bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Joint Provision and Disclosure of Nonaudit Services on Audit Committee Members' Decisions and Investors' Preferences
Authors: Gaynor Lisa Milici , McDaniel Linda S. , Neal Terry L.
Published: February 2008

Recent corporate governance reforms that require audit committees to pre-approve audit and nonaudit services increase audit committees' accountability to third parties for actual auditor independence and audit quality. Other SEC reforms mandate the disclosure of fees for auditor-provided services and are aimed at influencing investors' perceptions of auditor independence. These fee disclosures also reveal audit committees' pre-approval decisions, enhancing public accountability. Thus, audit committees may be less willing to hire auditors for nonaudit services to avoid fee disclosures, even when joint provision improves audit quality. One hundred experienced corporate directors, responding as audit committee members or investors, participated in an experiment in which we manipulated the effect of the auditor's provision of nonaudit services on audit quality and the fee disclosure requirement. We find that audit committee members are more likely to recommend joint provision if audit quality improves, consistent with investors' preferences. However, unlike investors, committee members are more reluctant to recommend joint provision when public disclosures are required, even at the expense of audit quality. These findings offer evidence about an indirect effect of recent reforms.
A Comparison of Websites from Spanish, American and British Hospitals
Authors: Llinás G. , Rodríguez-Iñesta D. , Lorenzo S. , Aibar C. , Mira J. J.
Published: February 2008

Objective:
To evaluate and compare the user-orientation of Spanish, American and British hospital websites.

Methods:
A descriptive study of 32 hospital portals (12 Spanish, 10 American and 10 British) was carried out in which the following were analyzed: website readability according to the Flesch Index, websites accessibility using the Web Accessibility Test, and the quality of information provided using the “e-Information Scale of Health Care Centers”.

Results:
Fifty percent of the user-oriented information quality attributes are met. Readability indices tend to be below 60 (standard readability), and only 10 of the 32 websites meet the accessibility criteria.

Conclusions:
Most portals exhibit accessibility problems that favor computer illiteracy. There is a wide variability in terms of website readability and in terms of useroriented content.
Direct Asymmetric Dynamic Kinetic Resolution by Combined Lipase Catalysis and Nitroaldol (Henry) Reaction
Authors: Vongvilai Pornrapee , Larsson Rikard , Ramström Olof
Published: February 2008

The asymmetric synthesis of β‐nitroalkanol derivatives was simply achieved by a combined nitroaldol (Henry) reaction with lipase‐catalyzed transesterification in high yield and enantiomeric purity (up to 92% and 99% ee) through a direct one‐pot procedure.
Unusual Totally Selective Cyclodimerization of Epoxides: Synthesis of a Pair of Diastereoisomers of Enantiopure 2,5‐Disubstituted‐1,4‐Dioxanes with C2 Symmetry
Authors: Concellón José M. , Bernad Pablo L. , del Solar Virginia , García‐Granda Santiago , Díaz M. Rosario
Published: February 2008

The synthesis of the C2‐symmetrical (2R,5R)‐ and (2S,5S)‐2,5‐bis‐[(S)‐1‐(dibenzylaminoalkyl)]‐1,4‐dioxanes 1 or 2 in enantiopure form is reported. Compounds 1 and 2 were obtained by a completely selective and unusual cyclodimerization of chiral (2R,1′S)‐ or (2S,1′S)‐2‐(1‐aminoalkyl)epoxides 3 or 4 promoted by a mixture of diisopropylamine and boron trifluoride⋅diethyl etherate complex. The structure of the obtained dioxane was established by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. A mechanism has been proposed to explain this transformation.
The limiting current for reduction of ferricyanide ion at nickel: The importance of experimental conditions
Authors: Szánto D. A. , Cleghorn S. , Ponce‐de‐León C. , Walsh F. C.
Published: February 2008

Steady state, hydrodynamic voltammetry is a well‐established technique to measure the rate of mass transport of an electroactive species to, or from, a solid surface electrode in an aqueous electrolyte. Limiting current measurements during the reduction of ferricyanide (hexacyanoferrateIII) ion at a nickel rotating disc electrode (RDE) are critically considered, and the accuracy of the technique is quantitatively assessed. The importance of surface pretreatment, type of indifferent electrolyte, and the effect of sunlight are considered. Limiting current values can show large deviations from the values predicted by the Levich equation for laminar flow to a polished RDE when unsuitable conditions are employed, despite the appearance of well‐defined limiting current plateaux. Using appropriate pretreatment and experimental procedures, the averaged mass transport coefficients or limiting currents values can be obtained, which are close to the values predicted by the Levich equation for laminar flow to a hydrodynamic smooth RDE. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Variation and heritability of Hb F and F‐cells among β‐thalassemia heterozygotes in Hong Kong
Authors: Gibney Geoffrey T. , Panhuysen Carolien I.M. , So Jason C.C. , Ma Edmond S.K. , Ha Shau Yin , Li Chi Kong , Lee Anselm C.W. , Li Chi Keung , Yuen Hui Leung , Lau Yu Lung , Johnson David M. , Farrell John J. , Bisbee Alice B. , Farrer Lindsay A. , Steinberg Martin H. , Chan Li Chong , Chui David H.K.
Published: February 2008

