bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construction and Validation of the 4-Item Dynamic Gait Index
Authors: Marchetti Gregory F , Whitney Susan L
Published: February 2007

Background and PurposePeople with balance disorders often have difficulty walking. The purpose of this study was to develop and test the psychometric properties of a short form of the Dynamic Gait Index (DGI) for the clinical measurement of walking function in people with balance and vestibular disorders. Subjects. A total of 123 subjects with such disorders (test subjects) and 103 control subjects were included in this study. Methods. Rasch and factor analyses were used to create a short form of the DGI. Internal consistency and discriminative validity for test subjects versus control subjects and for falling versus nonfalling test subjects were evaluated. Results. Four items were selected for the shorter version of the test: gait on level surfaces, changes in gait speed, and horizontal and vertical head turns. Discussion and Conclusion. The clinical psychometric properties of the 4-item DGI were equivalent or superior to those of the 8-item test. The 4-item DGI can be used by clinicians to measure gait in people with balance and vestibular disorders without compromising important clinical measurement characteristics.
Clinical Trial of Exercise for Shoulder Pain in Chronic Spinal Injury
Authors: Nawoczenski Deborah A , Ritter-Soronen Jordan M , Wilson Christine M , Howe Benjamin A , Ludewig Paula M
Published: February 2007

Background and Purpose. The high prevalence of shoulder pain in wheelchair users may be related to the repetitive use of the upper limbs during self-care and wheelchair-related activities. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a controlled 8-week, scapula-focused exercise intervention on pain and functional disability in people with spinal cord injury (SCI) and shoulder impingement symptoms. Subjects. Forty-one manual wheelchair users (with SCI and spina bifida), both with (n=21) and without (n=20) shoulder impingement symptoms, participated. Methods. The study design was a clini\\cal trial with an asymptomatic control group. Subjects completed the Wheelchair User’s Shoulder Pain Index (WUSPI) and the Shoulder Rating Questionnaire (SRQ) and provided patient satisfaction scores at initial and 8-week visits. Subjects in the intervention group were instructed in a home exercise program consisting of stretching and strengthening exercises. Subjects in the asymptomatic control group received no intervention. An analysis of variance model was used to test for group and time effects for the WUSPI, SRQ, and satisfaction scores. Results. Subjects in the intervention group showed significant improvements in all measures as a result of the intervention, whereas asymptomatic control group subjects remained stable. Discussion and Conclusion. A selective 8-week home exercise program is effective in reducing pain and improving function and satisfaction in this population of wheelchair users.
Allometric Analysis of Physical Performance Measures in Older Adults
Authors: Pua Yong-Hao
Published: February 2007

Background and Purpose. Body mass is a confounding variable in human performance, and adjusting physical performance measures for body mass differences would allow meaningful individual and group comparisons. The purpose of this study was to allometrically determine the relationship between body mass and handgrip and ankle dorsiflexor performance on the Timed “Up & Go” Test (TUGT). Subjects. One hundred thirty-one subjects (33 male and 98 female) participated. Methods. All physical performance measures were adjusted for the influence of body mass, sex, and age using an allometric scaling procedure. Results. For handgrip force, the body mass exponent from allometric analysis was 0.63. For the TUGT, the body mass exponent was 0.073. For ankle dorsiflexor force and torque, the body mass exponents were 0.82 and 0.91, respectively. Discussion and Conclusion. The body mass exponents for handgrip force and the TUGT agree with previous clinical data and theoretical expectations. Studies investigating normalized handgrip force in older adults should consider an allometric scaling approach. [Pua YH. Allometric analysis of physical performance measures in older adults. Phys Ther. 2006;86:1263–1270.]
Task Switching After Stroke
Authors: Pohl Patricia S , McDowd Joan M , Filion Diane , Richards Lorie G , Stiers William , Kluding Patricia
Published: February 2007

Background and Purpose

Task switching is a cognitive skill that may be compromised after brain damage. The purposes of this study were to examine task-switching abilities in the subacute phase after stroke, to determine whether a switching task under endogenous or internal control is more difficult than a switching task under exogenous or cued control, and to determine whether deficits in switching attenuate in the first few months after stroke.

Subjects

The participants in this study were 46 adults with stroke and 38 adults without stroke.

Methods

Subjects performed 2 computer-based switching tasks, an alternating task that relied on endogenous control and a cued task that relied on exogenous control. Testing was done in subjects’ homes at 1 and 3 months after stroke and at a 2-month interval for control subjects. Switch costs, or the difference between the no-switch condition and the switch condition, were calculated for accuracy and response time.

Results

Subjects in the stroke group had higher switch costs for accuracy than did subjects in the control group. The alternating task was more difficult than the cued task, with higher switch costs for accuracy and response time. The alternating task was particularly difficult for subjects in the stroke group, with high switch costs for accuracy. Both groups showed decreased response time switch costs at the second testing session.

Discussion and Conclusion

Task switching, particularly if under endogenous control, is impaired in adults in the subacute phase after stroke. Clinicians should be aware of performance deficits that may relate to task switching.
Known-Groups Analysis of the Harris Infant Neuromotor Test
Authors: Megens Antoinette M , Harris Susan R , Backman Catherine L , Hayes Virginia E
Published: February 2007

Background and Purpose

The Harris Infant Neuromotor Test (HINT) is a screening tool designed to identify neuromotor or cognitive/behavioral concerns in infants who are healthy or at high risk between the ages of 3 and 12 months. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the HINT could distinguish between infants at high risk and infants at low risk for neuromotor delays.

