bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementation of a Strength Training Program for a 5-Year-Old Child With Poor Body Awareness and Developmental Coordination Disorder
Authors: Kaufman Linda B , Schilling Denise L
Published: March 2007

Background and Purpose

This case report describes how a strength (muscle force-generating capacity) training program was associated with changes in muscle strength, motor function, and proprioceptive position sense in a young child with poor body awareness and a diagnosis of developmental coordination disorder.

Case Description

Assessment of a prekindergarten child referred for physical therapy because of behaviors compatible with poor body awareness revealed muscle weakness, poor performance on the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, and poor proprioception. Physical therapy testing done when the child was 5 years of age contributed to a pediatrician-assigned diagnosis of developmental coordination disorder. A 12-week strength training program was initiated.

Outcomes

Improvements were noted in muscle strength, gross motor function, and proprioception.

Discussion

Research indicates that muscles provide information about joint position. Evidence suggests that muscle strength gains seen in children are the result of neuromuscular learning and neural adaptations; therefore, a structured strength training program may have contributed to proprioceptive changes in this child.
Strain Accommodation during Phase Transformations in Olivine‐Based Cathodes as a Materials Selection Criterion for High‐Power Rechargeable Batteries
Authors: Meethong N. , Huang H.‐Y. S. , Speakman S. A. , Carter W. C. , Chiang Y.‐M.
Published: March 2007

High energy lithium‐ion batteries have improved performance in a wide variety of mobile electronic devices. A new goal in portable power is the achievement of safe and durable high‐power batteries for applications such as power tools and electric vehicles. Towards this end, olivine‐based positive electrodes are amongst the most important and technologically enabling materials. While certain lithium metal phosphate olivines have been shown to be promising, not all olivines demonstrate beneficial properties. The mechanisms allowing high power in these compounds have been extensively debated. Here we show that certain high rate capability olivines are distinguished by having extended lithium nonstoichiometry (up to ca. 20 %), with which is correlated a reduced lattice misfit as the material undergoes an electrochemically driven, reversible, first‐order phase transformation. The rate capability in several other intercalation oxides can also be correlated with lattice strain, and suggests that nanomechanics plays an important and previously unrecognized role in determining battery performance.
Design of solvents for optimal reaction rate constants
Authors: Folić Milica , Adjiman Claire S. , Pistikopoulos Efstratios N.
Published: March 2007

A hybrid experimental/computer‐aided methodology for the design of solvents for reactions is presented. It is based on the use of a few reaction rate measurements to build a reaction model, followed by the formulation and solution of an optimal computer‐aided molecular design problem (CAMD) in which the reaction rate under given conditions is maximized. In order to verify the suitability of the solvent candidates identified in the CAMD step, and to assess the reliability of the model used, feedback can be introduced. When the reliability of the model is found to be insufficient, experimental rate data for the candidate solvents are obtained and added to the original data set to create an updated reaction model, which can be used to find new candidate solvents. Since very few measurements are used to build the reaction model, we perform a sensitivity analysis on the model to assess the impact of uncertainty. Using this information to generate scenarios, we then solve a stochastic optimization problem, which aims to determine the solvents that give the best average performance. The final output consists of a list of candidate solvents which can be targeted for experimentation. This methodology is illustrated, step by step, through application to a solvolysis reaction. © 2007 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2007
Taylor‐Couette unit with a lobed inner cylinder cross section
Authors: Soos Miroslav , Wu Hua , Morbidelli Massimo
Published: March 2007

A new mixing unit, based on a modification of the classical Taylor‐Couette (TC) unit is proposed, where a lobed profile of the inner cylinder cross section is used. The shear rate distribution of the lobed Taylor‐Couette (LTC) unit have been computed through computational fluid dynamic simulations and compared with those of the TC unit and a standard stirred tank (ST). It is found that since the flow pattern of the LTC units becomes temporal‐periodic at each point with respect to the nonrotational outer cylinder, it reduces the formation of the low velocity gradient (low shear rate) region, typically generated in the vortex core of the TC units. The obtained distributions of the shear rate are substantially narrower than those of the TC and the ST units. Variation of the ratio between the maximum and the minimum gap widths can lead to significant changes in the shear rate distribution, and there exists an optimal range of such ratio, where the shear rate distribution is not only very narrow but also insensitive to the variation of the gap widths. © 2007 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2007
The dynamics of interactive information retrieval, Part II: An empirical study from the activity theory perspective
Authors: Xu Yunjie , Liu Chengliang
Published: March 2007

Human information‐seeking behavior is complicated. Activity theory is a powerful theoretical instrument to untangle the “complications.” Based on activity theory, a comprehensive framework is proposed in Part I (Y. Xu, 2007) of this report to describe interactive information retrieval (IIR) behavior. A set of propositions is also proposed to describe the mechanisms governing users' cognitive activity and the interaction between users' cognitive states and manifested retrieval behavior. An empirical study is carried out to verify the propositions. The authors' experimental simulation of 81 participants in one search session indicates the propositions are largely supported. Their findings indicate IIR behavior is planned. Users adopt a divide‐and‐conquer strategy in information retrieval. The planning of information retrieval activity is also partially manifested in query revision tactics. Users learn from previously read documents. A user's interaction with a system ultimately changes the user's information need and the resulting relevance judgment, but the dynamics of topicality perception and novelty perception occur at different paces.
Liquid chromatographic–mass spectrometry analysis and pharmacokinetic studies of a novel rabeprazole formulation, sterile powder for injection, in dogs and rats
Authors: Shao Feng , Sun Jianguo , Wang Guangji , Xie Haitang , Zhu Xiaoyan , Zhang Jingwei
Published: March 2007

