bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of the austenite dispersion on phase transformation during the austempering of ductile cast iron having a dual matrix structure
Authors: Erdogan Mehmet , Kilicli Volkan , Demir Bilge
Published: August 2008

In the present work, an unalloyed ductile cast iron containing 3.50 C wt.%, 2.63 Si wt.%, 0.318 Mn wt.% and 0.047 Mg wt.% was austempered for various times at both the conventional austenitizing temperature (single phase austenitic region) and the different intercritical austenitizing (partially austenitizing) temperature ranges to investigate the effect of parent austenite dispersion at the austenitizing temperature on the nature of austenite decomposition during austempering. A microstructure map was created to illustrate the transformation of products quantitatively as a function of austempering time for a particular austenitizing temperature and austempering time. It was concluded that in addition to proeutectoid and bainitic ferrite, the new ferrite (also called epitaxial ferrite) introduced into the partially austenitized structure during austempering and new ferrite formation and its content was dependent on the scale of the parent austenite dispersion at the austenitizing temperature, variation in austenitizing temperature and austempering time. The new ferrite formed only in the structure with coarse parent austenite dispersion.
Investigation of the relationship between work done during indentation and the hardness and Young's modulus obtained by indentation testing
Authors: Chen J. , Bull S. J.
Published: August 2008

Existing indentation models (both analytical models and numerical analysis) show a linear relation between δr/δm and H/E
r, where δr and δm are the residual depth and maximum depth, and E
r and H are the reduced Young's modulus and hardness of the test material, respectively. However, in this paper it is shown that the relationship between δr/δm and H/E
r is actually nonlinear. Based on the analysis by Oliver and Pharr, a new relationship between δr/δm and H/E
r has been derived in different ways without any additional assumptions and verified by finite element analysis for a range of bulk materials. Further, with the aid of finite element simulations a new relationship between the irreversible work over total work and hardness over Young's modulus for materials with different work hardening behaviour has been derived which shows excellent agreement with experimental observations.
Influence of grain refinement and modification on dry sliding wear behavior of Al-12Si and Al-12Si-3Cu cast alloys
Authors: Basavakumar K. G. , Mukunda P. G. , Chakraborty M.
Published: August 2008

The microstructures and dry sliding wear behavior of Al-12Si and Al-12Si-3Cu cast alloys were studied after various melt treatments such as grain refinement and modification. Results indicate that combined grain refined and modified Al-12Si-3Cu cast alloys have microstructures consisting of uniformly distributed α-Al grains, eutectic Al–Si and fine CuAl2 particles in the interdendritic region. These alloys exhibited better wear resistance in the cast condition compared with the same alloy subjected to only grain refinement or modification. The improved wear resistances of Al-12Si-3Cu cast alloys are related to the refinement of the aluminum grain size, uniform distribution of eutectic Al–Si and fine CuAl2 particles in the interdendritic region resulting from combined refinement and modification. This paper attempts to investigate the influence of the microstructural changes in the Al-12Si and Al-12Si-3Cu cast alloys by grain refinement, modification and combined action of both on the dry sliding wear behavior.
Empirical Analysis of Selection Screens for Domestication and Improvement Loci in Maize by Extended DNA Sequencing
Authors: Yamasaki Masanori , Schroeder Steven G. , Sanchez‐Villeda Hector , Gaut Brandon S. , McMullen Michael D.
Published: August 2008

Both domestication and crop improvement in maize (Zea mays ssp. mays) have involved selection of specific alleles at genes controlling key morphologic and agronomic traits, resulting in reduced genetic diversity relative to unselected genes. This difference in genetic diversity has led to the development of genomic screens for artificial selection in maize that have identified ∼50 candidate agronomic genes. One limitation of these initial genome screens is that the short length of the alignment (average length < 300 bp) restricts the statistical power and may lead to false positives. The major objective of this research was to provide an empirical determination of the false positive rate of genomic screens for artificial selection in maize. Therefore, we performed extended sequencing throughout the available gene sequence of 27 previously identified selection candidates using maize inbred, maize landrace (for 12 genes), and teosinte (Zea mays ssp. parviglumis) accessions. The extended sequence alignments (average length > 2000 bp) allowed clear separation of strong candidates for selection from those that cannot be distinguished from the tail of the diversity distribution of all maize genes. The extended alignments also allowed linkage disequilibrium to be considered in evaluating a candidate's selection status. This proved particularly useful in distinguishing selection at domestication versus subsequent crop improvement.
Status and Prospects of Association Mapping in Plants
Authors: Zhu Chengsong , Gore Michael , Buckler Edward S. , Yu Jianming
Published: August 2008

