bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship of First Hollow Stem and Heading in Winter Wheat
Authors: Edwards Jeffrey T. , Carver Brett F. , Payton Mark E.
Published: September 2007

The majority of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in the southern Great Plains is produced as a dual‐purpose crop enterprise. Profitability of the system is highly dependent on removal of cattle (Bos taurus L.) from wheat pastures at the first‐hollow‐stem stage of growth. A previous survey implied that earliness of first hollow stem and earliness of heading are independent traits, which would allow a grower to select a cultivar with late first hollow stem without sacrificing early maturity. We evaluated first hollow stem and heading records for 52 hard winter wheat lines (49 commercially available winter wheat cultivars and three advanced experimental lines) during a 7‐yr period at Stillwater, OK. Our analysis shows a positive, linear relationship between the occurrence of first hollow stem and heading in wheat when these phenological events were expressed as a function of cumulative thermal units after 1 January. When expressed in terms of calendar date, however, intervals between the earliest and latest cultivars for the first‐hollow‐stem stage were much greater than those for heading date. Overall, our analysis indicates that among commercially available cultivars and advanced experimental lines, choosing a cultivar with later occurrence of first hollow stem will also result in later heading in the same given environment.
Determinants and Implications of Bone Grease Rendering: A Pacific Northwest Example
Authors: Prince Paul
Published: September 2007

Highly fragmented, mainly indeterminate mammal bone from two sites on the inland margins of the Northwest Coast are analyzed in terms of size and fracture characteristics and interpreted as the result of bone grease rendering. Methodological approaches to the determination of this activity are discussed, and it is argued that multiple lines of evidence that include these characteristics in combination with interspecies comparisons of fragmentation levels and site processing facilities are most convincing. Predictions based on intra-skeletal grease yields, or utility indices, are not supported in this case, and similar arguments based on optimal behavior models which strictly relate grease rendering to resource stress are criticized. It is argued in this case that bone grease was routinely exploited as a supplement to the staple, dried salmon, and had advantages over the better known eulachon oil in this regard.
Clovis Beveled Rod Manufacture: An Elephant Bone Experiment
Authors: Boldurian Anthony T.
Published: September 2007

Cylindrical beveled bone rods, upon their initial discovery in 1936 at the Clovis type-site (Blackwater Locality No. 1, NM), were recognized as a component in the subsistence technology of Paleoindian groups. Additional specimens from across North America have since expanded our knowledge of Clovis lifeways. Repeatedly it has been suggested that long bone from either mammoth ( Mammuthus primigenius, M. columbi, M. jeffersonii) or American mastodon ( Mammut americanum) was used in rod manufacture. This notion is logical, given that these artifacts have a dense, massive structure, and remains of both megamammals occur at Clovis sites. Proboscidean limb bone as material for making beveled rods, while likely, remains an untested assumption. This report demonstrates that cortical bone from Elephas maximus (Asian elephant) femur serves well in simulating manufacture of the uni-beveled rod (36-19-6) from Blackwater Draw.
A Trace Element Analysis of Ceramics from the Pethick Site, Schoharie County, New York
Authors: Rieth Christina B. , Rafferty Sean M. , Saputo Derek
Published: September 2007

A trace element analysis of ceramics and clay samples from the Schoharie Valley, New York State, is presented. This analysis focuses on a multi-component site, and a sample of comparative sites within the valley. Trace element analysis was conducted using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence. Results indicate that: 1) most vessels are made from local clays; 2) there is a geographic relationship between trace element signatures of ceramic assemblages from different sites; and 3) there is the potential for the presence of non-local ceramics within the valley, with implications for interregional trade and exchange. Planned directions for future analyses are presented.
Exergoecological analysis of processing of SO2-containing gases from zinc production
Authors: Patronov G. , Magaeva S.
Published: September 2007

An energy and technological study of processing SO2-containing metallurgical gases from zinc production to sulfuric acid production using the exergy method of thermodynamic analysis has bean carried out. A real operating installation since 2003 at the KCM-SA, Plovdiv, Bulgaria, has been used as the model scheme. The principal production stages have been analyzed. The absolute and the relative exergy characteristics of the separate stages as well as of the process as a whole have been calculated. The results have been used to evaluate the influence of sulfuric acid production on the environment. The results obtained have been compared with previous studies on similar processes both in zinc and in copper production. The studied installation of sulfuric acid production has good exergoecological indices, defining it as an effective process both in thermotechnical and in ecological aspects.
Study of controlled tetracycline release from porous calcium phosphate/polyhydroxybutyrate composites
Authors: Medvecký L’ , Štulajterová R. , Briančin J.
Published: September 2007

Porous calcium phosphate ceramics were prepared by sintering of mixtures of nanocrystalline apatitic calcium phosphate and fibrous natural cotton cellulose after pressing at temperatures of 1150 °C and 1250 °C. Micro-and macropores were present in microstructures of ceramic samples. The microstructures of porous ceramics were similar to those observed in bone tissues and fiber-like randomly oriented texture was observed in ceramics. Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) biopolymer layers are distributed homogeneously in the samples after evaporation of the diluent (chloroform) from the PHB vacuum impregnated porous samples. The tetracycline (TTC) release rate decreases with the content of polyhydroxybutyrate in the ceramic samples, which corresponds to the rise in amount of biopolymer displaced in the pores of ceramics. The concentration of TTC in the phosphate buffer saline solution varies almost linearly with time after the first seven hours from the start of the release of the calcium phosphate ceramic samples with 2.4 mass % of polyhydroxybutyrate. The initial burst effect was significantly depressed by the preparation method used.
Excess molar volumes of the (cyclohexane + pentane, or hexane, or heptane, or octane, or nonane) systems at the temperature 298.15 K
Authors: Balán J. , Morávková L. , Linek J.
Published: September 2007

