bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased conditioned immobility and weight loss in rats following mechanical impacts to the skull that do not produce loss of consciousness
Authors: Lado Wudu , Persinger Michael
Published: September 2008

Rats either received a single vertical impact (15 km/h) of mechanical energy to their right dorsal skulls over the parietal region or served as handled controls. About 50% of the rats appeared normal after the impact. Thirty days later there were conspicuous areas containing neurons with shrunken and darkly stained somas within the cortices beneath the impact site and within the amygdala and entorhinal cortices. These neurons, occupying an average total area that ranged from 0.50 mm2 to 5 mm2, were evident even in rats that showed no stunning following the impact. These neurons were not seen in control rats. Subsequent decreases in body weight for rats that received the impact (even with no obvious stunning) were attenuated by oral access to 10% glucose but not by treatment with acetaminophen or ketamine. The rats that sustained the impact also displayed increased immobility within settings with which an aversive stimulus had been associated. Post-impact injection with ketamine did not normalize this behaviour. These results show that quantitative changes in some neuronal soma remain weeks after a single impact of mechanical energy that is not associated with immediate changes in behaviour. Concomitant with these neuronal alterations was increased emotional responsiveness to contexts associated with a single aversive episode and transient decreases in body weights.
Novel post-translational modifications of Smad2 identified by mass spectrometry
Authors: Bhaskaran Nimesh , Iwahana Hiroyuki , Bergquist Jonas , Hellman Ulf , Souchelnytskyi Serhiy
Published: September 2008

Smad2 is a crucial component of transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) signaling, and is involved in the regulation of cell proliferation, death and differentiation. Phosphorylation, ubiquitylation and acetylation of Smad2 have been found to regulate its activity. We used mass spectrometry to search for novel post-translational modifications (PTMs) of Smad2. Peptide mass fingerprinting (PMF) indicated that Smad2 can be acetylated, methylated, citrullinated, phosphorylated and palmitoylated. Sequencing of selected peptides validated methylation at Gly122 and hydroxylation at Trp18 of Smad2. We also observed a novel, so far unidentified modification at Tyr128 and Tyr151. Our observations open for further exploration of biological importance of the detected PTMs.
The Value of Knowledge Created by Individual Scientist and Research Groups
Authors: Chang Chen-Chi
Published: September 2008

Researchers of scholarly communication have often suggested that scientists publish their research findings in academic journals to maximize knowledge creation. However, as the size of journals has increased, investigating the factors affecting the value of such knowledge creation becomes both more difficult and more important. Therefore, this article aims to explore the factors that affect the value of the knowledge created through journal publishing by individual scientists and by research groups. The study surveyed data from an online citation database that includes 160 authors and 4525 articles. The results of this survey show that single authors’ knowledge and previous publishing performance play an important role in the value of the knowledge created. Research productivity and publishing work experience on the part of co-authors increase the value of the knowledge created by research. Thus, this study is important in explaining which factors affect knowledge creation.
Publication Diversity
Authors: Donovan Stephen K.
Published: September 2008

The range of potential outlets for academic publishing is large and varied. Different sorts of publications – such as peer-reviewed research journals, books, CDs, book reviews, conference abstracts, and guides – inform, influence, and entertain different parts of an academic's potential audience. While the current management focus on publication in journals listed in citation indexes and with high impact factors is expedient in terms of the academic reputation of the host institution, publishing results, reviews, and essays anywhere and everywhere is the way for a researcher to inform the widest constituency.
Deformed Generalization of the Semiclassical Entropy
Authors: Ferri Gustavo , Olivares Fernando , Pennini Flavia , Plastino Angel , Plastino Anel R. , Casas Montserrat
Published: September 2008

We explicitly obtain here a novel expression for the semiclassical Wehrl’s entropy using deformed algebras built up with the q¡coherent states (see Arik and Coon [J.Math.Phys. 17, 524 (1976) and Quesne [J. Phys. A 35, 9213 (2002)]). The generalization is investigated with emphasis on i) its behavior as a function of temperature and ii) the results obtained when the deformation-parameter tends to unity.
Entropy and Ordering of Hard Rods in One Dimension
Authors: Giaquinta Paolo V.
Published: September 2008

We revisit the equilibrium properties of a classical one-dimensional system of hardcore particles in the framework provided by the multiparticle correlation expansion of the configurational entropy. The vanishing of the cumulative contribution of more-than-two-particle correlations to the excess entropy is put in relation with the onset of a solidlike behavior at high densities.
Prudent Self-Avoiding Walks
Authors: Dethridge John C. , Guttmann Anthony J.
Published: September 2008

We have produced extended series for prudent self-avoiding walks on the square lattice. These are subsets of self-avoiding walks. We conjecture the exact growth constant and critical exponent for the walks, and show that the (anisotropic) generating function is almost certainly not differentiably-finite.
Configurons: Thermodynamic Parameters and Symmetry Changes at Glass Transition
Authors: Ojovan Michael
Published: September 2008