Enhanced fetal hemoglobin (Hb F) production can partially compensate for the lack of adult hemoglobin (Hb A) in patients with β‐thalassemia major or intermedia, and ameliorate the clinical severity of these diseases. To further elucidate factors governing Hb F levels, we evaluated demographic, clinical, laboratory, and genetic characteristics in 241 unrelated adult β‐thalassemia carriers in Hong Kong. They had wide variations in Hb F and F‐cell numbers skewing toward higher levels. Individuals who coinherited the Xmn IT‐allele in the Gγ‐globin gene promoter had higher Hb F and more F‐cells compared with those lacking the Xmn I T‐allele. However, both groups exhibited a similarly wide spread of Hb F and F‐cells. The correlation of Hb F and F‐cells corresponded well to both linear and exponential models, suggesting multiple mechanisms for Hb F augmentation. The heritabilities of Hb F and F‐cells were calculated in 66 families (111 parents who were β‐thalassemia carriers and 82 asymptomatic offspring) to be 0.7 to 0.9. The Xmn I polymorphism accounted for 9% of the Hb F and 13% of the F‐cell heritabilities. These results suggest that these family members are well suited for genome wide association studies that will identify genetic loci regulating Hb F production, and likely novel pharmacological targets for reactivating Hb F production in adults. Am. J. Hematol., 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hematological abnormalities in patients with distal renal tubular acidosis and hemoglobinopathies
Authors: Khositseth Sookkasem , Sirikanaerat Apiwan , Khoprasert Siri , Opastirakul Sauwalak , Kingwatanakul Pornchai , Thongnoppakhun Wanna , Yenchitsomanus Pa‐thai
Published: February 2008

Mutations of the human SLC4A1 gene encoding erythroid and kidney isoforms of anion exchanger 1 (AE1, band 3) result in erythrocyte abnormalities or distal renal tubular acidosis (dRTA) and such mutations are observed in Southeast Asia, where hemoglobinopathies are prevalent. Genetic and hematological studies in 18 Thai patients with dRTA have shown that 12 of them (67%) carried SLC4A1 mutations (7 G701D/G701D, 3 SAO/G701D, and 2 G701D/A858D). Of these 12 patients, three had homozygous G701D/G701D and heterozygous Hb E; one compound heterozygous SAO/G701D and heterozygous α+‐thalassemia; and one compound heterozygous G701D/A858D and heterozygous Hb E. Of 6 patients without SLC4A1 mutation, two each carried heterozygous or homozygous Hb E and one of the latter also had Hb H disease (‐‐SEA/‐α4.2). The blood smears of patients with homozygous G701D/G701D showed ∼25% ovalocytes. Strikingly, the patients with coexistence of homozygous G701D/G701D and heterozygous Hb E had 58% ovalocytes. Similarly, the patients who had compound heterozygous SAO/G701D showed 49% ovalocytes, but the patient with coexistence of compound heterozygous SAO/G701D and heterozygous α+‐thalassemia had 70% ovalocytes. Our previous study has shown that under metabolic acidosis, the patients with homozygous G701D/G701D or compound heterozygous SAO/G701D had reticulocytosis, indicating compensated hemolysis. A patient with compound heterozygous SAO/G701D and heterozygous α+‐thalassemia presented with hemolytic anemia and hepatosplenomegaly which was alleviated by alkaline therapy. Taken together, the coexistence of both homozygous or compound heterozygous SLC4A1 mutations and hemoglobinopathy has a combined effect on red cell morphology and degree of hemolytic anemia, which is aggravated by acidosis. Am. J. Hematol., 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Child and genetic variables associated with maternal adaptation to fragile X syndrome: A multidimensional analysis
Authors: Bailey Donald B. , Sideris John , Roberts Jane , Hatton Deborah
Published: February 2008

One hundred eight carrier mothers (95 premutation, 13 full mutation) of children with the full mutation fragile X syndrome completed seven scales to assess maternal stress, depressive symptoms, anger, anxiety, quality of life, hope, and optimism. A wide range of responses was found on each measure, with most mothers scoring in the non‐clinical range on any individual measure. However, nearly half of the mothers scored in the clinically significant range on at least one measure and 25% on two or more measures. High stress and low quality of life were the most common domains of concern. Mothers with the full mutation generally did not differ from mothers with the premutation. CGG repeat length was not associated with responses on any of the measures completed by mothers with the premutation. Severity of the child's delay was not associated with any of the outcome measures, but child behavior problems accounted for significant variance in stress, depressive symptoms, anxiety, anger, and quality of life. Maternal adaptation appears to be a multidimensional phenomenon experienced in unique ways by each mother. Most mothers experienced positive adaptation, but a subset appear to be more vulnerable, especially those with children who have significant behavior problems. Future research needs to identify family, child, and support factors associated with maternal vulnerability and how adaptation changes over time in response to these factors. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Inverted duplication with terminal deletion of 5p and no cat‐like cry
Authors: Wang Jia‐Chi , Coe Bradley P. , Lomax Brenda , MacLeod Patrick M. , Parslow Malcolm I. , Schein Jacqueline E. , Lam Wan L. , Eydoux Patrice
Published: February 2008

