bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The pulmonary artery pulsatility index identifies severe right ventricular dysfunction in acute inferior myocardial infarction
Authors: Korabathina Ravi , Heffernan Kevin S. , Paruchuri Vikram , Patel Ayan R. , Mudd James O. , Prutkin Jordan M. , Orr Nicole M. , Weintraub Andrew , Kimmelstiel Carey D. , Kapur Navin K.
Published: September 2011

Background: Right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the setting of acute inferior wall myocardial infarction (IWMI), and early detection may improve clinical outcomes. We defined a novel hemodynamic index, the pulmonary artery pulsatility index (PAPi), and explored whether the PAPi correlates with severe RVD in acute IWMI.

Methods: From 2008 to 2010, we identified 20 patients presenting with angiographically confirmed proximal right coronary artery occlusion and suspected RVD (sRVD) as defined by hemodynamic instability, profound bradycardia, or ST‐elevation in lead V4R. Two controls groups were studied (1) 50 patients with nonobstructive coronary artery disease (Non‐CAD) and (2) 14 patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome requiring left coronary stenting (ACS). Hemodynamic indices analyzed at the time of catheterization included: (1) the right atrial to pulmonary capillary wedge pressure ratio (RA:PCWP), (2) right ventricular stroke work (RVSW), and (3) the PAPi. Qualitative echocardiographic scores of RV systolic function were determined by two blinded investigators within 24 hr of catheterization.

Results: Among subjects with sRVD, 7 (35%) received a percutaneous RV support device (pRVSD) for medically refractory RV failure and 4 (20%) died prior to hospital discharge. Compared to Non‐CAD and ACS controls, subjects with sRVD had a significantly lower PAPi (4.32 ± 3.04 vs. 5.52 ± 4.40 vs. 1.11 ± 0.57, respectively, P < 0.01) and a higher RA:PCWP ratio (0.48 ± 0.24 vs. 0.51 ± 0.26 vs. 0.81 ± 0.30, respectively, P < 0.05). Both the PAPi and RA:PCWP ratios correlated significantly with RVSW and qualitative echocardiographic grading. The PAPi demonstrated the highest sensitivity (88.9%) and specificity (98.3%) for predicting in‐hospital mortality and/or requirement of a pRVSD. Using ROC curve derived cut‐points, a PAPi ≤ 0.9 provided 100.0% sensitivity and 98.3% specificity (C‐statistic: 0.998) for predicting these outcomes, exceeding the predictive value of the RA:PCWP ratio or RVSW.

Conclusions: The PAPi is a simple, invasive hemodynamic measure that may help identify high‐risk patients with acute IWMI with severe RVD. Earlier identification of this high‐risk population may improve clinical outcomes. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hybrid coronary revascularization for the treatment of left main coronary stenosis: A feasibility study
Authors: Rab S. Tanveer , Douglas John S. , Lyons Ellen , Puskas John D. , Bansal Darpan , Halkos Michael E. , Guyton Robert A. , Vassiliades Thomas A.
Published: September 2011

Objective: To determine the feasibility of a hybrid coronary revascularization (HCR) approach for the treatment of left main (LM) coronary artery stenosis. Background: The recommended therapy for significant LM stenosis is coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of unprotected LM lesions is reserved for patients at high risk for complications with CABG. HCR in LM disease has not been studied. Methods: Twenty‐two consecutive patients with LM stenosis >70% underwent staged HCR. Following a robotic or thoracoscopic‐assisted minimally invasive left internal mammary artery (LIMA) to left anterior descending artery (LAD) coronary bypass, PCI of the LM, and non‐LAD targets was performed after angiographic confirmation of LIMA patency. Intravascular ultrasound confirmed optimal stent deployment. Thirty‐day adverse outcomes and long term follow up was obtained. Results: In the 22 patients with LM lesions, 6 were ostial, 5 mid, and 11 distal. LIMA patency was FitzGibbon A in all cases. LM stenting was successful in all patients with drug‐eluting stents (DES) placed in 21 of 22 cases. Three patients underwent stent implantation in the right coronary artery. There were no 30‐day major adverse cardiac or cerebrovascular events. At a mean of 38.8 ± 22 months postprocedure, 21 patients were alive without reintervention; one death occurred at 454 days. Conclusions: HCR for LM coronary disease is a feasible alternative to CABG and unprotected LM PCI. This approach combines the long‐term durability of a LIMA‐LAD bypass with the less invasive option of PCI in non‐LAD targets with DES. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Alkyne–Aldehyde Reductive CC Coupling through Ruthenium‐Catalyzed Transfer Hydrogenation: Direct Regio‐ and Stereoselective Carbonyl Vinylation to Form Trisubstituted Allylic Alcohols in the Absence of Premetallated Reagents
Authors: Leung Joyce C. , Patman Ryan L. , Sam Brannon , Krische Michael J.
Published: September 2011

Nonsymmetric 1,2‐disubstituted alkynes engage in reductive coupling to a variety of aldehydes under the conditions of ruthenium‐catalyzed transfer hydrogenation by employing formic acid as the terminal reductant and delivering the products of carbonyl vinylation with good to excellent levels of regioselectivity and with complete control of olefin stereochemistry. As revealed in an assessment of the ruthenium counterion, iodide plays an essential role in directing the regioselectivity of CC bond formation. Isotopic labeling studies corroborate reversible catalytic propargyl CH oxidative addition in advance of the CC coupling, and demonstrate that the CC coupling products do not experience reversible dehydrogenation by way of enone intermediates. This transfer hydrogenation protocol enables carbonyl vinylation in the absence of stoichiometric metallic reagents.
Unravelling the Reaction Path of Rhodium–MonoPhos‐Catalysed Olefin Hydrogenation
Authors: Alberico Elisabetta , Baumann Wolfgang , de Vries Johannes G. , Drexler Hans‐Joachim , Gladiali Serafino , Heller Detlef , Henderickx Huub J. W. , Lefort Laurent
Published: September 2011