Thermodynamic parameters of configurons – elementary excitations resulting from broken bonds in amorphous materials – are found from viscosity-temperature relationships. Glass-liquid transition phenomena and most popular models are described along with the configuron model of glass transition. The symmetry breaking, which occurs as a change of Hausdorff dimension of bonds, is examined at glass-liquid transition. Thermal history effects in the glass-liquid transition are interpreted in terms of configuron relaxation.
Welcome to Materials – a New Open Access Journal for a Growing Scientific Community
Authors: Taubert Andreas
Published: September 2008

Materials science is one of the key disciplines in modern society because only materials-oriented scientists can provide the necessary tools, building blocks, components, and processes that are needed for an ever growing and aging society.[...]
Fabrication and Size‐Selective Bioseparation of Magnetic Silica Nanospheres with Highly Ordered Periodic Mesostructure
Authors: Zhang Lei , Qiao Shizhang , Jin Yonggang , Yang Huagui , Budihartono Sandy , Stahr Frances , Yan Zifeng , Wang Xiaolin , Hao Zhengping , Lu Gao Qing
Published: September 2008

In this paper, we report a novel synthesis and selective bioseparation of the composite of Fe3O4 magnetic nanocrystals and highly ordered MCM‐41 type periodic mesoporous silica nanospheres. Monodisperse superparamagnetic Fe3O4 nanocrystals were synthesized by thermal decomposition of iron stearate in diol in an autoclave at low temperature. The synthesized nanocrystals were encapsulated in mesoporous silica nanospheres through the packing and self‐assembly of composite nanocrystal–surfactant micelles and surfactant/silica complex. Different from previous studies, the produced magnetic silica nanospheres (MSNs) possess not only uniform nanosize (90 ∼ 140 nm) but also a highly ordered mesostructure. More importantly, the pore size and the saturation magnetization values can be controlled by using different alkyltrimethylammonium bromide surfactants and changing the amount of Fe3O4 magnetic nanocrystals encapsulated, respectively. Binary adsorption and desorption of proteins cytochrome c (cyt c) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) demonstrate that MSNs are an effective and highly selective adsorbent for proteins with different molecular sizes. Small particle size, high surface area, narrow pore size distribution, and straight pores of MSNs are responsible for the high selective adsorption capacity and fast adsorption rates. High magnetization values and superparamagnetic property of MSNs provide a convenient means to remove nanoparticles from solution and make the re‐dispersion in solution quick following the withdrawal of an external magnetic field.
Liquid Manipulation Lithography to Fabricate a Multifunctional Microarray of Organosilanes on an Oxide Surface under Ambient Conditions
Authors: Shirahata Naoto , Nakanishi Jun , Echikawa Yoshitaka , Hozumi Atsushi , Masuda Yoshitake , Ito Shigeru , Sakka Yoshio
Published: September 2008

A novel method to produce a multifunctional microarray in which different types of self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) are positioned on predefined surface sites on an oxide‐covered silicon substrate is described. To achieve this, a liquid‐transportation system called “liquid manipulation lithography” (LML) is developed. This system allows the delivery of different varieties of molecular inks, trialkoxysilanes, onto each predefined surface position of the given substrate even under ambient conditions. Under optimum conditions, the transferred trialkoxysilane inks first form one‐molecule‐thick microstructures at each surface position through the hydrolysis of the reactive silanes with surface water adsorbed on the substrate, followed by a condensation reaction. Three types of trialkoxysilanes with long alkyl‐chains, specifically triethoxysilylundecanal (TESUD), N‐(6‐aminohexyl)‐3‐aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (AHAPS), and octadecyltrimethoxysilane (OTS), are used as model molecular inks due to their high‐end group‐functionalities in biological and electronic applications. The precise positioning of the ink with sub‐micrometer edge resolution is performed by carefully controlling a femtoliter‐scale liquid‐injection micromanipulator under a microscope. To ensure that the prepared SAM microarray is available for parallel analysis of biomolecular interactions, the area‐selective immobilization of a protein molecule is explored. Successful observation of the area‐selective biomolecular attachment confirmed a high industrial potential for the method as a lithography‐free process for the miniaturization of a multifunctional SAM array on an oxide substrate.
The prostaglandin E2 EP2 receptor accelerates disease progression and inflammation in a model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Liang Xibin , Wang Qian , Shi Ju , Lokteva Ludmila , Breyer Richard M. , Montine Thomas J. , Andreasson Katrin
Published: September 2008

Objective

Inflammation has emerged as an important factor in disease progression in human and transgenic models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Recent studies demonstrate that the prostaglandin E2 EP2 receptor is a major regulator of inflammatory oxidative injury in innate immunity. We tested whether EP2 signaling participated in disease pathogenesis in the G93A superoxide dismutase (SOD) model of familial ALS.

Methods

We examined the phenotype of G93A SOD mice lacking the EP2 receptor and performed immunocytochemistry, quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, and Western analyses to determine the mechanism of EP2 toxicity in this model.

