bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetic Properties of Metal/Semiconductor Interfaces
Authors: Tsay J. S.
Published: December 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Coordination Chemistry of Nanoparticles
Authors: Gubin S. P. , Kataeva N. A.
Published: December 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Recent Advances in the Synthesis of Unnatural α‐Amino Acids
Authors: Perdih A. , Dolenc M. Sollner
Published: December 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Selective Hydrogenation of Aromatic Chloronitro Compounds
Authors: Wang Xiaodong , Liang Minghui , Zhang Junling , Wang Yuan
Published: December 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Chiral Drugs and the Associated Asymmetric Synthesis
Authors: Zhang Jiange , Lin Guoqiang
Published: December 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Recent Progress in Asymmetric Catalysis Using Chiral Carbohydrate‐Based Ligands.
Authors: Dieguez Montserrat , Claver Carmen , Pamies Oscar
Published: December 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Radicals in Asymmetric Organocatalysis
Authors: Bertelsen Soeren , Nielsen Martin , Joergensen Karl Anker
Published: December 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
An Iron Catalyst for Ketone Hydrogenations under Mild Conditions
Authors: Bullock R. Morris
Published: December 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Recent Progress on the Lipase‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Syntheses
Authors: Akai Shuji , Kita Yasuyuki
Published: December 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Methods for the Synthesis of Polycyclic Nitramines
Authors: Sysolyatin S. V. , Sakovich G. V. , Surmachev V. N.
Published: December 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Non‐Symmetrically Substituted Phthalocyanines: Synthesis and Structure Modification
Authors: Tolbin A. Yu. , Tomilova L. G. , Zefirov N. S.
Published: December 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Legendre spectral finite elements for structural dynamics analysis
Authors: Sprague M. A. , Geers T. L.
Published: December 2007

Spectral, hierarchical, and h‐type finite elements (FEs) are compared in the context of their application to structural dynamics analysis. The Timoshenko beam, which is the 1‐D analog of Mindlin‐type shell elements, is used for comparison in eigenvalue and transient‐response analyses. A detailed formulation of each method is presented to illustrate clearly their fundamental differences. The principal advantages of spectral FEs over low‐order h‐type elements are (a) far superior accuracy for a fixed number of model degrees of freedom (DOF) and (b) much higher computational efficiency at a fixed accuracy level. The principal advantages over hierarchical p‐type elements are (a) a mass matrix that is inherently diagonal as opposed to full, (b) DOF that pertain directly to nodal displacements and rotations, and (c) more efficient tensor‐product factorization. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Memory performance and dysfunctional cognitions in recent trauma victims and patients with post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Elsesser Karin , Sartory Gudrun
Published: December 2007

In order to investigate whether cognitive dysregulation contributed to memory impairment in trauma patients, recent trauma victims, post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) patients and healthy controls were compared with regard to verbal memory and dysfunctional cognitions. There were no significant group differences with regard to verbal memory. Concerning dysfunctional cognitions, recent trauma victims hardly differed from controls, unlike PTSD patients, who showed more negative appraisal, more dysfunctional thought control strategies and externality than controls. None of them were related to memory performance in the recent trauma group, and there was a negative correlation with distraction strategy in PTSD patients. In recent trauma victims, negative appraisal increased with time since the trauma. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A correlation study of immunophenotypic, cytogenetic, and clinical features of 180 AML patients in China
Authors: Zheng Jine , Wang Xingbing , Hu Yu , Yang Jing , Liu Jun , He Yanli , Gong Qing , Yao Junxia , Li Xiaoqing , Du Wen , Huang Shiang
Published: December 2007

New WHO classification has been widely applied in the diagnosis of leukemia. To elucidate the immunophenotype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and characterize the correlation among morphological, immunological, cytogenetic, and clinical features, we studied the bone marrow immunophenotypes of 180 AML patients in China by flow cytometry. The results showed that CD34, CD2, CD14, CD19, CD56, and HLA‐DR were correlated with FAB subtypes. Amongst the 180 patients enrolled in this study, 122 cases were also subjected to karyotype analysis by G‐banding technology and abnormal karyotypes were detected in 69 out of 122 patients. Correlation assay showed that t(8;21) was only present in 16 AML‐M2 patients, and strongly associated with the individual or combinational expressions of CD15/CD19/CD34/CD56. As to M3, although lymphoid lineage antigens were observed in a considerable number of patients, they were never detected in t(15;17) positive patients. The expressions of CD22, CD56, and TdT showed significant correlation with the overall presence of abnormal karyotype. Additionally, the expressions of CD4, CD7, CD14, CD56, and TdT were positively correlated with clinical features such as white blood cell count, platelet count, and patient's age. In conclusion, immunophenotype analysis was useful for AML diagnosis and classification. At the same time, the data also suggested that the karyotype abnormalities and clinical features were tightly linked with abnormal antigen expression characteristics in AML patients. As one of the largest correlative study performed in China, the results highlighted the importance of a morphological, immunological, and cytogenetic classification of AML that might constitute a working basis for future studies aimed at a better definition of clinicopathological features and optimal treatment strategy for these leukemias. © 2007 Clinical Cytometry Society
Flow cytometric assessment of platelet aspirin resistance using light scattering
Authors: Won Dong Il , Yang Dong Heon , Kim Dong Hyun , Chae Shung Chull , Suh Jang Soo
Published: December 2007

Background:

A simple and reliable assay is needed for the prediction of the clinical efficacy of antiplatelet aspirin therapy. We have devised another method for the evaluation of platelet function and aspirin resistance (AR), via conventional flow cytometry (FCM).

