bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of surfactant on the alumina dispersion and corrosion behavior of electroless NiPAl2O3 composite coatings
Authors: Liu D. , Yan Y. , Lee K. , Yu J.
Published: May 2009

Electroless NiPAl2O3 composite coatings have been synthesized on mild steel shafts using surfactant cetyltrimethyle ammonium bromide (CTAB) as dispersant. The effects of the surfactant on the alumina dispersion, weight fraction in coatings, and corrosion resistance of the composite coatings under salt spray test were investigated. Results showed that alumina dispersion was improved, whereas weight fraction was decreased, with the increasing concentration of the dispersant CTAB. The corrosion resistance of the composite coatings was found to increase with the increase in CTAB concentration up to a certain optimum of 20 mg/L, beyond which a decreasing trend of corrosion resistance was observed under salt spray test. Compared with NiP coating, all the NiPAl2O3 composite coatings showed improved corrosion‐resistant properties.
Molecular characterization and corrosion behavior of thermophilic (55 °C) SRB Desulfotomaculum kuznetsovii isolated from cooling tower in petroleum refinery
Authors: Anandkumar B. , Choi J.‐H. , Venkatachari G. , Maruthamuthu S.
Published: May 2009

Desulfotomaculum kuznetsovii (D. kuznetsovii), a thermophilic sulfate‐reducing bacterium (SRB), was identified in a cooling tower of a petroleum refinery by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and its functional gene encoding dissimilatory sulfite reductase (dsrAB). The thermophilic sulfate‐reducing bacterial species have been reported for the first time in the cooling towers of an Indian petroleum refinery. The protein coded by dsrAB gene was cloned, expressed, and identified using recombinant DNA technology. Weight loss method, electrochemical and surface analysis showed the corrosion behavior of the isolate. In the presence of D. kuznetsovii, the corrosion rate was higher when compared to control at 55 °C. It suppresses the anodic reaction and enhances the cathodic reaction by the production of organic complex and iron sulfide, respectively. Numerous pitting were noticed on mild steel which is due to the presence of D. kuznetsovii and its role in the corrosion process has been discussed.
Pitting corrosion on 316L pipes in terephthalic acid (TA) dryer
Authors: Gong Y. , Cao J. , Meng X.‐H. , Yang Z.‐G.
Published: May 2009

Grade 316L is a type of austenitic stainless steel with ultra‐low carbon content and it exhibits superior corrosion resistance. However, pitting is always observed in 316L steel when it is exposed to media containing halide ions. In the present study, we found that in the presence of acetate acid (HAc) containing chloride or bromide ions, pitting occurred on the surface of the rotary steam pipes with the matrix material of 316L steel in terephthalic acid (TA) dryer. In order to identify the causes of the failure, metallographic structures and chemical compositions of the matrix material were inspected by an optical microscope (OM) and a photoelectric direct reading spectrometer. Beside these, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) as well as ion chromatography (IC) were used to analyze the micromorphologies of the corrosion pits and the chemical compositions of the corrosion deposits within them. Analysis of the results revealed the sources of halide ions and the factors accelerating the corrosion rate. Beside these, detailed mechanisms of pitting were discussed and six out of all the seven theoretical morphologies of pitting features were obtained in practice.
Characterization of plasma electrolytic oxidation coatings formed on Mg–Li alloy in an alkaline silicate electrolyte containing silica sol
Authors: Liu J. , Lu Y. , Jing X. , Yuan Y. , Zhang M.
Published: May 2009

We investigate the influence of silica sol addition on the ceramic coatings of Mg–Li alloy by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) in an alkaline silicate electrolyte. Scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy are employed to characterize the microstructure and composition of the ceramic coatings. The anti‐corrosion behavior of the ceramic coatings is evaluated by potentiodynamic polarization measurements in conjunction with electrochemical impedance analysis. The ceramic coating formed in the electrolyte containing silica sol contains SiO2 and Mg2SiO4 phase and has more uniform morphology and higher corrosion resistance than that formed in the electrolyte without addition of silica sol.
Physiological phosphatidylcholine protects bovine β‐lactoglobulin from simulated gastrointestinal proteolysis
Authors: Mandalari Giuseppina , Mackie Alan M. , Rigby Neil M. , Wickham Martin S. J. , Mills E. N. Clare
Published: May 2009

We have investigated the effect of phosphatidylcholine (PC) on the resistance of bovine β‐lactoglobulin (β‐Lg) to simulated in vitro gastrointestinal proteolysis. Whilst addition of PC did not affect the resistance of β‐Lg to gastric pepsinolysis, it protected the protein from subsequent degradation under duodenal conditions. The effect was dependent on the ratio of PC to β‐Lg, 16% of the protein remaining intact in the presence of an equimolar ratio of PC/protein, which increased to 62% when a 60‐fold molar excess of PC was included. PC also altered the pattern of digestion products observed by SDS‐PAGE. Thermal denaturation of β‐Lg abolished this effect showing that it was dependent on the native folded structure of the protein. Since neither of the β‐Lg ligands retinol or palmitate exerted a protective effect, it is unlikely that PC is mediating its effect by occupying the central calyx. An alternative explanation may be that the lipids bind to a secondary fatty acid binding site in β‐Lg, thus blocking the action of proteases for steric reasons. These data indicate how biomolecular interactions between proteins and lipids may alter patterns of proteolysis and need to be taken into consideration in any in vitro model of digestion.
The bioactivity of dietary anthocyanins is likely to be mediated by their degradation products
Authors: Kay Colin D. , Kroon Paul A. , Cassidy Aedin
Published: May 2009

