bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
N‐heterocyclic carbene complexes of Rh(I) and electronic effects on catalysts for 1,2‐addition of phenylboronic acid to aldehydes
Authors: Türkmen Hayati , Çetinkaya Bekir
Published: December 2010

1,3‐Diarylsubstituted imidazolinium salts, (NHC‐H)Cl, 3, containing hydrogen or alkyl groups at the 4,5‐positions of the imidazolidine ring, served as precursors to rhodium(I) complexes [RhCl(NHC)COD], 4, which were converted into cis‐[RhCl(NHC)(CO)2] complexes, 5. All compounds prepared were characterized by elemental analyses, 1H NMR and 13C NMR. The relative σ‐donor/π‐acceptor strength of the NHC ligands was determined by means of IR spectroscopy of 5. The ability of NHCs in 4 to enchance activity was explored in the 1,2‐addition of phenylboronic acid to aldehydes. A good correlation was observed between catalytic activity and the electron‐donating power of the NHC ligands. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Rawls‐Tawney theorem and the digital divide in postindustrial society
Authors: Duff Alistair S.
Published: December 2010

The digital divide continues to challenge political and academic circles worldwide. A range of policy solutions is briefly evaluated, from laissez‐faire on the right to “arithmetic” egalitarianism on the left. The article recasts the digital divide as a problem for the social distribution of presumptively important information (e.g., electoral data, news, science) within postindustrial society. Endorsing in general terms the left‐liberal approach of differential or “geometric” egalitarianism, it seeks to invest this with greater precision, and therefore utility, by means of a possibly original synthesis of the ideas of John Rawls and R. H. Tawney. It is argued that, once certain categories of information are accorded the status of “primary goods,” their distribution must then comply with principles of justice as articulated by those major 20th century exponents of ethical social democracy. The resultant Rawls‐Tawney theorem, if valid, might augment the portfolio of options for interventionist information policy in the 21st century.
Control of antagonistic swarm dynamics via Lyapunov's method
Authors: Sierra Daniel A. , McCullough Paul , Olgac Nejat , Adams Eldridge
Published: December 2010

We consider hostile conflicts between two multi‐agent swarms. First, we investigate the complex nature of a single pursuer attempting to intercept a single evader (1P‐1E), and establish some rudimentary rules of engagement. We elaborate on the stability repercussions of these rules. Second, we extend the modelling and stability analysis to multi‐agent swarms with conflicting interests. The present document considers only swarms with equal membership strengths for simplicity. This effort is based on a set of suggested momenta deployed on individual agents. Because pursuers and evaders differ in the influences that they exert on one another, we emphasize asymmetry in momenta between the two types of swarm members. The proposed centralized control law evolves from a Lyapunov concept. Swarm interactions are modelled in two phases: the approach phase during which the two swarms act like individuals in the 1P‐1E interaction; and the individual pursuit phase where each pursuer is assigned to an evader.

Copyright © 2010 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society
Impacts on type I error rate with inappropriate use of learn and confirm in confirmatory adaptive design trials
Authors: Wang Sue‐Jane , James Hung H. M. , O'Neill Robert T.
Published: December 2010

A two‐stage adaptive design trial is a single trial that combines the learning data from stage 1 (or phase II) and the confirming data in stage 2 (or phase III) for formal statistical testing. We call it a “Learn and Confirm” trial. The studywise type I error rate remains to be at issue in a “Learn and Confirm” trial. For studying multiple doses or multiple enpdoints, a “Learn and Confirm” adaptive design can be more attractive than a fixed design approach. This is because intuitively the learning data in stage 1 should not be subjected to type I error scrutiny if there is no formal interim analysis performed and only an adaptive selection of design parameters is made at stage 1. In this work, we conclude from extensive simulation studies that the intuition is most often misleading. That is, regardless of whether or not there is a formal interim analysis for making an adaptive selection, the type I error rates are always at risk of inflation. Inappropriate use of any “Learn and Confirm” strategy should not be overlooked.
A new and sensitive catalytic resonance scattering spectral assay for the detection of laccase using guaiacol as substrate
Authors: Jiang Caina , Ling Shaoming , Wang Pengfei , Liang Aihui , Chen Bin , Wen Guiqing , Jiang Zhiliang
Published: December 2010

In pH 4.0 succinic acid–sodium hydroxide buffer solution, laccase catalyzed the oxidization of guaiacol substrate to form red particles, which exhibited a strong resonance scattering (RS) peak at 590 nm. Under the chosen conditions, as the laccase increased, the RS intensity (ΔI) increased linearly. The ΔI was proportional to laccase activity in the range of 0.10–1.2 U/mL, with a regression equation of ΔI = 734.0 Ulaccase − 9.7, and a detection limit of 0.05 U/mL. This RS method was applied to the detection of laccase activity in real samples, and the results were agreement with those from spectrophotometry. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A highly selective fluorescent sensor for mercury ion (II) based on azathia‐crown ether possessing a dansyl moiety
Authors: Dai Huajun , Liu Fei , Gao Qianqian , Fu Tianhua , Kou Xingming
Published: December 2010

An intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) fluorescent sensor 1 using a dansyl moiety as the fluorophore and an azathia‐crown ether as the receptor was designed, synthesized and characterized. The ions‐selective signaling behaviors of the sensor 1 were investigated in CH3CN‐H2O (1:1, v/v) by fluorescence spectroscopy. It exhibited remarkable fluorescence quenching upon addition of Hg2+, which was attributed to the 1:1 complex formation between 1 and Hg2+, while other selected metal ions induced basically no spectral changes. The sensor 1 showed a rapid and linear response towards Hg2+ in the concentration range from 5.0 × 10−7 to 1.0 × 10−5 mol L−1 with the detection limit of 1.0 × 10−7 mol L−1. Furthermore, the whole process could be carried out in a wide pH range of 2.0–8.0 and was not disturbed by other metal ions. Thus, the sensor 1 was used for practical determination of Hg2+ in different water samples with satisfactory results. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Social work with violent men: a child protection file study in an English local authority
Authors: Baynes Polly , Holland Sally
Published: December 2010

This paper reports on a study of 40 child protection case files that were open in an English local authority in 2007. The study aimed to explore continuities and change in the engagement of men in the child protection system in England. The files recorded that 63 men were involved in the lives of the 71 children who were the focus of the child protection concerns. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from the minutes of the initial child protection meeting, strategy meetings, professional reports and the first review meeting. The study found high levels of violence in the cases and domestic violence was the most common reason for convening an initial child protection meeting. In common with earlier studies, men were found to be much less engaged in the child protection process than women, domestic violence was underplayed and little attention was paid to men's practical caring skills. Possibly as a result of changes to definitions of child abuse in recent years, this study also found that domestic violence may be used as a lever to initiate child protection processes where there are other concerns and that much more attention was paid to the likely emotional and physical impact of violence on children than on women. It was also found that violent men in this small sample were more likely to be engaged by professionals than men about whom there was no record of violence. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chemical Composition and Antidiabetic Activity of Opuntia Milpa Alta Extracts
Authors: Luo Chuan , Zhang Wannian , Sheng Chunquan , Zheng Chengjian , Yao Jianzhong , Miao Zhenyuan
Published: December 2010

Three new compounds, 1–3, and 20 known compounds were isolated from the AcOEt and BuOH extract of edible Opuntia Milpa Alta. The petroleum ether extract was examined by GC and MS. A total of 26 compounds were identified, representing 95.6% of the total extract, phytosterol (36.03%) being the most abundant component, and polyunsaturated fatty acids (18.57%) represented the second largest group, followed by phytol (12.28%), palmitic acid, palmitate (13.54%), vitamin E (4.51%), and other compounds (7.47%). The effects of various extracts from edible Opuntia Milpa Alta (petroleum ether extract, AcOEt extract, BuOH extract, aqueous extract, H2O parts) and the positive control (received dimethylbiguanide) were tested on streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetic mice. The results indicated that all the treatment groups could significantly decrease blood glucose levels in STZ‐induced diabetic mice compared to the model control group (P<0.01), except the aqueous extract group (P<0.05). Especially, the petroleum ether extract group and the positive control group showed remarkable decrease of blood glucose levels. Taken together, the results indicate that the petroleum ether extract is the major hypoglycemic part in edible Opuntia Milpa Alta, which may be developed to a potential natural hypoglycemic functional ingredient.
Induction‐Driven Stabilization of the Anion–π Interaction in Electron‐Rich Aromatics as the Key to Fluoride Inclusion in Imidazolium‐Cage Receptors
Authors: Xu Zhaochao , Singh N. Jiten , Kim Sook Kyung , Spring David R. , Kim Kwang S. , Yoon Juyoung
Published: December 2010

Intermolecular interactions that involve aromatic rings are key processes in both chemical and biological recognition. It is common knowledge that the existence of anion–π interactions between anions and electron‐deficient (π‐acidic) aromatics indicates that electron‐rich (π‐basic) aromatics are expected to be repulsive to anions due to their electron‐donating character. Here we report the first concrete theoretical and experimental evidence of the anion–π interaction between electron‐rich alkylbenzene rings and a fluoride ion in CH3CN. The cyclophane cavity bridged with three naphthoimidazolium groups selectively complexes a fluoride ion by means of a combination of anion–π interactions and (CH)+⋅⋅⋅F−‐type ionic hydrogen bonds. 1H NMR, 19F NMR, and fluorescence spectra of 1 and 2 with fluoride ions are examined to show that only 2 can host a fluoride ion in the cavity between two alkylbenzene rings to form a sandwich complex. In addition, the cage compounds can serve as highly selective and ratiometric fluorescent sensors for a fluoride ion. With the addition of 1 equiv of F−, a strongly increased fluorescence emission centered at 385 nm appears at the expense of the fluorescence emission of 2 centered at 474 nm. Finally, isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) experiments were performed to obtain the binding constants of the compounds 1 and 2 with F− as well as Gibbs free energy. The 2‐F− complex is more stable than the 1‐F− complex by 1.87 kcal mol−1, which is attributable to the stronger anion–π interaction between F− and triethylbenzene.
Reversible Mutarotation in a Macrocyclic Ytterbium Complex
Authors: Ballistreri Francesco P. , Gentile Salvatore , Pappalardo Andrea , Tomaselli Gaetano A. , Pradhan Sanghamitra , Di Bari Lorenzo
Published: December 2010

M40 is a four‐fold symmetry macrocyclic ligand endowed with axial and central chiral elements, all of R configuration. It promptly binds late lanthanides (YbIII and LuIII) yielding a negative helicity, as witnessed by NIR‐electronic circular dichroism. In the course of a few hours, a new conformation of the complex takes over, which has opposite helicity and allows for a dynamic free‐bound equilibrium. Upon slow solvent evaporation, the original conformation is retrieved and the whole dynamic process can be started again, as in a sandclock, allowing one to envisage applications as a time‐marker chiral switch.
Development of an ovarian cancer screening decision model that incorporates disease heterogeneity
Authors: Havrilesky Laura J. , Sanders Gillian D. , Kulasingam Shalini , Chino Junzo P. , Berchuck Andrew , Marks Jeffrey R. , Myers Evan R.
Published: December 2010

BACKGROUND:

Pathologic and genetic data suggest that epithelial ovarian cancer may consist of indolent and aggressive phenotypes. The objective of the current study was to estimate the impact of a 2‐phenotype paradigm of epithelial ovarian cancer on the mortality reduction achievable using available screening technologies.

METHODS:

The authors modified a Markov model of ovarian cancer natural history (the 1‐phenotype model) to incorporate aggressive and indolent phenotypes (the 2‐phenotype model) based on histopathologic criteria. Stage distribution, incidence, and mortality were calibrated to data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program of the US National Cancer Institute. For validation, a Monte Carlo microsimulation (1000,000 events) of the United Kingdom Collaborative Trial of Ovarian Cancer Screening (UKCTOCS) multimodality prevalence screen was performed. Mortality reduction and positive predictive value (PPV) were estimated for annual screening.

RESULTS:

In validation against UKCTOCS data, the model‐predicted percentage of screen‐detected cancers diagnosed at stage I and II was 41% compared with 47% (UKCTOCS data), and the model‐predicted PPV of screening was 27% compared with 35% (UKCTOCS data). The model‐estimated PPV of a strategy of annual population‐based screening in the United States at ages 50 to 85 years was 14%. The mortality reduction using annual postmenopausal screening was 14.7% (1‐phenotype model) and 10.9% (2‐phenotype model). Mortality reduction was lower with the 2‐phenotype model than with the 1‐phenotype model regardless of screening frequency or test sensitivity; 68% of cancer deaths are accounted for by the aggressive phenotype.

CONCLUSIONS:

The current analysis suggested that reductions in ovarian cancer mortality using available screening technologies on an annual basis are likely to be modest. A model that incorporated 2 clinical phenotypes of ovarian carcinoma into its natural history predicted an even smaller potential reduction in mortality because of the more frequent diagnosis of indolent cancers at early stages. Cancer 2011. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Does zinc supplementation improve dietary intake, symptoms of eating problems, and serum zinc levels in hemodialysis patients?
Authors: Ghaemmaghami Jamal , Mahdavi Reza , Faramarzi Elnaz , Mohammadpour Noshin , Argani Hassan
Published: December 2010

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of zinc supplementation on dietary intake, symptoms of eating problems, and serum zinc levels in hemodialysis patients.

METHODS

Thirty‐nine patients who received chronic maintenance hemodialysis were randomized to experimental (n = 21) and placebo (n = 18) groups given a daily supplement of 100 mg elemental zinc and corn starch, respectively, for 60 days. Dietary intake, body composition, and eating problems were assessed using 2‐day dietary records, bioelectric impedance tests, and a questionnaire, respectively. Serum zinc levels were determined by atomic absorption before and after intervention.

RESULTS

The mean daily macro‐ and micronutrients intakes and percentage of body fat in the supplemented group increased insigniﬁcantly. Administration of zinc improved appetite loss, dry mouth, nausea, and hypogeusia, while incidence of these symptoms increased in control group. A signiﬁcant increase (p < 0.01) was observed in the mean serum zinc levels in the experimental group (102 ± 4 vs. 76 ± 3 µg/dL) while changes in the placebo group were not signiﬁcant.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite observed improvement in symptoms of eating problems and serum zinc levels in the supplemented group, more study over a longer period must be carried out to achieve clearer results.
Growth in children after renal transplantation: An update
Authors: Modini Vinai M. , Seikaly Mouin G.
Published: December 2010

Improving general health, sense of well‐being, and quality of life are the primary objectives of renal transplanta‐tion in children with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Final adult height achieved has a significant impact on medical, psychological, and social aspects of these patients. Growth is an important indicator of health in children with CKD. It seems intuitive then to expect improvement in growth after renal transplantation. Unfortunately, even with a functioning renal allograft, optimal growth remains elusive at times. Optimizing growth prior to transplant, early identification of growth delay, and timely intervention are essential in achieving optimal final adult height. Multiple factors lead to stunted growth in children after renal transplant.
A Simple Route to Chelating, Structurally Different Triazole‐Based Bis(N‐heterocyclic carbene) Ligands and Their Coordination to PtII
Authors: Zanardi Alessandro , Mata Jose A. , Peris Eduardo
Published: December 2010

Two new bis(triazolium) salts have been prepared and used as N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) precursors. The structure of the salts is highly dependent on the synthetic route, which implies the sequential alkylation of two of the three N atoms at the triazole rings. This method allows the easy preparation of bistriazolium salts with the bridge at the 1,1′ or 4,4′ positions. The two bis(triazolium) salts have been used for the preparation of three different bis(NHC)PtII complexes that have been fully characterized and the molecular structures of all three new complexes have been determined. The new Pt compounds have been tested in the hydrosilylation of terminal alkynes.
Fast Electrochemical Characterization of Historical Glasses Using Carbon Screen‐Printed Electrodes and Ultrasonic Assisted Sampling
Authors: Palomar T. , García‐Heras M. , Villegas M. A. , Sevilla M. T.
Published: December 2010

A new method for lead oxide (PbO) analysis in glasses, using a carbon screen printed electrode (SPE) is proposed. A suspension of the powdered glass sample in nitric acid is prepared using an ultrasonic probe, 100 µL of slurry are deposited on the SPE and the voltammetric measurement is carried out. Structural information of PbO in the glass matrix is obtained by CV. Lead quantification is performed by DPV. In the best conditions a LOD of 2.30 wt% of PbO was obtained. The method has been applied with good results in the analysis of historical glasses samples.
Increase in posterior alpha activity during rehearsal predicts successful long‐term memory formation of word sequences
Authors: Meeuwissen Esther B. , Takashima Atsuko , Fernández Guillén , Jensen Ole
Published: December 2010

It is becoming increasingly clear that demanding cognitive tasks rely on an extended network engaging task‐relevant areas and, importantly, disengaging task‐irrelevant areas. Given that alpha activity (8–12 Hz) has been shown to reflect the disengagement of task‐irrelevant regions in attention and working memory tasks, we here ask if alpha activity plays a related role for long‐term memory formation. Subjects were instructed to encode and maintain the order of word sequences while the ongoing brain activity was recorded using magnetoencephalography (MEG). In each trial, three words were presented followed by a 3.4 s rehearsal interval. Considering the good temporal resolution of MEG this allowed us to investigate the word presentation and rehearsal interval separately. The sequences were grouped in trials where word order either could be tested immediately (working memory trials; WM) or later (LTM trials) according to instructions. Subjects were tested on their ability to retrieve the order of the three words. The data revealed that alpha power in parieto‐occipital regions was lower during word presentation compared to rehearsal. Our key finding was that parieto‐occipital alpha power during the rehearsal period was markedly stronger for successfully than unsuccessfully encoded LTM sequences. This subsequent memory effect demonstrates that high posterior alpha activity creates an optimal brain state for successful LTM formation possibly by actively reducing parieto‐occipital activity that might interfere with sequence encoding. Hum Brain Mapp, 2011. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impact of early percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube placement on nutritional status and hospitalization in patients with head and neck cancer receiving definitive chemoradiation therapy
Authors: Rutter Charles E. , Yovino Susannah , Taylor Rodney , Wolf Jeffrey , Cullen Kevin J. , Ord Robert , Athas Mindy , Zimrin Ann , Strome Scott , Suntharalingam Mohan
Published: December 2010

Background

This study analyzed the impact of timing of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube placement on clinical endpoints in patients undergoing concurrent chemoradiation therapy (CRT).

Methods

In all, 111 patients who underwent CRT for locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) were retrospectively analyzed to determine the effect of timing of PEG placement on weight loss, hospitalizations, and rates of PEG complications/dependence.

Results

Early PEG tube placement was correlated to reductions in weight loss during CRT (p < .001, R = 0.495), hospitalization for nutritional deficits (p = .011, R = 0.262), and magnitude of persistent weight loss at 6 weeks post‐CRT (p = .003, R = 0.347). Disease control was the only predictor of PEG dependence. No differences were seen in PEG complication or dependence rates with earlier placement.

Conclusions

The results of our series show that patients with locally advanced SCCHN undergoing definitive CRT may derive significant clinical benefit from the early placement of PEG tubes for nutritional supplementation. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2010
Patatin-Like Phospholipase Domain-Containing 3 I148M Polymorphism, Steatosis, and Liver Damage in Chronic Hepatitis C σ
Authors: Valenti Luca , Rumi MariaGrazia , Galmozzi Enrico , Aghemo Alessio , Del Menico Benedetta , De Nicola Stella , Dongiovanni Paola , Maggioni Marco , Fracanzani Anna Ludovica , Rametta Raffaela , Colombo Massimo , Fargion Silvia
Published: December 2010

Steatosis has been reported to negatively influence the natural history of chronic hepatitis C (CHC), but controversy remains over its causal role due to the confounding effect of adiposity, insulin resistance, and diabetes. The rs738409 C>G patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing 3 (

PNPLA3

) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), encoding for the I148M protein variant, influences liver fat without affecting insulin resistance and body composition. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the rs738409 CG genotype on liver fat and fibrosis in CHC patients. We also explored the possible effect of

PNPLA3

genotype on other steatosis-related complications, namely, treatment failure and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. To this end we considered two independent series of 325 and 494 CHC patients with available DNA and liver biopsy followed at tertiary referral centers in northern Italy. The rs738409 genotype was determined by a Taqman assay. The rs738409 GG genotype, observed in 10% of patients, was associated with steatosis independently of age, sex, body mass index (BMI), diabetes, alcohol intake, and viral genotype (odds ratio [OR] 1.90, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.4-2.7;

P

< 0.001). The association with rs738409 genotype was confirmed for severe steatosis, was independent of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) values, and was observed in all viral genotypes but the 3. The rs738409 GG genotype was associated with fibrosis stage and cirrhosis (OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.2-1.9;

P

= 0.002), treatment response (n = 470; OR 0.63, 95% CI 0.4-0.8;

P

= 0.006), and HCC occurrence (n = 325; OR 2.16, 95% CI 1.3-3.6;

P

= 0.002), independently of confounders.

