bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ablation of silica glass induced by laser plasma soft X‐ray irradiation
Authors: Makimura Tetsuya , Fujimori Takashige , Torii Shuichi , Niino Hiroyuki , Murakami Kouichi
Published: August 2011

Silica glass can be ablated using focused laser plasma soft X‐rays. The ablation technique enables us to fabricate trenches with a width as narrow as 50 nm. In the present paper, we have investigated the nano‐ablation process. The soft X‐ray irradiation causes a silica surface broken into almost atomic species. Ionic species have kinetic energies higher than that gained by heating to the boiling point. We measured the ablation depth as a function of the soft X‐ray fluence. The depth analysis revealed that soft X‐rays are absorbed in a silica surface with an effective absorption depth of 10 nm. The result indicates that the energy density of the soft X‐rays per unit volume at the threshold fluence is comparable to that required for breaking silica glass into atomic species. Further, the results suggest that ablation occurs before diffusion of absorbed energy into the surrounding region. In addition to energy absorption, repulsive forces between ionic species may cause ablation of the silica surface by soft X‐ray irradiation. These properties of soft X‐ray ablation may make possible the nano‐ablation of silica glass. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 94(9): 30–35, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10354
Discrimination of breast tumors in ultrasonic images by classifier ensemble trained with AdaBoost
Authors: Takemura Atsushi , Shimizu Akinobu , Hamamoto Kazuhiko
Published: August 2011

In this paper, we propose a novel method for accurate automated discrimination of breast tumors (carcinoma, fibroadenoma, and cyst). We defined 199 features related to diagnostic observations noticed when a doctor judges breast tumors, such as internal echo, shape, and boundary echo. These features included novel features based on a parameter of log‐compressed K distribution, which reflect physical characteristics of ultrasonic B‐mode imaging. Furthermore, we propose a discrimination method of breast tumors by using an ensemble classifier based on the multiclass AdaBoost algorithm with effective features selection. Verification by analyzing 200 carcinomas, 30 fibroadenomas, and 30 cysts showed the usefulness of the newly defined features and the effectiveness of the discrimination by using an ensemble classifier trained by AdaBoost. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 94(9): 18–29, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10356
Counting passing people with different ways of movement in horizontal view
Authors: Terada Yoshiki , Saitoh Fumihiko
Published: August 2011

Counting of passing people in a passage or corridor is considered important for security and in various kinds of investigations. This paper proposes a method for automatic counting of moving people with the different ways of movement in a horizontal view. The centers of gravity of motion detection blocks are plotted in the plotting space, and the movement of people can be detected by the Hough transform without motion tracking. The intercept and the slope of a detected line represent the starting time when a person enters the scene and the speed of movement of the target. The ways of movement also can be recognized by using the difference in the speeds of movement of detected persons. Experimental results showed that reliable detection and counting of passing people were realized by the proposed method. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 94(9): 1–9, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10363
Alkali Metal/Lanthanoid Heterobimetallic Complexes of 8‐Hydroxyquinolines Accessed by Pseudo‐Solid‐State Reactions
Authors: Deacon Glen B. , Dierkes Tobias , Hübner Marcel , Junk Peter C. , Lorenz Yvonne , Urbatsch Aron
Published: August 2011

The heterobimetallic 1D‐polymeric alkali metal/lanthanoid [AMLn(Q)4]n [Q = OQ (8‐quinolinolate): AM = Li, Ln = Tb, Ho, Er; AM = K, Ln = Er; Q = MQ (2‐methyl‐8‐quinolinolate): AM = Rb; Ln = Tb, Er] complexes were obtained after rearrangement reactions between AM(Q) and Ln(Q)3 in a 1,2,4,5‐tetramethylbenzene flux at elevated temperatures. In these compounds, the eight‐coordinate lanthanoid ion is surrounded by four (O, N) chelating Q ligands, which bridge to the adjacent alkali metal through their oxygen atoms to form the linear polymers. Dimeric [Cs2(MQ)2(HMQ)2] was obtained from an attempt to prepare [CsEr(MQ)4]n, and the caesium atoms are each ligated by one terminal HMQ and one chelating‐bridging MQ ligand. In addition, the chelating‐bridging ligands in [Cs2(MQ)2(HMQ)2] and in the rubidium derivatives [RbLn(MQ)4]n (Ln = Tb, Er) exhibit bonding of the π‐electron system to coordination saturate the large ionic alkali metal ion. The reaction of Yb(MQ)3 in the presence of K2C2O4·H2O afforded the monomeric heterobimetallic [KYb2(MQ)7] complex in which the three metal atoms are arranged in a triangular fashion. They are surrounded by seven MQ ligands, which display the previously encountered chelating (O, N) and the chelating‐bridging μ‐κ2(N,O):κ1(O) and μ3‐κ2(N,O):κ1(O):κ1(O) ligation modes. Heating K(OQ) in 1,2,3,4‐tetrachlorobenzene gave crystals of 8‐hydroxyquinolinium chloride. The structure of [Na4(OQ)4(H2O)8]n, obtained by neutralisation, has sodium ions coordinated by one chelating OQ and four aqua ligands, the latter bridge to adjacent sodium ions to give a double stranded 2D‐polymer.
Treatment of dyeing wastewater by activated carbons derived from municipal sewage sludge
Authors: Chen Yao , Jiang Wenju , Jiang Li , Ji Xiujuan
Published: August 2011

