bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cell-culture assays reveal the importance of retroviral vector design for insertional genotoxicity
Authors: Modlich Ute , Bohne Jens , Schmidt Manfred , von Kalle Christof , Knöss Sabine , Schambach Axel , Baum Christopher
Published: July 2006

Retroviral vectors with long terminal repeats (LTRs), which contain strong enhancer/promoter sequences at both ends of their genome, are widely used for stable gene transfer into hematopoietic cells. However, recent clinical data and mouse models point to insertional activation of cellular proto-oncogenes as a dose-limiting side effect of retroviral gene delivery that potentially induces leukemia. Self-inactivating (SIN) retroviral vectors do not contain the terminal repetition of the enhancer/promoter, theoretically attenuating the interaction with neighboring cellular genes. With a new assay based on in vitro expansion of primary murine hematopoietic cells and selection in limiting dilution, we showed that SIN vectors using a strong internal retroviral enhancer/promoter may also transform cells by insertional mutagenesis. Most transformed clones, including those obtained after dose escalation of SIN vectors, showed insertions upstream of the third exon of Evi1 and in reverse orientation to its transcriptional orientation. Normalizing for the vector copy number, we found the transforming capacity of SIN vectors to be significantly reduced when compared with corresponding LTR vectors. Additional modifications of SIN vectors may further increase safety. Improved cell-culture assays will likely play an important role in the evaluation of insertional mutagenesis.
Expression levels of CD38 in T cells predict course of disease in male patients with B-chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Tinhofer Inge , Rubenzer Gabriele , Holler Claudia , Hofstaetter Elisabeth , Stoecher Markus , Egle Alexander , Steurer Michael , Greil Richard
Published: July 2006

CD38 expression of tumor cells has been identified as an important prognostic factor in B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL). Although CD38 is involved in effector functions of T cells, the prognostic value of CD38+ T cells has not yet been addressed in B-CLL. In the present study, CD38-expression levels in B-CLL cells and T cells from 204 patients were analyzed by flow cytometry and correlated with clinical and molecular risk parameters. CD38 expression significantly differed in the neoplastic clone from patients with low versus advanced stage, irrespective of the sex of patients. In contrast, CD38 expression was generally higher in T cells from female compared with male patients but only increased in male patients in a stage-dependent manner. In male patients, combined analysis of CD38 in T cells and B-CLL cells identified 4 subgroups with significantly different treatment-free survival. Multivariate analysis including Rai stage and molecular risk parameters of the neoplastic clone identified CD38-expression levels in T cells as an independent prognostic factor in male patients. Combined analysis of CD38 in B-CLL and T cells is superior in predicting outcome of male B-CLL patients than either parameter alone. Further studies are needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of the sex-specific role of CD38+ T cells in B-CLL.
A multicenter randomized study of the efficacy of transfusions with platelets stored in platelet additive solution II versus plasma
Authors: Kerkhoffs Jean-Louis H. , Eikenboom Jeroen C. , Schipperus Martin S. , van Wordragen-Vlaswinkel Rinie J. , Brand Ronald , Harvey Mark S. , de Vries Rene R. , Barge Renee , van Rhenen Dick J. , Brand Anneke
Published: July 2006

Randomized studies testing the clinical efficacy of platelet additive solutions (PASs) for storage of platelets are scarce and often biased by patient selection. We conducted a multicenter, randomized study to investigate clinical efficacy of platelets stored in PAS II versus plasma, also including patients with clinical complications associated with increased platelet consumption. A total of 168 evaluable patients received pooled buffy coat–derived platelet concentrates (PCs) suspended in either plasma (n = 354) or PAS II (n = 411) stored up to 5 days. Both univariate as well as multivariate analysis showed a significant effect of used storage medium in regard to 1- and 24-hour count increments and corrected count increments, in favor of plasma PCs. However, there were no significant differences between the groups regarding bleeding complications and transfusion interval. Adverse transfusion reactions occurred significantly less after transfusions with PAS II PCs (P = .04). Multivariate analysis showed no significant effect of the used storage medium on the incidence of 1- and 24-hour transfusion failure. We showed safety and efficacy of PAS II PCs in intensively treated patients; however, plasma PCs show superior increments.
Human cerebrospinal fluid contains CD4+ memory T cells expressing gut- or skin-specific trafficking determinants: relevance for immunotherapy
Authors: Kivisäkk Pia , Tucky Barbara , Wei Tao , Campbell James J , Ransohoff Richard M
Published: July 2006

Background

Circulating memory T cells can be divided into tissue-specific subsets, which traffic through distinct tissue compartments during physiologic immune surveillance, based on their expression of adhesion molecules and chemokine receptors. We reasoned that a bias (either enrichment or depletion) of CSF T cell expression of known organ-specific trafficking determinants might suggest that homing of T cells to the subarachnoid space could be governed by a CNS-specific adhesion molecule or chemokine receptor.

Results

The expression of cutaneous leukocyte antigen (CLA) and CC-chemokine receptor 4 (CCR4; associated with skin-homing) as well as the expression of integrin α4β7 and CCR9 (associated with gut-homing) was analyzed on CD4+ memory T cells in CSF from individuals with non-inflammatory neurological diseases using flow cytometry. CSF contained similar proportions of CD4+ memory T cells expressing CLA, CCR4, integrin α4β7 and CCR9 as paired blood samples.

