bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
X‐chromosome inactivation patterns in monozygotic twins and sib pairs discordant for nonsyndromic cleft lip and/or palate
Authors: Kimani Jane W. , Shi Min , Daack‐Hirsch Sandra , Christensen Kaare , Moretti‐Ferreira Danilo , Marazita Mary L. , Field L. Leigh , Canady John W. , Murray Jeffrey C.
Published: November 2007

Nonsyndromic clefts of the lip and/or palate are common birth defects with a strong genetic component. Based on unequal gender ratios for clefting phenotypes, evidence for linkage to the X chromosome and the occurrence of several X‐linked clefting syndromes, we investigated the role of skewed X chromosome inactivation (XCI) in orofacial clefts. Our samples consisted of female monozygotic (MZ) twins (n = 8) and sister pairs (n = 152) discordant for nonsyndromic clefting. We measured the XCI pattern in peripheral blood lymphocyte DNA using a methylation based androgen receptor gene assay. Skewing of XCI was defined as the deviation in inactivation pattern from a 50:50 ratio. Our analysis revealed no significant difference in the degree of skewing between twin pairs (P = 0.3). However, borderline significant differences were observed in the sister pairs (P = 0.02), with the cleft lip with cleft palate group showing the most significant result (P = 0.01). We did not find evidence for involvement of skewed XCI in the discordance for clefting in our sample of female MZ twins. However, results from the paired sister study suggest the potential contribution of skewed XCI to orofacial clefting, particularly cleft lip and palate. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The face of Joubert syndrome: A study of dysmorphology and anthropometry
Authors: Braddock Stephen R. , Henley Kimberly M. , Maria Bernard L.
Published: November 2007

Joubert syndrome (JS) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by cerebellar vermis hypoplasia, hypotonia, developmental delay, apnea/hypernea and ophthalmologic abnormalities. Since its description, most attention has focused on hindbrain malformations and the hallmark molar tooth sign (MTS) when visualized on axial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Few reports have described a characteristic clinical phenotype of JS and a large cohort of patients has not undergone dysmorphology examinations. In addition, very little is known about other conditions which share some of the clinical and radiological features of JS, including, Arima, Senior‐Löken, Dekaban, COACH, and Varadi (OFD VI) syndromes. The purpose of this study was to document the morphologic characteristics of Joubert syndrome based upon detailed dysmorphology and anthropometric examinations in a large cohort of JS individuals to determine whether JS is associated with a specific pattern of malformation. Dysmorphology findings included long face, frontal prominence, bitemporal narrowing, ptosis, prominent nasal bridge and tip, prognathism, eyebrow abnormalities, trapezoid shaped mouth, lower lip eversion, and thick ear lobes. Anthropometric analyses showed several significant differences in measurements including bizygomatic, frontal, nasal, and mandibular dimensions. When compared to controls, younger JS patients had significantly increased facial widths whereas older patients had longer mandibular arc lengths. These data indicate that JS lacks a clear, specific recognizable pattern of malformation, despite being associated with several dysmorphic facial characteristics and distinct anthropometric facial patterns, which change with age. Variability and overlap of features in JS and other hindbrain syndromes makes clinical diagnosis difficult and probably reflects genetic heterogeneity within the cohort of patients with the MTS. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Haplotype evolution of SLITRK1, a candidate gene for Gilles de la Tourette Syndrome
Authors: Speed William C. , O'Roak Brian J. , Tárnok Zsanett , Barta Csaba , Pakstis Andrew J. , State Matthew W. , Kidd Kenneth K.
Published: November 2007

Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS) is a complex disorder with a clear genetic component but no clearly identified genes with variation of etiologic relevance. Various candidate regions and genes show some evidence of affecting risk, though clearly not all patients/families can be explained by any one of them. Resequencing one candidate gene, SLITRK1, has identified four new variants. Including them, we have typed over 2,300 normal individuals from 44 populations for 11 SNPs spanning the gene. The unusual global pattern seen is that one non‐ancestral haplotype is the single most common haplotype worldwide. Other haplotypes appear to result from accumulation of mutations with no evidence of historical recombination. Although there is no evidence of selection, the haplotype frequency variation seen around the world will need to be considered in any future association studies of this locus with GTS or any other neuropsychiatric disorder. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Biomechanical model of pronation efficiency: New insight into skeletal adaptation of the hominoid upper limb
Authors: Galtés Ignasi , Jordana Xavier , Cos Mònica , Malgosa Assumpció , Manyosa Joan
Published: November 2007

Despite considerable literature on the functional anatomy of the hominoid upper limb, there are no quantitative approaches relating to bone design and the resulting muscular‐activity enhancement. The purpose of this study is to quantitatively analyze the relationship between the rotational efficiency of the pronator teres muscle and the design of the skeletal structures on which it acts. Using conventional scan images of a human forearm for three rotational positions, this study develops an original biomechanical model that defines rotational efficiency as a mathematical function expressing a geometrical relationship between the origin and insertion muscular sites. The results show that this parameter varies throughout the entire pronation range, being maximal when the forearm lies around its functional position. Moreover, the rotational‐efficiency formula allows us to demonstrate, by several simulation conditions, that an improvement in pronation efficiency is derived from a large shaft radius curvature, a large humeral medial epicondyle, and a more proximal pronator teres radial attachment. The fact that forearm pronation efficiency can be inferred, even quantified, throughout the entire rotational range, by applying the biomechanical model developed here allows us to undertake anatomical approaches in the field of Evolutionary Anthropology, to interpret more precisely how skeletal design is related to upper‐limb function in extant and fossil primate taxa. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Delineating genetic relationships among the Maya
Authors: Ibarra‐Rivera Lisa , Mirabal Sheyla , Regueiro Manuela M. , Herrera Rene J.
Published: November 2007