We report on a 6‐year‐old boy referred for cytogenetics study. A few non‐specific features were observed in the newborn: hypotonia, failure to thrive, seizures, pre‐auricular skin tags. Cat‐like cry was not identified. No remarkable facial dysmorphism, gastrointestinal, respiratory or cardiac abnormalities were identified. At age 4 years, speech and motor skill delays were apparent. Karyotyping and FISH analysis revealed a de novo rearranged chromosome 5p, with subtelomeric deletion of 5p and a duplication of the cri‐du‐chat critical region. Array CGH using sub‐megabase resolution tiling‐set (SMRT) array followed by FISH analysis with labeled BACs showed a deletion of 5pter to 5p15.31 (0–6.9 Mb) and an inverted duplication of the greater part of 5p15.31 to the distal end of 5p14.3 (6.9–19.9 Mb). Although very rare, inverted duplications with terminal deletion (inv dup del) have been reported at different chromosomal ends. Our finding adds a second patient of inv dup del 5p to this growing list, and the potential causative mechanisms for this rearrangement are discussed. Review of the mapping information of cri‐du‐chat patients and the comparison with a previously reported patient suggested that the critical region for cat‐like cry is located within a 0.6 Mb region. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) nanospheres and microspheres for short‐ and long‐term delivery of bioactive ciliary neurotrophic factor
Authors: Nkansah Michael K. , Tzeng Stephany Y. , Holdt Adam M. , Lavik Erin B.
Published: February 2008

Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) has been shown to be neuroprotective in the central nervous system (CNS). However, systemic administration and bolus injections have shown significant side effects and limited efficacy. Sustained, local delivery may lead to effective neuroprotection and avoid or limit adverse side effects, but sustained CNTF delivery has proven difficult to achieve and control. For controlled, sustained delivery, we investigated several processing variables in making poly(DL‐lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) nano‐ and microspheres to optimize CNTF encapsulation and release. Nano‐ and microspheres were 314.9 ± 24.9 nm and 11.69 ± 8.16 µm in diameter, respectively. CNTF delivery from nanospheres was sustained over 14 days, and delivery from microspheres continued over more than 70 days. To assess protein bioactivity after encapsulation, neural stem cells (NSCs) were treated with CNTF released from nanospheres and compared to those treated with unencapsulated CNTF as a control. NSCs treated with CNTF expressed markers specific to mature cells, notably astrocytes; some increase in oligodendrocytic and neuronal marker expression was also observed. Significantly, cells treated with CNTF released by nanospheres exhibited a similar degree of differentiation when compared to those treated with control CNTF of equivalent concentration, showing that the process of protein encapsulation did not reduce its potency. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2008;100: 1010–1019. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Characterization of porous poly(D,L‐lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) sponges fabricated by supercritical CO2 gas‐foaming method as a scaffold for three‐dimensional growth of Hep3B cells
Authors: Zhu Xin Hao , Lee Lai Yeng , Jackson Jie Sheng Hong , Tong Yen Wah , Wang Chi‐Hwa
Published: February 2008

This study presents the application of the porous poly(D,L‐lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) sponges fabricated from an organic solvent free supercritical gas foaming technique. Two formulations of PLGA sponges with different co‐polymer compositions (85:15 and 50:50) were fabricated as novel scaffolds to guide human hepatoma cell line, Hep3B cell growth in vitro. The PLGA sponges showed desirable biodegradability and exhibited uniform pore size distribution with moderate interconnectivity. It was observed in this study that cells cultured on PLGA sponges showed lower proliferation rate as compared to the control during 14 days of culture as measured by using total DNA and methylthiazol tetrazolium (MTT) assays. However, the cells cultured on the sponges tended to aggregate to form cell islets which were able to express better hepatic functions. The enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) results showed that the cell‐sponge constructs secreted 1.5–3.0 times more albumin than the control when normalized to cellular content. In a similar fashion, its detoxification ability was also predominantly higher than that of the control as indicated by the ethoxyresorufin‐O‐deethylase (EROD) results. By comparing the cells growing on the two formulations of PLGA sponges, it was found that the PLGA 85:15 sponge exhibited better conductive and desirable environment for hep3B cells as justified by better cell infiltration, higher proliferation and hepatic function than the PLGA 50:50 sponge. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2008;100: 998–1009. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Biohydrogen production from glucose in upflow biofilm reactors with plastic carriers under extreme thermophilic conditions (70°C)
Authors: Zheng Hang , Zeng Raymond J. , Angelidaki Irini
Published: February 2008

Biohydrogen could efficiently be produced in glucose‐fed biofilm reactors filled with plastic carriers and operated at 70°C. Batch experiments were, in addition, conducted to enrich and cultivate glucose‐fed extreme‐thermophilic hydrogen producing microorganisms from a biohydrogen CSTR reactor fed with household solid waste. Kinetic analysis of the biohydrogen enrichment cultures show that substrate (glucose) likely inhibited hydrogen production when its concentration was higher than 1 g/L. Different start up strategies were applied for biohydrogen production in biofilm reactors operated at 70°C, and fed with synthetic medium with glucose as the only carbon and energy source. A biofilm reactor, started up with plastic carriers, that were previously inoculated with the enrichment cultures, resulted in higher hydrogen yield (2.21 mol H2/mol glucose consumed) but required longer start up time (1 month), while a biofilm reactor directly inoculated with the enrichment cultures reached stable state much faster (8 days) but with very low hydrogen yield (0.69 mol H2/mol glucose consumed). These results indicate that hydraulic pressure is necessary for successful immobilization of bacteria on carriers, while there is the risk of washing out specific high yielding bacteria. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2008;100: 1034–1038. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The fate of Pluronic F‐68 in chondrocytes and CHO cells
Authors: Gigout Anne , Buschmann Michael D. , Jolicoeur Mario
Published: February 2008

