bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atractylodes japonica root extract protects osteoblastic MC3T3‐E1 cells against hydrogen peroxide‐induced inhibition of osteoblastic differentiation
Authors: Choi Eun Mi , Kim Gun‐Hee , Lee Yong Soo
Published: May 2009

The rhizome of Atractylodes japonica Koidz. has been used traditionally for the treatment of water retention in the body and is known to have estrogen‐like activity. In the present study, the protective effects of A. japonica root extract on the response of osteoblasts to oxidative stress were evaluated. Osteoblastic MC3T3‐E1 cells were incubated with hydrogen peroxide and/or A. japonica root extract, and markers of osteoblast function and oxidative damage were examined. A. japonica root extract significantly (p < 0.05) increased cell survival, alkaline phosphatase activity, collagen and calcium deposition and decreased the production of receptor activator of nuclear factor‐kB ligand (RANKL), protein carbonyl and malondialdehyde of osteoblastic MC3T3‐E1 cells in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. These results demonstrate that A. japonica root can protect the cells from oxidative stress‐induced toxicity and may have positive effects on skeletal structure. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bioactive acylphloroglucinols from Hypericum densiflorum
Authors: Henry Geneive E. , Campbell Matthew S. , Zelinsky Ashlee A. , Liu Yunbao , Bowen‐Forbes Camile S. , Li Liya , Nair Muraleedharan G. , Rowley David C. , Seeram Navindra P.
Published: May 2009

Three acylphloroglucinol derivatives have been isolated from the hexane and acetone extracts of the aerial parts of Hypericum densiflorum Pursch. The compounds were characterized by NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry and identified as 4‐geranyloxy‐2,6‐dihydroxybenzophenone (1), 4‐geranyloxy‐1‐(2‐methylpropanoyl)‐ phloroglucinol (2) and 4‐geranyloxy‐1‐(2‐methylbutanoyl)‐phloroglucinol (3). Compounds 1–3 were evaluated for in vitro cell proliferation inhibitory activity against human breast (MCF‐7), lung (NCI H460), CNS (SF‐268), stomach (AGS) and colon (HCT‐116) tumor cell lines; antibacterial activity against methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA); inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX‐1 and ‐2) enzymes; and antioxidant activity in the lipid peroxidation (LPO) assay. All three compounds showed moderate to strong antitumor, antibacterial, antioxidant and inhibition of COX‐2 activities. Also, this is the first reported occurrence of compound 3 in the Hypericum genus. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interactions of Valeriana officinalis L. and Passiflora incarnata L. in a patient treated with lorazepam
Authors: Carrasco María Consuelo , Vallejo José Ramón , Pardo‐de‐Santayana Manuel , Peral Diego , Martín Miguel Ángel , Altimiras Jacinto
Published: May 2009

There is an increasing interest in the health risks related to the use of herbal remedies. Although most consumers think that phytomedicines are safe and without side effects, interactions between complementary alternative and conventional medicines are being described.

The aim of this clinical case report is to highlight the importance of the safe use of herbal remedies by providing a clinical interaction study between pharmaceutical medicines and herbal medicinal products.

The case of a patient self‐medicated with Valeriana officinalis L. and Passiflora incarnata L. while he was on lorazepam treatment is described. Handshaking, dizziness, throbbing and muscular fatigue were reported within the 32 h before clinical diagnosis. The analysis of family medical history ruled out essential tremor, Parkinson's disease, Wilson's disease and other symptom‐related pathologies. His medical history revealed a generalized anxiety disorder and medicinal plant consumption but no neurological disorder. Appropriate physical examination was carried out.

An additive or synergistic effect is suspected to have produced these symptoms. The active principles of Valerian and passionflower might increase the inhibitory activity of benzodiazepines binding to the GABA receptors, causing severe secondary effects.

Due to the increase in herbal product self‐medication, the use of herbal remedies should be registered while taking the personal clinical history. Multidisciplinary teams should be created to raise studies on medicinal plants with impact on medical praxis. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Drug interaction potential of the seed extract ofUrtica urensL. (dwarf Nettle)
Authors: Agus Hizlan H. , Tekin Pelin , Bayav Merve , Semiz Asli , Sen Alaattin
Published: May 2009

Dwarf nettle (Urtica urens) seed extract was examinedin vivoin the rat for its potential to modulate drug metabolizing enzymes including aminopyrineN‐demethylase (APND; CYP2C6), aniline 4‐hydroxylase (A4H; CYP2E1), nitrosodimethylamineN‐demethylase (NDMA‐ND; CYP2E1) erythromycinN‐demethylase (ERND; CYP3A1) CYP2D1/2 and glutathioneS‐transferase (GST). RT‐PCR data and western blotting studies clearly demonstrated that CYP2C6 and CYP2E1 mRNA levels were substantially increased after Urtica treatment, while the level of CYP3A1 mRNA decreased and that of CYP2D1/2 remained unchanged. Urtica treatment significantly induced GST activity in the liver, lung and kidney (66‐, 46‐ and 31‐fold, respectively) while decreasing that of APND (35‐, 61‐ and 94‐fold) and NDMA‐ND (23, 28 and 54‐fold). ERND activity in liver was reduced 45‐fold, but increased in the lung and kidney (78‐ and 144‐fold) after Urtica treatment. These results indicate that Urtica seed extract may have the potential to inhibit and/or induce the metabolism of certain co‐administered drugs. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Protective effect of resveratrol on markers of oxidative stress in human erythrocytes subjected to in vitro oxidative insult
Authors: Pandey Kanti Bhooshan , Rizvi Syed Ibrahim
Published: May 2009