Results

EP2 receptor is significantly induced in G93A SOD mice in astrocytes and microglia in parallel with increases in expression of proinflammatory enzymes and lipid peroxidation. In human ALS, EP2 receptor immunoreactivity was upregulated in astrocytes in ventral spinal cord. In aging G93A SOD mice, genetic deletion of the prostaglandin E2EP2 receptor improved motor strength and extended survival. Deletion of the EP2 receptor in G93A SOD mice resulted in significant reductions in levels of proinflammatory effectors, including cyclooxygenase‐1, cyclooxygenase‐2, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and components of the NADPH oxidase complex. In alternate models of inflammation, including the lipopolysaccharide model of innate immunity and the APPSwe‐PS1ΔE9 model of amyloidosis, deletion of EP2 also reduced expression of proinflammatory genes.

Interpretation

These data suggest that prostaglandin E2 signaling via the EP2 receptor functions in the mutant SOD model and more broadly in inflammatory neurodegeneration to regulate expression of a cassette of proinflammatory genes. Inhibition of EP2 signaling may represent a novel strategy to downregulate the inflammatory response in neurodegenerative disease. Ann Neurol 2008;64:304–314
Marked differences in fine specificity and isotype usage of the anti–citrullinated protein antibody in health and disease
Authors: Ioan‐Facsinay Andreea , Willemze Annemiek , Robinson David B. , Peschken Christine A. , Markland Janet , van der Woude Diane , Elias Brenda , Ménard Henri A. , Newkirk Marianna , Fritzler Marvin J. , Toes René E. M. , Huizinga Tom W. J. , El‐Gabalawy Hani S.
Published: September 2008

Objective

Anti–citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) display high association with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and are implicated in its pathogenesis. The presence of ACPAs is known to precede the onset of RA. In order to identify the features that could confer its pathogenicity, we extensively characterized this antibody response in a unique North American native population of patients with RA and their unaffected relatives.

Methods

The levels of IgA, IgM, and IgG ACPAs, as well as IgM and IgA rheumatoid factor (RF), were measured in serum samples obtained from 81 patients with RA and 195 of their unaffected relatives. The isotype distribution, the fine specificity of the ACPA response, and its association with RF were compared in health and disease.

Results

ACPA positivity was observed in 19% of the healthy relatives and ∼91% of the patients with RA. ACPA isotype usage was strikingly lower in unaffected relatives than in patients with RA (1–2 versus 5–6 isotypes). Fine specificity studies showed that reactivity to citrullinated fibrinogen and vimentin was present in sera from patients with RA, while it was virtually absent in their unaffected relatives. Finally, the ACPA and RF responses were associated in patients with RA but were discordant in their healthy relatives. Extended analyses revealed that the presence of ACPAs was associated with RA irrespective of RF status, while the association of RF with disease relied on its interaction with ACPAs.

Conclusion

The fine specificity and isotype usage of the ACPA response are qualitatively different in health and disease. Epitope spreading and expansion of the isotype repertoire might be necessary for development of RA, and this could be facilitated by the presence of RF antibodies.
Radiographic findings following two years of infliximab therapy in patients with ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Heijde Désirée van der , Landewé Robert , Baraliakos Xenofon , Houben Harry , Tubergen Astrid van , Williamson Paul , Xu Weichun , Baker Daniel , Goldstein Neil , Braun Jürgen
Published: September 2008

Objective

To evaluate the effect of infliximab on progression of structural damage over 2 years in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

Methods

In the Ankylosing Spondylitis Study for the Evaluation of Recombinant Infliximab Therapy (ASSERT), a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial of the efficacy of infliximab compared with placebo, 279 patients with active AS received either placebo through week 24 and then infliximab 5 mg/kg from week 24 through week 96 (n = 78) or infliximab 5 mg/kg from baseline through week 96, administered every 6 weeks after a loading dose (n = 201; these patients were the focus of the radiographic analyses). Radiographic findings in patients from the ASSERT trial were indistinguishable from those in a historical control cohort of patients who had no prior use of anti–tumor necrosis factor agents (from the Outcome in Ankylosing Spondylitis International Study [OASIS] database; n = 192). Radiographic progression of structural damage from baseline to the 2‐year followup was scored using the modified Stoke Ankylosing Spondylitis Spine Score (mSASSS). All images were scored in one batch.

Results

Median changes in the mSASSS from baseline to year 2 were 0.0 for both the OASIS and the ASSERT cohorts (P = 0.541). Mean changes in the mSASSS were also similar between the OASIS and ASSERT cohorts (mean ± SD change over 2 years 1.0 ± 3.2 and 0.9 ± 2.6, respectively). In addition, results from sensitivity analyses did not show a statistically significant difference in the mSASSS between the OASIS and ASSERT cohorts.

Conclusion

AS patients who received infliximab from baseline through week 96 did not show a statistically significant difference in inhibition of structural damage progression at year 2, as assessed using the mSASSS scoring system, when compared with radiographic data from the historical control OASIS cohort. Improvements in clinical outcomes and spinal inflammation have been previously demonstrated with the use of infliximab therapy.
Work and sick leave among patients with early inflammatory joint conditions
Authors: Geuskens Goedele A. , Hazes Johanna M. W. , Barendregt Pieternella J. , Burdorf Alex
Published: September 2008

Objective

To study the occurrence of sick leave and to identify work characteristics related to sick leave in patients with early inflammatory joint conditions.

Methods

Patients with inflammatory joint conditions present for <12 months were included in this cross‐sectional study. Approximately 85% of patients satisfying the criteria participated. Data collection included demographics, clinical characteristics, pain, physical functioning and mental health (Short Form 36), fatigue, and behavioral coping (Coping of Rheumatic Stressors questionnaire). Work characteristics included physical load, psychosocial load, job control, and support at work. Outcome was defined as sick leave for >2 weeks during the past 6 months. Multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted.

Results

Sick leave was reported by 54 (26%) of 210 employed patients, with 75% of the sick leave periods attributed to joint conditions. Of these 210 patients, 23% were classified as having rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 35% as having non‐RA arthritis, and 42% as having inflammatory joint conditions without synovitis. Pain, poor physical functioning, and passive behavioral coping were related to increased sick leave, whereas diagnostic group was not. Low job control, i.e., low control over planning and pacing of activities within the job, was associated with increased sick leave (odds ratio [OR] 2.74), whereas being a supervisor (OR 0.21) and clerical work (OR 0.45) were related to reduced sick leave.

Conclusion

Substantial sick leave in the past 6 months was reported by 26% of patients with early inflammatory joint conditions. Pain, functional limitations, and fewer opportunities to determine one's work activities were associated with the occurrence of sick leave.
Subclinical disability in valued life activities among individuals with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Katz Patricia , Morris Anne , Yelin Edward
Published: September 2008

Objective

Subclinical disability, the need for modifications in task performance or frequency without reported difficulty with the task, has been identified as a stage along the disability continuum. We estimated the prevalence of subclinical disability in valued life activities (VLAs) among individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), identified characteristics of individuals with VLA subclinical disability, and estimated the ability of VLA subclinical disability to predict later decrements in functioning.

Methods

Data were from 3 years of a longitudinal panel study of individuals with RA, for which annual structured telephone interviews are conducted (n = 508 in year 1, n = 442 in year 3). Respondents rated difficulty in VLAs and then reported whether they used any of 4 behavioral modifications (limitations, extra time, help, or equipment) for each. Subclinical disability was defined for each VLA as no reported difficulty with use of any modification. Multiple regression analyses identified predictors of subclinical disability in year 1 and the role of year 1 subclinical disability in development of overt disability between year 1 and year 3.

Results

Almost three‐quarters of the subjects exhibited subclinical disability in at least 1 VLA in year 1. Duration of RA was consistently associated with subclinical disability. Individuals with subclinical disability at baseline were significantly more likely to experience increases in functional limitations (odds ratio [OR] 1.09, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.01–1.18) and VLA disability (OR 1.14, 95% CI 1.06–1.23) over a prospective 2‐year period.

Conclusion

Subclinical disability may be a valuable marker of individuals in a disability transition phase who are particularly susceptible to intervention that would enable them to maintain functioning.
Employment and disability issues in systemic lupus erythematosus: A review
Authors: Scofield Lacie , Reinlib Leslie , Alarcón Graciela S. , Cooper Glinda S.
Published: September 2008

Objective

To summarize research pertaining to work disability in lupus patients, discuss challenges patients face applying for federal disability assistance in the US, and make recommendations for clinical and health policy research.

Methods

We searched Medline for articles on work or disability in lupus patients and gathered information from the Social Security Administration and the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives.

Results

We found 12 publications with employment‐related data; 6 included analysis of predictors of work status. The prevalence of inability to work or cessation of work was 15–51% in these studies (3–15 years after diagnosis); 20–32% of patients received disability benefits. Lower education level, higher disease activity, higher disease damage, older age, and higher physical job strain were independent predictors of work disability or work cessation in at least 2 studies. Lupus patients may be less successful than patients with other diseases when applying for federal disability assistance, possibly because medical records may not accurately reflect functional limitations. In addition, symptoms contributing to work disability (e.g., fatigue, pain, neurocognitive dysfunction) may be difficult to assess and quantify.

Conclusion

Work disability in lupus patients is common. Additional research on risk factors for work disability in lupus patients and on strategies for reducing the impact of these factors on work‐related activities is needed. The development of better measures and rating scales for the symptoms responsible for work disability in lupus patients and studies of factors influencing the success of obtaining federal disability benefits would also be useful.
Strength training for treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee: A systematic review
Authors: Lange Angela K. , Vanwanseele Benedicte , Fiatarone singh Maria A.
Published: September 2008

Objective

To assess the effectiveness of isolated resistance training on arthritis symptoms, physical performance, and psychological function in people with knee osteoarthritis.

Methods

A comprehensive systematic database search for randomized controlled trials was performed. Two reviewers independently assessed studies for potential inclusion. Study quality indicators, arthritis symptoms, muscle strength, functional performance, and psychological outcomes were extracted. The relative effect sizes (ES) were calculated with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

Eighteen studies enrolling 2,832 subjects were reviewed; the mean cohort age range was 55–74 years. In general, the quality of the reviewed literature was moderately robust; on average, 8 out of 12 quality criteria were accounted for in the reviewed literature. Self‐reported measures of pain, physical function, and performance, along with muscle strength (mean 17.4%), maximal gait speed and chair stand time, and balance improved significantly following resistance training in 56–100% of studies where they were measured. Limitations included lack of data available for ES calculations and lack of adverse event and compliance reporting, particularly with regard to the actual training intensity versus the prescribed training intensity.

