bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The REA Pattern, Knowledge Structures, and Conceptual Modeling Performance
Authors: Gerard Gregory J.
Published: April 2008

Most database textbooks on conceptual modeling do not cover domainspecific patterns. The texts emphasize notation, apparently assuming that notation enables individuals to correctly model domain-specific knowledge acquired from experience. However, the domain knowledge acquired may not aid in the construction of conceptual models if it is not structured to support conceptual modeling. This study uses the Resources Events Agents (REA) pattern as an example of a domain-specific pattern that can be encoded as a knowledge structure for conceptual modeling of accounting information systems (AIS), and tests its effects on the accuracy of conceptual modeling in a familiar business setting. Fifty-three undergraduate and forty-six graduate students completed recall tasks designed to measure REA knowledge structure. The accuracy of participants' conceptual models was positively related to REA knowledge structure. Results suggest it is insufficient to know only conceptual modeling notation because structured knowledge of domain-specific patterns reduces design errors.
Embedded Audit Modules in Enterprise Resource Planning Systems: Implementation and Functionality
Authors: Debreceny Roger S. , Gray Glen L. , Ng Joeson Jun-Jin , Lee Kevin Siow-Ping , Yau Woon-Foong
Published: April 2008

Embedded Audit Modules (EAMs) are a potentially efficient and effective compliance and substantive audit-testing tool. Early examples of EAMs were implemented in proprietary accounting information systems and production systems. Over the last decade, there has been widespread deployment of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems that provide common business process functionality across the enterprise. These application systems are based upon a common foundation provided by large-scale relational database-management systems. No published research addresses the potential for exploiting the perceived benefits of EAMs in an ERP environment. This exploratory paper seeks to partially close this gap in the research literature by assessing the level and nature of support for EAMs by ERP providers.

We present five model EAM-use scenarios within a fraud-prevention and detection environment. We provided the scenarios to six representative ERP solution providers, whose products support “small,” “medium,” and “large” scale clients. The providers then assessed how they would implement the scenarios in their ERP solution. Concurrent in-depth interviews with representatives of the ERP providers address the issue of implementing EAMs in ERP solutions.

The research revealed limited support for EAMs within the selected ERP systems. Interviews revealed that the limited support for EAMs was primarily a function of lack of demand from the user community. Vendors were consistent in their view that EAMs were technically feasible. These results have a number of implications for both practice and future research. These include a need to understand the barriers to client adoption of EAMs and to build a framework for integrating EAMs into firm risk-management environment.
Using SQL to Develop Database Query Proficiency: A Follow-Up Note to Borthick, Jones, and Kim (2001)
Authors: Blankley Alan I.
Published: April 2008

In the Spring 2001 issue of Journal of Information Systems (JIS), Borthick et al. (2001) presented a case in which students were to query a Microsoft Access database in order to determine the mutual assurance concerning customer service for an automobile manufacturer and its local dealer network. I follow-up this case by presenting an additional teaching note to the case that develops query strategies and solutions for the case using Oracle and its SQL application, SQL-Plus.
Software Piracy among Accounting Students: A Longitudinal Comparison of Changes and Sensitivity
Authors: Woolley Darryl J. , Eining Martha M.
Published: April 2008

A 1991 survey found that a large proportion of accounting students pirate software. Since 1991, however, the rate of software piracy within the United States has decreased. Using the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA), this paper analyzes whether the frequency and the underlying antecedents of software piracy also have changed among accounting students. The results indicate that students' understanding and knowledge of copyright laws have increased, but this knowledge has not influenced software piracy rates.

This paper also investigates respondents' willingness to answer honestly questions dealing with software piracy. The randomized response technique allows for an evaluation of the honesty of responses to a sensitive question (i.e., software theft). In contrast to other ethics issues about which individuals have been found to be dishonest, the results indicate that participants honestly answered most questions about their piracy behavior.
Why Wait? Modeling Factors that Influence the Decision of When to Learn a New Use of Technology
Authors: Loraas Tina , Wolfe Christopher J.
Published: April 2008

This study examines the decision of when potential system users choose to learn new uses of technology. To explain the outcome of this decision, we construct a model based on deferral option pricing theory and operationalize its parameters through constructs consisting of anticipated emotions regarding failure costs, waiting costs, and potential rewards. Additionally we operationalize and test alternative explanations defining the outcome of when a new use of technology is learned and these consist of perceived usefulness of the technology, time pressure, and subjective norms. These decision determinants are examined across two experiments; each experiment using a vignette-based methodology that evokes a different level of external motivation. In the case of a powerful external referent, subjective norms appear to crowd out intrinsic responses and they dominate the decision to learn a new use of technology. However, when an external referent does not dominate the decision setting, anticipated emotions in the form of perceived failure costs and perceived waiting costs determine the decision of when to learn a new use of technology. Our findings offer theoretical support for the efficacy of deferral option theory and underscore the importance of modeling impediments in the decision to learn a new use of technology in situations when an external motivator does not dominate the decision.
The Effects of Qualitative Overload on Technology Acceptance
Authors: Pennington Robin R. , Kelton Andrea S. , DeVries Delwyn D.
Published: April 2008

