bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heritable and environmental components in cervical tumors
Authors: Couto Elisabeth , Hemminki Kari
Published: September 2006

The familial risk of 18,199 women with invasive and/or in situ cervix cancers when compared with that of 72,796 women free of cervical tumors was analyzed. The risk of cervical tumors was significantly higher for women with a mother and/or sister(s) with cervical tumors (odds ratio (OR) = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.71–1.88) than with an affected grandmother and/or aunt(s) (OR = 1.28, 1.22–1.35). This risk did not differ according to the family side of the affected relative. Taking the familial risk of 1.28 for second‐degree relatives as the best estimate of a true heritable effect for 25% of gene sharing, the calculated heritable effect for full siblings, sharing 50% of their genes, would correspond to an OR of 1.56. This model suggests, as a best estimate, a heritable component of 71% and an environmental component of 29% in young familial cervical tumors. The data imply that familial risks for cervical tumors are best explained by complex multifactorial mechanisms. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Variations in the age‐specific curves of human papillomavirus prevalence in women worldwide
Authors: Franceschi Silvia , Herrero Rolando , Clifford Gary M. , Snijders Peter J.F. , Arslan Annie , Anh Pham Thi Hoang , Bosch F. Xavier , Ferreccio Catterina , Hieu Nguyen Trong , Lazcano‐Ponce Eduardo , Matos Elena , Molano Monica , Qiao You‐Lin , Rajkumar Raj , Ronco Guglielmo , de Sanjosé Silvia , Shin Hai‐Rim , Sukvirach Sukhon , Thomas Jaiye O. , Meijer Chris J.L.M. , Muñoz Nubia ,   and the IARC HPV Prevalence Surveys Study Group
Published: September 2006

An inverse relationship between age and human papillomavirus (HPV) prevalence has been reported in many developed countries, but information on this relationship is scarce in many other parts of the world. We carried out a cross‐sectional study of sexually active women from the general population of 15 areas in 4 continents. Similar standardised protocols for women's enrolment, cervical specimen collection and PCR‐based assays for HPV testing were used. HPV prevalence in different age groups was compared by study area. 18,498 women aged 15–74 years were included. Age‐standardised HPV prevalence varied more than 10‐fold between populations, as did the shape of age‐specific curves. HPV prevalence peaked below age 25 or 35, and declined with age in Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Argentina, Korea and in Lampang, Thailand and Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. This was not the case in Songkla, Thailand nor Hanoi, Vietnam, where HPV prevalence was low in all age groups. In Chile, Colombia and Mexico, a second peak of HPV prevalence was detected among older women. In the poorest study areas in Asia (Shanxi, China and Dindigul, India), and in Nigeria, HPV prevalence was high across all age groups. The substantial differences observed in age‐specific curves of HPV prevalence between populations may have a variety of explanations. These differences, however, underline that great caution should be used in inferring the natural history of HPV from age‐specific prevalences. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mitochondrial microsatellite instability of colorectal cancer stroma
Authors: Kim Hong Sug , Lim Hee Sun , Lee Sug Hyung , Lee Jong Woo , Nam Suk Woo , Park Won Sang , Lee Youn Soo , Lee Jung Young , Yoo Nam Jin
Published: September 2006

Mitochondrial microsatellite instability (mtMSI) and mutations of mitochondrial DNA has been reported in cancer epithelia of carcinomas. However, mtMSI in cancer stroma has not yet been identified in human cancers. In this study, we attempted to determine if mtMSI occurs in the cancer stroma of sporadic colorectal cancers, and if the stromal mtMSI has any correlations with stromal nuclear MSI (nMSI) and cancer epithelial mtMSI. Nine microsatellite sequences within the D‐loop and 5 coding genes for mtMSI, and 9 microsatellites for nMSI were analyzed in the microdissected cancer epithelia and adjacent stromas of 48 sporadic colorectal cancers. Overall, 23 somatic mitochondrial DNA alterations were detected in 15 cancer epithelia (31.2%) and 5 stromas (10.4%). The mutations consisted of 19 D‐loop mtMSI alterations, and 1 missense and 3 framshift mutations of repeat sequences within the coding genes. All of the 5 stromal genetic alterations showed D‐loop mtMSI. In regards to other MSI status, the stromal mtMSI had no association with stromal nMSI or epithelial mtMSI, either. These findings indicate that in addition to the cancer epithelia the cancer stroma harbor mtMSI, and suggest a possible role of stromal mtMSI in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancers. Furthermore, the data suggest that stromal mtMSI may occur independently of stromal nMSI and epithelial mtMSI in sporadic colorectal cancers. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Transplantation of bone marrow genetically engineered to express proinsulin II protects against autoimmune insulitis in NOD mice
Authors: Chan James , Clements Warren , Field Judith , Nasa Zeyad , Lock Peter , Yap Felicia , Toh Ban‐Hock , Alderuccio Frank
Published: September 2006

Background

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a T‐cell‐dependent autoimmune disease resulting from destructive inflammation (insulitis) of the insulin‐producing pancreatic β‐cells. Transgenic expression of proinsulin II by a MHC class II promoter or transfer of bone marrow from these transgenic mice protects NOD mice from insulitis and diabetes. We assessed the feasibility of gene therapy in the NOD mouse as an approach to treat T1D by ex vivo genetic manipulation of normal hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) with proinsulin II followed by transfer to recipient mice.

Methods

HSCs were isolated from 6–8‐week‐old NOD female mice and transduced in vitro with retrovirus encoding enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) and either proinsulin II or control autoantigen. Additional control groups included mice transferred with non‐manipulated bone marrow and mice which did not receive bone marrow transfer. EGFP‐sorted or non‐sorted HSCs were transferred into pre‐conditioned 3–4‐week‐old female NOD mice and insulitis was assessed 8 weeks post‐transfer.

Results

Chimerism was established in all major lymphoid tissues, ranging from 5–15% in non‐sorted bone marrow transplants to 20–45% in EGFP‐sorted bone marrow transplants. The incidence and degree of insulitis was significantly reduced in mice receiving proinsulin II bone marrow compared to controls. However, the incidence of sialitis in mice receiving proinsulin II bone marrow and control mice was not altered, indicating protection from insulitis was antigen specific.

Conclusions

We show for the first time that ex vivo genetic manipulation of HSCs to express proinsulin II followed by transplantation to NOD mice can establish molecular chimerism and protect from destructive insulitis in an antigen‐specific manner. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A sensemaking lens on reliability
Authors: Blatt Ruth , Christianson Marlys K. , Sutcliffe Kathleen M. , Rosenthal Marilynn M.
Published: September 2006

This study assessed the applicability of current theories of reliability in dynamic settings by exploring the sensemaking processes experienced by a sample of medical residents around lapses in reliability of patient care. Important differences in lapses surfaced, particularly with respect to whether actors were aware that a lapse was occurring in real‐time and whether there was anything they could do or say to mitigate or prevent the lapse. In over half of the incidents recounted, the actors did not become aware of the lapse in reliability until after the consequence of the lapse had occurred or the consequence occurred simultaneously with the recognition of the lapse. In other incidents, they faced a critical moment in which they had to decide whether and how to act to intervene in real‐time. In the majority of these critical moments, residents had an issue of concern to voice that could have helped mitigate or correct the lapse but instead they remained silent. Issues related to identity and relationships appeared to either inhibit or promote voice during critical moments. We end with ideas for how our findings can inform existing work on reliability in healthcare and the growing literature on voice and silence in organizations. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Worldviews in collision: conflict and collaboration across professional lines
Authors: Garman Andrew N. , Leach David C. , Spector Nancy
Published: September 2006

The process of providing health services in hospitals is inherently interdisciplinary; many of the challenges to enhancing quality and safety involve the human aspects of this interdisciplinary system. Each of the major disciplines—physicians, nurses, allied health providers, and health administrators—represent qualitatively distinct sets of goals and professional values, influencing not only current behavior but also who chooses these roles in the first place. Once a career is selected, the educational process further fortifies these differences, such that new professionals enter the workplace with fundamentally divergent perspectives on how care should be provided and how processes should be improved. These differences are in some ways functional but in other ways create work patterns that are both dysfunctional and very puzzling to outsiders. In this paper, we provide a guide to hospital organizational behavior through the lenses of professional preparation and interprofessional conflict. We review research on career choice, education, and cross‐disciplinary teamwork in healthcare, and end with a set of implications for organizational behavior researchers. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reducing patient mortality in hospitals: the role of human resource management
Authors: West Michael A. , Guthrie James P. , Dawson Jeremy F. , Borrill Carol S. , Carter Matthew
Published: September 2006

Developing effective health care organizations is increasingly complex as a result of demographic changes, globalization, and developments in medicine. This study examines the potential contribution of organizational behavior theory and research by investigating the relationship between systems of human resource management (HRM) practices and effectiveness of patient care in hospitals. Relatively little research has been conducted to explore these issues in health care settings. In a sample of 52 hospitals in England, we examine the relationship between the HRM system and health care outcome. Specifically, we study the association between high performance HRM policies and practices and standardized patient mortality rates. The research reveals that, after controlling for prior mortality and other potentially confounding factors such as the ratio of doctors to patients, greater use of a complementary set of HRM practices has a statistically and practically significant relationship with patient mortality. The findings suggest that managers and policy makers should focus sharply on improving the functioning of relevant HR management systems in health care organizations as one important means by which to improve patient care. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The challenges are organizational not just clinical
Authors: Ramanujam Ranga , Rousseau Denise M.
Published: September 2006

Contemporary hospitals fall far short in applying both state‐of‐the art clinical knowledge and management practices of known effectiveness. Organization and management practices in hospitals are shaped by four factors: their conflicting missions, a distinctive and largely professional workforce, demanding external environments, and a complex day‐to‐day task environment. This article identifies two critical organizing challenges that hospitals face: organizational learning and implementing effective high involvement management practices. It discusses how findings from organizational research, including articles in this special issue, identify solutions to the problems underlying these challenges. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Making it safe: the effects of leader inclusiveness and professional status on psychological safety and improvement efforts in health care teams
Authors: Nembhard Ingrid M. , Edmondson Amy C.
Published: September 2006

