bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technical note: Out‐of‐plane angular correction based on a trigonometric function for use in two‐dimensional kinematic studies
Authors: Stevens Nancy J. , Schmitt Daniel O. , Cole Theodore M. , Chan Lap‐Ki
Published: December 2005

In two‐dimensional (2D) kinematic studies, limb positions in three‐dimensional (3D) space observed in lateral view are projected onto a 2D film plane. Elbow and knee‐joint angles that are less than 20° out‐of‐plane of lateral‐view cameras generally exhibit very little measurable difference from their 3D counterparts (Plagenhoef 1979 Environment, Behavior, and Morphology; New York: Gustav Fisher, p. 95–118). However, when limb segment angles are more than 20° out‐of‐plane, as is often the case in locomotor studies of arboreal primates, elbow and knee angles can appear significantly more extended than they actually are. For this reason, a methodology is described that corrects 2D out‐of‐plane angular estimates using a series of trigonometric transformations. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regulation of anti–cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies in rheumatoid arthritis: Contrasting effects of HLA–DR3 and the shared epitope alleles
Authors: Irigoyen Patricia , Lee Annette T. , Wener Mark H. , Li Wentian , Kern Marlena , Batliwalla Franak , Lum Raymond F. , Massarotti Elena , Weisman Michael , Bombardier Claire , Remmers Elaine F. , Kastner Daniel L. , Seldin Michael F. , Criswell Lindsey A. , Gregersen Peter K.
Published: December 2005

Objective

To examine the association between HLA–DRB1 alleles and the production of anti–cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti‐CCP) and rheumatoid factor (RF) autoantibodies in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

We studied 1,723 Caucasian RA patients enrolled in the North American Rheumatoid Arthritis Consortium (NARAC) family cohort and the Study of New Onset Rheumatoid Arthritis (SONORA) cohort. All patients were tested for anti‐CCP antibodies (by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay), RF (by nephelometry), and HLA–DR genotype (by polymerase chain reaction and sequence‐specific oligonucleotide hybridization).

Results

When controlled for the presence of RF, anti‐CCP positivity was strongly associated with the HLA–DRB1 shared epitope (SE). In RF+ patients, the presence of the SE was very significantly associated with anti‐CCP positivity, with an odds ratio (OR) of 5.8 and a 95% confidence interval (95% CI) of 4.1–8.3. This relationship was also seen in RF– patients (OR 3.1 [95% CI 1.8–5.3]). In contrast, RF positivity was not significantly associated with presence of the SE independently of anti‐CCP antibodies. Strikingly, HLA–DRB1*03 was strongly associated with reduced anti‐CCP titers, even after controlling for the presence of the SE and restricting the analysis to anti‐CCP+ patients. HLA–DR3 was also associated with anti‐CCP– RA in our population.

Conclusion

The HLA–DRB1 SE is strongly associated with the production of anti‐CCP antibodies, but not RF. In contrast, HLA–DR3 alleles are associated with anti‐CCP– disease and with lower levels of anti‐CCP antibodies, even when controlling for the SE. These data emphasize the complexity of the genetic effects of the major histocompatibility complex on the RA phenotype.
Trends in epidemiology of knee arthroplasty in the United States, 1990–2000
Authors: Jain Nitin B. , Higgins Laurence D. , Ozumba Donald , Guller Ulrich , Cronin McNeil , Pietrobon Ricardo , Katz Jeffrey N.
Published: December 2005

Objective

There is little information on longitudinal trends in the epidemiology of total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This study was undertaken to determine whether, during the past decade, TKA rates increased in younger adults and older adults, whether utilization of TKA increased among minorities, and whether more patients underwent surgery at high‐volume hospitals.

Methods

TKA cases (n = 443,008) were extracted from the 1990–2000 Nationwide Inpatient Sample database. TKA trends for 3 time periods were obtained (1990–1993 [period I], 1994–1997 [period II], and 1998–2000 [period III]).

Results

Between period I and period III, the proportion of TKAs performed increased by 95.2% in the 40–49‐year age group and by 53.7% in the 50–59‐year age group. Black patients and Hispanic patients were more likely to undergo TKA in period III than in period I (odds ratio [OR] = 1.6, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.5–1.6 and OR 2.7, 95% CI 2.5–2.9, respectively). However, white patients accounted for 93.0%, 89.9%, and 87.5% of TKAs in the 3 time periods, respectively. In period III, the proportion of patients undergoing surgery in high‐volume hospitals increased compared with periods I and II. Both mortality and length of hospital stay diminished significantly in period III, but the rate of discharge to an inpatient facility increased by 89.7% (period I to period III).

Conclusion

Over the past decade, TKA was increasingly performed in younger patients, which suggests a broadening of indications for this procedure. Although utilization of TKA increased among minorities, the vast majority of TKAs were performed in white patients. Further efforts to narrow this disparity are required. The shift toward TKAs being increasingly performed at high‐volume centers may improve surgical outcomes. Finally, the effect of increased discharge to inpatient facilities on TKA outcomes needs to be ascertained.
Increased platelet deposition on extracellular matrix under flow conditions in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome who experience thrombotic events
Authors: Levy Yair , Shenkman Boris , Tamarin Ilia , Pauzner Rachel , Shoenfeld Yehuda , Langevitz Pnina , Savion Naphtali , Varon David
Published: December 2005

Objective

To assess platelet function under defined flow conditions in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and to correlate the results with thrombotic complications and the presence of subsets of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL), lupus anticoagulant (LAC), and/or anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL).