The densities of the (cyclohexane + pentane, or hexane, or heptane, or octane, or nonane) systems were measured at the temperature 298.15 K by means of a vibrating-tube densimeter. Their respective excess molar volumes were calculated and correlated using the fourth-order Redlich—Kister equation, with the maximum likelihood principle being applied in the determination of the adjustable parameters. The values of excess molar volumes were negative for the cyclohexane + pentane system, whereas they were positive for the other systems with the values increasing with the number of carbon atoms in the respective alkane molecules.
Solid-state vibrational spectra and theoretical study of alaninamide acetate
Authors: Kolev T.
Published: September 2007

Solid-state IR and Raman spectroscopic elucidation of alaninamide acetate is preformed by means of the possibilities of linear-polarized IR and Raman methods. The experimental assignment is compared with theoretical vibrational analysis with the intention to explain the influence of intermolecular interactions in solid phase on the spectroscopic properties of the compound studied. The 1H and 13C NMR spectra in solution are compared with the corresponding ones of alanine, studying the amidation effect on the chemical shift signals in the alanine moieties.
Synthesis and antifungal activity of alkyland arylsulfanylpyridinylguanidines
Authors: Palát K. , Braunerová G. , Miletín M. , Buchta V.
Published: September 2007

A series of alkyl- and arylsulfanylpyridylguanidines was synthesized and their antimicrobial activity was evaluated in vitro against eight potentially pathogenic strains of fungi. Compounds with an alkylsulfanyl substitution have antifungal activity, which improves with increasing length of the aliphatic chain.
Isolation and identification of flower oil components from four Staphylea L. species
Authors: Laciková L’. , Švajdlenka E. , Mašterová I. , Grančai D.
Published: September 2007

Chemical composition of the hydrodistilled volatile fraction from flowers of four Staphylea L. species (Staphylea colchica Stev., Staphylea elegans Zab., Staphylea holocarpa Hemsl., Staphylea pinnata L.) was determined by the GC/MS method. Compounds in fresh and dried flowers (stored for 1 year) were determined. Mostly, structures of different oxygenated aliphatic hydrocarbons in all four species were found. Different aldehydes, ketones, esters of higher fatty acids, and hexadecanoic acid were identified, with dominating content of tricosane, hexadecanoic acid and also of heneicosane, pentacosane, heptacosane, and nonacosane. In S. pinnata L. (fresh flowers) some nonaliphatic hydrocarbons, and in S. holocarpa Hemsl. (fresh flowers) esters of higher fatty acids were found.
Bioethics and Turkey: Crossroads and challenges
Authors: Semin Semih , Aras Sahbal
Published: September 2007

Despite extraordinary improvements in medicine, health care worldwide continues to exhibit indefensible contradictions and extreme inequalities. “Health-for-all” campaigns, and development programs targeting welfare and social security have addressed these problems with limited success, but bioethicists, who by this point in the globalization era might have been expected to be addressing these problems urgently and persistently, have had little to say. We ask if bioethics, stalled at a crossroads, is prepared to alter course. We review the bioethics experience in Turkey as a case study, considering especially globalization and Turkey's application to join the European Union.
Neutral Ring Fixation for High-Risk Nonplantigrade Charcot Midfoot Deformity
Authors: Pinzur Michael S.
Published: September 2007

Background: Charcot foot arthropathy negatively impacts the health-related quality of life (HRQL) of affected individuals. The disease process often is responsible for the development of significant deformity and disability, often progressing to lower extremity amputation. Many patients are morbidly obese, immunocompromised, and have complex wounds with underlying bony infection or poor bone quality, making operative correction and internal fixation problematic. Methods: Using a prospective clinical algorithm, 26 consecutive diabetic adults with multiple diabetic co-morbidities, including morbid obesity, had operative correction of nonplantigrade Charcot midfoot deformity at the midfoot level. Correction was maintained with a neutrally applied three-level ring external fixator. Average body mass index was 38.31 ± 12.51. Nineteen patients used insulin. Fourteen had open wounds with underlying osteomyelitis. The altered relationship between the forefoot and hindfoot was measured as 14.04 ± 31.09 degrees in the anteroposterior axis, and 16.70 ± 17.47 degrees in the lateral axis before surgery. Surgery included Achilles tendon lengthening, excision of infected bone, correction of the multiplanar deformity, and culture-specific parenteral antibiotic therapy. Results: At a minimum 1-year followup, 24 of 26 patients were ulcer and infection free and able to ambulate with commercially-available depth-inlay shoes and custom accommodative foot orthoses. One patient died of unrelated causes, and one had transtibial amputation for persistent infection. Four developed recurrent plantar ulcers, which resolved with excision of underlying bony prominences. There were two stress fractures through olive wire pin sites, one requiring intramedullary nailing. The radiographic anteroposterior axis was corrected to 3.12 ± 9.42 degrees, and lateral to 10.42 ± 11.86 degrees after surgery. Conclusions: Morbidly obese diabetic individuals with multiple co-morbidities complicating severe Charcot foot deformity can achieve correction of midfoot deformity after operative correction of the deformity and maintenance of that correction with a neutrally applied ring external fixator.
Intralesional Autologous Blood Injection Compared to Corticosteroid Injection for Treatment of Chronic Plantar Fasciitis. A Prospective, Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: Lee Tze Gin , Ahmad Tunku Sara
Published: September 2007

Background: The response of chronic plantar fasciitis to any treatment is unpredictable. Autologous blood might provide cellular and humoral mediators to induce healing in areas of degeneration, the underlying pathology in plantar fasciitis. This study compared the efficacy of intralesional autologous blood with corticosteroid injection for plantar fasciitis present for more than 6 weeks. Methods: A prospective, randomized, controlled, observer-blinded study was done over a period of 6 months. Sixty-four patients were randomly allocated to either the autologous blood or corticosteroid treatment group. All patients were assessed for the worst pain daily on visual analogue scale (VAS) and tenderness threshold (TT) at the plantar fascia origin using a pressure algometer before treatment, and at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after treatment. A p value of 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Data were complete for 61 patients. The reduction in VAS and increase in TT for both groups was significant over time ( p < 0.0001). At 6 weeks and 3 months, the corticosteroid group had significantly lower VAS than the autologous blood group ( p < 0.011 and p < 0.005, respectively), but the difference was not significant at 6 months. The corticosteroid group had significantly higher TT than the autologous blood group at 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months ( p < 0.003, p < 0.003, p < 0.008, respectively). Although the trends were different, repeated-measures F test of both VAS and TT showed no significant difference in improvement between the groups over time. Conclusions: Intralesional autologous blood injection is efficacious in lowering pain and tenderness in chronic plantar fasciitis, but corticosteroid is more superior in terms of speed and probably extent of improvement.
Minimally Invasive Calcaneo-Stop Method for Idiopathic, Flexible Pes Planovalgus in Children
Authors: Roth Sandor , Sestan Branko , Tudor Anton , Ostojic Zdenko , Sasso Anton , Durbesic Artur
Published: September 2007

Background: The aim of this study was to correct heel valgus in children and to lift the longitudinal arch of the foot using a temporary cancellous screw placed percutaneously across the talocalcaneal articulation. Methods: From April, 1997, to June, 2003, 94 procedures were done on 48 children between the ages of 8 and 14 years. The Meary angle to determine the degree of collapse of the medial longitudinal arch was 170 degrees or less, and the weightbearing hindfoot was in valgus. Presumably, the screw achieves correction by stimulating the proprioceptive foot receptors allowing active inversion of the foot. Results: At 5 years followup, no serious complications occurred. The correction of the Meary angle on average was 17.10 ± 5.51 degrees. In every foot, heel valgus and the longitudinal arch of the foot were improved radiographically and clinically without the loss of function. We removed the screws in all patients. In 91 feet, the arch of the foot and heel valgus remained in the corrected position. Conclusions: The ‘calcaneo-stop’ method is a simple, effective, minimally invasive technique for the treatment of idiopathic, flexible pes planus in carefully selected pediatric patients.
Syndesmosis Procedure: A Non-Osteotomy Approach to Metatarsus Primus Varus Correction
Authors: Yiang Wu Daniel
Published: September 2007

Background: Hallux valgus and metatarsus primus varus deformities usually are the result of failure of the supporting soft tissues rather than bone deformities. Since soft-tissue procedures have been shown to only be suitable for mild deformities, first metatarsal osteotomy has become an integral part of correcting moderate to severe deformities. A soft-tissue technique referred to as the “syndesmosis procedure” by the author was evaluated for its effectiveness in correcting metatarsus primus varus in feet with hallux valgus. Methods: This is a retrospective clinical and radiographic study of six patients (11 feet) an average of 6 years and 10 months after the “syndesmosis procedure.” A cerclage technique using absorbable suture (PDS) was used for the first metatarsal realignment, and its long-term maintenance depended on a syndesmosis (fibrous) bonding between the first and second metatarsal bases. Results: The average preoperative hallux valgus angle of 29.5 (21 to 43) degrees improved to 13.5 (-2 to 24) degrees and the average preoperative metatarsus primus varus angle of 13.6 (12 to 16) degrees improved to 5.2 (2 to 8) degrees at an average of 85.7 (33 to 128) months. All patients were satisfied with their results and were able to return to sports and wearing high-heeled shoes as desired. Complications were few and mild. Followup American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Hallux scores averaged 93 points. Conclusions: This small but long-term retrospective study showed encouraging results for the correction of metatarsus primus varus deformity and a high patient satisfaction.
An Anatomical Study of Morton's Interdigital Neuroma: The Relationship Between the Occurring Site and the Deep Transverse Metatarsal Ligament (DTML)
Authors: Kim J-Young , Choi Jae Hyuck , Park Jungmin , Wang Joonho , Lee Inmook
Published: September 2007

Background: Using clinical and cadaver studies, we examined the relationship between the location of Morton interdigital neuromas and the surrounding structures, including the deep transverse metatarsal ligament (DTML), which has been suspected as a major causative factor in neuroma formation. Methods: Seventeen fresh-frozen cadavers were evaluated to determine the relationship between the location of Morton interdigital neuromas and the DTML at two phases of the gait cycle with 60 degrees of metatarsophalangeal dorsiflexion and with 15 degrees of ankle dorsiflexion. We measured the distance from the bifurcation of the common digital nerve in the foot to the anterior margin of the DTML and also measured the length of the DTML itself. Clinically, we checked the location of the Morton interdigital neuroma and its length during surgery in 32 feet. Results: In the second and third webspace, the mean distance from the bifurcation of the common digital nerve of the foot to the anterior margin of the DTML was 16.7 mm, 15.1 mm in the mid-stance position, and 15.9 mm and 14.6 mm in the heel-off position. The length of the second and third DTML averaged 12.8 mm and 10.6 mm. Clinically, all of the cases of Morton interdigital neuroma started at the bifurcation area of the common digital nerve, and the mean neuroma length was 7.5 mm (6 to 11). Conclusions: Morton interdigital neuromas were located more distally than the DTML in both the mid-stance and the heel-off stage during walking. The main lesion was located between the metatarsal head and the metatarsophalangeal joint and more distal than the DTML, questioning previous studies suggesting that the DTML is the major causative factor in development of Morton interdigital neuroma.
Mechanical Properties and Environmental Behavior of a Magnesium Alloy with a Nano‐/Sub‐Micron Structure
Authors: Aghion E. , Arnon A.
Published: September 2007

Newly developed magnesium alloys with a consolidated nano/sub‐micron structure and substantially higher specific strength may be considered as an interesting candidate for super‐light high‐strength applications. Consolidated nano/sub‐micron structure applies to alloys with a combined microstructure of nano‐crystalline and sub‐micron grains. The aim of the present study was to explore the mechanical and environmental behavior of a consolidated nano/sub‐micron magnesium alloy with the composition of AZ31. This was required in order to evaluate the applicability of this new structured alloy for practical applications. Although the nano/sub‐micron structured alloy has more than twice the hardness and strength of the conventional alloy, its ductility and corrosion resistance were significantly lower. In addition, its stress corrosion characteristics were inferior. The significant limitation of the nano‐structured alloy, in terms of ductility and corrosion performance, restricts its potential use as a structural material for practical applications.
Thermodynamic Simulation of Phase Formation During Blending of Mg‐Alloys by Thixomolding
Authors: Kozlov A. , Djurdjevic M. , Schmid‐Fetzer R.
Published: September 2007

Thixomolding, as a semisolid processing approach, offers a unique opportunity to produce new Mg‐alloys by mixing different feedstock chips at room temperature. This way of blending or mixing two or more commercially available standard Mg alloys will produce a new alloy with different melting range, solidification path, phase distribution and metallurgical and mechanical properties. This paper demonstrates the applicability of thermodynamic modeling to generate detailed information about phase formation in thixomolding process. For this purpose the process is pictured by appropriate thermodynamic calculations using a multicomponent Mg alloy database.
A New Analytical Approach to Reveal the Mechanisms of Grain Refinement
Authors: StJohn D. H. , Cao P. , Qian M. , Easton M. A.
Published: September 2007

This paper presents an overview of a new methodology for investigating the grain refinement performance of alloys and master alloys and then uses this methodology to shed new light on the mechanisms occurring during superheating and native grain refinement, and the effect of iron and manganese on grain refinement in magnesium alloys. The methodology also describes changes in grain size upon Zr grain refinement of Mg and has been used to analyse the potential for the use of SiC to grain refine Mg‐Al alloys. With this new methodology, and the knowledge it generates, the potential for the discovery of new or improved refiners is significantly enhanced.
Hydrolytically Stable Phosphorylated Hybrid Silicas for Proton Conduction
Authors: Jin Y. G. , Qiao S. Z. , da Costa J. C. D. , Wood B. J. , Ladewig B. P. , Lu G. Q.
Published: September 2007

A new approach to the synthesis of fully immobilized phosphorus functionalized hybrid proton conductive gels based on phosphonic acid grafting is presented in this paper. The hybrid silicas with different amounts of phosphonic acid have been prepared and characterized using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, and electrochemical techniques. The proton conductivity of the materials depend strongly on hydration, which increases by four orders of magnitude over the relative humidity (RH) range of 20 to 100 %, up to a maximum of 0.027 S cm–1 at 100  °C and 100 % RH. For the reported samples, proton conduction is believed to occur within a dynamic hydrogen‐bond network formed by functionalized P–OH groups and water molecules by the Grotthuss mechanism. However, the proton conductive sites (P–OH) are likely to be partially immobilized by strong protonic receptors (N atoms in amines), which reduces the free P–OH groups and restricts proton transfer. Hydration may cause a bonding structural rearrangement, which results in more free P–OH groups as active proton conductive sites and, therefore, greatly increased proton conductivity is observed.
Soluble Phenanthrenyl‐Imidazole‐Presenting Regioregular Poly(3‐octylthiophene) Copolymers Having Tunable Bandgaps for Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Chang Y.‐T. , Hsu S.‐L. , Su M.‐H. , Wei K.‐H.
Published: September 2007