By 250 AD, the Classic Maya had become the most advanced civilization within the New World, possessing the only well‐developed hieroglyphic writing system of the time and an advanced knowledge of mathematics, astronomy and architecture. Though only ruins of the empire remain, 7.5 million Mayan descendants still occupy areas of Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, and Honduras. Although they inhabit distant and distinct territories, speak more than 28 languages, and have been historically divided by warfare and a city‐state‐like political system, and they share characteristics such as rituals, artistic, architectural motifs that distinguish them as unequivocally Maya. This study was undertaken to determine whether these similarities among Mayan communities mirror genetic affinities or are merely a reflection of their common culture. Four Mayan populations were investigated (i.e., the K'iche and Kakchikel from Guatemala and the Campeche and Yucatan from Mexico) and compared with previously published populations across 15 autosomal STR loci. As a whole, the Maya emerge as a distinct group within Mesoamerica, indicating that they are more similar to each other than to other Mesoamerican groups. The data suggest that although geographic and political boundaries existed among Mayan communities, genetic exchanges between the different Mayan groups have occurred, supporting theories of extensive trading throughout the empire. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stand and shuffle: When does it make energetic sense?
Authors: Sylvester Adam D. , Kramer Patricia A.
Published: November 2007

Many reasons for the emergence of bipedalism have been proposed, including postural arguments which highlight that a sub‐optimal form of bipedalism (“shuffling”) might have been used by protohominids to cover short distances between resources that require bipedal standing. Bipedal shuffling may have been employed because it avoids the cost of raising the trunk from the quadrupedal orientation, which we assume is the habitual locomotor stance of protohominids. To date, these postural proposals have not been analytically assessed, a lack we rectify herein. Our model seeks to specify a threshold distance, below which bipedal shuffling uses less energy than quadrupedalism. Parameters for the model include the mechanical cost of transport, the ratio of bipedal to quadrupedal cost, and the cost associated with raising the trunk. We found that, using reasonable model parameters, open distances of ∼9–16 m support the use of bipedal shuffling. Protohominids may have used shuffling as an energetically effective way to traverse between resource patches. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Late Pleistocene human remains from Wezmeh Cave, western Iran
Authors: Trinkaus Erik , Biglari Fereidoun , Mashkour Marjan , Monchot Hervé , Reyss Jean‐Louis , Rougier Hélène , Heydari Saman , Abdi Kamyar
Published: November 2007

Paleontological analysis of remains from Wezmeh Cave in western Iran have yielded a Holocene Chalcolithic archeological assemblage, a rich Late Pleistocene carnivore faunal assemblage, and an isolated unerupted human maxillary premolar (P3 or possibly P4). Species representation and U‐series dating of faunal teeth place the carnivore assemblage during oxygen isotope stages (OIS) 3 and 2, and noninvasive gamma spectrometry dating of the human premolar places it at least as old as early OIS 2. The human premolar crown morphology is not diagnostic of late archaic versus early modern human affinities, but its buccolingual diameter places it at the upper limits of Late Pleistocene human P3 and P4 dimensions and separate from a terminal Pleistocene regional sample. Wezmeh Cave therefore provides additional Paleolithic human remains from the Zagros Mountains and further documents Late Pleistocene human association with otherwise carnivore‐dominated cave assemblages. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterization of morphology in chemically modified styrene‐b‐(ethylene‐co‐butylene)‐b‐styrene by solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance
Authors: Collar Emilia P. , García‐Martínez Jesús M. , Garrido Leoncio
Published: November 2007

Multiphase triblock styrene‐b‐(ethylene‐co‐butylene)‐b‐styrene (SEBS) copolymers chemically modified with maleic anhydride (MAH) in the presence of a radical initiator by reactive extrusion were studied by solid‐state 1H‐NMR and 13C‐NMR. In the experiments performed, the concentrations of MAH and initiator were kept constant, whereas the temperature profile in the extruder was varied. Samples with known extents of grafting and crosslinking were analyzed with NMR with techniques based on proton spin diffusion to investigate the microphase structure of the modified copolymers. The 13C‐NMR results show that the size of the rigid domains was about 15 nm and was not significantly changed by the modification. Alterations in the rubbery phase were illustrated by measured changes in proton spin‐spin (T2) relaxation times. The fraction of protons having intermediate mobilities increased slightly in modified SEBS with respect to that observed in unmodified copolymers. These results were found to be independent of the extruder temperature profiles used, at least in the range studied. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Synthesis and properties of novel amphiphilic sulfated ionomers by the ring‐opening reaction of an epoxidized styrene–butadiene–styrene triblock copolymer
Authors: Xie Hong‐Quan , Zhao Wei , Yang Wei , Xie Dong
Published: November 2007