Accounting professionals often feel stress from qualitative overload in their jobs. Research in the area of technology acceptance has not considered the potential negative effects of qualitative overload on user intentions. The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of this stressor on intention to use technology. A study was conducted with graduate accounting students using Audit Command Language (ACL) just prior to graduation, proxies for new staff accountants. Results indicate that qualitative overload mediates the relationship between perceived ease of use and intention to use ACL. As the perception of difficulty in using ACL increased, so did the perceived qualitative overload stress which in turn led to a negative relationship with intention to use ACL.
Using a Web-Based Accounting System for Teaching Accounting System Design and Implementation
Authors: Lin Pao-Chuan (Paul) , Smith L. Murphy
Published: April 2008

In this project, each student customizes an accounting system using a Web-based accounting package that allows users to enter accounting data anytime anywhere via the Internet. The student also prepares system documentation so that other end-users can efficiently use the system. Finally, the student provides a report that explains whether the Web-based accounting package has all the required features for his or her business. This project helps students learn accounting systems from the enterprise perspective instead of the piecemeal account approach. Results indicate that students significantly improve their knowledge and skills regarding systems design and implementation.
Physical Functioning Before and After Total Hip Arthroplasty: Perception and Performance
Authors: van den Akker-Scheek Inge , Zijlstra Wiebren , Groothoff Johan W , Bulstra Sjoerd K , Stevens Martin
Published: April 2008

Background and Purpose

Self-report and performance-based measures of physical functioning in people before and after total hip arthroplasty seem to present different information. The relationship between these different measures is not well understood, and little information is available about changes in this relationship over time. The aims of this study were: (1) to determine the relationship between self-report and performance-based measures of physical functioning before and after total hip arthroplasty, (2) to assess the influence of pain on the relationship, and (3) to determine whether the relationship changes over time.

Subjects and Methods

Seventy-five subjects admitted for total hip arthroplasty were included and examined before and 6 and 26 weeks after surgery. The relationships between the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) physical functioning subscale and walking speed and gait variability were examined by use of generalized estimating equations, which included interactions with time and the WOMAC pain subscale.

Results

The relationship between self-report and performance-based measures of physical functioning was poor. Pain appeared to have a considerable influence on self-reported physical functioning. The relationship did not appear to change over time.

Discussion and Conclusion

The influence of pain on self-reported physical functioning serves as an explanation for the poor relationship between self-reported and performance-based physical functioning. When using a self-report measure such as the WOMAC, one should realize that it does not seem to assess the separate constructs—physical functioning and pain—that are claimed to be measured.
Das Nachfragepotenzial nach Nicht-Holz-Waldprodukten in der Schweiz
Authors: Kilchling Petra , Hansmann Ralf , Berger Till , Seeland Klaus
Published: April 2008

In addition to timber production and forest services, non-timber forest products (NTFP) such as mushrooms, forest honey or game may be an additional source of income for the forestry sector. In order to assess the market potential of NTFP in Switzerland a survey on supply, demand, and consumption was conducted in the shopping centers of six Swiss cities (N = 897). The results show that there is a considerable demand potential for such products. Swiss NTFP are highly valued among urban consumers. These consumers consider high quality and environmental friendliness to be the most important product characteristics of NTFP. Although there is a nonutilized market potential, various problems exist in order to achieve economic gains from NTFP. For better market access and greater use of the economic potential of NTFP as a sustainable source of forestry based income, an intensification of marketing activities, sales promotion, organization and product innovation are necessary.
Angiotensin-converting enzyme activity and cognitive impairment during hypoglycaemia in healthy humans
Authors: Pedersen-Bjergaard Ulrik , Thomsen Carsten E , Høgenhaven Hans , Smed Annelise , Kjær Troels W , Holst Jens J , Dela Flemming , Hilsted Linda , Frandsen Erik , Pramming Stig , Thorsteinsson Birger
Published: April 2008

Introduction: In type 1 diabetes increased risk of severe hypoglycaemia is associated with high angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity. We tested in healthy humans the hypothesis that this association is explained by the reduced ability of subjects with high ACE activity to maintain normal cognitive function during hypoglycaemia.

Methods: Sixteen healthy volunteers selected by either particularly high or low serum ACE activity were subjected to hypoglycaemia (plasma glucose 2.7 mmol/L). Cognitive function was assessed by choice reaction tests.

Results: Despite a similar hypoglycaemic stimulus in the two groups, only the group with high ACE activity showed significant deterioration in cognitive performance during hypoglycaemia. In the high ACE group mean reaction time (MRT) in the most complex choice reaction task was prolonged and error rate (ER) was increased in contrast to the low ACE group. The total hypoglycaemic symptom response was greater in the high ACE group than in the low ACE group (p=0.031).There were no differences in responses of counterregulatory hormones or in concentrations of substrates between the groups.

