bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
d- and f- Block Chemistry
Authors: Jones Chris J
Published: March 2007

With an emphasis on co-ordination compounds, d- and f-Block Chemistry aims to provide an introduction to the principles underlying the chemistry of the d- and f-block metals. It briefly describes the origins, uses and importance of these elements before considering the factors underlying their chemical properties. The book describes aspects of structure, bonding, chemical thermodynamics and spectroscopy, which underpin studies of the chemistry of these elements. Examples are drawn from different parts of the d- or f-blocks to illustrate particular points and study questions allow students to practice the application of the principles they have learned. The text assumes a basic knowledge of symmetry, atomic structure, thermodynamics and electrode potentials. A familiarity with the qualitative use of the molecular orbital approach to bonding is also assumed, although an understanding of group theory is not essential. The material is aimed at first and second year undergraduates, with a view to providing a basis for more advanced studies of the reactions, electronic structures, spectra and magnetism of transition metal complexes. Additional material is available on the website at www.rsc.org/tct Ideal for the needs of undergraduate chemistry students, Tutorial Chemistry Texts is a major series consisting of short, single topic or modular texts concentrating on the fundamental areas of chemistry taught in undergraduate science courses. Each book provides a concise account of the basic principles underlying a given subject, embodying an independent-learning philosophy and including worked examples.
Inorganic Electrochemistry
Authors: Zanello Piero , Connelly Neil G
Published: March 2007

Electrochemistry can be an elegant and essential support to synthetic inorganic chemistry. However, it is often perceived as a difficult technique. This book aims to introduce inorganic chemists to electrochemical investigations in as straightforward a way as possible. First, the reader is introduced to the theory of electron transfer processes, how they can be studied by various electrochemical techniques, and the practical procedures required. The book then goes on to look extensively, and with numerous illustrations, at the application of the techniques in the multiple fields of inorganic chemistry (including organometallics, coordination compounds, bioinorganics/biomimetics and materials science). Topics covered include: metallocenes; organometallic and coordination complexes; metal complexes of redox active ligands; metal-carbonyl clusters; superconductors; molecular wires; and proteins. Throughout, special attention is paid to the structural effects accompanying the electron transfer processes. This unique book bridges the gap between undergraduate and research-level electrochemistry books, and will be welcomed as an introduction to electrochemical applications within inorganic chemistry.
Spectroscopic Properties of Inorganic and Organometallic Compounds
Authors: Carpenter John H , Clark Stephen J , Dillon Keith B , Donaldson John D , Grimes Susan M , Mann Brian E , Rankin David W H , Robertson Heather E
Published: March 2007

Spectroscopic Properties of Inorganic and Organometallic Compounds provides a unique source of information on an important area of chemistry. Divided into sections mainly according to the particular spectroscopic technique used, coverage in each volume includes: NMR (with reference to stereochemistry, dynamic systems, paramagnetic complexes, solid state NMR and Groups 13-18); nuclear quadrupole resonance spectroscopy; vibrational spectroscopy of main group and transition element compounds and coordinated ligands; and electron diffraction. Reflecting the growing volume of published work in this field, researchers will find this Specialist Periodical Report an invaluable source of information on current methods and applications. Specialist Periodical Reports provide systematic and detailed review coverage in major areas of chemical research. Compiled by teams of leading experts in their specialist fields, this series is designed to help the chemistry community keep current with the latest developments in their field. Each volume in the series is published either annually or biennially and is a superb reference point for researchers. www.rsc.org/spr
Organophosphorus Chemistry
Authors: Hall C Dennis , Bricklebank Neil , Van De Grampel J C , Migaud M , Loakes David , Skowronska Aleksandra , Bodalski Richard
Published: March 2007

Organophosphorus Chemistry provides a comprehensive annual review of the literature. Coverage includes phosphines and their chalcogenides, phosphonium salts, low coordination number phosphorus compounds, penta- and hexa-coordinated compounds, tervalent phosphorus acids, nucleotides and nucleic acids, ylides and related compounds, and phosphazenes. The series will be of value to research workers in universities, government and industrial research organisations, whose work involves the use of organophosphorus compounds. It provides a concise but comprehensive survey of a vast field of study with a wide variety of applications, enabling the reader to rapidly keep abreast of the latest developments in their specialist areas. Specialist Periodical Reports provide systematic and detailed review coverage of progress in the major areas of chemical research. Written by experts in their specialist fields the series creates a unique service for the active research chemist, supplying regular critical in-depth accounts of progress in particular areas of chemistry. For over 80 years the Royal Society of Chemistry and its predecessor, the Chemical Society, have been publishing reports charting developments in chemistry, which originally took the form of Annual Reports. However, by 1967 the whole spectrum of chemistry could no longer be contained within one volume and the series Specialist Periodical Reports was born. The Annual Reports themselves still existed but were divided into two, and subsequently three, volumes covering Inorganic, Organic and Physical Chemistry. For more general coverage of the highlights in chemistry they remain a 'must'. Since that time the SPR series has altered according to the fluctuating degree of activity in various fields of chemistry. Some titles have remained unchanged, while others have altered their emphasis along with their titles; some have been combined under a new name whereas others have had to be discontinued. The current list of Specialist Periodical Reports can be seen on the inside flap of this volume.
Pathway of biogenesis of apolipoprotein E-containing HDL in vivo with the participation of ABCA1 and LCAT
Authors: Kypreos Kyriakos E. , Zannis Vassilis I.
Published: March 2007