This paper introduces the construct of leader inclusiveness—words and deeds exhibited by leaders that invite and appreciate others' contributions. We propose that leader inclusiveness helps cross‐disciplinary teams overcome the inhibiting effects of status differences, allowing members to collaborate in process improvement. The existence of a professional hierarchy in medicine and the differential status accorded to those in different disciplines is well established in the health care literature, as is the need for quality improvement. We build on this foundation to suggest that profession‐derived status is positively associated with psychological safety (H1)—a key antecedent of speaking up and learning behavior—in health care teams. We hypothesize that this effect varies across teams (H2), and furthermore, that leader inclusiveness predicts psychological safety (H3) and moderates the relationship between status and psychological safety (H4). Finally, we suggest psychological safety predicts engagement in quality improvement work (H5) and mediates the relationship between leader inclusiveness and engagement (H6). Survey data collected in 23 neonatal intensive care units involved in quality improvement projects support our hypotheses. These results provide insight into antecedents of and strategies for fostering improvement efforts in health care and other sectors in which cross‐disciplinary teams engage in collaborative learning to improve products or services. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Notes from a small Island: researching organisational behaviour in healthcare from a UK perspective
Authors: Mark Annabelle L.
Published: September 2006

This paper considers the development of research in organisational behaviour within the UK healthcare system since its foundation in 1948. It looks at the location and context of such work, given the unique setting provided in this national organisation. Contextual barriers that are both historical, political ontological and epistemological, are considered in the light of recent research developments in both academia, notably the bienniel international conference Organisational Behaviour in Healthcare (OBHC), where a search for comparative work has engaged with both the wider organisational and international communities, and government, notably the National Service Delivery and Organisation Research Programme. Confounding much of this is the absence of a way of understanding the complexity of the domain of healthcare in different contexts. The application of the Cynefin framework is then discussed as a way to aid understanding of both the organisational and research tasks, and to provide a forum for collaborative understanding to allow appropriate research and practice interventions to occur. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Leadership development in healthcare: a qualitative study
Authors: McAlearney Ann Scheck
Published: September 2006

Challenges associated with leading a $1.7 trillion industry have created a need for strong leaders at all levels in healthcare organizations. However, despite growing support for the importance of leadership development practices across industries, little is known about leadership development in healthcare organizations. An extensive qualitative study comprised of 35 expert interviews and 55 organizational case studies included 160 in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews and explored this issue. Across interviews, several themes emerged around leadership development challenges that were particularly salient to healthcare organizations. Informants described how the relative newness of leadership development practices in a majority of healthcare organizations contributes to an overall perception of haphazard practices throughout the industry. In addition, respondents noted challenges associated with developing leaders who would be representative of the patient community served, and commented on the pressure to segregate different professional groups for leadership development. Framed by these challenges, I propose a conceptual model of commitment to leadership development in healthcare organizations as influenced by three factors—strategy, culture, and structure. These, in turn, influence program design decisions and can impact organizational effectiveness. In the context of inherently complex healthcare organizations where leaders must respond to multiple stakeholders and meet performance goals across multiple dimensions of effectiveness, addressing these reported challenges and considering the importance of organizational commitment to leadership development can help ensure that programs are effectively designed, delivered, and sustained. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Classifying and interpreting threats to patient safety in hospitals: insights from aviation
Authors: Tamuz Michal , Thomas Eric J.
Published: September 2006

We examine how the information gathered about patient safety‐related events is influenced by the interpretation and classification of these events in hospitals and by the context in which hospitals operate. Building on aviation safety studies, we developed research questions to guide a qualitative, interview‐based study of three hospitals. We found that having a specific (or general) definition of an event was important for aviation safety information systems, but was not salient for hospitals. In these hospitals, event classification was influenced by professional perspectives, perceived professional responsibility, event contingencies, and surveillance technology. In both contexts, decision makers avoided reporting potentially dangerous events by classifying them in non‐reportable categories. The importance of industry context for these results underscores the need for industry‐specific midlevel conceptual frameworks. Healthcare policy‐makers advocate standardizing event definitions to promote learning, but if organizational factors influence definitions and classification schemes, this may undermine the usefulness of centralized error reporting. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Next generation: What leaders need to know about the millennials
Authors: Downing Kris
Published: September 2006

It's a unique time in the workplace as four generations of workers are intermingling. As the most recent generation enters the workforce, the challenge for leaders is not only to understand the differences between the generations but also to embrace their different perspectives and find ways to bring out the best in everyone.
Hydrophilic Block Copolymer Aggregation in Solution Induced by Selective Threading of Cyclodextrins
Authors: Huang Jin , Ren Lixia , Zhu Hui , Chen Yongming
Published: September 2006

Summary:The inclusion of polymer chains by cyclodextrins (CDs) may generate column‐like supramolecules. Herein, we report that the selective threading of cyclodextrin rings onto one segment of a double hydrophilic diblock copolymer in water generates spherical aggregates. Poly(ethylene oxide)‐block‐poly((dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) (PEO‐b‐PDMA) may dissolve in water to form a homogeneous solution. However, whenα‐CDs are introduced, they thread onto the PEO segments to form pseudopolyrotaxanes, which tend to aggregate. Instead of forming a precipitate, novel supramolecular particles are generated which are attributed to the stabilization of the soluble PDMA segments. The organization process and the assembly structure were characterized by dynamic light scattering, X‐ray diffraction, electron microscopy and 1D NOE NMR spectra. Such novel particles are biocompatible and could have potential applications as biomedical and stimulus‐response materials.