Rabeprazole is among the most potent proton pump inhibitors (PPI) identified to date and it has been demonstrated that it is effective in such diseases as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), duodenal ulcer and gastric ulcer. There is currently interest in developing a new formulation: rabeprazole sterile powder for injection (RSPI). This investigation was conducted to evaluate the preclinical pharmacokinetics of RSPI in rats and at the same time a comparative study was carried out in dogs between RSPI and Pariet® tablets using liquid chromatographic–mass spectrometry analysis.

The liquid chromatographic–mass spectrometry method was first conducted and validated as being specific, and having accuracy, precision, sensitivity and a satisfactory recovery. After intravenous administration of RSPI (i.v.: 2, 6 and 18 mg/kg) to rats, no significant dose‐dependency was found in the CL (4.20–5.72 l/h/kg), Varead (0.94–1.32 l/kg), dose‐normalized AUC (197.20–245.82 µg/l*h based on 1 mg/kg) and t1/2 (p>0.05). In the dog, a randomized, open‐label, crossover experiment was carried out to show that the mean area under the plasma concentration‐time curve (AUC0–∞) after i.v. administration of RSPI was at least four times larger than that following oral administration of Pariet® tablet at an equivalent dose but the elimination half‐life of these two formulation was similar (p>0.05). The results showed that the pharmacokinetics of RSPI was linear (r2 = 0.98) in the dose range 2–18 mg/kg and the RSPI had a much higher AUC0–∞ and similar t1/2 values compared with the enteric‐coated tablet. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In vitro and in vivo comparative study of itraconazole bioavailability when formulated in highly soluble self‐emulsifying system and in solid dispersion
Authors: Park Mi‐Jin , Ren Shan , Lee Beom‐Jin
Published: March 2007

A semisolid self‐emulsifying system (SES) of itraconazole consisting of oleic acid, polysorbate 80 and coajuvant (citric acid) was prepared by a hot‐melt technique and then compared with hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) solid dispersion (SD) coated onto inert sugar spheres as a reference formulation for in vitro and in vivo disposition in rats. The optimal SES greatly increased dissolution rates in gastric (pH 1.2) and intestinal fluid (pH 6.8) by forming a microemulsion (150–250 nm), whereas that of SD was minimal. The tissue uptake of itraconazole from SES in whole intestine, liver and Peyer's patches of the rats was more favorable than that from SD and linearly increased as a function of administering dose. Interestingly, the uptake ratio of Peyer's patches relative to liver also increased linearly in the case of SES while that of SD was almost unchanged. After repeated dosing for 1 week, both SES and SD increased the areas of Peyer's patch region in intestinal tissues but no distinct histopathological damage of the intestine was observed except the hepatocytes. Due to the biopharmaceutical differences of SES in terms of efficient solubilization, easy dispersibility and higher lymphatic transport, the in vivo bioavailability of SES was about twice greater than that of SD in rats. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Application of the automated spatial surveillance program to birth defects surveillance data
Authors: Gardner Bennett R. , Strickland Matthew J. , Correa Adolfo
Published: March 2007

BACKGROUND: Although many birth defects surveillance programs incorporate georeferenced records into their databases, practical methods for routine spatial surveillance are lacking. We present a macroprogram written for the software package R designed for routine exploratory spatial analysis of birth defects data, the Automated Spatial Surveillance Program (ASSP), and present an application of this program using spina bifida prevalence data for metropolitan Atlanta. METHODS: Birth defects surveillance data were collected by the Metropolitan Atlanta Congenital Defects Program. We generated ASSP maps for two groups of years that correspond roughly to the periods before (1994–1998) and after (1999–2002) folic acid fortification of flour. ASSP maps display census tract–specific spina bifida prevalence, smoothed prevalence contours, and locations of statistically elevated prevalence. We used these maps to identify areas of elevated prevalence for spina bifida. RESULTS: We identified a large area of potential concern in the years following fortification of grains and cereals with folic acid. This area overlapped census tracts containing large numbers of Hispanic residents. CONCLUSIONS: The potential utility of ASSP for spatial disease monitoring was demonstrated by the identification of areas of high prevalence of spina bifida and may warrant further study and monitoring. We intend to further develop ASSP so that it becomes practical for routine spatial monitoring of birth defects. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
R‐spondin1—discovery of the long‐missing, mammalian female‐determining gene?
Authors: Wilhelm Dagmar
Published: March 2007

Until recently, sex determination in mammals has often been described as a male determination process, with male differentiation being the active and dominant pathway, and only in its absence is the passive female pathway followed. This picture has been challenged recently with the discovery that the gene encoding R‐spondin1 is mutated in human patients with female‐to‐male sex reversal.1 These findings might place R‐spondin1 in the exceptional position of being the female‐determining gene in mammals. In this review, possible roles of R‐spondin1 during sex determination as well as questions arising from this study will be discussed. BioEssays 29:314–318, 2007. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Does genetic conflict drive rapid molecular evolution of nuclear transport genes in Drosophila?
Authors: Presgraves Daven C.
Published: March 2007