We have investigated the ability of apoE (apolipoprotein E) to participate in the biogenesis of HDL (high-density lipoprotein) particles in vivo using adenovirus-mediated gene transfer in apoA-I−/− (apolipoprotein A-I) or ABCA1−/− (ATP-binding cassette A1) mice. Infection of apoA-I−/− mice with 2×109 pfu (plaque-forming units) of an apoE4-expressing adenovirus increased both HDL and the triacylglycerol-rich VLDL (very-low-density lipoprotein)/IDL (intermediate-density lipoprotein)/LDL (low-density lipoprotein) fraction and generated discoidal HDL particles. ABCA1−/− mice treated similarly failed to form HDL particles, suggesting that ABCA1 is essential for the generation of apoE-containing HDL. Combined infection of apoA-I−/− mice with a mixture of adenoviruses expressing both apoE4 (2×109 pfu) and human LCAT (lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase) (5×108 pfu) cleared the triacylglycerol-rich lipoproteins, increased HDL and converted the discoidal HDL into spherical HDL. Similarly, co-infection of apoE−/− mice with apoE4 and human LCAT corrected the hypercholesterolaemia and generated spherical particles, suggesting that LCAT is essential for the maturation of apoE-containing HDL. Overall, the findings indicate that apoE has a dual functionality. In addition to its documented functions in the clearance of triacylglycerol-rich lipoproteins, it participates in the biogenesis of HDL-sized apoE-containing particles. HDL particles generated by this pathway may account at least for some of the atheroprotective functions of apoE.
Genetic analysis reveals essential and non-essential amino acids within the telomeric DNA-binding interface of Cdc13p
Authors: Lin Yi-Chien , Wu Lee Yan-Hwa , Lin Jing-Jer
Published: March 2007

Cdc13p is a specific single-stranded telomeric DNA-binding protein of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. It is involved in protecting telomeres and regulating telomere length. The telomere-binding domain of Cdc13p is located between residues 497 and 693, and its structure has been resolved by NMR spectroscopy. A series of aromatic, hydrophobic and basic residues located at the DNA-binding surface of Cdc13p are involved in binding to telomeres. Here we applied a genetic approach to analyse the involvements of these residues in telomere binding. A series of mutants within the telomere-binding domain of Cdc13p were identified that failed to complement cdc13 mutants in vivo. Among the amino acids that were isolated, the Tyr522, Arg635, and Ile633 residues were shown to locate at the DNA-binding surface. We further demonstrated that Y522C and R635A mutants failed to bind telomeric DNA in vitro, indicating that these residues are indeed required for telomere binding. We did not, however, isolate other mutant residues located at the DNA-binding surface of Cdc13p beyond these three residues. Instead, a mutant on Lys568 was isolated that did not affect the essential function of Cdc13p. The Lys568 is also located on the DNA-binding surface of Cdc13p. Thus these results suggested that other DNA-binding residues are not essential for telomere binding. In the present study, we have established a genetic test that enabled the identification of telomere-binding residues of Cdc13p in vivo. This type of analysis provides information on those residues that indeed contribute to telomere binding in vivo.
An instrument to investigate femtochemistry on metal surfaces in real space
Authors: Mehlhorn Michael , Gawronski Heiko , Nedelmann Lorenz , Grujic Alexander , Morgenstern Karina
Published: March 2007

A newly established combination of a femtosecond laser with a low temperature scanning tunneling microscope is described, which facilitates one to analyze femtochemistry on metal surfaces in real space. The combined instrument enables focusing the laser to some tens of micrometers and guiding it reproducibly into the tunneling gap with the aid of in situ movable mirrors. Furthermore, a method to determine the focus size on the sample is presented. The focus size is used to calculate the electron and phonon temperatures at the surface. Despite the additional noise introduced by laser operation the vertical resolution of the microscope lies below 1 pm. The potential of the instrument is demonstrated on para-chloronitrobenzene clusters adsorbed on Au(111). Single chloronitrobenzene molecules diffuse upon femtosecond laser irradiation; some smaller clusters rotate by multiples of 30°; clusters of less compact form rearrange to close-packed clusters.
Energy release characteristics of the nanoscale aluminum-tungsten oxide hydrate metastable intermolecular composite
Authors: Lee Perry W. , Tappan Bryce C. , Reardon Bettina L. , Sanders Victor E. , Son Steven F.
Published: March 2007

Tungsten oxides are of interest as an oxidant for metals in metastable intermolecular composites (MICs), a reactive nanoscale powder useful for such applications as electric matches and gun primers. Smaller particles typically lead to fast reaction rates in this class of energetic material, and we have synthesized nanoscale WO3∙H2O using wet chemistry. Analysis by electron microscopy and small angle x-ray scattering revealed an approximately 100-nm-wide by7-nm-thick platelet morphology. X-ray diffraction verified the orthorhombic structure and composition of the hydrate. A MIC material was formulated using 44nm Al as the fuel. Performance was measured using a pressure cell where total enthalpy change and energy release rate was measured. This report includes the thermodynamic analysis of the pressure cell (calorimetry) that allows the determination of these metrics. Accuracy of the technique is discussed. Performance of the hydrate was found to significantly exceed that of MIC formulated with dehydrated tungsten oxide for one formulation, having an energy release of approximately 1.8MJ∕kg at a rate of approximately 215GW∕m2, compared to around 1.1MJ∕kg at a rate of around 130GW∕m2 for the dehydrated formulation. The data show that the enhanced behavior of the hydrated MIC formulation resulted from the reaction of aluminum with the interstitially bound water, which had additional energy release and generated hydrogen gas.
Intramolecular vibrational redistribution in Ne–Br2: The signature of intermediate resonances in the excitation spectrum
Authors: García-Vela A.
Published: March 2007