We have used Grignard metathesis polymerization to successfully synthesize a series of regioregular polythiophene copolymers that contain electron‐withdrawing and conjugated phenanthrenyl‐imidazole moieties as side chains. The introduction of the phenanthrenyl‐imidazole moieties onto the side chains of the regioregular polythiophenes increased their conjugation lengths and thermal stabilities and altered their bandgap structures. The bandgap energies, determined from the onset of optical absorption, could be tuned from 1.89 eV to 1.77 eV by controlling the number of phenanthrenyl‐imidazole moieties in the copolymers. Moreover, the observed quenching in the photoluminescence of these copolymers increases with the number of phenanthrenyl‐imidazole moieties in the copolymers, owing to the fast deactivation of the excited state by the electron‐transfer reaction. Both the lowered bandgap and fast charge transfer contribute to the much higher external quantum efficiency of the poly(3‐octylthiophene)‐side‐chain‐tethered phenanthrenyl‐imidazole than that of pure poly(3‐octylthiophene), leading to much higher short circuit current density. In particular, the short circuit current densities of the device containing the copolymer having 80 mol % phenanthrenyl‐imidazole, P82, improved to 14.2 mA cm–2 from 8.7 mA cm–2 for the device of pure poly(3‐octylthiophene), P00, an increase of 62 %. In addition, the maximum power conversion efficiency improves to 2.80 % for P82 from 1.22 % for P00 (pure P3OT). Therefore, these results indicate that our polymers are promising polymer photovoltaic materials.
Thermosensitive Nanostructures Comprising Gold Nanoparticles Grafted with Block Copolymers
Authors: Li D. , Cui Y. , Wang K. , He Q. , Yan X. , Li J.
Published: September 2007

Binary thermosensitive nanocomposites are fabricated by grafting block copolymers of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) and poly(methoxy‐oligo(ethylene glycol) methacrylate) onto gold nanoparticles through consecutive, surface‐initiated, atom‐transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). These Au@copolymer nanocomposites display a well‐defined core/shell nanostructure and have two thermosensitive points near 33 and 55 °C in an aqueous suspension corresponding to the thermally induced conformational transition of inner homopolymer segments and outer oligo(ethylene glycol)‐containing copolymer layer, respectively. Silver nanoparticles trapped within Au@copolymer nanocomposites with weakly crosslinked shells display thermally modulated catalytic activity as heterogeneous catalysts because of the thermosensitive collapse of the polymer layers.
Investigation on the Low Luminous Efficiency in a Polymer Light‐Emitting Diode with a High Work‐function Cathode by Soft Contact Lamination**
Authors: Lee T.‐W.
Published: September 2007

This article reports the main origin of the low luminescent efficiency in hole‐dominant polymer light‐emitting diodes by controlling the hole injection and by chemically modifying the cathode by molecular monolayers. Since molecular modification of the top electrode is impossible when one deposits the electrode using a vacuum deposition method, this study was performed using a soft contact lamination technique to form electrical contacts on top of the emissive layer. The top electrode was chemically modified with an alkane thiol self‐assembled monolayer (SAM) to act as an interfacial spacer layer between the emitting layer and the cathode. Herein, it is reported that, contrary to common belief, a high device quantum efficiency can be achieved from the dominantly hole‐transporting device with a high work‐function cathode (like Au) by facilitating more hole injection from the anode in the device with low population of exciton quenching channels near the cathode.
An exploratory study of the relationship between four candidate genes and neurocognitive performance in adult ADHD
Authors: Boonstra A. Marije , Kooij J.J. Sandra , Buitelaar Jan K. , Oosterlaan Jaap , Sergeant Joseph A. , Heister J.G.A.M. Angelien , Franke Barbara
Published: September 2007

Since neurocognitive performance is a possible endophenotype for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) we explored the relationship between four genetic polymorphisms and neurocognitive performance in adults with ADHD. We genotyped a sample of 45 adults with ADHD at four candidate polymorphisms for the disorder (DRD4 48 base pair (bp) repeat, DRD4 120 bp duplicated repeat, SLC6A3 (DAT1) 40 bp variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR), and COMT Val158Met). We then sub‐grouped the sample for each polymorphism by genotype or by the presence of the (putative) ADHD risk allele and compared the performance of the subgroups on a large battery of neurocognitive tests. The COMT Val158Met polymorphism was related to differences in IQ and reaction time, both of the DRD4 polymorphisms (48 bp repeat and 120 bp duplication) showed an association with verbal memory skills, and the SLC6A3 40 bp VNTR polymorphism could be linked to differences in inhibition. Interestingly, the presence of the risk alleles in DRD4 and SLC6A3 was related to better cognitive performance. Our findings contribute to an improved understanding of the functional implications of risk genes for ADHD. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Haplotype analysis confirms association of the serotonin transporter (5‐HTT) gene with schizophrenia but not with major depression
Authors: Zaboli Ghazal , Jönsson Erik G. , Gizatullin Rinat , De Franciscis Alessandra , Åsberg Marie , Leopardi Rosario
Published: September 2007

Serotonin (5‐HT) has been implicated in the pathophysiology of several psychiatric disorders including major depressive disorder (MDD) and schizophrenia (SCZ). The serotonin transporter (5‐HTT) is a major regulator of 5‐HT function. 5‐HTT gene polymorphic variants have been associated with both MDD and SCZ. A case–control design was used for candidate gene‐disease association in 194 MDD patients, 155 schizophrenic psychosis patients, and 246 healthy controls, all North European Caucasians. Four polymorphisms were analyzed in terms of genotype, allele, and haplotype‐based associations. Linkage disequilibrium (LD) analysis was also carried out. Bonferroni correction was used for multiple testing. Haplotype‐based analyses showed significant associations between 5‐HTT and SCZ but not MDD. No single locus associations were observed. In agreement with published meta‐analysis our results indicate that 5‐HTT associates with SCZ but not with MDD. It appears that risk for SCZ maps within a specific 5‐HTT haplotype block. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Confirmation of dyslexia susceptibility loci on chromosomes 1p and 2p, but not 6p in a Dutch sib‐pair collection
Authors: de Kovel Carolien G.F. , Franke Barbara , Hol Frans A. , Lebrec Jérémie J.P. , Maassen Ben , Brunner Han , Padberg George W. , Platko Jill , Pauls David
Published: September 2007

In this study, we attempted to confirm genetic linkage to developmental dyslexia and reading‐related quantitative traits of loci that have been shown to be associated with dyslexia in previous studies. In our sample of 108 Dutch nuclear families, the categorical trait showed strongest linkage to 1p36 (NPL‐LOD = 2.1). LOD scores for quantitative traits word‐reading, non‐word reading, and rapid naming peaked near the same location as the categorical trait, as well as on chromosome 2. Non‐word repetition showed little phenotypic correlation with dyslexia or with the other quantitative traits, and this trait showed linkage peaks on 11p and 15q. No evidence for linkage to 6p22‐23 was found for this set of families. Comparison of our results and literature data shows that loci link to different phenotypes in different samples. The mutual connections of these traits and their relation to developmental dyslexia remain elusive. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Court is not the answer for securities arbitration disputes
Authors: de By Robert A. , Rudd Amy L.
Published: September 2007

Robert A. de By and Amy L. Rudd, of London, analyze where this summer's Congressional criticisms of securities arbitration fall short, and propose reforms for an SRO regulatory system many view as broken.
How serious is Congress about eliminating mandatory arbitration?
Authors: Bahan Carol A. , Bleemer Russ
Published: September 2007

More on Congress's activities on mandatory arbitration in securities and consumer claims, by Carol Bahan, of New York, as well as the continuing California state court examination of the limits on mediation confidentiality. Also: details on a new international neutrals' list for the energy industry.
Dopamine transporter relation to dopamine turnover in Parkinson's disease: a positron emission tomography study
Authors: Sossi Vesna , de la Fuente‐Fernández Raúl , Schulzer Michael , Troiano Andre R. , Ruth Thomas J. , Stoessl A. Jon
Published: September 2007

Objective

To investigate the role of the dopamine transporter (DAT) in the regulation of synaptic dopamine (DA) levels in Parkinson's disease and its role in the preservation of DA in presynaptic terminals.

Methods

Ten Parkinson's disease patients (age, 62.9 ± 9.5 years; Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale motor score in “off” state, 28.5 ± 8.2) underwent positron emission tomography with 11C‐methylphenidate (MP, a DAT marker), 11C‐dihydrotetrabenazine (a vesicular monoamine transporter 2 marker), and 18F‐fluorodopa, leading to the determination of the MP and 11C‐dihydrotetrabenazine binding potentials (BPs) and the effective distribution volume for 18F‐fluorodopa, the inverse of DA turnover. Seven patients also underwent positron emission tomography with 11C‐raclopride before and 1 hour after levodopa administration to estimate levodopa‐induced changes in synaptic DA concentration.

Results

We found a significant positive correlation between effective distribution volume and BPMP (r = 0.93; p < 0.001) and a significant negative correlation between changes in synaptic DA concentration and BPMP (r = −0.93; p = 0.04), independent of disease severity and duration.

Interpretation

These data show that in Parkinson's disease, greater DAT levels are directly associated with lower DA turnover and lower changes in synaptic DA concentration. This implies that an important functional role of DAT is to maintain relatively constant synaptic DA levels and to preserve DA in nerve terminals. A decrease in DAT, although potentially serving as a compensatory mechanism in early disease, may ultimately result in increased DA turnover and higher oscillations in synaptic DA concentration, thereby possibly predisposing toward the occurrence of motor complications as disease progresses. Ann Neurol 2007
Molecular consequences of dominant Bethlem myopathy collagen VI mutations
Authors: Baker Naomi L. , Mörgelin Matthias , Pace Rishika A. , Peat Rachel A. , Adams Naomi E. , Gardner R. J. McKinlay , Rowland Lewis P. , Miller Geoffrey , De Jonghe Peter , Ceulemans Berten , Hannibal Mark C. , Edwards Matthew , Thompson Elizabeth M. , Jacobson Richard , Quinlivan Ros C. M. , Aftimos Salim , Kornberg Andrew J. , North Kathryn N. , Bateman John F. , Lamandé Shireen R.
Published: September 2007

Objective

Dominant mutations in the three collagen VI genes cause Bethlem myopathy, a disorder characterized by proximal muscle weakness and commonly contractures of the fingers, wrists, and ankles. Although more than 20 different dominant mutations have been identified in Bethlem myopathy patients, the biosynthetic consequences of only a subset of these have been studied, and in many cases, the pathogenic mechanisms remain unknown.

Methods

We have screened fourteen Bethlem myopathy patients for collagen VI mutations and performed detailed analyses of collagen VI biosynthesis and intracellular and extracellular assembly.

Results

Collagen VI abnormalities were identified in eight patients. One patient produced around half the normal amount of α1(VI) messenger RNA and reduced amounts of collagen VI protein. Two patients had a previously reported mutation causing skipping of COL6A1 exon 14, and three patients had novel mutations leading to in‐frame deletions toward the N‐terminal end of the triple‐helical domain. These mutations have different and complex effects on collagen VI intracellular and extracellular assembly. Two patients had single amino acid substitutions in the A‐domains of COL6A2 and COL6A3. Collagen VI intracellular and extracellular assembly was normal in one of these patients.

Interpretation

The key to dissecting the pathogenic mechanisms of collagen VI mutations lies in detailed analysis of collagen VI biosynthesis and assembly. The majority of mutations result in secretion and deposition of structurally abnormal collagen VI. However, one A‐domain mutation had no detectable effect on assembly, suggesting that it acts by compromising collagen VI interactions in the extracellular matrix of muscle. Ann Neurol 2007
Prevalence of mitochondrial DNA disease in adults
Authors: Schaefer Andrew M. , McFarland Robert , Blakely Emma L. , He Langping , Whittaker Roger G. , Taylor Robert W. , Chinnery Patrick F. , Turnbull Douglass M.
Published: September 2007

Objective

Diverse and variable clinical features, a loose genotype–phenotype relationship, and presentation to different medical specialties have all hindered attempts to gauge the epidemiological impact of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) disease. Nevertheless, a clear understanding of its prevalence remains an important goal, particularly about planning appropriate clinical services. Consequently, the aim of this study was to accurately define the prevalence of mtDNA disease (primary mutation occurs in mtDNA) in the working‐age population of the North East of England.

Methods

Adults with suspected mitochondrial disease in the North East of England were referred to a single neurology center for investigation from 1990 to 2004. Those with pathogenic mtDNA mutations were identified and pedigree analysis performed. For the midyear period of 2001, we calculated the minimum point prevalence of mtDNA disease for adults of working age (>16 and <60/65 years for female/male patients, respectively).

Results

In this population, we found that 9.2 in 100,000 people have clinically manifest mtDNA disease, making this one of the commonest inherited neuromuscular disorders. In addition, a further 16.5 in 100,000 children and adults younger than retirement age are at risk for development of mtDNA disease.

Interpretation

Through detailed pedigree analysis and active family tracing, we have been able to provide revised minimum prevalence figures for mtDNA disease. These estimates confirm that mtDNA disease is a common cause of chronic morbidity and is more prevalent than has been previously appreciated. Ann Neurol 2007
Molekül‐Mechanik‐Rechnungen in der Organischen Chemie: Beispiele für die Nützlichkeit eines einfachen nicht‐quantenmechanischen Modells
Authors: Osawa Eiji , Musso Hans
Published: September 2007

Molekül‐Mechanik‐ oder Kraftfeld‐Rechnungen können zur Klärung vieler experimenteller Probleme herangezogen werden: Zur Untersuchung der Moleküldynamik (Konformationsanalyse und innere Rotation), zur Suche nach den stabilsten Isomeren von Kohlenwasserstoffen und zur Berechnung von Reaktivitäten einschließlich der Solvolyse von Brückenkopf‐substituierten Derivaten wurden derartige Rechnungen ebenso angestellt wie zur Aufklärung des Mechanismus vielstufiger Umlagerungen über Carbokationen und der Struktur von Anti‐Bredt‐Olefinen; sie ermöglichen auch eine Erklärung der Selektivität bei der Hydrogenolyse gespannter Polycyclen mit kleinen Ringen oder langer Bindungen, die Deutung elektronischer Effekte sowie die Analyse später Übergangszustände und der Produktverteilung bei komplizierten Reaktionen.
Synthetische Genfragmente in der Gentechnik – Die Renaissance der Chemie in der Molekularbiologie
Authors: Davies Julian E. , Gassen Hans Günter
Published: September 2007

Die Chemie und die Biologie waren die gemeinsamen Wegbereiter der molekularen Genetik. Die sensationellen Fortschritte in der Entschlüsselung des genetischen Apparates in den letzten zwanzig Jahren sind aber fast ausschließlich den Molekularbiologen zu danken. Die Chemiker haben sich anderen Fragestellungen zugewandt. Anhand der Entwicklungen auf dem Gebiet der Gentechnik lassen sich die neuen Anforderungen an die Chemie verdeutlichen. Nach einer kurzen Einführung in die Genetik von Bakterien werden die molekularen Grundlagen der Gentechnik behandelt, untergliedert in in‐vitro‐Rekombination und in‐vivo‐Transformation. Die Wahlmöglichkeiten bei Passagier‐DNA, bei Vektoren und Wirtzellen werden erörtert. Während die in‐vitro‐Rekombination von DNA und die in‐vivo‐Transformation von Zellen leicht erlernbar sind, erfordert die Suche nach dem richtigen Klon detaillierte mikrobiologische Kenntnisse und das Beherrschen eines breiten Spektrums analytischer Methoden. Anhand der automatisierbaren chemischen Synthese von Genfragmenten nach dem Merrifield‐Prinzip wird schließlich dargelegt, daß sich die Chemie wieder mit Erfolg biologisch ausgerichteten Fragestellungen zuwendet.
Tellur als Sechselektronendonor – Synthese und Struktur von μ3‐Te[Mn(CO)2(η5‐C5H5)]3
Authors: Herberhold Max , Reiner Dietmar , Neugebauer Dietmar
Published: September 2007

Das vollständige Manuskript dieser Zuschrift erscheint in: Angew. Chem. Suppl. 1983, 10. DOI: 10.1002/ange.198300100
Übergangsmetall‐substituierte Stibane als Acceptoren: Cp(CO)(L)FeSbBr2. PMe3(L = CO,Me3P, MeNC)‐1 : 1‐Ferriostiban‐Trimethylphosphan‐Komplexe
Authors: Kaul Hans‐Achim , Greißinger Dieter , Malisch Wolfgang , Klein Heinz‐Peter , Thewalt Ulf
Published: September 2007

Das vollständige Manuskript dieser Zuschrift erscheint in: Angew. Chem. Suppl. 1983, 47. DOI: 10.1002/ange.198300470
2‐Benzyl‐1‐phosphaazulen
Authors: Märkl Gottfried , Seidl Ernst
Published: September 2007

Das vollständige Manuskript dieser Zuschrift erscheint in: Angew. Chem. Suppl. 1983, 75. DOI: 10.1002/ange.198300750
Neuartige einstufige Synthese von Oxocyclopentancarboxylaten durch elektrochemische Reduktion von Zimtsäureestern
Authors: Nishiguchi Ikuzo , Hirashima Tsuneaki
Published: September 2007

Das vollständige Manuskript dieser Zuschrift erscheint in: Angew. Chem. Suppl. 1983, 70. DOI: 10.1002/ange.198300700
Production of spherical and uniform‐sized particles using a laboratory ink‐jet spray dryer
Authors: Patel Kamlesh C. , Chen Xiao Dong
Published: September 2007

There is a need in the area of particle technology and powder manufacturing to produce particles with uniform characteristics for attaining stringent product quality. In this paper, a new concept of spray drying is proposed to assess the possibility of adapting the same concept to industrial spray drying operations for producing spherical and uniform‐sized particles. This concept is based on ink‐jet technology, where single streams of identical droplets can be achieved using ink‐jet devices. The ink‐jet device, similar to nozzles found in office ink‐jet printers, was introduced to spray drying operations as an innovative atomizer because of its attractive ability to produce monodisperse droplets with a precise control over droplet characteristics. In this paper, a new concept of single stream drying and some calculations on feasibility of a newly built Ink‐Jet Spray Dryer (IJSD) are discussed. The single stream drying technique could provide a promising tool for producing uniform particles and also for testing and designing new products. Copyright © 2007 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation and characteristic of electric stimuli responsive hydrogel composed of polyvinyl alcohol/poly (sodium maleate‐co‐sodium acrylate)
Authors: Gao Yi , Xu Shimei , Wu Ronglan , Wang Jide , Wei Jia
Published: September 2007

Maleic anhydride was used to preparare polyvinyl alcohol/poly (sodium maleate‐co‐sodium acrylate) hydrogels (PVA/poly(SMA‐SAA)) by a repeated frost‐defrost process because of its higher charge density and potential electric stimuli sensitivity. The bending angle was measured in a noncontact electric field using carbon as plate electrodes. It was found that the bending angle was dependent on various factors, including composition of hydrogel, concentration of NaCl solution, types of electrolyte solution, and electric voltage. It exhibited that the bending angle increased when the concentration of NaCl solutions and the electric voltages increased. An abnormal bending direction was observed, and it was affected not only by the kinds of hydrogels, but also by the exterior variations. The hydrogel showed good reversibility in on‐off electric field and could be a candidate for practical application. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Plasma induced graft polymerization of acrylic acid onto polypropylene monofilament
Authors: Gupta Bhuvanesh , Saxena Shalini , Ray Alok
Published: September 2007

Plasma induced graft polymerization of acrylic acid onto polypropylene (PP) monofilament was carried to introduce carboxyl functionality on its surface. The monofilament was treated with oxygen plasma to create hydroperoxide groups and subsequent graft polymerization was initiated on this exposed monofilament. It was observed that in the absence of an added inhibitor, the grafting did not proceed because of the extensive homopolymerization which left behind hardly any monomer for the grafting reaction. The addition of ferrous sulfate to the grafting medium led to the homopolymer free grafting reaction. The addition of organics, such as methanol, butanone, and acetone led to complete inhibition of the homopolymerization at 60% content. However, the addition of butanone led to much lower degree of grafting than methanol and acetone. The contact angle of the monofilament showed drastic reduction by plasma treatment and by the subsequent grafting of acrylic acid. The grafting in ferrous sulfate medium showed higher contact angles as compared to the grafting in organic medium. The surface morphology was significantly influenced by the nature of the additive in the grafting medium. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. JAppl Polym Sci, 2008
Characteristics of waterborne polyurethane/poly(N‐vinylpyrrolidone) composite films for wound‐healing dressings
Authors: Yoo Hye‐Jin , Kim Han‐Do
Published: September 2007

For ideal wound‐healing dressings, a series of waterborne polyurethane (WBPU)/poly(N‐vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) composite films (transparent film dressings) were prepared by in situ polymerization in an aqueous medium. Stable WBPU/PVP composites, which had a high remaining weight greater than 98.4%, were obtained. The maximum content of PVP for stable WBPU/PVP dispersions was found to be about 15 wt %. The water absorption (%) and equilibrium water content (%) of the WBPU/PVP composite films remarkably increased in proportion to the PVP content and the time of water immersion. The maximum water absorption and equilibrium water content of the WBPU/PVP composite films were in the range of 21–158 and 22–56%, respectively. The water vapor transmission rate of the WBPU/PVP composite films was in the range of 1816–2728 g/m2/day. These results suggest that WBPU/PVP composite films may have high potential as new wound‐dressing materials that provide and maintain the moist environment needed to prevent scab formation and dehydration of the wound bed. By a wound‐healing evaluation using a full‐thickness rat model experiment, it was found that a wound covered with a typical WBPU/PVP composite film (15 wt % PVP) was completely filled with new epithelium without any significant adverse reactions. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008