bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analytical assessment of the osteoinductive material COLLOSS®E
Authors: Nienhuijs M. E. L. , Poulsen K. , van der Zande M. , Briest A. , Merkx M. A. W. , Stoelinga P. J. W. , Jensen O. N. , Jansen J. A. , Walboomers X. F.
Published: September 2008

In this study, the growth factors in COLLOSS®E were analyzed, using ELISA tests, mass spectrometry, western blotting, and a 24‐day cell culture experiment using osteoblast‐like cells. The results of the ELISA testing, mass spectrometry, and western blotting all confirmed that TGF‐β1 was the main growth factor in COLLOSS®E at 55 ng/mg. The results from the culture test showed that the cell proliferation, alkaline phosphatase activity, and matrix calcification were all drastically changed by the addition of COLLOSS®E, mirroring the effects of addition of TGF‐β1. We conclude that COLLOSS®E is not only a rich source of TGFβ‐1, but also contains the growth factors TGFβ‐2, BMP‐2, BMP‐3, BMP‐7, IGF‐1, and possibly VEGF. Other growth factors might be present in COLLOSS®E, but were not identified due to inherent detection limits of the used ELISA and mass spectrometry techniques. The number of osteoinductive factors in COLLOSS®E causes a synergistic effect, explaining the new bone formation found in previously described in vivo studies, with much lower growth factor concentrations when compared with recombinant BMPs. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
Properties of antibiotic‐loaded acrylic bone cements for use in cemented arthroplasties: A state‐of‐the‐art review
Authors: Lewis Gladius
Published: September 2008

Infection of periprosthetic sites of total joint replacements has been widely reported. Although, by most accounts, the incidence of such events is low, the problem can prove to be expensive to remedy. In the case of cemented arthroplasties, a common management modality is the use of antibiotic‐loaded acrylic bone cement (ALABC) as a prophylaxis or a therapeutic agent. Although there is a large literature on properties of ALABCs (on the order of 100 journal articles), a comprehensive review is lacking. The present contribution, whose objective is to fill this gap, is organized in four parts. Details of the background to and motivation for the work are given in the first part, explicative summaries of literature studies on the influence of various factors on an array of in vitro and in vivo properties of ALABCs are covered in the second part, issues and areas for future studies are presented in the third part, and the fourth part contains a summary of the most salient points made in the review. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
In‐situ sol‐gel synthesis and characterization of bioactive pHEMA/SiO2 blend hybrids
Authors: Silvestri B. , Luciani G. , Costantini A. , Tescione F. , Branda F. , Pezzella A.
Published: September 2008

A novel procedure to synthesize poly(2‐hydroxyethylmethacrylate)‐silica blend hybrids is presented. Methacrylate monomers bearing an alkoxysilyl unit, prepared by Michael addition of 2‐hydroxyethylmethacrylate (HEMA) to 3‐Aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTS) were employed. By 13C NMR and mass analysis it was possible to establish the formation of coupling hybrid species. Hybrid materials, with final concentration ranging from 10% to 30% w/w of silica gel to the mass of polymer, were obtained through basic catalyzed sol‐gel process of tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) and the alkoxysilyl unit of the hybrid monomer, followed by in‐situ free‐radical polymerization. The hybrids were characterized as far as concerns their thermal properties (glass transition temperature, decomposition temperature), their sorption behavior in water, and in‐vitro bioactivity. Optical transparency, higher glass transition temperature, and higher decomposition temperature than pHEMA suggest an increase in either density or intensity of cross‐links between the organic and the inorganic phases. The swelling ratio of the 30% hybrids is comparable to pHEMA, whereas it is lower for the other compositions. In‐vitro bioactivity of the hybrids, due to the inorganic phase, was ascertained. Soaking time required for apatite deposition on the samples surface decreases as the content of silica gel increases. Therefore, the obtained bioactive hybrids can be used to make bioactive scaffolds for bone engineering. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
Accurate prediction of thermodynamic properties of alkyl peroxides by combining density functional theory calculation with least‐square calibration
Authors: Liu Cun‐Xi , Li Ze‐Rong , Zhou Chong‐Wen , Li Xiang‐Yuan
Published: September 2008

Owing to the significance in kinetic modeling of the oxidation and combustion mechanisms of hydrocarbons, a fast and relatively accurate method was developed for the prediction of ΔfH of alkyl peroxides. By this method, a raw ΔfH value was calculated from the optimized geometry and vibration frequencies at B3LYP/6‐31G(d,p) level and then an accurate ΔfH value was obtained by a least‐square procedure. The least‐square procedure is a six‐parameter linear equation and is validated by a leave‐one out technique, giving a cross‐validation squared correlation coefficient q2 of 0.97 and a squared correlation coefficient of 0.98 for the final model. Calculated results demonstrated that the least‐square calibration leads to a remarkable reduction of error and to the accurate ΔfH values within the chemical accuracy of 8 kJ mol−1 except (CH3)2CHCH2CH2CH2OOH which has an error of 8.69 kJ mol−1. Comparison of the results by CBS‐Q, CBS‐QB3, G2, and G3 revealed that B3LYP/6‐31G(d,p) in combination with a least‐square calibration is reliable in the accurate prediction of the standard enthalpies of formation for alkyl peroxides. Standard entropies at 298 K and heat capacities in the temperature range of 300–1500 K for alkyl peroxides were also calculated using the rigid rotor‐harmonic oscillator approximation. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2009
Energetic analyses of chair and boat conformations of maleimide substituted cyclohexane derivatives
Authors: Remmert Sarah , Parish Carol
Published: September 2008

An analysis of the conformational preferences of two maleimide substituted cyclohexane derivatives proposed as scaffolds for HIV‐1 fusion inhibitors is presented. Hybrid Low Mode‐Monte Carlo (1:1) conformational searches using seven different force fields were performed in combination with the GBSA(water) solvent model. Low energy structures identified in this way were subjected to geometry optimization on the B3LYP/6‐31G** surface. Solvent effects were included in the quantum calculation using the self‐consistent reaction field model for water. Quantum results indicate that the 1,3,5‐maleimide functionalized 1,3,5‐methyl cyclohexane is more stable in the boat conformation, whereas 1,3,5‐maleimide functionalized cyclohexane adopts the expected chair conformation with equatorial arms. None of the force fields studied was able to predict the unexpected preference for the boat conformation of 1,3,5‐maleimide functionalized 1,3,5‐methyl cyclohexane. Comparison of low energy and experimental structures was also performed. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2009
Comparison of prototypic cases of depressive personality disorder and dysthymic disorder
Authors: Sprock June , Fredendall Laura
Published: September 2008

Although depressive personality disorder (DPD) was included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM‐IV; American Psychiatric Association, 1994) appendix as a proposed category needing further research, there are concerns that it overlaps excessively with dysthymic disorder (DD). The purpose of this investigation was to identify the characteristic features of representative patients with DPD and patients with DD, and to determine whether they could be distinguished by their symptoms. Two matched samples of psychologists (n=57, n=48) identified a prototypic patient with DPD or DD, provided demographic and treatment information about the patient, and rated the patient's symptoms on a series of mood and personality disorder symptoms taken from the DSM‐IV and the literature. When composite descriptions were constructed using the highest rated symptoms, there was considerable overlap in symptoms of identified DPD and DD patients. The DSM‐IV research criteria for DPD provided the best description of the DPD patients; however, there was a high degree of correlation between DPD and DD criteria sets. There was also considerable comorbidity, with the majority of the patients in both groups meeting criteria for DPD and DD. However, there was a significant difference in comorbid diagnoses (and other differences in family history, outcome, and treatment history that failed to reach the more stringent level of statistical significance, i.e., p<.001) suggesting that there may be some important differences between DPD and DD. Nevertheless, the symptom ratings imply blurred boundaries between DPD and DD, suggesting the need for clearer differentiation between the two disorders or the need to adopt an alternative model of classification. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 64:1–25, 2008.
Microimaging FTIR of head and neck tumors. IV
Authors: Conti Carla , Ferraris Paolo , Garavaglia Maria , Giorgini Elisabetta , Rubini Corrado , Sabbatini Simona , Tosi Giorgio
Published: September 2008

On continuing our studies on head and neck neoplasia, specimens from salivary gland tumors have been explored by using infrared microimaging spectroscopy to discern healthy from neoplastic tissues. Samples with Warthin tumor, epithelial displasia, marginal B‐cell lymphoma, low‐grade adenocarcinoma, and adenoid cystic carcinoma pathologies have been investigated by using conventional light sources. Changes were monitored at the molecular level, probing spectral markers such as Amide I and II, phosphate, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates vibrational modes. In all cases, supervised and unsupervised spectral analyses resulted in satisfactory agreement with histopathological findings. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
MRT letter: Full‐tilt electron tomography with a piezo‐actuated rotary drive
Authors: Xu X.J. , Lockwood A. , Guan W. , Gay R. , Saghi Z. , Wang J.J. , Peng Y. , Inkson B.J. , Möbus G.
Published: September 2008

Piezoelectric nanoactuation, which is rapidly becoming established as state‐of‐the‐art positioning control in transmission electron microscopy (TEM), is extended here to include a rotational degree of freedom. A piezoelectric goniometer with both translational and rotary drive action has been designed with high level of miniaturization to fit into a standard TEM specimen holder shaft without compromising any of the performance of the default TEM goniometer and without any modifications to the TEM. Enhanced functionality of such a goniometer‐in‐goniometer is outlined and experimental results for electron tomography of nanostructures over a full tilt range of views, without any missing angles, are demonstrated. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterization of natural wax esters by MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry
Authors: Vrkoslav Vladimír , Míková Radka , Cvačka Josef
Published: September 2008

