bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Triantennary Dendritic Galactoside‐Capped Nanohybrid with a ZnS/CdSe Nanoparticle Core as a Hydrophilic, Fluorescent, Multivalent Probe for Metastatic Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Chen Chien‐Tien , Munot Yogesh S. , Salunke Santosh B. , Wang Yi‐Ching , Lin Ruo‐Kai , Lin Chun‐Cheng , Chen Chia‐Chun , Liu Y‐Hasin
Published: February 2008

A new tri‐antennary, galactoside‐capped gallamide dendritic anchor with thiolate focal group is synthesized via click chemistry. The highly hydrophilic dendron was efficiently anchored onto the surface of CdSe/ZnS core/shell nanoparticles in a covalent fashion, as evidenced by 1H NMR spectrum of the resultant nanohybrid with intact core fluorescent property. The water‐soluble nano‐hybrid was found smoothly and selectively uptaken by lung cancer cells enriched with membrane‐bound asialoprotein receptors in 2–3 h, as evidenced by confocal microscopic analysis. Furthermore, cancer cells that are undergoing active mitosis also tend to uptake the nanohybrids efficiently and remain sustainable in serum‐containing medium for several days, which shed light on its application as a photodynamic drug carrier for apoptosis study.
New Nanostructured TiO2 for Direct Electrochemistry and Glucose Sensor Applications
Authors: Bao Shu‐Juan , Li Chang Ming , Zang Jian‐Feng , Cui Xiao‐Qiang , Qiao Yan , Guo Jun
Published: February 2008

A new, slack, and uniformly porous TiO2 material is synthesized by a simple, carbon nanotube (CNT) template‐assisted hydrothermal method and is further explored for protein immobilization and biosensing. Results demonstrate that the material has a large specific surface area and a unique nanostructure with a uniform pore‐size distribution. Glucose oxidase (GOD) immobilized on the material exhibits facile, direct electrochemistry and good electrocatalytic performance without any electron mediator. The fabricated glucose oxidase sensor shows good stability and high sensitivity, which indicates that the slack porous TiO2 is an attractive material for use in the fabrication of biosensors, particularly enzymatic sensors, because of its direct electrochemistry, high specific surface area, and unique nanostructure for efficient immobilization of biomolecules.
Reflux of jugular and retrobulbar venous flow in transient monocular blindness
Authors: Hsu Hung‐Yi , Chao A‐Ching , Chen Yen‐Yu , Yang Fu‐Yi , Chung Chih‐Ping , Sheng Wen‐Yung , Yen May‐Yung , Hu Han‐Hwa
Published: February 2008

Objective

Transient monocular blindness (TMB) attacks may occur during straining activities that impede cerebral venous return. Disturbance of cerebral and orbital venous circulation may be involved in TMB.

Methods

Duplex ultrasonography and Doppler‐flow measurement of jugular and retrobulbar veins were performed in 134 consecutive patients with TMB and 134 age‐ and sex‐matched control subjects. All recruited patients received thorough examinations to screen for possible underlying causes.

Results

Of the 134 patients with TMB, 48 patients had ipsilateral carotid arterial lesion and 7 patients had TMB attack(s) caused by cardiac embolism. Of the remaining 79 patients with undetermined cause, 46 had 3 or more TMB attacks (undetermined‐frequent group) and 33 had fewer than 3 attacks. In comparison with the control subjects, the TMB patients had greater frequencies of jugular venous reflux (57 vs 30%; p < 0.0001; odds ratio [OR]: 3.079, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.861–5.096) and flow reversal in the superior ophthalmic vein (RSOV; 37 vs 9%; p < 0.0001; OR: 6.052, CI: 3.040–12.048). The undetermined‐frequent group had the greatest frequencies of jugular venous reflux (74%, 34 patients; OR: 6.66, CI: 3.13–14.17) and RSOV (59%, 27 patients; OR: 6.51, CI: 3.12–13.58). Of the 50 patients with RSOV, 47 (94%) had RSOV on the side of the TMB attacks.

Interpretation

The increased incidences of jugular and orbital venous reflux in TMB patients suggest that disturbance of cerebral and orbital venous circulation is involved in the pathogenesis of TMB, especially among patients with frequent attacks of undetermined cause. Ann Neurol 2008
Achieving the nitrite pathway using aeration phase length control and step‐feed in an SBR removing nutrients from abattoir wastewater
Authors: Lemaire Romain , Marcelino Marcos , Yuan Zhiguo
Published: February 2008

Aeration phase length control and step‐feed of wastewater are used to achieve nitrogen removal from wastewater via nitrite in sequencing batch reactors (SBR). Aeration is switched off as soon as ammonia oxidation is completed, which is followed by the addition of a fraction of the wastewater that the SBR receives over a cycle to facilitate denitrification. The end‐point of ammonia oxidation is detected from the on‐line measured pH and oxygen uptake rate (OUR). The method was implemented in an SBR achieving biological nitrogen and phosphorus removal from anaerobically pre‐treated abattoir wastewater. The degree of nitrite accumulation during the aeration period was monitored along with the variation in the nitrite oxidizing bacteria (NOB) population using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) techniques. It is demonstrated that the nitrite pathway could be repeatedly and reliably achieved, which significantly reduced the carbon requirement for nutrient removal. Model‐based studies show that the establishment of the nitrite pathway was primarily the result of a gradual reduction of the amount of nitrite that is available to provide energy for the growth of NOB, eventually leading to the elimination of NOB from the system. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2008;100: 1228–1236. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Jung's social psychological meanings
Authors: Richards Graham
Published: February 2008

