bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Affinity Biosensors Based on Electropolymerized Films
Authors: Cosnier Serge
Published: August 2005

This review gives an overview on different types of affinity biosensors based on electropolymerized polymer films that are becoming an important class of analytical tools. These affinity biosensors may be classified according to the strategy used for their fabrication, namely entrapment within polymers during their electrochemical growth, simple adsorption onto electropolymerized films, chemical coupling or affinity interactions between bioreceptors and electropolymerized films or direct electrochemical polymerization of the bioreceptor itself. Recently opened perspectives and potential research directions are also discussed.
Amperometric Sensor for Hydroxylamine Based on Hybrid Nickel‐Cobalt Hexacyanoferrate Modified Electrode
Authors: Shi Lihong , Wu Tian , He Ping , Li Di , Sun Chunyan , Li Jinghong
Published: August 2005

Hybrid nickel‐cobalt hexacyanoferrate (NiCoHCF) particles were immobilized onto a glassy carbon electrode by cyclic voltammetry. Characterization of these particles by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction and electrochemistry revealed that NiCoHCF was a substitution‐type hybrid hexacyanoferrate rather than a simple mixture system. As an important reducing agent, hydroxylamine could be electrocatalytically oxidized at the NiCoHCF modified electrode. The effects of the solution pH and the applied potential on the amperometric response of hydroxylamine were examined. Under optimum conditions, the catalytic peak current was proportional to the concentration of hydroxylamine in the range 2.0×10−5–1.0×10−2 mol/L with a detection limit of 2.3×10−7 mol/L. Furthermore, detection results obtained with this sensor showed high sensitivity, fast response time, good stability and anti‐interference ability.
Multicommutated Flow System with Amperometric Detection. Determination of Uric Acid in Urine
Authors: Silva M. Luísa S. , Garcia M. Beatriz Q. , Lima José L. F. C. , Santos João L. M. , Barrado E.
Published: August 2005

In this work an automated flow methodology based on a tubular amperometric detector coupled to a multicommutated flow system was developed and applied in the determination of uric acid in urine. The exploitation of the analytical potential of multicommutated flow systems allowed the implementation of an expeditious and easily controlled on‐line sample dilution, based on the zone sampling approach. The dilution capability exhibited by the developed methodology allowed a direct insertion of the samples in the flow system, without any pretreatment, assuring faster, simpler and less expensive analyses when compared to the enzymatic based methods with spectrophotometric detection commonly used in clinical analyses. The results obtained with the developed system in the determination of uric acid in urine were compared with those obtained by the enzymatic method used in clinical analysis laboratories, and no statistical difference between both methods (for a confidence level of 95%) was found. The proposed system showed good repeatability (RSD<3%, n=10) and a detection limit of 4×10−7 mol L−1.
Chitosan‐Glutamate Oxidase Gels: Synthesis, Characterization, and Glutamate Determination
Authors: Zhang Maogen , Mullens Conor , Gorski Waldemar
Published: August 2005

The biopolymer chitosan (CHIT) was chemically modified with glutaric dialdehyde (GDI) and used for the covalent immobilization of enzyme glutamate oxidase (GmOx). The relationships between the loaded, retained, and active units of GmOx in the CHIT‐GDI‐GmOx gels were determined by electrochemical assays. The latter indicated that on average ca. 95% of the GmOx was retained in the CHIT‐GDI matrix that was loaded with 0.10–3.0 units of the enzyme. The maximum activity of the GmOx immobilized in the gels corresponded to ca. 5% of the activity of the free enzyme. Platinum electrodes coated with CHIT‐GDI‐GmOx gels (films) were used as amperometric biosensors for glutamate. Such biosensors displayed good operational and long‐term stability (at least 11 h and 100 days, respectively) in conjunction with low detection limit of 0.10 μM glutamate (S/N=3), linear range up to 0.5 mM (R2=0.991), sensitivity of 100 mA M−1 cm−2, and short response time (t90%=2 s). This demonstrated an efficient signal transduction in the Pt/CHIT‐GDI‐GmOx+glutamate system. The CHIT‐GDI‐GmOx gels constitute a new biosensing element for the development of glutamate biosensors.
Making health continuous: implications of different methods on the measurement of inequality
Authors: Lecluyse Ann , Cleemput Irina
Published: September 2005

In most national surveys, health is measured as a categorical variable. However, in order to be able to calculate socio‐economic inequalities in health, a continuous variable is needed. The recently developed interval regression approach was shown to outperform to other approaches like ordered probit. In this research we investigate the impact of using different sets of external data to estimate health inequalities: the EQ‐index and the Canadian HUI. We found that the concentration index differs, but the income‐related health mobility index and its decomposition are highly similar. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phase precession of medial prefrontal cortical activity relative to the hippocampal theta rhythm
Authors: Jones Matthew W. , Wilson Matthew A.
Published: September 2005