Conclusion

Resistance training improved muscle strength and self‐reported measures of pain and physical function in over 50–75% of this cohort; 50–100% of the studies reported a significant improvement in all but 1 performance‐based physical function measure (walk time). The effects of resistance training on health‐related quality of life and depression are yet to be confirmed. More research needs to be conducted to establish dose‐response relationships and the effect of resistance training on long‐term disability, disease pathology, and progression.
Dilated canine hearts: A specimen for teaching cardiac anatomy
Authors: Cope Lee Anne
Published: September 2008

Dilated canine hearts were used to teach undergraduate students internal and external cardiac anatomy. The specimens were dilated using hydrostatic pressure and then fixed using 5% formalin. These specimens provided the students with an alternative to prepackaged embalmed hearts and anatomical models for studying the external and internal cardiac anatomy. In addition, the dilated hearts are more similar to the organ they encounter within the thoracic cavity of their dissected animal. This gives the students a better chance of developing a three‐dimensional understanding of the heart. Anat Sci Ed 1:207–211, 2008. © 2008 American Association of Anatomists.
Author‐choice open‐access publishing in the biological and medical literature: A citation analysis
Authors: Davis Philip M.
Published: September 2008

In this article, we analyze the citations to articles published in 11 biological and medical journals from 2003 to 2007 that employ author‐choice open‐access models. Controlling for known explanatory predictors of citations, only 2 of the 11 journals show positive and significant open‐access effects. Analyzing all journals together, we report a small but significant increase in article citations of 17%. In addition, there is strong evidence to suggest that the open‐access advantage is declining by about 7% per year, from 32% in 2004 to 11% in 2007.
Polarimetric imaging of interacting pairs
Authors: Rampazzo R. , Bonoli C. , Giro E.
Published: September 2008

We present optical polarization maps of a sample of four interacting pairs at different phases of encounter, from nearly unperturbed galaxies to on‐going mergers. Only the pair RR 24 shows a linear polarization pattern which extends in both galaxies for several kiloparsecs. The more perturbed member, RR 24b, is linearly polarized up to the level of ≈3%. No polarization is measured in the strongly perturbed late‐type pair members of RR 23 and RR 99. Also, in the central part of the double nuclei shell galaxy ESO 2400100 there is no significant polarization. We use the ionized gas velocity field of RR 24 to interpret its linear polarization structure. In RR 24a the quite regular gas kinematics reflect the unperturbed spirallike polarization structure. In RR 24b a strong velocity gradient in ionized gas could be associated with the polarization structure. We suggest that the large‐scale magnetic field of the RR 24 pair members still plays a role in shaping the polarization pattern. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
BV photometry of a possible open star cluster pair NGC 7031/NGC 7086
Authors: Kopchev V. S. , Petrov G. T.
Published: September 2008

We present a CCD BV photometry of the possible binary open star cluster NGC 7031/NGC 7086. The aim is to confirm or disprove their common nature on the grounds of their age and distance. An age of 224 ± 25 Myr and a distance of 831 ± 72 pc was determined for NGC 7031, and 178 ± 25 Myr, 955 ± 84 pc for NGC 7086, respectively. Based on these differences in age and distance we conclude that the two clusters are most likely not formed together from one and the same giant molecular cloud and thus do not form a true binary cluster. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
New absolute magnitude calibrations for detached binaries
Authors: Bilir S. , Ak T. , Soydugan E. , Soydugan F. , Yaz E. , Filiz Ak N. , Eker Z. , Demircan O. , Helvacı M.
Published: September 2008

Lutz‐Kelker bias corrected absolute magnitude calibrations for the detached binary systems with main‐sequence components are presented. The absolute magnitudes of the calibrator stars were derived at intrinsic colours of Johnson‐Cousins and 2MASS (Two Micron All Sky Survey) photometric systems. As for the calibrator stars, 44 detached binaries were selected from the Hipparcos catalogue, which have relative observed parallax errors smaller than 15% (σπ/π ≤ 0.15). The calibration equations which provide the corrected absolute magnitude for optical and near‐infrared pass bands are valid for wide ranges of colours and absolute magnitudes: –0.18 < (B – V)0 < 0.91, –1.6 < MV < 5.5 and –0.15 < (J – H)0 < 0.50, –0.02 < (H – Ks)0 < 0.13, 0 < MJ < 4, respectively. The distances computed using the luminosity‐colours (LCs) relation with optical (BV) and near‐infrared (JHKs) observations were compared to the distances found from various other methods. The results show that new absolute magnitude calibrations of this study can be used as a convenient statistical tool to estimate the true distances of detached binaries out of Hipparcos' distance limit. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Current‐driven instabilities in weakly ionized disks
Authors: Liverts E. , Mond M. , Urpin V.
Published: September 2008

Cool weakly ionized gaseous rotating disk form the basis for many models in astrophysics objects. Instabilities against perturbations in such disks play an important role in the theory of the formation of stars and planets. Traditionally, axisymmetric magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) and recently Hall‐MHD instabilities have been thoroughly studied as providers of an efficient mechanism for radial transfer of angular momentum, and of density radial stratification. In the current work, the Hall instability against axisymmetric perturbations in incompressible rotating fluid in external poloidal and toroidal magnetic field is considered. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A revisit to agglomerates of early‐type Hipparcos stars
Authors: Caballero J.A. , Dinis L.
Published: September 2008

We study the spatial structure and sub‐structure of regions rich in Hipparcos stars with blue BT – VT colours. These regions, which comprise large stellar complexes, OB associations, and young open clusters, are tracers of on‐going star formation in the Galaxy. The DBSCAN (Density‐Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise) data clustering algorithm is used to look for spatial overdensities of early‐type stars. Once an overdensity, “agglomerate”, is identified, we carry out a data and bibliographic compilation of their star member candidates. The actual membership in agglomerate of each early‐type star is studied based on its heliocentric distance, proper motion, and previous spectro‐photometric information. We identify 35 agglomerates of early‐type Hipparcos stars. Most of them are associated to previously known clusters and OB associations. The previously unknown P Puppis agglomerate is subject of a dedicated study with Virtual Observatory tools. It is actually a new, nearby, young open cluster (d ∼ 470 pc, age ∼ 20 Ma) with a clear radial density gradient.We list P Puppis and other six agglomerates (including NGC 2451 A, vdBH 23, and Trumpler 10) as new sites for substellar searches because of their youth, closeness, and spatial density. We investigate in detail the sub‐structure in the Orion, CMa‐Pup and Pup‐Vel OB complexes (“super‐agglomerates”). We confirm or discover some stellar overdensities in the Orion complex, like the 25 Ori group, the Horsehead region (including the σ Orionis cluster), and the η Orionis agglomerate. Finally, we derive accurate parallactic distances to the Pleiades, NGC 2451 A, and IC 2391, describe several field early‐type stars at d < 200 pc, and discuss the incompleteness of our search. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Transnasal transesophageal echocardiography: A new approach for the PFO occlusion in awake patients
Authors: Greco Cesare , Chiavari Piero A. , Campolongo Giuseppe , Mariani Simona , Messa Fortunato , Tallarico Demetrio , Schiariti Michele , Gonnella Carlo , Gaudio Carlo
Published: September 2008

Objectives: To reduce risks, discomfort, cost, and operative time for percutaneous patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure, we propose to perform this procedure under transesophageal echo‐guidance using a 10 Fr. catheter introduced through nasal way (TEENW). Background: Transesophageal or intracardiac echocardiography is commonly used to guide percutaneous PFO closure. Sedation needed quite frequently during transesophageal echocardiography, increased patients' discomfort, procedure prolongation, costs, use of both femoral veins, and additional intracardiac manipulations are the main limitations of standard techniques. Methods: We enrolled 20 consecutive patients with a history of cerebral ischemia and PFO with right‐to‐left shunt. In 15 patients Amplatzer® PFO occluder was used, whereas in five patients with longer PFO tunnel (>10 mm) Cardia Intrasept® was selected. Without sedation, a multifrequency monoplane probe, developed for intracardiac echocardiography, was introduced into the nostril and advanced forward the esophagus. Then under echo guidance, the closing device was presented, opened and released. Results: Procedure lasted for an average of 33.3 min, and no complications were seen. At procedure's completion, six patients showed persistence of reduced shunt during Valsalva manoeuvre. At six‐month follow‐up, shunts disappeared in all patients. Conclusion: TEENW is safe and well tolerated, and images' quality is high enough to deserve widespread adoption of this technique for PFO closure. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Femoral artery occlusion after using a suture‐mediated arterial puncture closure device
Authors: Park Sung‐Min , Kwak Young‐Tae
Published: September 2008

A femoral artery occlusion is a very rare complication after using a suture‐mediated arterial puncture closing device (APCD). The mechanism of the femoral artery occlusion is unclear and its standard management has not been established. This case describes a mechanism of femoral artery occlusion by a suture‐mediated APCD and suggests a method of prevention and treatment. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reducing and reversing pseudomemories with hypnosis
Authors: Wagstaff Graham F. , Cole Jon , Wheatcroft Jacqueline , Anderton Amanda , Madden Hannah
Published: September 2008