Quantum-mechanical simulations of the Ne−Br2(B,v′) excitation spectra produced after vibrational predissociation in the v′=20–35 range are reported. The aim is to investigate the signature in the excitation spectra of intermediate resonances lying in the lower v<v′ vibrational manifolds in order to elucidate their role in the intramolecular vibrational redistribution (IVR) mechanisms in Ne–Br2. By increasing v′, the energy position of the Ne−Br2(B,v′) initial state probes the whole range of the spectrum of v′−1 intermediate resonances, from the continuum resonance states above the Ne+Br2(B,v′−1) dissociation threshold to the resonances below that threshold. In general, the results show that the Ne−Br2(B,v′) initial state couples more strongly to the energetically nearby v′−1 resonances, although coupling to farther away resonances also occurs with appreciable intensity. The excitation spectra reveal a strong overlapping between spectral features, indicating that the intermediate resonances are coupled and interfere between themselves. This coupling generates an interconnected network of intermediate resonances, through which an efficient flow of the initial population leading to IVR takes place. It is found that the density of continuum resonances reaches a maximum in the region just above the Ne+Br2(B,v′−1) threshold, and it decreases gradually with increasing energy above this threshold, as suggested in a previous work. An upper energy limit for the spectrum of v′−1 continuum resonances has been estimated to be about 23–29cm−1 above the v′−1 dissociation threshold. The excitation spectra reflect that coupling of the initial state with intermediate resonances lying below the Ne+Br2(B,v′−1) threshold can occur in a remarkably wide range of the resonance spectrum.
Charge carrier dynamics in organic semiconductors by position dependent optical probing
Authors: Kabra D. , Shriram S. , Vidhyadhiraja N. S. , Narayan K. S.
Published: March 2007

We investigate charge carrier transport in poly-(3-hexylthiophene) films where sizable lateral photovoltaic effects are observed. Spatiotemporal measurements of the lateral photovoltage (LPV) using a local optical probe are carried out on device structures consisting of the semiconducting polymer film with a Schottky-type backcontact and a front pair of Ohmic contacts. We employ a spreading impedance approach in the context of a discrete circuit element model to obtain a quantitative understanding of the spatial dependence and the frequency response of the lateral photovoltage. An excellent agreement between theoretical model and experiment is found, leading to an understanding of the origin of LPV in organic systems.
Investigation of multilayer local tilt within long portion of single Co∕Cu nanowires
Authors: Pullini D. , Innocenti G. , Busquets D. , Ruotolo A.
Published: March 2007

In this work arrays of Co∕Cu multilayer nanowires were fabricated by electrodeposition to develop giant magnetoresistive sensors. Structure and morphology defects within 6μm long portions of single nanowires have been probed by electron and ion-beam microscopies. It has been discovered that the most recurrent growth defect is a tilt of the nanowire layers, which varies along the length of the nanowires, this effect being more significant for nanowires of larger diameters; nevertheless, the nanowire arrays fabricated in this work demonstrated a magnetoresistive response which is very close to the behavior of analogous systems previously reported in the literature.
Differential photoacoustic cell for electrochemical and dynamic process with temperature control
Authors: Rodríguez-García Mario E. , Velásquez-Hernández Rubén , Mendoza-López María L. , Hurtado- Castañeda Delia M. , Brieño-Enríquez Kathya M. , Pérez-Bueno José J.
Published: March 2007

A novel differential photoacoustic cell (DPC) for the study of dynamical processes has been developed. The DPC has the capability to measure in real time the amplitude and phase signals for the reference and the sample under study. The simultaneous measurement of both signals eliminates the instrumental function, and the presence of noise, due to any deviation originated by electrical, optical, and environmental factors. The DPC can be used at different temperature profiles in order to obtain the instrumental function IF(t,T). The DPC also has all the elements of an electrochemical cell capable of following the electrochemical processes. As a result of this new instrumentation it is possible to obtain in real time the amplitude and phase signals coming from the sample without any interference from the system and the viability to monitor in situ electrochemical and thermal processes. Two cases are presented as an illustrative demonstration of work fields: the electrodeposition of zinc on a steel substrate as well as the study of water and calcium ion diffusion into organic layers.
Photoluminescence of Si-rich silicon nitride: Defect-related states and silicon nanoclusters
Authors: Wang Minghua , Li Dongsheng , Yuan Zhizhong , Yang Deren , Que Duanlin
Published: March 2007

