bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiac toxicity associated with anthracycline‐containing chemotherapy in older women with breast cancer
Authors: Du Xianglin L. , Xia Rui , Liu Chih‐Chin , Cormier Janice N. , Xing Yan , Hardy Dale , Chan Wenyaw , Burau Keith
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND:

The purpose of this study was to determine the risk of chemotherapy‐associated cardiac toxicity, including cardiac dysrhythmia, cardiomyopathy, congestive heart failure, ischemic heart disease, and conduction disorders among breast cancer patients with up to 16 years of follow‐up.

METHODS:

The authors studied 19,478 women aged >65 diagnosed with breast cancer in 1991‐1997 from 16 regions in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program. Incidence density and cumulative incidence of cardiac toxicities were calculated, and the time‐to‐event (cardiac toxicity) analysis was conducted by using the Cox hazard regression model.

RESULTS:

The excess cumulative incidence of congestive heart failure in Year 10 among patients receiving anthracycline‐containing chemotherapy compared with patients without chemotherapy was 4.7% (31.9% vs 27.2%). After adjusting for patient and tumor characteristics, patients receiving anthracyclines were 25% more likely to have congestive heart failure compared with those without chemotherapy (hazard ratio [HR], 1.25; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.07‐1.46). Those receiving other agents did not have a significantly elevated risk of developing congestive heart failure. The adjusted risk of cardiomyopathy was 2‐fold higher in women who received anthracyclines (HR, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.44‐2.62) and was 16% higher in those receiving other agents (HR, 1.16; 95% CI, 0.97‐1.39) compared with those without chemotherapy. The increased risk for developing congestive heart failure, cardiomyopathy, and cardiac dysrhythmias in association with chemotherapy were similar after adjusting for hypertension and diabetes. The risk of ischemic heart disease and conduction disorders were not significantly different among the 3 groups.

CONCLUSIONS:

Anthracycline‐containing chemotherapy regimens were associated with an increased risk of congestive heart failure, cardiomyopathy, and cardiac dysrhythmias, but not significantly associated with ischemic heart disease or conduction disorders. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Components of the neural circuitry of the vaginocavernosus reflex in rabbits
Authors: Cruz Yolanda , Rodríguez‐Antolín Jorge , Nicolás Leticia , Martínez‐Gómez Margarita , Lucio Rosa Angélica
Published: August 2009

In mammals the mechanisms underlying female sexual and reproductive biology are poorly understood. Little attention has been paid to striated muscles and their neural regulation. The aim of the present study was to describe the components of the vaginocavernosus reflex in adult rabbits. It was found that mechanical stimulation of the glans of the clitoris and the perineal vagina induced electromyographic (EMG) responses in bulbocavernosus (Bcm) and ischiocavernosus (Icm) muscles. Unilateral and bilateral nerve transection indicated that the clitoral nerve is the main afferent path of the reflex and that it recruits ipsilateral and contralateral perineal motoneurons. Injection of horseradish peroxides‐wheat germ agglutinin (HRP‐WGA) into the Bcm and Icm labeled spinal motoneurons scattered in L7 and S1 segments. According to the results of this study and previous work, the elements of the vaginocavernosus reflex may be described as follows. Mechanical receptors are located in the glans clitoris and in the wall of the perineal vagina. The main afferent pathway is the clitoral nerve. It activates ipsilateral and contralateral Bcm and Icm motoneurons in lumbosacral segments. Axons of efferent neurons travel through the clitoral and ischiocavernosus nerves, and the effectors are the Bcm and Icm perineal muscles. Identification of neural components of the vaginocavernosus reflex in rabbits will allow the use of this animal as a model to assess the physiological characteristics of the perineal motoneurons as well as the contribution of the Bcm and Icm in female urogenital functions. J. Comp. Neurol. 518:199–210, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Relativistic Scott correction for atoms and molecules
Authors: Solovej Jan Philip , Østergaard Sørensen Thomas , Spitzer Wolfgang Ludwig
Published: August 2009

We prove the first correction to the leading Thomas‐Fermi energy for the ground state energy of atoms and molecules in a model where the kinetic energy of the electrons is treated relativistically. The leading Thomas‐Fermi energy, established in [25], as well as the correction given here, are of semiclassical nature. Our result on atoms and molecules is proved from a general semiclassical estimate for relativistic operators with potentials with Coulomb‐like singularities. This semiclassical estimate is obtained using the coherent state calculus introduced in [36]. The paper contains a unified treatment of the relativistic as well as the nonrelativistic case. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Inherent Photon Energy Recycling Effects in the Up‐Converted Delayed Luminescence Dynamics of Poly(fluorene)–PtIIoctaethyl Porphyrin Blends
Authors: Keivanidis P. E. , Baluschev S. , Lieser G. , Wegner G.
Published: August 2009