Conclusion:

The rs738409

PNPLA3

genotype influences steatosis development in CHC and is independently associated with cirrhosis and other steatosis-related clinical outcomes, such as lack of response to antiviral treatment and possibly HCC. (Hepatology 2011)
MicroRNA-492 Is Processed From the Keratin 19 Gene and Up-Regulated in Metastatic Hepatoblastoma σ
Authors: von Frowein Julia , Pagel Philipp , Kappler Roland , von Schweinitz Dietrich , Roscher Adelbert , Schmid Irene
Published: December 2010

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are well-known regulators of proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation and are recognized to play an important role in the development of cancers. Here we aimed to identify the functional contribution of miRNAs to the biology of hepatoblastoma (HB), the most common malignant liver tumor in childhood. As overexpression of the oncogene PLAG1 (pleomorphic adenoma gene 1) is a characteristic phenomenon in HB, we used RNA interference and subsequent miRNA array analysis to identify miR-492 as most strongly influenced by PLAG1. We provide novel experimental evidence that miR-492 can originate from the coding sequence of the HB marker gene keratin 19 (KRT19). In agreement with these

in vitro

observations, significantly elevated levels of coexpressed KRT19 and miR-492 were particularly found in metastatic HB tumor samples. Stable overexpression of miR-492 in HB cell clones served to identify a broad range of differentially expressed transcripts, including several candidate targets of miR-492 predicted by computational algorithms. Among those the liver enzyme BAAT showed significant association with miR-492 expression in HB tumor samples.

Conclusion:

A close functional relationship between KRT19 and miR-492 was identified that may play an important role in the progression of malignant embryonal liver tumors. Additionally, miR-492 and its associated targets might serve as new HB biomarkers of clinical utility and could assist to explore targeted therapies, especially in metastatic HB with a poor prognosis. (Hepatology 2011)
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) Activity Score and the Histopathologic Diagnosis in NAFLD: Distinct Clinicopathologic Meanings §Δ
Authors: Brunt Elizabeth M. , Kleiner David E. , Wilson Laura A. , Belt Patricia , Neuschwander-Tetri Brent A.
Published: December 2010

The diagnosis of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is defined by the presence and pattern of specific histological abnormalities on liver biopsy. A separate system of scoring the features of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) called the NAFLD Activity Score (NAS) was developed as a tool to measure changes in NAFLD during therapeutic trials. However, some studies have used threshold values of the NAS, specifically NAS ≥5, as a surrogate for the histologic diagnosis of NASH. To evaluate whether this unintended use of the NAS is valid, biopsy and clinical data from the 976 adults in NASH Clinical Research Network (CRN) studies were reviewed. Biopsies were evaluated centrally by the NASH CRN Pathology Committee. Definite steatohepatitis (SH) was diagnosed in 58.1%, borderline SH in 19.5% and “not SH” in 22%. The NAS was ≥5 in 50% and ≤4 in 49%; in this cohort only 75% of biopsies with definite SH had an NAS ≥5, whereas 28% of borderline SH and 7% of “not SH” biopsies had NAS ≥5. Of biopsies with an NAS ≥5, 86% had SH and 3% “not SH”. NAS ≤4 did not indicate benign histology; 29% had SH and only 42% had “not SH.” Higher values of the NAS were associated with higher levels of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase, whereas the diagnosis of SH was associated with features of the metabolic syndrome.

Conclusion:

The diagnosis of definite SH or the absence of SH based on evaluation of patterns as well as individual lesions on liver biopsies does not always correlate with threshold values of the semiquantitative NAS. Clinical trials and observational studies should take these different performance characteristics into account. (Hepatology 2011)
Microwave‐Assisted Three‐Component Synthesis of Some Novel 1‐Alkyl‐1H‐indole‐2,3‐dione 3‐(O‐Alkyl­oxime) Derivatives as Potential Chemotherapeutic Agents
Authors: Soltani Rad Mohammad Navid , Khalafi‐Nezhad Ali , Babamohammadi Somayeh , Behrouz Somayeh
Published: December 2010

A convenient and efficient method for a one‐pot conversion of N‐alkylisatins to N‐alkylisatin O‐alkyloximes 7a–7n as potential chemotherapeutic agents is described (Scheme) (isatin=1H‐indole‐2,3‐dione). In this method, the microwave‐assisted three‐component reaction of N‐alkylisatins 8, hydroxylamine hydrochloride, and diverse alkyl halides in the presence of K2CO3 and Bu4NBr furnishes the corresponding N‐alkylisatin O‐alkyloximes under solvent‐free condition in short times (2–10 min) and good to excellent yields (62–83%). The O‐alkylation of in situ generated isatin oximes with alkyl halides was achieved regioselectively, and (Z)‐O‐alkyloximes were produced dominantly. PM3 Semi‐empirical quantum‐mechanic calculations were performed to rationalize the evidences, and the calculations indicated a lower heat of formation for the (Z)‐O‐alkyloximes.
‘DUAL’ GRAVITY: USING SPATIAL ECONOMETRICS TO CONTROL FOR MULTILATERAL RESISTANCE
Authors: Behrens Kristian , Ertur Cem , Koch Wilfried
Published: December 2010