The photoluminescence (PL) from defect-related states and Si nanoclusters was observed in the Si-rich silicon nitride films simultaneously. The weaker red-light emission of Si nanoclusters was obtained in the 1100°C annealed films with the 514.5nm excitation. Due to the quantum confinement effect, the PL peaks redshift with the increase of the excess Si concentration. Excited by the 325nm line, strong PL from N and Si dangling bond centers was observed in either the as-deposited films or the 1100°C annealed ones. The results demonstrate that the luminescence from defect-related states or Si nanoclusters is selected by the excitation energy.
ASK1-dependent recruitment and activation of macrophages induce hair growth in skin wounds
Authors: Osaka Nao , Takahashi Takumi , Murakami Shiori , Matsuzawa Atsushi , Noguchi Takuya , Fujiwara Takeshi , Aburatani Hiroyuki , Moriyama Keiji , Takeda Kohsuke , Ichijo Hidenori
Published: March 2007

Apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) is a member of the mitogen-activated protein 3-kinase family that activates both c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase and p38 pathways in response to inflammatory cytokines and physicochemical stress. We report that ASK1 deficiency in mice results in dramatic retardation of wounding-induced hair regrowth in skin. Oligonucleotide microarray analysis revealed that expression of several chemotactic and activating factors for macrophages, as well as several macrophage-specific marker genes, was reduced in the skin wound area of ASK1-deficient mice. Intracutaneous transplantation of cytokine-activated bone marrow-derived macrophages strongly induced hair growth in both wild-type and ASK1-deficient mice. These findings indicate that ASK1 is required for wounding-induced infiltration and activation of macrophages, which play central roles in inflammation-dependent hair regrowth in skin.
Expression of transmembrane protein tyrosine phosphatase gamma (PTPγ) in normal and neoplastic human tissues
Authors: Vezzalini M , Mombello A , Menestrina F , Mafficini A , Della Peruta M , Van Niekerk C , Barbareschi M , Scarpa A , Sorio C
Published: March 2007

Aims:  To establish the conditions for protein tyrosine phosphatase gamma (PTPγ) detection in paraffin tissues using two antibodies raised against its NH2‐ (anti‐P4) and COOH‐termini (γTL1); to analyse its expression in normal tissues and to perform an initial screening of neoplastic tissues.

Methods and results:  Membranous and/or cytoplasmic PTPγ expression was detected in the majority of epithelial cell types and in endocrine cells, with the highest expression in adrenal medulla, endocrine cells of the gastrointestinal tract and pancreatic islets. Both antibodies stained the thyroid follicular epithelium, but only anti‐P4 antibody stained the colloid matrix, suggesting shedding/secretion of the PTPγ extracellular domain. Marked loss of PTPγ immunoreactivity was detected in subsets of ovarian (21%), breast (56%) and lung (80%) neoplasms. Conversely, cytoplasmic positivity was found in 37% of lymphomas, mainly of high‐grade histotypes, while normal lymphocytes were negative. Brain tissue showed PTPγ expression in a few neuronal and glial elements and PTPγ was overexpressed in the majority of high‐grade astrocytomas.

Conclusions:  We have analysed PTPγ expression in archival paraffin‐embedded tissues for the first time, demonstrating particularly high expression in endocrine cells and both down‐ and up‐regulation in neoplasia, the latter possibly reflecting the undifferentiated state of the neoplastic cells, suggesting a complex role for this phosphatase.
Track analysis of the marine palaeofauna from the Turonian (Late Cretaceous)
Authors: Gallo Valéria , Cavalcanti Mauro J. , Andrade da Silva Hilda Maria
Published: March 2007

Aim  To analyse the worldwide distribution patterns of Turonian marine biotas using a panbiogeographical approach.

Location  Turonian localities of southern and north‐eastern Brazil, Mexico, Canada, central Europe, England and Morocco.

Method  Panbiogeographical track analysis.

Results  Nine generalized tracks and six nodes were found. The generalized tracks comprise two vicariant track patterns (one northern and one mid‐southern) across the Atlantic.

Main conclusions  The generalized tracks show clearly two separate marine biotas, which were associated with the proto‐South Atlantic and the proto‐North Atlantic oceans. These generalized tracks, as well as the two vicariant track clusters between the north and south Atlantic, are identified by vicariant relationships shared by most of the taxa analysed, and illustrate the final break up of the Gondwana and Laurasia supercontinents and the consequences of vicariant events for the biogeography of the Atlantic Ocean.
The Role of the Family Context in the Development of Emotion Regulation
Authors: Morris Amanda Sheffield , Silk Jennifer S. , Steinberg Laurence , Myers Sonya S. , Robinson Lara Rachel
Published: March 2007

This article reviews current literature examining associations between components of the family context and children and adolescents' emotion regulation (ER). The review is organized around a tripartite model of familial influence. Firstly, it is posited that children learn about ER through observational learning, modeling and social referencing. Secondly, parenting practices specifically related to emotion and emotion management affect ER. Thirdly, ER is affected by the emotional climate of the family via parenting style, the attachment relationship, family expressiveness and the marital relationship. The review ends with discussions regarding the ways in which child characteristics such as negative emotionality and gender affect ER, how socialization practices change as children develop into adolescents, and how parent characteristics such as mental health affect the socialization of ER.
Why Is U.S. Poverty Higher in Nonmetropolitan than in Metropolitan Areas?
Authors: FISHER MONICA
Published: March 2007