Conclusion

The results extend our previous findings that antigen-experienced CD4+ memory T cells traffic through the CSF in proportion to their abundance in the peripheral circulation. Furthermore, the ready access of skin- and gut-homing CD4+ memory T cells to the CNS compartmentviaCSF has implications for the mechanisms of action of immunotherapeutic strategies, such as oral tolerance or therapeutic immunization, where immunogens are administered using an oral or subcutaneous route.
Preconception counselling initiated by general practitioners in the Netherlands: reaching couples contemplating pregnancy [ISRCTN53942912]
Authors: Elsinga J , van der Pal-de Bruin KM , le Cessie S , de Jong-Potjer LC , Verloove-Vanhorick SP , Assendelft WJJ
Published: July 2006

Background

To maximise the potential for reducing the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, preconception counselling (PCC) is used to inform couples contemplating pregnancy about general and personal risk factors. Many initiatives have been developed to provide PCC, but none offers it routinely in a presumed low-risk population.

The objective of the study was to investigate the extent to which women contemplating pregnancy can be reached when a PCC programme is routinely offered by general practitioners (GPs).

Methods

30 GPs actively offered PCC to all women aged 18 to 40 over a three-year period. GPs reviewed lists of these women and excluded women with adverse social circumstances. The remaining women received an invitation for PCC. They were requested to indicate whether they were interested in PCC, and if so, when they were contemplating pregnancy. Those both interested and contemplating pregnancy within one year were invited for PCC. All pregnancies occurring within one year of an invitation were monitored. Response rates and percentages of pregnancies preceded by an invitation or actual attendance to PCC were calculated.

Results

Overall, 72–75% of the interested responders, who returned the risk-assessment questionnaire (80%), actually attended PCC. However, the GPs excluded a large number of women. In 2002 27% of all pregnancies occurred in the group of women who had been interested and had indicated that they hoped to get pregnant within one year. Another 33% of the pregnancies occurred in the group of women who had been excluded, 13% in the group who had not responded, and 14% in the group who had not been interested.

Conclusion

A quarter of the women who became pregnant in the year after the invitation were reached in time. In order to increase this number, methods should be developed to decrease the exclusion of women by the GPs and to increase women's response.
Prognostic value of physicians' assessment of compliance regarding all-cause mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes: primary care follow-up study
Authors: Rothenbacher Dietrich , Rüter Gernot , Brenner Hermann
Published: July 2006

Background

Whether the primary care physician's assessment of patient compliance is a valuable prognostic marker to identify patients who are at increased risk of death, or merely reflects measurement of various treatment parameters such as HbA1C or other laboratory markers is unclear. The objective of this prospective cohort study was to investigate the prognostic value of the physicians' assessment of patient compliance and other factors with respect to all-cause mortality during a one year follow-up period.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted among 1014 patients with type 2 diabetes aged 40 and over (mean age 69 years, SD 10.4, 45% male) who were under medical treatment in 11 participating practices of family physicians and internists working in primary care in a defined region in South Germany between April and June 2000. Baseline data were gathered from patients and physicians by standardized questionnaire. The physician's assessment of patient compliance was assessed by means of a 4-point Likert scale (very good, rather good, rather bad, very bad). In addition, we carried out a survey among physicians by means of a questionnaire to find out which aspects for the assessment of patient compliance were of importance to make this assessment. Active follow-up of patients was conducted after one year to determine mortality.

Results

During the one year follow-up 48 (4.7%) of the 1014 patients died. Among other factors such as patient type (patients presenting at office, nursing home or visited patients), gender, age and a history of macrovascular disease, the physician's assessment of patient compliance was an important predictor of all-cause mortality. Patients whose compliance was assessed by the physician as "very bad" (6%) were significantly more likely to die during follow-up (OR = 2.67, 95% CI 1.02–6.97) after multivariable adjustment compared to patients whose compliance was assessed as "rather good" (45%) or "very good" (18%). The HbA1C-value and the cholesterol level at baseline showed no statistically significant association with all-cause mortality. According to our survey for most of the physicians self-acceptance of disease, treatment adherence, patient's interest in physician's explanations, attendance at appointments, a good self-management, and a good physician-patient relationship were key elements in the assessment of patient compliance.

Conclusion

The primary care physician's assessment of patient compliance is a valuable prognostic marker for mortality among patients with type 2 diabetes. Identification of patients in need of improved compliance may help to target preventive measures.
Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein levels in fetal hydrocephalus: a retrospective population based study
Authors: Szajkowski Terrence P , Chodirker Bernard N , MacDonald Karen M , Evans Jane A
Published: July 2006

Background

Although maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) is a highly sensitive marker for certain congenital malformations such as open neural tube and ventral wall defects, its usefulness as a screening test for fetal hydrocephalus is uncertain. We wished to determine the distribution of maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein levels associated with fetal hydrocephalus in a population-based screening program in Manitoba, and their potential relationship to additional anomalies.

Methods

Cases of fetal hydrocephalus unrelated to neural tube defects were ascertained from multiple sources and reviewed. Cross-reference with the Manitoba Maternal Serum Screening Program database determined which mothers had undergone maternal serum screening. Mean MSAFP levels in both isolated and complex hydrocephalus were calculated and compared with the general population of screened pregnancies using Independent Samples T-tests.

Results

Mean MSAFP levels in 70 cases of fetal hydrocephalus were significantly higher than those of the general population of screened pregnancies (P = 0.029). This was due to the fact that mean MSAFP levels in those cases with other major anomalies were increased over those of the general population (P = 0.041); cases with hydrocephalus alone showed no significant difference (P = 0.203). Only seven cases (10%) had MSAFP levels ≥ 2.3 multiples of the median, the cut-off used in Manitoba. However, six of these (86%) had additional major and/or minor malformations.