The surfactant Pluronic F‐68 (PF‐68) is widely used in large‐scale mammalian cell culture to protect cells from shear stress that arises from agitation and gas sparging. Several studies suggested that PF‐68 is incorporated into the cell plasma membrane and could enter the cells, but without providing any direct evidence. The current study has examined this question for two cell types, one of pharmaceutical interest (CHO cells) and the other of biomedical interest (chondrocytes or cartilage cells). A fluorescent derivative of PF‐68 was synthesized to detect and localize internalized Pluronic with culture time. PF‐68 uptake by the cells was quantified and characterized. We clearly demonstrate that PF‐68 enters the cells, and possibly accumulates in the endocytic pathway. CHO cells showed an average uptake of 11.7 ± 6.7 (SEM) µg PF‐68/106 cells while the uptake of chondrocytes was 56.0 ± 10.9 (SEM) µg PF‐68/106 cells, independently of the initial PF‐68 concentration (between 0.01 and 0.2%, w/v) and of cell concentration (from 1 × 106 to 4 × 106 cells/mL). These uptake values were identical for both static and agitated culture conditions. Finally, we found that CHO cells are able to eliminate intracellular fluorescent PF‐68 but chondrocytes are not. These results show that the uptake of PF‐68 by the cells can severely affect PF‐68 concentration in the culture medium and thus shear protection effect. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2008;100: 975–987. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
ChemInform Abstract: Hf(OTf)4‐Doped Me3SiCl‐Catalyzed Aminomethylation of Arenes with N,O‐Acetals: Facile Approach to Non‐Natural Aromatic Amino Acid Precursors.
Authors: Sakai Norio , Asano Junichi , Shimano Yuta , Konakahara Takeo
Published: February 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Carbonyl Allylation in the Absence of Preformed Allyl Metal Reagents: Reverse Prenylation via Iridium‐Catalyzed Hydrogenative Coupling of Dimethylallene.
Authors: Skucas Eduardas , Bower John F. , Krische Michael J.
Published: February 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Coupling Pd‐Catalyzed Alcohol Oxidation to Olefin Functionalization: Hydrohalogenation/Hydroalkoxylation of Styrenes.
Authors: Podhajsky Susanne M. , Sigman Matthew S.
Published: February 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Tetracyclines
Authors: Sum Phaik‐Eng
Published: February 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
Predictors of colorectal cancer screening from patients enrolled in a managed care health plan
Authors: Farmer Melissa M. , Bastani Roshan , Kwan Lorna , Belman Michael , Ganz Patricia A.
Published: February 2008

BACKGROUND

Despite the growing recognition of the importance of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening in reducing cancer mortality, national screening rates are low, indicating a critical need to understand the barriers and remedies for underutilization of CRC screening tests.

METHODS

Using results from independent cross‐sectional telephone surveys with patients aged ≥50 years performed before (2000; n = 498) and after (2003; n = 482) a quality improvement intervention for CRC screening within a large managed care health plan, the trends and predictors of CRC screening with fecal occult blood test (FOBT) and/or endoscopy (flexible sigmoidoscopy/colonoscopy) were examined from a patient perspective.

RESULTS

In 2000, patient reported screening rates within guidelines were 38% for any test, 23% for endoscopy, and 22% for FOBT. In 2003, screening rates increased to 50% for any test, 39% for endoscopy, and 24% for FOBT. Having discussed CRC with a doctor significantly increased the odds of being screened (FOBT: odds ratio [OR], 2.09 [95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.47–2.96]; endoscopy: OR, 2.33 [95% CI, 1.67–3.26]; and any test: OR, 2.86 [95% CI, 2.06–3.96]), and reporting barriers to CRC in general decreased the odds of being screened (FOBT: OR, 0.76 [95% CI, 0.60–0.95]; endoscopy: OR, 0.74 [95% CI, 0.60–0.92]; and any test: OR, 0.66 [95% CI, 0.54–0.80]).

CONCLUSIONS

Although screening rates increased over the 3‐year period, evidence was found of ongoing underutilization of CRC screening. The 2 strongest determinants of obtaining CRC screening were provider influence and patient barriers related to CRC screening in general, pointing to the need for multilevel interventions that target both the provider and patient. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Orthogonal bandelet bases for geometric images approximation
Authors: Peyré Gabriel , Mallat Stéphane
Published: February 2008

This paper introduces orthogonal bandelet bases to approximate images having some geometrical regularity. These bandelet bases are computed by applying parametrized Alpert transform operators over an orthogonal wavelet basis. These bandeletization operators depend upon a multiscale geometric flow that is adapted to the image at each wavelet scale. This bandelet construction has a hierarchical structure over wavelet coefficients taking advantage of existing regularity among these coefficients. It is proved that Cα‐images having singularities along Cα‐curves are approximated in a best orthogonal bandelet basis with an optimal asymptotic error decay. Fast algorithms and compression applications are described. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Accelerating the secondary immune response by inactivating CD4+CD25+ T regulatory cells prior to BCG vaccination does not enhance protection against tuberculosis
Authors: Quinn Kylie M. , Rich Fenella J. , Goldsack Lisa M. , de Lisle Geoffrey W. , Buddle Bryce M. , Delahunt Brett , Kirman Joanna R.
Published: February 2008

CD4+CD25+ natural T regulatory cells (Tregs) have been shown to suppress protective immune responses in several different vaccination models. Since the effect of Tregs on vaccination against tuberculosis (Tb) was unknown, we used a murine model to investigate whether natural Tregs suppress the development of protective immunity following Mycobacterium bovis bacille Calmette‐Guérin (BCG) vaccination. Using a monoclonal antibody against CD25, natural Tregs were inactivated prior to vaccination with BCG. The primary immune response was evaluated after BCG vaccination and the secondary immune response was assessed after an intranasal BCG challenge 42 days after vaccination. Inactivation of natural Tregs prior to vaccination led to an increased immune response 14 days after vaccination, increased numbers of antigen‐responsive lymphocytes immediately prior to secondary challenge and the earlier appearance of IFN‐γ‐producing CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocytes in the draining lymph nodes and lungs after challenge. Despite this, protection from virulent Mycobacterium tuberculosis or M. bovis aerosol challenge was unaffected by natural Treg inactivation prior to BCG vaccination. This suggests that increasing the primary and accelerating the secondary immune responses by inactivating natural Tregs at the time of vaccination, does not affect the development of protective immunity to Tb.
A Novel Series of Heteropolynuclear Metallomesogens: Organopalladium Complexes with Ferrocenophane‐Containing Ligands
Authors: Kadkin Oleg N. , An Jaein , Han Haksoo , Galyametdinov Yuri G.
Published: February 2008

Ferrocenophane‐containing (Fcph) Schiff's bases p‐C12H25O(C6H4)CH=N(C6H4)Fcph (LAH) and p‐C12H25O(C6H4)COO(C6H4)CH=N(C6H4)Fcph (LBH) react with palladium(II) acetate to form μ‐acetato‐ and chloro‐bridged dimeric organopalladium complexes. By exchanging acetato‐groups with the chloride anions, μ‐chloro‐bridged heteropolynuclear dimers are obtained that show thermotropic smectic A phases over a temperature range of 198 to 260 °C. The complexes [PdClLA]2 and [PdClLB]2 can be transformed into a variety of mixed‐ligand PdII complexes by treatment with salicylaldimine p‐C12H25O(C6H4)COO(C6H3)(OH)CH=N(C6H4)Fcph (LCH) and β‐aminovinyl ketone p‐C12H25O(C6H4)COCH=CHNH(C6H4)Fcph (LDH). The obtained mixed‐ligand heterometallic complexes [PdLALC], [PdLBLC], [PdLALD] and [PdLBLD] exhibit enantiotropic, thermotropic nematic phases over a broad temperature range from 71 to 205 °C. The structures of the synthesized compounds were characterized by means of 1H NMR, IR and UV spectroscopy, as well as elemental analysis. The liquid crystalline properties were studied by polarising optical microscopy and DSC. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Iron(II) Spin Transition Complexes with Dendritic Ligands, Part I
Authors: Sonar Prashant , Grunert C. Matthias , Wei Yong‐Li , Kusz Joachim , Gütlich Philipp , Schlüter A. Dieter
Published: February 2008

The ligands G1‐ and G2‐oligo (benzyl ether) (PBE) dendrons and their iron(II) complexes [Fe(Gn‐PBE)3]A2·xH2O (with n = 1, 2 and A = triflate, tosylate) were prepared. The magnetic properties of the complexes were investigated by a SQUID magnetometer. All complexes exhibit gradual spin transition below room temperature. At very low temperatures the magnetic behaviour reflects zero‐field splitting (ZFS) effects. 57Fe‐Mössbauer spectroscopy was performed to distinguish between ZFS of high spin species and spin state conversion into the low spin state. Further characterisation was carried out by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and FT‐IR spectroscopy. Structural features have been determined by powder XRD measurements.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Electron‐Sponge Behavior, Reactivity and Electronic Structures of Cobalt‐Centered Cubic Co9Te6(CO)8 Clusters
Authors: Bencharif Mustapha , Cador Olivier , Cattey Hélène , Ebner Alexander , Halet Jean‐François , Kahlal Samia , Meier Walter , Mugnier Yves , Saillard Jean‐Yves , Schwarz Patrick , Trodi Fatima Zohra , Wachter Joachim , Zabel Manfred
Published: February 2008

Extended investigations of the reaction sequence [Cp′2Nb(Te2)H]/CH3Li/[Co2(CO)8] (Cp′ = tBuC5H4) led to the identification of Lin[3] {3 = [Co9Te6(CO)8]; n = 1, 2} salts through their transformation with [PPN]Cl into [PPN]n[3] (PPN = Ph3PNPPh3). These compounds form in the solid state columnar ([PPN][3]) or undulated 2D ([PPN]2[3]) supramolecular networks. Electrochemical studies of [Cp*2Nb(CO)2][3] (Cp* = C5Me5) or [Na(THF)6][3] revealed the presence of the redox couples [3]–/[3]2–/[3]3–/[3]4–/[3]5– regardless of the nature of the cation, whereas in the anodic part oxidative degradation of the cluster takes place. This behavior is in agreement with the observation that [3]– containing salts form with PPh3AuCl or dppe decomposition products like [(PPh3)2Au][CoCl3PPh3] or [Co(CO)2dppe]2(μ‐Te). A neutral cluster comprising the Co@Co8(μ4‐Te)6 core formed in the reaction of [Cp*2Nb(CO)2][Co11Te7(CO)10] with PPh3AuCl, which gave [Co9Te6(CO)4(PPh3)4] (4) after oxidative cluster degradation and CO substitution. 4 was characterized by X‐ray crystallography. DFT calculations carried out on all members of the [3]n (n = +1 to –5) family and on related species indicate that there is no significant Jahn–Teller distortion (and therefore no connectivity change) for any of the considered electron counts. Magnetic investigations on [PPN][3] show that the ground state of [3]– is a spin triplet with spins interacting antiferromagnetically in a 1D space.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Suzuki–Miyaura Cross‐Coupling Reactions of Alkylboronic Acid Derivatives or Alkyltrifluoroborates with Aryl, Alkenyl or Alkyl Halides and Triflates
Authors: Doucet Henri
Published: February 2008

Palladium‐catalysed Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐couplings of organoboronic acids or organotrifluoroborates with aryl and alkenyl halides or triflates have become classic methods for generating carbon–carbon bonds. For this reaction, not only sp2‐hybridized but also sp3‐hybridized organoboron derivatives can be employed. However, alkylboronic acids or trifluoroborates are generally less reactive than arylboron derivatives. The coupling of primary alkylboronic acids or alkyltrifluoroborates with aryl or alkenyl halides is well known, and the reaction gives the coupling products with high selectivities, relatively high turnover numbers and in good yields with several catalysts. On the other hand, secondary alkylboronic acids or trifluoroborates, except for cyclopropylboron derivatives, are much less reactive, and very few catalyst are able to activate such compounds. Because of the hybridization of cyclopropanes, which confers significant aromatic character, several reactions have successfully been performed with cyclopropylboronic acids or trifluoroborates. The stereochemistries of substituted cyclopropylboron derivatives were maintained in the course of the reactions. For all these couplings with primary or secondary alkylboron derivatives, aryl iodides, bromides, chlorides or triflates and alkenyl iodides, bromides or triflates were employed. Alkenyl chlorides have attracted less attention. The reactions with alkenyl halides are stereoselective. A few examples of couplings between sp3‐hybridized organoboronic acids and alkyl halides have also been reported.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
A Novel Chiral (salen)AlIII Complex Catalyzed Asymmetric Cyanosilylation of Aldehydes
Authors: Zeng Zebing , Zhao Guofeng , Zhou Zhenghong , Tang Chuchi
Published: February 2008

A novel chiral (salen)AlIII complex was synthesized through the reaction of Et2AlCl and salen (R,R)‐1 derived from (R,R)‐11,12‐diamino‐9,10‐dihydro‐9,10‐ethanoanthracene. This complex is an efficient catalyst for the asymmetric trimethylsilylcyanation of aldehydes in the presence of tributylphosphane oxide as an additive. The use of 1 mol‐% of the complex led to the corresponding cyanohydrins in high yields (85–94 %) with good‐to‐excellent enantioselectivities (42–92 % ee).(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Experimental seismic investigation of Sefid‐rud concrete buttress dam model on shaking table
Authors: Ghaemmaghami A. R. , Ghaemian M.
Published: February 2008

Owing to the devastating M7.6 earthquake of 20 June 1990 that occurred in the northern province of Iran, Sefid‐rud concrete buttress dam located near the epicenter was severely shaken. The crack penetrated throughout the dam thickness near slope discontinuity, causing severe leakage, but with no general failure. In this study, nonlinear seismic response of the highest monolith with empty reservoir is investigated experimentally through model testing. A geometric‐scaled model of 1:30 was tested on a shaking table with high‐frequency capability to study dynamic cracking of the model and serve as data for nonlinear computer model calibration. Three construction joints are set up in the model to simulate effects of construction aspects. The experimental results are then compared with smeared crack and damage mechanics finite‐element simulations using nonlinear concrete constitutive models based on fracture mechanics. The crack patterns obtained from numerical models are in good agreement with those obtained from shaking table tests for the case of including construction joint effects and rigid foundation. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
What do we know about dementia?: a survey on knowledge about dementia in the general public of Japan
Authors: Arai Yumiko , Arai Asuna , Zarit Steven H.
Published: February 2008

Objective

The importance of early detection of dementia has been highlighted in recent years by the medical and scientific community; however, delays often occur between the recognition of signs or symptoms and a decision by the patient or family to seek professional help. Such delays may be caused by a lack of knowledge about dementia among patients and family members. The aim of this study was to determine the understanding of dementia among the general public.