Methods

We studied 88 randomized APS patients with or without a history of thrombosis. Seventeen patients with other thrombosis (no APS) and 26 healthy subjects served as controls. Platelet adhesion and aggregation on the extracellular matrix were measured with a cone‐and‐plate(let) analyzer (CPA) by examining the percentage of total area covered with platelets (surface coverage [SC]) and the mean size of surface‐bound objects (average size [AS]) and were compared with platelet responses to different ADP concentrations by conventional aggregometry.

Results

Under defined flow conditions, SC and AS were significantly higher for venous thrombosis and arterial thrombosis in APS patients compared with no thrombosis, other thrombosis, and healthy control groups. The increased platelet adhesion and aggregation in APS patients with thrombotic events was associated with higher levels of von Willebrand factor (vWF) antigen (mean ± SD 230.6 ± 51.2%) and ristocetin cofactor activity (181.0 ± 36.0%). No change in CPA and vWF parameters was found in APS patients with positive results for aPL who did not undergo thrombotic events or in patients with other thrombosis. The CPA parameters were neither associated with the high response of platelets to ADP nor associated with the presence of LAC, aCL, or both. The CPA parameters were similarly increased irrespective of aspirin use. The results suggest that the increased adhesion properties of platelets in APS patients could be mediated by high levels and activity of vWF. This complements the known ability of APS antibodies to enhance platelet response to agonists in conventional aggregometry.

Conclusion

The CPA test was found to be valuable in differentiating APS patients with and without thrombotic complications.
Chemokine receptor expression in rat adjuvant‐induced arthritis
Authors: Haas Christian S. , Martinez Rita J. , Attia Naweah , Haines G. Kenneth , Campbell Phillip L. , Koch Alisa E.
Published: December 2005

Objective

Chemokine receptors mediate leukocyte migration into inflamed rheumatoid arthritis (RA) synovial tissue (ST). Knowledge of their distribution is crucial for understanding the evolution of the inflammatory process. In this study, we used rat adjuvant‐induced arthritis (AIA), a model for RA, to define the temporospatial expression of chemokine receptors.

Methods

ST from rats with AIA was immunostained, the percentage of cells expressing each receptor was determined, and findings were correlated with levels of inflammation. Chemokine receptor expression was evaluated on rat macrophages in vitro.

Results

CCR1, a receptor for macrophage inflammatory protein 1α (MIP‐1α)/CCL3 and RANTES/CCL5, exhibited high constitutive expression on macrophages in AIA. CCR5, binding MIP‐1α/CCL3 and RANTES/CCL5, was up‐regulated on ST macrophages during the course of AIA, correlating with macrophage expression of CCR2, a receptor for monocyte chemoattractant protein 1/CCL2. Endothelial cell (EC) CCR2 was down‐regulated as arthritis progressed, inversely correlating with inflammation. CCR3, another RANTES/CCL5 receptor, was constitutively high on macrophages in vivo and in vitro, with down‐regulation during AIA. CXCR4, a receptor for stromal cell–derived factor 1/CXCL12), was prominently up‐regulated on ECs, preceding the peak of inflammation.

Conclusion

These findings show that 1) constitutive expression of CCR1 on macrophages remains high during AIA; 2) CCR2 and CCR3 may play a role in initial recruitment of leukocytes to ST in AIA; 3) macrophage expression of CCR2 and CCR5 may be important for sustaining inflammatory changes; and 4) EC CXCR4 may be a harbinger of inflammatory changes. Our results may help guide chemokine receptor blockade–targeting treatment strategies in inflammatory arthritis.
Stromal cells and osteoclasts are responsible for exacerbated collagen‐induced arthritis in interferon‐β–deficient mice
Authors: Treschow Alexandra P. , Teige Ingrid , Nandakumar Kutty S. , Holmdahl Rikard , Issazadeh‐Navikas Shohreh
Published: December 2005

Objective

Clinical trials using interferon‐β (IFNβ) in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis have shown conflicting results. We undertook this study to understand the mechanisms of IFNβ in arthritis at a physiologic level.

Methods

Collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) was induced in IFNβ‐deficient and control mice. The role of IFNβ was investigated in both the priming and effector phases of the disease. The effect of IFNβ deficiency on synovial cells, macrophages, and fibroblasts from preimmunized mice was analyzed by flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Differences in osteoclast maturation were determined in situ by histology of arthritic and naive paws and by in vitro maturation studies of naive bone marrow cells. The importance of IFNβ‐producing fibroblasts was determined by transfering fibroblasts into mice at the time of CIA immunization.

Results

Mice lacking IFNβ had a prolonged disease with a higher incidence compared with control mice. IFNβ deficiency was found to influence the effector phase, but not the priming phase, of arthritis. Compared with control mice, IFNβ‐deficient mice had greater infiltration of CD11b+ cells and greater production of tumor necrosis factor α in vivo, and their macrophages and fibroblasts were both more activated in vitro. Moreover, IFNβ‐deficient mice generated a greater number of osteoclasts in vitro, and mice immunized to induce arthritis, but not naive mice, had a greater number of osteoclasts in vivo compared with control mice. Importantly, IFNβ‐competent fibroblasts were able to ameliorate arthritis in IFNβ‐deficient recipients.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that IFNβ is involved in regulating the activation state of osteoclasts and stromal cells, including macrophages and fibroblasts, but that it has little effect on T cells.
Alteration of the sialylation pattern of the murine tooth germ after ethanol exposure
Authors: Jiménez‐Farfán Dolores , Guevara Jorge , Zenteno Edgar , Hernández‐Guerrero Juan Carlos
Published: December 2005

BACKGROUND

Ethanol consumption during pregnancy leads to changes in murine dental morphogenesis, dental size, cellular differentiation, enamel mineralization, and delayed eruption. It has been proposed that glycoproteins play a role during embryonic dental development that may determine the dental morphological pattern and extracellular matrix secretion. O‐glycosylation and sialylation appear to actively participate in the differentiation and maturation processes. Because glycosylation may be affected by teratogens that can alter the maturation of several organisms, in this work we describe the main modifications of the sialylation pattern in prenatal day (PD) 18.5 murine tooth germs exposed to ethanol.

METHODS

Pregnant female mice were divided into groups that were given 15% or 20% ethanol solutions, or water as a control. The histochemistry of tooth germs from PD 18.5 fetuses was revealed with lectins specific for sialic acid (Neu5Ac), such as Sambucus nigra (SNA), Maackia amurensis (MAA), and Machrobrachium rosenbergii (MRL), and for sialylated‐O‐glycosidically linked glycans, such as Amaranthus leucocarpus (ALL).

RESULTS

The basement membrane, preameloblasts, inner‐enamel epithelium, preodontoblasts, and subodontoblastic cells of the test groups showed changes in labeling according to the 4 lectins used. Intranuclear staining was observed with SNA (specific for Neu5Acα2,6Gal/GalNAc) in the control group, but this was reduced in the test groups. The nuclei of dental papillary cells under the experimental conditions were stained with MAA (Neu5Acα2,3Gal).

CONCLUSIONS

Dental development involves different types of sialylated O‐glycosidically linked glycans that are likely to regulate cell‐to‐cell and cell‐to‐matrix interactions. Our results suggest that ethanol consumption during pregnancy alters the sialylation pattern during murine dental morphogenesis. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Coronary artery embryogenesis in cardiac defects induced by retinoic acid in mice
Authors: Ratajska Anna , Złotorowicz Renata , Błażejczyk Magdalena , Wasiutyñski Aleksander
Published: December 2005

BACKGROUND

Although normal coronary artery embryogenesis is well described in the literature, little is known about the development of coronary vessels in abnormal hearts.

METHODS

We used an animal model of retinoic acid (RA)–evoked outflow tract malformations (e.g., double outlet right ventricle [DORV], transposition of the great arteries [TGA], and common truncus arteriosus [CTA]) to study the embryogenesis of coronary arteries using endothelial cell markers (anti‐PECAM‐1 antibodies and Griffonia simplicifolia I (GSI) lectin). These markers were applied to serial sections of staged mouse hearts to demonstrate the location of coronary artery primordia.

RESULTS

In malformations with a dextropositioned aorta, the shape of the peritruncal plexus, from which the coronary arteries develop, differed from that of control hearts. This difference in the shape of the early capillary plexus in the control and RA‐treated hearts depends on the position of the aorta relative to the pulmonary trunk. In both normal and RA‐treated hearts, there are several capillary penetrations to each aortic sinus facing the pulmonary trunk, but eventually only 1 coronary artery establishes patency with 1 aortic sinus.

CONCLUSIONS

The abnormal location of the vessel primordia induces defective courses of coronary arteries; creates fistulas, a single coronary artery, and dilated vessel lumens; and leaves certain areas of the heart devoid of coronary artery branches. RA‐evoked heart malformations may be a useful model for elucidating abnormal patterns of coronary artery development and may shed some light on the angiogenesis of coronary artery formation. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Kinetics of the Solvolyses of Benzhydryl Derivatives: Basis for the Construction of a Comprehensive Nucleofugality Scale
Authors: Denegri Bernard , Streiter André , Jurić Sandra , Ofial Armin R. , Kronja Olga , Mayr Herbert
Published: December 2005

A series of 21 benzhydrylium ions (diarylmethylium ions) are proposed as reference electrofuges for the development of a general nucleofugality scale, where nucleofugality refers to a combination of leaving group and solvent. A total of 167 solvolysis rate constants of benzhydrylium tosylates, bromides, chlorides, trifluoroacetates, 3,5‐dinitrobenzoates, and 4‐nitrobenzoates, two‐thirds of which have been determined during this work, were subjected to a least‐squares fit according to the correlation equation log k25 °C = sf(Nf + Ef), where sf and Nf are nucleofuge‐specific parameters and Ef is an electrofuge‐specific parameter. Although nucleofuges and electrofuges characterized in this way cover more than 12 orders of magnitude, a single set of the parameters, namely sf, Nf, and Ef, is sufficient to calculate the solvolysis rate constants at 25 °C with an accuracy of ±16 %. Because sf≈1 for all nucleofuges, that is, leaving group/solvent combinations, studied so far, qualitative discussions of nucleofugality can be based on Nf.
Ground‐State Equilibrium Thermodynamics and Switching Kinetics of Bistable [2]Rotaxanes Switched in Solution, Polymer Gels, and Molecular Electronic Devices
Authors: Choi Jang Wook , Flood Amar H. , Steuerman David W. , Nygaard Sune , Braunschweig Adam B. , Moonen Nicolle N. P. , Laursen Bo W. , Luo Yi , DeIonno Erica , Peters Andrea J. , Jeppesen Jan O. , Xu Ke , Stoddart J. Fraser , Heath James R.
Published: December 2005

