bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Festival Image Creation: The Role of Local and Interstate Newspapers
Authors: Frew Elspeth
Published: August 2009

Despite describing itself as an international festival, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival sells 91 percent of its tickets to local Melbourne residents, with only 4% of attendees visiting from other Australian states and, 1% from overseas. Therefore, the festival would benefit
from understanding how the festival is perceived by interstate residents and then adapt its public image accordingly. For that reason, the aim of the article is to consider the images created of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival first by the local newspapers and second by the interstate
newspapers. To achieve this, a content analysis of newspaper coverage of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival was conducted before the commencement of the festival, during the festival, and immediately following the close of the festival. The Melbourne based newspapers covered the festival
extensively, with previews and reviews of shows, profiles of artists, and articles on comedy as an art form. However, there was surprisingly scant coverage by the national and non-Victorian newspapers of the festival, despite the Melbourne International Comedy Festival being the largest cultural
event in Australia in terms of ticket sales. The descriptor words used in the non-Victorian newspaper articles were noted and the related newspaper photographs and illustrations were examined. The images created of the festival by the non-Victorian newspapers appear to be lightheartedness
and fun, where the comedians are depicted as experienced, professional performers skilled in the art of making their audience laugh. Opportunities for future research are identified.
Hydroxyapatite/Bioactive Glass Films Produced by a Sol–Gel Method: In Vitro Behavior
Authors: Köseoğlu Nihat C. , Büyükaksoy Aligül , Oral Ahmet Y. , Aslan Muhammed H.
Published: August 2009

Hydroxyapatite (HA) and HA/bioactive glass (49S) films were deposited on Si(100) substrates by a sol–gel dip‐coating method. The microstructure and in vitro bioactivity of the films were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Polycrystalline HA and amorphous bioactive glass films were obtained after annealing at 600 and 400 °C, respectively. The crystallization temperature of HA was determined to be around 568 °C. The surfaces of the HA films were covered with an apatite layer consists of spherulites formed by nanosized needle‐like aggregates after the soaking in simulated body fluid (SBF) for 10 days, while amorphous HA/bioactive glass surface was covered with larger spherical crystallites. Both XPS and EDS results obtained from HA/bioactive glass film, after soaking in SBF, showed increasing P amounts on the surface at the expense of Si. The higher density of the newly formed layer on HA/bioactive glass surface than that of the HA surface after 10 days of soaking was evidence of increased reaction rate and apatite forming ability when bioactive glass layer is present on the HA films.
Optimized La0.6Sr0.4CoO3–δ Thin‐Film Electrodes with Extremely Fast Oxygen‐Reduction Kinetics
Authors: Januschewsky Judith , Ahrens Martin , Opitz Alexander , Kubel Frank , Fleig Jürgen
Published: August 2009

La0.6Sr0.4CoO3–δ (LSC) thin‐film electrodes are prepared on yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) substrates by pulsed laser deposition at different deposition temperatures. The decrease of the film crystallinity, occurring when the deposition temperature is lowered, is accompanied by a strong increase of the electrochemical oxygen exchange rate of LSC. For more or less X‐ray diffraction (XRD)‐amorphous electrodes deposited between ca. 340 and 510 °C polarization resistances as low as 0.1 Ω cm2 can be obtained at 600 °C. Such films also exhibit the best stability of the polarization resistance while electrodes deposited at higher temperatures show a strong and fast degradation of the electrochemical kinetics (thermal deactivation). Possible reasons for this behavior and consequences with respect to the preparation of high‐performance solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) cathodes are discussed.
Spatial Patterning of the β‐Phase in Poly(9,9‐dioctylfluorene): A Metamaterials‐Inspired Molecular Conformation Approach to the Fabrication of Polymer Semiconductor Optical Structures
Authors: Ryu Gihan , Stavrinou Paul N. , Bradley Donal D. C.
Published: August 2009

Materials in which sub‐wavelength physical structures, rather than variations in chemical composition, are used to modify the nature of their interaction with electromagnetic radiation form the promising new class of metamaterials. For molecular materials one has an intriguing alternative, namely structuring the conformation or physical geometry of the molecule. In order for this to be an effective methodology one needs the change in conformation i) to engender a significant change in electromagnetic properties and ii) to be spatially controllable to allow patterning of practical structures. In this paper the potential of such an approach is demonstrated through spatial patterning, via masked solvent vapor exposure, of the β‐phase conformation in poly(9,9‐dioctylfluorene) (PFO). Significantly the conformation change approach preserves a planar film format and is found not to negatively impact on optical gain properties, both very attractive features for optoelectronic and photonic lightwave circuit applications. As a specific demonstration the ability to spatially control the lasing wavelength for samples in which a β‐phase conformation is selectively patterned in a glassy PFO film spin coated atop a one‐dimensional distributed‐feedback grating etched into a spectrosil substrate is shown.
Rheology and microstructure of functionalized polymer‐modified asphalt
Authors: Rojas J. M. , Hernández N. A. , Manero O. , Revilla J.
Published: August 2009