Methods

We conducted a survey in Japan that asked 11 questions regarding knowledge of ‘general’ information, ‘symptoms’, and ‘biomedical’ issues related to dementia. A quota sampling method was used to select 2,500 participants, 2,115 of who were eligible for the analyses.

Results

The average number of correct responses among females was significantly greater than that among the males. A multiple comparisons test demonstrated that middle‐aged women were more knowledgeable than younger and older respondents. It was revealed that there was a lack of knowledge on biomedical aspects of dementia, i.e. cause, treatment, and prognosis along with a misunderstanding of dementia as senescence forgetfulness among the general public.

Conclusions

There appeared to be gaps in knowledge on dementia among the general public, which may prevent caregivers from planning upcoming social and financial challenges. Correct information needs to be given by health professionals and care staff. Educational initiatives planned for the general public could be useful, and should target those groups, men and non‐middle aged women who have lower knowledge. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hand somatosensory subcortical and cortical sources assessed by functional source separation: An EEG study
Authors: Porcaro Camillo , Coppola Gianluca , Di Lorenzo Giorgio , Zappasodi Filippo , Siracusano Alberto , Pierelli Francesco , Rossini Paolo Maria , Tecchio Franca , Seri Stefano
Published: February 2008

We propose a novel electroencephalographic application of a recently developed cerebral source extraction method (Functional Source Separation, FSS), which starts from extracranial signals and adds a functional constraint to the cost function of a basic independent component analysis model without requiring solutions to be independent. Five ad‐hoc functional constraints were used to extract the activity reflecting the temporal sequence of sensory information processing along the somatosensory pathway in response to the separate left and right median nerve galvanic stimulation. Constraints required only the maximization of the responsiveness at specific latencies following sensory stimulation, without taking into account that any frequency or spatial information. After source extraction, the reliability of identified FS was assessed based on the position of single dipoles fitted on its retroprojected signals and on a discrepancy measure. The FS positions were consistent with previously reported data (two early subcortical sources localized in the brain stem and thalamus, the three later sources in cortical areas), leaving negligible residual activity at the corresponding latencies. The high‐frequency component of the oscillatory activity (HFO) of the extracted component was analyzed. The integrity of the low amplitude HFOs was preserved for each FS. On the basis of our data, we suggest that FSS can be an effective tool to investigate the HFO behavior of the different neuronal pools, recruited at successive times after median nerve galvanic stimulation. As FSs are reconstructed along the entire experimental session, directional and dynamic HFO synchronization phenomena can be studied. Hum Brain Mapp, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A dynamic network involving M1‐S1, SII‐insular, medial insular, and cingulate cortices controls muscular activity during an isometric contraction reaction time task
Authors: Jouanin Jean‐Claude , Pérès Michel , Ducorps Antoine , Renault Bernard
Published: February 2008

Magnetoencephalographic, electromyographic (EMG), work, and reaction time (RT) were recorded from nine subjects during visually triggered intermittent isometric contractions of the middle finger under two conditions: unloaded and loaded (30% of maximal voluntary contraction). The effect of muscle fatigue was studied over three consecutive periods under both conditions. In the loaded condition, the motor evoked field triggered by the EMG onset decreased with fatigue, whereas movement‐evoked fields (MEFs) increased (P < 0.01). Fatigue was demonstrated in the loaded condition, since (i) RT increased due to an increase in the electromechanical delay (P < 0.002); (ii) work decreased from Periods 1 to 3 (P < 0.005), while (iii) the myoelectric RMS amplitude of both flexor digitorum superficialis and extensor muscles increased (P < 0.003) and (iv) during Period 3, the spectral deflection of the EMG median frequency of the FDS muscle decreased (P < 0.001). In the unloaded condition and at the beginning of the loaded condition, a parallel network including M1‐S1, posterior SII‐insular, and posterior cingulate cortices accounted for the MEF activities. However, under the effect of fatigue, medial insular and posterior cingulate cortices drove this network. Moreover, changes in the location of insular and M1‐S1 activations were significantly correlated with muscle fatigue (increase of RMS‐EMG; P < 0.03 and P < 0.01, respectively). These results demonstrate that a plastic network controls the strength of the motor command as fatigue occurs: sensory information, pain, and exhaustion act through activation of the medial insular and posterior cingulate cortices to decrease the motor command in order to preserve muscle efficiency and integrity. Hum Brain Mapp, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comprehensive and quantitative proteome profiling of the mouse liver and plasma
Authors: Lai Keane K. Y. , Kolippakkam Deepak , Beretta Laura
Published: February 2008

We report a comprehensive and quantitative analysis of the mouse liver and plasma proteomes. The method used is based on extensive fractionation of intact proteins, further separation of proteins based on their abundance and size, and high-accuracy mass spectrometry. This analysis reached a depth in proteomic profiling not reported to date for a mammalian tissue or a biological fluid, with 7099 and 4727 proteins identified with high confidence in the liver and in the corresponding plasma, respectively. This method allowed for the identification in both compartments of low-abundance proteins such as cytokines, chemokines, and receptors and for the detection in plasma of proteins in the pg/mL concentration range. This method also allowed for semiquantitation of all identified proteins. The calculated abundance scores correlated with the abundance of the corresponding transcripts for the large majority of the proteins identified in the liver. Finally, comparison of the liver and plasma datasets demonstrated that a significant number of proteins identified in the liver can be detected in plasma. These included proteins involved in complement and coagulation, in fatty acid, purine and pyruvate metabolism, in gluconeogenesis and glycolysis, in protein ubiquitination, and in insulin, interleukin-4, epidermal growth factor, and platelet-derived growth factor signaling.