Schematic presentation of the self‐assembly process.

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Schematic presentation of the self‐assembly process.
Characteristic Features of Chitosan/Glycerol Blends Dynamics
Authors: Quijada‐Garrido Isabel , Laterza Benedetto , Mazón‐Arechederra José M. , Barrales‐Rienda José M.
Published: September 2006

Summary: The phase relaxation behavior of chitosan and its blends with glycerol has been studied by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) techniques. The analysis of DMTA spectra of chitosan leads to recognition of two molecular relaxations in chitosan and its blends. The analysis of enthalpic and entropic contributions suggest that both processes involve a large degree of cooperativity. At high temperature, the α‐relaxation has been assigned to its glass transition temperature Tg on the basis of the stiffness of the chitosan backbone, the high activation energy, and the plasticization with glycerol. Tg may be originated by torsional oscillations between two glucopyranose rings across a β‐1,4‐glycosidic oxygen and a cooperative hydrogen bond reordering. The other is a low temperature β‐relaxation that, in chitosan, has been associated to motions of lateral pendant groups in the glucopyranose rings and in the blends to the movements of a glycerol hydrogel bonded to the lateral groups of chitosan. Its composition dependence has been modeled by means of the Schneider‐Riegel‐Penzel equation in which the interactions among functional groups when a glass‐forming liquid is adsorbed to a stiff, highly functionalized macromolecule such as chitosan are taken into account.

A three‐dimensional plot representing the tan δ for a series of chitosan and chitosan/glycerol blends as a function of temperature and composition.

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A three‐dimensional plot representing the tan δ for a series of chitosan and chitosan/glycerol blends as a function of temperature and composition.
Effect of Functionalized Carbon Nanotubes on Molecular Interaction and Properties of Polyurethane Composites
Authors: Sahoo Nanda Gopal , Jung Yong Chae , Yoo Hye Jin , Cho Jae Whan
Published: September 2006

Summary: Functionalized MWNTs were incorporated into PU by solution mixing to improve the mechanical and thermal properties of composites. A homogeneous dispersion of MWNTs was successfully achieved in PU matrix as evidenced by scanning electron microscopy. It may be attributed to the hydrogen bonds existing between CO groups of hard segments of PU chains and COOH groups of the MWNT‐COOH. The incorporation of the MWNTs effectively enhanced the crystallization of the PU matrix through heterogeneous nucleation, and the nucleation effect was more evident at 10 wt.‐% functionalized MWNTs as compared to other composite systems. Mechanical properties of the PU‐MWNTs composites were assessed as a function of MWNT concentration and dispersion of MWNT in PU matrix. The most significant improvement in mechanical properties was obtained, e.g., 740% increase in modulus and 180% increase in tensile strength over pure PU with 20% MWNT content. The thermal stability of composites due to thermal gravimetric measurements was significantly improved.

A possible interaction of H‐bonding existed between PU chain and MWNT‐COOH.

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A possible interaction of H‐bonding existed between PU chain and MWNT‐COOH.
Cover Picture: Macromol. Chem. Phys. 18/2006
Authors: Chao Danming , Cui Lili , Li Zhicheng , Lu Xiaofeng , Mao Hui , Zhang Wanjin , Wei Yen
Published: September 2006

Cover: The picture illustrates a strategy for the preparation of an electroactive copolymer with oligoanilines in the main chain, which exhibit exciting molecular structure and interesting spectroscopic and electrochemical properties. Further details can be found in the Full Paper by D. Chao, L. Cui, Z. Li, X. Lu, H. Mao, W. Zhang,* and Y. Wei on page 1691.
Association of olfactory dysfunction with incidental Lewy bodies
Authors: Ross G. Webster , Abbott Robert D. , Petrovitch Helen , Tanner Caroline M. , Davis Daron G. , Nelson James , Markesbery William R. , Hardman John , Masaki Kamal , Launer Lenore , White Lon R.
Published: September 2006