Conclusion: Healthy humans with high ACE activity are more susceptible to cognitive dysfunction and report higher symptom scores during mild hypoglycaemia than subjects with low ACE activity.
Short-term effects of angiotensin receptor blockers on blood pressure control, and plasma inflammatory and fibrinolytic parameters in patients taking angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors
Authors: Agirbasli Mehmet , Cincin Altug , Baykan Oytun A
Published: April 2008

Introduction. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors reduce cardiovascular events in patients with established vascular disease and heart failure (HF). ACE-inhibitors have important effects on fibrinolytic balance, which may be the underlying mechanism for a reduction in cardiovascular events.Although angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARBs) offer greater tolerability than ACE-inhibitors, the major ARB trials have demonstrated a lack of reduction in myocardial infarction (MI) occurrence and mortality in contrast to ACE-inhibitors. In this study, we investigated the combined effects of ARBs and ACE-inhibitors on fibrinolytic and inflammatory parameters in patients with uncontrolled hypertension.

Methods. Twenty-four patients with uncontrolled hypertension despite taking adequate doses of ACE-inhibitor therapy were selected. Patients were started on Candesartan 16 mg once a day. Plasma plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1) antigen (Ag), tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) Ag, thrombin-activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (TAFI) % activity and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels, were measured during low salt intake at baseline and two weeks after therapy with an ARB.

Results. Addition of ARB to the regimen reduced systolic (155±17 R vs. 139±13, p<0.001), and diastolic (91±9 vs. 81±8, p<0.001) blood pressures (BP). No significant changes were observed in PAI-1 Ag (66±51 vs. 68±52, p=0.9), t-PAAg (12.6±5.3 vs. 13.3±4.7, p=0.3),TAFI % activity (119±30 vs. 118±32, p=0.9) and hsCRP (3.9±3.4 vs. 3.6±3.6, p=0.7) levels after adding an ARB.

Conclusions. Combined ARB and ACE-inhibitor use provide better BP control without any detrimental effect in plasma inflammatory and fibrinolytic parameters.
Angiotensin type 2 receptor is expressed in human atherosclerotic lesions
Authors: Johansson Maria E , Fagerberg Björn , Bergström Göran
Published: April 2008

Objective. Expression of the angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT2-receptor) occurs in many animal models of atherosclerosis. However, its expression in human plaques and its functional role remains undetermined.This study examined AT2-receptor expression in human atherosclerotic plaque and also explored its potentially important functional role in atherosclerosis.

Material and methods. We analysed carotid atherosclerotic plaques obtained from 14 Caucasian patients who had previously carotid artery stenosis. Half of all subjects undergone endarterectomy for symptomatic carotid artery stenosis. Half of all subjects received treatment with an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) (n=7); the remaining subjects received no intervention in the renin-angiotensin system (n=7). Immunohistochemistry measured tissue expression of smooth muscle cells (α-actin), macrophages (CD68 antibody), collagen (picro-sirius), and AT2-receptor (AT2-receptor antibody).

Results. AT2-receptor expression occurred consistently in all specimens. Although cellular localisation varied, AT2-receptor expression levels correlated with macrophage levels (p<0.01). Compared to conventional treatment, ongoing ARB treatment affected neither AT2-receptor levels nor plaque composition.

Conclusions. AT2-receptor is expressed in human atherosclerotic plaque. Furthermore, we detected no functionally important role of AT2-receptor expression and found no evidence that ARB treatment regulates AT2-receptor expression.
Angiotensinogen gene variants in a Pakistani hypertensive population of Punjab
Authors: Alvi Farrakh M , Hasnain Shahida
Published: April 2008

Background. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) plays a key role in blood pressure (BP) regulation. Among the components of the RAAS, the gene for the angiotensinogen (AGT) has been extensively studied. Several studies in different populations link Threonine instead of methionine at position 235 (M235T) and Methinine instead of threonine at position 174 (T174M) polymorphisms with essential hypertension. We were unable to study these polymorphisms in the Punjab population of Pakistan through routine Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) method. Considering the importance of this region we decided to further investigate the 300 bp region harbouring these two single nucleotide polymorphisms.

Methods. Samples were derived from a larger study group. Polymerase chain reaction amplified fragments were subjected to either RFLP or Single Strand Conformation. Polymorphism. Single stranded DNA showing mobility shift on denaturing gel were sequenced.

Results. Sequencing confirmed the presence of M235T and T174M polymorphisms in the local population. In addition to these polymorphisms one additional base was found at an identical position in two of the samples. We found a substitution of G with C just adjacent to T174M polymorphism in all seven of our samples studied.

Conclusions. We report two additional bases and one substitution in the angiotensinogen gene of Punjab population. We also suggest that SsmI can be used for the investigation of T174M polymorphism.
Changing dietary sodium alters the chronic cardiovascular effects of losartan in rats
Authors: Collister John P , Nahey David B
Published: April 2008

Introduction. We have previously demonstrated a profound hypotensive response to the angiotensin II type 1 (AT1)-receptor antagonist losartan in rats consuming a normal salt diet that is not seen in salt-loaded rats, presumably due to a suppression of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) by high sodium levels.The purpose of the present study was to examine the cardiovascular effects of changing dietary sodium intake during chronic treatment with losartan.We hypothesised that during blockade of AT1-receptors by chronic losartan infusion, when renin levels would be elevated regardless of dietary sodium, changing diets from high to normal or normal to high salt would have no effect on mean arterial pressure (MAP).