The latter decades of the 20th century saw C.G. Jung doubly marginalized, both by Psychology's academic establishment, for whom he was beyond the scientific pale, and by critical psychologists for whom he was, to simplify, beyond the ideological one. In this paper, I will suggest that there are two respects in which Social Psychology should reconsider his position. Firstly his own, albeit largely covert, Social Psychology, has affinities with critical Social Psychology; secondly, in the subject matter sense, Jung's own social psychological significance in the mid‐20th century and beyond itself requires attention in its own right. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Outcomes of nonagenarians who undergo percutaneous coronary intervention with drug‐eluting stents
Authors: Lee Michael S. , Zimmer Raymond , Pessegueiro Antonio , Jurewitz Daniel , Tobis Jonathan
Published: February 2008

Background: Age is an important predictor of mortality after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The safety and efficacy of PCI with drug‐eluting stents (DES) in nonagenarians have not been extensively studied. Methods: A retrospective analysis of 889 consecutive patients identified 28 (3.1%) nonagenarians who underwent PCI with DES from May 2003 to December 2005 at our institution. Results: The mean age was 92 ± 2 years, 39% were male, and 4% were diabetic. Sirolimus‐eluting stents were used in 79%. A mean of 1.5 ± 0.9 stents/patient were implanted with a total stent length of 31 ± 20 mm. Twenty‐nine percent presented with unstable angina and 39% with myocardial infarction. The angiographic success rate obtained was 100%. The 30‐day mortality rate was 21%. The 6 patients who died within 30 days included 3 patients who had cardiogenic shock and one patient with critical aortic stenosis who died due to complications during percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty. The cumulative survival rate for all nonagenarians at 1 year and 3 years was (68 ± 9)% and (61 ± 9)%. When the four patients who were in extremis on presentation were excluded, there were no in‐hospital deaths, the 30‐day mortality was 8%, and the 1 year and 3 year survival rate was (79 ± 8)% and (71 ± 9)% for the nonagenarians. No patient had definite stent thrombosis. Conclusions: The majority of the nonagenarians who underwent PCI with DES presented with acute coronary syndrome. Percutaneous coronary intervention with DES was safe in nonagenarians as there were no in‐hospital deaths and acceptable 3‐year survival rates when patients who were in extremis on presentation were excluded. The high‐risk profile of these patients and the expected attrition of nonagenarians may contribute to their mortality rates. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Complications associated with transcatheter closure of perimembranous ventricular septal defects
Authors: Zhou Tao , Shen Xiang‐Qian , Zhou Sheng‐Hua , Fang Zhen‐Fei , Hu Xin‐Qun , Zhao Yan‐Shu , Qi Shu‐Shan , Li Jiang , Lv Xiao‐Lin
Published: February 2008

Objectives: To identify the complications associated with transcatheter closure of perimembranous ventricular septal defects (PmVSD) using the Amplazter PmVSD occluder (AGA Medical, USA). Methods: Between October 2002 and November 2006, transcatheter closure PmVSD was attempted in 210 patients and performed in 206 patients. Those patients were followed‐up for 6–24 months (mean, 10.6 ± 3.9 months) to identify the complications. Results: Device implantation was successfully accomplished in 206 of the 210 patients (98%). Serious complications such as high degree atrioventricular block (AV block), infective endocarditis, and device embolization occurred in eight cases (3.8%). Other complications including mild aortic or tricuspid regurgitation, femoral pseudoaneurysm, and femoral arteriovenous fistula occurred in four cases. Conclusions: Transcathter closure of PmVSD can be performed safely and successfully. But further studies should continue to evaluate the potential complications associated with this procedure. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Use of the Stereotaxis Niobe® magnetic navigation system for percutaneous coronary intervention: Results from 350 consecutive patients
Authors: Kiemeneij Ferdinand , Patterson Mark S. , Amoroso Giovanni , Laarman GertJan , Slagboom Ton
Published: February 2008

Introduction: The Stereotaxis Niobe® magnetic navigation system (MNS; Stereotaxis, St. Louis, MO) facilitates precise vector based navigation of magnetically‐enabled guidewires for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) by using two permanent magnets located on opposite sides of the patient table to produce a controllable magnetic field. The objective of this study is to describe the results of a large patient series using this system, to compare the results with a historical control group, and to detail the MNS learning curve. Methods: We prospectively collected data on 439 lesions in 350 consecutive PCI patients using the MNS predominantly using the radial approach. All data were entered into a customized database to capture the key parameters and then compared with a previously collected stent registry from the same center. Results: In 410/439 lesions (93%) the wire crossed the lesion successfully using the MNS. Twenty‐five of the 35 failures were chronic total occlusions. No wire perforations or dissections occurred in this population. Lesion crossing time was 81 ± 168 sec (mean ± SD), and fluoroscopy time was 64 ± 123 sec. A clear learning curve was evident after the first 80 patients. Contrast use was reduced when compared with a historical control group. Procedural and fluoroscopy times were similar. Conclusions: Use of the MNS may enable the successful performance of more complex procedures in the cardiac catheterization laboratory with an improvement in time efficiency. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Primary percutaneous balloon pericardiotomy for malignant pericardial effusion
Authors: Swanson Neil , Mirza Intisar , Wijesinghe Namal , Devlin Gerard
Published: February 2008