As a forensic memory enhancement tool, hypnosis is problematic because it tends to increase pseudomemory responses and inflate confidence regardless of accuracy. A variety of evidence suggests that major influences in producing these effects are expectancy and demand characteristics. However, if expectancy and demand characteristics play a role in increasing false positive responses with hypnosis, it may be possible to use the same factors to reduce false positive responses. Some have argued that the standard misinformation effect in nonhypnotic situations may be influenced by expectancy and demand characteristics. Consequently, if subjects are given misleading information followed by an instruction suggesting that hypnosis will reduce the influence of misinformation, hypnosis may reduce rather than increase false positive responses, including spurious confidence in errors. In this paper two studies are described that lend some experimental support for this hypothesis. The first showed that, when participants are not given an opportunity to commit themselves to making errors, the misinformation effect can be eliminated if hypnosis is given together with a suggestion that it will help participants discriminate between correct and incorrect information. The second study showed that a similar posthypnotic suggestion was more effective than a warning alone in reducing or reversing misinformation errors even after participants had committed themselves to reporting such errors. There was no evidence of inflated confidence with hypnosis in either study. Copyright © 2008 British Society of Experimental & Clinical Hypnosis. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Direct high‐performance liquid chromatographic separation of the enantiomers of venlafaxine and 11 analogs using amylose‐derived chiral stationary phases
Authors: Caccamese Salvatore , Bianca Salvatore , Carter Guy T.
Published: September 2008

A direct liquid chromatographic enantioselective separation of venlafaxine and 11 analogs was obtained in the normal phase mode using Chiralpak AD. For some compounds, a comparison between the enantioseparation using coated and immobilized amylose tris(3,5‐dimethylphenylcarbamate) chiral stationary phases (Chiralpak AD and Chiralpak IA, respectively) was made. The best separations were achieved on Chiralpak AD with ethanol as alcoholic modifier in a mobile phase made basic by DEA addition: separation factor ranges between 2.08 and 1.15 and resolution factor between 7.0 and 1.0. Using the same CSP and 2‐propanol doped with TFA as acidic modifier, 10 compounds were enantioseparated with separation factor ranging between 1.40 and 1.04 and resolution factor between 3.1 and 0.3. The use of ethanol as alcoholic modifier also has the advantage of better solubility of the compounds in the mobile phase. The nature of the substituent (electron donating or withdrawing) affects in general the separation factor. A memory effect that involves a long equilibration time of the CSP is present when switching from an acidic mobile phase to a basic one. Chirality, 2008. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dynamic evolution of the particle size distribution in suspension polymerization reactors: A comparative study on Monte Carlo and sectional grid methods
Authors: Saliakas Vassilis , Kotoulas Costas , Meimaroglou Dimitris , Kiparissides Costas
Published: September 2008

In the present study, an efficient Monte Carlo (MC) algorithm and a fixed pivot technique (FPT) are described for the prediction of the dynamic evolution of the droplet/particle size distribution (DSD/PSD) in both non‐reactive liquid–liquid dispersions and reactive liquid(solid)–liquid suspension polymerization systems. Semi‐empirical and phenomenological expressions are employed to describe the breakage and coalescence rates of dispersed monomer droplets/particles, in terms of the type and concentration of suspending agent, quality of agitation, and evolution of the physical, thermodynamic and transport properties of the polymerization system. Moreover, the validity of the numerical calculations is first examined via a direct comparison of simulation results obtained by both numerical methods with experimental data on average particle diameter and droplet/particle size distributions for both non‐reactive liquid–liquid dispersions and the free‐radical suspension polymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA). Additional comparisons between the MC and the FP numerical methods are carried out under different polymerization conditions. The simulation results reveal that both numerical methods are capable of predicting the mean and the distributed particulate properties of both non‐reactive and reactive suspension processes.
Desmoplastic neurotropic melanoma
Authors: Chen James Y. , Hruby George , Scolyer Richard A. , Murali Rajmohan , Hong Angela , FitzGerald Patrick , Pham Trang T. , Quinn Michael J. , Thompson John F.
Published: September 2008

BACKGROUND.

Several studies have suggested that desmoplastic neurotropic melanoma (DNM) is associated with higher local recurrence rates than other types of melanoma. The authors investigated the local recurrence rates for patients with DNM after surgery alone or surgery followed by radiotherapy (RT).

METHODS.

One hundred twenty‐eight patients with DNM were treated at the Sydney Melanoma Unit and the Sydney Cancer Center from 1996 to 2007. All patients underwent local excision, 27 patients also received RT. For both groups, clinical and pathologic features, treatment details, and local recurrence data were analyzed.

RESULTS.

The median age at diagnosis was 65.5 years. The ratio of men to women was 2.7:1. The head and neck was the most common location (51%). The median Breslow thickness was 4 mm, and 99% of patients had Clark Level IV or V primary tumors. Patients who received adjuvant RT had thicker tumors (P = .003), deeper Clark level invasion (P < .001), and narrower excision margins (P < .001). There were 8 local recurrences, including 6 (6%) in the surgery only group and 2 (7%) in the adjuvant RT group. A positive margin (P < .001) and head and neck location (P = .03) were significant predictors of local recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS.

