bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Moxidectin Efficacy in a Goat Herd with Chronic and Generalized Sarcoptic Mange
Authors: Giadinis Nektarios D. , Farmaki Rania , Papaioannou Nikolaos , Papadopoulos Elias , Karatzias Harilaos , Koutinas Alexander F.
Published: May 2011

A case of sarcoptic mange affecting almost all the animals of a dairy goat herd is described. This pruritic skin disease led progressively to high mortality and dramatic drop of milk yield. The lesions of the affected goats were typical of a chronic and generalized-diffuse sarcoptic mange. Diagnosis was confirmed by skin scrapings and histopathology in which many mites were demonstrated. All surviving goats were treated with injectable moxidectin solution 1% (CYDECTIN-Fort Dodge) at the dose of 0.2 mg/kg, applied every 15 days for four times, subcutaneously. Although pruritus had decreased soon after the first treatment, a satisfactory healing of cutaneous lesions was witnessed 6 weeks after the beginning of moxidectin trial. Parasitological cure was achieved in all affected animals by the end of the trial. In the four monthly followups, no evidence of sarcoptic mange could be found.
Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology of the Breast: The Nonmalignant Categories
Authors: Mendoza Paulo , Lacambra Maribel , Tan Puay-Hoon , Tse Gary M.
Published: May 2011

Currently, accurate diagnosis of breast lesions depends on a triple assessment approach comprising clinical, imaging and pathologic examinations. Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is widely adopted for the pathologic assessment because of its accurracy and ease of use. While much has been written about the atypical and maliganant categories of FNAC diagnosis, little covers the non-malignanat category which represents a sheer number in all FNAC cases. Moreover, any false-negative diagnosis of the non-malignant cases may lead to missed diagnosis of cancer. This paper aims to discuss the issues of smear adequacy, the cytologic features of benign breast lesions and the dilemma of a false-negative aspirate. Much has been suggested about the smear adequacy criterion, including quantifying epithelial clusters, whereas others advocate basing adequacy on qualitative quantum of using noncellular features of FNAC. Various benign lesions could be easily diagnosed at FNAC; however, they have cytologic features overlapped with malignant lesions. False negativity of FNAC does occur; this could be caused by either “true” false-negative cases attributed to suboptimal sampling technique, poor localization of the mass or nonpalpable lesions or “false” false-negative cases due to interpretational errors. Though false-positive cases are less commonly found, they will also be discussed briefly.
Hormone Receptor Status in Breast Cancer and its Relation to Age and Other Prognostic Factors
Authors: Pourzand Ali , Fakhree M. Bassir A. , Hashemzadeh Shahryar , Halimi Monireh , Daryani Amir
Published: May 2011

Background

Increasing evidence shows the importance of young age, estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) status, and HER-2 expression in patients with breast cancers.

Patients and methods

We organized an analytic cross-sectional study of 105 women diagnosed with breast cancer who have been operated on between 2008 to 2010. We evaluated age, size, hormone receptor status, HER-2 and P53 expression as possible indicator of lymph node involvement.

Results

There is a direct correlation between positive progesterone receptor status and being younger than 40 ( P < 0.05). Also, compared with older women, young women had tumors that were more likely to be large in size and have higher stages ( P < 0.05). Furthermore patients with negative progesterone receptor status were more likely to have HER-2 overexpression ( P < 0.05). The differences in propensity to lymph node metastasis between hormone receptor statuses were not statically significant.

Conclusions

Although negative progesterone receptor tumors were more likely to have HER-2 overexpression, it is possible that higher stage and larger size breast cancer in younger women is related to positive progesterone receptor status.
Risperidone Long-Acting Injection: Safety and Efficacy in Elderly Patients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Catalán Rosa , Penadés Rafael
Published: May 2011

Antipsychotic medication is considered the cornerstone of the treatment in elderly patients with schizophrenia. Long acting risperidone injection was the first antipsychotic available for use in this group of patients. Current scientific literature revealed that long-acting risperidone is effective in treating the positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia and some improvements in cognition and functioning have also been found. In terms of efficacy, there is a paucity of randomized trials but the studies suggest that long-acting risperidone is efficient in the long-term management of schizophrenia, with a safety profile similar to that of oral risperidone. It seems that patient acceptance of treatment is greater when patients are switched from a traditional oral medication to depot risperidone and some improvements in cognition and functioning might be related. Further long-term comparisons with other oral and long-acting antipsychotic medications are needed. These studies should include cost-effectiveness data. Research into metabolic side effects is also needed
Measuring Tobacco Specific Lung Carcinogen among Nonsmoking Hospitality Workers in Richmond Virginia: A Preliminary Evaluation of Exposure before the Smoking Ban
Authors: Haddad Linda , Elswick R.K. , Alzyoud Sukaina
Published: May 2011

The purpose of this pilot study is to measure the exposure to SHS among Richmond bar and restaurant workers and identify the prevalence of the tobacco-specific lung carcinogen-4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNAL) among nonsmoking bar and restaurants workers. Hair and urine samples were obtained from 40 nonsmoking bar and restaurant workers from Richmond establishments that do not have smoke free policies. Workers' exposure to SHS was estimated through measuring nicotine concentration in hair (NG/MG). Self-reported tobacco use was assessed in addition to performing urine analysis and listing sources and intensity of SHS exposure. Urine specimens were analyzed for total NNAL.