Objectives: Pericardial effusion associated with malignancy is a life‐threatening complication of late‐stage disease. While simple drainage is effective in relieving the symptoms, reaccumulation of effusion may cause further symptomatic episodes, often during a period when overall patient management is focused on improving the quality of remaining life. Over a 16‐year period, we have adopted a strategy of managing such patients with balloon pericardiotomy as the initial preferred treatment. The results are described and compared to alternative management strategies. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients who presented with symptomatic, malignant pericardial effusion, their management, procedural complication rates, and the need for further therapy for the same condition was made. Survival, reaccumulation rates, and readmissions after the index procedure were recorded and compared. Results: Forty‐three patients were treated for malignant pericardial effusion. Balloon pericardiotomy was the primary treatment in 27/43 patients, simple drainage in 14/43, and surgery in 2/43. Reaccumulation rates between balloon pericardiotomy and simple aspiration (7.4% vs. 14.3%, respectively, P = 0.48) and complication rates (7.4% vs. 7.1%, respectively, P = 0.98) were not statistically different. Survival following intervention was driven by the underlying pathology and was poor, with overall median survival of 56 days. Conclusions: Balloon pericardiotomy, as initial management of symptomatic malignant pericardial effusions, allows a definitive procedure to be performed at presentation. This can be achieved with low complication rates, similar to treatment by simple drainage. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Starting a carotid artery stenting program is safe
Authors: Roffi Marco , Greutmann Matthias , Eberli Franz R. , Rainoni Lisa , Lüscher Thomas F. , Amann‐Vesti Beatrice , Schwarz Urs
Published: February 2008

Background: Little is known on the performance of newly initiated carotid artery stenting (CAS) programs. The safety of the procedure is being questioned following the publication of the EVA‐3S trial, a study criticized for the limited interventional experience required to enroll patients. Methods: Within a newly started academic CAS program, patient data and outcomes were collected prospectively. The outcomes of the first 100 consecutive patients treated are reported. A CAS‐fellowship‐trained interventionalist was involved in all procedures. All patients underwent clinical assessment by a neurologist before and after the procedure, and serial ECG and cardiac enzymes were routinely obtained. Primary outcome measures included 30‐day major adverse events (MAE), defined as death, stroke, or myocardial infarction, while on follow‐up deaths and ipsilateral strokes were added. Results: Between July 2003 and November 2006, 92 patients had a single internal carotid artery treated, while 7 underwent staged bilateral CAS. In one patient, the procedure was aborted prior to lesion treatment. The 30‐day MAE rate per procedure was 1.9% (one major and one minor stroke). By a mean follow‐up of 16 months (range 2–42 months), one patient had died of refractory heart failure, while one patient had a minor ipsilateral stroke and three had minor contralateral strokes, corresponding to total MAE per patient of 4%. The rate of any stroke or death was 7%. The rate of restenosis ≥50% per lesion by ultrasound was 3.8%. Conclusion: This single center experience suggests that it is safe to start a CAS program following dedicated fellowship. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Measurement and Modeling of Refractive Indices for Multicomponent Chromium Compound Solutions
Authors: Wang F. A. , Wang J. Y. , Zhang P. , Li C. W. , Ren B. Z.
Published: February 2008

The aim of this work is to solve the key problems of the green production process for chromium trioxide and to study the thermodynamic properties of corresponding solutions. The refractive indices of quaternary mixtures (chromium trioxide + potassium chromate + potassium dichromate + water) have been measured from 298.15–333.15 K. A molecular thermodynamic model of refractive indices for aqueous solutions of chromium compounds is proposed, based on the author's molecular model for solution structure and an equation for the excess enthalpy of a binary solution obtained from the experimental measurements. The model parameters are confirmed and quantitative equations for the variation of the model parameters with temperature and the molality of potassium dichromate in the mixed solvent are established. The data predicted by the model are in good agreement with the experimental results.
Kinetic and Statistical Studies of Adsorptive Desulfurization of Diesel Fuel on Commercial Activated Carbons
Authors: Muzic M. , Sertic‐Bionda K. , Gomzi Z.
Published: February 2008

Diesel fuel desulfurization by different commercial activated carbons was studied in a batch adsorber. Experiments, carried out to determine the sulfur adsorption dependency on time, were used to perform kinetic characterization and to screen the best performing activated carbon. The equilibrium characterization of the adsorption process was also performed. The statistical study of the process was undertaken by way of a two‐level one‐half fractional factorial experimental design with five process parameters. Individual parameters and their interaction effects on sulfur adsorption were determined and a statistical model of the process was developed. Chemviron Carbon SOLCARBTM C3 was found to be the most efficient adsorbent. The kinetic pseudo‐second order model and Freundlich isotherm are shown to exhibit the best fits of experimental data. The lowest achieved sulfur concentration in treated diesel fuel was 9.1 mg kg–1.
Removal of Elemental Mercury by Sodium Chlorite Solution
Authors: Zhao Y. , Liu S.‐T. , Chen C.‐M. , Ma X.‐Y.
Published: February 2008