There is tremendous interest in using association mapping to identify genes responsible for quantitative variation of complex traits with agricultural and evolutionary importance. Recent advances in genomic technology, impetus to exploit natural diversity, and development of robust statistical analysis methods make association mapping appealing and affordable to plant research programs. Association mapping identifies quantitative trait loci (QTLs) by examining the marker‐trait associations that can be attributed to the strength of linkage disequilibrium between markers and functional polymorphisms across a set of diverse germplasm. General understanding of association mapping has increased significantly since its debut in plants. We have seen a more concerted effort in assembling various association‐mapping populations and initiating experiments through either candidate‐gene or genome‐wide approaches in different plant species. In this review, we describe the current status of association mapping in plants and outline opportunities and challenges in complex trait dissection and genomics‐assisted crop improvement.
Identification of Four Soybean Reference Genes for Gene Expression Normalization
Authors: Libault M. , Thibivilliers S. , Bilgin D. D. , Radwan O. , Benitez M. , Clough S. J. , Stacey G.
Published: August 2008

Gene expression analysis requires the use of reference genes constitutively expressed independently of tissues or environmental conditions. Housekeeping genes (e.g., actin, tubulin, ribosomal, polyubiquitin, and elongation factor 1‐α) are commonly used as reference genes with the assumption that they are uniformly expressed. In many cases, however, this assumption was shown to be incorrect. To provide reliable reference genes in soybean [Glycine max (L.)], we surveyed a set of genes that showed little variation in a nodulation study across a series of soybean microarray experiments. More than 200 putative reference genes were identified. We focused on 18 for further analysis using additional cDNA and Affymetrix arrays and quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reactions. Taken together, these experiments allowed us to test the expression stability of these genes in 130 different conditions, confirming four soybean genes as new reference genes (annotated as ATP‐binding cassette [ABC] transporter, F‐box protein family, metalloprotease, and CDPK‐related protein kinase). These genes should be useful for normalization of gene expression studies in soybean, an important crop plant.
Evidence of Interfacial Charge Transfer upon UV‐Light Irradiation in Novel Titanium Oxide Gel
Authors: Cottineau Thomas , Brohan Luc , Pregelj Matej , Cevc Pavel , Richard‐Plouet Mireille , Arčon Denis
Published: August 2008

We report on the combined magnetization and electron paramagnetic resonance characterization of a novel Ti‐O organic–inorganic gel hybrid and the related electron–hole generation process upon UV illumination. We find that electrons are injected into the conduction band of the Ti‐O framework, photoreducing TiIV to TiIII. TiIII sites are mainly located on the surface, owing to the nanometric dimensions of the inorganic component. Surprisingly, the symmetry of the TiO6 octahedra depends on the level of illumination: in the lightly UV‐exposed samples TiIII is sited in the weakly distorted TiO6 octahedra to which methanoate groups are bonded, as suggested by electron spin echo envelope modulation (ESEEM) experiments. Extensive illumination causes structural rearrangements, leading to enhanced tetragonal TiO6 distortion and shifting the TiIII interaction towards the hydroxide groups or water. The results provide clear evidence for an interfacial charge transfer between the quantum‐size TiO lattice and coordinated species upon in situ and ex situ UV illumination at temperatures from room temperature to 5 K.
Wasserstoffspeicherung in mikroporösen metall‐organischen Gerüsten mit koordinativ ungesättigten Metallzentren
Authors: Dincă Mircea , Long Jeffrey R.
Published: August 2008

Metall‐organische Gerüste sind wegen ihrer hohen Aufnahmekapazität bei tiefer Temperatur und der ausgezeichneten Reversibilitätskinetik interessant als mögliche Feststoffmaterialien zur Wasserstoffspeicherung. In den vergangenen Jahren hat man mehrere Methoden erforscht, um die Affinität dieser Materialien für Wasserstoff zu erhöhen, und die Bindung von H2 an ungesättigte Metallzentren ist eine der vielversprechendsten. Wir geben hier eine Übersicht über bisher entwickelte Synthesemethoden für Gerüste mit zugänglichen Metallzentren sowie über die entsprechenden Aufnahmekapazitäten für Wasserstoff und Bindungsenergien. Weiterhin werden die Ergebnisse von Untersuchungen zur Metall‐Wasserstoff‐Wechselwirkung in ausgewählten Materialien diskutiert.
Hydrogen Storage in Microporous Metal–Organic Frameworks with Exposed Metal Sites
Authors: Dincă Mircea , Long Jeffrey R.
Published: August 2008

Owing to their high uptake capacity at low temperature and excellent reversibility kinetics, metal–organic frameworks have attracted considerable attention as potential solid‐state hydrogen storage materials. In the last few years, researchers have also identified several strategies for increasing the affinity of these materials towards hydrogen, among which the binding of H2 to unsaturated metal centers is one of the most promising. Herein, we review the synthetic approaches employed thus far for producing frameworks with exposed metal sites, and summarize the hydrogen uptake capacities and binding energies in these materials. In addition, results from experiments that were used to probe independently the metal–hydrogen interaction in selected materials will be discussed.
Raman study of in vivo synthesized Zn(II)‐metallothionein complexes: Structural insight into metal clusters and protein folding
Authors: Torreggiani Armida , Domènech Jordi , Atrian Sílvia , Capdevila Mercè , Tinti Anna
Published: August 2008

Metallothioneins (MTs) are metal‐chelating peptides that play an active role in zinc homeostasis. The participation of metal ligands other than cysteines and the presence of secondary structure elements in metal‐MT complexes are fairly unknown, especially in nonvertebrate MTs. Here, four Zn(II) complexes of invertebrate MTs (mollusc, insect, nematode, and echinoderm) and the Zn(II)‐MT complex of the mammalian MT1 isoform, heterologously synthesized in E. coli, were studied by analytic and spectroscopic techniques. By Raman and circular dichroism spectroscopy, new structural informations were obtained. The five analyzed MT isoforms consist largely of β‐turns with the near exclusion of α‐helical segments. Raman spectroscopy was revealed as an useful tool, providing information about the state of the cysteine sulfur atoms (metal coordinated and oxidized), the participation of histidine in metal coordination, and the molecular environment of tyrosine residues. In all the five Zn(II)‐MT studied samples, acid‐labile sulfide anions were found as nonproteic ligands, since sulfide‐containing and sulfide‐devoid species coexisted in the corresponding preparations. Significantly, Raman bands useful as markers of sulfide bridging ligands were identified. Overall, this work illustrates how the combination of analytical and spectroscopic techniques can be a very informative approach for the analysis of in vivo‐synthesized metal‐MT complexes, providing new data on the metal binding behavior of MTs from the most diverse organisms. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 89: 1114–1124, 2008.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
In vivo real‐time bioimaging of hyaluronic acid derivatives using quantum dots
Authors: Kim Jiseok , Kim Ki Su , Jiang Ge , Kang Hyungu , Kim Sungjee , Kim Byung‐Soo , Park Moon Hyang , Hahn Sei Kwang
Published: August 2008

The effect of chemical modification of hyaluronic acid (HA) on its distribution throughout the body was successfully visualized in nude mice through real‐time bioimaging using quantum dots (QDots). Adipic acid dihydrazide modified HA (HA‐ADH) was synthesized and conjugated with QDots having carboxyl terminal ligands activated with 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide and N‐hydroxysulfosuccinimide. The formation of HA‐QDot conjugates could be confirmed by gel permeation chromatography, fluorometry, transmission electron microscopy, and ζ‐size analysis. According to the real‐time bioimaging of HA‐QDot conjugates after subcutaneous injection to nude mice, the fluorescence of HA‐QDot conjugates with a near infrared wavelength of 800 nm could be detected up to 2 months, whereas that with an emission wavelength of 655 nm disappeared almost completely within 5 days. The results can be ascribed to the fact that near‐infrared light has a high penetration depth of about 5–6 cm in the body compared to that of about 7–10 mm for visible light. Thereby, using QDots with a near‐infrared emission wavelength of 800 nm, the distribution of HA‐QDot conjugates throughout the body was bioimaged in real‐time after their tail‐vein injection into nude mice. HA‐QDot conjugates with 35 mol% ADH content maintaining enough binding sites for HA receptors were mainly accumulated in the liver, while those with 68 mol% ADH content losing much of HA characteristics were evenly distributed to the tissues in the body. The results are well matched with the fact that HA receptors are abundantly present in the liver with a high specificity to HA molecules. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 89: 1144–1153, 2008.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Polymorphism of the SOD1‐DNA aggregation species can be modulated by DNA
Authors: Jiang Wei , Zhang Bo , Yin Jun , Liu Liang , Wang Li , Liu Changlin
Published: August 2008

Proteinaceous aggregates rich in copper, zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD1) have been found in both in vivo and in vitro models. We have shown that double‐stranded DNA that acts as a template accelerates the in vitro formation of wild‐type SOD1 aggregates. Here, we examined the polymorphism of templated‐SOD1 aggregates generated in vitro upon association with DNA under different conditions. Electron microscopy imaging indicates that this polymorphism is capable of being manipulated by the shapes, structures, and doses of the DNAs tested. The nanometer‐ and micrometer‐scale aggregates formed under acidic conditions and under neutral conditions containing ascorbate fall into three classes: aggregate monomers, oligomeric aggregates, and macroaggregates. The aggregate monomers observed at given DNA doses exhibit a polymorphism that is markedly corresponded to the coiled shapes of linear DNA and structures of plasmid DNA. On the other hand, the regularly branched structures observed under both atomic force microscopy and optical microscope indicate that the DNAs tested are simultaneously condensed into a nanoparticle with a specific morphology during SOD1 aggregation, revealing that SOD1 aggregation and DNA condensation are two concurrent phenomena. The results might provide the basis of therapeutic approaches to suppress the formation of toxic protein oligomers or aggregates by screening the toxicity of the protein aggregates with various sizes and morphologies. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 89: 1154–1169, 2008.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Biomining with bacteriophage: Selectivity of displayed peptides for naturally occurring sphalerite and chalcopyrite
Authors: Curtis Susan B. , Hewitt Jeff , MacGillivray Ross T.A. , Dunbar W. Scott
Published: August 2008

During mineral processing, concentrates of sulfide minerals of economic interest are formed by froth flotation of fine ore particles. The method works well but recovery and selectivity can be poor for ores with complex mineralogy. There is considerable interest in methods that improve the selectivity of this process while avoiding the high costs of using flotation chemicals. Here we show the first application of phage biotechnology to the processing of economically important minerals in ore slurries. A random heptapeptide library was screened for peptide sequences that bind selectively to the minerals sphalerite (ZnS) and chalcopyrite (CuFeS2). After several rounds of enrichment, cloned phage containing the surface peptide loops KPLLMGS and QPKGPKQ bound specifically to sphalerite. Phage containing the peptide loop TPTTYKV bound to both sphalerite and chalcopyrite. By using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA), the phage was characterized as strong binders compared to wild‐type phage. Specificity of binding was confirmed by immunochemical visualization of phage bound to mineral particles but not to silica (a waste mineral) or pyrite. The current study focused primarily on the isolation of ZnS‐specific phage that could be utilized in the separation of sphalerite from silica. At mining sites where sphalerite and chalcopyrite are not found together in natural ores, the separation of sphalerite from silica would be an appropriate enrichment step. At mining sites where sphalerite and chalcopyrite do occur together, more specific phage would be required. This bacteriophage has the potential to be used in a more selective method of mineral separation and to be the basis for advanced methods of mineral processing. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009;102: 644–650. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neurite growth in 3D collagen gels with gradients of mechanical properties
Authors: Sundararaghavan Harini G. , Monteiro Gary A. , Firestein Bonnie L. , Shreiber David I.
Published: August 2008

We have designed and developed a microfluidic system to study the response of cells to controlled gradients of mechanical stiffness in 3D collagen gels. An ‘H’‐shaped, source–sink network was filled with a type I collagen solution, which self‐assembled into a fibrillar gel. A 1D gradient of genipin—a natural crosslinker that also causes collagen to fluoresce upon crosslinking—was generated in the cross‐channel through the 3D collagen gel to create a gradient of crosslinks and stiffness. The gradient of stiffness was observed via fluorescence. A separate, underlying channel in the microfluidic construct allowed the introduction of cells into the gradient. Neurites from chick dorsal root ganglia explants grew significantly longer down the gradient of stiffness than up the gradient and than in control gels not treated with genipin. No changes in cell adhesion, collagen fiber size, or density were observed following crosslinking with genipin, indicating that the primary effect of genipin was on the mechanical properties of the gel. These results demonstrate that (1) the microfluidic system can be used to study durotactic behavior of cells and (2) neurite growth can be directed and enhanced by a gradient of mechanical properties, with the goal of incorporating mechanical gradients into nerve and spinal cord regenerative therapies. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009;102: 632–643. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
AI‐2 biosynthesis module in a magnetic nanofactory alters bacterial response via localized synthesis and delivery
Authors: Fernandes Rohan , Bentley William E.
Published: August 2008

Nanofactories are nano‐dimensioned and comprised of modules serving various functions that alter the response of targeted cells when deployed by locally synthesizing and delivering cargo to the surfaces of the targeted cells. In its basic form, a nanofactory consists of a minimum of two functional modules: a cell capture module and a synthesis module. In this work, magnetic nanofactories that alter the response of targeted bacteria by the localized synthesis and delivery of the “universal” bacterial quorum sensing signal molecule autoinducer AI‐2 are demonstrated. The magnetic nanofactories consist of a cell capture module (chitosan‐mag nanoparticles) and an AI‐2 biosynthesis module that contains both AI‐2 biosynthetic enzymes Pfs and LuxS on a fusion protein (His‐LuxS‐Pfs‐Tyr, HLPT) assembled together. HLPT is hypothesized to be more efficient than its constituent enzymes (used separately) at conversion of the substrate SAH to product AI‐2 on account of the proximity of the two enzymes within the fusion protein. HLPT is demonstrated to be more active than the constituent enzymes, Pfs and LuxS, over a wide range of experimental conditions. The magnetic nanofactories (containing bound HLPT) are also demonstrated to be more active than free, unbound HLPT. They are also shown to elicit an increased response in targeted Escherichia coli cells, due to the localized synthesis and delivery of AI‐2, when compared to the response produced by the addition of AI‐2 directly to the cells. Studies investigating the universality of AI‐2 and unraveling AI‐2 based quorum sensing in bacteria using magnetic nanofactories are envisioned. The prospects of using such multi‐modular nanofactories in developing the next generation of antimicrobials based on intercepting and interrupting quorum sensing based signaling are discussed. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009;102: 390–399. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Assessment of the impact of salinity and irradiance on the combined carbon dioxide sequestration and carotenoids production by Dunaliella salina: A mathematical model
Authors: Araújo O.Q.F. , Gobbi C.N. , Chaloub R.M. , Coelho M.A.Z.
Published: August 2008

