of botulinum toxin
Authors: Godeiro‐Junior Clecio , Felicio Andre Carvalho , Felix Evandro Penteado Villar , Manzano Gilberto Mastrocola , de Azevedo Silva Sonia Maria , Borges Vanderci , Ballalai Ferraz Henrique , Barsottini Orlando G.P.
Published: October 2007

We report a 30‐year‐old man with moving ear syndrome caused by focal myoclonic jerks of the right temporal muscle. This focal myoclonus would disappear while the patient was sleeping, swallowing, or speaking. He was treated with botulinum toxin type A with a favorable outcome. Previous reports of this condition and possible therapeutic approaches are discussed. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
SIMM: An integrated forecasting system for the Mediterranean area
Authors: Speranza Antonio , Accadia Christophe , Mariani Stefano , Casaioli Marco , Tartaglione Nazario , Monacelli Giuseppina , Ruti Paolo Michele , Lavagnini Alfredo
Published: October 2007

Many ‘high‐impact’ meteorological, marine and hydrological events in the Mediterranean area are characterized by horizontal spatial scales of the order of 10–100 km. Such events are, sometimes, driven by complex dynamical processes involving planetary scale atmospheric flows. Several international programs (ALPEX, POEM, MAP, PYREX, MEDEX) have improved the understanding of some of these processes. However, because of the Mediterranean's geomorphological structure, characterized by mountain chains (e.g. the Alps), semi‐enclosed sea basins and small river catchments, many problems remain. It is clear that such problems have to be faced in the context of analysis‐prediction systems bridging the gap between global and local scales of motion. These systems should allow for an adequate representation of key dynamical processes at all the relevant scales of motion.

The Hydro‐Meteorological‐Marine System (‘Sistema Idro‐Meteo‐Mare’, SIMM) is a first step in developing an integrated system, adequately covering all scales of motion from global to local. A short description of the system is presented, highlighting scientific concepts behind design choices. A summary of the results of verification tests is also illustrated, together with a general evaluation of the whole process in planning, developing and running SIMM in order to assist future updates of the system, currently under development. Copyright © 2007 Royal Meteorological Society
Mathematical analysis of the two‐band Schrödinger model
Authors: Ben Abdallah Naoufel , Kefi‐Ferhane Jihene
Published: October 2007

A mathematical model for quantum transport in an interband resonant tunneling diode is studied. The wave function of electrons has two components and is a solution of a 2 × 2 matrix Schrödinger equation derived from the k.p theory. The first component represents that part of electrons living in the conduction band while the second part represents the valence band. Transparent boundary conditions are derived and the Schrödinger equation is coupled to the Poisson equation for the electrostatic potential. Using the repulsivity of the electrostatic interaction, an a priori estimate is derived and used to construct a solution of the overall problem. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
First trimester screening for Down syndrome using free β hCG, total hCG and PAPP‐A: an exploratory study
Authors: Wright Dave , Spencer Kevin , Nix Barry
Published: October 2007

Objective

To investigate the potential utility of first trimester screening for Down syndrome using Free β‐hCG, total hCG and PAPP‐A.

Materials and Methods

Using estimates from the literature, a simulation study was undertaken to estimate the performance of tests incorporating, Free β‐hCG, total hCG and PAPP‐A at gestations of 8–12 weeks. We used sensitivity analysis to assess the effect of departures from the assumed model.

Results

We estimate that detection rates in excess of 75% for a false positive rate (FPR) of 3% can be achieved with first trimester measures of PAPP‐A, total hCG and Free β‐hCG at 8 weeks—the addition of total hCG adding 11%. Detection rates of around 90% for a FPR of 3% can be achieved through the inclusion of nuchal translucency (NT) at 12 weeks to these early first trimester biochemical markers. Our analysis indicates that the marginal benefit of adding total hCG diminishes rapidly with gestational age and that there is little benefit from adding total hCG later than 10 weeks of gestation.

Conclusion

The performance of first trimester screening using early combinations of total hCG, Free β‐hCG and PAPP‐A should be assessed in further studies. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Attitudes to prescription of antiplatelet drugs by diabetes health workers
Authors: Woodward A , Bayley D , Gill GV
Published: October 2007

The aim of this survey was to explore the attitudes to antiplatelet drug use amongst a group of UK diabetes specialist medical and nursing personnel.

