bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sorption mechanism in organic solutions of uncharged polymers
Authors: Sabzi Fatemeh , Ayatollahi Fatemeh , Boushehri Ali
Published: March 2010

In this work, we use the vapor‐sorption equilibrium data to show the degree of solvent upturn in each solvent‐polymer system. For this purpose, 20 isothermal data sets for five polymer + solvent binaries have been used in the temperature range of 298–413 K. Solvents studied are benzene, pentane, hexane, toluene, and chlorobenzene. Homopolymers studied are: polystyrene, poly(vinyl acetate), polyisobutylene, and polyethylene. According to these data sets, solvent weight fraction in the polymer is plotted against solvent vapor activity that is calculated assuming an ideal gas phase of pure solvent vapor neglecting the vapor pressure of the polymer. We use the Flory‐Huggins theory to obtain dimensionless interaction parameter, χ. Also the Zimm‐Lundberg clustering theory and non‐ideality thermodynamic factor, Γ are used to interpret the equilibrium data. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
POM/PU/carbon nanofiber composites produced by water‐mediated melt compounding: Structure, thermomechanical and dielectrical properties
Authors: Siengchin S. , Psarras G. C. , Karger‐Kocsis J.
Published: March 2010

Binary and ternary composites composed of polyoxymethylene (POM), polyurethane (PU), and carbon nanofiber (CNF) were produced by water‐mediated melt compounding. PU latex and/or aqueous CNF dispersion were introduced into the molten POM in laboratory kneader to prepare toughened and/or nanoreinforced POM composites. The crystallization of the POM‐based systems was studied by polarized optical microscopy. The dispersion of the CNF was inspected in scanning electron microscopy. The mechanical and thermomechanical properties of the composites were determined by dynamic‐mechanical analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, short‐time creep‐, stress relaxation‐, and uniaxial static tensile tests. The dielectric response of the nanocomposites was investigated by means of broadband dielectric spectroscopy at ambient temperature. CNF worked as reinforcement (i.e., increased the stiffness, resistance to creep, tensile strength, and reduced the elongation at break), and also improved the thermo‐oxidative stability of POM. PU alone had an adverse effect to the above listed properties, which could be enhanced again by additional incorporation of CNF. Dielectric spectroscopy proved to be a useful tool to get deeper understanding on morphological changes caused by the additives. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
A rapid biodiversity assessment methodology tested on intertidal rocky shores
Authors: O'hara Timothy D. , Addison Prue F. E. , Gazzard Ruth , Costa Trudy L. , Pocklington Jacqueline B.
Published: March 2010

Conservation managers require biodiversity assessment tools to estimate the impact of human activities on biodiversity and to prioritize resources for habitat protection or restoration. Large‐scale programs have been developed for freshwater ecosystems which grade sites by comparing measured versus expected species richness. These models have been applied successfully to habitats that suffer from systemic pressures, such as poor water quality. However, pressures in other habitats, such as rocky intertidal shores, are known to induce more subtle changes in community composition.

This paper tests a biodiversity assessment methodology that uses the ANOSIM R statistic to quantify the biological dissimilarity between a site being assessed and a series of reference sites selected on the basis of their similar environmental profile. Sites with high R values for assemblage composition have an anomalous assemblage for their environmental profile and are potentially disturbed.

This methodology successfully identified moderate to heavily perturbed sites in a pilot study on 65 rocky intertidal sites in south‐eastern Australia. In general, measures based on percentage cover (flora and sessile invertebrates) were more sensitive than abundance (fauna). Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of fetuses in a study of intravenous immunoglobulin as preventive therapy for congenital heart block: Results of a multicenter, prospective, open‐label clinical trial
Authors: Friedman Deborah M. , Llanos Carolina , Izmirly Peter M. , Brock Brigit , Byron John , Copel Joshua , Cummiskey Karen , Dooley Mary Anne , Foley Jill , Graves Cornelia , Hendershott Colleen , Kates Richard , Komissarova Elena V. , Miller Michelle , Paré Emmanuelle , Phoon Colin K. L. , Prosen Tracy , Reisner Dale , Ruderman Eric , Samuels Philip , Yu Jerry K. , Kim Mimi Y. , Buyon Jill P.
Published: March 2010

Objective

The recurrence rate of anti‐SSA/Ro–associated congenital heart block (CHB) is 17%. Sustained reversal of third‐degree block has never been achieved. Based on potential reduction of maternal autoantibody titers as well as fetal inflammatory responses, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) was evaluated as preventive therapy for CHB.

Methods

A multicenter, prospective, open‐label study based on Simon's 2‐stage optimal design was initiated. Enrollment criteria included the presence of anti‐SSA/Ro antibodies in the mother, birth of a previous child with CHB/neonatal lupus rash, current treatment with ≤20 mg/day of prednisone, and <12 weeks pregnant. IVIG (400 mg/kg) was given every 3 weeks from week 12 to week 24 of gestation. The primary outcome was the development of second‐degree or third‐degree CHB.

Results

Twenty mothers completed the IVIG protocol before the predetermined stopping rule of 3 cases of advanced CHB in the study was reached. CHB was detected at 19, 20, and 25 weeks; none of the cases occurred following the finding of an abnormal PR interval on fetal Doppler monitoring. One of these mothers had 2 previous children with CHB. One child without CHB developed a transient rash consistent with neonatal lupus. Sixteen children had no manifestations of neonatal lupus at birth. No significant changes in maternal titers of antibody to SSA/Ro, SSB/La, or Ro 52 kd were detected over the course of therapy or at delivery. There were no safety issues.

