bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construction of Three‐Dimensional Uranyl–Organic Frameworks with Benzenetricarboxylate Ligands
Authors: Liao Zuo‐Lei , Li Guo‐Dong , Wei Xiao , Yu Yang , Chen Jie‐Sheng
Published: May 2010

Three new uranyl–organic coordination frameworks (UO2)3(v‐BTC)2(H2O)4 (1), (UO2)6O(OH)(m‐BTC)2(m‐HBTC)2(H2O)2(H3O)·6H2O (2), and (UO2)2O(m‐BTC)[NH2(CH3)2]2·H2O (3), where v‐BTC = 1,2,3‐benzenetricarboxylate and m‐BTC = 1,2,4‐benzenetricarboxylate, have been prepared under hydrothermal conditions. All three compounds possess three‐dimensional (3D) architectures. The adjacent carboxylate groups attached to the aromatic ring in the ligands result in strong steric hindrance, and, therefore, they are forced to orient themselves vertically to the aromatic ring. This conformation contributes to the formation of the 3D structures to a great extent. Among these three compounds, 1 has a dense structure, whereas compounds 2 and 3 possess channels that can accommodate water and/or protonated dimethylamine species. Further investigations reveal a microporous adsorption property of compound 2 and a photovoltaic response of compound 3.
Atropochiral C,X‐ and C,C‐Chelating Carbon Ligands (Eur. J. Inorg. Chem. 16/2010)
Authors: Canac Yves , Chauvin Remi
Published: May 2010

The cover picture shows the molecular structure of an atropochiral C,X‐chelating ligand with the 1,1′‐binaphthyl backbone of BINAP and P,X‐chelating X‐MOP analogues. The primal role of the carbon element in the determination of chemical chirality is symbolized in the background by the diamond crystal mirror and in the forefront by a universal asymmetric carbon atom. The weights symbolize the added value of the natural or eutomeric configuration of such atoms in molecules of biological interest, which can be controlled by atropochiral ligands in enantioselective transition‐metal‐catalyzed processes. Details are presented in the Microreview by Y. Canac and R. Chauvin on p. 2325 ff.
Synthesis of 3′‐BODIPY‐Labeled Active Esters of Nucleotides and a Chemical Primer Extension Assay on Beads
Authors: Gießler Kerstin , Griesser Helmut , Göhringer Daniela , Sabirov Thomas , Richert Clemens
Published: May 2010

A solution‐phase synthesis of active esters of 3′‐fluorophore‐labeled deoxynucleoside 5′‐monophosphates was developed for thymine and cytosine as nucleobases by using two different BODIPY dyes. Starting from the respective 2′‐amino‐2′,3′‐dideoxynucleoside‐5′‐monophosphate, the fluorescent oxyazabenzotriazolides can be prepared in one‐pot procedures involving labeling and activation. Screening of a range of supports led to a chemical primer extension assay on beads with in situ detection of nucleobases in target DNA through optical read‐out.
Novel 2,5‐Disubstituted 1,3‐Dioxanes and Oxazolidines as Potential Chemoprevention Agents and Building Blocks for Organic Synthesis
Authors: Rüger Anne J. , Nieger Martin , Es‐Sayed Mazen , Bräse Stefan
Published: May 2010

2,5‐Disubstituted 1,3‐dioxacycloalkanes have recently been found to be promising lead compounds that possess potent anti‐inflammatory activity and therefore may act as chemoprevention agents. Encouraged by this we have designed and synthesized a new series of 5‐amino‐2‐heteroaryl‐1,3‐dioxanes. Starting from N‐protected 2‐aminopropane‐1,3‐diol and the corresponding aromatic aldehydes, the products were isolated without isomeric inversion at the deprotection step. This is the first broadly applicable synthetic approach to the acetalization of heteroaromatic aldehydes to give 5‐amino‐1,3‐dioxanes. Our route provides a mild access to both isomers of this kind of dioxane, that is, cis and trans products, as well as 4‐(hydroxymethyl)‐2‐heteroaryloxazolidines, which are useful building blocks in organic synthesis.
A Chemoenzymatic Approach to the Stereocontrolled Synthesis of the C1–C11 fragment of (+)‐Peloruside A
Authors: Schönherr Heike , Mollitor Jan , Schneider Christoph
Published: May 2010

A highly efficient and diastereoselective synthesis of the C1–C11 fragment of the marine natural product (+)‐peloruside A has been developed. Through enzymatic desymmetrization of diethyl 3‐hydroxyglutarate with lipase B from Candida antarctica a large‐scale access to enantiomerically highlyenriched starting material was achieved. Subsequent stereogenerating key steps utilized in the synthesis were a Sharpless asymmetric dihydroxylation and a doubly diastereoselective Mukaiyama aldol reaction to set up thestereogenic centers at C2, C3, C5, C7 and C8 with correct absolute configuration.
Chelated Boronate–Imine and Boronate–Amine Complexes as Chiral Dopants for Nematic Liquid Crystals
Authors: Schlecht Sebastian , Frank Walter , Braun Manfred
Published: May 2010

