bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The 2004 New Hampshire Democratic Primary and Network News
Authors: Farnsworth Stephen J. , Lichter S. Robert
Published: December 2005

Content-coded network newscasts are used to examine the relationship between news coverage and the daily New Hampshire poll standings of the four major Democratic presidential candidates in the weeks before the 2004 primary. The study finds powerful network news effects, particularly with respect to horse-race reports on which candidate was gaining or losing ground, for John Kerry, Howard Dean, Wesley Clark, and John Edwards. The influence of network news coverage on New Hampshire tracking poll standings casts doubt on claims by those who support New Hampshire’s status as the first primary because the state is thought to differ from the media-dominated electoral contests found elsewhere in American politics.
Variation in conserved non-coding sequences on chromosome 5q and susceptibility to asthma and atopy
Authors: Donfack Joseph , Schneider Daniel H , Tan Zheng , Kurz Thorsten , Dubchak Inna , Frazer Kelly A , Ober Carole
Published: December 2005

Background

Evolutionarily conserved sequences likely have biological function.

Methods

To determine whether variation in conserved sequences in non-coding DNA contributes to risk for human disease, we studied six conserved non-coding elements in the Th2 cytokine cluster on human chromosome 5q31 in a large Hutterite pedigree and in samples of outbred European American and African American asthma cases and controls.

Results

Among six conserved non-coding elements (>100 bp, >70% identity; human-mouse comparison), we identified one single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in each of two conserved elements and six SNPs in the flanking regions of three conserved elements. We genotyped our samples for four of these SNPs and an additional three SNPs each in the IL13 and IL4 genes. While there was only modest evidence for association with single SNPs in the Hutterite and European American samples (P < 0.05), there were highly significant associations in European Americans between asthma and haplotypes comprised of SNPs in the IL4 gene (P < 0.001), including a SNP in a conserved non-coding element. Furthermore, variation in the IL13 gene was strongly associated with total IgE (P = 0.00022) and allergic sensitization to mold allergens (P = 0.00076) in the Hutterites, and more modestly associated with sensitization to molds in the European Americans and African Americans (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

These results indicate that there is overall little variation in the conserved non-coding elements on 5q31, but variation in IL4 and IL13, including possibly one SNP in a conserved element, influence asthma and atopic phenotypes in diverse populations.
Copine A, a calcium-dependent membrane-binding protein, transiently localizes to the plasma membrane and intracellular vacuoles in Dictyostelium
Authors: Damer Cynthia K , Bayeva Marina , Hahn Emily S , Rivera Javier , Socec Catherine I
Published: December 2005

Background

Copines are soluble, calcium-dependent membrane binding proteins found in a variety of organisms. Copines are characterized as having two C2 domains at the N-terminal region followed by an "A domain" at the C-terminal region. The "A domain" is similar in sequence to the von Willebrand A (VWA) domain found in integrins. The presence of C2 domains suggests that copines may be involved in cell signaling and/or membrane trafficking pathways.

Results

We have identified six copines genes in the Dictyostelium discoideum genome, cpnA-cpnF, and have focused our studies on cpnA. CpnA is expressed throughout development and was shown to be capable of binding to membranes in a calcium-dependent manner in vitro. A GFP-tagged CpnA was also capable of binding to membranes in a calcium-dependent manner in vitro. In live wildtype Dictyostelium cells expressing GFP-CpnA, GFP-CpnA was typically found in the cytoplasm without any specific localization to membranes. However, in a small subset of starved cells, GFP-CpnA was observed to bind transiently (typically ~1–10 s) to the plasma membrane and intracellular vacuoles. In some cells, the transient membrane localization of GFP-CpnA was observed to occur multiple times in an oscillatory manner over several minutes. In plasma membrane disrupted cells, GFP-CpnA was observed to associate with the plasma membrane and intracellular vacuoles in a calcium-dependent manner. In fixed cells, GFP-CpnA labeled the plasma membrane and intracellular vacuoles, including contractile vacuoles, organelles of the endolysosomal pathway, and phagosomes.

Conclusion

Our results show that Dictyostelium has multiple copine homologs and provides an excellent system in which to study copine function. The localization of a GFP-tagged CpnA to the plasma membrane, contractile vacuoles, organelles of the endolysosomal pathway, and phagosomes suggests that CpnA may have a role in the function of these organelles or the trafficking to and from them. In addition, we hypothesize that the observed transient oscillatory membrane localization of GFP-CpnA in a small subset of starved cells is caused by fast calcium waves and speculate that CpnA may have a role in development, particularly in the differentiation of stalk cells.
Flecainide overdose – support using an intra-aortic balloon pump
Authors: Timperley Jonathan , Mitchell Andrew RJ , Brown Peter D , West Nicholas EJ
Published: December 2005

Background

Flecainide is an antiarrhythmic agent which is being used increasingly for the management of super-ventricular arrhythmias. Overdose with flecainide is frequently fatal with mortality reported as high as 22% due to arrhythmias, myocardial depression and conduction defects leading to electro-mechanical dissociation and asytole. Supportive measures are often required during the case and previously have included inotropes, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and cardiopulmonary bypass.

Case presentation

A 47 year old lady presented to the emergency department with a four hour history of severe central chest pain. Her ECG showed atrial fibrillation and broad QRS complexes with a sine wave appearance. She had a past history of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and significant psychiatric history. Following thrombolysis for a presumed myocardial infarction she developed cardiogenic shock with severely impaired left ventricular function. An intra-aortic balloon pump was inserted and coronary angiography demonstrated normal coronary arteries. With inotropic support she improved over 48 hours, with both her QRS duration and left ventricular function returning to normal. Biochemical testing following her discharge demonstrated significantly elevated levels of flecainide.