Conclusion

MSAFP screening has low sensitivity for fetal hydrocephalus and is rarely elevated in isolated cases. However, when fetal hydrocephalus is detected, elevated MSAFP levels indicate that the fetus is at significant risk to have additional malformations and further investigations, including chromosome breakage studies, may be indicated.
Positron Emission Tomography As an Imaging Biomarker
Authors: Weber Wolfgang A.
Published: July 2006

Positron emission tomography (PET) allows noninvasive, quantitative studies of various biologic processes in the tumor tissue. By using PET, investigators can study the pharmacokinetics of anticancer drugs, identify various therapeutic targets and monitor the inhibition of these targets during therapy. Furthermore, PET provides various markers to assess tumor response early in the course of therapy. A significant number of studies have now shown that changes in tumor glucose utilization during the first weeks of chemotherapy are significantly correlated with patient outcome. These data suggest that PET may be used as a sensitive test to assess the activity of new cytotoxic agents in phase II studies. Furthermore, early identification of nonresponding tumors provides the opportunity to adjust treatment regimens according to the individual chemosensitivity of the tumor tissue. However, further prospective and randomized validation of PET is still required before PET controlled chemotherapy can be used in clinical practice.
Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging As an Imaging Biomarker
Authors: Hylton Nola
Published: July 2006

Dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) is being used in oncology as a noninvasive method for measuring properties of the tumor microvasculature. There is potential for DCE-MRI to be used as an imaging biomarker to measure antiangiogenic effects of cancer treatments. This article reviews the general methodology for performing DCE-MRI and discusses existing data and challenges to applying DCE-MRI for treatment response assessment in clinical trials.
Expression of KiSS-1 in Rat Ovary: Putative Local Regulator of Ovulation?
Authors: Castellano J. M. , Gaytan M. , Roa J. , Vigo E. , Navarro V. M. , Bellido C. , Dieguez C. , Aguilar E. , Sánchez-Criado J. E. , Pellicer A. , Pinilla L. , Gaytan F. , Tena-Sempere M.
Published: July 2006

Kisspeptins, the products of KiSS-1 gene, and their receptor, GPR54, have recently emerged as essential gatekeepers of reproduction, mainly through regulation of GnRH secretion at the hypothalamus. However, the profound hypogonadotropism linked to GPR54 inactivation is likely to mask additional functions of this system at other levels of the gonadal axis, in which expression of KiSS-1 and GPR54 has been preliminarily reported. We describe herein the expression of KiSS-1 gene and kisspeptin immunoreactivity (IR) in rat ovary and evaluate its developmental and hormonal regulation. KiSS-1 and GPR54 mRNAs were persistently detected in adult ovary along estrous cycle. Yet, contrary to GPR54, ovarian KiSS-1 levels fluctuated in a cyclic-dependent manner, with a robust increase in the afternoon of proestrus, i.e. preceding ovulation. In addition, kisspeptin-IR was observed in rat ovary, with strong signals in theca layers of growing follicles, corpora lutea, and interstitial gland, compartments in which modest GPR54-IR was also detected. Interestingly, the rise in ovarian KiSS-1 mRNA at proestrus was prevented by blockade of preovulatory gonadotropin surge and restored by replacement with human chorionic gonadotropin as superagonist of LH. In addition, immature ovaries showed low to negligible levels of KiSS-1 mRNA, which were significantly enhanced by gonadotropin priming. In summary, we present novel evidence for the developmental and hormonally regulated expression of the KiSS-1 gene, and the presence of kisspeptin-IR, in rat ovary. The ability of the LH surge to timely induce ovarian expression of KiSS-1 at the preovulatory period strongly suggests a previously unsuspected role of locally produced kisspeptin in the control of ovulation.
Reproductive Experience Increases Prolactin Responsiveness in the Medial Preoptic Area and Arcuate Nucleus of Female Rats
Authors: Anderson Greg M. , Grattan David R. , van den Ancker Willemijn , Bridges Robert S.
Published: July 2006

The experience of pregnancy plus lactation produces long-term enhancements in maternal behavior as well as reduced secretion of prolactin, a key hormone for the initial establishment of maternal care. Given that prolactin acts centrally to induce maternal care as well as regulate its own secretion, we tested whether prolactin receptors in brain regions known to regulate behavioral and neuroendocrine processes were up-regulated and more responsive to prolactin in reproductively experienced females. Diestrous primiparous (8 wk after weaning) and age-matched virgin rats were treated with 250 μg ovine prolactin sc or vehicle and the brains collected 2 h later for measurement of mRNA for genes involved in prolactin signaling. Reproductively experienced rats had lower serum prolactin concentrations, compared with virgin rats, suggesting enhanced prolactin feedback on the arcuate neurons regulating prolactin secretion. In the medial preoptic area and arcuate nucleus (regions involved in regulating maternal behavior and prolactin secretion, respectively), the level of long-form prolactin receptor mRNA was higher in primiparous rats, and prolactin treatment induced a further increase in receptor expression in these animals. In the same regions, suppressors of cytokine signaling-1 and -3 mRNA levels were also markedly increased after prolactin treatment in reproductively experienced but not virgin rats. These results support the idea that reproductive experience increases central prolactin responsiveness. The induction of prolactin receptors and enhanced prolactin responsiveness as a result of pregnancy and lactation may help account for the retention of maternal behavior and shifts in prolactin secretion in reproductively experienced females.
Effects of Boundary Films on the Frictional Behaviour of Rough-Surface Contacts in Incipient Sliding
Authors: Chang L , Zhang H , Lococo J
Published: July 2006