A postal questionnaire survey was circulated to all consultant diabetologists, specialist registrars in diabetes and diabetes specialist nurses working in the Mersey Deanery area.

Seventy‐eight questionnaires were sent out, 63 (81%) returned. The perceived use of antiplatelet therapy was significantly higher for type 2 diabetes compared with type 1 diabetes, especially in the absence of complications or cardiovascular risk factors (52% vs 21%, p = 0.0004). Responses were more variable for type 1 diabetes: more nurses than doctors advised antiplatelet drugs in the absence of risk factors (46% vs 5%, p = 0.0002) and in the presence of smoking (79% vs 51%, p = 0.034). Aspirin was first‐line choice of antiplatelet drug; clopidogrel was generally used for gastric intolerance and aspirin allergy.

We conclude that the combination of limited evidence base and imprecise guidelines is not favouring proper usage of antiplatelet drugs and that more evidence‐based didactic guidelines are required. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons.
Classification of renal disease status using estimated glomerular filtration rates in diabetes
Authors: Baskar V , Holland MR , Singh BM
Published: October 2007

The need for the incorporation of estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR) in diabetes renal risk assessment is increasingly recognised but the choice of equation to use is not clear. We evaluated the differential impact of eGFR, using the Cockcroft's & Gault's (C&G) and the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) study equations, on the prevalence of various stages of chronic renal disease in our diabetes population.

A cross sectional evaluation was conducted amongst 4548 individuals who attended our centre over an 18‐month period. SPSS was utilised for statistical analysis.

Of 4171 with complete data, the prevalence of individuals with eGFR >90, 90–60, 60–30 and <30ml/min/1.73m2 were 25%, 46%, 27% and 2% respectively using the C&G equation and 9%, 62%, 27% and 2% respectively using the MDRD equation. The two equations were fully concordant in their classification of eGFR rank in 65%; in 20% of the cohort, the equations were discordant but not at an arbitrary eGFR threshold of 60ml/min/1.73m2; while in 15% of the population the two equations were discordant even at the threshold of 60ml/min/1.73m2, the majority of whom had normal values of serum creatinine and urine albumin:creatinine ratio.

In conclusion, the prevalence of various stages of chronic renal disease in our diabetes cohort differed depending on the eGFR equation used, potentially impacting on service provision. To aid clarity and uniformity of practice, there is a need for organisations to decide on a single equation of choice before recommending it to routine diabetes care providers. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons.
Does hypoglycaemic avoidance behaviour contribute to increased HbA1c levels in physically active people with type 1 diabetes?
Authors: Wallymahmed ME , Morgan C , Gill GV , MacFarlane IA
Published: October 2007

The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between glycaemic control (HbA1c), self‐reported vigorous activity, aerobic capacity and hypoglycaemic avoidance behaviour in people with type 1 diabetes.

We studied 50 patients with type 1 diabetes, attending a routine diabetic clinic (30 male, mean age 36 years, mean duration of diabetes 18 years, mean HbA1c 9.1%). Aerobic fitness was assessed using a multistage sub‐maximal 20cm step test (Chester Step Test) and self‐reported physical activity, exercise related hypoglycaemia and hypoglycaemic avoidance behaviour was assessed using a simple ‘in‐house’ questionnaire.

Thirty patients (60%) reported participating in regular vigorous physical activity (sport or gym session >1 hour/week) and glycaemic control was significantly worse in this group compared to those who did not report vigorous activity on a regular basis (HbA1c 9.5% vs 8.5%, p<0.02). Of the vigorously active group, 83% reported taking some action to prevent hypoglycaemia during physical activity compared to 70% of the group who were not vigorously active. Significantly more patients in the vigorously active group reported purposely aiming for higher than normal blood glucose levels during activity than those who were not vigorously active (8 vs 0, p<0.03).