Subjects and Methods

Following HINT administration by trained health care professionals, scores were compared for 54 high-risk infants and 412 low-risk infants with a t test.

Results

Mean HINT scores for infants at low risk were lower than mean scores for infants at high risk, as would be expected in that higher scores indicate higher risk. Significant differences were found at 4, 5, 7, and 8 months. At 6 months, there were no significant differences. There were not enough high-risk infants in other subgroups for reliable comparison.

Discussion and Conclusion

The HINT appears to discriminate effectively between infants who are at low risk and infants who are at high risk for neuromotor delays, supporting the use of the HINT as a screening tool for infants in the first year of life.
Enantioselective Crystallization on Chiral Polymeric Microspheres
Authors: Medina D. D. , Goldshtein J. , Margel S. , Mastai Y.
Published: February 2007

In this article, a new approach to chiral resolution based on enantioselective crystallization on chiral polymeric microspheres is presented. To demonstrate the approach, a new synthetic method is developed for the preparation of porous and hollow chiral polymeric microspheres. Chiral microspheres based on poly(N‐vinyl α‐L‐phenylalanine) (PV‐L‐Phe) are synthesized from uniform polystyrene (PS) microsphere templates by a single‐step swelling process. The chiral microspheres display a narrow size distribution, and their properties, especially the porosity, can be controlled by varying the synthesis conditions. The chiral discrimination ability of these chiral microspheres is studied for DL‐valine crystallization, as a model system for chiral racemic crystallization. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) provide evidence for the crystallization of enantiopure crystals on the chiral polymeric microspheres. Optical rotation measurements during crystallization show an enatiomeric excess of ca. 25 % for L‐valine in the chiral microspheres. Although this excess is not yet very high, the basic principle of chiral discrimination by enantioselective crystallization on chiral microspheres is demonstrated.
Design and optimization of swirl pipe geometry for particle‐laden liquids
Authors: Ariyaratne C. , Jones T. F.
Published: February 2007

A new generation of swirl‐inducing pipes with continuously varying cross‐sectional geometry have been designed with surprisingly beneficial results. The advantages of swirl induction in pipes, particularly for improved transportation of particle‐bearing liquids, are established. Coarse particles in water do not generally form stable suspensions and are of especial concern for a number of industrial processes. Swirling flow results in better particle distribution, requires low flow velocities to keep particles in suspension, and helps prevent pipeline blockage. Improved wear performance can be inferred from greater numbers of particles supported by the flow, and reduced impact angles and impact velocities. Historically, research into swirl‐inducing pipes has indicated a lobed helical geometry of fixed cross section and constant helix as the near optimum design in swirl induction, at a low pressure cost. In addition to its hydraulic advantages, the lobed design dredges particles into the flow in a smooth mechanical action. Transition ducts to such swirl pipes were designed for the primary purpose of reducing entry and exit pressure losses. However, increased exit swirl intensities and reduced rate of swirl decay indicate swirl pipes with continuously varying cross‐sectional geometry are the way forward. © 2007 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2007
The association of the HOPA12bp polymorphism with schizophrenia in the NIMH genetics initiative for schizophrenia sample
Authors: Philibert Robert A. , Bohle Phil , Secrest Dianna , Deaderick Jessica , Sandhu Harinder , Crowe Raymond , Black Donald W.
Published: February 2007

HOPA (MED12) is an X‐chromosome gene that codes for a critical member of the Mediator Complex, a group of proteins that regulates transcription via the nuclear receptor, Wnt and Receptor Tyrosine Kinase pathways. In prior association and meta‐analyses, we have shown that the presence of an evolutionarily conserved, 12 bp (4 amino acid) insertional polymorphism in exon 43 of this gene is associated with increased risk for an endophenotype of schizophrenia. In this communication, we describe the results of our work with subjects and data from the National Institutes of Mental Health (NIMH) Genetics Initiative for Schizophrenia. We report that the presence of the HOPA12bp polymorphism is associated with increased risk for schizophrenia in subjects of European ancestry. In the light of this new study and the prior wealth of clinical and basic science data, we conclude that the HOPA12bp allele is a risk factor for schizophrenia in subjects of European ancestry and suggest that further studies to define the endophenotype and mechanisms of illness associated with this polymorphism are indicated. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ethical considerations of early (first vs. second trimester) risk assessment disclosure for trisomy 21 and patient choice in screening versus diagnostic testing
Authors: Sharma Geeta , McCullough Laurence B. , Chervenak Frank A.
Published: February 2007

We discuss the clinical implications regarding disclosure of risk assessment for trisomy 21 screening results in the first versus second trimester. Based on the ethical principles of respect for autonomy, beneficence, and justice, we argue that routinely offering first trimester risk assessment in centers qualified to provide it is ethically obligatory and routinely withholding the results of first trimester risk assessment is ethically unjustified. As risk for trisomy 21 occurs along a continuum, no pregnant woman is without risk; thus, offering diagnostic testing to all women is ethically justified. Informed consent and personal choice regarding diagnostic testing and termination of pregnancy shape patients' decisions to undergo first trimester risk assessment for trisomy 21. Appropriate counseling is required to allow for individual choice regarding timing of disclosure. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Can interactivity make a difference? Effects of interactivity on the comprehension of and attitudes toward online health content
Authors: Lustria Mia Liza A.
Published: February 2007

The Internet is increasingly being recognized for its potential for health communication and education. The perceived relative advantage of the Internet over other media is its cost‐effectiveness and interactivity, which in turn contribute to its persuasive capabilities. Ironically, despite its potential, we are nowhere nearer understanding how interactivity affects processing of health information and its contribution in terms of health outcomes. An experiment was conducted to examine the effects of Web interactivity on comprehension of and attitudes towards two health Web sites, and whether individual differences might moderate such effects. Two sites on skin cancer were designed with different levels of interactivity and randomly assigned to 441 undergraduate students (aged 18–26) at a large southeastern university. The findings suggest that interactivity can significantly affect comprehension as well as attitudes towards health Web sites. The article also discusses insights into the role of interactivity on online health communications, and presents implications for the effective design of online health content.
New sustainable business models in China
Authors: Birkin F. , Cashman A. , Koh S. C. L. , Liu Z.
Published: February 2007

This research explores the need to establish new sustainable business models in China and uses multiple objectives to examine in a sample of Chinese companies the reality of the level of sustainable development, environmental awareness and performance, community responsibility, performance barriers and drivers and other sustainability issues. A mixed methodology was adopted, using a questionnaire survey and interviews with 20 manufacturing companies in Guangzhou and Shenzen. Evidence from the small sample of companies demonstrates the lack of significant sustainable development practices in China, although small and medium sized companies appeared to show interest in this area and would like to further contribute to for example triple bottom line objectives. Increasing concerns are found from the company level regarding the need to use renewable energy, source alternative sustainable materials, close the loop of the supply chain, improve the quality of products produced rather than reducing cost, export to Europe and treat employees as an asset. The lack of skills, finance and knowledge are found to be prohibiting the effective embedment of sustainable development within companies and hence cause an under‐performance in this regard. The study concludes that the establishing of a new business model for sustainable development in China is needed urgently, and this should be a joint effort with the Chinese government. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Percutaneous device closure of the patent foramen ovale during pregnancy
Authors: Schrale Ryan G. , Ormerod Julian , Ormerod Oliver J.M.
Published: February 2007

Objective:

To review the procedures, results and follow‐up of patients who underwent percutaneous device closure of a patent foramen ovale (PFO) during pregnancy. We report modifications made to the established technique that allowed absolute minimization of radiation exposure. Relevant management issues of this unusual presentation of cardiac disease in pregnancy are discussed.

Background:

Stroke during or immediately prior to pregnancy is a catastrophic event. Paradoxical embolism may be more frequent due to the hypercoagulable state and increased incidence of venous thromboembolism. Treatment strategies must take into account the competing risks to mother and fetus.

Methods:

Three patients, aged 34, 27, and 39, presented with ischemic neurological events during or immediately preceding pregnancy. Due to evidence of recurrent events or relative contraindication to anticoagulation they proceeded to percutaneous device closure during the second trimester. The Helex device (WL Gore and Associates) was used in all patients. Procedures were performed with local anesthesia under intra‐cardiac echocardiography guidance.

Results:

Successful closure was achieved with the Helex device in all three patients. Radiation doses, as assessed by dose area product, were 260, 58, and 19 cGy/cm2, with estimated uterine (fetal) dose of <0.005 mGy, <0.001 mGy, and <0.0005 mGy. There were no peri‐procedural complications. Despite one patient subsequently developing pre‐eclampsia and another major post‐partum hemorrhage all pregnancies were successful and free of further neurologic events.

Conclusions:

Percutaneous device closure of the PFO is a feasible option for selected patients with cryptogenic stroke believed secondary to paradoxical embolism. The procedure can be performed safely and effectively under local anesthesia using intra‐cardiac echocardiography and with trivial fetal radiation exposure. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Management of a spontaneous renal capsule hematoma following cardiac catheterization involving use of a platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor: A case report
Authors: Dorval Jean‐François , Soulez Gilles , Berry Colin , Bonan Raoul
Published: February 2007

We describe the case of a 64‐year‐old woman who experienced a left renal sub‐capsular hematoma following complex percutaneous coronary intervention. The hemorrhage was arrested by balloon inflation followed by coil embolization. Final thrombosis around the coil was achieved by an infusion of a small amount of thrombin. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Long‐term outcomes of bifurcation lesions after implantation of drug‐eluting stents with the “mini‐crush technique”
Authors: Galassi Alfredo R. , Colombo Antonio , Buchbinder Maurice , Grasso Carmelo , Tomasello Salvatore D. , Ussia Gian P. , Tamburino Corrado
Published: February 2007