Conclusion

The use of an intra-aortic balloon pump is a useful supportive measure during the acute phase of flecainide overdose associated with severe myocardial depression.
Socioeconomic status and non-fatal injuries among Canadian adolescents: variations across SES and injury measures
Authors: Potter Beth K , Speechley Kathy N , Koval John J , Gutmanis Iris A , Campbell M Karen , Manuel Douglas
Published: December 2005

Background

While research to date has consistently demonstrated that socioeconomic status (SES) is inversely associated with injury mortality in both children and adults, findings have been less consistent for non-fatal injuries. The literature addressing SES and injury morbidity among adolescents has been particularly inconclusive. To explore potential explanations for these discrepant research findings, this study uniquely compared the relationship across different measures of SES and different causes of injury (recreation versus non-recreation injuries) within a sample of Canadian adolescents.

Methods

The sample included adolescent participants (aged 12 to 19 years) in the Canadian 1996–1997 cross-sectional National Population Health Survey (n = 6967). Five SES measures (household income, two neighbourhood-level proxy measures, two parental indicators) were examined in relation to three injury outcomes (total, recreation, and non-recreation injuries) using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Among males, a clear relationship with injury was observed only for a parental SES index, which was positively associated with total and recreation injuries (odds ratios for the highest versus lowest SES category of 1.9 for total and 2.5 for recreation injuries). Among females, there was some evidence of a positive relationship between SES and injuries, particularly for a neighbourhood-level education measure with total and recreation injuries (odds ratios of 1.7 for total and 2.0 for recreation injuries).

Conclusion

The results suggest that differences related to the measures of SES chosen and the causes of injury under study may both contribute to discrepancies in past research on SES and non-fatal injuries among adolescents. To clarify the potential SES-injury relationship among youth, the findings emphasize a need for a greater understanding of the meaning and relevance of different SES measures for adolescents, and for an exploration of the pathways through which SES may be related to injury risk.
The Real Schlieffen Plan
Authors: Foley Robert T.
Published: December 2005

In recent years Terence Zuber has maintained that the document commonly known as the ‘Schlieffen Plan’ was, in fact, no real war plan. This article takes issue with Zuber’s far-ranging conclusions. It examines his use of sources, places German war planning in its wider political context, and considers evidence overlooked by Zuber. It demonstrates how a fundamental shift occurred in Germany’s strategic situation in 1905 and how this shift led to change in Germany’s war plans. Schlieffen’s 1905 memorandum took account of this strategic change and allowed Schlieffen at last to place at the heart of his war plan ideas he had been developing since the 1890s. Although modifications were made to meet changes in Germany’s strategic situation, this memorandum served as the basis for all German war plans before 1914. Thus, Schlieffen deserves to be remembered as the father of Germany’s war plan, with all its strengths and weaknesses, in 1914.
High Frequency of Submicroscopic Hemizygous Deletion Is a Major Mechanism of Loss of Expression ofPTENin Uveal Melanoma
Authors: Abdel-Rahman Mohamed H. , Yang Ying , Zhou Xiao-Ping , Craig Elson L. , Davidorf Frederick H. , Eng Charis
Published: December 2005

Purpose

Although cytogenetic aberrations at 10q have been reported in up to 27% of uveal melanomas, the role of PTEN in the pathogenesis of uveal melanoma is largely unknown. Our aim was to determine the frequency and clinical significance of PTEN alterations in uveal melanomas.

Patients and Methods

We examined PTEN expression using immunohistochemistry in 75 sporadic uveal melanomas, with an average follow-up of 89 months. Molecular cytogenetic alterations were studied using comparative genomic hybridization (CGH). Genotyping was carried out using an intragenic PTEN marker and two flanking markers. Mutational analysis of PTEN was also carried out.

Results

Of the 75 tumors, 12 (16%) showed no PTEN immunostaining, 32 (42.7%) showed weak to moderate staining and the remaining 31 (38.2%) showed staining similar to the normal internal controls. Using CGH, only two (15.4%) of 13 samples showed any loss of 10q. However, in the 38 tumors with informative genotyping, we found that 29 (76.3%) had loss of heterozygosity (LOH) of at least one PTEN marker, and 15 (39.5%) showed LOH of at least two markers. Mutations in the coding region of PTEN were identified in four (11.4%) of 35 tumors. Further, loss of cytoplasmic PTEN expression by immunohistochemistry was associated with shortened disease-free survival (P = .029).

Conclusion

This is the first demonstration that PTEN is a tumor suppressor involved in uveal melanoma pathogenesis and may be associated with clinical outcome. Our data also suggest that submicroscopic deletion, but not large deletions, is the major mechanism of loss of PTEN expression in uveal melanomas.
Detection of Hidden Mercury in Cosmetic Products by Partially Cross-Linked Poly(4-vinylpyridine)/Screen-Printed Electrode
Authors: Shih Ying , Senthil Kumar Annamalai , Zen Jyh-Myng , Hsu Jaw-Cherng
Published: December 2005