Theta phase‐locking and phase precession are two related phenomena reflecting coordination of hippocampal place cell firing with the local, ongoing theta rhythm. The mechanisms and functions of both the phenomena remain unclear, though the robust correlation between firing phase and location of the animal has lead to the suggestion that this phase relationship constitutes a temporal code for spatial information. Recent work has described theta phase‐locking in the rat medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), a structure with direct anatomical and functional links to the hippocampus. Here, we describe an initial characterization of phase precession in the mPFC relative to the CA1 theta rhythm. mPFC phase precession was most robust during behavioral epochs known to be associated with enhanced theta‐frequency coordination of CA1 and mPFC activities. Precession was coherent across the mPFC population, with multiple neurons precessing in parallel as a function of location of the animal. The existence of phase precession beyond the hippocampus implies a more global role for this phenomenon during theta rhythm‐mediated coordination of neural activity. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
T‐ and B‐cell clonality and frequency of human herpes viruses‐6, ‐8 and Epstein Barr virus in angioimmunoblastic T‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Vrsalovic Maruska Marusic , Korac Petra , Dominis Mara , Ostojic Slobodanka , Mannhalter Christine , Kusec Rajko
Published: August 2005

Angioimmunoblastic T‐cell lymphoma (T‐AIL) is a peripheral T‐cell lymphoma of unknown etiology. Previous clonality studies have shown a heterogeneous composition of this disease with varying restrictions of B‐ and T‐cell populations in the tumour. For the first time in a single study and in the same pathological materials, we have analysed, lymphoid cell clonality and occurrence of human herpes viruses and Epstein Barr virus. Of 18 cases 12 (66.6%) had clonal T‐ and three (16.6%) had clonal B‐cells. Presence of the lymphotropic viral genome of HHV6 was detected in four of 18 lymph node biopsies from T‐AIL patients (22%), all were TCRγ clonal. No HHV8 were found. Epstein Barr genome was found in 40% of cases. There was no significant association between T‐cell clonality and HHV‐6 or EBV infection, or between B‐cell clonality and any virus infection. We conclude that T‐AIL is a biologically and clinically heterogeneous entity whose true nature remains to be clarified. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ophthalmologic and intraocular non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma: a large single centre study of initial characteristics, natural history, and prognostic factors
Authors: Meunier Jérôme , Rouic Livia Lumbroso‐Le , Vincent‐Salomon Anne , Dendale Rémy , Asselain Bernard , Arnaud Philippe , Fourquet Alain , Desjardins Laurence , Plancher Corine , Validire Patricia , Chaoui Driss , Lévy Christine , Decaudin Didier
Published: August 2005

The aims of this study were to define the initial characteristics, natural history, and prognostic factors of patients with ophthalmologic and intraocular malignant lymphoma. All patients treated at the Institut Curie for lymphoma with ophthalmologic (orbit and/or adnexa) or intraocular involvement were retrospectively reviewed. A pathological review of all cases was performed according to the WHO classification. One hundred and forty‐five patients were selected for the study. Pathological review showed 36% MALT type lymphoma, 22% lymphoplasmocytic lymphoma, and 15% diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma. Ophthalmologic and ocular sites were intra‐orbital in 61 cases (42%) and conjunctival in 51 cases (35%), with bilateral involvement in 10% of cases. Stage IV was found in 32% of cases, with bone marrow involvement in 12%. With a median follow‐up of 90 months, the 5‐year DFS and OS were 64 and 79% for low‐grade NHL, and 43 and 50% for high‐grade NHL. On multivariate analysis, age greater than 59 years, elevated LDH level, stage IV, high‐grade histological subgroup, and presence of B‐symptoms had a negative impact on OS for the overall population. In conclusion, with a median follow‐up of 7.5 years, our large cohort of patients represents one of the largest published series on primary ophthalmologic and intraocular malignant lymphoma. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
How to be a good global communicator
Authors: Payne Dinah , Raiborn Cecily A. , Joyner Brenda E.
Published: August 2005

Are you a good global communicator? With the rise in global mergers, outsourcing, and crossborder business, this issue can be critical to your success. We don't all “speak the same language,” even if we're all using English. Each country has a different culture, with different expectations and customs. The authors look at how culture, decision styles, and technology can affect your international business transactions—and how to avoid problems. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Investing in the Czech Republic
Authors: Kraftov Ivana
Published: August 2005

With the recent expansion of the European Union, some of the most promising opportunities for investors are in the Czech Republic. But what kind of conditions can investors expect? What are the advantages and possible pitfalls? The author examines these questions by taking a close look at today's Czech economy. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Putting your program on a planning diet (or, how to implement “program lite”)
Authors: Jankovsky Lynn
Published: August 2005

When a Motorola division decided to spin off one of its largest business units within 15 months, a special project management team pulled together the people, processes, and tools needed for success in just four short weeks. This article explains how. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α modulates adhesion, migration, and FAK phosphorylation in vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Corley Katina M. , Taylor Caroline J. , Lilly Brenda
Published: September 2005