Methods:

To devise an optimized protocol for the assessment of platelet AR, various analytic variables of FCM were investigated. Using this devised protocol, AR was assessed in healthy subjects as an example.

Results:

The protocol utilized herein is as follows: citrate‐anticoagulated platelet‐rich plasma was mixed 1:1 with HEPES‐buffered saline in two tubes, one of which is treated with aspirin. During the acquisition of FCM, arachidonate is added to the tube. The response of the aspirin‐treated platelets is then compared with those of nontreated ones on a time/forward scatter plot. In the 61 total subjects, none was identified as aspirin resistant by this assay.

Conclusions:

Using light scattering, platelet aggregation and aspirin's antiplatelet effects can be readily and cost‐effectively detected. According to this assay, biochemical AR appears to be rare. This new protocol may prove useful in a clinical setting or as a research tool. © 2007 Clinical Cytometry Society
Microfilariae in thyroid aspiration smear—An unexpected finding
Authors: Maheshwari Veena , Khan Lubna , Mehdi Ghazala , Zafar Uzma , Alam Kiran
Published: December 2007

Lymphatic filariasis is a major health problem in tropical countries including India. Despite its high incidence it is difficult to find microfilariae in blood and fine‐needle aspirates due to the nocturnal periodicity of species endemic in India. Lymphatic filariasis can manifest as asymptomatic microfilaremia, hydrocele, lymphangitis, and lymphadenitis.

The presence of microfilariae in thyroid aspirates is a rare finding. A case of microfilariae in a thyroid aspirate is being reported to emphasize the significance of careful screening of smears in endemic areas. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2008;36:40–41. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cre activity causes widespread apoptosis and lethal anemia during embryonic development
Authors: Naiche L. A. , Papaioannou Virginia E.
Published: December 2007

Cre‐mediated excision of targeted loxP sites is widely used to delete or to activate gene expression in temporal or tissue‐specific fashions. We examine three previously described cre alleles and find that Cre activity alone causes dramatic developmental defects, such as loss of hematopoietic activity and dramatically upregulated apoptosis in many embryonic tissues in two of these lines. These results demonstrate that cre expression generates spurious phenotypes that can confound genetics analyses. We also find that most recently published studies fail to include cre‐positive controls, and thus may have attributed roles to a targeted gene, which were in reality partly or wholly due to Cre toxicity. This information will be critical in both evaluating previously published work using cre alleles and in designing future experiments. genesis 45:768–775, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Foxb1‐driven Cre expression in somites and the neuroepithelium of diencephalon, brainstem, and spinal cord
Authors: Zhao Tianyu , Zhou Xunlei , Szabó Nora , Leitges Michael , Alvarez‐Bolado Gonzalo
Published: December 2007

We have knocked‐in Cre‐IRES‐EGFP in the Foxb1 locus by homologous recombination in embryonic stem cells. We removed the PGK‐neo cassette (which was flanked by FRT sequences) by crossing with the FLPeR deleter mouse. The Foxb1Cre line showed Cre recombinase activity as well as EGFP fluorescence reproducing Foxb1 expression accurately. By crossing Foxb1Cre mice with the ROSA26R and Z/AP mouse reporter lines we have been able to trace the lineage of Foxb1‐expressing cells. Early transient expression of Foxb1 in the paraxial mesoderm translates into labeling of the somites. In the central nervous system (CNS), the Foxb1 lineage includes the thalamus and mammillary body (hypothalamus), brainstem, and the ventral spinal cord and floor plate. genesis 45:781–787, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reactions of Thorium Atoms with Polyhalomethanes: Infrared Spectra of the CH2=ThX2, HC÷ThX3, and XC÷ThX3 Molecules
Authors: Lyon Jonathan T. , Andrews Lester
Published: December 2007

Laser‐ablated thorium atoms react with methylene fluoride to form singlet CH2=ThF2, with fluoroform to give triplet HC÷ThF3, and with CF4 to produce triplet FC÷ThF3 molecules as the major products trapped in solid argon. Infrared spectroscopy, isotopic substitution, and density functional theoretical calculations confirm the identity of these methylidene and methylidyne complexes. Parallels with the analogous chloromethane and Group 4 metal reaction products are discussed. Structure calculations show that the C=Th bond lengths decrease and the agostic distortion increases from CH2=ThF2 to CH2=ThFCl to CH2=ThCl2 for the methylidene complexes. The triplet‐state HC÷ThF3 and FC÷ThF3 electron‐deficient methylidyne complexes exhibit delocalized ‐bonding as evidenced by spin densities comparable to those calculated for the analogous zirconium complexes. Chlorine substitution for fluorine supports stronger C÷Th bonds. Thus, thorium appears to react as the early transition‐metal atoms with fluoro‐ and chloromethanes. However, there is a substantial contribution from Th 5f orbitals in addition to 6d in the SOMO forming the weak π‐bonds in these electron‐deficient methylidyne complexes.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Studies on the Structure and Biosynthesis of Tridentoquinone and Related Meroterpenoids from the Mushroom Suillus tridentinus (Boletales)
Authors: Lang Martin , Mühlbauer Andrea , Gräf Claudia , Beyer Jürgen , Lang‐Fugmann Susanne , Polborn Kurt , Steglich Wolfgang
Published: December 2007

Tridentoquinone (1), the main pigment of Suillus tridentinus, is accompanied by the known meroterpenoid bolegrevilol (3) and a dimer, tridentorubin (5). The absolute configuration of 1 was unambiguously established by a single‐crystal X‐ray analysis of the corresponding (–)‐camphanoate. The structure of 5 was elucidated by 2D NMR techniques including a 2D INADEQUATE experiment. Feeding experiments with [1‐13C]‐labeled 4‐hydroxybenzoic acid (6*) and 3,4‐dihydroxybenzoic acid (7*) proved the incorporation of these precursors into all three metabolites. Tridentoquinone (1) was monolabeled at C‐1 suggesting the formation of the ansa ring by oxidative cyclisation of 2‐geranylgeranyl‐6‐hydroxybenzoquinone (10). This was supported by the isolation of the expected intermediate, deoxytridentoquinone (11), from the mushroom extract. Tridentorubin (5) may be formed by addition of precursor 10 to tridentoquinone (1). This hypothesis is backed up by the in vitro formation of an analogous product 13 from 1 and 1,4‐benzoquinone. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Ploidy and karyotype complexity are powerful prognostic indicators in the Ewing's sarcoma family of tumors: A study by the United Kingdom Cancer Cytogenetics and the Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group
Authors: Roberts Paul , Burchill Susan A. , Brownhill Samantha , Cullinane Catherine J. , Johnston Colin , Griffiths Mike J. , McMullan Dom J. , Bown Nick P. , Morris Stephen P. , Lewis Ian J.
Published: December 2007

Ewing's sarcoma family tumors (ESFT) are characterized by the presence of EWSR1‐ETS fusion genes. Secondary chromosome changes are frequently described, although their clinical significance is not clear. In this study, we have collected and reviewed abnormal karyotypes from 88 patients with primary ESFT and a rearrangement of 22q12. Secondary changes were identified in 80% (70/88) of tumors at diagnosis. Multivariate analysis showed a worse overall and relapse free survival (RFS) for those with a complex karyotype (overall survival, P = 0.005; RFS, P = 0.04), independent of metastatic disease. Univariate survival analysis showed that a chromosome number above 50 or a complex karyotype was associated with a worse overall survival (>50 chromosomes, P = 0.05; complex karyotype, P = 0.04). There was no association between type of cytogenetic abnormality and the presence of metastatic disease at diagnosis. Univariate and multivariate survival analysis of a small subgroup with trisomy 20 indicated that trisomy 20 was associated with a worse overall and RFS. There was no difference in outcome associated with other recurrent trisomies (2, 5, 7, 8, or 12) or the common recurrent secondary structural rearrangements (deletions of 1p36, 9p12, 17p13, and 16q, and gain of 1q), although numbers were small. These data demonstrate the continued value of cytogenetics as a genome‐wide screen in ESFT and illustrates the potential importance of secondary chromosome changes for stratification of patients for risk. Specifically, karyotype complexity appears to be a powerful predictor of prognosis, and the presence of trisomy 20 may be a marker of a more aggressive subset of this group. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Small heat shock proteins Hsp27 or αB‐crystallin and the protein components of neurofibrillary tangles: Tau and neurofilaments
Authors: Björkdahl Cecilia , Sjögren Magnus J. , Zhou Xinwen , Concha Hernan , Avila Jesus , Winblad Bengt , Pei Jin‐Jing
Published: December 2007

The heat‐shock proteins (HSPs) Hsp27 and αB‐crystallin are up‐regulated in Alzheimer's disease (AD), but the extent of this and the consequences are still largely unknown. The HSPs are involved in protein degradation and protection against protein aggregation, and they interact with several cytoskeletal components such as microtubules (MT) and neurofilaments (NF). AD pathology includes aggregated proteins (tau, NF), decreased protein degradation, and cytoskeletal disruption. It is thus of interest to investigate more closely the possible roles of the HSPs in AD pathology. The expressions of Hsp27 and αB‐crystallin in AD brain samples were significantly increased (by ∼20% and ∼30%, respectively) and correlated significantly with phosphorylated tau and NF proteins. To investigate the consequences of increased HSP levels on tau and NF regulation, N2a cells were transfected with Hsp27 or αB‐crystallin constructs, and overexpression of the HSPs was confirmed in the cells. Increased tau phosphorylation at the Ser262 site in the N2a cells was regulated by Hsp27 overexpression (possibly through p70S6k), whereas the overexpression of αB‐crystallin resulted in decreased levels of phosphorylated tau, NF, and GSK‐3β. It was also shown that overexpression of HSPs causes an increase in the percentage of cells present in the G1phase. The results presented suggest that a cellular defense against dysregulated proteins, in the form of Hsp27 and αB‐crystallin, might contribute to the cell cycle reentry seen in AD cells. Furthermore, Hsp27 might also be involved in AD pathology by aggravating MT disruption by tau phosphorylation. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Determination of a critical dilution curve for nitrogen concentration in cotton
Authors: Xiaoping Xue , Jianguo Wang , Zhiwei Wang , Wenqi Guo , Zhiguo Zhou
Published: December 2007

Several nitrogen (N)‐rate field experiments were carried out in cotton to define dilution curves for critical N concentrations in individual plants (i.e., the minimum N concentration required for maximum growth at any growth stage). Nitrogen application rate had a significant effect on aboveground dry matter, N accumulation, and N concentration. As expected, shoot N concentration in plants decreased during the growing period. These results support the concept of critical N concentration in shoot biomass of single plants as described by Lemaire et al. (2007) and reveal that a dilution curve for critical N concentrations in cotton plants can be described by a power equation. The pattern of critical–N concentration dilution curves was consistent across the two sites. Nitrogen concentration for a given biomass varied greatly with the supply of N. After initial flowering, the N‐nutrition index (NNI) for aboveground biomass of individual plants increased with increasing N rates. Relationships between plant total N uptake and accumulated dry matter in the aboveground biomass can be described by the allometric‐relation equations for each dose of N. Nitrogen‐dilution curves can be used as a tool for diagnosing the status of N in cotton from initial flowering to boll opening. The relationship can also be used in the parameterization and validation of growth models for predicting the N response and/or N requirement of cotton.
Excess nickel–induced changes in antioxidative processes in maize leaves
Authors: Kumar Praveen , Kumar Tewari Rajesh , Nand Sharma Parma
Published: December 2007

Maize (Zea mays L. cv. 777) plants grown in hydroponic culture were treated with 100 µM NiSO4 (moderate nickel (Ni) excess). In addition to growth parameters, metabolic parameters representative of antioxidant responses in leaves were assessed 24 h and 3, 7, and 14 d after initiating the Ni treatment. Extent of oxidative damage was measured as accumulation of malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide in leaves 7 and 14 d after treatment initiation. Apart from increasing membrane‐lipid peroxidation and H2O2 accumulation, excess supply of Ni suppressed plant growth and dry mass of shoots but increased dry mass of roots and decreased the concentrations of chloroplastic pigments. Excess supply of Ni, though inhibited the catalase (EC 1.11.1.6) activity, increased peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7), ascorbate peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.11), and superoxide dismutase (EC 1.15.1.1) activities. Localization of isoforms of these enzymes (peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase) on native gels also revealed increases in the intensities of pre‐existing bands. Enhanced activities of peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase, however, did not appear to be sufficient to ameliorate the effects of excessively generated reactive oxygen species due to excess supply of Ni.
Definition of normality of pressure‐flow parameters based on observations in asymptomatic men
Authors: Rosario Derek J. , Woo Henry H. , Chapple Christopher R.
Published: December 2007

Aims

Clinical nomograms for differentiating obstructed from unobstructed voiding and poor detrusor contractility from normal contractility have traditionally been drawn on the basis of symptomatic response to outflow tract surgery or on urodynamic changes in men with LUTS before and after surgery. The aim of this study was to examine pressure‐flow parameters in asymptomatic male volunteers before age‐related changes in the lower urinary tract had taken place and to assess detrusor contractility and outflow conditions during physiological bladder filling against clinically used pressure‐flow nomograms.

Methods

Thirty‐seven healthy male subjects between the ages of 18 and 40 years volunteered to undergo AUM. A total of 66 fill‐void cycles in 25 individuals were evaluable.

Results

Mean pdet·Qmax for the group was 53 ± 3 cmH2O with a mean Qmax of 24 ± 2 ml sec−1. URA of 21 cmH2O defined the upper border of normality for the outflow condition. Schäfer's OCO showed the most consistent relationship between estimated urethral pressure at minimal flow and true measured urethral closure pressure. From a clinical perspective, the linear nomograms (ICS and Schäfer) are more easily accessible with the ICS BOOI and obstruction index being the simplest to calculate manually. Minimal differences found between these urodynamic nomograms confirm the clinical value of recommending a single method to facilitate future comparisons between studies.

Conclusions

An upper limit of normality for the male outflow condition can be defined by an URA of 21 cmH2O, AGN of 40 cmH2O or OCO of 1. Results above these reference values should be considered abnormal in this age group and where identified in a different age‐group should be explained by physiological or pathophysiological events. Neurourol. Urodynam. 27:388–394, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A simple constitutive model for cyclic compressive ratchetting deformation of polyteterafluoroethylene (PTFE) with stress rate effects
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Chen Xu , Wang Tao
Published: December 2007

Pure polyteterafluoroethylene (PTFE) were prepared by using the process of cold pressure and sintering. A series of unaxial cyclic compression tests were carried out on solid cylindrical specimens of pure PTFE. The focus of study was to investigate time‐dependent ratchetting behavior of PTFE under cyclic loading. It is shown that the stress–strain hysteresis loops exhibit pronounced nonlinearity with high stress range. The cyclic hardening is rate and stress range dependent. However, mean stresses have less effect on cyclic hardening than stress ranges. It is shown that viscoelasticity is obvious in the beginning cycles. The same stress range produces almost the same viscoelastic delay at the beginning of the compression cycles. A modified universal ratchetting model (URM), which is rate dependent is employed to predict the ratchetting strain under compressive cyclic loading condition at room temperature. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 48:29–36, 2008. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
An inverse estimation of initial temperature profile in a polymer process
Authors: Ranjbar Ali A. , Mirsadeghi Mohammad
Published: December 2007

Since one of the most important parameter in polymer processing such as injection stretch blow molding is temperature distribution in the thickness direction, an inverse method has been applied to estimate this profile. This process comprises of four steps. In the first step the preform is injection molded, and in the second and third step it is stretched by a rod to its final length and then inflated and in the last step it is discharged from the mold. In such kind of polymer flows viscous dissipation plays a remarkable role in the evolution of temperature profile. Some theoretical temperature profile has been applied to confirm the validation of the inverse algorithm. Different solution techniques are applied in this article to the inverse problem under consideration, namely: the conjugate gradient and Levenberg–Marquardt method. After the preform is injection molded, which is the first step, it is removed from the mold, which corresponds to time t = 0. At this moment an infrared camera is used to record the surface temperature of the preform with a certain time step. With regard to variation of thermal properties with temperature, the inverse problem becomes nonlinear. These experimental data provided by the infrared camera are then used to estimate the temperature profile at the end of injection process before stretching and inflation took place. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 48:133–140, 2008. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
Viscoelastic evaluation of effects of fiber size and composition on cellulose‐polypropylene composite of high filler content
Authors: Ito Hirokazu , Kumari Rashmi , Takatani Masahiro , Okamoto Tadashi , Hattori Hidehiro , Fujiyoshi Ippei
Published: December 2007

The dispersion of filler in resin is an important factor which determines the mobility of a compound in a molder and also the mechanical properties of molded products in wood/plastic composite, especially with high wood filler content. In this report, the dispersion of components in the melt‐mixture of a compound in response to the size of cellulose filler and resin content was examined for compounds with a high content of cellulose in polypropylene by the evaluation of viscoelasticity using a cone rheometer, and the following conclusions were obtained: (1) The viscoelasticity measured by a cone rheometer was dependent on the dispersion state of the compound, and it was confirmed that the presented evaluation method of viscoelasticity affords information relevant to the dispersion state of filler in a compound; (2) On the basis of the viscoelastic evaluation of compounds with different resin contents, a model for the distribution of cellulose and resin is proposed in terms of the tangle of fibers; (3) Viscoelastic analysis showed that cellulose size has an influence on the tangle of fibers; (4) The results of viscoelasticity and mechanical properties of molded products suggested that an important factor determining the tangle of fibers is the average aspect ratio. The proposed analysis of viscoelasticity presents a simple technique for estimating the dispersion state of a compound with high filler content, which is hardly possible by conventional fluid evaluation methods. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 48:168–176, 2008. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
Organic vapor permeation through natural rubber/poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate) blend membranes
Authors: Anusree S. , Sujith A. , Radhakrishnan C.K. , Unnikrishnan G.
Published: December 2007

Natural rubber/poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate) (NR/EVA) blend membranes, crosslinked with dicumyl peroxide, have been prepared and tested for vapor permeation characteristics. The effects of structure and morphology of the blend membranes on the permeability were investigated. The permeability was found to decrease with increase in EVA content which has been attributed to the semicrystalline nature of EVA. The permeation process has been observed to be controlled mainly by the molecular mass of the penetrants. In the case of benzene/acetone mixtures, it has been found that when acetone concentration increases the vapor permeation rate decreases. This clearly indicates less interaction of acetone towards NR/EVA membranes. For supporting all the observations, the parameters such as swelling coefficient and permeability coefficient have been calculated. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 48:198–202, 2008.© 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
Electrochemical, ESR and quantum chemical study of 1‐substituted naphthalenes and their radical anions
Authors: Vasilieva N. V. , Irtegova I. G. , Vaganova T. A. , Shteingarts V. D.
Published: December 2007

Electrochemical reduction and oxidation of a series of 1‐substituted naphthalenes (1‐X‐naphthalenes) have been studied by the method of cyclic voltammetry (CV). The first reduction peak of the majority of these compounds corresponds to a one‐electron transfer to form the relatively stable radical anion (RA). For these species, ESR spectra have been registered and interpreted, the life time has been estimated. The first oxidation peaks of 1‐X‐naphthalenes are irreversible and correspond to a transfer of two or more electrons. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and Characterization of Photoswitchable Fluorescent Silica Nanoparticles
Authors: Fölling Jonas , Polyakova Svetlana , Belov Vladimir , van Blaaderen Alfons , Bossi Mariano L. , Hell Stefan W.
Published: December 2007

We have designed and synthesized a new functional (amino reactive) highly efficient fluorescent molecular switch (FMS) with a photochromic diarylethene and a rhodamine fluorescent dye. The reactive group in this FMS ‐N‐hydroxysuccinimide ester‐ allows selective labeling of amino containing molecules or other materials. In ethanolic solutions, the compound displays a large fluorescent quantum yield of 52 % and a large fluorescence modulation ratio (94 %) between two states that may be interconverted with red and near‐UV light. Silica nanoparticles incorporating the new FMS were prepared and characterized, and their spectroscopic and switching properties were also studied. The dye retained its properties after the incorporation into the silica, thereby allowing light‐induced reversible high modulation of the fluorescence signal of a single particle for up to 60 cycles, before undergoing irreversible photobleaching. Some applications of these particles in fluorescence microscopy are also demonstrated. In particular, subdiffraction images of nanoparticles were obtained, in the focal plane of a confocal microscope.
Prediction of collapse—how realistic and practical is it, and what can we learn from it?
Authors: Krawinkler Helmut , Zareian Farzin
Published: December 2007

A methodology for computing the collapse capacity and collapse fragility curves for building structures is summarized. Specific results are presented for generic moment‐resisting frames and wall structures. The emphasis of the discussion is on the implication of collapse capacity estimates for the collapse safety of frame and wall systems designed according to present code requirements. It is found that the probability of collapse at the MCE (Maximum Credible Earthquake) level is very different for frame structures than for wall structures, and that for frame structures, the probability of collapse increases strongly with the fundamental period and attains unacceptable values for long‐period structures—unless a minimum base shear requirement is enforced that by far exceeds the base shear obtained from a uniform hazard design spectrum. The situation is very different for wall structures provided the predominant mode of deformation is flexure and not shear. Such wall structures exhibit a much smaller probability of collapse if the design is based on presently employed R‐factors. The upshot is that the R‐factor approach employed in present codes is inappropriate since it leads to designs with vastly different probabilities of collapse. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An Update: The Operative Experience in Adrenal, Pancreatic, and Other Less Common Endocrine Diseases of U.S. General Surgery Residents
Authors: Le David , Karmali Shahzeer , Harness Jay K. , Sheppard Brett C.
Published: December 2007

Background

A prior study that examined the operative experience of general surgery residents in endocrine surgery for the academic years 1986–1987 to 1993–1994 found this training to be inadequate due to low operative volume.

Methods

To evaluate how the development of minimally invasive endocrine surgery might alter this outcome, we reviewed more recent data from the Resident Statistic Summaries (Report C) of the Residency Review Committee from 1994–1995 to 2003–2004.

Results

The main outcome measures were total number of residents and programs and the volume and distribution of operations performed. For adrenalectomy, the average number of cases per resident was 1.46; for endocrine pancreas, the average was 0.14. The most common number of any of these procedures performed by U.S. graduates was zero.

Conclusion

Reports from postgraduate training in laparoscopic or endocrine surgery suggest that these fellowships may provide the necessary additional operative experience.
Thoracoscopic Removal of Mediastinal Hyperfunctioning Parathyroid Glands: Personal Experience and Review of the Literature
Authors: Alesina P. F. , Moka D. , Mahlstedt J. , Walz M. K.
Published: December 2007

Background

The presence of a mediastinal hyperfunctioning parathyroid gland is a rare condition that occurs in about 1% to 2% of cases. We present our experience with video‐endoscopic parathyroidectomy and a review of the literature.

Methods

In seven patients (four male, three female; age 28–67 years) mediastinal hyperfunctioning parathyroid glands were removed by the thoracoscopic route (VATS). Six patients suffered from primary hyperpathyroidism and one woman from recurrent secondary hyperparathyroidism. Additionally, articles concerning endoscopic treatment of mediastinal parathyroid glands were collected from the medical databases. A total of 58 patients were found in the English and French literature.

Results

Neither intraoperative nor postoperative complications occurred in our patients. Operating time was 90 minutes (range 40–180 minutes). After a mean follow‐up of 29 ± 12 months (range 3–64), all patients are biochemically cured. The cases in the literature showed healing in 57 of 58 cases. Their mean operating time was 112 minutes (range 40–240 minutes). One perioperative death due to myocardial infarction and a major complications rate of 7% are described.

Conclusion

The thoracoscopic approach to mediastinal parathyroidectomy is a safe, feasible technique with a low complication rate and good cosmetic outcome. It should become the standard surgical access for mediastinal hyperfunctioning parathyroid glands.
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy in Cirrhotic Patients with Symptomatic Cholelithiasis: A Case‐control Study
Authors: Mancero Jorge Marcelo Padilla , D’Albuquerque Luiz Augusto Carneiro , Gonzalez Adriano Miziara , Larrea Frans Ivan Serpa , de Oliveira e Silva Adavio
Published: December 2007

Background

In this study we retrospectively evaluated a group of symptomatic cirrhotic (n = 30) and non‐cirrhotic (n = 60) patients submitted to laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) in a public hospital in Brazil.

