bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
VIRS: A visual tool for identifying restriction sites in multiple DNA sequences
Authors: Chen Xiang , Luo Cong , Ma Xiaoxia , Chen Ming
Published: July 2009

VIRS (A visual tool for identifying restriction sites in multiple DNA sequences) is an interactive web‐based program designed for restriction endonuclease cut sites prediction and visualization. It can afford to analyze multiple DNA sequences simultaneously and produce visual restriction maps with several useful options intended for users' customization. These options also perform in‐depth analysis of the restriction maps, such as providing virtual electrophoretic result for digested fragments. Different from other analytical tools, VIRS not only displays visual outputs but also provides the detailed properties of restriction endonucleases that are commercially available. All the information of these enzymes is stored in our internal database, which is updated monthly from the manufacturers' web pages. It is freely available online at http://bis.zju.edu.cn/virs/index.html. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2009
Classifying musculocutaneous nerve variations
Authors: Guerri‐Guttenberg Roberto A. , Ingolotti Mariana
Published: July 2009

A total of 56 upper limbs from fetuses and adult cadavers were dissected to record anatomical variations in the musculocutaneous nerve (MC). A systematic literature review was performed to identify current classifications of MC variations. Communications were seen between the MC and median nerves in 53.6% of the dissections from which 84.6% were proximal, 7.7% distal, and 7.7% had one proximal and one distal communication to the point of entry of the MC into coracobrachialis muscle. In six out of 54 dissections where the MC was present, the nerve did not pierce the coracobrachialis muscle. In two cases, the MC was absent and in one case the MC and the median nerve had a distal origin. This article describes current classifications of MC variations and their problems. A new classification is proposed combining preexisting ones into an integrated and more detailed overview. Clinical manifestations of isolated MC injury with and without the presence of anatomical variations are thoroughly discussed. The knowledge of these variations will allow physicians to correctly interpret anomalous innervation patters of the upper limb. Clin. Anat. 22:671–683, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Anatomic relationship of the radial nerve to the elbow joint: Clinical implications of safe pin placement
Authors: Kamineni S. , Ankem H. , Patten D.K.
Published: July 2009

The percutaneous placement of lateral distal humeral pins risks injury to the radial nerve. We aimed to provide a reliable and safe parameter for the insertion of lateral distal humeral pins. A secondary aim of this study was to investigate the effect of pin/screw placement in the intended zone of fixation at the lateral distal humerus. We dissected 70 fresh cadaveric upper limbs and the radial nerve was identified and its course followed into the anterior compartment. The point where the radial nerve crosses humerus in mid lateral plane was identified and the distance between this point and lateral epicondyle was measured, as was the maximum trans‐epicondylar distance, along with the olecranon fossa height. Statistical analysis was performed using the Pearson correlation coefficient. The average trans‐epicondylar distance was measured at 62 ± 6 mm (range 52–78 mm), and the average lateral radial nerve height was 102 ± 10 mm (range 75–129 mm). The ratio of the lateral nerve height to the trans‐epicondylar distance was an average of 1.7 ± 0.2 (range 1.4–2.0). The Pearson correlation coefficient between the lateral nerve height and the trans‐epicondylar distance was r = 0.95. A relative dimension, the trans‐epicondylar distance is both reliable and easily accessible to the operating surgeon. The absolute safe zone for pin entry into the lateral distal humerus is that area lying within the caudad 70% of a line, equivalent in length to the patient's own trans‐epicondylar distance, when projected proximally from the lateral epicondyle. Clin. Anat. 22:684–688, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Anatomic consideration of caudal epidural space: A cadaver study
Authors: Aggarwal Anjali , Kaur Harjeet , Batra Yatindra K. , Aggarwal Aditya K. , Rajeev Subramanyam , Sahni Daisy
Published: July 2009

The knowledge of sacral hiatus anatomy is imperative in clinical situations requiring caudal epidural block for various diagnostic and therapeutic procedures of the lumbosacral spine to avoid failure and dural injury. In this study, a detailed anatomic study of the sacral region was carried out on 49 male adult Indian cadavers. Dorsal surface of sacral region was dissected to study sacral cornua, sacral hiatus, and the dimensions of triangle formed by the right and left posterosuperior iliac spines with apex of the hiatus. Midsagittal sections were subjected for various anatomical measurements. The angle of needle insertion and the depth of caudal space were noted. Cornu was not palpable bilaterally in 7 (14.3%) and palpable unilaterally in 12 (24.5%) specimens. Mean (standard deviation) distance between apex of hiatus and coccyx tip was 57.5 (8.7) mm and length of sacrococcygeal ligament was 34.2 (7.4) mm. The dimensions of the triangle were found to be interchangeable in 25 cadavers. Once the needle is introduced into the canal after penetrating the sacrococcygeal ligament, it should not be advanced >5 mm to prevent dural puncture. The level of maximum curvature of sacrum was S3 in 34 (69.4%) of cases. The dural sac was found to terminate at S2 in 41 (83.6%). The mean (SD) angle of depression of the needle was 65.7 (5.5) (range 58–78). The measurements described for the identification of the sacral hiatus, optimal angle of depression, and depth of the needle may improve the safety and reliability of a caudal epidural block. Clin. Anat. 22:730–737, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A survey of medical students on the impact of a new digital imaging library in the dissection room
Authors: Turmezei T.D. , Tam M.D.B.S. , Loughna S.
Published: July 2009

Radiology has a recognised role in undergraduate anatomy education. The recent digitalisation of radiology has created new learning opportunities involving techniques such as image labelling, 3D reconstruction, and multiplanar reformatting. An opportunity was identified at the University of Nottingham to create a digital library of normal radiology images as a learner‐driven adjunct in anatomy dissection sessions. We describe the process of creating a de novo digital library by sourcing images for presentation at computer workstations. Students' attitudes towards this new resource were assessed using a questionnaire which used a 5 point Likert scale and also offered free text responses. One hundred and forty‐one out of 260 students (54%) completed the questionnaire. The most notable findings were: a positive response to the relevance of imaging to the session topics (median score 4), strong agreement that images should be available on the university website (median score 5), and disagreement that enough workstations were available (median score 2). About 24% of respondents suggested independently that images needed more labeling to help with orientation and identification. This first phase of supplying a comprehensive imaging library can be regarded as a success. Increasing availability and incorporating dynamic labeling are well recognized as important design concepts for electronic learning resources and these will be improved in the second phase of delivery as a direct result of studentfeedback. Hopefully other centers can benefit from this experience and will consider such a venture to be worthwhile. Clin. Anat. 22:761–769, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Variations of pulmonary vessels: Some practical implications for lung resections
Authors: Subotich Dragan , Mandarich Dragan , Milisavljevich Milan , Filipovich Branislav , Nikolich Valentina
Published: July 2009

Anatomical variations of the bronchi and lung vessels may be important obstacles during lung resection if overlooked. We designed this study to determine the frequency and types of variations of lung vessels during lung resections. In a 3[1/2]‐year‐period, anatomical variations were recorded and registered by digital photography at the hilar and/or interlobar areas during lung resection surgery on 140 patients. Variations of the pulmonary blood vessels were observed in 23 patients. Of these, 12 patients had variations of the middle lobe vessels. Middle lobe veins emptying into the right inferior pulmonary vein, and middle lobe arteries originating from the artery for the basal segments, were observed in four patients each; two separate middle lobe arteries and a low origin of the middle lobe artery existed in three and one patient, respectively. Among seven patients with variations of the lingular vessels, the lingular artery originating from the artery for the basal segments was found in three patients; the remaining variations referred to absent or low origin of the lingular artery (in one patient each), and to an aberrant lingular vein, separate from the upper lobe vein (two patients). A single unilateral pulmonary vein and a left‐sided bronchial tree completely behind the pulmonary artery existed in three and one patient, respectively. Potential problems related to these variations during resectional lung surgery are discussed. Awareness of the most frequent variations is of utmost importance for safe lung resections. Clin. Anat. 22:698–705, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Digital subtraction angiography of the superior mesenteric artery: Identifying arterial branches
Authors: Turmezei T.D. , Cockburn J.F.
Published: July 2009

This “problem in diagnostic imaging” provides an overview of the technique of digital subtraction angiography. The possibility of artefacts arising from movement subsequent to the taking of the masking image is discussed. It is also important that contrast medium is allowed to backflow into the parent vessel (in this case the aorta) to ensure that there has been filling of the proximal branches of the vessel of interest (in this case the superior mesenteric artery). An accessory middle colic artery is demonstrated. Detection of such variant vessels is important not only to surgeons but also to specialist radiologists carrying out therapeutic embolization. Clin. Anat. 22:777–779, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Up‐regulation of the tight‐junction protein ZO‐1 by substance P and IGF‐1 in A431 cells
Authors: Ko Ji‐Ae , Murata Shizuka , Nishida Teruo
Published: July 2009

The formation of a barrier by tight junctions is important in epithelia of various tissues. Substance P (SP) and insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)–1 synergistically promote barrier function in the corneal epithelium. We have now examined the effects of SP and IGF‐1 on expression of the tight‐junction protein zonula occludens (ZO)–1 in A431 human epidermoid carcinoma cells. Reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) and immunoblot analyses revealed that SP and IGF‐1 increased the amounts of ZO‐1 mRNA and protein in these cells in a concentration‐dependent manner, with neither SP nor IGF‐1 alone having such an effect. The SP‐ and IGF‐1–induced up‐regulation of ZO‐1 was accompanied by phosphorylation of extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK), and both of these effects were blocked by PD98059, an inhibitor of ERK activation. SP and IGF‐1 also increased the transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) (an indicator of barrier function) of an A431 cell monolayer in a manner sensitive to PD98059. Our results thus suggest that the synergistic induction of ZO‐1 expression by SP and IGF‐1 may promote barrier function in skin epithelial cells. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Extraction of hyperoside from Hypericum perforatum L. using CTAB reversed micelles
Authors: Dong Lichun , Zhou Xiaohua , Li Duanhua
Published: July 2009

In this paper, the extraction of hyperosides from Hypericum perforatum L. using Cetyl‐trimethyl‐ammonium bromite (CTAB) reversed micelles was studied and the affecting factors, that is, pH value, CTAB concentration, and existence of anions in the system were comprehensively investigated. The result showed that extraction using CTAB reversed micelles is a very effective method to separate hyperoside from Hypericum perforatum L. This founding is very significant because it demonstrated that extraction using reversed micelles is a promising way to separate and purify materials of small molecules.
Selective oxidation of propane over PMoVM/α‐Al2O3 (M: Co, Fe, or Ni)
Authors: Dermeche L. , Hocine S. , Bettahar M. M. , Rabia C.
Published: July 2009

Alumina supported phosphovanodomolybdic acid and alumina supported phosphovanodomolybdic acid‐transition metal ions (M: Fe3+, Co2+, or Ni2+) were prepared by impregnation. The thermal decomposition, in situ at 400°C, of supported catalysts showed the formation of V2O5, P2O5, MoO3 and MoO3, CoMoO4, (Mo0.3V0.7)2O5 phases, on the alumina surface, in the presence of H4PMo11VO40/α‐Al2O3 and H4PMo11VO40Co/α‐Al2O3, respectively. The catalytic activity of alumina‐supported catalysts was evaluated in the reaction of propane oxidation at 380 and 400°C. The addition of transition metal increases the conversion and changes the reaction products distribution. The reaction conditions (temperature and propane/oxygen ratio) have also modified the behaviour of the studied catalysts.
Minimum spouting velocity under vacuum and high temperature in conical spouted beds
Authors: Olazar M. , López G. , Altzibar H. , Aguado R. , Bilbao J.
Published: July 2009

A study has been carried out on spouting performance in conical spouted beds at high temperatures and under vacuum by using materials of different textures, densities and particle diameters. The applicability of existing correlations for determining the minimum spouting velocity has been checked and, based on a statistical analysis to assess the influence of the dimensionless modulus, a new one has been proposed for the prediction of the minimum spouting velocity under vacuum and at high temperatures. This correlation provides good predictions in the pyrolysis of tyres under vacuum.
Geometrical and hydrodynamical study of gas jets in packed and fluidized beds using magnetic resonance
Authors: Müller C. R. , Holland D. J. , Davidson J. F. , Dennis J. S. , Gladden L. F. , Hayhurst A. N. , Mantle M. D. , Sederman A. J.
Published: July 2009

Magnetic resonance (MR) was used to image the motion of particles and gas just above the distributor of 3D beds of particles fluidized by air. Three different distributors were used: (i) a single‐orifice distributor, with orifice diameters 1.0–4.0 mm, (ii) a plate, drilled with a triangular array of 79 holes, each of 0.35 mm diameter, with a central nozzle containing a single hole of diameter 1.0, 2.5, or 9.0 mm, (iii) distributors with two or three orifices and diameters of 1.0 or 2.5 mm. It proved possible to extract geometrical information, such as the length of a jet, from MR images, each averaged over ∼5 min. Also, light was shed on the question of why is there such a discrepancy between reported jet‐lengths. The fluidization state, the “start‐up” procedure and also the number of holes all play a significant role in determining the measured distance a jet penetrates into a bed. The question as to whether the observed voids represent permanent jets or streams of bubbles was considered. The evidence from ultra‐fast MR measurements strongly suggests that only the lower part of a jet from an orifice in a multi‐orifice distributor is permanent; bubbles form at the top of the jet. Consequently, the top of each jet is transient. However, most of the jet from a single orifice is a permanent cavity when the bed of particles is not fluidized. The length of a jet was successfully correlated with operating variables using dimensional analysis. Finally, the flow of particles around a single jet was measured with high resolution MR.
Centrifugal pump performance calculation for homogeneous suspensions
Authors: Graham L. J. W. , Pullum L. , Slatter P. , Sery G. , Rudman M.
Published: July 2009

Centrifugal pumps are widely used for transporting suspensions, but their head performance is derated when non‐Newtonian fluids and/or coarse solids are present. Some head deration methods are available for high viscosity Newtonian fluids, Bingham plastic fluids and for coarse solids in water. This paper presents a modification of the Hydraulic Institute head deration method that is suitable for any homogeneous non‐Newtonian rheology. A modification of the Walker and Goulas method is also considered. Possible anomalous behaviour of kaolin slurries in centrifugal pumps is discussed.
Enhanced model predictive control of a catalytic flow reversal reactor
Authors: Devals C. , Fuxman A. , Bertrand F. , Forbes J. F. , Perrier M. , Hayes R. E.
Published: July 2009

The combustion of lean methane air mixtures in a catalytic flow reversal reactor (CFRR) is studied using a two dimensional heterogeneous continuum model, based on mole and energy balance equations for the solid (the inert and catalytic sections of the reactor) and the fluid phases. Following a design of experiments (DOE), many simulations were carried out to investigate the reactor performance. The results show the impact on the methane conversion and the maximum temperature in the reactor of key process parameters such as the methane inlet concentration, the superficial gas velocity, the switching time, and the mass extraction rate. A simple empirical model is deduced to predict the maximum temperature and conversion of methane in the reactor at stationary state. This model is combined with a model predictive control (MPC) strategy in the form of a terminal constraint to improve the controller performance. Results show that the control of the reactor is improved.
Excess molar enthalpies of the ternary mixtures: Methyl tert‐butyl ether (or di‐isopropyl ether) + n‐octane + 2‐methylpentane at 293.15 K
Authors: Wang Zhaohui , Lan Christopher Q.
Published: July 2009

Microcalorimetric measurements of excess molar enthalpies at 298.15 K are reported for the two ternary mixtures, methyl tert‐butyl ether (MTBE) or di‐isopropyl ether (DIPE) + n‐octane + 2‐methylpentane (2‐MP). The excess enthalpies for DIPE + 2‐MP are also reported. Smooth representations of the ternary enthalpies results are presented and used to construct constant excess molar enthalpy contours on Roozeboom diagrams. It is shown that good estimates of the ternary enthalpies can be obtained from the Liebermann and Fried model, using only the physical properties of the components and their binary mixtures.
Robust small area estimation
Authors: Sinha Sanjoy K. , Rao J. N. K.
Published: July 2009

Small area estimation has received considerable attention in recent years because of growing demand for small area statistics. Basic area‐level and unit‐level models have been studied in the literature to obtain empirical best linear unbiased prediction (EBLUP) estimators of small area means. Although this classical method is useful for estimating the small area means efficiently under normality assumptions, it can be highly influenced by the presence of outliers in the data. In this article, the authors investigate the robustness properties of the classical estimators and propose a resistant method for small area estimation, which is useful for downweighting any influential observations in the data when estimating the model parameters. To estimate the mean squared errors of the robust estimators of small area means, a parametric bootstrap method is adopted here, which is applicable to models with block diagonal covariance structures. Simulations are carried out to study the behaviour of the proposed robust estimators in the presence of outliers, and these estimators are also compared to the EBLUP estimators. Performance of the bootstrap mean squared error estimator is also investigated in the simulation study. The proposed robust method is also applied to some real data to estimate crop areas for counties in Iowa, using farm‐interview data on crop areas and LANDSAT satellite data as auxiliary information. The Canadian Journal of Statistics 37: 381–399; 2009 © 2009 Statistical Society of Canada
Efficient estimation for the proportional hazards model with competing risks and current status data
Authors: Sun Jianguo , Shen Junshan
Published: July 2009

The proportional hazards model is the most commonly used model in regression analysis of failure time data and has been discussed by many authors under various situations (Kalbfleisch & Prentice, 2002. The Statistical Analysis of Failure Time Data, Wiley, New York). This paper considers the fitting of the model to current status data when there exist competing risks, which often occurs in, for example, medical studies. The maximum likelihood estimates of the unknown parameters are derived and their consistency and convergence rate are established. Also we show that the estimates of regression coefficients are efficient and have asymptotically normal distributions. Simulation studies are conducted to assess the finite sample properties of the estimates and an illustrative example is provided. The Canadian Journal of Statistics © 2009 Statistical Society of Canada
Cytoplasmic localization of nucleophosmin in bone marrow blasts of acute myeloid leukemia patients is not completely concordant with NPM1 mutation and is not predictive of prognosis
Authors: Konoplev Sergej , Huang Xuelin , Drabkin Harry A. , Koeppen Hartmut , Jones Dan , Kantarjian Hagop M. , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo , Chen Weina , Medeiros L. Jeffrey , Bueso‐Ramos Carlos E.
Published: July 2009

BACKGROUND:

Nucleophosmin (NPM1) gene mutations are reported to predict a favorable prognosis in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. Aberrant cytoplasmic localization of nucleophosmin (NPM) protein is reported be a surrogate for NPM1 gene mutation.

METHODS:

Using immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis, we assessed for NPM (clone 376) expression in formalin‐fixed, formic acid‐decalcified bone marrow biopsy specimens. DNA sequencing of exon 12 of NPM1 gene was performed in 104 patients.

RESULTS:

The study included 252 AML patients: 192 de novo AML, 33 AML preceded by either myelodysplastic syndrome or chronic myelomonocytic leukemia, and 27 therapy‐related AML. The median age was 62 years and 115 patients were ≤60 years old. All patients received intensive chemotherapy. Cytoplasmic NPM was detected in 59 of 252 (23%) patients, including 48 of 192 (25%) de novo AML and 33 of 94 (35%) with a normal karyotype. DNA sequencing identified NPM1 mutations in 30 of 38 cases with cytoplasmic NPM and 10 of 66 cases with nuclear NPM. Cytoplasmic NPM was associated with young patient age (P = .024), FLT3/ITD (P = .005), CD34 negative blasts (P < .001), high peripheral blood blast count (P = .041), and high serum albumin level (P = .028). No statistical differences in overall or event‐free survival were found on the basis of NPM localization. Similar results were obtained in patients ≤60 years old with normal karyotype and wild‐type FLT3 (P = .768).

CONCLUSIONS:

IHC assessment for NPM localization did not predict prognosis in this patient cohort. The discordance between immunohistochemistry and DNA sequencing results indicates that DNA sequencing cannot be replaced by IHC assessment. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Prognostic impact of O6‐methylguanine‐DNA methyltransferase silencing in patients with recurrent glioblastoma multiforme who undergo surgery and carmustine wafer implantation
Authors: Metellus Philippe , Coulibaly Bema , Nanni Isabelle , Fina Frederic , Eudes Nathalie , Giorgi Roch , Barrie Marylin , Chinot Olivier , Fuentes Stephane , Dufour Henry , Ouafik L'houcine , Figarella‐Branger Dominique
Published: July 2009

BACKGROUND:

O6‐methylguanine‐DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) is a key enzyme in the DNA repair process after alkylating agent action. Epigenetic silencing of the MGMT gene by promoter methylation has been associated with longer survival in patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) who receive alkylating agents. In this study, the authors evaluated the prognostic value of different biomarkers in recurrent GBM and analyzed the changes in MGMT status between primary tumors and recurrent tumors.

METHODS:

Twenty‐two patients who had recurrent GBM and who underwent surgery with carmustine wafer implantation were enrolled prospectively between 2005 and 2007. The authors investigated the correlation between MGMT silencing in the tumor at recurrence and survival taking into account other clinically recognized prognostic factors. MGMT status was determined by using methylation‐specific polymerase chain reaction analysis, a high‐throughput quantitative methylation assay, and immunohistochemistry. In addition, expression analyses of human mutL homolog 1, human mutS homolog 2, and tumor necrosis factor α‐induced protein 3 at recurrence were conducted with regard to their prognostic impact.

RESULTS:

The median progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) rates after recurrence were 3.6 months and 9.9 months, respectively, and the 6‐month PFS rate after recurrence was 27.2%. On multivariate analysis, only age (P= .04) and MGMT promoter hypermethylation at recurrence, as determined by MethyLight technology (P= .0012) and methylation‐specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP) analysis (P= .004), were correlated with better PFS. On multivariate analysis, only MGMT promoter hypermethylation at recurrence, as determined by using MethyLight technology (P= .019) and MSP analysis (P= .046), was associated with better OS.

CONCLUSIONS:

MGMT methylation status was an important prognostic factor in patients with recurrent GBM who underwent surgery plus carmustine wafer implantation; therefore, it was useful in predicting the outcome of GBM therapy at recurrence. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Clinical characteristics of 45 patients with invasive pulmonary aspergillosis
Authors: Yan Xi , Li Mei , Jiang Ming , Zou Li‐qun , Luo Feng , Jiang Yu
Published: July 2009

BACKGROUND:

Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a common complication in patients with hematologic malignancies. Patients with solid tumors also are at risk for IA because they may develop neutropenia as a result of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. However, studies of IA in patients with solid tumors are rare. In this study, the risk factors and clinical characteristics of pulmonary infection and death mediated by invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) as complications in patients with lung cancer were determined.

METHODS:

The authors conducted a retrospective analysis of the clinical notes from 45 patients who had IPA.

RESULTS:

Among 1711 patients with lung cancer, 45 patients contracted pulmonary aspergillosis (2.63%). There were 10 cases of proven disease and 35 cases of probable disease. In univariate analysis, the main predisposing factors were clinical stage IV disease (P = .018), chemotherapy during the month preceding infection (P = .033), and corticosteroid use (≥3 days; P = .038). In multivariate analysis, only clinical stage IV disease (P = .018) was associated with IPA. Furthermore, the mortality rate among lung cancer patients who had pulmonary aspergillosis was 51.1% (23 of 45 patients). Of the patients who died, corticosteroid therapy (P = .001) and grade 3/4 neutropenia (P = .013) were correlated statistically with pulmonary aspergillosis in patients with lung cancer.

CONCLUSIONS:

In univariate analysis, the risk factors for IPA in lung cancer included chemotherapy and corticosteroid use in the month preceding infection and clinical stage IV disease. However, in multivariate analysis, only clinical stage IV disease was identified as a risk factor for IPA. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Correct implementation of the fluid–object interactions subcomputation technique (FOIST)
Authors: Tezduyar Tayfun E.
Published: July 2009

Full understanding of the fluid–object interactions subcomputation technique (FOIST) and the related fundamental concepts in dynamics and fluid mechanics is essential in using this technique in a meaningful way. We explain what constitutes a correct implementation of the FOIST and give a published example of what does not. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Facilitators and impediments for socially responsible investment: a study of Hong Kong
Authors: Sjöström Emma , Welford Richard
Published: July 2009

Through the practice of socially responsible investment (SRI), shareholders are involved in influencing corporations with regard to their social and environmental responsibilities. This paper focuses on SRI in one of the world's most prominent financial centers, Hong Kong. It explores why the role of SRI as a way of influencing corporate social responsibility in Hong Kong is limited. The study finds that many of the aspects that have facilitated SRI in North America and Europe are not in place in Hong Kong, and gives examples of such factors. It also suggests that the institutional logic that dominates Hong Kong's corporate and financial sectors has not been receptive to the logic that underlies environmental protection and social justice, and that this is an impediment to SRI to gain a foothold in Hong Kong and the Asian region more generally. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
‘ISO‐lating’ corporate social responsibility in the organizational context: a dissenting interpretation of ISO 26000
Authors: Schwartz Birgitta , Tilling Karina
Published: July 2009

Sustainable development is frequently an object of standardization, and over 100 000 organizations hold ISO 14001 certificates proving they have legitimate environmental management systems. Guidelines for social responsibility are now the object of standardization, resulting in the upcoming ISO 26000 standard. This paper examines the rationale behind developing ISO 26000, highlighting the tendency to decouple complex CSR issues in the organizational context. This is relevant to current problems of poor working conditions, weak regulatory compliance, and corruption often encountered in the production context in low‐income countries. In addition, existing codes of conduct are frequently decoupled from actual organizational performance. We highlight how CSR standardization risks isolating complex and contested social issues, more radical attempts at change conflicting with striving for legitimacy. Like the decontexualizing tendency proceeding from the standardized treatment of complex sustainable development issues in organizations, CSR issues also risk becoming decontextualized with the application of standardized approaches such as the ISO 26000 standard. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Hierarchical clustering of monoclonal antibody reactivity patterns in nonhuman species
Authors: Pratt Juan Pablo , Zeng Qing , Ravnic Dino , Huss Harold , Rawn James , Mentzer Steven J.
Published: July 2009

Monoclonal antibodies (Mab) are an important resource for defining molecular expression and probing molecular function. The characterization of Mab reactivity patterns, however, can be costly and inefficient in nonhuman experimental systems. To develop a computational approach to the pattern analysis of Mab reactivity, we analyzed a panel of 128 Mab recognizing sheep antigens. Quantitative single parameter flow cytometry histograms were obtained from five cell types isolated from normal animals. The resulting 640 histograms were smoothed using a Gaussian kernel over a range of bandwidths. Histogram features were selected by SiZer—an analytic tool that identifies statistically significant features. The extracted histogram features were compared and grouped using hierarchical clustering. The validity of the clustering was indicated by the accurate pairing of externally verified molecular reactivity. We conclude that our computational algorithm is a potentially useful tool for both Mab classification and molecular taxonomy in nonhuman experimental systems. © 2009 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
When will the zebra mussel reach Florence? A model for the spread of Dreissena polymorpha in the Arno water system (Italy)
Authors: Mari Lorenzo , Casagrandi Renato , Pisani Maria Teresa , Pucci Emiliano , Gatto Marino
Published: July 2009

The zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) is a freshwater bivalve that has caused dramatic ecological and economic impacts worldwide in past decades. Its success as ecosystem invader is mainly due to the species ability of spreading along rivers, together with the extremely high population densities that can be reached by local populations. Here we propose a spatially explicit model aimed at describing the population dynamics of mussel colonies in rivers represented as oriented graphs. We specifically apply the model to the Bilancino‐Sieve‐Arno water system (Tuscany, Italy), where D. polymorpha has been recently sighted. The model accounts for local‐scale demographic processes and along‐stream transport mechanisms. Because of the different temporal scales involved, we couple continuous‐ and discrete‐time dynamics. Our model produces spatiotemporal scenarios of invasion that present several distinctive features of the zebra mussel invasion patterns observed in nature, including the spatial patchiness and the temporal irregularity of local populations, and the so‐called domino effect. The application of our model to the Arno case study shows that D. polymorpha could severely threaten the city of Florence within a few years. Control measures aimed at limiting the impact of the species can significantly alter the ecological and environmental parameters. We find that such variations may profoundly impact spatiotemporal invasion patterns, possibly with counter‐intuitive effects. For instance, reduced larval input from Lake Bilancino can in some cases produce higher mussel densities in downstream colonies. Therefore, the control of D. polymorpha must be planned with care in order to prevent unwelcome outcomes. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reproducibility and Efficiency of Carbon Nanotube End‐Group Generation and Functionalization
Authors: Andersson Claes‐Henrik , Grennberg Helena
Published: July 2009

In a systematic fashion, several methods for esterification and amidation of single‐walled carbon nanotubes have been evaluated with focus on efficiency and reproducibility in forming covalently functionalized products soluble in organic media. The outcome of transformations was determined using IR, Raman and NMR spectroscopy and by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Amidation proceeding via a SWNT‐(COCl)n intermediate yielded the expected covalent product, whereas carboxylate salt formation dominated with other attempted methods. Esterification was achieved via the acyl chloride method and via alkylation of SWNT‐(COO–)n, the latter being the more efficient method. A non‐covalent solubilizing interaction was obtained for RNH2 but not for ROH (R = octadecyl), proving that the most important non‐covalent interaction between oxidatively cleaned SWNTs and octadecylamine is a salt formation. The outcome of the secondary functionalization of carboxyl units is highly reproducible for experiments carried out on the same batch of SWNT‐(COOH)n. Normalization of the outcome of the secondary functionalization to the composition of the different batches of starting materials reveals an overall high reproducibility of the secondary functionalizations. The differences in outcome related to different commercial SWNT batches from the same synthetic procedure is negligible compared to that resulting from differences in overall carboxyl content after the primary HNO3 oxidative cleaning step. Hence, the composition of purified SWNT starting materials always needs to be assessed, in particular before drawing any conclusions concerning differences in outcome from reaction systems involving different sources of SWNT material. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Genotyping whole‐genome‐amplified DNA from 3‐ to 25‐year‐old neonatal dried blood spot samples with reference to fresh genomic DNA
Authors: Hollegaard Mads Vilhelm , Thorsen Poul , Norgaard‐Pedersen Bent , Hougaard David Michael
Published: July 2009

Stored surplus of dried blood spot (DBS) samples from neonatal screening programs constitute a vast potential for large genetic epidemiological studies. However, age of the samples and the small amounts of DNA available may limit their usage. In this study we validate genotyping accuracy and efficiency of whole‐genome‐amplified DNA (wgaDNA) obtained from stored DBS samples, with reference to fresh genomic DNA from the same individuals. DBS samples from 29 volunteers, stored for up to 25 years, in the Danish Neonatal Screening Biobank were included and three DNA extraction methods, each using one 3.2 mm disk, were evaluated. Four whole‐genome amplification kits, and one re‐amplification kit, were used. Thirty‐one SNPs were genotyped using the Sequenom platform and the wgaDNA samples calls were compared with their references for accuracy and efficiency evaluation. The genotype calls done blinded by the user had in many setups a 100% call‐ and concordance rate. Our results showed that genotyping performance is dependent on the combination of extraction procedure and amplification method, whereas years of storage did not seem to influence in this study. Based on these results we conclude that DBS samples should be considered a reliable and potential resource for future genotyping studies.
Highly sensitive detection of chiral amino acids by CE based on on‐line stacking techniques
Authors: Tseng Wei‐Lung , Hsu Chih‐Yao , Wu Tsung‐Han , Huang Shiou‐Wen , Hsieh Ming‐Mu
Published: July 2009

We report a novel means for chiral separation and stacking of amino acids by MEKC with LED‐induced fluorescence detection. Naphthalene‐2,3‐dicarboxaldehyde, hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin (Hp‐β‐CD), SDS, and poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) serve as a derivatized agent, chiral selector, pseudostationary phase, and concentrated medium, in sequence. To improve speed, resolution, and stacking efficiency, the analysis of chiral amino acids was performed under discontinuous conditions – the capillary was filled with a solution of 100 mM Tris‐borate, 150 mM SDS, and 50 mM Hp‐β‐CD, whereas buffer vials contain 20 mM Tris‐borate, 150 mM SDS, 50 mM Hp‐β‐CD, and 0.5% w/v PEO. A solution of nonionic PEO enters the capillary with the help of EOF during the separation. Through interaction of SDS micelles/Hp‐β‐CD and chiral amino acid, the negatively charged complexes migrated into the PEO solution and stacked at the boundary between the sample zone and the PEO solution. Compared with normal sample injection (10 nL sample volume), a several hundred‐fold sensitivity improvement for chiral amino acids was obtained under the injection of 270 nL sample volume (30% of the capillary volume). Meanwhile, the LOD at S/N of three for DL‐amino acids were in the range of 0.18–0.22 nM. The proposed method has been applied for the determination of DL‐leucine in urine and plasma samples.
Dual‐asymmetry electrokinetic flow focusing for pre‐concentration and analysis of catecholamines in CE electrochemical nanochannels
Authors: Wu Ren‐Guei , Yang Chung‐Shi , Lian Cheng‐Kuang , Cheing Ching‐Chang , Tseng Fan‐Gang
Published: July 2009

In this research, a technique incorporating dual‐asymmetry electrokinetic flow (DAEKF) was applied to a nanoCE electrochemical device for the pre‐concentration and detection of catecholamines. The DAEKF was constructed by first generating a ζ‐potential difference between the top and bottom walls, which had been pre‐treated with O2 and H2O surface plasma, respectively, yielding a 2‐D gradient shear flow across the channel depth. The shear flow was then exposed to a varying ζ‐potential along the downstream direction by control of the field‐effect in order to cause downward rotational flow in the channel. By this mechanism, almost all of the samples were effectively brought down to the electrode surface for analysis. Simulations were carried out to reveal the mechanism of concentration caused by the DAEKF, and the results reasonably describe our experiment findings. This DAEKF technique was applied to a glass/glass CE electrochemical nanochip for the analysis of catecholamines. The optimum detection limit was determined to be 1.25 and 3.3 nM of dopamine and catechol, respectively. A detection limit at the zeptomole level for dopamine can be obtained in this device, which is close to the level released by a single neuron cell in vitro.
ABO genotyping by single strand conformation polymorphism – using CE
Authors: Lee James Chun‐I , Hsieh Hsing‐Mei , Teng Hsiao‐Feng , Lo Sheng‐Chiang , Linacre Adrian , Tsai Li‐Chin
Published: July 2009

This study describes a novel method of ABO genotyping using amplicons generated by PCR‐SSCP and separated by CE. We describe four amplicons with sizes of 112, 121, 123 and 160 bp based on SSCP analysis. These amplicons are amplified from exons 6 and 7 and include polymorphic sites of cDNA 261, 297, 467, 526, 646, 657, 681, 703, 1061 and 1096 generated from the ABO gene. The positions of the SSCP alleles, when rescaled using SSCP pattern as the mobility values based on an internal standard ranged, ranged from 146 to 210. The mobility variations of alleles with 1–4 SNPs within the same amplicons were from 1.88 to 12.01. These wide mobility differences allow for unambiguous allele determination. The use of different fluorescent dyes allows for the identification of two fragments with overlapping size ranges. The validity of the test was confirmed based on the SD of the mobility values from the eleven fragments of allelic ladder and it never exceeded 0.37. The mean values of the mobility variation between the samples and the ladders for the four amplicons ranged only from 0.05 to 0.39. This method was shown to successfully identify alleles A1, A1v, B, O1, O1v and O2 in tested samples. Since the largest amplicons are only 160 bp, this method is ideal for the fast screening ABO genotypes from trace, or seriously, degraded samples and may be valuable in clinical transfusion or forensic applications.
Evaluation of a combined activated carbon prefilter and biotrickling filter system treating variable ethanol and ethyl acetate gaseous emissions
Authors: Sempere Feliu , Gabaldón Carmen , Martínez‐Soria Vicente , Penya‐roja Josep Manuel , Álvarez‐Hornos Francisco Javier
Published: July 2009

The removal of a 1:1 by weight mixture of ethanol and ethyl acetate was studied in a gas phase biotrickling filter running under conditions that simulated industrial emissions from the flexographic sector, i.e. discontinuous loading (twelve hours per day and five days per week) and oscillating concentration of the inlet stream. Three sets of experimental conditions were tested in which empty‐bed residence time varied from 60 to 25 s (inlet loads from 50 to 90 g C m−3 h−1). The biotrickling filter reached a maximum elimination capacity of 48.5 g C m−3 h−1 (removal efficiency=68.9%) for an empty‐bed residence time of 40 s. A decrease in the residence time from 40 to 25 s adversely affected the elimination capacity (40.3 g C m−3 h−1, removal efficiency=46.6%). For the three tested residence times, outlet concentrations during pollutant feeding were above 100 mg C m−3 (EU legal limit for flexographic facilities). Then an activated carbon prefilter was installed to buffer the fluctuating concentration, enabling a more stable operation. The desorbed pollutant from the activated carbon during non‐feeding hours also served as an extra source of substrate, avoiding severe starvation. The use of the activated carbon prefilter with a volume 25 times lower than that of the bioreactor was shown to reach an average outlet emission concentration lower than 50 mg C m−3 operating the biotrickling filter at an empty‐bed residence time of 40 s, with a maximum elimination capacity of 59.6 g C m−3 h−1 (removal efficiency=92.0%).
Microbiotic crusts as biomarkers for surface stability and wetness duration in the Negev Desert
Authors: Kidron Giora J. , Vonshak Ahuva , Abeliovich Aharon
Published: July 2009

Microbiotic crusts play an important role in arid and semi‐arid regions. Yet, very little information exists regarding the factors that impact their development. In an attempt to assess the main factors that may determine their growth, measurements of the amount of fines (silt and clay), rain, moisture content, wetness duration and wind erosion and deposition were carried out along a 12 station transect within a partially crusted dune field in the western Negev Desert and compared to the crust cover and chlorophyll content. Surface stability was the only variable that exhibited significant relationship with crust cover while daylight wetness duration exhibited strong positive relationship (r2 = 0·92–0·99) with the crust's chlorophyll content. The data point out that microbiotic crusts may serve as a useful biomarker for surface stability. While wetness duration and wind will control crust cover and the crust chlorophyll content in semi‐stable habitats (with absolute annual change in sand level of 2–3 mm), stable habitats (absolute change <1 mm) will be controlled primarily by moisture, while habitats with low surface stability (absolute change of tens and hundreds of millimeters) will be primarily controlled by wind. Furthermore, owing to the strong positive relationship between daylight wetness duration and the crust's chlorophyll content, the crust may serve as a useful biomarker for the quantification of surface wetness duration. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Holocene evolution of a rock‐bounded barrier‐lagoon system, Cíes Islands, northwest Iberia
Authors: Costas Susana , Sobrino Castor Muñoz , Alejo Irene , Pérez‐Arlucea Marta
Published: July 2009

Coastal geomorphology results from the combined effects of contemporary dynamics, sea‐level rise and the inherited geological framework, yet the relative importance of these driving mechanisms may change throughout the evolutionary history of coastal deposits. In this contribution, we analyse the depositional history of the Cíes Islands barrier‐lagoon system, based on lithofacies, radiocarbon ages, and pollen analysis. Our results reveal a sedimentary sequence that provides evidence for striking changes in the dynamical functioning of this complex since the mid‐Holocene. The sedimentary sequence commenced about 7700 cal yearsbpby fresh‐water ponding of an upland depression located about 4 m below present mean sea‐level. Fresh‐water ponds were infilled by aeolian sediments following a gradual lowering of the water‐table 4000 cal yearsbp. Post‐3600 cal yearsbpsea‐level rise allowed water oscillations to reach the elevation of the bedrock causing the inundation of fresh‐water ponds and subsequent lagoonal and marine sedimentation. Subsequently, landward and upward migration of a sand‐barrier led to overwash and deposition of sand in the newly formed lagoon.

The resultant sedimentary sequence suggests that climatic conditions played an important role controlling the sedimentation regime during the entire history of the basin; changing water‐table levels during early stages of evolution and increasing storminess during more recent times. In addition, background sea‐level rise related to the Holocene transgression was a key factor in controlling the evolution of the system, yet its influence depended to an extent on the relative elevation of the bedrock topography. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.