Results

Hair nicotine ranged from 0.05 to 42.15 ng/mg among workers with an average of 23.3 hours of self reported exposure in workplaces where smoking was permitted, indicating that workers in smoking restaurants and bars are exposed to SHS. Also, 60% of workers had a detectable level of NNAL that ranged from 0.019 to 1.9 PMol/ML. Increased levels of NNAL were mostly associated with the number of continuous hours of a single workplace exposure. In the city of Richmond, most bar and restaurant workers are continuously exposed to SHS in their workplace. To achieve complete protection for all workers and patrons in Richmond, Virginia, smoke free initiatives in all occupational settings are required. This information can be used to advocate for smoke free policies when discussing potential ways to strengthen the law.
Decreases in elemental carbon and fine particle mass in the United States
Authors: Murphy D. M. , Chow J. C. , Leibensperger E. M. , Malm W. C. , Pitchford M. , Schichtel B. A. , Watson J. G. , White W. H.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. Observations at national parks and other remote sites show that average elemental carbon and fine particle mass concentrations in the United States both decreased by over 25 % between 1990 and 2004. Percentage decreases in elemental carbon were much larger in winter than in summer. These data suggest that emissions controls have been effective in reducing particulate concentrations not only in polluted areas but also across the United States. Despite the reduction in elemental carbon, the simultaneous decrease in non-absorbing particles implies that the overall radiative forcing from these changes was toward warming. The use of a 2005 instead of 1990 as a baseline for climate-relevant emissions from the United States would imply a significantly lower baseline for aerosol emissions. The use of older data will overestimate the possibility for future reductions in warming due to black carbon controls.
Strategy for high-accuracy-and-precision retrieval of atmospheric methane from the mid-infrared FTIR network
Authors: Sussmann R. , Forster F. , Rettinger M. , Jones N.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. We present a strategy (MIR-GBM v1.0) for the retrieval of column-averaged dry-air mole fractions of methane (XCH4) with a precision <0.3 % (1-σ diurnal variation, 7-min integration) and a seasonal bias <0.14 % from mid-infrared ground-based solar FTIR measurements of the Network for the Detection of Atmospheric Composition Change (NDACC, comprising 22 FTIR stations). This makes NDACC methane data useful for satellite validation and for the inversion of regional-scale sources and sinks in addition to long-term trend analysis. Such retrievals complement the high accuracy and precision near-infrared observations of the younger Total Carbon Column Observing Network (TCCON) with time series dating back 15 yr or so before TCCON operations began. MIR-GBM v1.0 is using HITRAN 2000 (including the 2001 update release) and 3 spectral micro windows (2613.70–2615.40 cm−1, 2835.50–2835.80 cm−1, 2921.00–2921.60 cm−1). A first-order Tikhonov constraint is applied to the state vector given in units of per cent of volume mixing ratio. It is tuned to achieve minimum diurnal variation without damping seasonality. Final quality selection of the retrievals uses a threshold for the ratio of root-mean-square spectral residuals and information content (<0.15 %). Column-averaged dry-air mole fractions are calculated using the retrieved methane profiles and four-times-daily pressure-temperature-humidity profiles from National Center for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) interpolated to the time of measurement. MIR-GBM v1.0 is the optimum of 24 tested retrieval strategies (8 different spectral micro-window selections, 3 spectroscopic line lists: HITRAN 2000, 2004, 2008). Dominant errors of the non-optimum retrieval strategies are HDO/H2O-CH4 interference errors (seasonal bias up to ≈4 %). Therefore interference errors have been quantified at 3 test sites covering clear-sky integrated water vapor levels representative for all NDACC sites (Wollongong maximum = 44.9 mm, Garmisch mean = 14.9 mm, Zugspitze minimum = 0.2 mm). The same quality ranking of the 24 strategies was found for all 3 test sites with one optimum, i.e., MIR-GBM v1.0. Seasonality of XCH4 above the Zugspitze (47° N) shows a minus-sine shape with a minimum in March/April, a maximum in September, and an amplitude of 16.3 ± 2.9 ppb (1.0 ± 0.2 %). This agrees very well with newest-version scientific retrievals from SCIAMACHY (WFM-DOAS v2.0). A conclusion from this paper is that improved spectroscopic parameters for CH4, HDO, and H2O in the 2613–2922 cm−1 spectral domain are urgently needed. If such become available with sufficient accuracy, at least two more spectral micro windows could be utilized leading to another improvement in precision. The absolute inter-calibration of NDACC MIR-GBM v1.0 XCH4 to TCCON data is subject of ongoing work.
Large variability in continental shelf production of phytoplankton carbon revealed by satellite
Authors: Jönsson B. F. , Salisbury J. E. , Mahadevan A.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. We estimate the net production of phytoplankton in the Gulf of Maine (GoM) over a 3-yr period using satellite ocean color data in conjunction with surface velocities from a high-resolution operational ocean circulation model. Chlorophyll (Chl-a) and light attenuation (K490) products are combined with a carbon to chlorophyll model to estimate the phytoplankton carbon (PC) stock in the euphotic layer. A satellite-based productivity, termed NCPe in analogy with net community production (NCP), is derived by tracking changes in satellite-derived PC from one satellite image to the next, along water parcel trajectories calculated with surface velocities from the ocean circulation model. Such an along-trajectory analysis of satellite data discounts the effect of advection that would otherwise contribute to the temporal change between consecutive images viewed in the fixed reference frame. Our results show a high variability of up to ±500 mg C m−2 d−1 in NCPe on spatial scales of 10–100 km. A region-wide median NCPe of 40–50 mg C m−2 d−1 is often prevalent in the Gulf, while blooms attain peak values of 400 mg C m−2 d−1 for a few days. The spatio-temporal variability of NCPe in this region, though conditioned by seasonality, is dominated by events lasting a few days, which if integrated, lead to large inter-annual variability in the annual carbon budget. This study is a step toward achieving synoptic and time-dependent estimates of oceanic productivity and NCP from satellite data.
Evaluation of satellite rainfall estimates over Ethiopian river basins
Authors: Romilly T. G. , Gebremichael M.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. High resolution satellite-based rainfall estimates (SREs) have enormous potential for use in hydrological applications, particularly in the developing world as an alternative to conventional rain gauges which are typically sparse. In this study, three SREs have been evaluated against collocated rain gauge measurements in Ethiopia across six river basins that represent different rainfall regimes and topography. The comparison is made using five-year (2003–2007) averages, and results are stratified by river basin, elevation and season. The SREs considered are: the Climate Prediction Center morphing method (CMORPH), Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information Using Neural Networks (PERSIANN) and the real-time version of the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA) 3B42RT. Overall, the microwave-based products TMPA 3B42RT and CMORPH outperform the infrared-based product PERSIANN: PERSIANN tends to underestimate rainfall by 43 %, while CMORPH tends to underestimate by 11 % and TMPA 3B42RT tends to overestimate by 5 %. The bias in the satellite rainfall estimates depends on the rainfall regime, and, in some regimes, the elevation. In the northwest region, which is characterized mainly by highland topography, a humid climate and a strong Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) effect, elevation has a strong influence on the accuracy of the SREs: TMPA 3B42RT and CMORPH tend to overestimate at low elevations but give reasonably accurate results at high elevations, whereas PERSIANN gives reasonably accurate values at low elevations but underestimates at high elevations. In the southeast region, which is characterized mainly by lowland topography, a semi-arid climate and southerly winds, elevation does not have a significant influence on the accuracy of the SREs, and all the SREs underestimate rainfall across almost all elevations.