Objectives: To evaluate clinical and angiographic long‐term outcome of “the mini‐crush” technique for treating bifurcation lesions. Background: Despite proven efficacy of drug‐eluting stent (DES) within most lesions subsets, bifurcation lesions continue to exhibit high restenosis rate using current DES stenting technique. Methods: We report a new stenting technique which was employed in 45 consecutive patients (52 lesions) between April 2004 and July 2005 to treat true bifurcation lesions using DES in both branches. Results: Using this technique procedural success was obtained in 100% of cases, without complications and with excellent angiographic result in 96.1% and 98.1% of main vessel and side branch. Preprocedure reference vessel diameter and minimal lumen diameter (MLD) were 2.68 ± 0.48 and 0.90 ± 0.55 mm for the main branch, respectively and 2.28 ± 0.34 and 1.14 ± 0.47 mm for the side branch, respectively. Postprocedure MLD was 2.56 ± 0.39 mm for the main branch and 2.16 ± 0.29 mm for the side branch. There were no in‐hospital major adverse cardiac events (MACE). At 72 days after procedure there was one case of side branch stent thrombosis (2.2%), which resulted in non Q‐wave MI. Angiographic follow up was obtained in 100% of patients at 7.5 ± 1.3 months. Target lesion revascularization (TLR) was 12.2%; no death and Q‐wave MI were observed; reference vessel diameter and MLD for the main branch were 2.79 ± 0.51 and 1.99 ± 0.65 mm respectively and for the side branch 2.28 ± 0.40 and 1.63 ± 0.48 mm respectively. Restenosis rate in the main branch was 12.2% while in the side branch was 2.0%. Conclusions: In‐hospital outcome indicates that the mini‐crush technique for bifurcation lesions with DES can be easily performed. It provides very low total MACE rate and restenosis at 8‐month follow‐up. These results confirmed the advantage of this specific technique to give complete coverage of the ostium of the side branch using two stents technique. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Initial clinical experience of selective coronary angiography using one prolonged injection and a 180° rotational trajectory
Authors: Garcia Joel A. , Chen S.‐Y. James , Messenger John C. , Casserly Ivan P. , Hansgen Adam , Wink Onno , Movassaghi Babak , Klein Andrew J. , Carroll John D.
Published: February 2007

Objective:

Evaluate the safety of prolonged coronary injections during a rotational acquisition covering 180°.

Background:

Rotational angiography has been adapted to coronary angiography and shown to reduce radiation and contrast exposure. Three‐dimensional (3D) reconstructions and other advanced applications require imaging over a 180°‐arc with a single but longer injection of larger contrast volumes.

Methods:

Thirty patients referred for angiography were enrolled. Blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), symptoms, and ectopy were recorded before‐and‐after injections.

Results:

Pre and post‐injection HRs for the LCA/RCA were not statistically different (LCA‐pre‐injection 63 ± 13 bpm vs. LCA‐post‐injection 62 ± 11 bpm, P = 0.54 and RCA‐pre‐injection 65 ± 12 bpm vs. RCA‐post‐injection 65± 10, P = 0.88). Central aortic pressure values were not statistically different for the RCA injections (RCA‐systolic‐pre‐injection 118 ± 14 mm Hg vs. RCA‐systolic‐post‐injection 112± 25 mm Hg, P = 0.15, and RCA diastolic‐pre‐injection 69 ± 9 mm Hg vs. RCA‐diastolic‐post‐injection 60 ± 10 mm Hg, P = 0.88) but were statistically significant for the LCA injections (LCA systolic‐pre‐injection 122 ± 19 mm Hg vs. LCA‐systolic‐post‐injection 116 ± 17 mm Hg, P = 0.0004, and LCA‐diastolic‐pre‐injection 69 ± 10 mm Hg vs. LCA‐diastolic‐post‐injection 65 ± 9 mm Hg, P = 0.0007). There were no symptoms or electrical events documented during or immediately post‐injection.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates the feasibility and safety of longer coronary injections. There were no significant HR changes, clinically insignificant pressure changes, and no adverse reactions. Additional studies will be needed to assure its safety in a larger and clinically more varied patient population. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A novel enoxaparin regime for ST elevation myocardial infarction patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention: A WEST sub‐study
Authors: Welsh Robert C. , Gordon Phillip , Westerhout Cynthia M. , Buller Christopher E. , O'Neill Blair , Armstrong Paul W.
Published: February 2007

Objective: To evaluate the anticoagulation effect of subcutaneous (SQ) and intravenous (IV) enoxaparin through systematic anti‐Xa sampling during primary PCI for acute STEMI. Background: Although appropriate anticoagulation is essential to maximize the efficacy and safety of primary PCI, the optimal dosing of enoxaparin in this setting is unclear. Methods: STEMI patients randomized to primary PCI received ASA, clopidogrel 300 mg and enoxaparin 1 mg/kg SQ at earliest point of care, including prehospital. Plasma anti‐Xa determination occurred just prior to and after primary PCI. Supplemental IV enoxaparin (0.3–0.5 mg/kg) and abciximab was encouraged prior to PCI. Results: The 1st anti‐Xa level 56 min (median, IQR 47–77) post SQ enoxaparin was 0.28 U/ml (0.23–0.41); 85% of patients (28/33) were <0.5 U/ml (the recommended therapeutic level). Following PCI, 126 min (118–185) after SQ enoxaparin in those without IV dosing (8/33) the 2nd anti‐Xa level was 0.44 U/ml (0.29–0.53); 6 of 8 patients remained <0.5 U/ml. With IV enoxaparin (25/33) the 2nd anti‐Xa was 0.96 U/ml (0.82–1.16) 97 min (82–109) after SQ enoxaparin: all were ≥0.5 U/ml and 2 had levels 1.5 U/ml. Conclusion: A single SQ enoxaparin dose fails to achieve anti‐Xa levels ≥0.5 U/ml in the majority of STEMI patients. When combined with a strategy of supplemental IV enoxaparin, adequate anti‐Xa levels were achieved in all patients with few having levels >1.5 U/ml. This regime of SQ injection with additional IV enoxaparin provides an attractive strategy enhancing effective early anti‐thrombotic therapy at first medical contact prior to primary PCI. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Membranous remnant of left venous valve of inferior vena cava: Implications for device closure of atrial septal defects
Authors: Pinto Nelangi M. , Weinberg Paul M. , Rome Jonathan J.
Published: February 2007

