bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient Electrocatalytic Detection of Epinephrine at Gold Electrodes Modified with Self‐Assembled Metallo‐Octacarboxyphthalocyanine Complexes
Authors: Agboola Bolade O. , Ozoemena Kenneth I.
Published: July 2008

Electrocatalysis of epinephrine at gold electrode pre‐modified with the self‐assembled monolayer of cysteamine and subsequently integrated with novel metallo‐octacarboxyphthalocyanine (MOCPc where M=Fe, Co and Mn) complexes (Au‐Cys‐MOCPc) was investigated. The electrodes showed response to the presence of epinephrine. The oxidation peak potential (Ep/V vs. Ag|AgCl, sat'd KCl) and charge transfer resistance (Rct (kΩ)) in epinephrine solution depend markedly on the central metal of the phthalocyanine cores: Au‐Cys‐FeOCPc<Au‐Cys‐MnOCPc<Au‐Cys‐CoOCPc. All the electrodes showed first order electrode kinetics in [epinephrine]; the Au‐Cys‐FeOCPc electrode exhibited catalytic rate constant (kch=4.1×107 M−1 s−1) which is higher than that of the Au‐cys‐CoOCPc or Au‐cys‐MnOCPc electrode. Mechanism, recognizing the mediation of the electrocatalytic process by the central M(II)/M(III) redox processes was proposed. Epinephrine electro‐oxidation at the Au‐cys‐FeOCPc electrode was studied in more details for the response characteristics. The diffusion coefficient of epinephrine was evaluated as (2.62±0.23)×10−9 cm2 s−1. It was established that Au‐Cys‐FeOCPc is suitable for sensitive determination of epinephrine in physiological pH (7.40) conditions showing linear concentration range of up to 300 nM, with excellent sensitivity (0.53±0.01 nA nM−1), and very low limits of detection (13.8 nM) and quantification (45.8 nM). The peak separation between ascorbic acid and epinephrine is large enough (190 mV) to permit simultaneous determination of both epinephrine and ascorbic acid in physiological pH 7.4 conditions using the Au‐cys‐FeOCPc electrode. Au‐cys‐FeOCPc electrode was successfully used for the determination of epinephrine in epinephrine hydrochloric acid injection with recovery of ca. 98.4%.
Synovial sarcoma of the head and neck: Rare case of cervical metastasis
Authors: Ishiki Hiroto , Miyajima Chie , Nakao Kazunari , Asakage Takahiro , Sugasawa Masashi , Motoi Toru
Published: July 2008

Background.

Synovial sarcoma is a rarely encountered soft tissue sarcoma. Surgery with a wide surgical margin is the treatment of choice. However, there is no consensus on the treatment of head and neck synovial sarcoma in patients with cervical metastasis.

Methods.

A 20‐year‐old man was seen with a palpable mass in the right neck. He had been diagnosed with synovial sarcoma of the right tonsil and treated by surgery 1 and a half years before; therefore, the mass detected was thought to be a cervical metastasis of synovial sarcoma. We performed a modified radical neck dissection with no postoperative treatment. The pathological diagnosis was confirmed by detecting the SS‐specific fusion gene SYT‐SSX1.

Results.

The patient remains free of recurrence or metastasis 2 years and 10 months after the surgery.

Conclusions.

We encountered a case of head and neck synovial sarcoma with cervical metastasis that was successfully treated. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009
Role of proinflammatory cytokines in cisplatin‐induced vestibular hair cell damage
Authors: Kim Hyung‐Jin , So Hong‐Seob , Lee Jeong‐Han , Park Channy , Lee Jin‐Bin , Youn Myung‐Ja , Kim Se‐Jin , Yang Sei‐Hoon , Lee Kang‐Min , Kwon Kang‐Beom , Park Byung‐Hyun , Park Raekil
Published: July 2008

Background.

Cisplatin causes the impairment of inner ear functions, including hearing and balance, through the involvement of a number of mechanisms. However, no laboratory studies have been performed on involvement of inflammation‐related events in cisplatin‐mediated vestibular dysfunction.

Methods.

We evaluated the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines and nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) activation in cisplatin‐treated UB/UE‐1 utricular epithelial cells. We also employed immunohistochemistry to detect proinflammatory cytokines and NF‐κB expression in cisplatin‐injected mice.

Results.

Productions of proinflammatory cytokines significantly caused the death of UB/UE1 cells by cisplatin. Pharmacologic inhibition of mitogen‐activated protein (MAP) kinase/ERK kinase‐1 (MEK1) or extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) significantly attenuated the death of UB/UE1 cells caused by cisplatin and proinflammatory cytokines. Immunohistochemical studies revealed an increase in the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and NF‐κB in both the cristae ampullae and utricle of cisplatin‐injected mice.

Conclusions.

