bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infrarotspektren von S‐Oxyden und S‐Dioxyden Cyclischer Mercaptole
Authors: Otting Walter , Neugebauer Franz Alfred
Published: May 2007

Bei den S‐Oxyden und S‐Dioxyden von 2.2‐disubstituierten 1.3‐Dithiolanen und 1.3‐Dithianen wurden für die So‐banden folgende Frequenzbereiche [cm‐1] gefunden: magnified image Auf Grund spektrosktroskopischer Regelmäßigkeiten ist von den 2.2‐Diphenyl 1.3‐dithiolan‐1.3‐dioxyden das Isomere mit dem höheren Schmelzpunkt die trans From, dasjenige mit dem tieferen die cis‐Form. Bei den Isomeren des 2.2‐Diphenyl1‐1.3‐dithian‐1.3‐dioxyds ist es umgekehrt.
Polyacetylenverbindungen, XXXVI. Über neue Polyintypen aus Chrysanthemum frutescens L.
Authors: Bohlmann Ferdinand , Klieine Käthe‐Marie
Published: May 2007

Aus den Wurzeln von Chrysanthemum frutescens L. werden 5 neue Polyine isoliert und in ihrer Konstitution aufgeklärt. In allen Fällen handelt es sich um o‐Methoxybenzoesäureester, die in 6‐Stellung verschieden substituierte Seitenketten mit Diacetylengruppierung enthalten. Zwei dieser Verbindungen haben überraschenderweise eine Acetylenwasserstoff‐Endgruppe.
Rescue of Degradation‐Prone Mutants of the FK506‐Rapamycin Binding (FRB) Protein with Chemical Ligands
Authors: Stankunas Kryn , Bayle J. Henri , Havranek James J. , Wandless Thomas J. , Baker David , Crabtree Gerald R. , Gestwicki Jason E.
Published: May 2007

We recently reported that certain mutations in the FK506‐rapamycin binding (FRB) domain disrupt its stability in vitro and in vivo (Stankunas et al. Mol. Cell, 2003, 12, 1615). To determine the precise residues that cause instability, we calculated the folding free energy (ΔG) of a collection of FRB mutants by measuring their intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence during reversible chaotropic denaturation. Our results implicate the T2098L point mutation as a key determinant of instability. Further, we found that some of the mutants in this collection were destabilised by up to 6 kcal mol−1 relative to the wild type. To investigate how these mutants behave in cells, we expressed firefly luciferase fused to FRB mutants in African green monkey kidney (COS) cell lines and mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). When unstable FRB mutants were used, we found that the protein levels and the luminescence intensities were low. However, addition of a chemical ligand for FRB, rapamycin, restored luciferase activity. Interestingly, we found a roughly linear relationship between the ΔG of the FRB mutants calculated in vitro and the relative chemical rescue in cells. Because rapamycin is capable of simultaneously binding both FRB and the chaperone, FK506‐binding protein (FKBP), we next examined whether FKBP might contribute to the protection of FRB mutants. Using both in vitro experiments and a cell‐based model, we found that FKBP stabilizes the mutants. These findings are consistent with recent models that suggest damage to intrinsic ΔG can be corrected by pharmacological chaperones. Further, these results provide a collection of conditionally stable fusion partners for use in controlling protein stability.
Predicting and Tuning Physicochemical Properties in Lead Optimization: Amine Basicities
Authors: Morgenthaler Martin , Schweizer Eliane , Hoffmann‐Röder Anja , Benini Fausta , Martin Rainer E. , Jaeschke Georg , Wagner Björn , Fischer Holger , Bendels Stefanie , Zimmerli Daniel , Schneider Josef , Diederich François , Kansy Manfred , Müller Klaus
Published: May 2007

This review describes simple and useful concepts for predicting and tuning the pKa values of basic amine centers, a crucial step in the optimization of physical and ADME properties of many lead structures in drug‐discovery research. The article starts with a case study of tricyclic thrombin inhibitors featuring a tertiary amine center with pKa values that can be tuned over a wide range, from the usual value of around 10 to below 2 by (remote) neighboring functionalities commonly encountered in medicinal chemistry. Next, the changes in pKa of acyclic and cyclic amines upon substitution by fluorine, oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur functionalities, as well as carbonyl and carboxyl derivatives are systematically analyzed, leading to the derivation of simple rules for pKa prediction. Electronic and stereoelectronic effects in cyclic amines are discussed, and the emerging computational methods for pKa predictions are briefly surveyed. The rules for tuning amine basicities should not only be of interest in drug‐discovery research, but also to the development of new crop‐protection agents, new amine ligands for organometallic complexes, and in particular, to the growing field of amine‐based organocatalysis.
Parameterization of Peptide 13C Carbonyl Chemical Shielding Anisotropy in Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Jordan Daniel M. , Mills K. Maria , Andricioaei Ioan , Bhattacharya Akash , Palmo Kim , Zuiderweg Erik R. P.
Published: May 2007