The mechanism of the asymmetric hydrogenation of methyl (Z)‐2‐acetamidocinnamate (mac) catalysed by [Rh(MonoPhos)2(nbd)]SbF6 (MonoPhos: 3,5‐dioxa‐4‐phosphacyclohepta[2,1‐a:3,4‐a′]dinaphthalen‐4‐yl)dimethylamine) was elucidated by using 1H, 31P and 103Rh NMR spectroscopy and ESI‐MS. The use of nbd allows one to obtain in pure form the rhodium complex that contains two units of the ligand. In contrast to the analogous complexes that contain cis,cis‐1,5‐cyclooctadiene (cod), this complex shows well‐resolved NMR spectroscopic signals. Hydrogenation of these catalyst precursors at 1 bar total pressure gave rise to the formation of a bimetallic complex of general formula [Rh(MonoPhos)2]2(SbF6)2; no solvate complexes were detected. In the dimeric complex both rhodium atoms are ligated to two MonoPhos ligands but, in addition, each rhodium atom also binds to one of the binaphthyl rings of a ligand that is bound to the other rhodium metal. Upon addition of mac, a mixture of diastereomeric complexes [Rh(MonoPhos)2(mac)]SbF6 is formed in which the substrate is bound in a chelate fashion to the metal. Upon hydrogenation, these adducts are converted into a new complex [Rh(MonoPhos)2{mac(H)2}]SbF6 in which the methyl phenylalaninate mac(H)2 is bound through its aromatic ring to rhodium. Addition of mac to this complex leads to displacement of the product by the substrate. No hydride intermediates could be detected and no evidence was found for the involvement at any stage of the process of complexes with only one coordinated MonoPhos. The collected data suggest that the asymmetric hydrogenation follows a Halpern‐like mechanism in which the less abundant substrate–catalyst adduct is preferentially hydrogenated to phenylalanine methyl ester.
Aldehyde Cruciforms: Dosimeters for Primary and Secondary Amines
Authors: Patze Christian , Broedner Kerstin , Rominger Frank , Trapp Oliver , Bunz Uwe H. F.
Published: September 2011

We demonstrate that aldehyde‐substituted donor–acceptor cruciforms [1,4‐bis(arylethynyl)‐2,5‐distyrylbenzenes] are useful dosimeters for primary amines, primary diamines, and secondary amines. The 1,n‐diamines are particularly reactive towards this dosimeter and can be detected in less than 100 ppm concentration. Using a single aldehyde‐functionalized cruciform in seven different solvents allowed us to discern fourteen different amines by digital photography and statistical evaluation of the response patterns extracted as red, green, blue (RGB) values.
Density Functional Theory Study on (Cl2GaN3)n(n=1–4) Clusters
Authors: Xia Qiying , Ma Dengxue , Zhao Wenwei , Xiao Heming
Published: September 2011

The molecular geometries, vibrational properties, and thermodynamic properties of the clusters (Cl2GaN3)n(n=1–4) have been predicted at the B3LYP/6‐311+G* level. The optimized clusters (Cl2GaN3)n (n=2–4) all possess cyclic structures containing GaNαGa linkages. The relationships between geometrical parameters and oligomerization degree n are discussed. The gas‐phase structures of the trimers prefer to exist in boat‐twisting conformation. As for the tetramer, the S4 symmetry structure is the most stable. The infrared spectra are obtained and assigned by vibrational analysis. Thermodynamic properties derived from the infrared spectra on the basis of statistical thermodynamic principles are linearly correlated with the oligomerization degree n as well as the temperature. Meanwhile, thermodynamic analysis of the gas‐phase reaction suggests that the oligomerization is exothermic and favorable under high temperature.
Low‐temperature Synthesis of Peony‐like Spinel Li4Ti5O12 as a High‐performance Anode Material for Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Guanchao , Xia Jian , Jiao Jiqing , Chen Liuping , Shen Peikang
Published: September 2011

Peony‐like spinel Li4Ti5O12 was synthesized via calcination of precursor at the temperature of 400°C, and the precursor was prepared through a hydrothermal process in which the reaction of hydrous titanium oxide with lithium hydroxide was conducted at 180°C. The as‐prepared product was investigated by SEM, TEM and XRD, respectively. As anode material for lithium ion battery, the Li4Ti5O12 obtained was also characterized by galvanostatic tests and cyclic voltammetry measurements. It is found that the peony‐like Li4Ti5O12 exhibited high rate capability of 119.7 mAh·g−1 at 10 C and good capacity retention of 113.8 mAh·g−1 after 100 cycles at 5 C, and these results indicate the peony‐like Li4Ti5O12 has promising applications for lithium ion batteries with high performance.
p‐Nitrophenyl Picolinate Cleavage by Unsymmetrical Bis‐Schiff Base Manganese(III) and Cobalt(II) Complexes with Aza‐Crown Ether or Morpholino Pendants
Authors: Li Jianzhang , He Xiyang , Wang Ying , Zhang Jin , Hu Wei , Qin Shengying
Published: September 2011

The unsymmetrical bis‐Schiff base manganese(III) and cobalt(II) complexes with either benzo‐10‐aza‐crown ether pendants (MnL1Cl, MnL2Cl) or morpholino pendant (MnL3Cl, CoL3) have been employed as models for hydrolase by studying the kinetics of their hydrolysis reactions with p‐nitrophenyl picolinate (PNPP). A kinetic model of PNPP cleavage catalyzed by these complexes is proposed. The effects of complex structures and reaction temperature on the rate of PNPP hydrolysis have been examined. All four complexes exhibit high catalytic activity and the rate increases with pH under 25°C. The complexes of ligands containing a crown ether group exhibit higher catalytic activities than the non‐crown analogues. The catalytic activity of the complexes follows the order Mn(III)>Co(II) under the same ligands.
Synthesis and Pharmacological Studies on a Cyclooligopeptide from Marine Bacteria
Authors: Rajiv Dahiya , Hemendra Gautam
Published: September 2011

A natural proline‐rich tetrapeptide cyclo‐prolyl‐leucyl‐prolyl‐phenylalanyl was prepared employing solution‐phase method of peptide synthesis through coupling of dipeptide fragments Boc‐l‐Pro‐l‐Leu‐OH and l‐Pro‐l‐Phe‐OMe which utilizes diisopropylcarbodiimide (DIPC) as coupling agent and N‐methylmorpholine (NMM) as the base. Deprotection of linear tetrapeptide unit followed by its cyclization provided a cyclopeptide, identical in all aspects to the natural molecule. Pharmacological evaluation showed cytotoxic, antifungal and antihelmintic potential of synthesized peptide against Dalton's Lymphoma Ascites (DLA) and Ehrlich's Ascites Carcinoma (EAC) cell lines, pathogenic dermatophytes and earthworms.
Experimental Design in the Analysis of Interferential Effects for the Determination of Rubidium in Chloride‐type Brine by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry Technique
Authors: Gao Dandan , Dong Yaping , Li Wu , Xu Bin , Li Yahong
Published: September 2011

Experimental design (DOE) was employed to precisely determine the content of rubidium in chloride type brine of Qionglai (A city in Sichuan province, southwest of China) using atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) technique. From the statistical analysis of six factors, it was found that K+ and Cl− were the significant interfering elements for the determination of rubidium. A model was established to eliminate the interference effects of K+ and Cl−. The experimental results indicate that, under the optimal conditions, the developed method for the rubidium determination possesses the advantages of low detection limit (0.019 µg·mL−1 at a significant level of 0.05) and higher recovery (97.2%–103.4%).
Distribution and Transition of Native and Completely Unfolded Conformations in the Unfolding of Bovine Heart Cytochrome c Induced by Urea and Guanidine Hydrochloride
Authors: Yang Jianting , Zhang Tan , Lu Cuizhu , Bian Liujiao
Published: September 2011

The unfolding of bovine heart cytochrome c induced by urea and guanidine hydrochloride was first studied through intrinsic fluorescence emission spectra and fluorescence phase diagram and the results showed that both of them separately followed a two‐state model. As the simplest sample of the unfolding of protein molecules induced by denaturants, an equation was presented to show the effect of the denaturant concentrations in denaturation solution on the residual activity ratios of bovine heart cytochrome c in their two‐state unfolding. There are two characteristic unfolding parameters K and m in this equation. The former is the thermodynamic equilibrium constant of the unfolding of bovine heart cytochrome c induced by denaturants, the latter is the number of denaturant molecules associated with a bovine heart cytochrome c molecule during the unfolding procedure, and through them the distribution and transition of native and completely unfolded bovine heart cytochrome c conformations under different concentrations of urea or guanidine hydrochloride in denaturation solution can be accurately described.
Efficacy of neoadjuvant therapy with trastuzumab concurrent with anthracycline‐ and nonanthracycline‐based regimens for HER2‐positive breast cancer
Authors: Bayraktar Soley , Gonzalez‐Angulo Ana M. , Lei Xiudong , Buzdar Aman U. , Valero Vicente , Melhem‐Bertrandt Amal , Kuerer Henry M. , Hortobagyi Gabriel N. , Sahin Aysegul A. , Meric‐Bernstam Funda
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the pathologic complete response (pCR) rates and relapse‐free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) of patients receiving neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NST) with trastuzumab in combination with an anthracycline‐ or nonanthracycline‐based regimen.

METHODS:

In this retrospective nonrandomized study, the authors reviewed records of 300 patients with HER2‐positive breast cancer treated with either sequential paclitaxel and trastuzumab and FEC75 in combination with trastuzumab (PH‐FECH) or docetaxel, carboplatin, and trastuzumab (TCH). The Kaplan‐Meier product‐limit method was used to estimate RFS and OS rates. Logistic regression models and Cox proportional hazards models were fit to determine the associations between NST, pCR, and survival.

RESULTS:

There was no significant difference in the decline in cardiac ejection fraction; however, patients who received PH‐FECH had fewer cardiac comorbidities at baseline (P = .002). pCR rates were 60.6% and 43.3% for patients who received PH‐FECH (n = 235) and TCH (n = 65), respectively (P = .016). Patients who received PH‐FECH were 1.45 times more likely to have a pCR (odds ratio [OR], 1.45; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.06‐1.98; P = .02). Three‐year RFS rates were 93% and 71% (P < .001), and 3‐year OS rates were 96% and 86% (P = .008) for patients who received PH‐FECH and TCH, respectively. Patients who received PH‐FECH had a lower risk of recurrence (hazard ratio [HR], 0.27; 95% CI, 0.12‐0.60; P = .001) and death (HR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.12‐1.13; P = .08) than those treated with TCH.

CONCLUSIONS:

The type of NST in HER2‐positive breast cancer is predictive of pCR rate independent of disease and patient characteristics. Although TCH is active, PH‐FECH shows a higher pCR rate and RFS advantage. Cancer 2012. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Heterogeneity in dendritic morphology of moth antennal lobe projection neurons
Authors: Namiki Shigehiro , Kanzaki Ryohei
Published: September 2011

A population of projection neurons (PNs) in the antennal lobe (AL) integrates sensory information from the antenna and is essential for processing odor information in the insect brain. We examined the anatomy of this neuronal population in the brain of the silkmoth Bombyx mori. Using intracellular dye injection, we labeled a total of 246 PNs and systematically analyzed their morphological features, including the soma position, antennocerebral tract, and number of innervating glomeruli. For example, we analyzed PNs that had somata in the different cell clusters, innervated overlapping but different groups of glomeruli, and ran through different pathways. We also identified glomeruli innervated by PNs using a previously established procedure that first classifies glomeruli into regional groups and then identifies individual glomeruli. We analyzed uniglomerular PNs (75.6% of the total) and found heterogeneity in the dendritic morphology of the PNs that was dependent on the regions and/or the innervating glomeruli. For example, most PNs innervating the macroglomerular complex did not have extraglomerular processes, whereas most PNs innervating ordinary glomeruli did. Moreover, PNs innervating the toroid glomerulus showed heterogeneity in their dendritic morphology. These PNs had dendritic arborization in different areas within the glomerulus. We found that, in some cases, the innervation pattern of the PN dendrite correlated with individual variation in the glomerular organization. These results indicate that PNs are not homogeneous populations, and in some cases morphological heterogeneity in PNs correlated with change in glomerular organization in the silkmoth AL. J. Comp. Neurol. , 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cytologic features of sarcomatoid carcinoma of the urinary bladder: A case report
Authors: Iwa Nobuzo , Ito Shuji , Takegaki Yoshinori , Ikura Yoshihiro , Kobayashi Tadao K. , Yasukawa Satoru , Kobayashi Yasushi
Published: September 2011

Sarcomatoid carcinoma of the urinary bladder is a rare entity, whose histogenesis and biological behavior remain controversial. The cytological literature on sarcomatoid carcinoma in voided urine is very scarce. Clinically, the diagnosis of this tumor can be made by computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), cytology, and biopsy material. In this study, cytology, histopathology, and radiological imaging were employed in order to reach a diagnosis of sarcomatoid carcinoma. CT imaging showed increased thickness of the bladder wall associated to a polypoid mass. MRI showed a 4‐cm sized, broadly necked polypoid mass with calcification and ulceration at the right side of the bladder wall. T2W1 imaging showed low signal. Voided urinary cytology showed a scattered cellular presentation. The tumor cells had a high nucleo‐ cytoplasmic ratio, with elongated cytoplasm with faint with indistinct cytoplasm border. The nucleus was oval to round, with large and irregular nucleoli and irregular nuclear membrane. These tumor cells were positive for cytokeratin (CKAE1/AE3), vimentin, p53, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), α1‐smooth muscle actin (SMA) by the immunoperoxidase staining. Histopathology showed spindle‐shaped and clumped large tumor cells with abundant cytoplasm. Mitotic figures were frequently seen and varied from area to area (50% of the tumor cells were positive for MIB1). Diagn. Cytopathol. 2013. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Longitudinal stability and developmental properties of salivary cortisol levels and circadian rhythms from childhood to adolescence
Authors: Shirtcliff Elizabeth A. , Allison Amber L. , Armstrong Jeffrey M. , Slattery Marcia J. , Kalin Ned H. , Essex Marilyn J.
Published: September 2011

This study aimed to (1) identify a stable, trait‐like component to cortisol and its circadian rhythm, and (2) investigate individual differences in developmental trajectories of HPA‐axis maturation. Multiple salivary cortisol samples were collected longitudinally across four assessments from age 9 (3rd grade) through age 15 (9th grade) in a community sample of children (N = 357). Sophisticated statistical models examined cortisol levels and its rhythm over time; effects of age, puberty and gender were primarily considered. In addition to situation‐specific and stable short‐term or epoch‐specific cortisol components, there is a stable, trait‐like component of cortisol levels and circadian rhythm across multiple years covering the transition from childhood into adolescence. Youth had higher cortisol and flatter circadian rhythms as they got older and more physically developed. Girls had higher cortisol, stronger circadian rhythms, and greater developmental influences across adolescence. Distinguishing a stable, trait‐like component of cortisol level and its circadian rhythm provides the empirical foundation for investigating putative mechanisms underlying individual differences in HPA functioning. The findings also provide important descriptive information about maturational processes influencing HPA‐axis development. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 54: 493–502, 2012.
Magnetic and Sorption Properties of Supramolecular Systems Based on Pentanuclear Copper(II) 12‐Metallacrown‐4 Complexes and Isomeric Phthalates: Structural Modeling of the Different Stages of Alcohol Sorption
Authors: Pavlishchuk Anna V. , Kolotilov Sergey V. , Zeller Matthias , Shvets Oleksiy V. , Fritsky Igor O. , Lofland Samuel E. , Addison Anthony W. , Hunter Allen D.
Published: September 2011

Metathesis of the perchlorate anions in [Cu5(ahpha)4](ClO4)2·4H2O, where ahpha2– is the dianion of 3‐amino‐3‐hydroximinopropane hydroxamic acid, with m‐ and p‐phthalates resulted in formation of [Cu5(ahpha)4(m‐C8H4O4)(H2O)]·9H2O (1), [Cu5(ahpha)4(m‐C8H4O4)(H2O)]·2MeOH·DMF (1a) and [Cu5(ahpha)4(p‐C8H4O4)(H2O)2]2·14H2O (2). Molecules in the structures of 1, 1a and 2 are held together by noncovalent interactions, and the lattices contain voids filled with water molecules. Compounds 1 and 1a differ in the mode of m‐phthalate coordination, solvent type, and crystal lattice content. Desolvated 1 and 2 sorb gaseous MeOH and EtOH. Whereas the MeOH sorption capacity was very similar for 1 and 2 (about 0.14 cm3/g at PPS–1 = 0.9, where P is the current methanol pressure and PS the saturation vapor pressure of methanol at 293 K), the capacity of 2 to sorb EtOH was about 1.5 times as high as that of 1. To a certain extent, the structures of 1 and 1a can be considered as models of compounds that can form at different stages during alcohol sorption by desolvated 1. The χMT vs. T data for 1 and 2 could be fitted with a model based on the Hamiltonian H(CuII5) = –2J1(S1·S2 + S1·S3 + S1·S4 + S1·S5) – 2J2(S2·S5 + S2·S3 + S3·S4 + S4·S5), where S1 represents the spins of the central CuII ions and S2–S4 correspond to the spins of the peripheral CuII ions. The best fits corresponded to J1 = –129(3) cm–1, J2 = –66(1) cm–1 and zJ′ = –2.5(2) cm–1 at gCu = 2.12(1) for 1, and J1 = –163(3) cm–1, J2 = –78(1) cm–1 and zJ′ = –1.5(1) cm–1 at gCu = 2.05(1) for 2.
Multiple Reaction Pathways between the Carbanions of α‐Alkoxy‐α‐phenylacetonitrile and o‐Chloronitrobenzene
Authors: Mąkosza Mieczysław , Sulikowski Daniel
Published: September 2011

Carbanions of α‐methoxy‐ and α‐phenoxy‐α‐phenylacetonitriles undergo a variety of reactions with o‐chloronitrobenzene by initial formation of σH adducts and slower formation of σCl adducts. Reversible formation of σH adducts followed by their fast transformation results in the formation of four different products with high selectivity. Slower addition in a position occupied by a chlorine atom to form σCl adducts results in a conventional SNAr reaction. These five reaction pathways are efficiently controlled by the conditions and additional reagents.
Synthesis of New Dopamine D1 Antagonist SCH 23390 Analogues by the Stereoselective Stevens Rearrangement
Authors: Ariza Manuela , Díaz Amelia , Suau Rafael , Valpuesta María
Published: September 2011

A convenient synthesis for new SCH 23390 analogues bearing different substituents at the C‐1 position has been developed by using the diastereoselective Stevens rearrangement. This procedure has provided a good number of new 1,2‐disubstituted 1H‐3‐benzazepines, either through isolation of the isoquinolinium salts or directly by using a new one‐pot N‐alkylation–Stevens rearrangement reaction.
A Molecule with Dual Functionality 4‐Aminophenylmethylphosphonic Acid: A Comparison Between Layers Formed on Indium Tin Oxide by In Situ Generation of an Aryl Diazonium Salt or by Self‐Assembly of the Phosphonic Acid
Authors: Chen Xin , Chockalingam Muthukumar , Liu Guozhen , Luais Erwann , Gui Alicia L. , Gooding J. Justin
Published: September 2011

4‐Aminophenylmethylphosphonic acid was grafted on ITO surfaces by 1) electrochemical reductive adsorption of the corresponding aryl diazonium salt and 2) by self‐assembly via the phosphonic acid moiety. The aryl diazonium salt derived surfaces are reasonably stable within a wide potential range from −600 mV to 600 mV compared to a very narrow stable range between −40 mV and 40 mV for the self‐assembled layers. The different surface stabilities were assessed with a view to forming ITO‐organic layer‐gold nanoparticle (AuNPs) constructs. As expected the ITO‐organic layer‐AuNPs construct formed by electrochemical adsorption (ITO‐Ph‐AuNP) was significantly more stable than the construct formed by self‐assembly of phosphonates (ITO‐PO3Ph‐AuNPs).
Simulation study of a modular multilevel high‐voltage direct current based on voltage source converter system for an offshore wind farm
Authors: Guoqiang Wang , Zhixin Wang , Shuang Li
Published: September 2011

Some new technologies of modular multilevel converter (MMC) for high‐voltage direct current based on voltage source converter transmission applications were presented in this article. It focused on the triggering method of MMC and the strategy of capacitor voltage balancing. First, MMC topology and its characteristics were introduced. The method of comparing multiple triangular carriers with the reference wave for generating the trigger pulse was proposed. Then, the submodules in each arm were sorted according to their capacitor voltages, and the trigger pulses were assigned to them according to ranking result. This method ensured that the instantaneous values of capacitor voltages within the same arm were equal to each other. On the basis of the equivalent circuit of the converter, it was proved that the circulating current can make capacitor voltages unbalance between arms. Some component must be added to control the signals of the converter for reducing the capacitor voltages fluctuation and for improving the quality of output waveforms. Finally, the simulation study of the proposed trigger method and capacitor voltages balancing strategy for MMC‐based high‐voltage direct current based on voltage source converter system was implemented using “MATLAB/Simulink” software. The results show that the designed method is correct and effective. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cultural clashes in a “merger of equals”: The case of high‐tech start‐ups
Authors: Drori Israel , Wrzesniewski Amy , Ellis Shmuel
Published: September 2011

Mergers of equals are often considered simply symbolic. Whereas existing literature on the topic views equality as underscoring the importance of distributive justice, power, or identity, the role of culture remains relatively obscure. In this study, the authors explore equality as a dynamic construct associated with two major processes in mergers of equals: cultural clash and cultural construction. The authors employ a qualitative case study with interviews and analysis of company materials from BroadBand, a wireless Internet access provider, to address the role of culture and equality in mergers and acquisitions (M&A). The results shed light on how and why social actors entering into mergers may enact a culture of equality. First, firms may develop new aspirations and patterns of appreciation and initiate practices and strategies that construct equality as an integral part of the merger. Second, when distributive equality becomes a liability, it incites change. In the context of equality, this change results in strategic action that transforms the meaning of “a merger of equals” to a more practical, pragmatic, and integrative equality, which takes into account the interests and the needs of the merged firm. Third, contrary to the common skeptical and cynical portrayal of mergers of equals, this study found equality to be a crucial factor during postmerger integration. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Postacquisition cultural integration in mergers & acquisitions: A knowledge‐based approach
Authors: Lakshman C.
Published: September 2011

The author proposes a knowledge‐based theoretical approach to cultural integration in mergers and acquisitions (M&A). The model proposed in this article examines the nature and features of the integration process using a knowledge lens to view the cultural and organizational integration mechanism leading to integration effectiveness. Drawing from advances in the acquisition, strategic HRM, knowledge management, and leadership literatures, the model identifies knowledge leadership, cultural knowledge integration, early involvement in integration process design, and variables related to causal ambiguity as key components of an effective set of practices for integration in these contexts. It does so under the rubric of a relational HR archetype for managing knowledge flows. The model explains the processes through which these constructs impact integration effectiveness. The contributions of this approach, limitations, and directions for future theoretical and empirical research are discussed. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ecstasy use and self‐reported disturbances in sleep
Authors: Ogeil Rowan P. , Rajaratnam Shantha M. W. , Phillips James G. , Redman Jennifer R. , Broadbear Jillian H.
Published: September 2011

Objective

Ecstasy users report a number of complaints after its use including disturbed sleep. However, little is known regarding which attributes of ecstasy use are associated with sleep disturbances, which domains of sleep are affected or which factors may predict those ecstasy users likely to have poor sleep quality and/or excessive daytime sleepiness.

Methods

This study examined questionnaire responses of social drug users (n = 395) to the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale.

Results

A significant proportion of ecstasy users (69.5%) had Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores above the threshold used to identify sleep disturbance. Although frequency of ecstasy use did not affect the degree of reported sleep disturbance, participants who used larger amounts of ecstasy had poorer sleep. In addition, participants who perceived harmful consequences arising from their ecstasy use or had experienced remorse following ecstasy use had poorer sleep. Clinically relevant levels of sleep disturbance were still evident after controlling for polydrug use. Risk factors for poor sleep quality were younger age, injury post‐ecstasy use and having been told to cut down on ecstasy use.

Conclusions

Many ecstasy users report poor sleep quality, which likely contributes to the negative effects reported following ecstasy use. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantifying evapotranspiration and its components in a coniferous subalpine forest in Southwest China
Authors: Lin Y. , Wang G. X. , Guo J. Y. , Sun X. Y.
Published: September 2011

Evaporation is one of the most important processes in the soil‐plant‐atmosphere‐continuum water cycle. The objectives of the present study were to (1) test the feasibility of different methods for quantifying evapotranspiration (ET) and its components and (2) investigate and quantify ET and its components in a subalpine watershed from April to October, 2009. Our research site was in the Gongga Mountains, located on the southeastern fringe of the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau. The components of ET could be observed using the interception, sap‐flow and stable isotope techniques. The summation of these components, referred to as the summed components method, was thought to be the ET. Similar estimates of ET from April to October were obtained using the summed components (736 mm) and Eddy covariance (598 mm) methods. The mean of two ET estimates (667 mm) accounted for 50% of the total water input. ET was composed of 6% soil evaporation, 19% vegetation transpiration and 75% interception evaporation. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rocaglamide and a XIAP inhibitor cooperatively sensitize TRAIL‐mediated apoptosis in Hodgkin's lymphomas
Authors: Giaisi Marco , Köhler Rebecca , Fulda Simone , Krammer Peter H. , Li‐Weber Min
Published: September 2011

Although most of the patients with Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) can be cured by the current regimen of high‐dose multiagent chemotherapy, the treatment causes high risks of later toxicities including secondary malignancies. Therefore, new rational strategies are needed for HL treatment. Tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL) is a promising anticancer agent due to its tumor selectivity and its lack of toxicity for normal cells. Unfortunately, many cancers remain resistant to TRAIL including HL. HL is characterized by enhanced expression of cellular caspase‐8 (FLICE)‐inhibitory protein (c‐FLIP) and X‐linked inhibitor of apoptosis (XIAP), which block receptor‐mediated apoptosis by inhibiting caspase‐8 and caspase‐3, respectively. We have recently discovered the herbal compound Rocaglamide, which breaks TRAIL‐resistance in acute T cell leukemia through inhibition of c‐FLIP expression. We have also shown that small molecule XIAP inhibitors can sensitize TRAIL‐mediated apoptosis in several resistant tumors. However, whether targeting XIAP or c‐FLIP is also a suitable strategy to prime HL cells for TRAIL‐induced apoptosis has not yet been investigated. In our study, we show that Rocaglamide suppresses c‐FLIP expression in HL cells in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. However, downregulation of c‐FLIP alone was not sufficient to sensitize TRAIL‐induced apoptosis in HL cells. Similarly, treatment of HL cells with a small molecule XIAP inhibitor resulted in a moderate induction of apoptosis. However, inhibition of XIAP alone was also not sufficient to enhance TRAIL‐induced cell death. Synergistic increase in TRAIL‐mediated killing of HL cells was only obtained by combination of Rocaglamide and XIAP inhibitors. Our study demonstrates that targeting both c‐FLIP and XIAP are necessary for an efficient treatment of HL.
Multiple quantitative trait loci for cortical and trabecular bone regulation map to mid-distal mouse chromosome 4 that shares linkage homology to human chromosome 1p36
Authors: Beamer Wesley G , Shultz Kathryn L , Coombs Harold F , Horton Lindsay G , Donahue Leah Rae , Rosen Clifford J
Published: September 2011

The mid-distal region of mouse chromosome 4 (Chr 4) is homologous with human Chr 1p36. Previously, we reported that mouse Chr 4 carries a quantitative trait locus (QTL) with strong regulatory effect on volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD). The intent of this study is to utilize nested congenic strains to decompose the genetic complexity of this gene-rich region. Adult females and males from 18 nested congenic strains carrying discrete C3H sequences were phenotyped for femoral mineral and volume by pQCT and for trabecular bone volume (BV), tissue volume (TV), trabecular number (Trab.no), and trabecular thickness (Trab.thk) by MicroCT 40. Our data show that the mouse Chr 4 region consists of at least 10 regulatory QTL regions that affected either or both pQCT and MicroCT 40 phenotypes. The pQCT phenotypes were typically similar between sexes, whereas the MicroCT 40 phenotypes were divergent. Individual congenic strains contained one to seven QTL regions. These regions conferred large positive or negative effects in some congenic strains, depending on the particular bone phenotype. The QTL regions II to X are syntenic with human 1p36, containing from 1 to 102 known genes. We identified 13 candidate genes that can be linked to bone within these regions. Six of these genes were linked to osteoblasts, three linked to osteoclasts, and two linked to skeletal development. Three of these genes have been identified in Genome Wide Association Studies (GWAS) linked to 1p36. In region III, there is only one gene, Lck, which conferred negative pQCT and MicroCT 40 phenotypes in both sexes. This gene is important to development and functioning of T cells, has been associated with osteoclast activity, and represents a novel bone regulatory gene that merits further experimental evaluation. In summary, congenic strains are powerful tools for identifying regulatory regions that influence bone biology and offer models for testing hypotheses about gene-gene and gene-environment interactions that are not available to experimental work in humans. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Intra‐ and inter‐rater reliability for analysis of hyoid displacement measured with sonography
Authors: Macrae Phoebe R. , Doeltgen Sebastian H. , Jones Richard D. , Huckabee Maggie‐Lee
Published: September 2011

Purpose.

Anterior hyoid displacement is essential for efficient swallowing and is usually investigated with videofluoroscopy. Ultrasound offers a less expensive and noninvasive method of investigation. The present study investigated the viability of a novel method of quantifying hyoid displacement from sonograms using an anatomic reference point, through an evaluation of inter‐ and intra‐rater reliability.

Methods.

Three raters reviewed the sonographic video sweeps of five discrete swallows from each of five participants for inter‐rater reliability. The primary investigator measured each swallow on two occasions for intra‐rater reliability. Electronic calipers were used to measure distances from a “rest” frame prior to the swallow of interest and a “maximal displacement” frame, at which the hyoid bone was at maximal anterior displacement during each swallow.

Results.

Single‐measure intraclass correlation coefficient was high for inter‐rater agreement at 0.86 for rest measures and 0.86 for maximal displacement. Intra‐rater reliability was even higher at 0.95 for rest and 0.98 for maximal displacement.

Conclusions.

These preliminary results suggest that by using a novel analysis approach involving an anatomic reference point, raters can achieve high agreement on measurement of position of hyoid at maximal displacement relative to rest. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 40:74–78, 2012
Precision of healthcare systematic review searches in a cross‐sectional sample
Authors: Sampson Margaret , Tetzlaff Jennifer , Urquhart Christine
Published: September 2011

Background

In systematic reviews, search precision is generally traded off against the desire to retrieve all relevant studies; however, there is no published evidence on typical precision values. The objective of this study is to establish typical values for the precision of systematic review searches in healthcare.

Methods

From an existing cross‐sectional sample of 300 MEDLINE‐indexed systematic reviews, those that reported the flow of bibliographic records through the review process (n = 109) were examined. Where the ratio of the number of included studies and the number of unique retrievals could be determined, overall and median precision of the search was calculated. Subgroup analyses were conducted by review type (treatment/prevention, diagnosis/prognosis, epidemiology, other), eligible study designs, number of databases searched and for updates of existing systematic reviews.