We report on the kinetics and ground‐state thermodynamics associated with electrochemically driven molecular mechanical switching of three bistable [2]rotaxanes in acetonitrile solution, polymer electrolyte gels, and molecular‐switch tunnel junctions (MSTJs). For all rotaxanes a π‐electron‐deficient cyclobis(paraquat‐p‐phenylene) (CBPQT4+) ring component encircles one of two recognition sites within a dumbbell component. Two rotaxanes (RATTF4+ and RTTF4+) contain tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) and 1,5‐dioxynaphthalene (DNP) recognition units, but different hydrophilic stoppers. For these rotaxanes, the CBPQT4+ ring encircles predominantly (>90 %) the TTF unit at equilibrium, and this equilibrium is relatively temperature independent. In the third rotaxane (RBPTTF4+), the TTF unit is replaced by a π‐extended analogue (a bispyrrolotetrathiafulvalene (BPTTF) unit), and the CBPQT4+ ring encircles almost equally both recognition sites at equilibrium. This equilibrium exhibits strong temperature dependence. These thermodynamic differences were rationalized by reference to binding constants obtained by isothermal titration calorimetry for the complexation of model guests by the CBPQT4+ host in acetonitrile. For all bistable rotaxanes, oxidation of the TTF (BPTTF) unit is accompanied by movement of the CBPQT4+ ring to the DNP site. Reduction back to TTF0 (BPTTF0) is followed by relaxation to the equilibrium distribution of translational isomers. The relaxation kinetics are strongly environmentally dependent, yet consistent with a single electromechanical‐switching mechanism in acetonitrile, polymer electrolyte gels, and MSTJs. The ground‐state equilibrium properties of all three bistable [2]rotaxanes were reflective of molecular structure in all environments. These results provide direct evidence for the control by molecular structure of the electronic properties exhibited by the MSTJs.
Control of Metal‐Ion Composition in the Synthesis of Ternary II‐II′‐VI Nanoparticles by Using a Mixed‐Metal Cluster Precursor Approach
Authors: DeGroot Marty W. , Rösner Harald , Corrigan John F.
Published: November 2005

The ternary molecular nanoclusters [ZnxCd10−xSe4(SePh)12(PnPr3)4] (x=1.8, 1 a; x=2.6, 1 b) were employed as single‐source precursors for the synthesis of high‐quality hexagonal ZnxCd1−xSe nanocrystals. The tellurium clusters [ZnxCd10−xTe4(TePh)12(PnPr3)4] (x=1.8, 2 a; x=2.6, 2 b) are equally convenient precursors for the synthesis cubic ZnxCd1−xE nanoparticles. The thermolysis of the cluster molecules in hexadecylamine provides an efficient system in which the inherent metal‐ion stoichiometry of the clusters is retained in the nanocrystalline products, whilst also affording control of particle size within the 2–5 nm range. In all cases, the nanoparticles are monodisperse, and luminescence spectra exhibit emission energies close to the absorption edge. Analysis of the optical spectra and X‐ray diffraction patterns of these materials indicates a metal‐ion concentration gradient within the structures of the nanocrystals, with ZnII ions predominantly located near the surface of the particles.
Crystal Structure, Electrical Transport Properties and Electronic Structure of the VFe1‐xCuxSb Solid Solution.
Authors: Stadnyk Yu. , Horyn A. , Sechovsky V. , Romaka L. , Mudryk Ya. , Tobola J. , Stopa T. , Kaprzyk S. , Kolomiets A.
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Investigation of the Al—Cr γ‐Range.
Authors: Grushko B. , Kowalska‐Strzeciwilk E. , Przepiorzynski B. , Surowiec M.
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Rhodium‐Catalyzed Synthesis of α‐Amido‐ and α‐Carboxylic‐β‐Ketoesters.
Authors: Bertelsen Soeren , Nielsen Martin , Bachmann Stephan , Joergensen Karl Anker
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Chemotherapy of Leishmaniasis. Part 2. Synthesis and Bioevaluation of Substituted Arylketene Dithioacetals as Antileishmanial Agents.
Authors: Pandey Susmita , Suryawanshi S. N. , Gupta Suman , Srivastava V. M. L.
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Formation of Linear Tetramers of Diarylalkynes by the Zr/Cr System.
Authors: Takahashi Tamotsu , Liu Yuanhong , Iesato Atsushi , Chaki Shinji , Nakajima Kiyohiko , Kanno Ken‐ichiro
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Efficient and Stereoselective Synthesis of Precursors for Epoxypolyene Cyclizations via Allylic Substitutions.
Authors: Gansaeuer Andreas , Justicia Jose , Rosales Antonio , Rinker Bjoern
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Efficient Cyclization of 2‐Phenoxyalkanals to 2‐Alkylbenzo[b]furans.
Authors: Witczak M. , Kwiecien H.
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis of Functionalized Flavones and Chromones.
Authors: Kabalka George W. , Mereddy Arjun R.
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Synthesis and Cytotoxic Evaluation of Certain 4‐Anilino‐2‐phenylquinoline Derivatives.
Authors: Zhao Yue‐Ling , Chen Yeh‐Long , Chang Feng‐Shuo , Tzeng Cherng‐Chyi
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Biooxidation of (+)‐Catechin and (‐)‐Epicatechin into 3,4‐Dihydroflavan Derivatives by the Endophytic Fungus Diaporthe sp. Isolated from a Tea Plant.
Authors: Shibuya Hirotaka , Agusta Andria , Ohashi Kazuyoshi , Maehara Shoji , Simanjuntak Partomuan
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
New Polyoxygenated Cyclohexenes from Uvaria kweichowensis and Their Antitumor Activities.
Authors: Xu Qiong‐Ming , Zou Zhong‐Mei , Xu Li‐Zhen , Yang Shi‐Lin
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
High‐Quality Ultralong Bi2S3 Nanowires: Structure, Growth, and Properties.
Authors: Yu Y. , Jin C. H. , Wang R. H. , Chen Q. , Peng L.‐M.
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
V‐Shaped Molecules: New Contenders for the Biaxial Nematic Phase
Authors: Luckhurst Geoffrey R.
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Arylation Reactions: The Photo‐SN1 Path via Phenyl Cation as an Alternative to Metal Catalysis
Authors: Fagnoni Maurizio , Albini Angelo
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
New Directions in the Coordination Chemistry of 99mTc: A Reflection on Technetium Core Structures and a Strategy for New Chelate Design
Authors: Banerjee Sangeeta Ray , Maresca Kevin P. , Francesconi Lynn , Valliant John , Babich John W. , Zubieta Jon
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Multiphase Processes as the Future of Homogeneous Catalysis
Authors: Cornils Boy , Herrmann Wolfgang A.
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Recognition of Proline‐Rich Motifs by Protein—Protein‐Interaction Domains
Authors: Ball Linda J. , Kuehne Ronald , Schneider‐Mergener Jens , Oschkinat Hartmut
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Long‐term hormone therapy and radiation is cost‐effective for patients with locally advanced prostate carcinoma
Authors: Konski Andre , Watkins‐Bruner Deborah , Brereton Harmar , Feigenberg Steven , Hanks Gerald
Published: December 2005

BACKGROUND

In Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) trial 92‐02, after men received neoadjuvant hormone cytoreduction and radiotherapy for locally advanced prostate carcinoma, they were randomized to receive either 2 years of long‐term androgen‐deprivation (LTAD) or no further treatment (short‐term androgen‐deprivation [STAD]). The specific objective of the current study was to determine whether LTAD was a cost‐effective treatment for patients with locally advanced prostate carcinoma.

METHODS

The cost‐effectiveness of LTAD was tested using a Markov model that was designed using proprietary software. The analysis took a payor's perspective. Unit costs were obtained by estimation using a global Medicare fee schedule. Costs and outcomes were discounted by 3%. Distributions were sampled at random from the treatment utilities, transition probabilities, and costs using a second‐order Monte Carlo simulation technique.

RESULTS

The expected mean cost was $32,564 for LTAD compared with $33,039 for STAD after accounting for the additional cost of salvage treatment for men who were treated with STAD. The mean number of quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) for men who received LTAD was 4.13 QALYs compared with a mean of 3.68 QALYs for men who received STAD. The cost‐effectiveness acceptability curve analysis showed a 91% probability that LTAD was cost‐effective compared with STAD. Although overall survival was similar in the LTAD and STAD groups, the patients who received LTAD experienced gains in QALYs and had lower costs, because LTAD prevented biochemical failure and the necessitating salvage hormone therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

The current analysis showed that LTAD was cost‐effective for the entire population studied in RTOG trial 92‐02. Cancer 2006. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Preservation of segmental hindbrain organization in adult frogs
Authors: Straka Hans , Baker Robert , Gilland Edwin
Published: November 2005

To test for possible retention of early segmental patterning throughout development, the cranial nerve efferent nuclei in adult ranid frogs were quantitatively mapped and compared with the segmental organization of these nuclei in larvae. Cranial nerve roots IV–X were labeled in larvae with fluorescent dextran amines. Each cranial nerve efferent nucleus resided in a characteristic segmental position within the clearly visible larval hindbrain rhombomeres (r). Trochlear motoneurons were located in r0, trigeminal motoneurons in r2–r3, facial branchiomotor and vestibuloacoustic efferent neurons in r4, abducens and facial parasympathetic neurons in r5, glossopharyngeal motoneurons in r6, and vagal efferent neurons in r7–r8 and rostral spinal cord. In adult frogs, biocytin labeling of cranial nerve roots IV–XII and spinal ventral root 2 in various combinations on both sides of the brain revealed precisely the same rostrocaudal sequence of efferent nuclei relative to each other as observed in larvae. This indicates that no longitudinal migratory rearrangement of hindbrain efferent neurons occurs. Although rhombomeres are not visible in adults, a segmental map of adult cranial nerve efferent nuclei can be inferred from the strict retention of the larval hindbrain pattern. Precise measurements of the borders of adjacent efferent nuclei within a coordinate system based on external landmarks were used to create a quantitative adult segmental map that mirrors the organization of the larval rhombomeric framework. Plotting morphologically and physiologically identified hindbrain neurons onto this map allows the physiological properties of adult hindbrain neurons to be linked with the underlying genetically specified segmental framework. J. Comp. Neurol. 494:228–245, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mathematical analysis of vortex sheets
Authors: Wu Sijue
Published: December 2005

We consider the motion of the interface separating two domains of the same fluid that moves with different velocities along the tangential direction of the interface. The evolution of the interface (the vortex sheet) is governed by the Birkhoff‐Rott (BR) equations. We consider the question of the weakest possible assumptions such that the Birkhoff‐Rott equation makes sense. This leads us to introduce chord‐arc curves to this problem. We present three results. The first can be stated as the following: Assume that the Birkhoff‐Rott equation has a solution in a weak sense and that the vortex strength is bounded away from 0 and ∞. Moreover, assume that the solution gives rise to a vortex sheet curve that is chord‐arc. Then the curve is automatically smooth, in fact analytic, for fixed time. The second and third results demonstrate that the Birkhoff‐Rott equation can be solved if and only if only half the initial data is given. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neodymium(II) and Dysprosium(II) Iodides in the Reactions with Metallocenes of d‐Transition Metals
Authors: Burin Mikhail E. , Smirnova Marina V. , Fukin Georgy K. , Baranov Eugeny V. , Bochkarev Mikhail N.
Published: December 2005

