bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electron Attachment to a Hydrated DNA Duplex: The Dinucleoside Phosphate Deoxyguanylyl‐3′,5′‐Deoxycytidine
Authors: Gu Jiande , Wong Ning‐Bew , Xie Yaoming , Schaefer F. Henry
Published: October 2010

The minimal essential section of DNA helices, the dinucleoside phosphate deoxyguanylyl‐3′,5′‐deoxycytidine dimer octahydrate, [dGpdC]2, has been constructed, fully optimized, and analyzed by using quantum chemical methods at the B3LYP/6‐31+G(d,p) level of theory. Study of the electrons attached to [dGpdC]2 reveals that DNA double strands are capable of capturing low‐energy electrons and forming electronically stable radical anions. The relatively large vertical electron affinity (VEA) predicted for [dGpdC]2 (0.38 eV) indicates that the cytosine bases are good electron captors in DNA double strands. The structure, charge distribution, and molecular orbital analysis for the fully optimized radical anion [dGpdC]2.− suggest that the extra electron tends to be redistributed to one of the cytosine base moieties, in an electronically stable structure (with adiabatic electron affinity (AEA) 1.14 eV and vertical detachment energy (VDE) 2.20 eV). The structural features of the optimized radical anion [dGpdC]2.− also suggest the probability of interstrand proton transfer. The interstrand proton transfer leads to a distonic radical anion [d(G−H)pdC: d(C+H)pdG].−, which contains one deprotonated guanine anion and one protonated cytosine radical. This distonic radical anion is predicted to be more stable than [dGpdC]2.−. Therefore, experimental evidence for electron attachment to the DNA double helices should be related to [d(G−H)pdC:d(C+H)pdG].− complexes, for which the VDE might be as high as 2.7 eV (in dry conditions) to 3.3 eV (in fully hydrated conditions). Effects of the polarizable medium have been found to be important for increasing the electron capture ability of the dGpdC dimer. The ultimate AEA value for cytosine in DNA duplexes is predicted to be 2.03 eV in aqueous solution.
Syntheses and Photochromic Studies of Dithienylethene‐Containing Imidazolium Derivatives and Their Reactivity towards Nucleophiles
Authors: Duan Gongping , Zhu Nianyong , Yam Vivian Wing‐Wah
Published: October 2010

A series of dithienylethene‐containing imidazolium salts with various substituents on the 2‐position of the imidazolium ring has been synthesized. The photochromic properties of these compounds have been studied, and the closed forms are found to be solvatochromic due to the donor–acceptor interaction with the solvent molecules. The closed form of the imidazolium salt shows a much higher affinity towards nucleophiles over the open form of the salt. A reaction pathway has been proposed to account for this reactivity difference based on the structure–property relationship, and the possible structure of the reaction product is discussed.
The effects of document language quality on consumer perceptions and intentions
Authors: Pedraz‐Delhaes Arancha , Aljukhadar Muhammad , Sénécal Sylvain
Published: October 2010

This article establishes a link between language quality in the documentation accompanying a product and consumers' evaluations of, and behavioural intentions towards, both the product and the manufacturer. In a laboratory experiment, 116 participants assembled a product using assembly guides with different language quality levels. Results show that language quality affects document evaluation, which spills over to the evaluations of both the product and the manufacturer. Findings also indicate that the documentation accompanying a product is a vital extrinsic cue used by consumers to evaluate both the product and the manufacturer, which implies that these documents are secondary products that add value to the primary product. Theoretical and managerial implications of these findings are discussed. Copyright © 2010 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The experiential aspects of online search information for new customers to a website
Authors: Simon Françoise
Published: October 2010

An experiential construct was developed and applied to an online information search context involving new customers of a commercial website. The construct reflects daydreaming, enjoyment, and immersion. Our results show: (a) the online consumption experience has significant influence on attitude toward the website and intention to revisit, (b) enduring involvement and rational engagement have positive effects on daydreaming and enjoyment, (c) Internet search skill has no association with enjoyment or immersion. Practical implications and future research directions are discussed. Copyright © 2010 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biomarker‐based phase I dose‐escalation, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic study of oral apricoxib in combination with erlotinib in advanced nonsmall cell lung cancer
Authors: Reckamp Karen , Gitlitz Barbara , Chen Lin‐Chi , Patel Ravi , Milne Ginger , Syto Mary , Jezior Deborah , Zaknoen Sara
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND:

Apricoxib, a novel once‐daily selective cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitor, was investigated in combination with erlotinib for recurrent stage IIIB/IV nonsmall cell lung cancer to determine the maximum tolerated dose, dose‐limiting toxicity, and recommended phase II dose (RP2D) based on changes in urinary prostaglandin E2 metabolite (PGE‐M).

METHODS:

Patients received escalating doses of apricoxib (100, 200, and 400 mg/day) in combination with erlotinib 150 mg/day until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Urinary PGE‐M was used to assess biologic activity and inform the optimal biologic dose.

