bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of the reaction conditions on the formation of Tl(Re)-Ba-Ca-Cu-O superconducting thin films by thallination in open system
Authors: Dujavová Agáta , Valeriánová Michaela , Štrbík Vladimír , Matkovičová Zuzana , Plesch Gustav , Kostič Ivan
Published: April 2007

Rhenium avoids air degradation of the target as well as of precursor thin films during the preparation of high temperature Tl-based superconductors. Addition of Re has been used during synthesis of oriented Tl(Re)-Ba-Ca-Cu-O films. High temperature superconducting Tl-based thin films were prepared by a two step method combining RF magnetron sputtering and ex-situ thallination. Precursors with a composition of Re0.1Ba2Ca2Cu3Ox were deposited on a CeO2 buffered R-plane sapphire substrate. The sputtered films were prepared at room temperature in an Ar atmosphere. The thallination of the precursor films was performed in a one zone configuration, where both the pellet and precursor film were kept at the same temperature. The thallination temperature varied in the range of 850–880°C and samples were held for 30, 45 and 60 min at this temperature in a flowing oxygen atmosphere. Besides Tl-2212, X-ray diffraction reveals the possibility of also preparing the Tl-2223 phase, which was until now not reported in a Re doped form.
Investigation of limitations of optical diffraction tomography
Authors: Kozacki T. , Kujawińska M. , Kniażewski P.
Published: April 2007

Optical diffraction tomography (ODT) applied to measurement of optical microelements is limited by low dynamic range, i.e., only objects with small deviations of refractive-index distribution can be measured. Therefore in this paper the limitations and errors of ODT are investigated throughout extensive numerical experiments. It is shown that these errors can be reduced by introduction of additional numerical focusing in the tomographic reconstruction algorithm. Additionally, new tomographic reconstruction algorithm using back propagation in reference medium for optical microelements measurement with known design is proposed. This hybrid reconstruction algorithm allows significant extension of ODT applicability in measurement of elements having large deviations of refractive-index distribution.
New saliva DNA collection method compared to buccal cell collection techniques for epidemiological studies
Authors: Rogers Nikki L. , Cole Shelley A. , Lan Hao‐Chang , Crossa Aldo , Demerath Ellen W.
Published: April 2007

Epidemiological studies may require noninvasive methods for off‐site DNA collection. We compared the DNA yield and quality obtained using a whole‐saliva collection device (Oragene™ DNA collection kit) to those from three established noninvasive methods (cytobrush, foam swab, and oral rinse). Each method was tested on 17 adult volunteers from our center, using a random crossover collection design and analyzed using repeated‐measures statistics. DNA yield and quality were assessed via gel electrophoresis, spectophotometry, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification rate. The whole‐saliva method provided a significantly greater DNA yield (mean ± SD = 154.9 ± 103.05 μg, median = 181.88) than the other methods (oral rinse = 54.74 ± 41.72 μg, 36.56; swab = 11.44 ± 7.39 μg, 10.72; cytobrush = 12.66 ± 6.19, 13.22 μg) (all pairwise P < 0.05). Oral‐rinse and whole‐saliva samples provided the best DNA quality, whereas cytobrush and swab samples provided poorer quality DNA, as shown by lower OD260/OD280 and OD260/OD230 ratios. We conclude that both a 10‐ml oral‐rinse sample and 2‐ml whole‐saliva sample provide sufficient DNA quantity and better quality DNA for genetic epidemiological studies than do the commonly used buccal swab and brush techniques.Am. J. Hum. Biol. 19:319–326, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Single nucleotide polymorphisms in alcohol dehydrogenase genes among some Indian populations
Authors: Rao V. R. , Bhaskar L. V. K. S. , Annapurna C. , Reddy A. G. , Thangaraj K. , Rao A. Papa , Singh Lalji
Published: April 2007

Seven ADH genes, identified until now, located in the long arm of human chromosome 4, produce seven different isozymes involved in the metabolism of ethanol to acetaldehyde. Of the more than 500 SNPs reported in the coding and non‐coding regions of these genes in the world databases, 11 are more extensively studied. Three SNPs, ADH1B Arg47His (Exon3), ADH1B Arg369Cys (Exon9) and ADH1C Val349Ile (Exon8), are functionally validated in terms of phenotype‐genotype correlations and are in specific linkage disequilibrium (LD) with non‐coding SNPs. However, the frequency of each SNP and configuration of LD varies among populations. The Indian populations studied were conspicuous by the complete absence of African specific allele ADH1B*369Cys, the negligible frequency of East Asian specific ADH1B*47His allele and the presence of a novel SNP ADH1B A3529G (Intron3). The ADH1C*349Ile was the only functional allele polymorphic with a strong LD block in all the populations studied and the high Fst value observed for the non‐coding ADH1B Rsa1 variant was in conformity with world populations.Am. J. Hum. Biol. 19:338–344, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mortality experience of Tsimane Amerindians of Bolivia: Regional variation and temporal trends
Authors: Gurven Michael , Kaplan Hillard , Supa Alfredo Zelada
Published: April 2007

