bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous Recording of Uterine and Tubal Motility During Utero‐Tubal Insufflation in Monkeys
Authors: Björkman U. , Hedström C‐G. , Larsson B.
Published: December 2009

One main cause of female infertility is the tubal factor, and interest in the role and function of the Fallopian tube has increased our knowledge about tubal infertility. In this study in monkeys, Cynomolgus (Macaca fascicularis), the tubal and uterine motility was recorded with a Millar microtransducerR. The recordings were made during uterotubal, uterine as well as tubal insufflation with gas. Tubal activity patterns varied with the phase of the menstrual cycle. The kymograms made during gas insufflation did not reflect tubal or uterine activity, as registered by the Millar microtransducer, but rather the resistance to pressure of the intra‐uterine part of the tube. An intra‐uterine pressure up to 200 mmHg, has previously been regarded as being free from risk of uncontrolled escape of gas outside the uterus and the oviducts. This was not confirmed in the present study.
Degradation of Parathyroid Hormone by Placental Homogenate
Authors: Balabanova S. , Mödinger C. , Wolf A. S. , Teller W. M.
Published: December 2009

Degradation of the bovine parathyréid hormone (PTH) fragment (amino acids 35—84) up to 70% was observed during passage through human placenta in an in vitro perfusion model. Fractionation of the subcellular fractions of human placental homogenate revealed the degradation to take place only in the mitochondrial fraction. It is concluded that human placenta, like kidney and liver, has the ability to degrade PTH.
Survival of the Second Twin 37 Days After Abortion of the First
Authors: Mikkelsen Anne Lis , Hansen Peder Kern
Published: December 2009

The interval between the delivery of the first and second twin is usually no more than 30 minutes. We report a case with an interval of 37 days between the delivery of dizygotic twins.
Didelphic Uterus, Atretic Unilateral Vagina Communicating with a Double Vagina, Ipsilateral Renal Hypoplasia and Ectopic Ureter
Authors: Andersen H. H. , Folke K. , Frimodt‐Møller C. , Berget A.
Published: December 2009

A case of didelphic uterus, unilateral atretic vagina with a small communication and a right‐sided hypoplastic kidney is presented and illustrated by ‘fistulography’ and HSG. When a communication between the atretic and the normal vagina is present, the symptoms are often vague, clinically puzzling and can easily be misinterpreted. Because of the close relationship between the development of the urinary and the female genital tract, concomitant malformations are commonly found.
Extra‐Uterine Müllerian Carcinosarcoma
Authors: Campins Magda , Madrenas Joaquin , Biosca Mercedes , Salas Antonio , Tallada Natalia , Garcia‐Bragado Fernando
Published: December 2009

Carcinosarcoma of the Müllerian system is an uncommon tumor. We report here a case of extra‐uterine carcinosarcoma from pelvic wall, presenting 11 years after hysterectomy. Accidental surgical implantation of endometrioid cells is suggested as the pathogenic mechanism in this case.
Effects of the Oral Contraceptive Combination 0.150 mg Desogestrel Plus 0.020 mg Ethinylestradiol on Carbohydrate Metabolism in Healthy Female Volunteers
Authors: Ende A. , Lütjens A. , Wayjen R.G.A. , Kloosterboer H. J.
Published: December 2009

An open study on the effects of the oral contraceptive combination 0.150 mg desogestrel plus 0.020 mg ethinylestradiol on carbohydrate metabolism was carried out in healthy female volunteers. The study covered 6 cycles: a pretreatment cycle was followed by 3 treatment cycles, which in turn were followed by 2 post‐treatment cycles. Each treatment cycle consisted of 21 days of tablet administration, followed by a 7‐day tablet‐free period. This very low estrogen‐dose oral contraceptive combination induced a slightly, but statistically significantly, impaired glucose tolerance and a statistically significantly increased insulin response in an oral glucose loading test. These effects are comparable to those reported for other low‐dose oral contraceptives. Whereas treatment induced a slight but statistically significant increase in fasting plasma C‐peptide levels, it had no effect on fasting plasma glucose and insulin levels or on the amount of glycosylated proteins. The importance of these findings is discussed. It is concluded that further investigations are needed to determine whether the slight alterations in carbohydrate tolerance (the values always remained within normal ranges) are of clinical significance.
Comparative contraceptive efficacy and mechanism of action of the norgestimate‐containing triphasic oral contraceptive
Authors: London Robert S. , Chapdelaine Alcide , Upmalis David , Olson William , Smith Judith
Published: December 2009

Norgestimate (NGM), a derivative of 19‐nortestosterone with very specific affinity for the progesterone receptor, has been used in combination with ethinyl estradiol (EE) at low doses in both monophasic and triphasic oral contraceptives (OCs). An open‐label comparative clinical trial was conducted with 4,234 healthy women using triphasic levonorgestrel (LNG)/EE and NGM/EE through a total of 22,312 menstrual cycles. Contraceptive efficacy was excellent with both preparations, with no statistically significant between‐regimen differences in pregnancy rates. The theoretical Pearl index was 0.12 for the NGM/EE triphasic, and 0.34 for the LNG/EE triphasic. Adverse experiences in both groups were typical of those that may occur among women taking low‐dose OC agents. The percentage of subjects discontinuing treatment because of use‐related adverse experiences was similar with the two preparations: 8.6% for the NGM/EE triphasic and 6.8% for the LNG/EE triphasic. In a separate mechanism of action study, specific endocrine parameters were investigated in 20 subjects using the NGM/EE triphasic for 4 cycles. Ovulation suppression was demonstrated in statistically significant decreases from pre‐treatment values in serum levels of luteinizing hormone, follicle‐stimulating hormone, progesterone, and estradiol. Significant on‐treatment increases in serum levels of sex hormone binding globulin evidenced minimal androgenicity. All hormonal values returned to or toward normal in the post‐treatment cycle. The study results support those obtained in large noncomparative studies of the NGM/EE triphasic. This phased‐dose combination suppresses ovulation and is a very effective, minimally androgenic contraceptive agent with a good safety profile.
Urinary incontinence and related urogenital symptoms in elderly women
Authors: Molander Ulla
Published: December 2009

