bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of priority carcinogens and reproductive or developmental toxicants
Authors: Hooper Kim , Ladou Joseph , Rosenbaum Judith S. , Book Steven A.
Published: April 2007

In California. 370 carcinogens and 112 reproductive/developmental toxicants have been identified as a result of the State's Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986. They include pesticides, solvents, metals, industrial intermediates, environmental mixtures, and reactive agents. Occupational, environmental, and consumer product exposures that involve these agents are regulated under the Act. At levels of concern, businesses must provide warnings for and limit discharges of those chemicals. The lists of chemicals were compiled following systematic review of published data, including technical reports from the U.S. Public Health Service—National Toxicology Program (NTP), and evaluation of recommendations from authoritative bodies such as the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). Given the large number of chemicals that are carcinogens or reproductive/developmental toxicants, regulatory concerns should focus on those that have high potential for human exposure, e.g., widely distributed or easily absorbed solvents, metals, environmental mixtures, or reactive agents. In this paper, we present a list of 33 potential priority carcinogens and reproductive/developmental toxicants, including alcoholic beverages, asbestos, benzene, chlorinated solvents, formaldehyde, glycol ethers, lead, tobacco smoke, and toluene.
Outbreak of hypersensitivity pneumonitis among mushroom farm workers
Authors: Sanderson Wayne , Kullman Gregory , Sastre Joaquin , Olenchock Stephen , O'Campo Alvaro , Musgrave Karl , Green Francis
Published: April 2007

Between April 1982 and August 1985, seven cases of mushroom worker's lung (MWL), a form of hypersensitivity pneumonitis, were diagnosed among workers at one mushroom farm in Florida. The cases suffered from episodic shortness of breath, cough, fever and chills, myalgia, malaise, and difficulty breathing. Pulmonary function testing revealed restrictive ventilatory impairment and reduced diffusing capacity; chest radiographs exhibited diffuse interstitial pulmonary infiltrates. The seven cases occurred among workers from different farm operations, suggesting that workers throughout the farm were exposed to the disease causing agent(s). Six of the affected workers left employment at the farm in order to remain free of symptoms. The other affected worker was able to continue working at the farm, but only by remaining in a maintenance shop which was physically separated from the rest of the farm facilities. An industrial hygiene survey demonstrated that farm workers from every work area were exposed to organic dust constituents suspected of causing MWL, but no specific antigens were identified as the cause of the cases. Of the remaining workers who participated in a cross‐sectional respiratory morbidity survey at the farm, approximately 20% of the more heavily exposed workers reported occasionally experiencing symptoms consistent with MWL. Approximately 10% of the workers had below normal spirometry test results, but interpretation was hampered by the diverse racial makeup of the population and lack of an adequate comparison group. No abnormalities consistent with either acute or chronic MWL were seen on the chest radiographs. Serologic tests demonstrated that almost all workers had been exposed to antigens capable of causing MWL, but the results were not associated with health status. At the time of the cross‐sectional survey, no workers were found to be suffering acute respiratory problems consistent with MWL.
Historical perspectives in occupational medicine: Coal workers' pneumoconiosis: A historical perspective on its pathogenesis
Authors: Heppleston A. G.
Published: April 2007

The earliest observations on coal workers' pneumoconiosis identified fundamental factors and posed particular problems in its genesis. Among the former, intensity of exposure and particle size were recognized, while argument commenced on the roles of stone dust, thus anticipating the quartz question, and of complicating pulmonary states, which introduced the idea of infection. Major studies of the disease were precipitated by its greatly increased prevalence, which became evident among South Wales coal workers from the 1930s. The principal directions of enquiry remained the same as in Scotland a century before, namely the components of coal mine dust responsible for fibrosis and the additional factor required for the development of massive fibrosis. The combined human and experimental evidence now makes possible conclusions in which confidence may be placed.
Age‐related changes in reading systems of dyslexic children
Authors: Shaywitz Bennett A. , Skudlarski Pawel , Holahan John M. , Marchione Karen E. , Constable R. Todd , Fulbright Robert K. , Zelterman Daniel , Lacadie Cheryl , Shaywitz Sally E.
Published: April 2007

Objective

To examine age‐related changes in the neural systems for reading in nonimpaired and dyslexic children and adolescents.

Methods

Functional magnetic resonance imaging was used to study age‐related changes in the neural systems for reading in a cross‐sectional sample of 232 right‐handed children 7 to 18 years of age (113 dyslexic readers and 119 nonimpaired readers) as they read pseudowords.

Results

In nonimpaired readers, systems in the left anterior lateral occipitotemporal area developed with age, whereas systems in the right superior and middle frontal regions decreased. In contrast, in dyslexic readers, systems in the left posterior medial occipitotemporal regions developed with age. Older nonimpaired readers were left lateralized in the anterior lateral occipitotemporal area; there was no difference in asymmetry between younger and older dyslexic readers.

Interpretation

These findings offer a possible neurobiological explanation for the differences in reading acquisition between dyslexic and nonimpaired readers and provide further evidence of the critical role of the left occipitotemporal region in the development of reading. Ann Neurol 2007;61:363–370
Long-term results of a randomized clinical trial of Shouldice, Lichtenstein and transabdominal preperitoneal hernia repairs
Authors: Butters M , Redecke J , Köninger J
Published: April 2007

Introduction

There is an ongoing debate about the preferred technique for inguinal hernia repair. In this randomized study the long-term results of Shouldice, Lichtenstein and transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) hernia repair were compared.