We described three pediatric cases during which we encountered a rarely described component of the atrial septum, a membranous remnant of the left venous valve of the IVC, in patients who were brought to the catheterization lab for device closure of an atrial septal defect. In all cases, this remnant was not noted by previous transthoracic imaging. Awareness of this potential anatomic variation is important to successful device closure of atrial septal defects. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Transcatheter recanalization of ligated main pulmonary artery
Authors: Bhole Vinay , Wright John G.C. , Stumper Oliver
Published: February 2007

A 12.5‐year‐old boy with tricuspid atresia and quadriplegic cerebral palsy presented with increasing cyanosis after previous palliation with a cavopulmonary shunt and ligation of the main pulmonary artery (MPA). Because of severe physical disabilities he was not considered suitable for Fontan completion. He underwent successful transcatheter stent recanalization of the ligated MPA. This re‐established anterograde flow to the pulmonary arteries resulting in marked improvement in saturations. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Biomimetic Approach to the Chemical Inactivation of Chrysotile Fibres by Lichen Metabolites
Authors: Turci Francesco , Favero‐Longo Sergio E. , Tomatis Maura , Martra Gianmario , Castelli Daniele , Piervittori Rosanna , Fubini Bice
Published: February 2007

Some lichens were recently reported to modify the surface state of asbestos. Here we report some new insight on the physico‐chemical modifications induced by natural chelators (lichen metabolites) on two asbestos samples collected in two different locations. A biomimetic approach was followed by reproducing in the laboratory the weathering effect of lichen metabolites. Norstictic, pulvinic and oxalic acid (0.005, 0.5 and 50 mM) were put in contact with chrysotile fibres, either in pure form (A) or intergrown with balangeroite, an iron‐rich asbestiform phase (B). Mg and Si removal, measured by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP‐AES) and scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (SEM‐EDS), reveals an incongruent dissolution for pure chrysotile (A), with Mg removal always exceeding that of Si, while chrysotile–balangeroite (B) follows a congruent dissolution pattern in all cases except in the presence of 50 mM oxalic acid. A much larger removal of Mg than Si in the solutions of 0.5 and 50 mM oxalic acid with chrysotile (A) suggests a structural collapse, which in the case of chrysotile–balangeroite (B) only occurs with 50 mM oxalic acid; in these cases both samples are converted into amorphous silica (as detected by X‐ray diffraction (XRD)). Subsequent to incubation, some new phases (Fe2O3, CaMg(CO3)2, Ca(C2O4)⋅H2O and Mg(C2O4)⋅2 H2O), similar to those observed in the field, were detected by XRD and micro‐Raman spectroscopy. The leaching effect of lichen metabolites also modifies the Fenton activity, a process widely correlated with asbestos pathogenicity: pure chrysotile (A) activity is reduced by 50 mM oxalic acid, while all lichen metabolites reduce the activity of chrysotile–balangeroite (B). The selective removal of poorly coordinated, highly reactive iron ions, evidenced by NO adsorption, accounts for the loss in Fenton activity. Such fibres were chemically close to the ones observed in the field. Chrysotile‐rich rocks, colonised by lichens, could be exposed to a natural bioattenuation and considered as a transient environmental hazard.
Spontaneous Reduction of Mixed 2,2′‐Bipyridine/Methylamine/Chloro Complexes of PtIV in Water in the Presence of Light Is Accompanied by Complex Isomerization, Loss of Methylamine, and Formation of a Strong Oxidant, Presumably HOCl
Authors: Nakabayashi Yasuo , Erxleben Andrea , Létinois Ulla , Pratviel Geneviève , Meunier Bernard , Holland Lars , Lippert Bernhard
Published: February 2007

Three 2,2′‐bipyridine (2,2′‐bpy) complexes of PtIV have been synthesized, characterized by X‐ray crystallography, and their solution behavior in D2O studied by 1H NMR spectroscopic analysis: mer‐[PtCl3(2,2′‐bpy)(MeNH2)]Cl⋅H2O (4), trans‐[PtCl2(2,2′‐bpy)(MeNH2)2]Cl2 (5), and trans‐[Pt (2,2′‐bpy)(MeNH2)2(OH)2]Cl2 (6; MeNH2=methylamine). Complexes 4 and 5 undergo hydrolysis of the Cl− ions, both in the dark and daylight, as evident from a drop in the pH value. Two solvolysis products were detected in the case of 4, which is indicative of species with equatorial and axial OH− groups. The hydrolysis reaction of 5 implies that an axial Cl− group is replaced by an OH− moiety; in contrast, 6 remains virtually unaffected. Ordinary daylight, in particular irradiation with a 50‐W halogen lamp, initially causes ligand‐isomerization processes, which are followed by the reduction of 4 and 5 to PtII species. This reduction of 4 and 5 is accompanied by the formation of hypochlorous acid, as demonstrated qualitatively in the decoloration test of indigo, and loss of MeNH2, which is particularly pronounced in the case of 5. The formation of PtII compounds is established on the basis of the J coupling constants of 195Pt with selected 1H NMR resonances. The results obtained herein are possibly also relevant to the chemistry of Cl‐containing PtIV antitumor agents and their reactions with DNA.
Glycoligands Tuning the Magnetic Anisotropy of NiII Complexes
Authors: Charron Gaëlle , Bellot François , Cisnetti Federico , Pelosi Giorgio , Rebilly Jean‐Noël , Rivière Eric , Barra Anne‐Laure , Mallah Talal , Policar Clotilde
Published: February 2007