The aims of this study were to investigate the prevalence of urinary incontinence (UI), urinary tract infections (UTI) and related urogenital symptoms (UGS) in a representative sample of elderly women (Papers I & II), and to investigate factors (Papers II & III) influencing the prevalence of UI in these women. The effects of treatment with oral estriol and placebo on the vaginal bacterial flora, vaginal cytology and urogenital symptoms in elderly women suffering from the urogenital estrogen deficiency syndrome were compared (Paper IV). A health care programme, based on an algorithm model, for the investigation and treatment of elderly women suffering from UI and related UGS, was designed and applied to a large group of elderly women (Paper V).

The prevalence of UI increased in a linear fashion from 12% in the 1940 birth cohort to 25% in the 1900 birth cohort (Papers I & II). There was similar increase in the prevalence of UTI from 14% in the 1920 birth cohort to 23% in the 1900 birth cohort. In contrast, the reported prevalence of UGS such as vaginal discomfort, discharge and pruritus did not increase with age. The prevalence of UI increased with increasing parity and after hysterectomy, but was unaffected by the duration of previous oral contraceptive usage. There was no evidence to suggest that the prevalence of UI increased at the time of the last menstrual period. Neurological illnesses were an uncommon cause of UI in women ≤ 75 years of age (Paper III).

Oral estriol (3 mg/day for 4 weeks followed by 2 mg/day for a further 6 weeks) had a positive influence on vaginal pH, cytology and the vaginal bacteria flora, and on UGS in elderly women suffering from the urogenital estrogen deficiency syndrome (Paper IV). Using objective techniques of evaluation (Paper V) it was possible to demonstrate successful treatment of elderly women with urge and mixed incontinence using a simple health care programme. There was however no evidence of improvement in women suffering from stress incontinence when using the same treatment regime. Women with all types of incontinence, treated according to this algorith model, displayed an improvement in vaginal pH, vaginal cytology and the vaginal bacterial flora.
Water Management in a State-Centered Environment: Water Governance Analysis of Uzbekistan
Authors: Aminova Munira , Abdullayev Iskandar
Published: December 2009

In the early 1990s the countries of Central Asia started their transformation to a market economy. Uzbekistan is in the throes of change and facing a huge restructuring task and a need to improve governance. Decades of central bureaucratic allocation of natural resources left national bureaucrats with little capacity to formulate their own sustainable policies. Lack of inclusive, long term oriented policies and mechanisms in management of common pool resources brought catastrophic results in the past. The study reveals that implanting a top-down quota policy has positive effects on a larger public. However it may become a threat to the long term environmental sustainability.
Screw loosening six weeks after triple pelvic osteotomy
Authors: Daems R. , Janssens L. A. A. , Beosier Y. M.
Published: December 2009

A retrospective study of 62 dogs that underwent unilateral triple pelvic osteotomy with a Slocum triple pelvic osteotomy plate and Synthes 3.5 mm cortical screws. We compared the probability of screw loosening after six weeks in dogs in which pre-tapped screws were used (30 dogs), with dogs in which self-tapping screws were used (32 dogs). Screw loosening was significantly less prevalent with self-tapping screws than pre-tapped screws.
Correction of a severe torsional malunion of the metacarpus in a calf by transverse osteotomy, transfixation pinning and casting
Authors: Mulon P-Y.
Published: December 2009

A four-month-old Holstein heifer was presented for evaluation of an angular limb deviation. Upon initial presentation, the heifer was not clinically lame. An external rotation of 90° of the fetlock was observed in the left forelimb. Radiographs identified a healing closed spiral fracture of the third and fourth metacarpal bones, with a 90° external torsion. A mid-metacarpal bone transverse osteotomy was performed after insertion of transcortical pins in the distal and proximal part of the third and fourth metacarpal bones and in the distal radius. The reduction was performed in order to align both fetlock and carpal joints and a fiberglass cast was applied to complete the external fixation. A satisfactory outcome was associated with the treatment.
Septic polyarthritis caused by Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae in a dog
Authors: Seelig U. , Klopfleisch R. , Weingart C. , Walther B. , Luebke-Becker A. , Brunnberg L.
Published: December 2009

A 14-month-old, male German Shepherd dog was admitted with a six-week history of lameness and swelling of the right hindlimb. Clinical examination revealed polyarthritis, fever, petechiae and ecchymoses of the abdominal skin and prepuce. The haematology and blood chemistry were indicative of sepsis. Mediolateral radiographic views of both of the stifle joints revealed signs of bilateral articular capsule swelling. The radiographical, bacteriological and necropsy findings confirmed a diagnosis of septic polyarthritis due to infection with Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae.
[3.3]Dithia-bridged cyclophanes featuring a thienothiophene ring: synthesis, structures and conformational analysis
Authors: Mashraqui Sabir H , Sanghvikar Yogesh , Ghadhigaonkar Shailesh , Kumar Sukeerthi , Meetsma Auke , Dâu Elise Trân Huu
Published: December 2009