Due to the severe toxic effects of mercury (Hg) and its derivatives, they are strictly prohibited to be used as cosmetics ingredients. Nevertheless, unknown quantities of Hg are formulated in consumer cosmetic products. We demonstrate a disposable screen-printed electrode modified with 1,5-dibromopentane partially (7%) cross-linked poly(4-vinylpyridine) (SPE/pcPVP) system for the detection of hidden concentrations of mercury, [Hg] within cosmetics goods by anodic stripping analysis in 0.01 M KCl + 0.02 M H2SO4 (1M = 1mol dm−3) solution. The Hg2+ ion in a chloride medium transforms to [HgCl4]2−, which then selectively preconcentrate and electro-deposite as metallic mercury, Hg0 on the cationic SPE/pcPVP (PVP exist as PVP+ in pH < 5). Under optimal conditions, the calibration graph is linear in the window of 25–150 ppb, with a detection limit (S/N = 3) and regression coefficient of 3.21 ppb and 0.9909 respectively for the SPE/pcPVP. Real sample assay results for the three skin-lightening agents are evidence of the precise existence of prohibited Hg (compared with ICP-MS measurements) in the products. This article further cautions the public of Hg toxicity in cosmetics. Since the approach is low cost and disposable, it is highly suitable for unskilled electrochemists.
Chiral Distortion of Di(μ-sulfido)bis[oxomolybdenum(V)] Complexes of a Hexadentate Ligand N,N,N′,N′-Tetrakis(2-pyridylmethyl)-R-propylenediamine and Its Analogs
Authors: Jin Hai-Ying , Hazama Ryoichi , Yamasaki Mikio , Umakoshi Keisuke , Tsuge Kiyoshi , Sasaki Yoichi
Published: December 2005

Chiral distortion of the basal four pyridyl nitrogen donors of the titled complex [Mo2(O)2(μ-S)2{μ-N,N,N′,N′-tetrakis(2-pyridylmethyl)-R-propylenediamine}]2+ has been found to be the reverse to that of the corresponding di-μ-oxo complex, on the basis of the inverse pattern of the circular dichroism spectra. Asymmetric distortion of the dimolybdenum(III) dimer [Mo2(μ-OH)2(μ-CH3COO){μ-N,N,N′,N′-tetrakis(2-pyridylmethyl)ethylenediamine}]3+ has also been discussed.
An Azacrowned Phthalimide as a Metal-Ion Sensitive and Solvatofluorochromic Fluorophore: Fluorescence Properties and a Mimic Integrated Logic Operation
Authors: Okamoto Hideki , Kohno Mami , Satake Kyosuke , Kimura Masaru
Published: December 2005

The novel azacrowned phthalimide 1 has been prepared and its fluorescence properties have been investigated by addition of EtOH and Ag+. The phthalimide 1 showed appreciable solvatofluorochromism; its fluorescence maxima (λFL) appeared in the wavelength region between 458 (in Et2O) and 544 nm (in EtOH). In benzene, the phthalimide 1 gave off blue emission (λFL 466 nm) while it emitted green fluorescence (λFL 497 nm) upon addition of 250 mM of EtOH. Both the blue and the green emissions were quenched by Ag+. Potential logic operations of the phthalimide 1 were examined using fluorescence outputs at 450 (Out1) and 515 nm (Out2) and two input stimuli, EtOH (In1) and Ag+ (In2). The Out1 was on in the absence of these inputs while its intensity was reduced (off) by either or both of the inputs to serve as a NOR operator. The Out2 was off without the inputs; in contrast, the intensity of Out2 was enhanced (on) by In1. The enhanced Out2 was switched off by In2. The Out2, thus, corresponds to an INHIBIT operation responding to the input signals. The crowned phthalimide 1 mimics a two-input–two-output combinational logic gate with a single fluorophore and a single ion-sensing unit.
Oil and Economy
Authors: Köves András
Published: December 2005

Economic literature has recently paid increased attention to the interrelationships between resource (oil) wealth (i.e. dependence on exports of oil and other raw materials) on one hand, and macroeconomic performance (and socio-political system) on the other. Most authors find that resource wealth has a negative impact on economic development, and suggest that resource-oriented countries should diversify their economies. This article reviews some economic-policy dilemmas, and also examines the need for, and the constraints of, structural changes in Russia, an atypical, but quite important resource-dependent country. The negative implications of the “resource curse”are valid in the case of this country, as well. Russia has become resource-oriented despite the priority of heavy (military) industry development during the Soviet period. Although in some fields Soviet manufacturing was extensive and strong, it proved inefficient and internationally non-competitive. Engineering - the largest industrial sector - was never export-oriented. In addition, post-Soviet decline led to significant de-industrialisation. Thus, the present dependence on oil and gas is more a consequence than a cause of the weakness of manufacturing. Government-managed reorientation of resources from raw materials sectors onto manufacturing and services (urged by almost everyone but showing little progress) is a necessary but far not sufficient condition of the economic modernisation.
Book Reviews
Authors: Szabó Katalin , Kettnaker Jan
Published: December 2005

Book Reviews: (1) János Kornai: A gondolat erejével: Rendhagyó önéletrajz(By Force of Thought: Irregular Memoirs). Budapest: Osiris, 2005, 426 pp. (Reviewed by Katalin Szabó); (2) William J. Baumol: The Free Market Innovation Machine - Analyzing the Growth Miracle of Capitalism. Princeton University Press, 2002, 318 pp. (Reviewed by Jan Kettnaker)
The Ethical Principles Determining the Contents of Corporate Governance Rules and Systems
Authors: Dion Michel
Published: December 2005

The basic ethical values enhancing good corporate governance - as they are internationally recognised in national and international reports about corporate governance from the Cadbury report (1992) to the OECD Principles (2004) - are the following ones: fairness, accountability, transparency. Such values are required to achieve the desired confidence of shareholders and other stakeholders. Three main ultimate values constitute the basis of every corporate governance system:(a) an orientation towards Justice-itself through the actualisation of the following values: fairness, integrity, and objectivity; (b) an orientation towards Truth-itself through the actualisation of values of openness, trustfulness, and transparency; (c) the orientation towards Harmony through attitudes of collaboration, care and diligence.
On The Origins of Silicate Dispersion in Polysiloxane/Layered‐Silicate Nanocomposites
Authors: Schmidt D. F. , Clément F. , Giannelis E. P.
Published: December 2005

We report the first multi‐system study of a layered‐silicate dispersion in polysiloxane/layered‐silicate nanocomposites. A variety of layered silicates (montmorillonite, synthetic fluoromica, laponite, and fluorohectorite) and cationic modifiers (single‐, twin‐, and triple‐tailed surfactants with tails of varying lengths and both primary and quaternary head‐groups) are combined to form organically modified layered silicates, which are then screened for compatibility with low‐molecular‐weight silanol‐terminated poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS). Promising combinations are then selected and studied in greater depth with respect to both molecular weight and polysiloxane end‐group and substituent chemistry. We find that the PDMS backbone is generally incompatible with the layered silicates, regardless of modification type, and that dispersion in PDMS systems results from the presence of polar end‐groups, a result unprecedented in the field of polymer nanocomposites. We go on to quantify the substituent effect, not only with respect to end‐group chemistry, but taking into account changes in the polysiloxane backbone itself. For instance, in the absence of polar end‐groups we observe dispersion in the case of poly(methylphenylsiloxane) but not poly(3,3,3‐trifluoropropylmethylsiloxane). Finally, we apply a new epoxy/amine PDMS curing chemistry to PDMS‐nanocomposite production and show higher levels of layered‐silicate dispersion than observed in comparable silanol‐terminated PDMS‐based systems. Our findings serve as an indication of what is necessary to achieve a layered‐silicate dispersion in polysiloxane/layered‐silicate nanocomposites, and may indicate a more general approach for improving dispersion in systems where the polymer backbone is otherwise incompatible with the layered silicate.
A Colloidal Route for Delamination of Layered Solids: Novel Porous‐Clay Nanocomposites
Authors: Letaïef S. , Martín‐Luengo M. A. , Aranda P. , Ruiz‐Hitzky E.
Published: December 2005

Under soft conditions, it is possible to cause the irreversible delamination of organoclays (long‐chain alkylammonium cation‐exchanged smectites, and vermiculite‐layered silicate derivatives) via a sol–gel process that involves alkoxysilanes (e.g., tetraethoxysilane) and that finally gives silica–clay heteromaterials. These intermediate silica–organoclay nanocomposites facilitate the diffusion of the alkoxides which, in the presence of water, are hydrolyzed and subsequently polymerized. This process is a heterocoagulation that gives homogeneous gels in which the order in the layer stacking of clays is partially or completely lost, depending on the nature of the layered silicate. After calcination to eliminate the organic moiety, that is, the alkylammonium chains, the gel is irreversibly transformed into a silica–clay material in which the silicate layers are fully separated by the silica network generated by the alkoxide. The resulting solids are inorganic–inorganic nanocomposites which could be compared to polymer–clay nanocomposites, but in the present case the inorganic silica network is the continuous phase and the individual layers the corresponding disperse phase of the nanocomposite. These materials are solids of high specific surface area (> 400 m2 g–1), which exhibit micro‐ and mesoporosity, and also have properties inherent to both components, the pristine clay (e.g., a cation‐exchange capacity) and the silica network (e.g., an ability to be functionalized).
Highly Selective and Reversible Optical, Colorimetric, and Electrochemical Detection of Mercury(II) by Amphiphilic Ruthenium Complexes Anchored onto Mesoporous Oxide Films
Authors: Nazeeruddin M. K. , Di Censo D. , Humphry‐Baker R. , Grätzel M.
Published: December 2005

The colorimetric, fluorimetric, and electrochemical detection of mercury ions by functionalized ruthenium sensitizers in aqueous and non‐aqueous solutions and on anchored TiO2 films are investigated. Mercury ions coordinate reversibly to the ruthenium sensitizers, inducing a color change and increasing the phosphorescence intensity significantly. The electrochemical data of the adsorbed sensitizer on TiO2 films show a reversible couple, owing to the percolation through electronic couplings between –NCS ligands of neighboring molecules; upon exposure to a Hg2+‐containing solution, the electrical signal is appreciably reduced. The detection limit for mercury(II) ions using UV‐vis spectroscopy in homogeneous aqueous solutions is estimated to be ∼ 20 ppb. The results presented herein have important implications in the development of reversible colorimetric, fluorimetric, and electrochemical on–off sensors based on nanocrystalline semiconductor films for the simple, swift, and selective detection of mercury ions in solution.
Optimization strategies for simulated moving bed and PowerFeed processes
Authors: Kawajiri Yoshiaki , Biegler Lorenz T.
Published: December 2005

Simulated moving bed (SMB) processes have been applied to many important separations in sugar, petrochemical, and pharmaceutical industries. However, systematic optimization of SMB is still a challenging problem. Two tailored approaches are proposed, full discretization and single discretization, where both the optimal operating condition and concentration profiles are obtained by a Newton‐type solver. In a case study of fructose and glucose separation, it has been found that the full‐discretization method implemented on AMPL with IPOPT is more efficient than single‐discretization method on gPROMS with SRQPD. The reliability of the full‐discretization method is also demonstrated with case studies of a bi‐Langmuir isotherm and a PowerFeed optimization problem. © 2005 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2006
Reevaluation of dominance hierarchy in bonobos (Pan paniscus)
Authors: Paoli T. , Palagi E. , Tarli S.M. Borgognini
Published: December 2005