Research has shown that the interfacial shear strength in an asperity contact is generally a linear function of the asperity pressure with a maximum value below the shear strength of the substrate material. Research further suggests that the properties of the surface-film materials in the micro-contact largely govern the shear-strength-pressure relation and the maximum attainable interfacial shear strength. This paper studies the effect of boundary films on the frictional behaviour of rough-surface contacts in incipient sliding. Two parameters are used to describe the shearing properties of the boundary film. One is the shear-strength-pressure proportionality constant and the other, the ratio of the maximum interfacial shear strength to the substrate shear strength. The study develops and uses an asperity-based mathematical model for frictional sliding-contact of nominally flat elastic-plastic rough surfaces incorporating these interfacial shearing properties in the asperity contacts. A sequence of parametric studies is carried out to study the frictional behaviour of the contact system. The parameters include surface plasticity index, contact load, and boundary film properties. Results are presented showing some insights into the system frictional behaviour.
Comparison of Sliding Speed Dependency of Friction between Steel Surfaces Lubricated with Several ZnDTPs with Different Hydrocarbon Moieties
Authors: Aoki S , Suzuki A , Masuko M
Published: July 2006

This article describes the friction characteristics of zinc dialkyldithiophosphates (ZnDTPs) with different hydrocarbon moieties. A newly developed tribometer was used for the precise measurement of friction by alteration of the sliding speed from ultra-low to moderate. Four types of ZnDTPs (sec-C3C6, sec-C6, prim-C8, and prim-C12) were used as additives to measure friction between steel surfaces. Several phosphorus compounds were used as references. Auger electron spectroscopy analysis and micro-FT-IR reflection adsorption spec-troscopy analysis were employed to elucidate the chemical composition and chemical structure of tribochemically reacted films on steel surfaces. The results demonstrated that a remarkable difference between friction characteristics was observed among four ZnDTPs with different hydrocarbon moieties and that friction decreased with increasing alkyl chain length of ZnDTPs at lower speeds. These results accounted for the observation that the friction characteristics of ZnDTPs were influenced by their respective hydrocarbon moieties.
Experimental Investigation of Effects of Slip Ratio on Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication Film Related to Temperature Distribution in Oil Films
Authors: Yagi K , Kyogoku K , Nakahara T
Published: July 2006

This article describes the mechanism of variations of elastohydrodynamic lubricated oil film under high slip ratio conditions. Experiments were conducted using a ball-on-disc apparatus. The thickness of the oil film was measured by optical interferometry. Temperature increase in the ball surface, disc surface, and oil film was determined by an improved infrared technique using a transparent disc without any coating and non-transparent disc with a comparatively thick Cr coating. The results reveal that the film thickness decreases with an increase in the slip ratio at constant entrainment velocities. The shape of the oil film indicates an increase in the thickness gradient at the inlet region and a slight increase in the oil film just behind the exit region. The temperature at the inlet region increases with the slip ratio and entrainment speed. Both the inlet region and the contact area exhibit a significant temperature difference between the surfaces. The variation of the shape of the oil film can be explained on the basis of the viscosity wedge action. The viscosity wedge action, heating at the inlet region, and inflow of heat from a slower surface to the inlet region reduce the film thickness considerably.
Organometallic π-Conjugated Systems
Authors: Nakamura Akira
Published: July 2006

Chemistry of transition metal complexes of organic conjugated systems, e.g. 1,3-diene, cyclobutadiene, and hexapentaene, is reviewed mainly based upon the author’s investigation. Some recent examples of dπ–pπ conjugated systems with multiple metal–metal and metal–carbon bonds are also described.
Aromatic Nitration under Neutral Conditions Using Nitrogen Dioxide and Ozone as the Nitrating Agent. Application to Aromatic Acetals and Acylal
Authors: Suzuki Hitomi , Yonezawa Shuji , Mori Tadashi
Published: July 2006

Cyclic acetals derived from aromatic carbonyl compounds can be nitrated smoothly with nitrogen dioxide in ice-cooled dichloromethane or acetonitrile in the presence of ozone and magnesium oxide to give ortho- and para-nitro derivatives as the major product in good combined yields, the acetal ring as a protective group remaining almost intact. An acylal derived from benzaldehyde similarly undergoes nitration on the aromatic ring to give an isomeric mixture of three nitro compounds, in which the ortho and meta isomers predominate, while aromatic orthoesters are rapidly decomposed to give simply the parent esters. Ring nitration under neutral conditions has been interpreted in terms of a nonclassical mechanism, in which nitrogen trioxide is involved as the initial electrophile.
Role of Bipyridinium Salts in Generation of Photocurrent by Rhodospirillum rubrum Cells
Authors: Erabi Tatsuo , Matsumoto Kiyoharu , Okamoto Tsutomu , Moriuchi Megumi , Ikeda Tsuyoshi , Yokoyama Yukihiro , Hayase Shuichi , Wada Masanori
Published: July 2006