In this study, regular vigorous physical activity was associated with poorer diabetic control which may be due to hypoglycaemic avoidance behaviour. Health care professionals should be trained in the management of exercise in type 1 diabetes. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons.
Comparative analysis of gene expression on mRNA and protein level during development of Streptomyces cultures by using singular value decomposition
Authors: Vohradsky Jiri , Branny Pavel , Thompson Charles J.
Published: October 2007

This paper describes a comparative systems level analysis of the developmental proteome and transcriptome in the model antibiotic‐producing eubacterium Streptomyces coelicolor, cultured on different media. The analysis formulates expression as the superposition of effects of regulatory networks and biological processes which can be identified using singular value decomposition (SVD) of a data matrix formed by time series measurements of expression of individual genes throughout the cell cycle of the bacterium. SVD produces linearly orthogonal factors, each of which can represent an independent system behavior defined by a linear combination of the genes/proteins highly correlated with the corresponding factor. By using SVD of the developmental time series of gene expression, as measured by both protein and RNA levels, we show that on the highest level of control (representing the basic kinetic behavior of the population), the results are identical, regardless of the type of experiment or cultivation method. The results show that this approach is capable of identifying basic regulatory processes independent of the environment in which the organism lives. It also shows that these processes are manifested equally on protein and RNA levels. Biological interpretation of the correlation of the genes and proteins with significant eigenprofiles (representing the highest level kinetic behavior of protein and/or RNA synthesis) revealed their association with metabolic processes, stress responses, starvation, and secondary metabolite production.
Glycosylation status of the membrane protein CD9P‐1
Authors: André Magali , Morelle Willy , Planchon Sébastien , Milhiet Pierre‐Emmanuel , Rubinstein Eric , Mollicone Rosella , Chamot‐Rooke Julia , Le Naour François
Published: October 2007

The membrane protein CD9P‐1 is a major component of the tetraspanin web, a network of molecular interactions in the plasma membrane, in which it specifically associates with tetraspanins CD9 and CD81. The various functional effects of CD9 and CD81 may be related to their partners. Thus, we have addressed the characterization of the CD9P‐1 glycosylation using stably transfected HEK‐293 cells. After immunoprecipitation, CD9P‐1 was subjected to enzymatic PNGase F cleavage of N‐glycans, resulting in Asn to Asp conversion and increase in 1 mass unit. Thus, following protease digestion, deglycosylated peptides were selectively identified by high mass accuracy FTICR‐MS, using this conversion as a signature. This has demonstrated that all nine potential N‐glycosylation sites were actually engaged. On the other hand, the N‐glycan structures were determined combining chemical derivatization and exoglycosidase digestions followed by MALDI‐TOF MS, ESI‐MS/MS, and GC‐MS analysis. CD9P‐1 was shown to exhibit more than 40 different N‐glycans, essentially composed of complex and high mannose‐type structures. Finally, 2‐D PAGE and lectino‐blot analyses have revealed the presence of at least 17 glycosylated isoforms of CD9P‐1 at cell surface. All CD9P‐1 isoforms associate with CD9 leading to additional level of complexity of this primary complex in the tetraspanin web.
DFT studies on the thermodynamic properties of Na2Ti3O7 under high temperature and high pressure
Authors: Zhang Hong , Wu Haiying
Published: October 2007

The equilibrium structure of the compound Na2Ti3O7 has been obtained via the minimization of the total energy within Local Density Approximation (LDA) based on Density Functional Theory (DFT), the calculated equilibrium volume are in agreement with available experimental value. In the meantime, the thermodynamic properties under high temperature and high pressure are investigated applying nonempirical Debye model combining with the first principle theory in the quasi‐harmonic approximation. The evaluated equilibrium volume using this model agrees with the value obtained from ab intio and from experiment. The results demonstrate that this method can provide reliable predictions for the temperature and pressure dependence of these quantities such as the equation of state (EOS), the entropy, the isothermal bulk modulus, the heat capacity, and the thermal expansion in detail. In addition, the calculated thermodynamic properties are all in agreement with available experimental data. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Surface morphology engineering of metal‐oxide films by chemical spray pyrolysis
Authors: Rodriguez J. , Solis J. L. , Gómez M. , Estrada W.
Published: October 2007