The local recurrence rate in this series was lower than the rates reported in historic control groups and in the authors' previous temporal cohort. The results indicated that clear surgical margins are of paramount importance in minimizing local recurrence; when margins are compromised, the addition of RT may reduce local recurrence rates compared with historic controls. A prospective randomized trial is needed to quantify the risk reduction with adjuvant RT. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Dirichlet duality and the nonlinear Dirichlet problem
Authors: Harvey F. Reese , Lawson H. Blaine
Published: September 2008

We study the Dirichlet problem for fully nonlinear, degenerate elliptic equations of the form F(Hess u) = 0 on a smoothly bounded domain Ω ⋐ ℝn. In our approach the equation is replaced by a subset F ⊂ Sym2(ℝn) of the symmetric n × n matrices with ∂F ⊆ {F = 0}. We establish the existence and uniqueness of continuous solutions under an explicit geometric “F‐convexity” assumption on the boundary ∂Ω. We also study the topological structure of F‐convex domains and prove a theorem of Andreotti‐Frankel type. Two key ingredients in the analysis are the use of “subaffine functions” and “Dirichlet duality.” Associated to F is a Dirichlet dual set F̃ that gives a dual Dirichlet problem. This pairing is a true duality in that the dual of F̃ is F, and in the analysis the roles of F and F̃ are interchangeable. The duality also clarifies many features of the problem including the appropriate conditions on the boundary. Many interesting examples are covered by these results including: all branches of the homogeneous Monge‐Ampère equation over ℝ, ℂ, and ℍ; equations appearing naturally in calibrated geometry, Lagrangian geometry, and p‐convex Riemannian geometry; and all branches of the special Lagrangian potential equation. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On the existence of smooth self‐similar blowup profiles for the wave map equation
Authors: Germain Pierre
Published: September 2008

Consider the equivariant wave map equation from Minkowski space to a rotationally symmetric manifold N that has an equator (e.g., the sphere).

In dimension 3, this paper presents a necessary and sufficient condition on N for the existence of a smooth self‐similar blowup profile.

More generally, we study the relation between

the minimizing properties of the equator map for the Dirichlet energy corresponding to the (elliptic) harmonic map problem and

the existence of a smooth blowup profile for the (hyperbolic) wave map
problem.

This has several applications to questions of regularity and uniqueness for the wave map equation. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Automatic quantification of histological studies in allergic asthma
Authors: Abella Mónica , Zubeldia José Manuel , Conejero Laura , Malpica Norberto , Vaquero Juan José , Desco Manuel
Published: September 2008

The evaluation of new therapies to treat allergic asthma makes frequent use of histological studies. Some of them are based on microscope observation of stained paraffin lung sections to quantify cellular infiltrate, an effect directly related to allergic processes. Currently, there is no software tool available for doing this quantification automatically. This paper presents a methodology and a software tool for the quantification of cellular infiltrate in lung tissue images in an allergic asthma mouse model. The image is divided into regions of equal size, which are then classified by means of a segmentation algorithm based on texture analysis. The classification uses three discriminant functions, built from parameters derived from the histogram and the co‐occurrence matrix. These functions were calculated by means of a stepwise discriminant analysis on 79 samples from a training set. Results provided a correct classification of 96.8% on an independent test set of 251 samples labeled manually. Regression analysis showed a good agreement between automatic and manual methods. A reliable and easy to implement method has been developed to provide an automatic method for quantifying microscopy images of lung histological studies. Results showed similar accuracy to that provided by an expert, while allowing analyzing a much larger number of fields in a repeatable way. © 2008 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Assessment of mitochondrial toxicity by analysis of mitochondrial protein expression in mononuclear cells
Authors: Lin Chen‐Han , Sloan Derek D. , Dang Chung H. , Wagner Thor , Cabrera Albert J. E. , Tobin Nicole H. , Frenkel Lisa M. , Jerome Keith R.
Published: September 2008

Background:

Real‐time PCR has quantified decreased mitochondrial DNA levels in association with nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) therapy of HIV‐infected populations. However, real‐time PCR is best suited to distinguish log differences in an analyte. In an effort to monitor individuals in more detail, we developed a flow cytometric assay to gauge mitochondrial function.

Methods:

Flow cytometric quantification of a mitochondrial DNA‐encoded mitochondrial protein (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COX‐I)) and a nuclear DNA‐encoded mitochondrial protein [ATP synthase subunit D (Sub‐D)] was optimized and validated.

Results:

Intra‐assay and interassay variability was low using peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) (CV of 6.15% for COX‐I and 7.11% Sub‐D, and 9.38% and 9.83% for COX‐I and Sub‐D, respectively). Mitochondrial protein depletion was evident with in vitro treatment of cells with ethidium bromide (EtBr) and zalcitabine (ddC). Mitochondrial protein expression in 40 healthy adults clustered tightly. Depletion of mitochondrial protein, however, was neither detected in cryopreserved PBMC from NRTI‐treated children (n = 9) nor in adults with a history of symptoms consistent with mitochondrial toxicity or ongoing treatment with didanosine (ddI) or stavudine (d4T) (n = 51).

Conclusions:

A validated flow cytometric assay allows simultaneous detection of mitochondrial DNA and nuclear DNA encoded proteins at the single cell level, offering a method to monitor for mitochondrial function. Prospective studies are required to evaluate whether mitochondrial protein loss is observed in at‐risk patients prior to the onset of symptoms from mitochondrial dysfunction. © 2008 Clinical Cytometry Society