bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low expression of human tubulin tyrosine ligase and suppressed tubulin tyrosination/detyrosination cycle are associated with impaired neuronal differentiation in neuroblastomas with poor prognosis
Authors: Kato Chiaki , Miyazaki Kou , Nakagawa Atsuko , Ohira Miki , Nakamura Yohko , Ozaki Toshinori , Imai Toshio , Nakagawara Akira
Published: June 2004

Neuroblastoma (NBL), one of the most common childhood solid tumors, has a distinct nature in different prognostic subgroups. However, the precise mechanism underlying this phenomenon remains largely unknown. To understand the molecular and genetic bases of neuroblastoma, we have generated its cDNA libraries and identified a human ortholog of tubulin tyrosine ligase gene (hTTL/Nbla0660) as a differentially expressed gene at high levels in a favorable subset of the tumor. Tubulin is subjected to several types of evolutionarily conserved posttranslational modification, including tyrosination and detyrosination. Tubulin tyrosine ligase catalyzes ligation of the tyrosine residue to the COOH terminus of the detyrosinated form of α‐tubulin. The measurement of hTTL mRNA expression in 74 primary neuroblastomas by quantitative real‐time reverse transcription‐PCR revealed that its high expression was significantly associated with favorable stages (1, 2 and 4s; p = 0.0069), high TrkA expression (p = 0.002), a single copy of MYCN (p < 0.00005), tumors found by mass screening (p = 0.0042), nonadrenal origin (p = 0.0042) and good prognosis (p = 0.023). The log‐rank test showed that high expression of hTTL was an indicator of favorable prognosis (p = 0.026). Immunohistochemical analysis using specific antibodies generated by us demonstrated that tyrosinated tubulin (Tyr‐tubulin), detyrosinated tubulin (Glu‐tubulin) and hTTL as well as Δ2‐tubulin were positive in favorable tumors, whereas only Δ2‐tubulin was positive in the tumors with MYCN amplification. In an RTBM1 neuroblastoma cell line, hTTL was increased after treating the cells with bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) or all‐trans retinoic acid (RA), which induced neuronal differentiation. These results suggest that the deregulated tubulin tyrosination/detyrosination cycle caused by decreased expression of hTTL is associated with inhibition of neuronal differentiation and enhancement of cell growth in the primary neuroblastomas with poor outcome. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Generalization of irrigation scheduling parameters using the growing degree days concept: application to a potato crop
Authors: Ojeda‐Bustamante Waldo , Sifuentes‐Ibarra Ernesto , Slack Donald C. , Carrillo Mauricio
Published: June 2004

An accurate irrigation scheduling methodology is necessary in crops with high water stress sensitivity and production cost. This involves the estimation of the scheduling parameters related with crop water requirements during phenological stages under different irrigation application systems. This paper presents several models to represent the parameters of irrigation scheduling based on growing degree days (GDD) such as: management allowed soil water depletion (MAD), rooting depth (Rd) and crop coefficient (Kc). The proposed models were applied accurately to schedule irrigation in two commercial fields of potato under two irrigation methods: surface and sprinkler irrigation. Results show that the model predicted irrigations in a consistent and logical manner. The proposed models are versatile, feasible and easily implemented in irrigation scheduling computer programs. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of wollastonite ceramics and bioactive glass on the formation of a bonelike apatite layer on a cobalt base alloy
Authors: Cortés D. A. , Medina A. , Escobedo J. C. , Escobedo S. , López M. A.
Published: June 2004

A biomimetic method was used to promote a bioactive surface on a cobalt base alloy (ASTM F‐75). The metallic substrates were alkali treated and some of the samples were subsequently heat treated. The treated samples were immersed in simulated body fluid (SBF) on granular particles of either bioactive glass or wollastonite. For comparative purposes, no bioactive system was used in some tests. Three different methods were used for the immersion of the samples in SBF: 1) 21 days in SBF, 2) 21 days in 1.5 SBF, and 3) 7 days in SBF followed by 14 days in 1.5 SBF (re‐immersion method). A bonelike apatite layer was formed on all the samples placed on wollastonite and bioactive glass particles. The morphology of the apatite layer formed by using the re‐immersion method and wollastonite closely resembled the existing bioactive systems. No apatite layer was observed on the samples treated without bioactive material and soaked for 21 days in SBF or 1.5 SBF, apart from the substrates treated by using the re‐immersion method. The heat treatment delayed the apatite formation in all the cases studied. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 70A: 341–346, 2004
Investigating the wavelet coherence phase of the BOLD signal
Authors: Müller Karsten , Lohmann Gabriele , Neumann Jane , Grigutsch Maren , Mildner Toralf , von Cramon D. Yves
Published: June 2004

Purpose

To investigate the temporal behavior of the blood oxygenation‐level dependent (BOLD) signal applying the wavelet coherence phase to functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data.