The Chemical Spray Pyrolysis technique and a combination of sol‐gel and spray pyrolysis techniques have been used in order to monitor the morphology of metal‐oxide‐based thin films to be used as functional materials. We can obtain surfaces from specular to rough‐porous according to the physico‐chemical conditions of the precursor/spraying solution. We have produced coatings of ZnO‐based and NiOx‐based coatings from alcoholic and aqueous solutions. A single glass, ITO‐precoated glass or alumina was used as the substrate. Porous materials of WO3, WO3‐SnO2 and SnO2 have been produced by spraying either inorganic or metal alkoxide gels over a hot substrate. The morphologies of coatings were evaluated by either SEM or optical measurements. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Ba2NdZrO5.5 as a potential substrate material for YBa2Cu3O7‐δ superconducting films
Authors: Tovar H. , Ortiz Díaz O. , Landínez Téllez D. A. , Roa‐Rojas J.
Published: October 2007

The new oxide Ba2NdZrO5.5 (BNZO) has been produced by the standard solid state reaction method. X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD) revealed that this synthesized material has an ordered complex cubic perovskite structure characteristic of A2BB'O6 crystalline structure with a lattice parameter of a = 8.40 Å. It was established through EDX analysis that there is no trace of impurities. Chemical stability of BNZO with YBa2Cu3O7‐δ (YBCO) has been studied by means of Rietveld analysis of experimental XRD data on several samples of BNZO‐YBCO composites. Quantitative analysis of phases on XRD patterns show that all peaks have been indexed for both BNZO and YBCO, and no extra peak is detectable. YBCO and BNZO remain as two different separate phases in the composites with no chemical reaction. Electrical measurements also revealed that superconducting transition temperature of pure YBCO and BNZO‐YBCO composites is 90 K. These favorable characteristics of BNZO show that it can be used as a potential substrate material for deposition of YBCO superconducting films. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Magnetic and structural properties of the nanostructured Fe1–xSix system with x = 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3, mechanical alloyed and sintered
Authors: Rodríguez R. R. , Pérez Alcázar G. A. , Sánchez H. , Sacilotti M. , Greneche J. M.
Published: October 2007

The magnetic and structural properties of the nanostructured system Fe1–xSix with x = 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 were studied by X‐Ray diffraction (XRD), SEM, and Mössbauer Spectrometry (MS). The samples were prepared by compacting and sintering at two temperatures, 900 and 1000 °C, from powders obtained by means of two procedures: by elemental mixing of Fe and Si powders and by mechanical alloying (MA). For samples obtained from mixed powders and sintered at 900 and 1000 °C, XRD and MS show the presence of pure iron and silicon, indicating that these conditions do not favor alloying, except for the sample with 30 at.% and 1000 °C, for which, besides of iron and silicon patterns, the DO3 and FeSi phases are also evidenced. The grain sizes are approximately ranged from 24 to 40 nm for the pure iron and 43 to 90 nm for the pure silicon. For the mechanical alloyed powders, the as milled samples with 10 and 20 at.% Si consist of a bcc structure and for 30 at.% of FeSi and DO3 phases. The grain sizes are 14, 12 and 7 nm for 10, 20 and 30 at.% Si, respectively, showing that the fragility increases with silicon content and for the as sintered sample with 10 at.% Si BCC grain size is now approximately 15 nm. It is worthy to note that when sintering, the DO3, FeSi and Fe5Si3 phases are developed, while in the 30 at.% Si as sintered mixed elemental powder, only an incipient alloy is obtained. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
On the novel superprotonic conductor material β ‐Cs3(HSO4)2[H2‐x(P1‐x, Sx)O4)] (x ∼ 0.5): Does it behave as a solid phase?
Authors: Ortiz E. , Vargas R. A. , Tróchez J. C. , Bornacelli J. , Núñez H.
Published: October 2007

The high‐temperature phase transition in the novel superprotonic conductor material β ‐Cs3(HSO4)2[H2–x(P1‐x, Sx)O4)] (x ∼ 0.5) at Tp = 398 K was carefully examined by using simultaneous thermo‐gravimetric and differential thermal analysis, modulated differential thermal analysis, and impedance spectroscopy. Our results show evidence that at around this temperature the whole enthalpy‐change is due to dehydration processes that take place on the surface of the crystal and promote high protonic conductivity above this temperature. As a consequence, our findings support the hypothesis that the reported superprotonic‐conducting phase of this material above Tp probably does not exist. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Electron paramagnetic resonance of double perovskite Ba2FeMoO6
Authors: Hernández‐Gómez Pablo , Almanza Ovidio
Published: October 2007