Conclusion:

This in-depth analysis of the mouse liver and corresponding plasma proteomes provides a strong basis for investigations of liver pathobiology and biology that employ mouse models of hepatic diseases in an effort to better understand, diagnose, treat, and prevent human hepatic diseases.
Development and application of 3D numerical model THREETOX to the prediction of cooling water transport and mixing in the inland and coastal waters
Authors: Maderich Vladimir , Heling Rudie , Bezhenar Roman , Brovchenko Igor , Jenner Henk , Koshebutskyy Volodymyr , Kuschan Anatoly , Terletska Kateryna
Published: February 2008

A modelling system—THREETOX—has been developed to simulate the transport and mixing of cooling water in both freshwater and marine environment. A 3D hydrostatic free‐surface model describes the heat dispersion in the far‐field, whereas an integral buoyant jet model coupled with a far‐field model is applied to the near‐field. The equations of hydrodynamics of the far‐field model are completed by equations for heat and salt transport, and by the k − ε turbulence model. Special attention is paid to the parameterization of heat fluxes between water and atmosphere and between water and bottom sediments. Wetting and drying (WAD) processes were built into the model to describe areas where tide and floods play a dominant role. The model was enhanced by processes describing the effects of ship traffic on the dispersion of the discharged heat in stagnant canals. The sigma coordinate in the upper layer can be combined in the lower layer with a second sigma coordinate system or with a z coordinate system. An orthogonal curvilinear horizontal grid with two‐way nesting capabilities has been used to describe the area of interest accurately. A high order advection scheme has been applied in the model. Several examples of the application and validation of the THREETOX model are presented. Studies were performed on the dispersion of cooling water, discharged by various power plants in the Netherlands located at different types of aquatic systems, varying from rivers, canals to tidal river reaches. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Currency unions and currency crises: an empirical assessment
Authors: Coulibaly Brahima
Published: February 2008

Using panel data of 192 countries from 1970 through 1999, and 195 currency crisis episodes, this study examines the effect of membership in a currency union on the probability of experiencing a currency crisis. Both parametric and non‐parametric estimates suggest that membership in a currency union reduces the likelihood of a currency crash. This finding is robust to various definitions of currency crises and exchange rates, across time, and across regions. The results are further confirmed by case studies of some countries that joined or left a currency union. We interpret these findings to suggest that the formation of currency unions should not be ruled out in the debate on stability and the new financial architecture. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of hydrodynamic parameters of a fluidized‐bed reactor with immobilized yeast
Authors: Fouad Sarrouh Boutros , Converti Attilio , da Silva Silvio Silvério
Published: February 2008

The fluidized bed reactor has successfully been used to perform biotechnological processes addressed to the production of high added value. The present work evaluates hydrodynamic parameters of a bench‐scale fluidized bed reactor with cells of the yeast Candida guilliermondii immobilized either in calcium alginate beads or in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). The effects of the following variables on cell immobilization were evaluated at 30 °C and feeding a synthetic medium containing 50 g L−1 xylose: total particle density (cells plus support), terminal velocity, particle drag force, minimum fluidization velocity and bed porosity. According to the results obtained, the reactor was shown to operate like a fixed‐bed bioreactor at ξ < 0.5 and a fluidized bed bioreactor at ξ > 0.5. The maximum flow rate needed to obtain maximum bed fluidization in the reactor was equal to the terminal velocity of the immobilized cell particles. Particles of cells immobilized within these supports showed values of drag coefficient lower than those reported for other high‐density supports. The evaluation of these hydrodynamic characteristics lead to an adequate bed fluidization inside the reactor, thus improving oxygen transference and availability in the fermentation medium, making the process more viable for future scale‐up. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Solid–liquid mass transfer characteristics of an unbaffled agitated vessel with an unsteadily forward–reverse rotating impeller
Authors: Tezura Shuichi , Kimura Akihiro , Yoshida Masanori , Yamagiwa Kazuaki , Ohkawa Akira
Published: February 2008

To develop an enhanced form of solid‐liquid apparatus, an unbaffled agitated vessel has been constructed, fitted with an agitation system using an impeller whose rotation alternates unsteadily in direction, i.e. a forward‐reverse rotating impeller. In this vessel, solid‐liquid mass transfer was studied using a disc turbine impeller with six flat blades. The effect of impeller rotation rate as an operating variable on the mass transfer coefficient was evaluated experimentally using various geometrical conditions of the apparatus, such as impeller diameter and height, in relation to the impeller power consumption. Mixing of gas above the free surface into the bulk liquid, i.e. surface aeration, which accompanied the solid‐liquid agitation, was also investigated. Comparison of the mass transfer characteristics between this type of vessel and a baffled vessel with a unidirectional rotating impeller underscored the sufficient solid‐liquid contact for prevention of gas mixing in the forward‐reverse rotation mode of the impeller. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry