bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Metallosupramolecular Networks Constructed from CuII, NiII, and CdII with Mixed Ligands: Crystal Structures, Fluorescence, and Magnetism
Authors: Du Miao , Jiang Xiu‐Juan , Zhao Xiao‐Jun , Cai Hua , Ribas Joan
Published: January 2006

Reactions of mixed ligands succinic acid (H2suc) and bent dipyridines, such as 2,5‐bis(3‐pyridyl)‐1,3,4‐oxadiazole (3‐bpo) and its 4‐N‐donor analog (4‐bpo), with inorganic CuII, NiII, and CdII salts yield three new metal‐organic coordination frameworks {[Cu(suc)(3‐bpo)(H2O)2]·(H2O)1.75}n (1), {[Ni(suc)(4‐bpo)(H2O)2]·(H2O)5}n (3), and {[Cd2(suc)2(3‐bpo)2(H2O)2]·(H2O)6.75}n (4), in which the metal centers are linked by bridging ligands 3‐bpo/4‐bpo and suc2– along two directions to form 2D infinite networks. The corrugated 2D nets of 1 and 4, obtained under hydrothermal conditions, align in an interdigitated manner with the presence of significant aromatic‐stacking interactions to result in similar 3D architectures. The 2D sheets in 3 are extended by interlayer hydrogen bonds to afford a 3D structure. However, when succinic acid is replaced by fumaric acid (H2fum) in the reaction with 3‐bpo and CuII salt, a metallacyclophane [Cu(Hfum)2(3‐bpo)(H2O)]2·(3‐bpo)2·(H2O)6 (2) is generated. The binuclear coordinated motifs are hydrogen‐bonded to the lattice water chains to furnish a unique 3D channel‐like framework, in which the guest 3‐bpo molecules are accommodated. The thermal stabilities of these new materials were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) of mass loss. The magnetic coupling in complexes 1–3 is antiferromagnetic and very small, which is as expected considering the long organic bridges between the paramagnetic centers. The solid‐state luminescence properties of 4 reveal an intense fluorescence emission at 378 nm. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
Amine‐Functionalised Hexagonal Mesoporous Silica as Support for Copper(II) Acetylacetonate Catalyst
Authors: Silva Ana Rosa , Wilson Karen , Whitwood Adrian C. , Clark James H. , Freire Cristina
Published: January 2006

Copper(II) acetylacetonate was anchored onto a hexagonal mesoporous silica (HMS) material using a two‐step procedure: (i) functionalisation of the surface hydroxy groups with (3‐aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (AMPTSi) and then (ii) anchoring of the copper(II) complex through Schiff condensation with free amine groups, using two different metal complex loadings. Upon the first step, nitrogen elemental analysis, XPS and DRIFT showed the presence of amine groups on the surface of the HMS material, and porosimetry indicated that the structure of the mesoporous material remained unchanged, although a slight decrease in surface area was observed. Atomic absorption, XPS and DRIFT showed that copper(II) acetylacetonate was anchored onto the amine‐functionalised HMS by Schiff condensation between the free amine groups and the carbonyl groups of the copper(II) complex; using EPR an NO3 coordination sphere was proposed for the anchored copper(II) complex. The new [Cu(acac)2]AMPTSi/HMS materials were tested in the aziridination of styrene at room temperature, using PhI=NTs as nitrogen source and acetonitrile as solvent. The styrene conversion and total TON of the heterogeneous phase reaction are higher than those of the same reaction catalysed in homogeneous phase by [Cu(acac)2]; nevertheless, the initial activity decreases and the reaction time increases due to substrate and product diffusion limitations. The heterogeneous catalyst showed a successive slight decrease in catalytic activity when reused for two more times.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
Methyl‐Hydroxypyridinecarboxylic Acids as Possible Bidentate Chelating Agents for Aluminium(III): Synthesis and Metal–Ligand Solution Chemistry
Authors: Di Marco Valerio B. , Dean Annalisa , Ferlin Maria Grazia , Yokel Robert A. , Li Haitao , Venzo Alfonso , Bombi G. Giorgio
Published: January 2006

In view of a possible application to aluminium chelation therapy, 1‐methyl‐3‐hydroxy‐4‐pyridinecarboxylic acid (1M3H4P) and 1‐methyl‐4‐hydroxy‐3‐pyridinecarboxylic acid (1M4H3P) were synthesized, and their chemical interactions with aluminium(III) were investigated in aqueous 0.6 m (Na)Cl at 25 °C by means of potentiometric titrations. The qualitative and quantitative results obtained were confirmed by UV spectrophotometry and 1H NMR spectroscopy. For both ligands, the species AlL2+, AlL2+, AlL3, and AlL2H–1 were identified, with logβ1,1,0 = 7.66, logβ1,2,0 = 14.27, logβ1,3,0 = 19.099, and logβ1,2,–1 = 7.00 for 1M3H4P, logβ1,1,0 = 7.21, logβ1,2,0 = 13.41, logβ1,3,0 = 18.15, and logβ1,2,–1 = 6.4 for 1M4H3P. The chelation strength of 1M3H4P and 1M4H3P is lower than that of other available aluminium(III) chelators, e.g. deferiprone (pAl difference at physiological pH: ca. 3 log units). The octanol/aqueous partitioning values of 1M3H4P and 1M4H3P were 0.0054 and 0.0015, respectively, showing high hydrophilicity. The efficiencies of the ligands to chelate aluminium(III) were evaluated at physiological pH and ion strength “in vitro”. 1M3H4P and 1M4H3P were more effective than their non‐methylated analogs 3H4P and 4H3P. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
A Mild Chemo‐Enzymatic Oxidation–Hydrocyanation Protocol
Authors: Vugts Danielle J. , Veum Lars , al‐Mafraji Kanar , Lemmens Renske , Schmitz Rob F. , de Kanter Frans J. J. , Groen Marinus B. , Hanefeld Ulf , Orru Romano V. A.
Published: January 2006