In this work we present electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) measurement of double perovskite Ba2FeMoO6. This type of materials are of great interest due to their simultaneous conducting and ferrimagnetic properties, being them able to use in practical devices for their giant magnetoresistance effect at room temperature The samples have been syntethized with standard ceramic route, with sintering temperature of 1200 °C in a reducing He/H2 atmosphere. EPR measurements have been carried out in a Bruker spectrometer operating in X band, in the temperature range 80 to 400 K. Below Curie temperature the single line becomes asymmetric, broadens and shifts to lower fields with decreasing temperature. In the paramagnetic region the peak‐to‐peak intensity decreases sharply and the line broadens up to 340 K. The experimental data are compared with similar results of other double perovskites analyzed previously by other authors. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Characterization and electrical properties of new perovskite films of Ba(Ti,Zr)O3 type doped with lanthanum (BLZT)
Authors: Delgado E. , Ostos C. , Martínez‐Sarrión M. L. , Mestres L. , Prieto P.
Published: October 2007

In the current work, we characterized a new family of compounds with perovskite‐type structure with the general formula: Ba1–yLa2y/3Ti1–xZrxO3 (BLZT). Through XRD on crystalline powder we detected a single perovskite cubic phase, Pm3m (221), for the compounds with zirconium content (x) lower than 0.15 and lanthanum content (La) lower than 0.17. Upon increasing the x value in BLZT compounds, the value of La falls to 0.13. Morphology studies through SEM revealed that the incorporation of lanthanum into the composition of Ba(Ti,Zr)O3 (BZT) compounds produces the formation of bigger grains and materials with greater density. The stoichiometry for each compound was corroborated by atomic emission spectroscopy (AES‐ICP). The lanthanum‐doped compounds demonstrated higher relative permittivity values with respect to the BZT and a decrease of the Curie temperature (Tc) with relation to the amount of La3+ ion present in the structure. Finally, we grew thin films by using a target of the compound Ba0.90La0.067Ti0.91Zr0.09O3 over three different substrates under two atmospheres (Ar and O2), using the Magnetron Sputtering technique by Radio Frequency (RF), showing the best results when growth is over the substrate SrTiO3.Nb 0.1% in the [00l] direction under an O2 atmosphere. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Optical properties of silver nanoparticles
Authors: González A. L. , Noguez Cecilia
Published: October 2007

The cover picture of this issue of physica status solidi (c) has been taken from the article [1].
Structure–Activity Relationships for Aldehyde Categories
Authors: Walker John D. , Printup Heather
Published: October 2007

The US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) nominated aldehydes to the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Interagency Testing Committee (ITC) to obtain aquatic toxicity data with the understanding that these data could be used to develop or improve Structure–Activity Relationships (SARs) or Quantitative Structure–Activity Relationships (QSARs) for predicting the toxicity of untested aldehydes to aquatic organisms. The Substructure‐based Computerized Chemical Selection Expert System (SuCCSES) was used to identify about 600 non‐polymeric aldehydes in the TSCA inventory of existing chemicals. After analyzing production and importation volumes and structural data for these 600 aldehydes, a database of 125 structurally diverse aldehydes was developed. SuCCSES was used to classify 125 aldehydes into substructure‐based categories. After searching for published and unpublished data, aquatic organism LC50 values were obtained for 74 of these 125 aldehydes. Fathead minnow LC50 values were used to develop SARs describing gross differences between aldehyde categories. Five figures are provided to illustrate differences between benzaldehyde and aldehydes in the substructure‐based categories and explanations are provided to describe the differences. The substructure‐based categories can be used to facilitate the review of multiple aldehydes. However, as described in the subsequent paper, different modes of action of aldehydes in the same substructure‐based category precludes the use of a category approach to predict toxicities of other aldehydes.
Characterization of the Partitioning of Gaseous Solutes Into Humic Acid with the Abraham Model and Temperature‐Independent Equation Coefficients
Authors: Mintz Christina , Ladlie Tara , Burton Katherine , Clark Michael , Acree William E. , Abraham Michael H.
Published: October 2007

Published gas‐to‐Leonardite humic acid partition coefficient data, measured at a relative humidity of 98% and at 278.15, 288.15, 298.15, 308.15, and 318.15 K, were correlated with the Abraham solvation parameter model. The five derived temperature‐specific correlations described the observed partition coefficient data to within an overall standard deviation of 0.33 log units. A method was devised for combining experimental partition coefficients measured at different temperatures into a single regression correlation. The proposed method described the 664 experimental partition coefficients, which covered the 278.15–348.15 K temperature interval, to within a standard deviation of 0.33 log units.
Proper inference from Simon's two‐stage designs
Authors: Koyama Tatsuki , Chen Heidi
Published: October 2007

Simon's two‐stage designs are very popular for phase II clinical trials. A literature review revealed that the inference procedures used with Simon's designs almost always ignore the actual sampling plan used. Reported P‐values, point estimates and confidence intervals for the response rate are not usually adjusted for the design's adaptiveness. In addition, we found that the actual sample size for the second stage is often different from that planned. We present here a method for inferences using both the planned and the actual sample sizes. The conventional and the preferred inference procedures usually yield similar P‐values and confidence intervals for the response rate. The conventional inference, however, may contradict the result of the corresponding hypothesis testing. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of time to a silent event whose occurrence is monitored with error, with application to mother‐to‐child HIV transmission
Authors: Zhang Peng , Lagakos Stephen W.
Published: October 2007

Inferences about the distribution of time to HIV infection in infants are complicated because infection is a silent event and imperfect diagnostic tests are used to detect its occurrence, leading to false‐positive and false‐negative results. Nonparametric likelihood approaches are computationally hampered by a large number of parameters and a possibly nonconcave likelihood function. To overcome these difficulties, we develop one‐sample and regression methods based on profile likelihood and Markov chain Monte Carlo techniques. The methods also provide a useful diagnostic for assessing the infection status of individual subjects, and are illustrated using results from a recent clinical trial for the prevention of mother‐to‐child HIV transmission. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Covering the tsunami disaster: subsequent post‐traumatic and depressive symptoms and associated social factors
Authors: Weidmann Anke , Fehm Lydia , Fydrich Thomas
Published: October 2007

Journalists frequently report on disasters. There is a growing evidence that they are subsequently at higher risk of post‐traumatic and depressive symptoms. We conducted an internet‐based study with 61 journalists who had covered the tsunami disaster in December 2004 from the affected region. The extent of trauma exposure, symptoms and social variables were assessed. About 8 months after the event, indications of post‐traumatic stress disorder were found in 6.6 per cent of the sample. Post‐traumatic and depressive symptoms were related to the extent of traumatic exposure and to several social variables, most importantly, a low degree of social acknowledgment by supervisor and colleagues. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Implications of bidirectional flow in the great arteries at the 11–14‐week scan
Authors: Zidere V. , Allan L. D. , Huggon I. C.
Published: October 2007

Objective

To determine the implications of a bidirectional Doppler flow pattern detected in one or both of the fetal great arteries in the first trimester.

Methods

Database records were reviewed for cases of bidirectional flow found on fetal echocardiography performed at less than 15 weeks of gestation between January 1999 and October 2006 inclusive. Bidirectional flow consisted of antegrade flow in systole and retrograde flow in diastole. Data including indication for fetal echocardiography, gestational age at diagnosis, the anatomical features, karyotype, nuchal translucency measurement and outcome were collected.

Results

From almost 2500 scans, bidirectional flow was detected in a total of 15 fetuses. The abnormal flow pattern was confined to the aorta in four, to the pulmonary artery in four, and was present in both great arteries in a further seven fetuses. Eight of the 15 fetuses had regurgitation at one or both atrioventricular valves. Additional cardiac abnormalities were detected by ultrasound in eight cases. Of the 13 cases for which the karyotype was known, 12 were abnormal and five of these had trisomy 18. None of the fetuses survived. There were two intrauterine deaths and 13 terminations of pregnancy.