Two organic ligands based on a sugar‐scaffold derived from galactose and possessing three O‐CH2‐pyridine pendant arms at the 3‐, 4‐, and 5‐positions of the galactopyranose that act as chelates afford mononuclear complexes when reacted with a NiII salt. The magnetization behavior in the form of M=f(H/T) plots suggests the presence of appreciable magnetic anisotropy within the two complexes. The analysis of the EPR spectra performed at two different temperatures (7 and 17 K) and at three frequencies (190, 285, and 380 GHz) leads to the conclusion that the anisotropy has a high degree of axiality (E/D=0.17 for the two complexes), but with a different sign of the D parameter. The spin hamiltonian parameters D and E were reproduced for the two complexes by using calculations based on the angular overlap model (AOM). The structural difference between the two complexes responsible of the sign of the D parameters was also determined using AOM calculations. A thorough analysis of the structures showed that the structural differences in the coordination sphere of the two complexes responsible of the different D parameter sign result from the nature of the sugar scaffolds. In complex 1, the sugar scaffold imposes an intramolecular hydrogen bond with one of the atoms linked to NiII; this arrangement leads to a distorted coordination sphere and positive D value, while the absence of such a hydrogen bond in complex 2 leads to a less distorted environment around the Ni center and to a negative D value.
Asymmetric Total Synthesis of (−)‐Pironetin Employing the SAMP/RAMP Hydrazone Methodology
Authors: Enders Dieter , Dhulut Sylvie , Steinbusch Daniel , Herrbach Audrey
Published: February 2007

A convergent asymmetric total synthesis of pironetin (1), a polyketide with immunosuppressive, antitumor, and plant‐growth regulating activities is described. The synthesis was realized by coupling between the C8–C14 2 and C7–C2 15 fragments, respectively, by using a Mukaiyama‐aldol reaction. The stereogenic centers of each fragment were generated by employing the SAMP/RAMP hydrazone (SAMP=(S)‐1‐amino‐2‐methoxymethylpyrrolidine, RAMP=(R)‐1‐amino‐2‐methoxymethylpyrrolidine) methodology as a key step. An asymmetric α‐alkylation of diethyl ketone permitted the introduction of the C10 stereogenic center of 2, whereas the stereocenters C4 and C5 of 15 were installed by an asymmetric aldol reaction. Finally, the formation of the α,β‐unsaturated δ‐lactone was achieved by ring‐closing metathesis in the presence of catalytic amounts of titanium tetraisopropoxide.
Stereoselective disposition of fenoprofen in plasma and synovial fluid of patients with rheumathoid arthritis
Authors: Miranda Silva Carolina De , Marques Maria Paula , Barissa Giuliano Rodrigo , Donadi Eduardo Antônio , Da Silva Lucienir Maria , Lanchote Vera Lucia
Published: February 2007

The simultaneous disposition of fenoprofen enantiomers in synovial fluid and plasma was studied in 11 patients with arthritis and chronic knee effusions treated with a single oral dose of 600 mg rac‐fenoprofen. A plasma sample and a synovial fluid sample were collected simultaneously from each patient up to 16 h after the administration of fenoprofen. A stereospecific assay for fenoprofen using LC–MS–MS was developed and applied successfully to the analysis of the enantiomers in plasma (LOQ = 10 ng of each enantiomer/ml) and synovial fluid (LOQ = 25 ng of each enantiomer/ml). The values of the area under the curve (AUC) for the S‐(+)‐fenoprofen eutomer were ∼2.5 times higher in plasma than in synovial fluid (256 vs 104 μg h/ml), while the values for the R‐(−)‐fenoprofen distomer were about four times higher in plasma than in synovial fluid (42.5 vs 10.5 μg h/ml). These data demonstrate accumulation of the S‐(+)‐fenoprofen eutomer in plasma and in synovial fluid, with concentrations versus time AUC (+)/(−) ratios of 6.0 in plasma and 9.9 in synovial fluid, suggesting a greater accumulation of the eutomer at the active site represented by synovial fluid than in plasma. This result demonstrates the importance of enantioselective methods and of analysis of synovial fluid rather than plasma in studies of the pharmacokinetics–pharmacodynamics of fenoprofen. Chirality, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Influence of the chirality of (R)‐(−)‐ and (S)‐(+)‐carvone in the central nervous system: A comparative study
Authors: De Sousa Damião Pergentino , De Farias nóbrega Franklin Ferreira , De Almeida Reinaldo Nóbrega
Published: February 2007