RESULTS:

Twenty patients were treated (3 at 100 mg; 3 at 200 mg; 14 at 400 mg apricoxib) with a median of 4 cycles (range, 2‐14 cycles); 8 patients (40%) received prior EGFR‐directed therapies. No dose‐limiting toxicity was observed. Study drug‐related adverse events (AEs) included diarrhea, rash, dry skin, anemia, fatigue, and increased serum creatinine; 4 patients had grade ≥3 drug‐related AEs (diarrhea, perforated duodenal ulcer, hypophosphatemia, and deep vein thrombosis). The RP2D was 400 mg/day based on safety, biologic activity based on decreases in urinary PGE‐M, and pharmacokinetics. One patient had a partial response, and 11 had stable disease. Stable disease was observed in patients who had received prior EGFR inhibitor therapy but was greater in patients not previously treated with an EGFR inhibitor. Seventeen patients had elevated urinary PGE‐M at baseline, and 14 (70%) had a decrease from baseline, which was associated with disease control.

CONCLUSIONS:

Apricoxib plus erlotinib was well tolerated and yielded a 60% disease control rate. A phase II trial is currently investigating 400 mg/day apricoxib plus 150 mg/day erlotinib in patients selected based on change in urinary PGE‐M. Cancer 2011. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Association of multi‐drug resistance gene polymorphisms with pancreatic cancer outcome
Authors: Tanaka Motofumi , Okazaki Taro , Suzuki Hideo , Abbruzzese James L. , Li Donghui
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND:

The purpose of this study was to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of multidrug resistance genes that are associated with clinical outcome in patients with potentially resectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma who were treated with preoperative gemcitabine‐based chemoradiotherapy at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.

METHODS:

We selected 8 SNPs of 7 drug resistance genes, including MDR1 (ABCB1), MRP1‐5 (ABCC1‐5), and BCRP (ABCG2), reported to be important in mediating drug resistance. Genotype was determined by the Taqman method. The associations of genotype with tumor response to therapy and overall survival (OS) were evaluated using log‐rank test, Cox regression, and logistic regression models.

RESULTS:

MRP5 A‐2G AA genotype showed significant association with OS (log‐rank P = .010). The hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) was 1.65 (1.11‐2.45) after adjusting for clinical predictors. The MRP2 G40A GG genotype had a weak association with reduced OS (log‐rank P = .097). A combined effect of the two genotypes on OS was observed. Patients with none of the adverse genotypes had a median survival time (MST) of 34.0 months, and those with 1‐2 deleterious alleles had a significantly lower MST of 20.7 months (log‐rank P = .006). MRP2 G40A GG genotype was also significantly associated with poor histological response to chemoradiotherapy (P = .028).

CONCLUSIONS:

These observations suggest a potential role of polymorphic variants of drug resistance genes in predicting therapeutic efficacy and survival of patients with potentially resectable pancreatic cancer. Cancer 2011. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Prognostic model for survival in patients with early stage cervical cancer
Authors: Biewenga Petra , van der Velden Jacobus , Mol Ben Willem J. , Stalpers Lukas J. A. , Schilthuis Marten S. , van der Steeg Jan Willem , Burger Matthé P. M. , Buist Marrije R.
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND:

In the management of early stage cervical cancer, knowledge about the prognosis is critical. Although many factors have an impact on survival, their relative importance remains controversial. This study aims to develop a prognostic model for survival in early stage cervical cancer patients and to reconsider grounds for adjuvant treatment.

METHODS:

A multivariate Cox regression model was used to identify the prognostic weight of clinical and histological factors for disease‐specific survival (DSS) in 710 consecutive patients who had surgery for early stage cervical cancer (FIGO [International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics] stage IA2‐IIA). Prognostic scores were derived by converting the regression coefficients for each prognostic marker and used in a score chart. The discriminative capacity was expressed as the area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic.

RESULTS:

The 5‐year DSS was 92%. Tumor diameter, histological type, lymph node metastasis, depth of stromal invasion, lymph vascular space invasion, and parametrial extension were independently associated with DSS and were included in a Cox regression model. This prognostic model, corrected for the 9% overfit shown by internal validation, showed a fair discriminative capacity (AUC, 0.73). The derived score chart predicting 5‐year DSS showed a good discriminative capacity (AUC, 0.85).

CONCLUSIONS:

In patients with early stage cervical cancer, DSS can be predicted with a statistical model. Models, such as that presented here, should be used in clinical trials on the effects of adjuvant treatments in high‐risk early cervical cancer patients, both to stratify and to include patients. Cancer 2011. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Diabetes as a disease of endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Thomas Sally E. , Dalton Lucy E. , Daly Marie‐Louise , Malzer Elke , Marciniak Stefan J.
Published: October 2010

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is an integral part of life for all professional secretory cells, but it has been studied to greatest depth in the pancreatic β‐cell. This reflects both the crucial role played by ER stress in the pathogenesis of diabetes and also the exquisite vulnerability of these cells to ER dysfunction. The adaptive cellular response to ER stress, the unfolded protein response, comprises mechanisms to both regulate new protein translation and a transcriptional program to allow adaptation to the stress. The core of this response is a triad of stress‐sensing proteins: protein kinase R‐like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), inositol‐requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1) and activating transcription factor 6. All three regulate portions of the transcriptional unfolded protein response, while PERK also attenuates protein synthesis during ER stress and IRE1 interacts directly with the c‐Jun amino‐terminal kinase stress kinase pathway. In this review we shall discuss these processes in detail, with emphasis given to their impact on diabetes and how recent findings indicate that ER stress may be responsible for the loss of β‐cell mass in the disease. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthetic and Electrochemical Studies of [2Fe2S] Complexes Containing a 4‐Amino‐1,2‐dithiolane‐4‐carboxylic Acid Moiety
Authors: Apfel Ulf‐Peter , Kowol Christian R. , Morera Enrico , Görls Helmar , Lucente Gino , Keppler Bernhard K. , Weigand Wolfgang
Published: October 2010