Activated carbons derived from municipal sewage sludge with pyrolusite modification were prepared. The impact of pyrolusite amount on the activated carbons' characteristics was evaluated by methylene blue tests. The results showed that activated carbons modified with certain amount of pyrolusite (ACP) had better performance than the ones without pyrolusite addition. These activated carbons prepared were effective in COD and color removal in treating an industrial dyeing wastewater. The significant increase of mesopores in the adsorbents was identified as the reason. The optimum pH value for dye adsorption was pH = 3.0 and it took a relatively long contact time to reach equilibrium (≥8 h). Temperature had no obvious effect on dye removal in this study. The regeneration efficiency for three ACPs after two adsorption/regeneration cycles was above 70%. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2011
Recycling solar panel waste glass sintered as glass‐ceramics
Authors: Lin Kae‐Long , Chu Tien‐Chun , Cheng Ching‐Jung , Lee Ching‐Hwa , Chang Tien‐Chin , Wang Kuen‐Sheng
Published: August 2011

The mass of waste solar panels in Taiwan is 1000 tons per year. The recycling of waste glass from solar panels, therefore, is an important issue. Solar panel waste glass is a potentially valuable source of major oxides, including SiO2 and Na2O. This investigation evaluated the feasibility of converting solar panel waste glass into new glass‐ceramic materials using DTA and XRD. The crystallized phases were cordierite, anorthite, parawollastonite, and pyroxene. As the material was heated to 600°C and then to 850°C, the hardness and degree of crystallization of the glass‐ceramic samples slowly increased. Experimental results demonstrate that the degree of crystallization of the glass‐ceramic samples increased with hardness. The activation energy of crystal growth was 22.42 kJ mol−1. Density, hardness, and flexural strength were strongly correlated with each other and increased with the degree of crystallization of all sintered samples. The solar panel waste glass that was fired at 850°C had a dense and homogeneous well‐sintered microstructure and contained large glass‐like zones. The nuclei grew slowly to form crystallites when the samples were heated. This indicates that solar panel waste glass is indeed suitable for the glass‐ ceramic materials. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2011
Fate of perchlorate in a man-made reflecting pond following a fireworks display in Albany, New York, USA
Authors: Wu Qian , Oldi John F , Kannan Kurunthachalam
Published: August 2011

Perchlorate is a widespread contaminant in aquatic environments. Despite this, the aquatic environmental fate of perchlorate released from fireworks displays is not well known. In the present study, we examined the fate of perchlorate in man-made reflecting ponds, from 2008 to 2010, following three fireworks displays in Albany, New York, USA. Immediately after the fireworks display, perchlorate in pond waters increased significantly, with concentrations from 30 to 1,480 times higher than the baseline values. Perchlorate concentrations in pond water increased from 0.11 µg/L to up to 519 µg/L, following the fireworks display in 2008. Perchlorate concentrations in pond water decreased at a first-order kinetic degradation rate, with a mean kobs value of 0.026 d−1 and an average half-life of 29 d. The rate of perchlorate deposition into water bodies following fireworks displays was estimated to range from 670 to 2,620 g/ha. We also estimated the perchlorate ingestion rate by the inhalation of aerosols of pond water by people frequently near the ponds. The estimated daily intake of perchlorate through the ingestion of aerosols was 32% (226 ng/kg body wt), 13% (92 ng/kg body wt), and 6% (42 ng/kg body wt) of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's reference dose for infants, children, and adults, respectively. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2011;30:2449–2455. © 2011 SETAC
Matched cohort analysis of the effect of pretreatment positron emission tomography on clinical outcomes of patients with head and neck cancer treated with definitive chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Fried David , Khandani Amir , Shores Carol , Weissler Mark , Hayes Neil , Hackman Trevor , Rosenman Julian , Chera Bhishamjit S.
Published: August 2011

Background

Pretreatment positron emission tomography (PET) has been shown to be useful for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) after definitive chemoradiotherapy (CRT).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of a matched cohort of 116 patients with HNSCC that underwent CRT treatment at our institution. Pretreatment PET was performed in 58 patients and omitted in the other 58 patients. The 2 cohorts were matched for T classification, N classification, primary site, and smoking history. Kaplan–Meier 2‐year estimates of local control (LC), regional control (RC), freedom from distant metastasis (FFDM), cause‐specific survival (CSS), and overall survival (OS) were compared with log‐rank tests.

Results

There were no differences between the 2 cohorts for 2‐year endpoints of LC, RC, FFDM, CSS, and OS. On multivariate analysis pretreatment PET imaging did not influence any endpoint.

Conclusions

PET imaging before definitive CRT may not significantly improve outcomes in patients with HNSCC. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Correlation of lymphatic vessel density and vascular endothelial growth factor with nodal metastasis in papillary thyroid microcarcinoma
Authors: Chung Man Ki , Kim Joon Ho , Ko Young‐Hyeh , Son Young‐Ik
Published: August 2011

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate not only the intratumoral and peritumoral lymphatic vessel density (ILD and PLD) but also the expression of vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) and to test their correlation with regional lymph nodal metastases in papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC).

Methods

A clinicopathologic data review was performed in 60 patients with PTMC treated with total thyroidectomies involving neck dissections. The patterns of lymphatic vessels, the expression of VEGFs, and their correlation with neck metastases were assessed.