Resveratrol is a natural polyphenolic compound found largely in the skin of red grapes. Growing evidence suggests that resveratrol may play an important role in the prevention of many human diseases. Many of the biological actions of this polyphenol have been attributed to its antioxidant properties. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of resveratrol on intracellular reduced glutathione (GSH) and membrane sulphydryl groups in erythrocytes subjected to oxidative stress in vitro by incubating with t‐BHP (10 µm). The study was aimed to test the efficacy of the antioxidant effect of resveratrol on human erythrocytes. Subjecting erythrocytes to oxidative stress (in vitro) by incubating them with t‐BHP (10 µm) caused a significant decrease in the intracellular GSH level and membrane –SH content compared with basal values. Incubation of erythrocytes/membranes with resveratrol (1–100 µm final conc) resulted in significant protection against the t‐BHP‐induced oxidative stress as evidenced by the increase in GSH level and membrane –SH content. It was observed that the effect of resveratrol is dose/concentration and time‐dependent. Since resveratrol is naturally present in many fruits and vegetables, a diet rich in resveratrol may provide protection against degenerative diseases. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Toxicity studies on dermal application of plant extract of Dodonaea viscosa used in Ethiopian traditional medicine
Authors: Teshome Kefale , Gebre‐Mariam Tsige , Asres Kaleab , Engidawork Ephrem
Published: May 2009

Despite advances in the understanding of the medicinal properties of many herbs, the consumer today is confronted with the lack of or misinformation concerning the safety of these herbs that rivals the heyday of the patent medicine era. In the present study, Dodonaea viscosa (Sapindaceae), a medicinal plant commonly used for skin diseases in Ethiopia was subjected to a systematic dermatotoxicity study. To this effect, the dermatotoxicity of an 80% methanol extract of the leaf was investigated in animals following standard procedures for irritation, sensitization, acute toxicity and repeated toxicity tests.

The skin irritation test in rabbits showed the extract to be a slight or negligibly slight irritant, with a primary irritation index of 0.45. A sensitization test in mice by the mouse ear swelling test method revealed the extract to be a non‐sensitizer in the dose range 12–30 mg/mL. The percent responder was zero. The acute and repeated dermal toxicity tests on rats did not show any overt sign of toxicity. The findings of this study collectively indicate that dermal application of D. viscosa is not associated with any toxicologically relevant effects and the data could provide satisfactory preclinical evidence of safety to launch a clinical trial on a standardized formulation of the plant extracts. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tyrosinase inhibitory constituents from the stems of Maackia fauriei
Authors: Kim Jeong Mi , Ko Ryeo Kyeong , Jung Duk Sang , Kim Sang Suk , Lee Nam Ho
Published: May 2009

Bioassay‐guided investigation of the stems of Maackia fauriei led to the isolation of seven flavonoid constituents, formononetin (1), genistein (2), daidzein (3), texasin (4), tectorigenin (5), odoratin (6) and mirkoin (7). Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectral studies as well as by comparison with literature data. Tyrosinase inhibition activities were carried out on the isolated compounds. Among these, mirkoin (7) was identified as a potent tyrosinase inhibitor. It inhibited mushroom tyrosinase with an IC50 value of 0.005 mm, which is ten times more active than kojic acid (IC50 = 0.045 mm). The inhibition kinetics, analysed by Lineweaver‐Burk plots, indicated mirkoin (7) to be a competitive inhibitor of tyrosinase when l‐tyrosinase was used as a substrate. The results suggest that hydroxyl groups at C‐4′ in the B ring of flavonoids play an important role in the tyrosinase inhibition activities. Interestingly, compounds 4–7 were isolated for the first time from this plant. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hyphenation of centrifugal partition chromatography with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry using an active flow‐splitter device for characterization of flavonol glycosides
Authors: Toribio Alix , Destandau Emilie , Elfakir Claire , Lafosse Michel
Published: May 2009

Online coupling of centrifugal partition chromatography to electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (CPC/ESI‐MS) was investigated for the separation and characterization of flavonol glycosides. Structural identification and purification monitoring of analytes on milligram scale were demonstrated to be possible by using an active flow‐splitter device which transfers automatically and successively, at discrete frequencies, small aliquots of the chromatographic effluent to an independent auxiliary stream directed to an ESI quadrupole mass spectrometer. The CPC protocol used a biphasic solvent system composed of ethyl acetate/ethanol/water (4.5:1:4.5, v/v/v) in isocratic mode. During the separation process, continuous acquisition of mass spectral data of the isolated flavonols from the effluent was performed in the negative ion mode with an auxiliary stream composed of 50 mM ammonium acetate/ethanol (2:8, v/v) delivered by a secondary pump. To demonstrate the potential of this hyphenated technique, flavonol glycosides from an apple peel extract were identified, purified and quantitatively analyzed. Calibration curves and limits of detection are also detailed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A method for 13C‐labeling of metabolic carbohydrates within French bean leaves (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) for decomposition studies in soils
Authors: Girardin Cyril , Rasse Daniel P. , Biron Philippe , Ghashghaie Jaleh , Chenu Claire
Published: May 2009

The molecular composition of plant residues is suspected to largely govern the fate of their constitutive carbon (C) in soils. Labile compounds, such as metabolic carbohydrates, are affected differently from recalcitrant and structural compounds by soil‐C stabilisation mechanisms. Producing 13C‐enriched plant residues with specifically labeled fractions would help us to investigate the fate in soils of the constitutive C of these compounds. The objective of the present research was to test 13C pulse chase labeling as a method for specifically enriching the metabolic carbohydrate components of plant residues, i.e. soluble sugars and starch. Bean plants were exposed to a 13CO2‐enriched atmosphere for 0.5, 1, 2, 3 and 21 h. The major soluble sugars were then determined on water‐soluble extracts, and starch on HCl‐hydrolysable extracts. The results show a quick differential labeling between water‐soluble and water‐insoluble compounds. For both groups, 13C‐labeling increased linearly with time. The difference in δ13C signature between water‐soluble and insoluble fractions was 7‰ after 0.5 h and 70‰ after 21 h. However, this clear isotopic contrast masked a substantial labeling variability within each fraction. By contrast, metabolic carbohydrates on the one hand (i.e. soluble sugars + starch) and other fractions (essentially cell wall components) on the other hand displayed quite homogeneous signatures within fractions, and a significant difference in labeling between fractions: δ13C = 414 ± 3.7‰ and 56 ± 5.5‰, respectively. Thus, the technique generates labeled plant residues displaying contrasting 13C‐isotopic signatures between metabolic carbohydrates and other compounds, with homogenous signatures within each group. Metabolic carbohydrates being labile compounds, our findings suggest that the technique is particularly appropriate for investigating the effect of compound lability on the long‐term storage of their constitutive C in soils. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of sub‐ppb epichlorohydrin levels in water by on‐line solid‐phase extraction liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Ripollés Cristina , Marín José M. , López Francisco J. , Sancho Juan V. , Hernández Félix
Published: May 2009

A new sensitive and selective method based on on‐line solid‐phase extraction (SPE) coupled to liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC/ESI‐MS/MS) using a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer has been developed for the determination of epichlorohydrin (ECH) in different types of water samples. ECH is not easily determined directly by ESI‐MS as it is not readily ionized, and it has a low molecular mass and high polarity. Thus, prior derivatization of ECH was necessary, employing 3,5‐difluorobenzylamine as a derivatizing agent with Fe(III) as a catalyst. In order to achieve accurate quantification, correcting for matrix effects, losses in the derivatization process and instrumental deviations, isotope labelled ECH (ECH‐d5) was added as an internal standard (IS) to the water samples. The method was validated based on European SANCO guidelines using drinking and other types of treated water spiked at two concentration levels (0.1 and 1.0 µg/L), the lower level having been established as the limit of quantification (LOQ) of the method. Satisfactory accuracy (recoveries between 70 and 103%), precision (RSD <20%) and linearity (from 0.05 to 50 µg/L, r >0.99) were obtained. The limit of detection (LOD) was set up at 0.03 µg/L. The method was applied to different water samples (drinking water and water samples collected from a municipal treatment water plant). In order to enhance confidence, five selected reaction monitoring (SRM) transitions were acquired, thus obtaining a simultaneous reliable quantification and identification of ECH in water, even at sub‐ppb levels. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantized feedback control for linear uncertain systems
Authors: Fu Minyue , Xie Lihua
Published: May 2009

This paper studies robust control problems under the setting of quantized feedback. We consider both the static and dynamic logarithmic quantizers. In the static quantization case, the quantizer has an infinite number of levels, and the design problem is to find the minimal quantization density required to achieve a given control objective. In the dynamic quantization case, the problem is to minimize the number of quantization levels to achieve a given control objective. We present a number of results for different controller‐quantizer configurations. These results are developed using the so‐calledsector bound approachfor quantized feedback control, which was initiated by the authors previously for systems without uncertainties. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Performance evaluation of IKEv2 authentication methods in next generation wireless networks
Authors: Faigl Zoltán , Lindskog Stefan , Brunstrom Anna
Published: May 2009

Secure communications have a key role in future networks and applications. Information security provisions such as authorization, authentication, and encryption must be added to current communications protocols. To accomplish this, each protocol must be reexamined to determine the impact on performance of adding such security services. This paper presents an experimental evaluation of the performance costs of a wide variety of authentication methods over IKEv2 in real and partly emulated scenarios of next generation wireless networks. The studied methods are pre‐shared keys (PSKs), extensible authentication protocol (EAP) using MD5, SIM, TTLS‐MD5, TLS, and PEAP‐MSCHAPv2. For the EAP‐based methods, RADIUS is used as the authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) server. Different lengths of certificate chains are studied in case of the TLS‐based methods, i.e., TTLS‐MD5, TLS, and PEAP‐MSCHAPv2. The paper first presents a brief overview of the considered authentication methods. Then, a comparison of the costs for message transfers and computations associated with the authentication methods is provided. The measurement results are verified through a simple analysis, and interpreted by discussing the main contributing factors of the costs. The measurement results illustrate the practical costs involved for IKEv2 authentication, and the implications of the use of different methods are discussed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The tensile properties of HNO3‐treated carbon fiber reinforced ABS/PA6 composites
Authors: Li J. , Zhang Y. F.
Published: May 2009

In this study, acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene (ABS) terpolymer was reinforced with HNO3‐treated short carbon fibers (SCFs) [(hollow carbon fibers (HCFs)]. The effects of HCF concentration on the tensile properties of the composites were examined. Increasing the HCF concentration in the ABS matrix from 10 to 30 wt% resulted in improved tensile strength and tensile modulus. To obtain a strong interaction at the interface, polyamide 6 (PA6) at varying concentrations was introduced into the ABS/10 wt% SCF composite. The incorporation and increasing amount of PA6 in the composites increased tensile properties of the ABS/PA6/HCF systems due to the improved adhesion at the interface, which was confirmed by the ratio of tensile strength as an adhesion parameter. These results were also supported by scanning electron micrographs of the ABS/PA6/HCF composites, which exhibited an improved adhesion between the SCFs and the ABS/PA6 matrix. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of coupling agent chain lengths on interfacial performances of carbon fiber and polyarylacetylene resin composites
Authors: Jiang Z. X. , Liu L. , Huang Y. D. , Ren H.
Published: May 2009

The influence of chain lengths on interfacial performances of carbon fiber/polyarylacetylene composites was studied. For this purpose, four coupling agents, methyltrimethoxysilane, propyltrimethoxysilane, octyltrimethoxysilane and dodecyltrimethoxysilane, were grafted onto fiber surface to obtain different chain lengths. The resulting carbon fiber surface was characterized by XPS and dynamic contact angle test. Interfacial adhesion in the resulting fiber reinforced polyarylacetylene resin composites was also evaluated by fracture morphology analysis and interfacial shear strength test. It was found that the interfacial adhesion in composites greatly increased with chain lengths on fiber surface. The improvement of interfacial adhesion was attributed to the interaction between the chain of coupling agents on fiber surface and that of polyarylacetylene resin at the interface. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Metallleichtbaukonstruktionen: Früher und heute
Authors: Pöter Hans
Published: May 2009

Die Metallleichtbauweise blickt in Europa auf eine vergleichsweise kurze und dennoch sehr erfolgreiche Entwicklung zurück. Ausgehend von der lang geübten Tradition, für untergeordnete Nutzungen von Gebäuden für Dach und Wand Pfannenbleche und Stahlwellelemente einzusetzen, beginnt erst in der Mitte des letzten Jahrhunderts das Bauen mit Trapez‐ und Kassettenprofilen sowie Sandwichelementen aus Stahl‐ und Aluminiumblech. Der Fortschritt dieser neuartigen Bauweise geschieht in einem Maße, dass heute im Industrie‐ und Wirtschaftshochbau sowie in Teil en des öffentlichen Bauens kaum ein Dach ohne Metalltafeln auskommt und darüber hinaus eine schnell zunehmende Anzahl von Wandaufbauten ebenfalls Metalltafeln in den unterschiedlichsten Ausführungen aufweisen. Im Verlauf von nur etwa 60 Jahren ist es den Herstellern von dünnwandigen Bauteilen unter Verwendung hierfür angepasster Vormaterialien und Verbindungselemente und zusammen mit Planern und Verlegefirmen gelungen, das Baugeschehen in weiten Bereichen maßgeblich zu bestimmen.

Light metal constructions: In the past and today.

The light gauge metal construction industry in Europe faces a relatively short however very successful development. Based on a long lasting tradition in using corrugated metal sheet for roof and wall cladding for buildings meeting minor requirements the application of steel and aluminium trapezoidal and cassette sections as well as sandwich panels did not start until the middle of the past century. The progress of the new method of building roofs and walls took place in a way that today hardly any industrial building can do without metal panels in the roof. In addition there is a fast growing number of wall applications which contain metal panels out of a great variety of forms as well. In the course of just about 60 years fabricators of light gauge panels using modified raw materials and fasteners and in cooperation with architects and erection companies succeeded in taking over and controlling wide areas of applications in the building industry.
Selbsttragende und aussteifende Sandwichbauteile – Möglichkeiten für kleinere und mittlere Gebäude
Authors: Berner Klaus
Published: May 2009

Die zur Zeit verwendeten Sandwichbauteile werden fast ausschließlich als raumabschließende Elemente für Wandverkleidungen und Dacheindeckungen eingesetzt. Dabei werden die Elemente stets auf eine tragende Unterkonstruktion montiert. Diese Elemente werden infolge äußerer Lasten sowie Temperatur‐ und Kriecheffekte ausschließlich durch Biegemomente und Querkräfte beansprucht.

Zur Erweiterung der Marktchancen drängt sich die Frage auf, inwieweit Sandwichbauteile auch für lastabtragende Wände und aussteifende Scheiben ohne tragende Unterkonstruktion geeignet sind. Zur Beantwortung dieser Frage werden an drei unterschiedlichen Haustypen die maximalen Beanspruchungen von Wandpaneelen mit vertikalen Lasten (Normalkräften) und horizontalen Lasten (Scheibenkräften) ermittelt und den zu erwartenden Beanspruchbarkeiten gegenübergestellt. Dadurch kann gezeigt werden, dass die Verwendung von üblichen Sandwichbauteilen für lastabtragende und aussteifende Bauteile für kleinere bis mittlere Gebäude durchaus möglich ist.

Self bearing and racking sandwich panels – possibilities for small and middle sized buildings.

At the moment virtual all sandwich panels are used either as wall claddings or roof coverings. For this purpose the elements are mounted on a load‐bearing substructure. Due to external loads and effects from temperature and creep these elements are subjected to bending moments and shear forces only.

The market for sandwich panels would be broadened if they could be used as load‐transferring walls and bracing diaphragms without load‐bearing substructure. Three different types of houses will be investigated in order to find out if sandwich panels are suitable for these applications. First maximum vertical (axial) loads of wall panels and horizontal loads (bracing) will be determined and then the values will be compared to expected load capacities. Thus it can be shown that commonly used sandwich panels are suitable for load‐transferring and bracing elements in small and medium‐sized buildings.
Tragfähigkeit perforierter dünnwandiger Bauteile
Authors: Misiek Thomas , Saal Helmut , Kathage Karsten
Published: May 2009

DIN 18807‐1 und DIN 18807‐6 schließen die rechnerische Ermittlung der Tragfähigkeit perforierter Trapezprofile aus. Die diesbezüglichen Regelungen der EN 1993‐1‐3 und EN 1999‐1‐4 sind unzureichend und zum Teil irreführend. Im Rahmen eines Forschungsprojektes wurden daher die erforderlichen Regelungen für eine Erweiterung der genannten Normen um die Bemessung dünnwandiger Bauteile aus voll‐ und teilperforiertem Band oder Blechen erarbeitet.

Design resistance of perforated trapezoidal sheeting.

DIN 18807‐1 and DIN 18807‐6 exclude the design of perforated trapezoidal sheeting. The regulations of EN 1993‐1‐3 and EN 1999‐1‐4 concerning the design of perforated trapezoidal sheeting are insufficient and partly misleading. Therefore the stiffnesses, linear buckling loads and effective widths of thin‐walled components made of fully or partially perforated sheeting were investigated numerically and experimentally. The final result of this investigation are recommendations for the extension of the mentioned standards to apply them to fully or partially perforated sheeting.
Fassaden‐ und Dachkonstruktionen für ein Kernkraftwerk
Authors: Urban Hagen
Published: May 2009

Für den Neubau eines Kernkraftwerkes mussten bei den Fassaden‐ und Dachkonstruktionen verschiedene besondere technische Aufgabenstellungen bewältigt werden. Diese sind zum einen in den lokalen klimatischen Verhältnissen begründet, zum anderen wird mit dem Neubau eines Kernkraftwerkes ein besonderer Anspruch hinsichtlich Betriebssicherheit verbunden. Die statisch‐konstruktiven Beanspruchungen, die Anforderungen aus der Bauphysik sowie die Montagebedingungen erforderten die Weiterentwicklung etablierter Fassadenaufbauten und deren Prüfung in Laboren und Prüfinstituten vor Fertigungsbeginn.

Thema des Aufsatzes ist die bereits weitgehend realisierte Gebäudehülle des nichtnuklearen, konventionellen Bereiches – dem “Turbine Island“. Züblin Stahlbau GmbH, Mitglied des IFBS und DStV, führte im Turbine Island neben den Fassadenarbeiten auch die Stahlbauarbeiten aus. Aus der Verbindung beider Gewerke wurden Synergien insbesondere in der Planung der Schnittstellen und der Verzahnung von Montageabläufen vor Ort gezogen. In Summe werden beim Turbine Island ca. 90000 m2 Profilbleche verlegt und ca. 4000 t Stahlkonstruktionen montiert.

Facade and roof construction for a nuclear power plant.

For the new building of a nuclear power plant, different special technical problems are to be handled with regard to the facade and roof constructions. On the one hand, these are caused by the local climatic conditions, while on the other hand a special demand with regard to operational safety is associated with the new building of a nuclear power plant. The static‐construction demands, the requirements from the construction physics and as well as the erection conditions required the further development of established façade structures and their testing in laboratories and testing institutes before production commencement.

The already largely realized building envelope of the conventional area – the “Turbine Island” – is the subject of this paper. Züblin Stahlbau GmbH, an IFBS and DStV member, also implemented the steel construction works in the Turbine Island, as well as the facade work. Synergies were generated from the combination of both trade sectors, in particular in the planning of the interfaces and the intermeshing of assembly process sequences on site. In sum, with the Turbine Island, approx. 90000 m2 profiled sheet metal units are laid and approx. 4000 tons steel structures mounted.
Dynamische Untersuchungen von leichten Stahldecken aus kaltgeformten, dünnwandigen Stahlprofilen
Authors: Lange Jörg , Rack Werner , Neujahr Martin
Published: May 2009

Leichte Deckenkonstruktionen aus kaltgeformten, dünnwandigen Stahlprofilen mit einem Belag aus Holzfaserplatten oder ähnlichen Werkstoffen bieten viele Vorteile gegenüber den konventionellen Bauweisen. Hierzu zählen neben dem geringen Eigengewicht auch die einfache Ausführbarkeit und der hohe Vorfertigungsgrad. Gebäude können wirtschaftlich bei kurzer Bauzeit und einem hohen Qualitätsstandard durch wetterunabhängige Werksfertigung erstellt werden. Das geringe Gewicht qualifiziert sie darüber hinaus für Aufstockungen. Die Schwachstelle dieser Systeme kann jedoch in ihrem dynamischen Verhalten liegen.

Ziel des nachstehend vorgestellten, derzeit laufenden Forschungsprojektes ist die Entwicklung eines hinsichtlich des dynamischen Verhaltens bei Anregung durch gehende Menschen optimierten Deckensystems aus kaltgeformten, dünnwandigen Stahlprofilen und einer Trockenbaulösung für die Deckenplatte. Erste Sondierungsversuche und numerische Untersuchungen wurden bereits durchgeführt. Nachstehend werden die bisher durchgeführten Untersuchungen vorgestellt, die Zusammenhänge erläutert und erste Ergebnisse qualitativ besprochen.

Analysis of the dynamic behavior of lightweight floor systems supported by cold‐formed steel joists.

Lightweight floor structures supported by cold‐formed steel joists with gypsum or wood‐based panels have a number of advantages compared to conventional construction methods. Among these advantages are the low weight and the high level of prefabrication. This construction method allows fast construction and a very high quality which is due to the weather‐independent production in the factory. Adding stories to existing buildings is also an application as a result of the light weight. The weakness of this system may be its dynamic behavior.

The intention of our current research is to investigate the effects of human induced vibrations on lightweight ceiling systems made of cold‐formed steel joists to formulate new approaches to this problem. First steps of experimental investigations and numerical simulation were already realized. The following paper presents a documentation of the testing, exemplifies the correlation and discusses the first results.
A Novel Copolymer: Starch‐g‐Polyvinylpyrrolidone
Authors: Kahya Suat , Şanlı Oya , Ünal Halil İbrahim , Camurlu Pinar
Published: May 2009

In this study, graft copolymerization of N‐vinylpyrrolidone (N‐VP) onto starch was carried out in an aqueous medium using azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as initiator. The variables affecting the graft copolymerization, such as monomer and initiator concentrations, reaction time and temperature, were thoroughly examined. In general, grafting of N‐vinylpyrrolidone onto starch increased with the increase in time and monomer concentration up to a certain value and then leveled off. Similarly, increase both in initiator concentration and temperature first favored and than impeded the grafting reaction. Optimum conditions established for grafting were as follows: N‐VP = 0.7 M, AIBN = 1.5×10‐3 M, T = 70°C and t = 5 h. Structural changes of the grafted starch were followed by FTIR, intrinsic viscosity and water absorption capacity studies.
Macromolecular Changes in Extruded Starch‐Films Plasticized with Glycerol, Water and Stearic Acid
Authors: Pushpadass Heartwin A. , Kumar Ajay , Jackson David S. , Wehling Randy L. , Dumais Joseph J. , Hanna Milford A.
Published: May 2009

Native corn starch, plasticized with water, glycerol and stearic acid, was extruded in a conical twin‐screw extruder and sheeted into 0.4–0.6 mm thick films. The effects of extrusion and plasticizers on gelatinization, as well as the molecular and structural changes, in thermoplastic starch were analyzed. The onset and peak gelatinization temperatures of extruded starch varied from 42–46°C and 52.9–56.9°C, respectively, depending on the glycerol content. The enthalpy of gelatinization of extruded thermoplastic starch in excess water varied from 3.6–7.6 J/g, which also increased with plasticizer content. Amylose‐lipid complexes were formed during extrusion, and their enthalpies depended on the initial stearic acid and moisture contents. High‐performance size‐exclusion chromatography (HPSEC) data revealed that the starch underwent fragmentation during extrusion even under highly plasticized conditions, but the degradation was not severe as compared to previous findings. The relative percentages of amylopectin and amylose in native starch were 76.9 and 23.1%, respectively, which were changed to 71.3–76.6% and 23.4–28.7% in the extrudates. The average molecular weights of amylopectin and amylose in the extrudates ranged from 1.55×107–2.07×107 and 4.35×105–7.39×105, respectively. On the other hand, the molecular weights of amylopectin and amylose in native corn starch were observed as 2.27×107 and 4.68×105, respectively. Cross‐polarization magical angle spinning (CP/MAS) and high‐power decoupling (HP‐DEC) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra of thermoplastic starch revealed the characteristics of amylomaize starch, confirming HPSEC results that the amylopectin macromolecules underwent fragmentation into amylose‐like fractions. In the extrudates, glycerol was found to be less mobile and entrained within the starch network.
Physicochemical Characteristics of Starches from Unripe Fruits of Mango and Banana
Authors: Espinosa‐Solis Vicente , Jane Jay‐lin , Bello‐Perez Luis A.
Published: May 2009

Mango and banana starches were isolated from unripe fruits and their morphology; thermal and pasting properties; molar mass and chain length distribution were determined. Mango starch granules were spherical or dome‐shaped and split, while banana starch had elongated granules with a lenticular shape. Amylopectin of both fruit starches had a lower molar mass than maize starch amylopectin; however, mango amylopectin had the highest gyration radius. Banana amylopectin showed the lowest percentage of short chains [degree of polymerization (DP) 6–12] and the highest level of long chains (DP ≥ 37); mango amylopectin presented the highest fraction of short chains, but the level of longest chains was intermediate between those of banana and maize amylopectins. Banana starch presented the highest average gelatinization temperature followed by mango starch and maize starch had the lowest value; a similar pattern was found for the gelatinization enthalpy. The two fruit starches had a lower pasting temperature than maize starch, but the former samples showed higher peak and final viscosities than maize starch. Structural differences identified in the fruit starches explain their physicochemical characteristics such as thermal and pasting behavior.
Drug interactions and hormonal contraception
Authors: Rhoda Lee C.
Published: May 2009

Drug interactions with contraceptives are of concern, particularly when steroid metabolism is induced, as this may reduce contraceptive efficacy. The author discusses the prediction of drug interactions and the interpretation of pharmacokinetic interaction studies of combined hormonal contraceptives. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Interface Ltd
Treatment of early prostate cancer: active surveillance
Authors: O'Donnell Helen , Parker Chris
Published: May 2009

With the incidence of prostate cancer increasing, active surveillance aims to identify those men who need to be treated and those who can be safely left alone. The authors outline the rationale for active surveillance, describe how it is practised, and summarise the results of active surveillance studies reported to date. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Interface Ltd
Cervical ectropion. Part 1: appraisal of a common clinical finding
Authors: Matiluko Adebimpe F.
Published: May 2009

In part 1 of this article, the author discusses the physiology and symptoms associated with cervical ectropion, and the treatment options available for symptomatic women. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Interface Ltd
A Pentacoordinate Chlorotrimethylsilane Derivative: A very Polar Snapshot of a Nucleophilic Substitution and its Influence on 29Si Solid State NMR Properties
Authors: Brendler Erica , Heine Thomas , Hill Anthony F. , Wagler Jörg
Published: May 2009

The reaction of 1‐methyl‐2‐mercaptoimidazole (methimazole) with chloromethyldimethylchlorosilane (ClCH2)Si(CH3)2Cl in the presence of triethylamine afforded the 1‐methylimidazol‐2‐ylthiomethyl‐substituted silane 1. The pentacoordinate silicon atom of 1 is housed within an almost trigonal bipyramidal coordination sphere, i.e., the three equatorially situated C–Si–C angles sum up to 359.5(3)°. The axial situation of the still Si‐bound chlorine atom with its remarkably long Si‐Cl separation of 2.5123(3) Å and a trans‐situated imidazolyl nitrogen donor constitute a very polar molecule, the resulting intermolecular interactions of which in the solid state were investigated crystallographically and by 29Si CP/MAS NMR spectroscopy. Single crystals of 1 revealed significantly lower susceptibility towards temperature changes along the crystallographic a‐axis, which is the axis along which chains of the polar molecules are aligned. Hence, the 29Si NMR shielding tensor, experimentally determined by CP/MAS NMR spectroscopy, could only be simulated to a satisfactory extent when taking these intermolecular interactions into account.
Chiral Dicopper Complexes with a Doubly Asymmetric Ligand as Models for the Tyrosinase Active Site: Synthesis, Structure, O2‐Reactivity and Comparison with Their Symmetric Analogs
Authors: Sander Ole , Näther Christian , Tuczek Felix
Published: May 2009

In order to model the asymmetric active site of the type‐3 copper enzyme tyrosinase the “doubly asymmetric” binucleating ligand 1‐[bis‐N,N‐(pyrid‐2‐ylmethyl)aminomethyl]‐3‐[N‐(pyrid‐2‐ylmethyl)‐N‐(2‐pyrid‐2‐ylethyl)aminomethyl]benzene (“unsDMPA”) is synthesized and coordinated to copper(I). The O2‐reactivity of the CuI(unsDMPA) complex and its analog derived from the symmetric counterpiece of unsDMPA, DMPA, is investigated. Oxygenation in methanol leads to dicopper(II) bis(μ‐hydroxo) and bis(μ‐methanolato) complexes; the dicopper(II) bis(μ‐hydroxo) complex of the unsDMPA ligand is chiral. Oxygenation in dichloromethane leads to oxidative N‐dealkylation. This is attributed to a tendency of DMPA and unsDMPA complexes to form dicopper bis(μ‐oxo) intermediates, as evidenced by DFT. The implications of these results with respect to the design of tyrosinase model systems are discussed.
Overexpression and Interactions of Interleukin‐10, Transforming Growth Factor β, and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Gholamin Mehran , Moaven Omeed , Memar Bahram , Farshchian Moein , Naseh Hossein , Malekzadeh Reza , Sotoudeh Masoud , Rajabi‐Mashhadi Mohammad Taghi , Forghani Mohammad Naser , Farrokhi Farid , Abbaszadegan Mohammad Reza
Published: May 2009

Background

Sharing the role of immune suppression, interleukin‐10 (IL‐10), transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are critical genes in several aspects of tumorigenesis. To elucidate the role of these cytokines in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), their relative mRNA expression in tumoral tissue compared with corresponding tumor‐free tissue was evaluated.

Methods

A total of 49 patients with histologically confirmed ESCC were included in the study prior to any therapeutic interventions. Quantitative analysis of the mRNA expression was performed by real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction and the clinicopathologic associations were assessed.

Results

The mRNA of IL‐10, VEGF, and TGF‐β was frequently overexpressed in 53.2%, 44.9%, and 37.5% of ESCC patients, respectively. TGF‐β was significantly co‐expressed with IL‐10 and with VEGF. Although VEGF was not independently associated with increased tumor size (p = 0.065), concomitant overexpression of VEGF with TGF‐β was significantly correlated with increased size of the tumor (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Overexpression of IL‐10, TGF‐β, and VEGF plays an important role in ESCC and consequently leads to the frequent event of immune evasion in ESCC. TGF‐β is concomitantly overexpressed with IL‐10 and with VEGF in ESCC. A stimulatory signal from TGF‐β to VEGF is necessary for VEGF to promote tumor progression.
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy for Gallbladder Disease in Patients with Severe Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Liu Yu‐Yin , Yeh Chun‐Nan , Lee Hsiang‐Lin , Chu Pao‐Hsien , Jan Yi‐Yin , Chen Miin‐Fu
Published: May 2009

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and gallstones are reported to be strongly associated because both diseases are frequently part of a metabolic syndrome. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) has become the standard treatment for gallbladder disease around the world. Cardiovascular disease is considered as an absolute or relative contraindication for LC; however, clinical information regarding the applicability of LC for treating gallbladder disease in CVD patients is lacking. This study aims to assess the suitability of LC for the treatment of gallbladder disease in CVD patients.

Methods

The medical records of 66 patients with severe CVD (including valvular heart disease, ischemic heart disease, and heart failure) and gallbladder disease (CVD‐group) who underwent LC between 1966 and 2005 were retrospectively reviewed. Furthermore, these data were compared with the clinical features and outcomes of 8,834 patients with gallbladder disease who underwent LC but did not have severe CVD (NCVD‐group).

Results

Of the 8,900 patients with gallbladder disease undergoing LC, the 66 (0.74%) who comprised the CVD‐group clearly exhibited advanced age, male predominance, higher blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels, and a longer duration of hospitalization as compared with the NCVD‐group patients. A longer duration of hospitalization and a higher incidence of acute cholecystitis and chronic cholecystitis were identified as independent factors differentiating the CVD‐group patients, who had previously undergone open‐heart surgery, from the NCVD‐group patients who underwent LC. For the CVD‐group patients, adjustment of anticoagulant therapy contributed to the longer duration of hospitalization, but postoperative complications did not. Advanced age and male predominance were identified as independent factors differentiating the patients who developed ischemic heart disease that required intervention from the NCVD‐group patients undergoing LC. The operative morbidity and mortality rates of LC are likely to be similar when it is used to treat selected patients with severe CVD and gallbladder disease and when it is used to treat patients with gallbladder disease and no CVD.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a suitable procedure for treating selected patients with severe CVD and gallbladder disease, and its operative morbidity and mortality rates are similar in these patients and in patients with gallbladder disease alone. Nevertheless, appropriate preoperative preparations and established operative techniques in the hands of an experienced surgeon are mandatory.
The protective capacity of UV-exposedClinostomum complanatummetacercariae against challenge infections inArdeola ibis ibis
Authors: Allam G. , Aboel Hadid S.M.
Published: May 2009

Exposure of encysted metacercariaeof Clinostomum complanatumto UV light (254 nm) for 60 min reduced their development into adult worms in buff-backed herons (95.7% reduction in worm burden). Metacercariae that succeeded in developing into adult worms, showed low fecundity levels. Furthermore, 30% of eggs laid showed abnormal shape; however, all normal and abnormal eggs failed to hatch into miracidia. The effectiveness of UV-irradiated metacercariae as a vaccine was investigated. Compared to control unvaccinated herons, the vaccinated group showed a significantly high protection rate (73.8%) against challenge.In vitro, worm development after challenge showed decreased fecundity and increased egg abnormalities, where only 1.5% of all eggs produced hatched into miracidia. A passive haemagglutination test revealed increased antibody titres against soluble adult worm antigen in both vaccinated and vaccinated-challenged birds. It was concluded that vaccination of herons using encysted metacercariae UV-irradiated for 60 min can protect them against challenge infection.
Non-discursive Knowledge and the Construction of Identity Potters, Potting and Performance at the Bronze Age Tell of Százhalombatta, Hungary
Authors: Budden Sandy , Sofaer Joanna
Published: May 2009

This article explores the relationship between the making of things and the making of people at the Bronze Age tell at Százhalombatta, Hungary. Focusing on potters and potting, we explore how the performance of non-discursive knowledge was critical to the construction of social categories. Potters literally came into being as potters through repeated bodily enactment of potting skills. Potters also gained their identity in the social sphere through the connection between their potting performance and their audience. We trace degrees of skill in the ceramic record to reveal the material articulation of non-discursive knowledge and consider the ramifications of the differential acquisition of non-discursive knowledge for the expression of different kinds of potter's identities. The creation of potters as a social category was essential to the ongoing creation of specific forms of material culture. We examine the implications of altered potters' performances and the role of non-discursive knowledge in the construction of social models of the Bronze Age.
Mineral phase analysis of deep‐sea hydrothermal particulates by a Raman spectroscopy expert algorithm: Toward autonomous in situ experimentation and exploration
Authors: Breier J. A. , German C. R. , White S. N.
Published: May 2009

This paper demonstrates that a Raman spectroscopy, point‐counting technique can be used for phase analysis of minerals commonly found in deep‐sea hydrothermal plumes, even for minerals with similar chemical compositions. It also presents our robust autonomous identification algorithm and spectral database, both of which were developed specifically for deep‐sea hydrothermal studies. The Raman spectroscopy expert algorithm was developed and tested against multicomponent mixtures of minerals relevant to the deep‐sea hydrothermal environment. It is intended for autonomous classification where many spectra must be examined with little or no human involvement to increase analytic precision, accuracy, and data volume or to enable in situ measurements and experimentation.
Methane fluxes during the initiation of a large‐scale water table manipulation experiment in the Alaskan Arctic tundra
Authors: Zona D. , Oechel W. C. , Kochendorfer J. , Paw U K. T. , Salyuk A. N. , Olivas P. C. , Oberbauer S. F. , Lipson D. A.
Published: May 2009

Much of the 191.8 Pg C in the upper 1 m of Arctic soil of Arctic soil organic mater is, or is at risk of, being released to the atmosphere as CO2 and/or CH4. Global warming will further alter the rate of emission of these gases to the atmosphere. Here we quantify the effect of major environmental variables affected by global climate change on CH4 fluxes in the Alaskan Arctic. Soil temperature best predicts CH4 fluxes and explained 89% of the variability in CH4 emissions. Water table depth has a nonlinear impact on CH4 efflux. Increasing water table height above the surface retards CH4 efflux. Decreasing water table depth below the surface has a minor effect on CH4 release once an aerobic layer is formed at the surface. In contrast with several other studies, we found that CH4 emissions are not driven by net ecosystem exchange (NEE) and are not limited by labile carbon supply.