bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChemInform Abstract: Recent Development of Homogeneous Transition Metal Catalysts with Nanosize Ligands
Authors: Tsuji Yasushi , Fujihara Tetsuaki
Published: February 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Rearranging the Bicyclo[3.1.0]hexane Template of Carbocyclic Nucleosides to Improve Binding Recognition by Kinases
Authors: Marquez Victor E. , Comin Maria J.
Published: February 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of the Bicyclo‐[4.3.0]‐thymidyl‐nucleoside via Pd(II)‐Mediated Ring Expansion Chemistry
Authors: Stauffiger Andrea , Leumann Christian J.
Published: February 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Transformation of D‐(‐)‐Ribose into a Natural Product‐Like Scaffold via a Lewis Acid Catalyzed Intramolecular Hetero‐Diels—Alder Reaction
Authors: Messer Roland , Fuhrer Cyril A. , Haener Robert
Published: February 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Scrambling Versus Specific Processes in Gaseous Organic Ions During Mass Spectrometric Fragmentation: Elucidation of Mechanistic Origins by Isotope Labelling — an Overview
Authors: Kuck Dietmar
Published: February 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
Differential distribution of SK channel subtypes in the brain of the weakly electric fish Apteronotus leptorhynchus
Authors: Ellis Lee D. , Maler Leonard , Dunn Robert J.
Published: February 2008

Calcium signals in vertebrate neurons can induce hyperpolarizing membrane responses through the activation of Ca2+‐activated potassium channels. Of these, small conductance (SK) channels regulate neuronal responses through the generation of the medium after‐hyperpolarization (mAHP). We have previously shown that an SK channel (AptSK2) contributes to signal processing in the electrosensory system of Apteronotus leptorhynchus. It was shown that for pyramidal neurons in the electrosensory lateral line lobe (ELL), AptSK2 expression selectively decreases responses to low‐frequency signals. The localization of all the SK subunits throughout the brain of Apteronotus then became of substantial interest. We have now cloned two additional SK channel subunits from Apteronotus and determined the expression patterns of all three AptSK subunits throughout the brain. In situ hybridization experiments have revealed that, as in mammalian systems, the AptSK1 and 2 channels showed a partially overlapping expression pattern, whereas the AptSK3 channel was expressed in different brain areas. The AptSK1 and 2 channels were the primary subunits found in the major electrosensory processing areas. Immunohistochemistry further revealed distinct compartmentalization of the AptSK1 and 2 channels in the ELL. AptSK1 was localized to the apical dendrites of pyramidal neurons, whereas AptSK2 channels are primarily somatic. The distinct expression patterns of all three AptSK channels may reflect subtype‐specific contributions to neuronal function, and the high homology between subtypes from a number of species suggests that the functional roles for each channel subtype are conserved from early vertebrate evolution. J. Comp. Neurol. 507:1964–1978, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Connections of cat auditory cortex: III. Corticocortical system
Authors: Lee Charles C. , Winer Jeffery A.
Published: February 2008

The mammalian auditory cortex (AC) is essential for computing the source and decoding the information contained in sound. Knowledge of AC corticocortical connections is modest other than in the primary auditory regions, nor is there an anatomical framework in the cat for understanding the patterns of connections among the many auditory areas. To address this issue we investigated cat AC connectivity in 13 auditory regions. Retrograde tracers were injected in the same area or in different areas to reveal the areal and laminar sources of convergent input to each region. Architectonic borders were established in Nissl and SMI‐32 immunostained material. We assessed the topography, convergence, and divergence of the labeling. Intrinsic input constituted >50% of the projection cells in each area, and extrinsic inputs were strongest from functionally related areas. Each area received significant convergent ipsilateral input from several fields (5 to 8; mean 6). These varied in their laminar origin and projection density. Major extrinsic projections were preferentially from areas of the same functional type (tonotopic to tonotopic, nontonotopic to nontonotopic, limbic‐related to limbic‐related, multisensory‐to‐multisensory), while smaller projections link areas belonging to different groups. Branched projections between areas were <2% with deposits of two tracers in an area or in different areas. All extrinsic projections to each area were highly and equally topographic and clustered. Intrinsic input arose from all layers except layer I, and extrinsic input had unique, area‐specific infragranular and supragranular origins. The many areal and laminar sources of input may contribute to the complexity of physiological responses in AC and suggest that many projections of modest size converge within each area rather than a simpler area‐to‐area serial or hierarchical pattern of corticocortical connectivity. J. Comp. Neurol. 507:1920–1943, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Aneuploid mosaicism in the developing and adult cerebellar cortex
Authors: Westra Jurjen W. , Peterson Suzanne E. , Yung Yun C. , Mutoh Tetsuji , Barral Serena , Chun Jerold
Published: February 2008