In the search for novel [FeFe] hydrogenase model systems several di‐ and tripeptides containing an 4‐amino‐1,2‐dithiolane‐4‐carboxylic acid (Adt) moiety orN‐phenylsulfonyl‐Adt‐OMe were treated with Fe3(CO)12. The resulting [FeFe] complexes were characterized by1H and13C NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and elemental analysis. All complexes were investigated by cyclic voltammetry, and their ability to catalyze the reduction of protons to dihydrogen, as a function of acid concentration, was studied in different solvents.
Density Functional Theory Studies of [Fe(O)2L]2+: What is the Role of the Spectator Ligand L with Different Coordination Numbers?
Authors: Tong Glenna So Ming , Che Chi‐Ming
Published: October 2010

Density functional theory (DFT) studies were carried out on [Fe(O)2(L)]n+ [L = qpy (1), simple amines (2), and tpy (3); qpy = 2,2′:6′,2″:6″,2″′:6″′,2″″‐quinquepyridine and tpy = terpyridine; n = 1 or 2] to study how the coordination number of the spectator ligand L affects the geometries and electronic structures of the complexes. It was found that qpy can act as both a tridentate and pentadentate ligand resulting in [Fe(O)2(qpy)]2+ (12+) having a trigonal bipyramidal (TBP) geometry in the former case, and a pentagonal bipyramidal (PBP) geometry in the latter case. The difference in coordination geometries has a significant impact on the electronic structures of 12+. With a TBP geometry, 12+ adopts a [FeV(O)2(qpy)+·]2+ formalism where a d3 quartet FeV ion ferromagnetically and antiferromagnetically couples to the qpy cation radical to give close‐lying triplet and quintet states (within ca. 0.2 eV). With a PBP geometry, the FeV ion in 12+ also formally has three unpaired electrons (a d3 quartet) with the fourth unpaired electron localized on a single oxido ligand to give a quintet state. The unoccupied orbital of 12+ in PBP geometry is lower lying in energy and has higher oxido character than when the complex has TBP geometry. Thus, based on the MO energies and oxido character of the unoccupied orbital, 12+ with PBP geometry is proposed to be a more reactive oxidant than 12+ with TBP geometry. On the other hand, 12+ with TBP geometry has a similar electronic structure to heme Cpd I, and it is possible that these two compounds have similar oxygen atom transfer reaction mechanisms. By varying the ligand coordination number using different spectator ligands L, the dioxido‐iron complex [Fe(O)2(L)]2+ can change from a high‐spin triplet when L = tpy, to a low‐spin singlet when L = simple amines, to a quasi‐degenerate triplet and quintet state when L = qpy.
Anomeric Effect of the Nitrogen Atom in the Isocyano and Urea Groups
Authors: Ichikawa Yoshiyasu , Watanabe Hitomi , Kotsuki Hiyoshizo , Nakano Keiji
Published: October 2010

The anomeric effect associated with the nitrogen atom in the isocyano group was investigated by using 1H NMR spectroscopic analysis of an anomeric pair of xylopyranosyl isocyanides 8 and 7. We found that β‐anomer 7 prefers to exist in the 1C4 conformation in which the nitrogen atom in the isocyano group adopts an axial orientation. This observation, coupled with the results of X‐ray crystallographic analysis establishes that the nitrogen atom in the isocyano group displays the anomeric effect. Furthermore, xylopyranosyl isocyanides 8 and 7 were transformed into the corresponding xylopyranosyl ureas 10 and 11. In the case of the urea group, a normal sterically determined preference is observed in which the bulky urea substituents at the pyranose anomeric position occupy the equatorial position.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Reactions of 3‐Substituted Methylenecyclopropanes
Authors: Shao Li‐Xiong , Li Jia , Wang Bao‐Yu , Shi Min
Published: October 2010

Pd‐catalyzed reactions of 3‐substituted methylenecyclopropanes (MCPs), in which the substituents can be either hydroxymethyl or formyl, have been thoroughly investigated in the presence or absence of an acid source. It was found that the Pd‐catalyzed reactions of methylenecyclopropylcarbinols (Z)‐1 in the presence of acetic acid, acetic acid 2‐methylene‐but‐3‐enyl esters 4 can be formed in moderate yields. It was also found that Pd alone can catalyze the isomerization of methylenecyclopropylcarbinols (E)‐1 in the absence of an acid source to form pent‐4‐enals 3. The Pd‐catalyzed reactions of methylenecyclopropanecarbaldehydes 5 were also carried out in the presence of acetic acid. It was found that when (E)‐5 was used as the substrate, the isomerized product, penta‐2,4‐dienal 6, could be obtained in good to high yields, whereas the use of (Z)‐5 gave 2‐(3‐formylpenta‐2,4‐dienylidene)cyclopropanecarbaldehyde 7 in moderate to good yields. Plausible mechanisms for all these transformations have been discussed on the basis of the obtained results and control experiments.
trans‐Tetrahydrofurans by OH‐Assisted Ru‐Catalyzed Isomerization of 2‐Butene‐1,4‐diols
Authors: Fehr Charles , Magpantay Iris , Saudan Lionel , Sommer Horst
Published: October 2010