The applicability of matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS) to the analysis of wax esters (WEs) was investigated. A series of metal salts of 2,5‐dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHB) was synthesized and tested as possible matrices. Alkali metal (Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs) and transition metal (Cu, Ag) salts were studied. The matrix properties were evaluated, including solubility in organic solvents, threshold laser power that should be applied for successful desorption/ionization of WEs, the nature of the matrix ions and the mass range occupied by them, and the complexity of the isotope clusters for individual metals. Lithium salt of dihydroxybenzoic acid (LiDHB) performed the best and matrices with purified lithium isotopes (6LiDHB or 7LiDHB) were recommended for WEs. Three sample preparation procedures were compared: (1) mixing the sample and matrix in a glass vial and deposition of the mixture on a MALDI plate (Mix), (2) deposition of sample followed by deposition of matrix (Sa/Ma), and (3) deposition of matrix followed by deposition of sample (Ma/Sa). Morphology of the samples was studied by scanning electron microscopy. The best sample preparation technique was Ma/Sa with the optimum sample to matrix molar ratio 1 : 100. Detection limit was in the low picomolar range. The relative response of WEs decreased with their molecular weight, and minor differences between signals of saturated and monounsaturated WEs were observed. MALDI spectra of WEs showed molecular adducts with lithium [M + Li]+. Fragments observed in postsource decay (PSD) spectra were related to the acidic part of WEs [RCOOH + Li]+ and they were used for structure assignment. MALDI with LiDHB was used for several samples of natural origin, including insect and plant WEs. A good agreement with GC/MS data was achieved. Moreover, MALDI allowed higher WEs to be analyzed, up to 64 carbon atoms in Ginkgo biloba leaves extract. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rapid determination of picogram levels of patulin in apple juice using a flow injection chemiluminescence procedure
Authors: Liu Houyong , Gao Xiaofei , Niu Lichuan , Li Xin , Song Zhenghua
Published: September 2008

BACKGROUND: A sensitive, rapid and simple chemiluminescence procedure, based on the enhancing effect of patulin on the chemiluminescence (CL) reaction between luminol and hydrogen peroxide in a flow injection (FI) system, has been proposed for the determination of patulin.

RESULT: The increment of CL intensity was linear over the concentration of patulin ranging from 0.05 to 80 ng mL−1, with a detection limit (3S/N) of 0.01 ng mL−1. At a flow rate of 2.0 mL min−1, a complete analysis could be performed in 25 s with a relative standard deviation of less than 4.0%.

CONCLUSION: The proposed method was successfully applied to the measurement of apple juice samples obtained from the Shaanxi Entry–Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau. The recoveries were between 93.4 and 107.9% Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Analysis of the pour point of coconut oil as a lubricant base stock using differential scanning calorimetry
Authors: Ajithkumar G. , Jayadas N. H. , Bhasi M.
Published: September 2008

One of the major disadvantages of vegetable oils as base stock for lubricants is their high pour points. In this paper the crystallisation behaviour of coconut oil and the effect of additive addition and the chemical modification on its pour point were analysed using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Coconut oil showed the highest pour point among the vegetable oils considered in the study. This can be attributed to the predominantly saturated nature of its fatty acid constituents. Addition of additives did not show any significant improvement in the pour point of coconut oil. The chemical modification procedures described in this work have been effective in improving the pour point of coconut oil to some extent. The DSC method used in the present work has been found to be helpful in understanding the crystallisation behaviour of vegetable oils with different fatty acid compositions, the effect of additive addition and the chemical modification on pour point of coconut oil. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long-Term Histological Effects of Preemptive Antiviral Therapy in Liver Transplant Recipients with Hepatitis C Virus Infection
Authors: Kuo Alexander , Tan Vivian , Lan Billy , Khalili Mandana , Feng Sandy , Roberts John P. , Terrault Norah A.
Published: September 2008

The long-term effects of preemptive antiviral therapy on fibrosis progression in liver transplant recipients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) were examined in a cohort of consecutive liver transplant recipients who received preemptive antiviral therapy for 48 weeks (95% were virologic nonresponders). Control patients were transplanted during this same period but did not receive preemptive therapy. Patients were followed to the date of last biopsy and censored at the time of subsequent HCV treatment. Eighty-six patients surviving ≥90 days were included. Treated and control patients were similar, except that treated patients had longer histological follow-up (60 versus 50 months), a lower median Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score at liver transplant (17 versus 23), and a shorter median length of hospital stay (6 versus 9.5 days). In the uncensored analysis, the cumulative probability of a Batts-Ludwig fibrosis score ≥ 2 at 48 months post–liver transplant was 22% in the preemptive therapy group and 49% in the nonpreemptive therapy group (P = 0.08). In multivariate analysis, preemptive therapy was associated with a 48% reduced risk of a fibrosis score ≥ 2 (hazard ratio = 0.52, 95% confidence interval = 0.24-1.12, P = 0.09), but this failed to achieve statistical significance. Receipt of preemptive therapy was associated with a delay in subsequent HCV therapy for moderate to severe disease (fibrosis score ≥ 2 or moderate necroinflammatory activity) with a median time of 36.3 months versus 20.3 months in the preemptive and nonpreemptive groups (P = 0.004). We conclude that preemptive antiviral therapy in virologic nonresponders delays the time to subsequent HCV treatment and may confer a reduced risk of fibrosis progression. Further study of preemptive antiviral therapy is warranted. Liver Transpl 14:1491–1497, 2008. © 2008 AASLD.
Twenty Years of Follow-Up of Aortohepatic Conduits in Liver Transplantation
Authors: Nikitin Dmitriy , Jennings Linda W. , Khan Tariq , Sanchez Edmund Q. , Chinnakotla Srinath , Randall Henry B. , McKenna Greg J. , Goldstein Robert M. , Levy Marlon F. , Klintmalm Goran B.
Published: September 2008