Current anthropogenic activities have been causing a significant increase in the atmospheric concentration of CO2 over the past 60 years. To mitigate the consequent global warming problem, efficient technological solutions, based on economical and technical grounds, are required. In this work, microalgae are studied as important biological systems of CO2 fixation into organic compounds through photosynthesis. These microorganisms are potential sources of a wide variety of interesting chemical compounds, which can be used for commercial purposes, reducing the cost of CO2 capture and sequestration. Specifically, Dunaliella salina culture was studied aiming at the impact evaluation of operational conditions over cellular growth and carotenoid production associated with the CO2 sequestration on focus. The main experimental parameters investigated were salinity and irradiance conditions. The experimental results supported the development of a descriptive mathematical model of the process. Based on the proposed model, a sensitivity analysis was carried out to investigate the operational conditions that maximize CO2 consumption and carotenoid production, in order to guide further development of technological routes for CO2 capture through microalgae. A preliminary cost estimation of CO2 sequestration combined to carotenoids production for a 200 MW power plant is presented, based on the growth rates achieved in this study. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009;102: 425–435. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Engineering of the α‐amylase from Geobacillus stearothermophilus US100 for detergent incorporation
Authors: Khemakhem Bassem , Ali Mamdouh Ben , Aghajari Nushin , Juy Michel , Haser Richard , Bejar Samir
Published: August 2008

AmyUS100ΔIG is a variant of the most thermoactive and thermostable maltohexaose forming α‐amylase produced by Geobacillus stearothermophilus sp.US100. This enzyme which was designed to improve the thermostability of the wild‐type enzyme has acquired a very high resistance to chelator agents. According to modeling structural studies and with the aim of enhancing its resistance towards chemical oxidation, a mutant (AmyUS100ΔIG/M197A) was created by substituting methionine 197 to alanine. The catalytic proprieties of the resulting mutant show alterations in the specific activity and the profile of starch hydrolysis. Interestingly, AmyUS100ΔIG/M197A displayed the highest resistance to oxidation compared to the AmyUS100ΔIG and to Termamyl300®, the well‐known commercial amylase used in detergent. Further, performance of the engineered α‐amylase was estimated in the presence of commonly used detergent compounds and a wide range of commercial detergent (liquid and solid). These studies indicated a high compatibility and performance of AmyUS100ΔIG/M197A, suggesting its potential application in detergent industry. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009;102: 380–389. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Study of quadrant high-dose intraoperative radiation therapy for early-stage breast cancer
Authors: Sacchini V , Beal K , Goldberg J , Montgomery L , Port E , McCormick B
Published: August 2008

Background

Partial breast irradiation has been tested in limited pilot studies and shown to provide acceptable cosmesis, minimal toxicity and adequate local control. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of using quadrant high-dose intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) for the treatment of early-stage breast cancer.

Methods

Fifty-two women with early-stage breast cancer were treated with breast-conserving therapy and IORT between October 2002 and January 2006. The first 18 women received a radiation dose of 20 Gy. The protocol was then amended and the remaining 34 women were treated with 18 Gy. Each patient was evaluated after surgery, and at 3, 6 and 12 months; complications, toxicity and cosmetic outcomes were recorded by the breast surgeon.

Results

Women treated with 18 Gy appeared to have a more favourable cosmetic outcome compared with the earlier treatment group. At last follow-up, none of the women treated on the protocol had a breast recurrence.

Conclusion

Experience suggests that this IORT technique is feasible, although further follow-up is necessary to assess its therapeutic value.
Local impact of the English arm of the UK Bowel Cancer Screening Pilot study
Authors: Goodyear S J , Stallard N , Gaunt A , Parker R , Williams N , Wong L
Published: August 2008

Background

The English arm of the UK Bowel Cancer Screening Pilot study recently concluded its third round. The primary aim was to assess the impact of faecal occult blood test (FOBT) screening on the detection of symptomatic (non-screen-detected) cancers within the target age group (50–69 years). The secondary aim was to assess differences between screened and non-screened cohorts in Dukes' classification at diagnosis.

Methods

This population-based study utilized retrospective analysis of existing validated colorectal cancer (CRC) data over 5 years (April 2000 to March 2005), encompassing rounds one and two of screening.

Results

There was a 23 per cent (P = 0·011) reduction in the diagnosis of over the 5 years. Presentations with symptomatic cancer reduced by 49 per cent (P = 0·049), with a proportionate (2·6-fold) rise in the detection of screened (asymptomatic) malignancy. Cancers were diagnosed at an earlier stage in the screened population, with significantly more Dukes' A tumours than in the non-screen-detected cohort (P < 0·001) and an estimated odds ratio of 0·27 (95 per cent confidence interval 0·08 to 0·91) (P = 0·035) for Dukes' ‘D’ cancers.