Heating NdI2 (1) or DyI2 (2) with vanadocene (3) in benzene at 85 °C led to the formation of bis(benzene)vanadium in 10 and 24 % yields, respectively. The lanthanide products were isolated in the form of CpLnI2(THF)3 after crystallization from THF. The interaction of 2 with 3 in isopropylbenzene at 90 °C yielded a mixture of (arene)2V complexes from which a small amount of bis(isopropylbenzene)vanadium was isolated. The same reaction did not occur in mesitylene. From the reaction of 2 with 3 in molten naphthalene at 100 °C, the heterobimetallic cluster {[CpDy(μ‐I)2]7Cp2V(μ‐I)}(4) was isolated in low yield. The reaction of Cp2Cr with 1 or 2 in benzene at ambient temperature afforded the dimer [CpCr(μ‐I)]2 (5) and a dysprosium complex, Cp2DyI (6) (in the reaction with 2). When the reaction with 2 was carried out at 80 °C, along with compound 6, the ‐ate complex {[Cp2DyI2]–[Cp2Cr]+}(7) was crystallized from the reaction solution. Nickelocene was reduced by 2 in benzene at 80 °C to nickel metal. The dysprosium product was isolated as solvent‐free complex 6. Ferrocene and cobaltocene did not react with 1 and 2 in benzene. The molecular structures of compounds 4, 5, and 7 were characterized by X‐ray diffraction analysis.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
Synthesis and Structure of Two Ionic Copper Indium Selenolate Cluster Complexes [As(C6H5)4]2[Cu6In4(SeC6H5)16Cl4] and [As(C6H5)4][Cu7In4(SeC6H5)20]
Authors: Ahlrichs Reinhart , Crawford Nathan R. M. , Eichhöfer Andreas , Fenske Dieter , Hampe Oliver , Kappes Manfred M. , Olkowska‐Oetzel Jolanta
Published: December 2005

The reaction of PhSeSiMe3, CuCl, InCl3, and Ph4AsCl in CH2Cl2 results in crystals of the structurally closely related, ionic clusters (AsPh4)2[Cu6In4Cl4(SePh)16] and (AsPh4)[Cu7In4(SePh)20], with product ratios dependent on the initial PhSeSiMe3 concentration. Both molecules display a fused four‐adamantoid structure related to the solid‐state structure of CuInSe2. Since the crystallographic analysis for [Cu7In4(SePh)20]– remained ambiguous with respect to the assignment of one of the copper atoms, we performed a high‐resolution mass spectrometric analysis as well as DFT computations to address this problem. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
The illusion of group productivity: a reduction of failures explanation
Authors: Nijstad Bernard A. , Stroebe Wolfgang , Lodewijkx Hein F. M.
Published: December 2005

It has consistently been found that people produce more ideas when working alone as compared to when working in a group. Yet, people generally believe that group brainstorming is more effective than individual brainstorming. Further, group members are more satisfied with their performance than individuals, whereas they have generated fewer ideas. We argue that this ‘illusion of group productivity’ is partly due to a reduction of cognitive failures (instances in which someone is unable to generate ideas) in a group setting. Three studies support that explanation, showing that: (1) group interaction leads to a reduction of experienced failures and that failures mediate the effect of setting on satisfaction; and (2) manipulations that affect failures also affect satisfaction ratings. Implications for group work are discussed. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Monte Carlo simulations of biomolecules: The MC module in CHARMM
Authors: Hu Jie , Ma Ao , Dinner Aaron R.
Published: December 2005

We describe the implementation of a general and flexible Monte Carlo (MC) module for the program CHARMM, which is used widely for modeling biomolecular systems with empirical energy functions. Construction and use of an almost arbitrary move set with only a few commands is made possible by providing several predefined types of moves that can be combined. Sampling can be enhanced by noncanonical acceptance criteria, automatic optimization of step sizes, and energy minimization. A systematic procedure for improving MC move sets is introduced and applied to simulations of two peptides. The resulting move sets allow MC to sample the configuration spaces of these systems much more rapidly than Langevin dynamics. The rate of convergence of the difference in free energy between ethane and methanol in explicit solvent is also examined, and comparable performances are observed for MC and the Nosé–Hoover algorithm. Its ease of use combined with its sampling efficiency make the MC module in CHARMM an attractive alternative for exploring the behavior of biomolecular systems. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 27: 203–216, 2006
The corneal epithelial surface in the eyes of vertebrates: Environmental and evolutionary influences on structure and function
Authors: Collin Shaun P. , Collin H. Barry
Published: December 2005

The smooth optical surface of the cornea is maintained by a tear film, which adheres to a variety of microprojections. These microprojections increase the cell surface area and are thought to improve the movement of oxygen, nutrients, and metabolic products across the outer cell membranes. However, little is known of these structural adaptations in vertebrates inhabiting different environments. This field emission scanning electron microscopic study examined the cell density and surface structure of corneal epithelial cells across 51 representative species of all vertebrate classes from a large range of habitats (aquatic, amphibious, terrestrial, and aerial). In particular, we wished to extend the range of vertebrates to include agnathans and some uniquely Australian species, such as the Australian lungfish (Neoceratodus forsteri), the Australian galah (Eolophus roseicapillus), the Australian koala (Phascolarctos cinereus), and the rat‐tailed dunnart (Sminthopsis crassicaudata). Epithelial cell densities ranged from 28,860 ± 9,214 cells mm−2 in the flathead sole Hippoglossoides elassodon (a marine teleost) to 2,126 ± 713 cells mm−2 in the Australian koala (a terrestrial mammal), which may indicate a reduction in osmotic stress across the corneal surface. A similar reduction in cell density occurred from marine to estuarine to freshwater species. The structure and occurrence of microholes, microplicae, microridges, and microvilli are also described with respect to the demands placed on the cornea in different environments. All species that spend significant periods out of an aquatic environment possess microvilli and/or microplicae. These include all of our species of Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Amphibia, and even one species of Teleostei (Australian lungfish). Well‐developed microridges occur only in teleosts in high osmolarity environments such as marine or estuarine habitats. Clear interspecific differences in corneal surface structure suggest a degree of adaptive plasticity, in addition to some phylogenetic trends. J. Morphol. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In vivometabolite detection and identification in drug discovery via LC‐MS/MS with data‐dependent scanning and postacquisition data mining
Authors: Triolo Antonio , Altamura Maria , Dimoulas Tula , Guidi Antonio , Lecci Alessandro , Tramontana Manuela
Published: November 2005

An important aspect in drug discovery is the early structural identification of the metabolites of potential new drugs. This gives information on the metabolically labile points in the molecules under investigation, suggesting structural modifications to improve their metabolic stability, and allowing an early safety assessment via the identification of metabolic activation products. From an analytical point of view, metabolite identification still remains a challenging task, especially forin vivosamples, in which they occur at trace levels together with high amounts of endogenous compounds. Here we describe a method, based on LC‐ion trap tandem MS, for the rapidin vivometabolite identification. It is based on the automatic, data‐dependent acquisition of multiple product ion MS/MS scans, followed by a postacquisition search, within the entire MS/MS data set obtained, for specific neutral losses or marker ions in the tandem mass spectra of parent molecule and putative metabolites. One advantage of the method is speed, since it requires minimum sample preparation and all the necessary data can be obtained in one chromatographic run. In addition, it is highly sensitive and selective, allowing detection of trace metabolites even in the presence of a complex matrix. As an example of application, we present the studies of thein vivometabolism of the compound MEN 15916 (1). The method allowed identification of monohydroxy ([M + H]+=m/z655), dihydroxy ([M + H]+=m/z671), and trihydroxy ([M + H]+=m/z687) metabolites, as well as some unexpected biotransformation products such as a carboxylic acid ([M + H]+=m/z669), aN‐dealkylated metabolite ([M + H]+=m/z541), and its hydroxy‐analog ([M + H]+=m/z557). Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Vergleichende Betrachtung von Verfahren zur Auswertung von Nährstoffsteigerungsversuchen am Beispiel Phosphor
Authors: Munk Harald , Heyn Johannes , Rex Martin
Published: December 2005

Das Wachstum landwirtschaftlicher Kulturen als Funktion des Einsatzes von Wachstumsfaktoren folgt grundsätzlich der „Regel vom abnehmenden Ertragszuwachs”︁, die unter anderem von Mitscherlich (1928) und von Boguslawski und Schneider (1962, 1963, 1964) mathematisch formuliert wurde. Auf Basis dieser zwei Wachstumsfunktionen wurden EDV‐Programme zur Auswertung von Feldversuchen und zur Ableitung des wirtschaftlich optimalen Düngerbedarfs entwickelt und mit deren Hilfe die Düngungsoptima aus 43 mehrjährig durchgeführten Phosphat(P)‐Steigerungsversuchen abgeleitet und miteinander verglichen. Drei Versuche mit linearer oder überproportionaler Abhängigkeit des Ertragszuwachses von der P‐Düngung ließen sich mit beiden Methoden nicht sinnvoll verrechnen. Das Gleiche galt für vier Versuche, bei denen der Höchstertrag bereits in der ersten Düngungsstufe eintrat. In 36 Versuchen, deren Ergebnisse der „Regel vom abnehmenden Ertragszuwachs”︁ entsprachen, ergab sich eine sehr enge Übereinstimmung beider Verfahren hinsichtlich der errechneten Rentabilitätsoptima (R2 = 0,946). Die Korrelationskoeffizienten zwischen dem P‐Saldo im Rentabilitätsoptimum und dem CAL‐P‐Gehalt im Boden zu Beginn des Versuchs lagen bei R2 = 0,70 (Mitscherlich, 1928) und R2 = 0,65 (von Boguslawski und Schneider, 1962, 1963, 1964). Der daraus abgeleitete Bereich für den optimalen P‐Vorrat im Boden (P‐Düngungsoptimum entspricht P‐Abfuhr) lag bei 8–10 mg CAL‐P (100 g Boden)–1. Beide Verfahren sind zur Ableitung des P‐Düngungsoptimums geeignet, wenn der Ertragsverlauf im Sinne der „Regel vom abnehmenden Ertragszuwachs”︁ erfolgt und wenn die Nährstoffsteigerungsreihe so angelegt ist, dass innerhalb dieser Reihe abnehmende Mehrerträge zu erwarten sind.
Cadmium‐induced oxidative stress and protection by L‐Galactono‐1, 4‐lactone in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Zhao Zhongqiu , Cai Yunlong , Zhu Yongguan , Kneer Ralf
Published: December 2005

Two hydroponic culture experiments were conducted to investigate cadmium (Cd)‐induced oxidative stress in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) seedlings and the effects of L‐Galactono‐1, 4‐lactone (GalL), the biosynthetic precursor of the antioxidant ascorbate (AsA), on the oxidative stress induced by Cd. In experiment 1, with application of Cd (0, 10, 25, 50 µM) in nutrient solution, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels as well as membrane permeability in both shoots and roots were significantly increased, indicating Cd‐induced oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation as well as plasma‐membrane damage in the plants. In experiment 2, H2O2 levels in plants exposed to Cd were significantly reduced by the addition of GalL (25 mM), associated with increased activities of peroxidase (POD), indicating that GalL alleviated the oxidative stress induced by Cd. Unexpectedly, however, the MDA levels were not reduced by the addition of GalL. Does Cd also induce lipid peroxidation directly besides via formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS)? This needs further study.
A quick and efficient screen for resistance to iron toxicity in lowland rice
Authors: Asch Folkard , Becker Mathias , Kpongor Dilys S.
Published: December 2005