We present results of steady‐state and transient photoluminescence studies of molecularly doped poly(fluorene) films. We study blends with increasing content of the triplet emitter (2,3,7,8,12,13,17,18‐octaethyl‐porphyrinato)PtII(PtOEP) when dispersed in the polymeric poly(fluorene) matrix of the poly[9,9‐di‐(2‐ethylhexyl)‐fluorenyl‐2,7‐diyl] (PF26) derivative. We carry out a unified study of the photophysical reactions that are involved in the energy transfer processes in this system by probing the three luminescence processes of a) PF26 fluorescence, b) triplet–triplet annihilation (TTA) induced up‐converted PF26 delayed fluorescence and c) PtOEP phosphorescence. With increasing PtOEP content, the process of photon energy recycling in the PF26:PtOEP system is manifested from the quenching of the TTA‐induced up‐converted PF26 delayed fluorescence and it is rationalized with the use of Forster theory of resonant energy transfer. Based on the combined results of the photophysical and the transmission electron microscopy characterization of the as‐spun PF26:PtOEP films, we determine the onset of PtOEP aggregation at 2–3 wt % PtOEP content. The analysis of the photophysical data is based on the use of modified Stern–Volmer photokinetic models that are appropriate for the solid state. A static component in the PL quenching of PF26 is revealed for PtOEP contents below 2 wt %. The modified Stern–Volmer kinetic scheme further suggests that co‐aggregation effects between PF26 and PtOEP are operative with an association constant of ground state complex formationkbind∼15–17 M−1. The involvement of the ground state heterospecies in the TTA‐mediated PF26 up‐converted luminescence is discussed. The participation of an electron‐exchange step, in the excited state energy transfer pathway between PtOEP and PF26, is proposed for the activation mechanism of the PF26 up‐converted fluorescence.
Contribution of the neural cell recognition molecule NB‐3 to synapse formation between parallel fibers and Purkinje cells in mouse
Authors: Sakurai Kunie , Toyoshima Manabu , Ueda Hidehiro , Matsubara Kota , Takeda Yasuo , Karagogeos Domna , Shimoda Yasushi , Watanabe Kazutada
Published: August 2009

The neural cell recognition molecule NB‐3, also referred to as contactin‐6, is expressed prominently in the developing nervous system after birth and its deficiency has been shown to cause impairment in motor coordination. Here, we investigated the contribution of NB‐3 to cerebellar development, focusing on lobule 3 where NB‐3 was expressed in granule cells but not in Purkinje cells. In the developing molecular layer, the neural cell recognition molecules TAG‐1, L1, and NB‐3 formed distinct expression zones from the external granule cell layer to the internal granule cell layer (IGL), respectively. The NB‐3‐immunoreactive zone did not overlap with TAG‐1‐immunoreactive zone. By contrast, the L1‐immunoreactive zone overlapped with both the TAG‐1‐ and NB‐3‐immunoreactive zones. NB‐3‐positive puncta overlapped with vesicular glutamate transporter 1, a presynaptic marker and were apposed close to metabotropic glutamate receptor 1A, a postsynaptic marker, indicating that NB‐3 is localized presynaptically at glutamatergic synapses between parallel fibers and Purkinje cells. In NB‐3 knockout mice, L1 immunoreactive signals were increased in the IGL at postnatal day (P) 5, suggesting the increase in the number of immature granule cells of the IGL. In addition, the density of parallel fiber synaptic terminals was reduced in NB‐3 knockout mice relative to wild‐type mice at P5 to P10. In parallel with these findings, caspase‐dependent cell death was significantly increased in the NB‐ 3‐deficient cerebellum at P15. Collectively, our results indicate that NB‐3 deficiency affects synapse formation during postnatal cerebellar development. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2009
Generation of an OMgp allelic series in mice
Authors: Lee Jae K. , Case Lauren C. , Chan Andrea F. , Zhu Yuhong , Tessier‐Lavigne Marc , Zheng Binhai
Published: August 2009

The very limited ability to regenerate axons after injury in the mature mammalian central nervous system (CNS) has been partly attributed to the growth restrictive nature of CNS myelin. Oligodendrocyte myelin glycoprotein (OMgp) was identified as a major myelin‐derived inhibitor of axon growth. However, its role in axon regeneration in vivo is poorly understood. Here we describe the generation and molecular characterization of an OMgp allelic series. With a single gene targeting event and Cre/FLP mediated recombination, we generated an OMgp null allele with a LacZ reporter, one without a reporter gene, and an OMgp conditional allele. This allelic series will aid in the study of OMgp in adult CNS axon regeneration using mouse models of spinal cord injury. The conditional allele will overcome developmental compensation when employed with an inducible Cre, and allows for the study of temporal and tissue/cell type‐specific roles of OMgp in CNS injury‐induced axonal plasticity. genesis 47:751–756, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Remodeling rodent models to mimic human type 1 diabetes
Authors: von Herrath Matthias , Nepom Gerald T.
Published: August 2009

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) occurs when the immune system attacks the insulin‐producing beta cells located in the islets of Langerhans within the pancreas. Animal models have played a prominent role in developing an understanding of this disease process, through studies of genetic susceptibility, progression of hyperglycemia, and novel approaches to therapy. Here, we critically evaluate the currently available diabetic animal models and their propensity to match and predict disease outcomes in man as well as propose new in vitro and in vivo systems that may facilitate progress in the T1D field.
Mouse models of intestinal inflammation as tools to understand the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Uhlig Holm H. , Powrie Fiona
Published: August 2009

Mouse models of intestinal inflammation resemble aspects of inflammatory bowel disease in humans. These models have provided important insights into mechanisms that control intestinal homeostasis and regulation of intestinal inflammation. This viewpoint discusses themes that have emerged from mouse models of intestinal inflammation including bacterial recognition, autophagy, the IL‐23/Th‐17 axis of inflammation as well as the role of negative regulators. Many of the pathways highlighted by model systems have been identified in recent genome‐wide association studies in human validating the relevance of mouse models to human inflammatory bowel disease. Understanding of the complex biological mechanisms that lead to intestinal inflammation in mouse models may help to define targets for treatment of human diseases.
Heterogeneity of CD4+ memory T cells: Functional modules for tailored immunity
Authors: Sallusto Federica , Lanzavecchia Antonio
Published: August 2009