Conclusion

FOBT screening resulted in a significant reduction in the number of symptomatic cancers detected within the target age group. Tumours detected by screening were diagnosed at an earlier pathological stage.
Sites of surgical waisting in the abdominoperineal specimen
Authors: Salerno G , Chandler I , Wotherspoon A , Thomas K , Moran B , Brown G
Published: August 2008

Background

In the abdominoperineal excision (APE) specimen ‘surgical waisting’ has been described, where the least amount of tissue covers the rectum. This is associated with high positive margin rates. The aim of this study was to locate the site of surgical waisting, namely the least amount of tissue excised at APE.

Methods

Distances from the anal verge to the distal and proximal edges of the sphincter, puborectalis and levator muscles were measured in 12 patients using morphological features on magnetic resonance images. Distances from the mucularis propria to the outer surface of the pelvic muscles and the outer edge of the specimen were measured on axial images. The height from the anal verge at which axial measurements of tissue were minimal was determined.

Results

The presence of a surgical waist between 35 and 42 mm above the anal verge, corresponding to the puborectalis, was confirmed. A smaller amount of perirectal tissue was resected at this level than at other heights (P < 0·001).

Conclusion

Because less tissue is excised at the puborectalis, careful dissection along the levator plane is necessary, especially if tumour is present. More radical excision of the levators and puborectalis may be of benefit in such patients.
Prospective randomized study of monopolar scissors, bipolar vessel sealer and ultrasonic shears in laparoscopic colorectal surgery
Authors: Hubner M , Demartines N , Muller S , Dindo D , Clavien P-A , Hahnloser D
Published: August 2008

Background

Many instruments are used for laparoscopic dissection, including monopolar electrosurgery scissors (MES), electrothermal bipolar vessel sealers (BVS) and ultrasonically coagulating shears (UCS). These three devices were compared with regard to dissection time, blood loss, safety and costs.

Methods

Sixty-one consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic left-sided colectomy were randomized to MES, BVS or UCS. The primary endpoint was dissection time.

Results

Patient and operation characteristics did not differ between the groups. Median dissection time was significantly shorter with BVS (105 min) and UCS (90 min) than with MES (137 min) (P < 0·001). With BVS and UCS, significantly fewer additional clips were required (MES 9 versus BVS 0 versus UCS 3; P < 0·001) and there was a trend towards lower blood loss (125 versus 50 versus 50 ml respectively; P = 0·223) and a reduced volume of suction fluid (425 versus 80 versus 110 ml; P = 0·058). Overall satisfaction was similar for the three instruments. Dissection with BVS and UCS was significantly cheaper than with MES, assuming a centre volume of 200 cases per year (P = 0·009).

Conclusion

BVS and UCS shorten dissection time in laparoscopic left-sided colectomy and are cost-effective compared with MES. Registration number: NCT00517608 (http://www.clinicaltrials.com).
Perioperative beta-blockade in non-cardiac surgical patients
Authors: Sear J W , Foex P
Published: August 2008

Not for everyone
Risk of new aneurysms after surgery for popliteal artery aneurysm (Br J Surg 2008; 95: 571–575)
Authors: Appleton N D , Davies L , Lewis M H
Published: August 2008

The Editors welcome topical correspondence from readers relating to articles published in the Journal. Responses should be sent electronically via the BJS website (www.bjs.co.uk). All letters will be reviewed and, if approved,appear on the website. A selection of these will be edited and published in the Journal. Letters must be no more than 250 words in length.
Effect of Ultrasound on Leaching of Tannic Acid from Tea and its Modeling
Authors: Sonawane S. S. , Patil V. S.
Published: August 2008

An elegant approach was used to leach tannic acid from tea leaves. The leaching of the tannic acid from tea powder using different solvents was performed using an ultrasonication method. Moreover, the extraction of solvents was compared using a soxhlet apparatus. The leaching process was modeled using the concept of thin film, which provides the resistance to transfer. The model was found to be fit for the comparison of methods for the leaching of tannic acid from the tea powder and it is intended to extend its use to calculate the mass transfer coefficients for different conditions.
Simplified Method for Calculating Solubilities of Hydrocarbons in Hydrate Inhibitors
Authors: Bahadori A. , Vuthaluru H. B.
Published: August 2008