The synthesis of [3.3]dithia-bridged cyclophanes 7, 9 and 11 incorporating a fused heterocycle, thieno[2,3-b]thiophene is described. The structures are established by 1H NMR analysis and, in the case of 11, also by single crystal X-ray crystallography. Conformational analysis by variable temperature NMR suggests that cyclophanes 7, 9 and 11 exhibit conformationally rigid bridges and rings at least up to 130 °C. Energy minimization of 11 revealed anti-11 to be the most stable conformation. Although, the computed energy difference between the most stable conformation anti-11 and the next higher energy conformation syn-anti-11 is only 2.98 kJ/mol, it is intriguing that 11 does not exhibit thia-bridge inversion even at elevated temperatures.
Katalytische enantioselektive Olefinmetathese in der Naturstoffsynthese: chirale Metallkomplexe für hohe Enantioselektivitäten und vieles mehr
Authors: Hoveyda Amir H. , Malcolmson Steven J. , Meek Simon J. , Zhugralin Adil R.
Published: December 2009

Chirale Olefinmetathesekatalysatoren bieten einen Weg für die hoch effiziente Synthese enantiomerenangereicherter Moleküle. Synthesen unter Beteiligung derartiger Komplexe können deutlich kürzer und praktischer sein als entsprechende Umsetzungen von enantiomerenreinen Substraten in Gegenwart von achiralen Molybdänalkylidenen oder Rutheniumcarbenen. Damit geht die Forschung auf dem Gebiet der chiralen Katalysatoren über die Entwicklung chiraler Varianten achiraler Verbindungen hinaus, denn ein chiraler Olefinmetathesekatalysator kann nicht nur Zugang zu Produkten hoher Enantiomerenreinheit bieten, sondern darüber hinaus auch Syntheseeffizienzen, Produktselektivitäten und/oder E/Z‐Stereoselektivitäten bieten, die mit den achiralen Varianten nicht erreichbar sind. Dieses positive Attribut chiraler Katalysatoren (ob nun in racemischer oder enantiomerenangereichter Form eingesetzt) sollte allgemeingültig sein, d. h. auf andere Formen der chemischen Umwandlung übertragen werden können.
A facile route to ruthenium–carbene complexes and their application in furfural hydrogenation
Authors: Strassberger Zea , Mooijman Maurice , Ruijter Eelco , Alberts Albert H. , de Graaff Corien , Orru Romano V. A. , Rothenberg Gadi
Published: December 2009

A number of new N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands were synthesized via a multicomponent reaction, wherein an aldehyde or ketone, a primary amine and an α‐acidic isocyanide were reacted, giving the corresponding 2H‐2‐imidazolines. These were easily alkylated with an alkyl halide at position N‐3, yielding the final NHC precursors, that were then complexed with Ru in situ. The resulting complexes are shown to be active and selective catalysts for the transfer hydrogenation of furfural to furfurol, using isopropanol as the hydrogen source. Importantly, the carbene ligand remains coordinated to the ruthenium center throughout the reaction. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bringing Up Baby: Developmental Simulation of the Adult Cranial Morphology of Rungwecebus Kipunji
Authors: Singleton Michelle , Mcnulty Kieran P. , Frost Stephen R. , Soderberg John , Guthrie Emily H.
Published: December 2009

Rungwecebus kipunji is a recently discovered, critically endangered primate endemic to southern Tanzania. Although phenetically similar to mangabeys, molecular analyses suggest it is more closely related to Papio or possibly descended from an ancient population of baboon‐mangabey hybrids. At present, only a single kipunji specimen, an M1‐stage juvenile male, is available for study; thus, the cranial morphology of the adult kipunji is unknown. In this study, we used developmental simulation to estimate the adult kipunji's 3D cranial morphology. We examined variation in cercopithecine developmental vectors, applied selected vectors to the juvenile cranium, and compared the resulting simulated adults to actual adult male papionins. Differences between papionin developmental vectors were small and statistically insignificant. This uniformity suggests conservation of an ancestral papionin developmental program. Simulated kipunji adults were likewise extremely similar. As a group, the simulated adults were morphometrically distinct from other papionins, corroborating the kipunji's generic status. Simulated adults were phenetically most similar to Lophocebus aterrimus but were distinguished from all adult papionins by the same unique traits that characterize the kipunji juvenile: a tall neurocranium, broad face, short nasal bones, concave anteorbital profile, and dorsally rotated palate. This concordance between juvenile and estimated‐adult morphologies confirms that papionin cranial shape is largely established before M1 eruption. The estimated kipunji adult's neurocranium strongly resembles that of Papio, providing the first cranial evidence supporting their phylogenetic relationship. If the kipunji does indeed have a hybrid origin, then its phenetic affinity to L. aterrimus favors Lophocebus as the proto‐kipunji's paternal lineage. Anat Rec, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The evolution of skeletal muscle performance: gene duplication and divergence of human sarcomeric α‐actinins
Authors: Lek Monkol , Quinlan Kate G. R. , North Kathryn N.
Published: December 2009