Methods

The groups were compared for surgical time, duration of hospitalization after surgery, period of permanence in the intensive care unit (ICU), use of blood derivatives, mortality rates, and transoperative and post‐surgery complications. Other parameters, such as hepatic reserve capacity and presence of ascites, were also analyzed.

Results

Twenty‐three (76.7%) of the patients of the cirrhosis group (CG) were classified as Child‐Pugh A, and seven (23.3%) were Child‐Pugh B. Six of them (20%) had ascites. Differences between the two groups included surgery time (p = 0.008), duration of hospitalization (p = 0.014), and post‐surgery (p = 0.000) or ambulatory (p = 0.008) complications. The worst results were observed among Child B patients and in those with ascites. Blood derivatives were used in only 3.3% of the CG patients. No cases of conversion to laparotomy were observed among the two groups of patients included in this study, nor were there any deaths.

Conclusions

These results indicate that videolaparoscopic cholecystectomy may be safely performed in public hospitals in Brazil, with low levels of complications, no associated mortality, and no need for blood derivatives.
Proton Pump Inhibitors Relieve and Prevent Symptoms Related to Gastric Acidity after Esophagectomy
Authors: Okuyama Manabu , Motoyama Satoru , Maruyama Kiyotomi , Sasaki Kenji , Sato Yusuke , Ogawa Jun‐ichi
Published: December 2007

Background

Denervated stomach used as an esophageal substitute after esophagectomy often retains or spontaneously recovers acid production. The aims of the present study were to assess the relationship between esophageal acid exposure or gastric acidity and reflux‐related symptoms after esophagectomy, and to assess the ability of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to relieve gastroesophageal reflux‐related symptoms.

Methods

Forty‐four patients underwent esophageal and gastric 24‐h pH monitoring early after esophagectomy with gastric reconstruction. Initially, patients with both gastric acidity and reflux symptoms were treated with PPIs (Treatment group), then all patients with gastric acidity, whether symptomatic or not, were treated (Prevention group). Reflux‐related symptoms were correlated with esophageal acid exposure and postoperative gastric acidity. Gastric acidity was then correlated with serum anti‐Helicobacter pylori immunoglobulin G (IgG) titers and preoperative endoscopic findings

Results

Sixteen patients (36.4%) reporting reflux and showing gastric acid production were treated with PPIs, which provided relief to 13 (81.3%). Although symptoms did not correlate with the esophageal acid exposure, postoperative gastric acidity was significantly greater among patients who were symptomatic than among those who were not. Overall, acid production was lower in older patients (> 64 years of age), although older patients who were H. pylori‐negative and without chronic atrophic gastritis also showed high levels of gastric acidity.

Conclusions

Proton pump inhibitors should be administered prophylactically early after esophagectomy to relieve and prevent reflux‐related symptoms. Candidates for preventive therapy include those less than 64 years of age or older patients who are H. pylori‐negative and without chronic atrophic gastritis.
Safety of Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy in Patients with Large Pheochromocytomas: A Single Institution Review
Authors: Ippolito Giuseppe , Palazzo Fausto F. , Sebag Frederic , Thakur Abhijit , Cherenko Mariya , Henry Jean‐François
Published: December 2007

Background

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is the procedure of choice for small adrenal tumors, but some concerns have been voiced when this approach is adopted for larger tumors and pheochromocytomas. The aim of this study was to examine the results of the laparoscopic resection of large pheochromocytomas.

Methods

A retrospective review of adrenalectomies performed for adrenal pheochromocytomas >6 cm in diameter. We compiled and analyzed the early operative complications, histologic findings, and cure rates with a minimum of 1 year of follow‐up after surgery.

Results

From 1996 to 2005, a total of 445 laparoscopic adrenalectomies were performed in our institution using the anterolateral transperitoneal approach. From this series we identified 18 procedures for pheochromocytomas with an average diameter on imaging of 78.2 mm (range 60–130 mm). All patients were rendered safe with a standard departmental protocol involving calcium‐channel blockade initiated at least 2 weeks prior to surgery. The average peak intraoperative blood pressure was 187 mmHg. Capsular disruption occurred in two cases. One patient required an intraoperative blood transfusion due to intraoperative blood loss. No immediate conversions to an open procedure were required, but one patient underwent a delayed laparotomy for hematoma formation. Histologically, four of the adrenal tumors displayed evidence of vascular invasion. Biochemical cure was achieved in all patients after a median follow‐up of 58 months (16–122 months).