This paper examines regional and temporal trends in mortality patterns among the Tsimane, a population of small‐scale forager‐horticulturalists in lowland Bolivia. We compare age‐specific mortality in remote forest and riverine regions with that in more acculturated villages and examine mortality changes among all age groups over the past 50 years. Discrete‐time logistic regression is used to examine impacts of region, period, sex, and age on mortality hazard. Villages in the remote forest and riverine regions show 2–4 times higher mortality rates from infancy until middle adulthood than in the acculturated region. While there was little change in mortality for most of the life course over the period 1950–1989, overall life expectancy at birth improved by 10 years from 45 to 53 after 1990. In both periods, over half of all deaths were due to infectious disease, especially respiratory and gastrointestinal infections. Accidents and violence accounted for a quarter of all deaths. Unlike typical patterns described by epidemiologic transition theory, we find a much larger period reduction of death rates during middle and late adulthood than during infancy or childhood. In the remote villages, infant death rates changed little, whereas death rates among older adults decreased sharply. We hypothesize that this pattern is due to a combination of differential access to medical interventions, a continued lack of public health infrastructure and Tsimane cultural beliefs concerning sickness and dying.Am. J. Hum. Biol. 19:376–398, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genetics of anthropometric asymmetry in an Indian endogamous population—Vaidyas
Authors: Sengupta Mahua , Karmakar Bibha
Published: April 2007

To understand the genetics of Fluctuating Asymmetry (FA) and Directional Asymmetry (DA), the present study comprised 14 bilateral morphometric traits from 200 Vaidya families including 824 individuals (of two generations) from North 24 Parganas, West Bengal. The statistical analysis included: Regression analysis to remove the age effect, Familial correlation, Heritability estimation, Principal Component Analysis and Segregation Analysis (SA) using genetic model test. The obtained results revealed little effect of genetic factor and considerable amount of environmental influence on anthropometric asymmetry. The results support the idea postulated by several previous authors that FA provides a measure of developmental instability in man. The contribution of heredity on these asymmetric variables is not unimportant but that of the common environment is very substantial. The magnitude of heritability of DA traits is slightly higher than that of FA traits. Five principal factors were detected from these asymmetric traits (three factors are on asymmetry on length, head, and breadth; while last two factors represent the asymmetry of diameters). SA did not suggest any evidence of major gene contribution. But the involvement of minor genes or polygenes could not be discarded. As the study on SA of asymmetry in man is limited, similar other studies are needed to confirm the result of the present study.Am. J. Hum. Biol. 19:399–408, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Microlevel determinants of blood pressure among women of two ethnic groups in a periurban area of Kolkata city, India
Authors: Ghosh Rohini
Published: April 2007

Blood pressure (BP) trends vary cross‐culturally, and studies on the risk factors associated with hypertension are limited in periurban regions of India. This study was conducted to examine the effect of socioeconomic factors (income, expenditure, activity time) and anthropometric measurements (skinfolds of biceps, triceps, subscapular, supra iliac, and body mass index) on 102 Munda (tribe) and 135 Pod (caste) women of childbearing age in a periurban area of Kolkata city. Results indicate that Munda women had significantly higher diastolic BP in the 30+ age group. However, no difference in the systolic and diastolic BP was observed between the two groups, when the socioanthropometric factors were controlled as covariates. Also, according to the JNC (JNC, 2004, The JNC 7 Report NIH Publication No. 04‐5230) classification of hypertension, no significant difference in hypertension was noted between the women of the two social groups. But the risk factors associated with hypertension varied between the two ethnic groups. Expenditure on alcohol and activity time was associated with hypertension among the Munda, while body mass index was significantly associated with hypertension among the Pod women. Alcohol consumption is a rare phenomenon among Indian women. Yet, Munda women in this transitional periurban environment, in spite of high poverty were more inclined to spent their earnings in alcohol consumption (due to their cultural preferences), increasing the risk of hypertension in their childbearing age.Am. J. Hum. Biol. 19:409–415, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Index‐to‐ring finger length ratio (2D:4D) predicts levels of salivary estradiol, but not progesterone, over the menstrual cycle
Authors: McIntyre Matthew H. , Chapman Judith Flynn , Lipson Susan F. , Ellison Peter T.
Published: April 2007

We tested the association between the index‐to‐ring finger length ratio (2D:4D) and ovarian steroid hormone concentrations measured over the course of a menstrual cycle in the saliva of 38 young women. Estradiol levels were positively associated with right‐hand, but not left‐hand, 2D:4D, and also with the difference between right‐ and left‐hand 2D:4D. None of these measures predicted progesterone level.Am. J. Hum. Biol. 19:434–436, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Grip strength and digit ratios are not correlated in women
Authors: van Anders Sari M.
Published: April 2007

Fink et al. (2006) have reported that men with higher grip strength (GS) have lower digit ratios (2D:4D), interpreting this as evidence for organizational effects of prenatal androgens on strength. In this study, I attempted to replicate their finding with 99 women. I found no evidence that digit ratios were associated with GS, suggesting that 2D:4D is not associated with GS in women. The null findings are discussed in light of gender and statistical considerations.Am. J. Hum. Biol. 19:437–439, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterization and catalytic activity of polymer supported ruthenium Schiff base complexes towards catechol oxidation
Authors: Pearly Sebastian C. , Sridevi N. , Mohammed Yusuff K. K.
Published: April 2007