Viscoelastic and morphological properties of functionalized‐polymer‐modified asphalt, FPMA, have been described as function of number of epoxy groups presented in the functionalized polymer. At low temperatures, simple viscoelastic models can predict the elastic response of FPMA at short times and its viscous behavior at long times. The increase of epoxy groups yielded an increase on activation energy for viscous deformation of FPMA, and so, on its resistance to irreversible deformations under strain cycles. From ambient to higher temperatures, emulsion model can predict rheological properties of FPMA because they behave as viscoelastic emulsions. Modification of relaxation spectrum for FPMA due to the presence of a polymer network was not as strong as in normal PMA, thus, the rheological behavior of FPMA was found similar to systems having weak networks. However, the network became stronger as the number of epoxy groups was increased. This trend was verified by morphology of FPMA. Emulsion‐like structure was observed for all FPMA but differentiating each other by the polymer particle size. It was also observed that increase on epoxy groups, polymer particle size in the FPMA decreased, and higher stability at 180°C of FPMA was observed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Dendritic macromolecules containing several types of functional groups
Authors: Adeli Mohsen , Zarnegar Zohre , Kabiri Roya
Published: August 2009

Dendritic macromolecules containing several types of functional groups were successfully synthesized through divergent method. Poly(ethylene glycol) was functionalized using cyanuric chloride and it was reacted with p‐toluidine at room temperature and a macromolecule containing chloride and methyl functional groups (PEG‐Cl2‐Me2) was obtained. Substitution of chloride functional groups of PEG‐Cl2‐Me2 by hydroxyl functional groups led to a macromolecule containing methyl and hydroxyl functional groups (PEG‐Me2‐OH4). Hydroxyl functional groups of PEG‐Me2‐OH4 were reacted with cyanuric chloride and PEG‐Me2‐Cl8 was obtained. Finally, PEG‐Me2‐Cl8 was reacted with p‐aminophenol at room temperature and a macromolecule containing methyl, hydroxyl, and chloride functional groups (PEG‐Me2‐(PhOH)4‐Cl4) was obtained. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
RNA editing: a driving force for adaptive evolution?
Authors: Gommans Willemijn M. , Mullen Sean P. , Maas Stefan
Published: August 2009

Genetic variability is considered a key to the evolvability of species. The conversion of an adenosine (A) to inosine (I) in primary RNA transcripts can result in an amino acid change in the encoded protein, a change in secondary structure of the RNA, creation or destruction of a splice consensus site, or otherwise alter RNA fate. Substantial transcriptome and proteome variability is generated by A‐to‐I RNA editing through site‐selective post‐transcriptional recoding of single nucleotides. We posit that this epigenetic source of phenotypic variation is an unrecognized mechanism of adaptive evolution. The genetic variation introduced through editing occurs at low evolutionary cost since predominant production of the wild‐type protein is retained. This property even allows exploration of sequence space that is inaccessible through mutation, leading to increased phenotypic plasticity and provides an evolutionary advantage for acclimatization as well as long‐term adaptation. Furthermore, continuous probing for novel RNA editing sites throughout the transcriptome is an intrinsic property of the editing machinery and represents the molecular basis for increased adaptability. We propose that higher organisms have therefore evolved to systems with increasing RNA editing activity and, as a result, to more complex systems.
Explicit Nonlinear Predictive Control of a Distillation Column Based on Neural Models
Authors: Ławryńczuk M.
Published: August 2009

A nonlinear Model Predictive Control (MPC) algorithm and its application to a distillation column are described. The algorithm uses a neural model of the process that is linearized online around the current operating point. The algorithm is computationally efficient because the control policy is calculated explicitly without any optimization. The algorithm requires online repetition of a matrix decomposition task and the solution of linear equations. The obtained solution is projected onto the admissible set of constraints imposed on the magnitude and the increment of the manipulated variables. For the distillation column considered, the control accuracy is comparable not only to that obtained in MPC with online linearization and quadratic programming but also to that obtained in nonlinear MPC, which is based on full nonlinear optimization repeated at each sampling instant.
Multi‐Step Controlled Kinetics of the Transesterification of Crude Soybean Oil with Methanol by Mg(OCH3)2
Authors: Huang K. , Xu Q.‐L. , Zhang S.‐P. , Ren Z.‐W. , Yan Y.‐J.
Published: August 2009

This work focuses on a kinetic model that can be expressed as three significant controlled regions, i.e., a mass transfer controlled region in the internal surface of a heterogeneous catalyst, an irreversible chemical reaction controlled region in the pseudo‐homogenous fluid body and a reversible equilibrium chemical reaction controlled region near to the transesterification equilibrium stage. With the help of MATLAB7.0 software, the apparent reaction rate constants, k2, k2+ and k2–, were calculated and the corresponding apparent activation energies were calculated to be 67.450, 60.680 and 58.279 kJ·mol–1, respectively. According to the confirmation experiments, it is indicated that the results can be applied for predicting the FAME yield at other reaction temperatures.
Glycerol Reforming for Hydrogen Production: A Review
Authors: Vaidya P. D. , Rodrigues A. E.
Published: August 2009

Glycerol, which is obtained as a by‐product in biodiesel production, represents a candidate source of hydrogen that is renewable. Its conversion into hydrogen can be achieved by a reforming process. In this article, the glycerol reforming reaction is reviewed. Different reforming processes for hydrogen production, viz. steam, aqueous, and autothermal reforming, are described in brief. The thermodynamic analyses, which enable comparison with experimental studies, are considered. A discussion on experimental investigations over several catalysts is presented, too. Many reaction pathways are possible and some of them are dependent on the properties of the catalyst used. Generally, Ni, Pt, and Ru catalysts facilitate hydrogen production. The same catalysts are also effective for the reforming reaction of ethanol – another renewable resource for hydrogen. While ethanol steam reforming has been comprehensively reviewed by now, an overview on glycerol reforming is still missing. In this paper, an evaluation of the published studies is given to close this gap.
Preparation and Characterization of Imprinted Porous Materials with High Selectivity for Luteolin
Authors: Zhang Y. , Xiang L. , Du T. , Zhang Y. , Lu M.
Published: August 2009

In order to selectively separate luteolin from its crude solution, we synthesized imprinted porous materials with high recognition specificity for luteolin, using an imprinting technique. Modified luteolin was used as template, vinyltriethoxysilane as the functional monomer, and tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) as the cross‐linking agent. The results showed the following optimum reaction conditions: The reaction ratio between luteolin and acryloyl chloride was 1 : 2 (0.10 g/0.20 g), adding 1.0 g precursor; the feasible elution time was 12 h; when the molar quantity of modified template molecule was 0.01 mol and ethenyltriethyloxy‐silane (VTEO) was 0.04 mol, the maximum yield reached 91.6 %. All samples were tested by Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller method, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, equilibrium adsorption experiments and selective adsorption experiments. It was found that the imprinted porous materials showed excellent selectivity for luteolin in aqueous solution. Characterization by FTIR suggested that an addition reaction had occurred between the modified template molecule and VTEO while forming ester bonds in the functional precursor. Results from pore structure analysis indicated that the imprinted porous materials had good channels, and the average pore size of the prepared porous materials was between 35.85 and 95.82 Å. Adsorption dynamics analysis suggested that, when the adsorption time reached 3 h, the adsorption process had reached balance and the adsorption capacity was at steady state. These porous materials had highly selective recognition properties and high equilibrium adsorption capacity for the template molecule. The equilibrium adsorption capacity of the imprinted porous materials to the template molecule was 11.4 times that of the blank porous materials.
Diffusion von Gasen und Gasgemischen in Polymere unter hohen Drücken
Authors: Heinrich H. , Jaeger P. , Eggers R.
Published: August 2009

In dieser Arbeit wird der Stofftransport in polymeren Festkörpern untersucht. Dabei wird einerseits die Quellung der Polymere und andererseits die dafür ursächliche Sorption von Gasen berücksichtigt. Es wird gezeigt, dass bei der Quellung der Einbauzustand wesentlich die zu erwartende Volumenzunahme beeinflusst. Des Weiteren wird ein Ansatz zur Vorausbestimmung der Löslichkeit von binären Gasgemischen in Polymeren vorgestellt.
Expression of eukaryotic initiation factor 4E predicts clinical outcome in patients with mantle cell lymphoma treated with hyper‐CVAD and rituximab, alternating with rituximab, high‐dose methotrexate, and cytarabine
Authors: Inamdar Kedar V. , Romaguera Jorge E. , Drakos Elias , Knoblock Ronald J. , Garcia Mar , Leventaki Vasiliki , Medeiros L. Jeffrey , Rassidakis George Z.
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND:

Oncogenic AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling has recently been shown to contribute to tumor survival and proliferation in mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) through its downstream effector eukaryotic initiation factor 4E (eIF4E), which may control cyclin D1 protein levels. However, the clinical significance of eIF4E expression in MCL is unknown.

METHODS:

The authors investigated the prognostic significance of eIF4E expression in 70 MCL patients uniformly treated with hyper‐CVAD and rituximab, alternating with the rituximab, high‐dose methotrexate, and cytarabine regimen (R‐hyper‐CVAD). eIF4E expression was assessed using tissue biopsy specimens obtained before treatment, immunohistochemical methods, and a highly specific monoclonal antibody. Failure‐free (FFS) and overall (OS) survival were used as endpoints in univariate and multivariate survival analysis.

RESULTS:

High eIF4E expression was found in 28 (40%) MCL tumors. After a median follow‐up of 51 months for survivors, the 5‐year FFS was 20.6% for patients with high eIF4E expression, compared with 63.5% for patients with low or no eIF4E expression (P= .01, log‐rank). Similarly, the 5‐year OS was 40.1% for patients with high eIF4E expression, compared with 73.8% for patients with low or no eIF4E expression (P= .018, log‐rank). In multivariate analysis, eIF4E expression was associated with poorer FFS and OS, along with age >60 years and high β2–microglobulin in the final prognostic model.

CONCLUSIONS:

In summary, eIF4E, which seems to recapitulate most of the biologic effects of mTOR signaling in MCL, is an independent predictor of clinical outcome in MCL patients uniformly treated with the R‐hyper‐CVAD regimen. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Phase 1 multicenter study of vincristine sulfate liposomes injection and dexamethasone in adults with relapsed or refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Thomas Deborah A. , Kantarjian Hagop M. , Stock Wendy , Heffner Leonard T. , Faderl Stefan , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo , Ferrajoli Alessandra , Wierda William , Pierce Sherry , Lu Biao , Deitcher Steven R. , O'Brien Susan
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND:

Dose intensification of chemotherapy has improved outcome for younger adults with de novo acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Novel formulations of standard chemotherapy agents may further reduce the incidence of disease recurrence after frontline chemotherapy. Vincristine (VCR) sulfate liposomes injection (VSLI) is a sphingomyelin/cholesterol nanoparticle encapsulated VCR formulation that improves the pharmacokinetic profile of VCR without augmenting neurotoxicity.

METHODS:

A phase 1 trial of weekly, intravenous VSLI at 1.5 mg/m2, 1.825 mg/m2, 2.0 mg/m2, 2.25 mg/m2, or 2.4 mg/m2was conducted to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) using a standard, 3 + 3 dose‐escalation design. Dexamethasone (40 mg) was given on Days 1 through 4 and on Days 11 through 14 of each 4‐week cycle.

RESULTS:

Thirty‐six adults with relapsed/refractory ALL, all previously treated with conventional VCR, received at least 1 dose of VSLI. The MTD of VSLI was 2.25 mg/m2based on dose‐limiting toxicities of grade 3 motor neuropathy, grade 4 seizure, and grade 4 hepatotoxicity in 1 patient each at the 2.4 mg/m2dose level. The most common toxicities attributed to VSLI included peripheral neuropathy (55%) and constipation (53%). A complete response (CR) was achieved in 7 of 36 patients (19%) based on an intent‐to‐treat analysis; the CR rate was 29% for the 14 patients who underwent therapy as their first salvage attempt. Four of 7 patients who achieved a CR underwent subsequent allogeneic stem cell transplantation in remission.

CONCLUSIONS:

In this study, VSLI plus dexamethasone appeared to be an effective salvage therapy option for relapsed/refractory ALL. A phase 2, international, multicenter clinical trial assessing the efficacy of single‐agent VSLI as second salvage therapy for patients with previously treated ALL is underway. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Modelling the Two‐Dimensional Polymerization of 1,4‐Benzene Diboronic Acid on a Ag Surface
Authors: Sassi Michel , Oison Vincent , Debierre Jean‐Marc , Humbel Stéphane
Published: August 2009

Modelling of the two‐dimensional polymerization of 1,4‐benzene diboronic acid molecules on the Ag(111) surface, which leads to the formation of a covalent organic framework, is reported. An estimation of free enthalpy is given that takes into account the constraints induced by the molecular adsorption on the surface. The various thermodynamic functions, enthalpies, entropies, and free enthalpies, are obtained from DFT calculations. The entropic effect of the surface plays an important role in the polymerization free energy. A germination threshold is obtained.
Intracrystalline Transport Resistances in Nanoporous Zeolite X
Authors: Feldhoff Armin , Caro Jürgen , Jobic Hervé , Ollivier Jacques , Krause Cordula B. , Galvosas Petrik , Kärger Jörg
Published: August 2009

By applying pulsed‐field gradient nuclear magnetic resonance (PFG NMR) in comparison to quasi‐elastic neutron scattering (QENS), we sense by measurement of the diffusion of n‐octane on different length scales, transport resistances in faujasite type X (which is isostructural with type Y and differs by the lower Si/Al ratio only) with mutual distances of less than 300 nm. Direct observation of the real structure of zeolite X by transmission electron microscopy identifies them as stacking faults of mirror‐twin type on (111)‐type planes of the cubic framework. Thus, direct experimental proof is given that, in general, nanoporous host systems such as zeolite crystals cannot be considered as a mere arrangement of cavities. It is rather the presence of structural defects that dominates their properties as soon as transport phenomena with practical relevance, including chemical conversion by heterogeneous catalysis and chemical separation by molecular sieving and selective adsorption, become relevant.
Regional Fos expression induced by morphine withdrawal in the 7‐day‐old rat
Authors: McPhie Anika A. , Barr Gordon A.
Published: August 2009

Human infants are often exposed to opiates chronically but the mechanisms by which opiates induce dependence in the infant are not well studied. In the adult the brain regions involved in the physical signs of opiate withdrawal include the periaqueductal gray area, the locus coeruleus, amygdala, ventral tegmental area, nucleus accumbens, hypothalamus, and spinal cord. Microinjection studies show that many of these brain regions are involved in opiate withdrawal in the infant rat. Our goal here was to determine if these regions become metabolically active during physical withdrawal from morphine in the infant rat as they do in the adult. Following chronic morphine or saline treatment, withdrawal was precipitated in 7‐day‐old pups with the opiate antagonist naltrexone. Cells positive for Fos‐like immunoreactivity were quantified within select brain regions. Increased Fos‐like labeled cells were found in the periaqueductal gray, nucleus accumbens, locus coeruleus, and spinal cord. These are consistent with other studies showing that the neural circuits underlying the physical signs of opiate withdrawal are similar in the infant and adult. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 51: 544–552, 2009.
Evaluation of phosphoglycolipid elimination from rice bran oil by a nonporous membrane using NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Manjula Sarode , Divakar Soundar , Subramanian Rangaswamy
Published: August 2009

The presence of phosphoglycolipids (PGL) in degummed rice bran oil (RBO) affects the color in the subsequent refining process, posing problems in producing a final product of acceptable quality. A nonporous membrane could achieve near complete removal of phospholipids even under hexane‐diluted conditions, including PGL present in RBO. PGL from glycolipid fractions isolated from various membrane process stream samples, analyzed by 1H, 13C and 31P NMR spectroscopic techniques, indicated the absence of PGL in the permeate, besides identifying them to be oleates/linoleates of phosphatidic acid. Hence, the efficacy of a nonporous membrane in the removal of PGL suggests its application for effective degumming of crude RBO.
Physicochemical studies of hemp (Cannabis sativa) seed oil using enzyme‐assisted cold‐pressing
Authors: Latif Sajid , Anwar Farooq
Published: August 2009

The effects of enzyme‐assisted cold‐pressing (EACP) on the physicochemical attributes of Cannabis sativa (hemp) seed oil were investigated using five enzyme preparations: Protex 7L, Viscozyme L, Kemzyme, Feedzyme, and Natuzyme. The oil contents (28.4–32.8%) offered by the enzyme‐treated hempseeds were found to be significantly (p <0.05) higher than that determined for the control (26.7%). The protein, fiber, and ash contents of the seeds were unaffected by the enzyme treatment. There were no significant (p >0.05) variations observed for the values of iodine number, refractive index, density, unsaponifiable matter and fatty acid composition between the enzyme‐extracted and control hempseed oils. The levels of saponification value, free fatty acids, iodine value and peroxide value were slightly varied between the oils tested. The color intensity of the enzyme‐extracted oils was also higher than that of the control oil. A relatively higher level of tocopherols (724.4–788.8 mg/kg) was observed in the enzyme‐extracted oils compared to the control (691.2 mg/kg), showing an enhancement of ca. 4.8–14.1% in the total tocopherols. The Rancimat profiles and sensory scores of the enzyme‐extracted oils were noted to be improved compared to the control. The results of the present analysis (with respect to the control) showed that the enzyme added during the hempseed cold‐pressing resulted in considerably higher oil yields, without adversely affecting the quality of the oil.
Natural antioxidants in tree nuts
Authors: Alasalvar Cesarettin , Shahidi Fereidoon
Published: August 2009

The levels of natural antioxidants and phytochemicals present in tree nuts are reported. Where possible, the health claims by Food and Drug Administration and European Food Safety Authority and health effects of tree nuts are provided. The content and recommended dietary allowances of nutrient antioxidants (such as vitamins A, C, E, and the mineral selenium) present in various tree nuts are compared. Antioxidant activity and phytochemicals present among tree nuts have been thoroughly reviewed. Research findings from over 65 references, many of which have been published within the last 10 years, have been compiled and reported.
Synthesis of Novel gluco‐ and galacto‐Functionalized Platinum Complexes
Authors: Möker Janina , Thiem Joachim
Published: August 2009

Cisplatin, carboplatin, oxaliplatin and further derivatives are worldwide established cytostatics for the treatment of a vast range of tumours. These drugs showed extraordinary success; however, side effects and primary or developed secondary resistance of tumour cells represent severe problems, which prompt the development of novel functionalized platinum complexes. Selectively protected monohydroxy derivatives of glucose and galactose could be etherified by ω‐halo ethers. Further, Finkelstein reaction and malonate synthesis gave precursor glycoconjugates which were easily transformed into their (diammine)platinum complexes. First tests with different tumour cell lines show biological activity of the gluco‐functionalized platinum complex.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
The effect of biomass feedstock type and process parameters on achieving the total carbon conversion in the large scale fluidized bed gasification of biomass
Authors: Moilanen Antero , Nasrullah Muhammad , Kurkela Esa
Published: August 2009

One option for the production of liquid biofuel in Finland is based on fluidized bed gasification of biomass and Fischer‐Tropsch synthesis process. The total carbon conversion achieved in the gasifier, operating at temperatures below 1000°C, depends mainly on the reactivity of solid char residue. The reactivity of the char residue is affected by temperature, partial pressures of the reactants H2O and CO2 and product gas components (H2 and CO), which are inhibiting the reactivity. In this reactivity, catalytic active substances, alkaline and earth‐alkaline metal compounds play a significant role. Other elements like silicon can react with the metals, leading to losses in the catalytic activity. These elements are naturally occurring in the biomass, and their behavior is individually dependent on the biomass type. The carbon conversion can be improved by increasing temperature, but it should not be too high to avoid ash sintering. By increasing the pressure, the reactivity increases normally, but for biomass it sometimes has no effect or it is even reduced. It was also observed that during the process of debarking and storage of biomass, it remains in contact with water, which can reduce the amount of some alkaline and earth alkaline metals because of leaching that can further affect reactivity and ash sintering. We studied the effects of the above‐mentioned factors on various barks, like spruce, pine, birch, aspen, which are the most potential biomass feedstock to be used in the large‐scale gasification in Finland. The measurements were carried out in the pressurized thermobalance in the conditions relevant for the pressurized oxygen gasification. Thus, the total pressure range was up to 20 bar, and the partial pressures of the reactants and the product gas components varied respectively. The parameters measured will be used for the development of the gasifier model. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2009
Long-Term Efficacy of Tenofovir Monotherapy for Hepatitis B Virus-Monoinfected Patients After Failure of Nucleoside/Nucleotide Analogues
Authors: van Bömmel Florian , de Man Robert A. , Wedemeyer Heiner , Deterding Katja , Petersen Jörg , Buggisch Peter , Erhardt Andreas , Hüppe Dietrich , Stein Kerstin , Trojan Jörg , Sarrazin Christoph , Böcher Wulf O. , Spengler Ulrich , Wasmuth Hermann E. , Reinders Jurrien G.P. , Möller Bernd , Rhode Peter , Feucht Heinz-Hubert , Wiedenmann Bertram , Berg Thomas
Published: August 2009

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) has demonstrated high antiviral efficacy in treatment-naive patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection but experience in nucleoside/nucleotide analogue (NA)-experienced patients is limited. In this retrospective multicenter study we therefore assessed the long-term efficacy of TDF monotherapy in patients with prior failure or resistance to different NA treatments. Criteria for inclusion were HBV DNA levels >4.0 log10 copies/mL at the start and a minimum period of TDF therapy for at least 6 months. In all, 131 patients (mean age 42 ± 12 years, 95 male, 65% hepatitis B e antigen [HBeAg]-positive) were eligible. Pretreatment consisted of either monotherapy with lamivudine (LAM; n = 18), adefovir (ADV; n = 8), and sequential LAM-ADV therapy (n = 73), or add-on combination therapy with both drugs (n = 29). Three patients had failed entecavir therapy. Resistance analysis in 113 of the 131 patients revealed genotypic LAM and ADV resistance in 62% and 19% of patients, respectively. The mean HBV DNA level at TDF baseline was 7.6 ± 1.5 log10 copies/mL. The overall cumulative proportion of patients achieving HBV DNA levels <400 copies/mL was 79% after a mean treatment duration of 23 months (range, 6–60). Although LAM resistance did not influence the antiviral efficacy of TDF, the presence of ADV resistance impaired TDF efficacy (100% versus 52% probability of HBV DNA <400 copies/mL, respectively). However, virologic breakthrough was not observed in any of the patients during the entire observation period. Loss of HBeAg occurred in 24% of patients and HBsAg loss occurred in 3%. No significant adverse events were noticed during TDF monotherapy.

Conclusion:

TDF monotherapy induced a potent and long-lasting antiviral response in NA-experienced patients with previous treatment failure. Our data may have implications for current add-on strategies. (Hepatology 2009.)
Inhibition of Poly Adenosine Diphosphate-Ribose Polymerase Decreases Hepatocellular Carcinoma Growth by Modulation of Tumor-Related Gene Expression
Authors: Quiles-Perez Rosa , Muñoz-Gámez José Antonio , Ruiz-Extremera Ángeles , O'Valle Francisco , Sanjuán-Nuñez Laura , Martín-Álvarez Ana Belén , Martín-Oliva David , Caballero Trinidad , de Rueda Paloma Muñoz , León Josefa , Gonzalez Raúl , Muntané Jordi , Oliver Francisco Javier , Salmerón Javier
Published: August 2009

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is associated with a poor prognosis due to a lack of effective treatment options. In HCC a significant role is played by DNA damage and the inflammatory response. Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) is an important protein that regulates both these mechanisms. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of pharmacology PARP-1 inhibition on the reduction of tumor volume of HCC xenograft and on the hepatocarcinogenesis induced by diethyl-nitrosamine (DEN). Pharmacologic PARP-1 inhibition with DPQ greatly reduces tumor xenograft volume with regard to a nontreated xenograft (394 mm3 versus 2,942 mm3,

P

< 0.05). This observation was paralleled by reductions in xenograft mitosis (

P

= 0.02) and tumor vasculogenesis (

P

= 0.007, confirmed by

in vitro

angiogenesis study), as well as by an increase in the number of apoptotic cells in DPQ-treated mice (

P

= 0.04). A substantial difference in key tumor-related gene expression (transformed 3T3 cell double minute 2 [

MDM2

],

FLT1

[vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1,

VEGFR1

], epidermal growth factor receptor [

EPAS1

]/hypoxia-inducible factor 2 [

HIF2A

],

EGLN1

[

PHD2

], epidermal growth factor receptor [

EGFR

],

MYC, JUND, SPP1

[

OPN

], hepatocyte growth factor [HGF]) was found between the control tumor xenografts and the PARP inhibitor-treated xenografts (data confirmed in HCC cell lines using PARP inhibitors and PARP-1 small interfering RNA [siRNA]). Furthermore, the results obtained in mice treated with DEN to induce hepatocarcinogenesis showed, after treatment with a PARP inhibitor (DPQ), a significant reduction both in preneoplastic foci and in the expression of preneoplastic markers and proinflammatory genes (

Gstm3, Vegf, Spp1 [Opn], IL6, IL1b,

and

Tnf

), bromodeoxyuridine incorporation, and NF-κB activation in the initial steps of carcinogenesis (

P

< 0.05).

Conclusion:

This study shows that PARP inhibition is capable of controlling HCC growth and preventing tumor vasculogenesis by regulating the activation of different genes involved in tumor progression. (Hepatology 2010;51:255–266.)
Impaired Expression and Function of Toll-Like Receptor 7 in Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Human Hepatoma Cells
Authors: Chang Serena , Kodys Karen , Szabo Gyongyi
Published: August 2009

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) interferes with interferon (IFN)-mediated innate immune defenses. Toll-like receptor (TLR) 7 agonists robustly inhibit HCV infection. We hypothesize that HCV infection may interfere with the expression and/or function of TLR7, a sensor of single-stranded RNA. We identified reduced TLR7 RNA and protein levels in hepatoma cells expressing HCV (full-length, BB7-subgenomic, and JFH-1 clone) compared with control HCV-naïve cells. The biological relevance of this finding was confirmed by the observation of decreased TLR7 RNA in livers of HCV-infected patients compared with controls. HCV clearance, by IFN-α treatment or restrictive culture conditions, restored the decreased TLR7 expression. Treatment with RNA polymerase inhibitors revealed a shorter TLR7 half-life in HCV-replicating cells compared with controls. Downstream of TLR7, an increased baseline IRF7 nuclear translocation was observed in HCV-positive cells compared with controls. Stimulation with the TLR7 ligand R837 resulted in significant IRF7 nuclear translocation in control cells. In contrast, HCV-replicating cells showed attenuated TLR7 ligand-induced IRF7 activation.

Conclusion:

Reduced TLR7 expression, due to RNA instability, directly correlates with HCV replication and alters TLR7-induced IRF7-mediated cell activation. These results suggest a role for TLR7 in HCV-mediated evasion of host immune surveillance. (Hepatology 2009.)
Measuring the discharge of the Amazon River using Doppler technology (Manacapuru, Amazonas, Brazil)
Authors: Filizola Naziano , Guyot Jean Loup , Guimarães Valdemar
Published: August 2009

The purpose of this article is to report an experiment performed with an Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler—ADCP, under tropical environmental conditions, aimed at testing and evaluating the ADCP and comparing the results obtained with those provided by traditional methods used in the Amazon River Basin. The HiBAm research team tested the ADCP over a 4‐day period at the Manacapuru section on the Solimões River. During this period, 34 water discharge measurements were completed, whereas only a maximum of only 3 measurements would have been possible using traditional methods, due to operational limitations. The ADCP results differed from the other methods by about 9%. However, the final water discharge results (93 × 103 m3.s−1 for the experiment period) showed that the ADCP offers fundamental advantages in terms of measurement reproducibility (less than 1%), speed (only 30 min for a 3000‐m transect), reduced number of people (two) and safety. The results also indicate that the ADCP can help solve the problem of scatter associated with the rating curve for Manacapuru. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Suspended sediment yields in the Amazon basin: an assessment using the Brazilian national data set
Authors: Filizola Naziano , Guyot Jean Loup
Published: August 2009

In this paper, we make use of a Brazilian national data set comprising suspended sediment data for the Amazon region. This contains more than 2500 samples from 60 sites that have been running since the 1970s and are still operated on an almost quarterly basis. These data provide a valuable basis for assessing suspended sediment yields in the largest river basin on earth. We also discuss the sampling procedures and the methods for total suspended sediment (TSS) flux calculation employed in the Amazon region. An analysis of the contribution of the largest Amazon River tributaries to the total sediment load of the Amazon and the relationship between TSS and water discharge has been undertaken. The Brazilian data provide representative information on sediment transport within the basin, particularly for the central flood plain and in the Brazilian and Guiana shields. A basic assessment of the suspended sediment load data highlights the major Andean TSS contribution (more than 1000 106 t year−1) and the lower contribution from the shield areas (less than 100 106 t year−1). On the basis of the data from the network of TSS stations, the shield areas are estimated to contribute 7% of the TSS yield from the Amazon River basin. A region of deposition has been identified in the middle of the basin; and the sedimentation rate in the ‘várzeas’ in the Amazon River basin lowlands has been estimated to be between 3 and 6 mm year−1. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hydrodynamic characteristics of the Tam Pokhari glacial lake outburst flood in the Mt. Everest region, Nepal
Authors: Osti Rabindra , Egashira Shinji
Published: August 2009

The Tam Pokhari glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF), which occurred in 1998 in the Mt. Everest region of Nepal, was evaluated using hydrodynamic models to gain a better understanding of the flow behaviour. The flood wave was analysed separately under rigid and erodible boundary conditions. In both cases, the calculated dam‐breach hydrograph, which had a peak discharge of about 10 000 m3/s, was routed through the Inkhu River, which originates from the lake. The morphologic changes along the river were also analysed and the results were compared with satellite images, field observations and recorded data. In the case of rigid boundaries, the routing procedure gradually attenuated the peaks of the hydrographs to account for hydraulic pooling in narrow gorges and storage in the channel. In the case of erodible boundaries, such effects were minimized due to the increment in channel capacity associated with erosion by debris flow. The study revealed that the GLOF event produced a large‐scale debris flow. Additionally, the results revealed that erosion and deposition took place intermittently, but that approximately 440 000 m3 of sediment was deposited about 14 km downstream from the lake mouth. The calculated peak of the water and sediment mixture at 14·4 km was found to be 30 000 m3/s, which is almost 6 times as large as that observed when the rigid boundary conditions were used. Further, the increase in the peaks of the hydrographs due to sediment transport was the primary reason for the destruction associated with the GLOF. These findings suggest that the local sedimentology and topography, as well as other geo‐hazard conditions in the area, should be carefully evaluated before recommending any control measures against GLOFs in the Himalayan region. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Trace element and major ion concentrations and dynamics in glacier snow and melt: Eliot Glacier, Oregon Cascades
Authors: Fortner Sarah K. , Lyons W. Berry , Fountain Andrew G. , Welch Kathleen A. , Kehrwald Natalie M.
Published: August 2009

