bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Orbicularis oris muscle defects as an expanded phenotypic feature in nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate
Authors: Neiswanger Katherine , Weinberg Seth M. , Rogers Carolyn R. , Brandon Carla A. , Cooper Margaret E. , Bardi Kathleen M. , Deleyiannis Frederic W.B. , Resick Judith M. , Bowen A'Delbert , Mooney Mark P. , de Salamanca Javier Enríquez , González Beatriz , Maher Brion S. , Martin Rick A. , Marazita Mary L.
Published: May 2007

Nonsyndromic cleft lip ± cleft palate is a complex disease with a wide phenotypic spectrum; occult defects of the superior orbicularis oris muscle may represent the mildest subclinical form of the lip portion of the phenotype. This study used high‐resolution ultrasonography to compare the frequency of discontinuities in the OO muscle in 525 unaffected relatives of individuals with nonsyndromic cleft lip  ±  cleft palate versus 257 unaffected controls. OO muscle discontinuities were observed in 54 (10.3%) of the non‐cleft relatives, compared to 15 (5.8%) of the controls—a statistically significant increase (P = 0.04). Male relatives had a significantly higher rate of discontinuities than male controls (12.0% vs. 3.2%; P = 0.01); female relatives also had a higher rate of discontinuities than female controls, but the increase was not statistically significant (8.9% vs. 7.4%; P = 0.56). These data confirm the hypothesis that subepithelial OO muscle defects are a mild manifestation of the cleft lip phenotype. Identification of subepithelial OO muscle defects may be important in a clinical setting, as a means of providing more accurate recurrence risk estimates to relatives in cleft families. Furthermore, the expansion of the cleft lip  ±  cleft palate phenotypic spectrum should improve the power of genetic studies. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Amphiphilic fluorescent copolymers nucleotides interactions
Authors: Li Cheng , Lu Xiaoju , Meng Lingzhi , Zhang Lifen , He Yongbing
Published: May 2007

New hydrophobic monomer N‐methacryloyl‐N′‐α‐naphthylthiourea (MANTU) was synthesized and copolymerized with hydrophilic N‐isopropylacrylamide by free radical copolymerization. And N,N‐dimethylacrylamide was introduced to adjust the lower critical solution temperature of the resulting copolymers. Photophysics and the effect of pH of copolymer in aqueous solutions were studied by intrinsic fluorescence observations. The self‐aggregation behavior was investigated by transmission electron microscopy. The amphiphilic polymers with fluorescent behavior were confirmed to be thermo‐ and pH‐sensitive. The interaction of the tercopolymer with adenosine 5′‐monophosphate and adenosine 5′‐trisphosphate was described. Different interactions of nucleotides with the copolymer were found and possible mechanisms were discussed. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2007
Photoacid generators for catalytic decomposition of polycarbonate
Authors: Cupta Mark G. , Joseph Paul Jayachandran , Kohl Paul A.
Published: May 2007

The photo‐activated, acid catalyzed decomposition of polycarbonate was investigated in this study. The impact of the chemical and physical properties of the photoacid generators (PAG) and the ambient atmosphere effect on polycarbonate decomposition were discussed. The photo‐patterns resulted from the photoacid catalyzed decomposition of a polycarbonate can be used as a sacrificial placeholder for fabrication of microelectromechanical and microfluidic devices. The effects of acid strength, vapor pressure of the acid, PAG activation process, and ambient conditions (temperature, moisture, and oxygen concentrations) on polymer film decomposition were studied. Several superacids (e.g. triflic and nonaflic based PAGs) were not suitable for decomposition of the polycarbonate because of their high vapor pressures resulting in the high volatility properties. From the decomposition experiments it was found that the nonfluorinated sulfonic acid based PAGs do not posses the superacidity needed for decomposition. Perfluorinated methide and a tetrakis (pentafluoropheyl)borate PAG were effective in the decomposition of polycarbonate films. The combination of two PAGs, one which generates high vapor pressure acid (thus, highly volatile) and the other with a lower vapor pressure acid (thus, less volatile) showed very low residue levels. This is because of the volatility of the generated high vapor pressure acid (usually remaining acid in the film was the cause of the residue left behind) and the remaining nonvolatile low vapor pressure acid was sufficient to decompose the polycarbonate that was not decomposed by the generated high volatile acid. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2007
Microstructure and miscibility of acrylonitrile–butadiene rubber/ethylene–propylene–diene monomer blends studied by positron annihilation spectroscopy
Authors: Gomaa Ehsan
Published: May 2007

The free‐volume properties and miscibility of ethylene–propylene–diene monomer/acrylonitrile–butadiene rubber blends with poly(vinyl chloride) used for compatibilization were investigated with positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy and Doppler broadening of annihilation radiation. The results showed that the ortho‐positronium annihilation lifetimes and intensities as well as the S parameter had a linear relationship with a negative slope as a function of the weight percentage of acrylonitrile–butadiene rubber, which indicated the miscibility of the blend. The filling effect of silica on the free‐volume properties of an ethylene–propylene–diene monomer/acrylonitrile–butadiene rubber (75/25) blend was also examined. On the other hand, a correlation between the size and concentration of the free‐volume holes and the electrical and mechanical properties of the aforementioned blends was established. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2007
A stirred microchamber for oxygen consumption rate measurements with pancreatic islets
Authors: Papas Klearchos K. , Pisania Anna , Wu Haiyan , Weir Gordon C. , Colton Clark K.
Published: May 2007