In humans, there are two skeletal muscle α‐actinins, encoded by ACTN2 and ACTN3, and the ACTN3 genotype is associated with human athletic performance. Remarkably, approximately 1 billion people worldwide are deficient in α‐actinin‐3 due to the common ACTN3 R577X polymorphism. The α‐actinins are an ancient family of actin‐binding proteins with structural, signalling and metabolic functions. The skeletal muscle α‐actinins diverged ∼250–300 million years ago, and ACTN3 has since developed restricted expression in fast muscle fibres. Despite ACTN2 and ACTN3 retaining considerable sequence similarity, it is likely that following duplication there was a divergence in function explaining why α‐actinin‐2 cannot completely compensate for the absence of α‐actinin‐3. This paper focuses on the role of skeletal muscle α‐actinins, and how possible changes in functions between these duplicates fit in the context of gene duplication paradigms.
On the Electronic Structure of NiII Complexes That Feature Chelating Bisguanidine Ligands
Authors: Roquette Pascal , Maronna Astrid , Peters Anastasia , Kaifer Elisabeth , Himmel Hans‐Jörg , Hauf Christoph , Herz Verena , Scheidt Ernst‐Wilhelm , Scherer Wolfgang
Published: December 2009

In this work we report on the syntheses and properties of several new Ni complexes featuring the chelating bisguanidines bis(tetramethylguanidino)benzene (btmgb), bis(tetramethylguanidino)naphthalene (btmgn), and bis(tetramethylguanidino)biphenyl (btmgbp) as ligands. All complexes were structurally characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and quantum chemical calculations. A detailed inspection of the magnetic susceptibility of [(btmgb)NiX2] and [(btmgbp)NiX2] (X=Cl, Br) revealed a linear temperature dependence of χ−1(T) above 50 K, which was in agreement with a Curie–Weiss‐type behavior and a triplet ground state. Below approximately 25 K, however, magnetic susceptibility studies of the paramagnetic d8 Ni complexes revealed the presence of a significant zero‐field splitting (ZFS) that results from spin–orbit mixing of excited states into the triplet ground state. The electronic consequences that might arise from the mixing of states as well as from a possible non‐innocent behavior of the ligand have been explored by an experimental charge density study of [(btmgb)NiCl2] at low temperatures (7 K). Here, the presence of ZFS was identified as one potential reason for the flat ∢Cl‐Ni‐Cl deformation potential and the distinct differences between the ∢X‐Ni‐X valence angles observed by experiment and predicted by DFT. An analysis of the topology of the experimentally and theoretically derived electron‐density distributions of [(btmgb)NiCl2] confirmed the strong donor character of the bisguanidine ligand but clearly ruled out any significant non‐innocent ligand (NIL) behavior. Hence, [(btmgb)NiCl2] provides an experimental reference system to study the mixing of certain excited states into the ground state unbiased from any competing NIL behavior.
Cobalt(II) Complexes of Nitrile‐Functionalized Ionic Liquids
Authors: Nockemann Peter , Pellens Michael , Van Hecke Kristof , Van Meervelt Luc , Wouters Johan , Thijs Ben , Vanecht Evert , Parac‐Vogt Tatjana N. , Mehdi Hasan , Schaltin Stijn , Fransaer Jan , Zahn Stefan , Kirchner Barbara , Binnemans Koen
Published: December 2009

A series of nitrile‐functionalized ionic liquids were found to exhibit temperature‐dependent miscibility (thermomorphism) with the lower alcohols. Their coordinating abilities toward cobalt(II) ions were investigated through the dissolution process of cobalt(II) bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide and were found to depend on the donor abilities of the nitrile group. The crystal structures of the cobalt(II) solvates [Co(C1C1CNPyr)2(Tf2N)4] and [Co(C1C2CNPyr)6][Tf2N]8, which were isolated from ionic‐liquid solutions, gave an insight into the coordination chemistry of functionalized ionic liquids. Smooth layers of cobalt metal could be obtained by electrodeposition of the cobalt‐containing ionic liquids.
How to perform accurate and reliable measurements of longitudinal and transverse relaxation times of MRI contrast media in aqueous solutions
Authors: Henoumont C. , Laurent S. , Vander Elst L.
Published: December 2009

Knowledge of the longitudinal and transverse relaxation times (T1 and T2) of water protons in an aqueous solution of an MRI contrast agent is essential for its characterization. These parameters can be measured at low field on low resolution spectrometers or at high field on high resolution spectrometers. The reliability and the accuracy of T1 and T2 measurements rely on several experimental settings and on the equation used to fit the data. Examples of the importance of careful adjustment of the most important parameters are illustrated through several measurements performed on a low‐resolution, low‐magnetic field instrument. In addition, some specificities of T1 and T2 measurements on high‐resolution, high‐magnetic field spectrometers are pointed out. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bilateral whisker trimming during early postnatal life impairs dendritic spine development in the mouse somatosensory barrel cortex
Authors: Briner Adrian , De Roo Mathias , Dayer Alexandre , Muller Dominique , Kiss Jozsef Z. , Vutskits Laszlo
Published: December 2009