Ruthenium(III) complexes of the Schiff bases formed by the condensation of polymer bound aldehyde and the amines, such as 1,2‐phenylenediamine (PS‐opd), 2‐aminophenol (PS‐ap), and 2‐aminobenzimidazole (PS‐ab) have been prepared. The magnetic moment, EPR and electronic spectra suggest an octahedral structure for the complexes. The complexes of PS‐opd, PS‐ap, and PS‐ab have been assigned the formula [PS‐opdRuCl3(H2O)], [PS‐apRuCl2(H2O)2], [PS‐abRuCl3(H2O)2], respectively. These complexes catalyze oxidation of catechol using H2O2 selectively to o‐benzoquinone. The catalytic activity of the complexes is in the order [PS‐abRuCl3(H2O)2] ≫ [PS‐opdRuCl3(H2O)] ≫ [PS‐apRuCl2(H2O)2]. Mechanism of the catalytic oxidation of catechol by ruthenium(III) complex is suggested to take place through the formation of a ruthenium(II) complex and its subsequent oxidation by H2O2 to the ruthenium(III) complex. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2007
Thermosetting polyurethane multiwalled carbon nanotube composites
Authors: McClory Caroline , McNally Tony , Brennan Gerard P. , Erskine James
Published: April 2007

Thermosetting polyurethane (PU) multi‐walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) nanocomposites at loadings up to 1 wt % were prepared via an addition polymerization reaction. The morphology of the nanocomposites and degree of dispersion of the MWCNTs was studied using a combination of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and wide angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD), and revealed the nanotubes to be highly dispersed in the PU matrix. Addition of just 0.1 wt % MWCNTs resulted in significant enhancements in stiffness, strength and toughness. Increases in Young's modulus, % elongation at break and ultimate tensile strength of 561, 302 and 397% were measured for the nanocomposites compared to the unfilled PU. The effect of the MWCNTs on the modulus of the PU was evaluated using the Rule of Mixtures, Krenchel and Halpin‐Tsai models. Only the Halpin‐Tsai model applied to high aspect ratio nanotubes was in good agreement with the modulus values determined experimentally. Strong interfacial shear stress was found between PU chains and nanotubes, up to 439 MPa, calculated using a modified Kelly‐Tyson model. Evidence for strong interfacial interactions was obtained from the Raman spectra of both the precursor materials and nanocomposites. When the MWCNTs were added to the isophorone diisocyanate an up‐shift of 14 cm−1 and on average 40 cm−1 was obtained for the position of the carbon‐hydrogen (CH) out‐of plane bending (766 cm−1) and isocyanate symmetric stretch (1420 cm−1) modes respectively. Moreover, an up‐shift of 24 cm−1 was recorded for the nanotube tangential mode (G‐band) for the 1.0 wt % nanocomposite because of the compressive forces of the PU matrix acting on the MWCNTs. The dynamic mechanical (DMA) properties of the PU thermoset and the nanocomposites were measured as a function of temperature. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2007
Thermosetting foam with a high bio‐based content from acrylated epoxidized soybean oil and carbon dioxide
Authors: Bonnaillie Laetitia M. , Wool Richard P.
Published: April 2007

A resilient, thermosetting foam system with a bio‐based content of 96 wt % (resulting in 81% of C14) was successfully developed. We implemented a pressurized carbon dioxide foaming process that produces polymeric foams from acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO). A study of the cell dynamics of uncured CO2/ AESO foams proved useful to optimize cure conditions. During collapse, the foam's bulk density increased linearly with time, and the cell size and cell density exhibited power‐law degradation rates. Also, low temperature foaming and cure (i.e. high viscosity) are desirable to minimize foam cell degradation. The AESO was cured with a free‐radical initiator (tert‐butyl peroxy‐2‐ethyl hexanoate, Ti ∼ 60°C). Cobalt naphtenate was used as an accelerator to promote quick foam cure at lower temperature (40–50°C). The foam's density was controlled by the carbon dioxide pressure inside the reactor and by the vacuum applied during cure. The viscosity increased linearly during polymerization. The viscosity was proportional to the extent of reaction before gelation, and the cured foam's structure showed a dependence on the time of vacuum application. The average cell size increased and the cell density decreased with foam expansion at a low extent of cure; however, the foam expansion became limited and unhomogeneous with advanced reaction. When vacuum was applied at an intermediate viscosity, samples with densities ∼ 0.25 g/cm3 were obtained with small (<1 mm) homogeneous cells. The mechanical properties were promising, with a compressive strength of ∼ 1 MPa and a compressive modulus of ∼ 20 MPa. The new foams are biocompatible. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2007
Influence of solid particles on cavitation in poly(methylene oxide) during crystallization
Authors: Nowacki Radoslaw , Piorkowska Ewa
Published: April 2007

Cavitation in pockets of melt occluded by impinging spherulites during isothermal crystallization of poly(methylene oxide) was explored. A reason for cavitation is a negative pressure buildup in pockets because of the change of density during crystallization. Compositions of poly(methylene oxide) with talc and chalks unmodified and modified with calcium stearate were studied to determine the influence of foreign solid particles on the cavitation. The crystallization and cavitation in polymer films were observed by a light microscopy; sample surfaces were examined also under SEM. The spherulite growth rate, decreasing under negative pressure, was measured and used to estimate the negative pressure level at the moment of cavitation that is the strength of the polymer melt. Chalk modified with calcium stearate drastically lowered the strength of poly(methylene oxide) melt, whereas unmodified chalk did not. The effect depended on the chalk content and on the particle size. The results demonstrate that the cavitation in a polymer melt under the negative pressure is nucleated by solid particles poorly adhering to a polymer. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2007
Degradation of a poly(ester urethane) elastomer. IV. Sorption and diffusion of water in PBX 9501 and its components
Authors: Salazar Michael R. , Thompson Shelley L. , E. Laintz Kenneth , Meyer Thomas O. , Pack Russell T
Published: April 2007