A method for the synthesis of novel sulfated ionomer of styrene–butadiene–styrene triblock copolymer (SBS) was developed. SBS was first epoxidized by performic acid in the presence of a phase‐transfer catalyst; this was followed by a ring‐opening reaction with an aqueous solution of alkali salt of bisulfate. The optimum conditions for the ring‐opening reaction of the epoxidized SBS with an aqueous solution of KHSO4 were studied. During the ring‐opening reaction, both phase‐transfer catalyst and ring‐opening catalyst were necessary to enhance the conversion of epoxy groups to ionic groups. The products were characterized with Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). After the potassium ions of the ionomer were substituted with lead ions, the lead sulfated ionomer exhibited dark spots under TEM. Some properties of the sulfated ionomer were studied. With increasing ionic groups or ionic potential of the cations, the water absorbency and emulsifying volume of the ionomer and the intrinsic viscosity of the ionomer solution increased, whereas the oil absorbency decreased. The sulfated ionomer possessed excellent emulsifying properties compared with the sulfonated SBS ionomer. The sodium sulfated ionomers in the presence of 10% zinc stearate showed better mechanical properties than the original SBS. When the ionomer was blended with crystalline polypropylene, a synergistic effect occurred with respect to the tensile strength. The ionomer behaved as a compatibilizer for blending equal amounts of SBS and oil‐resistant chlorohydrin rubber. In the presence of 3% ionomer, the blend exhibited much better mechanical properties and solvent resistance than the blend without the ionomer. SEM photographs indicated improved compatibility between the two components of the blend in the presence of the ionomer. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Biodegradable poly(sebacic acid‐co‐ricinoleic‐ester anhydride) tamoxifen citrate implants: Preparation andin vitrocharacterization
Authors: Hiremath J. G. , Kusum Devi V. , Devi Kshama , Domb A. J.
Published: November 2007

The aim of this study was to prepare tamoxifen citrate loaded cylindrical polymeric implants for application at tumor sites. The implant was based on poly (sebacic acid‐co‐ricinoleic‐ester anhydride) 70 : 30 w/w [poly(SA‐RA) 70 : 30 w/w], a low‐melting, biodegradable, and biocompatible polymer. Implants were prepared by a standardized melt manufacturing method. Differential scanning calorimetry and scanning electron microscopy were used for implant characterization.In vitrodrug release studies were performed in phosphate‐buffered saline (pH 7.4) at 37 ± 2°C. The drug content was estimated by high‐performance liquid chromatography. The differential scanning calorimetry studies showed that the tamoxifen citrate in the implants was in the amorphous state. The cumulative percentage of drug release from 10 and 20 wt % drug‐loaded poly(SA‐RA) 70 : 30 w/w implants after 30 days was found to be 42.36 and 62.60%, respectively. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Treatment of rumination maintained by automatic reinforcement: a comparison of extra portions during a meal and supplemental post‐meal feedings
Authors: Kenzer Amy L. , Wallace Michele D.
Published: November 2007

This study evaluated the effects of two satiation procedures, large portions and supplementary feedings, as interventions for rumination maintained by automatic reinforcement for an individual with developmental disabilities. Results showed that supplemental feedings produced a greater reduction in the rate of rumination than the large portions treatment. Additionally, 30 min supplemental feedings were more effective than 15 min supplemental feedings. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification of bacteria using matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Kedney Mollie G. , Strunk Kevin B. , Giaquinto Lisa M. , Wagner Jennifer A. , Pollack Sidney , Patton Walter A.
Published: November 2007

Matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS or simply MALDI)1 has become ubiquitous in the identification and analysis of biomacromolecules. As a technique that allows for the molecular weight determination of otherwise nonvolatile molecules, MALDI has had a profound impact in the molecular biosciences, especially in the field of proteomics. MALDI analysis of whole organisms allows for the generation of a phenotypic profile or “molecular fingerprint;” once established, these fingerprints can be used for identification purposes.
An undergraduate laboratory exercise to study the effect of darkness on plant gene expression using DNA microarray
Authors: Chang Ming‐Mei , Briggs George M.
Published: November 2007

DNA microarrays are microscopic arrays on a solid surface, typically a glass slide, on which DNA oligonucleotides are deposited or synthesized in a high‐density matrix with a predetermined spatial order. Several types of DNA microarrays have been developed and used for various biological studies. Here, we developed an undergraduate laboratory exercise using an Arabidopsis DNA microarray to study the gene expression of Brassica rapa, Wisconsin Fast Plant. Genes involved in senescence, cell wall loosening/degradation, and sugar transport were the most upregulated, while those involved in photosynthesis, the elimination of reactive oxygen intermediates associated with photooxidative stress and auxin synthesis, were the most downregulated. Students were able to complete the experiment successfully. Throughout the exercise, they learned various important molecular techniques including RNA isolation, quantification, reverse transcription, cRNA synthesis, labeling and purification, and microarray hybridization, washing, scanning, and feature extraction. The exercise can be integrated into a college‐level molecular biology laboratory. The procedure used can be adapted to examine other effects on other organisms.
Binding study of Flos Lonicerae Japonicae with bovine serum albumin using centrifugal ultrafiltration and liquid chromatography
Authors: Qian Zheng‐Ming , Qin Su‐Juan , Yi Ling , Li Hui‐Jun , Li Ping , Wen Xiao‐Dong
Published: November 2007