To date the in vitro mechanistic bioactivity of anthocyanins has been exclusively explored using aglycones and glycoside conjugates, despite a lack of evidence establishing these as the biologically available forms. We conducted intestinal epithelial cell (Caco‐2 cells) culture experiments, which indicated that after a 4 h incubation of anthocyanins in cell‐free culture media (DMEM), 57% of the initial cyanidin‐3‐glucoside (C3G) and 96% of cyanidin had degraded. The level of degradation was not statistically different from that of cultured cell incubations, suggesting that degradation was spontaneous. Degradation products were identified as protocatechuic acid (PCA) and phloroglucinaldehyde (PGA), and were confirmed in two other buffer matrices (phosphate and Hank's buffers). In cultured cell media the degradation products PCA and PGA were metabolised to glucuronide and sulphate conjugates, as indicated by both enzyme hydrolysis (sulphatase and glucuronidase treatments) and MS (PCA and PGA m/z = 155; sulphate = 235; glucuronide = 331). These data suggest a significant proportion of intestinal metabolites of anthocyanins are likely to be conjugates of their degradation products. Future efforts to establish the biological activities of anthocyanins should therefore include the investigation of phenolic acid and aldehyde products of degradation, along with their respective metabolites.
Adherence to walking or stretching, and risk of preeclampsia in sedentary pregnant women
Authors: Yeo SeonAe
Published: May 2009

Pregnant women at risk for preeclampsia may benefit from the positive effects of exercise, but they may be unlikely to adhere to an exercise program. A randomized trial was conducted with 124 sedentary pregnant women to compare the effects of walking exercise to a stretching exercise on adherence and on the preeclampsia risk factors of heart rate (HR), blood pressure, and weight gain. Walkers exercised less than stretchers both overall and as pregnancy advanced. HR and blood pressure were lower among stretchers than walkers, but weight gain did not differ between the groups. For sedentary pregnant women, a stretching exercise may be more effective than walking in mitigating the risk of preeclampsia due to higher adherence and possible cardiac–physiologic effects. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 32: 379–390, 2009
The essence of healing from sexual violence: A qualitative metasynthesis
Authors: Draucker Claire Burke , Martsolf Donna S. , Ross Ratchneewan , Cook Christina Benson , Stidham Andrea Warner , Mweemba Prudencia
Published: May 2009

A qualitative metasynthesis was conducted to identify the essence of healing from sexual violence, as described by adults who experienced it as children or as adults. Based on the findings of 51 reports, four domains of healing were identified: (a) managing memories, (b) relating to important others, (c) seeking safety, and (c) reevaluating self. The ways of healing within each domain reflected opposing responses. The dialectical process identified for each of the four domains include, respectively: (a) calling forth memories, (b) regulating relationships with others, (c) constructing an “as‐safe‐as‐possible” lifeworld, and (d) restoring a sense of self. These complex processes resulted in a new reality for the participants that was based on a greater sense of agency and provided a more satisfying life course. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 32: 366–378, 2009
Branding HIV/AIDS communication: the social marketing campaigns of MTV and Viacom
Authors: Martens Cheryl
Published: May 2009

Based on an ethnographic study of the production and reception of HIV/AIDS public service campaigns by MTV and Viacom, this paper examines the role of branding in HIV/AIDS education promotion. A main premise of the paper is that audiences for HIV/AIDS social marketing campaigns are now less addressed in terms of the classic HIV/AIDS prevention categories of ‘general public’ and ‘risk groups’ and are increasingly viewed as ‘market segments’ implicated in the campaigns in relation to the techniques of branding. Drawing on examples from research conducted amongst audiences in the North of England, the findings highlight the differing audience understandings of the branded consumer objects and icons of HIV awareness. Using a cultural materialist perspective, concerned with the relationship between the campaigns and social relations, this paper examines the process of corporate‐sponsored HIV/AIDS campaigns. The findings underscore how social marketing campaigns are increasingly being related to as branded media objects and icons, closely tied to people's material experience and understandings of the aesthetics framing these branded objects and icons. The paper argues that identification and engagement with the campaigns is most evident amongst participants who shared the consumer values and the marketing discourses used by marketing managers and producers of the public service announcements.

Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Microencapsulated ammonium polyphosphate with polyurethane shell: preparation, characterization, and its flame retardance in polyurethane
Authors: Ni Jianxiong , Tai Qilong , Lu Hongdian , Hu Yuan , Song Lei
Published: May 2009

A series of polyurethane (PU) microencapsulated ammonium polyphosphate (MCAPP) were prepared by in situ polymerization from toluene‐2,4‐diisocyanate (TDI), polyethylene glycol (PEG), and pentaerythtritol (PER). And the structure was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Then it chose the optimal PEG constituent to design microcapsule from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and water solubility test. The combustion and thermal degradation behaviors of PU blended APP or MCAPP were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), UL‐94 test, and microcombustion calorimetry. The results showed that the PU/MCAPP had better thermal stability and flame retardance, due to the stable char forming by APP and PU shell. Moreover, the water resistance of flame retarded PU composite was greatly improved. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Infection‐related mortality in children with malignancy in England and Wales, 2003–2005
Authors: Bate Jessica , Ladhani Shamez , Sharland Mike , Chisholm Julia , Lamagni Theresa , Ramsay Mary , Johnson Alan , Pebody Richard
Published: May 2009

Background

Infections are an important component of treatment‐related mortality in children with malignancy. Infection‐related mortality is potentially preventable and it is important to identify areas where prevention and treatment can be improved such as through vaccination, early diagnosis and aggressive management. The aim of this study is to describe the infections contributing to deaths in children under 15 years with malignancy in England and Wales in the period 2003–2005.