These results suggest that proinflammatory cytokines may play an important role in the pathogenesis of cisplatin‐mediated vestibulotoxicity. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008
An optimal water allocation for an irrigation district in Pingtung County, Taiwan
Authors: Cheng Yun , Lee Cheng‐Haw , Tan Yih‐Chi , Yeh Hsin‐Fu
Published: July 2008

This paper presents a linear programming model to study the conjunctive use of surface water and groundwater for optimal water allocation in Taiwan. Increasing demand for water emphasizes the proper need for effective planning and development of irrigated resources. A groundwater simulation model was performed to construct the hydrogeological structure of the regional Pingtung Plain in the southwest part of Taiwan and the optimal withdrawal of three irrigation areas in Pingtung Plain was analysed. The optimal ratios for allocating water of three canals are analysed in this research. The optimal distribution rate of each canal depends on the season, irrigation methods and crops, which are two paddy rice and one upland crop. After simulation of various scenarios, optimal simulation results show that the minimal amount of required groundwater and the maximum amount of excess water amounts in the area can be satisfied by current agricultural practices. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gene expression analysis of a human enterocyte cell line reveals downregulation of cholesterol biosynthesis in response to short‐chain fatty acids
Authors: Alvaro Adriana , Solà Rosa , Rosales Roser , Ribalta Josep , Anguera Anna , Masana Lluís , Vallvé Joan Carles
Published: July 2008

It has been suggested that the short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) produced by anaerobic bacterial intestinal fermentation of soluble fiber may regulate lipid metabolism in intestine, thus reducing plasma cholesterol levels. However, the exact mechanism of action of SCFAs in lowering cholesterol levels is not fully understood. The aims of this study were to test the effects of SCFAs on gene expression in a human enterocyte cell line Caco‐2/TC‐7 and to validate microarray data by real‐time PCR. Human Caco‐2/TC‐7 enterocytes were cultured on transwell filter inserts and incubated with the SCFAs acetate (Ac), propionate (Pr), and butyrate (Bu). Total RNA was then isolated for microarrays and quantitative real‐time PCR analysis. Treatment of human enterocytes with Pr and Bu affects a wide variety of genes. These genes were classified according to the PANTHER classification system, and the results showed that different biological processes and metabolic pathways were modified by Pr and Bu treatment, including the intestinal cholesterol biosynthesis pathway. Differential array expression analysis showed that nine genes were downregulated in this pathway, and these results were validated by real‐time PCR. This in vitro study allowed us to identify a wide variety of biological processes and metabolic pathways affected by the SCFAs tested. Importantly, our results show that the global effect of Pr and Bu is to downregulate the expression of nine key genes involved in intestinal cholesterol biosynthesis, thus possibly inhibiting this pathway. © 2008 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 60(11): 757–764, 2008
Exposure to violence and aggression: protective roles of social support among urban African American youth
Authors: Benhorin Shira , McMahon Susan D.
Published: July 2008

This cross‐sectional study examined the impact of social support on the relation between exposure to violence and aggressive behavior, as reported by self, peers, and teachers. The main‐effects and stress‐buffering models of social support were tested for parents, teachers, classmates, and close friends among 127 urban, African American youth. The results demonstrate the negative impact of violence exposure on aggressive behavior and the complex roles of social support in these relations. Specifically, more perceived support from parents, teachers, and close friends was associated with lower teacher‐reported aggressive behavior, whereas classmate support buffered the impact of violence on peer‐reported aggressive behavior. These findings, multiple reporter differences, and implications for preventive interventions are discussed. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction followed by reversed phase HPLC for the determination of decabrominated diphenyl ether in natural water
Authors: Li Yanyan , Hu Jia , Liu Xiujuan , Fu Lingyan , Zhang Xiaojun , Wang Xuedong
Published: July 2008

A simple, rapid, and efficient method, dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (DLLME), has been developed for the extraction and preconcentration of decabrominated diphenyl ether (BDE‐209) in environmental water samples. The factors relevant to the microextraction efficiency, such as the kind and volume of extraction and dispersive solvent, the extraction time, and the salt effect, were optimized. Under the optimum conditions (extraction solvent: tetrachloroethane, volume, 22.0 μL; dispersive solvent: THF, volume, 1.00 mL; extraction time: below 5 s and without salt addition), the most time‐consuming step is the centrifugation of the sample solution in the extraction procedure, which is about 2 min. In this method, the enrichment factor could be as high as 153 in 5.00 mL water sample, and the linear range, correlation coefficient (r2), detection limit (S/N = 3), and precision (RSD, n = 6) were 0.001–0.5 μg/mL, 0.9999, 0.2 ng/mL, and 2.1%, respectively. This method was successfully applied to the extraction of BDE‐209 from tap, East Lake, and Yangtse River water samples; the relative recoveries were 95.8, 92.9, and 89.9% and the RSD% (n = 3) were 1.9, 2.7, and 3.5%, respectively. Comparison of this method with other methods, such as solid‐phase microextraction (SPME), and single‐drop microextraction (SDME), indicates that DLLME is a simple, fast, and low‐cost method for the determination of BDE‐209, and thus has tremendous potential in polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) residual analysis in environmental water samples.
Microbial and algal oils: Do they have a future for biodiesel or as commodity oils?
Authors: Ratledge Colin , Cohen Zvi
Published: July 2008

We review the prospects of using yeasts and microalgae as sources of cheap oils that could be used for biodiesel. We conclude that yeast oils, the cheapest of the oils producible by heterotrophic microorganisms, are too expensive to be viable alternatives to the major commodity plant oils. Algal oils are similarly unlikely to be economic; the cheapest form of cultivation is in open ponds which then requires a robust, fast‐growing alga that can withstand adventitious predatory protozoa or contaminating bacteria and, at the same time, attain an oil content of at least 40% of the biomass. No such alga has yet been identified. However, we note that if the prices of the major plant oils and crude oil continue to rise in the future, as they have done over the past 12 months, then algal lipids might just become a realistic alternative within the next 10 to 15 years. Better prospects would, however, be to focus on algae as sources of polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Random Block Copolymers via Segment Interchange Olefin Metathesis
Authors: Wagner Nicole L. , Timmers Francis J. , Arriola Daniel J. , Jueptner Guenter , Landes Brian G.
Published: July 2008

Polycarbonate/polyethylene random block copolymers (RBCs) have been produced using olefin metathesis catalysis in a process termed segment interchange metathesis. An olefin metathesis catalyst tolerant of polar functionality was added to reagent polycarbonate and polyethylene polymers which contained internal unsaturated carbon–carbon bonds. Subsequent metathesis occurred, segmenting the reagent polymers, resulting in RBCs. The block copolymers self‐assembled into microphase structures which persisted into the melt state as determined by small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS).

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Dopamine D1receptor ligands: Where are we now and where are we going
Authors: Zhang Jing , Xiong Bing , Zhen Xuechu , Zhang Ao
Published: July 2008

The dopamine (DA) D1receptor is the most highly expressed DA receptor subtype among the DA receptor family. Although the first DA D1receptor selective ligand SCH‐23390 (1) was introduced more than two decades ago, clinically useful D1receptor selective ligands are rare. A renewed interest was ignited in the early 1990s by Nichols and Mailman who developed dihydrexidine (27a), the first high affinity full efficacy agonist for the D1receptor. Since then, a number of D1receptor agonists with full intrinsic activity, including A‐86929 (31a), dinapsoline (32a), dinoxyline (34a), and doxanthrine (35a) were identified. These compounds all contain a conformationally rigid structure. However, the fate of such ligands for clinical use as treatments of Parkinson's disease and other related CNS disorders is not optimistic since the clinical trial with dihydrexidine (27a) was not successful. Further investigations on other compounds which are currently in the discovery stage will be crucial for determining the future of the D1receptor agonists. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Med Res Rev, 29, No. 2, 272–294, 2009
Length‐dependent weakness and electrophysiological signs of secondary axonal loss in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy
Authors: Harbo Thomas , Andersen Henning , Jakobsen Johannes
Published: July 2008

In chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) the pathophysiology underlying permanent muscle weakness and sensory loss was studied in 22 stabilized long‐term CIDP patients clinically characterized using isokinetic dynamometry, quantitative sensory testing, and neuropathy scores. Conduction velocity (CV), distal latency (DLAT), minimal F‐wave latency (FLAT), compound muscle action potential (CMAP), and amplitude decay between distal and proximal stimulation sites were determined in the median, ulnar, peroneal, and tibial motor nerves and sensory CV and nerve action potentials in the median and sural nerves. Amplitude of CMAP and the DLAT were related to quantitative muscle strength, whereas CV, FLAT, amplitude decay, and dispersion were not consistently related to strength. Furthermore, CMAP and muscle strength were significantly more reduced distally than proximally. In conclusion, the electrophysiological signs of axonal loss and the associated length‐dependent muscle weakness suggest secondary axonal loss in addition to primary demyelination in CIDP. Muscle Nerve, 2008
Reference values for 50‐kHZ electrical impedance myography
Authors: Rutkove Seward B. , Fogerson Patricia M. , Garmirian Lindsay P. , Tarulli Andrew W.
Published: July 2008

Electrical impedance myography (EIM) is a method for non‐invasively and quantitatively assessing muscle health, in which the major outcome parameter, phase (θ), decreases in diseased states. In order to create a set of normal reference values, we performed 50‐kHZ EIM in 5 muscles of 87 healthy individuals, using θ as the major outcome variable. Because the distributions of data were mostly skewed, logarithmic transformations were performed, and the resulting data were fitted to quadratic functions. The lower limit of normal was set by plotting the lower 95% confidence interval of the curve for each muscle and then identifying age‐specific reference values. We found that the distribution of data was similar to that for other neurophysiologic parameters. The lower limit of normal was easily defined, and relatively few values fell below the proposed lower limit. By using commercially available bioimpedance devices, these values will allow other investigators to explore the application of 50‐kHZ EIM in clinical neuromuscular disease research. Muscle Nerve, 2008
Detection of circulating fetal cells utilizing automated microscopy: potential for noninvasive prenatal diagnosis of chromosomal aneuploidies
Authors: Seppo Antti , Frisova Veronika , Ichetovkin Ilia , Kim Youngmin , Evans Mark I. , Antsaklis Aristeidis , Nicolaides Kypros H. , Tafas Triantafyllos , Tsipouras Petros , Kilpatrick Michael W.
Published: July 2008

Objective

As fetal cells can be indisputably identified through detection of Y FISH signals, we utilized an automated microscopy system developed to identify and enumerate cells bearing X and Y FISH signals. We further investigated the potential of fetal hemoglobin expression as a gender independent marker for automated identification of fetal cells.

Method

For FISH‐based scanning, verified fetal cells were identified based on the presence of a single X‐signal and individual signals for each of the two Y FISH probes. For cell identification based on fetal hemoglobin expression, putative fetal cells were verified based on the presence of signals for anti‐γ or anti‐ε globin antibody, and FISH signals for the X‐ and Y‐ chromosomes.

Results

Fetal cells were identified, by FISH‐based scanning, in 28 of the 29 maternal samples from pregnancies with male fetuses. Simple density gradient centrifugation achieved a 3‐ to 5‐fold increase in the number of fetal cells detected.

Conclusion

Automated microscopy identified fetal cells in both first and second trimester maternal blood samples. Although we were unable to detect fetal erythroblasts in numbers sufficient for clinical diagnosis, the ability to reliably detect fetal cells by FISH‐based scanning opens the possibility for prenatal detection of chromosomal aberrations utilizing circulating fetal cells. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A score‐based method for quality control of fetal images at routine second‐trimester ultrasound examination
Authors: Salomon L. J. , Winer N. , Bernard J. P. , Ville Y.
Published: July 2008

Objectives

Our aim was to develop and evaluate the feasibility and reproducibility of score‐based quality control for routine standardized fetal ultrasound images obtained in the second trimester of pregnancy.

Study Design

In France, a minimum of three biometrical and six anatomical standardized ultrasound planes are to be produced with any mid‐trimester scan. All anatomical standardized ultrasound images, routinely obtained by one trained operator at 20 to 24 weeks, were stored prospectively during a 1‐year period. Twenty‐five examinations containing these images were later randomly selected. These were then analyzed by two reviewers, according to predefined criteria agreed upon on the basis of established standards. This yielded a total score of up to 32 points. Feasibility, inter‐ and intra‐reviewer reproducibility were analyzed.

Results

Routine second‐trimester ultrasound examinations numbering 1160 performed over a one year period by one trained sonographer unaware of the subsequent study at the time the images were recorded and stored in a database. Among the 150 images randomly selected and analyzed, adjusted kappa values were above 0.8 for 27 (84%) and 30 (94%) criteria, intra‐class correlation coefficient was 0.86 (0.75; 0.96) and 0.98 (0.94; 1) and the mean difference (95% CI) in score was − 0.44 (−3.0; 2.1) and − 0.2(−2; 1.6) for inter‐ and intra‐reviewer comparisons respectively.

Conclusion

A quality control policy based on image scoring is feasible and allows for good inter‐ and intra‐reviewer reproducibility. Besides its potential for audit and quality control, this could also be useful during the training process. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prediction of negative index material lenses based on metallo‐dielectric nanotubes
Authors: Sergentu V. V. , Tiginyanu I. M. , Ursaki V. V. , Enachi M. , Albu S. P. , Schmuki P.
Published: July 2008

We propose to assemble negative index materials (NIMs) from dielectric nanotubes with inner and outer surfaces covered by thin metallic films. The focusing properties of flat and concave lenses assembled from metallized titania nanotubes are compared with those of lenses made from nanorods with the refractive index n = –1 by performing numerical calculations using a multiple‐scattering approach. Focusing is proved for both types of lenses, however, the focusing properties of concave lenses are better. The lenses are shown to be tolerant to the introduction of disorder in the arrangement of nanotubes. Moreover, the disorder proves to improve the quality of the focal spot. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effects of preservation methods on stable isotope signatures in bird tissues
Authors: Bugoni Leandro , McGill Rona A. R. , Furness Robert W.
Published: July 2008

Increasing use is being made of stable isotopes as indicators of habitat use and trophic ecology of animals. Preservation of tissues can alter stable isotope signatures. We investigated the effects of addition of ethanol and NaCl solution (hereafter ‘salt’), and of freezing and drying, on carbon and nitrogen isotopic values in blood of the spectacled petrel Procellaria conspicillata, and compared these with those from simultaneously growing feathers. The mean δ13C values of blood preserved in ethanol was significantly higher, and of blood preserved in salt was significantly lower than that of dried or frozen samples. δ13C values in ethanol showed high variation according to brand and batch and could account for the differences found in δ13C ratios in ethanol‐preserved blood samples. Mean δ13C and δ15N values in growing feathers were higher than in blood, suggesting tissue‐specific fractionation. We conclude that different methods of preserving tissues such as blood may bias stable isotope values, and urge researchers to consider this issue. Air drying is proposed as a practical and unbiased method for blood preservation in field situations where freezing is not a practical option, and a mathematical approach is suggested to permit comparison between studies using different preservation methods or tissues. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Path unaware layered routing protocol (PULRP) with non‐uniform node distribution for underwater sensor networks
Authors: Gopi Sarath , Kannan G. , Chander Deepthi , Desai U. B. , Merchant S. N.
Published: July 2008

We propose path unaware layered routing protocol (PULRP) for 2D underwater sensor networks (UWSNs) with mobile nodes. The steady‐state distribution of mobile nodes in UWSNs is nonuniform in general. Hence, we use a mobility model‐dependent node distribution. The proposed PULRP algorithm consists of two phases. In the first phase (layering phase), a layering structure is presented which is a set of concentric circles, around a sink node. The radii of the concentric circles are chosen based on equal distribution of nodes in every layer. A distributed power control mechanism is also introduced. The power level of nodes in a particular layer is chosen such that communication occurs only with nodes in the next layer. In PULRP, we consider multihop communication from source to sink. Therefore, in the second phase (communication phase), we propose a method to choose the intermediate relay nodes and an on the fly routing algorithm for packet delivery from source node to sink node across the chosen relay nodes. The proposed algorithm, PULRP finds the routing path on the fly and hence, it does not require any fixed routing table, localization, or time synchronization processes. We demonstrate the performance of PULRP using random waypoint (RWP) mobility model in a simulated underwater environment. Our findings show that the proposed algorithm has considerably better throughput (successful packet delivery rate) compared to the underwater diffusion (UWD) algorithm for various node densities as well as node velocities. In addition, the delay performance of PULRP is also better than that of UWD. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Vitamin D Deficiency: A Common Occurrence in Both High-and Low-energy Fractures
Authors: Steele Barbara , Serota Alana , Helfet David L. , Peterson Margaret , Lyman Stephen , Lane Joseph M.
Published: July 2008

As a consequence of newly elevated standards for normal vitamin D levels, there is a renewed interest in vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency (<32 and <20 ng/ml, respectively) in the orthopedic patient population. This study tests the hypothesis that vitamin D insufficiency is comparably prevalent among both high- and low-energy fracture patients. A retrospective analysis of the medical records for 44 orthopedic trauma in-patients with non-vertebral fractures was conducted from June 1, 2006 to February 1, 2007. The obtained data included a 25-hydroxyvitamin D level, age, gender, and reason for admission; high-energy vs. low-energy fracture. Vitamin D insufficiency, 25(OH)D <32 ng/ml, was found in 59.1% of the patients. Significantly, more women (75%) than men (40%) were vitamin D insufficient among all fracture patients and specifically among high-energy fractures, 80% women insufficient vs. 25% men insufficient. In women, both high- and low-energy fractures present with vitamin D insufficiency (80% of high-energy fractures and 71.4% of low-energy fractures). In men, the mean vitamin D level was lower for low-energy fractures (16 ng/ml) compared to high-energy fractures (32 ng/ml). In addition, men with low-energy fractures were significantly older than men with high-energy fractures and women with low-energy fractures were also older. Statistically, more vitamin D insufficiency is seen in women and our results are consistent with the gender difference seen in the general population. Even among younger men who sustain a high-energy fracture, 25% are vitamin D insufficient. Women with fractures regardless of age or fracture energy level have low vitamin D levels. Levels of 25(OH)D should be measured in all orthopedic trauma patients and the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research and National Osteoporosis Foundation currently recommend that vitamin D levels should be corrected.
Improving sourcing decisions in NPD projects: Monetary quantification of points of difference
Authors: Wouters Marc , Anderson James C. , Narus James A. , Wynstra Finn
Published: July 2008

During new product development (NPD), firms make critical design and sourcing decisions that determine the new product's cost, performance, competitive position, and profitability. The purchase price of materials and components for the new product provides only part of the picture for design and sourcing decisions. All‐encompassing analyses of cost and performance, such as total cost of ownership, are extraordinarily difficult to implement because they are demanding in terms of time, data and cooperation. We study monetary quantification of points of difference, which enables an NPD team to base its decisions instead on more focused, strategically‐pertinent analyses of costs and performance. We propose a substantive model of its antecedents and consequences. We then test this model with data from matched samples of 144 project leaders and 144 cost analysts who participated in the same NPD projects. Using structural equation modeling, we also test hypothesized differences in perspectives between project leaders and cost analysts. Results demonstrate the pivotal role of monetary quantification of points of difference among the sourcing alternatives being considered, especially for cost analysts. Results also demonstrate that Decision Justification to senior management drives the NPD team's decision‐making process. Finally, monetary quantification of points of difference leads to Uncertainty Reduction, which is found to be the primary antecedent of the judged success of applying analysis of cost and performance.
Influence of a combination ofLactobacillus acidophilusNCFM and lactitol on healthy elderly: intestinal and immune parameters
Authors: Ouwehand Arthur C. , Tiihonen Kirsti , Saarinen Markku , Putaala Heli , Rautonen Nina
Published: July 2008

With increasing age, a number of physiological changes take place which are reflected in immune and bowel function. These changes may relate to the commonly assumed age-related changes in intestinal microbiota; most noticeably a reduction in bifidobacteria. The current study aimed at modifying the intestinal microbiota with a potential synbiotic on selected immune and microbiota markers. Healthy elderly subjects were randomised to consume during 2 weeks either a placebo (sucrose) or a combination of lactitol andLactobacillus acidophilusNCFM twice daily in a double-blind parallel trial. After the intervention, stool frequency was higher in the synbiotic group than in the placebo group and a significant increase in faecalL. acidophilusNCFM levels was observed in the synbiotic group, after baseline correction. In contrast to the generally held opinion, the study subjects had faecalBifidobacteriumlevels that were similar to those reported in healthy young adults. These levels were, nevertheless, significantly increased by the intervention. Levels of SCFA were not changed significantly. Of the measured immune markers, PGE2levels were different between treatments and IgA levels changed over time. These changes were modest which may relate to the fact that the volunteers were healthy. Spermidine levels changed over time which may suggest an improved mucosal integrity and intestinal motility. The results suggest that consumption of lactitol combined withL. acidophilusNCFM twice daily may improve some markers of the intestinal microbiota composition and mucosal functions.
Structural uplift beneath the Chicxulub impact structure
Authors: Vermeesch Peggy M. , Morgan Joanna V.
Published: July 2008