The rodent somatosensory barrel cortex is an ideal model for studying the impact of sensory experience on developing brain circuitry. To examine whether and how interference with sensory perception in the early postnatal period can affect the development of synaptic networks in this system, we took advantage of a transgenic mouse strain expressing the yellow fluorescent protein in layer 5B pyramidal neurons of the somatosensory cortex. By using ex vivo confocal imaging, we first demonstrate a cortical‐layer‐specific increase in the number of dendritic spines during postnatal development on apical dendritic shafts of these cells extending up to cortical layer 1. Next, by performing bilateral whisker trimming at distinct developmental stages, we show that disruption of sensory perception before postnatal day 20 impairs dendritic spine development in apical dendritic segments within layers 1 and 2/3 but not in layer 4. The whisker trimming‐induced decrease in dendritic spine density during this period is accompanied by a highly significant decrease in dendritic spine head diameter. Finally, we also show that these whisker trimming‐induced morphological alterations of dendritic spines during the early postnatal period are no longer detectable in adult animals. Altogether, these findings further emphasize the important role of sensory activity in synaptic network assembly in the developing barrel cortex. They also support an as yet unidentified structural mechanism that might contribute to the layer‐ and cell‐type‐specific physiological effects of whisker trimming during the early postnatal period. J. Comp. Neurol. 518:1711–1723, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fluorescent Probes and Delivery Methods for Single‐Molecule Experiments
Authors: Lymperopoulos Konstantinos , Kiel Alexander , Seefeld Anne , Stöhr Katharina , Herten Dirk‐Peter
Published: December 2009

The recent explosion in papers utilising single‐molecule experiments pushes the envelope further for increased spatial and temporal resolution. In order to achieve this, a combination of novel fluorescent probes and spectroscopy techniques are required. Herein, we provide an overview on our contribution to developments in the field of fluorescent probes along with a palette of alternative delivery methods for introducing the probes into living cells. We discuss probe requirements arising from the use of single‐molecule spectroscopy methods and the customisation of probes that depends on the target molecule, the chemical state of the molecule as well as the distance and the type of interaction between sensor and ligand. We explain how Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) and photon‐induced electron transfer (PET) can increase the probe customisation. We also discuss additional requirements that arise when performing experiments in living cells like toxicity and cell permeability. Regarding the latter, we devote a special paragraph on the different ways to introduce the desired probe into the cell and how the different properties of each probe and cell type may require different delivery methods. We offer insights based on our experience working with a variety of single‐molecule methods, fluorescent probes and delivery systems. Overall, we encompass the latest developments on probe design and delivery and illustrate that the wealth of information provided by single‐molecule studies goes along with increased complexity.
Gas‐Phase Kinetics of Chlorosilylene Reactions II. ClSiH + C2H4: Absolute Rate Measurements and Quantum Chemical and RRKM Calculations for the Prototype π Addition Reaction
Authors: Becerra Rosa , Boganov Sergey E. , Egorov Mikhail P. , Krylova Irina V. , Nefedov Oleg M. , Promyslov Vladimir M. , Walsh Robin
Published: December 2009

Time‐resolved studies of chlorosilylene, ClSiH, generated by the 193 nm laser flash photolysis of 1‐chloro‐1‐silacyclopent‐3‐ene, are carried out to obtain rate constants for its bimolecular reaction with ethene, C2H4, in the gas‐phase. The reaction is studied over the pressure range 0.13–13.3 kPa (with added SF6) at five temperatures in the range 296–562 K. The second order rate constants, obtained by extrapolation to the high pressure limits at each temperature, fitted the Arrhenius equation: log(k∞/cm3 molecule−1 s−1)=(−10.55±0.10) + (3.86±0.70) kJ mol−1/RT ln10. The Arrhenius parameters correspond to a loose transition state and the rate constant at room temperature is 43 % of that for SiH2 + C2H4, showing that the deactivating effect of Cl‐for‐H substitution in the silylene is not large. Quantum chemical calculations of the potential energy surface for this reaction at the G3MP2//B3LYP level show that, as well as 1‐chlorosilirane, ethylchlorosilylene is a viable product. The calculations reveal how the added effect of the Cl atom on the divalent state stabilisation of ClSiH influences the course of this reaction. RRKM calculations of the reaction pressure dependence suggest that ethylchlorosilylene should be the main product. The results are compared and contrasted with those of SiH2 and SiCl2 with C2H4.
Structural Identification of Spectroscopic Substates in Neuroglobin
Authors: Nienhaus Karin , Lutz Stephan , Meuwly Markus , Nienhaus G. Ulrich
Published: December 2009

The structural origins of infrared absorptions of photodissociated CO in murine neuroglobin (Ngb) are determined by combining Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Such an approach allows to identify and characterize both the different conformations of the Ngb active site and the transient ligand docking sites. To capture the influence of the protein environment on the spectroscopy and dynamics, experiments and simulations are carried out for the wild type protein and its F28L and F28W mutants. It is found that a voluminous side chain at position 28 divides site B into two subsites, B’ and B”. At low temperatures, CO in wt Ngb only migrates to site B’ from where it can rebind, and B” is not populated. The spectra of CO in site B’ for wt Ngb from simulations and experiments are very similar in spectral shift and shape. They both show doublets, red‐shifted with respect to gas‐phase CO and split by≈8 cm−1. The FTIR spectra of the F28L mutant show additional bands which are also found in the simulations and can be attributed to CO located in substate B”. The different bands are mainly related to different orientations of the His64 side chain with respect to the CO ligand. Large red‐shifts arise from strong interactions between the HistidineNH and the CO oxygen. After dissociation from the heme iron, the CO ligand visits multiple docking sites. The locations of the primary docking site B and a secondary site C, which corresponds to the Mb Xe4 cavity, could be identified unambiguously. Finally, by comparing experiment and simulations it is also possible to identify protonation of its ε position (Hisε64 NgbCO) as the preferred heme‐bound conformation in the wild type protein with a signal at 1935 cm−1.
Elimination of Biological Contaminations from Surfaces by Plasma Discharges: Chemical Sputtering
Authors: Rauscher Hubert , Kylián Ondřej , Benedikt Jan , von Keudell Achim , Rossi François
Published: December 2009