Results

PLD was significantly higher than ILD (p < .001). Patients with high PLD (>8.0) showed higher rates of neck metastases than low PLD (≤8.0) (74.0% vs 46.8%, p = .03). Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed high PLD as the only independent variable predictive of neck metastasis. The expression of VEGFs did not correlate with either lymphatic density or neck metastasis.

Conclusions

PLD may be of potential benefit in the prediction of neck metastasis in PTMC. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2011
Narrow band imaging endoscopy for unknown primary tumor sites of the neck
Authors: Shinozaki Takeshi , Hayashi Ryuichi , Ebihara Mitsuru , Miyazaki Masakazu , Daiko Hiroyuki , Saikawa Masahisa , Ebihara Satoshi
Published: August 2011

Background

Examinations used to search for unknown primary tumors of squamous cell carcinomas of the neck include CT, MRI, laryngoscopy, gastrointestinal endoscopy, and positron‐emission tomography (PET). Narrow band imaging (NBI) endoscopy in which an optical color‐separation filter is used to narrow the bandwidth of spectral transmittance is also used.

Methods

Twenty‐eight patients in whom primary squamous cell carcinomas could not be detected with conventional white light laryngoscopy underwent NBI endoscopy and PET.

Results

Primary lesions were detected with NBI endoscopy in 3 patients, but no primary lesions were detected with PET. However, PET was used to detect a lower gingival cancer and a palatine tonsillar cancer.

Conclusion

Both PET and NBI endoscopy is effective for detecting unknown primary tumors of squamous cell carcinomas of the neck. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2011
Cannabinoids disrupt hippocampal sharp wave‐ripples via inhibition of glutamate release
Authors: Maier Nikolaus , Morris Genela , Schuchmann Sebastian , Korotkova Tatiana , Ponomarenko Alexey , Böhm Claudia , Wozny Christian , Schmitz Dietmar
Published: August 2011

Cannabis consumption results in impaired learning. The proper synchronization of neuronal activity in the mammalian hippocampus gives rise to network rhythms that are implicated in memory formation. Here, we have studied the impact of cannabinoids on hippocampal sharp waves and associated ripple oscillations using field‐ and whole‐cell voltage‐clamp recordings. We demonstrate that the activation of cannabinoid receptor 1 suppresses sharp wave‐ripples (SWRs) in mice in vivo and in vitro. This suppression was paralleled by a selective reduction of SWR‐associated inward but not outward charge transfer, demonstrating an impairment of excitation due to cannabinoid exposure. Adenosine, a presynaptic modulator of glutamate release, mimicked and occluded the observed consequences of cannabinoids on SWRs. We conclude that inhibition of glutamatergic feed‐forward excitation can explain cannabinoid‐mediated disruption of SWRs and may account for cannabinoid‐induced impairment of hippocampus‐dependent memory. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Differential effects of strain, circadian cycle, and stimulation pattern on LTP and concurrent LTD in the dentate gyrus of freely moving rats
Authors: Bowden Jared B. , Abraham Wickliffe C. , Harris Kristen M.
Published: August 2011

Because long‐term potentiation (LTP) and long‐term depression (LTD) are thought to be involved in learning and memory, it is important to delineate factors that modulate their induction and persistence, especially as studied in freely moving animals. Here, we investigated the effects of rat strain, circadian cycle, and high‐frequency stimulation (HFS) pattern on LTP and concurrently induced LTD in the dentate gyrus (DG). Comparison of two commonly used rat strains revealed that medial perforant path field EPSP‐population spike (E‐S) coupling and LTP were greater in Long‐Evans than Sprague‐Dawley rats. Circadian cycle experiments conducted in Long‐Evans rats revealed greater E‐S coupling and enhanced LTP during the dark phase. Interestingly, concurrent LTD in the lateral perforant path did not significantly differ across strains or circadian cycle. Testing HFS protocols during the dark phase revealed that theta burst stimulation (100 Hz bursts at 5 Hz intervals) was ineffective in eliciting either LTP or concurrent LTD in DG, whereas 400 Hz bursts delivered at theta (5 Hz) or delta (1 Hz) frequencies produced substantial LTP and concurrent LTD. Thus, these natural and experimental factors regulate granule cell excitability, and differentially affect LTP and concurrent LTD in the DG of freely moving rats. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Utility of population models to reduce uncertainty and increase value relevance in ecological risk assessments of pesticides: An example based on acute mortality data for daphnids
Authors: Hanson Niklas , Stark John D
Published: August 2011