Hypoxia promotes angiogenesis by modulating the transcriptional regulator hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α (HIF‐1α). HIF‐1α is a master regulator of the hypoxic response, and its proangiogenic activities include, but are not limited to, regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The remodeling of the vasculature during angiogenesis requires an initial destabilization step, which facilitates endothelial sprouting, followed by vessel growth, and restabilization through investment of smooth muscle cells. The complex dynamics of hypoxia‐induced angiogenesis prompted us to investigate what aspects of this multi‐step process are regulated by HIF‐1α. To do so, we analyzed the molecular properties of aortic and coronary artery smooth muscle cells in response to forced expression of HIF‐1α, and by treatment with cobalt chloride, which mimics hypoxia. Our results demonstrate that HIF‐1α causes a marked reduction in the ability of smooth muscle cells to migrate and adhere to extracellular matrices. Analysis of focal adhesion proteins showed no significant difference in expression or localization of vinculin or focal adhesion kinase (FAK). However, investigation of FAK phosphorylation, a critical mediator of adhesion and migration, revealed tyrosine phosphorylation of FAK is diminished in the presence of HIF‐1α and cobalt chloride. These results indicate that during hypoxia‐induced vessel remodeling, HIF‐1α functions to dampen adhesion and migration of smooth muscle cells by modulating FAK activity. We suggest that HIF‐1α expression in smooth muscle cells may augment vessel sprouting by loosening smooth muscle cell attachments to the basement membrane and endothelial cells. J. Cell. Biochem. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Global gene expression analysis in the bones reveals involvement of several novel genes and pathways in mediating an anabolic response of mechanical loading in mice
Authors: Xing Weirong , Baylink David , Kesavan Chandrasekhar , Hu Yan , Kapoor Susanna , Chadwick Robert B. , Mohan Subburaman
Published: September 2005

To identify the genes and signal pathways responsible for mechanical loading‐induced bone formation, we evaluated differential gene expression on a global basis in the tibias of C57BL/6J (B6) mice after four days of four‐point bending. We applied mechanical loads to the right tibias of the B6 mice at 9 N, 2 Hz for 36 cycles per day, with the left tibias used as unloaded controls. RNA from the tibias was harvested 24 h after last stimulation and subjected to microarray. Of the 20,280 transcripts hybridized to the array, 346 were differentially expressed in the loaded bones compared to the controls. The validity of the microarray data was established with the increased expression of bone‐related genes such as pleiotrophin, osteoglycin, and legumain upon four‐point bending and confirmation of increased expression of selected genes by real‐time PCR. The list of differentially expressed genes includes genes involved in cell growth, differentiation, adhesion, proteolysis, as well as signaling molecules of receptors for growth factors, integrin, Ephrin B2, endothelin, and adhesion G protein coupled receptor. Pathway analyses suggested that 28 out of the 346 genes exhibited a direct biological association. Among the biological network, fibronectin and pleitrophin function as important signaling molecules in regulating periosteal bone formation and resorption in response to four‐point bending. Furthermore, some expressed sequence tags (ESTs) with no prior known function have been identified as potential mediators of mechanotransduction signaling pathways. Further studies on these previously unknown genes will improve our understanding of the molecular pathways and mechanisms involved in bone's response to mechanical stress. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differential activation of stress‐responsive signalling proteins associated with altered loading in a rat skeletal muscle
Authors: Choi Inho , Lee Kisoo , Kim Myungjoo , Lee Moonyong , Park Kyoungsook
Published: September 2005

Skeletal muscle undergoes a significant reduction in tension upon unloading. To explore intracellular signalling mechanisms underlying this phenomenon, we investigated twitch tension, the ratio of actin/myosin filaments, and activities of key signalling molecules in rat soleus muscle during a 3‐week hindlimb suspension and 2‐week reloading. Twitch tension and myofilament ratio (actin/myosin) gradually decreased during unloading but progressively recovered to initial levels during reloading. To study the involvement of stress‐responsive signalling proteins during these changes, the activities of protein kinase C alpha (PKCα) and three mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs)—c‐Jun NH2‐terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular signal‐regulated protein kinase (ERK), and p38 MAPK—were examined using immunoblotting and immune complex kinase assays. PKCα phosphorylation correlated positively with the tension (Pearson's r = 0.97, P < 0.001) and the myofilament ratio (r = 0.83, P < 0.01) over the entire unloading and reloading period. Treatment of the soleus muscle with a PKC activator resulted in a similar paralleled increment in both PKCα phosphorylation and the α‐sarcomeric actin expression. The three MAPKs differed in the pattern of activation in that JNK activity peaked only for the first hours of reloading, whereas ERK and p38 MAPK activities remained elevated during reloading. These results suggest that PKCα may play a pivotal role in converting loading stress to intracellular changes in contractile proteins that determine muscle tension. Differential activation of MAPKs may also help alleviate muscle damage, modulate energy transport and/or regulate the expression of contractile proteins upon altered loading. J. Cell. Biochem. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intercalated PS/Na+‐MMT Nanocomposites Prepared by Ultrasonically Initiated In Situ Emulsion Polymerization
Authors: Wang Chao , Wang Qi , Chen Xinzhu
Published: August 2005

Summary: A new technique, ultrasonically initiated in situ emulsion polymerization, was employed to prepare intercalated polystyrene/Na+‐MMT nanocomposites. FTIR, XRD, and TEM results confirm that the hydrophobic PS can easily intercalate into the galleries of hydrophilic montmorillonite via ultrasonically initiated in situ emulsion polymerization, taking advantages of the multi‐effects of ultrasonic irradiation, such as dispersion, pulverization, activation, and initiation. Properly reducing SDS concentration is beneficial to widen the d‐spacing between clay layers. However, the Na+‐MMT amount has little effect on the d‐spacing of nanocomposites. The glass transition temperature of nanocomposites increased as the percentage of clay increased, although the average molecular weight of PS decreased, and the decomposition temperature of the 1obtained nanocomposites moves to higher temperature.

