bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abel Inversion Applied to a Small Set of Emission Data from a Microwave Plasma
Authors: Sáinz A. , Díaz A. , Casas D. , Pineda M. , Cubillo F. , Calzada M. D.
Published: March 2006

In this work we propose a criterion to apply the Abel inversion in the case of a small set of experimental data to be used in laboratory plasmas. The Nestor–Olsen method, spline interpolation, and Fourier transform Abel inversion have been compared in order to study the influence of statistical noise and the number of sampled data. The application of this criterion permits us to obtain a radial distribution of the plasma parameters (densities and temperatures) from the spectral line profiles emitted by the discharge. The proposed criterion has been tested using the lateral intensities of several lines emitted by a microwave helium plasma column generated at atmospheric pressure.
Native American Tribal Gaming as Crime against Nature
Authors: Perry Richard Warren
Published: March 2006

This essay proposes that the legal form of Native American tribal sovereignty lately deployed in the establishment of casinos and other risky enterprises is not simply an atavistic political‐legal curiosity. Rather, it is exemplary of contemporary forms of spatial governmentality which, as they emerge from layered mappings of spatial difference inherited from earlier ethno‐racial and colonial governmental forms, are being constructed as new privatized and market‐rationalized spatial regimes of enclosure and exclusion, mediated through environmental and other rhetorics of crime‐risk and control.
Book Reviews
Authors: Rosga AnnJanett
Published: March 2006

Justice in the Balkans: Prosecuting War Crimes in the Hague Tribunal By John Hagan. Chicago, University of Chicago Press. 2003.
Book Reviews
Authors: Ordóñez Carlos Salvador
Published: March 2006

Practicing Ethnography in Law, New Dialogues, Enduring Methods By June Starr Mark Goodale, New York, Palgrave Macmillan, 2002.
Book Reviews
Authors: Snellinger Amanda
Published: March 2006

Imagining the Modern: The Cultures of Nationalism in Cyprus By Rebecca Bryant, London: IB Tauris, 2004.
Book Reviews
Authors: Boellstorff Tom
Published: March 2006

Death of the Father: An Anthropology of the End in Political Authority By John Borneman, ed, New York: Berghahn Books, 2004.
(Re)Landscaping Sovereignty in British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Sullivan Kathleen M.
Published: March 2006

Many forms of sovereignty are still, albeit not exclusively, anchored in claims on territory and are asserted through the productive exercise of control over people, resources, and habitats located within the spaces of territory. In British Columbia, Canada, First Nations' assertions of sovereign control over their territories and resources are reconfiguring resource planning, development, and management, even as the provincial and federal governments seek to maintain their own control over the same territory. While the courts have been the primary avenue for protecting Aboriginal Title and rights, First Nations are also turning to the use of mass media and other public forums. This essay examines the assertions of sovereignty made by coastal First Nations through the venues of public forums.
Contested Sovereignties and the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund
Authors: Litzinger Ralph A.
Published: March 2006

The Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) is a new global conservation funding project created in 2000 through start‐up funds from Conservation International, the World Bank, the Global Environmental Facility, and the MacArthur Foundation. It aims to protect the world's biodiversity hotspots, promote civil society, and assist in the Millennial Development Goals to eradicate poverty worldwide. This essay analyzes the CEPF through the making of the Mountains of Southwest China eco‐profile and in light of Hardt and Negri's much‐debated critique of globalization. While the CEPF imagines itself as a universal project with planetary ambitions, which move around the world empirelike, in China it has had to funnel its monies through a range of organizations connected to an increasingly anxious state. What results is a transformed global project, where the meanings of environmental activism, civil society, and grassroots resistance are up for grabs. The CEPF thus provides a window in the production of contested sovereignties in the bold new age of imperial sovereignty.
Resettling Musqueam Park
Authors: Hamilton Jennifer A.
Published: March 2006

Musqueam Park, an affluent residential subdivision located on an Indian reserve in Vancouver, British Columbia, became the site of an intense five‐year struggle when the Musqueam Indian Band tried to collect higher land rents from its nonindigenous tenants. In late 2000, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that Indian land was significantly less valuable than other privately held forms of property and discounted leasehold rents owed to the Band by 50 percent. In this article, I examine Musqueam Park's historical emergence as a desirable area for nonindigenous homeowners and its shifting boundaries and inscriptions in light of the Musqueam attempt to collect higher rents. I argue that embedded in this political and legal dispute are a series of factors that landscape Musqueam Park. These include (1) how settler anxieties about shifting power dynamics between indigenous and settler societies, including concerns about changing structures of governance, access to land, and resource allocation, shape the discursive content of the dispute; (2) how the historical underdevelopment of reserves in general, and the Musqueam reserve in particular, sets the stage for contemporary battles over valuable residential property; and (3) how colonial relations, especially in terms of property, continue to shape public and legal discourses in British Columbia.
Multiple primary malignant neoplasms — case report
Authors: Amalinei Cornelia , Balan Raluca , Ivan Luminita , Socolov Razvan , Socolov Demetra , Cotutiu Coriolan
Published: March 2006

The synchronous occurence of primary carcinomas of endometrium and ovary is well recognized. Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumours (MPNSTs) may also rarely occur in patients diagnosed with malignancies of the female genital tract. We report a rare case of synchronous primary carcinomas of endometrium and ovary, followed by a metachronous retroperitoneal MPNST. Ascites cytology and endometrial biopsy, followed by hysterectomy and bilateral adnexectomy, were performed to remove the synchronous tumors. Histology was suggestive of synchronous endometrial endometrioid carcinoma and ovarian mucinous adenocarcinoma. After the removal of the retroperitoneal tumor, a MPNST was diagnosed by immunohistochemistry. The patient developed two consecutive vaginal tumors diagnosed as metastases of the previously diagnosed endometrial carcinoma. Although synchronous tumors of endometrium and ovary were relatively early staged and consequently had a favorable prognosis, subsequently occuring implants along the lower genital tract and the metachronous MPNST added up to a poor prognosis.
Radiofrequency pulmonary veins isolation of atrial fibrillation in patients undergoing mitral valve replacement
Authors: Grabowski Maciej , Hryniewiecki Tomasz , Gawałkiewicz Tomasz , Stępińska Janina , Biederman Andrzej
Published: March 2006

Introduction: Pulmonary veins isolation (PVI) is useful method in patients (pts) with mitral valve disease (MVD) and chronic atrial fibrillation (AF) during prosthetic valve implantation.

The aim of the study: To evaluate e.ectiveness of PVI in the treatment of AF in pt with MVD during valve implantation.

Material and methods: 45 pts (mean age 55 yrs) with AF were operated on for MVD.RF ablation around the pulmonary veins, a lesion between them and to the mitral annulus were performed. There were 44 prostheses implanted, 1 case of mitral valve annuloplasty, associated with tricuspid valve repair (5 pts), aorto-coronary bypass procedure (2 pts), ASD II closure (1 pt).

Results: SR was achieved in 2 (44,5%) pts, 21 (46,5%)pts were in AF, 4 (9%) pts needed pacing. No correlation between SR restoration and preoperative echocardiographic parameters, age, gender, NYHA functional class were found. In long-term follow-up 1 pt have reversed AF to SR spontaneously. There were 6 cases of paroxysmal AF,1 pt needed pacemaker implantation. 20 (44,5%) pts are in SR, 20 (44,5%) in AF, 5 (11%) in permanent pacing.

Conclusion: PVI with RF use is effective in restoring sinus rhythm in patients with chronic AF secondary to mitral valve disease.
Evaluation of TV cell line viral susceptibility using conventional cell culture techniques
Authors: Bleotu Coralia , Diaconu Carmen , Chivu Mihaela , Alexiu Irina , Ruta Simona , Cernescu Costin
Published: March 2006

Despite the fact that a lot of methods have been developed for rapid virus detection, classic cell culture is still “the golden standard”. The range of viruses that can be isolated and cultured in cell line systems is often limited by the susceptibility of cells to support viral replication. Since the primary cell culture, the best cellular system available to support replication of a large number of viruses, is very expensive and diffcult to obtain, cell lines, which are easier to manipulate, are commonly used for virus growth and isolation.

In two previous papers we described the TV cell line initiated by our team from a laryngeal tumor, which harbors human papillomavirus (HPV) gene sequences. In this paper we analyze its capacity to support virus replication. Depending on the virus, different cytopathic effects were produced. Comparison of viral effect observed on this cell line with the effect obtained on other cell lines has been performed. This cell line might be used in the clinical virology laboratory for virus isolation.
Estimate of antioxidant capacity and lipid peroxidation in plasma of healthy subjects
Authors: Gorąca Anna , Skibska Beata
Published: March 2006

Serum contains various antioxidant molecules that may provide important protection against free radical attack. The aim of this work was to assess the total antioxidant capacity of plasma and a marker of lipid per oxidation [(thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS)] in plasma of healthy smoking and non-smoking young and elderly subjects. In addition, we investigated plasma concentrations of α-tocopherol, β-carotene, and ascorbic acid. In in vitro experiments, the effects of exogenous compounds (ascorbic acid, uric acid, Trolox) on total ferric-reducing activity of plasma (FRAP) were also tested. We demonstrated that total antioxidant capacity of plasma obtained from healthy non-smoking young subjects was significantly higher than plasma antioxidant capacity of smoking elderly subjects. The concentration of TBARS in young non-smoking volunteers was lower than that in young smokers. The concentration of TBARS in elderly non-smoking volunteers was lower than in elderly smokers. Plasma concentrations of alpha-tocopherol, beta-carotene and ascorbic acid were significantly lower in elderly smoker than in elderly non-smokers of the same age. No difference in the plasma levels of alpha-tocopherol, beta-carotene and ascorbic acid were found in 22-year-old smoking and non-smoking subjects. In vitro addition of ascorbic acid, uric acid, or Trolox to plasma samples significantly increased their total antioxidant capacity. Decrease of FRAP values and increase of TBARS concentrations is a significant physiologic condition of the aging process. Supplementation of antioxidants could be useful for the enhancement of antioxidant screen in plasma.
Cytostatic therapy and blood antioxidants/prooxidants balance in acute myeloblastic leukemia patients
Authors: Gerova Daniela , Gerov Vladimir , Yankova Tatyana , Gercheva Liana , Ivanova Diana
Published: March 2006

To analyze the effects of conventional polychemotherapy of acute myeloblastic leukemia (AML) patients on the prooxidants/antioxidants balance in plasma total antioxidant status (TAS) and a single plasma antioxidant — uric acid (UA) were measured. Lipid peroxidation was assessed by malonedialdehyde (MDA) content. Total serum iron was monitored as a potential source of nontransferrin-bound iron with a role in initiation of oxidative burst. A group of patients in the acute phase of AML (group A) and a group of patients in complete remission of AML (group B) were studied. A strong correlation between UA values and TAS (r = 0.8 for group A, r = 0.9 for group B) was revealed in the course of the treatment. Strong negative correlation (r = −0.9) between TAS and MDA was shown for both groups. Total iron significantly increased in the course of chemotherapy. We have established that polychemotherapy leads to the consumption of antioxidants and increased lipid peroxidation in AML patients. An appropriate supplementation with antioxidants at the end of the polychemotherapy treatment could be considered.
Polymer Light‐Emitting Electrochemical Cells: The Formation and Effects of Doping‐Induced Micro Shorts
Authors: Shin J.‐H. , Xiao S. , Edman L.
Published: March 2006

A planar surface cell structure has been utilized to investigate a polymer light‐emitting electrochemical cell (LEC), consisting of an active‐material mixture of poly[2‐methoxy‐5‐(2′‐ethylhexyloxy)‐1,4‐phenylenevinylene] (MEH‐PPV) and an ionic liquid, tetra‐n‐butylammonium trifluoromethanesulfonate, contacted by Au electrodes. It is shown that diffuse and needle‐shaped doping fronts originate from the electrodes (p‐type from the positive electrode and n‐type from the negative electrode) during the charging process at a temperature (T) of 393 K. After a turn‐on time, a significant portion of the doping fronts makes contact close to the negative electrode to form a light‐emitting p–i–n junction, but at some points p‐type doping protrudes all the way to the negative electrode to form what are effectively micro shorts. It is shown that the consequences of such doping‐induced micro shorts during a subsequent stabilized “frozen junction” operation at T = 200 K are drastic: the current‐rectification ratio (RR) is low and the quantum efficiency (QE) is far from optimum. Both RR and QE increase significantly during long‐term operation under frozen‐junction conditions, demonstrating that the lifetime of the doping‐induced micro shorts is limited even under such stabilized conditions. Still, it is clear that it is critical for the optimization and further development of LECs to find new types of active material and electrode combinations that allow for formation of a continuous p–i–n junction in the center of the interelectrode gap.
Particle migration in the rotating flow between co‐axial disks
Authors: Abatan Adetola A. , McCarthy Joseph J. , Vargas Watson L.
Published: March 2006

We experimentally examine a dilute suspension of non‐neutrally buoyant spherical particles migrating in a simple mixing tank at small but finite Reynolds numbers. We observe that the particles spontaneously migrate to repeatable non‐trivial asymptotic locations within toroidal structures, located above and below at‐disk impellers. The asymptotic migration positions include both the exact center of the torus and intermediate higher‐order cluster locations within the flow whose stability is dependent on flow and particle conditions. Furthermore, we note that the particle clusters seem to coincide with the location of unmixed islands within the underlying fluid flow. We also observe a migratory competition when multiple particles are introduced into the flow. © 2006 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2006
Ternary blends of acrylic rubber, poly(butylene terephthalate), and liquid crystalline polymer: Influence of interactions on thermal and dynamic mechanical properties
Authors: Kumar E. Shiva , Yadaw S. B. , Pandey K. N. , C. K. Das
Published: March 2006

The ternary blends of acrylate rubber (ACM), poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT), and liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) were prepared by varying the amount of LCP but fixing the ratio of ACM and PBT, using melt mixing procedure. The influence of interactions on thermal and dynamic mechanical properties of the blends was investigated over the complete composition range. The techniques applied were Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetry (TG), and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). The FTIR spectroscopy analysis showed reduction in the intensity of the peak corresponding to epoxy groups of ACM with increasing heating time at 290°C. This implies that there is a chemical reaction between the epoxy and end groups of PBT and LCP. Glass transition temperature (Tg) and melting temperature (Tm) of the blends were affected depending on the LCP weight percent in the ACM/PBT blend, respectively. This further suggests the strong interfacial interactions between the blend components. In presence of ACM, the nucleating effect of LCP was more pronounced for the PBT phase. The thermogravimetric study showed improved thermal stability for the blends with the increasing LCP content. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 3904–3912, 2006
Preparation of nano‐ and microparticles through self‐assembly of azobenzene‐pendent ionomers
Authors: Mori Takeshi , Yuyama Keijiro , Narita Kanae , Minagawa Keiji , Haraguchi Masanobu , Tanaka Masami
Published: March 2006

The particle formation of azobenzene‐containing ionomers, through self‐assembly, in aqueous media (THF/H2O solvent) was studied. The ionomers were synthesized by copolymerization between azobenzene‐pendent methacrylate and methacrylic acid. It was revealed by UV–vis spectra and light scattering measurements that the extent of H‐aggregation of the azobenzene units first decreased, and then increased with increasing volume fraction of H2O of the solvent. The H2O fraction at which the extent of H‐aggregation began to increase became lower, when the copolymers contained more azobenzene units. Colloidal particles were prepared by slow addition of various concentrations of aqueous NaOH to the copolymer THF solutions. The hydrodynamic diameters of the particles obtained by the procedures were several hundreds of nanometer. When the azobenzene unit content in the copolymer was smaller, the diameters of the particles became smaller. When the colloidal particles dispersions were cast on a carbon sheet and dried, the particles aggregated and formed larger spherical particles, with diameters of several micrometers. The size of the particles obtained by the drying process became smaller, when higher concentrations of aqueous NaOH solutions were used. Therefore, the particle sizes were controlled by the azobenzene units content in the copolymers and the concentration of aqueous NaOH solutions. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 3913–3918, 2006
High density polyethylene/ultra high molecular weight polyethylene blend. II. Effect of hydroxyapatite on processing, thermal, and mechanical properties
Authors: Lim K. L. K. , Ishak Z. A. Mohd , Ishiaku U. S. , Fuad A. M. Y. , Yusof A. H. , Czigany T. , Pukanzsky B. , Ogunniyi D. S.
Published: March 2006

Hydroxyapatite (HA) is part of bone mineral composition. Several attempts have been made to incorporate HA into high density polyethylene (HDPE) to produce bone replacement biomaterials since neat HDPE is not suitable as bone replacement. The blending of HDPE with ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) up to 50% by weight was performed with the aim of improving the toughness of composites. Reinforcement of blend with HA of up to 50% by weight was carried out. Methods of characterizing the composites included density, differential scanning calorimetry, thermal gravimetric analysis, ash content, and morphological examination using scanning electron microscope. For the mechanical properties of the composites, tensile, flexural, and impact tests were carried out. Incorporation of HA into HDPE has resulted in the brittleness of the composites. Blending of HDPE with UHMWPE in the presence of HA was found to improve the mechanical properties and promote a ductile failure of the resulting composites. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 3931–3942, 2006
Oil resistance and physical properties of in situ epoxidized natural rubber from high ammonia concentrated latex
Authors: Chuayjuljit S. , Yaowsang C. , Na‐Ranong N. , Potiyaraj P.
Published: March 2006

Epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) was prepared via in situ epoxidation from high ammonia concentrated natural rubber latex with formic acid and hydrogen peroxide in the presence of a surfactant at 50°C for 4, 8, and 12 h. The obtained ENRs containing 20, 45, and 65 mol % of expoxide groups were denoted ENR20, ENR45, and ENR65, respectively. The differential scanning calorimetric study revealed that they exhibited higher glass transition temperatures than that of natural rubber (−62.4°C), at −38.2°C for ENR20, −27.8°C for ENR45, and −19.7°C for ENR 65. It was clearly seen that their glass transition temperatures increased as the amount of epoxide groups increased. The prepared ENRs were compounded and vulcanized to prepare test specimens for determination of oil resistance and various physical properties. It was found that the swelling of ENRs in oils was substantially less than that of natural rubber. The oil resistance of ENR65 was comparable to that of nitrile rubber, commonly used as oil resistant rubber. ENR65 also showed higher hardness than other ENRs. Contrarily, ENR20 possessed superior tensile strength and compression set when compared with other ENRs. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 3948–3955, 2006
Thermal and viscoelastic properties of sequentially polymerized networks composed of benzoxazine, epoxy, and phenalkamine curing agents
Authors: Rao B. S. , Pathak S. K.
Published: March 2006

By using different ratios of phenalkamine/epoxy (EP) and benzoxazine/epoxy (EB), copolymer networks have been prepared sequentially by partially curing at low temperature followed by a final cure at high temperature. A single exothermic peak was observed in the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) for the high‐temperature curing. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis showed a single tan δ peak, indicating no phase separation. The copolymer networks showed Tg values lower than the parent EB polymer network. Incorporation of EP in small percentage in the copolymer networks has improved the storage modulus and crosslink densities and the maximum value was observed for a sample containing 80% EB with respect to EP content. The thermal stability of the copolymer networks is better than that of the individual networks. The char yield value at 600°C increased with increasing EB percentage in the networks. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 3956–3965, 2006
Study on morphology, crystallization behaviors of highly filled maleated polyethylene‐layered silicate nanocomposites
Authors: Xie Yunchuan , Yu Demei , Kong Jie , Fan Xiaodong , Qiao Wenqiang
Published: March 2006

The influences of organically modified montmorillonite (MMT) on morphology, crystallization behaviors of maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene (mPE) are investigated by using wide angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), polarized optical microscopy (POM), and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). WAXD and TEM results indicate that the molecules of mPE had been inserted into interlayer of the organoclay, and the final morphology of the hybrid changes from exfoliated type to intercalated type gradually with the increasing content of the clay, which is determined by the equilibrium between interfacial interaction of mPE‐clay and van der Waals attraction of clay–clay. It is suggested that MMT could affect the crystallization process of mPE in two ways: First, MMT can provide heterogeneous surface and facilitate nucleation step; then, the silicates as diffusion or displacement barriers may restrict the growth step. However, the clay has no significant effects on the total nonisothermal crystallization rate. Otherwise, study on the dynamic mechanical properties show that the storage modulus of the hybrid is around 30% higher than that of the polymer matrix. And the motions of molecular relaxation and conformational transitions both in noncrystalline and crystalline phases are confined by the strong interactions between the polymer and the clay. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 4004–4011, 2006
Thermodynamic and sorption behavior of U(VI) and Th(IV) on unsaturated polyester–styrene polymeric beads
Authors: El‐Gammal B. , Ibrahim G. M. , El‐Nahas H. H.
Published: March 2006

The sorption behavior of Th(IV) and U(VI) species on two batch molds of radiation‐induced polymerized unsaturated polyester beads containing 40 wt % styrene was investigated. The distribution coefficients of both ions on the polymeric sorbents were evaluated at 30°C using 10−4 M solution and found to be 271.9 and 469.8 mL/g on the first mold and 296 and 1189.2 mL/g on the second mold for Th(VI) and U(IV), respectively. Testing the sorption data using different theories provided evidence that the sorption data accurately fit the Langmuir, Freundlich, and D‐R isotherms, indicating chemisorption occurred and that E, the mean sorption energy of thorium and uranium on the different molds of unsaturated polyester–styrene, was between 8.304 and 13.92 kJ/mol, reflecting the nature of the ion exchange. The thermodynamics of sorption were considered in order to evaluate ΔH, ΔS, and ΔG. The data showed that the sorption process was spontaneous and exothermic. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 4098–4106, 2006
Fourier transform infrared study of polypyrrole–poly(vinyl alcohol) conducting polymer composite films: Evidence of film formation and characterization
Authors: Mahmud H. N. M. Ekramul , Kassim Anuar , Zainal Zulkarnain , Yunus Wan Mahmood Mat
Published: March 2006

The electrochemical preparation of polypyrrole (PPY)–poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) conducting polymer composite films on an indium–tin oxide glass electrode from an aqueous solution containing a pyrrole monomer, a p‐toluene sulfonate electrolyte, and a PVA insulating polymer is reported. The prepared PPY–PVA composite films were characterized by Fourier Transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and conductivity measurements. The FTIR study showed that the composite of PPY and PVA formed through bond formation between PVA and the p‐toluene sulfonate dopant anion. The conductivity data of PPY–PVA showed that with increasing PVA concentration in the pyrrole solution, the conductivity of the prepared PPY–PVA film increased up to a certain level due to an increase in conjugation length, and later, it decreased with further increases in the PVA concentration in the solution due to a decrease in conjugation length. This was supported by the FTIR band intensity I1560/I1480. The TGA results show that the PPY–PVA polymer composite film was thermally more stable than the PPY film. A shielding effectiveness of 45.6 dB was exhibited by the PPY–PVA composite film in the microwave frequency range. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 4107–4113, 2006
Study on effective storage time of raw natural rubber
Authors: Zhang Bei‐Long , Deng Wei‐Yong , Lu Heng‐Xiang , Chen Mei , Qian Hong‐Lian
Published: March 2006

The effective storage time (i.e., storage life) of raw natural rubber (NR) was investigated with heat‐accelerated storage aging combined with thermogravimetry (TG) and differential thermal analysis (DTA) method, as well as the heat aging life equation. The test results show that the effective storage time of raw NR can be estimated more conveniently in relatively shorter time by this method. It is found that the effective storage time of raw NR is associated with rubber processing technology and with ambient temperature during storage, but it has little relation with P0 and PRI. At ambient temperature, the effective storage time of the natural‐coagulated and biological‐coagulated NR is obviously higher than the acetic acid‐coagulated NR; the lower the ambient temperature, the longer the effective storage time. The effective storage time of the acetic acid‐coagulated NR is 12.2–13.4 years at ambient temperature of 30°C, 23.8–25 years at 25°C, and 47.4–47.9 years at 20°C. The effective storage time of the natural‐ and biological‐coagulated NR is 13.7–15.2 years at 30°C, 29.6–30.4 years at 25°C, and about 62.5–65.8 years at 20°C. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 4114–4119, 2006
Magnetic composites obtainment based on styrene polymers
Authors: Nita Loredana Elena , Chiriac Aurica P. , Neamtu Iordana , Vasile Cornelia
Published: March 2006

Three styrene‐based matrices for hybrid composites with ferrite have been obtained by emulsion polymerization in the presence of a tensioactive system: sodium n‐dodecylbenzene sulfate (C12H25C6H4SO3Na) as anionic agent and poly(oxyethylene) nonylphenyl ether [C9H19C6H4(OCH2CH2)30OH] as nonionic tensioactive agent. The system assures the steadiness of the emulsion during the reaction and the stability of the latices. The surfactants act as a protective colloid component and thickening agents determining an optimum viscosity and conditions for the further catching of the inorganic oxide with magnetic properties. The obtained polystyrene and styrene copolymers with acrylamide and methacrylamide were analyzed by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, DSC, and their viscosity data have been characterized. The size as well as the magnetic properties of composites were also appreciated. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 4133–4141, 2006
Effect of γ‐aminopropyl trimethoxy silane on the performance of jute–polycarbonate composites
Authors: Khan Mubarak A. , Hassan M. Masudul
Published: March 2006

The composites of jute fabrics (hessian cloth) and polycarbonate were prepared by compression molding. The jute surface was modified with γ‐aminopropyl trimethoxy silane (Z‐6011) to improve interfacial adhesion between jute and polycarbonate. The treated and untreated jute surfaces as well as composites were investigated by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Environmental scanning electron microscopy, Dynamic mechanical analysis, and mechanical testing. XPS and FTIR assure that the silane plays important role to form interfacial bonding with the jute fibers and polycarbonate. The surface topography of silanized and virgin fibers, and the interfacial adhesion properties of the composite were investigated by ESEM. DMA analysis shows the improved storage and loss moduli of silanized jute composite as compared to the untreated one. The modified jute composite also produces enhanced mechanical properties. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 4142–4154, 2006
Thermal and mechanical properties of polypropylene–wood powder composites
Authors: Salemane M. G. , Luyt A. S.
Published: March 2006

The preparation and characterization of modified and unmodified polypropylene (PP)–wood powder (WP) composites were done under fixed processing conditions. Different techniques were used to study the effect of both WP size and content, as well as compatibilizer content, on the properties of the composites. The results point to the fact that, WP settles in the amorphous part of the matrix and creates new crystalline phases or zones. Scanning electron microscopy micrographs show a relatively even distribution of WP in the PP matrix, which contributes to improvements observed in the properties of the material. Hg‐porosimetry results indicate that the PP matrix, which has a low pore volume, filled the pores in the WP particles. This reduced the total volume of pores in the PP–WP composites. This observation was also supported by a general decrease in gas permeability of the material. Thermal analysis results indicate that the presence of both WP and maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (MAPP) leads to an increase in enthalpy (crystallinity) values, but to a decrease in lamellar thickness in the composites. The thermal stability of the composites improves somewhat compared to that of PP. There were distinctive differences between the results for composites containing different WP particle sizes, as well as for composites prepared in the presence and absence of MAPP. It is clear from the results that the presence of MAPP generally improves the tensile properties of the composites. Larger WP particles gave rise to better tensile properties, in the presence and absence of MAPP. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 4173–4180, 2006
Dyeing mechanism and model of nylon 6 fiber dyeing in low‐temperature hydrogen peroxide–glyoxal redox system
Authors: Wang Huei‐Hsiung , Wang Chyung‐Chyung
Published: March 2006

This article reports the results of a study of nylon 6 fiber dyed in a low‐temperature hydrogen peroxide–glyoxal redox system. It was expected that the dyed fiber would have better dye fastness and higher economic value than would conventional fiber. In addition, this article presents the proposed mechanism for and model of a free‐radical dyeing system as well as a derived theoretical equation. From the experimental results, it was found that formation of covalent bonds by the coupling of the dye and the fiber radical in free‐radical dyeing was only 25%–40%, whereas with the conventional type of ionic dyeing, it was almost 60%–75%. Because the initiation efficiency of free‐radical formation is affected by many factors, such as the pH of the dye bath and the concentrations of the oxidant and reductant, the aims of this study were to investigate the formation of free radicals and the effects on dye uptake of the concentrations of dye, oxidant, and reductant and of the fiber amine end group. In addition, the dyeing properties of dyed fiber were investigated, and the dyeing order and rate constant of the rate equation were evaluated from the experimental data. From the experimental results, the following conclusions were drawn. (1) The hydrogen peroxide–glyoxal redox system produced many free radicals in the dye bath as temperature reached 70°C. (2) The amine end group in the nylon fiber was the main site of ionic and covalent bonding between nylon 6 fiber and dye. (3) The proposed model of free‐radical dyeing showed, from the fit of the experimental data into the equation and the evaluation of the equation parameters, that the order fit the theoretical value well, with the rate constant dependent on the dyeing conditions; at pH = 3, it could match the equation's best (rate equation of the proposed model: d[D]R/dt = kA[GO]1[H2O]m[D]1/2[F]1/2). (4) The optimum dyeing conditions in the hydrogen peroxide–glyoxal redox system were: [H2O2] = 0.15–0.20M, [glyoxal] = 0.07–0.10M, pH = 3, dyeing temperature = 70°C, and dyeing time = 45–50 min. (5) The redox dyeing system had better dye fastness than did the conventional system. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 4197–4207, 2006
Physical chemistry of topological disorder in polymers: Some remarks on polymer memory
Authors: Shlyapnikov Y. A. , Kolesnikova N. N.
Published: March 2006

The long‐term structural memory of a polymeric substance is determined by the concentration, size, and space distribution of the elements of topological disorder present in it. The short‐term structural memory is the result of the reversible reconstruction of existing elements. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100:4208–4211, 2006
Study on the prediction technique of the wear amount of polyoxymethylene
Authors: Kada Masahiro , Ishikawa Masaru
Published: March 2006

The influence of the sliding velocity and atmospheric temperature on the specific wear amount of polyoxymethylene was evaluated with the ring‐on‐ring apparatus. The specific wear amount showed the variation of S‐character type with maximum value, according to the change in the sliding velocity and the atmospheric temperature. When those results are plotted according to the sliding surface temperature, they have been found to be arranged as the same dependence. The specific wear amount of polyoxymethylene was assumed to be proportional to the product of actual contact area and reciprocal of the fracture energy. Then, the temperature dependency of the product of the fracture energy, calculated from stress–strain curve, and the actual contact area, calculated from Hertz's equation with elastic modulus, was able to explain the sliding surface temperature dependency of the specific wear amount well. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 4212–4218, 2006
Hydrogenation of synthetic cis‐1,4‐polyisoprene and natural rubber catalyzed by [Ir(COD)py(PCy3)]PF6
Authors: Hinchiranan Napida , Charmondusit Kitikorn , Prasassarakich Pattarapan , Rempel Garry L.
Published: March 2006

In the presence of chlorinated solvents, the catalytic complex [Ir(COD)py(PCy3)]PF6 (where COD is 1,5‐cyclooctadiene and py is pyridine) was an active catalyst for the hydrogenation of synthetic cis‐1,4‐polyisoprene and natural rubber. Detailed kinetic and mechanistic studies for homogeneous hydrogenation were carried out through the monitoring of the amount of hydrogen consumed during the reaction. The final degree of olefin conversion, measured with a computer‐controlled gas‐uptake apparatus, was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and 1H‐NMR spectroscopy. Synthetic cis‐1,4‐polyisoprene was used as a model polymer for natural rubber without impurities to study the influence of the catalyst loading, polymer concentration, hydrogen pressure, and reaction temperature with a statistical design framework. The kinetic results for the hydrogenation of both synthetic cis‐1,4‐polyisoprene and natural rubber indicated that the hydrogenation rate exhibited a first‐order dependence on the catalyst concentration and hydrogen pressure. Because of impurities inside the natural rubber, the hydrogenation of natural rubber showed an inverse behavior dependence on the rubber concentration, whereas the hydrogenation rate of synthetic rubber, that is, cis‐1,4‐polyisoprene, remained constant when the rubber concentration increased. The hydrogenation rate was also dependent on the reaction temperature. The apparent activation energies for the hydrogenation of synthetic cis‐1,4‐polyisoprene and natural rubber were evaluated to be 79.8 and 75.6 kJ/mol, respectively. The mechanistic aspects of these catalytic processes were discussed on the basis of observed kinetic results. The addition of some acids showed an effect on the hydrogenation rate of both rubbers. The thermal properties of hydrogenated rubber samples were determined and indicated that hydrogenation increased the thermal stability of the hydrogenated rubber but did not affect the inherent glass‐transition temperature. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 4219–4233, 2006
Preparation and characterization of Bombyx mori silk fibroin and wool keratin
Authors: Iridag Yesim , Kazanci Murat
Published: March 2006

Silk and wool are well‐known protein‐based fibers. Their environmental stability, biocompatibility, and unique mechanical properties provide an important basis for using these natural proteins in biomedical applications. To use them as biomaterials in the form of fibers, films, or membranes, it is necessary to characterize these proteins in their solution and solid states because structural characteristics and morphological features have a great influence on the physical and mechanical properties of these new regenerated protein forms. Therefore, in the present study, silk fibroin and wool keratin were dissolved and their solution behaviors and secondary structures are analyzed and compared, using particle size distribution, molecular weight distribution (SDS‐PAGE), Fourier transform infrared, and X‐ray diffraction techniques. It was shown that keratin is more stable in solution and more amorphous in the solid state. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100:4260–4264, 2006
Graft copolymerization of styrene onto casein initiated by potassium diperiodatonickelate (IV) in alkaline medium
Authors: Weiqi Zhou Yinghai Liu , Bai Libin , Zhao Na , Liu Yuanwei
Published: March 2006

A novel redox system, potassium diperiodatonickelate (Ni(IV))‐casein is used to initiate graft copolymerization of Styrene onto casein under different conditions in aqueous alkaline solution. Graft copolymers with both high grafting efficiency (>98%) and percentage of grafting(>300%) are obtained, which indicated that (Ni(IV))‐casein redox pair is an efficient initiator for this grafting. The effects of reaction parameters, such as monomer‐to‐casein weight ratio, initiator concentration, pH, time, and temperature, are investigated. A tentative initiation mechanism is proposed. The structures and properties of the graft copolymer are characterized by Fourier transform infrared Spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction diagrams, and Scanning Electron Microscope. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 4247–4251, 2006
In Vitro metabolism of ciclesonide in human lung and liver precision‐cut tissue slices
Authors: Nave Ruediger , Fisher Robyn , Zech Karl
Published: March 2006

Ciclesonide is a new‐generation inhaled corticosteroid developed to treat the inflammation associated with persistent asthma. In order to identify the properties of ciclesonide responsible for anti‐inflammatory activity, ciclesonide metabolism was investigated in human lung and liver precision‐cut tissue slices. Three human lung and three human liver tissue slices were incubated with 25 µM [14C]‐ciclesonide for 2, 6 and 24 h. Cellular viability was assessed using adenosine 5′‐triphosphate content and protein synthesis in lung slices and adenosine 5′‐triphosphate content and potassium retention in liver slices. Ciclesonide and ciclesonide metabolites were analysed in tissue samples using high‐performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet and radiochemical detection. Metabolite identity was confirmed using mass spectrometry. In lung slices, the inactive parent compound, ciclesonide, was initially converted to the active metabolite, desisobutyryl‐ciclesonide, and subsequently converted to fatty acid conjugates. The reversible formation of fatty acid conjugates was a major pathway of ciclesonide metabolism in human lung slices. The primary conjugate was identified as desisobutyryl‐ciclesonide oleate. Ciclesonide was metabolized to at least five polar metabolites in the liver. Dihydroxylated desisobutyryl‐ciclesonide was the major polar metabolite in liver slices. Activation and fatty acid esterification in the lung followed by rapid inactivation in the liver may explain the improved safety profile and prolonged anti‐inflammatory activity of ciclesonide. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessing the Amount of Heterogeneity in Random‐Effects Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Knapp Guido , Biggerstaff Brad J. , Hartung Joachim
Published: March 2006

In a random‐effects meta‐analysis, a new confidence interval for the heterogeneity parameter is proposed. With this interval, the amount of heterogeneity in a meta‐analysis can be assessed so that it can be judged whether the pooling of the estimates is meaningful. Through suitable corrections of the lower bound, based on the treatment effect measure of interest, the resulting interval yields satisfactory results with respect to the predefined confidence coefficient. Lower and upper bound of the interval can be used for one‐sided hypothesis testing on the amount of the underlying between‐trial variability. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A Renewed Approach to the Nonparametric Analysis of Replicated Microarray Experiments
Authors: Jung Klaus , Quast Karsten , Gannoun Ali , Urfer Wolfgang
Published: March 2006

DNA‐microarrays find broad employment in biochemical research. This technology allows the monitoring of the expression levels of thousands of genes at the same time. Often, the goal of a microarray study is to find differentially expressed genes in two different types of tissue, for example normal and cancerous. Multiple hypothesis testing is a useful statistical tool for such studies. One approach using multiple hypothesis testing is nonparametric analysis for replicated microarray experiments. In this paper we present an improved version of this method. We also show how p ‐values are calculated for all significant genes detected with this testing procedure. All algorithms were implemented in an R‐package, and instructions on it's use are included. The package can be downloaded at http://www.statistik.uni‐dortmund.de/de/content/einrichtungen/lehrstuehle/personen/jung.html
Parameters affecting the adsorption of plantaricin 423, a bacteriocin produced by Lactobacillus plantarum 423 isolated from sorghum beer
Authors: Todorov Svetoslav D. , Dicks Leon M. T.
Published: March 2006

Plantaricin 423 is bactericidal to logarithmic and stationary‐phase cells of Enterococcus sp. HKLHS and L. sakei DSM 20017. Detection of extracellular DNA and β‐galactosidase suggests that the mode of action is most probably by destabilizing of the cell membrane. Adsorption of plantaricin 423 to target cells ranged from 17% for Streptococcus caprinus ATCC 700066 to 67% for Lactobacillus plantarum LMG 13556, Lactobacillus curvatus DF38, Listeria innocua LMG 13568 and Lactobacillus sakei DSM 20017. Treatment of Enterococcus sp. HKLHS and L. sakei DSM 20017 with Triton X‐100, Triton X‐114 and chloroform increased the adsorption of plantaricin.
Marine glycosyl hydrolases in the hydrolysis and synthesis of oligosaccharides
Authors: Giordano Assunta , Andreotti Giuseppina , Tramice Annabella , Trincone Antonio
Published: March 2006

The marine ecosystem can be considered a rather unexplored source of biological material (e.g. natural substances with therapeutic activity) and can also be a surprising source of enzymes carrying new and interesting catalytic activities to be applied in biocatalysis. The use of glycosyl hydrolases from marine environments dates back to the end of the 1960s and was mainly focused on the development of sensitive and reliable hydrolytic methods for the analysis of sugar chains. As a result not all the benefits of a particular enzymatic activity have been investigated, especially regarding the transglycosylation potential of these enzymes for the synthesis of glycosidic bonds. In this review, the potential of marine sources will be demonstrated reporting on the few examples found in literature for the synthesis and hydrolysis of biologically relevant oligosaccharides catalyzed by glycosyl hydrolases of marine origin. Particular emphasis is given to the synthesis of glycosidic bonds, which is easy by the use of glycosyl hydrolases. Further aspects considered in this review are applications of these biocatalysts for vegetal waste treatment in recovering useful materials, for structural identification and for preparation of target materials from new purified polysaccharides, for the synthesis or modification of food‐related compounds and for glycobiology related studies.
Human and bovine lactoferrins in the milk of recombinant human lactoferrin‐transgenic dairy cows during lactation
Authors: Hyvönen Paula , Suojala Leena , Haaranen Johanna , von Wright Atte , Pyörälä Satu
Published: March 2006

Seven Friesian human lactoferrin (hLf)‐transgenic primiparous dairy cows expressing recombinant hLf (rhLf) in their milk were included in the study. After calving, concentrations of rhLf and bovine LF (bLf) in the milk, somatic cell count and milk yield were determined. The concentration of rhLf was found to be constant, about 2.9 mg/mL, throughout the early lactation period of 3 months. The concentration of bLf in colostrum was higher after calving, but decreased rapidly during the first days of lactation. The mean concentration of bLf was 0.15 mg/mL, but concentrations varied between cows from 0.07 mg/mL to 0.26 mg/mL. Based on that, it may be possible to improve the non‐specific host defence mechanism in the mammary gland of dairy cows by enhancing the content of rhLf in the milk.