We herein report a general method for the synthesis of 1,2‐annulated trans‐tetrahydrofurans by the OH‐assisted Ru‐catalyzed isomerization of (Z)‐2‐butene‐1,4‐diols (using Chaudret's catalyst), followed by reduction of the incipient lactol (using Et3SiH and Amberlyst 15). Alternatively, the lactol can be oxidized to the corresponding lactone (using Ikariya's catalyst). It was shown by labeling experiments that an addition/elimination pathway is (at least to some extent) operative for the isomerization reaction.
Optimization of cyclical electrical field flow fractionation
Authors: Srinivas Merugu , Sant Himanshu J. , Gale Bruce K.
Published: October 2010

Cyclical electrical field flow fractionation (CyElFFF) is a variation on electrical field flow fractionation (ElFFF) where cyclical electrical fields are used instead of steady DC fields to increase the effective field experienced by particles in the flow channel. Even though the effective field increases more than 20‐fold compared to normal ElFFF, the retention and resolution in CyElFFF has not been shown to be better than in ElFFF. In this paper we report how one can optimize operational parameters in CyElFFF to obtain good retention and resolution in CyElFFF. The effects of offset voltage, frequency, flowrate, concentration of particles and sample size on retention, resolution and retained peak/void peak ratio have been observed. The results obtained from these experiments were analyzed and suggestions have been made to improve both retention and resolution. A 4‐fold improvement in retention without a significant increase in band broadening is reported.
Physical interpretation of the Lr parameter in the theory for the gel electrophoresis of partially denatured DNA
Authors: Sean David , Slater Gary W.
Published: October 2010

Partial strand melting of dsDNA during gel electrophoresis typically results in an abrupt reduction of mobility. Several DNA analysis technologies are based on this phenomenon. Inspired by the de Gennes' theory for the reptation of branched polymers in gels, Lerman et al. (Ann. Rev. Biophys. Bioeng. 1984, 13, 399–423) proposed a mathematical expression to predict this reduced mobility. The latter contains only two parameters: the average number of denatured bases p̄ (which can be obtained using a theory for DNA melting) and a constant Lr. However, there is confusion in the literature regarding the physical interpretation of Lr and little is known about its dependence upon experimental parameters. The purpose of this short communication is to derive an explicit equation for the parameter Lr from the de Gennes theory of reptation. Our derivation shines light on the meaning of Lr, clarifies the scope of the underlying approximations, and makes predictions about the dependence of Lr upon the gel pore size and the persistence length of ssDNA.
Interaction of uranyl with Se(IV) and Se(VI) in aqueous acid solutions by means of capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Sladkov Vladimir
Published: October 2010

The uranyl–selenium(IV) and uranyl–selenium(VI) interactions were studied by CE in aqueous acid solutions, containing U(VI) and Se(IV) or Se(VI) at different concentrations, at pH 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5. The method proposed in this paper allows one with the use of CE data on metal ion mobilities at different pHs to establish the ligand species interacting with metal ion and complex species formed. In the case of Se(VI) a selenate, as demonstrated, interacts with uranyl ions, in the case of Se(IV) this is a hydroselenite. It was also shown that the equilibria for the U(VI)–Se(VI) and U(VI)–Se(IV) systems can be established from CE data. The formation of UO2SeO4, UO2(SeO4), UO2HSeO and UO2(HSeO3)2 species is demonstrated. The stability constant values were measured at different ionic strengths (from 0.02 to 0.2 mol/L). The logarithms of the stability constant values (β°) extrapolated to ionic strength 0 by the specific ion interaction theory (SIT) are found to be log β°1=2.93±0.06 for UO2SeO4 formation, log β°2=4.030.18 for UO2(SeO4) formation, log β°1=3.270.15 for UO2HSeO formation and log β°2=5.510.11 for UO2(HSeO3)2 at 25°C. The results for the first constant values for each of systems are consistent with the published values. For UO2(SeO4) formation, a new constant stability value is given. The existence of UO2(HSeO3)2 complex species is demonstrated and its constant stability value is given for the first time.
Modularity in the mammalian dentition: mice and monkeys share a common dental genetic architecture
Authors: Hlusko Leslea J. , Sage Richard D. , Mahaney Michael C.
Published: October 2010

The concept of modularity provides a useful tool for exploring the relationship between genotype and phenotype. Here, we use quantitative genetics to identify modularity within the mammalian dentition, connecting the genetics of organogenesis to the genetics of population‐level variation for a phenotype well represented in the fossil record. We estimated the correlations between dental traits owing to the shared additive effects of genes (pleiotropy) and compared the pleiotropic relationships among homologous traits in two evolutionary distant taxa—mice and baboons. We find that in both mice and baboons, who shared a common ancestor >65 Ma, incisor size variation is genetically independent of molar size variation. Furthermore, baboon premolars show independent genetic variation from incisors, suggesting that a modular genetic architecture separates incisors from these posterior teeth as well. Such genetic independence between modules provides an explanation for the extensive diversity of incisor size variation seen throughout mammalian evolution—variation uncorrelated with equivalent levels of postcanine tooth size variation. The modularity identified here is supported by the odontogenic homeobox code proposed for the patterning of the rodent dentition. The baboon postcanine pattern of incomplete pleiotropy is also consistent with predictions from the morphogenetic field model.J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 316:21–49, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genetic inactivation of ERK1 and ERK2 in chondrocytes promotes bone growth and enlarges the spinal canal
Authors: Sebastian Arjun , Matsushita Takehiko , Kawanami Aya , Mackem Susan , Landreth Gary E. , Murakami Shunichi
Published: October 2010