The Segregation Distorter (SD) system of Drosophila melanogaster is one the best‐characterized meiotic drive complexes known. SD gains an unfair transmission advantage through heterozygous SD/SD+ males by incapacitating SD+‐bearing spermatids so that virtually all progeny inherit SD. Segregation distorter (Sd), the primary distorting locus in the SD complex, is a truncated duplication of the RanGAP gene, a major regulator of the small GTPase Ran, which has several functions including the maintenance of the nucleocytoplasmic RanGTP concentration gradient that mediates nuclear transport. The truncated Sd‐RanGAP protein is enzymatically active but mislocalizes to the nucleus where it somehow causes distortion. Here I present data consistent with the idea that wild‐type RanGAP, and possibly other loci able to influence the RanGTP gradient, has been caught up in an ancient genetic conflict that predates the SD complex. The legacy of this conflict could include the unexpectedly rapid evolution of nuclear transport‐related proteins, the accumulation of chromosomal inversions, the recruitment of gene duplications, and the turnover of repetitive sequences in the centric heterochromatin. BioEssays 29:386–391, 2007. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
DNA replication and models for the origin of piRNAs
Authors: Bateman Jack R. , Wu Chao‐ting
Published: March 2007

The piRNA class of small RNAs are distinct from other small RNAs by their ∼26–31 nucleotide size, single‐strandedness and strand‐specificity as well as by the clustered arrangement of their origins. Here, we highlight how these features are reminiscent of the mechanisms of DNA replication, and then present three models suggesting that the origin of piRNAs may be mechanistically similar to key processes in DNA replication. BioEssays 29:382–385, 2007. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Structural study of the zinc and cadmium complexes of a type 2 plant (Quercus suber) metallothionein: Insights by vibrational spectroscopy
Authors: Domènech Jordi , Tinti Anna , Capdevila Mercè , Atrian Silvia , Torreggiani Armida
Published: March 2007

Zn‐ and Cd‐complexes of Quercus suber metallothionein (QsMT) were obtained by in vivo‐synthesis, in order to obtain physiologically representative aggregates, and characterized by spectrometric and spectroscopic methods. The secondary structure elements and the coordination environments of the metal binding sites of the two aggregates were determined, as well as the main metal‐containing species formed. The results obtained from the analysis of the Raman and IR spectra reveal that these metal‐MT complexes predominantly contain β‐sheet elements (about 60%), whereas they lack α‐helices. These structural features slightly depend on the divalent metal bound. In particular, CdII binding to QsMT induces a slight increase of the β‐sheet percentage, as well as a decrease in β‐turn elements with respect to ZnII binding. Conversely, the in vivo capability of QsMT to inglobe metal and sulfide ions is metal‐depending. Spectroscopic vibrational data also confirm the presence of sulfide ligands in the metal clusters of both Zn‐ and Cd‐QsMT, while the participation of the spacer His residue in metal coordination was only found in Cd‐QsMT, in agreement with the CD results. Overall data suggest different coordination environments for ZnII and CdII ions in QsMT. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 86: 240–248, 2007.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
β‐sheet folding of 11‐kDa fibrillogenic polypeptide is completely aggregation driven
Authors: Topilina Natalya I. , Ermolenkov Vladimir V. , Higashiya Seiichiro , Welch John T. , Lednev Igor K.
Published: March 2007

A de novo polypeptide GH6[(GA)3GY(GA)3GE]8GAH6 (YE8) was designed and genetically engineered to form antiparallel β‐strands of GAGAGA repeats. Modulation of pH enables control of solubility, folding, and aggregation of YE8 by control of the overall polypeptide charge, a consequence of the protonation or deprotonation of the glutamic acid and histidine residues. YE8 exhibits all the major properties of a fibrillogenic protein providing an excellent model for detailed study of the fibrillation. At neutral pH, YE8 is soluble in disordered form, yet at pH 3.5 folds into a predominantly β‐sheet conformation that is fibrillogenic. Atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy indicated the formation of fibrillar aggregates on well‐defined, hydrophobic surfaces. The β‐sheet folding of YE8 exhibited a lag phase that could be eliminated by seeding or stirring. The strong dependence of lag time on polypeptide concentration established the limiting step in aggregation as initiation of β‐sheet folding. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 86: 261–264, 2007.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Catheter‐directed thrombolysis (intrathrombus injection) in treatment of deep venous thrombosis: A systematic review
Authors: Alesh Issa , Kayali Fadi , Stein Paul D.
Published: March 2007