Materials and Methods

The wavelet coherence phase was computed for a group of four subjects using three functional runs of different visual stimulation lengths. In order to consider the variability of the wavelet coherence phase, a correlation analysis was performed between the variance of the phase shift and the associated activation strength. In activated brain regions, correlation was performed between the mean wavelet coherence phase and the spectral density phase shift.

Results

The scalograms of the wavelet coherence phase show the temporal variability of the phase shift between fMRI time series. For brain regions with weakly stationary behavior, the mean wavelet coherence phase supports the results obtained by spectral analyses.

Conclusion

The wavelet coherence phase provides a description of the temporal behavior of the BOLD signal even for the nonstationary case. In particular, temporal changes of the phase shift can be investigated. This makes the wavelet coherence phase more suitable for the investigation of BOLD dynamics than an average phase lag obtained by correlation or spectral methods. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2004;20:145–152. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantitative high‐resolution magnetic resonance imaging reveals structural implications of renal osteodystrophy on trabecular and cortical bone
Authors: Wehrli Felix W. , Leonard Mary B. , Saha Punam K. , Gomberg Bryon R.
Published: June 2004

Purpose

To explore the potential role of micro‐magnetic resonance imaging (μ‐MRI) for quantifying trabecular and cortical bone structural parameters in renal osteodystrophy (ROD), a multifactorial disorder of bone metabolism, traditionally evaluated by bone biopsy.

Materials and Methods

Seventeen hemodialysis patients (average PTH level = 502 ± 415 μg/liter) were compared with 17 age‐, gender‐, and body mass index (BMI)‐matched control subjects. The average dialysis duration for the patients was 5.5 years (range = 0.96‐18.2 years). Three‐dimensional (3D) fast large‐angle spin‐echo (FLASE) MR images of the distal tibia (voxel size = 137 × 137 × 410 μm3) were processed to yield bone volume fraction (BV/TV). From a skeletonized representation of the trabecular bone network, the topology of each bone voxel was determined providing surface and curve voxel densities (SURF and CURV) and the topological erosion index (EI). Further, high‐resolution two‐dimensional (2D) spin‐echo images were collected at the tibial midshaft for measurement of cortical bone cross‐sectional area (CCA), relative CCA expressed as a percentage of total bone area (RCA), and mean cortical thickness (MCT).

Results

The data show both RCA and MCT to be lower in the patients (61.2 vs. 69.1%, P = 0.008, and 4.53 vs. 5.19 mm, P = 0.01). BV/TV and SURF were lower, while EI was increased in the patients, although these differences were not quite significant (P = 0.06‐0.09). All of the cortical and trabecular findings are consistent with increased bone fragility.

Conclusion

The data suggest that μ‐MRI may have potential to characterize the structural implications of metabolic bone disease, potentially providing a noninvasive tool for the evaluation of therapies for ROD. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2004;20:83–89. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chemical and taste characteristics of threadfin bream (Nemipterus japonicus) hydrolysate
Authors: Normah I , Jamilah B , Saari N , Che Man Yaakob B
Published: June 2004

The chemical and taste characteristics of threadfin bream (Nemipterus japonicus) hydrolysate produced by Alcalase hydrolysis of the fish muscle (pH 8.5, 60 °C, 120 min, enzyme/substrate ratio 20 g kg−1) were studied. Umami, bitter and fishy were the dominant tastes. The bitter amino acids methionine, valine, isoleucine, phenylalanine, leucine and tyrosine comprised 317 mg g−1 of the total amino acids present. The umaminess could be due to the presence of high contents of glutamic acid and inosine 5′‐monophosphate. SDS‐PAGE analysis showed that the peptides in the hydrolysate had molecular weights ranging between 7.2 and 64 kDa. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Adjuvant, adoptive immunotherapy with tumor infiltrating lymphocytes plus interleukin‐2 after radical hepatic resection for colorectal liver metastases: 5‐year analysis
Authors: Gardini Andrea , Ercolani Giorgio , Riccobon Angela , Ravaioli Matteo , Ridolfi Laura , Flamini Emanuela , Ridolfi Ruggero , Grazi Gian Luca , Cavallari Antonino , Amadori Dino
Published: June 2004

Background and Objectives

Conventional chemotherapy has not proven effective in improving long‐term results of surgery for liver metastases from colorectal cancer. We assessed the usefulness of immunotherapy with tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) plus Interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) as adjuvant treatment.

Methods

Between 1995 and 1998, 47 patients were enrolled onto a prospective protocol; 25 entered the treatment group (A) and 22 entered the control group (B). All patients had undergone radical liver resection. TIL obtained from surgical specimens from group A patients were cultured and activated in vitro with IL‐2, then reinfused into the patients with IL‐2. We investigated pre‐ and post‐IL‐2 stimulation expression of T cell receptor (TCR) ζ‐ and ε‐chains, p56lck, Fas, and Fas‐L by TIL immunostaining.

Results

Fourteen patients from group A (56%) received immunotherapy; 14 from group B (60%) underwent conventional chemotherapy, and the remaining 19 patients did not receive any treatment. No significant differences between the two groups were found in the actuarial and disease‐free survival (DSF) rates after 1, 3, and 5 years. After IL‐2 exposure, TCR ζ‐chain expression significantly increased (P = 0.001); An increase in TCR ε‐chain expression (P = 0.04), and p56lck (P = 0.03) was detected; TCR ε‐chain expression was significantly increased in disease‐free patients compared to those who relapsed (P = 0.04). Fas‐L expression was correlated with the TCR ε‐chain and p56lck levels (P = 0.05).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that we are still a long way from being able to propose TIL + IL‐2 treatment as an effective adjuvant therapy. However, the results confirm that the biological indicators examined could play an important role in modulating immunitary response against tumor cells. J. Surg. Oncol. 2004;87:46–52. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The relationship between prognostic factors of breast cancer and thyroid disorders in Turkish women
Authors: Cengiz Ömer , Bozkurt Betül , Ünal Bülent , Yildirim Osman , Karabeyoǧlu Melih , Eroǧlu Abdullah , Koçer Belma , Ulaş Murat
Published: June 2004

Background

Breast carcinoma is a frequent disease that affects the female population. As for other malignant diseases, several studies have been carried out in an attempt to identify its etiology, yet the etiological agent has not been clearly defined. The etiological relationship between thyroid disease and breast cancer is still being investigated. However, most of the studies in this field are conflicting and discussions on this relationship still continue.

Patients and Method

Our prospective open study was conducted on 136 consecutive patients operated for breast carcinoma. As a control group, 68 individuals with normal breast examination, who did not have any known malignancy and/or thyroid disease, living in the same geographical region and with matching socio‐cultural and economical status, were included in the study. We aimed to identify the occurrence and frequency of thyroid pathologies in both groups to compare the clinical and the laboratory features of thyroid disease and breast carcinoma in an attempt to contribute to the studies investigating the relationship between these two entities.

Results

We found thyroid pathology in 77.9% of breast cancer patients while this was 47.1% in the control group. Breast cancer patients had higher levels of free‐T3 and more frequent diffuse and nodular enlargement of thyroid gland in ultrasonography when compared to the control group. Furthermore, in the presence of thyroid disease, breast cancer patients had statistically significant increases in the number of metastatic lymph nodes, vascular invasion, and tumor size.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the frequency of thyroid pathology is higher in breast cancer patients compared to controls indicating a relationship between breast carcinoma and thyroid pathology. Our study shows that the presence of thyroid pathology in breast cancer patients can be influential on the spread of cancer and adversely affect its prognosis. We thought further studies are needed to confirm these findings and to explain the reason for co‐occurrence of breast cancer and thyroid disease and furthermore to investigate the prognosis and survival of breast cancer patients in the presence of thyroid pathology. J. Surg. Oncol. 2004;87:19–25. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The natural course of cutaneous melanoma
Authors: Leiter Ulrike , Meier Friedegund , Schittek Birgit , Garbe Claus
Published: June 2004

The natural course of cutaneous melanoma (CM) is determined by its metastatic spread and depends on tumor thickness, ulceration, gender, localization, and the histologic subtype of the primary tumor. CM metastasis develops via three main metastatic pathways and occurs as satellite or in‐transit metastasis, as regional lymph node metastasis or as distant metastasis at the time of primary recurrence. About 50% of all CM patients with tumor progression firstly develop regional lymph node metastases. In the other 50% the first metastases are satellite or in‐transit metastases (about 20%), or immediately distant metastases (about 30%). Development of distant metastasis appears to be an early event in metastatic spread and may in the majority of cases originate from the primary tumor, only few cases may develop secondarily to locoregional metastasis. Reporting of organ involvement in distant metastasis greatly differs between the results of imaging techniques and autopsy results in respect to the metastatic patterns detected, pointing out that there is a need of improved imaging systems. Proliferation, neovascularization, lymphangiogenesis, invasion, circulation, and embolism are important steps in the pathogenesis of CM metastasis, with tumor vascularity as an important independent significant prognostic factor. The expression of chemokine receptors in cancer cells associated with the expression of the respective chemokine receptor ligands in the target sites of the metastasis is an interesting observation which may stimulate the development of new therapeutic strategies. J. Surg. Oncol. 2004;86:172–178. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Kinetic study of triphenylphosphine addition to para‐benzoquinone
Authors: Nori‐Shargh Davood , Farahani Nasrin Saroogh
Published: June 2004

Kinetics of the addition reaction of triphenylphosphine to para‐benzoquinone in 1,2‐dichloroethane as solvent was studied. Initial rate method was used to determine the order of the reaction with respect to the reactants. Pseudo‐first‐order method was also used to calculate the rate constant. This reaction was monitored by UV‐vis spectrophotometry at 520 nm by variable time method. On the basis of the obtained results, the Arrhenius equation of this reaction was obtained:

equation image

The activation parameters, Ea, ΔH#, ΔG#, and ΔS# at 300 K were 5.701, 6.294, 19.958 kcal mol−1 and −45.853 cal mol−1 K−1, respectively. This reaction is first and second order with respect to triphenylphosphine and para‐benzoquinone, respectively. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 36:472–479, 2004
Non‐Hydrolytic Route to Aluminoxane‐Type Derivative for Metallocene Activation towards Olefin Polymerisation
Authors: Dalet Thomas , Cramail Henri , Deffieux Alain
Published: June 2004

Summary: Access to methylaluminoxane‐type derivatives by a non‐hydrolytic route is described. The procedure involves the reaction between trimethylaluminium (TMA) and benzoic acid (BA) at temperatures comprised from 20 to 100 °C in toluene. The structure of the different aluminic derivatives formed for different ratios R = TMA/BA as well as the reaction pathways leading to these products were investigated by 1H NMR spectroscopy at different temperatures. The monomeric and/or oligomeric “Me2AlOAlMe2” species issued from the reaction between BA and TMA were found to methylate and then activate (cationize) rac‐Et(Ind)2ZrCl2 as shown by UV/visible spectroscopy analysis. This is further confirmed by successful hex‐1‐ene polymerisations carried out in the presence of such activators.

UV/visible absorption spectrum of rac‐Et(Ind)2ZrCl2 in toluene recorded in the presence of various amounts of MAO20° (R = 3).

magnified image

UV/visible absorption spectrum of rac‐Et(Ind)2ZrCl2 in toluene recorded in the presence of various amounts of MAO20° (R = 3).
On zero‐thickness interface elements for diffusion problems
Authors: Segura J. M. , Carol I.
Published: June 2004

The present study focuses on the hydraulic behaviour of joints, and, specially, on its numerical implementation in terms of the FEM analysis using a discrete fracture flow approach. Fluid flow through discontinuities has traditionally been modelled using special elements of zero‐thickness, which we can classify into single, double and triple‐nodded. Single node elements are the simplest and consist of ‘line’ or ‘pipe’ elements which are superimposed onto the standard continuum mesh and that can only model the longitudinal conductivity through the discontinuity. On the other hand, some authors have included the influence of a transversal conductivity, and the subsequent localized potential drop, by using triple node interface elements. In those, the two nodes of the adjacent continuum elements represent the potentials in the pore system on each side of the interface, and a third node in the middle represents the average potential of the fluid in the channel represented by the discontinuity. Finally, double node interface elements have also been proposed, which have the advantage of making it possible to use the same FE mesh for both mechanical and flow analysis. In some cases the influence of a transversal conductivity is not considered and, therefore, although geometrically double‐nodded, these elements belong to the single node type and when time comes to solve the system the two nodes must have the same potential, which can only be obtained by the ‘trick’ of prescribing the equivalence of these two d.o.f. before solving the global system of equations. This limitation may, however, be avoided by assuming that the potential in the channel is the average of the two sides of the interface. Based in this simple assumption, an alternative flow interface model has been recently developed and implemented, which preserves both longitudinal and transversal conductivities. An application example is developed and solved with the three types of interfaces described. The results offer useful information regarding the range of applicability and limitations of the new double‐nodded interface element proposed. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A projected‐steepest‐descent potential‐reduction algorithm for convex programming problems
Authors: Shi Yixun
Published: June 2004

A recent work of Shi (Numer. Linear Algebra Appl. 2002; 9: 195–203) proposed a hybrid algorithm which combines a primal‐dual potential reduction algorithm with the use of the steepest descent direction of the potential function. The $O(\sqrt{n} \mid \ln \, \varepsilon \mid )$ complexity of the potential reduction algorithm remains valid but the overall computational cost can be reduced. In this paper, we make efforts to further reduce the computational costs. We notice that in order to obtain the steepest descent direction of the potential function, the Hessian matrix of second order partial derivatives of the objective function needs to be computed. To avoid this, we in this paper propose another hybrid algorithm which uses a projected steepest descent direction of the objective function instead of the steepest descent direction of the potential function. The $O(\sqrt{n} \mid \ln \, \varepsilon \mid )$ complexity of the original potential reduction algorithm still remains valid but the overall computational cost is further reduced. Our numerical experiments are also reported. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Refined 15‐DOF triangular discrete degenerated shell element with high performances
Authors: Wanji Chen
Published: June 2004

A refined discrete degenerated 15‐DOF triangular shell element RDTS15 with high performances is proposed. For constructing the element displacement function, the exact displacement function of the Timoshenko's beam is used as the displacement on the element boundary, and the re‐constitute method for shear strain matrix is adopted. The proposed element can be used in the analysis of both moderate thick and thin plates/shells. Numerical examples presented show that the new model indeed possesses higher accuracy in the analysis of thin and thick plates/shells, and that it can pass the patch test required for the Kirchhoff thin plate elements, and also passed the inf–sup test for free cylindrical shell problems and satisfied both the bending‐ and membrane‐dominated test. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley Sons, Ltd.
Pathobiological implications of the expression of markers of testicular carcinoma in situ by fetal germ cells
Authors: Honecker Friedemann , Stoop Hans , de Krijger Ronald R , Chris Lau Yun‐Fai , Bokemeyer Carsten , Looijenga Leendert HJ
Published: June 2004

Several proteins, such as the placental/germ cell alkaline phosphatases (PLAPs), the stem cell factor receptor c‐KIT, and the transcriptional regulator and marker of pluripotency OCT3/4, have been found in both normal immature and malignant germ cells, known as carcinoma in situ/intratubular germ cell neoplasia unclassified (CIS/ITGCNU). In the present study, immunohistochemical methods were used to evaluate the expression of these markers in a series of male gonads from fetuses from the second and third trimesters, and neonates. In addition to these markers, the presence of VASA (a protein specific for the germ cell lineage), TSPY (the testis‐specific protein, Y‐encoded), and the proliferation index (Ki‐67 antigen) was analysed. All these proteins are reported to be present both during spermatogenesis and in CIS/ITGCNU. Positive staining for VASA with varying intensity was found in all germ cells, while TSPY was predominantly located in the prespermatogonial cells at all developmental ages. In contrast, the markers PLAP, c‐KIT, OCT3/4, and Ki‐67 were more frequent at earlier developmental stages and decreased gradually with time, although they could occasionally be detected in germ cells of neonates. These findings are in line with a declining number of gonocytes during fetal development, concomitant with an increase in the number of prespermatogonia. The latter have lost the immature germ cell phenotype. These findings are compatible with the hypothesis that CIS/ITGCNU arises from developmentally arrested germ cells, most likely primordial germ cells/gonocytes, at an early time point during intrauterine development. Copyright © 2004 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exploring the pathogenesis of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS): the tissue distribution of the coronavirus (SARS‐CoV) and its putative receptor, angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2)
Authors: To KF , Lo Anthony WI
Published: June 2004

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is an emerging infectious disease associated with a new coronavirus, SARS‐CoV. Pulmonary involvement is the dominant clinical feature but extra‐pulmonary manifestations are also common. Factors that account for the wide spectrum of organ system involvement and disease severity are poorly understood and the pathogenesis of SARS‐CoV infection remains unclear. Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) has recently been identified as the functional cellular receptor for SARS‐CoV. Studies of the tissue and cellular distribution of SARS‐CoV, and ACE2 protein expression, reveal new insights into the pathogenesis of this deadly disease. ACE2 is expressed at high level in the primary target cells of SARS‐CoV, namely pneumocytes and surface enterocytes of the small intestine. Despite the fact that SARS‐CoV can infect the lung and intestine, the tissue responses in these two organs are different. All other tissues and cell types expressing ACE2 may be potential targets of SARS‐CoV infection. Remarkably, endothelial cells, which express ACE2 to a high level, have not been shown to be infected by SARS‐CoV. There is also evidence that cell types without detectable ACE2 expression may also be infected by the virus. Furthermore, studies in a new human cell culture model have indicated that the presence of ACE2 alone is not sufficient for maintaining viral infection. Therefore, other virus receptors or co‐receptors may be required in different tissues. Moreover, the interaction between SARS‐CoV and the immunological or lymphoid system remains to be defined. It is clear that we are only at the dawn of our understanding of the pathogenesis of SARS. As our knowledge of the pathogenic mechanisms improves, a more rational approach to therapeutic and vaccine development can be designed in order to combat this new and fatal human disease. Copyright © 2004 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Activity of samarocene catalysts adsorbed on mesoporous silicates for the polymerization of methyl methacrylate
Authors: Yasuda Hajime , Nakayama Yuushou , Satoh Yoshinori , Shen Zhiquan , Ni Xufeng , Inoue Miyoshi , Namba Seitaro
Published: June 2004

A samarocene complex, (C5Me5)2SmMe(thf), was adsorbed on a series of mesoporous silicates of various pore sizes. Pre‐treatment of the latter with AlMe3 before adding the complex was effective in deactivating the surface silanol functionalities. The silicates having relatively larger pore size tended to adsorb a larger amount of the complex. The polymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA) by the complex adsorbed on the silicates with large pore sizes (>29 Å) quantitatively afforded highly syndiotactic poly(MMA)s with higher molecular weights compared with those obtained by the corresponding homogeneous system. Similar catalyst systems of smaller pore size were much less active. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
SWISS‐2DPAGE, ten years later
Authors: Hoogland Christine , Mostaguir Khaled , Sanchez Jean‐Charles , Hochstrasser Denis F. , Appel Ron D.
Published: June 2004

The SWISS‐2DPAGE database was established in 1993 and is maintained collaboratively by the Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics (SIB) and the Biomedical Proteomics Research Group (BPRG) of the Geneva University Hospital. During these years, SWISS‐2DPAGE underwent constant modification and improvement. Current content includes about 4000 identified spots corresponding to 1200 different protein entries in 36 reference maps from human, mouse, Arabidopsis thaliana, Dictyostelium discoideum, Escherichia coli, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Staphylococcus aureus origins. With a high level of annotation and integration with other relevant databases, SWISS‐2DPAGE is a reference source in the proteomics world. Queries to SWISS‐2DPAGE database currently reach 1000 hits per day.
Antimicrobial polymers containing melamine derivatives. I. Preparation and characterization of chloromelamine‐based cellulose
Authors: Braun Martha , Sun Yuyu
Published: June 2004

A reactive melamine derivative, 2‐amino‐4‐chloro‐6‐hydroxy‐s‐triazine (ACHT), was synthesized through the controlled hydrolysis of 2‐amino‐4,6‐dichloro‐s‐triazine. The reaction was characterized with Fourier transform infrared study and elemental analysis. ACHT could react with cotton cellulose at room temperature with a cold‐pad‐batch treatment process. Upon chlorination reactions, the amino group of covalently bound ACHT could be transformed into an N‐halamine structure, providing potent, durable, and rechargeable antimicrobial activities against both gram‐negative and gram‐positive bacteria. The chlorination mechanism and the structure–property relationship of the treated samples were further examined. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 42: 3818–3827, 2004
Chemical reactivity evaluation: The CCPS program
Authors: West A. S.
Published: June 2004

A summary is presented of the chemical reactivity evaluation aspects of the soon to be published “Guidelines for Chemical Reactivity Evaluation and Application to Process Design” developed under the sponsorship of the Center for Chemical Process Safety. Emphasis is placed on strategies for thermochemical evaluation of industrial chemical substances.

Certain structural entities, for example, high degrees of unsaturation and nitrogenhalogen linkages, will likely identify hazardous reactive chemicals. The effects of impurities in the chemicals, as well as, for example, incidental contact with water and air (oxygen), must also be considered in the evluation of potential reactivity hazards, representing undesired reactions.

Various test methods are indicated briefly along with the rationale for use of specific methods in hazard evaluation.
Simulation of the Thorney Island Dense Gas Trial No. 8, using the code ADREA‐HF
Authors: Andronopoulos S. , Bartzis J. G. , Würtz J. , Asimakopoulos D.
Published: June 2004

In the framework of the evaluation of the three‐dimensional, finite volume code ADREAHF, a computational simulation of the Thorney Island Dense Gas Trial No. 8 is performed. A one‐equation turbulence closure scheme is adopted in this first approach. The results of the simulation are compared with the experimental data in the form of concentration‐time histories. The model predictions are satisfactory, with a tendency of the model to underestimate the maximum gas concentration and the time of its occurrence. The differences between model predictions and experimental data can be reduced by taking into account concentration fluctuations, utilization of finer numerical grids and improvements of the turbulence modelling.
ARCO chemical's HAZOP experience
Authors: Sweeney Joseph C.
Published: June 2004

Of all the analytical tools available to the process safety professional, perhaps the most critical are those used to identify and analyze process hazards. Such tools have been collectively referred to as “Hazard Evaluation Procedures” by the Center for Chemical Process Safety (CCPS) and as techniques for “Process Hazard Analysis” (PHA) by the Occupational, Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

One of the best known PHA tools, the Hazard and Operability or HAZOP study, emerged over two decades ago in ICI, U.K., and its use has since spread over six continents. In 1979, ARCO Chemical piloted its first HAZOP and since then, HAZOPs have become the backbone of the company's Process Hazards Review procedure.

Repeated use of the HAZOP technique since 1979 has resulted in an affirmation that to be “successful”, much more was needed than simply executing the HAZOP technique. Success is dependent upon the preparation and planning effort that precedes the HAZOP, and the follow‐up activity that ensures implementation of study findings. Unlike the study technique, little information was available in 1979 on how to design the framework, or management system, that was needed to support the use of this tool.

The purpose of this paper is shift focus from executing the HAZOP technique to that framework, by presenting insights that have accumulated from using the technique in ARCO Chemical, especially during the period 1979 through 1986. These were the formative years, during which the company's advancement on the learning curve was most noticeable. These were the years that convinced the company that successful HAZOP studies do not just happen; success comes from building the right management system. Success must be defined and assured at each step in a Process Hazards Review procedure, of which executing the HAZOP technique is only one.
Prediction of ammonia releases using ADREA‐AF code
Authors: Statharas J. C. , Bartizis J. G. , Venetsanos A. , Würtz J.
Published: June 2004

The ADREA‐HF code is a 3‐D time dependent finite volume code for vapour cloud dispersion under development at NCSR “DEMOKRITOS” and JRC ISPRA. ADREA‐HF is especially suitable for complex terrain and is also designed to treat liquid phase change in the vapour cloud (two phase releases). The fluid dynamics and thermodynamics are described by the mixture mass, momentum and internal energy equations whereas mass conservation of the heavy fluid component is fulfilled through a separate mass transport equation. The system is assumed to be in thermodynamic equilibrium, but the liquid and gas phases can have different velocitites. The present work falls within the framework of the code validation for two phase relases. The experiment selected for comparision was the DT1 Run from the Desert Tortoise ammonia spill series of experiments. The results are given in terms of ammonia concentrations as well as temperatures. The comparison with the experimental data is discussed.
Hazard resolutions in sulfur plants from design through start up
Authors: Kolodji Brian P.
Published: June 2004

Lessons from a hazard and operability review (HAZOP) can be vital to safe operations throughout the life of any plant [1]. These lessons can come at a very high price. But, as the popular Mercedes Benz ad goes, “there are some secrets too valuable not to share,” In this paper incidents are documented at different phases of a type of plant's development. The phases of development include design/construction, initial startup, and normal operation. The type of plant of concern is the sulfur recovery unit in a refinery. How the finds impacted each project are detailed with resolutions and insights of the importance of performing a HAZOP with individuals intimately familar with the plant, with adequate preparation (meaning having available up‐to‐date and complete documentation), and following through in a systematic and thorough fashion. Also the importance of HAZOP updates throughout the plant's life are emphasized.
Accident prevention and the clean air act amendments of 1990 with particular reference to anhydrous hydrogen fluoride
Authors: Kaiser Geoffrey D.
Published: June 2004

The Sections of the Clean Air Act Amendments (CAAA) of 1990 that refer to accident prevention are to be found in Title III. Two significant requirements of the CAAA in this respect relate to the responsibilities of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which has promulgated a new Process Safety Management (PSM) standard and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which at the time of writing, is developing Risk Management Program (RMP) regulations. The focus of this paper is on how the requirements of the CAAA may affect the reasons for performing a Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA) or may affect the results of QRA.

In order to limit the discussion, this paper focuses on HF. First, the CAAA requires that the EPA assess the hazards associated with HF: the EPA's current draft report is discussed. Second, a generic assessment of the risks associated with the use of HF is given, with emphasis on alkylation units in refineries. The principal contributors to risk will be listed. Finally, an assessment of OSHA's PSM standard 29 CFR 1910.119, the related requirements of state laws such as California's Risk Management and Prevention Program and the potential requirements of EPA's Risk Management Program will be given, including an assessment of how these requirements may influence quantitative estimates of risk.
Case study of a hydrogen peroxide related deflagration in a wastewater treatment tank
Authors: Wehrum William L.
Published: June 2004

On August 3, 1991, at about 12:20 pm, a deflagration occurred inside a wastewater treatment tank at the Allied‐Signal Delaware Plant. The tank was being used to hold treated wastewater prior to discharge to the plant process sewer system. One minor injury occurred as a result of the deflagration. The tank sustained damage to its manway, conservation assembly, and inlet and discharge piping. The building in which the tank was located had to have relief panels and roofing replaced and required repairs to the walls where the roof girders separated from the masonry.

The exact cause of the deflagration is not known. Investigation of the incident indicated that the source of the deflagration was ignition of flammable vapors in the head space of the tank. The three most likely sources of ignition each involved the presence and use of hydrogen peroxide in the process.
Current research at TNO on vapor cloud explosion modelling
Authors: Merex W. P. M. , van Wees R. M. M. , Opschoor G.
Published: June 2004

The experimental and theoretical research on vapor cloud explosions, performed at TNO Prins Maurits Laboratory, is discussed within the framework of the simple model for explosion blast prediction, the Multi‐Energy Method. This research is focused on the influence of obstacles and confinement present in the vapor cloud on flame acceleration and overpressure production. This led to the development of the CFD code for reactive mixtures REAGAS3D. The research is mainly performed within multi‐sponsor projects and is carried out in collaboration with other laboratories from various European countries.

Further, the effect of vapor cloud explosions on constructions are discussed. The 3Dcode ABAQUS is used to quantify these effects.
Measuring performance and effectiveness of process safety management
Authors: Schreiber Sanford
Published: June 2004

This paper was originally presented at a CEC (Commission of the European Communities) Seminar held in Ravello, Italy, in October 1993, on Safety Management Systems in the Process Industry. The Seminar was held in the framework of the “Working Group 4—Major Accident Prevention Policies, Management Systems Including Audition” which is a Technical Working Group established by the Committee of National Competent Authorities for the Implementation of Directive 82/501/EEC on Major Accident Hazards of Certain Industrial Activities. The Seminar was open to participation of experts in Safety Management Systems from competent authorities as well as industry. Participants came from eleven Member States of the EC and USA. The purpose of the seminar was to provide up‐to‐date information to the members of WG 4 in order to achieve their mandate to develop guidance in relation to major accident prevention policies and management systems including auditing.
Reliability of interlocking systems
Authors: Freeman Raymond A.
Published: June 2004

The design of high integrity interlock systems involves more than the simple specification of high‐quality components. Redundancy of components is often used as a strategy to improve the reliability of an interlock system. This paper uses quantitative reliability engineering methods to explore the relationships of component reliability, time between proof tests, redundancy and common cause failures to overall system performance. The paper demonstrates that addition to redundancy often, but not always, improves the reliability of an interlock system. The paper also demonstrates how common cause failures can greatly reduce the chances of an interlock system performing when needed.
New revised VDI guideline 3673 “Pressure release of dust explosions”
Authors: Siwek Richard
Published: June 2004

The VDI Guideline 3673 “Pressure Release of Dust Explosions” published in June 1979 [1] describes one of the possible constructional protective measures against the effect of dust explosions and provides details on the venting area requirements of vessels and silos. Thanks to the results of extensive explosion trials conducted in the last ten years on the problems addressed above, important gaps in our knowledge have been filled and new findings gained which have made a revision of the above guidline necessary. The contents of the new version are reported and attention drawn to modifications compared with the first version.
Inherently safer plants: Practical applications
Authors: Englund Stanley M.
Published: June 2004

A considerable amount of information has been published in the area of “Inherently Safe Design” of chemical facilities. It is the purpose of this article to address some specific applications of “Inherently Safer” methods that have been used successfully in the design of chemical process plants. The objective is to reduce potential risk of harm or loss to people, the environment, and property.
Ignition behavior of dusts: Meaning and interpretation
Authors: Siwek Richard , Cesana Christoph
Published: June 2004

The minimum ignition energy and minimum ignition temperature of dust‐air‐mixtures are important technical safety indices. They are used for the assessment of the efficacy of the ignition sources expected in dust‐air mixtures. First of all, the test apparatus and the determination procedures are introduced, including the significant parameters on the mentioned indices. Finally, the correlations are described between—the minimum ignition energy and the efficacy of electrostatic sparks, —the minimum ignition energy and the minimum ignition temperature and the mechanically generated sparks on the on hand, the limiting oxygen concentration and the limiting gap width of combustible dusts on the other hand, —the minimum ignition temperature and hot steel surfaces (mechanically generated hot surfaces) or glowing particle nests surfaces.
Successful system design through integrating engineering and human factors
Authors: McCafferty Denise B.
Published: June 2004

Over the past decade increased public concern and governmental regulatory agency action has been directed at the industry as a result of major accidents around the world. Such accidents have resulted in multiple personnel injuries, fatalities and/or environmental damage. Post‐incident investigation of accidents such as those experienced by Phillips Petroleum Company, ARCO, Union Carbide, and Occidental Petroleum have made it clear that the source of these failures is often “human error.” For example, one study found that 80% of all accidents involving offshore oil and gas facilities in the U.S. were human‐induced, and 80% of those occurred during operation. Based on these statistics the engineering community and corporate management has begun to recognize that specialists (e.g., ergonomists, human factors specialists) trained to match human capabilities and limitations to the engineering requirements of a system, can make significant contributions toward overall system safety and performance. Working together, engineers and ergonomists/human factors specialists can, and have, created designs which effectively match the best of the human and machine capabilities to create operational hardware and software which reduces the potential for human error and increases overall system reliability. This paper shows how human factors and engineering can be successfully integrated in the process industry environment. Basic human factors concepts integral to system design are presented.
The relative risk of pressurized and refrigerated storage for six chemicals
Authors: Marshall John , Mundt Art , Hult Mike , McKealvy Tom , Meyers Phil , Sawyer Jim
Published: June 2004

The purpose of this study was to determine the relative risk associated with two methods of storage, pressurized and refrigerated, for six different chemicals. The study was done under the technical guidance of DNV Technica who provided example methodology (Off site Pressurized Ethylene Oxide) and reviewed all the cases.
Vacuum collapse of vented tanks
Authors: Nevers Noel De
Published: June 2004

Process tanks and vessels can withstand internal pressures much larger than the vacuums needed to collapse them. Such tanks and vessels are often collapsed when they are emptied without proper venting, or when their vents are obstructed. It is also possible to collapse a vented tank, if it is filled with steam and cooled rapidly.
CMMS: Five steps to ensure workability
Authors: Travis Darrell
Published: June 2004

Since the early 1980s, CMMS has been clearly defined as Computerized Maintenance Management Systems. By definition, CMMS has some huge short falls. I begin by breakage down the acronym and then, give you the path forward, that has been demonstrated to ensure success. For people that need the answer right away, skip directly to the “Systems,” Section.
Hazardous waste
Authors: Newhouse Roland
Published: June 2004

Does your company generate hazardous waste? If you don't know the answer, you should find out, and in a hurry. While you are at it, find out how much it is generated, where it does and who takes it there.
Improving the operator's capabilities during abnormal operations; observations from the control house
Authors: Emigholz Kenneth F.
Published: June 2004

Improving the prevention and response to abnormal operations is one of the highest goals in the petrochemical industry. Especially for those events not caused by sudden mechanical failures, the effectiveness of the plant operating team is crucial in preventing events (through early detection) and responding quickly to contain the effects.

As a continuing practice, a site can improve the operating teams effectiveness by incorporating consideration of abnormal operations in the design of the operating team's work and information environment. Among others, this includes the control house layout, the process control applications, the human/control system interface, the size and skills of the operating team, the training program, etc.

For the long term, the innovative use of technology combined with a restructuring of the operating team's role to take advantage of this technology is expected to provide the opportunity for dramatic improvement.