Traditionally, ecological risk assessments (ERA) of pesticides have been based on risk ratios, where the predicted concentration of the chemical is compared to the concentration that causes biological effects. The concentration that causes biological effect is mostly determined from laboratory experiments using endpoints on the level of the individual (e.g., mortality and reproduction). However, the protection goals are mostly defined at the population level. To deal with the uncertainty in the necessary extrapolations, safety factors are used. Major disadvantages with this simplified approach is that it is difficult to relate a risk ratio to the environmental protection goals, and that the use of fixed safety factors can result in over- as well as underprotective assessments. To reduce uncertainty and increase value relevance in ERA, it has been argued that population models should be used more frequently. In the present study, we have used matrix population models for 3 daphnid species (Ceriodaphnia dubia, Daphnia magna, and D. pulex) to reduce uncertainty and increase value relevance in the ERA of a pesticide (spinosad). The survival rates in the models were reduced in accordance with data from traditional acute mortality tests. As no data on reproductive effects were available, the conservative assumption that no reproduction occurred during the exposure period was made. The models were used to calculate the minimum population size and the time to recovery. These endpoints can be related to the European Union (EU) protection goals for aquatic ecosystems in the vicinity of agricultural fields, which state that reversible population level effects are acceptable if there is recovery within an acceptable (undefined) time frame. The results of the population models were compared to the acceptable (according to EU documents) toxicity exposure ratio (TER) that was based on the same data. At the acceptable TER, which was based on the most sensitive species (C. dubia), the maximum reduction in population size was 13% and the maximum time to recovery was 4 d (both for D. magna). This information is clearly more informative for risk management than a risk ratio. For one of the species, D. pulex, a more complex model, which included sublethal effects on reproduction, was set up. The results of this model were in good agreement with a previous microcosm study and indicated that a traditional TER was overprotective. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2012; 8: 262–270. © 2011 SETAC
Rational application of chemicals in response to oil spills may reduce environmental damage
Authors: Tamis Jacqueline E , Jongbloed Ruud H , Karman Chris C , Koops Wierd , Murk Albertinka J
Published: August 2011

Oil spills, for example those due to tanker collisions and groundings or platform accidents, can have huge adverse impacts on marine systems. The impact of an oil spill at sea depends on a number of factors, such as spill volume, type of oil spilled, weather conditions, and proximity to environmentally, economically, or socially sensitive areas. Oil spilled at sea threatens marine organisms, whole ecosystems, and economic resources in the immediate vicinity, such as fisheries, aquaculture, recreation, and tourism. Adequate response to any oil spill to minimize damage is therefore of great importance. The common response to an oil spill is to remove all visible oil from the water surface, either mechanically or by using chemicals to disperse the oil into the water column to biodegrade. This is not always the most suitable response to an oil spill, as the chemical application itself may also have adverse effects, or no response may be needed. In this article we discuss advantages and disadvantages of using chemical treatments to reduce the impact of an oil spill in relation to the conditions of the spill. The main characteristics of chemical treatment agents are discussed and presented within the context of a basic decision support scheme. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2012; 8: 231–241. © 2011 SETAC
SO NEAR AND YET SO FAR: VALUES AND MENTAL MODELS ALONG THE AID CHAIN IN ETHIOPIA
Authors: Williamson Virginia
Published: August 2011

Exploration of the perception and practice of participation, particularly in evaluation, elicited a range of values expressed by respondents along the aid chains of three bilateral donors with programmes in Ethiopia. The paper is developed from doctoral fieldwork, which sought to understand the mechanisms that constrain or enable participation. It raises three issues arising from analysis using a ‘shared mental models’ framework: differential values, ability to access and utilise information and conceptual (and physical) proximity/distance. During the research period (2004–2005), Ethiopia was a pilot country for aid harmonisation and these findings have implications for the congruence agenda (harmonisation and alignment) of the New Aid Architecture. The paper calls for a deeper understanding of the role that values and contextual information play in development management practice. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
RE‐CASTING DEVELOPMENT: ISLAMIC BANKING AND THE CASE OF THE ISLAMI BANK'S RURAL DEVELOPMENT SCHEME IN BANGLADESH
Authors: Kroessin Mohammed R.
Published: August 2011

Islamic economics has been counter‐constructed as an alternative to the mainstream development model perceived to be purely focused on the material world. In this context, the development narrative of a leading Islamic bank in Bangladesh is explored, utilising a discourse analytical approach.

Despite the fact that the Islami Bank's development programme appears to very similar to mainstream interventions, it seeks to re‐cast development as a holistic process with a vision for society that is both spiritual and material. By virtue of this narrative that conceptualises the objectives of development in a different fashion to the mainstream, complex power dynamics and antagonistic frontiers with other development actors are generated. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
CIVIC DUTY FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT: A CASE OF DUTY‐BASED APPROACHES IN JAPAN
Authors: Ito Sanae
Published: August 2011

For a long time, donors have been keen to reform local governance in low‐income countries by promoting the realisation of people's rights at the grass roots. This often goes together with the strengthening of civil society. Japan is one of the donors which endorse this approach, but its own local governance, unlike that of other advanced industrialised countries in the West, is strongly built upon people's sense of civic responsibility. Although Japan's civil society is commonly believed to be weak, it enjoys a strong network of neighbourhood‐based associations that serves as an institutional mechanism for generating a sense of civic duty. This article explores the possibility of integrating the notion of civic duty in community development in countries where the state–society nexus can similarly be mediated by locally embedded institutions in place of mission‐driven non‐governmental organisations. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Passive mechanical properties and related proteins change with botulinum neurotoxin A injection of normal skeletal muscle
Authors: Thacker Bryan E. , Tomiya Akihito , Hulst Jonah B. , Suzuki Kentaro P. , Bremner Shannon N. , Gastwirt Randy F. , Greaser Marion L. , Lieber Richard L. , Ward Samuel R.
Published: August 2011

The effects of botulinum neurotoxin A on the passive mechanical properties of skeletal muscle have not been investigated, but may have significant impact in the treatment of neuromuscular disorders including spasticity. Single fiber and fiber bundle passive mechanical testing was performed on rat muscles treated with botulinum neurotoxin A. Myosin heavy chain and titin composition of single fibers was determined by gel electrophoresis. Muscle collagen content was determined using a hydroxyproline assay. Neurotoxin‐treated single fiber passive elastic modulus was reduced compared to control fibers (53.00 kPa vs. 63.43 kPa). Fiber stiffness and slack sarcomere length were also reduced compared to control fibers and myosin heavy chain composition shifted from faster to slower isoforms. Average titin molecular weight increased 1.77% after treatment. Fiber bundle passive elastic modulus increased following treatment (168.83  kPa vs. 75.14 kPa). Bundle stiffness also increased while collagen content per mass of muscle tissue increased 38%. Injection of botulinum neurotoxin A produces an effect on the passive mechanical properties of normal muscle that is opposite to the changes observed in spastic muscles. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:497–502, 2012
Combined microwave irradiation and intraarticular glutamine administration‐induced HSP70 expression therapy prevents cartilage degradation in a rat osteoarthritis model
Authors: Fujita Shinya , Arai Yuji , Nakagawa Shuji , Takahashi Kenji A. , Terauchi Ryu , Inoue Atsuo , Tonomura Hitoshi , Hiraoka Nobuyuki , Inoue Hiroaki , Tsuchida Shinji , Mazda Osam , Kubo Toshikazu
Published: August 2011

The objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of heat stimulation and glutamine (Gln) on the expression of extracellular matrix genes and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) in rat articular cartilage in vivo and to determine whether HSP70 expression achieved with a combination of microwave (MW) and Gln suppresses osteoarthritis (OA) progression in a rat OA model. Stimulation at 40 W was assumed to be appropriate in the present study, and the effects of heat treatment at this intensity were evaluated. Articular cartilage was collected at 8 h after heat stimulation and/or intraarticular Gln administration, and total RNA was extracted. The expression of HSP70, aggrecan, and type II collagen was quantified using real‐time RT‐PCR. Cartilage samples from the OA model were subjected to hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and safranin O staining. HSP70 and aggrecan expression was greatest in a group receiving both MW and Gln. In the rat OA model, the severity of OA was significantly milder in a group receiving MW and Gln than in the control group. HSP70, stimulated by the combination of MW heat and Gln, may be involved in the suppression of OA progression. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:401–407, 2012
High‐resolution magic angle spinning NMR spectroscopy of human osteoarthritic cartilage
Authors: Shet Keerthi , Siddiqui Sarmad M. , Yoshihara Hikari , Kurhanewicz John , Ries Michael , Li Xiaojuan
Published: August 2011

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease of the joints and results in changes in the biochemical composition of cartilage. Previous studies have been undertaken that have used high‐resolution NMR spectroscopy to study the biochemical composition of porcine, canine and bovine cartilage. In the present study, high‐resolution magical angle spinning (HR‐MAS) NMR spectroscopy at 11.7 T has been used to characterize metabolites and detect differences in the spectral signature of human knee articular cartilage from non‐OA healthy cadaver knees and samples acquired from severe OA patients at the time of total knee replacement surgery. A statistically significant difference in the alanine (1.47 p.p.m.), N‐acetyl (2.04 p.p.m.), choline (3.25 p.p.m.) and glycine (3.55 p.p.m.) metabolite levels was observed between healthy and OA specimens. The results of the present study indicate that a decrease in the intensity of N‐acetyl resonance occurs in the later stages of OA. A positive correlation of the N‐acetyl levels as measured by 1H HR‐MAS NMR spectroscopy with the total proteoglycan content in the same cartilage specimens as measured by the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) assay was observed. This indicates that N‐acetyl can serve as an important bio‐marker of OA disease progression. A decrease in the alanine concentration in OA may be attributed to the degradation of the collagen framework with disease progression and eventual loss of the degradation products that are transported from cartilage into the synovial cavity. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene/poly(ethylene glycol) membrane: preparation, characterization, and gas permeation study
Authors: Sanaeepur Hamidreza , Ebadi Amooghin Abtin , Moghadassi Abdolreza , Kargari Ali , Moradi Sadegh , Ghanbari Davood
Published: August 2011

Polymeric membranes were prepared by blending different grades of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) as the added polymer with acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene as the backbone structure. The membranes were characterized by Fourier transform infrared, X‐ray diffractometry, dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and scanning electron microscopy. Furthermore, the gas permeation and separation properties of CO2/CH4 were studied. In addition, the effect of pressure (1–8 bar) and the effect of PEG content (0–40 wt%) on CO2 and CH4 permeability/selectivity were investigated. The results showed that, in more cases, with the introduction of PEG molecules, CO2/CH4 selectivity increases without significant changes in CH4 permeability, indicating that the incorporation of intermolecular interaction is suitable for the separation of gas pairs with no molecular size domination but the solution–diffusion. From the viewpoint of gas separation applications, the resultant data are in the commercially attractive region. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Distributed feedback grating fabricated from hybrid polymer precursor gel by employing short‐pulse laser interference for photopumped polymer laser applications
Authors: Hidayat Rahmat , Hidayat Sahrul , Fitrilawati Fitri , Herman  , Tjia May On , Fujii Akihiko , Ozaki Masanori
Published: August 2011