We derive a quantity‐based structural gravity equation system in which both trade flows and error terms are cross‐sectionally correlated. This system can be estimated using techniques borrowed from the spatial econometrics literature. To illustrate our methodology, we apply it to a well‐known Canada–US trade dataset. We find that border effects between the USA and Canada are smaller than suggested by previous studies: about 7.5 for Canadian provinces and about 1.3 for US states. Hence controlling directly for cross‐sectional interdependence among both trade flows and error terms reduces measured border effects by capturing ‘multilateral resistance’. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sonographic appearance of a giant cell tumor of the humerus
Authors: Chang Ke‐Vin , Chen Yen‐Jung , Wang Tyng‐Guey
Published: December 2010

The sonographic presentation of intramedullary bone tumors is rarely reported. A patient with right shoulder pain for 7 months was clinically diagnosed with shoulder impingement syndrome. Sonographic examination revealed a segment of thinning cortex with a large, heteroechoic tumor deep in the greater tuberosity of the humerus. Increased peripheral vascularity of the tumor was observed in the power Doppler mode. The definite diagnosis was a giant cell tumor, whose sonographic findings are discussed. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2011
Unplanned transfers to a medical intensive care unit: Causes and relationship to preventable errors in care
Authors: Bapoje Srinivas R. , Gaudiani Jennifer L. , Narayanan Vignesh , Albert Richard K.
Published: December 2010

BACKGROUND:

Unplanned intensive care unit (ICU) transfers may result from errors in care but the frequency of their occurrence, and whether these transfers might be prevented, has not been investigated.

OBJECTIVE:

To determine why unplanned transfers occur, what fraction results from errors in care, whether they are preceded by changes in clinical status and if so, whether earlier or different responses might prevent the transfers.

DESIGN:

Retrospective study.

SETTING:

University‐affiliated hospital.

PATIENTS:

All patients 18 to 89 years with unplanned transfers to the medical ICU from June 1, 2005 to May 30, 2006.

INTERVENTION:

None.

MEASUREMENTS:

Demographics, admission and transfer diagnoses, clinical triggers preceding the transfer, mortality, judgment by three reviewers about cause of transfer and whether it could have been prevented.

RESULTS:

A total of 152 patients had unplanned transfers. The most common reasons were worsening of the problem for which the patient was admitted (48%) and development of a new problem (39%). Errors in care accounted for 29 transfers (19%), 15 of which were due to incorrect triage at the time of admission, and 14 due to iatrogenic errors. Of the 14 iatrogenic errors, the investigators determined that eight transfers might have been prevented by an earlier intervention. Agreement among the three reviewers was moderate to almost perfect (κ 0.55‐0.90).

CONCLUSIONS:

Although 19% of unplanned transfers to medical ICUs are associated with errors in care, almost 80% of these seem to be preventable. Most of the preventable errors resulted from inappropriate admission triage. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2010. © 2010 Society of Hospital Medicine.
Scheduled admissions and high occupancy at a children's hospital
Authors: Fieldston Evan S. , Ragavan Meera , Jayaraman Bhuvaneswari , Allebach Kelly , Pati Susmita , Metlay Joshua P.
Published: December 2010

BACKGROUND:

High hospital occupancy is a challenge for quality of care and access, while low levels of occupancy may be inefficient in terms of resource utilization. Variability from scheduling decisions may affect occupancy and be amenable to alteration.

OBJECTIVE:

Describe variability in admission, discharge, and occupancy patterns at a large children's hospital and assess the relationship between scheduled admissions and occupancy.

DESIGN:

Retrospective administrative data analysis.

SETTING:

One urban, tertiary‐care children's hospital.

PATIENTS:

A total of 22,310 consecutive patients admitted from July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008.

MEASUREMENTS:

Admission‐discharge‐transfer (ADT) data for 1 fiscal year were abstracted for analysis of admission and occupancy patterns.

RESULTS:

Among 22,310 admissions, 78% were coded as emergent and 22% as scheduled. Variation in admission volume by day of week was high for scheduled admissions (coefficient of variation [CV] 65.3%), while it was more consistent for emergent admissions (CV 12.0%). For patients with length of stay (LOS) ≤7 days (84%), Mondays and Tuesdays generated 45.2% of scheduled patient hours. Wednesdays and Thursdays had the highest frequency of high occupancy.

CONCLUSIONS:

Scheduled admissions contribute significantly to variability in occupancy and risk of mid‐week crowding. Predictable patterns of admissions lead to high occupancy on some days and unused capacity on others, which can be addressed with proactive management of admissions (eg, greater use of unused capacity on weekends and in summer). Hospitals interested in optimizing patient flow should assess their admission and occupancy patterns. Further studies should link variation in occupancy to outcomes including quality of care, educational activities, and staff satisfaction. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2010;. © 2010 Society of Hospital Medicine.
Preparation of Bowl‐Like Polymer Particles via Multi‐Step Emulsion Polymerization and Alkali Post‐Treatment
Authors: Deng Wei , Wang Jishuai , Wang Manyi , Kan Chengyou
Published: December 2010

Summary: Monodisperse P(BA‐MMA‐MAA‐EGDMA)/P(St‐MAA‐DVB) core/shell latex particles were first synthesized by a four‐step emulsion polymerization, and a new kind of latex particles with “bowl‐like” morphology were obtained by post‐treating the resultant core/shell particles under alkali condition. Results indicated that the feeding rates of the monomer mixture and initiator aqueous solution were the key parameters to obtain monodisperse core/shell latex particles in the emulsion polymerization process, and the latex particles with “bowl‐like” morphology could be generated only when the treatment temperature was equal or higher than 70 °C.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Adhesion Properties of Homogeneous and Core‐Shell Pressure‐Sensitive Adhesives
Authors: Mascorro R. , Elena‐Navarro Ma. , Dorantes H. , Corea M.
Published: December 2010

Summary: Pressure‐Sensitive Adhesives (PSAs) are used for many applications (e.g. tapes and labels), and the market is still growing as new applications are regularly discovered. Emulsion polymerization is widely used to produce water‐based PSAs. In this work, the influence of morphology, diameter and acrylic acid concentration in the particles on adhesion properties (peel, tack and shear) was studied. To do so, two series of homogeneous and core‐shell latex particles of poly(butyl acrylate‐2‐ethyl‐hexyl acrylate) with different concentrations of acrylic acid (0, 1, 3 and 5 wt%) and three different average diameters, were synthesized by means of emulsion polymerization techniques. The materials were characterized by dynamic light scattering, zeta potential and transmission electronic microscopy. The contents of acrylic acid in the polymer and dispersed medium were determined and the higher quantity of it was found within the particles. The best equilibrium between adhesion properties was found in the core‐shell particles with 3 wt% of AA.
Dietary selenium intake influences Cx43 dephosphorylation, TNF‐α expression and cardiac remodeling after reperfused infarction
Authors: Tanguy Stéphane , Rakotovao Andry , Jouan Marie‐Gabrielle , Ghezzi Catherine , de Leiris Joël , Boucher François
Published: December 2010

Scope: Post‐infarct left ventricular dysfunction and cardiac remodeling are the primary causes of chronic heart failure in industrialized countries. In the present study, we examined the influence of dietary selenium intake on cardiac remodeling after reperfused myocardial infarction and explored one of the possible mechanisms.

Methods and results: Rats were fed a diet containing either 0.05 mg/kg (Low‐Se, group of rats receiving the low‐selenium diet) or 1.50 mg/kg (group of rats receiving the high‐selenium diet) selenium. At the end of the 5th week of the diet, rats were subjected to transient (1 h) coronary ligation followed by 8 days of reperfusion. Infarct size and cardiac passive compliance were increased in the Low‐Se group compared with group of rats receiving the high‐selenium diet. Similarly, indices of cardiac remodeling (thinning index and expansion index) were more altered in Low‐Se hearts. These adverse effects of the Low‐Se diet on cardiac remodeling were accompanied by an increase in cardiac TNF‐α content, a decreased activity of antioxidant seleno‐enzymes and an increase in connexin‐43 dephosphorylation.

Conclusion: Dietary selenium intake influences post‐infarct cardiac remodeling even when provided within the range of physiological values. Our data suggest that the cardioprotective effect of selenium might be mediated by a reduced oxidative stress, a lower connexin‐43 dephosphorylation, and a decreased TNF‐α expression.
Design, realization, and test of a 2.1‐GHz low‐phase‐noise oscillator based on BAW resonator
Authors: Li Mingdong , Seok S. , Rolland N. , Rolland P.‐A.
Published: December 2010

This article presents the design and the realization of a 2.1‐GHz low‐phase‐noise oscillator through a combination of bulk acoustic wave resonator and negative differential resistance circuit using STMicroelectronics 0.25‐μm BiCMOS technology. A new procedure that is based on the Kurokawa criterion and implemented with microwave CADs has been used to design the oscillator. A good agreement between the simulations and measurements has been achieved. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:405–409, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.25690
Design of high‐efficiency and broadband‐tuned class AB power amplifier
Authors: Vatankhahghadim Aynaz , Boumaiza Slim
Published: December 2010

The design of broadband matching networks (MNs) exploiting filter theory is presented in this article for synthesizing broadband and highly efficient power amplifiers (PAs).Starting from sets of optimum impedances over the design frequency (obtained from load/pull measurement), the MNs are designed using a systematic approach. The impact of the second harmonic termination on the transistor performance is investigated and used to optimize the power efficiency over broad frequency range. Two PAs were designed with the proposed methodology using 25‐W GaN device. The designs targeted the frequency bands of 1.8–2.2 GHz (20% BW) and 1.8–2.7 GHz (40% BW). The former achieved the drain efficiency (DE) of about 70% and output power of 45.5 dBm (±1 dB), whereas the latter delivered a DE of about 60% and output power of 45.5 dBm. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:395–398, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.25710
Small‐size wideband monopole antenna closely coupled with a chip‐inductor–loaded shorted strip for 11‐band WWAN/WLAN/WiMAX operation in the slim mobile phone
Authors: Wong Kin‐Lu , Lee Cheng‐Tse
Published: December 2010

A small‐size wideband antenna suitable for the 11‐band WWAN/WLAN/WiMAX operation in the slim mobile phone is presented. The wideband antenna has a simple structure and is formed by a printed monopole closely coupled with a chip‐inductor‐loaded shorted strip. The antenna occupies a small footprint of 15 × 20.5 mm2 (∼308 mm2) on the system circuit board and can generate two wide operating bands for the desired 11‐band operation. The antenna's upper band is mainly contributed by the printed monopole and covers the GSM1800/1900/UMTS operation (1710–2170 MHz), the 2.4/5.2/5.8 GHz WLAN operation (2400–2484/5150–5350/5725–5875 MHz), and the 2.5/3.5/5.5 GHz WiMAX operation (2500–2690/3300–3800/5250–5850 MHz). The lower band is contributed by the parasitic chip‐inductor‐loaded shorted strip closely coupled by the printed monopole and covers the GSM850/900 operation (824–960 MHz). Further, the antenna can be disposed on the system circuit board of the mobile phone with a small thickness of 3 mm only, allowing the antenna very promising to be applied in the modern slim mobile phone. Detailed results of the proposed antenna are presented. The specific absorption rate results of the antenna, including the case with the user's hand presence, are also analyzed. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:361–366, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.25712
A novel terahertz wave switch based on metamaterial
Authors: Jiu‐sheng Li , Jian‐jun Liu
Published: December 2010

In this letter, a novel terahertz (THz) wave switch based on metamaterial is proposed and measured.On–off switching is based on a controllable resonance of the metamaterial by applying an external semiconductor laser to illuminate substrate. Experimentally, we demonstrate on–off response time speed and extinction ratio of the proposed THz wave switch is of 1 ms and 19.4 dB at 0.32 THz, respectively. The presented THz wave switch has a potential application to THz wave communication systems. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:276–278, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.25751
Quantitative measurement of blood‐brain barrier permeability in human using dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI with fast T1 mapping
Authors: Taheri Saeid , Gasparovic Charles , Shah Nadim Jon , Rosenberg Gary A.
Published: December 2010

Breakdown of the blood‐brain barrier (BBB), occurring in many neurological diseases, has been difficult to measure noninvasively in humans. Dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging measures BBB permeability. However, important technical challenges remain and normative data from healthy humans is lacking. We report the implementation of a method for measuring BBB permeability, originally developed in animals, to estimate BBB permeability in both healthy subjects and patients with white matter pathology. Fast T1 mapping was used to measure the leakage of contrast agent Gadolinium diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid (Gd‐DTPA) from plasma into brain. A quarter of the standard Gd‐DTPA dose for dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging was found to give both sufficient contrast‐to‐noise and high T1 sensitivity. The Patlak graphical approach was used to calculate the permeability from changes in 1/T1. Permeability constants were compared with cerebrospinal fluid albumin index. The upper limit of the 95% confidence interval for white matter BBB permeability for normal subjects was 3 × 10−4 L/g min. MRI measurements correlated strongly with levels of cerebrospinal fluid albumin in those subjects undergoing lumbar puncture. Dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging with low dose Gd‐DTPA and fast T1 imaging is a sensitive method to measure subtle differences in BBB permeability in humans and may have advantages over techniques based purely on the measurement of pixel contrast changes. Magn Reson Med, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In vivo MRSI of hyperpolarized [1‐13C]pyruvate metabolism in rat hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Darpolor Moses M. , Yen Yi‐Fen , Chua Mei‐Sze , Xing Lei , Clarke‐Katzenberg Regina H. , Shi Wenfang , Mayer Dirk , Josan Sonal , Hurd Ralph E. , Pfefferbaum Adolf , Senadheera Lasitha , So Samuel , Hofmann Lawrence V. , Glazer Gary M. , Spielman Daniel M.
Published: December 2010

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the primary form of human adult liver malignancy, is a highly aggressive tumor with average survival rates that are currently less than 1 year following diagnosis. Most patients with HCC are diagnosed at an advanced stage, and no efficient marker exists for the prediction of prognosis and/or response(s) to therapy. We have reported previously a high level of [1‐13C]alanine in an orthotopic HCC using single‐voxel hyperpolarized [1‐13C]pyruvate MRS. In the present study, we implemented a three‐dimensional MRSI sequence to investigate this potential hallmark of cellular metabolism in rat livers bearing HCC (n = 7 buffalo rats). In addition, quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction was used to determine the mRNA levels of lactate dehydrogenase A, nicotinamide adenine (phosphate) dinucleotide dehydrogenase quinone 1 and alanine transaminase. The enzyme levels were significantly higher in tumor than in normal liver tissues within each rat, and were associated with the in vivo MRSI signal of [1‐13C]alanine and [1‐13C]lactate after a bolus intravenous injection of [1‐13C]pyruvate. Histopathological analysis of these tumors confirmed the successful growth of HCC as a nodule in buffalo rat livers, revealing malignancy and hypervascular architecture. More importantly, the results demonstrated that the metabolic fate of [1‐13C]pyruvate conversion to [1‐13C]alanine significantly superseded that of [1‐13C]pyruvate conversion to [1‐13C]lactate, potentially serving as a marker of HCC tumors. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Albanian approach to municipal borrowing: From centralized control to market discipline
Authors: Cepiku Denita , Mussari Riccardo
Published: December 2010

Local governments (LGs) in transitional countries face pressing infrastructure needs, which, given the severe shortcomings of traditional funding, make a strong case for debt financing. This article explores the case study of Albania, using document analysis and interviews with mayors, civil servants, citizens and investors. We go beyond an analysis of technical aspects (macroeconomic conditions and legal constraints on borrowing) to include ‘soft’ elements (political and managerial issues, attitudes of key actors), with the aim of highlighting the approach adopted under current policies and the approach that should be adopted. Favorable macroeconomic conditions and the completeness of the legal framework have motivated policy‐makers to choose the market model. Their aim is to develop the financial market rapidly; however, the development of sound management systems at the local level is largely ignored. We argue that the role of managerial capacities, public accountability and professional mechanisms is not adequately taken into account. Future policies need to make the best use of some early experiences of public participation and build upon the extensive training in accounting and auditing issues provided to local civil servants in order to exploit other models of municipal borrowing control. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.