Conclusion

This study establishes the safety of IVIG and the feasibility of recruiting pregnant women who have previously had a child with CHB. However, IVIG at low doses consistent with replacement does not prevent the recurrence of CHB or reduce maternal antibody titers.
Therapeutic control of B cell activation via recruitment of Fcγ receptor IIb (CD32B) inhibitory function with a novel bispecific antibody scaffold
Authors: Veri Maria‐Concetta , Burke Stephen , Huang Ling , Li Hua , Gorlatov Sergey , Tuaillon Nadine , Rainey G. Jonah , Ciccarone Valentina , Zhang Tengfei , Shah Kay , Jin Linda , Ning Lida , Minor Tamara , Moore Paul A. , Koenig Scott , Johnson Syd , Bonvini Ezio
Published: March 2010

Objective

To exploit the physiologic Fcγ receptor IIb (CD32B) inhibitory coupling mechanism to control B cell activation by constructing a novel bispecific diabody scaffold, termed a dual‐affinity retargeting (DART) molecule, for therapeutic applications.

Methods

DART molecules were constructed by pairing an Fv region from a monoclonal antibody (mAb) directed against CD32B with an Fv region from a mAb directed against CD79B, the β‐chain of the invariant signal‐transducing dimer of the B cell receptor complex. DART molecules were characterized physicochemically and for their ability to simultaneously bind the target receptors in vitro and in intact cells. The ability of the DART molecules to negatively control B cell activation was determined by calcium mobilization, by tyrosine phosphorylation of signaling molecules, and by proliferation and Ig secretion assays. A DART molecule specific for the mouse ortholog of CD32B and CD79B was also constructed and tested for its ability to inhibit B cell proliferation in vitro and to control disease severity in a collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) model.

Results

DART molecules were able to specifically bind and coligate their target molecules on the surface of B cells and demonstrated a preferential simultaneous binding to both receptors on the same cell. DART molecules triggered the CD32B‐mediated inhibitory signaling pathway in activated B cells, which translated into inhibition of B cell proliferation and Ig secretion. A DART molecule directed against the mouse orthologs was effective in inhibiting the development of CIA in DBA/1 mice.

Conclusion

This innovative bispecific antibody scaffold that simultaneously engages activating and inhibitory receptors enables novel therapeutic approaches for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and potentially other autoimmune and inflammatory diseases in humans.
Follistatin‐like protein 1 is a mesenchyme‐derived inflammatory protein and may represent a biomarker for systemic‐onset juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Wilson David C. , Marinov Anthony D. , Blair Harry C. , Bushnell Daniel S. , Thompson Susan D. , Chaly Yury , Hirsch Raphael
Published: March 2010

Objective

To examine both the source of follistatin‐like protein 1 (FSTL‐1) and the factors that induce its expression in arthritis, and to determine whether juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) is characterized by overexpression of FSTL‐1.

Methods

FSTL‐1 expression patterns were analyzed by immunohistochemical staining of joint tissue derived from mice with collagen‐induced arthritis. Induction of FSTL‐1 secretion was assessed in osteoblasts, adipocytes, and human fibroblast‐like synoviocytes in response to transforming growth factor β (TGFβ), interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), and IL‐6. In addition, sera and synovial fluid from children with oligoarticular, polyarticular, or systemic‐onset JRA were assayed for FSTL‐1 using a custom enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. FSTL‐1 concentrations in these patients were assessed for correlations with the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and platelet count.

Results

Immunohistochemical staining of murine joint sections demonstrated expression of FSTL‐1 in all cell types of the mesenchymal lineage, including osteocytes, chondrocytes, adipocytes, and fibroblasts. FSTL‐1 could be induced in osteoblasts, adipocytes, and human fibroblast‐like synoviocytes by TGFβ, IL‐1β, TNFα, and IL‐6. The IL‐1β response was significantly greater than the TNFα response (P < 0.05). In human serum and synovial fluid, only those samples from children with the systemic‐onset JRA subtype had elevated concentrations of FSTL‐1. The synovial fluid concentrations of FSTL‐1 were 2–3‐fold higher than the serum concentrations. The elevation in serum FSTL‐1 concentrations seen in children with systemic‐onset JRA correlated closely with elevations in the ESR and platelet count.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate that the arthritic joint matrix is a major source of FSTL‐1 and that IL‐1β is a central mediator of FSTL‐1 secretion. Furthermore, FSTL‐1 may represent a useful biomarker of disease activity in systemic‐onset JRA.
Reversing interleukin‐2 inhibition mediated by anti–double‐stranded DNA autoantibody ameliorates glomerulonephritis in MRL‐lpr/lpr mice
Authors: Song Ying‐Chyi , Tang Shye‐Jye , Lee Tai‐Ping , Hung Wen‐Chien , Lin Shu‐Chi , Tsai Chang‐Youh , Ng Wailap Victor , Wu Ming‐Fang , Sun Kuang‐Hui
Published: March 2010

Objective

Our previous study demonstrated that anti–double‐stranded DNA (anti‐dsDNA) antibodies involved in lupus nephritis down‐regulate the production of interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) in T cells, which in turn, contributes to the defective production of cytotoxic cells and to activation‐induced cell death in vitro. To reveal novel molecular targets for lupus therapy, the molecular mechanisms of IL‐2 down‐regulation by anti‐dsDNA were studied.

Methods

Anti‐dsDNA monoclonal antibody (mAb) 9D7 was used to study the molecular mechanisms of IL‐2 production in vitro. Treatment with arginine‐rich peptide, a penetration inhibitor, was used to verify the effect of internalization of anti‐dsDNA on the production of IL‐2. The signaling pathway for IL‐2 expression induced by anti‐dsDNA was analyzed by using kinase inhibitors. The therapeutic effects of these inhibitors were evaluated in MRL‐lpr/lpr mice.