The application of hybrid polymer precursor gel for distributed feedback (DFB) grating laser fabricated by short‐pulse laser interference has been investigated. The precursor gel was prepared by sol–gel process from siloxane‐modified methacrylate monomer. The molecular structure characterization results show the formation of inorganic networks within the precursor gel, which further undergoes the formation of organic–inorganic polymer network by photopolymerization. The laser interference was performed by using the frequency‐tripled output of nanosecond Nd–YAG laser. The fabricated DFB gratings exhibit photopumped lasing actions with high consistency between the grating periodicity (between 380 and 1030 nm) and the lasing wavelength, which appears at the wavelength of the second‐order Bragg reflection. The atomic force microcopy measurements clearly show the formation of surface relief (corrugated) structure in those gratings. The mechanism of surface relief formation is attributed to a fast photo‐induced swelling process, which is unique property belonging to this kind of hybrid polymer precursor gel. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and characterization of P/Si flame retardant and its application in epoxy systems
Authors: Kang Nianjun , Du Zhongjie , Li Hangquan , Zhang Chen
Published: August 2011

In this report, a novel phosphorus/silicon‐containing reactive flame retardant, hexa(3‐triglycidyloxysilylpropyl)triphosphazene (HGPP), was synthesized and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectra (1H, 31P, and 29Si), respectively. To prepare cured epoxy, HGPP had been co‐cured with diglycidyl ether of bisphenol‐A (DGEBA) via 4,4‐diaminodiphenylsulfone as a curing agent. The mechanical, thermal, and flame retardant properties of the cured epoxy were evaluated by dynamic mechanical analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, and limiting oxygen index (LOI). According to these results, it could be found that incorporation of HGPP in the cured epoxy system showed good thermal stability, high LOI values, and high char yield at high temperature. As moderate loading of HGPP in the epoxy system, its storage modulus and glass transition temperature were higher than those of neat DGEBA. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Controlled loading and release of methylene blue from LbL polyurethane/poly(acrylic acid) film
Authors: Ding Chunrui , Xu Shimei , Wang Jide , Liu Yang , Hu Xiaoxia , Chen Peng , Feng Shun
Published: August 2011

The layer‐by‐layer (LbL) assembled multilayer films are widely used in the biomedical field for the controlled drug delivery. Here, multilayer films were assembled by LbL technique through alternating deposition of cationic polyurethane (PU) and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) on glass slides. Methylene blue (MB) was used as a model drug to investigate the loading and release ability of the prepared multilayer film. The results showed that the loading rate and loading amount of MB were greatly influenced by pH value of the dye solution, and the release rate of MB was controlled both by ionic strength and pH value of immersing solution. The result also indicated that the film had a good reversibility of drug loading and release. It suggested that the PU/PAA multilayer film had potential applications in drug delivery and controlled release. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of hyperbranched prepolymers prepared from butyl acrylate and butyl methacrylate on the electro‐optical properties of polymer dispersed liquid crystal
Authors: Yang Zhigang , Li Ding , Pan Cuihong , Wang Yinghan
Published: August 2011

Two hyperbranched prepolymers were synthesized via the reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer copolymerization of butyl acrylate or butyl methacrylate with divinyl benzene, respectively. These prepolymers were used in the photopolymerization‐induced phase separation process of preparing polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) films with no risk of gelation. The morphologies of PDLC samples were investigated. Of particular interest was that the driving voltage (V90) of PDLC with high glass transition temperature (Tg) matrix was as low as 5 V, whereas the V90 of PDLC with low Tg matrix was still high. An explanation for this phenomenon is the hypothesis that different interaction modes function at the interface of liquid crystal and polymer. Meanwhile, the hysteresis of the two systems was minor, which correlated with the hyperbranched structure of polymer. The on‐state transmittance (TON) of PDLC films enhanced because of the well matching between the refractive index of polymer and that of liquid crystal. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
BCL2L1 has a functional role in colorectal cancer and its protein expression is associated with chromosome 20q gain
Authors: Sillars‐Hardebol Anke H , Carvalho Beatriz , Beliën Jeroen AM , de Wit Meike , Delis‐van Diemen Pien M , Tijssen Marianne , van de Wiel Mark A , Pontén Fredrik , Fijneman Remond JA , Meijer Gerrit A
Published: August 2011