Geostatistical radar-raingauge combination with nonparametric correlograms: methodological considerations and application in Switzerland
Authors: Schiemann R. , Erdin R. , Willi M. , Frei C. , Berenguer M. , Sempere-Torres D.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. Modelling spatial covariance is an essential part of all geostatistical methods. Traditionally, parametric semivariogram models are fit from available data. More recently, it has been suggested to use nonparametric correlograms obtained from spatially complete data fields. Here, both estimation techniques are compared. Nonparametric correlograms are shown to have a substantial negative bias. Nonetheless, when combined with the sample variance of the spatial field under consideration, they yield an estimate of the semivariogram that is unbiased for small lag distances. This justifies the use of this estimation technique in geostatistical applications. Various formulations of geostatistical combination (Kriging) methods are used here for the construction of hourly precipitation grids for Switzerland based on data from a sparse realtime network of raingauges and from a spatially complete radar composite. Two variants of Ordinary Kriging (OK) are used to interpolate the sparse gauge observations. In both OK variants, the radar data are only used to determine the semivariogram model. One variant relies on a traditional parametric semivariogram estimate, whereas the other variant uses the nonparametric correlogram. The variants are tested for three cases and the impact of the semivariogram model on the Kriging prediction is illustrated. For the three test cases, the method using nonparametric correlograms performs equally well or better than the traditional method, and at the same time offers great practical advantages. Furthermore, two variants of Kriging with external drift (KED) are tested, both of which use the radar data to estimate nonparametric correlograms, and as the external drift variable. The first KED variant has been used previously for geostatistical radar-raingauge merging in Catalonia (Spain). The second variant is newly proposed here and is an extension of the first. Both variants are evaluated for the three test cases as well as an extended evaluation period. It is found that both methods yield merged fields of better quality than the original radar field or fields obtained by OK of gauge data. The newly suggested KED formulation is shown to be beneficial, in particular in mountainous regions where the quality of the Swiss radar composite is comparatively low. An analysis of the Kriging variances shows that none of the methods tested here provides a satisfactory uncertainty estimate. A suitable variable transformation is expected to improve this.
Monitoring of recent mass movement activity in anthropogenic slopes of the Krušné Hory Mountains (Czech Republic)
Authors: Burda J. , Žižka L. , Dohnal J.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. Recent mass movements currently comprise one of the main morphogenetic processes in the extensive anthropogenic relief of the foreground of the Krušné Hory Mountains in the Czech Republic. These mass movements result in several types of deep-seated slope failures, depending on the type of movement and the water saturation of the landslide material. This paper presents the results of a detailed geomorphic survey and orthophotograph analysis combined with geodetic monitoring data in an area affected by open-pit coal mining. An interdisciplinary approach has enabled an in-depth review of both the dynamics and development of recent slope failures. The article describes deep-seated landslide complex in this part of the foothills of the Krušné Hory Mountains. At the study site, mass movements occur in thick colluvial mantle and weathered Tertiary claystones. The main factors influencing their development include rainfall culminations, groundwater flowing from the valley of Šramnický Brook and former slope failures. All of the slope failures that have occurred here have originated at former slope failure sites.
Structure and performance of a real-time algorithm to detect tsunami or tsunami-like alert conditions based on sea-level records analysis
Authors: Bressan L. , Tinti S.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. The goal of this paper is to present an original real-time algorithm devised for detection of tsunami or tsunami-like waves we call TEDA (Tsunami Early Detection Algorithm), and to introduce a methodology to evaluate its performance. TEDA works on the sea level records of a single station and implements two distinct modules running concurrently: one to assess the presence of tsunami waves ("tsunami detection") and the other to identify high-amplitude long waves ("secure detection"). Both detection methods are based on continuously updated time functions depending on a number of parameters that can be varied according to the application. In order to select the most adequate parameter setting for a given station, a methodology to evaluate TEDA performance has been devised, that is based on a number of indicators and that is simple to use. In this paper an example of TEDA application is given by using data from a tide gauge located at the Adak Island in Alaska, USA, that resulted in being quite suitable since it recorded several tsunamis in the last years using the sampling rate of 1 min.
Metamorphic history and geodynamic significance of the Early Cretaceous Sabzevar granulites (Sabzevar structural zone, NE Iran)
Authors: Nasrabady M. , Rossetti F. , Theye T. , Vignaroli G.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. The Iranian ophiolites are part of the vast orogenic suture zones that mark the Alpine-Himalayan convergence zone. Few petrological and geochronological data are available from these ophiolitic domains, hampering a full assessment of the timing and regimes of subduction zone metamorphism and orogenic construction in the region. This paper describes texture, geochemistry and the pressure-temperature path of the Early Cretaceous granulites that occur within the Tertiary Sabzevar suture zone of NE Iran. The geochemical data set document that the granulites are remnants of a MORB-type oceanic crust and thus of a (Early Cretaceous ?) back-arc basin formed in the upper plate of the Neotethyan subduction and thus interpreted as portions of a dismembered dynamothermal sole formed during oceanic subduction. The metamorphic history of the granulites suggests an anticlockwise pressure-temperature loop, compatible with burial in a hot subduction zone followed by cooling during exhumation. This is interpreted as the evidence of a nascent subduction zone formed at the expenses of hot and hence young oceanic lithosphere. These data point to diachronous and independent tectonic evolutions of the different ophiolitic domains of central Iran, for which a growing heterogeneity in the timing of metamorphic equilibration and of pressure-temperature paths can be expected with further investigations.
Secondary or New Compensatory Head Posture after Anderson-Kestenbaum Surgery
Authors: Ugurbas Silay Canturk , Baker John D.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