Activating mutations in FGFR3 cause the most common forms of human dwarfism: achondroplasia and thanatophoric dysplasia. In mouse models of achondroplasia, recent studies have implicated the ERK MAPK pathway, a pathway activated by FGFR3, in creating reduced bone growth. Our recent studies have indicated that increased Fgfr3 and ERK MAPK signaling in chondrocytes also causes premature synchondrosis closure in the cranial base and vertebrae, accounting for the sometimes fatal stenosis of the foramen magnum and spinal canal in achondroplasia. Conversely, whether the decrease—or inactivation—of ERK1 and ERK2 promotes bone growth and delays synchondrosis closure remains to be investigated. In this study, we inactivated ERK2 in the chondrocytes of ERK1‐null mice using the Col2a1‐Cre and Col2a1‐CreER transgenes. We found that the genetic inactivation of ERK1 and ERK2 in chondrocytes enhances the growth of cartilaginous skeletal elements. We also found that the postnatal inactivation of ERK1 and ERK2 in chondrocytes delays synchondrosis closure and enlarges the spinal canal. These observations make ERK1 and ERK2 an attractive target for the treatment of achondroplasia and other FGFR3‐related skeletal syndromes. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:375–379, 2011
Erratum: Chemical composition of cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata) grown on acid sulfate soils
Authors: Fältmarsch Rasmus , Österholm Peter
Published: October 2010

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of soil geochemistry on the concentrations of Ca, K, Mg, P, Co, Ni, Zn, Mn, Cu, and Fe in cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata) grown on acid sulfate (AS) soils in Western Finland. A total of 11 topsoil (0–20 cm) and corresponding cabbage samples and three whole‐soil profiles (≈ 0–260 cm) were collected on three agricultural fields. The concentrations of Co and Zn in cabbage were correlated with the NH4Ac‐extractable (easily available) concentrations in the topsoil, indicating that the uptake of these elements in cabbage is largely governed by soil geochemistry. Yet, the concentrations of Co and Zn in cabbage were not in general elevated relative to that of Finnish average values, although some AS soils showed enriched concentrations of these metals in the soil and cabbage. Significant geochemical differences (e.g., oxidation depth, organic‐matter and S content, pH) were observed among the studied AS soils, while, on the other hand, the concentrations of Ca, K, Mg, P, Ni, Mn, Cu, and Fe in cabbage were relatively similar. The hydroxylamine‐extractable concentrations of these elements in the topsoil were not correlated to those in cabbage, suggesting that uptake is not governed by the oxide‐bound fraction of these elements in the soil. Similarly, the easily available concentrations of Ca, P, Ni, Mn, Cu, and Fe in the topsoil were not correlated to those in cabbage, indicating that uptake is independent of the easily available concentrations in the soil. Hence, it is suggested that cabbage can regulate and thus optimize its concentrations of Ca, P, Ni, Mn, Cu, and Fe. Oxidation depth affected neither the easily available concentrations of Co, Ni, Zn, and Mn in the topsoil nor the concentrations in cabbage. However, the subsoil with a lower oxidation depth, which is to a smaller extent affected by leaching, may partly be enriched in these metals. Nevertheless, these showed no increased concentrations in cabbage. Based on these findings, it is suggested that the large amounts of metals mobilized in AS soils are easily lost to drains, subsequently contaminating nearby waterways and estuaries whereas they are only partly enriched in cabbage and other previously studied crops (oat).
Public perception of landscape restoration along a degraded urban streamside
Authors: Özgüner H. , Eraslan Ş. , Yilmaz S.
Published: October 2010

Restoration of degraded lands in urban areas increases the ecologic, aesthetic and economic value of these areas and contributes to quality of life in cities. This study explores public attitudes towards restoration of a derelict urban streamside corridor. Data for this study were collected using a social survey among users and neighbourhood residents of the Çayboyu area in Isparta, Turkey. The survey compared the previous and present situation of the survey site in order to reveal the influence of stream restorations on public perception and use of derelict urban landscapes. The results identified a dramatic change in public perceptions between the previous and present situation of the area. Following the restoration works, the Çayboyu area has become one of the most popular and intensively used green spaces in the city. The survey results suggest that restoration of derelict lands increases the value of such areas for people and enhances their uses for recreational purposes in urban areas. Therefore, it is vital that urban planners and local authorities should encourage restoration of derelict and unused urban areas and preserve them as green spaces to meet the amenity needs of urban people. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Terahertz spectroscopy and imaging – Modern techniques and applications
Authors: Jepsen P.U. , Cooke D.G. , Koch M.
Published: October 2010

Over the past three decades a new spectroscopic technique with unique possibilities has emerged. Based on coherent and time‐resolved detection of the electric field of ultrashort radiation bursts in the far‐infrared, this technique has become known as terahertz time‐domain spectroscopy (THz‐TDS). In this review article the authors describe the technique in its various implementations for static and time‐resolved spectroscopy, and illustrate the performance of the technique with recent examples from solid‐state physics and physical chemistry as well as aqueous chemistry. Examples from other fields of research, where THz spectroscopic techniques have proven to be useful research tools, and the potential for industrial applications of THz spectroscopic and imaging techniques are discussed.
A Novel Thermosensitive Gel Adsorbent for Phosphate Ions
Authors: Gotoh Takehiko , Tanaka Kazunari , Arase Takuya , Sakohara Shuji
Published: October 2010