The screening and analysis of bioactive components in traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) is very important not only for the quality control of Chinese herbs but also for elucidating the therapeutic principles. This study developed a new method for screening and analyzing bioactive compounds from TCMs using centrifugal ultrafiltration coupled with high‐performance liquid chromatography. The method was successfully applied in the binding study of Flos Lonicerae Japonicae with bovine serum albumin (BSA), and 11 compounds were found to be bound with the BSA. Eight of them were positively identified as chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, rutin, quercetin‐3‐O‐glucoside, luteolin‐7‐O‐glucoside, lonicerin, 3, 5‐di‐O‐caffeoyl quinic acid and 3,4‐di‐O‐caffeoyl quinic acid. Another three compounds were tentatively identified as two isomers of chlorogenic acid and one isomer of di‐O‐caffeoyl quinic acid by comparing the UV data and MS data with the previous reports. Based on modern pharmacological study, these compounds are the major bioactive components in Lonicera japonica. Therefore, the proposed method could be a good approach to predicting the potential bioactivities of multiple compounds in TCMs simultaneously. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A simple and rapid determination of valproic acid in human plasma using a non‐porous silica column and liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometric detection
Authors: Matsuura Katsuhiko , Ohmori Tomofumi , Nakamura Mitsuhiro , Itoh Yoshinori , Hirano Kazuyuki
Published: November 2007

A liquid chromatographic tandem mass spectrometric (LC‐MS/MS) assay was developed and validated to determine valproic acid in human plasma. The method involved a solid‐phase extraction of valproic acid and betamethasone valerate, an internal standard, from plasma and detection using an LC‐MS/MS system with electrospray ionization source in negative ion mode. Separation was achieved within 3 min on a non‐porous silica column with mobile phase containing ammonium acetate and methanol. Multiple reaction monitoring was utilized for detection monitoring at 142.89–142.89 for valproic acid and 457.21–457.21 for the internal standard. The calibration curve for valproic acid was linear over the range of 0.5–150 µg/mL. The limit of detection was 0.17 µg/mL and the lower limit of quantification was 0.5 µg/mL, when 0.2 mL plasma was used for extraction. The percentage coefficient of validation for accuracy and precision (inter‐ and intra‐day) for this method was less than 9.5% with recovery ranging from 82.3 to 86.9% for valproic acid. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inhibition deficits of serious delinquent boys of low intelligence
Authors: Koolhof Roos , Loeber Rolf , Wei Evelyn H. , Pardini Dustin , D'escury Annematt Collot
Published: November 2007

Introduction Studies have shown that low intelligence (IQ) and delinquency are strongly associated. This study focuses on inhibitory deficits as the source for the association between low IQ and delinquency. Further, the authors explore whether serious delinquent boys with a low IQ are exposed to more risk factors than serious delinquent boys with an average to high IQ. They also examine the extent to which low IQ and higher IQ serious delinquents incurred contact with the juvenile court because of their delinquent behaviour.

Methods Cross‐sectional and longitudinal data from the Pittsburgh Youth Study were used to constitute four groups of boys: low IQ serious delinquents (n = 39), higher IQ serious delinquents (n = 149), low IQ non‐to‐moderate delinquents (n = 21) and higher IQ non‐to‐moderate delinquents (n = 219).

Results Low IQ serious delinquents committed more delinquent acts than higher IQ serious offenders. Low IQ serious delinquent boys also exhibited the highest levels of cognitive and behavioural impulsivity. There were no differences between low IQ and higher IQ serious delinquents on measures of empathy and guilt feelings. Instead, elevations on these characteristics were associated with serious offenders as a whole. Compared with higher IQ serious delinquents, low IQ serious delinquents were exposed to more risk factors, such as low academic achievement, being old for grade, depressed mood and poor housing.

Conclusions Inhibition deficits appear important in the aetiology of delinquency, especially among low IQ boys. Serious delinquent boys are all impulsive, but the higher IQ serious delinquents seem to have a better cognitive control system. Interventions aimed at low IQ boys should focus on the remediation of behavioural impulsivity as well as cognitive impulsivity. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Supramolecule‐Regulated Photophysics of Oligo(p‐phenyleneethynylene)‐Based Rod–Coil Block Copolymers: Effect of Molecular Architecture
Authors: Pu Kan‐Yi , Qi Xiao‐Ying , Yang Yan‐Lian , Lu Xiao‐Mei , Li Ting‐Cheng , Fan Qu‐Li , Wang Chen , Liu Bin , Chan Hardy Sze On , Huang Wei
Published: November 2007

Three new topology‐varied rod–coil block copolymers, comprising the same oligo(p‐phenyleneethynylene) (OPE) rod components and the same coil components, were synthesized by atom‐transfer radical polymerization. Their photophysical properties were systematically studied and compared in consideration of their solid‐state structures and self‐assembly abilities. These copolymers have similar intrinsic photophysical properties to the OPE rods, as reflected in dilute solution. However, their photophysical properties in the solid state are manipulated to be dissimilar by supramolecular organization. Wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) data demonstrate that these copolymers possess different self‐assembly abilities due to the molecular‐architecture‐dependent π–π interactions of the rods. Hence, the aggregates in the solid state are formed with a different mechanism for these copolymers, bringing about the discrepancy in the solid‐state luminescent properties.
A Phosphine‐Mediated Through‐Space Exchange Coupling Pathway for Unpaired Electrons in a Heterobimetallic Lanthanide–Transition Metal Complex
Authors: Raturi Ritu , Lefebvre Julie , Leznoff Daniel B. , McGarvey Bruce R. , Johnson Samuel A.
Published: November 2007

The reaction of P(CH2OH)3 with methyl anthranilate NH2C6H4‐2‐CO2Me produced the ligand precursor P(CH2NHC6H4‐2‐CO2Me)3 (1). The reaction of 1 with [Y{N(SiMe3)2}3] produced hexadentate yttrium complex [Y{P(CH2NC6H4‐2‐CO2Me)3}] (2), in which the metal centre is coordinated by three amido donors and the three carbonyl oxygen atoms of the ester groups. The 31P{1H} NMR spectrum features 1JY,P=15 Hz, and DFT calculations demonstrate that through‐space interaction between the minor lobe of the phosphine lone pair and the yttrium centre allows a large Fermi contact contribution to this spin coupling constant. The EPR spectrum of the analogous paramagnetic Gd complex [Gd{P(CH2NC6H4‐2‐CO2Me)3}] (3) can be modelled by using a B20 crystal field parameter of ±0.19 cm−1. Heterodinuclear complexes were prepared by the reactions of 1 and 3 with [5,10,15,20‐tetrakis(4‐methoxyphenyl)porphinato]cobalt(II), by binding of the phosphine lone pair to the d7 cobalt centre. The solid‐state EPR spectrum of the heterodinuclear yttrium complex 4 exhibits large superhyperfine coupling to the phosphorus nucleus, indicative of an S=1/2 complex in which the unpaired electron resides in the cobalt d orbital directed at the phosphine donor. The magnetic susceptibility of the heterodinuclear Gd–Co complex 5 demonstrates that through‐space antiferromagnetic coupling occurs between unpaired electrons on the gadolinium and cobalt centres.
Sequence‐Specific Alkylation by Y‐Shaped and Tandem Hairpin Pyrrole–Imidazole Polyamides
Authors: Sasaki Shunta , Bando Toshikazu , Minoshima Masafumi , Shinohara Ken‐ichi , Sugiyama Hiroshi
Published: November 2007

To extend the target DNA sequence length of the hairpin pyrrole–imidazole (Py–Im) polyamide 1, we designed and synthesized Y‐shaped and tandem hairpin Py–Im polyamides 2 and 3, which possess 1‐(chloromethyl)‐5‐hydroxy‐1,2‐dihydro‐3H‐benz[e]indole (seco‐CBI) as DNA‐alkylating moieties. High‐resolution denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis by using 5′‐Texas‐Red‐labeled 465 base pair (bp) DNA fragments revealed that conjugates 2 and 3 alkylated the adenine of the target DNA sequences at nanomolar concentrations. Conjugate 2 alkylated adenine N3 at the 3′ end of two 8 bp match sequences, 5′‐AATAACCA‐3′ (site A) and 5′‐AAATTCCA‐3′ (site C), while conjugate 3 recognized one 10 bp match sequence, 5′‐AGAATAACCA‐3′ (site A) in the 465 bp DNA fragments. These results demonstrate that seco‐CBI conjugates of Y‐shaped and tandem hairpin polyamides have extended their target alkylation sequences.
Quantitative Conformational Study of Redox‐Active [2]Rotaxanes, Part 1: Methodology and Application to a Model [2]Rotaxane
Authors: Altobello Silvano , Nikitin Kirill , Stolarczyk Jacek K. , Lestini Elena , Fitzmaurice Donald
Published: November 2007

This paper reports a novel methodology for the conformational analysis of [2]rotaxanes. It combines NMR spectroscopic (COSY, NOESY and the recently reported paramagnetic line‐broadening and suppression technique) and electrochemical techniques to enable a quantitative analysis of the co‐conformations of interlocked molecules and the conformations of their components. This methodology was used to study a model [2]rotaxane in solution. This [2]rotaxane consists of an axle that incorporates an electron‐poor, doubly positively charged viologen that threads an electron‐rich crown ether. It has been shown that the axle of the [2]rotaxane in its dicationic state adopts a folded conformation in solution and the crown ether is localised at the viologen moiety. Following a one‐electron reduction of viologen, the paramagnetic radical cation of the [2]rotaxane retains its folded conformation in solution. The data also demonstrate that in the radical cation the crown ether remains localised at the viologen, despite its reduced affinity for the singly reduced viologen. The combined quantitative NMR spectroscopic and electrochemical characterisation of the electromechanical function of the model [2]rotaxane in solution provides an important reference point for the study of switching in structurally related bistable [2]rotaxanes, which is the subject of the second part of this work.
Revealing Phenylium, Phenonium, Vinylenephenonium, and Benzenium Ions in Solution
Authors: Manet Ilse , Monti Sandra , Grabner Gottfried , Protti Stefano , Dondi Daniele , Dichiarante Valentina , Fagnoni Maurizio , Albini Angelo
Published: November 2007

The 4‐methoxyphenylium ion has been generated in the triplet state (3An+) by photolysis of 4‐chloroanisole in polar media and detected by flash photolysis (λmax=400 nm). This is the first detection of a phenylium ion in solution by flash photolysis and the assignment is supported by time‐dependent density functional theory (TD‐DFT) calculations. In neat solvents, the cation was reduced to anisole, a process initiated by electron transfer from the starting compound (3An++AnCl→An.+AnCl.+, with the radical cation detected at 470 nm, then An.→AnH). Addition of π nucleophiles to the 3An+ cation offers a novel access to a number of other cationic intermediates under mild, nonacidic conditions. Two intermediates are successively formed with alkenes, a diradical cation and the phenonium ion, which are detected at 440 and 320 nm, respectively, by flash photolysis and are in accordance with calculations. Allylanisoles or β‐alkoxyalkylanisoles are the end products, with a small amount of α‐alkoxyalkylanisoles that arises from a Wagner–Meerwein rearrangement to form benzyl cations. Further intermediates that have been predicted and detected are the phenylvinylium ion, possibly in equilibrium with the vinylenephenonium ion, with 1‐hexyne (λmax=340 nm) and the benzenium ion with benzene (λmax=380 nm). The final products were anisylhexyne and methoxybiphenyl (an analogous product and intermediate were detected with thiophene).
Huge Deuterated Effect on Permittivity in a Metal–Organic Framework
Authors: Zhao Hong , Ye Qiong , Qu Zhi‐Rong , Fu Da‐Wei , Xiong Ren‐Gen , Huang Songping D. , Chan Philip Wai Hong
Published: November 2007