Oxidation–hydrocyanation of γ,δ‐unsaturated alcohols using (immobilised) TEMPO/PhI(OAc)2 in combination with HbHNL proceeds smoothly. After (in situ) protection, the resulting cyanohydrin derivatives were obtained in good overall yields and high ee’s. A mild TEMPO‐catalysed oxidation protocol is described that yields β,γ‐unsaturated aldehydes without isomerisation of the double bond and that is compatible with a subsequent HbHNL‐catalysed hydrocyanation performed in the same solvent system. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
Calcyclin binding protein promotes DNA synthesis and differentiation in rat neonatal cardiomyocytes
Authors: Au Ka‐Wing , Kou Cecy Y.C. , Woo Anthony Y.H. , Chim Stephen S.C. , Fung Kwok‐Pui , Cheng Christopher H.K. , Waye Mary M.Y. , Tsui Stephen K.W.
Published: January 2006

During cardiac muscle development, most cardiomyocytes permanently withdraw from the cell cycle. Previously, by suppressive subtractive hybridization, we identified calcyclin‐binding protein/Siah‐interacting protein (CacyBP/SIP) as one of the candidates being upregulated in the hyperplastic to hypertrophic switch, suggesting an important role of CacyBP/SIP in cardiac development. To show the importance of CacyBP/SIP during myoblast differentiation, we report here that CacyBP/SIP is developmentally regulated in postnatal rat hearts. The overexpression of CacyBP/SIP promotes the differentiation and DNA synthesis of H9C2 cells and primary rat cardiomyocytes, as well as downregulates the expression of β‐catenin. Besides, CacyBP/SIP promotes the formation of myotubes and multinucleation upon differentiation. To investigate the cardioprotective role of CacyBP/SIP in cardiomyocytes, a hypoxia/reoxygenation model was employed. We found that CacyBP/SIP was upregulated during myocardial infarction (MI) and hypoxia/reoxygenation. As a conclusion, CacyBP/SIP may play a role in cardiomyogenic differentiation and possibly protection of cardiomyocytes during hypoxia/reoxygenation injury. J. Cell. Biochem. 98: 555–566, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Activin A induces erythroid gene expressions and inhibits mitogenic cytokine‐mediated K562 colony formation by activating p38 MAPK
Authors: Huang Huei‐Mei , Chiou Huei‐Yu , Chang Ju‐Ling
Published: January 2006

Activin A, a member of the transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β superfamily, is involved in the regulation of erythroid differentiation. Previous studies have shown that activin A inhibited the colony‐forming activity of mouse Friend erythroleukemia cells, however, the mechanism remains unknown. First, we show herein that activin A induced the expression and activated the promoters of α‐globin and ζ‐globin in K562 cells, confirming that activin A induces erythroid differentiation in K562 cells. The p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitor, SB203580, inhibited and the extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) inhibitor, PD98059, enhanced the expression and promoter activities of α‐globin and ζ‐globin by activin A, indicating that p38 MAPK and ERK are crucial for activin A‐induced erythroid genes expression. Second, SB203580 inhibited the inhibitory effect of activin A on the colony‐forming activity of K562 cells using the methylcellulose colony assay, indicating that activin A inhibits K562 colony formation by activating p38 MAPK. In addition, mitogenic cytokines SCF, IL‐3, and GM‐CSF induced colony formation of K562 cells that could be inhibited by PD98059 or enhanced by SB203580, respectively, indicating that these mitogenic cytokines induce K562 colony formation by activating ERK and inactivating p38 MAPK. Furthermore, activin A reduced the induction effect of these mitogenic cytokines on K562 colony formation in a dose‐dependent manner. The inhibition of p38 MAPK reverted the inhibitory effect of activin A on mitogenic cytokine‐mediated K562 colony formation. We conclude that activin A can regulate the same pathway via p38 MAPK to coordinate cell proliferation and differentiation of K562 cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 98: 789–797, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
DNA vaccines: Successes and limitations in cancer and infectious disease
Authors: Lowe Devin B. , Shearer Michael H. , Kennedy Ronald C.
Published: January 2006

Vaccination with plasmid DNA is an active area of investigation that is being applied to diseases including cancer and microbial pathogens associated with infectious diseases. Since its discovery, great progress has been made with the administration of DNA vaccines to initiate specific and effective immune responses against targeted illnesses. However, many obstacles still face its use in prophylactic and therapeutic vaccination scenarios. The nature of these difficulties alongside the successes and future of plasmid DNA will be discussed. J. Cell. Biochem. 98: 235–242, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Defining the transcriptome of accelerated and replicatively senescent keratinocytes reveals links to differentiation, interferon signaling, and Notch related pathways
Authors: Perera Ranjan J. , Koo Seongjoon , Bennett C. Frank , Dean Nicholas M. , Gupta Nitin , Qin Jian‐Zhong , Nickoloff Brian J.
Published: January 2006