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer death in the western world. The majority of CRCs, which develop from adenoma precursor lesions, show gain of chromosome arm 20q, where BCL2L1 is located. BCL2L1 is an important apoptosis regulating gene that codes for both an anti‐apoptotic (Bcl‐xL) and a pro‐apoptotic (Bcl‐xS) splice variant. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether BCL2L1 contributes to 20q gain‐driven colorectal adenoma‐to‐carcinoma progression. To this end, the functional role of BCL2L1 in cancer‐related processes was investigated, and differences in BCL2L1 DNA, mRNA, and protein levels were compared between colorectal adenomas and CRCs, as well as between tumours with and without 20q gain. Down‐modulation of BCL2L1 inhibited cell viability and anchorage‐independent growth of CRC cells, while invasion was not affected. BCL2L1 DNA copy number and protein expression were increased in CRCs compared to adenomas (p = 0.00005 and p = 0.03, respectively), while mRNA expression was not. Differences in BCL2L1 protein expression were even more pronounced between tumours with and without 20q gain (p = 0.0001). In conclusion, BCL2L1 is functionally involved in several cancer‐related processes and its protein expression is associated with 20q gain. This supports a role for 20q gain‐dependent expression of BCL2L1 in colorectal adenoma‐to‐carcinoma progression. However, the absence of a direct correlation between BCL2L1 mRNA and protein expression implies that BCL2L1 protein expression is regulated at the post‐transcriptional level by a distinct factor on the 20q amplicon (eg ZNF217, AURKA or miRNAs). Therefore, even though BCL2L1 affects CRC biology in a 20q gain‐dependent manner, it is not likely to be a driver of chromosome 20q gain associated adenoma‐to‐carcinoma progression. Copyright © 2011 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The retinoid signalling molecule, TRIM16, is repressed during squamous cell carcinoma skin carcinogenesis in vivo and reduces skin cancer cell migration in vitro
Authors: Cheung Belamy B , Koach Jessica , Tan Owen , Kim Patrick , Bell Jessica L , D'andreti Carla , Sutton Selina , Malyukova Alena , Sekyere Eric , Norris Murray , Haber Michelle , Kavallaris Maria , Cunningham Anne M , Proby Charlotte , Leigh Irene , Wilmott James S , Cooper Caroline L , Halliday Gary M , Scolyer Richard A , Marshall Glenn M
Published: August 2011

Retinoid therapy is used for chemo‐prevention in immuno‐suppressed patients at high risk of developing skin cancer. The retinoid signalling molecule, tripartite motif protein 16 (TRIM16), is a regulator of keratinocyte differentiation and a tumour suppressor in retinoid‐sensitive neuroblastoma. We sought to determine the role of TRIM16 in skin squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) pathogenesis. We have shown that TRIM16 expression was markedly reduced during the histological progression from normal skin to actinic keratosis and SCC. SCC cell lines exhibited lower cytoplasmic and nuclear TRIM16 expression compared with primary human keratinocyte (PHK) cells due to reduced TRIM16 protein stability. Overexpressed TRIM16 translocated to the nucleus, inducing growth arrest and cell differentiation. In SCC cells, TRIM16 bound to and down regulated nuclear E2F1, this is required for cell replication. Retinoid treatment increased nuclear TRIM16 expression in retinoid‐sensitive PHK cells, but not in retinoid‐resistant SCC cells. Overexpression of TRIM16 reduced SCC cell migration, which required the C‐terminal RET finger protein (RFP)‐like domain of TRIM16. The mesenchymal intermediate filament protein, vimentin, was directly bound and down‐regulated by TRIM16 and was required for TRIM16‐reduced cell migration. Taken together, our data suggest that loss of TRIM16 expression plays an important role in the development of cutaneous SCC and is a determinant of retinoid sensitivity. Copyright © 2011 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cardiac metastasis and hypertrophic osteoarthropathy in recurrent infantile fibrosarcoma
Authors: Shah Nirali N. , Price Mitchell R. , Loeb David M.
Published: August 2011

Cardiac metastasis and hypertrophic osteoarthropathy are both quite rare. We describe a patient presenting with hypertrophic osteoarthropathy as the first symptom of recurrent infantile fibrosarcoma (IF). During surgical resection of lung metastasis, the patient suffered sudden cardiac arrest. Autopsy demonstrated a metastatic lesion in the intraventricular septum of the heart, which is previously undescribed in the literature. This case demonstrates that IF can be aggressive despite its more typical benign course. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 59: 179–181. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Separation of Four Homoisoflavonoids from Caesalpinia sappan by High‐speed Counter‐current Chromatography
Authors: Xu Pingping , Guan Shuhong , Feng Ruihong , Tang Renneng , Guo Dean
Published: August 2011

Introduction

The main chemical constituents of Caesalpinia sappan are homoisoflavonoids. Conventional column chromatographic techniques used for isolation of this type of compounds are tedious, time‐consuming and waste solvents. High‐speed counter‐current chromatography (HSCCC) could be a suitable alternative for the enrichment and purification of these target compounds from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).

Objective

To establish a method to isolate four homoisoflavonoids in one‐step separation from C. sappan by HSCCC.

Methodology

The crude extract of C. sappan was fractionated by HSCCC using a two‐phase solvent system consisting of chloroform–methanol–water (4:3:2, v/v/v). The separation conditions were: flow rate, 1.0 mL/min; revolution speed, 900 rpm; detection wavelength, 280 nm; separation temperature, 25 °C; sample size, 120 mg crude sample dissolved in a mixture of the upper and lower phases (10 mL each). The retention of the stationary phase was 83%.

Results

Five milligrams of 3'‐deoxysappanol, 8 mg of 3‐deoxysappanone B, 20 mg of 4‐O‐methylsappanol and 18 mg of brazilin were obtained in one‐step separation from 120 mg of an ethyl acetate extracted fraction of C. sappan. Their purities were 99%, 97%, 90% and 85% by HPLC analysis. The mean recoveries of the four compounds were 83%, 86%, 93% and 85%, respectively.