Olfactory dysfunction is found in early Parkinson's disease (PD) and in asymptomatic relatives of PD patients. Incidental Lewy bodies (ILB), the presence of Lewy bodies in the brains of deceased individuals without a history of PD or dementia during life, are thought to represent a presymptomatic stage of PD. If olfactory dysfunction were associated with the presence of ILB, this would suggest that olfactory deficits may precede clinical PD. The purpose of this study was to determine the association of olfactory dysfunction during late life with ILB in the substantia nigra or locus ceruleus. Olfaction was assessed during the 1991–1994 and 1994–1996 examinations of elderly Japanese–American men participating in the longitudinal Honolulu–Asia Aging Study. Among those who later died and underwent a standardized postmortem examination, brains were examined for Lewy bodies in the substantia nigra and the locus ceruleus with hematoxylin and eosin stain. Lewy bodies in the brains of individuals without clinical PD or dementia were classified as ILB. There were 164 autopsied men without clinical PD or dementia who had olfaction testing during one of the examinations. Seventeen had ILB. The age‐adjusted percent of brains with ILB increased from 1.8% in the highest tertile of odor identification to 11.9% in the mid‐tertile to 17.4% in the lowest tertile (P = 0.019 in test for trend). Age‐adjusted relative odds of ILB for the lowest versus the highest tertile was 11.0 (P = 0.02). Olfactory dysfunction is associated with ILB. If incidental Lewy bodies represent presymptomatic stage of PD, olfactory testing may be a useful screening tool to identify those at high risk for developing PD. © 2006 Movement Disorder Society
Study of possible factors associated with age of onset in essential tremor
Authors: Louis Elan D. , Ottman Ruth
Published: September 2006

Factors associated with the age of onset of essential tremor (ET) have not been studied in detail. Identification of modifiable factors could lead to strategies to delay disease onset and identification of nonmodifiable factors would be useful while counseling at risk individuals. The objective of this study was to identify factors associated with age of onset of tremor in ET. One hundred ninety‐five ET cases were enrolled in an environmental epidemiological study. Clinical questionnaires included questions on age of onset, demographics (age, sex, race, education), early‐life exposures (birth order, childhood household size), exposures prior to tremor onset (head trauma, well water, rural living, estrogen replacement therapy), and family history. In unadjusted analyses, age of onset was associated with family history of tremor (40.9 ± 22.0 years for cases with a family history of tremor vs. 57.3 ± 18.4 years for cases without a history; P < 0.001), history of head trauma, younger current age, greater tremor severity, and white race. Ninety‐one percent of cases with onset before age 20 years had a family history of tremor. Age ofonset was not associated with other variables of interest (e.g., sex, well water, rural living). In an adjusted linear regression model, age of tremor onset was strongly associated with family history of tremor (P < 0.001). The familial form of ET is characterized by an earlier age of onset than the sporadic form. This study did not detect any other exposures that modified the age of onset of ET. Follow‐up studies are needed to examine additional factors of potential interest. © 2006 Movement Disorder Society
Antiparkinsonian effects of the novel D3/D2dopamine receptor agonist, S32504, in MPTP‐lesioned marmosets: Mediation by D2, not D3, dopamine receptors
Authors: Hill Michael P. , Ravenscroft Paula , McGuire Steven G. , Brotchie Jonathan M. , Crossman Alan R. , Rochat Catherine , Millan Mark J.
Published: September 2006

L‐dopa remains the most common treatment for Parkinson's disease. However, there is considerable interest in D3/D2receptor agonists such as the novel agent S32504, since they exert antiparkinsonian properties in the absence of dyskinesia. An important question concerns the roles of D2vs. D3receptors, an issue we addressed with the 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)–lesioned nonhuman primate model of Parkinson's disease. InL‐dopa–primed animals, S32504 (0.16–2.5 mg/kg p.o.) dose‐dependently enhanced locomotor activity. This action was abolished by the D2antagonist, L741,626 (2.5 mg/kg), but potentiated by the D3antagonist, S33084 (0.63 mg/kg). Both antagonists were inactive alone. In drug‐naive animals, a maximally effective dose of S32504 (2.5 mg/kg p.o.) displayed pronounced antiparkinsonian properties from the third day of administration, and its actions were expressed rapidly and durably. Thus, on day 33, antiparkinsonian properties of S32504 were apparent within 5 minutes and present for > 4 hours. Moreover, they were associated with neither wearingoffnor significant dyskinesia. In conclusion, the novel D3/D2agonist S32504 may offer advantages overL‐dopa in the treatment of newly diagnosed parkinsonian patients. Its actions are expressed primarily by activation of D2, not D3, receptors. © 2006 Movement Disorder Society
15N NMR chemical shifts of ring substituted benzonitriles
Authors: Žáček Petr , Dransfeld Alk , Exner Otto , Schraml Jan
Published: September 2006

15N chemical shifts in an extensive series of para (15) and meta (15) as well as ortho (8) substituted benzonitriles, XC6H4CN, were measured in deuteriochloroform solutions, using three different methods of referencing. The standard error of the average chemical shift was less than 0.03 ppm in most cases. The results are discussed for both empirical correlations with substituent parameters and quantum chemical calculations. The 15N chemical shifts calculated at the GIAO/B3LYP/6–31 + G*//B3LYP/6–31 + G* level reproduce the experimental values well, and include nitrogen atoms in the substituent groups (range of 300 ppm with slope 0.98 and R = 0.998, n = 43). The 15N shifts in hydroxybenzonitriles are affected by interaction with the OH group. Therefore, these derivatives are excluded from the correlation analysis. The resultant 15N chemical shift correlates well with substituent constants, both in the simple Hammett or DSP relationships and the 13C substituent‐induced chemical shifts of the CN carbon. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The NMR studies on two new furostanol saponins from Agave sisalana leaves
Authors: Zou Peng , Fu Jing , Yu He‐shui , Zhang Jie , Kang Li‐ping , Ma Bai‐ping , Yan Xian‐zhong
Published: September 2006

The detailed NMR studies and full assignments of the 1H and 13C spectral data for two new furostanol saponins isolated from Agave sisalana leaves are described. Their structures were established using a combination of 1D and 2D NMR techniques including 1H, 13C, 1H1H COSY, TOCSY, HSQC, HMBC and HSQC‐TOCSY, and also FAB‐MS spectrometry and chemical methods. The structures were established as (25S)‐26‐(β‐D‐glucopyranosyl)‐22 ξ‐hydroxyfurost‐12‐one‐3β‐yl‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→4)‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→3)‐O‐[O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→2)]‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→4)‐β‐D‐galacto‐ pyranoside (1) and (25S)‐26‐(β‐D‐glucopyranosyl)‐22ξ‐hydroxyfurost‐5‐en‐12‐one‐3β‐yl‐O‐α‐L‐rhamno‐ pyranosyl‐(1→4)‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→3)‐O‐[O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→2)]‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐ (1→4)‐β‐D‐galactopyranoside (2). Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Localized short‐echo‐time proton MR spectroscopy with full signal‐intensity acquisition
Authors: Mlynárik Vladimír , Gambarota Giulio , Frenkel Hanne , Gruetter Rolf
Published: September 2006

We developed a short‐echo‐time (TE) sequence for proton localized spectroscopy by combining a 1D add‐subtract scheme with a doubly slice‐selective spin‐echo (SE) sequence. The sequence preserves the full magnetization available from the selected volume of interest (VOI). By reducing the number of radiofrequency (RF) pulses acting on transverse magnetization, we were able to minimize the TE to the level that is achievable with the stimulated echo acquisition mode (STEAM) technique, and also gained a twofold increase in sensitivity. The use of an adiabatic pulse in the add‐subtract localization improved the efficiency of excitation in spatially inhomogeneous RF fields, which are frequently encountered at high magnetic fields. The localization performance and sensitivity gains of this method, which is termed SPin ECho, full Intensity Acquired Localized (SPECIAL) spectroscopy, were demonstrated in vivo in rat brains. In conjunction with spectroscopic imaging, a 2‐μl spatial resolution was accomplished with a signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) above 30, which is usually sufficient for reliable quantification of a large number of metabolites (neurochemical profile). Magn Reson Med, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Can a federal regulator become a civic enabler?: Watersheds at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Authors: Sirianni Carmen
Published: September 2006

In addition to the works listed in the References, I have drawn on interviews conducted with EPA staff in 2005–2006, as well as with watershed leaders. At the request of some EPA staff, however, I have not named individuals at the agency unless they are clearly identified in published writings or in interviews with watershed leaders.
Brief cognitive assessment of cancer patients: evaluation of the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) psychometric properties
Authors: Mystakidou Kyriaki , Tsilika Eleni , Parpa Efi , Galanos Antonis , Vlahos Lambros
Published: September 2006

Aim: The aim of the present study was to validate the Greek version of the MMSE in advanced‐cancer patients attending a palliative care unit.

Methods: The sample consisted of 103 advanced‐cancer patients. The questionnaire was completed at baseline and three days later. Together with the MMSE, the patients also completed the EORTC QLQ‐C30 Cognitive functioning scale, while researchers recorded data on demographic characteristics, disease status and treatment regimen.

Results: MMSE had overall Cronbach α 0.890. Validity as performed using known‐group analysis showed good results. MMSE discriminated well between subgroups of patients differing in disease severity as defined by ECOG performance status. Comparison between the MMSE and the EORTC Cognitive functioning scale was statistically significant (p<0.05).

Conclusion: These psychometric properties of the Greek version of the MMSE confirm it as a valid and reliable measure when administered to patients with advanced cancer. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Growth of calcium phosphate mineral on carbon nanotube buckypapers
Authors: Tasis D. , Kastanis D. , Galiotis C. , Bouropoulos N.
Published: September 2006

Calcium phosphate formation on carbon nanotube buckypapers (CNTB) was studied in vitro. Pristine and citrate‐treated CNTB were immersed in stationary buffered, calcium phosphate supersaturated solutions. The formed precipitate was identified using FTIR spectroscopy as a mixture of both octacalcium phosphate and hydroxyapatite. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed that spherulitic calcium phosphate crystals formed in both samples while crystal alignment was observed in the case of citrated treated CNTB. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Phonon instability in nanocrystalline silicon carbide
Authors: Cleri F. , Noda T.
Published: September 2006