The important step for increasing gaseous elemental mercury (Hg0) removal in wet scrubber systems is altering the chemical form of the Hg0 to a water‐soluble oxidized species. This work focuses on the removal of elemental mercury from simulated flue gas by aqueous sodium chlorite in a bubble reactor. The effects of initial oxidizing solution concentration, reaction temperature, pH and mercury concentration in the inlet of the reactor on mercury oxidative absorption in sodium chlorite were investigated. The results indicate that higher concentrations of sodium chlorite favor Hg0 removal, with a greater efficiency observed in acidic than in alkaline solution. High temperature inhibits Hg0 absorption in aqueous sorbent when the reaction temperature is lower than ca. 40 °C, and the removal efficiency increases when the temperature is higher than that value. In conclusion, the major influencing factors on the levels of Hg0 removal are pH and chlorite concentration in solution.
Optimization of Crotonaldehyde Oxidation Catalyst using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Tang J.‐H. , Qiao X. , Cui M.‐F. , Ying Y. , Chen X.‐A. , Wen C.‐K.
Published: February 2008

Crotonic acid was produced by oxidation of crotonaldehyde over molybdophosphoric acid supported on activated carbon. The full 23central composite design was performed and aimed at optimizing oxidation catalysts to maximize the yield of crotonic acid. Response surface methodology was applied to obtain a second‐order polynomial model and to generate the optimum conditions, with a loading of molybdophosphoric acid of 0.25, mass ratio of catalyst to crotonaldehyde of 0.025 and mass ratio of vanadium pentoxide to molybdophosphoric acid of 0.08. The crotonic acid yield was 66.7 % under these conditions. Three experiments were conducted using the same optimum conditions, and therefore, good agreement was observed between the experimental data and the predicted values obtained from the model, by comparison
Heterogeneous Catalytic Reactor Design with Non‐Uniform Catalyst Considering Shell‐Progressive Poisoning Behavior
Authors: Hwang S. , Smith R.
Published: February 2008

A novel methodology has been developed to design an optimum heterogeneous catalytic reactor, by considering non‐uniform catalyst pellet under shell‐progressive catalyst deactivation. Various types of non‐uniform catalyst pellets are modelled in combination with reactor design. For example, typical non‐uniform catalyst pellets such as egg‐yolk, egg‐shell and middle‐peak distribution are developed as well as step‐type distribution. A progressive poisoning behavior is included to the model to produce correct effectiveness factor from non‐uniform catalyst pellet. As opposed to numerical experiment with limited type of kinetic application to the model in the past, this paper shows a new methodology to include any types of kinetic reactions for the modeling of the reactor with non‐uniform catalyst pellet and shell‐progressive poisoning. For an optimum reactor design, reactor and catalyst variables are considered at the same time. For example, active layer thickness and location inside pellet are optimised together with reactor temperature for the maximisation of the reactor performance. Furthermore, the temperature control strategy over the reactor operation period is added to the optimization, which extends the model to three dimensions. A computational burden has been a major concern for the optimization, and innovative methodology is adopted. Application of profile based synthesis with the combination of SA (Simulated Annealing) and SQP (Successive Quadratic Programming) allows more efficient computation not only at steady state but also in dynamic status over the catalyst lifetime. A Benzene hydrogenation reaction in an industry scale fixed‐bed reactor is used as a case study for illustration.
Separation of Shikimic Acid from Pine Needles
Authors: Sui R.
Published: February 2008

Shikimic acid is used as a precursor for the synthesis of oseltamivir phosphate (Tamiflu®), which is used as an anti‐viral for the H5N1 strain. As concern for this virus increases, demand for medicinal products capable of treating it increases, while shikimic acid resources remain limited. In this study, for the first time shikimic acid is extracted from pine needles using water at relatively low temperature. After the subsequent evaporation, column adsorption/desorption and crystallization processes, shikimic acid crystals with a purity of over 98 % are obtained. A total recovery of approximately 85 % is reached, with the highlights of the method being simplicity, low cost and industrial practicality.
Optical and dielectric studies on succinic acid single crystals
Authors: Krishnan S. , Raj C. Justin , Priya S. M. Navis , Robert R. , Dinakaran S. , Das S. Jerome
Published: February 2008

Single crystals of ferroelectric succinic acid (SA) with very high degree of transparency were grown from aqueous solution by slow evaporation technique. Single crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis reveals that the crystal belongs to monoclinic system with the space group P21/c. Some physical parameters have been determined for grown crystal. The optical absorption study reveals the transparency of the crystal in the entire visible region and the cut off wave length was found to be 240 nm. The optical band gap is found to be 3.75 eV. The dependence of extinction coefficient (k) and refractive index (n) on the wavelength have also been reported. The presence of functional groups was determined qualitatively by using Fourier transform infrared spectrum (FTIR) from which force constant has been calculated. The dielectric constant was also studied as a function of frequency at room temperature and electrical conductivity has been calculated from the Cole‐Cole plot. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
In‐situ TiC precipitation in molten Fe‐C and their characterisation
Authors: Parashivamurthy K. I. , Sampathkumaran P. , Seetharamu S.
Published: February 2008