Phenotypic and functional heterogeneity is the hallmark of effector and memory T cells. Upon antigenic stimulation, naïve CD4+ T cells make choices to become effector Th1, Th2 or Th17 cells, or even Treg. In addition to differences in cytokine repertoire, effector CD4+ T cells exhibit diversity in homing, such as migration to lymph node follicles to help B cells versus migration to inflamed tissues. Upon clearance of the antigen, two major types of memory T cells remain: central memory cells, which patrol lymphoid organs, and effector memory cells that act as sentinels in peripheral tissues such as the skin and the gut. Here, we review our current understanding of CD4+ T‐cell lineage heterogeneity and flexibility, with emphasis on the human system, and propose an organization of effector and memory T cells based on distinct functional modules.
Animal models in infection and inflammation – chance and necessity
Authors: Radbruch Andreas , Isaacs John
Published: August 2009

In biomedical research, to understand pathogenesis and test innovative therapeutic strategies, animal models of human disease are a bare necessity. We cannot do without them, but could we do better with them? In this issue of the European Journal of Immunology a series of Viewpoints discusses the pros and cons of currently available animal models that address the clinical challenges of immunology in infection and inflammatory diseases.
The volatile constituents of frankincense – a review
Authors: Mertens Michaela , Buettner Andrea , Kirchhoff Eva
Published: August 2009

The smell of frankincense resin and powder, as well as burned frankincense, has been linked to a series of health effects since ancient times. Additionally, frankincense and its fumes are used as a means to induce positive psychophysical effects and well‐being, not only in an ecclesiastical setting but also in traditional medical applications. This review aims to provide an overview of current knowledge of the volatile constituents of frankincense, with explicit consideration concerning the diverse Boswellia varieties. Altogether, more than 300 volatiles in frankincense have been reported in the literature. In particular, a broad diversity has been found in the qualitative and quantitative composition of the volatiles with respect to different varieties of Boswellia. A detailed discussion of the various analytical approaches applied to isolating and analysing the volatile fractions of frankincense is also presented. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase/protein kinase Cδ activation induces close homolog of adhesion molecule L1 (CHL1) expression in cultured astrocytes
Authors: Wu Junfang , Wrathall Jean R. , Schachner Melitta
Published: August 2009

Upregulation of expression of the close homolog of adhesion molecule L1 (CHL1) by reactive astrocytes in the glial scar reduces axonal regeneration and inhibits functional recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI). Here, we investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying upregulation of CHL1 expression by analyzing the signal transduction pathways in vitro. We show that astrogliosis stimulated by bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) upregulates CHL1 expression in primary cultures of mouse cerebral astrocytes, coinciding with elevated protein synthesis and translocation of protein kinase δ (PKCδ) from cytosol to the membrane fraction. Blocking PKCδ activity pharmacologically and genetically attenuates LPS‐induced elevation of CHL1 protein expression through a phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K) dependent pathway. LPS induces extracellular signal‐regulated kinases (ERK1/2) phosphorylation through PKCδ and blockade of ERK1/2 activation abolishes upregulation of CHL1 expression. LPS‐triggered upregulation of CHL1 expression mediated through translocation of nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB) to the nucleus is blocked by a specific NF‐κB inhibitor and by inhibition of PI3K, PKCδ, and ERK1/2 activities, implicating NF‐κB as a downstream target for upregulation of CHL1 expression. Furthermore, the LPS‐mediated upregulation of CHL1 expression by reactive astrocytes is inhibitory for hippocampal neurite outgrowth in cocultures. Although the LPS‐triggered NO‐guanylate cyclase‐cGMP pathway upregulates glial fibrillary acid protein expression in cultured astrocytes, we did not observe this pathway to mediate LPS‐induced upregulation of CHL1 expression. Our results indicate that elevated CHL1 expression by reactive astrocytes requires activation of PI3K/PKCδ‐dependent pathways and suggest that reduction of PI3K/PKCδ activity represents a therapeutic target to downregulate CHL1 expression and thus benefit axonal regeneration after SCI. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Extent of neck dissection required after concurrent chemoradiation for stage IV head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Cannady Steven B. , Lee Walter T. , Scharpf Joseph , Lorenz Robert R. , Wood Benjamin G. , Strome Marshall , Lavertu Pierre , Esclamado Ramon M. , Saxton Jerrold P. , Adelstein David J.
Published: August 2009

Background

The management of initially bulky nodal disease after primary nonsurgical treatment for stage IV head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) continues to be a subject of debate.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of neck management in patients after chemoradiation was performed.

Results

Of the initially positive necks analyzed, 210/329 (65%) had a complete clinical response to treatment and 161 necks underwent neck surgery. Patients were pathologically positive 13.8% and 39.6% of the time after clinical complete or partial response, respectively. Regional recurrence was more frequent in necks with partial clinical (p = .04) or pathologic responses (p < .01) and with primary site recurrences (p < .01).