Iron (Fe) toxicity is a major stress to rice in many lowland environments worldwide. Due to excessive uptake of Fe2+ by the roots and its acropetal translocation into the leaves, toxic oxygen radicals may form and damage cell structural components, thus impairing physiological processes. The typical visual symptom is the “bronzing” of the rice leaves, leading to substantial yield losses, particularly when toxicity occurs during early vegetative growth stages. The problem is best addressed through genotype improvement, i.e., tolerant cultivars. However, the time of occurrence and the severity of symptoms and yield responses vary widely among soil types, years, seasons, and genotypes. Cultivars resistant in one system may fail when transferred to another. Better targeting of varietal improvement requires selection tools improving our understanding of the resistance mechanisms and strategies of rice in the presence of excess iron. A phytotron study was conducted to develop a screen for seedling resistance to Fe toxicity based on individual plants subjected to varying levels of Fe (0–3000 mg L–1 Fe supplied as Fe(II)SO4), stress duration (1–5 d of exposure), vapor‐pressure deficit (VPD; 1.1 and 1.8 kPa), and seedling age (14 and 28 d). Genotypes were evaluated based on leaf‐bronzing score and tissue Fe concentrations. A clear segregation of the genotypic tolerance spectrum was obtained when scoring 28 d old seedlings after 3 d of exposure to 2000 mg L–1 Fe in a high‐VPD environment. In most cases, leaf‐bronzing scores were highly correlated with tissue Fe concentration (visual differentiation in includer and excluder types). The combination of these two parameters also identified genotypes tolerating high levels of Fe in the tissue while showing only few leaf symptoms (tolerant includers). The screen allows selecting genotypes with low leaf‐bronzing score as resistant to Fe toxicity, and additional analyses of the tissue Fe concentration of those can identify the general adaptation strategy to be utilized in breeding programs.
Chernozem—Soil of the Year 2005
Authors: Altermann Manfred , Rinklebe Jörg , Merbach Ines , Körschens Martin , Langer Uwe , Hofmann Bodo
Published: December 2005

The proclamation of the “Soil of the Year” was made for the first time in Germany in 2005 on occasion of the World Soil Day. Chernozems were selected for this purpose. In this paper an overview of these groups of soils is given. Chernozems are concentrated in the drought region of Central Germany. A standard profile from the core area of Chernozems developed from loess is presented with comprehensive laboratory analysis. Chernozems developed primarily upon carbonatic loess substrates under summer‐dry climatic conditions in an open park‐like landscape with isolated forest stands. The development of Chernozems began as early as the late glacial period, and they were fully developed by the Atlantikum age. The far‐reaching, uniformly thick humus horizons indicate substrate differences in the loess cover, which are partly the result of bioturbation. Within Germany, Chernozems and Chernozem‐like soils make up approx. 3% of the surface area and 5% (approx. 11,000 km2) of the arable land. The results of the Static Fertilization Experiment in Bad Lauchstädt, founded in 1902, clarify the high value of Chernozem for biomass production and the environment. Each loss due to erosion or decrease in surface area reduces the fulfillment of soil ecological functions of the soils and is comparable to a loss of animal and plant species. Therefore, soil scientists and the results of soil research must be more comprehensively implemented for soil preservation, protection, and politics. For acceptance of these goals among the general public and the political‐decision makers, the campaign “Soil of the Year” should give some thought‐provoking impulses.
Accumulation soils like “Ockererde”—forgotten soil units in soil‐classification systems
Authors: Fiedler Sabine , Jahn Reinhold
Published: December 2005

Accumulation soils like those known as “Ockererde” are not yet represented in the German and in international soil‐classification systems, even though they represent important members of catenas found in humid low‐mountain areas influenced by the translocation of interpedon matter. Currently, this soil is referred to as “(Hang‐)Oxigley”, though this does not take into account its water and matter dynamics. Six representative catenas in the Black Forest (SW Germany) will be used to describe the occurrence, extent, and properties of the accumulation‐affected “Ockererde” derived from a variety of parent materials at specific altitudes. On the basis of their morphological, chemical, and physical properties as well as matter dynamics, it is possible to distinguish “Ockererde” clearly from soil units with similar characteristics (“Lockerbraunerde”, Andosols). Finally, suggestions will be given for the classification of “Ockererde”.
k‐t BLAST reconstruction from non‐Cartesian k‐t space sampling
Authors: Hansen Michael S. , Baltes Christof , Tsao Jeffrey , Kozerke Sebastian , Pruessmann Klaas P. , Eggers Holger
Published: December 2005

Current implementations of k‐t Broad‐use Linear Acqusition Speed‐up Technique (BLAST) require the sampling in k‐t space to conform to a lattice. To permit the use of k‐t BLAST with non‐Cartesian sampling, an iterative reconstruction approach is proposed in this work. This method, which is based on the conjugate gradient (CG) method and gridding reconstruction principles, can efficiently handle data that are sampled along non‐Cartesian trajectories in k‐t space. The approach is demonstrated on prospectively gated radial and retrospectively gated Cartesian imaging. Compared to a sliding window (SW) reconstruction, the resulting image series exhibit lower artifact levels and improved temporal fidelity. The proposed approach thus allows investigators to combine the specific advantages of non‐Cartesian imaging or retrospective gating with the acceleration provided by k‐t BLAST. Magn Reson Med, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.