We present concentrations of environmentally available (unfiltered acidified 2% v/v HNO3) As, Cu, Cd, Pb, V, Sr, and major ions including Ca2+, Cl−, and SO42− in a July 2005 and a March 2006 shallow snow profile from the lower Eliot Glacier, Mount Hood, Oregon, and its proglacial stream, Eliot Creek. Low enrichment factors (EF) with respect to crustal averages suggests that in fresh March 2006 snow environmentally available elements are derived primarily from lithogenic sources. Soluble salts occurred in lower and less variable concentrations in July 2005 snow than March 2006. Conversely, environmentally available trace elements occurred in greater and more variable concentrations in July 2005 than March 2006 snow. Unlike major solutes, particulate‐associated trace elements are not readily eluted during the melt season. Additionally, elevated surface concentrations suggest that they are likely added throughout the year via dry deposition. In a 1‐h stream sampling, ratios of dissolved (<0·45 µm) V:Cl−, Sr:Cl−, and Cu:Cl− are enriched in the Eliot Stream with respect to their environmentally available trace element to Cl− ratios in Eliot Glacier snow, suggesting chemical weathering additions in the stream waters. Dissolved Pb:Cl− is depleted in the Eliot Stream with respect to the ratio of environmentally available Pb to Cl− in snow, corresponding to greater adsorption onto particles at greater pH values. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Detecting water yield variability due to the small proportional land use and land cover changes in a watershed on the Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Wang Shengping , Zhang Zhiqiang , Sun Ge , McNulty Steven G. , Zhang Manliang
Published: August 2009

Soil conservation practices have been widely implemented on the Loess Plateau to reduce severe soil erosion in north‐central China over the past three decades. However, the hydrologic impacts of these practices are not well documented and understood. The objective of this study was to examine how water yield has changed after implementing soil conservation practices that resulted in changes in land use and land cover in a small agriculture‐dominated watershed, the LuErGou Watershed in Tianshui City, Gansu Province, China. We collected 23 years of hydro‐meteorological data along with three land use surveys of 1982, 1989, and 2000. The land use survey in 2000 suggested that the soil conservation efforts resulted in a 16·6%, 4%, and 16% increase in area of grassland, forested land, and terraces respectively over the two periods from 1982 to 1988 (baseline) and 1989 to 2003 (soil conservation measures implemented). Rainfall–runoff regression models developed for both time periods at the annual and monthly time steps were used to examine the significance of change in water yield in the second time period. The averaged annual run‐off coefficient over 1989–2003 did not change significantly (at the α = 0·05 level) as compared to that in the period 1982–1988. However, we found that soil conservation practices that included re‐vegetation and terracing reduced water yield during wet periods. This study highlights the importance of the precipitation regime in regulating hydrologic effects of soil conservation measures in a semi‐arid environment. We concluded that adequately evaluating the effects of land use change and soil conservation measures on water yield must consider the climatic variability under an arid environment. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Human mesenchymal stem cells: Influence of oxygen pressure on proliferation and chondrogenic differentiation in fibrin glue in vitro
Authors: Baumgartner Laura , Arnhold Stefan , Brixius Klara , Addicks Klaus , Bloch Wilhelm
Published: August 2009

Tissue engineering using biomaterials is a promising solution for cartilage replacement. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the fibrin sealant Tissucol® provides a suitable scaffold for re‐implanting stem cells during chondrogenic replacement therapy. Pluripotent stem cells were isolated from adult human bone marrow (hMSCs), cultured and characterized by FACS (CD105+/CD106+, CD45‐/CD14‐/CD34‐). A large‐holed porous hMSC‐containing fibrin matrix was built that allowed hMSCs to survive throughout the period of culture (42 days) in either proliferation or chondrogenic differentiation medium under normoxic (21% O2) or hypoxic (3% O2) conditions. Morphology (as determined by electron microscopy) and proliferation (Ki67 staining) of the embedded hMSCs did not markedly vary under normoxic and hypoxic culture even after 42 days in culture. The stem cell marker Oct‐4 was expressed during the whole culture period. Under chondrogenic differentiation conditions, especially under hypoxic conditions, we observed rounded chondrocyte‐like cell types and a chondral phenotype assessed by mRNA expression of collagen II and Alcian blue staining. hMSCs seeded into large‐holed porous preparations of Tissucol® survive, proliferate and keep their stem cell character. Furthermore, culturing the cells in a corresponding medium induces chondrogenic differentiation, which could be remarkably and significantly enhanced under hypoxic conditions. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Characterization and in vitro hemocompatibility of bi‐soft segment, polycaprolactone‐based poly(ester urethane urea) membranes
Authors: Besteiro Mónica C. , Guiomar A. Jorge , Gonçalves Carlos A. , Bairos Vasco A. , de Pinho Maria N. , Gil M. Helena
Published: August 2009

In this study, surface, bulk, and hemocompatibility characteristics of crosslinked, bi‐soft segment poly (ester urethane urea) membranes, prepared by extending a poly(propylene oxide)‐based triisocyanate‐terminated prepolymer (PU) with a polycaprolactone diol (PCL), were investigated. Variation of the ratio of PU to PCL diol content in the membrane formulation yielded alteration of surface energy, phase morphology both in the bulk and in the region near the surface, and it affected hemocompatibility. Nearly all membranes were nonhemolytic, with hemolysis degrees between 1 and 2.1% and, for short‐time contact with blood (15 min), all membranes showed in vitro thrombosis degrees between 27 and 42%. The membranes prepared with 5 and 25% of PCL diol showed almost no adherent platelets. These two membranes had a higher hard segment aggregation in the region near the surface and mixing between the two soft segments in the bulk, but showed contrasting surface energy characteristics. The results obtained in this work give evidence that surface energy and its polar and dispersive components did not correlate with any of the hemocompatibility aspects studied. In contrast, the phase morphology in the region near the surface was a major influence on membrane hemocompatibility. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010