Arterial problems remain a formidable challenge in liver transplantation. In many situations, an aortohepatic conduit can provide a solution. No long-term results (over 5 years) have been reported. This study was designed to assess the impact of aortohepatic conduits on graft survival after liver transplantation and the safety of aortohepatic conduits and to establish the long-term results (up to 20 years) of aortohepatic conduits. Data from 2346 adult liver transplants were prospectively collected into the computerized database and analyzed. In the majority of cases, arterial conduits were constructed from the donor iliac artery obtained at the liver retrieval. Aortohepatic conduits were required in 149 (6.4%) first transplants. The long-term graft survival after liver transplantation using aortohepatic conduits was excellent and comparable to that of the control group. The graft survival was 59% with the conduit versus 67% without the conduit at 5 years of follow-up, 50% versus 52% at 10 years, and 33% versus 35% at 15 years. With up to 20 years of follow-up, there was no statistically significant difference in graft survival, patient survival, hepatic artery complications, or biliary complications. For the same time period, there was no statistically significant difference in graft survival or patient survival for the retransplants with and without aortohepatic conduits. In conclusion, in experienced hands, aortohepatic conduits can be used safely for liver transplantation with no negative impact on long-term graft survival, patient survival, hepatic artery complications, or biliary complications. Excellent long-term results can be obtained. Liver Transpl 14:1486–1490, 2008. © 2008 AASLD.
Temporary Portocaval Shunt in Orthotopic Liver Transplantation: Need for a Standardized Approach?
Authors: Davila Diego , Bartlett Adam , Heaton Nigel
Published: September 2008

Maintenance of portal and systemic venous return during the anhepatic phase of liver transplantation (LT) improves hemodynamic stability. With the piggyback technique, caval return is maintained; however, temporary clamping of the portal vein is still necessary. The use of a temporary portocaval shunt (TPCS) has been proposed to minimize the effect of portal venous interruption. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review of the literature to determine whether there is evidence to support the routine use of a TPCS in LT. An electronic search of the literature from 1963 to 2007 was performed. A total of 4386 articles were identified, of which 8 met all the criteria and were included in the study. Because of the variability in reporting and the small number of studies, statistical comparison was not possible; however, a trend toward a shorter operative time, less blood product transfusion, and maintenance of higher mean arterial pressures during portal vein clamping was seen in patients with a TPCS. In conclusion, the available evidence, albeit scarce, supports the use of a TPCS in patients undergoing LT. A prospective randomized study of patients most likely to benefit from a TPCS is necessary to substantiate these findings. Liver Transpl 14:1414–1419, 2008. © 2008 AASLD.
Effects of dopaminergic medications on psychosis and motor function in dementia with Lewy bodies
Authors: Goldman Jennifer G. , Goetz Christopher G. , Brandabur Melanie , Sanfilippo Michelle , Stebbins Glenn T.
Published: September 2008

Dopaminergic treatment in dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) requires balancing risk of worsened psychosis and potential motor benefit. We assessed the effects of increased dopaminergic medication on psychosis and motor function in DLB. We studied 19 subjects fulfilling probable DLB Consensus criteria before and after increased dopaminergic medications. Standard clinical measures included: Thought Disorder score from the Unified Parkinson's disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) Part I, total motor score (UPDRS Part III), and Hoehn–Yahr (H&Y) stage. Motor benefit defined as >10% improvement over baseline UPDRS Part III score, occurred in only one‐third of subjects. In this group, worsened hallucinations or psychosis developed in one‐third. Considering motor benefit without exacerbation of psychosis as our aim, only 4 DLB subjects (22%) achieved this goal. Our results suggest that dopaminergic medications have limited benefit in DLB because of the low likelihood of motor improvement and the risk of psychosis exacerbation. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
Essential tremor might be less frequent than Parkinson's disease in North Israel Arab villages
Authors: Glik Amir , Masarwa Magdalena , Abuful Amin , Deeb Amar , Strugatsky Rosa , Farrer Lindsay A. , Friedland Robert P. , Inzelberg Rivka
Published: September 2008

Essential tremor (ET) is much more prevalent than Parkinson's disease (PD) in Western countries. We estimated ET and PD prevalence in Wadi Ara Arabic villages in Northern Israel. In this door‐to‐door survey, all consenting residents aged ≥65 years were systematically examined by an Arabic speaking team. No prescreening questionnaires were used. A random sample of 900 subjects [437 males, mean age (SD) = 72.6 years (6.6)] of the 2,163 eligible residents were evaluated. Sixteen subjects had an action, intentional tremor. Tremor prevalence was estimated as 1.78% (95% CI 1.1–2.87). Nine of these had another likely cause of tremor. Only 7 patients were diagnosed as ET [prevalence 0.78% (95% CI 0.38–1.6)]. PD was diagnosed in 13 subjects. PD prevalence was 1.44% (95% CI 0.84–2.45). ET is unusually uncommon in this population and possibly even less frequent than PD. The PD prevalence in Wadi Ara is similar to that reported in Western countries. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
Effect of thalamotomy on focal hand dystonia in a family with DYT1 mutation
Authors: Kim Mi J. , Jeon Sang R. , Yoo Han‐Wook , Kim Gu‐Hwan , Lee Myoung C. , Chung Sun J.
Published: September 2008

We report the clinical and molecular features of a family with focal hand dystonia caused by DYT1 mutation. Four members of a family who underwent thalamotomy showed a marked and sustained therapeutic benefit that lasted for up to 12 years without recurrence of dystonia or any significant surgical complication. The hand dystonia caused by DYT1 mutation may be successfully managed by thalamotomy. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
In‐state tuition for the undocumented: Education effects on Mexican young adults
Authors: Kaushal Neeraj
Published: September 2008

This paper examines the effect of tuition subsidy in the form of in‐state tuition to undocumented students on the education of noncitizen Mexican young adults. The policy is found to be associated with a 2.5 percentage point increase in college enrollment (base mean = 8%), a 3.7 percentage point increase in the proportion of students with at least some college education (base mean = 10%), and a 1.3 percentage point increase in the proportion with at least an associate degree (base mean = 4%). These results are robust to a variety of specifications. When the analysis is restricted to samples more likely to be affected by the policy, point estimates become larger. The study finds no evidence that in‐state tuition policy for the undocumented adversely affects the educational outcomes of natives. © 2008 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management.
Three conditions under which experiments and observational studies produce comparable causal estimates: New findings from within‐study comparisons
Authors: Cook Thomas D. , Shadish William R. , Wong Vivian C.
Published: September 2008

This paper analyzes 12 recent within‐study comparisons contrasting causal estimates from a randomized experiment with those from an observational study sharing the same treatment group. The aim is to test whether different causal estimates result when a counterfactual group is formed, either with or without random assignment, and when statistical adjustments for selection are made in the group from which random assignment is absent. We identify three studies comparing experiments and regression‐discontinuity (RD) studies. They produce quite comparable causal estimates at points around the RD cutoff. We identify three other studies where the quasi‐experiment involves careful intact group matching on the pretest. Despite the logical possibility of hidden bias in this instance, all three cases also reproduce their experimental estimates, especially if the match is geographically local. We then identify two studies where the treatment and nonrandomized comparison groups manifestly differ at pretest but where the selection process into treatment is completely or very plausibly known. Here too, experimental results are recreated. Two of the remaining studies result in correspondent experimental and nonexperimental results under some circumstances but not others, while two others produce different experimental and nonexperimental estimates, though in each case the observational study was poorly designed and analyzed. Such evidence is more promising than what was achieved in past within‐study comparisons, most involving job training. Reasons for this difference are discussed. © 2008 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management.
Compensation rules for climate policy in the electricity sector
Authors: Burtraw Dallas , Palmer Karen
Published: September 2008

Most previous cap and trade programs have distributed emission allowances for free to incumbent producers. However, in the electricity sector the value of CO2 allowances may be far in excess of costs to industry and giving them away to firms diverts allowance value from other purposes. Using a detailed simulation model, this paper shows that compensation to firms losing asset value under a climate cap and trade policy can be achieved for a small fraction of total allowance value, if targeted carefully. However, the economic efficiency cost of providing incremental compensation to reach the fully compensated level is many multiples of that incremental compensation. These considerations might move policymakers away from free allocation of CO2 emission allowances in the electricity sector. © 2008 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management.
Minimum wages and the economic well‐being of single mothers
Authors: Sabia Joseph J.
Published: September 2008

Using pooled cross‐sectional data from the 1992 to 2005 March Current Population Survey (CPS), this study examines the relationship between minimum wage increases and the economic well‐being of single mothers. Estimation results show that minimum wage increases were ineffective at reducing poverty among single mothers. Most working single mothers were not affected by minimum wage hikes because they already earned wages above state and federal minimum wages. And less‐educated single mothers who were affected did not see a rise in net income because of negative employment and hours effects. For this low‐skilled population, a 10 percent increase in the minimum wage was associated with an 8.8 percent reduction in employment and an 11.8 percent reduction in annual hours worked. © 2008 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management
Small size‐specific umbilical vein diameter in severe growth restricted fetuses that die in utero
Authors: Rigano Serena , Bozzo Maddalena , Padoan Alessandra , Mustoni Paola , Bellotti Maria , Galan Henry L. , Ferrazzi Enrico
Published: September 2008

Background

To study changes in umbilical vein (UV) blood flow velocity, diameter and blood flow volume in intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) fetuses who die in utero (IUD‐IUGR).

Methods

Twelve singleton IUGR fetuses who died in utero below 600 g were included. All cases had abnormal uterine and umbilical arteries PI. UV diameter and velocity were measured at the time of diagnosis, and at the last exam, within 24 hours prior to intrauterine death. UV flow was calculated per unit weight (mL/min/kg) and abdominal circumference (AC) (mL/min/cm). UV diameter and velocity were normalized per unit AC. Findings were compared to 14 severe viable‐IUGR and 22 normal gestational age‐matched fetuses.

Results

UV flow (mL/min/kg) was significantly lower in IUD‐IUGR compared to viable‐IUGR (87 ± 30 mL/min/kg) and control fetuses (131 ± 33 mL/min/kg) both at the first (79 ± 40 mL/min/kg) (P < 0.0001), and at the last exam (54 ± 29 mL/min/kg) (P < 0.0001). No significant longitudinal flow changes were observed. UV velocity/AC was significantly reduced both in IUD‐IUGR and viable‐IUGR compared to normal fetuses. UV diameter/AC, was significantly reduced only in IUD‐IUGR and not in viable‐IUGR compared to normal fetuses.

Conclusions

UV flow (mL/min/kg) was significantly lower in IUD‐IUGR fetuses both versus viable‐IUGR and normal fetuses. A low flow was due to a decreased UV flow velocity, but also due to a reduced vessel size. This significantly smaller UV size observed in IUGR fetuses with the worst outcome could be considered a severe prognostic sign because of the diagnosis of severe growth restriction. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fifteen years of triple tests in The Netherlands; the life cycle of a screening test
Authors: Wortelboer E. J. , Koster M. P. H. , Stoutenbeek Ph. , Loeber J. G. , Visser G. H. A. , Schielen P. C. J. I.
Published: September 2008

Objective

This report provides an overview of 15 years prenatal screening for Down syndrome (DS).

Methods

Between 1991 and 2005, blood samples for the triple test were sent for analysis to our laboratory. Test results were considered screen‐positive for neural tube defects (NTDs) if the serum alpha‐1‐fetoprotein ≥ 2.50 MoM for singleton pregnancies or screen‐positive for DS if the calculated risk was at least 1 in 250.

Results

As many as 42 554 tests were performed. Data on the pregnancy outcome were available for 30 290 screening tests (71.2%). In 1991, most requests (93%) came from the university hospitals; thereafter a shift toward midwives occurred. Until 2001, the number of requests rose to 3500 a year. Most samples were collected between 15 and 17 weeks of gestation. The median age of women for whom a test was requested increased from 30.5 to 34.5. The detection rate (DR) for DS remained stable over the years (80%), with a false positive rate of about 13%. The DR for Trisomy 13, 18, and NTD was 50, 68, and 70%, respectively.

Conclusion

Based on the results of this study, the triple test may be considered a fairly good second trimester screening test. Here it is shown that health practitioners got more acquainted with the test through the years. This may have served the swift introduction of a formal national screening program that started in January 2007. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An evaluation of a data mining signal for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and statins detected in FDA's spontaneous adverse event reporting system
Authors: Colman Eric , Szarfman Ana , Wyeth Jo , Mosholder Andrew , Jillapalli Devanand , Levine Jonathan , Avigan Mark
Published: September 2008

Background

We detected disproportionate reporting of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) with HMG‐CoA‐reductase inhibitors (statins) in the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) spontaneous adverse event (AE) reporting system (AERS).

Purpose

To describe the original ALS signal and to provide additional context for interpreting the signal by conducting retrospective analyses of data from long‐term, placebo‐controlled clinical trials of statins.

Methods

The ALS signal was detected using the multi‐item gamma Poisson shrinker (MGPS) algorithm. All AERS cases of ALS reported in association with use of a statin were individually reviewed by two FDA neurologists. Manufacturers of lovastatin, pravastatin, simvastatin, fluvastatin, atorvastatin, cerivastatin, and rosuvastatin were requested to provide the number of cases of ALS diagnosed during all of their placebo‐controlled statin trials that were at least 6 months in duration.

Results

There were 91 US and foreign reports of ALS with statins in AERS. The data mining signal scores for ALS and statins ranged from 8.5 to 1.6. Data were obtained from 41 statin clinical trials ranging in duration from 6 months to 5 years and representing approximately 200 000 patient–years of exposure to statin and approximately 200 000 patient–years of exposure to placebo. Nine cases of ALS were reported in statin‐treated patients and 10 cases in placebo‐treated patients.

Conclusions

Although we observed a data mining signal for ALS with statins in FDA's AERS, retrospective analyses of 41 statin clinical trials did not reveal an increased incidence of ALS in subjects treated with a statin compared with placebo. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antistatic performance and morphological observation of ternary blends of poly(ethylene terephthalate), poly(ether esteramide), and ionomers
Authors: Kobayashi Toshikazu , Wood Barbara A. , Takemura Akio , Ono Hirokuni
Published: September 2008

Blends of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) and poly (ether esteramide) (PEEA), which is known as an ion conductive polymer, were prepared by melt mixing using a twin screw extruder. Antistatic performance of the molded plaques and the effects of adding ionomers such as lithium neutralized poly(ethylene‐co‐methacrylic acid) copolymer(E/MAA‐Li), magnesium neutralized poly(ethylene‐co‐methacrylic acid) copolymer(E/MAA‐Mg), and zinc neutralized poly(ethylene‐co‐methacrylic acid) copolymer (E/MAA‐Zn) were investigated. Antistatic effect of adding poly(ethylene‐co‐methacrylic acid) copolymer(E/MAA) and polystyrene, and poly(ethylene naphthalate) (PEN) into PET/PEEA blends were also investigated. Here we confirmed that lithium ionomer worked the most effectively in those blend systems. We also confirmed that E/MAA worked to enhance the antistatic performance of PET/PEEA blends. Morphological study of these ternary blends system was conducted by TEM. Specific interaction between PEEA and E/MAA‐Li, and E/MAA were observed. Those ionomers and copolymer domains were encapsulated by PEEA, which could increase the surface area of PEEA in PET matrix. This encapsulation effect explains the unexpected synergy for the static dissipation performance on addition of ionomers and E/MAA to PET/PEEA blends. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2008. © 2008 Society of Plastics Engineers
Autism Spectrum Disorders: Neurobiology and current assessment practices
Authors: Allen Ryan A. , Robins Diana L. , Decker Scott L.
Published: September 2008

This study reviews recent research related to the neurobiology of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) an provides an empirical analysis of current assessment practices. Data were collected through a survey of 117 school psychologists. The Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), Gilliam Autism Rating Scale (GARS), and Gilliam Asperger's Disorder Scale (GADS) were the most frequently used measures. Among the less popular, but more intensive instruments, the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) appears to be gaining popularity within school‐based evaluations. Generally, respondents approached the assessment of ASDs from a traditional psychoeducational perspective and reported the use of a very narrow range of ASD‐specific instruments. Concerns are raised regarding the inconsistent inclusion of developmental questionnaires, parent/guardian interviews, and medical professionals in the ASD evaluation process. Implications for practice and the training of school psychologists are discussed. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Efficacy of teacher in‐service training for attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Jones Heather A. , Chronis‐Tuscano Andrea
Published: September 2008

Children with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) evidence many problems in the classroom. Teacher in‐service training is routinely used to inform school professionals about a number of special topics; however, the efficacy of such in‐service training for ADHD has not been established. The present study examined the efficacy of brief in‐service training focused on evidence‐based assessment and treatment of ADHD. Teachers from six schools (N = 142) in the Washington, DC, metropolitan area were randomly assigned at the school level to receive in‐service training immediately or to a waitlist control group that received in‐service training 1 month later. Measures of ADHD knowledge and use of behavior modification techniques were obtained at pre‐‐ and post‐‐in‐service intervention. Results indicated that the in‐service training resulted in increased ADHD knowledge. Special education teachers also reported increased use of behavior modification techniques resulting from the in‐service training. Clinical and research implications are presented. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Coping strategies of high school students in an International Baccalaureate program
Authors: Suldo Shannon M. , Shaunessy Elizabeth , Michalowski Jessica , Shaffer Emily J.
Published: September 2008

Students who are enrolled in academically challenging curricula face a multitude of stressors related to increased academic demands in addition to the developmental and biological challenges that are normative to adolescence. This article presents results of a qualitative study conducted to uncover the coping styles of students in a rigorous curriculum and determine which strategies are associated with varying levels of psychopathology (specifically, low and above‐average anxiety). Forty‐eight students from an International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma program participated in eight focus groups, in which participants were grouped by level of anxiety. Following transcription analysis using grounded theory methodology, researchers identified coping strategies and the frequency of these approaches; active problem‐solving and avoidance of demands were reported most often among all IB students in this investigation. Students with above‐average levels of anxiety discussed seeking social support more often, whereas students with low anxiety more frequently discussed avoiding demands, reducing one's workload, and seeking positive emotions. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Management of bipolar affective disorder during pregnancy
Authors: Meiser‐Stedman Caroline , Curtis Vivienne
Published: September 2008

In Pregnancy is a series of reviews focusing on the management of women with psychiatric and neurological conditions during pregnancy. In this article, Dr Meiser‐Stedman and Dr Curtis discuss the risks associated with pregnancy in women with bipolar affective disorder (BPAD) and the issues that need to be considered regarding the management of BPAD before and during pregnancy as well as immediately after the birth. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Interface Ltd
Analysis of the electrochemistry of hemes with Ems spanning 800 mV
Authors: Zheng Zhong , Gunner M. R.
Published: September 2008

The free energy of heme reduction in different proteins is found to vary over more than 18 kcal/mol. It is a challenge to determine how proteins manage to achieve this enormous range of Ems with a single type of redox cofactor. Proteins containing 141 unique hemes of a‐, b‐, and c‐type, with bis‐His, His‐Met, and aquo‐His ligation were calculated using Multi‐Conformation Continuum Electrostatics (MCCE). The experimental Ems range over 800 mV from −350 mV in cytochrome c3 to 450 mV in cytochrome c peroxidase (vs. SHE). The quantitative analysis of the factors that modulate heme electrochemistry includes the interactions of the heme with its ligands, the solvent, the protein backbone, and sidechains. MCCE calculated Ems are in good agreement with measured values. Using no free parameters the slope of the line comparing calculated and experimental Ems is 0.73 (R2 = 0.90), showing the method accounts for 73% of the observed Em range. Adding a +160 mV correction to the His‐Met c‐type hemes yields a slope of 0.97 (R2 = 0.93). With the correction 65% of the hemes have an absolute error smaller than 60 mV and 92% are within 120 mV. The overview of heme proteins with known structures and Ems shows both the lowest and highest potential hemes are c‐type, whereas the b‐type hemes are found in the middle Em range. In solution, bis‐His ligation lowers the Em by ≈205 mV relative to hemes with His‐Met ligands. The bis‐His, aquo‐His, and His‐Met ligated b‐type hemes all cluster about Ems which are ≈200 mV more positive in protein than in water. In contrast, the low potential bis‐His c‐type hemes are shifted little from in solution, whereas the high potential His‐Met c‐type hemes are raised by ≈300 mV from solution. The analysis shows that no single type of interaction can be identified as the most important in setting heme electrochemistry in proteins. For example, the loss of solvation (reaction field) energy, which raises the Em, has been suggested to be a major factor in tuning in situ Ems. However, the calculated solvation energy vs. experimental Em shows a slope of 0.2 and R2 of 0.5 thus correlates weakly with Ems. All other individual interactions show even less correlation with Em. However the sum of these terms does reproduce the range of observed Ems. Therefore, different proteins use different aspects of their structures to modulate the in situ heme electrochemistry. This study also shows that the calculated Ems are relatively insensitive to different heme partial charges and to the protein dielectric constant used in the simulation. Proteins 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Structural characterization of the tunnels of Mycobacterium tuberculosis truncated hemoglobin N from molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Daigle Richard , Guertin Michel , Lagüe Patrick
Published: September 2008

The structure of oxygenated trHbN from Mycobacterium tuberculosis shows an extended heme distal hydrogen‐bond network that includes Tyr33(B10), Gln58(E11), and the bound O2. In addition, trHbN structure shows a network of hydrophobic cavities organized in two orthogonal branches. In the present work, the structure and the dynamics of oxygenated and deoxygenated trHbN in explicit water was investigated from 100 ns molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Results show that, depending on the presence or the absence of a coordinated O2, the Tyr33(B10) and Gln58(E11) side chains adopt two different configurations in concert with hydrogen bond network rearrangement. In addition, our data indicate that Tyr33(B10) and Gln58(E11) control the dynamics of Phe62(E15). In deoxy‐trHbN, Phe62(E15) is restricted to one conformation. Upon O2 binding, the conformation of Gln58(E11) changes and residue Phe62(E15) fluctuates between two conformations. We also conducted a systematic study of trHbN tunnels by analyzing thousands of MD snapshots with CAVER. The results show that tunnel formation is the result of the dynamic reshaping of short‐lived hydrophobic cavities. The analyses indicate that the presence of these cavities is likely linked to the rigid structure of trHbN and also reveal two tunnels, EH and BE, that link the protein surface to the buried distal heme pocket and not present in the crystallographic structure. The cavities are sufficiently large to accomodate and store ligands. Tunnel dynamics in trHbN was found to be controlled by the side‐chain conformation of the Tyr33(B10), Gln58(E11), and Phe62(E15) residues. Importantly, in contrast to recently published works, our extensive systematic studies show that the presence or absence of a coordinated dioxygen does not control the opening of the long tunnel but rather the opening of the EH tunnel. In addition, the data lead to new and distinctly different conclusion on the impact of the Phe62(E15) residue on trHbN tunnels. We propose that the EH and the long tunnels are used for apolar ligands storage. The trajectories bring important new structural insights related to trHbN function and to ligand diffusion in proteins. Proteins 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Insecticide resistance management strategies against the western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis
Authors: Bielza Pablo
Published: September 2008

Western flower thrips (WFT), Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande), is an economically important pest of a wide range of crops grown throughout the world. Insecticide resistance has been documented in many populations of WFT. Biological and behavioural characteristics and pest management practices that promote insecticide resistance are discussed. In addition, an overview is provided of the development of insecticide resistance in F. occidentalis populations and the resistance mechanisms involved. Owing to widespread resistance to most conventional insecticides, a new approach to insecticide resistance management (IRM) of F. occidentalis is needed. The IRM strategy proposed consists of two parts. Firstly, a general strategy to minimise the use of insecticides in order to reduce selection pressure. Secondly, a strategy designed to avoid selection of resistance mechanisms, considering cross‐resistance patterns and resistance mechanisms. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
A luminescent solar concentrator with 7.1% power conversion efficiency
Authors: Slooff L. H. , Bende E. E. , Burgers A. R. , Budel T. , Pravettoni M. , Kenny R. P. , Dunlop E. D. , Büchtemann A.
Published: September 2008

The Luminescent Solar Concentrator (LSC) consists of a transparent polymer plate, containing luminescent particles. Solar cells are connected to one or more edges of the polymer plate. Incident light is absorbed by the luminescent particles and re‐emitted. Part of the light emitted by the luminescent particles is guided towards the solar cells by total internal reflection. Since the edge area is smaller than the receiving one, this allows for concentration of sunlight without the need for solar tracking. External Quantum Efficiency (EQE) and current–voltage (I –V) measurements were performed on LSC devices with multicrystalline silicon (mc‐Si) or GaAs cells attached to the sides. The best result was obtained for an LSC with four GaAs cells. The power conversion efficiency of this device, as measured at European Solar Test Installation laboratories, was 7.1% (geometrical concentration of a factor 2.5). With one GaAs cell attached to one edge only, the power efficiency was still as high as 4.6% (geometrical concentration of a factor 10). To our knowledge these efficiencies are among the highest reported for the LSC. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)