Neuroprogenitor cells (NPCs) in several telencephalic proliferative regions of the mammalian brain, including the embryonic cerebral cortex and postnatal subventricular zone (SVZ), display cell division “defects” in normal cells that result in aneuploid adult progeny. Here, we identify the developing cerebellum as a major, nontelencephalic proliferative region of the vertebrate central nervous system (CNS) that also produces aneuploid NPCs and nonmitotic cells. Mitotic NPCs assessed by metaphase chromosome analyses revealed that 15.3% and 20.8% of cerebellar NPCs are aneuploid at P0 and P7, respectively. By using immunofluorescent analysis of cerebellar NPCs, we show that chromosome segregation defects contribute to the generation of cells with an aneuploid genomic complement. Nonmitotic cells were assessed by fluorescence‐activated cell sorting (FACS) coupled with fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), which revealed neuronal and nonneuronal aneuploid populations in both the adult mouse and human cerebellum. Taken together, these results demonstrate that the prevalence of neural aneuploidy includes nontelencephalic portions of the neuraxis and suggest that the generation and maintenance of aneuploid cells is a widespread, if not universal, property of central nervous system development and organization. J. Comp. Neurol. 507:1944–1951, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
CMOS digitally programmable quadrature oscillators
Authors: Alzaher Hussain A.
Published: February 2008

CMOS digitally programmable quadrature oscillators based on digitally controlled current followers and voltage followers are proposed. The proposed designs provide the advantage of programmability similar to the operational transconductance amplifier‐based oscillators while offering improved linearity. In mixed analog/digital systems, the digital tuning feature allows direct interfacing with the digital signal processing part. Novel realizations that provide both voltage‐mode and current‐mode quadrature sinusoidal signals are presented. Employing only grounded capacitors the designs achieve independent control of the frequency and condition of oscillation that can be tuned digitally. Experimental results obtained from a 0.35 µm CMOS chip fabricated using standard CMOS process are given. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel conjugate vaccine for the prevention of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in cystic fibrosis patients
Authors: Matson Kelly L. , Bratberg Jeffrey P.
Published: February 2008

The published literature evaluating the safety and immunogenicity of the polyvalent O‐polysaccharide‐toxin A conjugate vaccine is reviewed. Primary immunization followed by annual booster significantly reduced the incidence of chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infections (particularly mucoid phenotype strains) and extended time to infection. The findings reflected lower frequency of P. aeruginosa in sputum/throat cultures and preservation of lung function. Additionally, studies indicated higher binding affinity of vaccine‐induced anti‐lipopolysaccharide (LPS) compared with infection‐induced anti‐LPS serum immunoglobulin G antibodies, suggesting protective capacity. P. aeruginosa prophylaxis with the conjugate vaccine in cystic fibrosis patients has proved safe and useful in preventing and delaying chronic lung infection. Drug Dev Res 68:512–521, 2007. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Noise removal for medical X‐ray images in wavelet domain
Authors: Wang Ling , Lu Jianming , Li Yeqiu , Yahagi Takashi , Okamoto Takahide
Published: February 2008

Many important problems in engineering and science are well‐modeled by Poisson noise, and the noise of medical X‐ray images is Poisson noise. In this paper, we propose a method for noise removal for degraded medical X‐ray images using improved preprocessing and an improved BayesShrink (IBS) method in the wavelet domain. First, we preprocess the medical X‐ray image. Second, we apply the Daubechies (db) wavelet transform to medical X‐ray images to acquire scaling and wavelet coefficients. Third, we apply the proposed IBS method to process wavelet coefficients. Finally, we compute the inverse wavelet transform for the threshold coefficients. Experimental results show that the proposed method always outperforms traditional methods. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 163(3): 37– 46, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20486
New Heterodimetallic Platinum(II) Complexes Potentially Useful as Molecular Switches
Authors: Pérez Sonia , López Concepción , Caubet Amparo , Solans Xavier , Font‐Bardía Mercè
Published: February 2008

Four types of platinum(II) complexes of general formulae [Pt(FcCH=NC6H4OH‐2)Cl2(L)] [Fc = (η5‐C5H5)Fe(η5‐C5H4), L = dmso (2) or PhCN (3)], [Pt(FcCH=NC6H4O‐2)Cl(dmso)] (4), [Pt{(η5‐C5H3CH=NC6H4O‐2)Fe(η5‐C5H5)}(L)] [L = dmso (5) or PPh3 (6)] or [Pt{(η5‐C5H3CH=NC6H4OH‐2)Fe(η5‐C5H5)}Cl(L)] [L = dmso (7) or PPh3 (8)] have been prepared. These compounds differ in the mode of binding of the ligand: (N) (in 2 and 3), (N,O)– (in 4), [C(sp2, ferrocene),N,O]2– (in 5 and 6) or [C(sp2, ferrocene),N]– (in 7 and 8). NMR, UV/Vis and electrochemical studies of 2 and 4–8 reveal that these products can be grouped in three pairs [(2c, 4b), (5, 7) and (6, 8)], and one of the compounds of each pair can be easily converted into its partner by a H+/OH– chemical input. The results obtained revealed that these transformations, that affect the spectroscopic and electrochemical properties, are reversible and robust. A study of the relevancy of the mode of binding of compounds 2 and 4–8 upon their potential utility of the new platinum(II) complexes as molecular switches is reported. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Steric Effects in the Self‐Assembly of Palladium Complexes with Chelating Diamine Ligands
Authors: Holló‐Sitkei Eszter , Tárkányi Gábor , Párkányi László , Megyes Tünde , Besenyei Gábor
Published: February 2008

The influence of the steric properties of chelating diamines on the self‐assembly of [Pd(N∩N)](NO3)2 complexes with 4,4′‐bpy as bridging ligand has been studied by 1H NMR spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction (N∩N = N,N,N′,N′‐tetramethylethylenediamine, N,N,N′,N′‐tetraethylethylenediamine, 1,3‐diaminopropane, N,N′‐dimethylpiperazine, homopiperazine and ethylenediamine). Based on crystallographic data, the steric bulk of the chelating amines in the [Pd(N∩N)]2+ cations has been characterised in two different ways. A temperature‐ and concentration‐sensitive trimer/tetramer equilibrium was observed by NMR spectroscopy with every diamine, in which the trimeric species dominated when the chelating amine was the bulky tetraethylethylenediamine. Although the formation of tetramers was preferred with diamines of decreasing steric demands, trimeric aggregates could be observed even with the least congested homopiperazine and ethylenediamine complexes. The distribution of the tectons between the two constituents follows the trend predicted by the steric features of the coordinated diamine ligands. Diffusion NMR spectroscopy has proved to be an efficient tool in the identification of self‐assembled species. The trimer/tetramer equilibrium established with tetramethylethylenediamine as chelating ligand has been observed in solution by using wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Multifunctional Electrode Arrays: Towards a Universal Detection Platform
Authors: Polsky Ronen , Harper Jason C. , Wheeler David R. , Brozik Susan M.
Published: February 2008

In this article we review recent work in our laboratory towards the realization of a multianalyte microelectrode detection platform capable of discriminating chemicals and different biomolecules simultaneously. The functionalization of electrodes with aryl diazonium salts provides an electrically addressable deposition procedure capable of immobilizing a wide range of molecules. We demonstrate control over surface density and electron transfer kinetics as well as the activation of individual electrodes in an array. The direct electrically‐addressable immobilization of diazonium‐modified proteins is shown to be suitable for the construction of multianalyte immunosensors and the immobilization of horseradish peroxidase leading to the direct electron transfer between the redox enzyme and the electrode. The use of catalytic nanoparticles leads to the construction of a reagent‐less immunosensor and the simultaneous detection of DNA and proteins on the same electrode array is demonstrated.
Determination of the operational pH value of a buffering membrane by an isoelectric trapping separation of a carrier ampholyte mixture
Authors: North Robert Y. , Vigh Gyula
Published: February 2008

The operational pH value of a buffering membrane used in an isoelectric trapping separation is determined by installing the membrane as the separation membrane into a multicompartmental electrolyzer operated in the two‐separation compartment configuration. A 3<pI<10 carrier ampholyte mixture (feed) is filled into both separation compartments and a binary isoelectric trapping separation is completed. A set of pI markers and a sufficient amount of a pI<3 auxiliary ampholyte is added to the aliquot collected from the anodic separation compartment of the electrolyzer. The same set of pI markers and a sufficient amount of a 10<pI ampholyte is added to the aliquot collected from the cathodic separation compartment of the electrolyzer. Both mixtures are then analyzed by CIEF: the pI markers whose pI values fall into the pI range of the carrier ampholytes trapped in the respective separation compartments become separated from each other, yielding two calibration lines. The pI markers whose pI values fall outside the range of the trapped carrier ampholytes appear merged into single bands at the extremes of the pH gradients. The pI values of the merged bands determined from the two calibration lines yield the operational pH value of the buffering membrane.
Application of machine learning algorithms to predict coronary artery calcification with a sibship‐based design
Authors: Sun Yan V. , Bielak Lawrence F. , Peyser Patricia A. , Turner Stephen T. , Sheedy Patrick F. , Boerwinkle Eric , Kardia Sharon L.R.
Published: February 2008

As part of the Genetic Epidemiology Network of Arteriopathy study, hypertensive non‐Hispanic White sibships were screened using 471 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to identify genes influencing coronary artery calcification (CAC) measured by computed tomography. Individuals with detectable CAC and CAC quantity ≥70th age‐ and sex‐specific percentile were classified as having a high CAC burden and compared to individuals with CAC quantity <70th percentile. Two sibs from each sibship were randomly chosen and divided into two data sets, each with 360 unrelated individuals. Within each data set, we applied two machine learning algorithms, Random Forests and RuleFit, to identify the best predictors of having high CAC burden among 17 risk factors and 471 SNPs. Using five‐fold cross‐validation, both methods had ∼70% sensitivity and ∼60% specificity. Prediction accuracies were significantly different from random predictions (P‐value<0.001) based on 1,000 permutation tests. Predictability of using 287 tagSNPs was as good as using all 471 SNPs. For Random Forests, among the top 50 predictors, the same eight tagSNPs and 15 risk factors were found in both data sets while eight tagSNPs and 12 risk factors were found in both data sets for RuleFit. Replicable effects of two tagSNPs (in genes GPR35 and NOS3) and 12 risk factors (age, body mass index, sex, serum glucose, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, systolic blood pressure, cholesterol, homocysteine, triglycerides, fibrinogen, Lp(a) and low‐density lipoprotein particle size) were identified by both methods. This study illustrates how machine learning methods can be used in sibships to identify important, replicable predictors of subclinical coronary atherosclerosis. Genet. Epidemiol. 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A molecular chaperone glucose-regulated protein 94 blocks apoptosis induced by virus infection
Authors: Lee Song Hee , Song Ran , Lee Mi Nam , Kim Chon Saeng , Lee Hanna , Kong Young-Yun , Kim Hoguen , Jang Sung Key
Published: February 2008

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) E2 protein has been shown to block apoptosis and has been suggested to facilitate persistent infection of the virus. Here, we report that the anti-apoptotic activity of E2 is mediated by activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) that directs expression of survival gene products such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) receptor-associated factor 2 (TRAF2), X-chromosome–linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP), FLICE-like inhibitory protein (FLIP), and survivin. Increased levels of these proteins were observed in HCV-infected cells and a cell line producing HCV E2 protein. The activation of NF-κB was mediated by HCV-E2–induced expression of the molecular chaperone glucose-regulated protein 94 (GRP94). Overexpression of GRP94 alone resulted in expression of anti-apoptotic proteins and blocked apoptosis induced by tumor-necrosis–related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL). Interestingly, increased levels of GRP94 were observed in cells supporting HCV proliferation that originated from liver tissues from HCV patients. Moreover, small interfering RNA (siRNA) knock-down of GRP94 nullified the anti-apoptotic activity of HCV E2.

Conclusion:

These data indicate that HCV E2 blocks apoptosis induced by HCV infection and the host immune system through overproduction of GRP94, and that HCV E2 plays an important role in persistent HCV infection.
Productivity–quality–costs–safety: A sustained approach to competitive advantage—a systematic review of the national safety council's case studies in safety and productivity
Authors: Maudgalya Tushyati , Genaidy Ash , Shell Richard
Published: February 2008

The marked improvement in workplace safety levels in the past few decades has resulted in companies experiencing fewer safety accidents than before, thus making it less effective to argue that money spent on workplace safety and on injury prevention will yield much bottom‐line benefit. To make a compelling business case for workplace safety investment, one must link safety objectives to other business objectives. The objective of this study is to determine whether workplace safety as a business objective adds value to the business bottom line. This research reviews published case studies to determine if there is a relationship between safety initiatives and increased productivity, quality, and cost efficiencies. Eighteen case studies (17 published by the National Safety Council) were analyzed using the Workplace Safety Intervention Appraisal Instrument. The appraisal scores ranged from 0.55 to 1.27, with an average of 0.91. The case studies were relatively strong in the Evidence Reporting and Data Analysis categories, as compared to the Subject Selection, Observation Quality, and Generalization to Other Populations categories. Following workplace safety initiatives, the studies revealed an average increase of 66% (2%–104%) in productivity, 44% (4%–73%) in quality, 82% (52%–100%) in safety records, and 71% (38%–100%) in cost benefits. In a few reported cases, it took only 8 months to obtain a payback in terms of monetary investment in the safety initiative. Although the studies did display a correlation between safety, productivity, and quality, there is insufficient evidence to categorically state that the improvements in productivity, quality, and cost efficiency were brought about by the introduction of an organization‐wide safety culture. Notwithstanding, there is demonstrable evidence to indicate that safety as a business objective can assist an organization in achieving the long‐term benefit of operational sustainability, that is, achieve a long‐term competitive advantage by balancing business costs against social costs. Further research is required to conclusively prove the exact (possibly quantifiable) impact of safety investment on increased productivity, quality, and cost efficiency. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Work compatibility and musculoskeletal disorders in the construction industry
Authors: Salem Osama , Sobeih Tarek M. , Genaidy Ash , Shell Richard , Bhattacharya Amit , Succop Paul
Published: February 2008

The aim of this study was to measure the work compatibility of the different work‐related variables (physical and psychosocial) using the Demand–Energizer Instrument (DEI) and to determine their association with both musculoskeletal disorders and stress symptoms. In recent years, there has been increasing evidence that psychosocial factors play an important role in the development of musculoskeletal disorders. The study group consisted of 147 active construction workers. Data were collected by means of a questionnaire. The association between the exposure variables (work energizers and work compatibility) and outcome variables was determined using a multivariate logistic regression model with backward elimination of insignificant variables. There was a significantly high correlation between the demand and energizer aspects of the different work‐related variables. Three variables were positively associated with musculoskeletal/stress symptoms (protective effect), seven were negatively associated (hazardous effect), and two demonstrated both effects. When both demands and energizers were combined, the highest work compatibility was achieved in individual growth, economic, and social variables. The results of a factor analysis indicated that four work compatibility variables (work environment, physical task, performance, and job satisfaction) were significantly associated with musculoskeletal/stress symptoms. In the complex web of the human‐at‐work system, the work compatibility model significantly identified those work‐related variables that were associated with musculoskeletal/stress symptoms. Psychosocial factors play a significant role in the construction industry. A possible application of this research can be the use of the new tool in identifying priority areas for future intervention strategies. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Heterogeneity in the therapeutic approach to relapsed elderly patients with acute myeloid leukaemia: a survey from the Gruppo Italiano Malattie Ematologiche dell' Adulto (GIMEMA) Acute Leukaemia Working Party
Authors: Ferrara Felicetto , Fazi Paola , Venditti Adriano , Pagano Livio , Amadori Sergio , Mandelli Franco
Published: February 2008

The percentage of long‐term survivors in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) in the elderly does not exceed 10–15% of patients enrolled into clinical trials because of lower complete remission (CR) rates and higher incidence of relapse. However, few data are available as the treatment of elderly patients with relapsed disease is concerned. The aim of this study was of collecting data on criteria adopted for the treatment of these patients. A questionnaire was e‐mailed to 32 haematologic institutions involved in the Gruppo Italiano per le Malattie Ematologiche dell'Adulto (GIMEMA) group. Questions to be addressed regarded: (1) per cent of relapsed elderly patients treated with aggressive salvage chemotherapy; (2) the selection criteria adopted for inclusion into intensive reinduction; (3) the specific treatment adopted; (4) the treatment given to patients not eligible for intensive salvage. Per cent of patients enrolled into aggressive salvage regimens varied from 10 to 80% (median 50%). The most frequent factor influencing the therapeutic choice was performance status (97%). Additional factors were age >70 years (44%) and duration of first CR (53%). Fludarabine including regimens were most frequently used as aggressive salvage therapy (59%), while gemtuzumab ozogamicin was adopted in various combinations at 11 out of 32 institutions (34%). For patients not eligible to aggressive therapy, the most frequent approach included hydroxyurea (59%). Low dose ARA‐C (LDARA‐C) was adopted at five centres: as single agent (n = 1), with 6‐thioguanine (n = 1), with vitamin D3 and all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) (n = 2), or with ATRA alone (n = 1). The FLT3 inhibitor CEP‐701 was used at one centre. We conclude that the treatment of AML in elderly relapsed patients is extremely heterogeneous. A marked selection is operated as to inclusion into aggressive salvage regimens and only a small minority of patients are offered experimental approaches. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Augmentation of heat transportation by an oscillatory flow in grooved ducts
Authors: Motoki Tatsuya , Ohno Yuichi , Hishida Makoto , Tanaka Gaku
Published: February 2008

This paper deals with heat transportation by oscillatory flow in grooved ducts. The heat transportation rate, work rate, heat transportation efficiency, and dispersions of fluid particles and heat were analyzed with the computer code FLUENT. The frequency and tidal amplitude of the oscillatory flow were 0.05 Hz and 45 mm, respectively. The internal diameters of the contraction and expansion sections of the grooved ducts were 6 and 12 mm, respectively. The groove lengths varied from 0 to 40 mm and the pitch of the grooves was fixed at 10 mm. We found that: (1) The grooved duct with S=15 mm had the highest heat transportation rate, which was about 4.5 times that of the smooth round pipe. (2) The grooved duct with S=20 mm had the greatest heat transportation efficiency, which was about 6.4 times that of the smooth round pipe. (3) Enthalpy transportation by the dispersion motion of fluid particles played a substantial role in the heat transportation of the grooved ducts with 5 mm≤S≤40 mm. (4) The grooved duct with S=10 to 15 mm had the greatest dispersion of fluid particles, which explained their having the greatest heat transportation rate. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heat Trans Asian Res, 37(2): 68–85, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/htj.20192
A high‐affinity human monoclonal antibody specific to the alternatively spliced EDA domain of fibronectin efficiently targets tumor neo‐vasculature in vivo
Authors: Villa Alessandra , Trachsel Eveline , Kaspar Manuela , Schliemann Christoph , Sommavilla Roberto , Rybak Jascha‐N. , Rösli Christoph , Borsi Laura , Neri Dario
Published: February 2008

The alternatively spliced extra‐domain B of fibronectin is one of the best characterized markers of tumor angiogenesis. Similarly, the extra‐domain A (EDA), which can also be inserted in the fibronectin transcript by a mechanism of alternative splicing, has been shown to preferentially accumulate around new blood vessels in certain tumors, but this antigen has not been investigated so far as a target for antibody‐based biomolecular intervention. We here describe the generation of 3 human monoclonal antibodies (named F8, B7 and D5), which recognize the same epitope of EDA, but which differ in terms of their dissociation constant to the human antigen (KD = 3.1, 16 and 17 nM, measured for monomeric preparations of the F8, B7 and D5 antibodies, respectively, in recombinant scFv format). When the 3 antibody fragments were cloned and expressed with a 5 amino acid linker, the 3 resulting homodimeric antibody preparations displayed comparable tumor: organ ratios in quantitative biodistribution studies, performed in immunocompetent 129SvEv mice, bearing subcutaneous syngeneic F9 murine tumors. The percent injected dose per gram (%ID/g) values in tumors 24 hr after intravenous injection were 9.3, 10.2 and 13 for F8, B7 and D5, respectively. The F8 antibody may serve as useful building block for the development of antibody‐based targeted anti‐cancer therapeutics. Preclinical and clinical investigations are facilitated by the fact that F8 recognizes the human and mouse antigen with comparable affinity, and by the observation that EDA over‐expression is detectable not only in solid tumors, but also in hematological malignancies. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Influence of wind and bed slope on water and soil moisture distribution in solid‐set sprinkler systems
Authors: Montazar Aliasghar , Moridnejad Maryam
Published: February 2008

The present study was carried out to investigate the effects of wind and bed slope on uniformity of water and soil moisture distribution in solid‐set sprinkler systems. For that, six plots of 25 × 30 m with bed slopes varying from 1.3 to 13.4% were selected in the Bileh‐Savar Sprinkler Irrigation Network in Iran. For each plot, uniformity of water distribution and soil moisture monitoring tests were performed with three replications under different climates and operating pressures. In each of the tests, water application depth and soil moisture were measured at 164 and 143 spots in each plot, respectively. Based on computations and with regard to the ranges of environmental and systemic variations, uniformity coefficients of water application varied from 45 to 84%. In order to investigate the variations among different parameters, a number of relations were obtained to hold among different assessment indices. The results showed that proper management of the operating pressure during irrigation could largely cancel out the negative effects of high wind speed and also its variations on water application uniformity. The sensitivity analysis of the relations obtained also revealed that the uniformity coefficient of soil moisture is more sensitive to the uniformity coefficient of water application than to plot bed slope. Also, the fields with milder bed slopes are more suitable for improving uniformity of soil moisture distribution. The findings indicate a more uniform distribution of soil moisture compared to that of water depth across the plots. Hence, it seems that in arid and semi‐arid areas where water resources are scarce, there will be no need for higher water consumption to increase uniformity of water application beyond 75%. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Protective effect of arjunolic acid against arsenic‐induced oxidative stress in mouse brain
Authors: Sinha Mahua , Manna Prasenjit , Sil Parames C.
Published: February 2008

Arsenic, a notoriously poisonous metalloid, is ubiquitous in the environment, and it affects nearly all organ systems of animals including humans. The present study was designed to investigate the preventive role of a triterpenoid saponin, arjunolic acid against arsenic‐induced oxidative damage in murine brain. Sodium arsenite was selected as a source of arsenic for this study. The free‐radical‐scavenging activity and the in vivo antioxidant power of arjunolic acid were determined from its 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picryl hydrazyl radical scavenging ability and ferric reducing/antioxidant power assay, respectively. Oral administration of sodium arsenite at a dose of 10 mg/kg body weight for 2 days significantly decreased the activities of antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione‐S‐transferase, glutathione reductase and glutathione peroxidase, the level of cellular metabolites, reduced glutathione, total thiols and increased the level of oxidized glutathione. In addition, it enhanced the levels of lipid peroxidation end products and protein carbonyl content. Treatment with arjunolic acid at a dose of 20 mg/kg body weight for 4 days prior to arsenic administration almost normalized above indices. Histological findings due to arsenic intoxication and arjunolic acid treatment supported the other biochemical changes in murine brains. Results of 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picryl hydrazyl radical scavenging and ferric reducing/antioxidant power assays clearly showed the in vitro radical scavenging as well as the in vivo antioxidant power of arjunolic acid, respectively. The effect of a well‐established antioxidant, vitamin C, has been included in the study as a positive control. Combining all, results suggest that arjunolic acid possessed the ability to ameliorate arsenic‐induced oxidative insult in murine brain and is probably due to its antioxidant activity. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 22:15–26, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/jbt.20209
Retrieval of spectral and dynamic properties from two‐dimensional infrared pump‐probe experiments
Authors: Chelli Riccardo , Volkov Victor V. , Righini Roberto
Published: February 2008

We have developed a fitting algorithm able to extract spectral and dynamic properties of a three level oscillator from a two‐dimensional infrared spectrum (2D‐IR) detected in time resolved nonlinear experiments. Such properties go from the frequencies of the ground‐to‐first and first‐to‐second vibrational transitions (and hence anharmonicity) to the frequency‐fluctuation correlation function. This last is represented through a general expression that allows one to approach the various strategies of modeling proposed in the literature. The model is based on the Kubo picture of stochastic fluctuations of the transition frequency as a result of perturbations by a fluctuating surrounding. To account for the line‐shape broadening due to pump pulse spectral width in double‐resonance measurements, we supply the fitting algorithm with the option to perform the convolution of the spectral signal with a Lorentzian function in the pump‐frequency dimension. The algorithm is tested here on 2D‐IR pump‐probe spectra of a Gly‐Ala dipeptide recorded at various pump‐probe delay times. Speedup benchmarks have been performed on a small Beowulf cluster. The program is written in FORTRAN language for both serial and parallel architectures and is available free of charge to the interested reader. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2008
Coarse‐grained force field for the nucleosome from self‐consistent multiscaling
Authors: Voltz Karine , Trylska Joanna , Tozzini Valentina , Kurkal‐Siebert Vandana , Langowski Jörg , Smith Jeremy
Published: February 2008