Many terpenes are used therapeutically, and as flavor and fragrance materials. (R)‐(−)‐Carvone, the main constituent of spearmint oil, and (S)‐(+)‐carvone, found as major component of caraway and dill seed oils, have several applications and are used in cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical preparations. In this study, the effect of enantiomers of carvone on the central nervous system (CNS) was evaluated in mice. The LD50 value was 484.2 mg/kg (358.9–653.2) for (S)‐(+)‐carvone, and 426.6 (389.0–478.6) mg/kg for (R)‐(−)‐carvone. Both enantiomers caused depressant effects, such as decrease in the response to the touch and ambulation, increase in sedation, palpebral ptosis, and antinociceptive effects. (S)‐(+)‐ and (R)‐(−)‐carvone caused a significant decrease in ambulation. (R)‐(−)‐Carvone appeared to be more effective than its corresponding enantiomer at 0.5 and 2.0 h after administration. However, (S)‐(+)‐carvone was slightly more potent at 1 h. In potentiating pentobarbital sleeping time, (R)‐(−)‐carvone was more effective than (S)‐(+)‐carvone at 100 mg/kg, but was less potent at 200 mg/kg compared to the (+)‐enantiomer, indicating a sedative action. (S)‐(+)‐Carvone at the dose of 200 mg/kg increased significantly the latency of convulsions induced by PTZ and PIC, but (R)‐(−)‐carvone was not effective against these convulsions. These results suggest that (S)‐(+)‐carvone and (R)‐(−)‐carvone have depressant effect in the CNS. (S)‐(+)‐Carvone appears to have anticonvulsant‐like activity. Chirality, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Central Nicotinic Receptors: Structure, Function, Ligands, and Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Romanelli M. Novella , Gratteri Paola , Guandalini Luca , Martini Elisabetta , Bonaccini Claudia , Gualtieri Fulvio
Published: February 2007

The growing interest in nicotinic receptors, because of their wide expression in neuronal and non‐neuronal tissues and their involvement in several important CNS pathologies, has stimulated the synthesis of a high number of ligands able to modulate their function. These membrane proteins appear to be highly heterogeneous, and still only incomplete information is available on their structure, subunit composition, and stoichiometry. This is due to the lack of selective ligands to study the role of nAChR under physiological or pathological conditions; so far, only compounds showing selectivity between α4β2 andα7 receptors have been obtained. The nicotinic receptor ligands have been designed starting from lead compounds from natural sources such as nicotine, cytisine, or epibatidine, and, more recently, through the high‐throughput screening of chemical libraries. This review focuses on the structure of the new agonists, antagonists, and allosteric ligands of nicotinic receptors, it highlights the current knowledge on the binding site models as a molecular modeling approach to design new compounds, and it discusses the nAChR modulators which have entered clinical trials.
Inhibition of Bcr‐Abl Phosphorylation and Induction of Apoptosis by Pyrazolo[3,4‐d]pyrimidines in Human Leukemia Cells
Authors: Manetti Fabrizio , Pucci Annalisa , Magnani Matteo , Locatelli Giada A. , Brullo Chiara , Naldini Antonella , Schenone Silvia , Maga Giovanni , Carraro Fabio , Botta Maurizio
Published: February 2007

A series of pyrazolo[3,4‐d]pyrimidines, previously found to be Src inhibitors, was tested for their ability to inhibit proliferation of three Bcr‐Abl‐positive human leukemia cell lines (K‐562, KU‐812, and MEG‐01), on the basis of the experimental evidence that various Src inhibitors are also active against Bcr‐Abl kinase (the so called dual Src/Abl inhibitors). They reduce Bcr‐Abl tyrosine phosphorylation and promote apoptosis of the Bcr‐Abl‐expressing cells. A cell‐free enzymatic assay on isolated c‐Abl confirmed that such compounds directly inhibit Abl activity. Finally, molecular modeling simulations were also performed to hypothesize the binding mode of the compounds into the Abl binding site.
Survival and death of mature avian motoneurons in organotypic slice culture: Trophic requirements for survival and different types of degeneration
Authors: Brunet Núria , Tarabal Olga , Portero‐Otín Manel , Oppenheim Ronald W. , Esquerda Josep E. , Calderó Jordi
Published: February 2007

We have developed an organotypic culture technique that uses slices of chick embryo spinal cord, in which trophic requirements for long‐term survival of mature motoneurons (MNs) were studied. Slices were obtained from E16 chick embryos and maintained for up to 28 days in vitro (DIV) in a basal medium. Under these conditions, most MNs died. To promote MN survival, 14 different trophic factors were assayed. Among these 14, glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and vascular endothelial growth factor were the most effective. GDNF was able to promote MN survival for at least 28 DIV. K+ depolarization or caspase inhibition prevented MN death but also induced degenerative‐like changes in rescued MNs. Agents that elevate cAMP levels promoted the survival of a proportion of MNs for at least 7 DIV. Examination of dying MNs revealed that, in addition to cells exhibiting a caspase‐3‐dependent apoptotic pattern, some MNs died by a caspase‐3‐independent mechanism and displayed autophagic vacuoles, an extremely convoluted nucleus, and a close association with microglia. This organotypic spinal cord slice culture may provide a convenient model for testing conditions that promote survival of mature‐like MNs that are affected in late‐onset MN disease such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J. Comp. Neurol. 501:669–690, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Functional dissection of the neural substrates for gravitaxic maze behavior in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Baker Dean Adam , Beckingham Kathleen Mary , Armstrong James Douglas
Published: February 2007