While dominance relationships have been widely studied in chimpanzees, in bonobos, dominance style and linearity of hierarchy are still under debate. In fact, some authors stated that bonobo hierarchy is nonlinear/ill‐defined, while others claimed that it is fairly linear. In this paper, we test the hypothesis that a shift in group composition determines changes in linearity of hierarchy. To test this hypothesis, we collected data on one of the largest captive groups in the world, in the Apenheul Primate Park (The Netherlands). We investigated the linearity of the hierarchy in two different periods, with a shifting group composition. We used the corrected Landau's index and David's scores to estimate which animals were most dominant. The major overall result of our study is that hierarchy is fairly nonlinear in this group: during the first study period (eight adults), the hierarchy was nonlinear, whereas during the second one (six adults), it failed to reach statistical linearity. We argue that the reduction of the number of adults is the principal factor affecting linearity. We also found that dominance interactions were evenly distributed across sex classes in both study periods. Furthermore, no correlation was observed between age/body weight and rank. As for the overall dominance relationship between males and females, our results suggest that there is no exclusive female dominance in the Apenheul group. The dominance style of bonobos may be loose and differentially expressed in diverse groups or in the same group, along with shifting conditions. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Applications of Transition‐Metal Catalysts to Textile and Wood‐Pulp Bleaching
Authors: Hage Ronald , Lienke Achim
Published: December 2005

From an economic perspective, textile and paper bleaching are amongst the most important oxidation processes. The removal of unwanted chromophores, be it stains on cloths or residual lignin in wood pulp, consumes more than 60 % of the world production of hydrogen peroxide. However, existing technologies have their limitations. At ambient temperature, hydrogen peroxide gives little stain bleaching and is used inefficiently. Hence the high product dosages and washing temperatures required limit its application to predominantly European markets, to the exclusion of the majority of the world's population. In paper manufacture, the use of chlorine‐based oxidants results in the formation of chlorinated waste products, which show poor biodegradability. On the other hand, hydrogen peroxide requires higher temperatures, longer reaction times and is more expensive. Transition‐metal catalysts offer an alternative. This review discusses the main classes of known bleach catalysts and their possible modes of action.
Cover Picture: Addressing the Metal Centers of [2×2] CoII4 Grid‐Type Complexes by STM/STS (Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 48/2005)
Authors: Alam Mohammad Sahabul , Strömsdörfer Stefan , Dremov Viacheslav , Müller Paul , Kortus Jens , Ruben Mario , Lehn Jean‐Marie
Published: December 2005

“I find in the square …︁ specific settings, divisible areas, number structures, possibilities of time, measure and rhythm as well as the essential form of color which can be placed in the square to interplay with number forms.” This statement by Alfred Jensen (his painting “The River Diagram” is shown in the cover picture) might also hold for research on molecular squares. In their Communication on page 7896 ff., M. Ruben, J.‐M. Lehn, and P. Müller et al. describe the spectroscopic dissecting of a single molecular square into regions of different electronic properties by STM/STS techniques.
Forecasting model with asymmetric market response and its application to pricing of consumer package goods
Authors: Terui Nobuhiko , Imano Yuuki
Published: December 2005

This paper presents a dynamic forecasting model that accommodates asymmetric market responses to marketing mix variable—price promotion—by threshold models. As a threshold variable to generate a mechanism for different market responses, we use the counterpart to the concept of a price threshold applied to a representative consumer in a store. A Bayesian approach is taken for statistical modelling because of advantages that it offers over estimation and forecasting. The proposed model incorporates the lagged effects of a price variable. Thereby, myriad pricing strategies can be implemented in the time horizon. Their effectiveness can be evaluated using the predictive density. We intend to improve the forecasting performance over conventional linear time series models. Furthermore, we discuss efficient dynamic pricing in a store using strategic simulations under some scenarios suggested by an estimated structure of the models. Empirical studies illustrate the superior forecasting performance of our model against conventional linear models in terms of the root mean square error of the forecasts. Useful information for dynamic pricing is derived from its structural parameter estimates. This paper develops a dynamic forecasting model that accommodates asymmetric market responses to marketing mix variable—price promotion—by the threshold models. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In vitro effects of GSM modulated radiofrequency fields on human immune cells
Authors: Tuschl Helga , Novak Waltraud , Molla‐Djafari Hamid
Published: December 2005

Despite the important role of the immune system in defending the body against infections and cancer, only few investigations on possible effects of radiofrequency (RF) radiation on function of human immune cells have been undertaken. Aim of the present investigation was therefore to assess whether GSM modulated RF fields have adverse effects on the functional competence of human immune cells. Within the frame of the multidisciplinary project “Biological effects of high frequency electromagnetic fields (EMF)” sponsored by the National Occupation Hazard Insurance Association (AUVA) in vitro investigations were carried out on human blood cells. Exposure was performed at GSM Basic 1950 MHz, an SAR of 1 mW/g in an intermittent mode (5 min “ON”, 10 min “OFF”) and a maximum Δ T of 0.06 °C for the duration of 8 h. The following immune parameters were evaluated: (1) the intracellular production of interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) and interferon (INF) gamma in lymphocytes, and IL‐1 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α in monocytes were evaluated with monoclonal antibodies. (2) The activity of immune‐relevant genes (IL 1‐α and β, IL‐2, IL‐2‐receptor, IL‐4, macrophage colony stimulating factor (MCSF)‐receptor, TNF‐α, TNF‐α‐receptor) and housekeeping genes was analyzed with real time PCR. (3) The cytotoxicity of lymphokine activated killer cells (LAK cells) against a tumor cell line was determined in a flow cytometric test. For each parameter, blood samples of at least 15 donors were evaluated. No statistically significant effects of exposure were found and there is no indication that emissions from mobile phones are associated with adverse effects on the human immune system. Bioelectromagnetics 27:188–196, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF‐EMF) on Kaposi's sarcoma‐associated herpes virus in BCBL‐1 cells
Authors: Pica Francesca , Serafino Annalucia , Divizia Maurizio , Donia Domenica , Fraschetti Marzia , Sinibaldi‐Salimei Paola , Giganti Maria Gabriella , Volpi Antonio
Published: December 2005

Association between extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF‐EMF) and human cancers is controversial, and few studies have been conducted on their influence on oncogenic viruses. We studied the effects of 1 mT, 50 Hz sine waves, applied for 24–72 h, on Kaposi's sarcoma (KS)‐associated herpesvirus (KSHV or HHV‐8) in BCBL‐1, a latently infected primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) cell line. ELF‐EMF exposure did not affect the growth and viability of BCBL‐1 cells, either stimulated or not with TPA. The total amount of KSHV DNA detected in ELF‐EMF exposed cultures not stimulated with TPA did not differ from that of the unexposed controls (P = ns). However, in the presence of TPA stimulation, total KSHV DNA content was found higher in ELF‐EMF exposed than in control BCBL‐1 cultures (P = .024) at 72 h exposure, but not earlier. Viral DNA increase significantly correlated with increased mean fluorescence intensity/cell for the lytic antigen gp K8.1A/B (P < .01), but not with percentage of gp K8.1A/B‐positive cells or of cells containing virions. Viral progeny produced under ELF‐EMF exposure consisted mainly of defective viral particles. Bioelectromagnetics 27:226–232, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fugenlose Überbauten für die Containerkajen CT3a und CT4 in Bremerhaven
Authors: Morgen Karl , von Thaden Harald , Vollstedt Hans‐Werner
Published: December 2005

Bei der Containerkaje in Bremerhaven handelt es sich um die längste Stromkaje der Welt. Nachdem bereits der Bauabschnitt CT3a fugenlos ausgeführt wird, wird derzeit die Erweiterung, Bauabschnitt CT4, ebenfalls fugenlos mit einer Gesamtlänge von 1680 m ausgeführt. Voraussetzungen für den Erfolg der fugenlosen Bauweise sind eine auf das Projekt abgestimmte Betontechnologie, eine gute konstruktive Durchbildung zur Beschränkung der Rißbildung und eine sorgfältige Umsetzung aller Maßnahmen auf der Baustelle. Es werden die Grundlagen für die Bemessung beschrieben und Erfahrungen am bereits ausgeführten Bauabschnitt CT3a mitgeteilt.
Kriechumlagerungen bei Durchlaufträger‐Brücken aus Fertigteilen und Ortbeton
Authors: Mildner Klaus
Published: December 2005

Brückenüberbauten werden häufig aus einfeldrigen Spannbetonfertigteilen hergestellt, die nachträglich durch Ortbeton zu Durchlaufträgern verbunden werden. Nach Erhärten des Ortbetons ergeben sich infolge von Kriechen Umlagerungen der auf die Fertigteile einwirkenden Schnittgrößen aus ständigen Lasten und Vorspannung. Die Stützmomente infolge der Kriechumlagerungen werden in der Praxis meist näherungsweise als langsame Zwängung für nachträglich gekoppelte Einfeldträger nach Trost ermittelt, ohne daß der Verbundquerschnitt mit den unterschiedlichen Kriechbeiwerten berücksichtigt wird.

Im folgenden werden die Umlagerungen nach Trost am Beispiel eines Zweifeldträgers untersucht und einer genaueren Berechnung mit Querschnittsverdrehungen, die sich infolge des Kriechens ergeben, gegenübergestellt. Dabei werden Abmessungen und Belastungen in Anlehnung an das Beispiel 14 in [1] verwendet. Die Erweiterung auf Mehrfeldträger ist ohne weiteres möglich.
The effect of 3‐(5‐nitro‐2‐thienyl)‐9‐chloro‐5‐morpholin‐4‐yl[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐c]quinazoline on cell growth, cell cycle, induction of DNA fragmentation, and activity of caspase 3 in murine leukemia L1210 cells and fibroblast NIH‐3T3 cells
Authors: Jantová S. , Letašiová S. , Repický A. , Ovádeková R. , Lakatoš B.
Published: December 2005

Quinazolines are multitarget agents, which have broad spectrum of biological activity, and some of them are now in cancer clinical testing. 3‐(5‐nitro‐2‐thienyl)‐9‐chloro‐5‐morpholin‐4‐yl[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐c]quinazoline is a new synthetically prepared derivative, which in our previous study showed cytotoxic effects on cancer cell lines HeLa and B16. Quinazoline, at micromolar concentrations, induced morphological changes and necrosis of B16 cells, and at nanomolar concentrations it produced changes of F‐actin cytoskeleton. It did not cause changes in the cell cycle, did not induce apoptotic cell death in B16 cells, did not have a mutagenic effect, and did not even behave as a typical intercalating agent. Little significant reduction of tumor volume in intramuscular transplanted B16 cells was observed. The aim of the present study was to examine the cytotoxic effect of 3‐(5‐nitro‐2‐thienyl)‐9‐chloro‐5‐morpholin‐4‐yl[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐c]quinazoline on murine leukemia L1210 cells and fibroblast NIH‐3T3 cells. Induction of cell morphology and cell cycle changes, induction of apoptosis and caspase 3 activity were studied. Quinazoline acted cytotoxically on both cell lines. The sensitivity of leukemia L1210 cells to the quinazoline was higher than that of fibroblast NIH‐3T3. The IC100 was 12 µM for L1210 cells and 24 µM for NIH‐3T3 cells. No effect of quinazoline on the cell cycle profile of L1210 and NIH‐3T3 was detected, however, quinazoline induced an increase of the sub‐G0 cell fraction, apoptotic DNA fragmentation, and apoptotic morphological changes at a concentration of 12 µM. This quinazoline concentration induced caspase 3 activity. Our results demonstrated that induction of apoptotic cell death via activation of caspase 3 contributed to the cytotoxic effects of 3‐(5‐nitro‐2‐thienyl)‐9‐chloro‐5‐morpholin‐4‐yl[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐c]quinazoline in murine leukemia L1210 cells. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mechanistic Insight into the Activity of Tyrosinase from Variable‐Temperature Studies in an Aqueous/Organic Solvent
Authors: Granata Alessandro , Monzani Enrico , Bubacco Luigi , Casella Luigi
Published: December 2005

The activity of mushroom tyrosinase towards a representative series of phenolic and diphenolic substrates structurally related to tyrosine has been investigated in a mixed solvent of 34.4 % methanol–glycerol (7:1, v/v) and 65.6 % (v/v) aqueous 50 mM Hepes buffer at pH 6.8 at various temperatures. The kinetic activation parameters controlling the enzymatic reactions and the thermodynamic parameters associated with the process of substrate binding to the enzyme active species have been deduced from the temperature variation of the kcat and KM parameters. The activation free energy is dominated by the enthalpic term, the value of which lies in the relatively narrow range of 61±9 kJ mol−1 irrespective of substrate or reaction type (monophenolase or diphenolase). The activation entropies are small and generally negative and contribute no more than 10 % to the activation free energy. The substrate binding parameters are characterized by large and negative enthalpy and entropy contributions, which are typically dictated by polar protein–substrate interactions. The substrate 4‐hydroxyphenylpropionic acid exhibits a strikingly anomalous temperature dependence of the enzymatic oxidation rate, with ΔH≠ ≈150 kJ mol−1 and ΔS≠ ≈280 J K−1 mol−1, due to the fact that it can competitively bind to the enzyme through the phenol group, like the other substrates, or the carboxylate group, like carboxylic acid inhibitors. A kinetic model that takes into account the dual substrate/inhibitor nature of this compound enables rationalization of this anomalous behavior.
Crystal Structures of the Y3CuSiS7 and Y3CuSiSe7 Compounds.
Authors: Gulay L. D. , Lychmanyuk O. S. , Stepien‐Damm J. , Pietraszko A. , Olekseyuk I. D.
Published: December 2005

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KBi2‐xPbx (0 < x ≤ 1): A Zintl Phase Evolving from a Distortion of the Cubic Laves‐Phase Structure.
Authors: Ponou Simeon , Mueller Noemi , Faessler Thomas F. , Haeussermann Ulrich
Published: December 2005

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Bright Visible Photoluminescence from Nanotube Titania Grown by Soft Chemical Process.
Authors: Qian Lei , Jin Zhen‐Sheng , Yang Sheng‐Yi , Du Zu‐Liang , Xu Xu‐Rong
Published: December 2005

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Optical Spectra of a Novel Polyoxometalate Occluded within Modified MCM‐41.
Authors: Zhang Xiaoming , Zhang Cheng , Guo Haiquan , Huang Wenlin , Polenova Tatyana , Francesconi Lynn C. , Akins Daniel L.
Published: December 2005

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Structure and Magnetic Properties of a New Ferrimagnet Containing a Paramagnetic [Cr(CN)5(NO)]3‐ Building Block.
Authors: Zhou Hui‐Bo , Zhang Wei , Yoshimura Kazuyoshi , Ouyang Yan , Liao Dai‐Zheng , Jiang Zong‐Hui , Yan Shi‐Ping , Cheng Peng
Published: December 2005

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The Phase Diagram of the Sr—Ge System.
Authors: Palenzona A. , Pani M.
Published: December 2005

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A Detailed Account of a Convenient Lab‐Scale Preparation of AsF5 via Direct Fluorination as AsF3.
Authors: Aris Damian R. , Knapp Carsten , Passmore Jack , Wang Xinping
Published: December 2005

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A Laboratory‐Scale Synthesis of High‐Purity AsF5 by Direct Fluorination of AsF3.
Authors: Emara Adel A. A. , Lehmann John F. , Schrobilgen Gary J.
Published: December 2005

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Hexafluorodiberyllate, [Be2F6]2‐. Synthesis and Crystal Structure of (Ph4P)4[Be2F6] [SiF6]×6CH3CN.
Authors: Neumueller Bernhard , Dehnicke Kurt
Published: December 2005

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Synthesis and X‐Ray Structure of n‐Propylimidodiphosphonic Anhydride, a New Precursor for the Hydrothermal of Solvothermal Synthesis of Zinc Phosphates.
Authors: Chivers Tristram , Fu Zhiyong , Grebinski James , Parvez Masood
Published: December 2005

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Structural Characterization and Magnetic Properties of Divanadates ZnMV2O7 (M: Co, Ni and Cu).
Authors: Salah A. Ait , Benkhouja K. , Jaafari K. , Romero de Paz J. , Climent E. , Saez Puche R.
Published: December 2005

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Chemistry of Transition‐Metal Clusters with Mixed Sb/S Ligands: Evidence for a Terminal Sb=S Double Bond in Cp*3Rh3Sb2S5 (Cp*: C5Me5).
Authors: Lange Andreas , Kubicki Marek M. , Wachter Joachim , Zabel Manfred
Published: December 2005

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Cu(I)‐Catalyzed Direct Enantioselective Cross Aldol‐Type Reaction of Acetonitrile.
Authors: Suto Yutaka , Tsuji Riichiro , Kanai Motomu , Shibasaki Masakatsu
Published: December 2005

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3,3′‐Disubstituted BINAP Ligands: Synthesis, Resolution, and Applications in Asymmetric Hydrogenation.
Authors: Hopkins J. Matthew , Dalrymple Sean A. , Parvez Masood , Keay Brian A.
Published: December 2005

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An Air‐Stable P‐Chiral Phosphine Ligand for Highly Enantioselective Transition‐Metal‐Catalyzed Reactions.
Authors: Imamoto Tsuneo , Sugita Keitaro , Yoshida Kazuhiro
Published: December 2005