Materials and methods. To test this hypothesis, groups of rats instrumented with radiotelemetry transducers for MAP monitoring and venous catheters for infusion were initially placed on either a 0.4% salt content diet, referred to as Losartan Normal diet — High salt diet (LosN-HI, n = 7), or a 4.0% salt content diet, referred to as U Losartan High salt diet — Normal diet (LosHI-N, n = 9). After a thee-day control period, infusion of losartan was begun in all rats (10 mg/kg/day in 7 ml/day isotonic saline i.v.).After 10 days, diets were switched between groups and data were collected for another 10 days, after which losartan infusion was terminated for a 10-day recovery period.

Results. At the start of losartan infusion MAP was observed to be similar between LosN-HI rats (101±2 mmHg) and LosHI-N rats (101±2 mmHg). By day seven of the first 10 day protocol, MAP in LosN-HI rats had fallen to 71±4 mmHg while decreasing to 90±2 mmHg in LosHI-N rats. Five days after switching diets, MAP in LosN-HI rats had risen back to 85±3 mmHg, while MAP in LosHI-N rats had fallen to 75±2 mmHg. Conclusions. These results do not support our hypothesis, suggesting that changing dietary sodium can alter the chronic hypotensive response to losartan regardless of the initial state of the RAS.
Watford Music Centre
Authors: Littlefield David
Published: April 2008

David Littlefield describes how Tim Ronalds – the architect of the much‐loved, restored Hackney Empire in London and the Landmark theatre in Ilfracombe, Devon – has, on a very tight budget, satisfied the ambitions of both the Watford Grammar School for Boys and the county council for a regional music centre. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Arup Associates
Authors: Merrick Jay
Published: April 2008

A specialist architectural division of the wider Arup group, Arup Associates has a unique composition and ethos. In its studios, teams of architects, structural engineers, environmental engineers, urban designers and product designers work alongside each other on the design of buildings from a project's inception. It is an interdisciplinary approach that the practice pioneered in the 1960s, and which has been reinvigorated in the last few years by a new emphasis on ‘unified design’ – a radical wholeness in thinking and execution. Here, Jay Merrick talks to Arup Associates' principal Declan O'Carroll and considers his vision of an architecture capable of addressing complexity and sustaining humanity in the face of modernity. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Flame retardancy of polybutylene terephthalate blended with various oxides
Authors: Ishikawa Tomoyuki , Ueno Tomonaga , Watanabe Yusuke , Mizuno Kohshiroh , Takeda Kunihiko
Published: April 2008

The flame retardancy of polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) was studied focusing on the effect of various oxides. Thermo‐gravimetric analysis, pyrolysis/gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, and elemental analysis (EA) were used to analyze the flame retardancy, which were observed through the UL‐test and a cone calorimeter. Many oxides influenced the flame retardancy and some of them could suppress the flammability of PBT. In particular, the blended‐PBTs with ZnO and V2O5 accelerated the degradation and the edges of oxygen consumption were shorter than neat‐PBT although the flammability became poorer. The quantitative analysis of the scission products and the results of EA showed that hydrolysis, successive dehydration, and other various reactions changed the scission route to generate less flammable products. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Investigation of the swelling behavior of crosslinked hyaluronic acid films and hydrogels produced using homogeneous reactions
Authors: Collins Maurice N. , Birkinshaw Colin
Published: April 2008

Hyaluronic acid (HA) has been crosslinked in solution with glutaraldehyde (GTA), 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC), poly(ethylene glycol) diglycidylether (EX 810), and divinyl sulfone (DVS) to form hydrogels. Flory‐Rehner calculations were used to determine molecular weight between crosslinks (Mc), the crosslink density (Ve), and mesh size (ε) of crosslinked hydrogels after 24‐h swelling in distilled water. Generally, lower molecular weight films gave rise to decreased molecular weights between crosslinks as well as increased effective crosslink densities and decreased mesh size. The effects of pH and salt concentration were evaluated. Use of lower molecular weight HA gave rise to decreased molecular weights between crosslinks as well as increased effective crosslink densities and decreased mesh size. Water diffusion coefficients were measured for DVS and GTA hydrogels and were found to be 1.4 × 10−10 and 1.8 × 10−10 m2 s−1. Autocrosslinked and HA polyethyleneimine gels were also produced but had very limited stabilities compared with the covalently crosslinked materials. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Effect of tying conditions on the knot security of suture materials
Authors: Im Jung Nam , Kim Jeong Kyung , Kim Hyun‐Kyoon , Lee Kuen Yong , Park Won Ho
Published: April 2008

Although the knot security of suture materials has been widely investigated, there are few reports on the effects of knot tying conditions. With respect to foreign body reaction, it is preferable to use the minimum possible amount of suture materials and to use an appropriate material to ensure knot security. In this study, the different effects of knot tying conditions, such as knot type, tying force, and tying speed, were investigated. Knot tying was performed by a tensile tester for reproducible testing with the least amount of hand tying variation. The square knot (1 = 1 = 1) was shown to be the most appropriate knot type to evaluate monofilament sutures with a tensile tester. Increasing the tying speed and tying force enhanced knot security. The mechanical tying method was found to be a useful alternative to hand tying and provided reproducible test results. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Synthesis and Antiviral Evaluation of Novel 5‐(N‐Aryl‐aminomethyl‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2‐yl)hydrazines and Their Sugars, 1,2,4‐Triazoles, Tetrazoles and Pyrazolyl Derivatives
Authors: Abdel‐Aal Mohammed T. , El‐Sayed Waled A. , El‐Kosy Salah M. , El‐Ashry El Sayed H.
Published: April 2008

A number of new N‐arylaminomethyl‐1,3,4‐oxadiazole derivatives 2, 3a,b, and 9–12a,b were prepared. Sugar (5‐N‐arylaminomethyl‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2‐yl) hydrazones 4–6a,b were synthesized by the reaction of the hydrazino derivatives 3a,b with the corresponding monosaccharides. The novel acyclo‐C‐nucleosides 7, 8a,b were prepared by heterocyclization of the sugar hydrazones 4, 5a,b with acetic anhydride. A number of the synthesized compounds were tested for their antiviral activity against herpes simplex virus type‐1 (HSV‐1) and hepatitis‐A virus (HAV, MBBcell culture‐adapted strain). The results revealed that the sugar hydrazones 6a,b showed higher antiviral activity compared to the other hydrazones and their acetylated derivatives.
Visualizing new dimensions in Drosophila myoblast fusion
Authors: Richardson Brian , Beckett Karen , Baylies Mary
Published: April 2008

Over several years, genetic studies in the model system, Drosophila melanogastor, have uncovered genes that when mutated, lead to a block in myoblast fusion. Analyses of these gene products have suggested that Arp2/3‐mediated regulation of the actin cytoskeleton is crucial to myoblast fusion in the fly. Recent advances in imaging in Drosophila embryos, both in fixed and live preparations, have led to a new appreciation of both the three‐dimensional organization of the somatic mesoderm and the cell biology underlying myoblast fusion. BioEssays 30:423–431, 2008. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Optical coherence tomography: High resolution intravascular imaging to evaluate vascular healing after coronary stenting
Authors: Guagliumi Giulio , Sirbu Vasile
Published: April 2008

The risk of late stent thrombosis represents a major concern for patients treated with drug‐eluting stents (DES). Delayed healing and incomplete stent coverage were commonly observed in pathologic specimens of vessels treated with DES. In‐situ assessment of the stent coverage has been limited by the low spatial resolution of current image modalities. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) enables real‐time, full tomographic, in‐vivo visualization of coronary vessel microstructure. Struts coverage and vessel response of DES compared to BMS are the most immediate clinical applications of OCT. Thickness of coverage and strut apposition can be quantified at micron‐scale level with a resolution 10–30 times higher than conventional intravascular ultrasound. Current clinical experience demonstrates the high level of accuracy of OCT in evaluating the heterogeneity of vascular healing following DES implantation. Neointimal coverage at strut level assessed by OCT seems a reasonable intermediate endpoint to quickly scrutinize in preregistration studies the safety profile of the next generation of DES. Major limitations of current OCT technology are shallow depth of light penetration and the need to occlude the vessel for blood removal. Second generation forms of OCT, which allow images to be recorded faster (≅10 times) during a nonocclusive flush, have been recently developed. Full, quick scan of multiple and long stent without occlusion balloon is possible. Further technical advancements are expected to provide sharper images with additional contrast and tissue texture characterization. The value of these improvements must be gauged by the degree of impact in DES technology and patient care. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Optically Active Mixed Phthalocyaninato–Porphyrinato Rare‐Earth Double‐Decker Complexes: Synthesis, Spectroscopy, and Solvent‐Dependent Molecular Conformations
Authors: Zhang Xiaomei , Muranaka Atsuya , Lv Wei , Zhang Yuexing , Bian Yongzhong , Jiang Jianzhuang , Kobayashi Nagao
Published: April 2008

Reaction between the optically active metal‐free phthalocyanine with a π system with noncentrosymmetrical C2v symmetry ((S)‐ and (R)‐H2{Pc(OBNP)2}; OBNP=binaphthylphthalocyanine) and half‐sandwich complexes [MIII(acac)(TClPP)] (M=Y, Eu; TClPP=meso‐tetrakis(4‐chlorophenyl)porphyrinate; acac=acetylacetonate), which were generated in situ from [M(acac)3]⋅n H2O and H2(TClPP) in n‐octanol at reflux, provided the first optically active protonated mixed phthalocyaninato–porphyrinato rare‐earth double‐decker complexes [MIIIH{Pc(OBNP)2}(TClPP)] (M=Y, Eu) in good yield. In addition to electronic absorption spectroscopy and magnetic circular dichroism results, circular dichroism shows different spectroscopic features of these mixed‐ring rare‐earth double‐decker compounds in different solvents, such as DMF and CHCl3, which was well‐reproduced on the basis of time‐dependent density functional theory calculation results for the yttrium species (S)‐[YIII{Pc(OBNP)2}(Por)]− (Por=porphyrinate, which is obtained by removing the four chlorophenyl groups from the TClPP ligand) in terms of the change in the rotation angle between the two macrocyclic ligands in the double‐decker molecules. These results revealed the solvent‐dependent nature of the molecular conformation of mixed‐ring rare‐earth double‐decker complexes, which suggests a new way of tuning the optical and the electrochemical properties of sandwich‐type bis(tetrapyrrole)–metal double‐decker complexes in solution by changing the solvent.
ST‐segment Elevation in Lead Augmented Vector Right may also be Caused by Diffuse Left Main Coronary Artery Vasospasm Without Fixed Stenosis
Authors: Duygu Hamza , Yavuzgil Oguz , Erturk Umit , Zoghi Mehdi , Ozerkan Filiz
Published: April 2008

