bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case of anorexia nervosa in a Chinese boy brought up in the United Kingdom
Authors: Chapman Victoria , Procopio Marco
Published: June 2007

This is the first report of anorexia nervosa in a child from a Chinese immigrant family. Anorexia nervosa has been described as rare in China and in the Chinese Community of Hong Kong possibly because of protective biological and cultural factors which are specific to the Chinese. This case attempts to illustrate that such factors may be lost in Chinese families now living in the West and that also there are indications that anorexia nervosa may be under‐diagnosed in such families.
Subspace recursive weighted LS solution of iterative synchronisation in time‐variant channel
Authors: Sykora Jan , Vcelak Jan
Published: June 2007

Expectation‐Maximisation (EM) based iterative synchroniser is a particular form of the Information Measure Directed (IMD) synchroniser usinga posteriorisoft information from the iterative decoding network. We solve the problem of EM‐based IMD synchronisation in the generalfast time‐variantchannel. The channel coefficients are allowed to change arbitrarily up to the granularity of the symbol period. We have identified the correspondence between the EM iterator and the weighted least squares (LS) problem. This allows to utilise a wide range of solutions developed for the LS problem. Particularly interesting is thesubspace order recursiveform of the LS iterator which reduces the implementation complexity. The parameter subspace in the estimator is modelled using a wide range of configuration. This allows consideration for the channel dynamics while reducing the dimensionality of the problem substantially when the model is properly matched to the real channel behaviour including an adaptive subspace dimension setting. The procedure is demonstrated on example systems with the estimation of phase and jointly amplitude and phase on serially concatenated coding scheme. We use realistic Jake's Doppler dynamics as an example for the true channel and variety of subspace models for the EM estimator. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A numerical model for flame spread along combustible flat solid with charring material with experimental validation of ceiling flame spread and upward flame spread
Authors: Weng W. G. , Hasemi Y.
Published: June 2007

This paper gives a numerical model for flame spread along combustible flat solid with charring materials. The presented model consists of a one‐dimensional flame spread model coupled with a one‐dimensional pyrolysis model. The existing experimental data (the ceiling flame spread beneath medium density fibreboard) are used for comparison to validate the model. In addition, the model can also be used to predict upward flame spread; only some expressions are changed. A comparison with full‐scale experimental data on the upward flame spread over plywoods from the literature is performed. The results obtained from numerical simulations using the model are consistent with these two kinds of experimental tests. Thus, the presented model is appropriate for modelling not only the ceiling flame spread, but also the upward flame spread. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons,
Ltd.
Pressure induces loss of gap junction communication and redistribution of connexin 43 in astrocytes
Authors: Malone Paula , Miao Haixi , Parker Amy , Juarez Santiago , Hernandez M. Rosario
Published: June 2007

Astrocytes, the major glia in the nonmyelinated optic nerve head (ONH), connect via gap junctions built of connexin‐43 (Cx43) to form a functional syncytium allowing communication and control of ionic and metabolic homeostasis of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) axon. We examined gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) by scrape loading assays in human ONH astrocytes exposed to hydrostatic (HP) or ambient pressure (CP) in vitro. Immunostaining, immunoprecipitation, and immunoblots were used to detect Cx43 distribution and phosphorylation in astrocytes exposed to HP with/without EGF receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors AG1478 and AG82 and MAPK inhibitors U0126, PD98059, and SB203580. The data indicates that upon exposure to HP, astrocytes decrease GJIC and exhibit altered cellular localization and phosphorylation of Cx43. Inhibition of EGFR blocked the effects of HP on GJIC and HP‐induced Cx43 tyrosine phosphorylation. Inhibitors of MAPK‐ ERK1/2 and ‐p38 caused partial closure of GJIC under CP and HP, which was maintained for 6 h. Inhibition of Big Mitogen‐Activated Kinase 1/ERK5 (BMK1/ERK5) caused partial closure under CP and HP followed by full recovery after 6 h. Inhibition of MAPK did not affect the HP‐induced increase in Cx43 serine 279/282 phosphorylation. We conclude that activation of the EGFR pathway in response to HP leads to decrease of GJIC via tyrosine phosphorylation of Cx43 in ONH astrocytes. In glaucoma under conditions of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), astrocytes may lose GJIC altering the homeostasis of RGC axons, adopting the reactive phenotype, contributing to glaucomatous neuropathy. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Analysis of hospital costs as a basis for pricing services in Mali
Authors: Audibert Martine , Mathonnat Jacky , Pareil Delphine , Kabamba Raymond
Published: June 2007

In a move to achieve a better equity in the funding of access to health care, particularly for the poor, a better efficiency of hospital functioning and a better financial balance, the analysis of hospital costs in Mali brings several key elements to improve the pricing of medical services. The method utilized is the classical step‐down process which takes into consideration the entire set of direct and indirect costs borne by the hospital. Although this approach does not allow to estimate the economic cost of consultations, it is a useful contribution to assess the financial activity of the hospital and improve its performance, financially speaking, through a more relevant user fees policy. The study shows that there are possibilities of cross‐subsidies within the hospital or within services which improve the recovery of some of the current costs. It also leads to several proposals of pricing care while taking into account the constraints, the level of the hospital its specific conditions and equity. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Focusing on the software of managing health workers: what can we learn from high commitment management practices?
Authors: Marchal Bruno , Kegels Guy
Published: June 2007

Knowledge of what constitutes best practice in human resource management (HRM) in public‐oriented services is limited and the operational aspects of managing health workers at provision level have been poorly studied. The magnet hospital concept offers some insights into HRM practices that are leading to high commitment. These have been shown to lead to superior performance in not only industrial business firms, but also service industries and the public service. The mechanisms that drive these practices include positive psychological links between managers and staff, organizational commitment and trust. Conditions for successful high commitment management (HiCoM) include health service managers with a strong vision and able to transmit this vision to their staff, appropriate decision spaces for healthcare managers and a pool of reasonable well‐trained health workers. For this, adequate remuneration is the first condition. Equally important are the issues of cultural fit and of ‘commitment’. What would staff expect from management in return for their commitment to the organization? Salary buys indeed time of employees, but other practices ensure their commitment. Only if these drivers are understood will managers be able to make their HRM practices more responsive to the needs and expectations of the health workers. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative preclinical activity of the folate‐targeted Vinca alkaloid conjugates EC140 and EC145
Authors: Leamon Christopher P. , Reddy Joseph A. , Vlahov Iontcho R. , Westrick Elaine , Parker Nikki , Nicoson Jeffrey S. , Vetzel Marilynn
Published: June 2007

EC140 is a water soluble folate conjugate of desacetylvinblastine monohydrazide (DAVLBH), which is constructed with an endosome‐cleavable acyl hydrazone bond. This agent has proven to be active and specific against well established, subcutaneous folate receptor (FR)‐positive tumors in multiple animal models. Recent structure‐activity and optimization studies have yielded a disulfide bond‐containing counterpart to EC140, herein referred to as EC145. This new conjugate was found to retain high affinity for FR‐positive cells, and it produced specific, dose‐responsive activity in vitro. Comparative in vivo efficacy tests confirmed that, like EC140, EC145 displays activity against both syngeneic and xenograft tumor models. However, EC145 was found to be more active and better tolerated than EC140; hence, more durable complete responses were consistently observed in EC145‐treated tumor‐bearing animals. Furthermore, EC145 was not found to be active against a FR‐negative tumor model. Additional preclinical studies are therefore warranted to better understand EC145's breadth of activity against FR‐positive tumors. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Akt signaling regulates actin organization via modulation of MMP‐2 activity during chondrogenesis of chick wing limb bud mesenchymal cells
Authors: Jin Eun‐Jung , Park Kwang Sook , Bang Ok‐Sun , Kang Shin‐Sung
Published: June 2007

Endochondral ossification is initiated by the differentiation of mesenchymal precursor cells to chondrocytes. This process is characterized by a strong interdependence of cell shape and cytoskeletal organization accompanying the onset of chondrogenic gene expression, but the molecular mechanisms mediating these interactions are not known. In this study, we hypothesized that the activation of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐2 would be involved in the reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton and that this would require an Akt‐dependent signaling pathway in chick wing bud mesenchymal cells. The pharmacological inhibition of Akt signaling resulted in decreased glycosaminoglycan synthesis and reduced the level of active MMP‐2, leading to suppressed cortical actin organization which is characteristic of differentiated chondrocytes. In addition, the exposure of cells to bafilomycin A1 reversed these chondro‐inhibitory effects induced by inhibition of Akt signaling. In conclusion, our data indicate that Akt signaling is involved in the activation of MMP‐2 and that this Akt‐induced activation of MMP‐2 is responsible for reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton into a cortical pattern with parallel rounding of chondrogenic competent cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 102: 252–261, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Optimal doubly constant weight codes
Authors: Etzion Tuvi
Published: June 2007

A doubly constant weight code is a binary code of length n1 + n2, with constant weight w1 + w2, such that the weight of a codeword in the first n1 coordinates is w1. Such codes have applications in obtaining bounds on the sizes of constant weight codes with given minimum distance. Lower and upper bounds on the sizes of such codes are derived. In particular, we show tight connections between optimal codes and some known designs such as Howell designs, Kirkman squares, orthogonal arrays, Steiner systems, and large sets of Steiner systems. These optimal codes are natural generalization of Steiner systems and they are also called doubly Steiner systems. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Combin Designs 16: 137–151, 2008
A small generating set for the 3‐BD closed set of block sizes ≥ 6
Authors: Zhang Shaopu , Lei Jianguo , Kong Hairong
Published: June 2007

Let v, k be positive integers and k ≥ 3, then Kk = : {v: v ≥ k} is a 3‐BD closed set. Two finite generating sets of 3‐BD closed sets K4 and K5 are obtained by H. Hanani [5] and Qiurong Wu [12] respectively. In this article we show that if v ≥ 6, then v ∈ B3(K,1), where K = {6,7,…,41,45,46,47,51,52,53,83,84}\{22,26}; that is, we show that K is a generating set for K6. Finally we show that v ∈ B3(6,20) for all v ∈ K\{35,39,40,45}. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Combin Designs 16: 128–136, 2008
Homelessness, violence exposure, and school participation among urban adolescent mothers
Authors: Kennedy Angie C.
Published: June 2007

Using a risk and resilience framework, this exploratory study examines the relationships between homelessness, exposure to multiple types of violence, and school participation within a survey sample of poor adolescent mothers living in an urban setting. Participants who were homeless either currently or historically were compared with participants who had never been homeless in terms of rate of violence exposure and school participation. Social support was analyzed as a moderator of the effects of violence exposure on the odds of homelessness, while positive attitude toward school was assessed as a moderator of homelessness on school participation. Results from MANOVA indicate that participants who report homelessness have significantly higher rates of exposure to violence and significantly lower rates of social support, positive attitude toward school, and school participation in comparison with participants who have never been homeless. Regression analyses indicate that violence exposure, moderated by social support, plays a significant contributing role in participants' odds of ever being homeless. Experiencing homelessness, in turn, is a significant contributor to reduced school participation. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comm Psychol 35: 639–654, 2007.
Hydrocele of the canal of Nuck: Sonographic and MRI appearances
Authors: Safak Alp Alper , Erdogmus Besir , Yazici Burhan , Gokgoz Ahmet Taner
Published: June 2007

Hydrocele of the canal of Nuck is a rare disorder in females. A 50‐year‐old female presented with the complaint of swelling and occasional pain in the right groin. Sonographic examination revealed a proximal dilatation at the inguinal canal with a 3‐cm ovoid, septated cystic lesion at the distal end. The mass appeared as a simple cyst on MRI. Valsalva's maneuver during real‐time sonography helped differentiate the hydrocele of the canal of Nuck from an inguinal hernia. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2007
Ultrasound biomicroscopic appearances of eyelid lesions at 50 MHz
Authors: Bajaj Mandeep S. , Aalok Lalit , Gupta Viney , Sen Seema , Pushker Neelam , Chandra Mahesh
Published: June 2007

Purpose.

To correlate the ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) appearance of eyelid lesions with the results of histopathologic examination.

Methods.

Fifty‐two patients with eyelid lesions were evaluated using 50‐MHz UBM, and the UBM scans were compared with the histopathologic findings. The obscuration of the normal lid sonographic layers and invasion into adjacent tissues were criteria suggesting malignancy.

Results.

UBM characteristics of different eyelid lesions are presented. The sensitivity of UBM in detecting malignancy ranged from 78% to 86%, whereas the specificity ranged from 37% to 69%.

Conclusion.

This study of eyelid lesions shows that UBM can help differentiate between various benign and malignant lid lesions. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2007
Doppler examination of uteroplacental circulation in early pregnancy: Can it predict adverse outcome?
Authors: Özkaya Ümmü , Özkan Sebiha , Özeren Semih , Çorakçı Aydın
Published: June 2007

Purpose.

To determine whether spectral Doppler measurements obtained from bilateral uterine, arcuate, radial, and spiral arteries in early gestation correlate with adverse pregnancy outcome.

Methods.

One hundred five pregnant women underwent transvaginal Doppler sonographic examination of uteroplacental circulation at 6–12 weeks' gestation. Resistance index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI) of bilateral uterine, arcuate, radial, and spiral arteries were measured. Diameters of gestational sac (GS) and yolk sac, crown–rump length (CRL), GS–CRL difference, and GS/CRL ratio were also recorded. Correlation was made with pregnancy outcome.

Results.

Sixteen women developed adverse pregnancy outcome. In these women, right uterine artery PI and RI were significantly higher than in women with normal obstetrical outcome. Spiral artery PI and RI values were also higher, but the difference was not statistically significant. GS–CRL difference, GS/CRL ratio, and yolk sac diameters were significantly lower in this group.

Conclusion.

Transvaginal Doppler examination can detect hemodynamic changes in uteroplacental circulation associated with subsequent adverse pregnancy outcome. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2007
Firm‐based trial to improve central venous catheter insertion practices
Authors: Miranda Julio A. , Trick William E. , Evans Arthur T. , Charles‐Damte Marjorie , Reilly Brendan M. , Clarke Peter
Published: June 2007

BACKGROUND

Central venous catheters placed in femoral veins increase the risk of complications. At our institution, residents place most catheters in the femoral vein.

OBJECTIVE

Determine whether a hands‐on educational session reduced femoral venous catheterization and improved residents' confidence and adherence to recommendations for infection control.

DESIGN

Firm‐based clinical trial between November 2004 and March 2005.

SETTING

General medical wards of Cook County (Stroger) Hospital (Chicago, IL), a public teaching hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Internal medicine residents (n = 150).

INTERVENTION

Before their 4‐week rotation, intervention‐firm residents received a lecture and practiced placing catheters in mannequins; control‐firm residents received the usual training.

MEASUREMENTS

Venous insertion site, adherence to recommendations for infection control, knowledge and confidence about catheter insertion, and catheter‐associated complications

RESULTS

Residents inserted 54 catheters, or 0.24 insertions per resident per 4‐week rotation. There was a nonsignificant decrease in femoral insertions for nondialysis catheters in the intervention group compared to the control group (44% vs. 58%), difference: −14% (95% CI, −52% to 24%). The intervention significantly increased residents' knowledge of complications related to femoral vein catheterization and temporarily increased their confidence about placing internal jugular or subclavian venous catheters. Intervention‐group residents were more likely to use masks during catheterization (risk ratio, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.3‐2.7), but other practices were similar.

CONCLUSIONS

Our intervention improved residents' knowledge of complications and use of masks during catheter insertion; however, it did not significantly change venous insertion sites. Catheter insertions on our general medicine wards are infrequent, and the skills acquired during the skills‐building session may have deteriorated given the few clinical opportunities for reinforcement. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2007;2:135–142. © 2007 Society of Hospital Medicine.
PDGF‐BB released in tendon repair using a novel delivery system promotes cell proliferation and collagen remodeling
Authors: Thomopoulos Stavros , Zaegel Melissa , Das Rosalina , Harwood Fredrick L. , Silva Matthew J. , Amiel David , Sakiyama‐Elbert Shelly , Gelberman Richard H.
Published: June 2007

The purpose of this study was to promote fibroblast proliferation and collagen remodeling in flexor tendon repair through sustained delivery of platelet derived growth factor (PDGF‐BB). The release kinetics of PDGF‐BB from a novel fibrin matrix delivery system was initially evaluated in vitro. After the in vivo degradation rate of the fibrin matrix was determined using fluorescently tagged fibrin, PDGF‐BB was delivered to the site of flexor tendon repair in vivo in a canine model. The effect of PDGF‐BB on intrasynovial tendon healing was studied using histology‐based assays (cell density, proliferation, and type I collagen expression) and by measuring total DNA levels and reducible collagen crosslink levels. The fibrin matrix delivery system provided sustained release of PDGF‐BB in vitro at a rate modulated by the ratio of heparin to growth factor. In vivo, the fibrin matrix remained at the repair site for more than 10 days. Delivery of PDGF‐BB led to a qualitative increase in cell density, cell proliferation, and type I collagen mRNA expression. PDGF‐BB also led to statistically significant increases in total DNA (20% increase at 7 days, 18% increase at 14 days) and reducible collagen crosslinks (30% increase at 7 days). Sustained delivery of growth factors may be achieved using a novel fibrin‐based delivery system. PDGF‐BB delivery increased cell proliferation and matrix remodeling and thus may accelerate flexor tendon healing. © 2007 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 25:1358–1368, 2007
Globalization and restructuring in the auto industry: the impact on the West Midlands automobile cluster
Authors: Bailey David
Published: June 2007

This paper examines the form of the auto cluster in the West Midlands in the context of the structural changes unfolding in the industry. These include greater pressure on firms to recover costs when technological change has been intensifying, driving up the costs of new model development, increased international sourcing of modular components and a shift of assembly operations towards lower‐cost locations.

Add in recent exchange rate volatility and maintaining manufacturing operations, and the West Midlands cluster has become increasingly challenging for firms and policy‐makers, as witnessed by recent plant closures at MG Rover, Jaguar and Peugeot.

The paper considers to what extent public policy can assist, suggesting that policy needs to do all it can to retain capacity whilst also helping firms to use their competencies and to apply them in new ways. These will have to be in higher value added activities such as engines and drivetrains, R&D, consultancy and in other sectors such as the growing aeronautics industry.

Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fast and simple online sample preparation coupled with capillary LC‐MS/MS for determination of prostaglandins in cell culture supernatants
Authors: Rinne Sandra , Ramstad Kleiveland Charlotte , Kassem Moustapha , Lea Tor , Lundanes Elsa , Greibrokk Tyge
Published: June 2007

An online 2‐D strong cation exchange (SCX)–RP capillary liquid chromatographic (cLC) method with IT mass spectrometric (IT‐MS/MS) detection for the simultaneous determination of prostaglandin (PG) A1, PGD2, PGE1, PGE2, PGF2a, 6‐keto‐(6k)PGF1a, and 15‐Δ12,14‐deoxy‐PGJ2 (15dPGJ2) in cell culture supernatants was developed and validated. Pretreatment of the cell culture supernatants included dilution and filtration, and the analysis time including all sample preparation steps was less than 50 min per sample. Peptides/proteins contained in the matrix were removed by the SCX column. LODs in the range of 0.4–2.2 ng/mL cell culture supernatant, recoveries higher than 80% and within‐ and between‐day precisions of less than 30% RSDs were obtained. Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) were stimulated with cytokine‐containing supernatants derived from activated T lymphocytes, and PG production was analyzed using the developed method. PGE2 was found in cultures from both untreated and stimulated hMSCs, while PGE1 was present above the detection limit only in stimulated cells.
STOPE‐based approach for e‐readiness assessment case studies
Authors: Al‐Osaimi Khalid , Alheraish Abdulmohsen , Bakry Saad Haj
Published: June 2007

The STOPE‐based approach is used here for practical e‐readiness assessment case studies. The approach integrates and evaluates the various e‐readiness assessment issues, over its well‐structured domains: strategy, technology, organization, people, and environment. The case studies considered concern three Saudi organizations: a government organization, a bank, and a private sector company. The results obtained provide e‐readiness indicators that illustrate the strengths and weaknesses of each organization with regard to e‐readiness strategic development issues, information and communication technology (ICT) issues, management and organization issues, people issues, and environment issues within which the organization operates. The work shows how the approach can be practically used, and it also provides practical results that direct the organizations concerned toward enhancing their e‐readiness in response to the current trend of globalizing e‐business. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A protein chip approach for high‐throughput antigen identification and characterization
Authors: Hu Shaohui , Li Yu , Liu Guozhen , Song Qifeng , Wang Li , Han Yuning , Zhang Yang , Song Yali , Yao Xiying , Tao Yong , Zeng Haipan , Yang Huanming , Wang Jian , Zhu Heng , Chen Zhi‐Nan , Wu Lin
Published: June 2007