Conclusion

Bidirectional flow in one or both great arteries is an unusual finding at the first‐trimester scan and must be distinguished from the retrograde flow occurring only in systole in duct‐dependent heart defects. It carries a poor prognosis, which is a consequence of both the high chance of underlying chromosomal abnormality and the hemodynamic compromise associated with severe arterial valve regurgitation. Copyright © 2007 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long‐term β‐adrenergic stimulation leads to downregulation of protein phosphatase inhibitor‐1 in the heart
Authors: El‐Armouche Ali , Gocht Fabian , Jaeckel Elmar , Wittköpper Katrin , Peeck Micha , Eschenhagen Thomas
Published: October 2007

Desensitization of the β‐adrenoceptor/cAMP/PKA pathway is a hallmark of heart failure. Inhibitor‐1 (I‐1) acts as a conditional amplifier of β‐adrenergic signalling downstream of PKA by inhibiting type‐1 phosphatases in the PKA‐phosphorylated form. I‐1 is downregulated in failing hearts and thus presumably contributes to β‐adrenergic desensitization. To test whether I‐1 downregulation is a consequence of excessive adrenergic drive in heart failure, rats were treated via minipumps with isoprenaline 2.4mg/kg/day (ISO) or 0.9% NaCl for 4days. As expected, chronic ISO increased heart‐to‐body weight ratio by ~40% and abolished the inotropic response to acute ISO in papillary muscles by ~50%. In the ISO‐treated hearts I‐1 mRNA and protein levels were decreased by 30% and 54%, respectively. This was accompanied by decreased phospholamban phosphorylation (−40%), a downstream target of I‐1, and a reduction in 45Ca2+ uptake (−54%) in membrane vesicles. Notably, phospholamban phosphorylation correlated significantly with I‐1 protein levels indicating a causal relationship. We conclude that I‐1 downregulation in heart failure is likely a consequence of the increased sympathetic adrenergic drive and participates in desensitization of the β‐adrenergic signalling cascade.
Aromatic structure of Tyrosine‐92 in the extrinsic PsbU protein of red algal Photosystem II is important for its functioning
Authors: Okumura Akinori , Sano Masanori , Suzuki Takehiro , Tanaka Hiroyasu , Nagao Ryo , Nakazato Katsuyoshi , Iwai Masako , Adachi Hideyuki , Shen Jian-Ren , Enami Isao
Published: October 2007

PsbU is one of the extrinsic proteins in red algal Photosystem II (PSII) and functions to optimize the availability of Ca2+ and Cl− cofactors for water oxidation. To determine the functional residue of PsbU, we constructed various PsbU mutants from a red alga Cyanidium caldarium and reconstituted these mutants with the red algal PSII. The results revealed that Tyr‐92 of PsbU, especially its aromatic ring, was essential for maintaining its function. From the crystal structure of PSII, Tyr‐92 is located close to Pro‐340 of D1, suggesting that the aromatic ring of Tyr‐92 interacts with the CH group of Pro‐340 of D1, and this CH/π interaction is important for the optimal function of the Mn4Ca‐cluster.
Use of herbal supplements and nutritional supplements in the UK: what do we know about their pattern of usage?
Authors: Ritchie M. R.
Published: October 2007

Within the last decade there has been a dramatic increase in the sale and use of herbal supplements and food supplements by Western populations and within the UK. This increased usage has coincided with a resurgence of interest in nutritional therapy and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies, such as herbal medicine, naturopathy and homeopathy, in which therapists may provide dietary advice and advocate the use of food or herbal supplements. The rise in the use of CAM therapies by the UK population can be attributed to several factors, including: promotion via health programmes and the media; a change in public attitudes; training of more nutritional and CAM therapists as a result of the increased availability of courses; a greater use of CAM and food and herbal supplements, particularly by patients with cancer. The aim of the present paper is to identify the pattern of usage of food and herbal supplements in the UK.
One is okay, more is better? Pharmacological aspects and safe limits of nutritional supplements
Authors: Mason Pamela
Published: October 2007

The use of vitamins, minerals and other supplements has increased considerably during recent years. In the National Diet and Nutrition Survey of British adults aged 19–64 years 40% of those surveyed were taking supplements. In 2005 sales of dietary supplements in the UK were approximately £325·7×106in ‘bricks and mortar’ shops (excluding health food shops). The physiological effects of vitamins and minerals in amounts approximating to the UK reference nutrient intake or the EU RDA are well understood in terms of reducing the risk of micronutrient deficiency. However, the effects of vitamins, minerals and other supplements in larger amounts have attracted much attention in recent decades, and these effects, some of which may be pharmacological, are not as well categorised. Some of these effects are beneficial, some are not. Although vitamins and minerals and other supplements are generally safe at higher doses, there are some safety issues that are relevant in the context of the wide availability of supplements without a doctor's prescription. Thus, several authorities throughout the world have established upper limits (UL) for the intake of vitamins and minerals, and the EU is in the process of setting maximum permitted levels (MPL) for vitamins and minerals in food supplements. The present paper discusses the potential benefits and safety issues relating to the use of supplements at doses higher than the RDA. The rationale for the establishment of UL is also discussed, explaining the differences between the values set by different authorities and the expected guidance and legislation from the European Commission on MPL for vitamins and minerals in food supplements.
Elsie Widdowson Lecture 2006 Mining the depths: metabolic insights into mineral nutrition
Authors: Prentice Ann
Published: October 2007

2006 marked the centenary of the birth of Dr Elsie Widdowson, a pioneer of nutrition science. One of the hallmarks of Elsie Widdowson's research was an integrative approach that recognised the importance of investigating the mechanisms underpinning a public health or clinical issue at all levels, looking into the physiology, comparative biology, intermediate metabolism and basic science. The theme of the present lecture, given in celebration of the work of Dr Widdowson, is mineral nutrition, with a particular focus on Ca, P and vitamin D. The contributions of Dr Widdowson to the early understanding of mineral nutrition are reviewed and the latest scientific findings in this rapidly-expanding field of research are presented.
Plasmodiumin the placenta: parasites, parity, protection, prevention and possibly preeclampsia
Authors: DUFFY PATRICK E.
Published: October 2007

The epidemiology of pregnancy malaria infection and disease is complex but reflects underlying interactions between thePlasmodium falciparumparasite, the mother, and the foetus. Parasites sequester in the human placenta by binding to chondroitin sulfate A (CSA), a novel receptor that does not commonly support binding of other parasites. Women become resistant toP. falciparummalaria over successive pregnancies as they acquire antibodies against the CSA-binding placental parasite forms. Due to acquired immunity, placental malaria is briefer and less inflammatory in multigravid women than primigravid women, and these parity differences may account for the different outcomes these women and their offspring experience. Commonly recognized sequelae of malaria-like maternal anaemia and low birth weight primarily occur in first and second pregnancies. Hypertension may result from maternal-foetal conflict over the inflammatory response to placental malaria, and occurs in young, first-time mothers. Placental malaria can either increase or decrease parasitaemia risk in the offspring, depending on the mother's parity. The burden of disease due to pregnancy malaria, and the benefits of an effective vaccine, may be much greater than is currently appreciated.
Protozoan and helminth infections in pregnancy. Short-term and long-term implications of transmission of infection from mother to foetus
Authors: PETERSEN ESKILD
Published: October 2007

This review of protozoan and helminth infections in pregnancy focuses on the impact on the immune response in the newborn infant to maternal infection. Studies of protozoan and helminth infections in pregnant women and in their offspring have shown that children exposed to antigens or microorganisms during pregnancy often have a reduced immune response to these infections. The most common finding is a reduced IFNγ response to specific antigens regardless of specific infection studied. In some studies the impaired immune response disappeared before the age of one year, while in other studies the impaired immune response was present as much as two decades after birth. Data from chronic viral infections like Rubella, cytomegalovirus and hepatitis B also show that congenital or perinatal infections may result in a life-long inability to control the infections. Studies of both helminth and protozoan infections show that children exposed to antigens during gestation have a microorganism-specific impaired immune response which is characterized by reduced IFN-γ and stimulation of responses to specific antigens.