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Rh(I)‐Catalyzed Pauson—Khand Reaction and Cycloisomerization of Allenynes: Selective Preparation of Monocyclic, Bicyclo[m.3.0], and Bicyclo[5.2.0] Ring Systems.
Authors: Mukai Chisato , Inagaki Fuyuhiko , Yoshida Tatsunori , Yoshitani Katsuya , Hara Yasuyuki , Kitagaki Shinji
Published: December 2005

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Cycloisomerization of Enynes Catalyzed by Iron(0)—Ate Complexes.
Authors: Fuerstner Alois , Martin Ruben , Majima Keisuke
Published: December 2005

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Room Temperature Hydroalkylation of Electron‐Deficient Olefins: sp3 C—H Functionalization via a Lewis Acid‐Catalyzed Intramolecular Redox Event.
Authors: Pastine Stefan J. , McQuaid Kevin M. , Sames Dalibor
Published: December 2005

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Molecular Iodine as Efficient Co‐Catalyzed for Facile Oxidation of Alcohols with Hypervalent(III) Iodine.
Authors: Karade N. N. , Tiwari G. B. , Huple D. B.
Published: December 2005

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Facile Oxidation of Benzyl Alcohols with Sodium Nitrate/p‐TsOH under Microwave Irradiation.
Authors: Lee Jong Chan , Lee Jo Young , Lee Jang Mi
Published: December 2005

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Thionation of Carbonyl Compounds Using Phosphorus Pentasulfide and Hexamethyldisiloxane under Microwave Irradiations.
Authors: Polshettiwar Vivek , Nivsarkar Manisha , Paradashani Deepak , Kaushik M. P.
Published: December 2005

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Development of a New Class of Chiral Phosphorus Ligands: P‐Chirogenic Diaminophosphine Oxides. A Unique Source of Enantioselection in Pd‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Construction of Quaternary Carbons.
Authors: Nemoto Tetsuhiro , Masuda Takamasa , Matsumoto Takayoshi , Hamada Yasumasa
Published: December 2005

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Silver‐Catalyzed Alkyl—Alkyl Homo‐Coupling of Grignard Reagents.
Authors: Nagano Takashi , Hayashi Tamio
Published: December 2005

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Dendritic Supramolecular Assemblies for Drug Delivery
Authors: Morgan Meredith T. , Carnahan Michael A. , Finkelstein Stella , Prata Carla A. H. , Degoricija Lovorka , Lee Stephen J. , Grinstaff Mark W.
Published: December 2005

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Substrate‐Directed Diastereoselective Hydroformylations. Part 5. Desymmetrizing Hydroformylation of Dialkenylcarbinols with the Aid of a Planar‐Chiral, Catalyst‐Directing Group.
Authors: Breit Bernhard , Breuninger Daniel
Published: December 2005

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Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of Some Succinimides (III)
Authors: Shetgiri N. P. , Nayak B. K.
Published: December 2005

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Catalytic Generation of Activated Carboxylates from Enals: A Product‐Determining Role for the Base.
Authors: Sohn Stephanie S. , Bode Jeffrey W.
Published: December 2005

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Equilibrating C—S Bond Formation by C—H and S—S Bond Metathesis. Rhodium‐Catalyzed Alkylthiolation Reaction of 1‐Alkynes with Disulfides.
Authors: Arisawa Mieko , Fujimoto Kenji , Morinaka Satoshi , Yamaguchi Masahiko
Published: December 2005

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Catalytic Asymmetric Ring Opening of 2,3‐Substituted Norbornenes with Organometallic Reagents: A New Formal Aza Functionalization of Cyclopentadiene.
Authors: Pineschi Mauro , Del Moro Federica , Crotti Paolo , Macchia Franco
Published: December 2005

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Ruthenium‐Catalyzed Hydrative Cyclization of 1,5‐Enynes.
Authors: Chen Yiyun , Ho Douglas M. , Lee Chulbom
Published: December 2005

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Stereoselective Synthesis of Highly Substituted Cyclopentenones Through [4 + 1] Annulations of Trialkylsilyl Vinyl Ketenes with α‐Benzotriazolyl Organolithium Compounds.
Authors: Davie Christopher P. , Danheiser Rick L.
Published: December 2005

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Highly Regio‐ and Stereoselective Carbometalation Reaction of Fluorine‐Containing Internal Acetylenes with Organocopper Reagents.
Authors: Konno Tsutomu , Daitoh Takeshi , Noiri Atsushi , Chae Jungha , Ishihara Takashi , Yamanaka Hiroki
Published: December 2005

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Unexpected, Drastic Effect of Triflic Acid on Oxidative Diacetoxylation of Iodoarenes by Sodium Perborate. A Facile and Efficient One‐Pot Synthesis of (Diacetoxyiodo)arenes.
Authors: Hossain Md. Delwar , Kitamura Tsugio
Published: December 2005

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Novel Imidazolidine‐Tetrazole Organocatalyst for Asymmetric Conjugate Addition of Nitroalkanes.
Authors: Prieto Auxiliadora , Halland Nis , Joergensen Karl Anker
Published: December 2005

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Enantioselective Addition of Methyllithium to Aromatic Imines Catalyzed by C2 Symmetric Tertiary Diamines.
Authors: Kizirian Jean‐Claude , Cabello Noemi , Pinchard Laurent , Caille Jean‐Claude , Alexakis Alexandre
Published: December 2005

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Enantioselective Broensted Acid Catalyzed Transfer Hydrogenation: Organocatalytic Reduction of Imines.
Authors: Rueping Magnus , Sugiono Erli , Azap Cengiz , Theissmann Thomas , Bolte Michael
Published: December 2005

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