NMR chemical shielding anisotropy (CSA) relaxation is an important tool in the study of dynamical processes in proteins and nucleic acids in solution. Herein, we investigate how dynamical variations in local geometry affect the chemical shielding anisotropy relaxation of the carbonyl carbon nucleus, using the following protocol: 1) Using density functional theory, the carbonyl 13C′ CSA is computed for 103 conformations of the model peptide group N‐methylacetamide (NMA). 2) The variations in computed 13C′ CSA parameters are fitted against quadratic hypersurfaces containing cross terms between the variables. 3) The predictive quality of the CSA hypersurfaces is validated by comparing the predicted and de novo calculated 13C′ CSAs for 20 molecular dynamics snapshots. 4) The CSA fluctuations and their autocorrelation and cross correlation functions due to bond‐length and bond‐angle distortions are predicted for a chemistry Harvard molecular mechanics (CHARMM) molecular dynamics trajectory of Ca2+‐saturated calmodulin and GB3 from the hypersurfaces, as well as for a molecular dynamics (MD) simulation of an NMA trimer using a quantum mechanically correct forcefield. We find that the fluctuations can be represented by a 0.93 scaling factor of the CSA tensor for both R1 and R2 relaxations for residues in helix, coil, and sheet alike. This result is important, as it establishes that 13C′ relaxation is a valid tool for measurement of interesting dynamical events in proteins.
Comparison of the Photophysical Parameters for Three Perylene Bisimide Derivatives by Single‐Molecule Spectroscopy
Authors: Lang Erwin , Hildner Richard , Engelke Hanna , Osswald Peter , Würthner Frank , Köhler Jürgen
Published: May 2007

Characterization of the photophysical parameters for three perylene bisimide derivatives is presented. We exploited time‐resolved and steady‐state spectroscopy on both ensembles and single molecules under ambient as well as cryogenic (1.4 K) conditions. The finding is that these chromophores show extraordinary high fluorescence‐emission rates, low intersystem crossing yields to the triplet state, and relatively short triplet lifetimes.
Relations between different types of jealousy and self and partner perceptions of relationship quality
Authors: Barelds D. P. H. , Barelds‐Dijkstra P.
Published: May 2007

The present paper examines the relationships between relationship quality and three different types of jealousy, including both partners' levels of jealousy and perceptions of relationship quality. It was expected that jealousy in response to a direct threat to the relationship—that is, reactive jealousy—would be positively related to relationship quality, whereas forms of jealousy that may also be triggered in the absence of such a threat would be negatively related to relationship quality. Three studies were conducted among large community samples of heterosexual married and cohabiting couples (a total of 961 couples), using three different operationalizations of relationship quality. In all three studies both partners' levels of reactive jealousy related positively to relationship quality, whereas in all three studies, both partners' levels of anxious jealousy were negatively related to relationship quality. Findings and clinical implications are discussed. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Activation of matrix metalloproteinase‐3 is altered at the frog neuromuscular junction following changes in synaptic activity
Authors: VanSaun M. , Humburg B.C. , Arnett M.G. , Pence M. , Werle M.J.
Published: May 2007

The extracellular matrix surrounding the neuromuscular junction is a highly specialized and dynamic structure. Matrix metalloproteinases are enzymes that sculpt the extracellular matrix. Since synaptic activity is critical to the structure and function of this synapse, we investigated whether changes in synaptic activity levels could alter the activity of Matrix Metalloproteinases at the neuromuscular junction. In particular, we focused on Matrix Metalloproteinase 3 (MMP3), since antibodies to MMP3 recognize molecules at the frog neuromuscular junction, and MMP3 cleaves a number of synaptic basal lamina molecules, including agrin. Here we show that the fluorogenic compound (M2300) can be used to perform in vivo proteolytic imaging of the frog neuromuscular junction to directly measure the activity state of MMP3. Application of this compound reveals that active MMP3 is concentrated at the normal frog neuromuscular junction, and is tightly associated with the terminal Schwann cell. Blocking presynaptic activity via denervation, or TTX nerve blockade, results in a decreased level of active MMP3 at the neuromuscular junction. The loss of active MMP3 at the neuromuscular junction in denervated muscles can result from decreased activation of pro‐MMP3, or it could result from increased inhibition of MMP3. These results support the hypothesis that changes in synaptic activity can alter the level of active MMP3 at the neuromuscular junction. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2007
Applicability of analysis method for electromagnetic field radiated from UTP cable in the UHF band using 4‐port network
Authors: Fujiishi Shuji , Tamaki Hiroto , Ishida Yasuhiro , Kuwabara Nobuo
Published: May 2007

When communication signals are transmitted at high speed on balanced cable (UTP cable), signals may leak from the cable and affect the reception of wireless signals. To evaluate this effect, the radiated electromagnetic field from the balanced cable is measured by using a 4‐port network at 300 MHz or less. Although this method has the advantage that it can be used to analyze line constants, it is not clear whether it can be applied in an analysis at a frequency greater than 300 MHz. In this paper, the authors investigate the applicability of this method at frequencies up to 1 GHz. As a result, they discuss a method of using a 4‐port network to represent telecommunication equipment for increasing precision and a balun for simulating this equipment and also discuss the dependency of this method on the number of subdivisions of one twist of the cable. From the results of actually evaluating the radiated electromagnetic field by using a 3‐meter length of UTP cable, it was apparent that this analysis method using a 4‐port network was effective for obtaining the trends exhibited by the characteristics of the radiated electromagnetic field at up to 1 GHz by obtaining the 4‐port network parameters of the terminal equipment parts and dividing one twist of the cable into 80 parts. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 1, 90(11): 25–35, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecja.20391
Analysis of Au/Si Schottky barrier type AC surface photovoltage in silicon wafer surface dipped into Au aqueous solution
Authors: Omori Eri , Shimizu Hirofumi , Ikeda Masanori
Published: May 2007