An anodic photocurrent was generated when an SnO2 electrode, which was immersed in a culture medium of a photosynthetic bacterium, Rhodospirillum rubrum, or in a buffer suspending the cell body, was illuminated under potentiostatic conditions. The anodic photocurrent was enhanced about four times with addition of methyl viologen (MV) to the cell suspension, but was suppressed with addition of 1,1′-ethylene-2,2′-bipyridinium dibromide (EBP). On the other hand, it was observed spectrophotometrically that EBP was reduced by Rs. rubrum cells about ten times faster than MV. The disagreement in both data of photocurrent and of reduction rate suggests this to be due to the difference of penetrability of the salts through the cell wall and membrane. This suggestion was confirmed from cyclic voltammetric results of the reagents dissolved in the cell suspension.
Picosecond Laser Photolysis Studies on Chain-Length, Solvent and Temperature Dependences of the Intramolecular Photoreduction Process of Benzophenone by Diphenylamine
Authors: Miyasaka Hiroshi , Kiri Manabu , Morita Kazuhiro , Mataga Noboru , Tanimoto Yoshifumi
Published: July 2006

Photoinduced hydrogen abstraction (HA) processes of 1-(4-anilinophenyl)-2-(4-benzophenoxy)ethane, 1-(4-anilinophenyl)-3-4-benzophenoxy)propane, and 1-(4-anilinophenyl)-8-(4-benzophenoxy)octane (BP–O–(CH2)n–O–DPA: n = 2, 3, and 8) in benzene, acetonitrile, and N,N-dimethylformamide solutions were investigated by means of picosecond transient absorption spectroscopy. In benzene solution, apparent mechanism of the hydrogen abstraction reaction was “direct” process and no absorption spectrum of the charge separated state was observed. The decay of triplet benzophenone moiety (3BP*) was regulated by the dynamic rearrangement process of the mutual geometry between 3BP* and DPA to a more compact one.

In polar solutions, the electron transfer (ET) from DPA to 3BP* moiety took place in addition to the direct HA from DPA by 3BP*. The rate of the ET reaction was regulated mainly by the distance between the reactant moieties. Moreover, the intra-ion pair (IP) proton transfer (PT) resulting in the HA product formation was observed, although such PT process in the IP state between the unlinked 3BP* and the secondary amine was not observed. By integrating the present results on the linked systems with those of the unlinked systems, the role of the ET or CT interaction in the HA process of 3BP* from the secondary amine was discussed.
Effect of “Local Viscosity” on Translational Friction and Viscosity B Coefficients for a Spherical Molecule in Solution
Authors: Ibuki Kazuyasu , Ueno Masakatsu
Published: July 2006

The translational friction and the viscosity B coefficients for a spherical molecule in solution are calculated from the Navier–Stokes equation for a continuum with space-dependent viscosity. We test three functions for the space dependence of the viscosity as models for the “local viscosity”. Each function is a smooth function of distance from the solute center and approaches the viscosity in the bulk at an infinite distance. For all the three functions studied, the translational friction and the viscosity B coefficients decrease with decreasing viscosity in the vicinity of the solute, and the effect of the space-dependent viscosity is larger for the B coefficient than for the translational friction coefficient. These results can explain the observed shortcomings of the ordinary continuum model with space-independent viscosity. This confirms the validity of the use of the viscosity B coefficient as a measure of the structure-breaking effect which is closely related to the idea of the “local viscosity”.
Novel 8-Coordinate cis-MoO2(VI) Complexes with Some 4-Aminoantipyrine Schiff Base Derivatives
Authors: Rao Neti Sumita , Mishra Deen D , Maurya Ram C , Rao Neti Nageswara
Published: July 2006

The synthesis and characterisation of some 8-coordinate cis-dioxomolybdenum(VI) complexes of Schiff bases derived from 4-aminoantipyrine and 4-acetyl-3-methyl-1-phenyl-2-pyrazolin-5-one, 3-methyl-1-phenyl-4-propionyl-2-pyrazolin-5-one, and 4-benzoyl-3-methyl-1-phenyl-2-pyrazolin-5-one are reported. Spectroscopic and other analytical data reveal that these Schiff bases behave as monobasic tridentate ligands and react with [MoO2(acac)2] in 2 : 1 ratio to give diamagnetic molybdenum(VI) mononuclear complexes having the general formula cis-MoO2(L)2 (L = Schiff base). These complexes were characterised by elemental analysis, molar conductance, IR, UV-vis, 1H NMR, and cyclic voltammetry.
Intercalation of Quaternary Ammonium Ions into γ-Titanium Phosphate
Authors: Danjo Mayumi , Baba Yoshinobu , Tsuhako Mitsutomo , Yamaguchi Shunro , Hayama Masaki , Nariai Hiroyuki , Motooka Itaru
Published: July 2006

The intercalation of alkyltrimethylammonium ions into γ-titanium phosphate, Ti(HPO4)2·2H2O (γ-TiP), was investigated to clarify the mechanism of intercalation of quaternary ammonium ions into the layered phosphate. Alkyltrimethylammonium ions with short alkyl chains (the number of carbon atoms, n = 6 to 10) were scarcely intercalated into γ-TiP, while those with long alkyl chains (n = 12 to 18) were easily intercalated and formed a monolayer in the interlayer region, in which the alkyl chains inclined at 57.4° to the γ-TiP layers. The increase of the number of carbon atoms in alkyl chains and the volume of the solvent in the reaction solution led to the increase of the uptakes of quaternary ammonium ions. Based on these results, some bactericides with quaternary ammonium ion structure were then intercalated into γ-TiP, and the products obtained were stable to heat.
Formation Equilibrium of a Copper(II)-Binuclear Complex of a New Pyridyl-Containing Tetraoxo Octaaza Macrocyclic Ligand and Its Polarographic Reduction Behavior
Authors: Kodama Mutsuo , Koike Tohru , Kimura Eiichi
Published: July 2006