In preparation for studying the hydrolytic degradation of Estane® 5703 in the plastic‐bonded explosive PBX 9501, the sorption (solubility) and diffusion of water in PBX 9501 and each of its components are studied experimentally and modeled theoretically. Experiments are reported that measure the weight gain or loss due to a change in the relative humidity (RH). For all of the components, the equilibrium amount of water sorbed per gram of sample is linear in the RH at low relative humidities but curves upwards at higher relative humidities. This behavior is modeled with a water cluster model. Diffusion coefficients are determined by modeling the time dependence of the water concentrations assuming Fickian diffusion, and that fits the data for some of the materials. However, all the samples that contain the explosive HMX show much more complicated behavior at high relative humidities, and that is presented and discussed. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2007
Surface modification of a polyurethane film by low pressure glow discharge oxygen plasma treatment
Authors: Sanchis M. R. , Calvo O. , Fenollar O. , Garcia D. , Balart R.
Published: April 2007

Low pressure oxygen plasma has been used to improve the surface wettability of a polyurethane film. The modifications induced by the plasma treatment in the material were analyzed using contact angle measurements. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy technique was used for surface characterization of the plasma‐treated films. Atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were used to analyze topography changes due to the plasma‐etching mechanism. The results show a much better surface wettability of the film even for short exposure times, with a considerable increase in the surface energy values. As expected, functionalization with oxygen plasma is mainly because of surface oxidation with species like (CO, CO, OH, etc). An aging process with regard to polar groups rearrangement has been observed, thus promoting a partial hydrophobic recovery. Besides functionalization, the surface wettability of the material improves as a consequence of a slight increase in surface roughness because of the etching effect of oxygen plasma. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2007
Percutaneous rheolytic thrombectomy for large pulmonary embolism: A promising treatment option
Authors: Chauhan Manish S. , Kawamura Akio
Published: April 2007

Background: Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a common cardiovascular disease with significant mortality. Some patients with large PE are not eligible for current treatment options such as thrombolysis or surgical embolectomy. We report our experience of percutaneous rheolytic thrombectomy (PRT) using the AngioJet system combined with adjunctive local thrombolytic therapy and inferior vena cava (IVC) filter placement to treat massive or submassive PE in patients ineligible for current treatment options. Methods and Results: Of the 14 consecutive patients ineligible for thrombolysis or embolectomy treated with PRT, 10 patients had massive PE (6 patients were hypotensive and 4 patients had intractable hypoxemia) and 4 patients had submassive PE. Adjunctive local thrombolysis was performed in 5 patients. An IVC filter was placed in 11 patients. Angiographic success based on Miller score was achieved in 13 patients (92.9%). Procedure success was obtained in 12 patients (85.7%). Procedural mortality occurred in one patient who presented in cardiogenic shock (7.1%) and non‐fatal hemoptysis occurred in 1 patient (7.1%). Total in‐hospital mortality occurred in 3 patients (21.4%). On a mean follow‐up of 9 months, all 11 survivors had noted significant improvement in symptoms without recurrence. Conclusions: Percutaneous rheolytic thrombectomy using the AngioJet may be a treatment option for patients with massive or submassive PE who may not be eligible for thrombolytic therapy or surgical embolectomy. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Coronary stent assessability by 64 slice multi‐detector computed tomography
Authors: Sheth Tej , Dodd Jonathan D. , Hoffmann Udo , Abbara Suhny , Finn Aloke , Gold Herman K. , Brady Thomas J. , Cury Ricardo C.
Published: April 2007

Background: We evaluated the assessability of contemporary stent platforms by 64‐slice multi‐detector computed tomography (MDCT). Methods. Patients undergoing coronary stenting were included in a prospective protocol of MDCT imaging within 48 hr of stent implantation. MDCT data were acquired using a “Sensation 64” MDCT scanner (Siemens Medical Solutions, Forchheim, Germany). Stent assessability was assessed by two independent blinded observers and disagreement was resolved by a third observer. Assessability was defined at visualization of the in‐stent lumen without influence of partial volume effects, beam hardening, motion, calcification, or contrast to noise limitations. Results: Fifty four stents (Cypher n = 25, Vision/Minivision n = 19, Taxus Express n = 8, Liberte n = 1, Driver n = 1) in 44 patients were included in the study. The two independent observers classified 30 of 54 stents (56%) as assessable. Interobserver reproducibility was good with κ = 0.66. Stent size was the most important determinant of assessability. Consistently assessable stents were 3.0 mm or larger (85%), whereas those under 3 mm were mostly nonassessable (26%).Conclusions: Contemporary stent designs evaluated on a 64‐slice MDCT scanner showed artifact free assessability only in larger stents. Increase in spatial resolution of MDCT scanners or modifications in stent design will be necessary to noninvasive evaluate stents <3 mm in diameter, where in‐stent restenosis is more frequent. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Percutaneous coronary intervention in two occluded arms of a saphenous ‘Y’‐graft: The importance of protecting both of your arms
Authors: Chan Roger S. , Duong Michael H. , Kaplan Aaron V.
Published: April 2007

Percutaneous intervention in saphenous vein grafts (SVG) carries a higher risk of distal embolization than intervention in a native vessel, and use of a distal protection device has been shown to improve the outcomes in SVG interventions. We describe an intervention done in an unexpected ‘Y’ SVG which required dual distal protection with Filterwires placed in both limbs of the diseased graft and which was performed via a 6 Fr guide catheter. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Percutaneous closure after inadvertent subclavian artery cannulation
Authors: Shetty Sharad V. , Kwolek Christopher J. , Garasic Joseph M.
Published: April 2007

Accidental insertion of an arterial sheath is an uncommon but potentially serious complication of jugular venous catheterization. When the subclavian artery is inadvertently cannulated, sheath removal can be complicated by significant hemorrhage due to its incompressible location. We report a case of inadvertent insertion of an 8 French sheath into the subclavian artery, which was successfully removed and the puncture site sealed with a collagen‐based vascular closure device (Angio‐Seal STS Plus). This averted an otherwise emergent open surgical procedure to remove the sheath and repair the subclavian artery in a high‐risk patient. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Coronary stenting for coronary vasospasm refractory to medical therapy
Authors: Burns Andrew , Malaiapan Yuvaraj , Meredith Ian
Published: April 2007

We describe the case of a 54‐year‐old male with recurrent chest pain, ST segment elevation, and bradycardia. Coronary vasospasm was confirmed by acetylcholine challenge. After failing medical therapy, stenting of an extensive segment of the right coronary artery has been clinically successful after 24‐months follow‐up. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Predictors of comprehensive surgical treatment in patients with ovarian cancer
Authors: Goff Barbara A. , Matthews Barbara J. , Larson Eric H. , Andrilla C. Holly A. , Wynn Michelle , Lishner Denise M. , Baldwin Laura‐Mae
Published: April 2007

BACKGROUND.

Providing appropriate surgical treatment for women with ovarian cancer is one of the most effective ways to improve ovarian cancer outcomes. In this study, the authors identified factors that were associated with a measure of comprehensive surgery, so that interventions may be targeted appropriately to improve surgical care.

METHODS.

Using Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project hospital discharge data from 1999 to 2002 for 9 states, the authors identified 10,432 admissions of women who had an International Classification of Disease, 9th Revision (ICD‐9) primary diagnosis of ovarian cancer and who had undergone oophorectomy. Based on National Institutes of Health Consensus Panel recommendations, surgeries were categorized as comprehensive by using ICD‐9 diagnosis and procedure codes. Logistic regression analysis using data from 5 states with a full set of variables (n = 6854 patients)was used to identify factors that were associated with the receipt of comprehensive surgical care.

RESULTS.

Overall, 66.9% of admissions (range, 46.3–80.8% of admissions) received comprehensive surgery. Factors that were associated independently with comprehensive surgical care included age (ages 21–50 years vs ages 71–80 years or ≥81 years), race (Caucasian vs African American or Hispanic), payer (private insurance vs Medicaid), cancer stage (advanced vs early), annual surgeon volume (low/medium [2–9 surgeries per year] or high [>10 surgeries per year] vs very low [1 surgery per year]), and surgeon specialty (gynecologic oncologists vs obstetrician gynecologists or general surgeons). Among nonteaching hospitals, medium‐volume hospitals (10–19 ovarian cancer surgeries per year) and high‐volume hospitals (≥20 surgeries per year) had significantly higher comprehensive surgery rates than low‐volume facilities (1–9 surgeries per year). Volume did not influence comprehensive surgery rates in teaching hospitals.

CONCLUSIONS.

Many women with ovarian cancer, especially those in poor, elderly, or minority groups, are not receiving recommended comprehensive surgery. Efforts should be made to ensure that all women with ovarian cancer, especially those in vulnerable populations, have the opportunity to receive care from centers or surgeons with higher comprehensive surgery rates. Cancer 2007. © 2007 American Cancer Society.
Renal cell carcinoma clinically involving adjacent organs
Authors: Margulis Vitaly , Sánchez‐Ortiz Ricardo F. , Tamboli Pheroze , Cohen Daniel D. , Swanson David A. , Wood Christopher G.
Published: April 2007

BACKGROUND.

Historically, patients with nonmetastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) involving adjacent organs have been considered inoperable and incurable. The oncologic efficacy of an aggressive surgical approach was evaluated in a selected subpopulation of RCC patients. Further, an attempt was made to define the clinical and pathologic characteristics predictive of surgical failure.

METHODS.

With Institutional Review Board approval, the institutional nephrectomy database of 3470 patients treated at MD Anderson Cancer Center from 1990 to 2006 was searched for RCC patients treated with radical nephrectomy and resection of at least 1 adjacent organ thought to be directly involved by RCC. Patients with nonmetastatic RCC and a minimum follow‐up of 6 months were included in the analysis.

RESULTS.

In all, 30 patients with clinical T4NxM0 RCC and median follow‐up of 32.3 months (range, 8.5–140.1) met the study inclusion criteria and comprise the dataset for the analysis. On pathologic evaluation 60% of patients were clinically overstaged, as only 12 (40%) of 30 patients demonstrated direct invasion into adjacent organs resected. None of the clinical tumor characteristics predicted a finding of pathologic T4 RCC. Nodal involvement and pathologic T stage were significant independent predictors of disease recurrence (hazard ratio [HR] 3.726, P = .043, and HR 2.414, P = .045, respectively) and cancer‐specific survival (HR 17.145, P = .002, and HR 3.791, P = .024, respectively). Disease recurred in 11 of 18 (61.1%) of <pT4 patients and in 10 of 12 (83.3%) of pT4 patients at a median 13.3 and 2.3 months, respectively; 13 (73.3%) <pT4 patients and 5 (41.7%) pT4 patients were alive at the time of analysis.

CONCLUSIONS.

True pathologic involvement of adjacent organs by RCC cannot be predicted from pre‐ or intraoperative parameters. A significant proportion of patients clinically suspected of having T4 RCC are downstaged, and benefit from aggressive surgical resection with en bloc removal of involved organs. Cancer 2007. © 2007 American Cancer Society.
Does having insurance affect differences in clinical presentation between Hispanic and non‐Hispanic white women with breast cancer?
Authors: Watlington A. Tyler , Byers Tim , Mouchawar Judy , Sauaia Angela , Ellis Jenn
Published: April 2007

BACKGROUND

Hispanic women with breast cancer present differently than do non‐Hispanic white (NHW) women. Lack of access to care has been offered as an explanation for these differences. In this study breast cancer presentation was examined in Hispanic women in a comprehensive, equal‐access health care system.

METHODS

Hispanic and NHW breast cancer cases registered between 1995 and 2004 in the Kaiser Permanente of Colorado Tumor Registry were compared by age at diagnosis, stage, tumor grade, size, and receptor status. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to generate age‐adjusted odds ratios by ethnicity and each tumor characteristic.

RESULTS

A total of 139 Hispanic women and 2118 NHW women with breast cancer were identified. Hispanic women had a mean average age at diagnosis of 56 years compared with 61 years for NHW women (P < .0001). Use of mammographic screening services in the prior 2 years was similar by ethnicity. Relative to NHW women, Hispanic women had age‐adjusted odds ratios of 2.70 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.26–5.77) for having stage IV disease, 2.25 (95% CI: 1.39–3.67) for having poorly differentiated tumors, 2.16 (95% CI: 1.26–3.69) for having a tumor greater than 5 cm, and 1.88 (95% CI: 1.24–2.81) for having estrogen receptor‐negative tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite equal access to health care services, differences persist in the size, stage, and grade of breast cancer for Hispanic women compared with NHW women. The results of the study suggest a biologic/genetic basis for these differences. Cancer 2007. © 2007 American Cancer Society.
Lacunas of the riemann matrix of symmetric‐hyperbolic systems in two space variables
Authors: Bazer J. , Yen David H. Y.
Published: April 2007

This paper is dedicated to the memory of Robert M. Lewis.
Limits of propidium iodide as a cell viability indicator for environmental bacteria
Authors: Shi Lei , Günther Susanne , Hübschmann Thomas , Wick Lukas Y. , Harms Hauke , Müller Susann
Published: April 2007

Background:

Viability measurements of individual bacteria are applied in various scopes of research and industry using approaches where propidium iodide (PI) serves as dead cell indicator. The reliability of PI uptake as a cell viability indicator for dead (PI permeable) and viable (PI impermeable) bacteria was tested using two soil bacteria, the gram−Sphingomonas sp. LB126 and the gram+Mycobacterium frederiksbergense LB501T.

Methods:

Bacterial proliferation activities observed viaDAPI and Hoechst 33342 staining were linked to the energy charge and the proportion of dead cells as obtained by diOC6 (3)‐staining and PI‐uptake, respectively. Calibration and verification experiments were performed using batch cultures grown on different substrates.

Results:

PI uptake depended on the physiological state of the bacterial cells. Unexpectedly, up to 40% of both strains were stained by PI during early exponential growth on glucose when compared to 2–5% of cells in the early stationary phase of growth.

Conclusions:

The results question the utility of PI as a universal indicator for the viability of (environmental) bacteria. It rather appears that in addition to nonviable cells, PI also stains growing cells of Sphingomonas sp. and M. frederiksbergense during a short period of their life cycle. © 2007 International Society for Analytical Cytology
Re‐evaluating acridine orange for rapid flow cytometric enumeration of parasitemia in malaria‐infected rodents
Authors: Bhakdi Sebastian Chakrit , Sratongno Panudda , Chimma Pattamawan , Rungruang Thanaporn , Chuncharunee Aporn , Neumann Hartmut P. H. , Malasit Prida , Pattanapanyasat Kovit
Published: April 2007

Background:

Methods facilitating research in malaria are of pivotal relevance. Flow cytometry offers the possibility of rapid enumeration of parasitemia. It relies on staining the parasite DNA to distinguish between infected and non‐infected red blood cell (RBC) populations. Unfortunately, in rodents abundant reticulocyte RNA interferes with the application of the method. This results in time‐consuming sample preparation protocols that offer no clear advantage over microscopic counting. We re‐evaluated the use of the DNA/RNA discriminating vital fluorochrome acridine orange (AO) for rapid flow cytometric enumeration of parasitemia in rodents.

Methods:

Whole blood from rodents infected with Plasmodium berghei and Plasmodium yoelii was stained with AO and analyzed by flow cytometer. A newly developed two‐channel (FL1/FL3) detection method was compared with conventional one‐channel (FL1) detection and microscopic counting.

Results:

The new AO two‐channel detection method clearly discriminated between infected and non‐infected RBC populations. It showed to be linear above parasitemias of 0.3%. Sample processing time amounted to approximately 5 min.

Conclusions:

It is shown that AO can be used for rapid, precise, and accurate enumeration of parasitemia in rodents. Due to its ease of handling the method might find widespread application in malaria research. © 2007 International Society for Analytical Cytology
How to innervate a simple gut: Familiar themes and unique aspects in the formation of the insect enteric nervous system
Authors: Copenhaver Philip F.
Published: April 2007

Like the vertebrate enteric nervous system (ENS), the insect ENS consists of interconnected ganglia and nerve plexuses that control gut motility. However, the insect ENS lies superficially on the gut musculature, and its component cells can be individually imaged and manipulated within cultured embryos. Enteric neurons and glial precursors arise via epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transitions that resemble the generation of neural crest cells and sensory placodes in vertebrates; most cells then migrate extensive distances before differentiating. A balance of proneural and neurogenic genes regulates the morphogenetic programs that produce distinct structures within the insect ENS. In vivo studies have also begun to decipher the mechanisms by which enteric neurons integrate multiple guidance cues to select their pathways. Despite important differences between the ENS of vertebrates and invertebrates, common features in their programs of neurogenesis, migration, and differentiation suggest that these relatively simple preparations may provide insights into similar developmental processes in more complex systems. Deveopmental Dynamics 236:1841–1864, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Haemopoietic growth factors significantly improve the mitotic index and chromosome quality in cytogenetic cultures of myeloid neoplasia
Authors: Earle Victoria L. , Ross Fiona , Fisher Andrew , Strike Paul , Berrington Samantha , Chiecchio Laura , Cabanas Elisabet Dachs , Washbourne Rebecca , Watts Kathryn , Grand Francis
Published: April 2007

Haemopoietic growth factors stimulate bone marrow cell division, differentiation, and survival in vivo. We have investigated the use of recombinant human haemopoietic growth factors in vitro to improve cytogenetic cultures. Using a combination of granulocyte colony stimulating factor, granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor, stem cell factor, and interleukin‐3, we developed an additive for bone marrow cultures intended to stimulate myeloid cell growth. Sixty‐seven paired parallel cultures were analyzed, of which 50 were abnormal. The growth factor (GF) cultures showed a median four‐ to five‐fold increase in mitotic index (MI) (P < 0.0001). In addition, the chromosome morphology was significantly improved in the GF cultures with a median increase in United Kingdom National External Quality Assessment Scheme quality score of 1.25 points (P < 0.0001). There was no statistically significant difference in the number of abnormal cells between the two culture methods. The combination of higher MI and improved chromosome quality substantially reduces the time required to process a case; furthermore, the GF medium is cheaper than the medium with which it was compared. This method is suitable for both diagnostic and follow‐up cytogenetic analysis of acute and chronic myeloid neoplasia and is particularly useful for poorly cellular marrow samples or blood samples that would be expected to fail on standard culture. The use of this method has enabled substantial improvements in work efficiency in our oncology cytogenetic laboratory and reduced average reporting times from 9.0 days (2004/5) to 7.1 days (2005/6), despite a 6% increase in sample numbers. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A new approach to the synthesis of 1,2,3,5‐tetrasubstituted pyrroles
Authors: Vizer S. A. , Dedeshko E. H. , Yerzhanov K. B. , Dembitsky V. M.
Published: April 2007

2‐Propargyl‐1,3‐dicarbonyl derivatives, namely the corresponding cumulenes and diethoxyphosphoryloxy containing substances in the reactions with primary amines, are converted into the corresponding 1,2,3,5‐tetrasubstituted pyrroles. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 18:220–225, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.20265
A study on the michael addition of dialkylphosphites to methylvinylketone
Authors: Keglevich György , Sipos Melinda , Takács Daniella , Greiner István
Published: April 2007

The addition of dialkylphosphites to methylvinylketone giving dialkyl‐3‐oxobutylphos‐ phonates was studied applying different reagents, such as NaOR/ROH, NaOH/H2O under PTC, DBU, and R3Al (R = Me, Et) under different conditions to find the optimum choice regarding efficiency and selectivity. Possible extensions to a few other model compounds were also investigated. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 18:226–229, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.20266
Synthesis and characterization of new blue‐greenish electroluminescent materials based on 1,3,4‐oxadiazole‐triazolopyridinone hybrids
Authors: Shin Ming‐Hsiang , Wong Fung Fuh , Lin Chun‐Min , Chen Wen‐Yi , Yeh Mou‐Yung
Published: April 2007

New functionalized oxadiazole‐triazolopyridinone derivatives were synthesized via arcycloaddition. With the chromophores of triazolopyridinone, the photoluminescence spectra of these compounds in dichloromethane solution showed emission peaks between 430 and 520 nm. Following the spectroscopic studies, and the measurements of cyclic voltammogram, 1,3,4‐oxadiazole‐triazolopyridinone hybrids possess a great potential as highly efficient, blue‐greenish, organic light‐emitting devices materials. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 18:212–219, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.20285
A report on the “new frontiers in group 13 chemistry” symposium from the 88th Canadian Society for Chemistry Conference and Exhibition
Authors: Gossage Robert A. , Westcott Stephen A.
Published: April 2007