TEM of PS/Na+‐MMT nanocomposite prepared by ultrasonically initiated in situ emulsion polymerization.

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TEM of PS/Na+‐MMT nanocomposite prepared by ultrasonically initiated in situ emulsion polymerization.
Curing and Morphology Studies of Thermosets from Blends of a Main Chain Liquid Crystalline Polyester and Diepoxide/Diamine
Authors: Mormann Werner , Pokropski Tomasz
Published: August 2005

Summary: Blends of the commercial liquid‐crystalline polyester Rodrun LC‐3000 (60–90 wt.‐%) with a bisphenol A‐diglycidyl ether based diepoxide (DOW D.E.R.330) and an aromatic diamine (MCDEA) prepared in a twin‐screw extruder have been compression‐moulded and cured either isothermally at 260 °C or in a temperature ramp between 160 and 230 °C. The blends were investigated with SEM and thermal analysis (DSC, DMTA). Blends with 80% Rodrun and less cured at 260 °C and the blend containing 60% Rodrun cured in a temperature ramp showed macro‐phase separation followed by reaction‐induced micro‐phase separation (RIPS) both in the Rodrun‐rich and in the epoxy‐rich macro‐separated phases. Blends containing 90, 80 and 70% Rodrun moulded at 160 °C and cured in the temperature ramp showed only RIPS and a morphology rather similar to that of the uncured blends that was most likely co‐continuous; the blend with 90% Rodrun cured at 260 °C showed RIPS and a dispersed epoxy phase in a Rodrun matrix. Phase composition has been determined by extraction of the soluble fraction and chemical analysis.

SEM showing the reaction induced micro‐phase separation for sample REA90/10i.

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SEM showing the reaction induced micro‐phase separation for sample REA90/10i.
Atypical GLUT1 deficiency with prominent movement disorder responsive to ketogenic diet
Authors: Friedman Jennifer R.L. , Thiele Elizabeth A. , Wang Dong , Levine Kara B. , Cloherty Erin K. , Pfeifer Heidi H. , De Vivo Darryl C. , Carruthers Anthony , Natowicz Marvin R.
Published: September 2005

Glucose transport protein deficiency due to mutation in the GLUT1 gene is characterized by infantile onset and chronic seizure disorder, microcephaly, global developmental delays, and hypoglycorrhachia. We describe a 10‐year‐old normocephalic male with prominent ataxia, dystonia, choreoathetosis, and GLUT1 deficiency whose motor abnormalities improved with a ketogenic diet. We illustrate the motor abnormalities, at baseline and after ketogenic diet, that characterize this unusual case. This case broadens the phenotype of GLUT1 deficiency and illustrates the importance of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) evaluation in detecting potentially treatable conditions in children with undiagnosed movement disorders. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Postural reactions to neck vibration in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Valkovič Peter , Krafczyk Siegbert , šaling Marian , Benetin Ján , Bötzel Kai
Published: September 2005

To test the hypothesis that reduced reactions to proprioceptive input signals contribute to postural instability in Parkinson's disease (PD), pulses of mechanical vibration were applied to the neck muscles of PD patients and healthy controls. This stimulus elicits postural reactions in standing subjects. Participating were 13 moderately affected PD patients, 13 severely affected PD patients, and 13 age‐matched healthy subjects. Patients were tested on and off medication. Three‐second‐long pulses of vibration were regularly (10 times) applied to the posterior neck muscles while subjects kept their eyes open or closed. Postural responses to the stimuli were measured by static posturography. No intergroup difference in the pattern and latencies of responses was found. However, the amplitudes of the postural reactions (shift of center of foot pressure) were significantly larger in advanced PD patients; those of moderately affected PD patients did not differ from those of control subjects. Moreover, the size of postural responses in both latter groups decreased across the trial contrary to that of advanced PD patients. Comparison of the measures during on and off testing revealed no significant differences. These results indicate that neither afferent proprioceptive deficits nor central integrative functions but rather scaling and habituation of erroneous proprioceptive information are disturbed in the postural control of advanced PD. Nondopaminergic structures seem to be responsible for this impairment. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Nutritional therapy improves function and complements corticosteroid intervention in mdx mice
Authors: Payne Eric T. , Yasuda Nobuo , Bourgeois Jacqueline M. , Devries Michaela C. , Rodriguez M. Christine , Yousuf Junaid , Tarnopolsky Mark A.
Published: September 2005

Corticosteroid therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy is effective but associated with long‐term side effects. To determine the potential therapeutic benefit from four nutritional compounds (creatine monohydrate, conjugated linoleic acid, α‐lipoic acid, and β‐hydroxy‐β‐methylbutyrate) alone, in combination, and with corticosteroids (prednisolone), we evaluated the effects on several variables in exercising mdx mice. Outcome measures included grip strength, rotarod performance, serum creatine kinase levels, muscle metabolites, internalized myonuclei, and retroperitoneal fat pad weight. In isolation, each nutritional treatment showed some benefit, with the combination therapy showing the most consistent benefits. Prednisolone and the combination therapy together provided the most consistent evidence of efficacy; increased peak grip strength (P < 0.05), decreased grip strength fatigue (P < 0.05), decreased number of internalized myonuclei (P < 0.01), and smaller retroperitoneal fat pad stores (P < 0.001). This study provided evidence for therapeutic benefit from a four‐compound combination therapy alone, and in conjunction with corticosteroids in the mdx model of DMD. Muscle Nerve, 2005
Dispersion of nanodiamond into organic media by the use of fluoroalkyl end‐capped oligomers—applications to surface modification of poly(methyl methacrylate) with the dispersed nanodiamond
Authors: Sawada Hideo , Kurachi Jun , Takahashi Hidetaka , Ueno Katsuya , Hamazaki Kazuo
Published: September 2005

Self‐assembled fluorinated molecular aggregates formed by fluoroalkyl end‐capped oligomers were able to interact with nanodiamond powders to afford well‐dispersed fluorinated aggregates‐diamond nanocomposites in organic media, and these fluorinated aggregates‐diamond nanocomposites were applied to the surface modification of poly(methyl methacryate) films. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gene expression and protein profiling of AGS gastric epithelial cells upon infection with Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Backert Steffen , Gressmann Helga , Kwok Terry , Zimny‐Arndt Ursula , König Wolfgang , Jungblut Peter R. , Meyer Thomas F.
Published: September 2005

Helicobacter pylori, one of the most common bacterial pathogens, colonizes the human stomach and causes a variety of gastric diseases. This pathogen elicits a range of phenotypic responses in infected cultured AGS gastric epithelial cells, including expression of proinflammatory genes and changes in the actin cytoskeleton. Some of these responses are mediated by the type IV secretion system (T4SS) encoded by the cag pathogenicity island. We have used two global approaches, namely 2‐DE combined with PMF and cDNA expression array analyses, to study in both a comprehensive and quantitative manner the protein profile and the temporal patterns of mRNA accumulation in AGS cells upon infection with H. pylori and isogenic T4SS mutants. We identified 140 transcripts and detected 190 protein species that were differentially regulated upon infection. Infection with wild‐type H. pylori induced expression of a variety of host genes and changes in protein pattern involved in transcriptional responses, cell shape regulation and signal transduction. Among them, some were differentially regulated in a cag PAI‐dependent manner, as shown by both the proteomic and cDNA expression array approaches. While 2‐DE and PMF allowed us to examine the protein profiles in the infected host, array analysis enabled us to demonstrate dynamic temporal changes in host gene expression profile. In conclusion, our combined application of the two global approaches provides further molecular details on how the host cell responds to infection by H. pylori and its isogenic T4SS mutants on both transcriptional and protein levels. The findings pinpoint host proteins such as serine/threonine and tyrosine kinases, transcription factors, cell cycle related components and actin cytoskeletal signaling molecules as potential targets of individual H. pylori virulence determinants. This study serves as a basis for future work on transcription and proteome analyses of the H. pylori infection model.
Synthesis of gold nanocomposite via chemisorption of gold nanoparticles with poly(p‐methylstyrene) containing multiple bonding groups on the chain side
Authors: Huang Hsuan‐Ming , Chang Ching‐Yu , Liu I‐Chun , Tsai Hung‐Chieh , Lai Mei‐Kuan , Tsiang Raymond Chien‐Chao
Published: August 2005

Styrenic nanocomposite containing gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) has been synthesized by anchoring polymer molecules containing multiple functional groups onto the gold surface. p‐Methylstyrene was first anionically polymerized and the resulting polymer was chlorinated with sodium hypochlorite in the presence of a phase transfer catalyst. The chlorinated poly(p‐methylstyrene) was next reacted with methylthiomethyllithium, which had been prepared via a metalation reaction of dimethyl sulfide with n‐butyllithium, to form a styrenic polymer containing thioether groups on the sides of the molecule. These thioether groups on the chain sides afforded more chemisorption sites per molecule to AuNPs. The nanocomposite was analyzed using NMR, TEM, UV‐VIS, TGA, and XPS. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 43: 4710–4720, 2005
Synthesis of main‐chain hydrogen‐bonded supramolecular liquid crystalline complexes: The effects of spacer on thermal behavior of mesophase
Authors: Toh Cher Ling , Xu Jianwei , Lu Xuehong , He Chaobin
Published: August 2005

Two series of difunctional proton acceptors, stilbazole derivatives 4a–c and 6a–c with different spacers, oligo(methylene) and oligo(ethylene glycol), respectively, were synthesized. Hydrogen‐bonded polymeric complexes 4/7 and 6/7 and trimeric complexes 4/82 and 6/82 (7 and 8 are aromatic dicarboxylic acids and monocarboxylic acids, respectively) were prepared, and their liquid crystallinity was examined. The effects of the spacer in 4, 6, and 7 and the terminal group in 8 on the thermal behaviors of hydrogen‐bonded complexes were investigated using differential scanning calorimetry and polarizing optical microscopy. X‐ray diffraction at elevated temperatures was used to verify liquid crystal phases. The study showed that the phase transition temperatures for isotropic to nematic (TI–Ns) of polymeric complexes 4/7 and 6/7 in general decreased with the increase in length of spacer in the corresponding proton donors 7. The increase in length of the proton acceptors 6 led to a drop of TI–Ns of the corresponding complexes 6/7; however, the TI–Ns of complexes 4/7 did not show any correlation with the spacer length in 4. In contrast, the increase in length of the terminal group in 8 resulted in a slight decrease in TI–Ns of trimeric complexes 4/82, but had a negligible effect on the TI–Ns of 6/82 because of the presence of the more flexible spacer in the proton acceptors 6. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 43: 4731–4743, 2005
Handling chemicals in small containers
Authors: Ness Albert , Gibson Richard
Published: August 2005

This paper describes three incidents involving buckets or other small, open containers that have occurred at Rohm and Haas facilities. In one, a reaction between sodium and water propelled a bucket with considerable force, resulting in an injury. In another, a fire occurred when the lid of a plastic bucket containing a liquid peroxide became contaminated during filling and was blown off. In the last, a solid peroxide and several different initiators and catalysts were staged on a pallet for use in batch reactors. A fire was caused by the mixing of small spills from the containers on or under the pallet used to hold them. The fire caused severe damage and temporary shutdown of a reactor train. In all cases, a good Environmental, Health, and Safety Review would have identified the problems and the review teams could have easily developed methods to prevent the accident. © 2005 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2005
Dynamic shock compaction of a ZrO2–RuO2 electronic nanocomposite: toward functionally graded materials
Authors: van Zyl Werner E. , Carton Erik P. , Raming Tomas P. , ten Elshof Johan E. , Verweij Henk
Published: August 2005

An electronic ZrO2–RuO2 nanocomposite was fabricated by dynamic compaction (DC) at 1.5 GPa resulting in a maximum relative density of 88% in the material. The DC process formed pristine elongated conical‐shaped compacts 3 cm in length. The compacts retained their original nanometer‐sized grains (∼20 nm) of the original powder from which it was prepared, marking the densest RuO2‐based nanocomposite to date. A change by a remarkable factor of 107 in electrical conductance was observed for two separate specimens, one processed by DC (σ = 1.1 × 10–4 S cm–1) and the other by conventional pressureless sintering (σ = 2.1 × 103 S cm–1) both obtained from the same starting nanopowder and thus with a similar concentration of conductor phase at 10 mol% RuO2. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Simultaneous detection of two bacterial pathogens using bacteriophage amplification coupled with matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Rees Jon C. , Voorhees Kent J.
Published: August 2005

The simultaneous analysis of multiple target microorganisms using matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOFMS) with bacteriophage amplification is discussed. Following infection of target bacteria with specific bacteriophages, proteins contained in the progeny phage are utilized as a secondary biomarker for the target bacterium. Escherichia coli when mixed with MS2 and MPSS‐1 phages specific for E. coli and Salmonella spp., respectively, at levels below their corresponding detection limits, produced only the protein (13.7 kDa) characteristic of the MS2. Likewise, Salmonella spp. when mixed with the two phages only produced a protein (13.5 kDa) characteristic of MPSS‐1. When the two bacteria and the two phages were mixed together, proteins characteristic of MS2 and MPSS‐1 were observed indicating that both bacteriophages had been amplified. Identification of each bacterium was made based on the presence of the secondary bacteriophage biomarkers. No deleterious effects on bacteriophage amplification were observed because of the presence of multiple bacteria or bacteriophages. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of seven benzoylphenylurea insecticides in processed fruit and vegetables using high‐performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Sannino Anna , Bandini Mirella
Published: August 2005

A liquid chromatographic method with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC/ESI‐MS/MS) has been developed for the sensitive and selective determination of seven benzoylphenylurea insecticide residues (diflubenzuron, triflumuron, lufenuron, flufenoxuron, teflubenzuron, chlorfuazuron, hexaflumuron) in pear baby purée, concentrated lemon juice, and tomato pulp. The general sample extraction/partition method for our established multiresidue methods has been used. The entire procedure involves extraction of residues with acetone and partition into ethyl acetate/cyclohexane. Chromatographic determination was performed using a C18 column and isocratic elution. Fourteen MS/MS transitions of precursor ions were monitored (two for each pesticide) using negative ESI. The majority of mean recoveries at fortification levels of 0.002–0.020 and 0.020–0.200 mg/kg were in the range 77–102% with relative standard deviations between 2 and 10%. The excellent sensitivity and selectivity of this LC/MS/MS method allowed quantitation and identification at low levels in difficult matrices with a run time of 4 min. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Absolute isotopic composition and atomic weight of neodymium using thermal ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhao Motian , Zhou Tao , Wang Jun , Lu Hai , Fang Xiang , Guo Chunhua , Li Qiuli , Li Chaofeng
Published: August 2005

Synthetic mixtures prepared gravimetrically from highly enriched isotopes of neodymium in the form of oxides of well‐defined purity were used to calibrate a thermal ionization mass spectrometer. A new error analysis was applied to calculate the final uncertainty of the atomic weight value. Measurements on natural neodymium samples yielded an absolute isotopic composition of 27.153(19) atomic percent (at.%) 142Nd, 12.173(18) at.% 143Nd, 23.798(12) at.% 144Nd, 8.293(7) at.% 145Nd, 17.189(17) at.% 146Nd, 5.756(8) at.% 148Nd, and 5.638(9) at.% 150Nd, and the atomic weight of neodymium as 144.2415(13), with uncertainties given on the basis of 95% confidence limits. No isotopic fractionation was found in terrestrial neodymium materials. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Application of positive and negative electrospray ionization, collision‐induced dissociation and tandem mass spectrometry to a study of the fragmentation of 6‐hydroxyluteolin 7‐O‐glucoside and 7‐O‐glucosyl‐(1 → 3)‐glucoside
Authors: Es‐Safi Nour‐Eddine , Kerhoas Lucien , Ducrot Paul‐Henri
Published: August 2005