Proteomics research in humans and other eukaryotes demands a large number of high‐quality mAbs. Here, we report a new approach to produce high‐quality mAbs against human liver proteins using a combined force of high‐throughput mAb production and protein microarrays. After immunizing mice with live cells from human livers, we isolated 54 hybridomas with binding activities to human cells and identified the corresponding antigens for five mAbs via screening on a protein microarray of 1058 unique human liver proteins. Finally, we demonstrated that using the five mAbs we could characterize the expression profiles of their corresponding antigens by using tissue microarrays. Among them, we discovered that eIF1A expressed only in normal liver tissues, not in hepatocellular carcinoma in humans.
Functional proteomic view of metabolic regulation in “Aromatoleum aromaticum” strain EbN1
Authors: Wöhlbrand Lars , Kallerhoff Birte , Lange Daniela , Hufnagel Peter , Thiermann Jürgen , Reinhardt Richard , Rabus Ralf
Published: June 2007

The denitrifying “Aromatoleum aromaticum” strain EbN1 utilizes a wide range of aromatic and nonaromatic compounds under anoxic and oxic conditions. The recently determined genome revealed corresponding degradation pathways and predicted a fine‐tuned regulatory network. In this study, differential proteomics (2‐D DIGE and MS) was used to define degradation pathway‐specific subproteomes and to determine their growth condition dependent regulation. Differential protein profiles were determined for cultures adapted to growth under 22 different substrate and redox conditions. In total, 354 different proteins were identified, 199 of which displayed significantly changed abundances. These regulated proteins mainly represented enzymes of the different degradation pathways, and revealed different degrees of growth condition specific regulation. In case of three substrate conditions (e.g. phenylalanine, anoxic), proteins previously predicted to be involved in their degradation were apparently not involved (e.g. Pdh, phenylacetaldehyde dehydrogenase). Instead, previously not considered proteins were specifically increased in abundance (e.g. EbA5005, predicted aldehyde:ferredoxin oxidoreductase), shedding new light on the respective pathways. Moreover, strong evidence was obtained for thus far unpredicted degradation pathways of three hitherto unknown substrates (e.g. o‐aminobenzoate, anoxic). Comparing all identified regulated and nonregulated proteins provided first insights into regulatory hierarchies of special degradation pathways versus general metabolism in strain EbN1.
A high‐throughput strategy for protein profiling in cell microarrays using automated image analysis
Authors: Strömberg Sara , Björklund Marcus Gry , Asplund Caroline , Sköllermo Anna , Persson Anja , Wester Kenneth , Kampf Caroline , Nilsson Peter , Andersson Ann‐Catrin , Uhlen Mathias , Kononen Juha , Ponten Fredrik , Asplund Anna
Published: June 2007

Advances in antibody production render a growing supply of affinity reagents for immunohistochemistry (IHC), and tissue microarray (TMA) technologies facilitate simultaneous analysis of protein expression in a multitude of tissues. However, collecting validated IHC data remains a bottleneck problem, as the standard method is manual microscopical analysis. Here we present a high‐throughput strategy combining IHC on a recently developed cell microarray with a novel, automated image‐analysis application (TMAx). The software was evaluated on 200 digital images of IHC‐stained cell spots, by comparing TMAx annotation with manual annotation performed by seven human experts. A high concordance between automated and manual annotation of staining intensity and fraction of IHC‐positive cells was found. In a limited study, we also investigated the possibility to assess the correlation between mRNA and protein levels, by using TMAx output results for relative protein quantification and quantitative real‐time PCR for the quantification of corresponding transcript levels. In conclusion, automated analysis of immunohistochemically stained in vitro‐cultured cells in a microarray format can be used for high‐throughput protein profiling, and extraction of RNA from the same cell lines provides a basis for comparing transcription and protein expression on a global scale.
Electron‐pair‐donor reaction order in the cationic polymerization of isobutylene coinitiated by AlCl3
Authors: Li Yan , Wu Yixian , Xu Xu , Liang Lihu , Wu Guanying
Published: June 2007

The cationic polymerizations of isobutylene (IB) initiated by an H2O/AlCl3 system were carried out in a mixture of n‐hexane/methylene dichloride of 60/40 v/v at −50 °C in the presence of various external electron pair donors (EDs), including methyl benzoate (MB), ethyl benzoate (EB), and methyl acrylate (MA). The effects of the concentrations of EDs ([ED]) and polymerization time on monomer conversion and kinetics of IB polymerization were also investigated. The complexes between AlCl3 and the esters were soluble in the polymerization system at −50 °C. The polymers with high molecular weights and relatively narrow molecular weight distributions were obtained in the presence of the EDs. The rate of polymerization decreased with increasing [ED]. The kinetic orders of the EDs were remarkably dependent on their chemical structure, steric hindrance from moieties, and concentration in the polymerization system. The reaction order of MB was determined to be around −1.3 when [MB] ≤ 0.40 mmol/L, whereas it was −12.9 when [MB] ≥ 0.40 mmol/L. The reaction order of EB was determined to be −1.36 when [EB] ≤ 0.41 mmol/L, whereas it was −3.36 when [EB] ≥ 0.41 mmol/L. The reaction order of MA was determined to be −1.85 when [MA] ≤ 0.48 mmol/L, whereas it was −16.7 when [MA] ≥ 0.48 mmol/L. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 3053–3061, 2007
Synthesis and morphology of an iron oxide/polystyrene/poly(isopropylacrylamide‐co‐methacrylic acid) thermosensitive magnetic composite latex with potassium persulfate as the initiator
Authors: Lee Chia‐Fen , Chou Yu‐Hui , Chiu Wen‐Yen
Published: June 2007

In this work, an iron oxide (Fe3O4)/polystyrene (PS)/poly(N‐isopropylacryl amide‐co‐methacrylic acid) [P(NIPAAM–MAA)] thermosensitive magnetic composite latex was synthesized by the method of two‐stage emulsion polymerization. The Fe3O4 particles were prepared by a traditional coprecipitation method and then surface‐treated with either a PAA oligomer or lauric acid to form a stable ferrofluid. The first stage for the synthesis of the thermosensitive magnetic composite latex was to synthesize PS in the presence of a ferrofluid by emulsion polymerization to form Fe3O4/PS composite latex particles. Following the first stage of reaction, the second stage of polymerization was carried out with N‐isopropylacryl amide and methacrylic acid as monomers and with Fe3O4/PS latex as seeds. The Fe3O4/PS/[P(NIPAAM–MAA)] thermosensitive magnetic particles were thus obtained. The effects of the ferrofluids on the reaction kinetics, morphology, and particle size of the latex were discussed. A reaction mechanism was proposed in accordance with the morphology observation of the latex particles. The thermosensitive property of the thermosensitive magnetic composite latex was also studied. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 3062–3072, 2007
Psychiatric morbidity and quality of life in wives of men with long‐term head and neck cancer
Authors: Drabe Natalie , Zwahlen Diana , Büchi Stefan , Moergeli Hanspeter , Zwahlen Roger A. , Jenewein Josef
Published: June 2007

The diagnosis of cancer not only affects the lives of patients but also the lives of their relatives. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of psychiatric disorders and quality of life (QoL) among wives of patients treated for head and neck cancer (HNC). We examined 31 wives of patients treated for HNC from January 1998 to December 2004 (meantime since diagnosis 3.7 years) by questionnaires with regard to quality of life (WHOQOL‐BREF), quality of the relationship (Dyadic Adjustment Scale), and affective symptoms (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, HADS). Prevalence of psychiatric morbidity was measured by the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI). Results indicated that QoL and satisfaction with the relationship were comparable to the normal population. HADS mean scores showed no clinically relevant levels of depression and anxiety. A high prevalence of psychiatric disorders (38.7%, particularly agoraphobia) was found in the MINI. Wives diagnosed with an anxiety disorder reported significantly lower QoL compared to those without. The results of this study suggest that agoraphobia is a frequent psychiatric disorder seen in wives of HNC patients. Diagnosis of HNC can have a strong impact on the mental health of the spouse and should be taken in account in counselling of HNC patients. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Complaint handling in pharmaceutical companies
Authors: Braga Glaucia Karime
Published: June 2007

Complaints show customer dissatisfaction about the quality of a pharmaceutical product. Despite a regulatory obligation in several countries, a good complaint handling system gives the company an opportunity to improve the quality of their products, being a good tool for the maintenance of Good Manufacturing Practices and a way to establish a committed relationship with their customers. A systematic procedure must be developed and implemented in order to register and investigate each complaint received and not only the Quality Assurance area must be involved. This process must involve other critical areas such as Marketing, Production, Quality Control, Finance, Regulatory and Legal Affairs. Thus the aim of this article is to discuss the main steps of a good complaint handling procedure that can be readily implemented in pharmaceutical companies. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The JSQA guideline for GCP auditing
Authors: Shimokai Hiroshi , Hata Seiichi , Tamura Toshiaki , Yano Yoshiaki , Abe Shu , Takezawa Masayuki , Yogo Masahiro , Kajiho Tokuaki , Gotou Kuniko , Izawa Akio , Ookawa Muneyoshi , Yamashita Hiroyasu , Alaya Fumiko , Shiromoto Yukiko , Takahashi Kiyoshi
Published: June 2007

The International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH) Good Clinical Practice (GCP) has been adopted by three regions USA, Europe and Japan and implemented since 1996. Details of GCP auditing are not provided in ICH GCP. The Japan Society of Quality Assurance (JSQA) has prepared ‘The JSQA GCP Guideline for GCP Auditing’ to promote the global discussion on GCP auditing and expects to establish a global guideline on GCP auditing along with ICH GCP.

The guideline will include the mission and the organization of a sponsor's auditing department and establish the principles for planning, performing, and reporting audits. The guideline is expected to be a basic principle along with ICH GCP for not only sponsor's auditors, but also independent auditors and auditors of Contract Research Organizations (CROs) to conduct an audit in the various situations of each country and sponsor. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ab initio QM calculation of the electric field convergence versus atomic basis sets in periodic models of proton‐substituted zeolites
Authors: Larin A. V. , Trubnikov D. N. , Vercauteren D. P.
Published: June 2007

Electrostatic potential (EP) and electric field (EF) values are calculated in periodic models of proton‐substituted brewsterite (HBRE) and chabazite (HCHA) zeolite forms using the periodic DFT (PDFT) hybrid B3LYP level with 13 different basis sets. Relative root mean square differences between the EP, or EF, values estimated between the different basis sets are evaluated in several spatial domains available for adsorbate molecules in both zeolites. In these areas, the EF increase in HCHA is evaluated relative to all‐siliceous CHA. The EP is interpreted in terms of ionicity of the framework. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
Polarons in one‐dimensional molecular chains with intermolecular and intramolecular vibrations
Authors: Mborong V. B. , Dikandé A. M.
Published: June 2007

Polarons are investigated in a model for one‐dimensional molecular chains involving both acoustical and optical lattice vibrations, as found in diatomic chains. With the help of a specific ansatz for low‐lying quasiparticles, a continuum limit approximation sustains the existence of analytical solutions to the model. The dispersion energy as well as the effective mass of low‐lying electronic states in the presence of the two lattice mode‐induced polaronic quasiparticle, are derived analytically. It is found that the band effective mass is strongly enhanced by a factor depending on the two electron–lattice coupling constants. A test of stability of the analytical shapes of the three long‐wavelength excitations is carried out numerically by following their simultaneous propagation throughout the molecular lattice. The long‐wavelength polaron appears to be very stable within an acceptable range of values of the electron wave vector and propagates faster and faster as one moves from the groundstate toward mid‐band states. However, the accompanying kink and pulse soliton deformations are always slower consistently with the adiabatic considerations underlying the quasi‐classical treatment followed in this work. In addition, the kink component of the lattice deformation tends to become unstable at relatively large electronic wave vectors, while the polaron and in turn the optical lattice deformation are more and more stable, traducing dominant optical modes of the lattice in the process of formation of polaron. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2008
Cortical functional network organization from autoregressive modeling of local field potential oscillations
Authors: Bressler Steven L. , Richter Craig G. , Chen Yonghong , Ding Mingzhou
Published: June 2007

A framework is presented for quantifying functional network organization in the brain by spectral analysis based on autoregressive modeling. Local field potentials (LFPs), simultaneously recorded from distributed sites in the cerebral cortex of monkeys, are treated as signals generated by local neuronal assemblies. During the delay period of a visual pattern discrimination task, oscillatory assembly activity is manifested in the LFPs in the beta‐frequency range (14–30 Hz). Coherence analysis has shown that these oscillations are phase synchronized in functional networks in the sensorimotor cortex in relation to maintenance of contralateral hand position, and in the visual cortex in relation to anticipation of the visual stimulus. Granger causality analysis has revealed information flow in the sensorimotor network that is consistent with a peripheral sensorimotor feedback loop, and in the visual network that is consistent with top‐down anticipatory modulation of assemblies in the primary visual cortex. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A comparative study of one‐level and two‐level semiparametric estimation of hemodynamic response function for fMRI data
Authors: Zhang C. M. , Jiang Y. , Yu T.
Published: June 2007

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is emerging as a powerful tool for studying the process underlying the working of the many regions of the human brain. The standard tool for analyzing fMRI data is some variant of the linear model, which is restrictive in modeling assumptions. In this paper, we develop a semiparametric approach, based on the cubic smoothing splines, to obtain statistically more efficient estimates of the underlying hemodynamic response function (HRF) associated with fMRI experiments. The hypothesis testing of HRF is conducted to identify the brain regions which are activated when a subject performs a particular task. Furthermore, we compare one‐level and two‐level semiparametric estimates of HRF in significance tests for detecting the activated brain regions. Our simulation studies demonstrate that the one‐level estimates combined with a bias‐correction procedure perform best in detecting the activated brain regions. We illustrate this method using a real fMRI data set and compare it with popular methods offered by AFNI
and FSL. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Control of helix sense in protein‐mimicking backbone by the noncovalent chiral effect
Authors: Inai Yoshihito , Komori Hisatoshi , Ousaka Naoki
Published: June 2007

We have reviewed our previous work regarding induction or control of a peptide helix sense through chiral stimulus to the peptide chain terminus. An optically inactive 310‐helix designed mainly with unusual α‐amino acid residues was commonly employed. Such an N‐terminal‐free peptide generates a preferred helix sense by chiral acid molecule. A helix sense pre‐directed in chiral sequence is also influenced or controlled by the chiral sign of such external molecule. Here free amide groups in the 310‐helical N‐terminus participate in the formation of a multipoint coordinated complex. The terminal asymmetry produces the noncovalent chiral domino effect (NCDE) to influence the whole helix sense. The NCDE‐mediated control of helicity provides the underlying chiral nature of protein‐mimicking helical backbones: notably, chiral recognition at the terminus and modulation of helical propensity through chiral stimulus. The above items from our previous reports have been outlined and reviewed together with their significance in biopolymer science and chiral chemistry. © 2007 The Japan Chemical Journal Forum and Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Chem Rec 7: 191–202; 2007: Published online in Wiley Inter‐Science (www.interscience.wiley.com) DOI 10.1002/tcr.20116
Lösungsmöglichkeiten des Umkehrproblems viskoelastischer Cosseratflächen
Authors: Rothert H.
Published: June 2007

Ausgehend von den konstitutiven Gleichungen für viskoelastische zweidimensionale Cosseratkontinua im Rahmen einer linearen nichtisothermen Theorie, werden zunächst durch Spezialisierung und Ausnutzung von Materialsymmetrien vereinfachte Beziehungen gewonnen. Um, diese Ergebnisse der direkten Theorie für konkrete Platten und Schalen interpretieren zu können, bedarf es der Lösung des Umkehrproblems. Hier werden zur Durchführung des Identifizierungsprozesses die in ihrem mathematischen Aufbau analogen Ergebnisse der dreidimensionalen Boltzmannschen Elastizitätstheorie und das Theorem von Alfrey verwendet.
Das Druckstörungsfeld im Überschall längs einer schwach welligen Wand unter Berücksichtigung der Grenzschicht
Authors: Stock H. W.
Published: June 2007

Druckstörungen, erzeugt durch eine wellige Wand bei Überschallanströmung, werden mit der linearisierten Theorie der kleinen Störungen unter Einbeziehung der Grenzschicht berechnet. Dabei wird die Grenzschicht in eine reibungsfreie, rotationelle Außenschicht und eine viskose Unterschicht aufgeteilt. Laminare und turbulente Grenzschichten werden untersucht. Die Druckstörungen, d. h. ihre Amplituden und Phasenlagen, werden ins Verhältnis gesetzt zu den nach der reibungsfreien Theorie ermittelten. Es zeigt sich, daß der Einfluß der Grenzschicht vernachlässigt werden kann, wenn die Wellenlänge der Wandstörung sehr viel größer ist als die Grenzschichtdicke. Für kleinere Wellenlängen wirkt die Grenzschicht dämpfend auf die Außenströmung, d. h. die Amplituden der Druckstörungen sind kleiner als die im reibungslosen Fall gerechneten. Besonders im Falle laminarer Grenzschichten und kleinerer Wellenlängen der Wandstörung nehmen die Druckstörungen in Wandnähe Unterschallcharakter an, obwohl die Außenströmung Überschallgeschwindigkeit hat.
Über eine Beziehung zwischen komplementären und nichtkonformen finiten Elementen
Authors: Werner Bodo
Published: June 2007

Wir untersuchen die Konstruktion von speziellen Finiten‐Element‐Räumen, die konform für das komplementäre Energieprinzip für allgemeine lineare elliptische Randwertaufgaben sind. Die mit diesen Räumen arbeitenden Finiten‐Element‐Methoden stellen sich als nichtkonforme Methode für das Energieprinzip heraus und erfüllen einen verallgemeinerten Patch‐Test. Von einigen bekannten speziellen nichtkonformen finiten Elementen kann auf diese Weise gezeigt werden, daß sie untere Schranken für die Energie liefern.
A Reliability Model of Partially Parallel Systems
Authors: Abdelsalam M. Samir
Published: June 2007

A mathematical model is derived to simulate the operation of a system consisting of n identical elements and is needed for its survival operation at least m components to be operable. The analysis is carried out in case that the element failure rate is dependable on time and on the loading stresses. A practical example is given to show the solution.
Improved Estimation and Prediction
Authors: Bibby John , Toutenburg Helge
Published: June 2007

There are investigated certain biased estimators and predictors of the type aX where X is an unbaised estimator / predictor and a is a constant scalar. Although the functions are biased they give improvements compared with the standard unbiased solutions whereas by improvement we means the reduction in mean square error.
Zur globalen Konvergenz eines modifizierten Kato‐Fujita‐Iterationsverfahrens
Authors: Gajewski Herbert
Published: June 2007

In dieser Arbeit beweisen wir einen globalen Konvergenzsatz für eine einfache Variante des sogenannten Kato‐Fujita‐Verfahrens [1,8] zur iterativen Lösung der Burgers‐Gleichung. Unsere Ergebnisse basieren auf a priori Abschätzungen und lassen sich auf andere nichtlineare Evolutionsgleichungen mit linearem Dissipations‐ oder Dispersionsterm übertragen.
Zur Theorie des quasi‐statischen Verhaltens von elastisch‐plastischen Körpern
Authors: Gröger K.
Published: June 2007

In dieser Arbeit wird gezeigt, daß gewisse Modelle zur Beschreibung des Verhaltens von elastisch‐plastischen Körpern als Evolutionsungleichungen formuliert werden können. Ausgehend von solchen Modellen kann man die quasi‐statische Verformung von dreidimensionalen Körpern bei gegebenen äußeren Kräften durch Rand‐Anfangswertaufgaben charakterisieren. Für ein spezielles Materialgesetz wird die eindeutige Lösbarkeit derartiger Rand‐Anfangswertaufgaben bewiesen.
Die Hecubabewegung im eingeschränkten Dreikörperproblem als Beispiel einer nichtlinearen Schwingung
Authors: Mettler E.
Published: June 2007

Im Rahmen des eingeschränkten Dreikörperproblems werden die Bewegungen eines Planetoiden mit etwa halber Jupiter‐Umlaufzeit als kleine Schwingungen um eine stationäre Kreisbewegung dargestellt. Dabei wird die Methode der säkularen Störungen benutzt. Es wird gezeigt, daß die Bewegungen die charakteristischen Merkmale nichtlinearer Schwingungen mit Zwangs‐ und Parametererregung und unterlinearer Rückstellkraft haben. Im einzelnen ergeben sich stabile und instabile stationäre Schwingungen sowie Übergangsschwingungen, die den periodischen sowie den Librationslösungen des eingeschränkten Dreikörperproblems entsprechen.
Heat Transfer in a Laminar Cyclone II
Authors: Millsaps K. , Nydahl J. E.
Published: June 2007

This paper is the second and concluding part of an investigation into the heat transfer to rotating laminar flows over fixed ground when the effects due to a combination of forced and free convections are included. The analytical methods that are employed are similarity transformations and subsequent integration of the ordinary differential system by continuously joining second and third order asymptotic approximations with forward numerical integrations that were obtained by perturbing the initial conditions for the solutions for forced convection alone. Numerical results for the thermal distribution and for the hydrodynamics that differ from that the forced convetive case due to coupling are tabulated for two Grashof numbers and a fixed Prandtl number.