Colorless block crystals of MOF (metal‐organic framework) 1 and 2 were prepared in respective yields of 65 and 60 % by thermal treatment of HQA (HQA=6‐methoxyl‐(8S,9R)‐cinchonan‐9‐ol‐3‐carboxylic acid) with ZnBr2 in either H2O or D2O and 2‐butanol at 70 °C for 1–2 days. The MOFs 1 and 2 are isostructural, one‐dimensional chains in which the local coordination geometry around the Zn center can be best described as a slightly distorted tetrahedron defined by two bromine atoms, one nitrogen atom of quinoline from HQA, and an oxygen atom of carboxylate from HQA. The nitrogen atom of the quinuclidine of HQA is protonated in a zwitterionic form. The MOFs 1 and 2 crystallize in a polar point group (C2, space group P21) which belongs to ferroelectric active compounds. MOFs 1 and 2 display both ferroelectric behavior and large dielectric constants. Interestingly, at low frequency range the dielectric response to water can achieve an approximate increase of more than 600 %. Crystal parameters: 1: C20H28Br2NO7Zn, M=619.62, monoclinic, P21, a=9.5711(8), b=12.0486(10), c=11.1972(9) Å, α=γ=90, β=98.4(2)°, V=1277.39(18) Å3, Z=2, ρcald=1.611 mg m−3, R1=0.0499, wR2=0.0982, μ=4.126 mm−1, S=1.015, Flack value=0.032(13); 2: C20H22D6Br2NO7Zn, M=625.66, monoclinic, P21, a=9.5650(9), b=12.0392(11), c=11.1973(10) Å, α=γ=90, β=98.44(2)°, V=1275.5(2) Å3, Z=2, ρcald=1.629 mg m−3, R1=0.0543, wR2=0.1072, μ=4.133 mm−1, S=1.056, Flack value=0.025(17).
Polyhedral Structures with an Odd Number of Vertices: Nine‐Coordinate Metal Compounds
Authors: Ruiz‐Martínez Antonio , Casanova David , Alvarez Santiago
Published: November 2007

The stereochemistry of nine‐coordinate transition‐metal and rare‐earth compounds has been studied by means of continuous shape measures (CShM) and related tools. Several reference nine‐vertex polyhedra have been defined and their minimal distortion interconversion paths established. A theoretical shape map is presented in which the structures can be placed according to their distances in CShM space to the capped square antiprism and the tricapped trigonal prism, which are the most common polyhedra in nine‐coordinate compounds. The structures of almost 2000 metal coordination spheres in molecular and extended solid‐state compounds have been analyzed. Clear stereochemical trends can be established for subsets of these compounds grouped according to the nature of their ligands, which include families of compounds spread along the interconversion paths between the capped square antiprism and the capped cube, or between the tricapped trigonal prism and the tridiminished icosahedron.
Liquid‐Crystalline Rigid‐Core Semiconductor Oligothiophenes: Influence of Molecular Structure on Phase Behaviour and Thin‐Film Properties
Authors: Melucci Manuela , Favaretto Laura , Bettini Christian , Gazzano Massimo , Camaioni Nadia , Maccagnani Piera , Ostoja Paolo , Monari Magda , Barbarella Giovanna
Published: November 2007

The design, synthesis and properties of liquid‐crystalline semiconducting oligothiophenes containing dithienothiophene (DTT), benzothiadiazole (BTZ) and carbazole (CBZ) rigid cores are described. The effect of molecular structure (shape, size and substitution) on their thermal behaviour and electrical properties has been investigated. Polarised optical microscopy (POM) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analyses have revealed highly ordered smectic mesophases for most of the newly synthesised compounds. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) studies performed at various temperatures have shown that the smectic order is retained in the crystalline state upon cooling across the transition temperature, affording cast films with a more favourable morphology for FET applications.
Canadian takeover announcements and the job security of top managers
Authors: Tannous George F. , Cheng Bin
Published: November 2007

This study measures the turnover rate of top managers (Chief Executive Officers or Presidents) in acquisition targets following the public announcements of takeovers in Canada. Turnover rates following the announcements of completed and unsuccessful takeover attempts did not differ from each other but were higher than the norm for CEOs from a control group of nontarget firms. The turnover rate was particularly high for widely‐held firms and negatively correlated with the preannouncement performance of the targets. Overall, results suggest that a major objective of takeovers in Canada is to reduce management failings, inefficiency, and agency costs. Copyright © 2007 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Coronary Flow Reserve Is Impaired in Subclinical Hypothyroidism
Authors: Baycan Semra , Erdogan Dogan , Caliskan Mustafa , Pamuk Baris Onder , Ciftci Ozgur , Gullu Hakan , Yildirir Aylin , Guvener Nilgun D. , Muderrisoglu Haldun
Published: November 2007

Objective

Although the cardiovascular system is highly sensitive to thyroid hormones, the cardiovascular effects of subtle thyroid dysfunction such as subclinical hypothyroidism (SHT) remain unclear. Therefore, we investigated coronary flow reserve (CFR) reflecting coronary microvascular function in patients with SHT.

Methods

Fifty subjects with SHT and 30 control subjects with normal serum thyroid hormones and TSH levels were included in this study. Coronary diastolic peak flow velocities were measured at baseline and after dipyridamole infusion. CFR was calculated as the ratio of hyperemic to baseline diastolic peak velocity.

Results

Age, gender, diastolic and systolic blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), serum lipid parameters, and thyroid hormone levels were similar between the groups. Heart rate was significantly lower in the SHT group. Left ventricular diastolic filling parameters were significantly different in the SHT group while other echocardiographic parameters were similar. CFR values were significantly lower in subjects with SHT than in the control group (2.38 ± 0.44 vs. 2.98 ± 0.47, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that CFR, which reflects coronary microvascular function, is impaired in patients with SHT. Copyright © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Is Elevated High‐density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Always Good for Coronary Heart Disease?
Authors: Sun Yuhua , Yang Yuejin , Pei Weidong , Wu Yongjian , Zhao Jinglin
Published: November 2007

Background

High‐density lipoprotein (HDL) could enhance inflammation in atherogenesis when inflammatory response is present, and the activity of paraoxonase and antioxidant in HDL in the elderly is significantly decreased. There might be a different role for high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) between different age groups in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD).

Methods

For this study, 225 inpatients with CHD (coronary atherosclerosis stenosis ≥ 50% on ≥ 1 major coronary arteries by coronary angiography), and 80 without CHD; 120 resting unstable angina patients, and 68 with stable angina were consecutively recruited. Risk factors were analyzed for CHD and resting unstable angina.

Results

High‐density lipoprotein cholesterol in resting unstable angina was higher than that in stable angina (1.24 ± 1.05 versus 1.05 ± 0.29 mmol/L, p = 0.032). After adjustment for age, sex, physical inactivity, hypertension, diabetes, C‐reactive protein, triglycerides, total cholesterol (TC) and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) the adjusted odds ratio (OR) (95% CI) of resting unstable angina was 10.19 (2.18–47.6, p = 0.003) for HDL‐C. Risk factors were further investigated in different age groups. Adjusted OR of CHD associated with HDL‐C in < 55‐year‐old group was 0.09 (0.01–0.66, p = 0.018), in ≥ 55‐year‐old group it was 0.55 (0.08–3.82, p > 0.05). Adjusted OR of resting unstable angina associated with high HDL‐C was 19.24 (2.86–129.4, p = 0.002) in patients aged ≥ 55 years.

Conclusions

Elevated HDL‐C might be an independent risk factor for resting unstable angina, even though HDL‐C could play a much more important role in protection against coronary stenosis in younger or middle‐aged persons. Copyright © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Importance of Tissue Perfusion in ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients Undergoing Reperfusion Strategies: Role of Adenosine
Authors: Forman Mervyn B. , Jackson Edwin K.
Published: November 2007

High risk ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients undergoing reperfusion therapy continue to exhibit significant morbidity and mortality due in part to myocardial reperfusion injury. Importantly, preclinical studies demonstrate that progressive microcirculatory failure (the “no‐reflow” phenomenon) contributes significantly to myocardial reperfusion injury. Diagnostic techniques to measure tissue perfusion have validated this concept in humans, and it is now clear that abnormal tissue perfusion occurs frequently in STEMI patients undergoing reperfusion therapy. Moreover, because tissue perfusion correlates poorly with epicardial blood flow (TIMI flow grade), clinical studies show that tissue perfusion is an independent predictor of early and late mortality in STEMI patients and is associated with infarct size, ventricular function, CHF and ventricular arrhythmias. The mechanisms responsible for abnormal tissue perfusion are multifactorial and include both mechanical obstruction and vasoconstrictor humoral factors. Adenosine, an endogenous nucleoside, maintains microcirculatory flow following reperfusion by activating four well‐characterized extracellular receptors. Because activation of adenosine receptors attenuates the mechanical and functional mechanisms leading to the “no reflow” phenomenon and activates other cardioprotective pathways as well, it is not surprising that both experimental and clinical studies show striking myocardial salvage with intravenous infusions of adenosine administered in the peri‐reperfusion period. For example, a post hoc analysis of the AMISTAD II trial indicates a significant reduction in 1 and 6‐month mortality in STEMI patients undergoing reperfusion therapy who are treated with adenosine within 3 hours of symptoms. In conclusion, adenosine's numerous cardioprotective effects, including attenuation of the “no‐reflow” phenomenon, support its use in high risk STEMI undergoing reperfusion. Copyright © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reducing Events in Patients with Chronic Heart Failure (REDUCEhf ) Study Design: Continuous Hemodynamic Monitoring with an Implantable Defibrillator
Authors: Adamson Philip B. , Conti Jamie B. , Smith Andrew L. , Abraham William T. , Aaron Mark F. , Aranda, Jr. Juan M. , Baker James , Bourge Robert C. , Warner‐Stevenson Lynne , Sparks Brandon
Published: November 2007

Background

The use of implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) has been proven effective in the prevention of sudden cardiac death (SCD) and constitutes standard of care in appropriate populations. Combining a pressure sensing system with ICD therapy represents the first attempt to provide continuous hemodynamic monitoring using a device previously designed exclusively for SCD protection.