Mass spectrometric methodology based on the combined use of positive and negative electrospray ionization, collision‐induced dissociation (CID) and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) has been applied to the structural characterization of 6‐hydroxyluteolin 7‐O‐glucoside and 7‐O‐glucosyl‐(1 → 3)‐glucoside. In‐source fragmentation of both glycosides at an increased potential yielded the protonated and deprotonated aglycone, allowing CID spectra to be obtained. The differentiation between quercetin and 6‐hydroxyluteolin aglycones was achieved by product ion analysis of the protonated and deprotonated aglycone (m/z 303 and 301), that showed the characteristic product ions 1,3A at m/z 151 and 153 for quercetin, and m/z 167 and 169 for 6‐hydroxyluteolin, consistent with the trihydroxylated A‐ring skeleton. In the negative ion mode both glycosides were shown to undergo collision‐induced homolytic and heterolytic cleavages of the O‐glycosidic bond producing the aglycone radical‐anion [Y0–H]−. and Y product ions. At lower collision energy, various fragmentations involving the glucose moieties were observed with a relatively higher abundance for the monoglucoside compared to the diglucoside. In the latter case both the inner and the terminal glucose residues were involved in the fragmentations, giving useful information on the 1 → 3 interglycosidic linkage. CID MS/MS analysis of the sodiated molecules gave complementary information for the structural characterization of the studied compounds. Fragmentation mechanisms are proposed for the observed product ions. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitation of DNA adduct of thymidylyl(3′‐5′)thymidine methyl phosphotriester by liquid chromatography/negative electrospray tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Fagen , Bartels Michael J. , Pottenger Lynn H. , Gollapudi B. Bhaskar , Schisler Melissa R.
Published: August 2005

A rapid and selective method based on liquid chromatography/electrospray tandem mass spectrometry (LC/ESI‐MS/MS) has been developed for the direct quantitation of a methyl phosphotriester DNA adduct, thymidyl (3′‐5′) thymidine [dTp(Me)dT] from enzymatic hydrolysates of DNA (either in vitro DNA or in cell culture) treated with MNU (N‐methyl‐N‐nitrosourea) or MMS (methyl methane sulfonate). The lower limit of quantitation was 2 ng/mL. Linearity of the calibration curve was greater than 0.999 from 2 to 1000 ng/mL. Intraday precision for four levels of quality controls ranged from 2.8 to 20.1%, and interday precision ranged from 2.9 to 5.6%. This method was used to quantify the levels of dTp(Me)dT in enzymatic hydrolysates of DNA obtained from a series of incubations of salmon testis DNA or mouse lymphoma cells with either MNU or MMS. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Individual and group meaning‐making in an urban third grade classroom: Red fog, cold cans, and seeping vapor
Authors: Southerland Sherry , Kittleson Julie , Settlage John , Lanier Kimberly
Published: August 2005

We examined third graders' understandings of condensation using an expanded notion of the Emergent Perspective, a reflexive consideration of individual and group meaning‐making situated in the culture of the classroom. Data were collected from two small groups of students in an inquiry‐based, urban classroom during a unit on the water cycle. Measures included conceptual pre‐/posttests, interviews, written work, and discourse analyses of a science lesson. Although we identified the supportive role of the teacher's explicit assessments of children's ideas, within the small groups, the force that most potently shaped meaning‐making was students' persuasive power, which was in part influenced by the rhetorical moves employed. Specifically, students' evaluative comments (a type of rhetorical move) about contributions of other group members seemed to be particularly persuasive in these groups. Evaluative comments, apart from students' academic status, were shown to be an important influence in not only social knowledge production but also in individual internalization. Our explanation focuses on the particular discursive practices as intellectual resources of urban students, but we are also mindful of the cognitive complexity of the material and the developmental abilities of the students. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 42: 1032–1061, 2005
Transabdominal Transcolonic Polypectomy
Authors: Schmitt Edward Alexander
Published: August 2005

Up until now, 2%–10% of colonic polyps larger than 2 cm have been considered colonoscopically unresectable. These were commonly treated by piecemeal resection and observation by colonoscopists and hemicolectomy by surgeons. Our minimally invasive “rural solution” in this situation is transcolonic resection through a mini‐laparotomy. We present 7 patients with large colonic villous adenomas not amenable to colonoscopic resection. Laporoscopy determined the location of the muscle‐splitting incision. The segment of bowel containing the polyp was exteriorized: antimesentric polyps were excised together with the corresponding colonic wall; polyps in mesenteric location were removed transmurally through an anterior colotomy. There was no surgical morbidity. Five of the 7 patients were discharged within 24 hours. Preoperative tattooing of the lesions and laparoscopic mobilization of the involved segment—when necessary—proved to be useful adjuncts. This seems to be an attractive option that may be superior to formal colectomy or repeated endoscopic piecemeal excision of large polyps. It provides colonoscopists with the option of avoiding having to resect very difficult polyps while not subjecting their patients to unnecessarily morbid operations.
Effect of Oral Glutamine Administration on Bacterial Tanslocation, Endotoxemia, Liver and Ileal Morphology, and Apoptosis in Rats with Obstructive Jaundice
Authors: Margaritis Vassilios G. , Filos Kriton S. , Michalaki Marina A. , Scopa Chrisoula D. , Spiliopoulou Iris , Nikolopoulou Vassiliki N. , Vagianos Constantine E.
Published: August 2005