In recent experiments by a low‐pressure, low‐temperature technique, stable nanotubules of rocksalt SiC were synthetized in massive amounts. Ab‐initio perturbative density‐functional theory calculations in the bulk rocksalt phase provide evidence of drastic phonon softening at a critical pressure of about 2 GPa. To explain the exceptional persistence of the rocksalt structure at ambient conditions we propose that the high pressure induced by interfacial curvature may quench the phonon instability in the nanocrystals down to this minimum threshold, corresponding to the observed nanocrystal size of about 2 nm. Below such pressure the onset of mechanical instability forbids further growth and transformation to ordinary SiC. Nanocrystalline rocksalt SiC is a remarkable example of a material whose unstable, high‐pressure phase is stabilized at ambient conditions upon reducing the grain size in the nanometre range. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Raman studies of electron–phonon coupling in single walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Doorn Stephen K. , Goupalov Serguei , Satishkumar B. C. , Shreve Andrew P. , Haroz Erik H. , Bachilo Sergei M. , Weisman R. Bruce
Published: September 2006

We present the results of Raman studies of the chirality dependence of electron–phonon coupling in carbon nanotubes. We demonstrate that a new parameter resulting from a tight binding derivation of the electron–phonon coupling is useful for analysing experimentally‐determined radial breathing mode (RBM) intensities. We also provide a direct comparison of RBM intensities for 6 chiralities obtained with excitation of both the E 11 and E 22 transitions. Analysis of the observed intensity trends in terms of this new parameter demonstrates that the trend to weaker intensities as one excites at resonance with higher lying transitions results from differences in excited‐state decay rates. Finally, we quantitate the magnitude of the matrix elements through modelling of RBM fundamental and overtone Raman excitation profiles using a time‐dependent Raman formalism. Results for 5 chiralities show coupling in general to be weak. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Micromachined pressure sensors for electromechanical characterization of carbon nanotubes
Authors: Stampfer C. , Helbling T. , Jungen A. , Hierold C.
Published: September 2006

We discuss the use of micromachined membrane‐based pressure sensors to investigate electromechanical properties of single‐walled carbon nanotubes. Among the basic transducer concept and the sensor design we mainly focus on the electromechanical transport through nanotubes. Advanced white light interferometer (WLI) based measurement techniques are used to extract the strain on nanotubes adhering to 100‐nm‐thick alumina (Al2O3) membranes. Finally, we present electromechanical measurements on strained single‐walled carbon nanotubes, and the physical nature of the piezoresistive gauge factor in carbon nanotubes and their contrast to classical silicon strain gauges is discussed. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Polymeric solar cells with oriented and strong transparent carbon nanotube anode
Authors: Ulbricht R. , Jiang X. , Lee S. , Inoue K. , Zhang M. , Fang S. , Baughman R. , Zakhidov A.
Published: September 2006

In this study, an oriented, strong and transparent multiwall carbon nanotube sheet is used as the hole collecting electrode in polymer solar cells with RR‐P3HT as the donor material and PCBM as the acceptor material. An open circuit voltage of 0.49 V, a short circuit current of 5.47 mA/cm2, a fill factor of 0.49, and an efficiency of 1.32% have been obtained. Performance dependence on incident light intensity along with other various investigations are presented. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Double walled carbon nanotube with the smallest inner diameter: a first principles study
Authors: Kürti J. , Zólyomi V. , Yang S. , Kertesz M.
Published: September 2006

The smallest possible inner tube diameter in a double walled carbon nanotube is the zero diameter inner tube, in other words, an infinite linear carbon chain. In this work, we present a first principles study of the vibrational properties of the infinite carbon chain, employing a novel linear/exponential scaling scheme based on the intrinsic behavior of the long range force constant couplings in quasi one‐dimensional chains. The longitudinal optical Raman active frequency is predicted at 1870–1877 cm–1, in contrast to the widely accepted values in the 2000–2200 cm–1 range. Our results provide further evidence for the assignment of the characteristic Raman peaks near 1850 cm–1 of the recently discovered long linear carbon chains encapsulated inside multi‐walled or double walled carbon nanotubes. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Encapsulating C59N azafullerenes inside single‐wall carbon nanotubes
Authors: Simon F. , Kuzmany H. , Fülöp F. , Jánossy A. , Bernardi J. , Hauke F. , Hirsch A.
Published: September 2006

Filling of single‐wall carbon nanotubes with C59N azafullerene derivatives is reported from toluene solvent at ambient temperature. The filling is characterized by high resolution transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. The tube–azafullerene interaction is similar to the tube–C60 interaction. The encapsulated C59N monomer radical is observed using electron spin resonance spectroscopy after vacuum annealing of the azafullerene derivatives. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effect of phenyl rings in liquid crystal molecules on SWCNTs studied by Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Scalia Giusy , Lagerwall Jan P. F. , Haluska Miroslav , Dettlaff‐Weglikowska Ursula , Giesselmann Frank , Roth Siegmar
Published: September 2006

Carbon nanotubes can be aligned by dispersing them in a liquid crystalline matrix. To control and optimize the obtained alignment it is important to understand the interactions between the molecules of the liquid crystal host phase and the carbon nanotubes. To this end we have carried out resonant Raman spectroscopy investigations of dispersions of single‐wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) in a liquid crystal compound comprising molecules with a biphenyl rigid core structure. We detect a distinct wavenumber shift of the radial breathing modes, confirming that the carbon nanotubes interact with the surrounding liquid crystal molecules, most likely through aromatic interactions (π‐stacking). The interactions between liquid crystal host and nanotube guests are also evident from a polarizing microscopy study of the liquid crystal–isotropic phase transition in the proximity of bundles of nanotubes. The ordered liquid crystal phase is stable up to higher temperatures around the bundles than in areas without visible signs of CNTs. Conversely, the transition from the disordered isotropic phase to the liquid crystal phase on cooling always nucleates at the carbon nanotube bundles. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Application of liquid chromatography/ion trap mass spectrometry to the characterization of the related substances of clarithromycin
Authors: Leonard Stefanie , Ferraro Monica , Adams Erwin , Hoogmartens Jos , Schepdael Ann Van
Published: September 2006