Procedure

Analysis of death certificate data of children under 15 years in England and Wales from 2003–2005 identified all patients with pre‐selected ICD‐10 codes relating to haematological malignancy or solid tumours and an infectious disease as the main or underlying cause of death.

Results

There were 82 infection‐related deaths contributing to approximately 25% of all deaths from haematological malignancy and 5% of all deaths from solid tumours during 2003–2005. This included 15 relapsed patients (18%), 5 haematopoietic stem cell transplant patients (6%) and 4 patients with Down's syndrome (5%). Organisms were documented in 44 deaths (54%). Seventeen infections (21%) were fungal of which 12 (15%) were Aspergillus; 17 (21%) were bacterial, including 9 (11%) Gram‐negative isolates. There were 10 (12%) infection‐related deaths where viruses were identified of which three deaths were from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Conclusions

This study shows that infections still make an important contribution to deaths amongst children with malignancy. Effective prevention strategies need to be identified and strengthened. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:371–374. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
iTRAQ quantitative analysis of Francisella tularensis ssp. holarctica live vaccine strain and Francisella tularensis ssp. tularensis SCHU S4 response to different temperatures and stationary phases of growth
Authors: Lenco Juraj , Link Marek , Tambor Vojtech , Zaková Jitka , Cerveny Lukas , Stulik and Jiri
Published: May 2009

Proteomics has been shown to significantly contribute to the investigation of the pathogenicity of the extremely infectious bacteria Francisella tularensis. In this study, the authors employed iTRAQ quantitative proteomic analysis in order to monitor alterations in proteomes of F. tularensis ssp. holarctica live vaccine strain and F. tularensis ssp. tularensis SCHU S4 associated with the cultivation at different temperatures or in the stationary phase. Correlated production of the identified proteins studied by the exploratory statistical analysis revealed novel candidates for virulence factors that were regulated in a similar manner to the genes encoded in the Francisella Pathogenicity Island. Moreover, the assessment of the adaptation of live vaccine strain and SCHU S4 strain to the examined stimuli uncovered differences in their physiological responses to the stationary phase of growth.
A critical comparison between two classical and a kit‐based method for mitochondria isolation
Authors: Hartwig Sonja , Feckler Christian , Lehr Stefan , Wallbrecht Katrin , Wolgast Heike , Müller‐Wieland Dirk , Kotzka Jörg
Published: May 2009

Numerous protocols for isolation of mitochondria are available. Here, three methods for the isolation of intact mitochondria from mouse liver tissues are compared with regard to yield, purity and activity. Mitochondria were isolated by sucrose density gradient ultracentrifugation, free‐flow electrophoresis or a commercially available kit‐based method. Our analyses show that the sophisticated (and most expensive) free‐flow electrophoresis method enables isolation of intact mitochondria with an enrichment of approximately 70%. Using the classical density centrifugation method is very laborious and time‐consuming, but delivers about 57% intact mitochondria. Using standard laboratory equipment in a quick and simple procedure, the kit provides approximately 50% intact mitochondria, suitable for most standard investigations.
Proteomic analysis of the phytopathogenic fungus Botrytis cinerea during cellulose degradation
Authors: Fernández‐Acero Francisco Javier , Colby Thomas , Harzen Anne , Cantoral Jesús Manuel , Schmidt Jürgen
Published: May 2009

The ascomycete Botrytis cinerea is a phytopathogenic fungus infecting and causing significant yield losses in a number of crops. Moreover, in the last few years, B. cinerea has been adopted as an important model system in molecular phytopathology. In spite of these contributions, the molecular basis of the infection cycle remains unclear. Proteomic approaches have revealed significant information about the infective cycle of several pathogens, including B. cinerea. The main aim of this study is to make available a proteomic database containing a significant number of identified proteins from B. cinerea. In brief, three independent B. cinerea cultures supplemented with carboxymethylcellulose were used, and the extracted proteins were independently separated by 2‐D PAGE to obtain the proteome map from B. cinerea. Two hundred and sixty‐seven spots were selected for MALDI TOF/TOF MS analysis, resulting in 303 positive identifications, mostly representing unannotated proteins. Identified proteins were then classified into categories using the PANTHER classification system (www.pantherdb.org), showing the relevance of protein metabolism and modification process and oxidoreductase activity. Since cellulose is one of the major components of the plant cell wall, many of the identified proteins may have a crucial role in the pathogenicity process. In brief, this proteomic map of B. cinerea will be a useful basis for exploring the proteins involved in the infection cycle, which will in turn provide new targets for crop diagnosis and focused fungicide design.
Differential proteomic analysis of adrenal gland during postnatal development
Authors: Pascual Alberto , Romero‐Ruiz Antonio , Lopez‐Barneo Jose
Published: May 2009

The adrenal glands (AGs) are endocrine organs essential for life. They undergo a fetal to adult developmental maturation process, occurring in rats during the first postnatal month. The molecular modifications underlying these ontogenic changes are essentially unknown. Here we report the results of a comparative proteomic analysis performed on neonatal (Postnatal day 3) versus adult (Postnatal day 30) AGs, searching for proteins with a relative higher abundance at each age. We have identified a subset of proteins with relevant expression in each developmental period using 2‐DE and DIGE analysis. The identified proteins belong to several functional categories, including proliferation/differentiation, cell metabolism, and steroid biosynthesis. To study if the changes in the proteome are correlated with changes at the mRNA level, we have randomly selected several proteins with differential expression and measured their relative mRNA levels using quantitative RT‐PCR. Cell‐cycle regulating proteins (retinoblastoma binding protein 9 and prohibitin) with contrasting effects on proliferation are expressed differentially in neonatal and adult AG. Progesterone metabolizing enzymes, up‐regulated in the neonatal gland, might contribute to the hyporesponsiveness of the adrenal cortex characteristic of this developmental period. We have also observed in the adult gland a marked up‐regulation of enzymes involved in NAD(P)H production, thus providing the reducing power necessary for steroid hormone biosynthesis.
Ubiquitous mitochondrial creatine kinase is overexpressed in the conditioned medium and the extract of LNCaP lineaged androgen independent cell lines and facilitates prostate cancer progression
Authors: Pang Bo , Zhang Hui , Wang Jian , Chen Wen‐Zheng , Li Shan‐Hu , Shi Qing‐Guo , Liang Rei‐Xia , Xie Bang‐Xiang , Wu Rui‐Qin , Qian Xiao‐Long , Yu Lan , Li Qi‐Man , Huang Cui‐Fen , Zhou Jian‐Guang
Published: May 2009

BACKGROUND

Androgen independent prostate cancer (AIPC) is not responsive to androgen ablation therapy. The biomarkers of AIPC are lack. Numerous proteomics studies have focused on finding new markers of AIPC and exploring their possible functions, but little is known about the difference between conditioned medium (CM) from AIPC and androgen dependent prostate cancer (ADPC) cells.

METHODS

We performed a proteome analysis of CM from LNCaP, C4‐2, and C4‐2B cells by a two dimensional electrophoresis based technology. Western blots and immunohistochemical studies were employed to explore the expression pattern of the identified protein in prostate cancer cell lines and clinical specimens, respectively. Then we examined the possible roles and mechanisms of the ubiquitous mitochondrial creatine kinase (uMtCK) in vitro.

RESULTS

Besides prostate specific antigen (PSA) and insulin‐like growth factor binding protein‐2 (IGFBP2), uMtCK was identified in the CM of AIPC cells. uMtCK was up‐regulated in AIPC cells and in human prostate cancer tissues at WHO grade III. Stably transfected exogenous uMtCK showed a growth promoting effect rather than mock vector in LNCaP cells, with or without bicalutamide in culture medium. Further assays showed that higher degrees of ROS generation and Akt signaling pathway activation in LNCaP‐uMtCK than in LNCaP‐neo cells.

CONCLUSIONS

We showed that uMtCK could be easily detected in CM of LNCaP lineaged AIPC cells. Exogenous uMtCK in LNCaP cells surprisingly contributed to overproduction of ROS, activation of Akt signaling pathway and more aggressive phenotypes including androgen independence development. Prostate 69:1176–1187, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Analysis of ultrathin high‐efficiency silicon solar cells
Authors: Kray Daniel , McIntosh Keith R.
Published: May 2009

In this paper we present experimental data on ultrathin silicon wafer solar cells as well as the analytical description of their open‐circuit voltage and fill factor. For this we use the analytical model of Fischer and Plagwitz to describe the rear surface recombination that we extend for very low wafer thicknesses. We observe an unexpected drop of the cell voltage at ∼40 μm thickness. This decrease cannot be described by the used models and is not reproduced via DESSIS simulations. From the new series resistance formula we can derive an analytical relationship for the fill factor. This allows us to perform a loss analysis of the cells and an optimization of the point contact pitch for different cell thicknesses. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The field emission properties of nonpolar a ‐plane n‐type GaN films grown on nano‐patterned sapphire substrates
Authors: Sun Lili , Yan Fawang , Wang Junxi , Zhang Huixiao , Zeng Yiping , Wang Guohong , Li Jinmin
Published: May 2009

Si‐doped nonpolar a ‐plane GaN films were grown on nano‐patterned sapphire substrates by a low‐pressure metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) system. The structure, morphology and field emission properties of the sample were studied by means of high‐resolution X‐ray diffraction (HRXRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and field emission measurement. The XRD analysis shows that the sample is a nonpolar a ‐plane (11$ \bar 2 $0) GaN film. The field emission measurement shows that the nonpolar GaN films exhibit excellent field emission properties with a threshold emission field of as low as 10 V/μm at a current density of 0.63 μA/cm2, and a high field emission current density of 74 mA/cm2 at an applied field of 24 V/μm. Moreover, the Fowler–Nordheim plot of the sample fits a near linear relation. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Studies of the tetragonal distortion due to Jahn–Teller effect for the Cu2+ centres in trigonal ZnMF6·6H2O (M = Si, Ti, Zr) crystals from the calculations of spin‐Hamiltonian parameters
Authors: Yang Wei‐Qing , He Lv , Liu Hong‐Gang , Zheng Wen‐Chen
Published: May 2009

The spin‐Hamiltonian (SH) parameters (g ‐factors g∥, g⊥ and hyperfine structure constants A∥, A⊥) of the tetragonal Cu(H2O)62+ centres (which are caused by the static Jahn–Teller effect) in trigonal ZnMF6·6H2O (M = Si, Ti, Zr) crystals are calculated from two theoretical methods, the perturbation theory method (PTM) and the complete diagonalization (of energy matrix) method (CDM). In the calculations, the required crystal‐field parameters are estimated from the superposition model which enables correlation of the crystal‐field parameters and hence the SH parameters with the tetragonal distortion (characterized by ΔR = R∥ – R⊥, where R∥ and R⊥ denote the metal–ligand distances parallel with and perpendicular to the tetragonal axis) of Cu(H2O)62+ centres. The calculated SH parameters from both methods are in reasonable agreement with the experimental values, suggesting that both PTM and CDM can explain satisfactorily the SH parameters of 3d9 ions in crystals. The tetragonal distortion of the Cu(H2O)62+ centres in ZnMF6·6H2O crystals are also obtained from the calculations. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Methodology for the structural characterisation of Vx Oy species supported on silica under reaction conditions by means of in situ O K‐edge X‐ray absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Hävecker Michael , Cavalleri Matteo , Herbert Rita , Follath Rolf , Knop‐Gericke Axel , Hess Christian , Hermann Klaus , Schlögl Robert
Published: May 2009

A methodology and its application to silica supported vanadia are presented that allows for a detailed analysis of structural peculiarities of the vanadia species on the surface. We introduce in situ oxygen K‐edge X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) based on the Auger electron yield (AEY) technique as a characterisation tool to assist vibrational spectroscopy that has been applied extensively in earlier work on this system. The analysis of the O K‐near edge X‐ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) allows a clear distinction between separate vanadia, silica and interface contribution in contrast to vibrational spectroscopy with strongly overlapping contributions due to vibrational coupling. Differently coordinated oxygen can be identified in the O K‐NEXAFS spectrum by comparison with theoretical spectra obtained by state of the art density‐functional theory (DFT) calculation. A study of catalysts with different V loadings (0 wt% V, 2.7 wt% V, and 10.8 wt% V) shows that the contributions of silica to the NEXAFS appear in an energy region well separated from the spectral signature of oxygen bound to vanadium. Dehydrated catalysts with high (10.8 wt% V) and low (2.7 wt% V) vanadium loading on silica SBA‐15 show identical NEXAFS under in situ conditions. This finding indicates that independent of the loading a distribution of vanadia species with a very similar molecular structure, including non‐monomeric as well as possibly monomeric configurations and different from crystalline V2O5, is present on this model catalyst. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Atomic ordering in TiO2 thin films studied by X‐ray reflection spectroscopy
Authors: Filatova Elena , Taracheva Elena , Shevchenko Galina , Sokolov Andrey , Kozhevnikov Igor , Yulin Sergey , Schaefers Franz , Braun Walter
Published: May 2009

The paper shows the importance of soft X‐ray reflection spectroscopy as a non‐destructive in‐depth characterization tool for the middle atomic ordering in TiO2 thin films. The microstructure of TiO2 films synthesized by magnetron sputtering on Si(100) wafers was characterized by X‐ray reflection spectroscopy (XRS), X‐ray Diffraction (XRD) method and X‐ray reflectometry (XRR). Reflection spectra and calculated absorption spectra were analyzed in the vicinity of Ti L2,3 and O K absorption edges. It was established that the 70 nm TiO2 film is polycrystalline with an anatase structure and homogeneous in depth. The 10 nm TiO2 film is amorphous. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
New Structural Descriptors of Molecules on the Basis of Symbiosis of the Informational Field Model and Simplex Representation of Molecular Structure
Authors: Ognichenko Lyudmila N. , Kuz'min Victor E. , Artemenko Anatoly G.
Published: May 2009

In this article the calculation scheme of new molecular descriptors on the basis of symbiosis of the informational field model and simplex representation of molecular structure (so‐called, simplex‐informational descriptors) is introduced. The following advantages of the proposed descriptors are demonstrated: i) high‐sensitivity to molecular structure changes; ii) good mechanistic interpretation; and iii) the ability to produce well‐fitted, robust and predictive QSAR models. The efficiency of the method is also demonstrated on the example of QSAR analysis of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors, and ligands of 5‐HT1A receptors. QSAR tasks have been solved using the PLS‐method. Resulting 2D models are obtained using simplex‐informational and original simplex descriptors and were also compared with descriptors generated by other QSAR approaches (COMFA, COMSIA, EVA, HQSAR). The advantage of the developed method over others are shown by the comparison of different statistical characteristics.
PLS Analysis for Antibacterial Activity of Natural Coumarins Using VolSurf Descriptors
Authors: Koukoulitsa Catherine , Tsantili‐Kakoulidou Anna , Mavromoustakos Thomas , Chinou Ioanna
Published: May 2009

In the present study the antibacterial activity of a dataset including 24 natural coumarin derivatives was investigated by means of multivariate data analysis. Antibacterial data were available against six pathogenic microorganisms. VolSurf descriptors, used to characterize structural properties, proved efficient to discriminate the compounds according to different levels of activity as shown in the PCA and PLS‐DA score plots. An informative PLS model considering the six response variables in parallel with satisfactory statistics was obtained, based on 39 original descriptors (R2=0.86 and Q2=0.79). Descriptors related to the hydrophilic regions and to hydrogen bonding capability proved to exert the most significant influence on projection (VIP>1.5) most of them contributing in a positive way to the antibacterial activity. Contrary, lipophilicity expressed as logP was found to have a negative influence. Elongation of the molecules as described by EEFR is an additional unfavorable structural feature.
Towards Nonspecific Detection of Malignant Cervical Cells with Fluorescent Silica Beads
Authors: Iyer Swaminathan , Woodworth Craig D. , Gaikwad Ravi M. , Kievsky Yaroslav Y. , Sokolov Igor
Published: May 2009

To date, the methods for detection of cancer cells are mostly based on traditional techniques used in biology, such as visual identification of malignant changes, cell‐growth analysis, specific ligand–receptor labeling, or genetic tests. Despite being well developed, these methods are either insufficiently accurate or require a lengthy complicated analysis. A search for alternative methods for the detection of cancer cells may be a fruitful approach. Proposed here is a novel method for the detection of cancer cells in vitro, which is based on nonspecific adhesion of silica beads to cells. First, atomic force microscopy is used to study the adhesion of single silica beads to malignant and normal cells cultured from human cervix. It is found that adhesion depends on the time of contact, and can be statistically different for malignant and normal cells. Using these data, an optical method utilizing fluorescent silica beads is developed, which is based on detection of the difference in the number of adherent particles. The method is tested using primary cells cultured from cervical tissues of three healthy individuals and three patients with cervical cancer. The method shows sufficiently high sensitivity for cancer to make it interesting to perform further statistical tests.
Embryonic and developmental toxicity of the ionic liquid 1‐methyl‐3‐octylimidazolium bromide on goldfish
Authors: Wang San‐Hu , Huang Pei‐Pei , Li Xiao‐Yu , Wang Chun‐Yu , Zhang Wei‐Hong , Wang Jian‐Ji
Published: May 2009

The embryonic developmental toxicity of the ionic liquid (IL) 1‐methyl‐3‐octylimidazolium bromide ([C8mim]Br) on the goldfish Carassius auratus was evaluated in this study. First, the 72 h 50% lethal concentrations (72 h‐LC50) for [C8mim]Br in goldfish embryos at the stages of cleavage, early gastrula, closure of blastopore, and heart beating were determined by preliminary acute toxicity tests. After that, fish embryos in different developmental stages (cleavage, early gastrula, closure of blastopore, and heart beating) were exposed to 10.4, 20.8, 41.6, and 104 mg/L of [C8mim]Br until their hatching stage. The results of the acute toxicity tests showed that 72 h‐LC50 values at the early cleavage, early gastrula, closure of blastopore, and heart beating stages of development were 208.96, 187.1, 245.03, and 298.33 mg/L, respectively. In the subchronic tests, [C8mim]Br exposure prolonged the duration of embryo dechorionation and decreased the hatching rates of the treated embryos compared to control embryos. In addition, [C8mim]Br treatment also caused remarkable increases of embryonic malformation and mortality ratio in most treatment groups. Finally, we also found that the embryonic and developmental toxicity of [C8mim]Br on fish embryos was dose‐response and developmental stage‐specific. These results indicate that [C8mim]Br has toxic effects on the early embryonic development of goldfish, and the risk to aquatic ecosystem by ILs leaking into the water body must be evaluated in the future. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2010.
Attitudes, Awareness, and Barriers Regarding Evidence‐Based Surgery Among Surgeons and Surgical Nurses
Authors: Knops Anouk M. , Vermeulen Hester , Legemate Dink A. , Ubbink Dirk T.
Published: May 2009

Background

Evidence‐based surgery (EBS) is stressed to increase efficiency and health care quality, but not all surgeons and surgical nurses use EBS in clinical practice. To define future tailor‐made interventions to improve evidence‐based behavior, the aim of this study was to determine the attitude and awareness among surgeons and surgical nurses as to the paradigm of EBS and the barriers experienced when practicing EBS.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, surgeons and surgical nurses at a university hospital in Amsterdam were invited to complete the BARRIERS scale and McColl et al. questionnaire. An evidence quiz was composed for the surgeons.

Results

Response rates were 67% (29/43) for surgeons and 60% (73/122) for nurses. Attitudes toward EBS were positive. Among the surgeons, 90% were familiar with EBS terms, whereas only 40% of the nurses were. Common barriers for surgeons were conflicting results (79%, 23/29) and the methodologic inadequacy of research reports (73%, 21/29); and for nurses they were unawareness of EBS (67%, 49/73) and unclear reported research (59%, 43/73). Only about half of the convincing evidence presented in the quiz was actually applied.