We have studied the complexation reaction of a newly synthesized 26-membered octaaza macrocycle, 3,6,9,17,20,23,29,30-octaazatricyclo[23.3.1.1.11,15]triaconta-1(29),11,13,15(30),25,27-hexaene-2,10,16,24-tetraone (TOBP, L), with a Cu(II) ion by pH-metric titration. It accomodates two copper(II) ions in its macrocyclic cavity with a simultaneous dissociation of the four amide protons to yield a binuclear complex designated as [Cu2H−4L]°. The formation constant of [Cu2H−4L]°, KCu2H−4L ( = [Cu2H−4L°][H+]4/[Cu2+]2[L]), was found to be (3.5 ± 0.2) × 10−12 mol2 dm−6. At the dropping mercury electrode the Cu(II) binuclear complex gave two reduction steps of equal height in a borate buffer solution, corresponding to the following reduction scheme:
Versatile Simultaneous Multielement Measurement System with Combination of ICP-MS and ICP-AES through Optical Fiber
Authors: Sawatari Hideyuki , Fujimori Eiji , Itoh Akihide , Aikawa Masahide , Haraguchi Hiroki
Published: July 2006

A hyphenated system of inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) combined with aid of optical fiber was developed for versatile simultaneous multielement measurement of the elements from the major to ultratrace levels. In the present system, the emission signals from the argon ICP equipped for ICP-MS were led through optical fiber to a sequential-type monochromator for ICP-AES measurement. In consequence, the dynamic range of 9 orders of magnitude from a few pg ml−1 up to ca. 1000 μg ml−1 was obtained, which allowed the simultaneous determination of a variety of elements in the wide concentration range by ICP-MS and/or ICP-AES. The present system was applied to simultaneous multielement analysis of rock and seawater samples.
In-Situ and Ex-Situ Monitoring of Electrochemical Deposition of Silver Using Quartz Crystal Resonators
Authors: Yamamoto Nobushige , Yamane Tetsuya , Tatsuma Tetsu , Oyama Noboru
Published: July 2006

Electrochemical deposition of silver from a 1 mM AgNO3 aqueous acidic solution at 20 μA cm−2 was monitored by means of in-situ quartz crystal impedance (QCI) technique, in-situ quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) technique, ex-situ QCI technique and atomic absorption spectroscopy. However, the mass evaluated from the data obtained in the in-situ QCI and QCM measurements on the basis of Sauerbrey equation deviated from intrinsic mass of the deposited silver because of a low deposition efficiency, liquid viscously or rigidly coupled with the resonator and/or stress generated in the deposited layer. Thus one must pay attention to these factors when one calibrates a quartz crystal microbalance on the basis of electrochemical deposition of a metal. In-situ QCI method utilizing a network analyzer is shown to be a powerful technique for simultaneous and qualitative monitoring of mass and surface structure changes. For the quantitative mass measurements, the mass sensitivity must be calibrated using another direct method such as atomic absorption spectroscopy.
Structure and Magnetic Properties of a Nitroxide Diruthenium(II,III) Complex, [Ru2(O2CCMe3)4(tempo)2][Ru2(O2CCMe3)4(H2O)2](BF4)2 (tempo = 2,2,6,6-Tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl)
Authors: Handa Makoto , Sayama Yasuyoshi , Mikuriya Masahiro , Nukada Ryoji , Hiromitsu Ichiro , Kasuga Kuninobu
Published: July 2006

A nitroxide complex, [Ru2(O2CCMe3)4(tempo)2][Ru2(O2CCMe3)4(H2O)2](BF4)2 (tempo = 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl) has been prepared and characterized by elemental analysis, X-ray crystal structure analysis, and variable temperature magnetic susceptibility and ESR spectrum measurements. A fairly large antiferromagnetic interaction (J = −130 cm−1) between the diruthenium core and the nitroxide radical has been observed.
Silver(I)-Catalyzed Aminocyclization of 2,3-Butadienyl and 3,4-Pentadienyl Carbamates: An Efficient and Stereoselective Synthesis of 4-Vinyl-2-oxazolidinones and 4-Vinyltetrahydro-2H-1,3-oxazin-2-ones
Authors: Kimura Masanari , Tanaka Shuji , Tamaru Yoshinao
Published: July 2006

Silver(I) salts in combination with an appropriate base (mostly triethylamine) catalyzed the aminocyclization of N-substituted 2,3-butadienyl carbamates 1 (benzene, 50 °C) to provide 4-vinyl-2-oxazolidinones 2 in good yields. The stereoselectivity (trans-2/cis-2) ranged from 1.4 for C5-Me to >30 for C5-phenyl, isopropenyl, and t-butyl derivatives. 3,4-Pentadienyl tosylcarbamates 3, the one-carbon higher homologues of 1, underwent a similar cyclization to give 4-vinyltetrahydro-2H-1,3-oxazin-2-one 4 in synthetically useful yields and in higher trans selectivities than 1.
Generation of Aryl Radicals by the Oxidation of α-(Arylazo)triphenylmethanes by Cerium(IV) Ammonium Nitrate
Authors: Arai Noriyoshi , Narasaka Koichi
Published: July 2006

The one-electron oxidation of α-(arylazo)triphenylmethanes by cerium(IV) ammonium nitrate (CAN) generated aryl radicals along with the triphenylmethyl cation. When the reaction was carried out in the presence of appropriate radical-trapping agents, such as arenes and olefins, the corresponding addition products were obtained in moderate yield. The oxidation of the arylazo compounds with CAN was accelerated by the addition of acids.
Antiphospholipid Syndrome: A Series of Surgical Emergencies and the Current Evidence for its Management
Authors: Agaba AE , Charaklias N , Babu-Victor A , Agaba PO , Deepchand V , Dabasia HS , Sharma SS , Goodrick MJ , Ramanand B
Published: July 2006