Improvements in pancreatic islet transplantation for treatment of diabetes are hindered by the absence of meaningful islet quality assessment methods. Oxygen consumption rate (OCR) has previously been used to assess the quality of organs and primary tissue for transplantation. In this study, we describe and characterize a stirred microchamber for measuring OCR with small quantities of islets. The device has a titanium body with a chamber volume of about 200 µL and is magnetically stirred and water jacketed for temperature control. Oxygen partial pressure (pO2) is measured by fluorescence quenching with a fiber optic probe, and OCR is determined from the linear decrease of pO2 with time. We demonstrate that measurements can be made rapidly and with high precision. Measurements with βTC3 cells and islets show that OCR is directly proportional to the number of viable cells in mixtures of live and dead cells and correlate linearly with membrane integrity measurements made with cells that have been cultured for 24 h under various stressful conditions. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2007;98: 1071–1082. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Management of mixed arterial and venous leg ulcers
Authors: Humphreys M L , Stewart A H R , Gohel M S , Taylor M , Whyman M R , Poskitt K R
Published: May 2007

Background

The aim was to assess healing in patients with mixed arterial and venous leg ulcers after protocol-driven treatment in a specialist leg ulcer clinic.

Methods

The study included consecutive patients referred with leg ulceration and venous reflux over 6 years. Legs without arterial disease (ankle : brachial pressure index (ABPI) above 0·85) were treated with multilayer compression bandaging and patients with severe disease (ABPI 0·5 or less) were considered for immediate revascularization. Those with moderate arterial compromise (ABPI above 0·5 up to 0·85) were initially managed with supervised modified compression and considered for revascularization if their ulcer did not heal. Healing rates were determined using life-table analysis.

Results

Of 2011 ulcerated legs, 1416 (70·4 per cent) had venous reflux. Of these 1416, 193 (13·6 per cent) had moderate and 31 (2·2 per cent) had severe arterial disease. Healing rates by 36 weeks were 87, 68 and 53 per cent for legs with insignificant, moderate and severe arterial disease respectively (P < 0·001). Seventeen legs with moderate and 15 with severe arterial disease were revascularized. Of these, ulcers healed in four legs with moderate and seven with severe disease within 36 weeks of revascularization (P = 0·270). Combined 30-day mortality for revascularization was 6·5 per cent.

Conclusion

A protocol including supervised modified compression and selective revascularization achieved good healing rates for mixed arterial and venous leg ulceration.
Use of Ionic Liquids in the Synthesis of Nanocrystals and Nanorods of Semiconducting Metal Chalcogenides
Authors: Biswas Kanishka , Rao C. N. R.
Published: May 2007

We have synthesized nanoparticles of hexagonal CdS in the diameter range 3–13 nm by the reaction of cadmium acetate dihydrate with thioacetamide in imidazolium [BMIM]‐based ionic liquids. We have obtained three different particle sizes of CdS by changing the anion of the ionic liquid. Addition of trioctylphosphine oxide (TOPO) to the reaction mixture causes greater monodispersity as well as smaller particle size, while addition of ethylenediamine produces nanorods of 7 nm average diameter. Hexagonal ZnS and cubic PbS nanoparticles with average diameters of 3 and 10 nm, respectively, have been prepared by the reaction of the metal acetates with thioacetamide in [BMIM][BF4]. Hexagonal CdSe nanoparticles with an average diameter 12 nm were obtained by the reaction of cadmium acetate dihydrate with dimethylselenourea in [BMIM][BF4]. In this case also we observe the same effect of the addition of TOPO as in the case of CdS. Addition of ethylenediamine to the reaction mixture gives rise to nanorods. ZnSe nanowires with a cubic structures, possible diameters in the range 70–100 nm by the reaction of zinc acetate dihydrate with dimethylselenourea in [BMIM][MeSO4]. The nanostructures obtained are single crystalline in all the cases. Most of the nanostructures show characteristic UV/Vis absorption and photoluminescence emission spectra. The thermodynamically most stable structures are generally produced in the synthesis carried out in ionic liquids.
Structure of Ag Clusters Grown on Fs‐Defect Sites of an MgO(1 0 0) Surface
Authors: Barcaro Giovanni , Aprà Edoardo , Fortunelli Alessandro
Published: May 2007

The structure of AgN clusters (N=1–4, 6, 8, 10), both in the gas phase and grown on the MgO(1 0 0) surface containing Fs‐defects, has been investigated by a density functional basin‐hopping (DF‐BH) approach. In analogy with what observed in the case of gold clusters, it is found that the presence of the defect implies a double frustration and a cylindrical invariance of the metal–surface interaction, causing small Ag clusters growing around the Fs defect to be highly fluxional. Nevertheless, two different structural crossovers are found to be induced by the metal–defect interaction for the adsorbed clusters such that: 1) planar structures prevail for N≤4 (as in the gas phase); 2) noncrystalline (fivefold symmetric) structures, which are the lowest energy ones in the gas phase for medium sized AgN clusters (N≥7), prevail for N=6 and N=8; 3) distorted face‐centered cubic (fcc) structures grown pseudomorphically on the defected surface prevail for N=10. The transition from fivefold to fcc motifs is rationalized in terms of the double‐frustration effect, which increases the bond strain of the noncrystalline structures. Detrapping energies from the defect were also calculated; the lowest energy pathway corresponds to the detachment of a dimer.
Gold Nanoparticles in Organic Capsules: A Supramolecular Assembly of Gold Nanoparticles and Cucurbituril
Authors: Corma Avelino , García Hermenegildo , Montes‐Navajas Pedro , Primo Ana , Calvino José Juan , Trasobares Susana
Published: May 2007

Gold nanoparticles (≤1 nm) have been encapsulated inside cucurbit[7]uril (CB[7]) by vapor deposition or chemical reduction in aqueous solutions. CB[7] has unique host properties compared with CB[5] and CB[6]. The particle size distribution obtained with CB[5] and CB[6] is similar to that obtained in the absence of CBs and the particles obtained are much too large to be incorporated inside the organic capsules. When gold nanoparticles are prepared inside CB[7] the resulting supramolecular assembly has shape‐selective properties for gold interactions with amines, cyanide, and quaternary ammonium ions. Thus, CB[7] has the potential to be used in applications such as selective adsorption, sensing, and catalysis.
Novel Chromogenic Chemosensors for Fluoride Anion Based on 8‐Hydroxyquinoline Azo Derivatives
Authors: Cheng Yun‐Fei , Liu Zhi‐Qiang , Shi Mei , Zhao Qiang , Li Fu‐You , Yi Tao , Huang Chun‐Hui
Published: May 2007

A series of 8‐hydroxyquinoline azo derivatives with diverse conjugated structures were synthesized and studied to chromogenically detect anions. All the dyes allowed selective detection for fluoride anion in CH3CN via instant deprotonation of the compounds, which was affirmed by UV‐Vis absorption and 1H NMR spectra. The chromogenically responding ability increases as the substituent changes from phenyl to naphthyl or anthryl. This result is likely to be related to the enhancement of intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) induced by extension of conjugated structure.
Preconcentration and Determination of Trace Amounts of Heavy Metals in Water Samples Using Membrane Disk and Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry
Authors: Ali Moghimi
Published: May 2007

A fast and simple method for preconcentration of Ni2+, Cd2+, Pb2+, Zn2+, Cu2+ and Co2+ from natural water samples was developed. The metal ions were complexed with sodium diethyldithiocarbamate (Na‐DDTC), then adsorbed onto octadecyl silica membrane disk, recovered and determined by FAAS. Extraction efficiency, influence of sample volume and eluent flow rates, effects of pH, amount of Na‐DDTC, nature and amount of eluent for elution of metal ions from membrane disk, break through volume and limit of detection have been evaluated. The effect of foreign ions on the percent recovery of heavy metal ions has also been studied. The limit of detection of the proposed method for Ni2+, Cd2+, Pb2+, Zn2+, Cu2+ and Co2+was found to be 2.03, 0.47, 3.13, 0.44, 1.24 and 2.05 ng·mL−1, respectively. The proposed (DDTC) method has been successfully applied to the recovery and determination of heavy metal ions in different water samples.
Iodine Catalyzed Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis of 14‐Aryl(Alkyl)‐14H‐dibenzo[a,j]xanthenes
Authors: Ding Fei‐Qing , An Li‐Tao , Zou Jian‐Ping
Published: May 2007

A straightforward and effective procedure for the synthesis of 14‐aryl(alkyl)‐14H‐dibenzo[a,j]xanthenes was described using a catalytic amount of molecular iodine under microwave irradiation to afford the corresponding xanthenes in good yields.
First Synthesis of Bioactive Diphyllin Glycosides Isolated from Justicia patentiflor Hemsl
Authors: Zhao Yu , Li Ying‐Xia
Published: May 2007

The syntheses of three naturally occurring diphyllin glycosides have been achieved. 7‐O‐β‐D‐Quinovopyranosyl‐ diphyllin (patentiflorin A) and 7‐O‐β‐L‐fucopyranosyldiphyllin (patentiflorin B) were synthesized by the glycosylation of diphyllin with peracetylglycosyl bromides under phase transfer catalysis (PTC) conditions. 4"‐O‐Acetyl‐7‐O‐β‐L‐fucopyranosyldiphyllin (4"‐O‐acetyl patentiflorin B) was obtained from patentiflorin B on an orthoesterification‐orthoester rearrangement approach. Their 1H NMR, 13C NMR and HRMS signals are all consistent with those reported for the natural product.
A Facile Approach to Synthesis of the Di‐O‐methyl Ethers of (−)‐Agatharesinol, (−)‐Sugiresinol, (+)‐Nyasol and (+)‐Tetrahydronyasol
Authors: Quan Wei‐Guo , Yu Bin‐Xun , Zhang Ji‐Yong , Liang Qi‐Ren , Sun Yong‐Quan , She Xue‐Gong , Pan Xin‐Fu
Published: May 2007

The facile enantioselective synthesis of the di‐O‐methyl ethers of (−)‐agatharesinol (1b), (−)‐sugiresionl (2b), (+)‐nyasol (3b) and (+)‐tetrahydronyasol (4) were achieved in high yield. The absolute configuration of (+)‐3a was confirmed via first total synthesis of (+)‐3b and (+)‐4.
Clinical predictors of gleason score upgrading
Authors: Kulkarni Girish S. , Lockwood Gina , Evans Andrew , Toi Ants , Trachtenberg John , Jewett Michael A. S. , Finelli Antonio , Fleshner Neil E.
Published: May 2007

BACKGROUND

Brachytherapy, active surveillance, and watchful waiting are increasingly being offered to men with low‐risk prostate cancer. However, many of these men harbor undetected high‐grade disease (Gleason pattern ≥4). The ability to identify those individuals with occult high‐grade disease may help guide treatment decisions in this patient cohort.

METHODS

The authors identified 175 cases of low‐risk prostate cancer treated with radical prostatectomy. By using logistic regression analysis, 11 a priori‐defined preoperative risk factors were evaluated for their ability to predict upgrading from Gleason 6 at biopsy to Gleason ≥7 at radical prostatectomy. An internally validated nomogram using all clinical variables was subsequently created to help physicians identify patients who had undetected high‐grade disease.

RESULTS

A total of 60 (34%) patients were upgraded to high‐grade disease. On multivariate analyses, both prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level (P = .02) and the level of pathologist expertise (P = .007) were predictive of upgrading. The predictive nomogram contained these variables plus age, digital rectal examination, transrectal ultrasound results, biopsy scheme applied (sextant vs extended), presence of prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia, prostate gland volume, and percentage of cancer in the biopsy. The nomogram provided acceptable discrimination (C statistic 0.71).

CONCLUSIONS

The authors identified significant predictors of upgrading for patients diagnosed with low‐risk prostate cancer. A nomogram based on these study findings could help physicians further risk‐stratify patients with low‐risk prostate cancer before embarking on treatment. Caution should be exercised in recommending nonradical therapy to individuals with a high probability of undetected high‐grade disease. Cancer 2007. © 2007 American Cancer Society.
CVD of Metals Using Alcohols and Metal Acetylacetonates, Part II: Role of Solvent and Characterization of Metal Films Made by Pulsed Spray Evaporation CVD
Authors: Premkumar P.A. , Bahlawane N. , Reiss G. , Kohse‐Höinghaus K.
Published: May 2007

Starting from their corresponding acetylacetonate complexes, nickel, copper, and cobalt thin films are deposited in a hydrogen‐free atmosphere using CVD. The investigated pulsed spray evaporation (PSE) CVD process uses precursors dissolved in an organic solvent as the feedstock. This paper reports on the major role of the solvent for the growth of metal films. Alcohol solvents such as methanol, ethanol, and n‐propanol enabled the growth of metallic films, while nonalcohol solvents such as tetrahydrofuran and n‐butyl acrylate failed. Higher alcohols tend to result in higher growth rates; however, they present a limited solubility of the acetylacetonate complexes. Metal films grow, starting at 493 K, on glass and other substrates with no incubation time, and the obtained films, with thicknesses below 30 nm, present a smooth morphology. Phase analysis with X‐ray diffraction (XRD) reveals the hexagonal polycrystalline structure of Ni and Co, and the cubic structure of Cu.
Cytological diagnosis of collagenous spherulosis of breast associated with fibroadenoma: Report of a case with review of literature
Authors: Gangane Nitin , Joshi Deepti , Anshu  , Shivkumar V. B.
Published: May 2007

Collagenous spherulosis of the breast is a rare incidental finding frequently associated with other benign lesions of the breast. The estimated incidence of this innocuous condition is only about 0.2% in cytological material. It is of utmost importance to differentiate collagenous spherulosis from its malignant mimics to avoid unnecessary treatment. This article discusses the cytological findings of a case of collagenous spherulosis of breast associated with fibroadenoma, along with a brief review of literature. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2007;35:366–369. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Bone marrow‐derived very small embryonic‐like stem cells: Their developmental origin and biological significance
Authors: Kucia M. , Wu W. , Ratajczak M.Z.
Published: May 2007

Data from our and other laboratories provide evidence that bone marrow (BM) contains a population of stem cells that expresses early developmental markers such as (1) stage‐specific embryonic antigen (SSEA) and (2) transcription factors Oct‐4 and Nanog. These are the markers characteristic for embryonic stem cells, epiblast stem cells, and primordial germ cells (PGC). The presence of these stem cells in adult BM supports the concept that this organ contains some population of pluripotent stem cells that is deposited in embryogenesis during early gastrulation. We hypothesize that these cells could be direct descendants of the germ lineage that, to pass genes on to the next generations, has to create soma and, thus, becomes a “mother lineage” for all somatic cell lineages present in the adult body. Germ potential is established after conception in totipotent zygotes and retained in blastomeres of morula, cells from the inner cell mass of blastocyst, epiblast, and population of PGC. We will present a concept that SSEA+Oct‐4+Nanog+cells identified in BM could be descendants of epiblast cells as well as some rare migrating astray PGC. Developmental Dynamics 236:3309–3320, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Abnormal vertebral segmentation and the notch signaling pathway in man
Authors: Turnpenny Peter D. , Alman Ben , Cornier Alberto S. , Giampietro Philip F. , Offiah Amaka , Tassy Olivier , Pourquié Olivier , Kusumi Kenro , Dunwoodie Sally
Published: May 2007

Abnormal vertebral segmentation (AVS) in man is a relatively common congenital malformation but cannot be subjected to the scientific analysis that is applied in animal models. Nevertheless, some spectacular advances in the cell biology and molecular genetics of somitogenesis in animal models have proved to be directly relevant to human disease. Some advances in our understanding have come through DNA linkage analysis in families demonstrating a clustering of AVS cases, as well as adopting a candidate gene approach. Only rarely do AVS phenotypes follow clear Mendelian inheritance, but three genes—DLL3, MESP2, and LNFG—have now been identified for spondylocostal dysostosis (SCD). SCD is characterized by extensive hemivertebrae, trunkal shortening, and abnormally aligned ribs with points of fusion. In familial cases clearly following a Mendelian pattern, autosomal recessive inheritance is more common than autosomal dominant and the genes identified are functional within the Notch signaling pathway. Other genes within the pathway cause diverse phenotypes such as Alagille syndrome (AGS) and CADASIL, conditions that may have their origin in defective vasculogenesis. Here, we deal mainly with SCD and AGS, and present a new classification system for AVS phenotypes, for which, hitherto, the terminology has been inconsistent and confusing. Developmental Dynamics 236:1456–1474, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sexual dimorphism of g‐protein subunit Gng13 expression in the cortical region of the developing mouse ovary
Authors: Fujino Akihiro , Pieretti‐Vanmarcke Rafael , Wong Anita , Donahoe Patricia K. , Arango Nelson A.
Published: May 2007

In our search for genes required for the development and function of mouse gonads, we identified Gng13 (guanine nucleotide binding protein 13, gamma), a gene with an embryonic expression pattern highly restricted to the ovary. Based on reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and whole‐mount in situ hybridization, Gng13 is expressed in both XX and XY gonads at embryonic day (E) 11.5, but becomes up‐regulated in the XX gonad by E12.5. Expression is retained after treatment with busulfan, a chemical known to eliminate germ cells, pointing to the soma as a site of Gng13 transcription. In situ hybridization of embryonic ovarian tissue sections further localized the expression to the cortex of the developing XX gonad. Gng13 expression in the adult is also highly restricted. Northern blot analyses and Genomic Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation expression profiling of adult tissues detected very high expression in the cerebrum and cerebellum, in addition to, a weaker signal in the ovary. Gng13 belongs to a well‐known family of signal transduction molecules with functions in many aspects of development and organ physiology. Here, we report that, in the developing mouse embryo, expression of Gng13 mRNA is highly restricted to the cortex of the XX gonad during sexual differentiation, suggesting a role for this gene during ovarian development. Developmental Dynamics 236:1991–1996, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Runx2 determines bone maturity and turnover rate in postnatal bone development and is involved in bone loss in estrogen deficiency
Authors: Maruyama Zenjiro , Yoshida Carolina A. , Furuichi Tatsuya , Amizuka Norio , Ito Masako , Fukuyama Ryo , Miyazaki Toshihiro , Kitaura Hideki , Nakamura Kouhei , Fujita Takashi , Kanatani Naoko , Moriishi Takeshi , Yamana Kei , Liu Wenguang , Kawaguchi Hiroshi , Nakamura Kozo , Komori Toshihisa
Published: May 2007

Runx2 is an essential transcription factor for osteoblast differentiation. However, the functions of Runx2 in postnatal bone development remain to be clarified. Introduction of dominant‐negative (dn)‐Runx2 did not inhibit Col1a1 and osteocalcin expression in mature osteoblastic cells. In transgenic mice that expressed dn‐Runx2 in osteoblasts, the trabecular bone had increased mineralization, increased volume, and features of compact bone, and the expression of major bone matrix protein genes was relatively maintained. After ovariectomy, neither osteolysis nor bone formation was enhanced and bone was relatively conserved. In wild‐type mice, Runx2 was strongly expressed in immature osteoblasts but downregulated during osteoblast maturation. These findings indicate that the maturity and turnover rate of bone are determined by the level of functional Runx2 and Runx2 is responsible for bone loss in estrogen deficiency, but that Runx2 is not essential for maintenance of the expression of major bone matrix protein genes in postnatal bone development and maintenance. Developmental Dynamics 236:1876–1890, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
From segment to somite: Segmentation to epithelialization analyzed within quantitative frameworks
Authors: Kulesa Paul M. , Schnell Santiago , Rudloff Stefan , Baker Ruth E. , Maini Philip K.
Published: May 2007

One of the most visually striking patterns in the early developing embryo is somite segmentation. Somites form as repeated, periodic structures in pairs along nearly the entire caudal vertebrate axis. The morphological process involves short‐ and long‐range signals that drive cell rearrangements and cell shaping to create discrete, epithelialized segments. Key to developing novel strategies to prevent somite birth defects that involve axial bone and skeletal muscle development is understanding how the molecular choreography is coordinated across multiple spatial scales and in a repeating temporal manner. Mathematical models have emerged as useful tools to integrate spatiotemporal data and simulate model mechanisms to provide unique insights into somite pattern formation. In this short review, we present two quantitative frameworks that address the morphogenesis from segment to somite and discuss recent data of segmentation and epithelialization. Developmental Dynamics 236:1392–1402, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Eating disturbances in a school population of preteen girls: Assessment and screening
Authors: Colton Patricia A. , Olmsted Marion P. , Rodin Gary M.
Published: May 2007

Objective:

To assess the utility of the Children's Eating Attitudes Test (cEAT) questionnaire in screening for interview‐ascertained eating disturbances.

Method:

A total of 409 girls, 9–13 years of age, completed a cEDE interview and cEAT questionnaire.

Results:

14.7% of girls reported eating disturbances in the past month on the cEDE. Mean cEDE score was 0.3 ± 0.6 and mean cEAT score was 5.9 ± 5.9. The cEAT demonstrated low sensitivity but high specificity at a cutoff score of 20, and poor positive predictive value when lower cutoff scores were used.

Conclusion:

Eating disturbances were common but mild in this preteen group. The cEAT was not an efficient screening tool for interview‐ascertained mild eating disturbances in preteen girls. © 2007 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 2007
Differential alteration of lipid antigen presentation to NKT cells due to imbalances in lipid metabolism
Authors: Schümann Jens , Facciotti Federica , Panza Luigi , Michieletti Mario , Compostella Federica , Collmann Anthony , Mori Lucia , De Libero Gennaro
Published: May 2007

Deficiencies in enzymes of the lysosomal glycosphingolipid degradation pathway or in lysosomal lipid transfer proteins cause an imbalance in lipid metabolism and induce accumulation of certain lipids. A possible impact of such an imbalance on the presentation of lipid antigens to lipid‐reactive T cells has only been hypothesized but not extensively studied so far. Here we demonstrate that presentation of lipid antigens to, and development of, lipid‐reactive CD1d‐restricted NKT cells, are impaired in mice deficient in the lysosomal enzyme β‐galactosidase (βGal) or the lysosomal lipid transfer protein Niemann‐Pick C (NPC) 2. Importantly, the residual populations of NKT cells selected in βGal–/– and NPC2–/– mice showed differential TCR and CD4 repertoire characteristics, suggesting that differential selecting CD1d:lipid antigen complexes are formed. Furthermore, we provide direct evidence that accumulation of lipids impairs lipid antigen presentation in both cases. However, the mechanisms by which imbalanced lipid metabolism affected lipid antigen presentation were different. Based on these results, the impact of lipid accumulation should be generally considered in the interpretation of immunological deficiencies found in mice suffering from lipid metabolic disorders.
Design of Brønsted Neutral Organic Bases and Superbases by Computational DFT Methods: Cyclic and Polycyclic Quinones and [3]Carbonylradialenes
Authors: Despotović Ines , Maksić Zvonimir B. , Vianello Robert
Published: May 2007

The gas‐phase proton affinities and basicities of a large number of extended polycyclic π systems possessing a carbonyl oxygen head serving as a basic proton scavenger are explored by using DFT at the B3LYP/6‐311+G(d,p)//B3LYP/6‐31+G(d) level of theory. Some of these neutral organicsuperbases exhibit proton affinities in the range of 264–284 kcal mol–1. In constructing these systems it turned out that a =C(NMe2)2fragment attached to a quinoid six‐membered ring enhanced the basicity to a considerable extent. There is abundant and convincing evidence that protonation triggers strong aromatization of the quinoid rings. Moreover, sequential quinoid rings undergo the aromatic domino effect upon protonation if linearly aligned. Triadic analysis has revealed that highly pronounced basicity in some studied systems is a result of the synergistic action of Koopmans' frozen neutral base ionization energy contribution and subsequent relaxation of the radical cation. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Synthesis of the Tetraketide Lactones from the Pikromycin Biosynthetic Pathway
Authors: Oh Hong‐Se , Yun Ji‐Suk , Nah Ki‐Hyun , Kang Han‐Young , Sherman David H.
Published: May 2007

Synthesis of tetraketide lactones 2 and 3, which are likely to be produced by a model pikromycin polyketide synthase (PKS), has been investigated. The tetraketide lactones with six‐membered rings, 2a and 2b, were synthesized successfully by the asymmetric aldol reaction, allylation, and the Reformatsky reaction. The attempted synthesis of tetraketide lactones with eight‐membered rings, 3a and 3b, led to the formation of the compounds 2a and 2b. The synthesis of another tetraketide lactone compounds 35 was attempted with the hope that introducing an additional methyl group would lead to a change in thermodynamic stability. However, it produced the corresponding tetraketide lactone 34 with a six‐membered ring. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Multiobjective heuristic approaches to seismic design of steel frames with standard sections
Authors: Ohsaki M. , Kinoshita T. , Pan P.
Published: May 2007

Seismic design problem of a steel moment‐resisting frame is formulated as a multiobjective programming problem. The total structural (material) volume and the plastic dissipated energy at the collapse state against severe seismic motions are considered as performance measures. Geometrically nonlinear inelastic time‐history analysis is carried out against recorded ground motions that are incrementally scaled to reach the predefined collapse state. The frame members are chosen from the lists of the available standard sections. Simulated annealing (SA) and tabu search (TS), which are categorized as single‐point‐search heuristics, are applied to the multiobjective optimization problem. It is shown in the numerical examples that the frames that collapse with uniform interstorey drift ratios against various levels of ground motions can be obtained as a set of Pareto optimal solutions. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stability and accuracy analysis of outer loop dynamics in real‐time pseudodynamic testing of SDOF systems
Authors: Mercan Oya , Ricles James M.
Published: May 2007

Real‐time pseudodynamic (PSD) testing is an experimental technique for evaluating the dynamic behaviour of a complex structure. During the test, when the targeted command displacements are not achieved by the test structure, or a delay in the measured restoring forces from the test structure exists, the reliability of the testing method is impaired. The stability and accuracy of real‐time PSD testing in the presence of amplitude error and a time delay in the restoring force is presented. Systems consisting of an elastic single degree of freedom (SDOF) structure with load‐rate independent and dependent restoring forces are considered. Bode plots are used to assess the effects of amplitude error and a time delay on the steady‐state accuracy of the system. A method called the pseudodelay technique is used to derive the exact solution to the delay differential equation for the critical time delay that causes instability of the system. The solution is expressed in terms of the test structure parameters (mass, damping, stiffness). An error in the restoring force amplitude is shown to degrade the accuracy of a real‐time PSD test but not destabilize the system, while a time delay can lead to instability. Example calculations are performed for determining the critical time delay, and numerical simulations with both a constant delay and variable delay in the restoring force are shown to agree well with the stability limit for the system based on the critical time delay solution. The simulation models are also used to investigate the effects of a time delay in the PSD test of an inelastic SDOF system. The effect of energy dissipation in an inelastic structure increases the limit for the critical time delay, due to the energy removed from the system by the energy dissipation. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Footpath morphology and terrain sensitivity on high plateaux: the Mamore Mountains, Western Highlands of Scotland
Authors: Morrocco Stefan M. , Ballantyne Colin K.
Published: May 2007

Variations in the morphology of a high‐level footpath are characterized using a new approach that relates footpath morphology to six terrain units defined jointly by two contrasting plant communities (U7 grass–heath communities dominated by Nardus stricta and Carex bigelowii, and U10 moss–heath communities dominated by Carex bigelowii and Racomitrium lanuginosum) and by the contrasting textural characteristics of underlying mineral soils developed on schist, granite and quartzite. All six terrain units are characterized by distinct footpath morphologies. The most critical factor affecting footpath morphology is the shear strength of the vegetation mat and underlying root zone. Vegetation mat shear strength was measured using a specially constructed shear rake. On all three lithologies, median shear strengths for U7 communities significantly exceed those for U10 communities, so that pathways on the former are significantly narrower and deeper than those developed on the latter. Adjacent zones of damaged or modified vegetation cover are also wider on U10 communities. The role of mineral soil (regolith) texture and thus underlying lithology in controlling footpath morphology is more complex. For soils with abundant fines, granite soils have lower shearing resistance than schist soils, and are associated with wider footpaths. Footpaths are also wide on clast‐supported quartzite regolith, which has high shearing resistance: pathways are trapezoidal in cross‐section in areas of U7 vegetation cover, but footpaths are very broad and diffuse in areas of U10 cover. Pathway depths are limited by increasing shear and compressive strength with depth. Implications of these findings for further research and management strategies are discussed. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Localization of human intraparietal areas AIP, CIP, and LIP using surface orientation and saccadic eye movement tasks
Authors: Shikata Elisa , McNamara Adam , Sprenger Andreas , Hamzei Farsin , Glauche Volkmar , Büchel Christian , Binkofski Ferdinand
Published: May 2007

In monkeys, areas in the intraparietal sulcus (IPS) play a crucial role in visuospatial information processing. Despite many human neuroimaging studies, the location of the human functional homologs of some IPS areas is still a matter of debate. The aim of the present functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study was to identify the distinct locations of specific human IPS areas based on their functional properties using stimuli adapted from nonhuman primate experiments, in particular, surface orientation discrimination and memory guided saccadic eye movements (SEM). Intersubject anatomical variability likely accounts for much of the debate. By applying subject by subject analysis, we can demonstrate that sufficient intersubject anatomical and functional commonalities exist. Both the lateral bank of the anterior part of IPS, the putative human homolog of the area AIP, and the caudal part of the IPS (putative CIP) showed activation related to spatial discrimination of surface orientation. Eye tracking conducted during fMRI data acquisition allowed us to show that both areas were separated by an area related to SEM. This area was located in the middle region of the IPS (most probably including LIP), i.e., similar to the location observed in nonhuman primates. In 10 of 11 subjects our putative CIP activation was located in a medial side branch of the posterior part of the IPS, on the opposite side as described in nonhuman primates, making this landmark a useful anatomical marker for the location of CIP. Hum Brain Mapp 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reimbursing insurance carriers: The case of ‘muface’ in the spanish health care system
Authors: Pellisé Laura
Published: May 2007

This article aims at contributing to the analysis of financial incentives in managed competition, on the basis of the literature on procurement and regulation under incomplete information. More specifically, we focus on MUFACE, the publicly funded health care system for Spanish civil servants and dependants. MUFACE makes up an internal market, where competing public and private insurers are reimbursed a flat capitation payment.

Some of our results are that theoretically, both pre‐contractual (adverse) selection of insurers contracted by MUFACE, and post‐contractual risk selection of enrollees undertaken by insurers, should occur under flat capitation.
Peritoneal cytology for suspected acute appendicitis: An economic evaluation
Authors: Stewart Richard J. , Perry Karl , Bowie Robert D. , O'Dea Desmond J.
Published: May 2007

Suspected acute appendicitis is a common reason for surgery. Unfortunately, diagnosis is not always simple and, in recent years, considerable attention has been devoted to developing better diagnostic techniques. Peritoneal cytology is one such technique. It is simple, minimally invasive, and has been established as clinically effective. This paper reports on an economic evaluation of peritoneal cytology, carried out at Wellington Hospital, New Zealand.