The state of a gold (Au)‐contaminated silicon (Si) surface dipped in an aqueous solution, with a standard Au solution, was investigated using the alternating current surface photovoltage (AC SPV) method [1, 2]. On a Au‐contaminated n‐type Si wafer surface, frequency‐dependent AC SPV was observed and it was shown that the n‐type Si surface was in a depleted or weakly inverted state. The cutoff frequency was found from the AC SPV frequency dependence curve of the Au‐contaminated n‐type Si wafer and an analysis of the Si surface potential was performed. With those results, the band diagram of the Au/n‐type Si Schottky contact was found and a Schottky barrier height ΦB was calculated as 0.73 to 0.76 eV. This value is close to the reported value ΦB=0.79 eV and supports the formation of a Au/n‐type Si Schottky barrier. From these results, a model for AC SPV occurrence is proposed in which the n‐type Si surface is weakly inverted with the formation of a Au/n‐type Si Schottky barrier. Meanwhile, in a Au‐contaminated p‐type Si wafer, the measured voltage was the noise level of the measurement device and indicates a low surface potential. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 2, 90(6): 27–33, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecjb.20308
Semiconductor‐based 2D photonic crystal slab waveguides for ultrafast all‐optical switches: PC‐SMZ
Authors: Sugimoto Yoshimasa , Ishikawa Hiroshi , Asakawa Kiyoshi
Published: May 2007

We have developed a new symmetric Mach– Zehnder all‐optical switch (PC‐SMZ) that combines a two‐dimensional photonic crystal slab waveguide (PCWG) with a quantum dot (QD) as an optical nonlinear medium. With the PCWG we fabricated wavelength‐selective directional couplers and other kinds of waveguide parts in a 600‐µm‐long PC‐SMZ. At a wavelength of 1.3 µm, we achieved switching operations with rise/fall time of 2 ps and switching operation windows of 15 ps. In addition, in a 500‐µm‐long optical nonlinear waveguide with an embedded QD, we confirmed the occurrence of a nonlinear phase change µ shift using an extremely small optical control energy of 100 fJ. This result has opened the way toward integration of various devices that incorporate PCs and QDs, and realization of devices capable of new performance. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 2, 90(6): 18– 26, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecjb.20315
Yb‐indiffused LiNbO3 annealed/proton‐exchanged waveguide lasers
Authors: Fujimura Masatoshi , Tsuchimoto Hidekazu , Suhara Toshiaki
Published: May 2007

For realization of new functionalities and exploration of application areas for LiNbO3 optical waveguide devices, rare earth element doped LiNbO3 waveguide lasers have been studied. The authors have proposed a waveguide laser using ytterbium (Yb) as the rare earth element and an annealed/proton‐exchanged waveguide as the optical waveguide. In the present research, various characteristics of the Yb:LiNbO3 needed for design and fabrication of the devices were measured. A waveguide laser was designed and fabricated and CW laser oscillation was accomplished with an Yb:LiNbO3 waveguide laser. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 2, 90(6): 10–17, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience. wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecjb.20340
An Ab Initio Study of Substituent Effects on the Electrocyclization of Silyloxyazadienes
Authors: Bongini Alessandro , Xia Zhining , Panunzio Mauro
Published: May 2007

The electrocyclization of 4‐substituted 3‐silyloxy‐2‐azadienes to β‐lactams was studied at the MP2/6‐31G* level of theory and the effect of the substituents on the reactivity of the azadiene and on the stereochemistry of the cyclic products was evaluated. It was shown that the electrocyclization is favoured when the substituent in 4‐position is in the (Z) configuration and discloses an electron‐donor effect. The cyclization reactions generally lead to trans β‐lactams, but with a basic substituent cis β‐lactams are obtained as well.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Synthesis of Polyhydroxylated Pyrano‐Pyrrole Derivatives from Carbohydrate Precursors
Authors: Naud Sébastien , Pipelier Muriel , Viault Guillaume , Adjou Ané , Huet François , Legoupy Stéphanie , Aubertin Anne‐Marie , Evain Michel , Dubreuil Didier
Published: May 2007

The efficient synthesis of novel polyhydroxy‐tetrahydropyrano‐pyrroles from acetylenic carbohydrate precursors in three to four steps is described. The methodology involves, as key steps, the ring contraction of pyridazine intermediates obtained by an inverse‐demand Diels–Alder reaction and subsequent intramolecular lactonization. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Asymmetric Diels–Alder Cycloaddition of 1‐Aminocyclohexadiene to Chiral Acrylate: Synthesis of Enantiopure Bridgehead‐Aminobicyclo[2.2.2]octane‐2‐carboxylic Acid Derivatives
Authors: Songis Olivier , Didierjean Claude , Laurent Camille , Martinez Jean , Calmès Monique
Published: May 2007