To report clinical findings and surgical management of 4 patients with congenital nystagmus who presented with a new or reversal of their original horizontal compensatory head posture (CHP) after Anderson-Kestenbaum (A-K) surgery.

Method

Retrospective chart review.

Results

All 4 patients demonstrated a 40°-45° horizontal face turn at the time of their initial surgery and 3 underwent 20% and one 30% augmented A-K surgery to correct the CHP. The new CHP or reversal of the original CHP was observed at a mean of 4 years (range 1-9 years) after the initial surgery. The reversed CHPs measured 20°, 40°, 20°, and 20°, respectively. These new or residual CHPs were surgically managed in 3 patients and an acceptable head position was achieved in all patients.

Conclusions

This series of patients points out the occurrence of secondary null points and reversed CHP after surgical correction of initial CHP.
Coexistence of Plasma Cell Dyscrasia with Prefibrotic Stage of Primary Myelofibrosis: A Case Report
Authors: Tsirakis George , Kanellou Peggy , Kaparou Maria , Passam Andrew , Zampoulaki Amalia , Stylianou Kostas , Alexandrakis Michael G.
Published: May 2011

Introduction. Coexistence of myeloproliferative neoplasms with lymphoproliferative syndromes has been described in the past, whereas plasma cell dyscrasias seem to be the most common cases.Case Presentation. We present a case of a 59-year-old Caucasian female of Greek origin who presented with thrombocytosis. Clinical and laboratory investigation disclosed the presence of a smoldering myeloma with coexisting histological and molecular characteristics of primary myelofibrosis. The patient had the acquired point mutation V617F in the JAK2 gene but not the bcr-abl rearrangement and was treated for myelofibrosis with subsequent improvement of all haematological parameters without evidence of myelomatic evolution.Conclusion. We present the first case in the literature of a smoldering myeloma coexisting with primary myelofibrosis. The underlying pathogenetic mechanism could be either related to the presence of a pluripotent neoplastic stem cell capable to differentiate into both lymphoid and myeloid cells or be related to two separate nosologic entities.
Empowerment: A Framework to Develop Advocacy in African American Grandmothers Providing Care for Their Grandchildren
Authors: Carr Gloria F.
Published: May 2011

Purpose. Based on a review of the literature, this paper presents a unique and innovative model that offers an empowerment framework, which may be used to develop advocacy in African American (AA) grandmother caregivers. This proposed framework centers on education as a catalyst to the empowerment process in these grandmothers. Application of this model has potential to guide the practice of healthcare providers as they assist these caregivers in managing their own lives.Methodology. Various empowerment definitions and research were used to develop this empowerment framework.Discussion. This framework offers an empowerment education program for AA grandmothers providing care for their grandchildren on topics that they feel are necessary to appropriately care for themselves and their grandchildren. Outcomes of this empowerment education are to develop skills within these grandmothers so that they will be able to advocate for themselves, their grandchildren, and others within their communities. This education will ultimately produce skillful AA grandmothers who will develop abilities to empower themselves and other AA grandmothers who are in similar circumstances.
Control of Clinical Pathogens by the Haemolymph of Paratelphusa hydrodromous, a Freshwater Crab
Authors: Arul Prakash A. , Balasubramanian S. , Gunasekaran G. , Prakash M. , Senthil Raja P.
Published: May 2011