Enantiomerically and diastereomerically pure chelated boronate–imine complexes 5 and a library of boronate–amine complexes 8 have been synthesized by taking advantage of a modular concept based on aromatic aldehydes, aminoethanols and boronic acids. The configuration of the amine complexes 8 featuring stable stereogenic boron and nitrogen centers are assigned based upon crystal structure analyses of the representative compounds 8aaa and 8acj and the comparison of the CD spectra of all complexes 8. They serve as colorless, stable dopants for nematic liquid crystals and provide high helical twisting power. The interaction of boronates 8 with nematic compounds ZLI‐1840 and 5‐CB featuring a benzonitrile moiety is studied by 19F and 1H NMR spectroscopy. A strong π‐stacking between the arylboronate residue and the nematic compound as well as a hydrogen bond are indicated by the spectroscopic data. Based thereupon, a model is proposed that correlates the configuration of the dopant with the sign of the helix formed by twisting the nematic phase.
Predictors of improved eating behaviour following body image therapy: A pilot study
Authors: Legenbauer Tanja , Schütt‐Strömel Sabine , Hiller Wolfgang , Vocks Silja
Published: May 2010

Cognitive processes seem to play a vital role in eating disorders and body image. The current study, therefore, examines the impact and change of dysfunctional cognitions during a body image group therapy, which included 41 patients with an eating disorder. Dysfunctional cognitions were assessed with the ‘Eating Disorder Cognition Questionnaire’ both before and after treatment. Eating disorder psychopathology was also assessed. Results indicate a significant reduction of dysfunctional cognitions relating to ‘body and self‐esteem’, ‘dietary restraint’, ‘eating and loss of control’, as well as ‘internalisation and social comparison’. Furthermore, the changes in dysfunctional cognitions were associated with a reduction in eating disorder psychopathology. Body image therapy is a worthy complementation to standardised eating disorder treatment programmes as it reduces negative eating related thoughts and changes attitudes towards the body. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Detection of Liquid Water in PEM Fuel Cells' Channels: Design and Validation of a Microsensor
Authors: Conteau D. , Bonnet C. , Funfschilling D. , Weber M. , Didierjean S. , Lapicque F.
Published: May 2010

Suitable water management is a critical issue to reach the full potential of PEM fuel cells: whereas the membrane must be hydrated enough, liquid droplets formed by water in excess can block the flow in the gas distribution channels and hinder the fuel cell performance. In order to detect the presence of droplets in cathode flow channel, an electrochemical sensor has been developed and tested in a dedicated emulation cell. It is based on the widely used principle of two‐electrode cells for conductivity measurements; the collected signal is converted to impedance values. The sensor, mounted in a gas flow channel grooved in a graphite plate, reacts to the passage of water droplets, either being injected into the continuous air stream or produced by condensation of humidified air at the graphite plate. The time variation of the electrical impedance could be correlated to the observations allowed by the high‐speed digital camera. Water droplets separated from each other by less than a second can be distinguished by the sensor, which is of a sufficient rapidity.
Preparation and Characterisation of Non‐aqueous Proton‐Conducting Membranes with the Low Content of Ionic Liquids
Authors: Baek J.‐S. , Park J.‐S. , Sekhon S. S. , Yang T.‐H. , Shul Y.‐G. , Choi J.‐H.
Published: May 2010

In this study, we prepared ionic liquid based composite membranes applicable for anhydrous and high temperature polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). It is intended to minimise an increase in ionic conductivity of composite membranes by reducing the content of ionic liquids up to 30 wt% along with the addition of acids having the same anions as the ionic liquids. For this purpose, we prepared the composite membrane by solution recasting with 5 wt% Nafion solution, ionic liquids such as 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium trifluoro‐methanesulphonate (EMITf) and 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (EMIBF4), and acids such as trifluoromethanesulphonic acid (HTf) and tetra‐fluoroboric acid (HBF4). The composite membranes were characterised by using small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS), thermogravimetric analyser (TGA) and impedance spectroscopy. It was observed that the addition of the acids results in an increase in the proton conductivity of the composite membranes by reducing the viscosity of ionic liquids inside the composite membranes and also by providing additional proton ions due to the dissociation of the acids. In addition, the composite membranes exhibited better thermal stability over 300 °C.
Lanthanum Germanate‐Based Apatites as Electrolyte for SOFCs
Authors: Marrero‐López D. , Díaz‐Carrasco P. , Peña‐Martínez J. , Ruiz‐Morales J. C. , Ramos‐Barrado J. R.
Published: May 2010

Germanate apatites with composition La10–xGe5.5Al0.5O26.75–3x/2 have been evaluated for the first time as possible electrolytes for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). Different electrode materials have been considered in this study, i.e. manganite, ferrite, nickelates and cobaltite as cathode materials; and NiO–CGO composite and chromium–manganite as anodes. The chemical compatibility and electrochemical performance of these electrodes with La9.8Ge5.5Al0.5O26.45 have been studied by X‐ray powder diffraction (XRPD) and impedance spectroscopy. The XRPD analysis did not reveal appreciable bulk reactivity with the formation of reaction products between the germanate electrolyte and these electrodes up to 1,200 °C. However, a significant cation interdiffusion was observed by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) at the electrode/electrolyte interface, which leads to a significant decrease of the performance of these electrodes.
N‐Ace: Using solvent accessibility and physicochemical properties to identify protein N‐acetylation sites
Authors: Lee Tzong‐Yi , Hsu Justin Bo‐Kai , Lin Feng‐Mao , Chang Wen‐Chi , Hsu Po‐Chiang , Huang Hsien‐Da
Published: May 2010