In animals, sensing gravity is supported by mechanosensory neurons that send information to the central brain for integration along with other modalities. In Drosophila, candidate sensory organs for detecting the gravity vector were predicted from the results of a recent forward genetic screen. This analysis also suggested possible roles for the central complex and antennal system in Drosophila. Using the same vertical maze assay employed in the original screen, we investigated the roles of these candidate neural structures by spatial and temporal inactivation of synaptic transmission with the GAL4/UAS‐shibire[ts1] system. We correlate changes in the maze behavior of flies with specific inhibition of synaptic transmission for key brain neuropil that includes the central complex and antenno‐glomerular tract. Further, our results point toward a minimal, or nonexistent, role for the mushroom bodies. J. Comp. Neurol. 501:756–764, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Localization of EphA4 in axon terminals and dendritic spines of adult rat hippocampus
Authors: Tremblay Marie‐ève , Riad Mustapha , Bouvier David , Murai Keith K. , Pasquale Elena B. , Descarries Laurent , Doucet Guy
Published: February 2007

Eph receptors and their ephrin ligands assume various roles during central nervous system development. Several of these proteins are also expressed in the mature brain, and notably in the hippocampus, where EphA4 and ephrins have been shown to influence dendritic spine morphology and long‐term potentiation (LTP). To examine the cellular and subcellular localization of EphA4 in adult rat ventral hippocampus, we used light and electron microscopic immunocytochemistry with a specific polyclonal antibody against EphA4. After immunoperoxidase labeling, EphA4 immunoreactivity was found to be enriched in the neuropil layers of CA1, CA3, and dentate gyrus. In all examined layers of these regions, myelinated axons, small astrocytic leaflets, unmyelinated axons, dendritic spines, and axon terminals were immunolabeled in increasing order of frequency. Neuronal cell bodies and dendritic branches were immunonegative. EphA4‐labeled dendritic spines and axon terminals corresponded to 9–19% and 25–40% of the total number of spines and axon terminals, respectively. Most labeled spines were innervated by unlabeled terminals, but synaptic contacts between two labeled elements were seen. The vast majority of synaptic junctions made by labeled elements was asymmetrical and displayed features of excitatory synapses. Immunogold labeling of EphA4 was located mostly on the plasma membrane of axons, dendritic spines, and axon terminals, supporting its availability for surface interactions with ephrins. The dual preferential labeling of EphA4 on pre‐ or postsynaptic specializations of excitatory synapses in adult rat hippocampus is consistent with roles for this receptor in synaptic plasticity and LTP. J. Comp. Neurol. 501:691–702, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cellular and subcellular localization of Huntington aggregates in the brain of a rat transgenic for Huntington disease
Authors: Petrasch‐Parwez Elisabeth , Nguyen Huu‐Phuc , Löbbecke‐Schumacher Marlen , Habbes Hans‐Werner , Wieczorek Stefan , Riess Olaf , Andres Karl‐Hermann , Dermietzel Rolf , Von Hörsten Stephan
Published: February 2007

Huntington disease (HD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by emotional, cognitive, and motor dysfunctions. Aggregation of huntingtin is a hallmark of HD and, therefore, a crucial parameter for the evaluation of HD animal models. We investigated here the regional, cellular, and subcellular distribution of N‐terminal huntingtin aggregates and associated neuropathological changes in the forebrain of a rat transgenic for HD (tgHD). The tgHD rat brain showed enormously enlarged lateral ventricles and a similar atrophy of cortical and subcortical areas as known in HD patients. Huntingtin aggregates of varying size and forms were regionally identified in neuronal nuclei, cytoplasm, dendrites, dendritic spines, axons, and synaptic terminals, closely resembling the results described earlier for human HD brains and in established HD mouse models. Huntingtin aggregates in mitochondria support mitochondrial dysfunction as contributing to the disease pathogenesis. Dark cell degeneration was reminiscent of results in HD individuals and HD mouse models. Interestingly, huntingtin aggregates were especially well accumulated in two interacting limbic forebrain systems, the ventral striatopallidum and the extended amygdala, which may contribute to the early onset of emotional changes observed in the tgHD rat. In conclusion, the tgHD rat model reflects to a remarkable extent the cellular and subcellular neuropathological key features as observed in human HD and HD mouse brains and hints of changes in limbic forebrain systems, which may elucidate the emotional dysfunction in the tgHD rat and affective disturbances in HD patients. J. Comp. Neurol. 501:716–730, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
How do functional maps in primary visual cortex vary with eccentricity?
Authors: Xu Xiangmin , Anderson Tiffany J. , Casagrande Vivien A.
Published: February 2007

It is important to understand whether functional maps of primary visual cortex (V1) are organized differently at the representation of different eccentricities. By using optical imaging of intrinsic signals, we compared the maps of orientation and spatial frequency (SF) preference between central (0–3°) and paracentral (4–8°) V1 in the prosimian bush baby (Otolemur garnetti). No differences related to eccentricity were found for orientation selectivity or magnitude between central and paracentral V1. We found, however, that cardinal orientations were overrepresented in central but not in paracentral V1 and that isoorientation domain size tended to be smaller in the central representation. We demonstrated that spatial frequency was represented continuously across V1, and that the map of SF preference exhibited eccentricity‐dependent variations, with more territory devoted to higher SFs in central than in paracentral V1. Although there were no spatial relationships between orientation domains and cytochrome oxidase (CO) blobs or interblobs, CO blobs tended to prefer lower SFs than interblobs. Taken together with previous research, our data indicate that functional domains in V1 show eccentricity‐related differences in organization and also support the idea that different maps (with or without specific geometrical relationships) are organized for adequate coverage of each feature in visual space. J. Comp. Neurol. 501:741–755, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.