Results

Precision could be calculated for 94 systematic reviews. The median [interquartile range] precision was 0.029 [0.013, 0.081] with a range of 0.007–0.358. In this sample, precision did not differ significantly in any of the subgroups examined.

Implications

Search precision of approximately 3% was typical in this cross‐section of health related systematic reviews. This finding is useful for systematic review teams to gauge review resource needs and for information specialists in evaluating their searches. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rapid and selective removal of composite from tooth surfaces with a 9.3 µm CO2 laser using spectral feedback
Authors: Chan Kenneth H. , Hirasuna Krista , Fried Daniel
Published: September 2011

Objective

Dental composite restorative materials are color matched to the tooth and are difficult to remove by mechanical means without excessive removal or damage to peripheral enamel and dentin. Lasers are ideally suited for selective ablation to minimize healthy tissue loss when replacing existing restorations, sealants, or removing composite adhesives such as residual composite left after debonding orthodontic brackets.

Methods

In this study, a carbon dioxide laser operating at 9.3‐µm with a pulse duration of 10–20‐microsecond and a pulse repetition rate of ∼200 Hz was integrated with a galvanometer based scanner and used to selectively remove composite from tooth surfaces. Spectra of the plume emission were acquired after each laser pulse and used to differentiate between the ablation of dental enamel or composite. Microthermocouples were used to monitor the temperature rise in the pulp chamber during composite removal. The composite was placed on tooth buccal and occlusal surfaces and the carbon dioxide laser beam was scanned across the surface to selectively remove the composite without excessive damage to the underlying sound enamel. The residual composite and the damage to the underlying enamel was evaluated using optical microscopy.

Results

The laser was able to rapidly remove composite from tooth buccal and occlusal surfaces with minimal damage to the underlying sound enamel and without excessive heat accumulation in the tooth.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that composite can be selectively removed from tooth surfaces at clinically relevant rates using a CO2 laser operating at 9.3‐µm with high pulse repetition rates with minimal heat deposition and damage to the underlying enamel. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Visual symptoms in Parkinson's disease and Parkinson's disease dementia
Authors: Archibald Neil K. , Clarke Mike P. , Mosimann Urs P. , Burn David J.
Published: September 2011

Visual symptoms are common in PD and PD dementia and include difficulty reading, double vision, illusions, feelings of presence and passage, and complex visual hallucinations. Despite the established prognostic implications of complex visual hallucinations, the interaction between cognitive decline, visual impairment, and other visual symptoms remains poorly understood. Our aim was to characterize the spectrum of visual symptomatology in PD and examine clinical predictors for their occurrence. Sixty‐four subjects with PD, 26 with PD dementia, and 32 age‐matched controls were assessed for visual symptoms, cognitive impairment, and ocular pathology. Complex visual hallucinations were common in PD (17%) and PD dementia (89%). Dementia subjects reported illusions (65%) and presence (62%) more frequently than PD or control subjects, but the frequency of passage hallucinations in PD and PD dementia groups was equivalent (48% versus 69%, respectively; P = 0.102). Visual acuity and contrast sensitivity was impaired in parkinsonian subjects, with disease severity and age emerging as the key predictors. Regression analysis identified a variety of factors independently predictive of complex visual hallucinations (e.g., dementia, visual acuity, and depression), illusions (e.g., excessive daytime somnolence and disease severity), and presence (e.g., rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder and excessive daytime somnolence). Our results demonstrate that different “hallucinatory” experiences in PD do not necessarily share common disease predictors and may, therefore, be driven by different pathophysiological mechanisms. If confirmed, such a finding will have important implications for future studies of visual symptoms and cognitive decline in PD and PD dementia. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
A phase and frequency alignment protocol for 1H MRSI data of the prostate
Authors: Wright Alan J. , Buydens Lutgarde M. C. , Heerschap Arend
Published: September 2011

1H MRSI of the prostate reveals relative metabolite levels that vary according to the presence or absence of tumour, providing a sensitive method for the identification of patients with cancer. Current interpretations of prostate data rely on quantification algorithms that fit model metabolite resonances to individual voxel spectra and calculate relative levels of metabolites, such as choline, creatine, citrate and polyamines. Statistical pattern recognition techniques can potentially improve the detection of prostate cancer, but these analyses are hampered by artefacts and sources of noise in the data, such as variations in phase and frequency of resonances. Phase and frequency variations may arise as a result of spatial field gradients or local physiological conditions affecting the frequency of resonances, in particular those of citrate. Thus, there are unique challenges in developing a peak alignment algorithm for these data. We have developed a frequency and phase correction algorithm for automatic alignment of the resonances in prostate MRSI spectra. We demonstrate, with a simulated dataset, that alignment can be achieved to a phase standard deviation of 0.095 rad and a frequency standard deviation of 0.68 Hz for the citrate resonances. Three parameters were used to assess the improvement in peak alignment in the MRSI data of five patients: the percentage of variance in all MRSI spectra explained by their first principal component; the signal‐to‐noise ratio of a spectrum formed by taking the median value of the entire set at each spectral point; and the mean cross‐correlation between all pairs of spectra. These parameters showed a greater similarity between spectra in all five datasets and the simulated data, demonstrating improved alignment for phase and frequency in these spectra. This peak alignment program is expected to improve pattern recognition significantly, enabling accurate detection and localisation of prostate cancer with MRSI. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.