Conclusions

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy appears to be a safe and effective approach for large pheochromocytomas when no preoperative or intraoperative evidence of local invasion is present.
A 3‐year Study on Quality, Nutritional and Organoleptic Evaluation of Organic and Conventional Extra‐Virgin Olive Oils
Authors: Ninfali Paolino , Bacchiocca Mara , Biagiotti Enrica , Esposto Sonia , Servili Maurizio , Rosati Adolfo , Montedoro Gianfrancesco
Published: December 2007

The quality of extra‐virgin olive oils (EVOO) from organic and conventional farming was investigated in this 3‐year (2001–2003) study. The oils were extracted from Leccino and Frantoio olive (Olea europaea) cultivars, grown in the same geographical area under either organic or conventional methods. Extra‐virgin olive oils (EVOO) were produced with the same technology and samples were analyzed for nutritional and quality parameters. Volatile compounds were measured with solid‐phase microextraction combined with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (SPME–GC–MS). Sensory evaluation was also completed by a trained panel. Significant differences were found in these parameters between organic and conventional oils in some years, but no consistent trends across the 3 years were found. The acidity of organic Leccino oils was higher than conventional oils in 2001 and 2002 but not in 2003; Frantoio oils were never different. Organic Leccino oils had higher peroxide index than conventional oils in 2001 and 2002 but it was the reverse in 2003. Organic Frantoio oils had lower peroxide index in 2001, but values were not statistically different in the other years. The concentrations of phenols, o‐diphenols, tocopherols, the antioxidant capacity and the volatile compounds showed differences in some years and no difference, or opposite differences, in others. Sensory analysis showed only slight differences in few aromatic notes. Our results showed that organic versus conventional cultivation did not affect consistently the quality of the high quality EVOO considered in this study, at least in the measured parameters. Genotype and year‐to‐year changes in climate, instead, had more marked effects.
Tumor necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐6 are not correlated with the characteristics of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome type 1 in 66 patients
Authors: Wesseldijk Feikje , Huygen Frank J. , Heijmans‐Antonissen Claudia , Niehof Sjoerd P. , Zijlstra Freek J.
Published: December 2007

It was previously shown in a group of 9 patients with complex regional pain syndrome type 1 (CRPS1) that levels of the proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) are higher in blister fluid from the involved side. We hypothesize that local inflammation is responsible for the characteristics of CRPS1. The aim of this study was to confirm the previous observation in a large group of CRPS1 patients, repeating the measurement of TNF‐α and IL‐6 in blister fluid. Furthermore, we sought to determine whether these cytokines are responsible for the characteristics of CRPS1 and characterize the relationship between cytokine levels and duration of the disease. Sixty‐six patients with CRPS1 participated. Skin blisters were artificially induced for measurement of cytokines in both extremities. The following disease characteristics were assessed: pain and differences in temperature, volume, and mobility between the extremities. TNF‐α and IL‐6 levels were significantly higher in blister fluid from the involved side. However, cytokine levels did not correlate with the characteristics or duration of the disease. Our findings confirm the presence of local inflammation in a population of 66 patients in the first 2 years of CRPS1. Proinflammatory cytokines seem to be only partly involved in the pathophysiology of CRPS1, as indicated by the lack of coherence between TNF‐α and IL‐6 levels and the signs and symptoms of inflammation and disease duration. Other inflammatory mediators and mechanisms, such as central sensitization, are probably involved in the early stages of CRPS1.
Seismic stimulation of oil reservoirs
Authors: Serdyukov S.V. , Kurlenya M.V.
Published: December 2007

Experimental studies of energy balance in low-field seismic stimulation of oil recovery show that producing formations can change their properties at the expense of internal energy activated by the applied seismic load. The suggested stimulation mechanism is based on the effect of low-amplitude waves on plastic strain in the formation as the latter becomes moved off its thermodynamic equilibrium by the production process. The suggested model explains many effects known from experiments which result from interplay of different physical processes.
Coffee consumption and mortality in a 14-year follow-up of an elderly northern Finnish population
Authors: Happonen Pertti , Läärä Esa , Hiltunen Liisa , Luukinen Heikki
Published: December 2007

The present study assessed the relationship between coffee consumption and mortality in a home-dwelling elderly population. A population-based cohort of 817 men and women born in 1920 or earlier and living in northern Finland provided complete data on daily coffee consumption and other variables at the baseline examination in 1991–1992. Deaths were monitored through to the end of 2005 by national death certificates, resulting in 6960 person-years of follow-up. Hazard rate ratios for mortality by daily coffee intake were estimated by Poisson regression models adjusted for some known predictors of mortality. During 14·5 years of follow-up, 623 deaths occurred. The total mortality rate was inversely related to the number of cups (average volume, 125 ml) of coffee consumed daily. After adjustment for age, sub-period of follow-up, sex, marital status, basic educational level, previous occupational group, current smoking, BMI, history of myocardial infarction, self-rated health and presence of diabetes, cognitive impairment or physical disability, the estimated relative risk reduction of total mortality per an increment of one more cup of coffee per d reported at baseline was 4 (95 % CI 0, 8) %. The observed associations between coffee consumption and mortality from CVD, cancer, and other or unknown causes, respectively, were qualitatively similar to that of total mortality but the estimates were less precise. The effect of coffee consumption at baseline appeared to attenuate after 10 years since the start of follow-up. The present study provides evidence for daily (caffeine-containing) coffee intake being inversely associated with mortality in the elderly.