Plasma treatment of surfaces as a sterilisation or decontamination method is a promising approach to overcome limitations of conventional techniques. The precise characterisation of the employed plasma discharges, the application of sensitive surface diagnostic methods and targeted experiments to separate the effects of different agents, have led to rapid progress in the understanding of different relevant elementary processes. This contribution provides an overview of the most relevant and recent results, which reveal the importance of chemical sputtering as one of the most important processes for the elimination of biological residuals. Selected studies on the interaction of plasmas with bacteria, proteins and polypeptides are highlighted, and investigations employing beams of atoms and ions confirming the prominent role of chemical sputtering are presented. With this knowledge, it is possible to optimize the plasma treatment for decontamination/sterilisation purposes in terms of discharge composition, density of active species and UV radiation intensity.
E‐cadherin expression in male urethral smears and correlation with PCR‐based detection of human papillomavirus infection
Authors: Tena‐Suck Martha Lilia , Alarcón America , Rösl Franck , la Vega Horacio Astudillo‐de
Published: December 2009

We performed cytological examination of urethral brushing to study aberrant E‐Cadherin expression as a possible marker for papillomavirus in cytological samples.

A total of 30 cytobrush male urethral smears were examined E‐cadherin expression and human papillomavirus (hpv) was confirmed using PCR‐DNA.

The age range was 19–36 years (mean: 27 years), 17 (56.7%) cases corresponded to low‐risk HPV and 13 (43.3%) cases were high‐risk HPV. The mean age ranges were 25.77 ± 5.90 years for high‐risk HPV and 26.77 ± 4.31years for low‐risk HPV.

Pap smears showed dyskeratosis in 23 (76.7%) cases, koilocytes in 13 (43.3%) cases, infection or bacterial background in 14 (43.7%) cases, suggestive changes of Gardnerella infection in 7 (23.3%) cases, and Chlamydia in 3 (10%) cases.

Immunohistochemistry was positive for membrane E‐Cadherin; there was weak expression in 13 (43.3%) cases, moderate expression in 11 (36.7%) cases (P = 0.109) (Figs. 3a and b), and strong expression in 6 (20%) cases. There were a statistically significant correlations between E‐Cadherin expression and koilocytes (P = 0.007), individual cell dyskeratosis (P = 0.041), and HPV risk (P = 0.000).

We concluded that the loss of E‐Cadherin membrane expression was greater in high‐risk HPV cases and was associated with individual cell dyskeratosis features and koilocytes. There were statistically significant correlations between E‐Cadherin expression and dyskeratosis (P = 0.043), koilocytes (P = 0.007), and type of HPV (P = 0.000). Using male urethral smears to test for the loss of E‐Cadherin membrane expression is simple, rapid, specific and more sensitive than conventional morphologic observations. We concluded that E‐Cadherin can be used to discriminate between high‐ and low‐risk papillomavirus in urethral cytologic specimens. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2010;38:583–589. 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nanoparticle technology: amplifying the effective sensitivity of biomarker detection to create a urine test for hGH
Authors: Fredolini Claudia , Tamburro Davide , Gambara Guido , Lepene Benjamin S. , Espina Virginia , Petricoin III Emanuel F. , Liotta Lance A. , Luchini Alessandra
Published: December 2009

Several clinical‐grade immunoassays exist for the specific measurement of hGH or its isoforms in blood but there is an urgent need to apply these same reliable assays to the measurement of hGH in urine as a preferred ‘non‐invasive’ biofluid. Unfortunately, conventional hGH immunoassays cannot attain the sensitivity required to detect the low concentrations of hGH in urine. The lowest limit of sensitivity for existing hGH immunoassays is >50 pg/mL, while the estimated concentration of urinary hGH is about 1 pg/m—50 times lower than the sensitivity threshold. We have created novel N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAm)‐based hydrogel nanoparticles functionalized with an affinity bait. When introduced into an analyte‐containing solution, the nanoparticles can perform, in one step, (1) complete harvesting of all solution phase target analytes, (2) full protection of the captured analyte from degradation and (3) sequestration of the analyte, effectively increasing the analyte concentration up to a hundredfold. N‐isopropylacrylamide nanoparticles functionalized with Cibacron Blue F3GA bait have been applied to raise the concentration of urinary hGH into the linear range of clinical grade immunoassays. This technology now provides an opportunity to evaluate the concentration of hGH in urine with high precision and accuracy. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NMR Spectroscopic Studies of Palladium(II) Complexes of Bidentate Diphenylphosphane Ligands with Acetate and Tosylate Anions: Complex Formation and Structures
Authors: Mooibroek Tiddo J. , Bouwman Elisabeth , Lutz Martin , Spek Anthony L. , Drent Eite
Published: December 2009

The synthetic pathways towards PdII complexes of functionalized bidentate diphenylphosphane ligands of the type [Pd(ligand)(anion)2] and [Pd(ligand)2](anion)2 have been investigated. Eighteen different ligands have been used in combination with strongly (acetate, OAc–) or weakly (tosylate, OTs–) coordinating anions. The solid‐state structure of some representative complexes was determined with X‐ray crystallography. It is shown that the solid‐state structures are fully retained in solution. The formation of [Pd(ligand)(anion)2]‐type complexes was studied in detail by 1H‐ and 31P‐NMR spectroscopy. Depending on the ligand structure, the complex is formed instantaneously, via a polynuclear intermediate or is not formed at all. Complex formation is demonstrated to depend on the length and rigidity of the ligand backbone and on the steric bulk at the ortho position of the phenyl rings on phosphorus. It was also found that the coordinating ability of the anions can alter the structure of the kinetic and/or thermodynamic product.
Diastereoselective Protonation, Substitution and Addition Reactions at Pseudotetrahedral Rhenium Complexes
Authors: Bock Frank , Fischer Frank , Radacki Krzysztof , Schenk Wolfdieter A.
Published: December 2009

The chiral N,P ligand P(Me)(Ph)[8‐(2‐methylquinolinyl)] (3) was synthesized and separated into its enantiomers via diastereomeric palladium complexes. The reactions of 3 and (RP)‐3 with [CpRe(CO)(NO)(NCMe)]BF4 (7) gave thediastereomeric complexes [CpRe(CO)(NO){P(Me)(Ph)(C10H8N)}]BF4 [8 and (RRe,SP/SRe,SP)‐8], which, upon borohydride reduction, yielded the corresponding methyl complexes [CpRe(NO){P(Me)(Ph)(C10H8N)}(CH3)] [9 and (RRe,SP/SRe,SP)‐9]. Treatment of 9 with HBF4 under carefully controlled conditions gave the diastereomerically pure chelates [CpRe(NO){P(Me)(Ph)(C10H8N)}]BF4 [(RRe,SP/SRe,RP)‐10, (RRe,RP/SRe,SP)‐10 and (RRe,SP)‐10]. The chelate ring was opened with NaSH to produce the hydrosulfido complexes [CpRe(NO){P(Me)(Ph)(C10H8N)}(SH)] [(RRe,SP/SRe,RP)‐11, (RRe,RP/SRe,SP)‐11 and (RRe,SP)‐11]. Each step in this sequence proceeded with retention of configuration at rhenium. Complex 11 underwent acid‐promoted condensation with aldehydes to give thioaldehyde complexes [CpRe(NO){P(Me)(Ph)(C10H8N)}(S=CHR)]BF4 (12a–d, R = Ph, Me, 4‐C6H4OMe, C6F5). The addition of nucleophiles X– to 12a gave rhenium‐coordinated α‐chiral thiolate complexes [CpRe(NO){P(Me)(Ph)(C10H8N)}{SC(H)(Ph)(X)}] (13a–e, X = acac, PhCH2S, EtS, tBuS, CN) with 42–89 % de. The thiolate can readily be cleaved from the rhenium complex by a methylation/chelate ring‐closure strategy. The stereochemistry of the entire reaction sequence was corroborated for each step by X‐ray crystallography.
Versatility of Substituted 1‐Formyl‐9H‐β‐carbolines for the Synthesis of New Fused β‐Carbolines via Intramolecular 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition
Authors: Singh Virender , Hutait Samiran , Biswas Subhasish , Batra Sanjay
Published: December 2009

Substituted 1‐formyl‐9H‐β‐carbolines are demonstrated to be viable precursors for the synthesis of a library of new β‐carboline‐based polycyclic systems via 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition strategy.
A Phenolic Antioxidant Releasing Nitric Oxide on Demand
Authors: Vittorino Elisa , Sortino Salvatore
Published: December 2009

A novel molecular conjugate (1) that combines radical scavenging properties to light‐regulated release of nitric oxide (NO) has been designed and synthesized by a straightforward procedure. This compound integrates a catecholic unit and a suitable NO photodonor, separated by an alkyl spacer, into the same molecular skeleton. The radical scavenging properties of 1 were evaluated by investigating its reactivity toward hydrogen abstraction by tert‐butoxy radical by using laser flash photolysis techniques. The catecholic function of 1 is transparent to visible light, which, in contrast, is exclusively absorbed by the NO photodonor, resulting in the photocontrolled release of this radical species, monitored by an ultrasensitive NO electrode. A comparison of the value of the hydrogen abstraction rate constant and the amount of NO photoreleased with those of reference models demonstrates the retention of the single properties into the new molecular entity. This characteristic together with its water solubility make 1 a potential model system in the perspective of “multitarget” compounds for biomedical research studies.
Recent developments and applications of EMMA in enzymatic and derivatization reactions
Authors: Zhang Jie , Hoogmartens Jos , Van Schepdael Ann
Published: December 2009

This review covers the time period of 2007 until mid‐2009 and describes new developments in the field of electrophoretically mediated microanalysis. The review is subdivided in two parts dealing with (i) enzymatic and (ii) derivatization or chemical reactions. A compilation of the relevant literature is given for each part.
Soil erosion assessment using geomorphological remote sensing techniques: an example from southern Italy
Authors: Lo Curzio Sergio , Magliulo Paolo
Published: December 2009

The aim of this study is to assess of the distribution and map the geomorphological effects of soil erosion at the basin scale identifying newly‐formed erosional landsurfaces (NeFELs), by means of an integration of Landsat ETM 7+ remotely sensed data and field‐surveyed geomorphological data. The study was performed on a 228·6 km2‐wide area, located in southern Italy. The study area was first characterized from a lithological, pedological, land‐use and morpho‐topographic point of view and thematic maps were created. Then, the georeferenced Landsat ETM 7+ satellite imagery was processed using the RSI ENVI 4.0 software. The processing consisted of contrast stretching, principal component analysis (PCA), decorrelation stretching and RGB false colour compositing. A field survey was conducted to characterize the features detected on the imagery. Particular attention was given to the NeFELs, which were located using a global positioning system (GPS). We then delimited the Regions of Interest (ROI) on the Landsat ETM 7+ imagery, i.e. polygons representing the ‘ground‐truth’, discriminating the NeFELs from the other features occurring in the imagery. A simple statistical analysis was conducted on the digital number (DN) values of the pixels enclosed in the ROI of the NeFELs, with the aim to determine the spectral response pattern of such landsurfaces. The NeFELs were then classified in the entire image using a maximum likelihood classification algorithm. The results of the classification process were checked in the field. Finally, a spatial analysis was performed by converting the detected landsurfaces into vectorial format and importing them into the ESRI ArcViewGIS 9.0 software.
Application of these procedures, together with the results of the field survey, highlighted that some ‘objects’ in the classified imagery, even if displaying the same spectral response of NeFELs, were not landsurfaces subject to intense soil erosion, thus confirming the strategic importance of the field‐checking for the automatically produced data. During the production of the map of the NeFELs, which is the final result of the study, these ‘objects’ were eliminated by means of simple, geomorphologically‐coherent intersection procedures in a geographic information system (GIS) environment. The overall surface of the NeFELs had an area of 22·9 km2, which was 10% of the total. The spatial analysis showed that the highest frequency of the NeFELs occurred on both south‐facing and southwest‐facing slopes, cut on clayey‐marly deposits, on which fine‐textured and carbonate‐rich Inceptisols were present and displaying slope angle values ranging from 12° to 20°. The comparison of two satellite imageries of different periods highlighted that the NeFELs were most clearly evident immediately after summer tillage operations and not so evident before them, suggesting that these practices could have played an important role in inducing the erosional processes. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Innovation diffusion: Implications for evaluation
Authors: Ashley Shena R.
Published: December 2009

Whether looking at the spread and adoption of an intervention across a community, across multiple units, or within a single unit, an understanding of diffusion theory can help evaluators uncover patterns and impacts that might otherwise be overlooked. The theory alerts evaluators to examine why uptake of an intervention appeared different in different sites, according to the characteristics of the people involved, the social systems involved (for example, neighborhoods, states, or organizations), or the communications channels used. Insights might explain intervention intensity across sites and consequent differential effects. It also yields useful information to assist with subsequent replication of the intervention by practitioners and policymakers. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc., and the American Evaluation Association.
The transfer process: Implications for evaluation
Authors: LaBelle Oliver Monica
Published: December 2009

Transfer is a term used in many fields to describe a change process involving movement of knowledge, skills, or policy from one place to another. The central components of transfer invite the evaluator to conceptualize the change process in terms of a starting point, different understandings of what is being transferred, the medium or mechanism, the concomitant agents, the purpose, and the ending point. Technological models of transfer can be contrasted with learning models of transfer. This means that the educational technology of the intervention might be easily transferred, for example, but not the organizational engagement and inquiry process associated with it. Such scenarios are common in fields where capacity varies widely from place to place. It is therefore crucial to surface what was actually implemented, especially if programs have the same name in various sites, but in reality have replicated very different forms of the program. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc., and the American Evaluation Association.
Computational Continuum Biomechanics with Application to Swelling Media and Growth Phenomena
Authors: Ehlers W. , Markert B. , Röhrle O.
Published: December 2009

Biological tissues, no matter if soft or hard tissues are concerned, basically consist of a solid matrix saturated by an interstitial fluid, which is composed of a liquid solvent and various dissolved solutes. In case of vascular tissues, the blood system including the arteries, the capillary system and the veins has to be added. Based on the complex geometric and biophysical nature ofbiological systems, a biomechanical description is based on a macroscopic, continuum‐mechanical approach proceeding from homogenised microstructures rather than on a full microscopic investigation.

Consequently, the present article provides a continuum‐biomechanical approach for the description of biological tissues. This includes the well‐founded framework of the Theory of Porous Media (TPM), which can be seen as an extension of the classical Theory of Mixtures (TM) towards immiscible materials. Based on this approach, which easily can be extended by electro‐chemical information, swelling tissues like the intervertebral disc and growth phenomena like avascular tumour growth and muscle stimulation as the basis of any motion of biological systems can be described. However, as a result of page limitations, the article excludes the incorporation of the blood system into the present modelling and simulation examples as well as the description of any muscle stimulation (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A Universal Model for the Elastic, Inelastic and Active Behaviour of Soft Biological Tissues
Authors: Itskov M. , Ehret A. E.
Published: December 2009

In the present paper, we present a universal model for the elastic, inelastic and active behaviour of soft biological tissues. The model is based on generalised structural tensors representing linear combinations of the identity tensor and classical structural tensors associated with fibre directions. The anisotropic behaviour is controlled by the coefficients of these linear combinations appearing as weight factors. Changing these weight factors allows to model softening as well as active contraction. The framework of this unified approach is presented and specialised for typical soft tissue behaviour. In order to model preconditioning observed in cyclic mechanical loading, thermodynamically consistent evolution equations for these weight factors as internal variables are defined. Further, a formulation for active behaviour based on a functional representation of the weight factors is proposed. Finally, the model is illustrated in application to bladder tissue showing both noticeable preconditioning effects and active contractility (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)