Results

Inhibition of IL‐2 production in activated Jurkat cells and human T cells pretreated with mAb 9D7 was reversed by treatment with the arginine‐rich peptide. Levels of pAkt and phosphorylated glycogen synthase kinase 3 (pGSK‐3) were reduced in activated Jurkat cells that had been pretreated with mAb 9D7. The inhibition of IL‐2 production by mAb 9D7 was counteracted by pretreating the cells with LiCl (a GSK‐3 inhibitor). However, IL‐2 reduction was not recovered in the cells pretreated with ERK and JNK inhibitors. Furthermore, MRL‐lpr/lpr mice injected with LiCl or with arginine‐rich peptide restored the IL‐2 production and reduced the manifestations of lupus.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that penetration of T cells by anti‐dsDNA may inhibit IL‐2 production by activating GSK‐3. Moreover, blocking GSK‐3 activation as well as inhibiting anti‐dsDNA penetration is a potential therapeutic approach for lupus.
Asymptomatic myocardial ischemic disease in antiphospholipid syndrome: A controlled cardiac magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Sacré Karim , Brihaye Benoit , Hyafil Fabien , Serfaty Jean‐Michel , Escoubet Brigitte , Zennaro Maria‐Christina , Lidove Olivier , Laissy Jean‐Pierre , Papo Thomas
Published: March 2010

Objective

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) may cause coronary thrombosis. This study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of silent myocardial disease in patients with APS, using late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI).

Methods

Twenty‐seven consecutive patients with APS and 81 control subjects without known cardiovascular disease underwent CMRI. The prevalence of occult myocardial ischemic disease, as revealed by LGE, was compared between patients with APS and controls, and factors associated with myocardial disease were identified in patients with APS.

Results

Myocardial ischemic disease, as characterized by LGE on CMRI, was present in 8 (29.6%) of 27 patients with APS, and imaging with LGE showed a typical pattern of myocardial infarction (MI) in 3 patients (11.1%). The myocardial scarring revealed on CMRI was not detected by electrocardiography or echocardiography. Although both patients with APS and control subjects shared a low risk of cardiovascular events, as calculated with the Framingham risk equation (mean ± SD 5.1 ± 8.2% and 6.5 ± 7.6%, respectively, for the absolute risk within the next 10 years; P = 0.932), the prevalence of myocardial ischemia was more than 7 times higher in patients with APS (P = 0.0006 versus controls). No association was found between myocardial disease in patients with APS and classic coronary risk factors. The presence of myocardial scarring tended to be more closely associated with specific features of APS, such as duration of the disease, presence of livedo, and positivity for anti–β2‐glycoprotein I antibodies.

Conclusion

The finding of a significant and unexpectedly high prevalence of occult myocardial scarring in patients with APS indicates the usefulness of CMRI with LGE for the identification of silent myocardial disease in such patients.
Granulin‐epithelin precursor binds directly to ADAMTS‐7 and ADAMTS‐12 and inhibits their degradation of cartilage oligomeric matrix protein
Authors: Guo Fengjin , Lai Yongjie , Tian Qingyun , Lin Edward A. , Kong Li , Liu Chuanju
Published: March 2010

Objective

To determine 1) whether a protein interaction network exists between granulin‐epithelin precursor (GEP), ADAMTS‐7/ADAMTS‐12, and cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP); 2) whether GEP interferes with the interactions between ADAMTS‐7/ADAMTS‐12 metalloproteinases and COMP substrate, including the cleavage of COMP; 3) whether GEP affects tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα)–mediated induction of ADAMTS‐7/ADAMTS‐12 expression and COMP degradation; and 4) whether GEP levels are altered during the progression of arthritis.

Methods

Yeast two‐hybrid, in vitro glutathione S‐transferase pull‐down, and coimmunoprecipitation assays were used to 1) examine the interactions between GEP, ADAMTS‐7/ADAMTS‐12, and COMP, and 2) map the binding sites required for the interactions between GEP and ADAMTS‐7/ADAMTS‐12. Immunofluorescence cell staining was performed to visualize the subcellular localization of GEP and ADAMTS‐7/ADAMTS‐12. An in vitro digestion assay was employed to determine whether GEP inhibits ADAMTS‐7/ADAMTS‐12–mediated digestion of COMP. The role of GEP in inhibiting TNFα‐induced ADAMTS‐7/ADAMTS‐12 expression and COMP degradation in cartilage explants was also analyzed.

Results

GEP bound directly to ADAMTS‐7 and ADAMTS‐12 in vitro and in chondrocytes, and the 4 C‐terminal thrombospondin motifs of ADAMTS‐7/ADAMTS‐12 and each granulin unit of GEP mediated their interactions. Additionally, GEP colocalized with ADAMTS‐7 and ADAMTS‐12 on the cell surface of chondrocytes. More importantly, GEP inhibited COMP degradation by ADAMTS‐7/ADAMTS‐12 in a dose‐dependent manner through 1) competitive inhibition through direct protein–protein interactions with ADAMTS‐7/ADAMTS‐12 and COMP, and 2) inhibition of TNFα‐induced ADAMTS‐7/ADAMTS‐12 expression. Furthermore, GEP levels were significantly elevated in patients with either osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

Conclusion

Our observations demonstrate a novel protein–protein interaction network between GEP, ADAMTS‐7/ADAMTS‐12, and COMP. Furthermore, GEP is a novel specific inhibitor of ADAMTS‐7/ADAMTS‐12–mediated COMP degradation and may play a significant role in preventing the destruction of joint cartilage in arthritis.
New Approaches to the Total Synthesis of the Bryostatin Antitumor Macrolides
Authors: Hale Karl J. , Manaviazar Soraya
Published: March 2010

In this Focus Review, we give an overview of various bryostatin total syntheses. We also discuss the synthesis of various bryostatin analogues and their biological activity. Work reviewed includes that of Masamune, Evans, Nishiyama and Yamamura, Hale and Manaviazar, Trost, Wender, Keck, Burke, Thomas, and Krische. Our coverage is primarily for the period 2001–2009, since detailed reviews already exist on bryostatin total synthesis work and biology up to this time.
Sensory features and repetitive behaviors in children with autism and developmental delays
Authors: Boyd Brian A. , Baranek Grace T. , Sideris John , Poe Michele D. , Watson Linda R. , Patten Elena , Miller Heather
Published: March 2010

This study combined parent and observational measures to examine the association between aberrant sensory features and restricted, repetitive behaviors in children with autism (N=67) and those with developmental delays (N=42). Confirmatory factor analysis was used to empirically validate three sensory constructs of interest: hyperresponsiveness, hyporesponsiveness, and sensory seeking. Examining the association between the three derived sensory factor scores and scores on the Repetitive Behavior Scales—Revised revealed the co‐occurrence of these behaviors in both clinical groups. Specifically, high levels of hyperresponsive behaviors predicted high levels of repetitive behaviors, and the relationship between these variables remained the same controlling for mental age. We primarily found non‐significant associations between hyporesponsiveness or sensory seeking and repetitive behaviors, with the exception that sensory seeking was associated with ritualistic/sameness behaviors. These findings suggest that shared neurobiological mechanisms may underlie hyperresponsive sensory symptoms and repetitive behaviors and have implications for diagnostic classification as well as intervention.
Reduced‐oxidized difference spectral analysis and chemiluminescence‐based Scatchard analysis demonstrate selective binding of myeloperoxidase to microbes
Authors: Allen Robert C. , Stephens Jackson T.
Published: March 2010

Myeloperoxidase (MPO), a microbicidal haloperoxidase of neutrophil leukocytes, was observed to selectively bind to bacteria. Binding was quantified by dithionite‐reduced minus oxidized (RO) difference spectral analysis. Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa showed large MPO binding by RO difference spectral analysis, whereas Streptococcus sanguinis did not. For increased sensitivity, free and microbe‐bound MPO and chloroperoxidase (CPO) activities were quantified by acid‐optimum haloperoxidase‐dependent chemiluminescence (CL) measurements, and these data were used for Scatchard analysis. The MPO bound/free (B/F) CL ratio was 49.5 for P. aeruginosa, 14.6 for Staphylococcus aureus, 2.8 for E. coli, 0.7 for Candida albicans and 0.4 for S. sanguinis. By comparison, the CPO B/F CL ratio was 0.03 for P. aeruginosa, 0.09 for S. aureus, 0.31 for E. coli, 0.18 for C. albicans and 0.16 for S. sanguinis. As a member of the lactic acid family of bacteria and a viridans streptococcus, S. sanguinis does not synthesize cytochromes and is catalase‐negative. The metabolic products of S. sanguinis, i.e. lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide, provide optimal acidity and substrate for MPO oxidation of chloride to hypochlorite. Hypochlorite can react with organic substrates to yield dehydrogenated or chlorinated products, but when peroxide is not limiting, hypochlorite reacts with peroxide yielding singlet oxygen. The reactivity of hypochlorite is dependent on substrate availability. The microsecond half‐life of electronically excited singlet oxygen restricts reactivity to within a radius of <0.25 µm; i.e. the reactivity of singlet oxygen is both substrate and half‐life dependent. Poor MPO binding provides protection and possibly competitive advantage to viridans streptococci. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination and pharmacokinetics of periplocin in rat plasma by LC‐MS
Authors: Yi Lixin , Bi Kaishun , Chen Xinyang , Zhang Qiufeng , Che Shuang , Liu Wentao , Lu Dan , Chen Xiaohui
Published: March 2010

A simple and sensitive LC‐MS method for the determination of periplocin in rat plasma was developed and validated. The chromatographic separation was carried out using a reverse‐phase Kromasil C18 column(150 × 4.6 mm, i.d., 5 µm) with a mobile phase composed of methanol–water (76:24, v/v). The flow rate of mobile phase was 0.8 mL/min. The calibration curve was linear within the concentration range 1–1000 ng/mL. The intra‐ and inter‐day precisions across three validation days over the entire concentration range was lower than 9.2% in terms of relative standard deviation. Accuracy determined at three quality control concentrations ranged from −2.0 to 6.0% in terms of relative error. The validated method was applied to the pharmacokinetic study of periplocin in rat plasma after intravenous and intramuscular administration. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simultaneous determination of phthalates and adipates in human serum using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry with solid‐phase extraction
Authors: Guo Zhi‐Yong , Gai Pan‐Pan , Duan Jing , Zhai Jin‐Xia , Zhao Sha‐Sha , Wang Sui , Wei Dan‐Yi
Published: March 2010

