bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Positive reinforcement training affects hematologic and serum chemistry values in captive chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)
Authors: Lambeth Susan P. , Hau Jann , Perlman Jaine E. , Martino Michele , Schapiro Steven J.
Published: February 2006

Positive reinforcement training (PRT) techniques have received considerable attention for their stress reduction potential in the behavioral management of captive nonhuman primates. However, few published empirical studies have provided physiological data to support this position. To address this issue, PRT techniques were used to train chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) to voluntarily present a leg for an intramuscular (IM) injection of anesthetic. Hematology and serum chemistry profiles were collected from healthy chimpanzees (n=128) of both sexes and various ages during their routine annual physical examinations over a 7‐year period. Specific variables potentially indicative of acute stress (i.e., total white blood cell (WBC) counts, absolute segmented neutrophils (SEG), glucose (GLU) levels, and hematocrit (HCT) levels) were analyzed to determine whether the method used to administer the anesthetic (voluntary present for injection vs. involuntary injection) affected the physiological parameters. Subjects that voluntarily presented for an anesthetic injection had significantly lower mean total WBC counts, SEG, and GLU levels than subjects that were involuntarily anesthetized by more traditional means. Within‐subjects analyses revealed the same pattern of results. This is one of the first data sets to objectively demonstrate that PRT for voluntary presentation of IM injections of anesthetic can significantly affect some of the physiological measures correlated with stress responses to chemical restraint in captive chimpanzees. Am. J. Primatol. 68:245–256, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Seasonal variation of diet and food availability in a group of Sichuan snub‐nosed monkeys in Shennongjia Nature Reserve, China
Authors: Yiming Li
Published: February 2006

We studied the diet and food availability of a group of Sichuan snub‐nosed monkeys for 14 months (July 2003 to September 2004, except for February) in the Shennongjia Nature Reserve, China. This species is primarily a lichen eater, with lichens (Usneaceae) accounting for 43.28% of feeding records (n=3,452). Other food types in the diet were young leaves (28.71%), fruits or seeds (14.57%), buds (5.36%), mature leaves (3.51%), herbs (2.09%), bark (1.36%), and flowers (1.13%). The monkeys used 23 plant species. Their diet showed a complicated seasonal variation: the monthly diet varied from primarily lichens in November–April, to a mixture of leaves and lichens in May–July, to a mixture of fruits or seeds and lichens in August–October (the latter depended on annual fruit and seed availability). The proportion of fruits or seeds in the diet was negatively correlated with that of lichens, which suggests that the monkeys prefer fruits or seeds to lichens when all of these items are available. The fruit or seed availability varied greatly between the two study years. The proportion of lichens, young leaves, flowers, and fruits or seeds in the diet was positively associated with their availability. The monkeys appeared to be selective feeders. They preferred 10 tree species for plant parts, and nine tree species for lichens. The selection index of tree species for lichens was positively related to lichen coverage per branch on tree species, demonstrating that the monkeys preferred tree species with abundant lichens, as well as dead trees for lichens. The results suggest that dead‐tree harvesting in the reserve could significantly reduce the quality of habitat for these monkeys, and should therefore be prohibited. Connus controversa, Cerasus discadenia, Salix willichiana, and Malus halliana should be conserved as top priority species because the monkeys preferred them for both their vegetative parts and the lichens that grow on them. Am. J. Primatol. 68:217–233, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of different enzymeimmunoassays for assessment of adrenocortical activity in primates based on fecal analysis
Authors: Heistermann M. , Palme R. , Ganswindt A.
Published: February 2006

Most studies published to date that used fecal glucocorticoid measurements to assess adrenocortical activity in primate (and many nonprimate) species applied a specific cortisol or corticosterone assay. However, since these native glucocorticoids are virtually absent in the feces of most vertebrates, including primates, the validity of this approach has recently been questioned. Therefore, the overall aim of the present study was to assess the validity of four enzymeimmunoassays (EIAs) using antibodies raised against cortisol, corticosterone, and reduced cortisol metabolites (two group‐specific antibodies) for assessing adrenocortical activity using fecal glucocorticoid metabolite (GCM) measurements in selected primate species (marmoset, long‐tailed macaque, Barbary macaque, chimpanzee, and gorilla). Using physiological stimulation of the hypothalamo‐pituitary‐adrenocortical (HPA) axis by administering exogenous ACTH or anesthesia, we demonstrated that at least two assays detected the predicted increase in fecal GCM levels in response to treatment in each species. However, the magnitude of response varied between assays and species, and no one assay was applicable to all species. While the corticosterone assay generally was of only limited suitability for assessing glucocorticoid output, the specific cortisol assay was valuable for those species that (according to high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis data) excreted clearly detectable amounts of authentic cortisol into the feces. In contrast, in species in which cortisol was virtually absent in the feces, group‐specific assays provided a much stronger signal, and these assays also performed well in the other primate species tested (except the marmoset). Collectively, the data suggest that the reliability of a given fecal glucocorticoid assay in reflecting activity of the HPA axis in primates clearly depends on the species in question. Although to date there is no single assay system that can be used successfully across species, our data suggest that group‐specific assays have a high potential for cross‐species application. Nevertheless, regardless of which GC antibody is chosen, our study clearly reinforces the necessity of appropriately validating the respective assay system before it is used. Am. J. Primatol. 68:257–273, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Living in nonbreeding groups: an alternative strategy for maturing gorillas
Authors: Levréro Florence , Gatti Sylvain , Ménard Nelly , Petit Eric , Caillaud Damien , Gautier‐Hion Annie
Published: February 2006

The one‐male reproductive strategy implies that maturing males are temporarily excluded from reproduction. In gorillas, these excluded males live either solitarily or in nonbreeding groups (NBGs) that are devoid of adult females. The dynamics of NBGs are not well known. In this study, which was conducted on a gorilla population (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) of 377 individuals that visited the Lokoué clearing in the Republic of Congo, we detail how the NBGs formed, and analyze their dynamics according to age‐sex classes, the relatedness of members, and the origin and destination of transferring individuals. We discuss the potential benefits gained by individuals living in these groups. The NBGs included mainly immature males, most of which appeared to have migrated voluntarily from their natal groups. Some individuals (including juvenile females) came from disbanded breeding groups (BGs). Migrants preferentially joined NBGs that included a silverback male. Their dispersal patterns were not determined by their degree of relatedness, but they tended to associate with related silverbacks. In this way, the migrants could enhance their protection against predators and gain experience with different environmental conditions. By tolerating and protecting offspring, aging silverbacks could enhance their inclusive fitness. Finally, young and healthy silverbacks could increase their likelihood of forming a future BG when unrelated females joined them. Am. J. Primatol. 68:275–291, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lemur responses to edge effects in the Vohibola III classified forest, Madagascar
Authors: Lehman Shawn M. , Rajaonson Andry , Day Sabine
Published: February 2006

Forest edges are dynamic zones characterized by the penetration (to varying depths and intensities) of conditions from the surrounding environment (matrix) into the forest interior. Although edge effects influence many tropical organisms, they have not been studied directly in primates. Edge effects are particularly relevant to lemurs because of the highly fragmented forest landscapes found in Madagascar. In this study, data are presented regarding how the densities of six lemur species (Avahi laniger, Cheirogaleus major, Eulemur rubriventer, Hapalemur griseus griseus, Microcebus rufus, and Propithecus diadema edwardsi) varied between six 500‐m interior transects and six 500‐m edge transects in the Vohibola III Classified Forest in SE Madagascar. Diurnal (n = 433) and nocturnal (n = 128) lemur surveys were conducted during June–October 2003 and May–November 2004. A. laniger, E. rubriventer, and H. g. griseus exhibited a neutral edge response (no differences in densities between habitats). M. rufus and P. d. edwardsi had a positive edge response (higher densities in edge habitats), which may be related to edge‐related variations in food abundance and quality. Positive edge responses by M. rufus and P. d. edwardsi may ultimately be detrimental due to edge‐related anthropogenic factors (e.g., hunting by local people). The negative edge response exhibited by C. major (lower densities in edge habitats) may result from heightened ambient temperatures that inhibit torpor in edge habitats. Am. J. Primatol. 68:293–299, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Numerical simulations of rotors, hydraulic jumps and eddy shedding in the Falkland Islands
Authors: Sheridan P. F. , Vosper S. B.
Published: February 2006

High‐resolution three‐dimensional simulations of flows over East Falkland, South Atlantic, are presented. With a temperature inversion upwind, lee waves, rotors and hydraulic jumps are found to occur, giving rise to highly unsteady phenomena such as wakes and eddy shedding. Such flows are known to represent a significant hazard to aviation. Copyright © 2006 Royal Meteorological Society
South American monsoon indices
Authors: Gan Manoel A. , Rao Vadlamudi B. , Moscati Marley C. L.
Published: February 2006

Four monsoon indices (the meridional wind shear index (MWSI), the zonal wind shear index (ZWSI), the 850‐hPa zonal wind index (850ZWI) and the 850‐hPa zonal and meridional wind index (UVI)) based on the characteristics of the wind circulation are used to identify the onset and the demise dates and the intraseasonal variability of the rainy season over the west central Brazil (WCB) region. All the four‐index time series have a high correlation with the precipitation series over WCB. The UVI, MWSI and the 850ZWI represent very well the intraseasonal variability (break and active periods) of the precipitation over WCB and the 850ZWI is also useful for identifying the onset dates. Copyright © 2006 Royal Meteorological Society
Resveratrol is efficiently glucuronidated by UDP‐glucuronosyltransferases in the human gastrointestinal tract and in Caco‐2 cells
Authors: Sabolovic Nicole , Humbert Anne‐Claude , Radominska‐Pandya Anna , Magdalou Jacques
Published: February 2006

Resveratrol (3, 5, 4′‐trihydroxy‐trans‐stilbene), a natural polyphenol present in grapes and peanuts, has been reported to exert a variety of potentially therapeutic effects. The aim of this study was to determine the contribution of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract to the glucuronidation of this compound and itscis‐isomer, which also occurs naturally. For this purpose, glucuronidation of the two resveratrol isomers was investigated in human microsomes prepared from: stomach, duodenum, four segments of the remaining small intestine (S‐1 to S‐4) and colon, and from the human intestinal cell lines Caco‐2 and PD‐7.cis‐ andtrans‐Resveratrol were efficiently glucuronidated in the GI tract with the formation of both 3‐O‐ and 4′‐O‐glucuronides, however, the two stereoisomers were glucuronidated at different rates depending on the donor and the segment considered. Microsomes prepared from Caco‐2 and PD‐7 cells also efficiently glucuronidatedcis‐resveratrol and, to a lesser extent, thetrans‐isomer, however, only the 3‐O‐glucuronide was formed. Among the UDP‐glucuronosyltransferases (UGT) that are known to be expressed in the GI tract, the isoforms UGT1A1, 1A6, 1A8, 1A9 and 1A10 were active in glucuronidatingtrans‐ and/orcis‐resveratrol. The results demonstrate that the GI tract may contribute significantly to the first pass metabolism of these naturally occurring polyphenols. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficient cells‐and‐portals partitioning
Authors: Lerner Alon , Chrysanthou Yiorgos , Cohen‐Or Daniel
Published: February 2006

In this paper we revisit the cells‐and‐portals visibility methods, originally developed for the special case of architectural interiors. We define an effectiveness measure for a cells‐and‐portals partition, and introduce a two‐pass algorithm that computes a cells‐and‐portals partition. The algorithm uses a simple heuristic that strives to create small portals as a means for generating an effective partition. The input to the algorithm is a set of half edges in 2D that can be extracted from a complex polygonal model. The first pass of the algorithm creates an initial partition, which is then refined by the second pass. We show that our method creates a partition that is more effective than the common BSP partition, even when the latter is further refined with the application of our second pass. Our cells‐and‐portals algorithm is designed to deal with arbitrarily oriented walls. The algorithm also supports outdoor scenes, where the vertical walls of the buildings serve as occluders and portals are extended above the buildings. We show that the extended portals allow an output‐sensitive rendering of large urban scenes. While most visibility algorithms use graphics hardware in order to cull hidden regions of the model, we examine the usefulness of a hardware‐assisted portal test as opposed to the conventional software test. Finally, since our two‐pass method is fully automatic and local, it supports incremental changes of the model by locally recomputing and updating the partition. We call our method ‘Breaking the Walls’ since it breaks out of indoor scenes to outdoor scenes, and allows walls to be broken interactively, with an instant updating of the partition. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficient rendering of deformable objects for real‐time applications
Authors: Cheung Gary K. L. , Lau Rynson W. H. , Li Frederick W. B.
Published: February 2006

Deformable objects can be used to model soft objects such as clothing, human faces and animal characters. They are important as they can improve the realism of the applications. However, most existing hardware accelerators cannot render deformable objects directly. A tessellation process is often used to convert a deformable object into polygons so that the hardware graphics accelerator may render them. Unfortunately, this tessellation process is computationally very expensive. While the object is deforming, the tessellation process needs to be performed repeatedly to convert the deforming objects into polygons. As a result, deformable objects are seldom used in real‐time applications such as virtual environments and computer games. Since trimmed NURBS surfaces are often used to represent deformable objects, in this paper we present an efficient method for incremental rendering of deformable trimmed NURBS surfaces. A trimmed NURBS surface typically deforms through the deformation of the trimmed NURBS surface and/or the trimming curve. Our method handles both trimmed surface deformation as well as trimming curve deformation. Experimental results show that our method performs significantly faster than the method used in OpenGL and can be used in real‐time applications, such as computer games. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Motion retargeting in the presence of topological variations
Authors: Baciu George , Iu Bartholomew K. C.
Published: February 2006

Research on motion retargeting and synthesis for character animation has been mostly focused on character scale variations. In our recent work we have addressed the motion retargeting problem for characters with slightly different topologies. In this paper we present a new method for retargeting captured motion data to an enhanced character skeleton having a topology that is different from that of the original captured motion. The new topology could include altered hierarchical structures and scaled segments. In order to solve this problem, we propose a framework based on the concept of a motion control net (MCN). This is an external structure analogous to the convex hull of a set of control points defining a parametric curve or a surface patch. The MCN encapsulates the motion characteristics of the character. Retargeting is achieved as a generalized inverse kinematics problem using an external MCN. The retargeting solution requires the dynamic modification of the MCN structure. This also allows US to interactively edit the MCN and modify the conditions for the motion analysis. The new method can automatically synthesize new segment information and, by combining the segment motion into the MCN domain with a suitable displacement of control points embedded in the original motion capture sensor data, it can also generate realistic new motions that resemble the motion patterns in the original data. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Behaviour‐based multiplayer collaborative interaction management
Authors: Lin Qingping , Wang Weihua , Zhang Liang , Ng Jim Mee , Low Chor Ping
Published: February 2006

A collaborative virtual environment (CVE) allows geographically dispersed users to interact with each other and objects in a common virtual environment via network connections. One of the successful applications of CVE is multiplayer on‐line role‐playing game. To support massive interactions among virtual entities in a large‐scale CVE and maintain consistent status of the interaction among users with the constraint of limited network bandwidth, an efficient collaborative interaction management method is required. In this paper, we propose a behaviour‐based interaction management framework for supporting multiplayer role‐playing CVE applications. It incorporates a two‐tiered architecture which includes high‐level role behaviour‐based interaction management and low‐level message routing. In the high level, interaction management is achieved by enabling interactions based on collaborative behaviour definitions. In the low level, message routing controls interactions according to the run‐time status of the interactive entities. Collaborative Behaviour Description Language is designed as a scripting interface for application developers to define collaborative behaviours of interactive entities and simulation logics/game rules in a CVE. We demonstrate and evaluate the performance of the proposed framework through a prototype system and simulations. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A cross‐cultural analysis of German, Chinese and Indian consumers' perception of web site adaptation
Authors: Singh Nitish , Fassott Georg , Zhao Hongxin , Boughton Paul D.
Published: February 2006

The aim of this study is to provide empirical evidence, using the theory of planned behavior, as to whether local consumers prefer culturally adapted web sites or standardized web sites The study contributes to the existing literature by showing that consumers from Germany, China, and India prefer web sites adapted to their local culture, and that culture influences consumer beliefs, attitudes, and purchase intention on the web.

Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
When communication challenges brand associations: a framework for understanding consumer responses to brand image incongruity
Authors: Sjödin Henrik , Törn Fredrik
Published: February 2006

In this conceptual paper, the authors review literature on how consumers react when a piece of brand communication is incongruent with established brand associations. Although brand experts typically criticize such brand image incongruity, it is a fact that companies do communicate in a way that challenges existing associations, for example in advertising or when launching brand extensions. The article integrates previous work—which has been scattered across several poorly connected domains—into a coherent framework. The authors propose effects of brand image incongruity on consumers' processing and evaluation. They also identify marketing implications and avenues for future research. The propositions imply opportunities for brand management, thus suggesting the need for a balanced view on brand image incongruity.

Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Individual and social determinants of winning bids in online auctions
Authors: Stern Barbara B. , Stafford Marla Royne
Published: February 2006

Online auctions have grown in popularity since the inception of eBay in 1995. Yet despite the phenomenal growth, little is understood about the individual and collective motivations of consumers that lead to higher bids and ultimately, higher profits. This research reframes auction theory in terms of consumer behavior theory and uses observational data to assess bidder‐generated behavior in response to seller‐generated decisions. Results suggest that an increased number of visual cues (pictures) influences bids placed early in the auction and that those early bids generate activity among other bidders, subsequently resulting in higher winning bids. In addition, our findings indicate that the starting price, as determined by the seller, also impacts the final winning bid. Research and seller implications are offered, as are future directions for research in studying this still new phenomenon.

Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enantioselective Addition of Phenylacetylene to Ketones Catalyzed by Titanium(IV) Complexes of N‐Sulfonylated β‐Amino Alcohols
Authors: Wang Shao‐Hua , Tu Yong‐Qiang , Chen Peng
Published: February 2006

The easily prepared and recoverable chiral N‐sulfonylated β‐amino alcohol 2 in combination with Ti(OPr‐i)4was found to be an effective chiral catalyst for the enantioselective addition of alkynylzinc to ketones, which gave the useful products, i.e. chiral tertiary propargyl alcohols, with the ee up to 92%.
Ellipsoid‐shaped Carbosilane Dendrimers Modified with p‐Nitroazobenzene Mesogens on the Periphery
Authors: Tang Xin‐De , Gao Long‐Cheng , Zhang Qi‐Zhen , Fan Xing‐He , Chen Xiao‐Fang , Zhou Qi‐Feng
Published: February 2006

Novel carbosilane liquid crystalline dendrimers based on 1,6‐hexanediol were prepared. Using the precursors Gn‐Cl (n=1–3) with SiCl bonds on the periphery as dendritic scaffolds and 4‐[4‐(6‐hydroxyhexyloxy)phenylazo]‐nitrobenzene as mesogenic group, a series of carbosilane liquid crystalline dendrimers from the first to the third generation were synthesized. These carbosilane liquid crystalline dendrimers showed smectic phase.
Role of Nanosized Zirconia on the Properties of Cu/Ga2O3/ZrO2 Catalysts for Methanol Synthesis
Authors: Liu Xin‐Mei , Yan Zi‐Feng , Lu Gao‐Qing
Published: February 2006

The introduction of mesoporous nanosize zirconia to the catalyst for methanol synthesis dedicates the nanosized catalyst and mesoporous duplicated properties. The catalyst bears the larger surface area, larger mesoporous volume and more uniform diameter, more surface metal atoms and oxygen vacancies than the catalyst prepared with the conventional coprecipitation method. The modification of microstructure and electronic effect could result in the change of the reduced chemical state and decrease of reducuction temperature of copper, donating the higher activity and methanol selectivity to the catalyst. The results of methanol synthesis demonstrate that the Cu+ is the optimum active site. Also, the interaction between the copper and zirconia shows the synergistic effect to fulfil the methanol synthesis.
Thermochemical Properties, Thermal Behavior and Decomposition Mechanism of 1,1‐Diamino‐2,2‐dinitroethylene (DADE)
Authors: Gao Hong‐Xu , Zhao Feng‐Qi , Hu Rong‐Zu , Pan Qin , Wang Bo‐Zhou , Yang Xu‐Wu , Gao Yin , Gao Sheng‐Li
Published: February 2006

The constant‐volume combustion energy, ΔcU (DADE, s, 298.15 K), the thermal behavior, and kinetics and mechanism of the exothermic decomposition reaction of 1,1‐diamino‐2,2‐dinitroethylene (DADE) have been investigated by a precise rotating bomb calorimeter, TG‐DTG, DSC, rapid‐scan fourier transform infrared (RSFT‐IR) spectroscopy and T‐jump/FTIR, respectively. The value of ΔcH⊖m (DADE, s, 298.15 K) was determined as (−8518.09± 4.59) J·g−1. Its standard enthalpy of combustion, ΔcU (DADE, s, 298.15 K), and standard enthalpy of formation, ΔfH⊖m (DADE, s, 298.15 K) were calculated to be (−1254.00±0.68) and (−103.98±0.73) kJ·mol−1, respectively. The kinetic parameters (the apparent activation energy Ea and pre‐exponential factor A) of the first exothermic decomposition reaction in a temperature‐programmed mode obtained by Kissinger′s method and Ozawa′s method, were Ek=344.35 kJ·mol−1, Ak=1034.50 s−1 and Eo=335.32 kJ·mol−1, respectively. The critical temperatures of thermal explosion of DADE were 206.98 and 207.08 °C by different methods. Information was obtained on its thermolysis detected by RSFT‐IR and T‐jump/FTIR.
Microcalorimetric Study of Energy Metabolism of HSV‐2 and FMDV Infection Processes
Authors: Zhang Heng , Zheng Cong‐Yi , Li Jie , Gu Chao‐Jiang , Wang Cun‐Xin , Liu Yu‐Wen
Published: February 2006

The metabolic thermogenic power data of the HSV‐2 infected HeLa cells and the FMDV infected BHK‐21 cells were determined by LKB‐2277 bioactivity monitor. The aim of the study was to investigate the difference of the cell metabolism under the action of two different viruses and the effects of hyperthermia and drugs on it. The results illustrated that the metabolic thermogenic power of infected cells was larger than the uninfected ones and there was a significant difference between the metabolism heat released by the two types of infected cells. From the maximal thermal power and total metabolism heat, the infection process was observed to be thermosensitive and could be inhibited by interferon. Our experiments also revealed that 6 month storage of FMDV could attenuate its virulence and infectivity. The study shows that microcalorimetry is a potent tool to investigate the metabolism of virus infection process.
Low‐temperature Heat Capacity and Standard Molar Enthalpy of Formation of Potassium L‐Threonate Hydrate K(C4H7O5)·H2O
Authors: Wei Qing , Chen San‐Ping , Gao Sheng‐Li , Di You‐Ying , Tan Zhi‐Cheng , Shi Qi‐Zhen
Published: February 2006

The solid potassium L‐threonate hydrate, K(C4H7O5)·H2O, was synthesized by the reaction of L‐threonic acid with aqueous potassium hydrogen carbonate and characterized by means of chemical and elemental analyses, IR and TG‐DTG. Low‐temperature heat capacity of K(C4H7O5)·H2O has been precisely measured with a small sample precise automated adiabatic calorimeter over the temperature range from 78 to 395 K. An obvious process of the dehydration occurred in the temperature region of 364–382 K. The peak temperature of the dehydration of the compound has been observed to be (380.524±0.093) K by means of the heat capacity measurements. The molar enthalpy, ΔdHm, and molar entropy, ΔdSm, of the dehydration of K(C4H7O5)·H2O were calculated to be (19.655±0.012) kJ/mol and (51.618±0.051) J/(K·mol) by the analysis of the heat‐capacity curve. The experimental molar heat capacities of the solid from 78 to 362 K and from 382 to 395 K have been respectively fitted to two polynomial equations of heat capacities against the reduced temperatures by least square method. The constant‐volume energy of combustion of the compound, ΔcUm, has been determined to be (−1749.71±0.91) kJ·mol−1 by an RBC‐II precision rotary‐bomb combustion calorimeter at 298.15 K. The standard molar enthalpy of formation of the compound, ΔfH⊖m, has been calculated to be (−1292.56±1.06) kJ·mol−1 from the combination of the standard molar enthalpy of combustion of the compound with other auxiliary thermodynamic quantities.
Synthesis and Characterization of Complexes of Copper(II), Nickel(II) and Cobalt(II) with vic‐Dioximes Bearing N′‐p‐Aminobenzoyl Benzaldehyde Hydrazone
Authors: Gup Ramazan , Kirkan Bülent , Giziroğlu Emrah
Published: February 2006

Six different arylhydrazone derivatives of p‐aminobenzoic hydrazide of vic‐dioximes were synthesized by reaction of chloroglyoxime and dichloroglyoxime with N′‐p‐aminobenzoyl benzaldehyde, 4‐hydroxybenzaldehyde and 4‐methoxybenzaldehyde hydrazones, respectively. Metal‐ligand (1:2) complexes of vic‐dioxime derivatives with Cu(II), Ni(II) and Co(II) were prepared from corresponding metal acetates. The ligands and their complexes were characterized on the basis of elemental analyses and spectral data. The complexing abilities of these new vic‐dioximes toward transition metals of Co(II), Cu(II), Ni(II), Zn(II), Cd(II), Mn(II) and Cr(III) were determined by solid‐liquid extraction studies.
Synthesis and Structural Characteristics of Two Novel Bicyclododecyl Derivatives
Authors: Wang Ming‐An , Tu Guang‐Zhong , Ma Zu‐Chao , Zhang Ning , Wang Dao‐Quan
Published: February 2006

2‐(2′‐Oxo‐3′‐oximidocyclododecyl) cyclododecanone (1) and 2‐(1′‐hydroxylcyclododecyl) cyclododecanone (2) were synthesized and characterized. The conformation analysis was carried out based on the NMR, molecular mechanics calculation and X‐ray diffraction. The conformation of two cyclododecyl moieties of both1and2was found to be the [3333]‐2‐one or [3333] square conformation both in the crystal state and the solution. The dihedral angle between carbonyl and the oxime double bond of the ring B is 180° in the crystal of1. The protons or hydroxyl group of carbon atoms to link the two cyclododecyl moieties of1and2constitute dihedral angles of 174° in the crystal, and 175° in the solution, and the CC σ bond between two cyclododecyl moieties can not freely rotate in the solid state and the solution. In addition, compound2was the first example ofα‐corner‐anti‐monosubstituted cyclododecanone.
New Triphenylene Based Discotic Liquid Crystals with Mixed Tails: Molecular Symmetry and Wide Columnar Mesophase Range
Authors: Zhao Ke‐Qing , Wang Bi‐Qin , Hu Ping , Gao Cai‐Yan , Yuan Fu‐Jin , Li Hui‐Rong
Published: February 2006

A series of new trialkoxytrialkanoyloxytriphenylene TP(OCnH2n+1)3(OCOCmH2m+1)3 (5a–5e) (n=m+1=4–8) discotic liquid crystals were prepared and their mesomorphic properties were investigated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and polarizing optical microscopy (POM). The symmetrical and shorter chain triphenylenes display higher melting points and clearing points, more highly ordered and stable columnar mesophase than the asymmetrical and longer chain triphenylenes respectively.
The First Total Synthesis of the (±)‐Palstatin
Authors: Feng Jian‐Peng , Wang Xiao‐Long , Cao Xiao‐Ping
Published: February 2006

The first total synthesis of (±)‐palstatin was achieved from commercially available 5‐bromovanallin and 2,4,6‐trihydroxyacetophenone. SeO2 promoted oxidative cyclization reaction and Ag2O catalyzed oxidative coupling reaction served as the key steps in the synthesis successfully.
Preparation, Crystal Structure and Theoretical Calculation of 4‐(4,6‐Dimethylpyrimidin‐2‐yl)‐3‐thio‐allophanic Acid Methyl Ester
Authors: Ren Ying‐Hui , Song Ji‐Rong , Huang Jie , Ma Hai‐Xia , Wang Hua‐Li , Hu Huai‐Ming , Wen Zhen‐Yi
Published: February 2006

4‐(4,6‐Dimethylpyrimidin‐2‐yl)‐3‐thio‐allophanic acid methyl ester was synthesized with mixing 2‐amino‐4,6‐dimethylpyrimidine, potassium thiocyanate and methyl chloroformate in ethyl acetate. Single crystals suitable for X‐ray diffraction measurement were obtained by recrystallization from dimethylformamide at room temperature. The crystal belongs to monoclinic symmetry with space groupC2/mand crystal parameters ofa=1.7537(5) nm,b=0.6759(2) nm,c=1.1148(3) nm,β=118.557(4)°,V=1.1605(6) nm3,Z=4,Dc=1.375 g/cm3,μ=0.271 mm−1,F(000) =504, and 1519 [I>2σ(I)] observable independent reflections were used for the determination and refinement of the crystal structures with finalR1of 0.0372 andwR2of 0.0992. The theoretical investigation of the title compound was carried out with DFT‐B3LYP/6‐311G, HF/6‐311G and MP2/6‐311G methods, and the atomic net charges and the population were discussed.
Synthesis and Insecticidal Structure‐Activity Relationships of Novel Tonghaosu Analogs
Authors: Xiao Qin , Yin Biao‐Lin , Chen Li , Xu Han‐Hong , Hu Tai‐Shan , Wu Yu‐Lin
Published: February 2006

Twenty‐one tonghaosu analogs were synthesized via hydroamination or selective reduction of the endocyclic double bond of the corresponding dienol spiroketals. Structures of all the new compounds were confirmed by 1H NMR, IR, MS, HREIMS or elemental analysis. Their antifeedant activity against large white butterfly (Pieris brassicae L) and larvicidal activity toward mosquito (Culex quinquefasciatus Say) were examined. Some of them exhibited antifeeding activities comparable to or stronger than tonghaosu Z‐1. Based on the activity data, the preliminary structure‐activity relationship was also discussed, which might be instructive for finding out lead compounds with better bioactivities in the future.
Electrochemical Noise Analysis and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy for Pure Copper in Chloride Media
Authors: Nagiub Adham Mohamed
Published: February 2006

The corrosion behavior of pure copper electrode exposed to artificial seawater has been studied using electrochemical noise analysis (ENA) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). A diffusion process was observed for copper exposed to chloride media as indicated by the presence of a minimum phase angle over the lowest frequency range in the impedance plots. Analysis of electrochemical noise (EN) data has been collected both in time and frequency domains. Noise resistance Rn was obtained after analyzing EN data in the time domain. A good agreement was observed between Rn values and polarization resistance Rp values obtained from EIS analysis. Localization index Il was not found to provide information concerning corrosion mechanisms. Also skewness and kurtosis for both potential and current fluctuations did not show any mechanistic information. It was concluded that ENA could detect the corrosion rate for copper exposed to chloride media, but was not found to provide information about the corrosion mechanisms.
Interaction between Gold Nanoparticles and Bovine Serum Albumin or Sheep Antirabbit Immunoglobulin G
Authors: Ao Li‐Mei , Gao Feng , Pan Bi‐Feng , Cui Da‐Xiang , Gu Hong‐Chen
Published: February 2006

The interaction between gold nanoparticles and proteins such as bovine serum albumin and immunoglobulin G under the condition of different pH values was studied based on the measurement of zeta potential and fluorescence quenching of the proteins before and after proteins were bound with gold nanoparticles. Aggregations were found in gold colloid aqueous solution after addition of proteins by TEM characterization and UV‐Vis spectroscopy determination. The results showed that the values of zeta potential were quite different, the binding constant Kb and stoichiometry n were slightly increased with the increase of pH value. In conclusion, two factors could affect markedly the interaction between gold nanoparticles and proteins, that is, surface charge and the coordination effect between gold nanoparticles and indole group of the tryptophan residue of proteins.
Molecular Dynamics Studies on the Kinetics of Phase Changes of Nanoparticles: Properties, Structures, and Crystal Nucleation of Copper Nanoparticle Cu453
Authors: Song Hua‐Ju , Li Xiao‐Hua , Huang Jin‐Fan
Published: February 2006

Molecular dynamics (MD) computer simulations have been carried out to study the structures, properties and crystal nucleation of nanoparticles with 453 Cu atoms. Structure information was analyzed from the MD simulations, while properties of nanoparticles of Cu453, such as melting point, freezing temperature, heat capacity and molar volumes, have been estimated. The face center cubic (FCC) phase and icosahedron (Ih) phase were observed during the quenching process, and nucleation rates of crystallization to FCC crystal of Cu453 at temperatures of 650, 700, 750, and 800 K were analyzed. Both classical nucleation theory (CNT) and diffuse interface theory (DIT) were used to interpret our observed nucleation rates. The free energy and diffuse interface thickness between the liquid and the FCC crystal phases were estimated by the CNT and DIT respectively, and the results show that the DIT does not work properly to the system.
Oxidant Promoted 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition of Pyridinium Ylides to Chalcones for Preparation of 1‐Benzoyl‐2‐arylindolizines
Authors: Wang Bing‐Xiang , Liu Wei‐Wei , He Ting , Hu Hong‐Wen
Published: February 2006

The derivatives of 1‐benzoyl‐2‐arylindolizine were prepared in moderate yields of 41%–78% by CrO3/Et3N promoted 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of pyridinium N‐ylides and chalcones. Under the same conditions, CrO3/Et3N promoted 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of isoquinolinium N‐ylides and chalcones provided the corresponding 1‐benzoyl‐2‐arylpyrrolo[2,1‐a]isoquinolines in 45%–61% yields.
Retracted: Cisplatin‐induced antitumor activity is potentiated by the soy isoflavone genistein in BxPC‐3 pancreatic tumor xenografts
Authors: Mohammad Ramzi M. , Banerjee Sanjeev , Li Yiwei , Aboukameel Amro , Kucuk Omer , Sarkar Fazlul H.
Published: February 2006

BACKGROUND

The activation of nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB) contributes to drug resistance in pancreatic carcinoma. The authors previously showed that the soy isoflavone genistein down‐regulates the activation of NF‐κB in many carcinoma cell lines in vitro. In the current study, they focused their investigation on testing whether the inactivation of NF‐κB by genistein could enhance cisplatin‐induced cell growth inhibition and apoptosis in BxPC‐3 cells in vitro and antitumor activity of cisplatin in vivo.

METHODS

BxPC‐3 cells were preexposed to 25 μM genistein for 24 hours and then exposed to cisplatin (0.5 μM) for an additional 72 hours. A cell growth inhibition assay, an apoptosis assay, and an NF‐κB electrophoretic mobility shift assay were conducted. For the in vivo study, a xenograft model of BxPC‐3 cells in severe combined immunodeficient mice was used. Genistein was given at a dose of 800 μg/kg orally for 5 days, cisplatin was given at a dose of 9 mg/kg as an intraperitoneal bolus, and another group of mice received both cisplatin and genistein (given on Day 1 concurrently followed by genistein for 4 days).

RESULTS

The combination of 25 μM genistein with 0.5 μM cisplatin resulted in significantly greater growth inhibition (P < 0.01) and more apoptosis in BxPC‐3 cells compared with either agent alone. Preexposure of BxPC‐3 cells to genistein abrogated cisplatin‐induced activation of NF‐κB, which appeared to be consistent with the authors' hypothesis. The authors also demonstrated for the first time that the in vivo effect of genistein enhanced the antitumor activity of cisplatin. The tumor weight for the control, genistein, cisplatin, and combined genistein and cisplatin mice was 940 mg, 762 mg, 261 mg, and 108 mg, respectively. Most important, for the first time, the authors observed that the DNA‐binding activity of NF‐κB was inactivated in genistein‐treated animal tumors, whereas cisplatin significantly induced NF‐κB DNA binding activity, and this was completely abrogated in genistein‐pretreated tumors that were exposed to cisplatin, consistent with the in vitro data.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the current results were consistent with the authors' hypothesis and suggested that pretreatment of pancreatic carcinoma cells with genistein down‐regulates NF‐κB activity and contributes toward enhancing the apoptosis‐inducing effect of cisplatin, leading to greater antitumor activity in vivo. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
Racial disparity and socioeconomic status in association with survival in older men with local/regional stage prostate carcinoma
Authors: Du Xianglin L. , Fang Shenying , Coker Ann L. , Sanderson Maureen , Aragaki Corrine , Cormier Janice N. , Xing Yan , Gor Beverly J. , Chan Wenyaw
Published: February 2006

BACKGROUND

Few studies have examined the outcomes for Hispanic men with prostate carcinoma and incorporated socioeconomic factors in association with race/ethnicity in affecting survival, adjusting for factors on cancer stage, grade, comorbidity, and treatment.

METHODS

We studied a population‐based cohort of 61,228 men diagnosed with local or regional stage prostate carcinoma at age 65 years or older between 1992 and 1999 in the 11 SEER (Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results) areas, identified from the SEER‐Medicare linked data with up to 11 years of followup.

RESULTS

Low socioeconomic status was significantly associated with decreasing survival in all men with prostate carcinoma. Those living in the community with the lowest quartile of socioeconomic status were 31% more likely to die than those living in the highest quartile (hazard ratio [HR] of all‐cause mortality: 1.31; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.25–1.36) after adjustment for patient age, comorbidity, Gleason score, and treatment. The HR remained almost unchanged after controlling for race/ethnicity (HR: 1.32; 95% CI: 1.26–1.38). Compared with Caucasians, the risk of mortality in African American men was marginally significantly higher (HR: 1.06; 95% CI: 1.01–1.11) after controlling for education, and no longer significant after adjusting for poverty, income, or composite socioeconomic variable; the HR was lower for Hispanic men (HR: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.72–0.89) after adjustment for education and other socioeconomic variables.

CONCLUSION

Racial disparity in survival among men with local or regional prostate carcinoma was largely explained by socioeconomic status and other factors. Lower socioeconomic status appeared to be one of the major barriers to achieving comparable outcomes for men with prostate carcinoma. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
Neuroblastoma in adolescents
Authors: Conte Massimo , Parodi Stefano , De Bernardi Bruno , Milanaccio Claudia , Mazzocco Katia , Angelini Paola , Viscardi Elisabetta , Di Cataldo Andrea , Luksch Roberto , Haupt Riccardo
Published: February 2006

BACKGROUND

Neuroblastoma (NB) occurs rarely during adolescence, and information is scarce on its characteristics and clinical course in this age group.

METHODS

Patients with NB who were included in the Italian Neuroblastoma Registry were considered for the current study. The clinical characteristics and survival of adolescents (age at diagnosis between 10 yrs and 18 yrs) were compared with those of children (ages 1–9 yrs). Infants (age < 1 yr) were excluded because of their well known favorable clinical course.

RESULTS

Between 1116 children and 53 adolescents who were evaluated, no differences were documented with regard to the primary tumor site and the prevalence of advanced stage at diagnosis. If only patients with Stage IV NB were considered, then adolescents were less likely to be diagnosed with bone/bone marrow metastases (77%) compared with children (94%; P = 0.038), but adolescents were more likely to have metastases at unusual sites, such as the lung parenchyma or the central nervous system (23% vs. 7%, respectively; P = 0.005). With regard to biologic characteristics, adolescents did not differ significantly from children, although they always had a lower prevalence of unfavorable markers. In particular, MYCN amplification was documented in 21% of children and in 11% of adolescents (P = 0.173). At age 10 years, adolescents had a 20% overall survival rate and a 22% event‐free survival rate. Adolescents who had resectable disease had a 73% overall survival rate, which was worse compared with the rate among children with the same disease stage (89%), although the difference did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.159). No differences in survival were observed among patients with Stage IV NB, and adolescents had a probability of survival almost identical to that among children (6% vs. 16%, respectively; P = 0.481). However, when the analysis was restricted to events that occurred after patients developed a recurrence, even if the final outcome was poor for both groups, the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.022) mostly because of the more indolent disease course observed among the adolescents. This effect was even more evident for patients with Stage IV NB. When the 6‐year cut‐off point was used to separate children from adolescents, a significantly worse overall survival rate (P = 0.036) was documented for adolescents who had resectable disease (81% vs. 93% in children).

CONCLUSIONS

NB in adolescents had clinical and biologic characteristics similar to those observed among children. The clinical course of NB probably is correlated significantly with age at diagnosis, but information is scarce on the role of the biologic risk factors in this age group. The authors were able to identify a group of patients with a cut‐off age between 6 years and 10 years that had a more indolent course but a worse prognosis. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
High risk of contralateral breast carcinoma in women with hereditary/familial non‐BRCA1/BRCA2 breast carcinoma
Authors: Shahedi Katarina , Emanuelsson Monica , Wiklund Fredrik , Gronberg Henrik
Published: February 2006

BACKGROUND

The objectives of the current study were to estimate the risk of developing contralateral breast carcinoma (CBC) among women with hereditary/familial non‐BRCA1/BRCA2 breast carcinoma and to determine the factors that may predict their risk of CBC.

METHODS

The study sample consisted of all families (n = 217 families) that were referred between 1994–2001 to the Clinic of Cancer Genetics at the University Hospital of Umeå for suspected hereditary breast carcinoma. The study included all women in the 217 families who had carcinoma of the breast as their first primary invasive malignancy diagnosed between 1970–2001 in northern Sweden. Exclusion criteria were an estimated lifetime risk < 20%, BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation, noninvasive carcinoma (ductal or lobular carcinoma in situ), and bilateral breast carcinoma. In the final analysis, 204 women were included from 120 families.

RESULTS

The cumulative probability of developing CBC among women who had hereditary/familial non‐BRCA1/BRCA2 breast carcinoma after 20 years was 27.3% (95% confidence interval, 15.0–37.8) compared with the expected risk (4.9%) among women in northern Sweden who had primary breast carcinoma. A significantly increased risk of CBC was associated with age younger than 50 years at the time of diagnosis of the first primary breast carcinoma (P = 0.006). Adjuvant hormone therapy reduced the risk of CBC (P = 0.036).

CONCLUSIONS

Women with hereditary/familial non‐BRCA1/BRCA2 breast carcinoma had a high risk of developing CBC. This risk was attenuated further among women who were younger at the time of onset, who had a cumulative probability of developing CBC of nearly 40% after 15 years, which is similar to the estimated risk among BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation carriers. The results of this study emphasized the importance of genetic counseling for these women. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.