In the present study, effort has been made to find the antimicrobial activity of haemolymph collected from freshwater crab, Paratelphusa hydrodromous. The haemolymph collected was tested for antimicrobial assay by disc diffusion method against clinical pathogens. Five bacterial species, namely, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and five fungal strains, namely and Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus niger, Rhizopus sp., and Mucor sp., were selected for the study. The result shows a strong response of haemolymph against the clinical pathogens which confirms the immune mechanism of the freshwater crab.
Mitral Leaflet Separation Index in Assessing the Severity of Mitral Stenosis
Authors: Thomas Joby K. , Anoop T. M. , Sebastian Gailin B. , George Kim , George Raju
Published: May 2011

Determining the severity of mitral stenosis (MS) is important for both prognostic and therapeutic reasons. The mitral valve area (MVA) can be measured by planimetry, pressure half-time, continuity equation, and proximal isovelocity surface area methods. In this study, we propose a novel yet simple, independent measure of MS severity–the mitral leaflet separation (MLS) index. This new index could be a useful surrogate measure of the MVA. This index would also help when there is a discrepancy between severities of MS estimated by existing methods, in the presence of atrial fibrillation and in the presence of mitral regurgitation.
Improving Image Quality in Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT) Using Projection Error Propagation-Based Regularization (PEPR) Technique: A Simulation Study
Authors: Bera Tushar Kanti , Biswas Samir Kumar , Rajan K. , Nagaraju J.
Published: May 2011

A Projection Error Propagation-based Regularization (PEPR) method is proposed and the reconstructed image quality is improved in Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT). A projection error is produced due to the misfit of the calculated and measured data in the reconstruction process. The variation of the projection error is integrated with response matrix in each iteration and the reconstruction is carried out in EIDORS. The PEPR method is studied with the simulated boundary data for different inhomogeneity geometries. Simulated results demonstrate that the PEPR technique improves image reconstruction precision in EIDORS and hence it can be successfully implemented to increase the reconstruction accuracy in EIT.
Directional Statistics, I
Authors: Jammalamadaka S. Rao
Published: May 2011

In many natural and physical sciences the measurements are directions—either in two‐ or three‐dimensions. This chapter briefly introduces this novel area of statistics, and provides a good starting point for further exploration. A basic parametric model called the Fisher‐von Mises distribution is introduced and nonparametric methods such as goodness of fit tests are discussed. Further references are given for exploring related topics such as correlation and regression.
Mixing from Fickian diffusion and natural convection in binary non‐equilibrium fluid phases
Authors: Rongy L. , Haugen K. B. , Firoozabadi A.
Published: May 2011

A two‐dimensional (2‐D) model that describes mass transport between non equilibrium gas and liquid phases of a binary non polar mixture in a closed system of fixed volume and temperature is presented. Diffusion, convective mass transport due to compressibility and non ideality, and the motion of the interface upon evaporation and dissolution are accounted. Natural convection in both phases is incorporated, which allows to study the effect of density increase in the liquid phase from gas dissolution. The Peng‐Robinson equation of state is used to calculate the densities and the fugacities needed to find the interfacial composition consistent with local chemical equilibrium. The results obtained with a one‐dimensional model was compared to our 2‐D results, showing that natural convection influences the mixing time drastically. In the liquid bulk phase, convective flux is much higher than diffusive flux. Across the interface, diffusive flux is, however, the dominating flux, which allows accurate measurement of diffusion coefficients at high pressure in 2‐D domains. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2012
Converging evidence implicates the dopamine D3 receptor gene in vulnerability to schizophrenia
Authors: Zhang Fuquan , Fan Hua , Xu Yong , Zhang Kerang , Huang Xuezhu , Zhu Yan , Sui Manqiu , Sun Gaoxiang , Feng Kun , Xu Bo , Zhang Xiaoqian , Su Zhonghua , Peng Chunqing , Liu Pozi
Published: May 2011

The dopamine D3 receptor has been implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia (SZ). A glycine‐to‐serine polymorphism at codon 9 of the dopamine D3 receptor gene (DRD3), rs6280, has been widely studied for its association with SZ, but with conflicting results. Altered levels of DRD3 mRNA have also been reported in SZ compared with normal controls. Moreover, it has been suggested that DRD3 is subject to recent positive selection in European populations. To explore the potential role of DRD3 in SZ from these various aspects, we conducted a threefold study. First, we tested the genetic association of rs6280 with SZ in 685 SZ patients and 768 normal controls. Second, we examined DRD3 mRNA levels in peripheral leukocytes in a subset of 37 patients and 37 controls. Finally, we investigated the possible recent positive selection on DRD3 in an East Asian population. Consequently, we observed that the genotypic distribution of rs6280 was nominally associated with SZ (P = 0.045), with the ancestral CC genotype being significantly over‐represented in SZ patients. DRD3 mRNA levels were significantly lower in patients than in controls (P = 5.91E−5). The derived C‐allele of rs6280 might have been subject to recent positive selection (P < 0.001) in the East Asian population. Taken together, our results suggest that DRD3, a gene possibly under natural selection, might be involved in vulnerability to SZ in the Han Chinese population. These findings may further add to the body of data implicating DRD3 as a schizophrenia risk gene. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expandable graphite‐methyl methacrylate‐acrylic acid copolymer composite particles as a flame retardant of rigid polyurethane foam
Authors: Zhang Xiao‐Guang , Ge Lan‐Lan , Zhang Wei‐Qin , Tang Jian‐Hua , Ye Ling , Li Zhong‐Ming
Published: May 2011