Protein acetylation, which is catalyzed by acetyltransferases, is a type of post‐translational modification and crucial to numerous essential biological processes, including transcriptional regulation, apoptosis, and cytokine signaling. As the experimental identification of protein acetylation sites is time consuming and laboratory intensive, several computational approaches have been developed for identifying the candidates of experimental validation. In this work, solvent accessibility and the physicochemical properties of proteins are utilized to identify acetylated alanine, glycine, lysine, methionine, serine, and threonine. A two‐stage support vector machine was applied to learn the computational models with combinations of amino acid sequences, and the accessible surface area and physicochemical properties of proteins. The predictive accuracy thus achieved is 5% to 14% higher than that of models trained using only amino acid sequences. Additionally, the substrate specificity of the acetylated site was investigated in detail with reference to the subcellular colocalization of acetyltransferases and acetylated proteins. The proposed method, N‐Ace, is evaluated using independent test sets in various acetylated residues and predictive accuracies of 90% were achieved, indicating that the performance of N‐Ace is comparable with that of other acetylation prediction methods. N‐Ace not only provides a user‐friendly input/output interface but also is a creative method for predicting protein acetylation sites. This novel analytical resource is now freely available at http://N‐Ace.mbc.NCTU.edu.tw/. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2010
Structure‐based quantitative structure‐activity relationship studies of checkpoint kinase 1 inhibitors
Authors: Du Juan , Xi Lili , Lei Beilei , Lu Jing , Li Jiazhong , Liu Huanxiang , Yao Xiaojun
Published: May 2010

Structure‐based quantitative structure‐activity relationship (QSAR) studies on a series of checkpoint kinase 1 (Chk1) inhibitors were performed to find the key structural features responsible for their inhibitory activity. Molecular docking was employed to explore the binding mode of all inhibitors at the active site of Chk1 and determine the active conformation for the QSAR studies. Ligand and structure‐based descriptors incorporating the ligand‐receptor interaction were generated based on the docked complex. Genetic Algorithm‐Multiple Linear Regression (GA‐MLR) method was used to build 2D QSAR model. The 2D QSAR model gave a squared correlation coefficient R2 of 0.887, cross‐validated Q2 of 0.837 and the prediction squared correlation coefficient R of 0.849, respectively. Furthermore, three‐dimensional quantitative structure‐activity relationship (3D QSAR) model using comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) with R2 of 0.983, Q2 of 0.550 and R of 0.720 was also developed. The obtained results are helpful for the design of novel Chk1 inhibitors with improved activities. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2010
IGFBP‐6 plays a role as an oncosuppressor gene in NPC pathogenesis through regulating EGR‐1 expression
Authors: Kuo Yuan‐Sung , Tang Yueh‐Bih , Lu Tung‐Ying , Wu Han‐Chung , Lin Chin‐Tarng
Published: May 2010

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is prevalent in south‐eastern Asia, particularly southern China, Singapore and Taiwan. The aim of this study was to identify the pivotal genes that may be altered during NPC progression. Using cDNA microarray analysis, we compared the expression of 18 genes between NPC and normal nasomucosal cells. qRT–PCR analysis found the expression of IBFBP‐6 in NPC cell lines and immunolocalization of IGFBP‐6 in NPC to be very weak. To explore the effects of IGFBP‐6 on NPC tumour growth, we constructed inducible plasmids containing full‐length IGFBP‐6 cDNA (pBIG2i‐IGFBP‐6) and established pBIG2i‐IGFBP‐6‐transfected NPC stable cell lines (NPC‐TW01‐pBIG2i‐IGFBP‐6). We then performed functional analysis of the IGFBP‐6 in cell lines in vitro and in vivo. Over‐expression of IGFBP‐6 significantly suppressed the proliferation, invasion and metastatic activity of NPC cells and increased their apoptosis. We found the EGR‐1, caspase‐1 and TSP‐1 genes to be markedly up‐regulated when NPC‐pBIG2i‐IGFBP‐6 was treated with doxycycline. Knocking down EGR‐1 with EGR‐1 siRNA resulted in a decrease in expression of caspase‐1, TSP‐1 and EGR‐1 but not the expression of IGFBP‐6. However, in knockdown cells the unchanged expression of IGFBP‐6 did not inhibit the migration of NPC cells. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assay experiments showed that IGFBP‐6 bound the EGR‐1 promoter regions and activated EGR‐1 promoter. We conclude that IGFBP‐6 can regulate the progression of NPC by regulating the expression of EGR‐1. These results suggest that IGFBP‐6 could be used as a new target in NPC therapy. Copyright © 2010 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of gate dielectric thickness on the electrical properties of AlGaN/GaN MISHFETs on Si(111) substrate
Authors: Eickelkamp Martin , Fahle Dirk , Lindner Johannes , Heuken Michael , Lautensack Christian , Kalisch Holger , Jansen Rolf H. , Vescan Andrei
Published: May 2010

We report on the fabrication and characterization of AlGaN/GaN metal–insulator–semiconductor heterostructure field effect transistors (MISHFETs) using HfO2 and Al2O3 as gate dielectric, deposited by atomic layer deposition (ALD). Improved device performance has been observed for all MISHFET devices as compared to the reference HFET. The additional dielectric layer underneath the gate metallization leads to a significant decrease of gate leakage currents and thus prevents device degradation and losses. Furthermore, the 2DEG sheet carrier concentration increases depending on the k‐value of the oxide as well as the oxide thickness. The thin (3–9 nm) dielectric layer is serving simultaneously as surface passivation, mitigating dc‐to‐rf dispersion. However, less has been reported about the impact of gate insulator thickness on the electrical performance, in particular in terms of dc‐to‐rf dispersion. In this paper, full recovery of dc drain current is demonstrated with a MISHFET with 9 nm Al2O3 oxide thickness.
Integrated fluorescence sensor based on ring‐shaped organic photodiodes
Authors: Lamprecht Bernhard , Abel Tobias , Kraker Elke , Haase Anja , Konrad Christian , Tscherner Martin , Köstler Stefan , Ditlbacher Harald , Mayr Torsten
Published: May 2010

We demonstrate a novel sensor type, which is based on the monolithic integration of luminescent optical sensor spots together with ring‐shaped thin‐film organic photodiodes on one substrate. The organic photodiodes serve as integrated fluorescence detectors, simplifying the detection system by minimizing the number of required optical components. The proposed concept enables filter‐less discrimination between excitation light and generated fluorescence light. The functionality of the concept is demonstrated by an integrated oxygen sensor, exhibiting excellent performance. The sensor spots are excited by an assembled organic light emitting diode. The integrated optical sensor platform is suitable for the parallel detection of multiple parameters. Sensor schemes for the analytical parameters carbon dioxide, temperature and ammonia, are proposed.

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(© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Trial design issues and treatment effect modeling in multi‐regional schizophrenia trials
Authors: Chen Yeh‐Fong , Wang Sue‐Jane , Khin Ni A. , Hung H. M. James , Laughren Thomas P.
Published: May 2010

In recent years, we have seen an increasing trend of foreign data as part of clinical trial data submitted in new drug applications (NDA) to US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To understand the design and analysis characteristics, we studied schizophrenia multi‐regional clinical trials (MRCTs). The schizophrenia data set consisted of a total of 12 585 patients collected from 33 clinical trials with 63.8% patients from North America, the largest region. The data set constituted 10 schizophrenia drug programs in support of NDAs submitted to FDA from December 1993 to December 2005.

Two main objectives were pursued. First, we investigated some study design issues including potential heterogeneity of treatment effect via meta analysis and placebo response pattern over time. Second, we performed empirical modeling in two ways, supervised and unsupervised, to explain potential impact of baseline covariates on treatment effect in MRCTs.

Based on our analysis results, placebo response appeared to increase over time and primarily attributed to US region. On average, the observed treatment effect in the US was generally smaller than non‐US region. Both supervised and unsupervised empirical modeling selected baseline Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale total score as one of the most important covariates explaining a treatment effect. Region also played a role in explaining potential treatment effect heterogeneity. When baseline body weight was considered as a covariate in an empiric model, our results indicated that it alone did not seem to be an important factor in explaining regional difference. Published in 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Safety in Surgery: Is Selection the Missing Link?
Authors: Paice Alistair G. , Aggarwal Rajesh , Darzi Ara
Published: May 2010

Health care providers comprise an example of a “high risk organization.” Safety failings within these organizations have the potential to cause significant public harm. Significant safety improvements in other high risk organizations such as the aviation industry have led to the concept of a high reliability organization (HRO)—a high risk organization that has enjoyed a prolonged safety record. A strong organizational culture is common to all successful HROs, encompassing powerful systems of selection and training. Aircrew selection processes provide a good example of this and are examined in detail in this article using the Royal Air Force process as an example. If the lessons of successful HROs are to be applied to health care organizations, candidate selection to specialties such as surgery must become more objective and robust. Other HROs can provide valuable lessons in how this may be approached.
Les urgences urologiques au centre hospitalier national de Nouakchott : aspects épidémiologiques, cliniques et thérapeutiques
Authors: Tfeil Y. Ould , Elmoctar C.A. Ould , Ca M.O. , Jdoud C. Ould
Published: May 2010

But

Présenter les aspects épidémiologiques, cliniques et thérapeutiques des urgences urologiques en milieu africain.

Matériel et methods

Nous avons réalisé une étude rétrospective sur une période de cinq ans colligeant toutes les urgences urologiques reçues par l’équipe de garde au service d’urologie du centre hospitalier national de Nouakchott.

Résultats

Nous avons enregistré 1 200 patients. L’âge moyen de nos patients était de 58,8 ans (un mois à 94 ans). Ces patients avaient un âge supérieur ou égal à 60 ans dans 50,7 % des cas. Le rapport selon le sexe (M/F) était de 20,32. Les affections les plus fréquentes étaient la rétention aiguë d’urine (53 %) et les infections urogénitales qui représentaient dans leur ensemble 16,8 % des cas. Les gangrènes des organes génitaux externes représentaient 4,3 % des urgences et le priapisme 1,8 %. En urgence, 300 interventions chirurgicales ont été effectuées. Les principaux gestes réalisés étaient la pose d’un cystocathétérismesus-pubien(59,7 %) et le débridement d’une gangrène des organes génitaux externes + cystostomie de dérivation (16 %).

Conclusions

L’urgence urologique la plus fréquente dans notre pays était la rétention aiguë d’urine. Certaines pathologies graves, comme la gangrène des organes génitaux externes et le priapisme, n’y sont pas rares.
An empirical comparative evaluation of requirements engineering methods
Authors: España Sergio , Condori-Fernandez Nelly , González Arturo , Pastor Óscar
Published: May 2010

Requirements Engineering (RE) is a relatively young discipline, and still many advances have been achieved during the last decades. In particular, numerous RE approaches are proposed in the literature with the aim of understanding a certain problem (e.g. information systems development) and establishing a knowledge base that is shared between domain experts and developers (i.e. a requirements specification). However, there is a growing concern for empirical validations that assess RE proposals and statements. This paper is related to the assessment of the quality of functional requirements specifications, using the Method Evaluation Model (MEM) as a theoretical framework. The MEM distinguishes the actual efficacy and the perceived efficacy of a method. In order to assess the actual efficacy or RE methods, the conceptual model quality framework by Lindland et al. can be applied; in this paper, we focus on the completeness and granularity of requirements models and extend this framework by defining four new metrics (e.g. degree of functional encapsulations completeness with respect to a reference model, number of functional fragmentation errors). In order to assess the perceived efficacy, conventional questionnaires can be used. A laboratory experiment with master students has been carried out, in order to compare (using the proposed metrics) two RE methods; namely, Use Cases and Communication Analysis. With respect to actual efficacy, results indicate greater model quality (in terms of completeness and granularity) when Communication Analysis guidelines are followed. With respect to perceived efficacy, we found that Use Cases was perceived to be slightly easier to use than Communication Analysis. However, Communication Analysis was perceived to be more useful in terms of determining the proper business processes granularity. The paper discusses these results and highlights some key issues for future research in this area.
On the benefits of quantification in AspectJ systems
Authors: Valente Marco Tulio , Couto Cesar , Faria Jaqueline , Soares Sérgio
Published: May 2010

In this paper, we argue that the most favorable uses of aspects happen when their code relies extensively on quantified statements, i.e., statements that may affect many parts of a system. When this happens, aspects better contribute to separation of concerns, since the otherwise duplicated and tangled code related to the implementation of a crosscutting concern is confined in a single block of code. We provide in the paper both qualitative and quantitative arguments in favor of quantification. We also propose two new metrics to capture in a simple way the amount of quantification employed in the aspects of a given system. Finally, we describe an Eclipse plugin, called ConcernMetrics that estimates the proposed metrics directly from the object-oriented code of an existing system, i.e., before crosscutting concerns are extracted to aspects. Our main motivation is to help developers and maintainers to decide in a cost-effective way if it is worthwhile to use aspects in their systems.
Prevalence of newly diagnosed endometriosis in women attending the general practitioner
Authors: Ferrero Simone , Arena Elisa , Morando Amatore , Remorgida Valentino
Published: May 2010

Objective

To investigate the prevalence of newly diagnosed endometriosis in premenopausal women who requested a consultation with their general practitioner because of non‐gynecological problems.

Method

Participants in the study were invited to complete a questionnaire investigating the presence of pain symptoms and infertility. On the basis of the characteristics of these symptoms, some patients underwent gynecological examination and transvaginal ultrasound. Radiological examinations were performed when bowel or bladder endometriosis were suspected.

Results

A total of 1291 women without a previous diagnosis of endometriosis were included in the study. On the basis of the symptoms, 108 women were referred to a gynecologist. After gynecological examination and transvaginal ultrasound, endometriosis was suspected in 51 women (47.2%). The diagnosis of endometriosis was confirmed by radiological investigations and/or surgery in 46 patients; the diagnosis of endometriosis was presumed in 2 other women but it was not confirmed by radiological investigations and/or surgery. The prevalence of endometriosis diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging and/or surgery was 3.6% (46/1291).

Conclusion

The prevalence of newly diagnosed symptomatic endometriosis in this study was at least 3.6%. A simple evaluation of symptoms (pain and infertility) that can be performed by a general practitioner facilitates the diagnosis of endometriosis.
“A Good Work for Our Race To-Day”: Interests, Virtues, and the Achievement of Justice in Frederick Douglass's Freedmen's Monument Speech
Authors: MYERS PETER C.
Published: May 2010

Frederick Douglass's Freedmen's Monument speech of 1876 is notable for its complexity, and commentators have offered widely varying readings. Critics have judged it an abdication of racial responsibility, indicative of an unwarranted optimism characteristic of Douglass's larger argument on racial reform. In this article, I explicate this speech, highlighting the complex rhetorical design in which Douglass forges a memory of Lincoln as a medium for issuing carefully targeted appeals to the interests and virtues of black and white Americans. In its hitherto underappreciated theoretical dimension, the speech epitomizes a theory of racial progress that challenges recent, pessimistic readings of America's racial history and prospects.
Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T gene mutation as risk factor for sudden sensorineural hearing loss: association with plasma homocysteine, folate and cholesterol concentrations
Authors: Lee E J , Cho Y J , Yoon Y J
Published: May 2010

Objective:

Impaired cochlear perfusion appears to be the most important event in the development of sudden sensorineural hearing loss. Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene mutations at nucleotide 677 cause reduced methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase enzyme activity, resulting in vascular impairment.

Methods:

Thirty-three patients and 68 control subjects underwent audiological and haematological investigation.

Results:

No statistically significant association was found between sudden sensorineural hearing loss and the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T gene mutation. Mean homocysteine and cholesterol concentrations were significantly higher in patients than in controls. Mean folate levels were significantly lower in patients than in controls. Amongst patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss, no significant differences in mean cholesterol, homocysteine or folate concentration were found, comparing patients with methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T mutation genotypes with those without.

Conclusion:

No statistically significant association was found between the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T gene mutation and sudden sensorineural hearing loss. There was a statistically significant difference between the homocysteine, folate and cholesterol concentrations of sudden sensorineural hearing loss patients, compared with controls. However, there was no statistically significant difference in these levels, comparing patients with and without the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T mutation.
Dysphonia secondary to traumatic avulsion of the vocal fold in infants
Authors: Bray D , Cavalli L , Eze N , Mills N , Hartley B E J
Published: May 2010

Objective:

Airway compromise due to paediatric intubation injuries is well documented; however, intubation injuries may also cause severe voice disorders. We report our experience and review the world literature on the voice effects of traumatic paediatric intubation.

Case series:

We report five cases of children referred to Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children who suffered traumatic avulsion of the vocal fold at the time of, or secondary to, endotracheal intubation. All children had significant dysphonia and underwent specialist voice therapy.

Conclusions:

The mechanisms of injury, risk factors and management of the condition are discussed. Children suffering traumatic intubation require follow up throughout childhood and beyond puberty as their vocal needs and abilities change. At the time of writing, none of the reported patients had yet undergone reconstructive or medialisation surgery. However, regular specialist voice therapy evaluation is recommended for such patients, with consideration of phonosurgical techniques including injection laryngoplasty or thyroplasty.
The impact of domestic travel on estimating regional rates of human campylobacteriosis
Authors: ZINSZER K. , MICHEL P. , HARĐARDÓTTIR H. , KRISTINSSON K. G. , SIGMUNDSDÓTTIR G. , ST-ONGE L. , REIERSEN J. , CHARLAND K. , LOWMAN R. ,   the ‘Campy on Ice’ Consortium
Published: May 2010

Residential locations of cases are often used as proxy measures for the likely place of exposure and this assumption may result in biases affecting both surveillance and epidemiological studies. This study aimed to describe the importance of domestic travel in cases of human campylobacteriosis reported during routine surveillance in Iceland from 2001 to 2005. Various measures of disease frequency were calculated based upon the cases' region of residence, adjusting location of domestic travel cases to their travel region, as well as separate estimations for travellers and non-travellers. Of the 376 cases included in the analysis, 37% had travelled domestically during their incubation period. Five of the eight regions were identified as high-risk when considering domestic travel whereas there were no high-risk regions when considering only region of residence. The change in regional representation of disease occurrence indicates the importance of collecting domestic travel information in ongoing surveillance activities.
Burden of acute gastrointestinal illness in the Metropolitan region, Chile, 2008
Authors: THOMAS M. K. , PEREZ E. , MAJOWICZ S. E. , REID-SMITH R. , OLEA A. , DIAZ J. , SOLARI V. , McEWEN S. A.
Published: May 2010

The purpose of this study was to determine the magnitude and distribution of acute gastrointestinal illness (GI) in the Chilean population, describe its burden and presentation, identify risk factors associated with GI and assess the differences between a 7-day, 15-day and a 30-day recall period in the population-based burden of illness study design. Face-to-face surveys were conducted on 6047 randomly selected residents in the Metropolitan region, Chile (average response rate 75·8%) in 2008. The age-adjusted monthly prevalence of GI was 9·2%. The 7-day recall period provided annual incidence rate estimates about 2·2 times those of the 30-day recall period. Age, occupation, healthcare system, sewer system, antibiotic use and cat ownership were all found to be significant predictors for being a case. This study expands on the discussion of recall bias in retrospective population studies and reports the first population-based burden and distribution of GI estimates in Chile.
Environmental controls over soil‐atmosphere exchange of N2O, NO, and CO2 in a temperate Norway spruce forest
Authors: Wu Xing , Brüggemann Nicolas , Gasche Rainer , Shen Zhenyao , Wolf Benjamin , Butterbach‐Bahl Klaus
Published: May 2010

Trace gas exchange of N2O, NO, and CO2 between soil and the atmosphere was measured with high temporal resolution for 5 years (2004–2008) at the Höglwald Forest, Germany, using a fully automated measuring system. On the basis of these long‐term continuous measurements, we calculated the annual budgets of soil‐atmosphere trace gas exchange with high accuracy and demonstrated substantial seasonal and interannual variations. The mean annual soil‐atmosphere exchange of N2O, NO, and CO2 at our site for the years 2004–2008 was 1.20 ± 0.09 kg N2O‐N ha−1 yr−1, 8.64 ± 0.19 kg NO‐N ha−1 yr−1, and 7.15 ± 0.08 t CO2‐C ha−1 yr−1, respectively. Seasonal patterns of soil N2O fluxes were characterized by event emissions, generally occurring during thawing after longer freezing periods. In contrast to N2O emissions, the seasonal patterns of NO and CO2 soil‐atmosphere exchange followed soil temperature changes, although a substantial increase in CO2 emissions was also observed during the freeze and thaw periods. The fact that NO fluxes were higher than N2O emissions during most of the entire observation period indicated that nitrification might have been the primary pathway of N‐trace gas production in our study. The extremely high N2O emissions and the substantial interannual variation of N2O flux rates caused by the freeze and thaw effect demonstrate the need for long‐term measurements with high temporal resolution in order to come up with more reliable estimates of soil‐atmosphere trace fluxes.
Modeling of multiple effects of atmospheric tides on the ionosphere: An examination of possible coupling mechanisms responsible for the longitudinal structure of the equatorial ionosphere
Authors: England S. L. , Immel T. J. , Huba J. D. , Hagan M. E. , Maute A. , DeMajistre R.
Published: May 2010

A number of recent studies have highlighted the observational evidence for a coupling between atmospheric tides in the thermosphere and the electron density structure of the ionosphere. The most commonly proposed mechanism to explain this is an electrodynamic coupling between tides at E region altitudes and ion drifts at F region altitudes. However, based on both the observational evidence from recent satellite missions such as those of the neutral winds associated with nonmigrating tides at F region altitudes, and considering the theoretical effects of atmospheric tides on the thermosphere and ionosphere, more than one coupling mechanism must be considered. We use Sami2 is Another Model of the Ionosphere to test a set of electrodynamic and chemical‐dynamical coupling mechanisms that could explain the link between tides in the thermosphere and the low‐latitude ionosphere. We investigate the possible role of the vertical drifts during the both the day and around sunset, perturbations to the thermospheric neutral density and thermospheric [O]/[N2], and tidal winds at F region altitudes. These simulations give an estimate of the sensitivity of the nighttime ionosphere to each of these coupling mechanisms. We then compare the results of these sensitivity tests with the effects of atmospheric tides on different thermospheric parameters as simulated by a self‐consistent model of the atmosphere‐ionosphere‐electrodynamic system (thermosphere‐ionosphere‐mesosphere‐electrodynamics general circulation model). This comparison shows that in addition to the E region dynamo modulation, the potential coupling between tides and the ionosphere via changes in thermospheric [O]/[N2], meridional winds at F region altitudes, and modification of the vertical drifts around sunset could play an important role and all require further study, both with models and new observations.
Melting behavior of Fe‐O‐S at high pressure: A discussion on the melting depression induced by O and S
Authors: Huang Haijun , Hu Xiaojun , Jing Fuqian , Cai Lingcang , Shen Qiang , Gong ZiZheng , Liu Hong
Published: May 2010

Shock compressed to pressures from 106 GPa to 232 GPa, the sound velocities were determined in Fe‐O‐S (90/8/2 in wt. %), regarded as the candidate compositions of the Earth's outer core. A discontinuity in sound velocity versus pressure relation was observed, which indicated that the shocked sample is initially melted at 149 GPa and completely melted at 167 GPa. On the basis of an energy conservation formulation, the calculated equilibrium melting temperature is about 3880 ± 500 K at 167 GPa. Taking this point as a reference, a high‐pressure melting curve can be inferred through Lindemann Law, which is again confirmed by the release melting temperatures of 3020 ± 500 K and 3200 ± 500 K measured at 90 GPa and 106 GPa, respectively. When extrapolating this melting curve to inner core‐outer core boundary (330 GPa), the melting temperature of this Fe‐O‐S composition is about 5400 ± 500K. Compared with the melting temperature 6000 K for pure iron at 330 GPa, the corresponding melting temperature depression is about 600 K due to the effect of O and S.
Fluid history related to the early Eocene‐middle Miocene convergent system of the Northern Apennines (Italy): Constraints from structural and isotopic studies
Authors: Vannucchi Paola , Remitti Francesca , Bettelli Giuseppe , Boschi Chiara , Dallai Luigi
Published: May 2010

The late Eocene‐middle Miocene erosive plate boundary between the European and the Adriatic plates is exhumed in the Northern Apennines of Italy. The fossil fault zone is 500 m thick and the outcropping portion exposes the first 5 km of its depth. At this plate boundary basal and frontal tectonic erosion incorporated unlithified, fluid‐rich sediments into the fault zone. The deformation and nature of the material along the plate boundary define a fossil subduction channel. Here we couple a detailed structural analysis of the Apennine subduction channel, focusing, in particular, on calcite veins, with a stable isotope analysis to characterize the fluid regime along an active subduction channel. The 13C and 18O composition of calcite vein and host rock samples within the fault zone indicates that there is a deep metamorphic source of fluids migrating upward along the subduction channel, in addition to locally derived fluid components. Dewatering of subducting turbidites contributes significantly only in the shallowest part of the channel. Structural observations indicate fluid flow along and across the subduction channel. At deep levels fluid flow is associated with discrete deformation events on shear faults offset by dilational jogs filled with implosion breccias. At intermediate levels deformation is still cyclic and associated with repeated crack‐and‐seal events. At the shallowest levels deformation occurred, while portions of the subducting material were still unlithified. Here the deformation was quasicontinuous, without associated vein development. Both isotope and structural analyses indicate that this erosive subduction channel behaved as a weak fault with a vertical maximum principal stress.
Daily estimates of aerosol optical thickness over land surface based on a directional and temporal analysis of SEVIRI MSG visible observations
Authors: Carrer Dominique , Roujean Jean‐Louis , Hautecoeur Olivier , Elias Thierry
Published: May 2010

This paper presents an innovative method for obtaining a daily estimate of a quality‐controlled aerosol optical thickness (AOT) of a vertical column of the atmosphere over the continents. Because properties of land surface are more stationary than the atmosphere, the temporal dimension is exploited for simultaneous retrieval of the surface and aerosol bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF) coming from a kernel‐driven reflectance model. Off‐zenith geometry of illumination enhances the forward scattering peak of the aerosol, which improves the retrieval of AOT from the aerosol BRDF. The solution is obtained through an unconstrained linear inversion procedure and perpetuated in time using a Kalman filter. On the basis of numerical experiments using the 6S atmospheric code, the validity of the BRDF model is demonstrated. The application is carried out with data from the Spinning Enhanced Visible and Infra Red Imager (SEVIRI) instrument on board the geostationary Meteosat Second Generation (MSG) satellite from June 2005 to August 2007 for midlatitude regions and from March 2006 to June 2006 over desert sites. The satellite‐derived SEVIRI AOT compares favorably with Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) measurements for a number of contrasted stations and also similar Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) products, within 20% of relative accuracy. The method appears competitive for tracking anthropogenic aerosol emissions in the troposphere and shows a potential for the challenging estimate of dust events over bright targets. Moreover, a high‐frequency distribution of AOT provides hints as to the variability of pollutants according to town density and, potentially, motor vehicle traffic. The outcomes of the present study are expected to promote a monitoring of the global distributions of natural and anthropogenic sources and sinks of aerosol, which are receiving increased attention because of their climatic implications.
Munc18 and Munc13 regulate early neurite outgrowth
Authors: Broeke Jurjen H.P. , Roelandse Martijn , Luteijn Maartje J. , Boiko Tatiana , Matus Andrew , Toonen Ruud F. , Verhage Matthijs
Published: May 2010

Background information. During development, growth cones of outgrowing neurons express proteins involved in vesicular secretion, such as SNARE (soluble N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive fusion protein‐attachment protein receptor) proteins, Munc13 and Munc18. Vesicles are known to fuse in growth cones prior to synapse formation, which may contribute to outgrowth.

Results. We tested this possibility in dissociated cell cultures and organotypic slice cultures of two release‐deficient mice (Munc18‐1 null and Munc13‐1/2 double null). Both types of release‐deficient neurons have a decreased outgrowth speed and therefore have a smaller total neurite length during early development [DIV1–4 (day in vitro 1–4)]. In addition, more filopodia per growth cone were observed in Munc18‐1 null, but not WT (wild‐type) or Munc13‐1/2 double null neurons. The smaller total neurite length during early development was no longer observed after synaptogenesis (DIV14–23).

Conclusion. These data suggest that the inability of vesicle fusion in the growth cone affects outgrowth during the initial phases when outgrowth speed is high, but not during/after synaptogenesis. Overall, the outgrowth speed is probably not rate‐limiting during neuronal network formation, at least in vitro. In addition, Munc18, but not Munc13, regulates growth cone filopodia, potentially via its previously observed effect on filamentous actin.
Nuclear envelope proteins and their role in nuclear positioning and replication
Authors: Graumann Katja , Runions John , Evans David E.
Published: May 2010

Controlled movement of the nucleus is important in a wide variety of plant cellular events. Positioning involving intact nuclei occurs in cell division, development, tip growing systems such as the root hair and in response to stimuli, including light, touch and infection. Positioning is also essential in the division and replication of nuclear components, ranging from chromosome attachment to the breakdown and reformation of the nuclear envelope. Although description and understanding of the processes involved have advanced rapidly in recent years, significant gaps remain in our knowledge, especially concerning nuclear proteins involved in anchoring and interacting with cytoskeletal and nucleoskeletal elements involved in movement. In the present review, processes involving the movement and positioning of nuclei and nuclear components are described together with novel proteins implicated in nucleoskeletal and cytoskeletal interactions.
Networking in the endoplasmic reticulum
Authors: Griffing Lawrence R.
Published: May 2010

The network of the ER (endoplasmic reticulum) is set up by cytoskeletal control of the movement and remodelling of polygonal rings of tubules, bundles of tubules and cisternal regions. We have developed a new image analysis tool, persistency mapping, to understand the framework upon which the plant ER remodels. With this new tool, we have explored the network nodes, called anchor/growth sites, that may anchor the network by attachment to the plasma membrane. We have determined how the polygonal ring structure depends on myosin XI-K for ‘opening’ and ‘closing’. With latrunculin B treatment, we have investigated the involvement of actin in the elongation and persistency of the tubules. We also show how the cytoskeleton is involved in directional diffusion within the membrane. This observation may lead to an answer to the question of what function this network structure serves in the cell. We propose that the ER acts as a trafficking network, delivering lipid, protein, calcium and signalling molecules to different regions of the cell. It does so by directional reduced dimensional diffusion. The ER network of tubules restricts the dimensionality of diffusion to near one-dimensional, whereas the cisternae reduce it to near two-dimensional. The cytoskeleton does not drive the diffusion, but participates by providing directionality to the diffusion.
Trafficking of the cellulose synthase complex in developing xylem vessels
Authors: Wightman Raymond , Turner Simon
Published: May 2010

The potential for using cellulosic biomass as a source of fuel has renewed interest into how the large cellulose synthase complex deposits cellulose within the woody secondary walls of plants. This complex sits within the plasma membrane where it synthesizes numerous glucan chains which bond together to form the strong cellulose microfibril. The maintenance and guidance of the complex at the plasma membrane and its delivery to sites of secondary wall formation require the involvement of the cytoskeleton. In the present paper, we discuss the dynamics of the complex at the cell cortex and what is known about its assembly and trafficking.