Summary: A novel thermosensitive gel adsorbent for phosphate ions was developed and its adsorption/desorption properties were investigated. The gel adsorbent was made by the copolymerization of N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPA) and N‐[3‐(dimethylamino)propyl]acrylamide (DMAPAA). The adsorbent has a volume phase transition temperature (VPTT), below which it becomes hydrophilic. The tertiary amino groups of DMAPAA were ionized and showed a cationic state when the gel swelled. Phosphate ions were adsorbed onto the ionized tertiary amino groups in the gel network below the VPTT and were desorbed above the VPTT because of the suppression of the ionization of the tertiary amino groups of gel and the shrinkage of the gel.
Surface Properties of Poly(vinyl alcohol) with Iron(III)chloride Before and After UV‐Irradiation
Authors: Kowalonek Jolanta , Kaczmarek Halina , Bajer Dagmara
Published: October 2010

Summary: Surface properties of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) with low content of FeCl3 (1, 5 wt.%) were studied by measurements of contact angles and atomic force microscopy. The results of contact angles and the surface free energy calculations revealed that the hydrophilicity of the surface of PVA films depended on the content of iron (III) chloride in these polymeric films. Introduced salt also affected photochemical reactions in poly(vinyl alcohol). Photooxidation of PVA was more effective in the presence of FeCl3 because of formation of reactive chlorine atoms, which were capable of initiating new reactions. Also the morphology and roughness parameters of PVA film changed when iron (III) chloride was added.
Photodegradation of Poly[methyl(phenyl)silylene] in the Presence of Modifying Substances
Authors: Kochalska Anna , Nožár Juraj , Nešpůrek Stanislav , Peter Jakub
Published: October 2010

Summary: Efficiency of the photodegradation of poly[methyl(phenyl)silylene] can be increased by electron acceptor additives with unstable anion radicals. The best chain degradation yield was obtained using benzoyl peroxide as an additive. The model for the photodegradation process is supported by quantum chemical calculations.
Modification of Rice Straw for Heavy Metal Ion Adsorbents by Microwave Heating
Authors: Rungrodnimitchai Supitcha
Published: October 2010

Summary: Cellulose in rice straw was chemically modified by phosphorylation using conventional heating or microwave heating. Rice straw pretreated by NaOH solution gave the highest phosphorus content when it was phosphorylated using microwave heating at 450 watt (7.07%P, ion exchange capacity 2.60 meq/g). The 3 hour‐reaction in oil bath yielded the modified rice straw with lower of phosphorus content (6.32%P) and higher ion exchange capacity (2.99 meq/g) than that of microwave heating. The feasibility of the modified rice straw as cation sorbents for removing heavy metal was investigated. Cd2+, Cr3+ and Pb2+ were used as sorbates. In sorption test of 40 ppm with 2.0 g/L of the modified rice straw, both modified rice straws could adsorb metal ions faster than the commercial ion exchange resin (dowax) at the time less than 60 min. The modified rice straw prepared by microwave heating (A‐MCW2) could remove 90% of Cd2+ and Cr3+ in 60 minutes and remove 99% of Pb2+ after 30 min.
Filamentous Supramolecular Structures
Authors: Burchard Walther
Published: October 2010

Summary: The formation of four filament forming proteins was studied mainly by light scattering as a function of the scattering angle. Besides the molar mass Mw and the radius of gyration Rg the contour length L, was determined. The corresponding structure parameters are compared with those of the Aβ‐amyloid. A minimum cross‐sectional diameter of 2 nm appeared to be necessary for filament stabilization. Bundle and network formation are often observed and are tentatively explained by thermodynamic arguments. The local conformation of the unimer proteins in the filaments remained largely unexplored. Only in one example CD and IR spectroscopy was applied. The analysis disclosed a β‐sheet/α‐helix transition on de‐naturation, as was conjectured before as reason for the Aβ‐amyloid formation.
Modeling the Effects of Reactor Backmixing on RAFT Polymerization
Authors: Bitsch Boris , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher , Zhu Shiping
Published: October 2010

The effects of reactor backmixing on the outcome of RAFT polymerizations are examined. The kinetic model for the RAFT reaction is based on the first principle of mass balances and the method of moments. Two reactor models were applied for the simulation of backmixing, i.e., a PFTR with loop and multiple CSTRs in series. The models predict the behavior of monomer conversion, molecular weights, their distributions as well as the polydispersities for various chain types at different levels of backmixing. Both models demonstrated that a significant impact of reactor backmixing on RAFT kinetics and polymer molecular weight development exists.