Postoperative complications in patients with obstructive jaundice remain increased when associated with endotoxemia and the inflammatory response due to gut barrier failure. Administration of glutamine has been proposed to maintain the integrity of the gut mucosa and thus reduce bacterial translocation (BT), but the effects of this pretreatment on apoptosis and histologic morphology of various organs affected by BT in obstructive jaundice have not been studied. We therefore studied the effects of oral glutamine supplementation on endotoxemia, BT, liver and terminal ileal morphology, and apoptosis in an experimental model of obstructive jaundice. A total of 60 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups of 15 each: I, controls; II, sham‐operated; III, bile duct ligation (BDL); IV, BDL + glutamine (4.5 g/kg/day in drinking water). Ileal samples for histology, DNA and protein content, liver biopsies, mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) for culture, and portal and systemic blood samples for endotoxin measurements were obtained 10 days later. Compared to the controls, a significant increase in contaminated MLN and liver samples and increased endotoxemia were noted in group III (p < 0.01) but were significantly reduced in group IV (p < 0.05). Group IV also had a significantly higher number of mitoses per crypt (M/c) (p < 0.05), less apoptotic body counts (ABCs) (p < 0.05), and a higher DNA content than did group III (p < 0.05). Liver biopsies from group III displayed typical changes of large duct obstruction that significantly improved after glutamine treatment, with decreased ductular proliferation.

We concluded that supplementation of oral glutamine in the presence of obstructive jaundice ameliorates BT, endotoxemia, and apoptosis and improves the ileal and liver histology.
Groin lymphadenectomy with Preservation of Femoral Fascia: Total Inguinofemoral Node Dissection for Treatment of Vulvar Carcinoma
Authors: Micheletti Leonardo , Bogliatto Fabrizio , Massobrio Marco
Published: August 2005

This article describes a new technique for groin lymphadenectomy with preservation of the femoral fascia based on correct embryologic and anatomic knowledge of inguinofemoral lymph node disposition and their exact relation with the fascial structures of Scarpa’s triangle. Scarpa’s triangle dissection follows a three‐step procedure: development of the side starting from the inguinal ligament; development of the angles proceeding from the apex where the saphenous vein is resected; and dissection of the fossa ovalis by grasping and elevating the entire block of adipose tissue containing the superficial inguinofemoral nodes and the stump of the great saphenous vein. This surgical step allows us to expose and remove en bloc the deep femoral nodes lying medial to the portion of the femoral vein located within the fossa ovalis. The total number of inguinofemoral nodes removed from a series of 156 patients operated on during 1981–2002 ranged from 8 to 35 (mean 20) bilaterally and from 4 to 18 (mean 10) unilaterally. The 5‐year survivals by stage were, respectively, 86.2% for stage Ib, 69.2% for stage II, 49.3% for stage III, and 13.3% for stage IVa; these figures are comparable to the survival rates reported by those performing the classic groin lymphadenectomy. Groin lymphadenectomy with preservation of the femoral fascia is thus an oncologically sound conservative procedure that can replace the classic Way’s technique, which involves femoral vessel skeletonization, and can be useful for treating malignant diseases requiring groin dissection.
Randomized Trial Comparing Quixil Surgical Sealant with Kaltostat Hemostatic Dressing to Control Suture Line Bleeding after Carotid Endarterectomy with ePTFE Patch Reconstruction
Authors: Sintler Martin P. , Mahmood Asif , Smith Simon R.G. , Simms Malcolm H. , Vohra Rajiv K.
Published: August 2005

Following carotid endarterectomy (CEA), patch angioplasty provides a significant reduction in the risk of perioperative complications. The expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) patch is strong, is resistant to infection, and has low thrombogenicity; but it remains unpopular because of its tendency of prolonged bleeding at the suture line. We aimed to investigate whether the application of Quixil sealant to the suture line could improve the time to achieve hemostasis and reduce local blood loss when compared to a standard topical hemostat Kaltostat. A prospective, randomized trial of 20 patients undergoing CEA was undertaken. Patients were randomized to receive either Quixil sealant (treatment group) or topical Kaltostat (controls) as a hemostatic agent to the patch suture line. Hemostasis was defined as no bleeding at the suture line for 1 minute. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann‐Whitney test. The two groups had a similar age and sex distribution. The mean age was 71 years, and there were seven men and three women in each group. The time to achieve hemostasis was significantly lower in the Quixil group (median 2.5 minutes, range 1–4 minutes) compared to the controls (median 17 minutes, range 7–59 minutes) (p < 0.001). Blood loss after clamp release was also significantly reduced in the Quixil group; median 24.5 ml (range 5.5–105.0 ml) versus 203 ml (range 54.5–817.0 ml) (p < 0.001). This study has demonstrated that Quixil human surgical sealant is an effective sealant of ePTFE patch suture holes and does not compromise the patch repair. It could be used during other vascular procedures involving ePTFE.