Significant amount of work has been performed in order to determine the solubility of light hydrocarbons (methane and ethane) in the most commonly used hydrate inhibitors (such as methanol and ethylene glycol) at various temperatures and pressures. These solubility data have been compiled and correlated. In most cases, however, current models may not be sufficient if accurate predictions are needed. The aim of this study is to present a simple‐to‐use method for accurate prediction of solubilities of light hydrocarbons in methanol and ethylene glycol (at different weight percentages in water) as a function of reduced partial pressure and reduced temperature. The predictions from the method proposed are compared with reported experimental data and found good agreement between observed data and the predicted values with average absolute deviation less than 1.46 %. It was also found that this method is more accurate than conventional thermodynamical approaches (in particular, the NRTL model) in predicting the solubilities of light alkanes in hydrate inhibitors.
ChemInform Abstract: Preparation and Crystal Structure of the Neodymium Borohydride [Li(thf)4]2 [Nd2(μ‐Cl)2(BH4)6 (thf)2].
Authors: Klein Axel , Pohl Roland W. H.
Published: August 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: An Investigation of the Structures of the Compounds in the Tin‐Rich Part of the Dy—Sn System: Crystal Structure of Dy5Sn11 and Dy5Sn13.
Authors: Venturini G. , Mesbach A.
Published: August 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Syntheses and Single‐Crystal Structures of La3AgSnS7, Ln3MxMS7 (Ln: La, Ho, Er; M: Ge, Sn; 1/4 ≤ x ≤ 1/2).
Authors: Zeng Hui‐Yi , Zheng Fa‐Kun , Guo Guo‐Cong , Huang Jin‐Shun
Published: August 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Photoluminescence of Perovskite Nanosheets Prepared by Exfoliation of Layered Oxides, K2Ln2Ti3O10, KLnNb2O7, and RbLnTa2O7 (Ln: Lanthanide Ion).
Authors: Ida Shintaro , Ogata Chikako , Eguchi Miharu , Youngblood W. Justin , Mallouk Thomas E. , Matsumoto Yasumichi
Published: August 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Magnetic, Optical, and Electronic Properties of the Phosphide Oxides LnZnPO (Ln: Y, La—Nd, Sm, Gd, Dy, Ho).
Authors: Lincke Hannes , Glaum Robert , Dittrich Volker , Tegel Marcus , Johrendt Dirk , Hermes Wilfried , Moeller Manfred H. , Nilges Tom , Poettgen Rainer
Published: August 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Different Cerium Valence Transitions Observed by Hydrogenation of the Ternary Germanides CeRhGe and CeIrGe — Structure, Physical Properties and Chemical Bonding.
Authors: Chevalier Bernard , Gaudin Etienne , Al Alam Adel F. , Matar Samir F. , Weill Francois , Heying Birgit , Poettgen Rainer
Published: August 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: The Ternary System Na2O—ZnO—WO3: Compounds and Phase Relationships.
Authors: Yan Fengbo , Chen Dagui , Li Wei , Lin Zhang , Zhao Zhenguo , Xue Liping , Huang Feng , Liang Jingkui
Published: August 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: H2O2 Generation by Decamethylferrocene at a Liquid/Liquid Interface.
Authors: Su Bin , Nia Raheleh Partovi , Li Fei , Hojeij Mohamad , Prudent Michel , Corminboeuf Clemence , Samec Zdenek , Girault Hubert H.
Published: August 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: GeB4O9×H2en: An Organically Templated Borogermanate with Large 12‐Ring Channels Built by B4O9 Polyanions and GeO4 Units: Host—Guest Symmetry and Charge Matching in Triangular‐Tetrahedral Frameworks.
Authors: Pan Chun‐Yang , Liu Guang‐Zhen , Zheng Shou‐Tian , Yang Guo‐Yu
Published: August 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Polymer‐Supported Tertiarylphosphine (JJ—TPP) as a Green and Recyclable Organocatalyst for α‐Addition of Carbon Nucleophiles to α,β‐Unsaturated Compounds.
Authors: Liu Hai‐Ling , Jiang Huan‐Feng
Published: August 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Chiral Phosphoric Acid Catalyzed Enantioselective Friedel—Crafts Alkylation of Indoles with Nitroalkenes: Cooperative Effect of 3 Å Molecular Sieves.
Authors: Itoh Junji , Fuchibe Kohei , Akiyama Takahiko
Published: August 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Iodine‐Catalyzed Nucleophilic Substitution Reactions of Benzylic Alcohols.
Authors: Srihari Pabbaraja , Bhunia Dinesh C. , Sreedhar Pamu , Yadav Jhillu S.
Published: August 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: A New Pd‐Catalyzed Cascade Reaction for the Synthesis of Strained Aromatic Polycycles.
Authors: Blond Gaelle , Bour Christophe , Salem Bahaa , Suffert Jean
Published: August 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
Exciton coupling circular dichroism of an allylic N‐imidazolyl group in amaranzole A, a marine natural product from Phorbas amaranthus
Authors: Morinaka Brandon I. , Molinski Tadeusz F.
Published: August 2008