ST‐segment deviation in lead augmented vector right (aVR) is useful for evaluating patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The ST‐segment elevation in this aVR in the patient with clinically suspected acute coronary syndrome suggests a strong possibility of left main coronary artery (LMCA) obstruction due to fixed stenosis. In this article, we report the first case, to our knowledge, of ST‐segment elevation in lead aVR due to diffuse LMCA spasm. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Clinical Impact of Drug‐eluting Stents in an Unselected Population of Diabetic Patients
Authors: Domínguez Franco Antonio J. , Alonso Briales Juan H. , Jiménez Navarro Manuel F. , Hernández García Jose M. , García Pinilla José M. , Pérez Caravante Margarita , De Teresa Galván Eduardo
Published: April 2008

Background

Drug‐eluting stents (DES) have been shown in randomized trials to reduce clinical events in diabetic patients. Our aim was to determine whether these clinical results are applicable in an unselected population of patients with non‐insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) and insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM).

Methods

We studied 440 consecutive patients (271 NIDDM and 169 IDDM) who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention, divided into 2 cohorts: Group A (1998–2000): 220 patients with bare metal stents, and Group B (2002–2004): 220 patients with drug‐eluting stents. We analyzed major coronary adverse events (death, nonfatal acute myocardial infarction, and target lesion revascularization) over a mean follow‐up of 18 ± 15 months.

Results

Group B had more patients who were insulin‐dependent (44.5 versus 32.3% p<0.001) or had hypertension (64.5 versus 54.1%; p = 0.02), a lower left ventricular ejection fraction (53.89 versus 56.8%; p = 0.04), more complex lesions (B2/C) (82.7 versus 62.3%; p<0.001), more treated lesions (1.40 versus 1.26; p<0.001), more stents implanted (1.69 versus 1.15; p<0.0001), and more patients treated with abciximab (76.8 versus 42.7%; p<0.0001). During the follow‐up, Group B had fewer major adverse coronary events (11.7 versus 27.9%; p<0.001) and a reduction in target lesion revascularization (3.9 versus 17.2%; p<0.001), with no differences in death or myocardial infarction. Both groups experienced a significant reduction in events (NIDDM: 8.1 versus 26.7%; p<0.001 and IDDM: 16 versus 31.9%; p = 0.016). Multivariate regression analysis showed the use of drug‐eluting stents to be in direct relation with event‐free survival (odds ratio [OR]: 3.37; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.44–7.90; p = 0.005).

Conclusion

Despite the worse angiographic characteristics, the use of DES reduced clinical events, particularly target lesion revascularization. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
X‐ray Burns—Painful, Protracted, and Preventable
Authors: Vlietstra Ronald E. , Wagner Louis K.
Published: April 2008

Very high doses of x‐ray may produce deep burns in the backs of patients having fluoroscopically guided cardiac interventional procedures. While these incidents are uncommon they can be prevented by judicious limitation of fluoroscopy and timely repositioning of the x‐ray tube. Better education and improved methods for dose mapping should make these distressing complications a thing of the past. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rate of bilirubin regression after stenting in malignant biliary obstruction for the initiation of chemotherapy
Authors: Weston Brian R. , Ross William A. , Wolff Robert A. , Evans Douglas , Lee Jeffrey E. , Wang Xuemei , Xiao Lian‐chun , Lee Jeffrey H.
Published: April 2008

BACKGROUND.

This study was conducted to evaluate the rate of regression of bilirubin after stent placement for malignant biliary obstruction.

METHODS.

Records were reviewed from October 2002 to September 2005 for patients who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography with stent placement. The time to achieve a bilirubin level ≤2 mg/dL was the primary endpoint because this is the level required by most chemotherapy protocols. Patient variables included type of cancer, liver metastasis, recent chemotherapy, baseline creatinine, and international normalized ratio (INR). Stent variables included type, dimension, stricture location, and sphincterotomy.

RESULTS.

In total, 156 patients were included in the analysis: Ninety‐three patients achieved a poststent bilirubin level ≤2 mg/dL, 29 patients failed because of stent failure, and 34 patients failed because of inadequate follow‐up. The time required for 80% of patients to achieve normalization was more than doubled in those who had prestent bilirubin levels ≥10 mg/dL (6 weeks) compared with those who had prestent bilirubin levels <10 mg/dL (3 weeks). The following variables were identified as statistically significant: prestent bilirubin level, stricture location, liver metastasis, and INR. The cancer type, recent chemotherapy, stent type and diameter, and sphincterotomy were not statistically significant variables.

CONCLUSIONS.