A selective reversed‐phase liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MSn) method was developed for the characterization of components of the semi‐synthetic macrolide clarithromycin. Mass spectral data were acquired online on a LCQ ion trap mass spectrometer equipped with an electrospray ionization source operated in the positive ion mode. One unknown compound was structurally elucidated and two other unknowns were characterized using the MS/MS and MSn collision‐induced dissociation spectra of reference substances as interpretative templates, combined with knowledge of the nature of functional group fragmentation behaviour. Given the importance attached to the identification of impurities of unknown identity in pharmaceutical substances, this study is useful for companies producing clarithromycin. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lateral resolution of secondary ion mass spectrometry–results of an inter‐laboratory comparison
Authors: Senoner M. , Unger W. E. S.
Published: September 2006

Recently, BAM organised an inter‐laboratory comparison focussed on lateral resolution and accuracy of sub‐micron length measurements by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). Results were submitted by 16 laboratories from 10 countries. The task was to analyse a cross‐sectioned semiconductor multilayer stack. The resulting strip pattern in the surface of the sample shows narrow strips, step transitions and gratings of different periods. Imaging analysis of this pattern enables the determination of relevant parameters related to the lateral resolution: (i) The width (FWHM) of the primary ion beam, (ii) the distance between 16% and 84% intensity points in a profile across the image of a step transition and (iii) the modulation of intensity in the images of gratings with different periods. The parameter's data reported by the participants vary in a wide range. A strong variation in the data of primary ion beam width was observed for results measured with the same type of instrument. The distance between two narrow strips was measured with high accuracy. Twelve of sixteen of the submitted values are within the limits of uncertainty of the reference value 964 ± 35 nm. This result shows that the calibration of the length scale of the SIMS instruments is already rather precise in most of the participating laboratories. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of a passivation layer comprising MgOSiO2 and ZrO2
Authors: Kim Na‐Rae , Lee Yang‐Doo , Paek Kyeong‐Kap , Lee Joo‐Won , Kim Jai‐Kyeong , Hwang Sung‐Woo , Ju Byeong‐Kwon
Published: September 2006

Thin films with magnesium oxide (MgO) and silicon oxide (SiO2) compounds mixed at various mixture ratios were deposited on flexible polyether sulfone (PES) substrates by an e‐beam evaporator to investigate their potential for transparent barrier applications. In this study, as the MgO fraction increased, thin films comprising MgO and SiO2 compounds became more amorphous, and their surface morphologies became smoother and denser. In addition, zirconium oxide (ZrO2) was added to the above‐mentioned compound mixtures, and the properties of the compound mixture comprising MgSiZrO were then measured. ZrO2 made the thin mixture films more amorphous, and made the surface morphology denser and more uniform. Whole thin films of 250 ± 30 nm in thickness were formed, and their water vapor transmission rates (WVTRs) decreased rapidly. The best WVTR was obtained by depositing thin films of MgSiZrO compound among the whole thin films. The WVTRs of the PES substrate in the bare state decreased from 47 to 0.8 g m−2 day−1. This MgSiZrO compound was deposited on polyethylene terephtalate (PET) substrates again to confirm the availability of the compound mixture. Thin films on the PET substrates decreased the WVTRs remarkably from 2.96 to 0.01 g m−2 day−1. These results were similar to those of thin films on PES substrates. As the thin mixture films became more amorphous and surface morphology denser and more uniform, the WVTRs decreased. Therefore, the thin mixture films became more suitable for flexible organic light emitting displays (OLEDs) as transparent passivation layers against moisture in air. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Improved sputter depth resolution in Auger composition‐depth profiling of polycrystalline thin film systems using single grain depth profiling
Authors: Scheithauer U.
Published: September 2006

Today in‐depth profiling of microelectronics thin film systems is one of the important applications of Auger electron spectroscopy. It is used to monitor the elemental in‐depth composition after different manufacturing processes to control the quality of these processes. For instance, the layer interdiffusion and reactions with various process gases are analyzed. In addition, interface contaminations have to be controlled, because they strongly influence the properties of the whole thin film system.

For polycrystalline layers, the depth resolution of sputter depth profiling is limited by the sputter yield differences attributed to grains having different crystalline orientations relative to the incoming ion beam. If depth profiling can be performed on single grains only, the poor depth resolution caused by these sputter yield differences can be avoided. Unfortunately, the approach works only on a few samples because single grains must be identified and have to have grain sizes that are in the dimensions of the layer thickness. Using methods of in situ sample preparation, however, allows application of single grain depth profiling to an extended range of thin film systems. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.