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On the pharyngeal tooth remains of crucian and common carp from the neolithic Tianluoshan site, Zhejiang Province, China, with remarks on the relationship between freshwater fishing and rice cultivation in the Neolithic Age
Authors: Nakajima T. , Nakajima M. , Mizuno T. , Sun G.‐P. , He S.‐P. , Liu H.‐Z.
Published: October 2010

The pharyngeal tooth remains of crucian and common carp from the Tinaluoshan site of the Hemudu Cultural Stage, Zhejiang Province, China, were analysed. The body‐lengths (BLs) of the fish were estimated from tooth size and plotted as bar diagrams. Based on these, we infer that Neolithic dwellers used gill nets to efficiently catch fish of a specific size during the breeding season. The BL distribution of common carp there is similar to those from Jomon sites in Japan, and we therefore infer that the technology for controlling water for rice cultivation in paddy fields had not yet been developed. The abundance of tooth remains of crucian carp unearthed at the Tianluoshan site is reminiscent of similar finds in Western Japan, and we thus infer that the culture trait of utilizing crucian carp as a major protein resource was distributed from the Yangtze River basin to Western Japan. Analysis of pharyngeal tooth remains of carp at various Japanese archaeological sites shows that freshwater fishing was conducted quite differently before and after the establishment of paddy fields. With this fact in mind, one of the present authors tried to model the development of freshwater fishing, with reference to the relation of fishing to rice cultivation (Nakajima, 2010). In Phase I, artisanal fishing became an active and technically developed endeavour, and people began to cultivate rice at fishing site. In Phase II, people began to cultivate rice purposefully in irrigated paddy fields while also fishing there. Comparing the present results of the pharyngeal tooth remains from the Tianluoshan site with those from the Jomon Period, we see that the Tianluoshan site was in the same stage as the end of Phase I in Japan, which rice cultivation was done as a supplementary activity at fishing site. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Use of multiple international healthcare databases for the detection of rare drug‐associated outcomes: a pharmacoepidemiological programme comparing rosuvastatin with other marketed statins
Authors: García Rodríguez Luis A. , Herings Ron , Johansson Saga
Published: October 2010

Background

Statins (inhibitors of 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methyl‐glutaryl‐CoA reductase) are associated with rare but serious adverse events involving the muscle, kidney and liver. To compare the safety profile of rosuvastatin with other marketed statins, four pharmacoepidemiological studies were conducted using different national healthcare databases. These studies used a coordinated methodology to facilitate future meta‐analysis.

Objective

To achieve enhanced estimates of rosuvastatin safety relative to other statins, by performing a meta‐analysis of four rosuvastatin safety studies.

Methods

Outcomes were identified using computerised codes, and validated using hospital records or questionnaires. Incidence estimates were based on current statin exposure. Incidence estimates for hospitalised myopathy, rhabdomyolysis, acute renal failure and acute liver injury among users of rosuvastatin and users of other statins were pooled across studies using a weighted average corresponding to the Mantel–Haenszel estimate of the common relative risk.

Results

More than 29 900 person‐years were accrued for rosuvastatin use and more than 166 900 person‐years were accrued for other statin use. Relative to other statins, rosuvastatin was not associated with significant differences in the incidence of hospitalised myopathy (+0.5 cases per 10 000 person‐years; 95%CI: −0.6 to 1.6), rhabdomyolysis (+0.7 cases per 10 000 person‐years; 95%CI: −0.3 to 1.6), acute renal failure (−0.2 cases per 10 000 person‐years; 95%CI: −2.9 to 2.5) or acute liver injury (−0.8 cases per 10 000 person‐years; 95%CI: −1.8 to 0.2).

Conclusion

In this large sample (∼200 000 person‐years), no significant difference in the risk of myopathy, rhabdomyolysis, acute liver injury or acute renal failure was seen between rosuvastatin and other statins. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gabapentin and suicide attempts
Authors: Gibbons Robert D. , Hur Kwan , Brown C. Hendricks , Mann J. John
Published: October 2010

Purpose

On 16 December 2008, FDA issued a class warning for antiepileptic drugs and suicidal thoughts and behavior. The purpose of this study was to determine if the antiepileptic drug gabapentin increases risk of suicide attempt in patients to which it was prescribed for various indications.

Methods

We conducted a pharmacoepidemiologic study in which suicide attempt rates were compared before and after gabapentin was prescribed. We used the PharMetrics medical claims database to study the relationship between gabapentin and suicide attempts in a cohort of 131 178 patients with a 1‐year window of information before and after initial prescription. Patients had diagnoses of epilepsy, pain disorders, bipolar illness, major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, and other psychiatric disorders.

Results

Overall, there was no significant difference in suicide attempt rates before (3.48/1000 patient years—PY) versus after (3.45/1000 PY) gabapentin prescription. Pre‐prescription suicide attempt rates were five times higher in psychiatric populations compared with non‐psychiatric populations leading us to analyze the two groups separately. No drug effect was detected in the non‐psychiatric populations. Significant reductions in suicide attempt rates were seen for bipolar disorder (47.85/1000 PY versus 31.46/1000 PY), major depressive disorder (17.30/1000 PY versus 12.66/1000 PY), and other psychiatric disorders (12.84/1000 PY versus 10.14/1000 PY). Person–time analysis revealed an overall significant reduction in suicide attempt rates (2.01/1000 PY on drug versus 2.30/1000 PY off drug).

Conclusions

This study finds that gabapentin does not increase risk of suicide attempts in non‐psychiatric populations and is associated with a reduction in suicide attempt risk in patients with psychiatric disorders. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel one‐stop multidisciplinary follow‐up clinic for BRCA1/2 carriers: patient satisfaction and decision making
Authors: Firth Clare , Jacobs Christine , Evison Margaret , Pichert Gabriella , Izatt Louise , Hunter Myra S.
Published: October 2010

Objective: To evaluate patient' satisfaction and cancer risk management decision making, following attendance at a novel multidisciplinary one‐stop follow‐up clinic (MDOSC) for BRCA1/2 carriers.

Patients and Methods: 172 patients attended the MDOSC over a 2‐year period between 2006 and 2008. A total of 96 and 76 patients were seen in the first and second year, respectively. All patients who attended the MDOSC were sent a 17‐item Satisfaction Questionnaire (SQ) designed to examine their views about the MDOSC, using rating scales and open questions after the first year. Patients were asked to comment on the most helpful aspects of the MDOSC and on how the service might be improved. Changes were made based on this feedback. During the second year, all patients were given the SQ with three questions about cancer risk management decision making on the day of the MDOSC.

Results: In total, 132 (77%) patients responded and overall satisfaction was high with a mean of 8.94 (range 1–10). BRCA1/2 carriers were pleased to see a range of health care professionals on the same day, who they viewed gave consistent information, considered every aspect of care and addressed psychosocial needs. Following improvements, based on patients' feedback, satisfaction significantly increased in year 2. Furthermore, the MDOSC also helped patients to move forward with their cancer risk management decisions.

Conclusions: BRCA1/2 carriers were highly satisfied with the MDOSC, which met their needs and helped them to make informed decisions regarding their cancer risk management. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the state‐of‐the‐art in magnetic microwires and expected trends for scientific and technological studies
Authors: Vázquez Manuel , Chiriac Horia , Zhukov Arcady , Panina Larissa , Uchiyama Tsuyoshi
Published: October 2010

Recognizing the importance of magnetic thin wires for science and technology, the 6th International Workshop on Magnetic Wires was held on 6–7 July 2010, in Bodrum, Turkey. A wide range of topics were addressed from technological problems of micro‐ and nanowire fabrication, to advanced physical effects and novel applications. Furthermore, critical discussions on the present state of knowledge and future trends arose during the Panel Session on microwires. In the present report, the main aspects addressed at the Discussion Panel and at workshop presentations are summarized with the aim to state the present and future perspectives on these wire systems. This report is focused upon four topics chosen for broad discussions at the Panel: Fabrication and processing, Magnetization reversal and Dynamics, High‐frequency properties, and Technological applications.
Magnetocaloric effect in an ensemble of diluted magnetic nanoparticles
Authors: Warda Krzysztof
Published: October 2010

A simple analytical model is presented in order to describe the magnetocaloric effect in an ensemble of magnetic nanoparticles. We confine our considerations to the case of a low concentration of nanoparticles, i.e. when the dipolar interaction among the particles can be neglected. The description of the behaviour of the nanoparticles is based on the Oguchi approach to the relaxation equation, which constitutes an alternative way of the description of magnetization and entropy change for the ensemble of weakly interacting nanoparticles.
Toward surface‐friendly treatment of seeding layer and selected‐area diamond growth
Authors: Babchenko Oleg , Izak Tibor , Ukraintsev Egor , Hruska Karel , Rezek Bohuslav , Kromka Alexander
Published: October 2010

Several technological approaches of applying photoresistive polymer for patterning the diamond seeding layer while minimizing damage of substrate surface is reported. Reactive ion etching (i.e., dry process) and wet photolithographical processing using two polymer layers are compared and combined as treatment techniques. Subsequently, diamond structures are deposited by microwave plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition from a gas mixture of methane diluted in hydrogen. The highest efficiency for selected‐area deposition, with the parasitic density as low as the technological limit of 105 cm−2, was achieved by combining the two treatment techniques. Technological advantages and limitation of dry and wet treatment process are pointed out.
Influence of magnetic Co impurities on the optical interband transitions in ZnO
Authors: Boukortt A. , Hayn R. , Virot F. , Zaoui A.
Published: October 2010

Density functional calculations of Co‐doped ZnO and a theoretical analysis of the optical interband transitions are presented. That compound is potentially important for spintronics and magneto‐optoelectronic applications. Using the full potential linearized augmented plane wave (PW) method we analyze the dielectric functions (real and imaginary part) to understand the optical interband transitions. We show that the local spin‐density approximation (LSDA) has severe drawbacks like a spurious Drude‐like peak and a wrong position of the 3d bands which may be repaired by the LSDA + U method. We show the appearance of new peaks in the optical conductivity related with the magnetic impurities which we analyze in detail.
Variation reduction for multistage manufacturing processes: a comparison survey of statistical‐process‐control vs stream‐of‐variation methodologies
Authors: Liu Jian
Published: October 2010

The performance of Multistage Manufacturing Processes (MMPs) can be measured by quality, productivity and cost, which are inversely related to the variation of key product characteristics (KPCs). Therefore, it is crucial to reduce KPCs' variations by not only detecting the changes of process parameters, but also identifying the variation sources and eliminating them with corrective actions. Recent developments in the Stream‐of‐Variation (SoV) and Statistical‐Process‐Control (SPC) methodologies significantly improve the variation reduction for MMPs. This paper provides a review on the reported methodologies by comparing these two categories of methodologies in terms of their variation propagation modeling, process monitoring and diagnostic capability. With an illustrative case study, it is concluded that the recent advancements of SoV and SPC methodologies significantly improve the effectiveness of variation reduction. The discussion on the drawbacks of both methodologies also suggests the future research directions. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.