An emulsion polymerization method was employed to prepare pulverized expandable graphite (pEG)‐poly(methyl methacrylate‐acrylic acid) copolymer [(PMA)] composite particles, and then the pEG‐P(MA) particles were used for a flame retardant of the rigid polyurethane foam (RPUF). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy data demonstrated the existence of P(MA) in the pEG‐P(MA) particles, and the result of the thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) indicated that the content of P(MA) was 24.3 wt %. Morphological observation showed that the pEG particles were encapsulated by a layer of polymer coating to form typical core–shell composite particles. Due to the possible reaction between COOH of pEG‐P(MA) andR‐CNO of isocyanate, the compatibility between the composite particles and the RPUF matrix was highly enhanced. In contrast to the pEG, the limiting oxygen index (LOI), the horizontal and vertical burning tests showed the pEG‐P(MA) composite particles could improve the flame retardancy effectively. The improved flame retardancy of the RPUF matrix was attributed to the increased expansion volume ratio of pEG‐P(MA) particles as exposed to fire. The dynamical mechanical analysis (DMA) showed that the incorporation of the core–shell particles could improve the storage modulus and tan δ of the RPUF composites. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Influence of stone particles on the rheological behavior of a novel photopolymerizable siloxane‐modified acrylic resin
Authors: Esposito Corcione C. , Frigione M.
Published: May 2011

A study was made of the effects of calcarenitic stone particles, known as pietra gentile, inclusions on the rheological behavior of photopolymerizable siloxane‐modified acrylic formulations, intended as protective for the calcarenitic stone structures. Different amounts of stone particles (ranging from 15% wt to 35% wt) were added to the modified acrylic mixture to achieve a natural color matching for calcarenitic stone substrates. The presence of stone particles was expected to modify the rheological behavior of the protective formulation. Therefore, the viscosity of the mixtures was studied at ambient temperature as function of the shear rate and the solid volume fraction. A relationship was obtained to predict the modification of viscosity of each formulation as a consequence of inclusions of different amounts of stone. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Imidazole as a Donor/Acceptor Unit in Charge‐Transfer Chromophores with Extended π‐Linkers
Authors: Kulhánek Jiří , Bureš Filip , Pytela Oldřich , Mikysek Tomáš , Ludvík Jiří
Published: May 2011

Eleven new, stable, push–pull systems that feature 4,5‐bis[4‐(N,N‐dimethylamino)phenyl]imidazole and 4,5‐dicyanoimidazole as the donor and acceptor moieties and the systematically extended and varied π‐linker were prepared and investigated. Evaluation of the measured UV/Vis spectra, electrochemical data (cyclic voltammetry (CV), rotating‐disc voltammetry (RDV), and polarography) and calculated β and γ polarizabilities showed efficient charge transfer (CT) in biimidazole‐type chromophores. Push–pull system 27, which features a planar thiophene‐derived π‐linker, was revealed to be the most efficient chromophore within the studied series. This chromophore possessed the most bathochromically shifted CT band, the lowest electrochemical gap, and highest β and γ polarizabilities. The CT transition was most significantly affected by structural features such as π‐linker length, planarity, conjugating arrangement, and the presence of olefinic/acetylenic or 1,4‐phenylene/thiophene subunits in the π‐linker.
Summertime gap winds of the Soya Strait induced by the developed Okhotsk high
Authors: Shimada Teruhisa , Kawamura Hiroshi
Published: May 2011

This study has investigated gap winds to the west of the Soya Strait during the summer months. Low‐level cool air associated with the developed Okhotsk high is dammed on the east sides of Sakhalin and Hokkaido, and enhances sea level pressure (SLP) gradient along the Soya Strait on a regional scale. The Soya Strait works as a conduit for the cool air from the Okhotsk Sea to the Japan Sea, and the outflowing air accelerates because of the along‐strait SLP gradient. The intensity and duration time of the easterly gap winds depend on the activity of the Okhotsk high. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Determination of ipriflavone in human plasma by LC‐MS and its application in a pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Yun Changhong , Ding Li , Leng Ye , Zhu He , Wen Aidong , Yang Lin
Published: May 2011

A sensitive liquid chromatography–mass spectrometric method was developed for the quantification of ipriflavone in human plasma. The method utilized liquid–liquid extraction of plasma with ethyl acetate. A gradient elution was performed on a Hedera ODS‐2 column (150 × 2.1 mm i.d., 5 µm), using a mobile phase consisting of 0.1% formic acid solution and methanol at a flow rate of 0.5 mL/min. The single quadrupole mass spectrometer was operated in selected‐ion monitoring mode via positive electrospray ionization interface detecting m/z 239.1 and 285.1 for ipriflavone and diazepam (the internal standard), respectively. To improve the selectivity and sensitivity, the fragment ion m/z 239.1, which was produced by in‐source collision‐induced dissociation, was chosen as the quantitative ion for ipriflavone. The method was fully validated and applied to a pharmacokinetic study of ipriflavone. After oral administration of a single 200 mg ipriflavone tablet, the Cmax, AUC0–72 h, t1/2 and Tmax were 6.3 ± 6.3 ng/mL, 80.0 ± 69.1 µg h/L, 23.0 ± 8.6 h and 3.4 ± 2.1 h, respectively. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A randomized, controlled study of autologous therapy with bone marrow–derived aldehyde dehydrogenase bright cells in patients with critical limb ischemia
Authors: Perin Emerson C. , Silva Guilherme , Gahremanpour Amir , Canales John , Zheng Yi , Cabreira‐Hansen Maria G. , Mendelsohn Farrell , Chronos Nicolas , Haley Rebecca , Willerson James T. , Annex Brian H.
Published: May 2011