Methods

Some 280 men with a primary hernia were randomized prospectively to undergo Shouldice, tension-free Lichtenstein or laparoscopic TAPP repair. Patients were examined after 52 months to assess hernia recurrence, nerve damage, testicular atrophy and patient satisfaction.

Results

Hernia recurrence occurred in six patients after Shouldice repair, and in one patient each after Lichtenstein and TAPP repairs. All recurrences after tension-free repairs were diagnosed within the first year after surgery. Nerve injuries were significantly more frequent after open Shouldice and Lichtenstein repairs. Patient satisfaction was greatest after laparoscopic TAPP repair.

Conclusion

Tension-free repair was superior to the non-mesh Shouldice technique. The open anterior approach to the groin was associated with demonstrable nerve injury, and laparoscopic TAPP repair was the most effective approach in the hands of an experienced surgeon.
Randomized clinical trial of the impact of early enteral feeding on postoperative ileus and recovery
Authors: Han-Geurts I J M , Hop W C J , Kok N F M , Lim A , Brouwer K J , Jeekel J
Published: April 2007

Background

Postoperative convalescence is mainly determined by the extent and duration of postoperative ileus. This randomized clinical trial evaluated the effects of early oral feeding on functional gastrointestinal recovery and quality of life.

Methods

One hundred and twenty-eight patients undergoing elective open colorectal or abdominal vascular surgery participated in the trial. Of these, 67 were randomized to a conventional return to diet, and 61 to a regimen allowing resumption of an oral diet as soon as tolerated (free diet group).

Results

Reinsertion of a nasogastric tube was necessary in 20 per cent of the free diet group and 10 per cent of the conventional group (P = 0·213). The complication rate was similar for both groups, as was return of gastrointestinal function. A normal diet was tolerated after a median of 2 days in the free diet group compared with 5 days in the conventional group (P < 0·001). Quality of life scores were similar in both groups.

Conclusion

Early resumption of oral intake does not diminish the duration of postoperative ileus or lead to a significantly increased rate of nasogastric tube reinsertion. Tolerance of oral diet is not influenced by gastrointestinal functional recovery. As there is no reason to withhold oral intake following open colorectal or abdominal vascular surgery, postoperative management should include early resumption of diet.
Oesophagectomy practice and outcomes in England
Authors: Al-Sarira A A , David G , Willmott S , Slavin J P , Deakin M , Corless D J
Published: April 2007

Background

The 2001 UK National Health Service guidance on improving outcomes recommended centralization of oesophageal resection. The aim of this study was to analyse national trends in oesophageal resection in England to determine whether centralization has occurred and its impact on outcomes.

Methods

The study used data from Hospital Episode Statistics for 1997–1998 to 2003–2004 and included patients who had resection for oesophageal cancer. The annual hospital volume was grouped into five categories based on the recommendation for annual volume for a designated centre.

Results

A total of 11 838 oesophageal resections were performed. The total number of hospitals performing resections decreased, mainly owing to a fall in the number of very low-volume hospitals (117 in 1997 to 45 in 2003). The proportion of resections performed in very high-volume hospitals increased from 17·8 per cent during 1997–1999 to 21·9 per cent during 2002–2003 (P < 0·001). The overall in-hospital mortality rate was 10·1 per cent, with a significant reduction over time (from 11·7 to 7·6 per cent; P < 0·001). The decline in mortality rate may be due to increased numbers of patients undergoing surgery in higher-volume hospitals. There was an increase in the annual number of new patients from 5672 to 6230 during the study, although a fall in the proportion of resections from 31·5 to 26·0 per cent (P < 0·001).

Conclusion

Centralization and multidisciplinary team expertise partly explain the improvement in mortality rate, but changes in preoperative selection also play a part.
Reactions of the HCN‐Tetramer with Aldehydes
Authors: Koch Klemens , Schweizer W. Bernd , Eschenmoser Albert
Published: April 2007

The HCN‐tetramer, a ‘classic’ of the prebiotic chemistry of HCN, is shown to undergo a remarkable reaction with acetaldehyde in slightly basic or neutral aqueous solution at room temperature. The reaction consists in an aldolization‐type C,C‐bond formation, accompanied by a (presumably aldehyde‐catalyzed) hydration of one of the two nitrile groups and the formation of two cyclic aminal‐type groupings, each of the latter incorporating an additional molecule of the aldehyde. Should this so far unexplored type of chemistry of the HCN‐tetramer prove to have some generality, the finding might add a new dimension to the potential etiological relevance of this HCN‐oligomer.
Chemistry and Selection
Authors: de Duve Christian
Published: April 2007

Life is the product of chemistry, which obeys deterministic laws, and of natural selection, which operates on variants offered to it by chance, but may, in a number of cases, have been provided with a sufficiently extensive array of variants to be optimizing. Thus, the origin and evolution of life have been largely shaped by the contingency of environmental conditions. The possibility remaining open for consideration is that certain critical conditions are sufficiently reproducible for life to arise and even to evolve into conscious, intelligent beings elsewhere in the universe.
Intractable Mixtures and the Origin of Life
Authors: Schwartz Alan W.
Published: April 2007