The analysis is based on two trials totalling 192 patients. The perspective taken initially is that of a hospital financial manager, seeking to minimise costs. In the first trial, there was a marginal increase in overall cost per person presenting with suspected acute appendicitis, from using the test. In the second, there was a reduction. In both trials there were significant health benefits—unnecessary operations were avoided, and necessary operations done more quickly. Also, the practice developed, in the second trial, of sending patients home immediately following a negative test result. This further increased savings.

We then discuss the results from a broader perspective. We conclude that the additional personal benefits—less time convalescing, and lower mortality, on average—ensure that the benefits outweigh the costs of the test.
The role of quantitative modelling in health care
Authors: Williams Alan
Published: May 2007

An earlier version of the following paper was presented at a conference on Quantitative Modelling in theManagement of Health Care, organised by the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications, and held at Salford University on 19th September 1994.
New objective measurement to characterize the porosity of textile implants
Authors: Mühl Thomas , Binnebösel Marcel , Klinge Uwe , Goedderz Thomas
Published: May 2007

The inflammatory and fibrotic intensity of a foreign body reaction largely depends on the porosity of the implanted material. Furthermore, the size of the pore and its geometry define the capability to allow tissue ingrowth. We present an image analysis system, which allows objectifying in two dimensions the pores' structure and geometry of textile fabrics, that are used to reinforce the abdominal wall or pelvic floor. The porosity of the textile is measured at four samples with differences in structure. The porosity decreases markedly if foreign body response is considered, leading to the definition of an “effective porosity”. Because of the high stiffness of the polymer fibers the elasticity of textile implants usually result from a deformation of the pores, leading to a marked reduction of the effective porosity if a mechanical stress is applied. Further in vivo studies have to investigate, whether the preservation of a high effective porosity under stress may help to improve biocompatibility of textile implants. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 2008
The angiogenic effects of Angelica sinensis extract on HUVEC in vitro and zebrafish in vivo
Authors: Lam Hio‐Wa , Lin Hui‐Chao , Lao Sin‐Cheng , Gao Jian‐Li , Hong Si‐Jia , Leong Chi‐Weng , Yue Patrick Ying‐Kit , Kwan Yiu‐Wa , Leung Anskar Yu‐Hung , Wang Yi‐Tao , Lee Simon Ming‐Yuen
Published: May 2007

Angiogenesis plays an important role in a wide range of physiological processes such as wound healing and fetal development. Many diseases are associated with imbalances in regulation of angiogenesis, in which it is either excessive or there is insufficient blood vessel formation. Angelica sinensis (AS), commonly used in the prescriptions of Chinese medicine, is a potential candidate for curing such diseases. However, biological effects of AS on angiogenesis and underlying mechanisms are yet to be fully elucidated. This investigation describes the angiogenic effects of AS extract on human endothelial cells (HUVEC) in vitro and zebrafish in vivo. The extract was demonstrated, by XTT assay and microscopic cell counting, to stimulate the proliferation of HUVEC; in addition, flow cytometry analysis indicated that the extract increased the percentage of HUVEC in the S phase. The wound healing migration assay illustrated that a dramatic increase in migration could be measured in AS extract‐treated HUVEC. Meanwhile, the number of invaded cells and the mean tube length were significantly increased in AS extract treatment groups. The extract was also demonstrated to promote changes in subintestinal vessels (SIVs) in zebrafish, one feature of angiogenesis. In addition, AS extract was found by real‐time PCR to enhance vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) mRNA expression. In a bead‐based immunoassay, higher levels of p38 and JNK 1/2 expression were also observed in effusions compared with control cells. All results suggest that Angelica sinensis extract can promote angiogenesis, and that the angiogenic effects involve p38 and JNK 1/2 phosphorylation. J. Cell. Biochem. 103: 195–211, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Macrophage contribution to the response of the rat organ of Corti to amikacin
Authors: Ladrech Sabine , Wang Jing , Simonneau Lionel , Puel Jean‐Luc , Lenoir Marc
Published: May 2007

Transdifferentiation of nonsensory supporting cells into sensory hair cells occurs naturally in the damaged avian inner ear. Such transdifferentiation was achieved experimentally in the cochlea of deaf guinea pigs through Atoh 1 gene transfection. Supporting cells may therefore serve as targets for transdifferentiation therapy. Supporting cells rapidly degenerate after hair cell disappearance, however, limiting the therapeutic window for gene transfer. We studied the time course of ultrastructural and phenotypical changes occurring in Deiters cells (hair cell supporting cells) after ototoxic treatment in the rat. The presence of macrophages in the cochlea was also investigated, to study any deleterious effects they may have on pathologic tissues. One week after treatment most hair cells had disappeared. Deiters cells no longer expressed the glial marker vimentin but instead displayed typical hair cell markers, the calcium binding proteins calbindin and parvalbumin. This suggests that a process of transdifferentiation of Deiters cells into hair cells was activated. By 3 weeks post‐treatment, however, the Deiters cells began to degenerate and by 10 weeks post‐treatment the organ of Corti was degraded fully. Interestingly, a marked increase in macrophage density was seen after the end of amikacin treatment to 10 weeks post‐treatment. This suggests chronic inflammation is involved in epithelium degeneration. Consequently, early treatments with anti‐inflammatory factors might promote supporting cell survival, thus improving the efficacy of more specific strategies aimed to regenerate hair cells from nonsensory cells. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.