Objectives: The safety and efficacy of direct intramuscular injections of aldehyde dehydrogenase bright (ALDHbr) cells isolated from autologous bone marrow mononuclear cells (ABMMNCs) and ABMMNCs were studied in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI) who were not eligible for percutaneous or surgical revascularization. Background: Many CLI patients are not candidates for current revascularization procedures, and amputation rates are high in these patients. Cell therapy may be a viable option for CLI patients. Methods: Safety was the primary objective and was evaluated by occurrence of adverse events. Efficacy, the secondary objective, was evaluated by assessment of Rutherford category, ankle‐brachial index (ABI), transcutaneous partial pressure of oxygen (TcPO2), quality of life, and pain. Results: ALDHbr cells and ABMMNCs were successfully administered to all patients. No therapy‐related serious adverse events occurred. Patients treated with ALDHbr cells (n = 11) showed significant improvements in Rutherford category from baseline to 12 weeks (mean, 4.09 ± 0.30 to 3.46 ± 1.04; P = 0.05) and in ABI at 6 (mean, 0.22 ± 0.19 to 0.30 ± 0.24; P = 0.02), and 12 weeks (mean, 0.36 ± 0.18; P = 0.03) compared with baseline. Patients in the ABMMNC group (n = 10) showed no significant improvements at 6 or 12 weeks in Rutherford category but did show improvement in ABI from baseline to 12 weeks (0.38 ± 0.06 to 0.52 ± 0.16; P = 0.03). No significant changes from baseline were noted in ischemic ulcer grade or TcPO2 in either group. Conclusions: Administration of autologous ALDHbr cells appears to be safe and warrants further study in patients with CLI. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
How Can Theory Predict the Selectivity of Palladium‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling of Pristine Aromatic Molecules?
Authors: Meir Rinat , Kozuch Sebastian , Uhe Andreas , Shaik Sason
Published: May 2011

The new approach for palladium‐catalyzed cross‐coupling of two non‐activated aromatic compounds (D. R. Stuart, K. Fagnou, Science 2007, 316, 1172) was studied theoretically. The energetic span model (S. Kozuch, S. Shaik, Acc. Chem. Res. 2011, 44, 101, and references therein) was employed to analyze the kinetic behavior of the catalytic cycle. The computed energy profile, combined with the energetic span model, accounts for the experimental selectivity, which favors the hetero‐coupling of benzene with indole. This selectivity is driven by a fine balance of the entropic contributions and the high ratio of concentrations used for benzene over indole. This analysis may allow future theoretical predictions of how different aromatic compounds can be effectively coupled.
Understanding Catalysis of Phosphate‐Transfer Reactions by the Large Ribozymes
Authors: Lönnberg Tuomas
Published: May 2011

Large ribozymes are unique among catalytic RNA molecules in that their reactions involve intermolecular nucleophilic attack on an RNA phosphodiester linkage. Crystal structures of near‐atomic resolution are now available for the group I and group II self‐splicing introns and the RNA subunit of RNase P. The structural data agrees well with the earlier models proposed on the basis of biochemical studies and the evidence at hand suggests that all of the large ribozymes utilize a mechanism in which coordination of MgII ions reduces the negative charge on the scissile phosphodiester linkage, as well as assists both the nucleophilic attack and the departure of the leaving group.
Preparation and Photodynamic Activities of Silicon(IV) Phthalocyanines Substituted with Permethylated β‐Cyclodextrins
Authors: Lau Janet T. F. , Lo Pui‐Chi , Fong Wing‐Ping , Ng Dennis K. P.
Published: May 2011

A series of silicon(IV) phthalocyanines linked to two permethylated β‐cyclodextrin moieties through different spacers at the axial positions have been synthesized and characterized. The effects of these spacers on the photophysical properties and in vitro photodynamic activities have also been examined. Having two bulky hydrophilic substituents, all of these compounds are soluble and essentially nonaggregated in DMF and even in aqueous media. The fluorescence and singlet oxygen quantum yields in DMF are lower for the analogue with the shortest separation between the amino group in the spacer and the phthalocyanine ring. The fluorescence quantum yield of this compound increases in water probably due to protonation of the amino group, which inhibits the reductive quenching process. This series of compounds also exhibit photocytotoxicity toward HT29 human colon adenocarcinoma and HepG2 human hepatocarcinoma cells with IC50 values in the range of 0.04–1.32 μM. The analogue with an α,ω‐aminohydroxypentyl linker shows the highest potency, which can be ascribed to its high cellular uptake and high efficiency in generating intracellular reactive oxygen species. This compound also shows preferential localization in the lysosome, induces cell death mainly through apoptosis, and inhibits the growth of tumor in vivo. The results suggest that it is a promising photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Revised Structure of the Zintl Phase Li7Ge12.
Authors: Kiefer Florian , Faessler Thomas F.
Published: May 2011

The title compound is prepared by arc melting of stoichiometric mixtures of the elements followed by annealing at 480 °C for seven days.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Luminescence Properties of a Novel Red SrMoO4:Sm3+,R+ Phosphor.
Authors: Lin Xiang , Qiao Xvsheng , Fan Xianping
Published: May 2011