Methods of delivery of thrombolytic agents for massive or limb threatening deep venous thrombosis (DVT) include a systemic infusion, local–regional administration, and catheter‐directed therapy (tip of catheter placed inside the thrombus). We evaluated the effectiveness of catheter‐directed therapy and compared the results with randomized clinical trials of systemic and local–regional thrombolytic therapy. Many who used catheter‐directed thrombolysis used balloon angioplasty, stents, or thrombectomy in addition. Pooled data showed higher rates of complete early opening of occluded veins with catheter‐directed thrombolysis alone, 90%, or with catheter‐directed thrombolysis often followed by adjunct therapy, 76%, than with a systemic infusion, 28%, or local–regional administration, 20%. The prevalence of postthrombotic syndrome was lower with catheter‐directed combined with adjunct therapy, 26%, compared with 56% and 69%, respectively. Rates of any bleeding were higher with catheter‐directed thrombolytic therapy, but bleeding was usually minor. In conclusion, the data suggest that catheter‐directed thrombolytic therapy may be more beneficial than systemic or local regional administration. An advantage is that it lends itself to adjunct treatment following the administration of thrombolytic agents if the thrombolysis is inadequate. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Isolated left pulmonary artery: Interventional stenting of a persistent fifth aortic arch
Authors: Koch A. , Ludwig J. , Zink S. , Singer H.
Published: March 2007

A few cases of isolated pulmonary artery have been successfully palliated by stenting the arterial duct using coronary stents. However, progressive luminal narrowing within the stent due to neointimal proliferation and peal formation is a considerable problem. We report the successful interventional palliation in a 7‐week‐old infant with isolated left pulmonary artery using sirolimus‐eluting stents. In this unusual case, the isolated pulmonary artery was supplied by a duct‐like remnant of a persistent fifth aortic arch, whereby the distal part of this vessel showed severe constriction. Implantation of two sirolimus‐eluting coronary stents re‐established good perfusion of the left pulmonary artery. Seven months after the procedure, echocardiography revealed that perfusion of the stented vessel and the left pulmonary artery was still very good. Stents eluting antimitotic agents also help to preserve the patency of small vessels in infants, and may be useful for ductal stenting. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Performance goals and endpoint assessments for clinical trials of femoropopliteal bare nitinol stents in patients with symptomatic peripheral arterial disease
Authors: Rocha‐Singh Krishna J. , Jaff Michael R. , Crabtree Tami R. , Bloch Daniel A. , Ansel Gary ,   on behalf of VIVA Physicians, Inc.
Published: March 2007

Objective: This analysis proposes safety and performance goals for prospective single‐arm trials of bare nitinol stents to treat patients with debilitating claudication associated with femoropopliteal (FP) atherosclerotic lesions. Background: To date there have been no analyses of clinical trials data to set efficacy and safety benchmarks for new bare nitinol stents in the treatment of claudication from FP disease. Industry has been reluctant to sponsor studies of nitinol stents due to logistical barriers. Methods: VIVA Physician's, Inc. (VPI) analyzed subject‐level data from the PTA control arm of three randomized FDA device trials conducted by industry. Subjects with Rutherford category 2‐4 claudication and FP lesion lengths 4–15 cm with 12 month duplex ultrasound (DUS) assessment were identified. These data were combined with the results of a survey of the medical literature (1990–2006) for similar subjects. Results: Analysis of the industry derived control arm PTA data identified 116 patients (mean lesion length 8.7 cm) with a 12 month DUS defined FP patency of 28%. A similar cohort of 191 patients was identified from the medical literature in which the 12‐month vessel patency equaled 37%; from these combined patient cohorts, expected vessel patency for PTA was estimated to equal 33%. Conclusion: Based on the PTA performance efficacy rate of 33% derived from industry clinical trial data and the medical literature, and the requirement that the bare nitinol stent 12‐month efficacy performance goal be set to equal twice this rate, the patency efficacy goal equals 66%. Additional information is provided on safety and other reporting standards and stent integrity evaluation for bare metal stents. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dual mechanism platypnea‐orthodeoxia syndrome from severe right coronary artery stenosis and a patent foramen ovale
Authors: Yeo Khung Keong , Rogers Jason H.
Published: March 2007

Platypnea‐orthodeoxia is a rare clinical syndrome characterized by hypoxemia induced during upright posture. Multiple mechanisms have been proposed to explain this clinical entity, usually involving posture‐provoked intracardiac or transpulmonary shunting. In many cases, however, a single etiology may not be evident, and multiple factors are likely contributory. We herein describe an unusual and novel case of platypnea‐orthodeoxia caused by the physiologic interaction between a severe proximal right coronary artery stenosis and a large patent foramen ovale. Percutaneous stenting of the right coronary artery and transcatheter closure of the patent foramen ovale during the same setting resulted in complete resolution of the patient's symptoms. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Photocatalytic Oxidation of PCE and Butyraldehyde over Titania Modified with Perovskite Optical Crystal BaTiO3
Authors: Vajifdar K. J. , Chen D. H. , Gossage J. L. , Li K. , Ye X. , Gadiyar G. , Ardoin B.
Published: March 2007

Photocatalysis utilizes near‐UV or visible light to break down organic pollutants into innocuous compounds at room temperatures. This paper introduces the use of semiconducting optical crystals as an additive to a photocatalyst. The perovskite optical material BaTiO3 (band gap of 3.7–3.8 eV) is found to increase VOC destruction when black light is used. The best composition found is 0.1 wt % BaTiO3 with the balance being TiO2. This photocatalyst increases tetrachloroethylene (PCE) conversion by 12 % to 32 % for space times between 1.4 and 17.2 seconds and inlet concentrations of 40 to 130 ppm with a 4 W black light. The average enhancement is approximately 25 %. For butyraldehyde conversion the maximum enhancement is 20 % at 130 ppm in 3.6 seconds. The UV/VIS spectroscopy data indicate a lower absorbance with the additive. The reaction parameters studied are space velocity, inlet concentration and light source. Oxidation by‐products are identified using a GCMS.
Device Performance Improvement of Double‐Pass Concentric Circular Mass Exchangers under Uniform Wall Fluxes
Authors: Ho C.‐D. , Chuang Y.‐C. , Tu J.‐W.
Published: March 2007

A double‐pass concentric circular mass exchanger under uniform wall fluxes is produced by inserting a permeable barrier into a circular tube to improve the device performance. The mathematical formulation was developed theoretically for such double‐pass, forced‐convection, mass‐transfer problems which are referred to as conjugated Graetz problems. The analytical solutions are obtained by the linear superposition of an asymptotic solution and a homogeneous solution which are linear in the axial direction and solved with the use of an eigenfunction expansion in a power series. The analytical results show that the mass‐transfer rate of a double‐pass mass exchanger can be improved compared to that of a single‐pass mass exchanger by suitably adjusting the permeable barrier position. Moreover, the ratio of mass‐transfer efficiency improvement and power consumption increment is also shown to make good economic sense.
Adsorption of Phenol from Aqueous Solutions on Jojoba Nuts Residue
Authors: Abu‐Arabi M. K. , Allawzi M. A. , Al‐Zoubi A. S.
Published: March 2007

Equilibrium isotherms for the adsorption of phenol from aqueous solutions of three types of Jojoba nuts residue were determined at 30, 40 and 55 °C. Types I and II were the residue after extracting the oil by leaching or by a pressing process, respectively. The third type was obtained by thermally treating the residue remaining after pressing. The phenol concentration ranged from 0–100 ppm in the aqueous solutions. A low adsorption capacity relative to activated carbon was obtained on types I and II, while the adsorption capacity of type III was much higher than types I and II. The results show that Jojoba nuts residue show good potential for adsorption of phenolic compounds if subjected to some type of treatment (activation). As the temperature increased from 30 to 55 °C, the adsorption capacity of types I and II decreased, but the increase had a negligible effect on type III. The experimental data were fitted to the appropriate adsorption models. The models used were Langmuir, Freundlich, Koble‐Corrigan and Redlich‐Peterson.
Simulations of Gas Distributors in the Design of Shallow Bubble Column Reactors
Authors: Bahadori F. , Rahimi R.
Published: March 2007

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was used to simulate the effect of sparger construction in gas holdup and liquid axial velocity in a shallow bubble column reactor for the air‐water system. Model parameters were evaluated in 2‐ and 3‐D simulations by using a two‐fluid model and the standard k‐ϵ turbulence model. The Eulerian‐Eulerian approach was employed to predict the height of column that is affected by the sparger. It was found that increasing the number of orifices in the sparger increases the total gas holdup. Moreover, each orifice causes an increase in the circulation and mixing of liquid in the column. The results of the simulations follow the trends observed in the findings of Dhotre and Joshi [1].
Investigations on the Coupling of Ethylene and Alkynes in [IrTp] Compounds: Water as an Effective Trapping Agent
Authors: Paneque Margarita , Posadas Cristina M. , Poveda Manuel L. , Rendón Nuria , Álvarez Eleuterio , Mereiter Kurt
Published: March 2007

The reaction of the bis(ethylene) complex [TpIr(C2H4)2] (1) (Tp: hydrotris(3,5‐dimethylpyrazolyl)borate) with two equivalents of dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate (DMAD) in CH2Cl2 at 25 °C gives the hydride–alkenyl species [TpIrH{C(R)C(R)C(R)C(R)CHCH2}] (2, R: CO2Me) in high yield. A careful study of this system has established the active role of a number of intermediates en route to producing 2. The first of these is the iridium(I) complex [TpIr(C2H4)(DMAD)] (4) formed by substitution of one of the ethylene ligands in 1 by a molecule of DMAD. Complex 4 reacts further with another equivalent of the alkyne to give the unsaturated metallacyclopentadiene [TpIr{C(R)C(R)C(R)C(R)}], which can be trapped by added water to give adduct 7, or can react with the C2H4 present in solution generating complex 2. This last step has been shown to proceed by insertion of ethylene into one of the IrC bonds of the metallacyclopentadiene and subsequent β‐H elimination. Complex 1 reacts sequentially with one equivalent of DMAD and one equivalent of methyl propiolate (MP) in the presence of water, with regioselective formation of the nonsymmetric iridacyclopentadiene [TpIr{C(R)C(R)C(H)C(R)}(H2O)] (9). Complex 9 reacts with ethylene giving a hydride–alkenyl complex 10, related to 2, in which the C2H4 has inserted regiospecifically into the IrC(R) bond that bears the CH functionality. Heating solutions of either 2 or 10 in CH2Cl2 allows the formation of the allyl species 3 or 11, respectively, by simple stereoselective migration of the hydride ligand to the Cα alkenyl carbon atom and concomitant bond reorganization of the resulting organic chain. All the compounds described herein have been characterized by microanalysis, IR and NMR spectroscopy, and for the case of 3, 7, 7⋅CO, 8⋅NCMe, 9, 9⋅NCMe, and 10, also by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies.
TiO2 Porous Electrodes with Hierarchical Branched Inner Channels for Charge Transport in Viscous Electrolytes
Authors: Zhao Yong , Sheng Xianliang , Zhai Jin , Jiang Lei , Yang Chunhe , Sun Zhongwei , Li Yongfang , Zhu Daoben
Published: March 2007

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) photoelectrodes with micro/nano hierarchical branched inner channels have been prepared by an electrohydrodynamic (EHD) technique and assembled to form dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Excellent penetration of ionic‐liquid electrolytes and enhanced light harvesting in the longer wavelength region are realized within the composite‐structure electrode, thus a better fill factor (ff) of 75.3 % and higher conversion efficiency (η) of 7.1 % are obtained for viscous ionic‐liquid electrolytes compared to pure nanostructured films. Hierarchical branched channels in the photoanodes can efficiently improve the transport properties of redox‐active species in viscous electrolytes, which is demonstrated by electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The incident monochromatic photon‐to‐electron conversion efficiency (IPCE) shows that enhanced light scattering in the composite film is of benefit for light harvesting and thus for solar energy conversion efficiency.
Organization of local interneurons in optic glomeruli of the dipterous visual system and comparisons with the antennal lobes
Authors: Strausfeld Nicholas J. , Sinakevitch Irina , Okamura Jun‐Ya
Published: March 2007

The lateral protocerebrum of the fly's brain is composed of a system of optic glomeruli, the organization of which compares to that of antennal lobe glomeruli. Each optic glomerulus receives converging axon terminals from a unique ensemble of optic lobe output neurons. Glomeruli are interconnected by systems of spiking and nonspiking local interneurons that are morphologically similar to diffuse and polarized local interneurons in the antennal lobes. GABA‐like immunoreactive processes richly supply optic glomeruli, which are also invaded by processes originating from the midbrain and subesophageal ganglia. These arrangements support the suggestion that circuits amongst optic glomeruli refine and elaborate visual information carried by optic lobe outputs, relaying data to long‐axoned neurons that extend to other parts of the central nervous system including thoracic ganglia. The representation in optic glomeruli of other modalities suggests that gating of visual information by other sensory inputs, a phenomenon documented from the recordings of descending neurons, could occur before the descending neuron dendrites. The present results demonstrate that future studies must consider the roles of other senses in visual processing. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2007.
Axon extension in the fast and slow lanes: Substratum‐dependent engagement of myosin II functions
Authors: Ketschek Andrea R. , Jones Steven L. , Gallo Gianluca
Published: March 2007

Axon extension involves the coordinated regulation of the neuronal cytoskeleton. Actin filaments drive protrusion of filopodia and lamellipodia while microtubules invade the growth cone, thereby providing structural support for the nascent axon. Furthermore, in order for axons to extend the growth cone must attach to the substratum. Previous work indicates that myosin II activity inhibits the advance of microtubules into the periphery of growth cones, and myosin II has also been implicated in mediating integrin‐dependent cell attachment. However, it is not clear how the functions of myosin II in regulating substratum attachment and microtubule advance are integrated during axon extension. We report that inhibition of myosin II function decreases the rate of axon extension on laminin, but surprisingly promotes extension rate on polylysine. The differential effects of myosin II inhibition on axon extension rate are attributable to myosin II having the primary function of mediating substratum attachment on laminin, but not on polylysine. Conversely, on polylysine the primary function of myosin II is to inhibit microtubule advance into growth cones. Thus, the substratum determines the role of myosin II in axon extension by controlling the functions of myosin II that contribute to extension. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2007.
Nicotine improves morphine‐induced impairment of memory: Possible involvement of N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptors in the nucleus accumbens
Authors: Ahmadi Shamseddin , Zarrindast Mohammad Reza , Haeri‐Rohani Ali , Rezayof Ameneh , Nouri Maryam
Published: March 2007

The possible involvement of N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) in nicotine's effect on impairment of memory by morphine was investigated. A passive avoidance task was used for memory assessment in male Wistar rats. Subcutaneous (s.c.) administration of morphine (5 and 10 mg/kg) after training impaired memory performance in the animals when tested 24 h later. Pretest administration of the same doses of morphine reversed impairment of memory because of post‐training administration of the opioid. Moreover, administration of nicotine (0.2 and 0.4 mg/kg, s.c.) before the test prevented impairment of memory by morphine (5 mg/kg) given after training. Impairment of memory performance in the animals because of post‐training administration of morphine (5 mg/kg) was also prevented by pretest administration of a noncompetitive NMDA receptor antagonist, MK‐801 (0.75 and 1 μg/rat). Interestingly, an ineffective dose of MK‐801 (0.5 μg/rat) in combination with low doses (0.075 and 0.1 mg/kg) of nicotine, which had no effects alone, synergistically improved memory performance impaired by morphine given after training. On the other hand, pretest administration of NMDA (0.1 and 0.5 μg/rat), which had no effect alone, in combination with an effective dose (0.4 mg/kg, s.c.) of nicotine prevented the improving effect of nicotine on memory impaired by pretreatment morphine. The results suggest a possible role for NMDA receptors of the NAc in the improving effect of nicotine on the morphine‐induced amnesia. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2007.
Amino acid profiling in plant cell cultures: An inter‐laboratory comparison of CE‐MS and GC‐MS
Authors: Williams Brad J. , Cameron Carson J. , Workman Ronald , Broeckling Corey D. , Sumner Lloyd W. , Smith Joel T.
Published: March 2007

A CE‐MS method for metabolic profiling of amino acids was developed and used in an integrated functional genomics project to study the response of Medicago truncatula liquid suspension cell cultures to stress. This project required the analysis of more than 500 root cell culture extracts. The CE‐MS method profiled 20 biologically important amino acids. The CE‐MS method required no sample derivatization prior to injection and used minimal sample preparation. The method is described in terms of CE and MS operational parameters, reproducibility of migration times and response ratios, sample preparation, sample throughput, and reliability. This method was then compared with a previously published report that used GC‐MS metabolic profiling for the same tissues. The data reveal a high level of similarity between the CE‐MS and GC‐MS amino acid profiling methods, thus supporting these as complementary technologies for metabolomics. We conclude that CE‐MS is a valid alternative to GC‐MS for targeted profiling of metabolites, such as amino acids, and possesses some significant advantages over GC‐MS.
Seismic analysis of skewed highway bridges with intermediate supports
Authors: Ghobarah A. A. , Tso W. K.
Published: March 2007

Due to the damage suffered by many skewed highway bridges during the San Fernando earthquake, 1971, a study is made on the dynamic response of this type of bridge. Using a beam model capable of flexural and torsional deformations, the mode shapes and frequency equations are presented. Due to the skewness of the intermediate supports, coupled flexural and torsional vibrations are shown to be excited by the vertical component of ground motion

An analysis is carried out for the Foothill Boulevard Undercrossing, S.E. Bridge in the San Fernando Valley, California which suffered damage to the intermediate supports. The results of the analysis correlate well with the observed damage pattern of the bridge.
Dynamic analysis of column‐supported hyperboloidal shells
Authors: Gould Phillip L. , Sen Subir K. , Suryoutomo Herman
Published: March 2007

The dynamic response of hyperboloidal shells on discrete column supports is studied using a curved rotational shell finite element. In this finite element formulation, the displacement field over each element domain is approximated by polynomial functions in which the coefficients of the linear terms correspond to the nodal values of the displacements and the higher order terms vanish at the nodal circles. The stiffness and mass matrices associated with the equations of motion are derived from Hamilton's variational principle and include the effects of transverse shearing deformation and rotatory inertia. Since the formulation, as such, involves a great many degrees of freedom because of the use of higher order displacement functions, the kinematic condensation technique is employed to reduce the order of the dynamic problem

The dynamic analysis indicates the importance of realistically modelling the base region of the shell. Studies on a prototype tower indicates that the base flexibility reduces the natural frequencies of the shell and increases the displacements near the base. The magnitude of this reduction, which could be significant, depends primarily on the tangential stiffnesses of the supporting columns and is hardly affected by the thickened ring beam at the base.
Time and amplitude dependent response of structures
Authors: Udwadia F. E. , Trifunac M. D.
Published: March 2007

An understanding of the precise nature of the non‐linear response of structures is essential for future improvement of earthquake resistant design procedures. This paper presents a summary of observations of dynamic behaviour which were made on two typical modern buildings during a period of about ten years. These structures underwent numerous tests and experienced three strong earthquake ground motions. The data presented should prove useful for calibration of parameters in theoretical non‐linear models

For buildings having an apparent soft‐spring‐type non‐linearity, a partial or complete recovery of the structural stiffness appears to occur following the large strains created by strong ground shaking. The rate and extent of this recovery appear to depend strongly on the strain levels throughout the excitation.
Fatigue failure characteristics of some models of jointed rock
Authors: Brown E. T. , Hudson J. A.
Published: March 2007

The time‐dependent failure of rock subjected to repeated loading can be explained in terms of the residual strength locus: catastrophic failure occurs when the accumulation of deformation is such that the residual strength locus is intercepted. In a preliminary experimental study of the fatigue characteristics of rock masses, highly idealized models of jointed rock were subjected to a series of cyclic uniaxial compression tests. The results of these experiments show that intact and failed models of jointed rock are extremely susceptible to cyclic fatigue failure, and that in these cases the residual strength locus interpretation of time‐dependent failure is correct.
Encouraging the flight of error: Ethical standards, evidence standards, and randomized trials
Authors: Boruch Robert
Published: March 2007

Thomas Jefferson recognized the value of reason and scientific experimentation in the eighteenth century. This chapter extends the idea in contemporary ways to standards that may be used to judge the ethical propriety of randomized trials and the dependability of evidence on effects of social interventions.
Method choice: Five discussant commentaries
Authors: Greene Jennifer C. , Lipsey Mark W. , Schwandt Thomas A. , Smith Nick L. , Tharp Roland G.
Published: March 2007

Productive dialogue is informed best by multiple and diverse voices. Five seasoned evaluators, representing a range of evaluation perspectives, offer their views in two‐ to three‐page discussant contributions. These individuals were asked to reflect and comment on the previous chapters in the spirit of critical review as a key source of evidence about methods choice.
Fabrication of nanostructured hydroxyapatite and analysis of human osteoblastic cellular response
Authors: Guo Xingyuan , Gough Julie E. , Xiao Ping , Liu Jing , Shen Zhijian
Published: March 2007

Nano‐sized hydroxyapatite (HA) powders were produced by a hydrothermal method and a precipitation method. Spark plasma sintering (SPS) was used to fabricate nanostructured HA (NHA) using nano‐sized HA powders as a precursor. Conventional sintering was employed to produce microstructured HA (MHA). Characteristics of HA powders and HA bulk ceramics after sintering were investigated by XRD, FTIR, SEM, TEM, particle size distribution, and AFM. Dense compacts consisting of equiaxed grains with an average grain size of ∼100 nm were obtained by SPS. Human osteoblasts were cultured on both NHA and MHA and cell attachment, proliferation, and mineralization were evaluated. After 90 min incubation, the cell density on NHA surface was significantly higher than that of MHA and glass control, whereas average cell area of a spread cell was significantly lower on NHA surface compared to MHA and glass control after 4 h incubation. Matrix mineralization was determined after 7 and 14 days incubation by using alizarin red assay combined with cetylpyridinium chloride extraction. NHA shows significant enhancement (p < 0.05) in mineralization compared to MHA. Results from this study suggest that NHA may be a much better candidate for clinical use in terms of bioactivity. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2007
Repair of critical size defects in the rat cranium using ceramic‐reinforced PLA scaffolds obtained by supercritical gas foaming
Authors: Montjovent Marc‐Olivier , Mathieu Laurence , Schmoekel Hugo , Mark Silke , Bourban Pierre‐Etienne , Zambelli Pierre‐Yves , Laurent‐Applegate Lee Ann , Pioletti Dominique P.
Published: March 2007

Bioresorbable scaffolds made of poly(L‐lactic acid) (PLA) obtained by supercritical gas foaming were recently described as suitable for tissue engineering, portraying biocompatibility with primary osteoblasts in vitro and interesting mechanical properties when reinforced with ceramics. The behavior of such constructs remained to be evaluated in vivo and therefore the present study was undertaken to compare different PLA/ceramic composite scaffolds obtained by supercritical gas foaming in a critical size defect craniotomy model in Sprague–Dawley rats. The host‐tissue reaction to the implants was evaluated semiquantitatively and similar tendencies were noted for all graft substitutes: initially highly reactive but decreasing with time implanted. Complete bone‐bridging was observed 18 weeks after implantation with PLA/ 5 wt % β‐TCP (PLA/TCP) and PLA/5 wt % HA (PLA/HA) scaffolds as assessed by histology and radiography. We show here for the first time that this solvent‐free technique provides a promising approach in tissue engineering demonstrating both the biocompatibility and osteoconductivity of the processed structures in vivo. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2007
Parapancreatic castleman disease: Contrast‐enhanced sonography and CT features
Authors: Mangini Monica , Aiani Luca , Bertolotti Elena , Imperatori Andrea , Rotolo Nicola , Paddeu Antonio , Uccella Silvia , Carrafiello Gianpaolo , Fugazzola Carlo
Published: March 2007

Castleman disease is a rare lymphoproliferative disorder that can be classified into 3 types: hyaline‐vascular, plasma cell, and mixed. We report a rare case of localized parapancreatic hyaline‐vascular Castleman disease that was evaluated using contrast‐enhanced sonography and CT. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2007
Sonographic appearance of epididymal microlithiasis
Authors: Vandervelde Clive , Varghese Ajay , Mason Althea , Howlett David
Published: March 2007

We report a case of epididymal microlithiasis that was diagnosed sonographically in a 75‐year‐old man undergoing scrotal sonographic examination to investigate right groin pain associated with an inguinal hernia. The sonographic appearance was that of multiple comet‐shaped foci of microcalcification throughout both epididymides, with associated comet‐tail artifacts. The testes had normal appearance with no evidence of testicular microlithiasis. The patient subsequently remained well after hernia repair. To our knowledge, epididymal microlithiasis has only previously been reported in a cadaveric study; the authors of that study hypothesized that the condition is caused by aging, with ischemia likely implicated in the pathogenesis. There are many other patterns of extratesticular calcification, including sperm granuloma, hematoma, and chronic epididymitis. We discuss how these differ in appearance from epididymal microlithiasis. Epididymal microlithiasis is a completely separate entity from testicular microlithiasis and should be recognized and dismissed by sonographers and radiologists. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2007
Endosonographic diagnosis and follow‐up of phlegmonous gastritis
Authors: Kan‐no Yukiko , Irisawa Atsushi , Takagi Tadayuki , Shibukawa Goro , Wakatsuki Takeru , Suzuki Eiji , Iwadate Haruyo , Sasajima Tomomi , Imamura Hidemichi , Takahashi Yuta , Hikichi Takuto , Ohira Hiromasa
Published: March 2007

We report a case of phlegmonous gastritis in a 36‐year‐old man presenting with anorexia, epigastralgia, and high fever. Endoscopy showed an edematous lesion suggesting a submucosal lesion. Endosonography revealed thickening of the gastric wall, mainly involving the submucosa, with a few anechoic areas. The separation between the submucosa and the muscularis propria was unclear. The patient was treated with antibiotics and endoscopic mucosal resection. Culture of the aspirated pus from the lesion revealed Streptococcus pyogenes. Follow‐up endosonography performed 1 week later showed significant improvement. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2007