Epidermal keratinocytes (KCs) undergo highly orchestrated morphological and molecular changes during transition from proliferative compartment into growth arrested early and late differentiation layers, prior to dying in outermost cornified layers of normal skin. Creation of stratum corneum is vital to barrier function protecting against infection. Transcriptional events in KCs regulating complex processes of differentiation and host defense required to maintain constant epidermal thickness and resistance to infection in either young or aged skin are largely unknown. Furthermore, as terminal differentiation is characterized by irreversible loss of replicative potential culminating in dead layers at the skin surface, this process may be viewed as a form of senescence. However, a complete transcriptional profile of senescent (SN) human KCs has not been previously defined to permit delineation of molecular boundaries involving differentiation and senescence. To fill this void, we utilized global transcriptional analysis of KCs maintained in vitro as either cultures of proliferating (PR) cells, early and late confluent (LC) (accelerated senescence) cultures, or KCs undergoing replicative senescence. Global gene expression profiling revealed early confluent (EC) KCs were somewhat similar to PR KCs, while prominent differences were evident when compared to LC KCs; which were also distinct from replicatively SN KCs. While confluent KCs have in common several genes regulating differentiation with replicatively SN KCs, the latter cells expressed elevated levels of genes involved in interferon signaling and inflammatory pathways. These results provide new insights into cell autonomous transcriptional‐based programs operative within KCs contributing to replicative senescence, with partial sharing of genes involved in differentiation. In addition, regulation of KC senescence may involve participation of interferon signaling pathways derived from the important role of KCs in protecting skin from infection. Integrating all of the transcriptional data revealed a key role for Notch receptor mediated signaling in the confluency induced differentiation phenotype using this model system. J. Cell. Biochem. 98: 394–408, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
c‐Jun kinase mediates expression of VEGF induced at transcriptional level by Rac1 and Cdc42Hs but not by RhoA
Authors: Saníger M. Luisa , Oya Ricardo , Macías David , Domínguez Jorge N. , Aránega Amelia , Luque Francisco
Published: January 2006

Tumour angiogenesis is mediated by increased levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). We have studied the mechanism by which endogenous activation of Rho oncoproteins regulates VEGF expression in COS‐7 and NIH3T3 cells. We carried out transient and stable transfection with constitutively activated rhoA, rac1, and cdc42 mutants in COS‐7 and NIH3T3 cells, respectively in the absence of external stimuli. Western blot and inmunohistochemistry assays of those cells revealed increased VEGF protein expression. Cotransfection with constitutively activated rhoA, rac1, and cdc42 mutants and a VEGF promoter‐reporter construct showed an increase in VEGF promoter transcriptional activity induced by Rho oncoproteins in COS‐7 and NIH3T3. c‐Jun kinase had been described as a MAPK involved in Rho oncoproteins pathways. Interestingly, we found that c‐Jun kinase chemical inhibition as well as transient transactivation assays using dominant negative c‐Jun kinase mutant abolished the VEGF promoter transcriptional induction by Rac1 and Cdc42 but not by RhoA. These findings indicate that Rho oncoprotein endogenously activated regulates VEGF expression through a transcriptional mechanism, and that the c‐Jun kinase activity is a mediator in the expression of VEGF induced by Rac1 and Cdc42 oncoproteins, but not of that induced by RhoA. J. Cell. Biochem. 98: 650–660, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
DNA sequences acting as binding sites for NM23/NDPK proteins in melanoma M14 cells
Authors: Cervoni Laura , Egistelli Lorenza , Eufemi Margherita , d'Abusco Anna Scotto , Altieri Fabio , Lascu Ioan , Turano Carlo , Giartosio Anna
Published: January 2006

We isolated and analyzed by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) in viable M14 cells DNA sequences bound to the antimetastatic protein nucleoside diphosphate kinase (NM23/NDPK) to shed some light on the nuclear functions of this protein and on the mechanism by which it acts in development and cancer. We assessed the presence of selected sequences from promoters of platelet‐derived growth factor A (PDGF‐A), c‐myc, myeloperoxidase (MPO), CD11b, p53, WT1, CCR5, ING1, and NM23‐H1 genes in the cross‐linked complexes. Quantitative PCR (Q‐PCR) showed a substantial enrichment of the correlated oncosuppressor genes p53, WT1, ING1, and NM23‐H1 in the immunoprecipitated (IP) DNA. This suggests that NM23/NDPK binding is involved in the transcription regulation of these genes. These results reveal new interactions that should help us to disclose the antimetastatic mechanism of NM23. J. Cell. Biochem. 98: 421–428, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
RNAi‐mediated silencing of insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS‐1) enhances tamoxifen‐induced cell death in MCF‐7 breast cancer cells
Authors: Cesarone Gregory , Garofalo Cecilia , Abrams Marc T. , Igoucheva Olga , Alexeev Vitali , Yoon Kyonggeun , Surmacz Eva , Wickstrom Eric
Published: January 2006

Insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS‐1) is a major downstream signaling protein for insulin and insulin‐like growth factor I (IGF‐I) receptors, conveying signals to PI‐3K/Akt and ERK1/2 pathways. In breast cancer, IRS‐1 overexpression has been associated with tumor development, hormone‐independence and antiestrogen‐resistance. In part, these effects are related to potentiation of IRS‐1/PI‐3K/Akt signaling. In estrogen sensitive breast cancer cell lines, tamoxifen treatment reduces IRS‐1 expression and function; consequently, inhibiting IRS‐1/PI‐3K signaling. We tested whether anti‐IRS1 siRNA could inhibit growth and survival of estrogen‐sensitive MCF‐7 breast cancer cells, when used alone or in combination with TAM. Our results indicated: (a) out of four tested anti‐IRS1 siRNAs, two siRNAs reduced IRS‐1 protein by approximately three‐fold in both growing and IGF‐I‐stimulated cells without affecting a closely related protein, IRS‐2; (b) these effects paralleled IRS1 mRNA downregulation by approximately three‐fold, measured by quantitative real time‐polymerase chain reaction; (c) action of anti‐IRS1 siRNAs induced the apoptotic response, observed by altered mitochondrial membrane potential coupled with downregulation of NF‐κB target Bcl‐xL and reduced cell viability; (d) anti‐IRS1 siRNA treatment enhanced the cytotoxic effects of TAM by ∼20%. In summary, anti‐IRS1 RNAi strategy could become a potent tool to induce breast cancer cell death, especially if combined with standard TAM therapy. J. Cell. Biochem. 98: 440–450, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
PECAM‐1 isoform‐specific activation of MAPK/ERKs and small GTPases: Implications in inflammation and angiogenesis
Authors: Wang Yongji , Sheibani Nader
Published: January 2006

Platelet‐endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1 (PECAM‐1/CD31) is expressed on the surface of endothelial cells (EC) and leukocytes. PECAM‐1 plays an important role in endothelial‐leukocyte and endothelial‐endothelial cell–cell interactions. The anti‐PECAM‐1 antibody‐mediated blockade of these interactions inhibits transendothelial migration (TEM) of leukocytes and angiogenesis. PECAM‐1 may accommodate these processes through the regulation of cell adhesive and migratory mechanisms. How PECAM‐1 regulates these dynamic processes remain unknown. Here we show that PECAM‐1 transduces outside‐in signals, which activate MAPK/ERKs and small GTPases. This occurs through PECAM‐1‐mediated formation of intracellular‐signaling complexes, Shc/Grb2/SOS1 and/or Crkl/C3G, which is initiated by PECAM‐1 engagement on the surface of leukocytes and/or EC. Src, SHP2, and alternative PECAM‐1 pre‐mRNA splicing play a regulatory role in these signaling events. Our findings reveal that PECAM‐1 engagement on the cell surface can transduce “outside‐in” signals and activate MAPK/ERKs and small GTPases, impacting both cadherin‐mediated cell–cell and integrin‐mediated cell–matrix interactions. Thus, we propose PECAM‐1 is an important mediator of vascular barrier and regulator of leukocyte and EC adhesion and migration. J. Cell. Biochem. 98: 451–468, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A gene expression signature that distinguishes desmoid tumours from nodular fasciitis
Authors: Bacac M , Migliavacca E , Stehle J‐C , McKee T , Delorenzi M , Coindre J‐M , Guillou L , Stamenkovic I
Published: January 2006

Nodular fasciitis (NF) is a rapidly growing cellular mass composed of fibroblasts/myofibroblasts, usually localized in subcutaneous tissues, that typically undergoes fibrosis and almost never recurs. Desmoid tumours (DTs) are rare forms of fibroblastic/myofibroblastic growth that arise in deep soft tissues, display a propensity for local infiltration and recurrence, but fail to metastasize. Given that both entities are primarily fibroblastic/myofibroblastic lesions with overlapping histological features, their gene expression profiles were compared to identify differentially expressed genes that may provide not only potential diagnostic markers, but also clues as to the pathogenesis of each disorder. Differentially expressed transcripts (89 clones displaying increased expression in DTs and 246 clones displaying increased expression in NF) included genes encoding several receptor and non‐receptor tyrosine kinases (EPHB3, PTPRF, GNAZ, SYK, LYN, EPHA4, BIRC3), transcription factors (TWIST1, PITX2, EYA2, OAS1, MITF, TCF20), and members of the Wnt signalling pathway (AXIN2, WISP1, SFRP). Remarkably, almost one‐quarter of the differentially expressed genes encode proteins associated with inflammation and tissue remodelling, including members of the interferon (IFN), tumour necrosis factor (TNF), and transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) signalling pathways as well as metalloproteinases (MMP1, 9, 13, 23), urokinase plasminogen activator (PLAU), and cathepsins. The observations provide the first comparative molecular characterization of desmoid tumours and nodular fasciitis and suggest that selected tyrosine kinases, transcription factors, and members of the Wnt, TGF‐β, IFN, and TNF signalling pathways may be implicated in influencing and distinguishing their fate. Copyright © 2006 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Active center determinations on MgCl2‐supported fourth‐ and fifth‐generation Ziegler–Natta catalysts for propylene polymerization
Authors: Yaluma Andrew K. , Tait Peter J. T. , Chadwick John C.
Published: January 2006

Active center determinations on different Ziegler–Natta polypropylene catalysts, comprising MgCl2, TiCl4, and either a diether or a phthalate ester as internal donor, have been carried out by quenching propylene polymerization with tritiated ethanol, followed by radiochemical analysis of the resulting polymers. The purpose of this study was to determine the factors contributing to the high activities of the catalyst system MgCl2/TiCl4/diether—AlEt3. Active center contents (C*) in the range 2–8% (of total Ti present) were measured and a strong correlation between catalyst activity and active center content was found, indicating that the high activity of the diether‐containing catalysts is due to an increased proportion of active centers rather than to a difference in propagation rate coefficients. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 1635–1647, 2006
Polypyrrole/poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐acrylic acid) thermosensitive and electrically conductive composite microgels
Authors: Lin Chia‐Lung , Chiu Wen‐Yen
Published: January 2006

The electrically conductive polypyrrole/dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid/poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐acrylic acid) (PPy/DBSA/poly(NIPAAm‐co‐AA)) composite microgels were synthesized by a chemical oxidation of pyrrole in the presence of DBSA as the primary dopant, and poly(NIPAAm‐co‐AA) microgels as the polymeric codopant and template, in which APS was used as the oxidant. It was proposed to prepare “intelligent” polymer microgel particles containing both thermosensitive and electrically conducting properties. The polymerization of pyrrole took place directly inside the microgel networks, leading to formation of composite microgels and the morphology was observed by transmission electron microscope. PPy particles interacted strongly with microgels, as the acid groups of microgels acted as the polymeric codopant. The composite microgels thus formed showed electrically conducting behavior dependent on humidity and temperature. At temperatures lower than lower critical solution temperature, the conductivity decreased with increasing the humidity and a small hysteresis phenomenon was observed. The hysteresis became indistinct when temperature was near volume phase transition temperature. However, after the treatment of high temperature and high humidity, the conductivity increased surprisingly due to the structure reorganization inside the composite microgels. The distinctive functionality of the PPy composite microgels was expected to be utilized in many attractive applications. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 1648–1659, 2006
Synthesis of A2B star block copolymers from a heterotrifunctional initiator
Authors: Glaied O. , Delaite C. , Dumas P.
Published: January 2006

We described the obtention of A2B star block copolymers through the use of a new heterotrifunctional initiator. That way, well‐defined (PCL)2‐arm‐PtBuMA and (PCL)2‐arm‐PS star block copolymers have been synthesized from a heterotrifunctional initiator bearing two hydroxyl groups able to initiate ROP of CL (with AlEt3 or Sn(Oct)2 as coinitiator) and a bromide function able to initiate ATRP of tBuMA or styrene. Firstly, we have proceeded using a sequential process (two‐steps), leading to an intermediate macroinitiator. Secondly, attempt to polymerize these two monomers in a simultaneous process (one‐step), that is directly from the mixture of monomers, initiator, coinitiators, and solvent, has been realized and has shown that some interferences between the two polymerizations occurred, leading to an inhibition of ATRP when Sn(Oct)2 was used and an unexpected increase in control when AlEt3 was used as catalyst for the ROP (obtention of well‐defined (PCL)2‐arm‐PtBuMA with pdi of 1.18). © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 1796–1806, 2006
Synthesis and characterization of novel biodegradable aliphatic poly(ester amide)s containing cyclohexane units
Authors: Lecomte Hélène A. , Liggat John J. , Curtis Adam S. G.
Published: January 2006

Polyesters provide a good basis to work on for designing novel biodegradable materials that are also mechanically and thermally resistant. In this study, a series of aliphatic poly(ester amide)s (PEA) based on cyclohexane units was synthesized. Block‐copolymers of cyclohexyl sebacate and cyclohexyl sebacamide were produced by controlling the length of the ester block and the amount of amide during a two‐step melt/interfacial polycondensation reaction. Films produced from these materials could retain their shape above 373 K due to the physical network of amide hydrogen‐bonding. Thermal properties were also evaluated, with various melting and softening points obtained depending on the PEA composition. The determining factor for mechanical properties was the amount of amide introduced, with films containing up to 10 mol % amide showing the best handleability and flexibility. Tensile properties typical of an amorphous viscoelastic material were observed, but with much superior elongation to break achievable (∼1700%). These materials were also shown to be hydrolyzable, noncytotoxic, and favorable for cell attachment: they may therefore have a promising future in the area of medical devices or packaging, especially as their properties can be tuned by changing their composition. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 1785–1795, 2006
Synthesis and characterization of glycidyl methacrylate/butyl acrylate copolymers obtained at a low temperature by atom transfer radical polymerization
Authors: de la Fuente José Luis , Cañamero Pedro Francisco , Fernández‐García Marta
Published: January 2006

Statistical glycidyl methacrylate/butyl acrylate copolymerization, at three different feed monomer compositions (75:25, 50:50, and 25:75), was carried out under atom transfer radical polymerization conditions with ethyl 2‐bromoisobutyrate as an initiator, copper chloride as a catalyst, and N,N,N′,N″,N″‐pentamethyldiethylenetriamine as a ligand in 50% (v/v) toluene and diphenyl ether solutions and at 30 °C. Linear first‐order kinetics, linearly increasing molecular weight with conversion, and low polydispersities were observed for all the copolymerizations. The apparent propagation constant obtained for each molar fraction in the feed had similar values in the two solvents and increased as the glycidyl methacrylate molar fraction in the feed increased. The monomer reactivity ratios, 2.78 ± 0.32 for glycidyl methacrylate and 0.16 ± 0.07 for butyl acrylate, were estimated with the extended Kelen–Tüdos equation, and the copolymer compositions were determined by 1H NMR spectroscopy. The cumulative copolymer compositions as a function of conversion for the different molar fractions in the feed were quite consistent with the theoretically calculated values from the Mayo–Lewis terminal model. Moreover, the cure behavior of a copolymer with a commercial linear diamine was also analyzed by differential scanning calorimetry. A single exothermic peak was observed for a nonisothermal curing reaction, indicating the clear potential of the obtained copolymers for epoxy applications. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 1807–1816, 2006
Errors induced in quartz crystal mass uptake measurements by nongravimetric effects: Considerations beyond the EerNisse caution
Authors: Banda Lameck , Alcoutlabi Mataz , McKenna Gregory B.
Published: January 2006

We report frequency changes in AT‐cut quartz crystals for glassy polymers subsequent to temperature and carbon dioxide pressure changes. Anomalous frequency shifts are observed for the crystal subsequent to such changes. Since, the Sauerbrey equation has been applied routinely for mass uptake measurements in glassy polymers, using the quartz crystal microbalance fitted with AT‐cut quartz crystals, it is important that nongravimetric effects that impact the frequency change be well understood. In the present work, we provide a quantitative analysis of the breakdown of the Sauerbrey equation for viscoelastic materials by using the Johannsmann (Macromol Chem Phys 1999, 200, 501) treatment of the response of AT‐cut crystals. Clearly, there exist significant errors in mass uptake measurements for materials deposited on AT‐cut quartz crystals when precautions pertaining to film thickness and viscoelastic compliance are ignored. We show that while the early caution of EerNisse on stress effects in AT‐cut quartz crystals can be important in mass uptake measurements, for polymers, the major source of error arises from viscoelastic effects in the coating. We conclude that mass uptake measurements for films of compliant materials and polymers above their glass transition cannot be performed with accuracy, using AT‐cut quartz crystals if the results are not corrected for frequency shifts due to viscoelastic effects of the overlayer unless the films are extremely thin, that is, less than 100 nm. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 44: 801–814, 2006
Visual odometry for ground vehicle applications
Authors: Nistér David , Naroditsky Oleg , Bergen James
Published: January 2006

We present a system that estimates the motion of a stereo head, or a single moving camera, based on video input. The system operates in real time with low delay, and the motion estimates are used for navigational purposes. The front end of the system is a feature tracker. Point features are matched between pairs of frames and linked into image trajectories at video rate. Robust estimates of the camera motion are then produced from the feature tracks using a geometric hypothesize‐and‐test architecture. This generates motion estimates from visual input alone. No prior knowledge of the scene or the motion is necessary. The visual estimates can also be used in conjunction with information from other sources, such as a global positioning system, inertia sensors, wheel encoders, etc. The pose estimation method has been applied successfully to video from aerial, automotive, and handheld platforms. We focus on results obtained with a stereo head mounted on an autonomous ground vehicle. We give examples of camera trajectories estimated in real time purely from images over previously unseen distances (600 m) and periods of time. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Recent developments in subterranean robotics
Authors: Morris Aaron , Ferguson Dave , Omohundro Zachary , Bradley David , Silver David , Baker Chris , Thayer Scott , Whittaker Chuck , Whittaker William
Published: January 2006

Robotic systems exhibit remarkable capability for exploring and mapping subterranean voids. Information about subterranean spaces has immense value for civil, security, and commercial applications where problems, such as encroachment, collapse, flooding and subsidence can occur. Contemporary method for underground mapping, such as human surveys and geophysical techniques, can provide estimates of void location, but cannot achieve the coverage, quality, or economy of robotic approaches. This article presents the challenges, mechanisms, sensing, and software of subterranean robots. Results obtained from operations in active, abandoned, and submerged subterranean spaces will also be shown. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Haglund's Syndrome: Diagnosis and Treatment Using Sonography
Authors: Sofka Carolyn M. , Adler Ronald S. , Positano Rock , Pavlov Helene , Luchs Jonathan S.
Published: January 2006

Haglund's syndrome is a cause of retrocalcaneal pain. The clinical diagnosis of Haglund's syndrome is often confusing as the clinical picture may mimic other causes of hindfoot pain such as isolated retrocalcaneal bursitis or hindfoot involvement from more systemic arthropathies such as Reiter's syndrome or rheumatoid arthritis. With the increasing frequency of employing sonography as a diagnostic tool in the evaluation of foot and ankle pathology, recognition of the sonographic appearance of Haglund's complex is important. We report a case of Haglund's syndrome diagnosed and treated with sonography.
Assessing the Stiffness of Spinal Fusion in Animal Models
Authors: Cottrell Jocelyn M. , van der Meulen Marjolein C. H. , Lane Joseph M. , Myers Elizabeth R.
Published: January 2006

The clinical goal of spinal fusion is to reduce motion and the associated pain. Therefore, measuring motion under loading is critical. The purpose of this study was to validate four-point bending as a means to mechanically evaluate simulated fusions in dog and rabbit spines. We hypothesized that this method would be more sensitive than manual palpation and would be able to distinguish unilateral vs bilateral fusion. Spines from four mixed breed dogs and four New Zealand white rabbits were used to simulate posterolateral fusion with polymethyl methacrylate as the fusion mass. We performed manual palpation and nondestructive mechanical testing in four-point bending in four planes of motion: flexion, extension, and right and left bending. This testing protocol was used for each specimen in three fusion modes: intact, unilateral, and bilateral fusion. Under manual palpation, all intact spines were rated as not fused, and all unilateral and bilateral simulated fusions were rated as fused. In four-point bending, dog spines were significantly stiffer after unilateral fusion compared with intact in all directions. Additionally, rabbit spines were stiffer in flexion and left bending after unilateral fusion. All specimens exhibited significant differences between intact and bilateral fusion except the rabbit in extension. For unilateral vs bilateral fusion, significant differences were present for right bending in the dog model and for flexion in the rabbit. Unilateral fusion can provide enough stability to constitute a fused grade by manual palpation but may not provide structural stiffness comparable to bilateral fusion.
Optical quality of the nasendoscope with and without the endosheath
Authors: Vaz F , Ripley L , Lim D , Kanegaonkar R , Harries M
Published: January 2006

With the increasing use of the endosheath in clinical practice, we set out to investigate the quality of the nasendoscope image produced with and without an endosheath. It has been suggested by some users that the endosheath degrades the image. We used a spectrophotometer to assess the optical transmission of the endosheath and found no selective chromatic absorption. However, on requesting nine experienced users to document whether they could differentiate between the sheathed and unsheathed endoscope, a significantly correct answering pattern was obtained in repeated blinded experiments. This suggests that individuals can distinguish between the sheathed and unsheathed nasendoscope view and that the image is indeed altered when an endosheath is employed.
Benign mucous membrane pemphigoid of the upper aero-digestive tract: rare paraneoplastic syndrome presentation in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Saravanan K , Baer S T , Meredith A , Dyson A , Werth Jan von der
Published: January 2006

Benign mucous membrane pemphigoid is a rare autoimmune disorder affecting the upper aero-digestive tract and conjunctivae. This is a case presentation of benign mucous membrane pemphigoid affecting the oral mucosa, pharynx, oesophagus and larynx, leading to cicatricial lesions in the pharynx and larynx, causing dysphagia, hoarseness and stridor. The alternative forms of management for laryngeal scarring due to this disease are explained. The patient was later diagnosed with advanced renal cell carcinoma, raising the possibility of cicatricial pemphigoid manifesting as a paraneoplastic syndrome of underlying renal cell carcinoma.
Morbidity in patients waiting for tonsillectomy in Cardiff: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Fox R , Tomkinson A , Myers P
Published: January 2006

Objective: Our aim was to determine the morbidity of patients awaiting tonsillectomy.

Design: The study comprised a questionnaire survey of 379 children and 278 adults waiting over 12 months for tonsillectomy.

Outcome measures: These comprised frequency of infection, sickness absence and continuing desire for surgery.

Results: Response rates were 70 per cent (children) and 60 per cent (adults). Morbidity was similar in adults and children, and in those waiting more or less than two years. In the six months prior to the study, 86 per cent of children and 83 per cent of adults had had tonsillitis. Sixty per cent of children and 50 per cent of adults had had three or more episodes. Sixty-two per cent of children and 59 per cent of adults had had at least one long episode of tonsillitis, and 29 per cent of children and 24 per cent of adults had had more than three long episodes. Eighty-nine per cent of children had missed school at least once, compared with 71 per cent of adults missing work at least once (p = 0.01). The frequency of infection was significantly associated with patients' desire for surgery (p < 0.001).

Conclusions: Patients awaiting tonsillectomy experience considerable morbidity. This study does not support the hypothesis that untreated patients will ‘outgrow’ their condition.
Systematic review of multi-symptom conditions in Gulf War veterans
Authors: THOMAS HOLLIE V. , STIMPSON NICOLA J. , WEIGHTMAN ALISON L. , DUNSTAN FRANK , LEWIS GLYN
Published: January 2006

Background. Gulf War veterans have a number of health complaints. We therefore decided to carry out a systematic review to identify and summarize the findings from studies that have assessed multi-symptom conditions in Gulf War veterans and in an unexposed comparison group.

Method. Studies published between January 1990 and May 2004 were identified by searching a large number of electronic databases. Reference lists and websites were also searched and key researchers were contacted. Studies were included if they compared the prevalence of chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple chemical sensitivity, CDC-defined chronic multi-symptom illness, fibromyalgia, or symptoms of either fatigue or numbness and tingling in Gulf War veterans and non-Gulf veterans. A total of 2401 abstracts were independently reviewed by two authors.

Results. Twenty-three publications fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Gulf deployment was most strongly associated with chronic fatigue syndrome (OR 3·8, 95% CI 2·2–6·7). Gulf War veterans were also approximately three and a half times more likely than non-Gulf veterans to report multiple chemical sensitivity or chronic multi-symptom illness as defined by CDC. The methodological quality of the studies varied but the later and larger studies were of a high methodological standard with robust sampling strategies, adequate response rates and good adjustment for confounders.

Conclusions. The results support the hypothesis that deployment to the Gulf War is associated with greater reporting of multi-symptom conditions.
Relationship between Escherichia coli strains causing urinary tract infection in women and the dominant faecal flora of the same hosts
Authors: MORENO E. , ANDREU A. , PÉREZ T. , SABATÉ M. , JOHNSON J. R. , PRATS G.
Published: January 2006

To clarify whether prevalence or special pathogenicity is more important in determining urinary tract infection (UTI) causation, we compared the biotype, phylogenetic group, and virulence genes of Escherichia coli urine strains from 11 women with acute lower UTI with those of the host's dominant intestinal E. coli strain(s). Twenty-one unique E. coli clones were identified. For three women, the single faecal clone identified was also the host's urine clone, whereas for eight women faecal samples yielded 1 or 2 distinct non-urine clones (total, n=10), either with (n=3) or without (n=5) the concurrent urine clone. The eight urine clones from the latter eight women exhibited significantly greater inferred virulence, according to virulence gene content and phylogenetic background, than did the hosts' 10 corresponding ‘faecal only’ clones. In contrast, the three urine clones that were detected as the host's sole faecal clone exhibited significantly lower inferred virulence than the other eight urine clones, and were statistically indistinguishable from the 10 ‘faecal only’ clones. In conclusion, special pathogenicity is an important determinant of UTI pathogenesis in women, although prevalence may occasionally allow less virulent strains to cause UTI.
Outbreak of hepatitis B in a nursing home associated with capillary blood sampling
Authors: DREESMAN J. M. , BAILLOT A. , HAMSCHMIDT L. , MONAZAHIAN M. , WEND U. C. , GERLICH W. H.
Published: January 2006