New red emitting SrMoO4:Sm3+,M+ (M+: Li+, Na+, K+) phosphors are synthesized by solid state reactions of SrCO3, MoO3, Sm2O3, and M2CO3 (air, 950 °C, 3 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Crystal Structure Peculiarity and Magnetic Behavior of R2Cu4‐xSn5+x (R: Gd, Tb, and Dy) Compounds.
Authors: Romaka V. V. , Gignoux D. , Romaka L. , Skryabina N. , Fruchart D. , Stadnyk Yu.
Published: May 2011

Gd2Cu3Sn6, Tb2Cu3.5Sn5.5, and Dy2Cu3.5Sn5.5 are prepared by arc‐melting of the elements followed by annealing at 670 K for 30 d.
ChemInform Abstract: Salts of the Lewis‐Acidic Dianion [Hg(closo‐1‐CB11F11)2]2‐: Coordination of Acetonitrile and Water.
Authors: Himmelspach Alexander , Zaehres Manfred , Finze Maik
Published: May 2011

The coordination of acetonitrile and water to the Hg atom in [Hg(closo‐1‐CB11F11)2]2‐ reveals the Lewis acidity of the HgII center.
ChemInform Abstract: Novel Doped Tungstovanadate and Molybdovanadate with Bi‐Antimony‐Capped Keggin Structure.
Authors: Han Zhangang , Wu Jingjing , Gao Yuanzhe , Zhai Xueliang
Published: May 2011

The new V‐centered Keggin‐based compounds (IV), (VII), and (IX) capped by Sb atoms are characterized by XRD and electrochemical measurements.
ChemInform Abstract: Organocatalytic Enantioselective Michael Addition of α‐Nitroacetate to α,β‐Unsaturated Enones: A Route to Chiral γ‐Nitro Ketones and δ‐Keto Esters.
Authors: Moon Hyoung Wook , Kim Dae Young
Published: May 2011

Conjugate addition of α‐nitroacetate to α,β‐unsaturated enones, catalyzed by a simple cinchona alkaloid derivative, provides access to synthetically useful γ‐nitro ketones and δ‐keto esters with excellent enantioselectivity.
ChemInform Abstract: The Synthesis of Novel Palladium(II) Carbene Complexes, Azolium Salts and Their Catalytic Properties.
Authors: Yigit Beyhan , Yigit Murat , Oezdemir Ismail , Cetinkaya Engin
Published: May 2011

Three novel imidazolium salts and related Pd(II) carbene complexes are synthesized and evaluated for their activity in Heck and Suzuki cross‐coupling reactions.
ChemInform Abstract: Asymmetric Synthesis of Ethoxydienamines in Superbasic Medium Mediated by Chiral Sulfinyl Group.
Authors: Blangetti Marco , Croce Gianluca , Deagostino Annamaria , Mussano Eleonora , Prandi Cristina , Venturello Paolo
Published: May 2011

It provides a highly enantioselective approach to ethoxydienamines.
ChemInform Abstract: Novel Aerobic Oxidation of Primary Sulfones to Carboxylic Acids.
Authors: Bonaparte Amy C. , Betush Matthew P. , Panseri Bettina M. , Mastarone Daniel J. , Murphy Ryan K. , Murphree S. Shaun
Published: May 2011

With commercially available 13C‐labeled methyl phenyl sulfone, the preparation of useful labeled carboxylic acids is possible.
ChemInform Abstract: Generation of Medium‐Ring Cycloalkynes by Ring Expansion of Vinylogous Acyl Triflates.
Authors: Tummatorn Jumreang , Dudley Gregory B.
Published: May 2011

It provides a new approach to medium‐ring cycloalkynes.
ChemInform Abstract: SNAr Reactions of Nitro‐(pentafluorosulfanyl)benzenes to Generate SF5 Aryl Ethers and Sulfides.
Authors: Beier Petr , Pastyrikova Tereza , Vida Norbert , Iakobson George
Published: May 2011

A 3‐ to 4‐fold excess of the alkali metal alkoxides and thiolates is necessary for a high conversion.
ChemInform Abstract: Radical O→C Transposition: A Metal‐Free Process for Conversion of Phenols into Benzoates and Benzamides.
Authors: Baroudi Abdulkader , Alicea Jeremiah , Flack Phillip , Kirincich Jason , Alabugin Igor V.
Published: May 2011

It provides a new and efficient method to prepare various aromatic carboxylic acid esters and amides.
ChemInform Abstract: Highly Practical Boronic Acid Surrogates for the Suzuki—Miyaura Cross‐Coupling.
Authors: Bonin Helene , Leuma‐Yona Rodrigue , Marchiori Bruno , Demonchaux Patrice , Gras Emmanuel
Published: May 2011

Aryl dioxazaborocanes are useful boronic acid surrogates for the reactions with aryl‐ and hetaryl bromides.
ChemInform Abstract: Palladium‐Catalyzed Carbocyclization of Alkynyl Ketones Proceeding Through a Carbopalladation Pathway.
Authors: Chernyak Natalia , Gorelsky Serge I. , Gevorgyan Vladimir
Published: May 2011

The regio‐ and stereoselective carbocyclization of o‐alkynyl ketones affords a variety of alkylidene indanones as single (E)‐isomers.
ChemInform Abstract: Oxidative Biaryl Coupling of Thiophenes and Thiazoles with Arylboronic Acids Through Palladium Catalysis: Otherwise Difficult C4‐Selective C—H Arylation Enabled by Boronic Acids.
Authors: Kirchberg Sylvia , Tani Satoshi , Ueda Kirika , Yamaguchi Junichiro , Studer Armido , Itami Kenichiro
Published: May 2011

A novel method is presented which can be applied as key step in the synthesis of the potential anti Alzheimer drug (XVI).