TiC particles were formed in liquid iron solution by the reaction between pure titanium and carbon available in molten iron. TiC particles have been precipitated in steels with four different carbon contents by in situ reactions during melting. The influence of titanium and carbon concentration on the precipitation of TiC was studied. The samples were studied by means of optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray microanalysis. The morphology of the obtained crystals was studied and correlated with carbon and titanium. It was found that TiC crystallises as primary crystals at 1600°C during solidification of the Fe‐Ti‐C melt. The obtained crystals were of cubic, rectangle and had maximum size of 18.7 µm. The size and shape of the carbides increases with increasing carbon and titanium in molten iron. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Maltose and Maltotriose Derivatives as Potential Inhibitors of the Maltose‐Binding Protein
Authors: Malik Heinz , Boos Winfried , Schmidt Richard R.
Published: February 2008

Inhibition of substrate binding to maltose‐binding protein (MBP) was investigated with structurally modified maltose and maltotriose derivatives that were designed based on the X‐ray analysis of maltose and maltotriose bound to MBP. In maltose, positions 1a, 2a, 2b, 4b and 6b were modified (compounds 1–3, 18a, b, 28a–c, 39 and 44) of which only the trivalent maltose derivatives 39 and 44 exhibited high affinity to MBP. Maltotriose modifications were carried out at position 6a and 6c (compounds 45–51). Compound 50, possessing a 6a‐O‐propyl group, and compound 51, where the 6c‐hydroxy group is replaced by bromide, showed higher affinity to MBP than the parent maltotriose. Hence, the structurally quite different compounds 39, 50 and 51 are important lead compounds for further studies. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Creating a culture of evidence: Academic accountability at the institutional level
Authors: Middaugh Michael F.
Published: February 2008

Governmental and accrediting entities are demanding increased accountability and efficiency from colleges and universities. This chapter discusses strategies for developing institutional data sets that create a “culture of evidence.”
State policies and planning to increase attainment, quality, and productivity
Authors: Lingenfelter Paul E.
Published: February 2008

State planning and policy for higher education are increasingly focused on increasing educational attainment, quality, and the productivity of the system.
Hard heads and soft hearts: Balancing equity and efficiency in institutional student aid policy
Authors: Baum Sandy
Published: February 2008

How can higher education address the tension between the goals of equity and enrollment management?
Guest editors' introduction growth and globalization: Evolution of human resource management practices in Asia
Authors: Yeung Arthur , Warner Malcolm , Rowley Chris
Published: February 2008

In this introductory note, we offer an overview of how human resource management in Asian countries and corporations is evolving in the face of rapid business growth and integration into the global economy and we describe how the articles in this Special Issue contribute to new knowledge and insights regarding key issues, challenges, and evolution in the field of HRM in Asia. Driven by the combined forces of rapid gross domestic product growth in many Asian economies and their further integration into the global business arena, firms in Asia are in constant flux, no matter whether they are developed economies like Japan, Korea, andTaiwan; developing economies like Malaysia andThailand; or transitional economies like China and Vietnam. How will HRM systems in these countries evolve and transform under the combined forces of growth and globalization? We argue that HRM systems in these Asian firms most likely will evolve toward “bounded convergence.” The demands and expectations of the HR function to take on strategic roles (versus administrative roles) and address critical HR issues like attracting and retaining key talent, building talent pipelines, and creating high‐performing cultures are greater than ever. We conclude with a high‐level summary of the key contribution of the eight articles covered in this Special Issue. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
MMP‐14 mediated MMP‐9 expression is involved in TGF‐beta1‐induced keratinocyte migration
Authors: Seomun Young , Kim Jong‐Tak , Joo Choun‐Ki
Published: February 2008

The importance of expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) in keratinocyte migration is well established, but its role remains unclear. Here we investigated the function of MMP‐14 in TGF‐β1‐induced keratinocyte migration. TGF‐β1 stimulated cell migration and the expression of MMP‐2, ‐9 in HaCaT human keratinocyte cells. When we lowered MMP‐14 mRNA with siRNA, cell migration, and MMP‐9 expression decreased. Furthermore, the MMP‐14 siRNA also reduced activation of JNK in response to TGF‐β1, and a JNK‐specific inhibitor decreased both cell migration and MMP‐9 expression. Taken together, these results suggest that TGF‐β1‐induced HaCaT cell migration is mediated by MMP‐14, which regulates MMP‐9 expression via JNK signaling. J. Cell. Biochem. 104: 934–941, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Local approach to coupled cluster evaluation of polarizabilities for long conjugated molecules
Authors: Li Qingxu , Yi Yuanping , Shuai Zhigang
Published: February 2008

Electron correlation effect in conjugated polymer is a long‐standing problem, especially for the nonlinear optical properties. We have implemented a spin‐adapted Coupled Cluster with singles and doubles excitation with local molecular orbital approach. As a first application, we evaluate the static polarizability of conjugated polyene chains with finite field approach. It is found that the local molecular orbital approach can tremendously reduce the computational costs at sufficiently high accuracy. It is also found that the electron correlation can largely reduce the molecular polarizability with respect to the Hartree‐Fock mean field results. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2008
Regional apparent metabolite concentrations in young adult brain measured by 1H MR spectroscopy at 3 Tesla
Authors: Baker Eva H. , Basso Gianpaolo , Barker Peter B. , Smith Mari A. , Bonekamp David , Horská Alena
Published: February 2008

Purpose

To quantify and examine the distribution of brain metabolites in normal young adults using single voxel MR spectroscopy at 3 Tesla (T).

Materials and Methods

Short‐echo time single‐voxel PRESS technique was used to measure the apparent concentration of five metabolites at nine locations in the brains of young adults. Concentrations were estimated by means of an automated fitting method (LCModel) with reference to an unsuppressed water signal and were corrected for T1 relaxation, T2 relaxation, and cerebrospinal fluid partial volume. Analysis of variance with Tukey post hoc test was used to evaluate regional variations.

Results

Statistically significant differences in regional concentrations were detected for each of the metabolites. The number of significant differences was greatest for total choline, whereas myo‐inositol and the sum of glutamine and glutamate had the fewest. Magnitude of variation was greatest for total choline and least for the sum of N‐acetyl aspartate and N‐acetylaspartylglutamate.

Conclusion

In agreement with previous studies at other field strengths, we found heterogeneous distribution of the major spectroscopically measurable brain metabolites. Although the most distinct differences are between tissue types, there is appreciable variation within a tissue type at different locations. The spectra and metabolite concentrations presented should provide a useful reference for both clinical and research MR spectroscopy studies performed at 3T. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008;27:489–499. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Assessment of the uterine artery before uterine arterial embolization: Comparison of unenhanced 3D water‐excitation sensitivity‐encoding time‐of‐flight (WEST) and gadolinium‐enhanced 3D sensitivity‐encoding water‐excitation multishot echo‐planar (SWEEP) MR angiography
Authors: Mori Kensaku , Shiigai Masanari , Ueda Takuya , Kita Naoki , Tanaka Nami , Minami Manabu
Published: February 2008

Purpose

To compare unenhanced 3D water‐excitation sensitivity‐encoding time‐of‐flight (WEST) and gadolinium‐enhanced 3D sensitivity‐encoding water‐excitation multishot echo‐planar (SWEEP) MR angiography (MRA) with regard to conspicuity of uterine arteries in correlation with digital subtraction angiography (DSA).

Materials and Methods

Eleven consecutive patients with symptomatic uterine fibroids underwent 2 types of MRA before uterine arterial embolization (UAE). From these MRA an interventional radiologist predicted the optimal degrees for oblique DSA projections to reveal uterine arterial origins. Qualitatively, three independent observers reviewed two types of MRA assessing the conspicuity of uterine arterial origins and descending portions using a 3‐point scale. Quantitatively, the visualized uterine arteries were measured from their orifice to the end of their descending portions.

Results

At UAE, knowing the optimal degrees from MRA, the uterine arterial origins were clearly visualized on all first oblique DSA projections. Mean conspicuity levels of the uterine arterial origins and descending portions were significantly higher and mean length of the visualized uterine arteries was significantly longer for unenhanced WEST MRA than for gadolinium‐enhanced SWEEP MRA.

Conclusion

Unenhanced 3D‐WEST MRA was superior to gadolinium‐enhanced 3D‐SWEEP MRA in demonstrating uterine arteries. The optimal degrees for DSA projections to reveal uterine arterial origins could be accurately predicted using this noninvasive technique. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008;27:557–562. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Flavonoid content and antioxidant capacity of spinach genotypes determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry
Authors: Cho Mi Jin , Howard Luke R , Prior Ronald L , Morelock Teddy
Published: February 2008

BACKGROUND:Flavonoids in different spinach genotypes were separated, identified, and quantified by a high‐performance liquid chromatographic method with photodiode array and mass spectrometric detection. The antioxidant capacities of the genotypes were also measured using two antioxidant assays–oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORACFL) and photochemiluminescence (PCL)–which measure the response to the peroxyl and superoxide anion radicals, respectively.

RESULTS:Eighteen flavonoids representing glucuronides and acylated di‐ and triglycosides of methylated and methylene dioxide derivatives of 6‐oxygenated flavonols were identified (patuletin, spinacetin, spinatoside, jaceidin). The total flavonoids ranged from 1805 to 3703 mg kg−1, indicating 2.0‐fold variation among genotypes. The ORACFLand PCL values ranged from 48.7 to 84.4 mmol kg−1and from 9.0 to 14.0 mmol kg−1, respectively, representing as much as 1.7‐fold variation among genotypes.

CONCLUSION:The ORACFLand PCL values were highly correlated with total flavonoid content (rxy= 0.96). Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Generational differences in soft knowledge situations: status, need for recognition, workplace commitment and idealism
Authors: Busch Peter , Venkitachalam Krishna , Richards Debbie
Published: February 2008

Much knowledge management (KM) literature is focused on the improvements that can be made to organisations if they use their knowledge resource effectively. A great deal of knowledge rests in the heads of employees. Little to date has discussed the differences in soft knowledge utilisation amongst different generations of employees particularly in the IT sector. By generations we refer to the Baby Boomers, Generation X and Generation Y. Our study establishes that there were a number of differences between how the three Generations would deal with certain IT soft knowledge situations. These differences were along the following lines; issues of status in the workplace; need for recognition, typically by younger employees; issues of commitment to the workplace and finally idealism in the place of work. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A discussion and test of a communication flow optimization approach for business process redesign
Authors: Kock Ned , Danesh Azim , Komiak Paul
Published: February 2008

A vital component of any business process redesign (BPR) project is the depiction and understanding of an organization's processes that are being targeted for redesign. The literature on BPR suggests that the vast majority of past BPR projects have placed emphasis on the use of business process representations depicting the chronological flow of activities of processes known as workflow representations. This study suggests that a focus on the communication aspects of processes is more advisable. A controlled experiment with 210 student subjects was used to test a business process communication flow optimization model. The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling techniques. Overall, the results provide strong support for the notion that a focus on communications flow representations predicts BPR success. This study calls for a reorientation from the widespread BPR practice of placing emphasis on workflow representations of processes toward an emphasis on communication flow representations. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The influence of a pulsed light field on the electron scattering by a nucleus
Authors: Lebed' A A , Roshchupkin S P
Published: February 2008

This paper presents a theoretical study of stimulated bremsstrahlung and absorption of an electron scattered by a nucleus in the pulsed light field. The approximation when a pulsewidth is considerably greater than the characteristic time of the wave oscillations is considered. It is shown, that for processes of stimulated bremsstrahlung and absorption by electron of wave photons, which give a main contribution in the total cross-section, the partial cross-section in the pulsed field differ essentially from the corresponding cross-section in the field of a monochromatic wave.
Relevance of COX‐2 gene expression in dementia with lewy bodies associated with Alzheimer pathology
Authors: Saldaña Marisa , Pujols Laura , Joaquim Mullol  , Roca‐Ferrer Jordi , Cardozo Adriana , Aguilar Esther , Bonastre Mercè , Marin Concepció
Published: February 2008

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) expression is involved in the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration in dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) by measuring COX‐2 mRNA and protein expression in frontal cortex and substantia nigra pars compacta of DLB and control human brains. DLB cases were classified as pure form or common form according to the absence or the presence of Alzheimer pathology including neurofibrillary tangles and amyloid deposits by Braak staging. Using Western Blot and Real‐time Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis, we have shown that cortical COX‐2 protein levels were decreased in DLB cases (P < 0.01). However, no differences in nigral COX‐2 mRNA expression were observed between control and DLB cases. In conclusion, the present results suggest that in DLB nigral COX‐2 mRNA expression does not correlate with dopaminergic neurodegeneration and that the slight changes observed in the common type are probably due to the concomitant AD pathology. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
The Sydney multicenter study of Parkinson's disease: The inevitability of dementia at 20 years
Authors: Hely Mariese A. , Reid Wayne G.J. , Adena Michael A. , Halliday Glenda M. , Morris John G.L.
Published: February 2008

After 20 years follow‐up of newly diagnosed patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), 100 of 136 (74%) have died. The mortality rate fell in the first 3 years of treatment, then rose compared to the general population, the standardized mortality ratio from 15 to 20 years reaching 3.1. Drug induced dyskinesia and end of dose failure were experienced by most patients, but the main current problems relate to the non‐levodopa responsive features of the disease. Dementia is present in 83% of 20‐year survivors. Dementia correlates with increasing age and probably reflects an interplay of multiple pathologies. Seventeen people with dementia had postmortems. Eight had diffuse Lewy bodies as the only cause of dementia, while others had mixed neuropathology. Only one person lives independently and 48% are in nursing homes. Excessive daytime sleepiness is noted in 70%, falls have occurred in 87%, freezing in 81%, fractures in 35%, symptomatic postural hypotension in 48%, urinary incontinence in 71%, moderate dysarthria in 81%, choking in 48%, and hallucinations in 74%. The challenge is to understand the cellular mechanisms underlying the diverse features of advanced PD that go far beyond a lack of dopamine. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
Late onset sporadic Parkinson's disease caused by PINK1 mutations: Clinical and functional study
Authors: Gelmetti Vania , Ferraris Alessandro , Brusa Livia , Romano Francesca , Lombardi Federica , Barzaghi Chiara , Stanzione Paolo , Garavaglia Barbara , Dallapiccola Bruno , Valente Enza Maria
Published: February 2008

Homozygous or compound heterozygous mutations in the PINK1 gene represent the second most frequent cause of autosomal recessive parkinsonism after Parkin. The phenotype differs from idiopathic Parkinson's disease for earlier onset, slower disease progression, and better response to therapy. Indeed, the rare patients with onset above 50 years are usually relatives of early‐onset probands. Here, we report the first occurrence of compound heterozygous PINK1 mutations in a sporadic patient with a phenotype indistinguishable from idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD), with onset in the late seventh decade, rapid progression and good response to levodopa that waned with time. Both mutations (p.A244G and p.V317I) were found to abolish the protective effect of wild‐type PINK1 against staurosporine‐induced apoptosis. These findings further expand the clinical spectrum of PINK1‐related parkinsonism to include late onset, typical PD, and underline the existing difficulties in discriminating between mendelian parkinsonism and idiopathic PD. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
Cataplexy features in childhood narcolepsy
Authors: Serra Leonardo , Montagna Pasquale , Mignot Emmanuel , Lugaresi Elio , Plazzi Giuseppe
Published: February 2008

Cataplexy, the hallmark of narcolepsy, has been well characterized in adults but not in children. This study systematically used structured clinical assessments and video‐recordings (49 episodes in eight cases) to evaluate cataplexy in 23 patients diagnosed before the age of 18 years. Forty‐three percent of patients had falls as part of their attacks. During cataplexy knees, head, and jaw were the most frequently compromised body segments; eyelids, arms, and trunk being less commonly involved. More rarely, blurred vision, slurred speech, irregular breathing, or a sudden loss of smiling mimics were reported. One‐third of the sample presented with a previously unrecognized description of cataplexy that we coined “cataplectic facies,” consisting of a state of semipermanent eyelid and jaw weakness, on which partial or complete cataplectic attacks were superimposed. The usual triggering emotions, such as laughter, joking, or anger, were not always present, especially when close to an abrupt onset, hampering diagnosis. Video‐recordings of cataplectic attacks may be useful to document the attack, allowing a comparison with archived presentations. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
The Lille Apathy Rating Scale: Validation of a caregiver‐based version
Authors: Dujardin Kathy , Sockeel Pascal , Delliaux Marie , Destée Alain , Defebvre Luc
Published: February 2008

Apathy is reported in 16.5% to 70% of Parkinson's disease (PD) patients. Our recently developed Lille Apathy Rating Scale (LARS) has been specifically validated for patient‐based assessment of apathy in PD. The aim of the present study was to validate a caregiver‐based version of the LARS. Sixty consecutive PD patients and their respective caregivers participated in the study. An informant‐based version of the LARS (LARS‐i) was developed to rate apathy via a caregiver‐based structured interview. Apathy was also assessed in a patient‐based interview using the LARS and the informant‐ and clinician‐rated versions of the Apathy Evaluation Scale (AES). Cronbach's alpha and standardized alpha coefficients were 0.872 and 0.877, respectively, and the split‐half reliability was 0.901 (revealing good internal consistency). The test‐retest and inter‐rater reliability values were 0.960 and 0.996, respectively. Criterion‐related validity (according to an independent, expert diagnosis) was good. Scores on the LARS and the LARS‐i were highly correlated. However, apathy was rated significantly more severely by the caregiver than by the patient. This difference was significantly higher for demented than nondemented PD patients. The LARS‐i was seen to have excellent psychometric properties and appears to be valid for use in PD with respect to the patient‐based LARS and the informant‐ and clinician‐rated versions of the AES. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
Predictability of seasonal east coast winter storm surge impacts with application to New York's Long Island
Authors: DeGaetano Arthur T.
Published: February 2008

The characteristics of seasons with enhanced east coast winter storm (ECWS) and storm surge activity are identified from among a set of global atmospheric circulation indices and local land and sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies. Without regard for storm strength or surge potential, the most active ECWS seasons occur in association with El Niño events. There is also some indication that such seasons are preferred under the positive phase of the Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO). In terms of storm surge potential, forecasts of strong ECWS activity are more skillful than direct forecasts of the number of extreme surge events. In both cases, SSTs off the southeast US coast and in the Gulf of Mexico differentiate high seasonal activity from relatively inactive seasons. Warmer‐than‐normal SSTs in both regions during summer provide a measure of storm activity in the subsequent winter.

The results provide a means of anticipating seasonal ECWS activity, and to some degree impacts, that is similar to widely used forecasts of tropical storm activity. From a predictive standpoint, forecasts of active strong storm seasons and low surge activity exhibit fairly high false alarm ratios. However, the false alarm rate for forecasts of low storm activity or high surge activity is less than 10%. Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society
Anti‐obesity effects of conjugated linoleic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, and eicosapentaenoic acid
Authors: Li Jing‐Jing , Huang Chang J. , Xie Dong
Published: February 2008

Obesity has become a prevailing epidemic throughout the globe. Effective therapies for obesity become attracting. Food components with beneficial effects on “weight loss” have caught increasing attentions. Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) belong to different families of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). However, they have similar effects on alleviating obesity and/or preventing from obesity. They influence the balance between energy intake and expenditure; and reduce body weight and/or fat deposition in animal models, but show little effect in healthy human subjects. They inhibit key enzymes responsible for lipid synthesis, such as fatty acid synthase and stearoyl‐CoA desaturase‐1, enhance lipid oxidation and thermogenesis, and prevent free fatty acids from entering adipocytes for lipogenesis. PUFA also exert suppressive effects on several key factors involved in adipocyte differentiation and fat storage. Despite their similar effects and shared mechanisms, they display differences in the regulation of lipid metabolism. Moreover, DHA and EPA exhibit “anti‐obesity” effect as well as improving insulin sensitivity, while CLA induces insulin resistance and fatty liver in most cases. A deeper and more detailed investigation into the complex network of anti‐obesity regulatory pathways by different PUFA will improve our understanding of the mechanisms of body weight control and reduce the prevalence of obesity.