ABSTRACT  In the U.S., people are more likely to be poor if they live in a nonmetropolitan (nonmetro) than in a metropolitan (metro) area. A common explanation for this phenomenon is that nonmetro places offer relatively few economic and social opportunities. This article explores another plausible explanation, asking if the disproportionate poverty in nonmetro areas partly reflects attitudes of people with personal attributes related to poverty: they may be attracted to nonmetro places or otherwise reluctant (or unable) to leave them. To test this hypothesis, data from nine waves of the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID) are used to track economic well‐being and nonmetro–metro residential choice among a sample of 2,007 low‐income householders. A series of multivariate regression models are estimated in which the dependent variable is a householder's income to need (adjusted for spatial cost‐of‐housing differences), and regressors are individual attributes, a binary variable for nonmetro residence, and state fixed‐effects. Regression results show that controlling for householder educational attainment reduces the negative association between nonmetro residence and income to need; but controlling for unobserved, time‐invariant heterogeneity via individual fixed‐effects increases the magnitude of this negative association. Study findings thus appear to indicate that enduring nonmetro poverty is explained both by a sorting of low human capital individuals into nonmetro areas and by reduced economic opportunities in nonmetro compared to metro places.
“I too was an Immigrant”: An Analysis of Differing Modes of Mobilization in Two Bronx Mexican Migrant Organizations1
Authors: Gálvez Alyshia
Published: March 2007

This paper, based on dissertation fieldwork among Mexican migrant organizations in New York, examines differing modes of mobilization in two Bronx parish‐based voluntary associations. Even though the Mexican community in New York is consistently described as “new”, “young” and its migration as “recent”, there are some migrants who arrived decades ago, in the early 1980s, whose children and grandchildren have been born in the United States and whose experiences are quite different than those of newer migrants. Nonetheless, the network of fraternal societies founded on Guadalupan devotion which together comprises the largest and most visible Mexican organization in the city assumes commonalty of experiences, identity, faith and needs, based on the premise, “We are all undocumented”. In this paper I will unpack that “we” using ethnographic data from two Bronx parish Guadalupan committees to examine how a collective we is produced, contested, and complicated through time. What are the implications for the organizational strategies of the city‐wide association if some of the most established activists are no longer undocumented? What kinds of tensions exist within a community imagined to be unified but constantly faced with class and ethnic differences? These organizations posit a “citizenship” premised on all human beings sharing the same mother, the Virgin of Guadalupe, and ensuring the dignity and rights of all, irrespective of migratory status or nationality. What does it mean when some involved in the production of this discourse “regularize” their migratory status and are no longer in need of an alternative mode of citizenship? How effective will assertions of Mexican national identity linked to Guadalupan devotion be among second‐generation youths who are US citizens and have possibly never seen Mexico? What happens when activists begin to say “I was an immigrant”?
SCN2A Mutations and Benign Familial Neonatal‐Infantile Seizures: The Phenotypic Spectrum
Authors: Herlenius Eric , Heron Sarah E. , Grinton Bronwyn E. , Keay Deborah , Scheffer Ingrid E. , Mulley John C. , Berkovic Samuel F.
Published: March 2007

Summary:  Mutations of the sodium channel subunit gene SCN2A have been described in families with benign familial neonatal‐infantile seizure (BFNIS). We describe two large families with BFNIS and novel SCN2A mutations. The families had 12 and 9 affected individuals, respectively, with phenotypes consistent with BFNIS. Two mutations were discovered in SCN2A (E430Q; I1596S). Both families had individuals with neonatal onset but the typical age of onset was in the early infantile period (mean 3.0 months). One mutation positive individual, with an otherwise typical clinical pattern, had seizures beginning at 13 months. Two individuals with SCN2A mutations were identified with seizures in later life. In each family a single individual with infantile seizures was mutation negative and thus represented phenocopies. This study extends the age range of presentation of BFNIS, confirms that neonatal and early infantile onsets are characteristic, and emphasizes the role of molecular diagnosis to confirm the etiology.
Automatic and Remote Controlled Ictal SPECT Injection for Seizure Focus Localization by Use of a Commercial Contrast Agent Application Pump
Authors: Feichtinger Michael , Eder Hans , Holl Alexander , Körner Eva , Zmugg Gerda , Aigner Reingard , Fazekas Franz , Ott Erwin
Published: March 2007

Summary:  Purpose: In the presurgical evaluation of patients with partial epilepsy, the ictal single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is a useful noninvasive diagnostic tool for seizure focus localization. To achieve optimal SPECT scan quality, ictal tracer injection should be carried out as quickly as possible after the seizure onset and under highest safety conditions possible. Compared to the commonly used manual injection, an automatic administration of the radioactive tracer may provide higher quality standards for this procedure. In this study, therefore, we retrospectively analyzed efficiency and safety of an automatic injection system for ictal SPECT tracer application.

Methods: Over a 31‐month period, 26 patients underwent ictal SPECT by use of an automatic remote‐controlled injection pump originally designed for CT‐contrast agent application. Various factors were reviewed, including latency of ictal injection, radiation safety parameters, and ictal seizure onset localizing value.

Results: Times between seizure onset and tracer injection ranged between 3 and 48 s. In 21 of 26 patients ictal SPECT supported the localization of the epileptogenic focus in the course of the presurgical evaluation. In all cases ictal SPECT tracer injection was performed with a high degree of safety to patients and staff.

Conclusions: Ictal SPECT by use of a remote‐controlled CT‐contrast agent injection system provides a high scan quality and is a safe and confirmatory presurgical evaluation technique in the epilepsy‐monitoring unit.
Many Infants Prenatally Exposed to High Levels of Alcohol Show One Particular Anomaly of the Corpus Callosum
Authors: Bookstein Fred L. , Connor Paul D. , Huggins Janet E. , Barr Helen M. , Pimentel Kristi D. , Streissguth Ann P.
Published: March 2007

Introduction: Effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on the brain are seen at every age. The earlier they can be quantified, the better the prognosis for the affected child. Here we show measurable alcohol effects at birth on a structure currently used for nosology only much later in life.

Methods: Midline shape of the corpus callosum was imaged in infants via averaged unwarped transfontanelle ultrasound. We compared measures of these shapes among 23 infants prenatally exposed to high levels of alcohol and 21 infants unexposed to alcohol or only lightly exposed.

Results: A particular feature of the corpus callosum, the appearance of a “hook” (obtuse angle) between the splenium and the long diameter of the arch in this plane, is strongly associated with prenatal alcohol exposure. In half of the high‐exposed infants, the splenium angle is larger than in any of the unexposed brains. Simply characterizing this angle as less than or greater than 90° detects 12 of the 23 exposed infants as anomalous with only 1 false positive among the unexposed. This apparently direct effect of prenatal ethanol exposure on the details of the callosum in about half the at‐risk subjects cannot be attributed to any of several plausible competing exposures or other confounding factors applying during or after gestation.

Conclusion: An average of the images for the unexposed subjects has the geometry of textbook images of normal babies; but the average for the subgroup of high‐angle subjects may serve as a template or guide to this regional damage parallel to the familiar photographic exemplars that help to assess facial signs.
Difluoromethylornithine Decreases Long‐Lasting Protein Oxidation Induced by Neonatal Ethanol Exposure in the Hippocampus of Adolescent Rats
Authors: Mello Carlos Fernando , Rubin Maribel Antonello , Sultana Rukhsana , Barron Susan , Littleton John Martin , Butterfield D. Allan
Published: March 2007

Background:Ethanol exposure and withdrawal during central nervous system development can cause oxidative stress and produce severe and long‐lasting behavioral and morphological alterations in which polyamines seem to play an important role. However, it is not known if early ethanol exposure causes long‐lasting protein oxidative damage and if polyamines play a role in such a deleterious effect of ethanol.

Methods:In this study we investigated the effects of early ethanol exposure (6 g/kg/d, by gavage), from postnatal day (PND) 1 to 8, and of the administration of difluoromethylornithine (DFMO, 500 mg/kg, i.p., on PND 8), a polyamine biosynthesis inhibitor, on the extent of oxidative modification of proteins. Indices of oxidative modification of proteins included protein carbonyls, 3‐nitrotyrosine (3‐NT), and protein bound 4‐hydroxynonenal (HNE) in the hippocampus, cerebellum, hypothalamus, striatum, and cerebral cortex of Sprague–Dawley rats at PND 40.

Results:Both ethanol and DFMO administration alone increased protein carbonyl immunoreactivity in the hippocampus at PND 40, but the combination of DFMO and ethanol resulted in no effect on protein carbonyl levels. No alterations in the content of protein‐bound HNE, 3‐NT, or carbonyl were found in any other cerebral structure.

Conclusions:These results suggest that the hippocampus is selectively affected by early ethanol exposure and by polyamine synthesis inhibition. In addition, the results suggest a role for polyamines in the long‐lasting increase of protein carbonyls induced by ethanol exposure and withdrawal.
Chronic Alcohol Consumption Is Associated With Changes in the Distribution, Immunophenotype, and the Inflammatory Cytokine Secretion Profile of Circulating Dendritic Cells
Authors: Laso Francisco Javier , Vaquero José Miguel , Almeida Julia , Marcos Miguel , Orfao Alberto
Published: March 2007

Background: Alcoholism is frequently associated with altered immune responses, limited information being available on its effects on dendritic cells (DC). In the present study we analyze the effects of chronic alcoholism on circulating DC.

Methods: For the first time we studied the numerical distribution of DC in peripheral blood (PB), their immunophenotype, and their ex vivo pattern of spontaneous cytokine secretion, in chronic alcoholic patients without liver disease (AWLD group; n=17) and active ethanol (EtOH) intake, as well as in subjects with alcohol liver cirrhosis (ALC group; n=21).

Results: A significantly decreased HLADR expression and an increased reactivity for CD123 was observed on PB DC from AWLD patients; additionally, increased secretion of interleukin (IL) 1β, IL6, IL12, and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNFα) by DC was also noted in this group. Conversely, patients with ALC and at least 1 year of alcohol withdrawal (ALCAW group) showed a decreased number of total circulating DC, whereas ALC patients with active EtOH intake (ALCET group) had an abnormally low production of IL1β and TNFα by PB DC.

Conclusion: Chronic alcoholism in the absence of liver disease is associated with an increased secretion of inflammatory cytokines by PB DC, whereas ALCAW and ALCET patients show decreased numbers of circulating DC and reduced secretion of these cytokines, respectively.
DYNAMICAL ANALYSIS OF A NETWORKED CONTROL SYSTEM
Authors: ZHANG GUOFENG , CHEN GUANRONG , CHEN TONGWEN , D'AMICO MARÌA BELÉN
Published: March 2007

A new network data transmission strategy was proposed in [Zhang & Chen, 2005], where the resulting nonlinear system was analyzed and the effectiveness of the transmission strategy was demonstrated via simulations. In this paper, we further generalize the results of Zhang and Chen [2005] in the following ways: (1) Construct first-return maps of the nonlinear systems formulated in [Zhang & Chen, 2005] and derive several existence conditions of periodic orbits and study their properties. (2) Formulate the new system as a hybrid system, which will ease the succeeding analysis. (3) Prove that this type of hybrid systems is not structurally stable based on phase transition which can be applied to higher-dimensional cases effortlessly. (4) Simulate a higher-dimensional model with emphasis on their rich dynamics. (5) Study a class of continuous-time hybrid systems as the counterparts of the discrete-time systems discussed above. (6) Propose new controller design methods based on this network data transmission strategy to improve the performance of each individual system and the whole network. We hope that this research and the problems posed here will rouse the interest of researchers in such fields as control, dynamical systems and numerical analysis.
TESTING CHAOTIC DYNAMICS IN SYSTEMS WITH TWO POSITIVE LYAPUNOV EXPONENTS: A BOOTSTRAP SOLUTION
Authors: GIANNERINI SIMONE , ROSA RODOLFO , GONZALEZ DIEGO LUIS
Published: March 2007

The present paper is devoted to the problem of detecting the presence of two positive Lyapunov exponents in time series data. In order to accomplish this task the accuracy of the estimates is essential, but existing estimation approaches do not provide it. We present a procedure exploiting resampling methods for building a statistical test for the presence of two positive exponents of comparable magnitudes through rigorous assessment of confidence intervals. The problem is studied by means of computer experiments performed in a variety of conditions on coupled Lorenz systems. Then, a case study regarding the time series of the cardiovascular activity of the toad Bufo Arenarum is presented. A comparison with other estimator algorithms is also shown.
Statistical Analyses of Satellite Cloud Object Data from CERES. Part III: Comparison with Cloud-Resolving Model Simulations of Tropical Convective Clouds
Authors: Luo Yali , Xu Kuan-Man , Wielicki Bruce A. , Wong Takmeng , Eitzen Zachary A.
Published: March 2007

The present study evaluates the ability of a cloud-resolving model (CRM) to simulate the physical properties of tropical deep convective cloud objects identified from a Clouds and the Earth’s Radiant Energy System (CERES) data product. The emphasis of this study is the comparisons among the small-, medium-, and large-size categories of cloud objects observed during March 1998 and between the large-size categories of cloud objects observed during March 1998 (strong El Niño) and March 2000 (weak La Niña). Results from the CRM simulations are analyzed in a way that is consistent with the CERES retrieval algorithm and they are averaged to match the scale of the CERES satellite footprints. Cloud physical properties are analyzed in terms of their summary histograms for each category.

It is found that there is a general agreement in the overall shapes of all cloud physical properties between the simulated and observed distributions. Each cloud physical property produced by the CRM also exhibits different degrees of disagreement with observations over different ranges of the property. The simulated cloud tops are generally too high and cloud-top temperatures are too low except for the large-size category of March 1998. The probability densities of the simulated top-of-the-atmosphere (TOA) albedos for all four categories are underestimated for high albedos, while those of cloud optical depth are overestimated at its lowest bin. These disagreements are mainly related to uncertainties in the cloud microphysics parameterization and inputs such as cloud ice effective size to the radiation calculation.

Summary histograms of cloud optical depth and TOA albedo from the CRM simulations of the large-size category of cloud objects do not differ significantly between the March 1998 and 2000 periods, consistent with the CERES observations. However, the CRM is unable to reproduce the significant differences in the observed cloud-top height while it overestimates the differences in the observed outgoing longwave radiation and cloud-top temperature between the two periods. Comparisons between the CRM results and the observations for most parameters in March 1998 consistently show that both the simulations and observations have larger differences between the large- and small-size categories than between the large- and medium-size, or between the medium- and small-size categories. However, the simulated cloud properties do not change as much with size as observed. These disagreements are likely related to the spatial averaging of the forcing data and the mismatch in time and space between the numerical weather prediction model from which the forcing data are produced and the CERES observed cloud systems.
Ethical Leadership in Canadian School Organizations
Authors: Langlois Lyse , Lapointe Claire
Published: March 2007

This study, which was sponsored by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, was conducted in French-language minority schools in seven Canadian provinces: British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia. Using an open-ended interview guide, 47 principals were asked about the tensions and possibilities relating to ethical leadership in linguistic minority contexts. Results show how the presence of an ethic of critique is strongly rooted in a context of struggle for the protection of a French-speaking identity as well as linguistic and cultural survival. Participants' number of years experience as school principals significantly influences their ethical posture. New school principals use only one ethic, the ethic of justice, whereas seasoned principals use a consolidated ethical framework which includes the ethic of care and the ethic of critique. An emerging professional ethic is also observed, built both on each person's ethical nature and his or her life experience. Most importantly, this type of professionalism, very much nurtured by relationships, is auto-regulated rather than externally regulated, as with a deontology code.
Ethical Dilemmas of Swedish School Leaders
Authors: Norberg Katarina , Johansson Olof
Published: March 2007