A gas chromatography–mass spectrometry assay was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of phthalates and adipates in human serum. The phthalates and adipates studied were dimethyl phthalate, diethyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate, benzylbutyl phthalate, di‐2‐ethylhexyl phthalate, di‐n‐octyl phthalate, diethyl adipate, dibutyl adipate, diisobutyl adipate, bis(2‐butoxyethyl) adipate and di‐2‐ethylhexyl adipate, with diisooctyl phthalate as internal standard. The extraction and cleaning up procedure was carried out with solid‐phase extraction cartridges containing dimethyl butylamine groups, which showed extraction efficiencies over 88% for each analyte and the internal standard. The calibration curves obtained were linear with correlation coefficients greater than 0.98. For all analytes, the assay gave CV% values for intra‐day precision from 4.9 to 13.3% and mean accuracy values from 91.4 to 108.4%, while inter‐day precision was 5.2–13.4% and mean accuracy 91.0–110.2%. The limits of detection for the assay of phthalates and adipates were in the range 0.7–4.5 ng/mL. The method is simple, sensitive and accurate, and allows for simultaneous determination of nanogram levels of phthalates and adipates in human serum. It was successfully applied to an investigation on the level of phthalates and adipates in a non‐occupationally exposed population.
Determination of sialic acids in infant formula by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Sørensen L. K.
Published: March 2010

A liquid chromatographic/tandem mass spectrometric method using pneumatically assisted electrospray ionization (LC‐ESI‐MS/MS) was developed for determination of N‐acetylneuramic acid and N‐glycolylneuramic acid in infant formula. Reconstituted samples were hydrolysed in dilute sulfuric acid and deproteinized with acetonitrile. The extract was analysed directly without further clean‐up by hydrophilic interaction chromatography. The substances were detected in negative ion mode and matrix matched standards were used for calibration. The relative intra‐laboratory reproducibility standard deviation was better than 6% for both substances. An R2 of 0.985 was obtained by comparison with a classical colorimetric assay based on reaction with resorcinol. The developed method is expected to be applied for accurate routine analysis of infant formulas.
Programs in R for computing, truncated normal distributions
Authors: Zhou M. , Yang D. , Wang Y. , Nadarajah S.
Published: March 2010

Truncated distributions arise naturally in many industrial settings. However, little has been published for computing quantities of interest of the truncated version even for the most popular normal distribution. In this note, for the first time, we provide programs for computing the mean, variance, cumulative probability and two other quantities of interest for any truncated normal distribution: whether it is left truncated, right truncated or doubly truncated. The programs are written in R: a freely downloadable statistical software. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 18: 589–592, 2010; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com; DOI 10.1002/cae.20212
DGIS: Interactive simulator for distributed generation systems
Authors: Peña Rafael , Medina Aurelio , Anaya‐Lara Olimpo , Burt Graeme M.
Published: March 2010

An interactive software to simulate and to study the steady state and transient operation of distributed generation systems with a large number of elements is presented. This software can be an effective tool to give students better understanding of the behavior of power systems under various operating conditions, and can motivate them to learn more about power systems. It may also be useful for advanced users such as PhD students and researchers as they can implement their own algorithms and models, without the necessity of buying expensive licenses for commercial software. In addition, the software may well be used for teaching introductory courses into the analysis of network with high penetration of distributed generators. A detailed software description, comparison with similar available software, potential educational applications and future enhancements of this simulation tool are presented and discussed. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 20: 594–603, 2012
Simulation of effect of voltage sag on inrush current using MATLAB‐SIMULINK for educational purpose
Authors: Vahidi B. , Khorsandi A.
Published: March 2010

Transformer inrush currents are high‐magnitude, harmonic‐rich currents generated when transformer cores are driven into saturation during energization. These currents have undesirable effects, including potential damage to the transformer, reduced power quality on the system, and relay malfunction. In the present article the effect of voltage sag on inrush current are investigated. Due to aim of this article which is educational purpose the well‐known software MATLAB‐SIMULINK is used to simulate the effect of voltage sag on inrush current. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 20: 629–633, 2012
A rapid systematic review on the association between childhood physical and sexual abuse and illicit drug use among males
Authors: Butt Sophia , Chou Shihning , Browne Kevin
Published: March 2010

This paper aims to review studies in relation to the association between childhood physical (CPA) and sexual abuse (CSA) and illicit drug use among the male clinical and general community populations using a systematic approach. Primary studies were identified using online databases which were searched comprehensively using a set of pre‐determined search criteria and terms. Other sources included expert contact and the reference list of a relevant review. Associations between exposure (CPA/CSA) and outcome (illicit drug use) were considered with regards to an array of factors. A total of 5012 references were initially identified out of which 18 studies met the necessary criteria for reviewing. The review demonstrates tentative support for factors such as earlier drug initiation, intravenous drug use and greater frequency of use among some of the samples. It also demonstrates the difficulties involved in drawing conclusions due to the complex and multifaceted nature of drug use and the variability in the quality of the research available in this area. Limitations of the current review are highlighted and recommendations offered for future research with consideration given to practical implications in clinical and forensic settings. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Partnering with parents to prevent childhood sexual abuse
Authors: Wurtele Sandy K. , Kenny Maureen C.
Published: March 2010

Although research demonstrates that child‐focused sexual abuse prevention programmes can teach children personal safety knowledge and skills, childhood sexual abuse (CSA) prevention programmes that involve parents have a number of distinct advantages. The more knowledge parents have about CSA, the greater likelihood they can create safer environments for their children and thus prevent the occurrence of sexual exploitation. Research has demonstrated that parents lack crucial information about CSA and can benefit from even brief educational efforts. This paper will identify potential barriers to participation and offer practical suggestions for enhancing both recruitment and retention rates. Recommendations for parent education programmes are offered, including improving parents' confidence and skills in educating their children about CSA, providing them with parent‐friendly materials to use and developing Internet applications. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Excremental theory development
Authors: Bradshaw Alan , Canniford Robin
Published: March 2010

This paper explores and investigates multi‐disciplinary perspectives on excrement in order to fertilise the ground on which new consumer research agendas may be cultivated. We begin by illustrating the symbolic power and affective conditioning that attends excrement, explaining the veil of secrecy that history has draped over our bodily functions. We then illustrate how this symbolic and affective order is manifest in material infrastructures that maintain our aversion to the subject of waste. With these orders in mind we then assess their importance by asking what might happen if they were undone, stressing the sacred and profane implications that various thinkers have assigned to the presence and place of bodily waste in our lives. Finally, the paper highlights practical perspectives that our discussion raises. We stress the potential importance of hidden affective and architectural frames in consumer culture, arguing that a fuller engagement with these issues may encourage us to acknowledge the pressing issues of hygiene that will challenge society as the century progresses.

Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Role of mitogen‐activated protein kinase in Zn‐BC‐AM PDT‐induced apoptosis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells
Authors: Koon H. K. , Chan P. S. , Wu Z. G. , Wong R. N. S. , Lung M. L. , Chang C. K. , Mak N. K.
Published: March 2010

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) with a recently developed photosensitizer Zn‐BC‐AM was found to effectively induce apoptosis in a well‐differentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) HK‐1 cell line. Sustained activation of p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) and c‐jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) as well as a transient increase in activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) were observed immediately after Zn‐BC‐AM PDT. A commonly used p38 MAPK/JNK pharmacological inhibitor PD169316 was found to reduce PDT‐induced apoptosis of HK‐1 cells. PD169316 also prevented the loss of Bcl‐2 and Bcl‐xL in PDT‐treated HK‐1 cells. However, inhibition of JNK with SP600125 had no effect on Zn‐BC‐AM PDT‐induced apoptosis while inhibition of ERK with PD98059 or p38 MAPK with SB203580 significantly increased Zn‐BC‐AM PDT‐induced apoptosis. Further study showed that knockdown of the p38β isoform with siRNA also increased Zn‐BC‐AM PDT‐induced apoptosis, indicating that the anti‐apoptotic effect of PD169316 in PDT‐treated HK‐1 cells was probably independent of p38 MAPK or JNK activation. Taken together, the results suggest that inhibition of p38β and ERK may enhance the therapeutic efficacy of Zn‐BC‐AM PDT on NPC cells. It should be noted that data only based on the use of PD169316 should be interpreted in caution. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental chronic low‐frequency resistance training produces skeletal muscle hypertrophy in the absence of muscle damage and metabolic stress markers
Authors: Zanchi Nelo Eidy , Lira Fabio Santos , Seelaender Marilia , Lancha‐Jr Antonio Herbert
Published: March 2010

Volitional animal resistance training constitutes an important approach to modeling human resistance training. However, the lack of standardization protocol poses a frequent impediment to the production of skeletal muscle hypertrophy and the study of related physiological variables (i.e., cellular damage/inflammation or metabolic stress). Therefore, the purposes of the present study were: (1) to test whether a long‐term and low frequency experimental resistance training program is capable of producing absolute increases in muscle mass; (2) to examine whether cellular damage/inflammation or metabolic stress is involved in the process of hypertrophy. In order to test this hypothesis, animals were assigned to a sedentary control (C, n = 8) or a resistance trained group (RT, n = 7). Trained rats performed 2 exercise sessions per week (16 repetitions per day) during 12 weeks. Our results demonstrated that the resistance training strategy employed was capable of producing absolute mass gain in both soleus and plantaris muscles (12%, p < 0.05). Furthermore, muscle tumor necrosis factor (TNF‐α) protein expression (soleus muscle) was reduced by 24% (p < 0.01) in trained group when compared to sedentary one. Finally, serum creatine kinase (CK) activity and serum lactate concentrations were not affected in either group. Such information may have practical applications if reproduced in situations where skeletal muscle hypertrophy is desired but high mechanical stimuli of skeletal muscle and inflammation are not. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bestimmung von Phenylessigsäure zur Früherkennung von Prozessstörungen in Biogasanlagen
Authors: Griehl C. , Hecht C. , Streuber S. , Ganß Y. , Kremp H.
Published: March 2010

In Speisereste verwertenden Biogasanlagen konnte eine frühzeitige Anreicherung von Phenylessigsäure vor dem Anstieg prozessrelevanter Parameter wie Propion‐ und Essigsäure beobachtet werden. Daher besteht die Möglichkeit, Phenylessigsäure als neuartige Indikatorsubstanz zur Überwachung des Biogasprozesses zu nutzen. Die Substanz konnte mit Hilfe der Gaschromatographie schnell und sicher in der Gärflüssigkeit bestimmt werden.
Produktdesign von Flüssigkeiten: Parfümöle in der Konsumgüterindustrie
Authors: Rähse W. , Dicoi O.
Published: March 2010

Die Möglichkeiten des Produktdesigns von Flüssigkeiten, insbesondere von hydrophoben Flüssigkeitsgemischen, werden am Beispiel der Parfümöle beschrieben. Dort erfolgt die Gestaltung sowohl durch die Zusammenstellung einzelner Duftstoffe zu einem individuellen Gesamtduft als auch durch die Weiterverarbeitung in die Anwendungsform. Parfümöle bestehen aus etwa 30 – 200 natürlichen, naturidentischen und voll synthetischen Riechstoffen. Die aufgabengerechte Formulierung des Geruchs bezüglich der Kopf‐, Herz‐ und Basisnote sowie die erforderliche Fixierung stellen eine künstlerische Leistung des Parfümeurs dar. Riechstoffe werden im Konsumentenbereich für die Körperbeduftung und die Aromatherapie, ferner für die Raum‐ und Produktbeduftung eingesetzt. Der Produktduft stammt teilweise oder ganz aus Synthesen. Die Steuerung von Raum‐ und Produktbeduftungen bezüglich Zeit/Intensität erfolgt über die Konzentration sowie den Aggregatzustand des Öls, das in verdünnter Lösung, unverdünnt, verkapselt, aufgesprüht, emulgiert, aufgeschäumt, angedickt, gelartig oder verfestigt vorliegt. Mithilfe von Trägerstoffen lassen sich die Riechstoffe in beliebige Feststoffformen (Perlen, Blöcke, Gele) überführen oder auf Granulate als Coating aufbringen. Duftstoffe können durch Zugabe von Fettalkohol in eine feste Form gebracht werden. Abschließend werden vier Varianten der Beduftung von festen Waschmitteln mit aufgesprühten Ölen und mit zugemischten Duftgranulaten diskutiert.
Konzentrationsprofile in trocknenden Flüssigkeitsschichten auf kreiszylindrischen Substraten
Authors: Meile W. , Czaputa K. , Brenn G.
Published: March 2010

Die Beschichtung von optischen Fasern und Metalldrähten geschieht durch konvektive Trocknung eines Auftrags einer Polymerlösung auf dem jeweiligen kreiszylindrischen Substrat. Die erreichbare Qualität wird maßgeblich durch die Morphologie der Beschichtung und somit durch die Konzentrationsverteilung der Lösungskomponenten bestimmt. Die vorliegende Arbeit behandelt den Stofftransport in der schrumpfenden flüssigen Schicht während der Trocknung und zeigt die Berechnung radialer Profile der Gemisch‐Massenanteile bei gegebenem Verhältnis der Schrumpfungsrate des Beschichtungsquerschnitts zum flüssigseitigen Diffusionskoeffizienten für variierende Zeiten.
CA 125: Value or addiction?
Authors: Goldman Patricia A.
Published: March 2010

The author challenges a recent study indicating that there is no apparent benefit in routinely measuring cancer antigen 125 (CA 125) in the follow‐up of women with ovarian cancer.
Improving grid performance by dynamically deploying applications
Authors: Wu Yongwei , Chen Gang , Liu Jia , Fang Rui , Yang Guangwen , Zheng Weimin
Published: March 2010

Grid applications are normally deployed on computing nodes beforehand, which may cause the undesirable situation that some of these nodes (with hot applications deployed) are always busy whereas the others are consistently idle. Therefore, the overall performance (e.g. throughput and load balancing) of such a Grid system would be seriously degraded. In this paper, we present the idea of Hierarchical and Dynamic Deployment of Application (HDDA) in Grid to improve the system performance. With HDDA, an application can be dynamically deployed and undeployed when necessary. In order to reduce the overhead caused by HDDA, the Average Latency Ratio Minimum (ALR‐MIN) replacement strategy is also proposed. It deploys applications to nodes with minimum ALR of Node (NALR), and evicts applications with minimum increment of ALR. The results of the experiment we conducted on ChinaGrid show that HDDA can achieve 10 and 24% less average complete time (ACT) than the schemes of non‐HDDA and Static Deployment of Application (SDA), respectively. Additionally, throughput and load balancing of HDDA are also better than the other two schemas. Results of the simulation performed on a simulator particularly developed for this research show that our ALR‐MIN replacement strategy results in 17% less relative delay‐time of jobs than the well‐known Least Recently Used (LRU)‐based strategies in a typical setting. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nocturnal enuresis in adolescents with anorexia nervosa: Prevalence, potential causes, and pathophysiology
Authors: Kanbur Nuray , Pinhas Leora , Lorenzo Armando , Farhat Walid , Licht Christoph , Katzman Debra K.
Published: March 2010

Objective:

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and potential causes of secondary nocturnal enuresis (NE) in adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN).

Method:

Adolescents with AN completed the Incontinence Symptom Index‐Pediatric (ISI‐P), a self‐report urinary incontinence survey. Those who had NE associated with the onset of AN on the ISI‐P completed a comprehensive clinical and laboratory evaluation, including urinary flow measurements.

Results:

The prevalence of NE in adolescents with AN was 17.0% (10 of 59). The overall frequency of day‐ and night‐time urinary incontinence symptoms in adolescents with AN was 62.7%; urgency incontinence, 57.6%; stress incontinence, 32.2%; and insensate incontinence, 17.0%. Nine of the 10 adolescents with NE had secondary NE and confirmed that bedwetting ceased after weight restoration.

Discussion:

Decreased functional bladder capacity and detrusor instability may contribute to the NE observed in this population. The high prevalence of NE in adolescents with AN warrants further study to determine the potential causative pathways. Clinicians who work with adolescents with AN should assess for this problem. © 2010 by Wiley Periodicals,Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2011; 44:349–355)
Hepatoprotection by palm tocotrienol‐rich fraction
Authors: Lee Shu‐Ping , Yang Shyh‐Chyun , Cheng Yen‐Shih , Lien Wan‐Jung , Ng Lean‐Teik
Published: March 2010

Tocotrienols, a group of important phytonutrients of palm oil, have been shown to possess antioxidant, anticancer, neuroprotectory, and anti‐inflammatory activities. In this study, our objective was to examine the protective effects of tocotrienol‐rich fraction (TRF) from palm oil on chronic carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)‐induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Animals were subjected to vehicle only (control), CCl4 only, CCl4 + 100 mg/kg silymarin (silymarin), CCl4 + 25 mg/kg TRF (TRF‐25) and CCl4 + 50 mg/kg TRF (TRF‐50) treatments for a period of 8 wks. Results showed that daily oral administration of TRF‐25, TRF‐50, and silymarin prevented the elevation of serum glutamate oxalate transaminase (sGOT) and glutamate pyruvate transaminase (sGPT), liver thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), triglycerides and total cholesterol levels, as well as enhancing the liver catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels in rats with hepatotoxicity. At 50 mg/kg, the hepatoprotection of TRF was as good as or better than silymarin (100 mg/kg) in normalization of oxidative stress parameters in liver injury rats. These results suggest that TRF exerts effective protection against chronic CCl4‐induced hepatic injury in rats, and its mechanism of action could be related to reducing oxidative stress in the liver tissue.
Effect of Enzyme and Cofactor Immobilization on the Response of Ethanol Oxidation in Zirconium Phosphate Modified Biosensors
Authors: Santiago Mitk'El B. , Daniel Gabriel A. , David Amanda , Casañas Barbara , Hernández Griselle , Guadalupe Ana R. , Colón Jorge L.
Published: March 2010