In 2001, two residents of a nursing home in Lower Saxony, Germany, were diagnosed with acute hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. A systematic contact investigation of 188 residents yielded 19 confirmed or probable cases of acute or recent HBV infection and three persistent asymptomatic HBsAg carriers. Sequence analysis revealed that one carrier had high viraemia (109 genomes/ml), HBV genotype A2, and the same S gene and/or X gene sequence as 16 acutely infected persons. An unmatched case-control study was conducted with the 17 cases that had sequence identity together with 26 controls. The strongest association was found for treatment by a particular general practitioner (GP) (OR>11, P<0·001) and blood sampling for glucose monitoring on a particular day by the GP's staff (OR 13·6, P<0·001, adjusted OR 8·5, P=0·017). Control measures were implemented. Serological controls after 6 and 18 months revealed that the outbreak was brought under control.
Sustained high levels of stored drinking water treatment and retention of hand-washing knowledge in rural Kenyan households following a clinic-based intervention
Authors: PARKER A. A. , STEPHENSON R. , RILEY P. L. , OMBEKI S. , KOMOLLEH C. , SIBLEY L. , QUICK R.
Published: January 2006

Nyanza Province, Kenya is characterized by poor water quality and high diarrhoea prevalence. To address these problems, nurses in a maternal and child health clinic in Homa Bay, Kenya were trained in household water chlorination with a locally available, social marketed product, and in six steps of proper hand washing. They were asked to communicate this information to their clients. Interviews immediately following the training by nurses were conducted on 220 clients, of whom 168 (76%) reported being taught both procedures during their clinic visit. After 2 weeks, free chlorine residuals were present in stored drinking water in 67 out of 98 (68%) clients' homes and, 1 year later, in 36 out of 51 (71%) clients' homes. After 2 weeks, all six hand-washing steps were correctly demonstrated by 41 (44%) out of 93 clients, and by 17 out of 51 (34%) 1 year later. This brief, practical intervention shows promise for vulnerable populations.
The Unusual Sculptures of Telantunich, Yucatán: Phalli and the Concept of Masculinity among the Ancient Maya
Authors: Ardren Traci , Hixson David R.
Published: January 2006

Recently discovered sculpture fragments from the area surrounding the important but little-studied site of Telantunich confirm a regional tradition of human portraiture quite distinct from the better-known canon of Maya stelae. Comparative material presented here shows connections between this tradition and a regional emphasis on depictions of masculine sexuality, especially depictions of human phalli. The authors present an analysis of this corpus that confirms that such depictions both reflect Classic Maya conceptions of masculinity and were deployed to convey and reify such conceptions within society.
A Systemic Functional Approach to Language Evolution
Authors: Rose David
Published: January 2006

An approach to interpreting possible steps in language evolution is offered here from systemic functional linguistic (SFL) theory. SFL models language at three levels from sounds to wordings to complex patterns of social discourse. Typological studies in this framework have shown striking commonalities at each level across languages, that are not yet adequately accounted for by existing models of language phylogenesis. Four conditions are suggested for developing explanatory models that may account for these linguistic phenomena. These include (a) a mechanism for reproducing complex cultural behaviours intergenerationally over extended time, (b) a sequence by which articulated wordings could evolve from non-linguistic primate communication, (c) extension of the functions of wording from enacting interpersonal interactions to representing speakers' experience, and (d) the emergence of complex patterns of discourse for delicately negotiating social relations, and for construing experience in genres such as narrative. These conditions are explored, and some possible steps in language evolution are suggested, that may be correlated with both linguistic research and archaeological models of cultural phases in human evolution. The aims of the article are to offer some useful tools to the field of language evolution, at the same time as indicating potential interpretations of existing work, using insights from SFL research.
Multilateralism compromised: the mysterious origins of GATT Article XXIV
Authors: CHASE KERRY
Published: January 2006

The GATT treaty's loophole for free trade areas in Article XXIV has puzzled and deceived prominent scholars, who trace its postwar origins to US aspirations to promote European integration and efforts to persuade developing countries to endorse the Havana Charter. Drawing from archival records, this article shows that in fact US policymakers crafted the controversial provisions of Article XXIV to accommodate a trade treaty they had secretly reached with Canada. As a result, the free trade area exemption was embedded in the GATT–WTO regime, even though neither the Havana Charter nor the US–Canada free trade agreement was ever ratified. Theoretically, the case is an important example of how Cold War exigencies altered the policy ideas of US officials.
European Communities–Anti-Dumping Duties on Imports of Cotton-Type Bed Linen from India: Recourse to Article 21.5 of the DSU by India
Authors: GROSSMAN GENE M. , SYKES ALAN O.
Published: January 2006

This paper addresses the dispute brought to the World Trade Organization (WTO) by India concerning antidumping duties imposed by the European Communities (EC) on cotton-type bed linen. An earlier complaint brought by India challenged the antidumping duties on a number of points, including the EC practice of ‘zeroing’ for the computation of dumping margins (which had the e.ect of assigning a negative dumping margin a weight of zero when computing a weighted average dumping margin). India prevailed in that dispute, and the EC responded with Council Regulation (EC) No. 1644/2001, amending the original antidumping measure on bed linen from India. India was of the view that the amended measure did not comply with EC obligations under the WTO Antidumping Agreement, and brought the proceeding under Article 21.5 of the DSU that is the subject of this paper.