Conclusions

Surgeons have a positive attitude toward EBS and are familiar with EBS terminology, but conflicting results and methodologic shortcomings of research reports are major barriers to practicing EBS. Continual confrontations with available evidence through frequent critical appraisal meetings or grand rounds and using more aggregate sources of evidence are advocated. Nurses can probably benefit from EBS training focusing on basic skills. Finally, collaboration is needed among surgeons and nurses with the same zest about EBS.
Contributions of three‐site mutations in acetylcholinesterase and cytochrome P450 to genetic variation in susceptibility to organophosphate insecticides within a natural population of Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Miyo Takahiro , Oguma Yuzuru
Published: May 2009

In this study, we attempted to elucidate the two resistance factors conferring resistance to organophosphates within the Katsunuma population of Drosophila melanogaster (Meigen), one of which has been mapped on the second chromosome and the other on the third chromosome. With regard to the second chromosome factor, we tested susceptibility to malathion of 54 recombinant inbred lines with recombination between ltd and vg. Analyses of variance (ANOVAs) showed highly significant variation in susceptibility to malathion between recombinant lines. In addition, susceptibility of the second‐chromosome resistant line to malathion was increased with additional application of piperonyl butoxide, suggesting a member of the Cyp gene family located between ltd and vg. With regard to the third‐chromosome factor, we conducted inhibition assays of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) with respect to fenitroxon and carbaryl, to evaluate the contribution of mutated AChE to organophosphate resistance within the Katsunuma population. I50 values of resistant lines, isolated from this population, were about 15 times higher for fenitroxon, and about two times higher for carbaryl, than those of susceptible lines, suggesting the contribution of mutated AChE to organophosphate resistance within the Katsunuma population. We further investigated the genetic variation in the acetylcholinesterase (Ace) gene within the newly collected Katsunuma population, by using the allele‐specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) approach, and revealed that within this population there were high frequencies of resistant‐type mutations at three sites in the Ace gene, which play critical roles in altering sensitivity of AChE to organophosphate and carbamate insecticides.
Newborn blood spot screening: New opportunities, old problems
Authors: Pollitt R. J.
Published: May 2009

Newborn screening is evolving very rapidly. Geographical coverage is expanding, particularly for common disorders such as congenital hypothyroidism. New technologies, particularly tandem mass spectrometry and high throughput mutation analysis, have increased greatly the range of disorders which could be covered. However, these new possibilities are being exploiting at very different rates in different countries. This is due in part to the different ways in which generally‐accepted screening criteria, based on the ten principles of Wilson and Jungner, are being interpreted and applied to policy. The appropriate management of some of the conditions newly‐detectable by screening also remains controversial and there is a pressing need to align screening policy and clinical practice. Critical analysis and careful collection of data on an international basis are required to resolve these issues.
Cluster Analysis for Cognitive Diagnosis: Theory and Applications
Authors: Chiu Chia-Yi , Douglas Jeffrey A. , Li Xiaodong
Published: May 2009

Latent class models for cognitive diagnosis often begin with specification of a matrix that indicates which attributes or skills are needed for each item. Then by imposing restrictions that take this into account, along with a theory governing how subjects interact with items, parametric formulations of item response functions are derived and fitted. Cluster analysis provides an alternative approach that does not require specifying an item response model, but does require an item-by-attribute matrix. After summarizing the data with a particular vector of sum-scores, K-means cluster analysis or hierarchical agglomerative cluster analysis can be applied with the purpose of clustering subjects who possess the same skills. Asymptotic classification accuracy results are given, along with simulations comparing effects of test length and method of clustering. An application to a language examination is provided to illustrate how the methods can be implemented in practice.
Early Clinical Outcomes with the Use of Decellularized Nerve Allograft for Repair of Sensory Defects within the Hand
Authors: Karabekmez Furkan E. , Duymaz Ahmet , Moran Steven L.
Published: May 2009

Nerve conduits have become an established option for repair of sensory deficits of up to 2 cm. More recently, decellularized nerve allograft has also been advocated as an option for nerve repair; however, no clinical studies have examined its efficacy for the treatment of sensory nerve defects. The aim of this study was to examine our early experience with the use of decellularized nerve allograft for repair of segmental nerve defects within the hand and fingers. From July 2007 to March 2008, seven patients who had ten nerve gaps were treated surgically using decellularized nerve allograft. Eight digital and two dorsal sensory nerves were repaired. The etiologies of the nerve defects were traumatic nerve transection in eight defects and neuroma resection and reconstruction in two defects. All of the affected nerves were pure sensory fibers. Functional recovery was evaluated by blinded hand therapist using moving and static two point discrimination tests. Implantation sites were also evaluated for any signs of infection, rejection, or graft extrusion. There were five men and two women with a mean age of 44 years (range 23–65). Mean nerve graft length was 2.23 cm with a range of 0.5–3 cm. Mean follow up time was 9 months (range 5–12). Average two point discrimination was 4.4 mm moving and 5.5 mm static at last recorded follow-up. There were no wound infections observed around the graft material and sensory improvement was observed in all of the patients despite this short-term follow-up. Re-exploration of two fingers was required for flexor tendon rupture in one and flexor tendon tenolysis in the other. In both cases, the nerve allograft was visualized and appeared well incorporated in the repair site. Decellularized nerve allografts were capable of returning adequate sensation in nerve defects ranging from 0.5 to 3 cm. There were no cases of infection or rejection. Decellularized nerve allograft may provide an option for segmental nerve gaps beyond 2 cm. Randomized comparative studies will be required to determine efficacy in comparison to collagen conduits or nerve autograft.
Plasma Lipid Levels of Rats Fed a Diet Containing Pork Fat as a Source of Lipids after Splenic Surgery
Authors: Dinis Ana Paula Gonçalves , Marques Ruy Garcia , Simões Fernanda Correia , Diestel Cristina Fajardo , Caetano Carlos Eduardo Rodrigues , Secchin Dióscuro José Ferreira , Neto José Firmino Nogueira , Portela Margareth Crisóstomo
Published: May 2009