Conclusion

The study has shown that HSCCC is effective for the separation and enrichment of the target compounds at a large scale. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of Carotenoids and their Esters in Fruits of Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) by HPLC‐DAD‐APCI‐MS
Authors: Giuffrida Daniele , Pintea Adela , Dugo Paola , Torre Germana , Pop Raluca Maria , Mondello Luigi
Published: August 2011

Introduction

The berries of Hippophae rhamnoides Linnaeus have high nutritional and medicinal values and have been used for centuries as food both in Europe and Asia. The oleoresins represent a potential source of carotenoid esters and can be used as food additives, cosmetic ingredients or nutraceuticals.

Objective

The objective of this study was to develop a HPLC‐DAD‐APCI‐MS method, with both positive and negative ionisation modes, for the direct identification of the native carotenoid composition in fruits of Hippophae rhamnoides.

Materials and methods

Fruits of Hippophae rhamnoides, cv. Serbanesti and Victoria, were collected from an experimental field at the Fruit Research Station of Bacau, Romania. Samples were extracted using methanol:ethyl acetate:petroleum ether (1:1:1, v/v/v). The HPLC‐DAD‐APCI‐MS analyses were carried out on a Shimadzu system using a YMC C30‐column and a gradient elution.

Results

In total 22 compounds were detected, eight were free carotenoids, nine were xanthophylls monoesters and five were xanthophylls diesters. Differences were observed in the relative percentage composition of the identified components among the two cultivars investigated. Zeaxanthin‐C16:0,C16:0 was the most abundant diester. The unsaturated palmitoleic acid was directly detected in its esterified form, in zeaxanthin‐C16:0,C16:1, which is reported here for the first time. Although present in small amounts the unsaturated oleic, linoleic, linolenic, hexadecadienoic and hexadecatrienoic acids were detected in their esterified forms as lutein monoesters, the last two having been detected in Hippophae rhamnoides for the first time.

Conclusion

A novel (HPLC‐DAD‐APCI‐MS) method was developed for the direct identification of the native carotenoid composition in fruits of Hippophae rhamnoides. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Moisture absorption behavior and its impact on the mechanical properties of cellulose whiskers‐based polyvinylacetate nanocomposites
Authors: Mathew Aji P. , Gong Guan , Bjorngrim Niclas , Wixe David , Oksman Kristiina
Published: August 2011

Cellulose nanowhisker (CNW) reinforced polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) nanocomposites were prepared by melt‐extrusion using a master batch process. Microscopy images showed no visible aggregation of whiskers in the matrix. The influence of CNWs and moisture absorption on the mechanical behavior of the nanocomposites was studied. The water sorption studies indicated low water uptake (<10 wt%) for all the materials. However, higher moisture uptake was obtained in the nanocomposites compared to the matrix though the diffusion co‐efficient of the nanocomposites was lower. The tensile strength and modulus were decreased with the addition of CNWs to PVAc, but the reduction is lower at higher CNW concentration indicating that the plasticizing effect of the moisture was counteracted to some extent by the reinforcing effect of CNWs. Higher tensile ductility and toughness, which were dependent on moisture absorption, were achieved in the nanocomposites than pure PVAc. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Experimental study of melting of LDPE/PS polyblend in an intermeshing counter‐rotating twin screw extruder
Authors: Wilczyński Krzysztof , Lewandowski Adrian , Wilczyński Krzysztof J.
Published: August 2011

An experimental study is presented of the melting mechanism in a starve‐fed closely intermeshing counter‐rotating twin screw extruder of a modular Leistritz design. Various polymeric materials, semicrystalline low density polyethylene (LDPE), amorphous polystyrene (PS), and (LDPE/PS) polyblend were investigated at various operating conditions. A “screw pulling‐out” technique was used to investigate polymer behavior along the screw axis. In particular, the solid conveying, melting positions, the extent of starved character along the screw, and the fully filled regions were observed. Polymer samples were stripped off from each screw which was removed from the machine to investigate melting mechanism. Generally, it has been concluded that the melting mechanism revealed by White and Wilczyński for polyolefines has been proved for other polymeric materials under study. This mechanism consists of pellets being dragged into the calendering gap where they are melted due to calendering action. The molten polymer is expelled from the gap and pushes against the pellet bed which is continuously dragged into the gap. The composite modeling of an intermeshing counter‐rotating twin screw extrusion of polyblends has also been discussed. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 52:449–458, 2012. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
The effect of ethylenediamine pretreatment on the molecular structure of thermally stabilized polyacrylonitrile fibers before carbonization
Authors: Karacan Ismail , Erdŏgan Gulhan
Published: August 2011

Aqueous ethylenediamine (EDA) pretreatment followed by thermal stabilization of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibers in an oxygen rich air environment was carried out prior to the carbonization stage. The results show that the EDA pretreatment is very effective and efficient in promoting the cyclization of nitrile groups by shortening the time necessary for the development of thermally stable structure needed to withstand the high carbonization temperatures. A direct relationship between the values of density and the oxygen content is found which is believed to be due to the positive role played by the oxygen containing functional groups in the formation of ladder frame structures. Analysis of the equatorial X‐ray diffraction traces shows the transformation of the original structure from a highly ordered phase to a totally disordered amorphous phase as indicated by the loss of the degree of order of the original PAN fiber. X‐ray, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and infrared conversion indices show the rapid conversion from the original open structure to highly cyclized and crosslinked polymer structure. Utilization of EDA pretreatment prior to the thermal stabilization is expected to significantly reduce the cost of the final carbon fiber manufacturing by reducing the time necessary for the thermal stabilization stage. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2012. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers