bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of hyper‐saline wastewater loaded with phenol by the combination of adsorption and an offline bio‐regeneration system
Authors: Gu Xi‐Hui , Zhou Ji‐Ti , Zhang Ai‐Li , Liu Guang‐Fei
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND: Effective treatment of hyper‐saline wastewaters containing phenol is required before their discharge into the sewage system and the environment. An investigation of the feasibility of the use of a combined physical‐biological procedure is reported for the treatment of hyper‐saline phenol wastewater. This process consists of two stages: first the phenol is removed and concentrated by resin XDA‐1 from hyper‐saline effluent, and then it is biodegraded in a subsequent stage with microorganisms to regenerate the adsorbent.

RESULTS: The removal of phenol by XDA‐1 was found to be feasible under acidic and neutral conditions. It was found that decreasing temperatures are beneficial for phenol adsorption. The equilibrium data were well described by the Freundlich model. Increasing the salinity of the effluent improved the adsorption capacity of XDA‐1, which is an advantage of the combined process for the treatment of saline wastewater. A pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model provided the best correlation with experiment results. Results indicate that phenol desorption is the rate‐limiting step in the bio‐regeneration process under the tested operating conditions. The adsorption and bio‐regeneration process was repeated for up to six cycles, with percentage regeneration (PR) values remaining above 81%.

CONCLUSIONS: High PR values, good pore structure, and specific surface properties of the six‐round‐regenerated resin indicated the stability of the combination system in treating hyper‐saline phenol wastewater. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of organic matter and initial carbon–nitrogen ratio on the bioconversion of volatile fatty acids from sewage sludge
Authors: Liu Xiaoling , Liu He , Chen Yiyang , Du Guochen , Chen Jian
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND: The biodegradable organic matter and the initial carbon–nitrogen ratio can be substantially different in different batches of sewage sludge, which results in a difference in the acidification efficiency of sludge. Using sewage sludge from three different sources, batch tests were performed to analyze the relationship between volatile fatty acids (VFAs) and consumed organic matter, and to investigate the effects of initial carbon–nitrogen (C/N) ratio on the acidification efficiency of sludge.

RESULTS: Maximum yields of 152.1 ± 3.5 mg total VFAs‐COD per gram volatile solid (VS) added and 22.4 ± 1.2 mg butyric acid‐COD g−1 VS added were obtained from the sludge with the highest initial C/N ratio. Statistical analysis indicated that protein was the major substrate for the produced VFAs. The sludge with the least initial C/N ratio (5.01) had the least yield, and only acetic acid, which was also mainly related to protein, was detected.

CONCLUSION: The initial carbon–nitrogen ratio was one of the most important factors influencing the distribution patterns of VFAs and the yield of total VFAs produced from sewage sludge. A high C/N ratio could not only improve the yield of total VFAs but also enhance the yield of butyric acid. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Photocatalytic degradation of methyl tert‐butyl ether (MTBE) in contaminated water by ZnO nanoparticles
Authors: Eslami Akbar , Nasseri Simin , Yadollahi Bahram , Mesdaghinia Alireza , Vaezi Foroogh , Nabizadeh Ramin , Nazmara Shahrokh
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND: Over the past several decades methyl tert‐butyl ether (MTBE) as additive to gasoline, intended to either boost ratings of fuel or to reduce air pollution, has been accepted worldwide. Since MTBE has high water solubility, the occurrence of fuel spills or leaks from underground storage tanks or transferring pipeline has led to the contamination of natural waters. In this study the degradation of aqueous MTBE at relatively high concentrations was investigated by a UV‐visible/ZnO/H2O2 photocatalytic process. The effects of important operational parameters such as pH, amount of H2O2, catalyst loading and irradiation time were also investigated. Concentration of MTBE and intermediates such as tert‐butyl formate and tert‐butyl alcohol were measured.

RESULTS: Time required for complete degradation increased from 20 to 150 min when the initial concentration was increased from 10 to 500 mg L−1. The first‐order rate constants for degradation of MTBE were estimated to be 0.183–0.022 min−1 as the concentration increased from 10 to 500 mg L−1. Study of the overall mineralization monitored by total organic carbon analysis showed that at an initial concentration of 100 mg L−1 MTBE complete mineralization was obtained after 100 min under UV‐visible/ZnO/H2O2 photocatalysis.

CONCLUSION: The data presented in this paper clearly indicated that UV‐visible/ZnO/O2 as an advanced oxidation process provides an efficient treatment alternative for the remediation of MTBE‐contaminated waters. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Improvement of enantioselectivity and stability of Klebsiella oxytoca hydrolase immobilized on Eupergit C 250L
Authors: Wang Pei‐Yun , Tsai Shau‐Wei , Chen Teh‐Liang
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND: A simple procedure was employed to covalently immobilize a Klebsiella oxytoca hydrolase (SNSM‐87) onto epoxy‐activated supports of Eupergit C 250L via multipoint covalent attachment. The resultant biocatalyst was explored for the hydrolytic resolution of a variety of (R,S)‐2‐hydroxycarboxylic acid ethyl esters.

RESULTS: With the hydrolytic resolution of (R,S)‐ethyl mandelate in biphasic media as the model system, optimal conditions of 55 °C, pH 6 buffer and isooctane as the organic phase were selected for improving the enzyme stability (activity retained from 10% to 50% at 96 h) and enantioselectivity (VSVR−1 value enhanced from 44 to 319) in comparison to the performance of free enzyme. Moreover, the immobilized enzyme retained its activity and enantioselectivity after eight cycles of hydrolysis at 55 °C. When applying the resolution process to other (R,S)‐2‐hydroxycarboxylic acid ethyl esters, 2.4‐ to 4.0‐fold enhancements of the enantioselectivity in general were obtainable.

CONCLUSIONS: The enantioselectivity enhancement, good reusability and easy recovery after reaction indicate that the immobilized SNSM‐87 may have the potential as an industrial biocatalyst for the preparation of optically pure 2‐hydroxycarboxylic acids. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Removal of dimethyl sulfide in a thermophilic membrane bioreactor
Authors: Luvsanjamba Munkhtsetseg , Kumar Amit , Van Langenhove Herman
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND: Several sources such as the paper and pulp industry and waste treatment plants emit waste gases containing volatile organic sulfur compounds at elevated temperature. Since cooling the hot gases increases the operational cost of biological reactors, application of thermophilic microorganisms could be a cost‐effective solution. The objectives of this study were to investigate the possibility of removal of dimethyl sulfide from waste gases under thermophilic conditions (52 °C) in a membrane bioreactor and to examine the long‐term stability of the reactor at elevated temperature. The effects of operating conditions such as gas residence time, nutrient supply, temperature decrease and short‐term shutdown on elimination capacity were investigated.

RESULTS: A maximum elimination capacity of 54 g m−3 h−1 (0.108 g m−2 h−1) was obtained at a mass loading rate of 64 g m−3 h−1 (0.128 g m−2 h−1) with a removal efficiency of 84% at a gas residence time of 24 s. The long‐term operation of the thermophilic membrane bioreactor was followed for 9 months. Although the removal efficiency decreased to 50% after 3 months of continuous operation, it recovered (>96%) after the excess biomass was removed by applying high‐velocity liquid recirculation.

CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that the dimethyl sulfide removal is possible in a thermophilic membrane bioreactor with an elimination capacity of 54 g m−3 h−1 (0.108 g m−2 h−1) at a gas residence time of 24 s. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Activation of tumor‐specific T cells by dendritic cells expressing the NY‐ESO‐1 antigen after transfection with the cationic lipophosphoramide KLN5
Authors: Le Gallo Matthieu , Toutirais Olivier , Montier Tristan , Cabillic Florian , Bouet Françoise , Delépine Pascal , Lehn Pierre , Jotereau Francine , Catros Véronique
Published: March 2008

Background

Genetic modification of human monocyte‐derived dendritic cells (DC) with cDNA sequences encoding tumor‐associated antigens (TAA) is a promising strategy for cancer immunotherapy. The present study aimed to develop a nonviral gene transfer method based on the use of the cationic lipophosphoramide reagent, KLN‐5, as an alternative to the commonly used viral vectors.

Methods

First, the efficiency of KLN5 for gene transfection into DC was investigated using the green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter gene. The highest transfection efficiency/cell viability ratio was determined by flow cytometry. Next, DC were transfected with a plasmid encoding NY‐ESO‐1, a TAA expressed in numerous cancers, according to the transfection protocol previously established with the GFP reporter. Transfected DC were then co‐cultured with a CD8+ NY‐ESO‐1 specific HLA‐A*02.01 T cell clone to control their ability to correctly process and present the corresponding epitope in the HLA‐A*02.01 context. Finally, T cell activation was assessed via flow cytometry‐based detection of interferon‐γ production.

Results

An optimal KLN5/plasmid DNA ratio allowing both significant transgene expression and high viability of DC could be determined. Under the established experimental conditions, antigen processing and presentation of the immunodominant (SLLMWITQC157–165) epitope in the HLA‐A*0201 context was demonstrated by activation of the NY‐ESO‐1‐specific CD8+ T cell clone.

Conclusions

KLN5‐based gene transfection into DC allows the efficient induction of TAA presentation and may thus represent a novel attractive nonviral approach for cancer vaccination. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Downstream utrophin enhancer is required for expression of utrophin in skeletal muscle
Authors: Tanihata Jun , Suzuki Naoki , Miyagoe‐Suzuki Yuko , Imaizumi Kazuhiko , Takeda Shin'ichi
Published: March 2008

Background

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is caused by the absence of the muscle cytoskeletal protein dystrophin. Utrophin is an autosomal homologue of dystrophin, and overexpression of utrophin is expected to compensate for the dystrophin deficit. We previously reported that the 5.4‐kb 5′‐flanking region of the utrophin gene containing the A‐utrophin core promoter did not drive transgene expression in heart and skeletal muscle. To clarify the regulatory mechanism of utrophin expression, we generated a nuclear localization signal‐tagged LacZ transgenic (Tg) mouse, in which the LacZ gene was driven by the 129‐bp downstream utrophin enhancer (DUE) and the 5.4‐kb 5′‐flanking region of the utrophin promoter.

Methods

Two Tg lines were established. The levels of transgene mRNA expression in several tissues were examined by reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and quantitative RT‐PCR. Cryosections of several tissues were stained with haematoxylin and eosin and X‐gal.

Results

The transgene expression patterns were consistent with endogenous utrophin in several tissues including heart and skeletal muscle. Transgene expression was also up‐regulated more in regenerating muscle than in nonregenerating muscle. Moreover, utrophin expression was augmented in the skeletal muscle of DUE Tg/dystrophin‐deficient mdx mice through cross‐breeding experiments. We finally established cultures of primary myogenic cells from this Tg mouse and found that utrophin up‐regulation during muscle differentiation depends on the DUE motif.

Conclusions

Our results showed that DUE is indispensable for utrophin expression in skeletal muscle and heart, and primary myogenic cells from this Tg mice provide a high through‐put screening system for drugs that up‐regulate utrophin expression. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synergistic antitumoral effects of human telomerase reverse transcriptase‐mediated dual‐apoptosis‐related gene vector delivered by orally attenuated Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium in murine tumor models
Authors: Fu Wei , Chu Liang , Han Xinwei , Liu Xinyuan , Ren Daming
Published: March 2008

Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium (S. typhimurium), a facultative anaerobe, has been reported to be capable of both selectively amplifying and expressing exogenous genes within tumors. In addition, previous studies have demonstrated that the human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) promoter could confine gene expression strictly to the telomerase‐positive cancer cells. In the present study, we used attenuated S. typhimurium as a carrier to deliver a eukaryotic expression vector (pSNhTS) that contains the second mitochondria‐derived activator of caspases (Smac) and tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL) genes under the control of the hTERT promoter. The results of in vitro experiments showed that Smac could enhance TRAIL‐induced apoptosis in tumor cells and the hTERT promoter could drive specific gene expression in tumor cells, but not in normal cells. In vivo data in mice indicated that salmonella‐mediated exogenous gene expression could persist for at least 14 days in tumors. Furthermore, S.L./SNhTS (S. typhimurium carrying the pSNhTS) was orally administered into mice bearing tumors, and its antitumoral effect was evaluated. It was observed that S.L./SNhTS significantly inhibited tumor growth by 70–90% and prolonged the survival of mice. This strong antitumoral activity achieved by S.L./SNhTS was due to the synergistic antitumoral properties of Smac and TRAIL‐recombinant proteins. Our data also support the idea that the hTERT promoter could be an excellent candidate for cancer‐specific therapy and S. typhimurium appeared to be a promising strategy for the treatment of solid tumors. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The cyclo‐oxygenase 2 promoter is induced in nontarget cells following adenovirus infection, but an AU‐rich 3′‐untranslated region destabilization element can increase specificity
Authors: Särkioja Merja , Hakkarainen Tanja , Eriksson Minna , Ristimäki Ari , Desmond Renee A. , Kanerva Anna , Hemminki Akseli
Published: March 2008

Background

Cyclo‐oxygenase 2 (Cox‐2) is expressed in many types of tumors, but typically undetectable in normal tissues. However, Cox‐2 is known to be induced following infection by many microbial agents, which might threaten the tumor selectivity of the Cox‐2 promoter in the context of virotherapy or viral gene delivery. Cox‐2 expression is regulated in part post‐transcriptionally by stimulation or inhibition of mRNA degradation by 3′‐untranslated region (3′‐UTR) AU‐rich elements. In the present study, we investigated the induction of the Cox‐2 promoter both in normal and tumor cells after adenovirus infection and explored the utility of AU‐rich elements for regaining promoter selectivity.

Methods

Nontumor and tumor cells were transfected in vitro and in vivo with plasmids containing the Cox‐2 or cytomegalovirus immediate early promoter driving luciferase (with or without 3′‐UTR elements) followed by adenoviral infection. Selectivity and activity of the promoters and 3′‐UTR elements were analysed by luciferase assay and in‐vivo imaging.

Results

The Cox‐2 promoter was induced in both normal and tumor cells following infection with E1 containing replicative adenoviruses but not in the absence of E1. Utilization of AU‐rich elements counteracted promoter induction in vitro and in vivo in nonmalignant cells but not in cancer cells, thus increasing the selectivity of the approach ten‐fold without loss of potency.

Conclusions

Adenoviral infection induces the Cox‐2 promoter in normal and tumor cells, which might compromise specificity of the promoter. Utilization of AU‐rich destabilization elements can rescue the tumor selectivity of the promoter. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mapping a topographic global solar radiation model implemented in a GIS and refined with ground data
Authors: Pons Xavier , Ninyerola Miquel
Published: March 2008

This study proposes a methodology to compute solar radiation values on the Earth surface on a monthly and annual basis and taking into account the relief, which is not an usual approach although it has enormous importance for environmental studies. It consists of two steps: a computational, physically‐based model (potential solar radiation) and a refining through meteorological data (interpolated solar radiation). The potential solar radiation model allows computing the incident energy assuming uniform atmospheric standard optical density. The only information required is a Digital Elevation Model (DEM, 180 m resolution in our case) and a number of meteorological stations providing global solar radiation data (74 in our case). This model, implemented into the MiraMon Geographic Information System (GIS), takes into account astronomical, atmospheric and geographical factors. Atmospheric effects are considered through correctors obtained by comparing the potential values with the observed at the meteorological stations. The resulting monthly correctors have been spatially interpolated to build up anomaly maps, which allow to obtain a refined solar radiation cartography. The potential model has proven to be very precise as it gives results close to the interpolated radiation values, allowing a conversion to interpolated solar radiation maps with errors of 7.3% (March), 6.1% (June), 6.4% (September) and 13.1% (December) computed from a leave‐one‐out cross‐validation. These results are always better than those obtained by classical interpolators, and still better if the process is run on the rugged terrain areas. A sensitivity analysis estimates the influence of the DEM quality on the model, concluding that an RMS error of 8 m in the DEM heights represents an RMS error of 133 kJ·m−2·day−1(mean monthly) on the results. Finally, we have applied the model to obtain the 12‐monthly (based on daily average) global solar radiation maps of Catalonia (NE of Iberian Peninsula) as well as the annual one. Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society
Raman spectroscopy as a tool to diagnose the impacts of combustion and greenhouse acid gases on properties of Built Heritage
Authors: Sarmiento A. , Maguregui M. , Martinez‐Arkarazo I. , Angulo M. , Castro K. , Olazábal M. A. , Fernández L. A. , Rodríguez‐Laso M. D. , Mujika A. M. , Gómez J. , Madariaga J. M.
Published: March 2008

The effects of the dry and wet acid deposition from both combustion and greenhouse gases (mainly CO2, SOx and NOx) can be observed in the stones, mortars, bricks and decorative materials used in Built Heritage elements. Those deposition phenomena have greater effects in urban atmospheres, especially in medium or highly polluted ones. Most of the products formed as a consequence of decaying are alkaline and alkaline‐earth oxoanions, which show, in general, a medium or high Raman scattering. The coupling of the experimental evidence (the detection of some metal–oxoanionic compounds by Raman spectroscopy) with the knowledge of chemical equilibrium is presented in this work as a tool to diagnose the impacts of CO2, SOx and NOx on the properties of Built Heritage. The compounds identified by Raman spectroscopy on different materials sampled in buildings of the Metropolitan Bilbao area (North Spain) included nitrocalcite, nitratine, nitromagnesite, nitrobarite as well as gypsum and soot as part of the black crust on carbonate‐based materials, whereas calcite, natron, nitratine and mirabillite were recognised as composition of the white efflorescence in non‐carbonate materials and mortars. An overall degradation pathway is proposed to explain the formation of each decayed compound as a function of the original characteristic material. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of defatted dried roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) seed powder on lipid profiles of hypercholesterolemia rats
Authors: Hainida Emmy , Ismail Amin , Hashim Normah , Mohd.‐Esa Norhaizan , Zakiah Ainul
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND: In vivo investigations were made of the effect of defatted dried roselle seed powder (DRS) on the lipid profiles of rats with induced hypercholesterolemia. The two‐batch sample consisted of 23 and 20 Sprague‐Dawley male rats randomly divided into four groups and fed with four different diets. The first batch of rats was fed with normal, hypercholesterol, hypercholesterol + 10 g kg−1 (w/w) DRS and hypercholesterol + 20 g kg−1 (w/w) DRS diets. The second batch of rats was fed with normal, hypercholesterol, hypercholesterol + 50 g kg−1 (w/w) DRS and hypercholesterol + 150 g kg−1 (w/w) DRS diets. Treatments were given for a total of 5 weeks.

RESULTS: Results indicated that the addition of 10 g kg−1 and 20 g kg−1 of DRS did not significantly lower the plasma total cholesterol (TC) levels. In contrast, 50 g kg−1 and 150g kg−1 DRS significantly lowered (P < 0.05) the TC and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) levels.

CONCLUSION: The addition of 50 g kg−1 and 150 g kg−1 DRS showed potential hypocholesterolemic effects. Furthermore, these findings indicated that protein, lipid and dietary fibre were high in the seed powder. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Nutrient digestibility response to graded dietary levels of sodium chloride in weanling pigs
Authors: Yin Yu‐long , Huang Chunhong , Wu Xin , Li Tiejun , Huang Ruilin , Kang Ping , Hu Qin , Chu Wuying , Kong Xiangfeng
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND: Sodium (Na+), chloride (Cl−) and phosphorus (Pi) are involved in a number of metabolic and physiological processes in the body, and these mineral elements must be supplied to the animal via the diet. The intention of this study was to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation with different levels of sodium chloride (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5 and 0.6% NaCl) on apparent and true P digestibility (APD and TPD) and dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP) and calcium (Ca) digestibility in weanling pigs.

RESULTS: Dietary NaCl had a quadratic effect on both APD and TPD (P < 0.05) but not on DM, CP and Ca digestibility (P > 0.05). At an NaCl concentration of 0.41% the APD and TPD values were 41.5 and 53.3% respectively.

CONCLUSION: These results suggest that a high level of dietary Na+ may enhance P absorption and improve its digestibility by coupling Na+ transportation to Pi absorption via the energy‐requiring Na+/Pi co‐transporter. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Preparation and cure behavior of organoclay‐modified allyl‐functional benzoxazine resin and the properties of their nanocomposites
Authors: Agag Tarek , Takeichi Tsutomu
Published: March 2008

A new type of polybenzoxazine‐clay nanocomposites were prepared by the in‐situ polymerization of allyl‐functional benzoxazine monomer, bis(3‐allyl‐3,4‐dihydro‐2H‐1,3‐benzoxazinyl)isopropane (B‐ala), in the presence of two different types of organoclay, allyldimethylstearylammonium‐montmorillonite and propyldimethylstearylammonium‐montmorillonite. The organoclays were mixed with molten B‐ala, followed by pouring into glass mold and then gradual curing up to 250°C. DSC and IR were used to follow the cure behavior of B‐ala in the presence of organoclay, indicating that organoclays catalyzed the ring opening of cyclic benzoxazine structure. The XRD of the nanocomposites showed featureless patterns, suggesting the exfoliation of the organoclay into the matrix. The viscoelastic properties of the hybrids showed that the glass transition temperatures (Tg) of the nanocomposites shifted to lower temperature in the presence of small amount of organoclay, but Tg started to increase with the increase of the organoclay content. This result suggests that, in the presence of organoclay, the curing reaction of ally and benzoxazine occurred in a different way, resulting in a different network structure. However, the presence of dispersed layered silicates into the matrix enhanced the thermal stability over the neat thermoset resin. POLYM. COMPOS., 2008. © 2008 Society of Plastics Engineers
Validation of neural tube defects in the full featured—general practice research database
Authors: Devine Scott , West Suzanne L. , Andrews Elizabeth , Tennis Pat , Eaton Susan , Thorp John , Olshan Andrew
Published: March 2008

Background

The General Practice Research Database (GPRD) has been used to identify associations between pregnancy medication exposures and birth defects, but experts have argued that databases such as this one cannot provide detailed information for the valid identification of complicated congenital anomalies. Our objective was to determine if the GPRD could be used to identify cases of neural tube defects (NTDs).

Methods

First, we created algorithms for anencephaly, encephalocele, meningocele, and spina bifida and used them to identify potential cases. We used the algorithms to identify 217 potential NTD cases in either a child's or a mother's record. We validated cases by querying general practitioners (GPs) via questionnaire. Where cases of NTD were identified in the mother's record, in addition to confirming the diagnosis, we asked the GPs if the diagnosis was for the mother or that of her fetus or offspring.

Results

Two hundred seventeen cases were identified, and 165 GP questionnaires were returned. We validated an NTD diagnosis for 117 cases, giving our algorithms a positive predictive value (PPV) of 0.71. The PPVs varied by NTD type: 0.81 for anencephaly, 0.83 for cephalocele, 0.64 for meningocele, and 0.47 for spina bifida.

Conclusions

Our identification algorithm was useful in identifying three of the four types of NTDs studied. Additional information is necessary to accurately identify cases of spina bifida. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proteome analysis of ventral midbrain in MPTP‐treated normal and L1cam transgenic mice
Authors: Diedrich Madeleine , Mao Lei , Bernreuther Christian , Zabel Claus , Nebrich Grit , Kleene Ralf , Klose Joachim
Published: March 2008

Treatment of mice by 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridene hydrochloride (MPTP) is a well established animal model for Parkinson's disease (PD), while overexpression of L1 cell adhesion molecule (L1cam) has been proposed to attenuate the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons induced by MPTP. To gain insight into the role of L1cam in the pathomechanism of PD, we investigated protein expression patterns after MPTP‐treatment in both C57BL/6 (wild‐type) and transgenic mice overexpressing L1cam in astrocytes. Our results showed that during the acute phase, proteins in functional complexes responsible for mitochondrial, glycolysis, and cytoskeletal function were down‐regulated in MPTP‐treated wild‐type mice. After a recovery phase, proteins that were down‐regulated in the acute phase reverted to normal levels. In L1cam transgenic mice, a much higher number of proteins was altered during the acute phase and this number even increased after the recovery phase. Many proteins involved in oxidative phosphorylation were still down‐regulated and glycolysis related protein were still up‐regulated. This pattern indicates a lasting severely impaired energy production in L1cam mice after MPTP treatment.
An easy‐to‐use Decoy Database Builder software tool, implementing different decoy strategies for false discovery rate calculation in automated MS/MS protein identifications
Authors: Reidegeld Kai A. , Eisenacher Martin , Kohl Michael , Chamrad Daniel , Körting Gerhard , Blüggel Martin , Meyer Helmut E. , Stephan Christian
Published: March 2008

One of the major challenges for large scale proteomics research is the quality evaluation of results. Protein identification from complex biological samples or experimental setups is often a manual and subjective task which lacks profound statistical evaluation. This is not feasible for high‐throughput proteomic experiments which result in large datasets of thousands of peptides and proteins and their corresponding mass spectra. To improve the quality, reliability and comparability of scientific results, an estimation of the rate of erroneously identified proteins is advisable. Moreover, scientific journals increasingly stipulate that articles containing considerable MS data should be subject to stringent statistical evaluation. We present a newly developed easy‐to‐use software tool enabling quality evaluation by generating composite target‐decoy databases usable with all relevant protein search engines. This tool, when used in conjunction with relevant statistical quality criteria, enables to reliably determine peptides and proteins of high quality, even for nonexperienced users (e.g.laboratory staff, researchers without programming knowledge). Different strategies for building decoy databases are implemented and the resulting databases are characterized and compared. The quality of protein identification in high‐throughput proteomics is usually measured by the false positive rate (FPR), but it is shown that the false discovery rate (FDR) delivers a more meaningful, robust and comparable value.
PMMA colloid particles armored by clay layers with PDMAEMA polymer brushes
Authors: Zhang Jian , Chen Kaiqiang , Zhao Hanying
Published: March 2008

Poly[2‐(dimethylamino) ethyl methacrylate] (PDMAEMA) brushes on the surfaces of clay layers were prepared by in situ free‐radical polymerization. Poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) colloid particles stabilized and initiated by clay layers with PDMAEMA polymer brushes were prepared by Pickering emulsion polymerization. Transmission electron microscopy was used to characterize the structure and morphology of the colloid particles. The X‐ray diffraction (XRD) results indicated that the intercalated structures of the clay layers were almost destroyed in Pickering emulsion polymerization, and clay layers with exfoliated structures were created. The surface of the colloid particles was analyzed by using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The XPS results provide direct evidence that the clay layers with PDMAEMA chains cover the PMMA colloid particles. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. JPolym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 2632–2639, 2008
Study on the preparation and the self‐assembly of poly(propyleneimine)–poly(styrene) nanoparticles
Authors: Zhu Yanjin , Xu Zushun , Yi Changfeng
Published: March 2008

Using 2‐chloropropionamide derivative of poly(propyleneimine) dendrimer DAB‐dendr‐(NH2)32 (DAB‐32‐Cl) as the macroinitiator, atom transfer radical polymerization of styrene was successfully carried out in DMF medium. The monodisperse poly(propyleneimine)–polystyrene (dendrimer–PSt) particles with diameters smaller than 100 nm could be prepared. The morphology, size, and size distribution of the dendrimer–PSt particles were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and photon correlation spectroscopy (PCS). The effects of reaction temperature, the ratio of St/macroinitiator, and reaction time on the size, and size distribution of the dendrimer–PSt nanoparticles were investigated. In a selective solvent (DMF/H2O), polymers can self‐assemble into different aggregate configurations such as regular microsphere and wire‐like thread. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 2658–2666, 2008
4,9‐Dihydro‐s‐indaceno[1,2‐b:5,6‐b′]dithiophene‐4,9‐dione functionalized copolymers for organic photovoltaic devices
Authors: Zhao Chunchang , Chen Xiaohong , Zhang Yong , Ng Man‐kit
Published: March 2008

The synthesis of conjugated polymers 1–5 functionalized with 4,9‐dihydro‐s‐indaceno[1,2‐b:5,6‐b′]dithiophene‐4,9‐dione in the backbone is reported and their use in the construction of organic solar cells is demonstrated. Increasing the molar ratio of 2,7‐dibromo‐3,8‐dihexyl‐4,9‐dihydro‐s‐indaceno[1,2‐b:5,6‐b′]dithiophene‐4,9‐dione, relative to 4,4′‐dihexyl‐5,5′‐dibromo‐2,2′‐bithiophene, in the copolymer synthesis significantly lowers the solubility of these polymers. The incorporation of highly conjugated 3,8‐dihexyl‐4,9‐dihydro‐s‐indaceno[1,2‐b:5,6‐b′]dithiophene‐4,9‐dione unit into the polymer backbone has been confirmed by UV–vis absorption. The observation of decreasing quantum yield for the emission in the order of 1, 2, 3 is consistent with copolymers with different comonomer content. The power conversion efficiencies of solar cells using blends of these polymers with PCBM ([6,6]‐phenyl C61‐butyric acid methyl ester) were determined to be 0.11% for polymer 1, 0.33% for 2, and 0.26% for 3, respectively. Under identical white light illumination, the power conversion efficiency of the device based on polymer 2/PCBM as the active layer was three times higher compared to that of device based on polymer 1/PCBM. Owing to the limited solubility and poor film‐forming ability of polymer 3, the power conversion efficiency of solar cell based on 3/PCBM blend is lower than that of 2/PCBM blend, but is still larger than that of 1/PCBM blend. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 2680–2688, 2008
Self‐assembled organic nanotubes: Toward attoliter chemistry
Authors: Shimizu Toshimi
Published: March 2008

Diverse chemical functionalization of the inner and outer surfaces of the nanotubes enables us to sense and visualize the encapsulation and transport behavior of biomacromolecular guests. The event occurs specifically in attoliter volume nanospace inside the hollow cylinder of the nanotubes. Comparison of the organic nanotube history with that of well‐known carbon nanotubes and a variety of molecular building blocks as tube‐forming compounds were first introduced. Asymmetric organic nanotubes with different inner and outer surfaces were discussed in terms of molecular design, immobilization of functional moieties, and molecular packing. Finally, the practical examples of the organic nanotubes as a nanocontainer, nanochannel, and nanopipette were also described to feature the concept of “attoliter chemistry.” © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 2601–2611, 2008
Spectral time moment analysis of microgel structure and dynamics
Authors: Streletzky Kiril A. , McKenna John T. , Mohieddine Rami
Published: March 2008

The structure and dynamics of crosslinked nanoparticles (microgels) made out of hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC) polymer chains were studied using dynamic light scattering spectroscopy. The microgel light scattering spectra were found to be highly nonexponential requiring a spectral time moment analysis in which the spectra were fit to a sum of stretched exponentials. Each term offers three parameters for analysis and represents a single spectral mode. At room temperature microgel spectra reveal three modes. Two faster modes are almost diffusive and correspond to apparent sizes of 25 and 450–650 nm. The slowest mode is independent of scattering angle and is reminiscent of the slow polymer mode observed in identical non‐crosslinked polymer solutions. When solution temperature is varied from 23 to 45°C and back, the microgel undergoes a reversible volume phase transition between 40 and 45°C. According to the time‐moment analysis, above the transition temperature two faster modes collapse into one with apparent hydrodynamic radius of 100–150 nm, while the slow mode remains largely unchanged. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 46: 771–781, 2008
Supramolecular micellization and pH‐inducible gelation of a hydrophilic block copolymer by block‐specific threading of α‐cyclodextrin
Authors: Yuan Renxu , Shuai Xintao
Published: March 2008

A poly(ethylene glycol)‐b‐poly(L‐lysine) diblock copolymer (PEG‐b‐PLL) was synthesized. Micellization of this hydrophilic copolymer due to the block‐specific threading of α‐cyclodextrin (α‐CD) molecules onto the polyethylene glycol (PEG) block yielded supramolecular‐structured nanoparticles, which undergoes pH‐inducible gelation in aqueous media. The pH‐inducible gelation of supramolecular micelle in water appeared to be completely reversible upon pH changes. The synergetic effect of selective complexation between PEG block and α‐CD and the pH‐inducible hydrophobic interaction between PLL blocks at pH 10 was believed to be the driving force for the formation of the supramolecular hydrogel. 1H NMR and wide angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD) were employed to confirm the inclusion complexation between α‐CD and PEG block. Meanwhile, the morphology of the micellized nanoparticles was investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The thermal stability of inclusion complexes (ICs) was investigated and the rheologic experiment was conducted to reveal the micelle‐gel transition. Such pH‐induced reversible micelle‐gel transition of the supramolecular aggregates may find applications in several fields, for example as advanced biomedical material possessing stimulus‐responsiveness. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 46: 782–790, 2008
GaN and ZnO freestanding micromechanical structures on silicon‐on‐insulator substrates
Authors: Tripathy S. , Vicknesh S. , Wang L. S. , Lin V. K. X. , Oh S. A. , Grover R. , Zang K. Y. , Arokiaraj J. , Tan J. N. , Kumar B. , Gong H. , Shannigrahi S. R. , Ramam A. , Chua S. J.
Published: March 2008

Using a combination of selective dry etching techniques, surface micro‐machined GaN and ZnO micromechanical structures are demonstrated on silicon‐on‐insulator (SOI) substrates. The dry releasing technique employs a controlled gas phase pulse etching with non‐plasma xenon difluoride (XeF2), which selectively etches the Si overlayer of SOI, thus undercutting the wide bandgap semiconductor material on top. This method prevents crystal damage of overhanging wide bandgap semiconductor mechanical structures. The mechanical properties of these released microstructures are characterized by micro‐Raman spectroscopy. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Silver nanoparticles embedded in polymer matrices ‐ a FTIR‐SE study
Authors: Dahmouchène Nora , Coppée Séverine , Voué Michel , De Coninck Joel
Published: March 2008

The optical properties of silver nanoparticles embedded in a poly (vinyl) alcohol matrix have been investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectrocopic ellipsometry (600 and 6000 cm–1). An atomic force microscopy analysis showed that the particles were nearly spherical and that their average size was ≃20 nm. The extinction coefficient spectrum of the annealed films reveals the major peaks associated with polyvinyl alcohol, as well as two additionnal peaks located at 1134 and 1036 cm–1, suggesting the presence of bonds between Ag and the polymer matrix. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Ellipsometric characterization of flagellin films for biosensor applications
Authors: Kozma P. , Nagy N. , Kurunczi S. , Petrik P. , Hámori A. , Muskotál A. , Vonderviszt F. , Fried M. , Bársony I.
Published: March 2008

The quality of flagellin films in terms of thickness and homogeneity was investigated by spectroscopic ellipsometry. Flagellin films were prepared in three steps: silanization, glutaraldehyde activation and finally the coating with proteins. The process of film preparation was optimized by varying the duration of the silanization and by testing sticking on different substrates including Si wafer covered with different thickness of silicon‐oxide and also covered with a thin film of tantallum pentoxide. Spectroscopic ellipsometry was applied to gain in‐depth information on the film properties for the optimization of the immobilization. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Defect profiling by ellipsometry using ion implantation through wedge masks
Authors: Fried M. , Khanh N. Q. , Petrik P.
Published: March 2008

We measured 3.5 MeV energy He‐ and N‐implanted Si by spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE) and Rutherford backscattering/channeling spectrometry (RBS/C). The He and N ions were implanted in the range of 1–5x1016/cm2 and 0.2–1.2x1016/cm2, respectively through a wedge‐shape silicon membrane (∼4.5 micron/mm slope) which was fixed to the target wafer and was moved laterally to the ion beam spot causing the disorder (mainly point defects) profile “moving” in depth. The doses and energies were in both cases set to have all the positions of the Gaussian damage at the surface, and to cover the damage range from slightly damaged to the maximum. We used ∼0.1 mm wide measuring spots for both SE and RBS/C making possible to “scan” the disorder profiles with ∼0.5 micron depth resolution. Several nm thick, surface amorphous damage peak was observed with low level (far below the modified Kinchin‐Pease model predictions) point defect region beneath the surface, possibly due to dynamic annealing processes. Using critical point analysis we make an attempt to determine the optical response (dielectric function) of the point defects or defect complexes. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Cu underpotential deposition on Au controlled by in situ Spectroscopic Ellipsometry
Authors: Prato Mirko , Gussoni Antonio , Panizza Marco , Cavalleri Ornella , Mattera Lorenzo , Canepa Maurizio
Published: March 2008

We have studied Cu electrodeposition on well defined Au films using real time Spectroscopic Ellipsometry (SE). SE allows to discriminate the under‐potential (UP) and over‐potential (OP) regimes. In the UP regime, tiny yet reproducible variations of Ψ and Δ parameters indicate the formation of two phases with slightly different optical behavior. The phase at the largest coverage is assigned to a Cu monolayer. The SE response in the OP regime shows a marked dependence on the potential scan rate. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Complex dielectric function of ion implantation amorphized SiC determined by spectroscopic ellipsometry
Authors: Lohner T. , Zolnai Z. , Petrik P. , Battistig G. , Garcia López J. , Morilla Y. , Koós A. , Osváth Z. , Fried M.
Published: March 2008

Measuring with a spectroscopic ellipsometer we determined the complex dielectric function of completely amorphous silicon carbide prepared by ion implantation. 860 keV Ni+ ions were implanted into single crystalline 4H‐SiC to produce thick amorphized layer. Ion beam analysis was applied to assess total amorphization. For this purpose 4He+ ion beam of 3.5 MeV was selected taking the advantage that the scattering cross section of carbon at this energy at 165° detection angle is about six times larger than the Rutherford type. Atomic force microscopy was performed to characterize the roughness of the ion‐implanted surfaces. Multiple energy Ar+ implantation was used to produce homogeneous amorphous layer. The Tauc‐Lorentz model was applied for the evaluation of the ellipsometric results. The implantation‐induced swelling was obtained through the measurement of the step height across the masked and implanted areas. Comparison was made among the complex dielectric functions of amorphized SiC studied by us and by different research groups. It is found that the complex dielectric functions of amorphized SiC differ considerably if different ion implantation conditions were applied. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Optical response of nanostructured GaSb
Authors: Kildemo M. , Nerbø I. S. , Søndergård E. , Holt L. , Simonsen I. , Stchakovsky M.
Published: March 2008

Optical measurements of nanostructured GaSb prepared by sputtering is presented. The optical response is studied by Mueller Matrix Ellipsometry (MME) in the visible range (430‐850 nm), and by spectroscopic ellipsometry in the range 0.6‐6.5 eV. The nano‐structured surfaces reported in this work, consist of densely packed GaSb cones approximately 50 nm high, on bulk GaSb. The nanostructured surfaces are here shown to considerably modify the optical response of the surface, hence giving a strong sensitivity to the far field spectroscopic (Mueller matrix) ellipsometric measurements. The off‐specular scattering and the depolarization is found to be low. The anisotropic response is particularly emphasized by studying nano‐structured GaSb cones approximately 45 degrees tilted with respect to the surface normal. In the latter case, one observes upon rotating the sample around the surface normal, that the Mueller matrix elements m13 and m14 oscillate as a function of the rotation angle. Finally, Mueller matrix techniques have been applied to the measured data, in order to analyze the acquired Mueller matrix in terms of physical realisability and noise. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A process capability/customer satisfaction approach to short‐run processes
Authors: Spiring Fred
Published: March 2008

Short‐run processes pose many challenges to standard statistical process control methodologies. Classical short‐run approaches attempt to standardize the measurements before applying traditional control procedures. A technique is proposed that standardizes the measurements from a customer satisfaction perspective and then uses small sample process capability techniques to provide analytical control mechanisms for a class of short‐run processes. Examples motivated from a print shop are used to illustrate the procedures. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Combined 2D‐ and 3D‐QSAR Study on Analogues of ARC‐111 with Antitumor Activity
Authors: Liao Si Yan , Qian Li , Lu Hai Liang , Shen Yong , Zheng Kang Cheng
Published: March 2008

Two‐Dimensional (2D) and Three‐Dimensional (3D) Quantitative Structure–Activity Relationships (QSARs) of a series of analogues of ARC‐111 with antitumor activity expressed as pIC50, which is defined as the negative value of the logarithm of necessary molar concentration of these compounds to cause 50% growth inhibition against tumor cell lines P388, have been studied by using a combined method of the DFT, MM2, and statistics for 2D, as well as the Comparative Molecular Field Analysis (CoMFA) for 3D. The established 2D‐QSAR model shows not only significant statistical quality, but also predictive ability, with the square of adjusted correlation coefficient $\rm{ R_{\rm{A}}^{\rm{2}} }$ of 0.869 and the square of the crossvalidation coefficient q2 of 0.834 as well as the square of predictive correlation coefficient $\rm{ R_{{\rm{pred}}}^{\rm{2}} }$ of 0.867 for the test set. The 3D‐QSAR model also shows good correlative and predictive capabilities in terms of R2 (0.993) and q2 (0.674) when CoMFA fields are used for the whole studied compounds. The results from 2D‐ and 3D‐QSAR analyses conformably show that the steric interaction plays a crucial role in determining the cytotoxicity of the compounds and that selecting a moderate‐size substituent R as well as increasing the negative charge of C28 at the same time are advantageous to improving the antitumor activity. Such results might offer some useful theoretical references for understanding the action mechanism and directing the molecular design of this kind of compound with antitumor activity.