Attempts to model the spontaneous chemistry which presumably preceded the origin of life on Earth commonly result in the production of intractably complex mixtures of organic compounds. It is, therefore, difficult to understand how any kind of evolutionary process might have begun. A number of potential solutions to this well‐known and frustrating problem have been offered in the literature over the years. The present contribution briefly reviews and evaluates some of the more promising possibilities.
Addressing the Problems of Base Pairing and Strand Cyclization in Template‐Directed Synthesis
Authors: Hud Nicholas V. , Jain Swapan S. , Li Xiaohui , Lynn David G.
Published: April 2007

Nucleic acid synthesis is precisely controlled in living organisms by highly evolved protein enzymes. The remarkable fidelity of information transfer realized between template and product strands is the result of both the spatial selectivity of the polymerase active site for Watson–Crick base pairs at the point of nucleotide coupling and subsequent proof‐reading mechanisms. In the absence of naturally derived polymerases, in vitro template‐directed synthesis by means of chemically activated mononucleotides has proven remarkably inefficient and error‐prone. Nevertheless, the spontaneous emergence of RNA polymers and their protein‐free replication is frequently taken as a prerequisite for the hypothetical ‘RNA world’. We present two specific difficulties that face the de novo synthesis of RNA‐like polymers in a prebiotic (enzyme‐free) environment: nucleoside base selection and intramolecular strand cyclization. These two problems are inherent to the assumption that RNA formed de novo from pre‐existing, chemically‐activated mononucleotides in solution. As a possible resolution to these problems, we present arguments and experimental support for our hypothesis that small molecules (referred to as ‘molecular midwives’) and alternative backbone linkages (under equilibrium control) facilitated the emergence of the first RNA‐like polymers of life.
Preparation of Guanine and Diaminopurine from Biuret. Part III
Authors: Lagoja Irene M. , Herdewijn Piet
Published: April 2007

Because of their potential prebiotic origin and relative chemical stability, urea, biuret, formic acid, and glycine amide might have played a role in the assembly process of purine bases. In this paper, we describe a short reaction path to purine nucleobases from these acyclic precursors. The formation of different purines was verified by UV and NMR spectroscopy, as well as by mass spectrometry.
The effect of the hypnotic‐suggestive communication level of advertisements on their effectiveness
Authors: Kaplan Oren
Published: April 2007

Advertising is mentioned sometimes as a hypnotizing experience. The present study investigated this claim by developing and implementing a questionnaire for measuring the level of hypnotic‐suggestive communication in advertisements. The results demonstrated that this level is a crucial variable for advertising effectiveness and for the evaluations of the advertised brand. Copyright © 2007 British Society of Experimental & Clinical Hypnosis. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Role of the Oriented Attachment Mechanism in the Phase Transformation of Oxide Nanocrystals
Authors: Ribeiro Caue , Vila Cristiane , Milton Elias de Matos José , Bettini Jefferson , Longo Elson , Leite Edson R.
Published: April 2007

“Bottom‐up” methods to obtain nanocrystals usually result in metastable phases, even in processes carried out at room temperature or under soft annealing conditions. However, stable phases, often associated with anisotropic shapes, are obtained in only a few special cases. In this paper we report on the synthesis of two well‐studied oxides—titanium and zirconium oxide—in the nanometric range, by a novel route based on the decomposition of peroxide complexes of the two metals under hydrothermal soft conditions, obtaining metastable and stable phases in both cases through transformation. High‐resolution transmission electron microscopy analysis reveals the existence of typical defects relating to growth by the oriented attachment mechanism in the stable crystals. The results suggest that the mechanism is associated to the phase transformation of these structures.
Cover Picture: Optimal Attachment Position and Linker Length Promote Native‐like Character of Cavitand‐Based Template‐Assembled Synthetic Proteins (TASPs) (Chem. Eur. J. 13/2007)
Authors: Seo Emily S. , Scott Walter R. P. , Straus Suzana K. , Sherman John C.
Published: April 2007

How does your garden grow? With linkers (roots) between the template (pot) and the peptides (grape vines); the linkers affect the structural specificity of such template‐assembled synthetic proteins. Optimal linkers (roots) can promote the construction of a native‐like protein, which is characterised by well‐packed side‐chain groups (grapes). For more details see the Full Paper by J. C. Sherman et al. on page 3596 ff.
Multisensory convergence in auditory cortex, II. Thalamocortical connections of the caudal superior temporal plane
Authors: Hackett Troy A. , De La Mothe Lisa A. , Ulbert Istvan , Karmos George , Smiley John , Schroeder Charles E.
Published: April 2007

Recent studies of macaque monkey auditory cortex have revealed convergent auditory and somatosensory activity in the caudomedial area (CM) of the belt region. In the present study and its companion (Smiley et al., J. Comp. Neurol. [this issue]), neuroanatomical tracers were injected into CM and adjacent areas of the superior temporal plane to identify sources of auditory and somatosensory input to this region. Other than CM, target areas included: A1, caudolateral belt (CL), retroinsular (Ri), and temporal parietotemporal (Tpt). Cells labeled by injections of these areas were distributed mainly among the ventral (MGv), posterodorsal (MGpd), anterodorsal (MGad), and magnocellular (MGm) divisions of the medial geniculate complex (MGC) and several nuclei with established multisensory features: posterior (Po), suprageniculate (Sg), limitans (Lim), and medial pulvinar (PM). The principal inputs of CM were MGad, MGv, and MGm, with secondary inputs from multisensory nuclei. The main inputs of CL were Po and MGpd, with secondary inputs from MGad, MGm, and multisensory nuclei. A1 was dominated by inputs from MGv and MGad, with light multisensory inputs. The input profile of Tpt closely resembled that of CL, but with reduced MGC inputs. Injections of Ri also involved CM but strongly favored MGm and multisensory nuclei, with secondary inputs from MGC and the inferior division (VPI) of the ventroposterior complex (VP). The results indicate that the thalamic inputs of areas in the caudal superior temporal plane arise mainly from the same nuclei, but in different proportions. Somatosensory inputs may reach CM and CL through MGm or the multisensory nuclei but not VP. J. Comp. Neurol. 502:924–952, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
GABAergic phenotype of periglomerular cells in the rodent olfactory bulb
Authors: Panzanelli P. , Fritschy J.M. , Yanagawa Y. , Obata K. , Sassoè‐Pognetto M.
Published: April 2007

Periglomerular (PG) cells in the rodent olfactory bulb are heterogeneous anatomically and neurochemically. Here we investigated whether major classes of PG cells use γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) as a neurotransmitter. In addition to three known subtypes of PG cells expressing tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), calbindin D‐28k (CB), and calretinin (CR), we identified a novel PG cell population containing the GABAA receptor α5 subunit. Consistent with previous studies in the rat, we found that TH‐positive cells were also labeled with antibodies against GABA, whereas PG cells expressing CB or the α5 subunit were GABA‐negative. Using GAD67‐GFP knockin mice, we found that all PG cell subtypes expressed GAD67‐GFP. Calretinin labeled the major fraction (44%) of green fluorescent protein (GFP)‐positive cells, followed by TH (16%), CB (14%), and the α5 subunit (13%). There was no overlap between these neuronal populations, which accounted for ≈85% of GAD67‐GFP‐positive cells. We then demonstrated that PG cells labeled for TH, CB, or CR established dendrodendritic synapses expressing glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) or the vesicular inhibitory amino acid transporter, VGAT, irrespective of their immunoreactivity for GABA. In addition, CB‐, CR‐, and TH‐positive dendrites were apposed to GABAA receptor clusters containing the α1 or α3 subunits, which are found in mitral and tufted cells, and the α2 subunit, which is expressed by PG cells. Together, these findings indicate that all major subtypes of PG cells are GABAergic. In addition, they show that PG cells provide GABAergic input to the dendrites of principal neurons and are interconnected with other GABAergic interneurons, which most likely are other PG cells. J. Comp. Neurol. 502:990–1002, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sugar Balls: Synthesis and Supramolecular Assembly of [60]Fullerene Glycoconjugates
Authors: Kato Haruhito , Böttcher Christoph , Hirsch Andreas
Published: April 2007

The synthesis and characterization of fully deprotected C60 glycoconjugates 4 and 17 is reported. Bis(α‐D‐mannopyranosyl)malonamide 4 was obtained by using nucleophilic cyclopropanation chemistry, which in general is a very versatile method for fullerene functionalization. Fullerene sugar 17 contains two dendritic α‐D‐mannopyranosides that are connected through two adjacent imino bridges to the all‐carbon framework. In this adduct‐type of C60, which represents a 1,9‐dihydro‐1a‐aza‐1(2)a‐homo(C60‐Ih)[5,6]fullerene derivative, the entire 60‐π‐electron system of the fullerene core is retained. This architecture allows the basic cleavage of the acetyl protection groups of precursor adduct 16 without destruction of the core structure of the fullerene sugar. Dendritic glycoconjugate 17 containing six deprotected sugar building blocks is very soluble in water. The amphiphilic nature of 17 with its cone‐shaped structure forces the formation of small supramolecular aggregates in aqueous solutions to shield the hydrophobic fullerene units from the water subphase. DOSY NMR spectroscopy and TEM investigation reveal micellar sugar balls with an extremely narrow size distribution of around 4 nm.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
On‐capillary sample cleanup method for the electrophoretic determination of carbohydrates in juice samples
Authors: Morales‐Cid Gabriel , Simonet Bartolomé M. , Cárdenas Soledad , Valcárcel Miguel
Published: April 2007

On many occasions, sample treatment is a critical step in electrophoretic analysis. As an alternative to batch procedures, in this work, a new strategy is presented with a view to develop an on‐capillary sample cleanup method. This strategy is based on the partial filling of the capillary with carboxylated single‐walled carbon nanotube (c‐SWNT). The nanoparticles retain interferences from the matrix allowing the determination and quantification of carbohydrates (viz glucose, maltose and fructose). The precision of the method for the analysis of real samples ranged from 5.3 to 6.4%. The proposed method was compared with a method based on a batch filtration of the juice sample through diatomaceous earth and further electrophoretic determination. This method was also validated in this work. The RSD for this other method ranged from 5.1 to 6%. The results obtained by both methods were statistically comparable demonstrating the accuracy of the proposed methods and their effectiveness. Electrophoretic separation of carbohydrates was achieved using 200 mM borate solution as a buffer at pH 9.5 and applying 15 kV. During separation, the capillary temperature was kept constant at 40°C. For the on‐capillary cleanup method, a solution containing 50 mg/L of c‐SWNTs prepared in 300 mM borate solution at pH 9.5 was introduced for 60 s into the capillary just before sample introduction. For the electrophoretic analysis of samples cleaned in batch with diatomaceous earth, it is also recommended to introduce into the capillary, just before the sample, a 300 mM borate solution as it enhances the sensitivity and electrophoretic resolution.
Site‐specific protein immobilization in a microfluidic chip channel via an IEF‐gelation process
Authors: Shi Mianhong , Peng Youyuan , Yu Shaoning , Liu Baohong , Kong Jilie
Published: April 2007