Two different self‐contained ethanol amperometric biosensors incorporating layered [Ru(phend)2bpy]2+‐intercalated zirconium phosphate (ZrP) as the mediator as well as yeast‐alcohol dehydrogenase (y‐ADH) and its cofactor nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) were constructed to improve upon a design previously reported where only this mediator was immobilized in the surface of a modified electrode. In the first biosensor, a [Ru(phend)2bpy]2+‐intercalated ZrP modified carbon paste electrode (CPE) was improved by immobilizing in its surface both y‐ADH and NAD+ using quaternized Nafion membrane. In the second biosensor, a glassy carbon electrode was modified with [Ru(phend)2bpy]2+‐intercalated ZrP, y‐ADH, and NAD+ using Nafion as the holding matrix. Calibration plots for ethanol sensing were constructed in the presence and absence of ZrP. In the absence of ZrP in the surface of the modified glassy carbon electrode, leaching of ADH was observed as detected by UV‐vis spectrophotometry. Ethanol sensing was also tested in the presence and absence of ascorbate to measure the selectivity of the sensor for ethanol. These two ethanol biosensors were compared to a previously reported one where the y‐ADH and the NAD+ were in solution, not immobilized.
Highly Sensitive Voltammetric Speciation and Determination of Inorganic Arsenic in Water and Alloy Samples Using Ammonium 2‐Amino‐1‐Cyclopentene‐1‐Dithiocarboxylate
Authors: Ensafi Ali Asghar , Ring Adam C. , Fritsch Ingrid
Published: March 2010

A simple, fast, reproducible (2.5% RSD at 3.0 μg/L), and sensitive method is described for quantifying As(III) (0.3 μg/L detection limit, 0.5–440 μg/L dynamic range). Anodic stripping voltammetry (ASV) is performed after accumulating arsenic at a mercury film electrode at −0.350 V vs. Ag/AgCl (saturated KCl) for 20 s in 0.2 M HCl containing 8 μM ammonium 2‐amino‐1‐cyclopentene‐1‐dithiocarboxylate (AACD), without oxygen removal. This is the first report of using AACD in ASV and in electrochemical quantification of As(III). Total arsenic is determined after sodium‐sulfite‐reduction of As(V) to As(III). Interferences are minimal. Method validation involved water and metal alloy samples.
Electrochemical Elucidation of the Facilitated Ion Transport Across a Bilayer Lipid Membrane in the Presence of Neutral Carrier Compounds
Authors: Onishi Jun , Shirai Osamu , Kano Kenji
Published: March 2010

The ion transport facilitated by neutral carrier compounds (valinomycin, nonactin) has been investigated by cyclic voltammetry in the several electrolyte solutions (KF, KCl, KBr, KNO3, KSCN, KClO4), and we demonstrated the effect of the counter anions on the facilitated transport of K+ from the viewpoint of electroneutrality. Voltammograms for the ion transport were generated at steady state and the current density between W1 and W2, jW1–W2, increased with the absolute value of the applied membrane potential, EW1–W2. Then, the magnitude of jW1–W2 at a certain EW1–W2 increased with the hydrophobicity of the counter anion. It was proved that the logarithm of |jW1–W2|at a certain EW1–W2 is almost proportional to the hydration energy of the counter anion. This indicates that not only K+ but also the counter anion distributes into the BLM. Therefore, the magnitude of jW1–W2 at a certain EW1–W2 increased with an increase of pH, because the hydroxide ion was served as a counter anion. Based on the variation of the zero‐current potential in case of various asymmetrical ionic compositions, it is found that the amount of cation transport is much larger than that of anion transport.
Selective Detection of p‐Phenylenediamine in Hair Dyes Based on a Special CE Mechanism Using MnO2 Nanowires
Authors: Bai Yu‐Hui , Li Jin‐Yi , Zhu Yu‐hua , Xu Jing‐Juan , Chen Hong‐Yuan
Published: March 2010

We report a novel approach for selective determination of p‐phenylenediamine in hair dyes using β‐MnO2 nanowires modified glassy carbon (GC) electrodes through an electrochemical co‐deposition process with chitosan hydrogel. A special CE (chemical reaction and electron transfer) process on the surface of β‐MnO2 nanowires modified GC electrode is proposed and proved by cyclic voltammetry and UV‐Vis spectroscopy in the presence of p‐phenylenediamine. p‐Phenylenediamine can react with MnO2 nanowires to produce diimine and the equilibrium of the two‐electron and two‐proton redox process of p‐phenylenediamine on the electrode is changed, and consequently the reductive current is enhanced significantly. At a constant potential of 0 V vs. SCE, other main components of hair dyes including o‐, m‐phenylenediamine, catechol, resorcinol, and p‐dihydroxybenzene do not interfere in the determination of p‐phenylenediamine in the amperometric measurement because of their much lower chemical reaction activities with MnO2 nanowires. It shows a determination range of 0.2–150 μM and a low detection limit of 50 nM to response p‐phenylenediamine. This modified electrode is successfully used to analyze the amount of p‐phenylenediamine in hair dyes without preseparation procedures.