It is generally accepted that antiphospholipid syndrome remains a major medical problem characterised by hypercoagulability, arterial and venous thrombosis and thrombocytopenia. It is unclear how best to treat these patients should they require emergency surgery. If a lupus anticoagulant is present, hypercoagulability may occur de novo but surgical interventions along with sepsis are two important predisposing factors. We describe three patients with primary antiphospholipid syndrome and discuss the implications for surgery.
Haematospermia – A Systematic Review
Authors: Kumar Priya , Kapoor Sona , Nargund Vinod
Published: July 2006

Haematospermia (or haemospermia) is a distressing symptom in sexually active men. In most cases, it is caused by non-specific inflammation of the prostate and seminal vesicles. In a small percentage of men, however, it may be a manifestation of genito-urinary or systemic malignancy, in particular prostate cancer. The purpose of this review is to explain the causes and management of patients with haematospermia.
Penile Prosthetic Surgery and its Role in the Treatment of End-Stage Erectile Dysfunction – An Update
Authors: Jain S , Terry TR
Published: July 2006

The treatment of erectile dysfunction has been revolutionised with the introduction of orally active phosphodiesterase inhibitors which are successful in 70–80% of men. However, there remain a group of men in whom conservative treatment fails and surgical insertion of a penile prosthesis is required. This type of surgery has in the past been associated with technical difficulties and a high complication rate. This has spurred numerous developments in prosthesis design and surgical technique with the field changing at a rapid pace. Perhaps the most significant is the use of antimicrobial coatings on prostheses that have been shown to reduce the infection rate significantly. This review highlights those developments reported in the last 5 years.
Treatment of Non-Endemic Hepatolithiasis in a Western Country. The Role of Hepatic Resection
Authors: Catena Marco , Aldrighetti Luca , Finazzi Renato , Arzu Giandomenico , Arru Marcella , Pulitanò Carlo , Ferla Gianfranco
Published: July 2006

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to assess the safety and the efficacy of hepatic resective surgery in the treatment of single lobe hepatolithiasis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective analysis and comparison between hepatic resections in patients with hepatolithiasis (hepatolithiasis group [HG]) and liver masses (control group [CG]). Seventeen consecutive Caucasian patients with single lobe hepatolithiasis (HG) and 30 patients with liver masses without chronic liver disease and previous chemotherapy (CG), were operated during the 5-year period 2000–2005, inclusive. Major hepatic resections including 4 right hepatectomies, 10 left hepatectomies, and 3 left lateral sectionectomy in HG, and 12 right hepatectomies, 3 extended right hepatectomy, 5 left hepatectomies, 4 left lateral sectionectomy, 5 bisegmentectomy, and 1 mesohepatectomy in CG. The main outcome measures were: type and length of surgical procedures, intra- and postoperative blood losses and transfusions (packed red blood cells [PRBC] and fresh frozen plasma [FFP]), intra- and postoperative course and complications (within 30 days of the operation), length of hospitalisation, histopathology, and recurrence of hepatolithiasis.

RESULTS

Mean operation time was 6.21 ± 2.38 h in HG versus 7.10 ± 2.21 h in CG (P = 0.33). Mean intra-operative blood loss in CG was higher than in HG (1010 ± 550 ml versus 560 ± 459 ml; P = 0.035). The other variables considered in the two groups were not statistically different. Intra-operative transfusion were 0.50 ± 0.85 units in HG versus 1.35 ± 2.25 units of PRBC in CG (P = 0.06), and 0.66 ± 1.34 units in HG versus 0.68 ± 1.20 units of FFP in CG (P = 0.44), respectively. No cases of death were registered. Postoperative complications occurred in 12 patients (25.5%) – 5 cases (10.6%) in HG and 7 cases (14.8%) in CG (P = 0.18). Mean postoperative transfusions were 0.47 ± 1.24 units in HG versus 1.10 ± 1.18 units of PRBC in CG (P = 0.35), and 0.65 ± 1.40 units in HG versus 0.46 ± 0.82 units of FFP in CG (P = 0.25), respectively. Difference in median hospitalisation was not statistically significant (14 ± 10 days versus 12 ± 9 days; P = 0.28). Histopathology showed cholangiocarcinoma in 2 cases (11.7%). During the follow-up period (range, 5–127 months; mean, 50.4 ± 41.9 months), 1 patient had lithiasis recurrence and 1 patient died for the co-existing cholangiocarcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

Hepatic resection is the treatment of choice in patients with single lobe hepatolithiasis. An early indication for surgery may reduce the mortality/morbidity rates of hepatic resection for hepatolithiasis.
Symptom Reporting and Associations With Compensation Status, Self-Awareness, Causal Attributions, and Emotional Wellbeing Following Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Ownsworth Tamara , Fleming Jennifer M. , Hardwick Sascha
Published: July 2006

Individuals seeking compensation following traumatic brain injury (TBI) are often found to report a disproportionately high level of symptoms relative to objective indicators of impairment. Previous studies highlight that level of symptom reporting is also related to self-awareness, causal attribution, and emotional wellbeing. Therefore, the reasons for high symptom reporting in the context of compensation are generally unclear. This study aimed to identify whether self-awareness, causal attribution, and emotional wellbeing are significantly associated with level of symptom reporting after controlling for compensation status. A sample of 54 participants with TBI comprised two groups, namely, claimants (n = 27) and non-claimants (n = 27), who were similar in terms of demographic and neuro-cognitive variables. Participants completed the Symptom Expectancy Checklist, Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale, Awareness Questionnaire and a causal attribution scale. A series of independent t tests and Pearson's correlations identified that a higher level of symptom reporting was associated with the following: seeking compensation, less severe TBI, increased age, greater self-awareness, increased post-injury changes reported by relatives, a higher level of mood symptoms, and a tendency to blame other people. Multivariate analysis identified that after controlling for demographic, injury, and compensation status variables, level of mood symptoms and self-awareness were significantly associated with level of symptom reporting. The findings suggest that mood symptoms and heightened self-awareness are significantly related to high symptom reporting independent of compensation status, thus supporting the need for clinicians to interpret symptom reporting within a biopsychosocial context.
Survey of the Latest Evaluated Nuclear Data
Authors: Holden NE
Published: July 2006

The results of a review and evaluation of nuclear data published in the scientific literature are presented. The status of new chemical elements that have been discovered and officially named and the latest data for new elements that have been claimed are examined. Half lives of very long-lived nuclides are presented. Data on the very heavy elements are tabulated. The problems presented by the attempt to estimate errors for the various nuclear data are considered as well as the psychological aspect of error estimation are also discussed.
Nulldynamik linearer und nichtlinearer Systeme: Definitionen, Eigenschaften und Anwendungen (Zero Dynamics of Linear and Nonlinear Systems: Definitions, Properties and Applications)
Authors: Svaricek Ferdinand
Published: July 2006

Das von Isidori vor 20 Jahren entwickelte Konzept derNulldynamikeines dynamischen Systems, das als eine Verallgemeinerung der Nullstellen der Übertragungsfunktion eines linearen Systems angesehen werden kann, ist von elementarer Bedeutung für die Analyse und den Entwurf linearer und nichtlinearer Regelkreise. Dieser Beitrag gibt für lineare und nichtlineare Eingrößensysteme sowohl eine Einführung in dieses Konzept als auch einen Überlick über Bedeutung und regelungstechnische Anwendungen.
Binary intermetallic phases formed by Ca, Sr, Ba, Eu and Yb: similarities and differences
Authors: Fornasini Maria L. , Merlo Franco
Published: July 2006

The binary intermetallic phases formed by Ca, Sr, Ba, Eu and Yb with Li, Be and group 7 to 15 elements are a family of nearly 570 members, distributed over 50 compositions and 140 structure types. A graphical overview of all phases is given, and they are examined regarding their crystal chemistry, atomic sizes and volume effects in alloying.
Reflections on symmetry and formation of axial quasicrystals
Authors: Steurer Walter
Published: July 2006

Some ideas are presented on the geometrical factors governing structure and formation of axial quasicrystals with 5- and 7-fold symmetry, respectively. First, the importance of thin atomic layers is discussed for the growth of decagonal quasicrystals. They are the only long-range ordered structural units carrying information on the local non-crystallographic symmetry of the constituent clusters. Second, the consequences of local polysynthetic twinning for the formation of pentagonal and heptagonal quasicrystals are demonstrated. Third, the special relationship of the β-phase, (Co,Ni)1–xAl1+x, to the decagonal phase and its periodic average structure is discussed as well as its role as template for the formation and growth of decagonal Al—Co—Ni.
Re3B type intermetallics — crystal chemistry, bonding and properties
Authors: Pöttgen Rainer , Lukachuk Mar'yana , Hoffmann Rolf-Dieter
Published: July 2006

The crystal chemistry of binary and ternary intermetallic compounds with orthorhombic Re3B or MgCuAl2 type structure is reviewed. Besides the preparation techniques and crystal chemistry we focus on the structure–property relations and chemical bonding peculiarities. So far about 100 compounds with this structural arrangement have been reported. The large family of intermetallics comprises borides, aluminides, gallides, indides, thallides, and stannides, but also some magnesium and cadmium compounds.
On the formation and crystal structure of the Pd6B phase
Authors: Berger Tilman Georg , Leineweber Andreas , Mittemeijer Eric J. , Sarbu Corneliu , Duppel Viola , Fischer Peter
Published: July 2006

The crystal structure of the Pd6B phase has been elucidated employing selected-area electron diffraction and X-ray and neutron powder diffraction methods. It is based on a cubic close packed arrangement of Pd with B occupying 1/6 of the interstitial octahedral sites in an ordered way, such that a monoclinic (C2/c) superstructure results. The crystal structure contains isolated [BPd6] octahedral entities providing large distances between nearest neighbour boron atoms. Depending on the way of preparation, the same Pd6B phase can occur for the same composition in two different ‘manifestations’ having considerably different lattice parameters, which has a microstructural origin. Various phase equilibria between the ordered Pd6B phase and the disordered interstitial solid solution of boron in cubic close packed palladium have been investigated to clarify the corresponding regions in the phase diagram Pd—B.
Cubic structure types of rare-earth intermetallics and related compounds
Authors: Bodak Oksana , Demchenko Pavlo , Seropegin Yurii , Fedorchuk Anatolii O.
Published: July 2006

Cubic structure types of rare-earth intermetallic and related compounds are reviewed and their structural similarities are discussed. The description of the structural relations is based on the ordered substitution or inclusion of atoms or atomic groups starting from the structures of four “aristotypes”: diamond, Cu, CsCl and W. Structural similarities between some types are illustrated by family trees of crystallographic group-subgroup relations.