bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic review of atraumatic splenic rupture
Authors: Renzulli P , Hostettler A , Schoepfer A M , Gloor B , Candinas D
Published: September 2009

Background

Atraumatic splenic rupture (ASR) is an ill defined clinicopathological entity.

Methods

The aim was to characterize aetiological and risk factors for ASR-related mortality in order to aid disease classification and treatment. A systematic literature review (1980–2008) was undertaken and logistic regression analysis employed.

Results

Some 632 publications reporting 845 patients were identified. The spleen was normal in 7·0 per cent (atraumatic–idiopathic rupture). One, two or three aetiological factors were found in 84·1, 8·2 and 0·7 per cent respectively (atraumatic–pathological rupture). Six major aetiological groups were defined: neoplastic (30·3 per cent), infectious (27·3 per cent), inflammatory, non-infectious (20·0 per cent), drug- and treatment-related (9·2 per cent) and mechanical (6·8 per cent) disorders, and normal spleen (6·4 per cent). Treatment comprised total splenectomy (84·1 per cent), organ-preserving surgery (1·2 per cent) or conservative measures (14·7 per cent). The ASR-related mortality rate was 12·2 per cent. Splenomegaly (P = 0·040), age above 40 years (P = 0·007) and neoplastic disorders (P = 0·008) were associated with increased ASR-related mortality on multivariable analysis.

Conclusion

The condition can be classified simply into atraumatic–idiopathic (7·0 per cent) and atraumatic-pathological (93·0 per cent) splenic rupture. Splenomegaly, advanced age and neoplastic disorders are associated with increased ASR-related mortality.
DNA as genetic material: Revisiting classic experiments through a simple, practical class
Authors: Malagó Wilson , Soares‐Costa Andrea , Henrique‐Silva Flávio
Published: September 2009

In 1928, Frederick Griffith demonstrated a transmission process of genetic information by transforming Pneumococcus. In 1944, Avery et al. demonstrated that Griffith's transforming principle was DNA. We revisited these classic experiments in a practical class for undergraduate students. Both experiments were reproduced in simple, adapted forms. Griffith's experiment was reproduced by mixing heat‐killed, ampicillin‐resistant E. coli with live ampicillin‐susceptible E. coli, followed by plating samples in the presence or absence of the antibiotic. Cells were also plated separately as controls. Avery's work was reproduced by treating a purified plasmid harboring the ampicillin resistance gene with DNase I. Treated and untreated plasmids were then used to transform E. coli cells, which were plated in culture media containing ampicillin. The students received a class guide for understanding and performing the experiments. The original articles by Griffith and Avery et al. were also provided, along with a list of questions to encourage a discussion on the experimental approach and results. The expected results were obtained and the students successfully revisited the classic experiments, which revealed that DNA is genetic material. The class was very well accepted, as indicated by students' evaluations. Thus, we presented a quick, inexpensive class involving important concepts, which can be easily reproduced in any laboratory with minor resources.
Development and validation of a UPLC‐UV method for the determination of daptomycin in rabbit plasma
Authors: Gikas Evagelos , Bazoti Fotini N. , Fanourgiakis Panagiotis , Perivolioti Efstathia , Roussidis Andreas , Skoutelis Athanasios , Tsarbopoulos Anthony
Published: September 2009

Daptomycin (DPT) is a lipopeptide antibiotic with potent bactericidal activity in vitro against Gram‐positive bacteria, which has attracted the attention of the scientific community due to its unique mechanism of action and due to the immediate need for new antibiotics in the era of multidrug resistance. In order to assess its pharmacokinetics in rabbits a new analytical method has been developed and validated using ultra performance liquid chromatography in conjugation with ultraviolet detection for the quantitation of the antibiotic in rabbit plasma, using the internal standard methodology. The separation was achieved employing a C18 column with gradient elution using 0.1% aq. trifluoroacetic acid and methanol. The total analysis time was 2.5 min. The sample pretreatment employed protein precipitation with acetonitrile–methanol mixture and centrifugation. The method was validated in terms of linearity, precision, accuracy, sensitivity, robustness, short‐term and freeze–thaw stability and was applied to the quantification of DPT in plasma samples obtained from rabbits treated with 25 mg kg−1 DPT. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Urinary metabolic profiling of volatile organic compounds in acute exposed volunteers after an oil spill in Republic of Korea
Authors: Lee Jeongae , Kim Min‐hwa , Ha Mina , Chung Bong Chul
Published: September 2009

TheHerbei Spiritoil spill occurred in western Korea. A large number of people who participated in the cleanup tasks of the contaminated area were exposed to crude oil component. We developed a method to monitor volatile organic compound (VOC) metabolites in urine, and evaluate the acute exposure caused by the oil spill in exposed volunteer workers (n= 100, 20.7 ± 2.1 years, mean ± SD). Acidified urine samples were extracted by SPE, derivatized with trimethylsilyl, and analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Calibration curves were found to be linear from 3 to 1000 ng/mL (r2> 0.993). Accuracy was over 82.4%, and precision was less than 24.8%. Using this method, the VOC metabolites, except hippuric acid, were present at higher levels in the urine samples of volunteers after cleanup work. The levels of mandelic acid (MA) andtrans,trans‐muconic acid (t,t‐MU) were increased significantly (p< 0.001). The exposure effect was greater in women than in men. The effect of smoking was analyzed in all exposed and non‐exposed groups, with non‐smokers showing increased MA andt,t‐MU levels related to exposure. The present method was reliable to determine VOC metabolites in urine and could be useful for biomonitoring of acute exposure effects of VOCs. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Non‐accidental injury and bone fragility disorders: the need for a multidisciplinary perspective
Authors: Onyon Clare , Rabb Leigh , Debelle Geoff
Published: September 2009

A case is presented of a child who was initially diagnosed with osteogenesis imperfecta following a skull fracture. However, she later presented with multiple fractures and soft tissue injuries which were considered to be due to non‐accidental injury. It can be perplexing distinguishing accidental and non‐accidental injury in children where a bone fragility disorder has been suspected. A combination of a careful review of the history, a thorough examination and expert review of the radiology is imperative. DNA testing can be helpful. Multidisciplinary case review, taking into account the social history and any concerns professionals have about the family, is invaluable in informing a difficult diagnosis. In this context, there is a definite role for other agencies in challenging the diagnosis or exclusion of non‐accidental injury. Professionals should be willing to challenge the exclusion of non‐accidental injury when such exclusion is not evidence based. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of socioeconomic status on prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis
Authors: Rapiti Elisabetta , Fioretta Gerald , Schaffar Robin , Neyroud‐Caspar Isabel , Verkooijen Helena M. , Schmidlin Franz , Miralbell Raymond , Zanetti Roberto , Bouchardy Christine
Published: September 2009

BACKGROUND:

The objective of the current study was to evaluate the impact of socioeconomic disparities on prostate cancer presentation, treatment, and prognosis in Geneva, Switzerland, in which healthcare costs, medical coverage, and life expectancy are considered to be among the highest in the world.

METHODS:

This population‐based study included all patients diagnosed with invasive prostate cancer among the resident population between 1995 and 2005. Patients were divided into 3 socioeconomic groups according to their last known occupation. Compared were patient and tumor characteristics and treatment patterns between socioeconomic groups. Cox multivariate regression analysis was used to assess and explain socioeconomic inequalities in prostate cancer‐specific mortality.

RESULTS:

Compared with patients of high socioeconomic class, those of low socioeconomic class were more often foreigners, were found less frequently to have screen‐detected cancer, were found to have a more advanced stage of disease at diagnosis, and less often had information regarding disease characteristics and staging. These patients underwent prostatectomy less frequently and were more often managed with watchful waiting. The risk of dying as a result of prostate cancer (hazards ratio [HR]) in patients of a low versus high socioeconomic status was increased 2‐fold (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.5‐2.6). After adjustment for patient and tumor characteristics and treatment, the mortality risk was no longer found to be significantly increased (HR, 1.2; 95% CI, 0.8‐1.6).

CONCLUSIONS:

In the current study, patients of low socioeconomic class were found to be at increased risk of dying as a result of their prostate cancer. This increased mortality is largely attributable to delayed diagnosis, poor diagnostic workup, and less invasive treatments in these individuals. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
A probabilistic approach for earthquake potential evaluation based on the load/unload response ratio method
Authors: Yu Huai‐Zhong , Zhu Qing‐Yong
Published: September 2009

Previous studies indicate that the occurrence of a large earthquake might be predicted by anomalous temporal increase of the load/unload response ratio (LURR), which was often defined as the ratio of Benioff strain of small earthquakes released during loading and unloading time periods, corresponding to earth tide‐induced Coulomb failure stress change on optimally oriented faults. The conventional LURR anomalous evaluation usually sets a critical LURR value, above which an earthquake may occur. In this paper a probabilistic approach for the evaluation of earthquake potential based on the LURR method is developed. In the approach, the occurrence probability of a future earthquake is quantitatively evaluated by assessing the confidence level of LURR anomaly associated with its stochastic distribution. As retrospective studies, we apply the approach to investigate the time series of LURR prior to the 50M>6.3 earthquakes that occurred in the Chinese mainland and the 21M>6.0 earthquakes in southern California over the past 30 years, and find high correlation between the confidence level of the LURR anomalies and the occurrence of the large earthquakes. We then depict all the high peaks that appeared in the LURR time series, and evaluate the earthquake occurrence rate as a function of the confidence level. The research results show considerable promise that our probabilistic approach may provide a useful tool to evaluate quantitatively the occurrence possibilities of future earthquakes. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Imidazoline‐N‐oxyl: A DFT Study of Its Protonation Reaction
Authors: Chenesseau Sandrine , Ferré Nicolas , Marque Sylvain R. A. , Siri Didier
Published: September 2009

Imidazoline‐based nitroxides are developed as pH probes. Their pKa values vary over a wide range (from 1 to 11), depending on the substituents attached to the five‐membered cyclic nitroxide. Density functional calculations using the PBE1PBE method at the 6‐31+G(d,p) level, combined with natural bond orbital (NBO), frontier molecular orbital (FMO), geometry, Mulliken charge, and thermodynamic analyses, are carried out to disclose the effects involved in the changes in pKa. The studies show that the decrease of seven pKa units from pyrrolidine (11) to imidazoline‐N‐oxyl 8 is due to the inductive electron‐withdrawing capacity of the nitroxyl group. On the other hand, by combining both the inductive and mesomeric electron‐withdrawing capacities of the NO2 group with delocalization of the lone pair on the amino N atom of the π system of the vinyl linker, the pKa of 4.5 of 8 was increased by around three units to 7.8 for 1/2.
On the ν1/2 ν2 Resonance in the Complex of Carbon Dioxide with Dimethyl Ether
Authors: Herrebout Wouter A. , Nagels Nick , van der Veken Benjamin J.
Published: September 2009

Infrared and Raman spectra of solutions in liquid argon and krypton containing dimethyl ether or its fully deuterated isotopomer and 12CO2 or 13CO2 are investigated. The spectra lead to new data on the ν1/2 ν2 resonances appearing in the complex of CO2 with the ether. The experimental data, and their interpretation, is supported by MP2/6‐311++G(2d,2p) calculations of the cubic and quartic force constants and of the first and higher order dipole moment derivatives required for the modelling of the Fermi and Darling‐Dennison resonances observed.
Properties of InAs co‐doped ZnO thin films prepared by pulsed laser deposition
Authors: Elanchezhiyan J. , Shin B. C. , Lee W. J. , Park S. H. , Kim S. C.
Published: September 2009

InAs co‐doped ZnO films were grown on sapphire substrates by pulsed laser deposition. The grown films have been characterized using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Hall effect measurements, Atomic force microscope (AFM) and Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) in order to investigate the structural, electrical, morphological and elemental properties of the films respectively. XRD analysis showed that all the films were highly orientated along the c‐axis. It was observed from Hall effect measurements that InAs co‐doped ZnO films were of n‐type conductivity. In addition, the presence of In and As has been confirmed by Energy dispersive X‐ray analysis. AFM images revealed that the surface roughness of the films was decreased upon the co‐doping. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Diabetes in Japan: a review of disease burden and approaches to treatment
Authors: Neville Susan E. , Boye Kristina S. , Montgomery William S. , Iwamoto Kazuya , Okamura Masato , Hayes Risa P.
Published: September 2009

In recent years there has been rapid growth in diabetes in Japan which now is one of the nations most affected by the worldwide diabetes epidemic. Diabetes has been identified as a healthcare priority by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW). Type 1 diabetes is rare in Japan, and type 2 diabetes predominates in both adults and children. The growth in diabetes is due to increases in the number of people with type 2 diabetes associated with increased longevity and lifestyle changes. Approximately 13.5% of the Japanese population now has either type 2 diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance. This high prevalence of type 2 diabetes is associated with a significant economic burden, with diabetes accounting for up to 6% of the total healthcare budget. The costs of diabetes are increased in patients with co‐morbidities such as hypertension and hyperlipidaemia and in patients who develop complications, of which retinopathy has the highest cost. Costs increase with increasing number of complications. Current guidelines from the Japan Diabetes Society (JDS) recommend a target HbA1c of 6.5% for glycaemic control. This is achieved in approximately one third of patients with type 2 diabetes, and Japanese patients typically have lower HbA1c than patients in Western countries (e.g. US, UK). Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes have better adherence with diet and exercise recommendations than their peers in Western countries. Sulfonylureas have been the most widely prescribed first‐line treatment for type 2 diabetes, although there is increasing use of combination therapy and of insulin. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genome‐wide linkage scans for type 2 diabetes mellitus in four ethnically diverse populations—significant evidence for linkage on chromosome 4q in African Americans: the Family Investigation of Nephropathy and Diabetes Research Group
Authors: Malhotra Alka , Igo Jr Robert P. , Thameem Farook , Kao W. H. Linda , Abboud Hanna E. , Adler Sharon G. , Arar Nedal H. , Bowden Donald W. , Duggirala Ravindranath , Freedman Barry I. , Goddard Katrina A. B. , Ipp Eli , Iyengar Sudha K. , Kimmel Paul L. , Knowler William C. , Kohn Orly , Leehey David , Meoni Lucy A. , Nelson Robert G. , Nicholas Susanne B. , Parekh Rulan S. , Rich Stephen S. , Chen Yii‐Der I. , Saad Mohammed F. , Scavini Marina , Schelling Jeffrey R. , Sedor John R. , Shah Vallabh O. , Taylor Kent D. , Thornley‐Brown Denyse , Zager Philip G. , Horvath Amanda , Hanson Robert L.
Published: September 2009

Background

Previous studies have shown that in addition to environmental influences, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has a strong genetic component. The goal of the current study is to identify regions of linkage for T2DM in ethnically diverse populations.

Methods

Phenotypic and genotypic data were obtained from African American (AA; total number of individuals [N] = 1004), American Indian (AI; N = 883), European American (EA; N = 537), and Mexican American (MA; N = 1634) individuals from the Family Investigation of Nephropathy and Diabetes. Non‐parametric linkage analysis, using an average of 4404 SNPs, was performed in relative pairs affected with T2DM in each ethnic group. In addition, family‐based tests were performed to detect association with T2DM.

Results

Statistically significant evidence for linkage was observed on chromosome 4q21.1 (LOD = 3.13; genome‐wide p = 0.04) in AA. In addition, a total of 11 regions showed suggestive evidence for linkage (estimated at LOD > 1.71), with the highest LOD scores on chromosomes 12q21.31 (LOD = 2.02) and 22q12.3 (LOD = 2.38) in AA, 2p11.1 (LOD = 2.23) in AI, 6p12.3 (LOD = 2.77) in EA, and 13q21.1 (LOD = . 2.24) in MA. While no region overlapped across all ethnic groups, at least five loci showing LOD > 1.71 have been identified in previously published studies.

Conclusions

The results from this study provide evidence for the presence of genes affecting T2DM on chromosomes 4q, 12q, and 22q in AA; 6p in EA; 2p in AI; and 13q in MA. The strong evidence for linkage on chromosome 4q in AA provides important information given the paucity of diabetes genetic studies in this population. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Xenopus Rnd1 and Rnd3 GTP‐binding proteins are expressed under the control of segmentation clock and required for somite formation
Authors: Goda Tadahiro , Takagi Chiyo , Ueno Naoto
Published: September 2009

The process of segmentation in vertebrates is described by a clock and wavefront model consisting of a Notch signal and an fibroblast growth factor‐8 (FGF8) gradient, respectively. To further investigate the segmentation process, we screened gene expression profiles for downstream targets of the segmentation clock. The Rnd1 and Rnd3 GTP‐binding proteins comprise a subgroup of the Rho GTPase family that show a specific expression pattern similar to the Notch signal component ESR5, suggesting an association between Rnd1/3 and the segmentation clock. Rnd1/3 expression patterns are disrupted by overexpression of dominant‐negative or active forms of Notch signaling genes, and responds to the FGF inhibitor SU5402 by a posterior shift analogous to other segmentation‐related genes, suggesting that Rnd1/3 expressions are regulated by the segmentation clock machinery. We also show that antisense morpholino oligonucleotides to Rnd1/3 inhibit somite segmentation and differentiation in Xenopus embryos. These results suggest that Rnd1/3 are required for Xenopus somitogenesis. Developmental Dynamics 238:2867–2876, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genetic interaction between Lrp6 and Wnt5a during mouse development
Authors: Andersson Emma R. , Bryjova Lenka , Biris Kristin , Yamaguchi Terry P. , Arenas Ernest , Bryja Vítězslav
Published: September 2009

Lrp6 is generally described as a receptor required for signal transduction in the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway. Wnt5a, however, is a Wnt ligand that usually does not activate Wnt/β‐catenin but rather activates noncanonical Wnt signaling. We have previously shown that Lrp6 can inhibit noncanonical Wnt5a/Wnt11 signaling and that Lrp5/6 loss‐of‐function produces noncanonical gain‐of function defects, which can be rescued by loss of Wnt5a. Here, we describe other phenotypes found in Wnt5a/Lrp6 compound mutant mice, including a worsening of individual Wnt5a or Lrp6 loss of function phenotypes. Lrp6 haploinsufficiency in a Wnt5a−/− background caused spina bifida and exacerbated posterior truncation. Wnt5a−/−Lrp6−/− embryos displayed presomitic mesoderm morphogenesis, somitogenesis, and neurogenesis defects, which are much more severe than in either of the single mutants. Interestingly these results reveal a further level of complexity in processes in which Wnt5a and LRP6 cooperate, or oppose each other, during mouse development. Developmental Dynamics 239:237–245, 2010. Published 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Oligomerized TICAM‐1 (TRIF) in the cytoplasm recruits nuclear BS69 to enhance NF‐κB activation and type I IFN induction
Authors: Takaki Hiromi , Oshiumi Hiroyuki , Sasai Miwa , Kawanishi Takahiro , Matsumoto Misako , Seya Tsukasa
Published: September 2009

Although adenovirus 5 E1A‐binding protein (BS69) is a nuclear protein acting as a transcriptional repressor, we found by an yeast two‐hybrid and human cell immunoprecipitation another cytoplasmic function for this protein. BS69 bound Toll‐interleukin 1 receptor domain (TIR)‐containing adaptor molecule‐1 (TICAM‐1) (also named TRIF), an adaptor protein that couples with TLR3 around the endosome. BS69 translocated from the nucleus to the cytoplasm when cells were stimulated with dsRNA or transfected with TICAM‐1. Confocal analysis of cells with over‐expressed TICAM‐1 or those stimulated with dsRNA revealed the characteristic “TICAM‐1 speckle”, which reflects signalosome formation necessary for the activation of NF‐κB and IFN‐regulatory factor (IRF)‐3. BS69 was involved in the TICAM‐1 complex, and the activation of NF‐κB/IRF‐3 followed by cytokine production was augmented in the presence of BS69 overexpression. Knockdown of endogenous BS69 resulted in a decrease of IFN‐β induction, suggesting that BS69 is a positive regulator for the TLR3‐TICAM‐1 pathway. These results, together with a recent report showing the negative regulatory properties of BS69 in NF‐κB activation by EBV‐derived latent membrane protein 1, suggest that BS69 harbors dual modes of cytoplasmic NF‐κB regulation, positively in the TICAM‐1 pathway and negatively in the latent membrane protein 1 pathway.
Both FcγRIV and FcγRIII are essential receptors mediating type II and type III autoimmune responses via FcRγ‐LAT‐dependent generation of C5a
Authors: Syed Shahzad N. , Konrad Stephanie , Wiege Kristina , Nieswandt Bernhard , Nimmerjahn Falk , Schmidt Reinhold E. , Gessner J. Engelbert
Published: September 2009

FcγRIV is a relatively new IgG Fc receptor (FcγR) that is reported to contribute to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, although its specific role in relation to FcγRIII, complement and IgG2 subclasses remains uncertain. Here we define FcγRIV on macrophages as a receptor for soluble IgG2a/b complexes but not for cellular bound IgG2a and show that simultaneous activation of FcγRIV and FcγRIII is critical to mediate certain type II/III autoimmune responses. FcγRIII‐deficient mice display compensatory enhanced FcγRIV expression, are protected from lung inflammation after deposition of IgG complexes, and show reduced sensitivity to IgG2a/b‐mediated hemolytic anemia, indicating that increased FcγRIV alone is not sufficient to trigger these diseases in the absence of FcγRIII. Importantly, however, blockade of FcγRIV is also effective in inhibiting phagocytosis and cytokine production in IgG2b‐induced anemia and acute lung injury, processes that display a further dependence on C5a anaphylatoxin receptor. Using gene deletion and functional inhibition studies, we found that FcγRIII and FcγRIV are each essential to trigger an FcRγ‐linker for activation of T‐cell‐dependent signal that drives C5a production in the Arthus reaction. Together, the results demonstrate a combined requirement for FcγRIII and FcγRIV in autoimmune injury, and identify the linker for activation of T cells adaptor as an integral component of linked FcγR and C5a anaphylatoxin receptor activation to generate inflammation.
Two Self‐Catenated Nickel(II) Hybrid Vanadates with Honeycomb‐Like 3D Inorganic Frameworks Stabilized by Crossed Organic Bpe Pillars: Thermal, Spectroscopic and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Fernández de Luis Roberto , Mesa Jose L. , Karmele Urtiaga M. , Rojo Teófilo , Arriortua María Isabel
Published: September 2009

The three‐dimensional hybrid compounds [{Ni6(H2O)10(Bpy)6}V18O51]·1.5H2O (1, Bpy = 4,4′‐bipyridine) and [{Ni(H2O)2(Bpe)}V4O11]·0.5H2O (2, Bpe = 1,2‐bis(4‐pyridyl)ethene) have been synthesized under mild hydrothermal conditions. The 3D crystal structures of both compounds are closely related, with an inorganic honeycomb‐like framework stabilized by the organic ligands. The latter are oriented in a crossed way into the channel of the inorganic backbone, and directly attached to the nickel(II) metal centers. Increasing of the ligand length causes widening of the inorganic skeleton with retention of the main structural organization. Both compounds possess self‐catenated nets, a 24‐nodes net (3‐c)2(4‐c)3(5‐c)7 for 1 and a binodal net (4‐c)(7‐c) for 2. These rigid architectures exhibit very interesting thermal properties. The co‐crystallized water molecules can be removed without changes in the crystal structures. The initial phases show a low thermal expansion of the cell volume, with a negative thermal expansion of the b parameter for compound 1. Moreover, at high temperatures structural irreversible transformations are observed in both compounds, due to the removal of coordinated water molecules. These transformations have been followed by thermodiffractometry and IR spectra. The UV/Vis spectra show the characteristic bands of the NiII d8‐high spin cation in slightly distorted octahedral environment. The magnetic behaviour is strongly dependent of the connectivity of the metal centres through the VO5 polyhedra. Compound 1 exhibits a typical Zero Field Splitting for six nickel(II) cations, while the shortest distances between the nickel(II) ions in 2 allow a weak antiferromagnetic 1D coupling. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Synthesis and Characterization of Linear Tetranuclear Silver(I) Complexes Bridged by Tetraphosphane Ligands
Authors: Takemura Yukie , Nakajima Takayuki , Tanase Tomoaki
Published: September 2009

Reactions of AgOTf with meso‐bis[(diphenylphosphanylmethyl)phenylphosphanyl]methane (dpmppm) afforded[Ag4(OTf)2(μ‐OTf)(μ‐dpmppm)2{(CH3)2CO}](OTf) (1) and [Ag4(OTf)2(μ‐OTf)(μ‐dpmppm)2(RNC)2](OTf) {R = Xyl (2a), Mes (2b), tBu (2c)}. When AgOTf was treated with dpmppm in air in the presence of tBuNC, cleavage of the C–Cl and P–C bonds occurred to give [Ag4(μ‐Cl)(μ‐dpmppm)2(tBuNC)4](OTf)3 (3) and [Ag4(μ‐Ph2PO2)(μ‐dpmppm)2(tBuNC)3](OTf)3 (4). Reaction of AgOCOCF3 with dpmppm resulted in [Ag4(OCOCF3)2(μ‐OCOCF3)(μ‐dpmppm)2](CF3COO) (5). By treatment of AgPF6 with dpmppm, [Ag4(μ‐dpmppm)2(tBuNC)4](PF6)4 (6) and [Ag4(PO2F2)2(μ‐dpmppm)2(tBuNC)2] (PF6)2 (7) were obtained. Wheareas complexes 1–3 possess a {Ag4(μ‐dpmppm)2}4+ core in which the Ag4 strings are rather bent with two dpmppm ligands arranged in a syn fashion, complexes 4–7 have linear Ag4 strings supported by two dpmppm ligands arranged in an anti fashion. These results suggest that the dpmppm‐supported tetrasilver(I) strings are quite flexible and labile and thus are potentially important in promoting organic reactions as a result of the multimetallic centers.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Determination of cypermethrin in palm oil matrices
Authors: Zainudin Badrul Hisyam , Bakar Nor Kartini Abu , Muhamad Halimah
Published: September 2009

In this study, a new method was developed for the determination of cypermethrin residue in both crude palm oil (CPO) and crude palm kernel oil (CPKO) using GC with electron capture detector. In this method, the oil was extracted with acetonitrile. Aliquots were cleaned‐up using combined solid phase extraction (SPE), and a primary‐secondary amine in combination with graphitized carbon black. The SPE cartridges were first conditioned and then eluted with acetonitrile. Cypermethrin recoveries from the fortified CPO samples were 87–98% with relative standard deviation (RSD) values of 4–8%, while those for the fortified CPKO samples were 83–100% with RSD values of 3–10%. Since good recoveries were obtained with RSD values below 10% in most cases, the proposed methodology will be useful for the analyses of palm oil samples. The method was successfully applied to the analysis of cypermethrin in real palm oil samples from various parts of Malaysia. No cypermethrin residue was found among 30 samples analyzed.
Chemical evaluation of some paprika (Capsicum annuum L.) seed oils
Authors: Matthäus Bertrand , Özcan Mehmet Musa
Published: September 2009

The oil contents of seeds from paprika (Capsicum annuum L.) collected from different locations in Turkey and Italy varied in a relatively wide range from 8.5 g/100 g to 32.6 g/100 g. The fatty acid, tocopherol and sterol contents of the oils from different paprika seeds were investigated. The main fatty acids in paprika seed oils were linoleic acid (69.5–74.7 g/100 g), oleic acid (8.9–12.5 g/100 g) and palmitic acid (10.7–14.2 g/100 g). The oils contained an appreciable amount of γ‐tocopherol (306.6–602.6 mg/kg), followed by α‐tocopherol (7.3–148.7 mg/kg). The major sterols were β‐sitosterol (1571.4–4061.7 mg/kg), campesterol (490.8–1182.7 mg/kg), and Δ5‐avenasterol (374.5–899.6 mg/kg). The total concentration of sterols ranged from 3134.0 mg/kg to 7233.7 mg/kg. Remarkable amounts of cholesterol were found in the different samples (164.6–491.0 mg/kg). The present study showed that paprika seeds are a potential source of valuable oil that could be used for edible and industrial applications.
Triacylglycerols from viper bugloss (Echium vulgare L.) seed bio‐oil
Authors: Czaplicki Sylwester , Zadernowski Ryszard , Ogrodowska Dorota
Published: September 2009

Triacylglycerols (TAG) in viper bugloss oil were isolated from raw pressed oil by silicic acid column chromatography. The obtained blend of TAG was separated by silver ion thin‐layer chromatography (TLC Ag+) into nine fractions, varying in terms of unsaturation level and molecular polarity. The composition of TAG in viper bugloss oil was determined by HPLC coupled with a diode‐array detector and an evaporative light‐scattering detector. The results showed that the first three fractions were combinations of TAG containing palmitic, oleic and linoleic acids. Fractions 4 and 6 contained TAG of a similar acid composition as above, but with the addition of γ‐linolenic acid. The remaining fractions (7–9) were the most varied in acid composition. They were found to contain 26–39% palmitic acid, 12–15% oleic acid, 13–41% linoleic acid 8–24% γ‐linolenic acid, 1.5–5.5% α‐linolenic acid and 1–5% stearidonic acid. The analysis of fatty acid allocation in TAG of viper bugloss lipids revealed that linoleic acid (ranging from 2 to 100%) was the only acid found in all isolated fractions. In the investigated oil, the predominant TAG included: LnLnG (11.38%), LnLnSt (11.17%), LnGSt (7.71%), LnStSt (6.19%) and LnLnLn (5.44%). Almost 86% of the TAG contained α‐linolenic acid, while γ‐linolenic and stearidonic acids amounted to 49 and 38%, respectively.
Preparation of 2‐Ethoxy‐3‐hydroxy‐4‐(perfluoroalkyl)tetrahydropyran Derivatives from Substituted 4‐Ethoxybut‐3‐en‐1‐ols
Authors: Valdersnes Stig , Sydnes Leiv K.
Published: September 2009

A number of 1‐substituted and 1,1‐disubstituted (E)‐4,5,5‐triethoxypent‐3‐en‐1‐ols (1) have been converted to perfluoroalkylated tetrahydrofurans and tetrahydropyrans in a selective fashion by 1‐iodoperfluoroalkane addition under radical conditions using sodium dithionite (Na2S2O4) as radical initiator. Direct perfluoroalkylation of 1 gave the former products only, and the yields were moderate (50–75 %), but when 1 was converted to corresponding 6‐substituted and 6,6‐disubstituted 2,3‐diethoxy‐5,6‐dihydro‐2H‐pyrans before perfluoroalkylation was carried out, the transformation turned out to be significantly more successful and afforded, as the only product, 6‐substituted and 6,6‐disubstituted 2‐ethoxy‐4‐(perfluoroalkyl)tetrahydropyran‐3‐ones in 77–100 % yield as stereoisomeric mixtures. Subsequent reduction of the keto group with sodium borohydride in ethanol was uneventful and completed the syntheses of a range of 4‐perfluorobutylated tetrahydropyran derivatives; the yields in this step were in the 81–94 % range. The best result was obtained with (E)‐2‐methyl‐5,6,6‐triethoxyhex‐4‐en‐2‐ol which was converted to a diastereoisomeric mixture of 2‐ethoxy‐6,6‐dimethyl‐4‐(perfluorobutyl)tetrahydropyran‐3‐ol in 85 % yield in three steps. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
A Tris‐Macrocycle with Proton Sponge Characteristics as Efficient Receptor for Inorganic Phosphate and Nucleotide Anions
Authors: Bencini Andrea , Biagini Silvia , Giorgi Claudia , Handel Henri , Le Baccon Michel , Mariani Palma , Paoletti Piero , Paoli Paola , Rossi Patrizia , Tripier Raphaël , Valtancoli Barbara
Published: September 2009

Synthesis, characterisation and proton‐sponge behaviour of a new linear constrained tris‐macrocycle (L), containing three cyclen (cyclen = 1,4,7,10‐tetraazacyclododecane) reinforced macrocycles connected by two 2,6‐pyridinediylbis(methylene) linkers, is reported. Protonated forms of L are efficient receptors for inorganic phosphate and nucleotide anions (ATP and ADP). The binding properties of L toward these substrates have been investigated in aqueous solution by means of potentiometric titrations, determining the stability constants of the adducts. The interaction mode was clarified by using 1H and 31P NMR measurements in aqueous solution and by means of molecular modelling calculations carried out on differently protonated species of L as well as on several nucleotide‐receptor adducts. The stability of the adducts is mainly due to charge‐charge and hydrogen bonding interactions between the polyphosphate chain of nucleotides and the ammonium groups of L.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Performance analysis of optical code switching router
Authors: Durand F. R. , Barbosa F. R. , Moschim E.
Published: September 2009

In this work we study and evaluate the performance of an optical code switching router (OCSR), intended to be utilised in hybrid wavelength‐division multiplexing/optical code‐division multiplexing (WDM/OCDM) networks. This OCSR can transport and route efficiently user data over optical code paths without departing from the optical domain. Limitations of the proposed OCSR are investigated and its superior performance demonstrated based on non‐coherent prime codes. Our results indicate that our solution is useful in showing the effects of the optimum threshold level on the OCSR performance. We propose a continuous adjustment of the optimum threshold level based on the measurement of the mean optical power before the decoder. The influence of various parameters of the optical codes on the OCSR performance are also considered and evaluated. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Numerical simulations of inviscid and viscous free‐surface flows with application to nonlinear water waves
Authors: Lo D. C.
Published: September 2009

The purpose of the present study is to establish a numerical model appropriate for solving inviscid/viscous free‐surface flows related to nonlinear water wave propagation. The viscous model presented herein is based on the Navier–Stokes equations, and the free‐surface is calculated through an arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian streamfunction‐vorticity formulation. The streamfunction field is governed by the Poisson equation, and the vorticity is obtained on the basis of the vorticity transport equation. For computing the inviscid flow the Laplace streamfunction equation is used. These equations together with the respective (appropriate) fully nonlinear free‐surface boundary conditions are solved using a finite difference method. To demonstrate the model feasibility, in the present study we first simulate collision processes of two solitary waves of different amplitudes, and compute the phenomenon of overtaking of such solitary waves. The developed model is subsequently applied to calculate (both inviscid and the viscous) flow field, as induced by passing of a solitary wave over submerged rectangular structures and rigid ripple beds. Our study provides a reasonably good understanding of the behavior of (inviscid/viscous) free‐surface flows, within the framework of streamfunction‐vorticity formulation. The successful simulation of the above‐mentioned test cases seems to suggest that the arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian/streamfunction‐vorticity formulation is a potentially powerful approach, capable of effectively solving the fully nonlinear inviscid/viscous free‐surface flow interactions. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Understanding and enhancing the opportunities of community‐campus partnerships
Authors: Beere Carole
Published: September 2009

This chapter describes various community‐campus partnerships and offers practical recommendations for forming and evaluating reciprocal relationships.
The first wave of community‐engaged institutions
Authors: Sandmann Lorilee R. , Thornton Courtney H. , Jaeger Audrey J.
Published: September 2009

What are the experiences, outcomes, and lessons learned from the first wave of Carnegie classified community‐engaged institutions?
Thinking strategically about integrating repatriated managers in MNCs
Authors: Jassawalla Avan R. , Sashittal Hemant C.
Published: September 2009

Although multinational corporations (MNCs) invest considerable resources in sending managers on foreign assignments, too many managers report dissatisfaction with their postrepatriation careers, and a significant percentage leave the firm within a year. This failure to harness learning and develop a cadre of globally trained managers raises questions about the current objectives and strategies that drive the investment in expatriation. A study of managers who had recently completed their expatriate assignment points to underorganized home office operations, poorly defined mentor roles, and large gaps between managers' expectations and reality as key contributors to the problem. This paper calls for a strategic orientation toward managing the expatriate function and proposes a comprehensive configuration of processes, systems, and structures necessary for implementing new strategies for developing the next generation of globally trained managers. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sexual harassment training: Recommendations to address gaps between the practitioner and research literatures
Authors: Perry Elissa L. , Kulik Carol T. , Field Marina P.
Published: September 2009

Sexual harassment training is a common human resource activity, and the practitioner literature is replete with advice about how to implement it. Little research, however, has specifically explored what makes sexual harassment training effective. This paper uses what we know from general training research and theory and sexual harassment research to assess the extent to which the practitioner literature is making relevant and reasonable recommendations for sexual harassment training. We identify practitioner‐research gaps in the literature, including areas that academic research and theory suggest are important for training effectiveness but where the practitioner literature falls short. The practitioner literature may be silent, offer incomplete advice, make recommendations that do not directly link to research findings, or present recommendations that are inconsistent with research findings. We recommend that these gaps be bridged and we provide specific suggestions for how human resource managers can improve the quality of the sexual harassment training they provide. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Wavelet regression model as an alternative to neural networks for monthly streamflow forecasting
Authors: Kişi Özgür
Published: September 2009

The accuracy of the wavelet regression (WR) model in monthly streamflow forecasting is investigated in the study. The WR model is improved combining the two methods—the discrete wavelet transform (DWT) model and the linear regression (LR) model—for 1‐month‐ahead streamflow forecasting. In the first part of the study, the results of the WR model are compared with those of the single LR model. Monthly flow data from two stations, Gerdelli Station on Canakdere River and Isakoy Station on Goksudere River, in Eastern Black Sea region of Turkey are used in the study. The comparison results reveal that the WR model could increase the forecast accuracy of the LR model. In the second part of the study, the accuracy of the WR model is compared with those of the artificial neural networks (ANN) and auto‐regressive (AR) models. On the basis of the results, the WR is found to be better than the ANN and AR models in monthly streamflow forecasting. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
PTEN, RASSF1 and DAPK site‐specific hypermethylation and outcome in surgically treated stage I and II nonsmall cell lung cancer patients
Authors: Buckingham Lela , Penfield Faber L. , Kim Anthony , Liptay Michael , Barger Carter , Basu Sanjib , Fidler Mary , Walters Kelly , Bonomi Philip , Coon John
Published: September 2009

The primary objective of this study is to identify prognostic site‐specific epigenetic changes in surgically treated Stage I and II nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients by quantifying methylation levels at multiple CpG sites within each gene promoter. Paraffin‐embedded tumors from stage Ib, IIa and IIb in training and validation groups of 75 and 57 surgically treated NSCLC patients, respectively, were analyzed for p16, MGMT, RASSF1, RASSF5, CDH1, LET7, DAPK and PTEN promoter hypermethylation. Hypermethylation status was quantified individually at multiple CpG sites within each promoter by pyrosequencing. Molecular and clinical characteristics with time to recurrence (TTR) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated. Overall average promoter methylation levels of MGMT and RASSF1 were significantly higher in smokers than in nonsmokers (p = 0.006 and p = 0.029, respectively). Methylation levels of the p16 promoter were significantly higher in squamous cell carcinoma than in adenocarcinoma (p = 0.020). In univariate analysis, hypermethylation of RASSF1 at CpG sites −53 and −48 and PTEN at CpG site −1310 were the significantly associated with shorter TTR (p = 0.002 and p < 0.000, respectively). Hypermethylation of PTEN at −1310 and DAPK at −1482 were most significantly associated with outcome in multivariate analysis. These results show that methylation of specific promoter CpG sites in PTEN, RASSF1 and DAPK is associated with outcome in early stage surgically treated NSCLC.
MicroRNA expression profile of gastrointestinal stromal tumors is distinguished by 14q loss and anatomic site
Authors: Choi Hee‐Jung , Lee Hanna , Kim Hyunki , Kwon Ji Eun , Kang Hyun Ju , You Kwon Tae , Rhee Hwanseok , Noh Sung Hoon , Paik Young‐Ki , Hyung Woo Jin , Kim Hoguen
Published: September 2009

MicroRNAs are known to regulate gene expression. Although unique microRNA expression profiles have been reported in several tumors, little is known about microRNA expression profiles in GISTs. To evaluate the relationship between microRNA expression and clinicopathologic findings of GISTs, we analyzed the microRNA expression profiles of GISTs. We used fresh frozen tissues from 20 GISTs and analyzed KIT and PDGFRA mutations and chromosomal loss status. MicroRNA expression was analyzed using a microRNA chip containing 470 microRNAs. Using unsupervised hierarchical clustering analysis, we found four distinct microRNA expression patterns in our 20 GISTs. Six GISTs that did not have 14q loss formed a separate cluster. In the 14 GISTs with 14q loss, 5 small bowel GISTs formed a separate cluster and the remaining 9 GISTs could be divided into two groups according to frequent chromosomal losses and tumor risk. We found 73 microRNAs that were significantly down‐regulated in the GISTs with 14q loss; 38 of these microRNAs are encoded on 14q. We also found many microRNAs that were down‐regulated in small bowel and high‐risk group GISTs. Most of the microRNAs down‐regulated in the high‐risk group and small bowel GISTs are known to be involved in tumor progression, specifically by stimulating mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) and the cell cycle. The microRNA expression patterns of GISTs are closely related to the status of 14q loss, anatomic site, and tumor risk. These findings suggest that microRNA expression patterns can differentiate several subsets of GISTs.
Comparison of polymerase chain reaction and histopathology for the detection of Helicobacter pylori in gastric biopsies
Authors: de Martel Catherine , Plummer Martyn , van Doorn Leen‐Jan , Vivas Jorge , Lopez Gladys , Carillo Elsa , Peraza Simon , Muñoz Nubia , Franceschi Silvia
Published: September 2009

Using data from a Venezuelan cohort of 1,948 adults, the gastric detection of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of the vacA gene in 1 antral biopsy was compared to the detection of H. pylori by histopathology (hematoxylin–eosin and Giemsa staining) in 5 biopsies (antrum and corpus). Overall, H. pylori was detected in 85% and 95% of the subjects by PCR and histopathology, respectively. When results were analyzed by severity of precancerous lesions, PCR on 1 biopsy detected the bacteria less often than histopathology on 5 biopsies in subjects with normal gastric mucosa and non‐atrophic gastritis. However, in subjects with the most severe lesions (intestinal metaplasia type III and dysplasia), PCR on 1 biopsy detected H. pylori as often as histopathology on 5 biopsies, and significantly more often than histopathology on a single biopsy. In conclusion, these findings confirm that histopathology on 5 biopsies is an accurate tool for H. pylori detection in most subjects, compared to the PCR method on 1 biopsy. Nevertheless, the elevated sensitivity of PCR for detecting the bacteria in advanced precancerous lesions, and the possibility to use PCR to distinguish between cagA‐positive and cagA‐negative strains, makes the PCR technique especially useful in studies of stomach cancer.