The 88th Canadian Society for Chemistry Conference and Exhibition was held in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, during the period of May 28–June 1, 2005. More than 250 chemists from various academic institutes and industries enjoyed five plenary lectures, thirteen oral presentations and a plethora of poster presentations. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 18:323–332, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.20287
Synthesis of substituted thieno[2,3‐bpyrroles
Authors: Wei Hongtao , Cai Jin , Sun Min , Ji Min
Published: April 2007

Thieno[2,3‐b]pyrroles can be synthesized through three steps: Gewald synthesis, alkylation, and Thorpe–Ziegler cyclization. Diethyl 3,6‐bis((ethoxycarbonyl)methyl)‐4‐amino‐6H‐thieno[2,3‐b]pyrrole‐2,5‐dicarboxylate (13) has been obtained by one‐pot method in DMF in good yield and high quality. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 18:236–238, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.20290
A new method for the synthesis of dinaphtho[1,2‐b;2′,1′‐d]thiophenes and selenophenes
Authors: Alam Ashraful , Ohta Hidetoshi , Yamamoto Tatsuya , Ogawa Satoshi , Sato Ryu
Published: April 2007

Naphthalene‐1‐sulfonic acid dimethylamides were treated with n‐BuLi and elemental sulfur or selenium to afford dinaphtho[1,2‐b:2′,1′‐d]thiophenes and selenophenes, respectively. This is the first example of making two CS/Se bonds and a CC bond in a single step at room temperature and also demonstrates a useful method for the synthesis of both thiophenes and selenophenes on naphthalene. In the case of the reactions of elemental selenium, diselenides were also obtained along with dinaphtho[1,2‐b:2′,1′‐d]selenophenes. The structure of dinaphtho[1,2‐b:′,1′‐d]thiophene was characterized by X‐ray crystallography as a representative molecule. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 18:239–248, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.20291
Synthesis of novel 5‐aryl‐1H‐tetrazoles
Authors: Özkan Hamdi , Yavuz Serkan , Dişli Ali , Yıldırır Yılmaz , Türker Lemi
Published: April 2007

In this study phenylselenocyanate and some of its derivatives (o‐Cl, p‐Cl, p‐Br, o‐NO2, p‐NO2, o‐CH3, p‐CH3, o‐COOH, p‐COOH, p‐OCH3 substituted) were synthesized (3a–3j). The synthesized compounds were converted to 5‐aryl‐1H‐tetrazole (4a–4j), by Et3N ċ HCl‐NaN3 in toluene, which are a new series of phenylselanyl‐1H‐tetrazoles. The structure of all the presently synthesized compounds were confirmed using spectroscopic methods (FTIR, 1H NMR, MS). © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 18:255–258, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.20293
Synthesis of some new benzofuran‐based thiophene, 1,3‐oxathiole and 1,3,4‐oxa(thia)diazole derivatives
Authors: Dawood Kamal M. , Farag Ahmad M. , Abdel‐Aziz Hatem A.
Published: April 2007

Treatment of 3‐(3‐methylbenzofuran‐2‐yl)‐3‐oxopropanenitrile (1) with phenyl isothiocyanate afforded the thioacetanilide derivative 3, which when reacted with α‐haloketones, α‐halodiketones, and hydrazonoyl chlorides gives thiophene, 1,3‐oxathiole, and 1,3,4‐thiadiazole derivatives 6a,b, 10a,b and 14a–g, respectively. Treatment of 3‐methyl‐2‐benzofurancarboxylic acid hydrazide (15) with benzaldehyde followed by bromine afforded the 1,3,4‐oxadiazole derivative 18. Treatment of the acid hydrazide 15 with phenyl isothiocyanate gave the thiosemicarbazide 20. Compound 20 could be converted into 1,3,4‐oxadiazole, 1,2,4‐triazole‐3‐thione, and 1,3,4‐thiadiazole derivatives 21, 22, and 23, respectively. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 18:294–300, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.20298
Stabilizing effect of intramolecular lewis base toward racemization of optically active selenoxides
Authors: Soma Takahiro , Shimizu Toshio , Hirabayashi Kazunori , Kamigata Nobumasa
Published: April 2007

2‐(Methylchalcogenomethyl)diphenyl selenoxides 1 and 2‐{2′‐(N,N‐dimethylamino)ethyl}phenyl alkyl (or aryl) selenoxides 2, which were expected to be stabilized toward racemization by intramolecular coordination, were synthesized and optically resolved into their enantiomers on an optically active column using high‐performance liquid chromatography. Relationship between the absolute configurations and the chiroptical properties of the enantiomers was clarified by comparing with those of sulfur analogues. Stabilities toward racemization of optically active selenoxides 1a and 1b were nearly equal to that of 2‐{(N,N‐dimethylamino)methyl}diphenyl selenoxide and mesityl phenyl selenoxide. The rates of racemization for optically active selenoxides 2 were found to be faster than that of 2‐{(N,N‐dimethylamino)methyl}phenyl alkyl (or aryl) selenoxides. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 18:301–311, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.20299
Triphenylphosphine catalyzed formation of functionalized 2‐aminothiophenes
Authors: Virieux David , Guillouzic Anne‐Françoise , Cristau Henri‐Jean
Published: April 2007

Triphenylphosphine was used as a nucleophilic catalyst in the addition–cyclization reaction of phenyl isothiocyanate with electron‐deficient allenes. This strategy offers a new approach for the synthesis of 2‐aminothiophenes under neutral conditions. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 18:312–315, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.20300