Conclusions

It is still safest at our institution to perform selective neck dissection on patients with ≥N2 neck disease when initially observed to prevent unsalvageable regional recurrence until more accurate interval assessment tools are confirmed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2010
Correlation between lymphatic vessel density and regional metastasis in squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue
Authors: Chung Man Ki , Min Jin‐Young , So Yoon Kyoung , Ko Young‐Hyeh , Jeong Han‐Sin , Son Young‐Ik , Baek Chung‐Hwan
Published: August 2009

Background.

The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between lymphatic vessel density in squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue and regional metastasis.

Methods.

Intratumoral and peritumoral lymphatic densities (ILDs and PLDs, respectively) were determined by immunohistochemical staining of lymphatic endothelial cells with podoplanin in 62 patients surgically treated for tongue cancer. Clinicopathological variables were quantified, and their correlations with regional metastasis were assessed.

Results.

The rate of regional metastasis was significantly higher in patients with high ILD than that in those with low ILD (21/33, 63.6% vs 8/29, 27.5%; p = .006). Perineural invasion and lymphovascular invasion were also significantly correlated with regional metastasis. By multivariate analyses, ILD was the only variable identified to be significantly correlated with regional metastasis (p = .009). On the other hand, PLD showed no correlation with regional metastasis.

Conclusions.

ILD showed a strong correlation with regional metastasis in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2010
Squamous cell carcinoma of base of tongue in a patient with Fanconi's anemia treated with radiation therapy: Case report and review of literature
Authors: Budrukkar Ashwini , Shahid Tanweer , Murthy Vedang , Hussain Tabish , Mulherkar Rita , Vundinti Babu Rao , Deshpande Mandar , Sengar Manju , Laskar Sarbani Ghosh , Agarwal Jai Prakash
Published: August 2009

Background.

Fanconi's anemia (FA) is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder characterized by congenital anomalies, progressive aplastic anemia, and a predisposition for malignancies. Solid tumors in the head and neck region, especially in the tongue, are rarely observed. Management of these patients is a challenge because of hematological complications and increased toxicities.

Methods.

We report a case of Fanconi's anemia in a 27‐year‐old man with carcinoma of the base of tongue (T2N0M0) who was treated with radical radiation therapy to a dose of 70 Gy/35 fractions/51 days. We have also done in vitro radiosensitivity tests.

Results.

The patient tolerated the radiation treatment well and completed it without any interruptions. In vitro studies did not show any increased radiosensitivity in this patient.

Conclusion.

Head and neck cancer in a patient with FA requires individualized treatment. The decision about opting for different modalities should be based on a balanced approach with respect to locoregional control and toxicities of the treatment. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2010
Cervical hemorrhage due to spontaneous rupture of the superior thyroid artery: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Stenner Markus , Helmstaedter Victor , Spuentrup Elmar , Quante Gero , Huettenbrink Karl‐Bernd
Published: August 2009

Background

Beneath the different reasons for cervical masses, a spontaneous hemorrhage presents a rare and life‐threatening condition.

Methods and Results

We present the rare case of a 62‐year‐old man who was presented with a dramatically enlarging cervical mass causing respiratory distress because of upper airway compression. An endotracheal intubation was lifesaving and avoided tracheotomy. A CT scan revealed a hematoma in the region of the left external carotid artery. An emergency angiography embolized a ruptured branch of the superior thyroid artery and surgery evacuated the hematoma. We discuss the rarity of the condition, reasons for a spontaneous rupture of the artery, and the diagnostic and treatment strategy. In addition, we review the literature on spontaneous thyroid artery hemorrhages, which, up to now, have been described only for the inferior thyroid artery.

Conclusion

We conclude that the optimal management for cases of cervical hematoma is intubation, diagnosis, and angiography before surgery. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2010
Postsurgery serum thyroglobulin disappearance kinetic in patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Giovanella Luca , Ceriani Luca , Maffioli Marco
Published: August 2009

Background

Knowing the postsurgery thyroglobulin (Tg) kinetic would enable its rationale for use in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). Heterogeneous results were previously reported, then we aimed to evaluate the postsurgery Tg kinetic in a large group of patients with DTC.

Methods

Enrolled were 96 patients with DTC. Serum Tg was measured first at 5 minutes, then at 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 hours after thyroidectomy. The Tg half‐life (Tg[t1/2]) was estimated in a 1‐compartment model. A simplified 2‐point formula (24 and 120 hours) was also used.

Results

The mean Tg(t1/2) was 28.53 to 30.22 hours in 1‐compartment model and 27.39 hours when estimated by a simplified formula. A strong inter‐methods relationship was found (p < .001).

Conclusions

A reliable Tg(t1/2) estimation could be obtained by a simplified formula requiring only 2 postsurgery Tg measurements (24 and 120 hours, respectively). © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2010
Crossing numbers of imbalanced graphs
Authors: Pach János , Solymosi József , Tardos Gábor
Published: August 2009

The crossing number, cr(G), of a graph G is the least number of crossing points in any drawing of G in the plane. According to the Crossing Lemma of M. Ajtai, V. Chvátal, M. Newborn, E. Szemerédi, Theory and Practice of Combinatorics, North‐Holland, Amsterdam, New York, 1982, pp. 9–12 and F. T. Leighton, Complexity Issues in VLSI, MIT Press, Cambridge, 1983, the crossing number of any graph with n vertices and e>4n edges is at least constant times e3/n2. Apart from the value of the constant, this bound cannot be improved. We establish some stronger lower bounds under the assumption that the distribution of the degrees of the vertices is irregular. In particular, we show that if the degrees of the vertices are d1⩾d2⩾···⩾dn, then the crossing number satisfies with , and that this bound is tight apart from the values of the constants c1, c2>0. Some applications are also presented. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory 64: 12–21, 2010
The influence of authentic leadership behaviors on trust and work outcomes of health care staff
Authors: Wong Carol A. , Cummings Greta G.
Published: August 2009

A key element of a healthy work environment is trust: trust between staff and their leaders. Authentic leadership is proposed as the core of effective leadership needed to build trust because of its clear focus on the positive role modeling of honesty, integrity, and high ethical standards in the development of leader‐follower relationships. A model linking authentic leadership behaviors with trust in management, perceptions of supportive groups and work outcomes (including voice or speaking‐up behavior, self‐rated job performance, and burnout) using secondary analysis procedures was examined. The hypothesized model was tested using structural equation modeling in two samples of health care employees from a western Canadian cancer care agency: clinical care providers including nurses, pharmacists, physicians, and other professionals (N = 147) and nonclinical employees including administrative, support, and research staff (N = 188). Findings suggest that supportive leader behavior and trust in management are necessary for staff to be willing to voice concerns and offer suggestions to improve the workplace and patient care.
Teaching theory: A response to Nelson, Henry, Holcomb, Guajardo, and Jenlink
Authors: Waite Duncan
Published: August 2009

An act of leadership is always an act of practical theory. We lead because we hold visions of the world as it ought to be, because of the not yet, because of the potential that we see in ideas and people. Yet, there still exists a perceived binary between leadership theory (in the strong sense) and leadership practice, a binary that divides organizations, classrooms, and the differing bodies of leadership literature. In this Symposium, Duncan Waite and his colleagues discuss the barriers they have faced in bringing theory to the educational leadership classroom, as well as the promise they feel theory holds for more productive, equitable, and humane schooling organizations.
The Holocene volcanic history of Gran Canaria island: implications for volcanic hazards
Authors: Rodriguez‐Gonzalez Alejandro , Fernandez‐Turiel Jose L. , Perez‐Torrado Francisco J. , Hansen Alex , Aulinas Meritxell , Carracedo Juan C. , Gimeno Domingo , Guillou Hervé , Paris Raphaël , Paterne Martine
Published: August 2009

Previous published data, combined with our results of 13 new radiocarbon ages and extensive geological fieldwork, indicate that during the past 11 ka 24 monogenetic basaltic eruptions occurred in the north sector of Gran Canaria. These eruptions can be grouped into three periods of eruptive activity: 1900–3200 14C a BP; 5700–6000 14C a BP; and an older period represented by only one eruption, El Draguillo, dated at 10 610 ± 190 14C a BP. Archaeological studies have shown that the more recent eruptions affected prehistoric human settlements on the island. Field studies demonstrate that the eruptions typically built strombolian cones (30–250 m in height) and associated relatively long lava flows (100–10 350 m in length); a few eruptions also produced tephra fall deposits. The total erupted volume of these eruptions is about 0.388 km3 (46.1% as tephra fall, 41.8% as cinder cone deposits and 12.1% as lava flows). The relatively low eruption rate (∼0.04 km3 ka−1) during the past 11 ka is consistent with Gran Canaria's stage of evolution in the regional volcano‐tectonic setting of the Canary Archipelago. The results of our study were used to construct a volcanic hazards map that clearly delimits two sectors in the NE sector of Gran Canaria, where potential future eruptions would pose a substantial risk for densely populated areas. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Consistent grain size distribution of pedogenic maghemite of surface soils and Miocene loessic soils on the Chinese Loess Plateau
Authors: Nie Junsheng , Song Yougui , King John W. , Egli Ramon
Published: August 2009

There is agreement that ultrafine maghemite grains (<100 nm) are responsible for the magnetic enhancement of Chinese loess. Recent studies show that grain size distribution of ultrafine pedogenic maghemite grains within the aeolian sequences on the central Chinese Loess Plateau deposited in the last 8 Ma is consistent. However, whether the observed grain size distribution of ultrafine pedogenic maghemite grains can be observed in the western Chinese Loess Plateau and modern soils is not entirely clear. Here we find that young surface soil samples across the Chinese Loess Plateau and early Neogene loessic soils from the western Chinese Loess Plateau also show consistent grain size distribution with that of ultrafine pedogenic maghemite grains on the central Chinese Loess Plateau. The fact that young surface soil samples show apparent magnetic enhancement suggests that the ultrafine pedogenic maghemite grains derive from oxidation of ultrafine magnetite grains. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Micro‐Raman and portable Raman spectroscopic investigation of blue pigments in selected Delft plates (17–20th Century)
Authors: de Waal D.
Published: August 2009

The blue pigment as well as other materials in a blue, white and ‘gold’ 17th century Delft dish were analysed and compared to the blue pigment(s) used in a modern blue‐and‐white Delft dish, obtained from a tourist shop in Amsterdam in 2004. The ancient Delft blue pigment was compared to a commercial Delft blue powder identified as a cobalt‐doped willemite, Zn2−xCoxSiO4. The 17th century Delft pigment showed a closer correspondence to the olivine, alpha‐cobalt silicate. The pigment in the modern blue Delft dish was mainly a vanadium‐doped zircon, ZrSiO4:V4+, with small amounts of cobalt, identified by EDX analysis. The cobalt compound could, however, not be characterised here for the modern dish. The pigment in the ‘golden’ rim was identified as pyrochlore yellow, PbSnSbO6.5. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Factors affecting the service quality of the tour guiding profession in Macau
Authors: Mak Athena H. N. , Wong Kevin K. F. , Chang Richard C. Y.
Published: August 2009

This study examines the factors affecting the service quality of the tour guiding profession in Macau. In‐depth interviews were conducted with representatives from the Macau Tourist Guide Association, the Macau Government Tourist Office and selected practising tour guides to explore the issues from multiple insiders' perspectives. The factors identified were classified into six categories: unhealthy business practices, market domination, immaturity of tourist market, changing tourist behaviour, intense competition between inbound tour operators and human resource issues. The findings suggest that a number of these problems actually originated from the unhealthy business practices of the tourist‐generating country, namely mainland China in this study. Considering the growing importance of the Chinese outbound tourism market, the study findings will be of significant value to Macau and to other destinations targeting the Chinese market. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Studies on the oxygen atom transfer reactions of peroxomonosulfate: Catalytic effect of hemiacetal
Authors: Shailaja S. , Ramachandran M. S.
Published: August 2009

The reaction of peroxomonosulfate (PMS) with glycolic acid (GLYCA), an alpha hydroxy acid, in the presence of Ni(II) ions and formaldehyde was studied in the pH range 4.05–5.89 and at 31°C and 38°C. When formaldehyde and Ni(II) ions concentrations are ∼5.0 × 10−4 M to 10.0 × 10−4 M, the reaction is second order in PMS concentration. The rate is catalyzed by formaldehyde, and the observed rate equation is (−d[PMS])/dt = (k′2[HCHO][Ni(II)][PMS]2)/{[H+](1+K2[GLYCA])}. The number of PMS decomposed for each mole of formaldehyde (turnover number) is 5–10, and the major reaction product is oxygen gas. The first step of the reaction mechanism is the formation of hemiacetal by the interaction of HCHO with the hydroxyl group of nickel glycolate. The peroxomonosulfate intermediate of the Ni‐hemiacetal reacts with another molecule of PMS in the rate‐limiting step to give the product. This reaction is similar to the thermal decomposition of PMS catalyzed by Ni(II) ions. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 41: 642–649, 2009
Copper corrosion in drinking water systems – effect of pH and phosphate‐dosage
Authors: Dartmann J. , Sadlowsky B. , Dorsch T. , Johannsen K.
Published: August 2009

Copper corrosion in residential plumbing installations can lead to an increase in copper concentration in drinking water as well as to leakages. Central water treatment steps such as pH‐adjustment or dosages of phosphate‐based inhibitors are measures in reducing copper corrosion. Especially phosphate in drinking water is believed to work as a corrosion inhibitor, but it is currently uncertain as to how this inhibitor works. In some cases the phosphate dosage aggravated the copper corrosion. The mechanisms are not yet clear and the influence of phosphate and pH remain a question to be answered. The results of a German Gas and Water Works Association (DVGW) research project on copper corrosion are presented as follows. The influence and the mechanisms of decarbonisation, deacidification and phosphate dosing on copper release in residential plumbing installations were studied in pipe rig experiments according to the German standard DIN 50931‐1. It shows that an increased pH‐value can lead to a decrease in copper content and that a phosphate dosage can lead to both higher and lower copper concentrations.
Influence of Layered Double Hydroxides on the Curing of Carboxylated Nitrile Rubber with Zinc Oxide
Authors: Thakur Varun , Das Amit , Mahaling Ram N. , Rooj Sandip , Gohs Uwe , Wagenknecht Udo , Heinrich Gert
Published: August 2009

Unmodified (LDH) and modified (mLDH) layered double hydroxides have been added to gum and ZnO‐cured carboxylated nitrile rubber (XNBR). It was observed that both LDH and mLDH inhibit the formation of ionic cross‐links between XNBR and ZnO quite significantly, as is evident from DMA and FT‐IR studies. The suppression of ionic cross‐links formation was also reflected in the mechanical properties of the resulting composites. A tentative sketch has also been suggested for the possible mechanism involved in the inhibition of ionic cross‐links by LDHs. X‐ray diffraction and STEM studies were performed to see the dispersion of LDH's in the elastomer matrix.

magnified image
Novel Absorbent Materials Created via Ice Templating
Authors: Gawryla Matthew D. , Schiraldi David A.
Published: August 2009

Ice‐templated aerogels made from water soluble/dispersible raw materials are formed through an environmentally friendly freeze‐drying process. The structures that result from ice templating are capable of absorbing liquids into their large void volume. The effects of polymer chemistry and material loading on the absorption into the dried materials are studied. Low‐density samples were able to absorb liquids rapidly but the liquid‐saturated structures lacked mechanical integrity. The higher‐density samples absorbed liquids more slowly and again retained little structural integrity. The addition of fibers and firing of low‐density clay aerogels into ceramics provide multiple routes to creating structures exhibiting rapid absorption and a rigid, stable structure when saturated.

magnified image
New Light on Old Wisdoms on Molten Polymers: Conformation, Slippage and Shear Banding in Sheared Entangled and Unentangled Melts
Authors: Noirez Laurence , Mendil‐Jakani Hakima , Baroni Patrick
Published: August 2009

The flow of viscoelastic materials is usually interpreted as resulting from intramolecular properties. Typically, the non‐linear flow behaviour and sluggish relaxation dynamics in entangled polymers are interpreted by a disentanglement process. This molecular interpretation has never been validated by direct observation. We report here on in situ observations of polymer melts under steady‐state shear flow using neutron scattering and particle tracking velocimetry. It is shown that the chains remain largely undeformed under steady‐state shear flow whereas wall slippage and shear‐banding are identified in both entangled and unentangled polymer melts. These observations are of prime importance; they reveal that the flow mechanism and its viscoelastic signature reflect a collective effect and not properties of individual chains.

magnified image
Color‐Oscillating Photonic Crystal Hydrogel
Authors: Tian Entao , Ma Ying , Cui Liying , Wang Jingxia , Song Yanlin , Jiang Lei
Published: August 2009

In this work, a color‐oscillating system is first developed by combining the intrinsic peristaltic motion of a Landolt pH‐oscillator with the structure color of a well‐designed pH‐sensitive photonic crystal hydrogel. As a result, the pH oscillation reaction procedure could be distinctly monitored by the distinct change of structure color/optic signal. The oscillation rhythm of the pH well coincides with that of the stopband/structure color. The oscillation detail of each cycle can also be clearly monitored by color change. This work would be of great significance for the promising applications of real‐time monitoring of the microactuator by optical signal or structure color.

magnified image
Ultra‐Fast RAFT‐HDA Click Conjugation: An Efficient Route to High Molecular Weight Block Copolymers
Authors: Inglis Andrew J. , Stenzel Martina H. , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher
Published: August 2009

The use of the reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer—hetero Diels–Alder (RAFT‐HDA) click reaction for the modular construction of block copolymers is extended to the generation of high molecular weight materials. Cyclopentadienyl end‐functionalized polystyrene (PS‐Cp) prepared via both atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) and the RAFT process are conjugated to poly(isobornyl acrylate) (PiBoA) (also prepared via RAFT polymerization) to achieve well‐defined block copolymers with molecular weights ranging from 34 000 to over 100 000 g · mol−1 and with small polydispersities (PDI < 1.2). The conjugation reactions proceeded in a very rapid fashion (less than 10 min in the majority of cases) under ambient conditions of temperature and atmosphere. The present study demonstrates—for the first time—that RAFT‐HDA click chemistry can provide access to high molecular weight block copolymers in a simple and straight‐forward fashion.

magnified image
Theoretical Postulation of Mass Spectral Quantity and Distribution in Competitive Dynamic Dendrimer Mixtures
Authors: Leung Ken Cham‐Fai
Published: August 2009

The theoretical postulations of mass spectral quantities and distributions of the three dynamic combinatorial libraries (DCLs) of mechanically interlocked dendrimers ([4]rotaxanes, molecular weight up to 8 800 kDa) have been investigated. The number of different dendrimers in the three library mixtures is 4, 10, and 20. The theoretical postulations involve their macroconstants in a combination with statistical distribution, binding constant, steric, and hydrophobic effects. We found out that the mass spectral intensities which relate to the dendrimer quantities in a competitive mixture are not random, but with a predictable trend in terms of their macroconstants. This postulation agrees significantly well with most of the experimentally determined mass spectral intensities in the dendrimer mixtures.

magnified image
Brain dopaminergic modulation associated with executive function in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Farid Karim , Sibon Igor , Guehl Dominique , Cuny Emmanuel , Burbaud Pierre , Allard Michèle
Published: August 2009

The progressive development of deficits in executive functions, including action planning, is a well‐known complication of Parkinson's disease. A dysfunction of the prefrontal lobe, which is known to be involved in the control of inhibitory processes, could explain the difficulties in initiating behavior or inhibiting ongoing actions in patients with PD. The strong dopaminergic innervation of the prefrontal cortex raises questions about the putative effects of dopa therapy on this cognitive impairment. In the present study, we used fMRI to examine the functional influence of dopa therapy on neural activity during a go/no‐go task in nine patients with and without levodopa treatment and in matched controls. Whereas the patient and control subjects exhibited the same performance during the go/no‐go task, different patterns of brain activation were observed depending on the dopaminergic status. The drug‐off state was characterized by more widely distributed brain activity, mainly in the bilateral caudate. Levodopa did not fully restore normal brain activation and induced changes in the pattern of cingulate cortex activity, which was more pronounced in the rostral part in the drug‐off state and in the caudal part after levodopa intake. These results support the idea of a critical role for dopamine in the control of executive functions in patients with PD. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Analysis of SCA2 and SCA3/MJD repeats in Parkinson's disease in mainland China: Genetic, clinical, and positron emission tomography findings
Authors: Wang Jun‐Ling , Xiao Bin , Cui Xiang‐Xiang , Guo Ji‐Feng , Lei Li‐Fang , Song Xing‐Wang , Shen Lu , Jiang Hong , Yan Xin‐Xiang , Pan Qian , Long Zhi‐Gao , Xia Kun , Tang Bei‐Sha
Published: August 2009

To investigate the prevalence and clinical feature(s) of Parkinson's disease (PD) patients with expanded (ATXN2 and MJD1) genes of spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 and 3 (SCA2 and SCA3/MJD) in a mainland Chinese population, CAG triplet repeat expansions of (SCA2 and SCA3/MJD) genes (ATXN2 and MJD1) were analyzed in a cohort of 452 PD patients, including 386 sporadic and 66 familial forms. Striatal dopamine transporter was evaluated in two SCA2 and two SCA3/MJD‐positive family members, an idiopathic PD patient and a healthy control using carbon (C11) [11C]‐radiolabeled‐CFT positron emission tomography (PET). We found two patients in one familial PD (FPD) family (1.5%) and two sporadic PD patients (0.5%) with expanded CAG repeats in the ATXN2 locus, four patients in two FPD families (3%) and another three sporadic PD patients (0.8%) in the MJD1 locus. [11C]‐CFT PET in detected members in SCA2 and SCA3/MJD families showed decrements of 11C‐CFT uptake. These findings suggest that a mutation in SCA2 or SCA3/MJD may be one of the genetic causes of PD. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Fatigue in Japanese patients with Parkinson's disease: A study using Parkinson fatigue scale
Authors: Okuma Yasuyuki , Kamei Satoshi , Morita Akihiko , Yoshii Fumihito , Yamamoto Toshimasa , Hashimoto Shiori , Utsumi Hiroya , Hatano Taku , Hattori Nobutaka , Matsumura Miyuki , Takahashi Kazushi , Nogawa Shigeru , Watanabe Yuka , Miyamoto Tomoyuki , Miyamoto Masayuki , Hirata Koichi
Published: August 2009

The objective of this multicenter cross‐sectional study was to determine the prevalence of fatigue and factors contributing to it in a large sample of Japanese patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). We used the 16‐item Parkinson Fatigue Scale (PFS‐16), which was designed to assess fatigue exclusively associated with PD. We carried out this study using PFS‐16, the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale, Zung's Self‐Rating Depression Scale, Parkinson's Disease Sleep Scale (PDSS), and the PD quality of life (QOL) scale (PDQ‐39) by interview using questionnaires and physical examination by neurologists in 361 nondemented PD patients. Fatigue (an average PFS score of 3.3 or greater) was revealed in 151 patients (41.8%). Multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that the significant independent variables related to the presence of fatigue were the scores of PDSS and PDQ‐39. Depression score was not a significant contributing factor. Our study revealed that the prevalence of fatigue in Japanese PD patients is as high as that in Western countries, and that fatigue is a relatively independent symptom, although sleep disturbance may be associated with fatigue. Since fatigue is significantly related to QOL reduction, therapeutic interventions including treatment of sleep disturbance are important. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Spiral analysis in Niemann‐Pick disease type C
Authors: Hsu Annie W. , Piboolnurak Panida A. , Floyd Alicia G. , Yu Qiping P. , Wraith James E. , Patterson Marc C. , Pullman Seth L.
Published: August 2009

Spiral analysis is a computerized method of analyzing upper limb motor physiology through the quantification of spiral drawing. The objective of this study was to determine whether spirals drawn by patients with Niemann‐Pick disease type C (NPC) could be distinguished from those of controls, and to physiologically characterize movement abnormalities in NPC. Spiral data consisting of position, pressure, and time were collected from 14 NPC patients and 14 age‐matched controls, and were analyzed by the Mann‐Whitney U test. NPC spirals were characterized by: lower speed (2.67 vs. 9.56 cm/s, P < 0.001) and acceleration (0.10 vs. 2.04 cm/s2, P < 0.001), higher loop width variability (0.88 vs. 0.28, P < 0.001), tremor (5/10 vs. 0/10 trials in the dominant hand, P < 0.001), and poor overall spiral rating (2.53 vs. 0.70, P < 0.005). NPC spirals also exhibited sustained drawing pressure profiles that were abnormally invariant with time. Other features, such as the tightness of loop widths, were normal. Our findings reveal that differing aspects of tremor, Parkinsonism, ataxia, and dystonia are quantifiable in NPC patients. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
On the solutions of a class of iterated generalized Bers–Vekua equations in Clifford analysis
Authors: Berglez P.
Published: August 2009

We consider functions with values in the Clifford algebra Clp,q which are solutions of a certain class of the iterated generalized Bers–Vekua equation Dmw=0 with Dw=∂w+cw̄ where \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\usepackage{amsbsy}\usepackage[mathscr]{euscript}\footskip=0pc\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}$\partial={\sum\nolimits_{j=0}^{n}}e_j\,\partial/{\partial x_j}$\end{document} is the generalized Cauchy–Riemann operator and x=x0+x1e1+…xnen. We prove that any such function w has an Almansi‐type decomposition of the form w=v0+x0v1+···+xvm−1 where the functions vj, j=0,1,…, m−1, are solutions of the generalized Bers–Vekua equation Dv=0. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biregular extendability via isotonic Clifford analysis
Authors: Blaya Ricardo Abreu , Reyes Juan Bory , Peña Dixan Peña , Sommen Frank
Published: August 2009

We use the so‐called isotonic functions to obtain extension theorems in the framework of biregular functions of Clifford analysis. In this context we also prove the Plemelj–Sokhotski formulae for the Bochner–Martinelli integral and an expression for the square of its singular version. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A transmission problem with imperfect contact for an unbounded multiply connected domain
Authors: Castro L. P. , Pesetskaya E.
Published: August 2009

An analysis of the flux of certain unbounded doubly periodic multiply connected domains with circle disjoint components is performed. This is done under generalized non‐ideal contact conditions on the boundary between domain components, which include analytic given data. A formula for the flux that depends on the conductivity of components, their radii, centers, the conductivity of the matrix, and also certain values of special Eisenstein functions is derived. Existence and uniqueness of solution to the problem are obtained by using a transmission problem with imperfect contact for analytic functions in corresponding Hardy spaces. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.