A new steroidal alkaloid amaranzole A (10) with a C24‐imidazolyl group displays an unusually large split‐CD spectrum at short wavelengths that we assign to exciton coupled circular dichroism (ECCD) between the polarized π‐π* transitions of the C25 CC double bond and the imidazolyl group. A model 4,5‐disubstituted imidazole 11, prepared from optically pure (R)‐(–)‐2‐aminobutanol, exhibited similar ECCD and solvent and pH‐dependence consistent with changes in the protonation state of the imidazole ring. Calculations and CD measurement of 12 (the dihydro‐derivative of 11) suggest that the 4‐hydroxyphenyl group is not strongly conjugated to the imidazole group in 10, and the observed ECCD is entirely accounted for by coupling between the CC double bond and isolated imidazole π‐π* transitions. Chirality, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A computational method for identifying a spacewise‐dependent heat source
Authors: Yan Liang , Fu Chu‐Li , Dou Fang‐Fang
Published: August 2008

In this paper, we consider a finite difference approximation to an inverse problem of determining a spacewise‐dependent heat source in the parabolic heat equation using the usual conditions of the direct problem and information from one supplementary temperature measurement at a given instant of time. Since the resulting matrix equation is ill‐conditioned, a regularized solution is obtained by employing the truncated singular value decomposition to solve the matrix equation arising from the finite difference method, with the optimal regularization parameter determined by the generalized cross‐validation criterion. The effectiveness of the proposed numerical scheme is illustrated by several continuous and discontinuous numerical examples. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Validated protocol for FoxP3 reveals increased expression in type 1 diabetes patients
Authors: Grant Jean , Bourcier Katarzyna , Wallace Stephen , Pan Dalin , Conway Alexis , Seyfert‐Margolis Vicki , Wallace Paul K.
Published: August 2008

Background

FoxP3 has become a key identifier of regulatory T cells. Investigators have used a variety of antibodies and methods for detecting FoxP3 by flow cytometry. To standardize FoxP3 antibody staining for use in clinical trial samples, we tested various antibodies from different vendors, cell preparation protocols and fix/perm reagents, and cell isolation procedures. Using this optimized staining protocol, we evaluated clinical specimens from patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) or type 1 diabetes.

Methods

FoxP3 antibodies from eBioscience (236A/E7 and PCH101) and BioLegend (206D) were evaluated along with their respective methods and fix/perm reagents for preparation and staining of FoxP3 for flow cytometry. Fresh washed blood and frozen or fresh PBMC were evaluated. Upon optimization of the protocol, clinical samples (frozen PBMC) from patients with MS or type 1 diabetes and healthy control donors were evaluated with the BioLegend antibody.

Results

Clone 206D from BioLegend yielded optimal staining and the fix/perm reagents from both eBioscience and BioLegend were comparable. Data were also comparable between cells separated by Ficoll (fresh or frozen) and washed blood samples, allowing this protocol to be applicable to different types of samples. We validated this protocol using clinical samples and saw a significant increase in FoxP3 expression in the patients with type 1 diabetes but not in the MS.

Conclusions

The results from this study will allow the assessment of FoxP3 by flow cytometry on samples from clinical sites that are analyzed in real time on fresh blood or frozen PBMC. © 2008 Clinical Cytometry Society
Synthesis and Characterization of a (Dipyridylthiophene)platin Complex of a Pyridyl‐Substituted Aminoethylglycine Artificial Dipeptide
Authors: Levine Lauren A. , Youm Hye Won , Yennawar Hemant P. , Williams Mary Elizabeth
Published: August 2008

We report the solution‐phase synthesis and characterization of an artificial pyridyl‐substituted dipeptide that is crosslinked by a 2,5‐bis(2‐pyridyl)thiophene (dpt) platinum complex. The small molecule equivalent for the Pt(dpt)dipyridyl‐peptide is synthesized for comparison. These compounds are characterized by two‐dimensional and variable‐temperature NMR, mass spectrometry, electrochemistry, UV/Vis absorbance and emission spectroscopy, and their photoemission dynamics are compared. The complexes have two reversible, ligand‐centered reductions, are luminescent at room temperature, and have two distinct radiative relaxations with nanosecond and microsecond lifetimes. These metallated peptide building blocks are promising for use as stable inorganic complexes to label synthetic peptides with luminescent and redox‐active probes.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Opportunities and Challenges in Materials Development for Thin Film Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Litzelman S. J. , Hertz J. L. , Jung W. , Tuller H. L.
Published: August 2008

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are currently the focus of intense investigation given their high chemical‐to‐electrical energy conversion efficiency and low carbon footprint. In this review, the development of thin film SOFCs, sometimes described as ‘micro‐SOFCs', is highlighted and analysed. Opportunities for reduced temperature operation and portable power generation arise from the decreased thickness of the solid electrolyte, as well at the metastable phases and nanoscale‐dependent effects that are a consequence of the reduced temperature of fabrication. Challenges such as enhanced cation diffusion along grain boundaries are; however, also observed, potentially impacting the long‐term stability of these devices. Recent progress achieved in understanding these and other challenges are reviewed and directions for future work identified.