Experimental studies have suggested an important role of the spleen in lipid metabolism, although with controversial results. Our purpose was to analyze the effect of a nutritionally balanced (NB) diet and a diet containing pork fat (PF) as source of lipids on the lipid profile of rats submitted to splenic surgery. Sixty adult male Wistar rats were divided into six groups of 10 animals each: 1 sham‐operated, NB diet; 2 sham‐operated, PF diet; 3 total splenectomy (TS), NB diet; 4 TS, PF diet; 5 TS followed by splenic autotransplantation (SA), NB diet; and 6 SA, PF diet. Blood samples were collected at the beginning (D0) and after 12 weeks of the experiment (D + 12) for plasma lipid determination. Morphologic regeneration of splenic tissues was observed, with no differences between groups 5 and 6. When D + 12 plasma lipid levels were compared to D0 levels there were no differences in groups 1, 3, and 5, while in groups 2, 4, and 6 total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein (LDL), very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), and triacylglycerols (TAG) increased, and high density lipoprotein (HDL) decreased. At D + 12, groups 2, 4, and 6 had lower HDL than group 3. In conclusion, regardless of the surgical procedure applied to the spleen, an NB diet maintained plasma lipid levels while a diet with PF as source of lipids changed the animals’ lipid profile.
Profiles of Lipid Components, Fatty Acid Compositions and Triacylglycerol Molecular Species of Adzuki Beans (Vigna angularis)
Authors: Yoshida Hiromi , Tomiyama Yuka , Yoshida Naoko , Mizushina Yoshiyuki
Published: May 2009

Fatty acid (FA) compositions and molecular species of triacylglycerols (TAG) isolated from total lipids extracted from adzuki beans (Vigna angularis) were determined with a combination of AgNO3‐TLC and GC, and were compared in relation to the content of endogenous antioxidants analyzed by HPLC. δ‐Tocopherol was present in the highest concentration (53.7–89.3 mg/kg), and γ‐tocopherol in small amounts (11.2–14.8 mg/kg). The main lipid components were phospholipids (72.2–73.4%) and TAG (20.6–21.9%), whilst other components were also present in minor proportions (0.1–3.4%). Eighteen different TAG molecular species were identified and quantified by successive applications of AgNO3‐TLC and GC. The main components were SMD (4.6–5.0%), S2T (13.4–16.4%), SD2 (11.8–14.3%), SMT (7.3–8.3%), SDT (9.9–10.6%), D3 (6.9–7.9%), MT2 (5.2–6.3%), D2T (7.0–11.2%), DT2 (7.4–7.6%) and T3 (6.2–7.2%) (where S, M, D, and T denote a saturated FA, a monoene, a diene, and a triene, respectively). No marked difference (P > 0.05) in the molecular species composition could be observed among the five cultivars. The results could be useful to both consumers and producers for manufacturing traditional adzuki confectionaries in Japan and elsewhere.
Axial STIR MRI: A faster method for confirming femoral head reduction in DDH
Authors: Conroy Eimear , Sproule J. , Timlin M. , McManus F.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

Non-concentric reduction of the femoral head within the acetabulum is detrimental to its delicate cartilaginous structure and may result in a growth disturbance. Successful relocation of the dislocated femoral head depends on subtle clinical findings and radiography. The combination of a dislocated femoral head and a severely dysplastic acetabulum can result in a clinical examination that is unhelpful in confirming reduction under anaesthesia. In cases where uncertainty existed regarding head reduction in a spica cast, we performed axial short inversion time inversion recovery (STIR) and axial proton density magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. We retrospectively reviewed the efficiency and accuracy of MRI in confirming femoral head location after closed reduction and spica application in eight children.

Methods

One hundred and fifty-three cases of developmental dysplasia were treated with examination under anaesthesia and spica application in our unit over a 3-year period. Eight cases where MRI scanning was performed were identified. Before application of the spica cast, we used radiographic screening to assess the stability of the reduction. Absence of the ossific nucleus within the femoral head made confirmation of the location with the image intensifier unreliable. To confirm concentric femoral head location after closed reduction and spica application, we performed an MRI scan in the immediate post-anaesthesia period.

Results

All scans were performed within 30 min of application of the spica, and the average time for each scan was 5 min. All eight children who had MRI post-application of the spica had concentric reduction of the femoral head. MRI allowed three-dimensional appreciation of the acetabulum and femoral head. Use of the axial STIR images allows accurate assessment of the cartilaginous ossific nucleus. All patients were discharged the same afternoon and followed up as outpatients. No patient in our group required contrast arthrography.

Conclusion

While not indicated in all cases of femoral head dislocation, MRI is useful to confirm concentric reduction of the femoral head in a dysplastic acetabulum when examination under anaesthesia and radiographic screening have been uncertain. In our series, 1 in 20 cases needed MRI. This is a reliable, non-invasive method confirming definite reduction of the femoral head prior to discharge in all of our patients. In this initial series, all patients had axial and coronal STIR and proton density MRI. We now only use axial STIR images because they provide adequate information regarding the position of the femoral head relative to the acetabulum.