The acrylate derivative of the (R)‐4‐(3‐hydroxy‐4,4‐dimethyl‐2‐oxopyrrolidin‐1‐yl)benzoic acid benzyl ester (R)‐2 reacted with 1‐(benzyloxycarbonylamino)cyclohexadiene 3 under microwave irradation in solvent‐free conditions to yield [4+2] cycloadducts in good yields (91 %). The reaction proceeded with moderate endo selectivity (67 %) and good facial selectivity (90 %). The major cycloadducts were isolated and transformed to afford three enantiopure bicyclic β‐amino acids: (1S,2R,4R)‐1‐(benzyloxycarbonylamino)bicyclo[2.2.2]oct‐5‐ene‐2‐carboxylic acid [(1S,2R,4R)‐4], (1R,2R,4S)‐1‐(benzyloxycarbonylamino)bicyclo[2.2.2]oct‐5‐ene‐2‐carboxylic acid [(1R,2R,4S)‐5] and (R)‐1‐aminobicyclo[2.2.2]octane‐2‐carboxylic acid [(R)‐6]. This work has led to the preparation of these enantiopure bicyclic β‐amino acids and provides a rare example of an asymmetric Diels–Alder reaction by microwave activation. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Transplantation of Schwann cells and/or olfactory ensheathing glia into the contused spinal cord: Survival, migration, axon association, and functional recovery
Authors: Pearse Damien D. , Sanchez Andre R. , Pereira Francisco C. , Andrade Christian M. , Puzis Raisa , Pressman Yelena , Golden Kevin , Kitay Brandon M. , Blits Bas , Wood Patrick M. , Bunge Mary Bartlett
Published: May 2007

Schwann cells (SCs) and olfactory ensheathing glia (OEG) have shown promise for spinal cord injury repair. We sought their in vivo identification following transplantation into the contused adult rat spinal cord at 1 week post‐injury by: (i) DNA in situ hybridization (ISH) with a Y‐chromosome specific probe to identify male transplants in female rats and (ii) lentiviral vector‐mediated expression of EGFP. Survival, migration, and axon‐glia association were quantified from 3 days to 9 weeks post‐transplantation. At 3 weeks after transplantation into the lesion, a 60–90% loss of grafted cells was observed. OEG‐only grafts survived very poorly within the lesion (<5%); injection outside the lesion led to a 60% survival rate, implying that the injury milieu was hostile to transplanted cells and or prevented their proliferation. At later times post‐grafting, p75+/EGFP− cells in the lesion outnumbered EGFP+ cells in all paradigms, evidence of significant host SC infiltration. SCs and OEG injected into the injury failed to migrate from the lesion. Injection of OEG outside of the injury resulted in their migration into the SC‐injected injury site, not via normal‐appearing host tissue but along the pia or via the central canal. In all paradigms, host axons were seen in association with or ensheathed by transplanted glia. Numerous myelinated axons were found within regions of grafted SCs but not OEG. The current study details the temporal survival, migration, axon association of SCs and OEG, and functional recovery after grafting into the contused spinal cord, research previously complicated due to a lack of quality, long‐term markers for cell tracking in vivo. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Altered functional connectivity of primary visual cortex in early blindness
Authors: Yu Chunshui , Liu Yong , Li Jun , Zhou Yuan , Wang Kun , Tian Lixia , Qin Wen , Jiang Tianzi , Li Kuncheng
Published: May 2007

In early blindness, the primary visual area (PVA) loses the ability to process visual information, and shifts to working on the processing of somatosensory input, auditory input, and some higher‐level cognitive functions. It has not yet been investigated whether such functional changes can lead to alterations of the functional connectivity between the PVA and other brain areas in resting state. The purpose of this study is to investigate the differences in the functional connectivity of the PVA between early blind and sighted subjects using resting functional MRI data. The altered functional connectivity was identified by comparing the correlation coefficients of the PVA with other brain areas between 16 early blind subjects (blindness onset within 1 year of age) and 32 gender‐ and age‐matched healthy sighted volunteers. Compared with the sighted, the early blind subjects showed decreased functional connectivity between the left PVA and the bilateral supplementary motor area (SMA), pre‐ and postcentral gyri, superior parietal lobule, and the left superior and middle temporal gyri. Early blind subjects also showed decreased functional connectivity between the right PVA and the bilateral SMA, pre‐ and postcentral gyri. Our findings suggest that early deprivation of a single sensory modality induces alterations of functional connectivity between the deprived functional area and other associated brain areas. Hum Brain Mapp, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cortical topography of human first dorsal interroseus during individuated and nonindividuated grip tasks
Authors: Reilly Karen T. , Mercier Catherine
Published: May 2007

Neural activity in the motor cortex and its descending projections is modulated in a task‐related manner. Several TMS studies have shown that when normal human subjects execute different manual tasks requiring similar contraction levels in first dorsal interroseous (FDI) there is a task‐related modulation of the amplitude of FDI motor evoked potentials (MEPs). Not all studies of task‐related changes show the same pattern of results, however. One reason for this might be methodological. Studies have assessed task‐related changes by stimulating a single site, which can provide information about task‐related changes in the excitability of the cortex at that site, but which is not sensitive to excitability changes throughout the muscle's cortical representation. We investigated how the execution of an individuated versus a nonindividuated isometric grasping task affected the excitability of FDI's entire cortical representation. We examined FDI MEP amplitudes while subjects grasped an object between their thumb and index finger, or when they grasped the same object between their thumb and all four fingers, keeping the background level of EMG in FDI constant for the two tasks. We found no overall task‐related change in the excitability of FDI or its cortical topography, possibly due to behavioral differences of individual subjects. The stability of FDI's cortical representation during two different manual tasks expands the possibilities for studying cortical reorganization in the context of active muscle contraction, which will enable us to better understand whether changes in the motor system observed when muscles are at rest are also present during voluntary muscle recruitment. Hum Brain Mapp, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ultrasound‐guided core‐needle biopsy in the diagnosis of head and neck masses: Indications, technique, and results
Authors: Pfeiffer Jens , Kayser Gian , Technau‐Ihling Katja , Boedeker Carsten Christof , Ridder Gerd Jürgen
Published: May 2007

Background.

Unclear cervicofacial masses are common presentations that often require tissue sampling to guide therapy. While open biopsy is invasive, fine‐needle aspiration cytology includes a high rate of nondiagnostic samples.

Methods.

A retrospective analysis on 181 core‐needle biopsies in 88 patients was performed to determine the diagnostic efficacy of ultrasound‐guided core‐needle biopsies in the head and neck.

Results.

We experienced 100% success in obtaining high‐quality histopathologic specimens. The target tissue was correctly sampled in 80 of 88 patients. In these patients the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy rate of core‐needle biopsies in differentiating benign from malignant cervicofacial lesions was 98.1%, 100%, and 98.8%, respectively.

Conclusions.

Ultrasound‐guided core‐needle biopsies can be recommended as a safe and reliable technique in the diagnosis of cervicofacial masses with a high diagnostic yield. It obtains tissue samples of high quality and represents a sufficient alternative to open biopsy even in the diagnosis of lymphoma. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 2007
Is galectin‐3 a good method for the detection of malignancy in patients with thyroid nodules and a cytologic diagnosis of “follicular neoplasm”? A critical appraisal of the evidence
Authors: Sanabria Alvaro , Carvalho André Lopes , Piana de Andrade Victor , Pablo Rodrigo Juan , Vartanian José Guilherme , Rinaldo Alessandra , Kazuo Ikeda Mauro , Devaney Kenneth Owen , Magrin José , Augusto Soares Fernando , Ferlito Alfio , Paulo Kowalski Luiz
Published: May 2007

Background.

Thyroid nodules are the most common surgical disease of the thyroid. Fine‐needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) is the most commonly employed tool for establishing a diagnosis. However, 15% to 25% of FNAB reports yield inconclusive results. Immunostaining of cytological smears from FNAB with galectin‐3 has been proposed as a tool for differentiating between benign and malignant nodules. We performed a systematic review to evaluate the utility of galectin‐3.

Methods.

Prospective studies of nodules with FNAB reports of “follicular neoplasm” and with a definitive diagnosis confirmed by histopathology were selected. Calculations of individual sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative likelihood ratios were made.

Results.

The articles selected were those with the best methodological quality.

Conclusion.

Galectin‐3 could be a good tool to guide therapeutic decision in patients with thyroid nodules and FNAB results of follicular neoplasm, but available information has methodological flaws that precludes a definitive answer about galectin‐3 utility in the clinical setting. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 2007
Overestimation and underestimation of hepatitis C virus RNA levels in a widely used real-time polymerase chain reaction–based method
Authors: Chevaliez Stéphane , Bouvier-Alias Magali , Brillet Rozenn , Pawlotsky Jean-Michel
Published: May 2007

The quantification of hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA is essential for the everyday management of chronic hepatitis C therapy. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques are potentially more sensitive than classical PCR techniques, are not prone to carryover contamination, and have a consistently wider dynamic range of quantification. Thus, they are rapidly replacing other technologies for the routine quantification of HCV RNA. We extensively evaluated the intrinsic characteristics and clinical performance of Cobas Ampliprep/Cobas TaqMan (CAP/CTM), the most widely used real-time PCR assay for HCV RNA quantification. This study shows that CAP/CTM is sensitive, specific, precise, and reproducible and has a broad dynamic range of quantification well suited to HCV RNA monitoring in clinical practice. However, we identified 2 technical issues that will have an impact in clinical practice. First, the CAP/CTM assay overestimates HCV RNA levels in undiluted patient samples by approximately 0.6 log10 international units per milliliter on average, and this overestimation increases with the viral load. Second, the CAP/CTM assay substantially underestimates HCV RNA levels in approximately 15% of genotype 2 samples and 30% of genotype 4 samples, probably because of mismatches with the target sequences due to the primer and/or probe design.

Conclusion:

As the CAP/CTM platform is widely available, easy to use, and suited to high-throughput screening for viral genomes, the manufacturer should improve the HCV RNA kit to resolve these 2 important technical issues that may affect everyday management of hepatitis C therapy. (HEPATOLOGY 2007.)
Catechol‐O‐methyltransferase val108/158met genotype and response to antipsychotic medication in schizophrenia
Authors: Illi Ari , Kampman Olli , Hänninen Kari , Anttila Sami , Mattila Kari M. , Katila Heikki , Rontu Riikka , Hurme Mikko , Lehtimäki Terho , Leinonen Esa
Published: May 2007

Catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT) gene has been investigated as a possible candidate gene in schizophrenia. The most studied polymorphism has been the functional val108/158met polymorphism of this COMT gene. There is also some evidence that this polymorphism could be related to drug response to antipsychotics in schizophrenia. COMT enzyme inactivates dopamine and noradrenaline. Based mainly on the original dopamine theory of schizophrenia, our primary hypothesis was that the maintenance dose of antipsychotics would be higher in patients with the low activity COMT genotype. In this study we evaluated the current daily dosage of antipsychotics in 180 patients with schizophrenia in connection with the COMT genotype. We could not demonstrate any clearly significant effect of this particular COMT genotype in relation to the daily maintenance dosages of antipsychotics in patients with schizophrenia. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Erratum: Exploring the clinical and social determinants of prescribing anticholinergic medication for Chinese patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Yu‐Tao Xiang , Yong‐Zhen Weng , Chi‐Ming Leung , Wai‐Kwong Tang , Ungavri Gabor Sandor
Published: May 2007

Human Psychopharmacology 2007; 22: 173–180

DOI: 10.1002/hup.830

It has come to our attention that there was an error to one of the author names within this published article. The correct author listing and author affiliation is now published below. We apologise for this anomaly.

Xiang Yu‐Tao1,2, Weng Yong‐Zhen2, Leung Chi‐Ming1, Tang Wai‐Kwong1, Ungvari Gabor Sandor1

1Department of Psychiatry, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China

2Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
Are wages more important for employees in poorer countries with harsher climates?
Authors: Van de Vliert Evert , Van Yperen Nico W. , Thierry Henk
Published: May 2007

The purpose of the present research was to demonstrate that the perceived importance of wages is a function of thermal climate and national wealth. As hypothesized, analyses of 37 nationally representative samples of 22 483 blue‐ and white‐collar workers and 5544 managers show that wages are perceived as more important in poorer countries with colder climates (e.g., Azerbaijan) than in richer countries with colder climates (e.g., Canada) and in poorer and richer countries with temperate climates (e.g., Uganda, Singapore). The results suggest that performance‐related pay may be most effective in poorer countries with colder climates. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A three tier evaluation of PTSD among Vietnam combat veterans
Authors: Hyer Lee , Boudewyns Patrick A. , Woods Marilyn G.
Published: May 2007

A three tier evaluation procedure for chronic Post‐traumatic Stress Disorder victims from Vietnam was presented. This evaluation attempts to disaggregate clinical data on a chronic population for purposes of treatment. One hundred veterans with PTSD took personality inventories (MCMI and MMPI), were included in a life style analysis procedure (including early recollections and irrational beliefs), and were evaluated on symptoms. Tier 1 consisted of a life style analysis. This procedure was described and selected data on early recollections and irrational beliefs were presented. Results reflected negative or trauma themes and an excessive amount of irrational beliefs. Tier 2 involved the use of the MCMI. A typology was developed based on a traumatic personality (Passive Aggressive and Avoidant) and three variants. Tier 3 involved symptoms, psychosocial and trauma. Results showed multiple psychosocial symptoms and emphasized the need to contextualize these within the personality (and life style). Also, traumatic memories were collected and four questions were developed to “address” these in therapy. A case history was presented on the use of this evaluation method.
Integrated qualitative assessment of wetland hydrological and land cover changes in a data scarce dry Ethiopian highland watershed
Authors: McHugh O. V. , McHugh A. N. , Eloundou‐Enyegue P. M. , Steenhuis T. S.
Published: May 2007

Wetlands are important sources of water for humans and livestock in the dry drought‐prone northern Ethiopian highlands. Hydrological changes in these wetlands affect local populations and are indicators of change in the upstream catchments. In this paper, we present a case study of hydrological and land cover changes in Hara Swamp located southeast of Kobo in Amhara State, Ethiopia. An integrated approach used remote sensing images, limited hydrological measurements, climatic data, and a survey of residents to gain complementary insights into what changes have occurred, when and why they occurred, and the local perceptions of these changes. Aerial photos and satellite images from 1964, 1973, 1986, 2000, and 2001 indicated limited flooding and dense woody vegetation cover in the wetland 40 years ago and a trend towards the current condition of no living trees/bushes, extensive flooding, and heavy sedimentation. Rainfall records revealed no significant trends which could sufficiently explain the observed changes in the wetland. A simple water budget analysis based on hydrological measurements indicated higher wetland flood levels were a result of increasing runoff and sediment inflow from the surrounding watershed over time. Reasons for increasing amounts of runoff were higher population pressure on the land and creation of more impermeable surfaces including houses and road construction in the watershed. Local residents' perceptions of the wetland changes, which were collected first, validated the sparse biophysical data and provided supplementary details. An integrated watershed management strategy is required to reverse the recent trends and protect the wetland resources. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Contrasting “complainers” with “non‐complainers” on attitude toward complaining, propensity to complain, and key personality characteristics: A nomological look
Authors: Bodey Kelli , Grace Debra
Published: May 2007

This study examines the influence of four personality characteristics (self‐efficacy, Machiavellianism, perceived control, and risk‐taking) on consumer attitude toward complaining and propensity to complain. The proposed model is tested on two groups of consumers classified as “complainers” and “non‐complainers.” The findings reveal that the two groups differ distinctly on the pattern of relationships among the variables. The implications of these differences are discussed. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analysis of a FitzHugh–Nagumo–Rall model of a neuronal network
Authors: Cardanobile Stefano , Mugnolo Delio
Published: May 2007

Pursuing an investigation started in (Math. Meth. Appl. Sci. 2007; 30:681–706), we consider a generalization of the FitzHugh–Nagumo model for the propagation of impulses in a network of nerve fibres. To this aim, we consider a whole neuronal network that includes models for axons, somata, dendrites, and synapses (of both inhibitory and excitatory type). We investigate separately the linear part by means of sesquilinear forms, in order to obtain well posedness and some qualitative properties. Once they are obtained, we perturb the linear problem by a nonlinear term and we prove existence of local solutions. Qualitative properties with biological meaning are also investigated. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modeling hyperelastic behavior of rubber: A novel invariant‐based and a review of constitutive models
Authors: Beda T.
Published: May 2007

A constitutive phenomenological model completing the Gent‐Thomas concept is carried out to formulate laws governing the hyperelastic behavior of incompressible rubber materials. It is shown that the phenomenological Gent‐Thomas model (1958) and the constrained chain model (1992) give similar precise results at small to moderate deformation. On the other hand, comparisons of the outcome of the proposed model with that of the molecular model from the combined concepts of Flory‐Erman and Boyce‐Arruda (2000), and with those of the phenomenological models of Ogden (1982), Yeoh‐Fleming (1997), Pucci‐Saccomandi (2002) and Beda (2005) are made. Residual inconveniences raised by attractive continuum models in rubber elasticity literature have been successfully overcome. Results from both the statistical and phenomenological mechanics concepts are compared with the data of some useful classical materials (rubbers of Treloar, Rivlin‐Saunders, Pak‐Flory and Yeoh‐Fleming). The results permit one to see salient equivalence of the two theories for a more reliable prediction of stress‐stretch response for all states of any mode of deformation. A complete and exhaustive analysis of the Mooney plot that combines small and very large extension‐compression has been quite essential in assessing the validity of models. A method of identification of material parameters is presented and data of the simple tension suffice for the determination of the parameter values. It is shown that the ordinary identification procedures, such as the usual least squares, a very much used numerical method in materials investigation, can be unsuitable in some cases of hyperelastic modeling. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 45: 1713–1732, 2007
A molecular dynamics simulation and quantum chemistry study of poly(dimethylsiloxane)–silica nanoparticle interactions
Authors: Smith James S. , Borodin Oleg , Smith Grant D. , Kober Edward M.
Published: May 2007

We have conducted atomistic molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) melts in contact with bare silica and modified (with hydroxyl and trimethylsiloxy groups) silica surfaces using a quantum chemistry‐based force field. MD simulations accurately predicted changes in PDMS dynamics with addition of SiO2 observed in quasielastic neutron scattering experiments. In MD simulations, the density of PDMS near the bare silica surface was found to be much greater and the dynamics of interfacial PDMS much slower than that observed for unperturbed PDMS melts due to strong Van der Waals dispersion forces between PDMS and the silica surface. The presence of hydroxyl and trimethylsiloxy groups on the silica surface resulted in a decrease in the density of interfacial PDMS and a speedup in polymer dynamics relative to those observed for PDMS near the bare silica surface due to increased separation between PDMS and the silica surface and a corresponding decrease in the strength of the dispersion attraction between the polymer and the surface. Despite the presence of strong hydrogen bonding interactions between small molecule models for hydroxylated silica and PDMS observed in our quantum chemistry studies, no significant hydrogen bonding was observed in the MD simulations of PDMS in contact with hydroxylated silica surfaces. Nevertheless, interactions between hydroxyl groups and PDMS oxygen atoms were found to play a role in determining structure and dynamics of interfacial PDMS for surfaces with low to moderate degrees of hydroxylation. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 45: 1599–1615, 2007
Characterization of a self‐oscillating polymer with periodic soluble‐insoluble changes
Authors: Ueda Masanori , Hara Yusuke , Sakai Takamasa , Yoshida Ryo , Takai Madoka , Ito Yoshihiro
Published: May 2007

A copolymer of N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAAm), ruthenium‐complex (Ru(bpy)3), and N‐succinimidyl acrylic acid (NAS) was synthesized to investigate its selfoscillating properties in a solution. This polymer exhibits selfoscillation in turbidity and viscosity synchronized via a Belousov–Zhabotinsky (BZ) reaction. The molecular size of the polymer during oscillation was investigated by dynamic light scattering and electrochemical measurements. Both molecular size and viscosity exhibited periodic changes during the BZ reaction. A simple mechanism accounting for such periodic changes was investigated by numerical calculations. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 45: 1578–1588, 2007
Miscibility and surface segregation in PVC/polyester blends—The influence of chain architecture and composition
Authors: Lindström Annika , Hakkarainen Minna
Published: May 2007

Four poly(butylene adipate) (PBA) polyesters, the structure ranging from linear to highly branched, were synthesized and solution casted with poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) in 20 or 40 wt % concentrations to evaluate the influence of polyester chain architecture on miscibility, surface segregation, and mechanical properties. The miscibility of PVC and polyesters is based on specific interactions between the carbonyl group in the polyester and PVC. These interactions cause a shift in the carbonyl absorption band in the FTIR spectra. The shifting of the carbonyl absorption band was more significant for all the 40 wt % blends compared with the blends containing 20 wt % of the same polyester. In the 20 wt % blends surface segregation and enrichment of polyester at the blend surface increased as a function of branching. However, all the films containing 40 wt % of polyester had similar surface composition. This is explained by better miscibility and stronger intermolecular interactions in the 40 wt % blends, which counteract the effect of branching on the surface segregation. High degree of branching resulted in poor miscibility with PVC and poor mechanical properties. A linear or slightly branched polyester structure, however, resulted in good miscibility and desirable blend properties. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 45: 1552–1563, 2007
Effect of AlN content on the performance of brominated epoxy resin for printed circuit board substrate
Authors: Yung K. C. , Zhu B. L. , Wu J. , Yue T. M. , Xie C. S.
Published: May 2007

Polymer matrix composites, based on brominated epoxy, a type of material widely used in printed circuit boards (PCBs), as matrix and AlN particle as filler were prepared. The influences of AlN content on the mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of the composites were investigated by uniaxial tensile test, TMA, thermal conductivity measurement, DMA, and dielectric properties measurement. It was found that the properties of composites monotonically varied with AlN content except that maximum tensile strength and strain of composites corresponded to a filler content of 10 wt %. The results of DMA also showed the AlN reinforcement was more pronounced above Tg, and the peak area of tan δ versus T curves decreased with AlN content, which implied the damping capacity of the composite gradually decreased. The increase in Tg and decrease in damping were probably due to strong interaction between the AlN and epoxy matrix inhibiting the mobility of the epoxy chain. In addition, different theoretical models reported in the literature were used to predict the E, CTE, k, and Dk, and compared with the experimental data. Finally, suitable models were recommended in the present materials system. For the significant improvement of performance of epoxy, we can conclude that these composite materials may be promising for PCB substrate. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 45: 1662–1674, 2007
Micro‐Raman study of strain fields around dislocations in GaAs
Authors: Irmer G. , Jurisch M.
Published: May 2007

The reliability of microelectronics devices strongly depends on defects like dislocations in the semiconductor wafers. Whereas several methods are routinely used to measure the dislocation density and residual stress in wafers, there is a need of methods to characterize the strain and stress fields around single dislocations with high lateral resolution. The strain and stress fields around single edge and screw dislocations in GaAs are considered, and the corresponding Raman shifts of the phonons are calculated. Due to the finite local resolution, mappings show averaged strain values. Requirements for lateral resolution and signal/noise ratios of the Raman measurements to characterize dislocations are discussed. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Quantitative determination of the cytidine deaminase inhibitor tetrahydrouridine (THU) in mouse plasma by liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Parise Robert A. , Egorin Merrill J. , Eiseman Julie L. , Joseph Erin , Covey Joseph M. , Beumer Jan H.
Published: May 2007

A number of anticancer drugs are cytidine analogues that undergo metabolic deactivation catalyzed by cytidine deaminase (CD). 3,4,5,6‐Tetrahydrouridine (THU) is a potent inhibitor of CD, by acting as a transition‐state analogue of its natural substrate cytidine. However, to date its pharmacokinetic properties have not been fully characterized, which has impaired its optimal preclinical evaluation and clinical use. We report a liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) assay for the sensitive, accurate and precise quantitation of THU in mouse plasma. Validation was performed according to FDA guidelines. The assay employed deuterated THU as the internal standard and an acetonitrile protein precipitation step. Separation, based on hydrophilic interaction chromatography, was achieved with an amino column and an isocratic mobile phase of 0.1% formic acid in acetonitrile and water followed by a wash. Chromatographic separation was followed by positive‐mode electrospray ionization MS/MS detection in the multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. The assay was accurate (92.5–109.9%) and precise (2.1–9.0%) in the concentration range of 0.2–50 µg/mL. Recovery from plasma was near‐complete (92.9–119.3%) and ion suppression was negligible (−17.5 to −0.2%). Plasma freeze/thaw stability (93.1–102.1%), stability for 3 months at −80°C (99.5–110.9%), and stability for 4 h at room temperature (92.1–102.4%) were all in order. This assay is currently being used to quantitate THU in ongoing pharmacokinetic studies. In addition, the assay is expected to be a useful tool in any future studies involving co‐administration of THU with cytidine analogues. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exact Solutions of the Unsteady Hydrodynamic and Hydromagnetic Boundary Layer Equations in a Rotating Fluid System
Authors: Debnath L.
Published: May 2007

This paper provides a general study of the unsteady hydrodynamic and hydromagnetic boundary layer flows including the effects of the pressure gradient and uniform suction or blowing. Exact solutions of the boundary layer equations are obtained by using the Laplace transform treatment. Asymptotic analysis is carried out to determine the unsteady flow field for small and large times. The structure of the velocity distribution and the associated boundary layers is investigated for resonant and, non‐resonant cases with physical significance. The ultimate steady‐state hydrodynamic and hydromagnetic boundary layer flows are examined for various cases related to uniform suction or blowing, resonant and non‐resonant frequencies. It is shown that the ultimate steady‐state flows are eventually established through inertial oscillations and the propagation of diffused waves. The non‐existence of the ultimate steady‐state hydrodynamic solution for the case of resonance and blowing is investigated with physical significance. In the hydromagnetic situation, the ultimate boundary layer flow is found to exist for all cases involved in the problem including the case of blowing and resonance. Several special results of interest are discussed.