Models of the central structure of large impact craters are poorly constrained, partly because of the lack of well‐preserved terrestrial examples, and partly because of the extreme nature of impact events. Even large impact craters take only a few minutes to form, during which time rocks from the deep crust move upward many kilometers, interacting with impact melts and breccias before settling to their final position. We construct a new model of central uplift beneath the Chicxulub crater, based upon a well‐constrained 3‐D velocity model, obtained by jointly inverting seismic traveltime and gravity data. The input tomographic data set has good resolution, and many rays cross the central uplift in many directions. We use laboratory measurements to convert between velocity and density. Our velocity model possesses a high‐velocity zone near the crater center, and velocity gradually decreases outside this zone. We use regional refraction data to interpret these velocities in terms of a broad 80‐km‐wide zone of structural uplift, in which the central rocks originate from the lower crust, and the surrounding rocks from the midcrust and upper crust. This is in contrast with previous models in which the zone of central uplift is either 40–50 km or 150 km wide. Our interpretation is consistent with scaling laws, Yucatán basement lithology, other velocity data, observations at similar‐sized terrestrial craters, and dynamic modeling of peak ring formation. Our model of the uplift at Chicxulub can be used to help distinguish between competing models of effective target strength in numerical models of crater formation.
Radiation admittance of an open‐ended parallel plate metallic waveguide with exterior planar dielectric coating
Authors: Rong Aosheng , Dong Limin , Wu Hong , Cangellaris Andreas
Published: July 2008

A methodology is presented for the calculation of the radiation admittance of an open‐ended, homogeneously filled, parallel plate metallic waveguide with exterior planar dielectric coating, operated at the fundamental (transverse electromagnetic wave) mode. The methodology relies on the definition of an auxiliary electromagnetic boundary value problem that is simple to solve using an integral equation approach. In order to provide for broadband calculation of the radiation admittance of the open‐ended waveguide from DC to several tens of gigahertz, a loop‐tree decomposition scheme is used in the method of moments solution of the resulting integral equation. A rational function‐fitting process with passivity enforcement is used to generate a broadband, passive macromodel for the calculated radiation impedance. Such a macromodel is suitable for use as a local truncation boundary condition in the finite difference/finite element modeling of electromagnetic interactions in multilayered signal and power distribution networks encountered in printed circuit boards and packages.
Active Venting System Offshore Northern Norway
Authors: Chand Shyam , Rise Leif , Bellec Valéerie , Dolan Margaret , Bøe Reidulv , Thorsnes Terje , Buhl‐Mortensen Pal
Published: July 2008

A combined sediment‐sampling, high‐resolution seismic, multiple echo sounder, and video survey was conducted offshore Vestårlen, northern Norway, in October 2007 as part of the ongoing Marine Area Database for Norwegian Coast and Oceanic Regions (MAREANO) program. MAREANO is a multidisciplinary seabed mapping program conducting physical, biological, and environmental mapping in the Lofoten/southern Barents Sea area. Data and analysis arising from this program will provide the basis for ecosystem‐ based management of Norway' coastal and offshore regions. The survey used multicorer, box corer, and grab samplers; a TOPAS parametric subbottom profiler; 18‐, 38‐, 70‐, 120‐, 200‐, and 400‐ kilohertz echo sounders; and a CAMPOD camera system with two video cameras and lights mounted on an aluminum frame.
Indian Ocean Dipole influence on South American rainfall
Authors: Chan Steven C. , Behera Swadhin K. , Yamagata Toshio
Published: July 2008

The rainfall anomalies over South America are found to be influenced by the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD). Between subtropical La Plata Basin and central Brazil, the IOD excites a dipolar pattern in rainfall anomalies; rainfall is reduced (enhanced) over latter (former) during austral‐spring, when IOD reaches its peak phase. A Rossby wave train extends from the subtropical south Indian Ocean to the subtropical South Atlantic. The associated anomaly in surface circulation suggests an intensification of the South Atlantic High. The anomalous anticyclone in the lower troposphere causes anomalous divergence (convergence) of moisture over central Brazil (subtropical La Plata Basin). These results based on the University of Delaware precipitation analysis and the NCEP‐NCAR reanalysis data are corroborated by that of the Scale Interaction Experiment‐Frontier version 1 (SINTEX‐F1) coupled general circulation model.
Regulation of microtubule nucleation from membranes by complexes of membrane-bound γ-tubulin with Fyn kinase and phosphoinositide 3-kinase
Authors: Macurek Libor , Dráberová Eduarda , Richterová Věra , Sulimenko Vadym , Sulimenko Tetyana , Dráberová Lubica , Marková Vladimíra , Dráber Pavel
Published: July 2008

The molecular mechanisms controlling microtubule formation in cells with non-centrosomal microtubular arrays are not yet fully understood. The key component of microtubule nucleation is γ-tubulin. Although previous results suggested that tyrosine kinases might serve as regulators of γ-tubulin function, their exact roles remain enigmatic. In the present study, we show that a pool of γ-tubulin associates with detergent-resistant membranes in differentiating P19 embryonal carcinoma cells, which exhibit elevated expression of the Src family kinase Fyn (protein tyrosine kinase p59Fyn). Microtubule-assembly assays demonstrated that membrane-associated γ-tubulin complexes are capable of initiating the formation of microtubules. Pretreatment of the cells with Src family kinase inhibitors or wortmannin blocked the nucleation activity of the γ-tubulin complexes. Immunoprecipitation experiments revealed that membrane-associated γ-tubulin forms complexes with Fyn and PI3K (phosphoinositide 3-kinase). Furthermore, in vitro kinase assays showed that p85α (regulatory p85α subunit of PI3K) serves as a Fyn substrate. Direct interaction of γ-tubulin with the C-terminal Src homology 2 domain of p85α was determined by pull-down experiments and immunoprecipitation experiments with cells expressing truncated forms of p85α. The combined results suggest that Fyn and PI3K might take part in the modulation of membrane-associated γ-tubulin activities.
Geometry and electronic stability of tungsten encapsulated silicon nanotubes
Authors: Peng Qi , Shen Jiang , Chen Nan-Xian
Published: July 2008

Density functional theory involving generalized gradient approximation (both PW91 and BLYP level calculations are considered and compared) correlation functional is used to investigate the stability of W encapsulated Wn@Si6n+6 (n=1–6) hexagonal prism (HP) nanotubes and Wn@Si8n+4 (n=1–6) AB2 type nanotubes. We found that the stability of HP type metal encapsulated silicon nanotubes (MESNTs) exhibits odd-even (O-E) oscillation behavior versus the cluster size which has been proven by the O-E oscillation pattern of the formation energy and the embedded energy. The strong interaction between W and W atoms made W3@Si24 HP type nanotube unstable and we explained why Hiura et al. [Phys. Rev Lett. 86, 1733 (2001)] did not observe clusters bigger than W2@Si18 in their experiment. After that, we proposed a new kind of AB2 type MESNT in which the strong interaction between W and W atoms has been eliminated effectively, and it might be connected to form longer nanowire structures. Big distortions appeared for both type structures after reoptimized at BLYP level (the initial structures were chosen as those optimized at PW91 level theory) calculation. Metallic character of these two types of MESNTs has been identified and AB2-MESNTs were found to be more stable than HP type MESNTs by comparing their linearly fitted total binding energy at BLYP level theory.
Mixed cation phases in sputter deposited HfO2–TiO2 nanolaminates
Authors: Cisneros-Morales M. C. , Aita C. R.
Published: July 2008

Nanolaminate HfO2–TiO2 films are grown by reactive sputter deposition on unheated fused SiO2, sequentially annealed at 573to973K, and studied by x-ray diffraction. A nanocrystalline structure of orthorhombic (o) HfTiO4 adjacent to an interface followed by monoclinic (m) Hf1−xTixO2 is identified. m-Hf1−xTixO2, a metastable phase, is isomorphous with m-HfO2 and a high pressure phase, m-HfTiO4. A Vegard’s law analysis shows that the Ti atomic fraction in m-Hf1−xTixO2 is much greater than Ti equilibrium solubility in m-HfO2. A space group-subgroup argument proposes that m-Hf1−xTixO2 arises from an o∕m-HfTiO4 second order phase transition to accommodate the larger Hf atom.
Relationship between the molecular orbital structure of the dyes and photocurrent density in the dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Jose R. , Kumar A. , Thavasi V. , Fujihara K. , Uchida S. , Ramakrishna S.
Published: July 2008

Through a combined experimental and theoretical investigation we have shown that the efficiency of charge injection in dye-sensitized solar cells constituted from dyes having a single carboxylic group is determined by the extent to which the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) of the dye falls on its anchoring group. This conclusion was brought by calculating the LUMO surface of three indoline dyes and comparing the conversion efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cells fabricated using those dyes. The Ruthenium based N3 dye was used as standard both in the calculation and experiment.
A Joyful and Exhilarating Ride: An Interview with Frank J. Vattano
Authors: Dik Bryan J.
Published: July 2008

Frank J. Vattano is Professor Emeritus of Psychology and Emeritus University Distinguished Teaching Scholar at Colorado State University (CSU), his undergraduate alma mater. He earned his PhD in experimental psychology from The Ohio State University and served as Associate Dean of Arts and Sciences and Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs at the University of Denver before returning to CSU as Assistant Academic Vice-President for Instructional Services and later as Dean of the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. He returned to teaching full-time in 1987 and served as coordinator of CSU's Introduction to Psychology course, which has an annual enrollment of more than 3,000 students. He developed, along with his colleagues, the widely adopted video teaching modules The BRAIN (Vattano, Bennett, & Butler, 1997), The MIND (Vattano, Bennett, & Butler, 2000), The Social Connection (Vattano, Bolt, & Myers, 2002), and The Many Faces of Psychology (Bolt & Vattano, 2003). Vattano is a Fellow of APA Divisions 1 and 2. He earned numerous teaching awards from CSU, received the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching Award, and was named Colorado Professor of the Year in 1999. In 2001, he was honored with the American Psychological Foundation Distinguished Teaching of Psychology Award.

Bryan J. Dik is an assistant professor of Counseling Psychology in the Department of Psychology at Colorado State University, where he teaches vocational psychology, career assessment and counseling, personality psychology, and the psychology of religion. He received his BA from Calvin College and his PhD from the University of Minnesota. His scholarship has focused on the measurement of vocational interests, person–environment fit theories of work adjustment, and basic and applied research related to approaching work as a calling or vocation. In addition to his teaching and research endeavors, he provides clinical supervision for graduate students in counseling psychology and serves as co-advisor of CSU's chapter of Psi-Chi.
Should College Algebra be a Prerequisite for Taking Psychology Statistics?
Authors: Sibulkin Amy E. , Butler J. S.
Published: July 2008

In order to consider whether a course in college algebra should be a prerequisite for taking psychology statistics, we recorded students' grades in elementary psychology statistics and in college algebra at a 4-year university. Students who earned credit in algebra prior to enrolling in statistics for the first time had a significantly higher mean statistics grade than those without algebra. However, prior credit in algebra did not significantly add to the prediction of statistics grades, after we controlled for GPA, sex, and year in college.
Redesign of a Life Span Development Course Using Fink's Taxonomy
Authors: Fallahi Carolyn R.
Published: July 2008

This study compared a traditional lecture-based life span development course to the same course redesigned using Fink's (2003) taxonomy of significant learning. The goals, activities, and feedback within the course corresponded to Fink's 6 taxa (knowledge, application, integration, human dimension, caring, learning how to learn). Undergraduates in both courses completed identical pretests and posttests that measured Fink's 6 taxa. Students in the redesigned course (N = 28) improved significantly in comparison with the traditional course (N = 54) in the domains of knowledge, application, integration, and human dimension. The findings demonstrate that Fink's taxonomy enables the design of a course based on goals as well as measurement of changes in domains of advanced learning.
Could the Laws of Nature Change?*
Authors: Lange Marc
Published: July 2008

After reviewing several failed arguments that laws cannot change, I use the laws’ special relation to counterfactuals to show how temporary laws would have to differ from eternal but time-dependent laws. Then I argue that temporary laws are impossible and that neither Lewis's nor Armstrong's analyses of law nicely accounts for the laws’ immutability.
MetaRoute: fast search for relevant metabolic routes for interactive network navigation and visualization
Authors: Blum Torsten , Kohlbacher Oliver
Published: July 2008

Summary: We present MetaRoute, an efficient search algorithm based on atom mapping rules and path weighting schemes that returns relevant or textbook-like routes between a source and a product metabolite within seconds for genome-scale networks. Its speed allows the algorithm to be used interactively through a web interface to visualize relevant routes and local networks for one or multiple organisms based on data from KEGG.

Availability:  http://www-bs.informatik.uni-tuebingen.de/Services/MetaRoute.

Contact:  blum@informatik.uni-tuebingen.de

Supplementary information:  Supplementary details are available at http://www-bs.informatik.uni-tuebingen.de/Services/MetaRoute
MetalDetector: a web server for predicting metal-binding sites and disulfide bridges in proteins from sequence
Authors: Lippi Marco , Passerini Andrea , Punta Marco , Rost Burkhard , Frasconi Paolo
Published: July 2008

Summary: The web server MetalDetector classifies histidine residues in proteins into one of two states (free or metal bound) and cysteines into one of three states (free, metal bound or disulfide bridged). A decision tree integrates predictions from two previously developed methods (DISULFIND and Metal Ligand Predictor). Cross-validated performance assessment indicates that our server predicts disulfide bonding state at 88.6% precision and 85.1% recall, while it identifies cysteines and histidines in transition metal-binding sites at 79.9% precision and 76.8% recall, and at 60.8% precision and 40.7% recall, respectively.

Availability: Freely available at http://metaldetector.dsi.unifi.it

Contact:  metaldetector@dsi.unifi.it

Supplementary Information: Details and data can be found at http://metaldetector.dsi.unifi.it/help.php
The incentive sensitization theory of addiction: some current issues
Authors: Robinson Terry E , Berridge Kent C
Published: July 2008

We present a brief overview of the incentive sensitization theory of addiction. This posits that addiction is caused primarily by drug-induced sensitization in the brain mesocorticolimbic systems that attribute incentive salience to reward-associated stimuli. If rendered hypersensitive, these systems cause pathological incentive motivation (‘wanting’) for drugs. We address some current questions including: what is the role of learning in incentive sensitization and addiction? Does incentive sensitization occur in human addicts? Is the development of addiction-like behaviour in animals associated with sensitization? What is the best way to model addiction symptoms using animal models? And, finally, what are the roles of affective pleasure or withdrawal in addiction?
Parallel studies of cocaine-related neural and cognitive impairment in humans and monkeys
Authors: Beveridge Thomas J.R , Gill Kathryn E , Hanlon Colleen A , Porrino Linda J
Published: July 2008

Cocaine users display profound impairments in executive function. Of all the components of executive function, inhibition, or the ability to withhold responding, has been studied the most extensively and may be most impaired. Consistent with these deficits, evidence from imaging studies points to dysregulation in medial and ventromedial prefrontal cortices, areas activated during performance of inhibition tasks. Other aspects of executive function including updating, shifting and decision making are also deficient in cocaine users, and these deficits are paralleled by abnormalities in patterns of prefrontal cortical activation. The extent to which cocaine plays a role in these effects, however, is not certain, and cannot be determined solely on the basis of human studies. Investigations using a non-human primate model of increasing durations of cocaine exposure revealed that initially the effects of cocaine were restricted to ventromedial and orbital prefrontal cortices, but as exposure was extended the intensity and spatial extent of the effects on functional activity also expanded rostrally and laterally. Given the spatial overlap in prefrontal pathology between human and monkey studies, these longitudinal mapping studies in non-human primates provide a unique window of understanding into the dynamic neural changes that are occurring early in human cocaine abuse.