A novel strategy for site‐specific protein immobilization via combining chip IEF with low‐temperature sol–gel technology, called IEF–GEL here, in the channel of a modified poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) microfluidic chip is proposed in this work. The IEF–GEL process involves firstly IEF for homogeneously dissolved protein in PBS containing alumina sol and carrier ampholyte with prearranged pH gradient, and then gelation locally for protein encapsulation. The process and feasibility of proposed IEF–GEL were investigated by EOF measurements, fluorescence microscopic photography, Raman spectrum and further demonstrated by glucose oxidase (GOx) reactors integrated with end‐column electrochemical detection. Site‐controllable immobilization of protein was realized in a 30 mm long microfluidic chip channel by the strategy to create a ∼1.7 mm concentrated FITC‐BSA band, which leads to great improvement of the elute peak shape, accomplished with remarkably increased sensitivity, ∼20 times higher than that without IEF–GEL treatment to GOx reactors. The kinetic response of GOx after IEF–GEL treatment was also investigated. The proposed system holds the advantages of IEF and low‐temperature sol–gel technologies, i.e. concentrating the protein to be focused and retaining the biological activity for the gel‐embedded protein, thus realizes site‐specific immobilization of low‐concentration protein at nL volume level.
Parallel numerical simulation for the coupled problem of continuous flow electrophoresis
Authors: Chau M. , Spiteri P. , Boisson H. C.
Published: April 2007

The performance of parallel subdomain method with overlapping is analysed in the case of the 3D coupled boundary‐value problem of continuous flow electrophoresis which is governed by Navier–Stokes equations coupled with convection–diffusion and potential equations. Convergence of parallel synchronous and asynchronous iterative algorithms is studied. Comparison between implemented explicit and implicit schemes for the transport equation is made using these algorithms and shows that both methods provide similar results and comparable performances. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Are there predictors of outcome in depressed elderly nursing home residents during treatment with mirtazapine orally disintegrating tablets?
Authors: Nelson J. Craig , Holden Karen , Roose Steven , Salzman Carl , Hollander Steven B. , Betzel James V.
Published: April 2007

Background

Treatment studies of depression in residential care are limited. Reports of predictors of response are rare. In the largest nursing home prospective antidepressant trial reported, we examined predictors of response.

Methods

This was a 12‐week open‐label study of mirtazapine orally disintegrating tablets performed in 30 US nursing homes. Subjects were men and women aged ≥70, with a Mini Mental State Exam (MMSE) score ≥10, who had a depressive disorder that required antidepressant treatment. Mirtazapine was started at 15 mg at bedtime, and adjusted to 15–45 mg/day. A 16‐item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale was used to assess depression at baseline, weeks 2, 4, 8, and 12 or early termination.

Results

One hundred and twenty‐four patients received at least one dose of study drug and of these, 119 had at least one post‐drug assessment. Mean age was 82.9 years and 72% were female. Response rates at 12 weeks were 47% on the HAMD and 54% on the CGI. Age, sex, MMSE score, medical burden, history of prior depression, and baseline HAMD severity were not significantly associated with HAMD response (≥50% improvement) and in most cases correlations were trivial, <0.1. Advanced age, medical burden, and cognitive impairment did not predict adverse events.

Conclusions

In this sample of depressed nursing home residents treated with mirtazapine orally disintegrating tablets, advanced age, medical illness, and cognitive impairment did not predict response. The findings suggest that these variables need not be viewed as obstacles to treatment. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ursane‐Type Triterpene Saponins from Zygophyllum geslini
Authors: Smati Dalila , Mitaine‐Offer Anne‐Claire , Miyamoto Tomofumi , Hammiche V. , Lacaille‐Dubois Marie‐Aleth
Published: April 2007

Four new ursane‐based triterpene glycosides, compounds 1–4, as well as the known glycosides zygophylosides E, G, and H, and 3‐O‐(β‐D‐quinovopyranosyl)quinovic acid 28‐(O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl) ester, were isolated from the BuOH‐soluble fraction of the MeOH/H2O 7 : 3 extracts of Zygophyllum geslini (roots or aerial parts). Their structures were established mainly by 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR techniques, in combination with HR‐MS analysis and acid hydrolysis.
Synthesis of Acyclic Nucleosides with N‐[(Benzyloxy)(aryl)methyl] Substituents as Potential HEPT, EBPU, and TNK‐651 Analogues
Authors: Khalafi‐Nezhad Ali , Rad Mohammad Navid Soltani , Moosavi‐Movahedi A. A. , Kosari M.
Published: April 2007

The syntheses of the novel acyclic nucleosides 5a–5m, carrying different N‐[(benzyloxy)(aryl)methyl] substituents, are described (Scheme). These compounds could be prepared in medium‐to‐good yields by either direct or silyl‐assisted coupling of the electrophiles 6 with either purine or pyrimidine nucleobases, or with different imidazole derivatives. The reactivity of the positively charged electrophilic intermediates derived from 6 upon Cl− abstraction was rationalized by ab initio HF/6‐311G quantum‐mechanic calculations. The positive charge was found to be dispersed differently, depending on the electronic properties of the aryl substituents.
Chemical Constituents of Polyalthia nemoralis
Authors: He Xiu‐Feng , Wang Xiao‐Ning , Fan Cheng‐Qi , Gan Li‐She , Yin Sheng , Yue Jian‐Min
Published: April 2007

Three new natural products, the taraxastane‐type triterpenoid 1, the azafluorene‐based constituent 2‐hydroxyonychine (2), and the diterpenoid nemoralisin (3) were isolated from the EtOH extract of Polyalthia nemoralis, along with five known compounds. The structures of the new compounds were established by in‐depth spectroscopic and mass‐spectrometric analyses, as well as by chemical transformation.
A Synthesis Detour to Planar‐Diastereoisomeric Ferrocene Derivatives around an Unexpected Rearrangement of ortho‐Lithiated Kagan's Template [S(S)]‐(p‐Tolylsulfinyl)ferrocene
Authors: Weber Immo , Heinemann Frank W. , Zenneck Ulrich
Published: April 2007

Usually, ortho lithiation of Kagan's template 1 and quenching with electrophiles leads highly diastereoselectively to planar‐chiral 1,2‐disubstituted ferrocenes. Surprisingly, lithiation of 1 with lithium diisopropylamide (LDA) followed by addition of paraformaldehyde afforded regioisomer (+)‐{[S(S)]‐[4‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)phenyl]sulfinyl}ferrocene (2), which was converted to (+)‐{[S(S)]‐{4‐{2‐[(methylsulfonyl)oxy]ethyl}phenyl}sulfinyl}ferrocene (3) (Scheme 1). The desired diastereoisomer (l)‐1‐(hydroxymethyl)‐2‐(p‐tolylsulfinyl)ferrocene (5) in turn could also be obtained by ortho lithiation of 1 with LDA but by quenching with DMF to yield aldehyde 4 first, which then was reduced with NaBH4 to 5. Finally, target compound (l)‐1‐[(dimethylamino)methyl]‐2‐(p‐tolylsulfinyl)ferrocene (6) was obtained by substitution of the OH group of 5 under mild conditions or directly by ortho lithiation of 1 with lithio‐2,4,6‐triisopropylbenzene (=2,4,6‐triisopropylphenyl)lithium; LTP) followed by quenching with N,N‐dimethylmethyleneiminium chloride. At low temperatures, reaction of 1 with LDA leads, via the preferred diastereoisomeric transition state ‘exo’‐7 and under extrusion of a (diisopropylamine)lithium complex of type 8, in a highly selective manner, to diastereoisomeric ortho‐lithiated chelate (l)‐9 (Scheme 2). The reaction of 1 to 2 is explained by a rearrangement of (l)‐9 to {[S(S)] [4‐(lithiomethyl)phenyl]sulfinyl}ferrocene 10, which is acid‐catalyzed by coordinated diisopropylamine in complexes of type 8. This rearrangement is not observed if LTP is used as base or, in case LDA is applied, if the electrophile is sufficiently reactive at low temperatures.
Spatial productivity along a canal irrigation system in Pakistan
Authors: Latif Muhammad
Published: April 2007

This study was undertaken to investigate the impact of location on productivity of the farmers along an irrigation network in Pakistan. Data were collected from 54 tertiary canals situated along six secondary canals: two each at the head, middle and tail end of the main canal. Results revealed that location of the farms has a significant impact on farmers' productivity on different reaches along all the irrigation channels, i.e. the main canal, the secondary and the tertiary canals. The productivity of the tail‐reach farmers varies from one‐third to one‐half of their head‐ reach counterparts. The overall finding of this study is that location of the water users along the canal irrigation system has a significant impact on their income as well as productivity, and these parameters decrease with increase in distance from the head of the irrigation canals. The reduced canal water supply at the lower reaches of the irrigation system forced these water users to pump more groundwater, resulting in a many times increase in their irrigation costs. Additionally, groundwater quality deteriorates all along the irrigation channels (i.e. along the main canal, the secondary and tertiary canals), compounding the misery of the downstream farmers by degrading productivity of their lands because of increased soil salinity. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A discrete‐choice model with social interactions: with an application to high school teen behavior
Authors: Soetevent Adriaan R. , Kooreman Peter
Published: April 2007

We develop an empirical discrete‐choice interaction model with a finite number of agents. We characterize its equilibrium properties—in particular the correspondence between interaction strength, number of agents, and the set of equilibria—and propose to estimate the model by means of simulation methods. In an empirical application, we analyze the individual behavior of high school teenagers in almost 500 school classes from 70 schools. In our baseline model endogenous social interaction effects are strong for behavior closely related to school (truancy), somewhat weaker for behavior partly related to school (smoking, cell phone ownership, and moped ownership) and absent for behavior far away from school (asking parents' permission for purchases). Intra‐gender interactions are generally much stronger than cross‐gender interactions. In a model with school‐specific fixed effects social interaction effects are insignificant, with the exception of intra‐gender interactions for truancy. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The welfare cost of means‐testing: pensioner participation in income support
Authors: Hernandez Monica , Pudney Stephen , Hancock Ruth
Published: April 2007

We estimate parametric and semi‐parametric binary choice models of benefit take‐up by British pensioners and use a revealed preference argument to infer the cash‐equivalent value of disutility arising from stigma or complexity of the claims process. These implicit costs turn out to be relatively small, averaging about £3–4 per week across Income Support recipients. Using the Foster–Greer–Thorbecke measure of poverty among pensioners, we find that allowing for implicit claim costs incurred by benefit recipients raises the measured degree of poverty by not more than 13%. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Habits and heterogeneity in demands: a panel data analysis
Authors: Browning Martin , Collado M. Dolores
Published: April 2007

We examine demand behaviour for intertemporal dependencies, using Spanish panel data. We present evidence that there is both state dependence and correlated heterogeneity in demand behaviour. Our specific findings are that food outside the home, alcohol and tobacco are habit forming, whereas clothing and small durables exhibit durability. We conclude that demand analyses using cross‐section data that ignore these effects may be seriously biased. On the other hand, the degree of intertemporal dependence is not sufficiently strong to make composite ‘consumption’ significantly habit forming, as has been suggested in some recent analyses. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Unemployment and liquidity constraints
Authors: Hajivassiliou Vassilis A. , Ioannides Yannis M.
Published: April 2007

We present a dynamic framework for the interaction between borrowing (liquidity) constraints and deviations of actual hours from desired hours, both measured by discrete‐valued indicators, and estimate it as a system of dynamic binary and ordered probit models with panel data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics. We analyze a household's propensity to be liquidity constrained by means of a dynamic binary probit model. We analyze qualitative aspects of the conditions of employment, namely whether the household head is involuntarily overemployed, voluntarily employed, or involuntarily underemployed or unemployed, by means of a dynamic ordered probit model. We focus on the possible interaction between the two types of constraints. We estimate these models jointly using maximum simulated likelihood, where we allow for individual random effects along with an autoregressive process for the general error term in each equation. A novel feature of our method is that it allows for the random effects to be correlated with regressors in a time‐invariant fashion. Our results provide strong support for the basic theory of constrained behavior and the interaction between liquidity constraints and exogenous constraints on labor supply. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessment of the third‐trimester fetus using 3‐dimensional volumes: A pilot study
Authors: Bromley Bryann , Shipp Thomas D. , Benacerraf, Beryl
Published: April 2007

Purpose.

To examine whether the third‐trimester fetus can be assessed sonographically using 3‐dimensional (3D) volume data sets.

Methods.

Twenty‐seven consecutive third‐trimester fetuses were evaluated. Fetuses were scanned using 2‐dimensional (2D) imaging followed by 5 3D volume acquisitions. The initial scan was interpreted and reported based on the 2D images. The 3D volume data sets were independently reviewed offline several weeks later by 2 sonologists. Parameters evaluated included fetal presentation, placental location, amniotic fluid volume, fetal biometry including a calculation of estimated fetal weight, and major fetal anatomic structures. The result of the interpretation via 3D reconstruction of the volume from each of the 2 sonologists was compared with the original 2D sonography report.

Results.

Fetal presentation, amniotic fluid volume, and placental location with respect to the cervix were correctly identified 100% of the time by each sonologist. The estimated fetal weight was within 10% of the 2D estimate 89% (95% CI, 0.71–0.98) of the time for sonologist A and 96% (95% CI, 0.81–0.99) of the time for sonologist B. The majority of major anatomic landmarks were adequately seen by both sonologists.

Conclusion.

Offline review of 3D volume data sets is a reliable method for determining fetal presentation, amniotic fluid volume, placental location, and estimating fetal weight in the third trimester. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2007
The impact of tropical cyclones on Hainan Island's extreme and total precipitation
Authors: Wu Yanjun , Wu Shengan , Zhai Panmao
Published: April 2007

Total and extreme precipitation in Hainan Island was investigated in this study, based on consistent meteorological data for the period 1962–2005. Results show that tropical cyclones mainly impact Hainan Island between June and November, during which time they account for more than one‐third of the total precipitation. Over the past four decades, the number of TCs impacting Hainan Island has significantly decreased. Correspondingly, the TC precipitation and its contribution to the total precipitation have slightly reduced. Extreme rainfall events because of cyclones are responsible for nearly 60% of Hainan's overall ‘daily extreme precipitation’ and 23% of Hainan's total precipitation. Noticeably, the number of extreme heavy precipitation days and total amount of precipitation from those extreme events influenced by TCs has increased. On average, the precipitation amount and the number of days of extreme events caused by each cyclone have been significantly increased. Copyright © 2007 Royal Meteorological Society
I‐123‐guided excision of metastatic papillary thyroid cancer
Authors: Khandelwal Saurabh , Sener Stephen F. , Purdy Lisa , Perlman Reid M.
Published: April 2007

The use of a gamma probe for intraoperative localization of a cervical lymph node, which contained recurrent metastatic papillary thyroid cancer, facilitated a radio‐guided minimally invasive outpatient surgical procedure and resulted in complete excision of clinically occult disease. The technique raises the issue of whether nonpalpable regional node recurrences should be locally excised, removed in a formal modified neck dissection, or treated with therapeutic doses of I‐131. J. Surg. Oncol. 2007;96:173–175. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Blow‐up analysis, existence and qualitative properties of solutions for the two‐dimensional Emden–Fowler equation with singular potential
Authors: Bartolucci Daniele , Montefusco Eugenio
Published: April 2007

Motivated by the study of a two‐dimensional point vortex model, we analyse the following Emden–Fowler type problem with singular potential:

where V(x) = K(x)/|x|2α with α∈(0, 1), 0<a⩽K(x)⩽b< + ∞, ∀x∈Ω and ∥∇K∥∞⩽C. We first extend various results, already known in case α⩽0, to cover the case α∈(0, 1). In particular, we study the concentration‐compactness problem and the mass quantization properties, obtaining some existence results. Then, by a special choice of K, we include the effect of the angular momentum in the system and obtain the existence of axially symmetric one peak non‐radial blow‐up solutions. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Health of the nation: an individual or a corporate social responsibility? A preliminary investigation into consumer perceptions
Authors: Bhate Seema
Published: April 2007

Britain is increasingly mirroring a number of nations in terms of the continued growth in prevailing levels of illnesses related potentially to human food consumption. As this issue fast becomes global, the question of whose responsibility it is, has come to the forefront of the debate. Other groups, apart from the Governments with direct involvement in this crisis are the Consumers and the Marketers. Using the food industry as the basis, the study primarily focuses on the consumers' perceptions of the nature and the extent of the problem. To investigate, three products used in the study are placed on a continuum; Chocolates represent one end and Genetically manufactured foods the other. Fast foods are represented in the middle. This framework highlights variations in consumer perceptions based on product differences: manufacturers have been held responsible for the provision of pertinent information in the case of genetically manufactured products; in the context of fast foods and Confectionery both manufacturers and consumers have been seen as responsible for consumers' existing consumption patterns.

Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Refractive index‐modulated grating in two‐mode planar polymeric waveguide produced by two‐photon polymerization
Authors: Dong Yi , Yu Xiaoqiang , Sun Yuming , Hou Xueyuan , Li Yufei , Zhang Xian
Published: April 2007

A polymeric waveguide film was manufactured by spinning the materials on quartz substrate. Two‐photon‐initiated photopolymerization was carried out by tight‐focusing femtosecond laser pulses in the two‐mode planar waveguide. A typical index‐modulated grating of 2.5 × 2 mm areas without morphology was fabricated. The results show that peak‐to‐peak modulation depth of the surface profile of grating region was only about 7 nm. The diffraction efficiency (DE) of the grating with a spacing period 2 µm was 0.17% and the corresponding index modulation reached 5.7 × 10−3. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Audio instruction tapes
Authors: Pabst William R.
Published: April 2007

Audio Instruction tapes are described as a form of semi‐automated learning whose potential previously has not been realized. Students do not listen to these tapes; they work along with them. These tapes are not lectures. They do not substitute for the teacher. They require the teacher and the class situation for enforcement of learning. This article describes the tapes available for applied statistics and explains how they are used.
Comprehensive analysis of exported proteins from Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv
Authors: Målen Hiwa , Berven Frode S. , Fladmark Kari E. , Wiker Harald G.
Published: April 2007

Proteins secreted by Mycobacterium tuberculosis play an essential role in the pathogenesis of tuberculosis. The culture filtrates of M. tuberculosis H37Rv made by Sadamu Nagai (Japan), are considerably enriched for secreted proteins compared to other culture filtrates. Complementary approaches were used to identify the secreted proteins in these culture filtrates: (i) 2‐DE combined with MALDI‐TOF MS and (ii) LC coupled MS/MS. Peptides derived from a total of 257 proteins were identified of which 144 were identified by more than one peptide. Several members of the immunologically important early secretory antigenic target‐6 (ESAT‐6) family of proteins were found to be major components. The majority of the identified proteins, 159 (62%), were predicted to be exported through the general secretory pathway. We experimentally verified that the signal peptides, which mediate translocation through the cell membrane, had been removed in 41 of the identified proteins, and in 35 of those, there was an AXA motif N‐terminally to the cleavage site, showing that this motif is important for the recognition and cleavage of signal peptides in mycobacteria. A large fraction of the secreted proteins were unknown, suggesting that we have mapped an unexplored part of the exported proteome of M. tuberculosis.∁
New powder coatings with low curing temperature and enhanced mechanical properties obtained from DGEBA epoxy resins and Meldrum acid using erbium triflate as curing agent
Authors: García S. J. , Serra A. , Suay J.
Published: April 2007

New low curing temperature powder coatings obtained by copolymerization of epoxy resins with Meldrum acid (MA) initiated by erbium (III) trifluoromethanesulfonate have been formulated. Their mechanical and thermomechanical properties have been studied and compared with a commonly used industrial system (o‐tolylbiguanide/epoxy resin) and with an already formulated epoxy powder coating homopolymerized by erbium trifluoromethanesulfonate. Systems containing low proportions of MA and initiated by erbium trifluoromethanesulfonate lead to a great reduction of curing conditions (temperature/time). Moreover, the new formulated systems present very good mechanical properties, adhesion, and impact resistance. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 2316–2327, 2007