The rate of bilirubin normalization after biliary stenting was highly dependent on the prestent bilirubin level. Endoscopic intervention should be considered in patients who fail to achieve adequate normalization of serum bilirubin in 6 weeks if prestent bilirubin level was ≥10 mg/dL and in 3 weeks if their prestent bilirubin level was <10 mg/dL. Independent variables, such as diffuse liver metastases, stricture outside the common bile duct, and elevated INR had predictive value for bilirubin normalization. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Subcellular distribution of the Rho‐GEF Lfc in primate prefrontal cortex: Effect of neuronal activation
Authors: Muly E. Chris , Nairn Angus C. , Greengard Paul , Rainnie Donald G.
Published: April 2008

The strength of synaptic connections in the brain varies with activity, and this plasticity depends on remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton in dendritic spines. Critical to this are the Rho family GTPases, whose activity is controlled by various modulatory proteins, including the Rho‐GEF Lfc. In cultured neurons and nonneuronal cells, Lfc has been shown both to bind to microtubules and to regulate the actin cytoskeleton. Significantly, Lfc was found to be concentrated in the dendritic shafts of cultured hippocampal neurons under control conditions but then translocated into spines when neural activity was stimulated. In this study, we used immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy to examine activity‐dependent changes in the distribution of Lfc in the neuropil of monkey prefrontal cortex. We found that, although Lfc was concentrated in dendrites, it also had a complex distribution in the neuropil, including being present in spines, axons, terminals, and glial processes. Moreover, Lfc distribution varied in different layers of cortex. By using an in vitro slice preparation of monkey prefrontal cortex, we demonstrated an activity‐dependent translocation of Lfc from dendritic shafts to spines. The results of this study support a role for Lfc in activity‐dependent spine plasticity and demonstrate the feasibility of studying activity‐dependent changes in protein localization in tissue slices. J. Comp. Neurol. 508:927–939, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nonlinear transient dynamic analysis by explicit finite element with iterative consistent mass matrix
Authors: Wu Shen Rong , Qiu Weifeng
Published: April 2008

Various mass matrices in the explicit finite element analyses of nonlinear transient dynamic problems are investigated. The matrices are obtained as a linear combination of lumped and consistent mass matrices. An iterative procedure to calculate the inverse of the consistent and the mixed mass matrices in the framework of explicit finite element method is presented. The convergence of the iterative procedure is proved. The inverse of the consistent and mixed mass matrices is approximated by the iteration and is used to compare the results from the lumped mass matrix. For the impact of a structural component and a vehicle, some difference in the results by using coarse mesh is observed. For the component using fine mesh, no significant difference is found. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Catalytic Properties of Nanoscale Iron‐Doped Zirconia Solid‐Solution Aerogels
Authors: Chen Lifang , Hu Juncheng , Richards Ryan M.
Published: April 2008

Nanoscale iron‐doped zirconia solid‐solution aerogels are prepared via a simple ethanol thermal route using zirconyl nitrate and iron nitrate as starting materials, followed by a supercritical fluid drying process. Structural characteristics are investigated by means of powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD), thermal analyses (TG/DTA), N2 adsorption measurements and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS). The results show that the resulting iron‐doped solid solutions are metastable tetragonal zirconia which exhibit excellent dispersibility and high solubility of iron oxide. Further, when the Fe:(Fe+Zr) ratio x is lower than 0.10, all of the Fe3+ ions can be incorporated into ZrO2 by substituting Zr4+ to form Zr1−xFexOy solid solutions. Moreover, for the first time, an additional hydroxyl group band that is not present in pure ZrO2 is observed by DRIFTS for the Zr(Fe)O2 solid solution. This is direct evidence of Fe3+ ions incorporated into ZrO2. These Zr1−xFexOy solid solutions are excellent catalysts for the solvent‐free aerobic oxidation of n‐hexadecane using air as the oxidant under ambient conditions. The Zr0.8Fe0.2Oy solid‐solution catalyst demonstrates the best catalytic properties, with the conversion of n‐hexadecane reaching 36.2 % with 48 % selectivity for ketones and 24 % selectivity for alcohols and it can be recycled five times without significant loss of activity.
Preventive Care in African American Women with End‐Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Goyal Vinita , Levison Sandra , Bavendam Tamara , Gillen Daniel , Stehman‐Breen Catherine
Published: April 2008

BACKGROUND

Routine cancer screening may be of particular importance to women with renal failure, who are at greater risk for cervical, uterine, and colorectal cancer. Most dialysis patients rely on their nephrologists for preventive care. However, this care may not be similar to that provided by primary care physicians. We compared the prevalence of cancer screening between women with and without end‐stage renal disease.

METHODS

Forty‐six women on dialysis were compared with 25 women attending an ambulatory care resident clinic and 25 women attending a specialty women's clinic at the same institution. A verbal questionnaire was used to determine if these women received appropriate screening for cervical, breast, and colorectal cancer.

RESULTS

Women without end‐stage renal disease were more likely to receive breast cancer screening (aOR = 5.94, 95% CI: 1.87, 18.9) routine cervical cancer screening (aOR = 4.57, 95% CI: 1.60, 13.1), and colorectal cancer screening (aOR = 2.73, 95% CI: 0.89, 8.39) when compared with women with renal failure . A higher percentage of women on dialysis reported never receiving a recommendation from a physician to obtain cervical or breast cancer screening.

CONCLUSIONS

African American women on dialysis received less preventive care than did women without end‐stage renal disease. Examination of factors influencing preventive screening among dialysis patients is warranted.
Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death in Dialysis Patients: A Nephrologist's Perspective
Authors: Bleyer Anthony J.
Published: April 2008

Sudden death is a common and at times preventable cause of death in the dialysis population. Prevention of sudden death can be accomplished in the dialysis population by proper management of cardiac disease and attention to dialysis treatment. The proper usage of medications such as angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors and beta‐blockers is likely to decrease the risk of sudden death, yet these medications are underutilized in the dialysis population. Appropriate management of dialysate potassium is also important. A systematic method should be developed in each dialysis center to identify risk factors for sudden death, institute appropriate treatment, and monitor outcomes.
The cholinergic gene locus in amphioxus: Molecular characterization and developmental expression patterns
Authors: Candiani Simona , Lacalli Thurston C. , Parodi Manuela , Oliveri Diana , Pestarino Mario
Published: April 2008

The cholinergic gene locus (CGL), consisting of the vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT)/choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) gene, encodes two specific cholinergic neuronal markers used extensively to study cholinergic transmission. In the present work, we isolated the amphioxus homologs of VAChT and ChAT and examined their expression during development. Analysis of the 5′ untranslated region of VAChT and ChAT suggests that the splicing of the VAChT/ChAT mRNA has been evolutionarily conserved in amphioxus and mammals. By double whole‐mount in situ hybridization, we demonstrate that VAChT and ChAT are coexpressed in the same cells. They are first expressed in four pairs of differentiating cells in the neural plate. Their later expression is primarily in the anterior nerve cord in several types of motoneurons, some of the interneurons and in the receptor cells of the larval ocellus. Developmental Dynamics 237:1399‐1411, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mixed‐Ligand Oxidovanadium(V) Complexes with N′‐Salicylidenehydrazides: Synthesis, Structure, and 51V Solid‐State MAS NMR Investigation
Authors: Nica Simona , Buchholz Axel , Rudolph Manfred , Schweitzer Annika , Wächtler Maria , Breitzke Hergen , Buntkowsky Gerd , Plass Winfried
Published: April 2008

The synthesis and spectroscopic characterization of a series of three oxidovanadium(V) complexes with 8‐hydroxyquinoline and Schiff‐base ligands derived from salicylaldehyde and ω‐hydroxy‐functionalized carbohydrazides with different chain lengths are reported. The complex with the hydrazone ligand containing the shortest chain length was crystallographically characterized. This complex crystallizes in the triclinic space group P$\bar {1}$ with two structurally similar but crystallographically independent oxidovanadium(V) complexes. Each vanadium atom is six‐coordinate in a distorted‐octahedral geometry. The two molecules are assembled through hydrogen‐bonding interactions between the hydroxyl groups of the side‐chain substituted Schiff‐base ligand and the oxido group of one of the two complexes. Electrochemical measurements performed in acetonitrile solution reveal two reversible one‐electron reduction steps. The observed pre‐wave feature of the second reduction step indicates the presence of dissociation equilibria related to the 8‐hydroxyquinoline coligand. Magic‐angle spinning solid‐state 51V NMR spectroscopy allowed to characterize the full series of complexes with alkyl and hydroxy alkyl‐substituted hydrazone ligands that were used. The quadrupolar coupling constants are small with a value of about 4 MHz and show little variation within the series. The asymmetry of the chemical shift tensor indicates a rather axial symmetric environment around the vanadium(V) center. The isotropic chemical shifts observed in the solid state occur at about 30 ppm, which is in the same order of magnitude as the solvent induced variations, about 10 ppm, found for different solvents.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Sequential Metal‐Catalyzed N‐Heteroarylation and C–C Cross‐Coupling Reactions: An Expedient Route to Tris(hetero)aryl Systems
Authors: Siddle Jamie S. , Batsanov Andrei S. , Bryce Martin R.
Published: April 2008

This paper describes copper‐catalyzed N–C heteroarylation of benzimidazole, 1‐methylbenzimidazolone, imidazole and pyrrole. The products of these reactions then undergo palladium‐catalyzed C–C cross‐couplings with aryl or heteroarylboronic acids under Suzuki–Miyaura conditions to provide a rapid entry, from readily‐available reagents, into tris(hetero)aryl scaffolds comprising two or three N‐heterocyclic rings. The sequential N–C and C–C couplings can be performed in a one‐pot process (two examples are given: >50 % overall yields). (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
The phenomenology of minority–majority status: Effects on innovation in argument generation
Authors: Kenworthy Jared B. , Hewstone Miles , Levine John M. , Martin Robin , Willis Hazel
Published: April 2008

In three experiments, we manipulated participants' perceived numerical status and compared the originality and creativity of arguments generated by members of numerical minorities and majorities. Independent judges, blind to experimental conditions, rated participants' written arguments. In Studies 1 and 2, we found that participants assigned to a numerical minority generated more original arguments when advocating their own position than did numerical majorities. In Study 3, an equal‐factions control group was included in the design, and all participants were instructed to argue for a counter‐attitudinal position. Those in the numerical minority generated more creative arguments than those in both the majority and equal‐factions conditions, but not stronger arguments. We propose cognitive and social processes that may underlie our obtained effects and discuss implications for minority influence research. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.