Being a skillful school leader presumes the competence to judge the ethical consequences of actions. This implies a need for all school agents to discover and analyze what values are at stake and, in turn, reconcile didactic rationality with ethical rationality. This article aims to explore ethical dilemmas in daily school practice, experienced and identified by school agents on different levels: school politicians, superintendents, principals and teachers. These dilemmas are further analyzed from different ethical perspectives. The findings demonstrate a variety of ethical dilemmas on different leadership level. What was considered as an ethical dilemma on one level is not mentioned on another level in the school system. Nevertheless, one common trend was the conflict between a strong values oriented profession and personal values of individuals, where children's rights might be at stake.
A Combined Experimental and Theoretical Study on the Complexation of H3O+ with Hexaethyl Calix[6]arene Hexaacetate
Authors: Dybal J. , Makrlík E. , Vaňura P. , Lang J.
Published: March 2007

From extraction experiments and γ-activity measurements, the extraction constant corresponding to the equilibrium H3O+(aq) + 1•Na+(nb) ⇔ 1•H3O+(nb) + Na+(aq) taking place in the two-phase water–nitrobenzene system (1 = hexaethyl calix[6]arene hexaacetate; aq = aqueous phase, nb = nitrobenzene phase) was evaluated as log K
ex(H3O+,1•Na+) = 0.0± 0.1. Further, the stability constant of the 1•H3O+ complex in water saturated nitrobenzene was calculated for a temperature of 25°C as log βnb(1•H3O+) = 4.8 ± 0.1. By using quantum mechanical DFT calculations, the most probable structure of the 1•H3O+ complex species was predicted. In this complex, the hydroxonium ion H3O+ is bound partly to three carbonyl oxygen atoms by strong hydrogen bonds and partly to three alternate phenoxy oxygens by somewhat weaker hydrogen bonds.
Clinical and subclinical autoimmune thyroid disorders in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Antonelli Alessandro , Ferri Clodoveo , Fallahi Poupak , Cazzato Massimiliano , Ferrari Silvia Martina , Sebastiani Marco , Ferrannini Ele
Published: March 2007

Objective: Several studies have reported the association of systemic sclerosis (SSc) with thyroid autoimmune disorders, but most of them have neither an appropriate control group nor include a complete thyroid work-up.

Design: The aim of our study was to evaluate the prevalence of thyroid disorders in a large number of patients with SSc using a complete clinical evaluation.

Methods: Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine, free thyroxine, antithyroglobulin and antithyroid-peroxidase (AbTPO) autoantibodies, thyroid ultrasonography and blood flow and fine needle aspiration were performed in 202 SSc patients versus 404 gender- and age-matched controls from the general population, with similar iodine intake, to evaluate the prevalence of clinical and subclinical thyroid disorders.

Results: Odds ratio (OR) for female SSc versus controls was: for subclinical hypothyroidism, 3.2 (95% CI) = 1.8–5.7); for clinical hypothyroidism, 14.5 (95% CI = 2.3–90.9); for AbTPO positivity, 2.7 (95% CI = 1.8–4.1); for hypoechoic pattern, 3.2 (95% CI = 2.2–4.7); for thyroid autoimmunity, 3.7 (95% CI = 2.6–5.4); for thyroid volume <6 ml, 1.8 (95% CI = 1.2–2.7). OR for thyroid autoimmunity in male SSc versus controls was 10.8 (95% CI = 2.2–52.4). Mean values of TSH in female SSc, and of AbTPO in female and male SSc were higher (P <0.01) than in controls. We observed three cases of Graves’ disease in female SSc versus zero in controls (P = 0.0140), and two cases of papillary thyroid cancer in SSc patients.

Conclusions: Thyroid function, AbTPO and ultrasonography should be tested as part of the clinical profile in SSc patients. Females, subjects with positive AbTPO and hypoechoic and small thyroid should have thyroid function follow-up and appropriate treatment in due course.
Radical vulvectomy to treat severe vulvar acne inversa
Authors: Máté Szabolcs , Silló Pálma , Wikonkál Norbert , Csapó Zsolt , Sziller István , Ujházy András , Kárpáti Sarolta , Papp Zoltán
Published: March 2007

Bevezetés:
A szerzők célja, hogy Magyarországon először beszámoljanak egy ritka bőrbetegség, az acne inversa szeméremtesten megnyilvánuló, súlyos formájának radikális vulvectomiával történő sikeres kezeléséről. Esetismertetés: Egy 56 éves nőbeteg 30 éve fennálló acne inversa betegsége az ambuláns kezelések és többszöri hospitalizáció ellenére progrediált, és a szeméremtestet jelentősen torzító elváltozáshoz vezetett. A roncsolt szeméremtest eltávolítása radikális vulvectomia útján esztétikailag és az életminőség javítása szempontjából is eredményes volt. A szerzők az eset kapcsán ismertetik az acne inversa kóreredetének, differenciáldiagnosztikájának és kezelésének alapjait.
Következtetés:
A közlemény célja rámutatni arra, hogy a diagnózis felállításának és a sikeres kezelésnek alapfeltétele a társszakmák közötti szoros együttműködés.