Methods

REDUCE is a prospective, multicenter, randomized, single‐blind, parallel‐controlled trial designed to assess the safety of the Chronicle ICD system (single chamber ICD with a hemodynamic monitoring system) and the effectiveness of a management strategy guided by intracardiac pressure information among ICD‐indicated New York Heart Association (NYHA) Class II or III heart failure (HF) patients. Those successfully implanted with a Chronicle ICD will be randomized to the Chronicle group or Control group. All patients will receive optimal medical therapy, but the hemodynamic information from the device will be used to guide patient management only in the Chronicle group. Primary endpoints include freedom from system‐related complications and relative risk reduction of one or more HF‐related events (hospitalizations, and emergency department and urgent care visits requiring intravenous therapy for HF). Approximately 850 patients will be enrolled in at least 75 centers in the United States to accrue the 419 events needed to test the primary effectiveness endpoint. Enrollment began in April 2006, and is expected to end during 2009.

Conclusion

REDUCE will assess the safety of the Chronicle ICD system and the effectiveness of a patient management strategy based on remote access to continuous intracardiac pressures in reducing HF‐related events. Copyright © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Biodiesel, Rapeseed Oil, Gas‐To‐Liquid, and a Premium Diesel Fuel in Heavy Duty Diesel Engines: Endurance, Emissions and Health Effects
Authors: Krahl Jürgen , Munack Axel , Grope Norbert , Ruschel Yvonne , Schröder Olaf , Bünger Jürgen
Published: November 2007

To investigate influences of fuel design on regulated and non‐regulated emissions of heavy‐duty diesel engines, a Mercedes‐Benz OM 906 Euro 3 engine was run with common diesel fuel (DF), first‐ and second‐generation alternative fuels (Gas‐to‐liquid (GTL) as prototype for biomass‐to‐liquid (BTL)), and blends of these. Secondly, an IVECO (Industrial Vehicles Corporation) Tector F4A Euro 4 test engine equipped with a urea based selective catalytic reduction (SCR) pilot series system was subjected to a 1000 h endurance test using high‐phosphorous (10 ppm) biodiesel. To unveil possible effects on catalyst efficiency, emissions were studied before and after this endurance test by performing European Stationary Cycle (ESC) tests with common DF and biodiesel with high and low phosphorus content. For both engines, the NOx content in the exhaust gas became most critical with respect to the regulated limits. Among non‐regulated emissions, particle size distributions were determined with special focus on ultra fine particles (UFP), which are suspected to induce severe health problems. Additionally, Ames‐tests were carried out to determine the mutagenic potency of particulate matter extracts. Both UFP and mutagenicity appeared to be negatively influenced with blends, biodiesel with high P‐content, and rapeseed oil.
Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) Treatment of Segregated Household Wastewater for Reuse
Authors: Atasoy Elif , Murat Selda , Baban Ahmet , Tiris Mustafa
Published: November 2007

This paper evaluates the performance and suitability of membrane bioreactor (MBR) technology for grey and black water treatment. For this purpose, two MBRs were installed on a site located in the Training and Demonstration Center (TDC) of TUBITAK Marmara Research Center (MRC). The grey and black water originated from the lodging houses of the MRC. The study involves wastewater characterization, start‐up, operation of the MBRs and evaluation of the effluent quality according to the current water reuse standards. Two pilot scale MBRs with an effective volume of 600 L were operated for a period of 50 days with a hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 18 and 36 h, respectively for grey and black water. The average removal efficiencies were, 95% COD, 92% T‐N, and 99% TSS for grey water and 96% COD, 89% T‐N, and 99% TSS for black water. Total and faecal coliform were not detected in either permeates. The results showed that the effluent quality of grey and black water treated by the MBR complied with the national and international reuse criteria for different uses. However, some modifications are needed to optimize the removal efficiency especially for simultaneous organic matter and nutrient removal and further investigations into long term monitoring are necessary.
Kinetical Study of the Photoinduced Degradation of Imidacloprid in Aquatic Media
Authors: Redlich Dirk , Shahin Nabil , Ekici Perihan , Friess Albrecht , Parlar Harun
Published: November 2007

The photoinduced degradation of the insecticide imidacloprid in natural water samples was performed in order to describe its abiotic degradation. Numerous degradation products could be identified with the help of spectroscopic methods. The main photoproducts were 1‐[(6‐chloro‐3‐pyridinyl)methyl]‐N‐nitroso‐2‐imidazolidinimine, 1‐[(6‐chloro‐3‐pyridinyl)methyl]‐2‐imidazolidinimine (which is known to be more toxic for warm‐blooded animals than imidacloprid) and 1‐[(6‐chloro‐3‐pyridinyl)methyl]‐2‐imidazolidinone. Besides numerous other degradation products, 6‐chloro‐nicotine‐amide was identified as the end product of the photolytic reaction. The photoinduced reaction of imidacloprid followed pseudo first‐order reaction kinetics and resulted from a triplet‐controlled intermediate state with a triplet energy between 281–290 kJ/mol and an half‐life time of 4.6×10–9 s. With the help of measured quantum yields (ΦS), the half‐life time of imidacloprid in natural waters was estimated at 3 days. The calculated half‐life times of 1‐[(6‐chloro‐3‐pyridinyl)methyl]‐2‐imidazolidinimine was much shorter, 0.24 days, while those of 1‐[(6‐chloro‐3‐pyridinyl)methyl]‐2‐imidazolidinone and 6‐chloro‐nicotine‐amide were higher at 270 and 660 days, respectively.