A coarse‐grained simulation model for the nucleosome is developed, using a methodology modified from previous work on the ribosome. Protein residues and DNA nucleotides are represented as beads, interacting through harmonic (for neighboring) or Morse (for nonbonded) potentials. Force‐field parameters were estimated by Boltzmann inversion of the corresponding radial distribution functions obtained from a 5‐ns all‐atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, and were refined to produce agreement with the all‐atom MD simulation. This self‐consistent multiscale approach yields a coarse‐grained model that is capable of reproducing equilibrium structural properties calculated from a 50‐ns all‐atom MD simulation. This coarse‐grained model speeds up nucleosome simulations by a factor of 103 and is expected to be useful in examining biologically relevant dynamical nucleosome phenomena on the microsecond timescale and beyond. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2008
Binding kinetics and sequencing of hepatic α1‐adrenergic receptors in two marine teleosts, Mackerel (Scomber scombrus) and Anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus)
Authors: Fabbri Elena , Chen Xi , Capuzzo Antonio , Moon Thomas W.
Published: February 2008

Liver α1‐adrenoceptors (ARs) are demonstrated, or at least hypothesized, in freshwater and brackish‐water teleosts, whereas no data are available for marine teleosts. This study evaluates the presence of α1‐ARs in the liver of two marine teleosts, the anchovy Engraulis encrasicolus and the mackerel Scomber scombrus, and examines on a broad scale the possibility that habitats posing different challenges also influence phenotypic trait selection. Binding assays were performed also on liver membranes from the carp Cyprinus carpio as a direct comparison with a freshwater species. Scatchard analysis of [3H]prazosin binding to purified liver membranes from anchovy, mackerel and carp resulted in Kd values of 1.51±0.085, 1.26±0.098, and 2.61±0.22 nM, and Bmax values of 87.4±9.12, 77±8.29, and 115.22±3.31 fmol/mg protein, respectively. Thus, α1‐ARs of the two marine teleosts showed higher [3H]prazosin affinity compared with those of the freshwater/brackish‐water fish studied thus far, whereas the number of liver binding sites did not differ significantly from that of carp, eel or trout. A preliminary phylogeny based on amino acid sequence analysis indicated the presence of at least an α1A‐AR in mackerel and an α1D‐AR in both anchovy and mackerel. This is the first indication of α1‐AR subtypes in any marine species, but further studies are needed to ascertain the physiological role of these α1‐ARs in these two marine species. J. Exp. Zool. 309A:157–165, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
United Kingdom daily precipitation intensity: improved early data, error estimates and an update from 2000 to 2006
Authors: Maraun D. , Osborn T. J. , Gillett N. P.
Published: February 2008

This paper updates the analysis by Osborn et al. of trends in the contribution of heavy events to precipitation in the UK. We spatially extended the previous analysis of 110 rain gauges to a set of 689 rain gauges covering almost the whole UK, and updated the results to November 2006. For each station and season, we calculated ten time series of the contribution of ten precipitation amount categories to the total seasonal precipitation. A principal component analysis of post‐1961 trends of all categories and stations is consistent with earlier results, namely, widespread shifts towards greater contribution from heavier precipitation categories during winter, and towards light and moderate categories during summer. Regional and UK average time series of the contribution from the category consisting of the heaviest events indicate that the increased winter intensity was sustained during the most recent ten years, but the trend did not continue at the rate reported previously for 1961–1995. For summer, the decreasing contribution from the heaviest rainfall category reported for 1961–1995 underwent a reversal during the most recent decade, returning towards the 1961–1995 reference level of intensity. Confidence intervals for these regional and UK average time series were estimated by a bootstrap approach and indicate that the sparser observations from the first half of the 20th century are still sufficient to estimate UK average change. These longer records support the existence of a long‐term increase in winter precipitation intensity, and similar trends have now also become evident in spring and (to a lesser extent) autumn. The summer rainfall intensity has exhibited changes that are more consistent with inter‐decadal variability than any overall trend. Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society
Recent trends in Tuscany (Italy) summer temperature and indices of extremes
Authors: Bartolini Giorgio , Morabito Marco , Crisci Alfonso , Grifoni Daniele , Torrigiani Tommaso , Petralli Martina , Maracchi Giampiero , Orlandini Simone
Published: February 2008

In the past few decades, many studies showed a significant worldwide warming, and consequently, changes in frequency and persistence of extreme high‐temperature events were observed. In order to analyse summer Tuscany (Italy) patterns of climate change during the period 1955–2004, indices of temperature and of extreme events were investigated for evidence of trend and change in inter‐annual variability by using data of 40 weather stations. Least square regression analysis and Theil‐Sen nonparametric regression were applied for evidence of trends. The Mann–Kendall test was applied to each time series to look for statistically significant trends.

The results showed a general increase in minimum and maximum temperatures and extreme temperature events. Maximum temperature increase (+0.44 °C/decade) was slightly greater than minimum temperature (+0.38 °C/decade) and consequently, an increase in summer daily temperature range (DTR) was noted (+0.06 °C/decade).

Inter‐annual summer climate variability showed an increasing trend in the whole region, especially in regard to extreme event occurrences while a small decreasing trend concerning diurnal temperature range was observed. Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society
Real‐time pressure monitoring of intraarticular hydraulic distension for painful stiff shoulders
Authors: Lee Kyu Jin , Lee Hee Dae , Chung Sun G.
Published: February 2008

Intraarticular hydraulic distension (IHD) has been utilized to treat painful stiff shoulders by distending and then rupturing the joint capsules. However, no attempts have been made to optimize the capsule distension, which might give a better clinical outcome. To set up a prerequisite technique for a maximal distension without rupturing the capsule, real‐time pressure monitoring of IHD procedures was performed in 16 patients, which revealed triphasic pressure‐volume profiles in 10 patients and biphasic in 6 patients. The IHD procedures were terminated without rupturing the capsule by observing the real‐time pressure‐volume curves (N = 10) or by pain (N = 3). The pressure profiles of the 13 patients who had the infusion stopped without rupture demonstrated stress–relaxation curves of the capsules. The biphasic group showed a steeper slope of the second phase of linearly increasing pressure (p = 0.017) and higher pressure (p = 0.005) with slightly larger volume (p = 0.095) at the termination of fluid infusion than did the triphasic group. The stiffness of the glenohumeral joint capsule had a close correlation with the limitation in range of motion. Real‐time pressure monitoring would be helpful to develop a novel IHD technique that could distend the glenohumeral joint as much as possible without rupturing it. The biomechanical parameters derived from the pressure‐volume profiles would also be useful to characterize the properties of the joints of painful stiff shoulder patients. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 26:965–970, 2008
Vibrational and optical properties of a one‐dimensional organic–inorganic crystal [C6H14N]PbI3
Authors: Elleuch S. , Abid Y. , Mlayah A. , Boughzala H.
Published: February 2008

Self‐assembled organic–inorganic [C6H14N]PbI3 crystals were synthesized. The crystal structure consists of one‐dimensional semiconductor chains formed by infinite PbI6 face‐sharing octahedra aligned along the a‐axis. The organic cations are linked to the inorganic chains by NH· · ·I hydrogen bonds and act as insulator barriers. The vibrational properties of [C6H14N]PbI3 were studied using polarized Raman scattering and infrared (IR) absorption. The observed Raman and IR spectral features were identified by comparison with the vibrational properties of homologous compounds and with the vibrational wavenumbers calculated using the ab initio PM3 method. Moreover, the photoluminescence and diffuse reflectance of [C6H14N]PbI3 single crystals, along with the UV‐Vis absorption of spin‐ coated films, were measured. A strong green‐blue luminescence due to radiative recombinations of 1D excitons is observed. The Stokes shift is estimated at 70 meV. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Perpendicular Shear Force on the Interfacial Morphology of Reactive Polymer Bilayer
Authors: Kim Hwang Yong , Joo Wonchul , Kim Jin Kon
Published: February 2008

We investigated the effect of shear forces perpendicular to the interface on the interfacial morphology of a reactive bilayer. It was observed that the perpendicular shear force greatly enhanced the roughness of the interface compared with parallel shear force. The main role of in situ formed graft copolymers is not to increase greatly the roughness of the interface, but to stabilize the interfacial morphology. We also observed that microemuslsions were observed at both the PMMA and PS layers, which is distinctly different from the situation obtained under parallel shear force (or without shear) that the microemlusions were seen in only the PMMA layer.

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Semicrystalline Macromolecular Design by Nitroxide‐Mediated Polymerization
Authors: Karaky Khaled , Clisson Gérald , Reiter Gunter , Billon Laurent
Published: February 2008

The syntheses of PODA‐b‐PMA and PODA‐grad‐PMA copolymers using NMP are reported for the first time. The gradient copolymerization of ODA and MA was performed in a semi‐batch system with a continuous addition of MA during ODA polymerization. The results showed that the semi‐batch NMP proceeded in a living fashion, producing well‐defined copolymers with narrow polydispersities and controlled molecular weights. The potentially semicrystalline copolymers were characterized by techniques such as 1H NMR, SEC and DSC. Their surface crystallization has also been studied by AFM.

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Silicone Liner‐Free Pressure‐Sensitive Adhesive Labels
Authors: Empereur Johanne , Belgacem Mohamed Naceur , Chaussy Didier
Published: February 2008

Pressure‐sensitive adhesives (PSA) were microencapsulated using simple and complex coacervation and aminoplaste. The microcapsules thus prepared were characterized by FTIR spectroscopy, particle size distribution, rheological behavior, and peeling tests. The microcapsules were isolated and found to be out of sticky indicating that the PSAs were indeed encapsulated. The prepared suspensions were deposited at the surface of a paper sheets and the dried labels were then pressed against each other. The ensuing complex was then characterized in terms of peeling forces and showed that the encapsulation using aminoplaste technique of a commercial PSA yielded peel energy of 170 J · m−2, which constitutes the recovering of about 68% of the adhesive power of the original nonencapsulated PSA.

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