bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical and electronic properties in multiwalled carbon nanotube–poly(3‐dodecylthiophene) nanocomposites
Authors: Garai Ashesh , Kuila Biplab K. , Samai Subhasis , Roy Somnath , Mukherjee Pratap , Nandi Arun K.
Published: June 2009

The properties of nanocomposites of dodecyl ester functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotube (FMWNT) and four poly(3‐dodecyl thiophene) (P3DDT) samples with different molecular weight and chain regioregularity are reported here. Uniform dispersion of FMWNT in the composites is evident from TEM study. π–π and CH–π interactions are evident from FTIR spectra in the low molecular weight (Mw = 8 × 104) and high regiorandom (head‐tail = 69 mol %) P3DDT (ILM) composites; however, such interactions are not so prominent for other P3DDTs. Wide‐angle X‐ray scattering patterns indicate intact interchain lamellar structure of P3DDT in the composites. DSC study shows decrease of main chain melting peak of P3DDT (ILM) with increasing F‐MWNT content but the decrease is lower with higher molecular weight and higher regioregular samples. Dynamic mechanical analyzer study indicates that there is no significant change in the Tg, Tβ, and Tγ transition temperature with FMWNT concentration indicating almost ideal mixing of the components. The percent increase of G′ increases with increasing FMWNT loading and also with temperature showing an 84% increase in storage modulus at –20 °C for ILM12 samples. The UV–vis spectrum indicates a decrease in band gap with FMWNT concentration for ILM composites, however, it is negligible with other P3DDTs. Photoluminescence quenching and multiple emission peaks occur in the composites. dc‐Conductivity of the composites increases by two orders and current‐voltage (I–V) curves show memory effect only in ILM‐MWNT composites. The I–V curves of other P3DDT nanocomposites exhibit rectification property. Quantitative explanation of electronic properties has been afforded from the band energy and work function values. So, the electronic properties of the nanocomposite can be tuned by changing the molecular weight, regioregularity, and concentration of FMWNT. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 47: 1412–1425, 2009
Isocyanate‐Free Curing of Glycidyl Azide Polymer (GAP) with Bis‐Propargyl‐Succinate (II)
Authors: Keicher Thomas , Kuglstatter Werner , Eisele Siegfried , Wetzel Tim , Krause Horst
Published: June 2009

Four different GAP mixtures with di‐ and tri‐functional GAP types were successfully cured with bis‐propargyl‐succinate (BPS) via 1,3 dipolar cycloaddition reaction between the azido groups of GAP and the triple bonds of the propargyl ester. Investigation of one series of curing on di‐functional and another series on tri‐functional GAP was done and compared with two additional curing series on mixtures of di‐ and tri‐functional GAP. The BPS which acted as a curing agent analog to isocyanate in classical polyurethane systems, was varied in its content, and the influence on the mechanical properties of the cross‐linked binders was measured by tensile tests. The mechanical properties could be adjusted in a wide range by varying the amount of BPS. The E modulus of the tested samples was in the range of 0.06–0.674 N mm−2 at elongations between 50 and 95% and the maximum stress was in the range of 0.05–0.32 N mm−2. Increasing contents of BPS showed, in thermal analysis by DSC, only a small decrease in the decomposition energy and slightly raised glass transition temperatures. The required amount of inert curing agent for complete cure of GAP is lower for BPS in comparison to isocyanate, so this will result in a higher total energy content in the binder system. However, BPS‐cured systems can lead to higher glass transition temperatures than isocyanate‐based binder systems. The curing process has been monitored by measuring the increasing viscosity at 50 and 60 °C. The curing time of the investigated binder systems for quantitative curing at 65 °C is around four days, which was checked by measuring the surface hardness, but at room temperature the premixed curing samples staid liquid for around 1 week.
Osmolyte perturbation reveals conformational equilibria in spin‐labeled proteins
Authors: López Carlos J. , Fleissner Mark R. , Guo Zhefeng , Kusnetzow Ana K. , Hubbell Wayne L.
Published: June 2009

Recent evidence suggests that proteins at equilibrium can exist in a manifold of conformational substates, and that these substates play important roles in protein function. Therefore, there is great interest in identifying regions in proteins that are in conformational exchange. Electron paramagnetic resonance spectra of spin‐labeled proteins containing the nitroxide side chain (R1) often consist of two (or more) components that may arise from slow exchange between conformational substates (lifetimes > 100 ns). However, crystal structures of proteins containing R1 have shown that multicomponent spectra can also arise from equilibria between rotamers of the side chain itself. In this report, it is shown that these scenarios can be distinguished by the response of the system to solvent perturbation with stabilizing osmolytes such as sucrose. Thus, site‐directed spin labeling (SDSL) emerges as a new tool to explore slow conformational exchange in proteins of arbitrary size, including membrane proteins in a native‐like environment. Moreover, equilibrium between substates with even modest differences in conformation is revealed, and the simplicity of the method makes it suitable for facile screening of multiple proteins. Together with previously developed strategies for monitoring picosecond to millisecond backbone dynamics, the results presented here expand the timescale over which SDSL can be used to explore protein flexibility.
Exploring functional roles of multibinding protein interfaces
Authors: Tyagi Manoj , Shoemaker Benjamin A. , Bryant Stephen H. , Panchenko Anna R.
Published: June 2009

Cellular processes are highly interconnected and many proteins are shared in different pathways. Some of these shared proteins or protein families may interact with diverse partners using the same interface regions; such multibinding proteins are the subject of our study. The main goal of our study is to attempt to decipher the mechanisms of specific molecular recognition of multiple diverse partners by promiscuous protein regions. To address this, we attempt to analyze the physicochemical properties of multibinding interfaces and highlight the major mechanisms of functional switches realized through multibinding. We find that only 5% of protein families in the structure database have multibinding interfaces, and multibinding interfaces do not show any higher sequence conservation compared with the background interface sites. We highlight several important functional mechanisms utilized by multibinding families. (a) Overlap between different functional pathways can be prevented by the switches involving nearby residues of the same interfacial region. (b) Interfaces can be reused in pathways where the substrate should be passed from one protein to another sequentially. (c) The same protein family can develop different specificities toward different binding partners reusing the same interface; and finally, (d) inhibitors can attach to substrate binding sites as substrate mimicry and thereby prevent substrate binding.
Alpha helical crossovers favor right‐handed supersecondary structures by kinetic trapping: The phone cord effect in protein folding
Authors: Cole Benjamin J. , Bystroff Christopher
Published: June 2009

The remarkable predominance of right‐handedness in beta‐alpha‐beta helical crossovers has been previously explained in terms of thermodynamic stability and kinetic accessibility, but a different kinetic trapping mechanism may also play a role. If the beta‐sheet contacts are made before the crossover helix is fully formed, and if the backbone angles of the folding helix follows the energetic pathway of least resistance, then the helix would impart a torque on the ends of the two strands. Such a torque would tear apart a left‐handed conformation but hold together a right‐handed one. Right‐handed helical crossovers predominate even in all‐alpha proteins, where previous explanations based on the preferred twist of the beta sheet do not apply. Using simple molecular simulations, we can reproduce the right‐handed preference in beta‐alpha‐beta units, without imposing specific beta‐strand geometry. The new kinetic trapping mechanism is dubbed the “phone cord effect” because it is reminiscent of the way a helical phone cord forms superhelices to relieve torsional stress. Kinetic trapping explains the presence of a right‐handed superhelical preference in alpha helical crossovers and provides a possible folding mechanism for knotted proteins.
Esculentin 1–21: a linear antimicrobial peptide from frog skin with inhibitory effect on bovine mastitis‐causing bacteria
Authors: Islas‐Rodrìguez Alfonso Enrique , Marcellini Ludovica , Orioni Barbara , Barra Donatella , Stella Lorenzo , Mangoni Maria Luisa
Published: June 2009

Mastitis, or inflammation of the mammary gland, is the most common and expensive illness of dairy cows throughout the world. Although stress and physical injuries may give rise to inflammation of the udders, infections by bacteria or other microorganisms remain the major cause, and infusion of antibiotics is the main treatment approach. However, the increased emergence of multidrug‐resistant pathogens and the production of milk contaminated with antibiotics has become a serious threat in the livestock. Hence, there is an urgent need for the discovery of new therapeutic agents with a new mode of action. Gene‐encoded AMPs, which represent the first line of defence in all living organisms, are considered as promising candidates for the development of new anti‐infective agents. This paper reports on the antibacterial activities in vitro and in an animal model, of the frog skin AMP esculentin 1–21 [Esc(1–21)], along with a plausible mode of action. Our data revealed that this peptide (i) is highly potent against the most common mastitis‐causing microbes (e.g. Streptococcus agalactiae); and (ii) is active in vivo, causing a visible regression of the clinical stage of mastitis in dairy cows, after 1 week of peptide treatment. Biophysical characterisation revealed that the peptide adopts an α‐helical structure in microbial mimicking membranes and is able to permeate the membrane of S. agalactiae in a dose‐dependent manner. Overall, these data suggest Esc(1–21) as an attractive AMP for the future design of new antibiotics to cure mastitis in cattle. Copyright © 2009 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High electron mobility achieved in n‐channel 4H‐SiC MOSFETs oxidized in the presence of nitrogen
Authors: Zippelius B. , Beljakowa S. , Krieger M. , Pensl G. , Reshanov S. A. , Noborio M. , Kimoto T. , Afanas'ev V. V.
Published: June 2009

Two types of nitrided n‐4H‐SiC MOSFETs have been investigated; the p‐type 4H‐SiC epilayer is either oxidized in the presence of N2O or an N‐/Al‐co‐implanted, surface‐near layer is over‐oxidized. The electrical parameters of these MOSFETs are determined and compared. We have investigated the temperature‐dependence of the threshold voltage VT and determined the effective mobility μeff and the field effect mobility μFE. Based on Hall effect measurements, we determined independently the free electron areal density ns, the Hall mobility μH and the differential Hall mobility μH,diff. The density of interface states Dit is obtained from the Hall effect, the temperature‐dependent VT and the conductance method. The stability of both types of MOSFETs is tested under stress (VG = ±25 V) at T = 295 K and T = 375 K. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Pure ferromagnetism vs. re‐entrant spin glass behaviour in epitaxial La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 on SrTiO3(001) and LaAlO3(001): the role of the substrate structural transition
Authors: Lehmann A. Geddo , Sanna C. , Congiu F. , Concas G. , Maritato L.
Published: June 2009

Thin films of La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 were grown by molecular beam epitaxy on ferroelastic SrTiO3(001) and LaAlO3(001) substrates, with ferroelastic transition at 105 K and 813 K respectively. High resolution X‐ray diffraction analysis proves the presence of twins at room temperature in the films grown onto LaAlO3, while films on SrTiO3 are untwinned. Low field dc magnetization measurements of films onto LaAlO3 are discussed in terms of coexisting ferromagnetic and spin disordered regions, connected to twin cores and twin boundaries respectively; the freezing temperature of the spin glass subsystem scales as H2/3 in the de Almeida–Thouless relation. Spin‐glass‐like features are absent in films on SrTiO3, in which the ferroelastic transition of the substrate is only marked by a small bump in the low field dc magnetization. The different magnetic behaviour depends on being the ferroelastic transition above or below the film Curie point. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Transport characteristics of indium nitride (InN) films grown by plasma assisted molecular beam epitaxy (PAMBE)
Authors: Knübel Andreas , Aidam Rolf , Cimalla Volker , Kirste Lutz , Baeumler Martina , Leancu Crenguta‐Columbina , Lebedev Vadim , Wallauer Jan , Walther Markus , Wagner Joachim
Published: June 2009

The cover picture of this issue of Phys. Status Solidi C has been taken from the article [1] (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Application of a Library of Artificial Receptors Formed by Self‐Organization of N‐Lipidated Peptides Immobilized on Cellulose for Preliminary Studies of Binding of N‐Phenylpiperazines
Authors: Fraczyk Justyna , Kolesinska Beata , Czarnecka Aleksandra , Malawska Barbara , Wieckowska Anna , Bajda Marek , Kaminski Zbigniew J.
Published: June 2009

A library of artificial receptors formed by self‐organization of N‐lipidated peptides attached to cellulose via aminophenylamino‐1,3,5‐triazine was synthesized and used for docking small, colorless guests. Interactions of colorless guest with receptors were visualized by using competitive adsorption‐desorption of appropriate reporter dye. Analysis of binding pattern of N‐phenylpiperazine derivatives with gradually increased lipophilicity was found diagnostic for structural changes of guest molecules. Several library members demonstrated attributes characteristic for detection of alteration of lipophilicity of the guest structure.
Reduced‐order impulsive control for a class of nonlinear systems
Authors: Wang Yan‐Wu , Wen Changyun , Soh Yeng Chai , Xiao Jiang‐Wen
Published: June 2009

Impulsive control of nonlinear systems is an attractive topic and a number of interesting results have been obtained in the recent years. However, most of the available results need to employ full information of the system states to achieve the desired objectives. In this paper, a reduced‐order impulsive control strategy that needs only part of state components is studied for a general class of nonlinear system, which is feasible for the case when some of the system states are not available or controllable. Typical chaotic systems, such as Lorenz system, Chua's oscillator, and Chen's system, are taken as examples. A systematic design scheme is proposed to select the impulsive intervals. After some theoretical analysis, simulation results illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hip psychometrics
Authors: Baldwin Peter , Bernstein Joseph , Wainer Howard
Published: June 2009

When data are abundant relative to the number of questions asked of them, answers can be formulated using little more than those data. But when data grow more sparse, so too does our tendency to lean on strong models to help us draw inferences. In this research we show how a strong item response model embedded within a fully Bayesian framework allows us to answer two important questions about the reliability and consistency of the clinical diagnosis of hip fractures from very limited data. We also show how the model automatically adjusts diagnoses for biases among the surgeons judging the radiographs. This research illustrates how a Bayesian approach expands the range of problems on which item response models can profitably be used. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pasting Properties of Potato Starch and Waxy Maize Starch Mixtures
Authors: Park Eun Young , Kim Hyun‐Na , Kim Jong‐Yea , Lim Seung‐Taik
Published: June 2009

The pasting viscosity, morphological properties, and swelling properties of potato starch and waxy maize starch mixtures at different ratios were investigated. Pasting analysis of the starch mixtures (7% solids in water, w/w) using a Rapid Visco Analyser showed linear changes in peak viscosity and pasting temperature according to the mixing ratios of both starches, but not in breakdown and setback. The pasting profile revealed that the starches rendered mutual effects during pasting, more significantly when the amounts of potato and waxy maize starches were similar. The volume fraction of swollen granules and the presence of amylose appeared to be important parameters in the mutual effects of both starched during pasting. Under a light microscope, the swelling of potato starch granules was delayed by the presence of waxy maize starch. Overall results indicate that new pasting properties can be generated by mixing starches of different botanical sources.
Residence Time Distribution and Modeling of Mechanical Properties of Extruded Nanocomposite Foams Using Adaptive Neuro‐Fuzzy Inference System
Authors: Lee Siew Yoong , Weber Robert , Hanna Milford A. , Jones David D.
Published: June 2009

Effects of two screw configurations (compression and mixing screws) and two barrel temperatures (150 and 160ºC) on residence time distribution (RTD) and modeling of mechanical properties of nanocomposite foams were studied. Multiple inputs single output (MISO) models were developed using Adaptive Neuro‐Fuzzy Inference System Modeling (ANFIS) to predict radial expansion ratio (RER), unit density (UD), bulk spring index (BSI) and bulk compressibility (BC) of the nanocomposite foams. An individual ANFIS model was developed for each mechanical property using torque (Nm), pressure (psi) and melt temperature (°C) as input parameters. Models were evaluated by the R2 of prediction and root mean squared error (RMSE) for training and testing. Wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD) results showed that the diffraction peaks for the mixing screws at 150ºC were narrow and had higher intensity indicating a strong intercalation in the nanocomposites. Screw configuration and temperature had significant effects (P<0.05) on the mean residence time (MTR) which affected the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites.
Alteration of synaptic transmission in the hippocampal‐mPFC pathway during extinction trials of context‐dependent fear memory in juvenile rat stress models
Authors: Koseki Hiroyo , Matsumoto Machiko , Togashi Hiroko , Miura Yoshihide , Fukushima Kazuaki , Yoshioka Mitsuhiro
Published: June 2009

The medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) has been proposed to be essential for extinction of fear memory, but its neural mechanism has been poorly understood. The present study examined whether synaptic transmission in the hippocampal‐mPFC pathway is related to extinction of context‐dependent fear memory in freely moving rats using electrophysiological approaches combined with behavioral analysis. Population spike amplitude in the mPFC was decreased during the first extinction trial by exposure to contextual fear conditioning. This synaptic inhibition was reversed by repeated extinction trials, accompanied by decreases in fear‐related freezing behavior. These results suggest that alteration of synaptic transmission in the hippocampal‐mPFC pathway is associated with the extinction processes of context‐dependent fear memory. Further experiments were performed to elucidate whether early postnatal stress alters the synaptic response in the mPFC during extinction trials using a juvenile stress model, based on our previous findings that early postnatal stress affects the behavioral response to emotional stress. Adult rats that previously were exposed to five footshocks (FS) (shock intensity, 0.5 mA; intershock interval, 28 seconds; shock duration, 2 seconds) at postnatal day 21 to 25 (week 3; 3W‐FS) exhibited impaired reversal of both inhibitory synaptic transmission and freezing behavior induced by repeated extinction trials. The neuronal and behavioral deficits observed in the 3W‐FS group were prevented by pretreatment with the serotonin1A receptor agonist tandospirone (1 mg/kg, i.p.). These results indicate the possiblity that aversive stress exposure during the third postnatal week impaired extinction processes of context‐dependent fear memory. The deficits in extinction observed in the 3W‐FS group might be attributable to dysfunction of hippocampal‐mPFC neural circuits involving 5‐HT1A receptor mechanisms. Synapse 63:805–813, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Measurement error for ultrasound fetal biometry performed by paramedics in rural Bangladesh
Authors: Neufeld L. M. , Wagatsuma Y. , Hussain R. , Begum M. , Frongillo E. A.
Published: June 2009

Objectives

To document the accuracy and precision of sonographic fetal biometry performed by nine paramedics from rural Bangladesh.

Methods

Paramedics underwent intensive training (6 weeks) including hands‐on practice then underwent a series of standardization exercises. Measurements of each fetus were taken by a highly‐trained medical doctor (study supervisor) and the nine paramedics. Crown–rump length (CRL) in fetuses of less than 10 weeks' gestation, and biparietal diameter (BPD), occipitofrontal diameter, head and abdominal circumference (AC) and femur diaphysis length (FL) were measured twice using standard procedures by each paramedic and the medical doctor for each fetus, with at least 20 min between them. Precision was quantified using variance components analysis; the intraobserver error for each of the paramedics was calculated by comparing repeat measurements taken on the same participant, and the measurements obtained by each individual paramedic were also compared with those taken by the others (interobserver error). Accuracy was estimated by comparing the mean of the two measures taken by each paramedic to those taken by the study supervisor using paired t‐tests. Bland–Altman plots were used to visually assess the relationship between precision of repeat measurements (intraobserver error) and fetal size.

Results

A total of 180 women, at 7 to 31 weeks' gestation, participated in the study. Intraobserver error of the measurements obtained by the paramedics, expressed as the mean SD, ranged from 0.97 mm for BPD in the first trimester to 7.25 mm for AC in the third trimester, and was larger than the interobserver error (i.e. accounting for a greater proportion of total variance) for most measurements. Interobserver error ranged from 0.00 mm for FL to 3.36 mm for AC, both in the third trimester. For all measurements except CRL, intraobserver error increased with increasing fetal size. The measurements obtained by the paramedics did show some statistically significant differences from those obtained by the study supervisor, but these were relatively small in magnitude.

Conclusions

Both inter‐ and intraobserver measurement errors were within the range reported in the literature for studies conducted by technical staff and medical doctors. With intense training, paramedics with no prior exposure to ultrasonography can provide accurate and precise measures of fetal biometry. Copyright © 2009 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proteome analysis of the xylose‐fermenting mutant yeast strain TMB 3400
Authors: Karhumaa Kaisa , Påhlman Anna‐Karin , Hahn‐Hägerdal Bärbel , Levander Fredrik , Gorwa‐Grauslund Marie‐F.
Published: June 2009

Xylose fermentation in yeast has been a target of research for years, yet not all the factors that may affect xylose fermentation perfomance of yeast strains are known. In this study, the mutant S. cerevisiae strain TMB 3400, which has good xylose fermentation properties, was compared with its parental strain to examine the factors behind the improved xylose utilization at protein level. The proteome of the parental and the mutant strains were characterized by difference in gel electrophoresis (DiGE) to quantitatively identify proteins that are expressed at altered levels in the mutant. The most significant changes detected by proteome analysis were the 6–10‐fold increased levels of xylose reductase, xylitol dehydrogenase and transketolase (Tkl1) in the mutant, which is in accordance with previous knowledge about xylose metabolism in yeast. The level of acetaldehyde dehydrogenase (Ald6) was also significantly increased. In addition, several proteins homologous to proteins from yeast species other than S. cerevisiae were identified in both strains, demonstrating the genetic heterogeneity of industrial yeast strains. The results were also compared with a previously reported transcription analysis performed with identical experimental set‐up; however, very little correlation between the two datasets was observed. The results of the proteome analysis were in good agreement with a parallel study in which rationally designed overexpression of XR, XDH and the non‐oxidative pentose phosphate pathway resulted in similar improvement in xylose utilization, which demonstrates the usefulness of proteome analysis for the identification of target genes for further metabolic engineering strategies in industrial yeast strains. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Additional cassettes for epitope and fluorescent fusion proteins in Candida albicans
Authors: Gerami‐Nejad Maryam , Dulmage Keely , Berman Judith
Published: June 2009

Epitope tags that confer specific properties, including affinity for resins or antibodies or detection by fluorescence microscopy, are highly useful for biochemical and cell biological investigations. In Candida albicans and several other related yeasts, the CUG codon specifies serine instead of leucine, requiring that molecular tools be customized for use in this important human fungal pathogen. Here we report the construction of a set of plasmids containing 13‐Myc, 3HA, GST, V5 or His9 epitope cassettes that facilitate PCR‐mediated construction of epitope‐tagged proteins. Common primer sets amplify the different tags with two different selectable markers. In addition, we report construction of a codon‐optimized Discosoma red fluorescent protein (DsRFP) gene. Like mCherryRFP, this DsRFP signal is detectable in transformants at the colony level and is useful in double‐labelling experiments with green fluorescent protein (GFP). Finally, we describe a construct that directs PCR‐mediated two‐step insertion of GFP internal to a coding sequence, which facilitates tagging of secreted proteins, including GPI‐anchor cell wall proteins that require endogenous N‐ and C‐termini for function. These reagents expand the repertoire of molecular tools available for working with C. albicans and other members of the CUG clade of pathogenic yeasts. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Baker's yeast expressing the Japanese encephalitis virus envelope protein on its cell surface: induction of an antigen‐specific but non‐neutralizing antibody response
Authors: Upadhyaya Bhaskar , Manjunath Ramanathapuram
Published: June 2009

Live recombinant Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast expressing the envelope antigen of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) on the outer mannoprotein layer of the cell wall were examined for their ability to induce antigen‐specific antibody responses in mice. When used as a model antigen, parenteral immunization of mice with surface‐expressing GFP yeast induced a strong anti‐GFP antibody response in the absence of adjuvants. This antigen delivery approach was then used for a more stringent system, such as the envelope protein of JEV, which is a neurotropic virus requiring neutralizing antibodies for protection. Although 70% of cells were detected to express the total envelope protein on the surface by antibodies raised to the bacterially expressed protein, polyclonal anti‐JEV antibodies failed to react with them. In marked contrast, yeast expressing the envelope fragments 238–398, 373–399 and 373–500 in front of a Gly–Ser linker were detected by anti‐JEV antibodies as well as a monoclonal antibody but not by antibodies raised to the bacterially expressed protein. Immunization of mice with these surface‐expressing recombinants resulted in a strong antibody response. However, the antibodies failed to neutralize the virus, although the fragments were selected based on neutralizing determinants. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Is Routine Dissection of Level II‐B and V‐A Necessary in Patients with Papillary Thyroid Cancer Undergoing Lateral Neck Dissection for FNA‐Confirmed Metastases in Other Levels
Authors: Farrag Tarik , Lin Frank , Brownlee Noel , Kim Matthew , Sheth Sheila , Tufano Ralph P.
Published: June 2009

Background

The purpose of the present study was to determine the utility of routine dissection of level II‐B and level V‐A in patients with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) undergoing lateral neck dissection for ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration (FNA)‐confirmed lateral nodal metastasis in at least one neck nodal level.

Methods

In a retrospective review, we studied the charts of 53 consecutive patients (February 2002–December 2007) with PTC who had undergone therapeutic lateral neck dissection that included at least level II‐(A and B) and/or level V‐(A and B). The levels were designated as such in situ prior to surgical pathology specimen processing. Reports of the preoperative FNA cytopathologic findings, the extent of lateral neck dissection by levels, and the postoperative final histopathologic examination were reviewed.

Results

A total of 53 patients underwent therapeutic lateral neck dissection for FNA‐confirmed nodal metastasis of PTC at a minimum of one lateral neck level. All 53 patients had preoperative ultrasonography and FNA confirmation of lateral neck disease: 46 patients had PTC, 5 had the tall cell variant of PTC, and 2 had the follicular variant of PTC on final surgical pathology. Ten patients underwent neck dissection at the time of thyroidectomy, and 43 patients underwent neck dissection for lateral neck recurrence/persistence of PTC following a previous thyroidectomy and radioactive iodine ± previous neck dissection. A total of 46 patients underwent unilateral neck dissection and 7 patients underwent bilateral neck dissection; thus 60 neck dissection specimens were evaluated. Level II (A and B) was excised in 59/60 neck dissections, with 33 of 59 specimens (33/59 = 60%) positive for metastasis. Level II‐B was positive 5 times (5/59; 8.5–95% CI: 2.4, 20.4), and each time level II‐B was positive, level II‐A was also grossly (and histopathologically—seen at the time of surgery) positive for metastasis. Level III was excised 58 times and was positive in 38 specimens (38/58 = 66%). Level IV was excised 58 times and was positive in 29 specimens (29/58 = 50%). Level V (A and B) was excised 40 times and was positive in 16 specimens (16–40 = 40%). Level V‐A did not account for any of the positive level V results (0%).

Conclusions

Cervical lateral neck metastases in PTC occur in a predictable pattern, with levels III, II‐A, and IV most commonly involved. Patients with PTC who undergo lateral neck dissection for FNA‐confirmed nodal metastases might harbor disease in level II‐B, especially if level II‐A is involved. We recommend elective dissection of level II‐B only when level II‐A is involved, based on FNA confirmation, or when it is grossly involved on intraoperative evaluation. Routine dissection of level V‐B is recommended in this patient population, while elective dissection of level V‐A is not necessary.
Altitudinal zonation of human‐disturbed vegetation on Mt. Tianmu, eastern China
Authors: Da Liang‐Jun , Kang Min‐Ming , Song Kun , Shang Kan‐Kan , Yang Yong‐Chuan , Xia Ai‐Mei , Qi Yu‐Feng
Published: June 2009

Much of the primary vegetation at low altitudes has been greatly altered or destroyed by a long history of human activities. This is particularly true in eastern China, where low‐altitude areas are now dominated by secondary forests or plantations. Altitudinal vegetation zonation of this region is often based on these secondary forests, resulting in seral vegetation with an obscure zonal sequence. Here, we deduced the potential climax vegetation according to the regeneration patterns of the dominant species of the secondary forests at low altitudes (below 1,000 m a.s.l.) on Mt. Tianmu (1,506 m a.s.l., 30°18′30″–30°21′37″N, 119°24′11″–119°27′11″E). Based on the potential climax vegetation combined with the floristic composition and community structure, three vegetation zones were identified, viz: (1) evergreen broad‐leaved forest zone (400–950 m a.s.l.); (2) evergreen and deciduous broad‐leaved mixed forest zone (950–1,100 m a.s.l.); (3) deciduous broad‐leaved forest zone (1,100–1,506 m a.s.l.). The altitudinal vegetation zones identified in this study correspond with the thermal conditions on Mt. Tianmu. The distribution of vegetation on Mt. Tianmu was limited by lower temperatures in winter, and the altitudinal thermal vegetation zones on this mountain were more similar to the thermal vegetation of Japan than to that of China. The vertical distributions and roles of conifers were different between the eastern and the western regions along 30°N latitude in humid East Asia. Cryptomeria fortunei formed the emergent layer, towering above the broad‐leaved canopy at middle altitudes as C. japonica on Yakushima, but disappeared at high altitudes with hydrothermal limitation on Mt. Tianmu.
Does Shoe Insole Modification Prevent Stress Fractures? A Systematic Review
Authors: Snyder Rebecca A. , DeAngelis Joseph P. , Koester Michael C. , Spindler Kurt P. , Dunn Warren R.
Published: June 2009

Stress fractures can be debilitating in athletes and military personnel. Insoles may lower stress fracture rates by improving biomechanics, lessening fatigue, and attenuating impact. The objective of this study was to systematically review the best evidence on the use of insoles as a method of stress fracture prevention in a high-risk population. Using MEDLINE, Cochrane, Current Controlled Trials, UK National Research Register, ScienceDirect, CINAHL, and EMBASE, a review of randomized (level I) and quasi-randomized (level II) controlled trials was performed using an insole as the intervention and stress fracture incidence as the primary outcome measure. Five trials were included, and a random effects model was used to generate a summary estimate and an overall odds ratio. One study found a significant reduction in overall stress fracture incidence using a semirigid insole, while four studies found no overall reduction in military personnel. However, when the data are pooled, orthotic use was beneficial. When stratified by site, there was a reduction in femoral and tibial stress fracture incidence. Shoe insoles may reduce the overall femoral and tibial stress fracture incidence during military training. It is unclear if the use of insoles would prevent stress fractures in athletes. Additional studies are necessary to determine the efficacy of insoles in an athletic population.
Rotational Acetabular Osteotomy for Secondary Osteoarthritis after Surgery for Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip
Authors: Nozawa Masahiko , Maezawa Katsuhiko , Matsuda Keiji , Kim Sungon , Shitoto Katsuo , Kurosawa Hisashi
Published: June 2009

The treatment of residual deformity following surgery for developmental dysplasia of the hip remains controversial. The rationale for the use of the rotational acetabular osteotomy (RAO) is that it increases the weight-bearing area by shifting the osteotomized acetabulum to cover the femoral head. This can improve joint function as well as achieve relief of pain. However, it is unclear if this osteotomy can improve a compromised hip when performed for the treatment of residual deformity and acetabular dysplasia after surgery for developmental dysplasia of the hip. We aimed to report the clinical outcome as assessed by need for total hip arthroplasty (THA) and by the Merle d'Aubigné and Postel scores. In addition, we tried to assess the radiographic outcomes as assessed by Tönnis's classification. Only two hips required THA, which was performed in two patients at 11 and 12 years after RAO, respectively. The mean Merle d'Aubigné clinical score improved from 14.1 ± 2.3 points (range, 10 to 17) preoperatively to 15.8 ± 2.9 points (8 to 18) at final follow-up ( p < 0.02). Radiological assessment at final follow-up showed the obvious progression of osteoarthritis in five hips. One patient in grade 1 preoperatively progressed into grade 3 at final follow-up; four patients in grade 2 preoperatively progressed into grade 3. In our study, this osteotomy prolonged the functional life of the hip, and only two hips needed THA after a mean follow-up of 11 years. We found that advanced arthritis pre-osteotomy is associated with progression of radiologic changes
Membrane Surface Nanostructures and Adhesion Property of T Lymphocytes Exploited by AFM
Authors: Wu Yangzhe , Lu Hongsong , Cai Jiye , He Xianhui , Hu Yi , Zhao HongXia , Wang Xiaoping
Published: June 2009

The activation of T lymphocytes plays a very important role in T-cell-mediated immune response. Though there are many related literatures, the changes of membrane surface nanostructures and adhesion property of T lymphocytes at different activation stages have not been reported yet. However, these investigations will help us further understand the biophysical and immunologic function of T lymphocytes in the context of activation. In the present study, the membrane architectures of peripheral blood T lymphocytes were obtained by AFM, and adhesion force of the cell membrane were measured by acquiring force–distance curves. The results indicated that the cell volume increased with the increases of activation time, whereas membrane surface adhesion force decreased, even though the local stiffness for resting and activated cells is similar. The results provided complementary and important data to further understand the variation of biophysical properties of T lymphocytes in the context of in vitro activation.
An Efficient Binary Solvent Mixture for Monoacylglycerol Synthesis by Enzymatic Glycerolysis
Authors: Zhong Nanjing , Li Lin , Xu Xuebing , Cheong Lingzhi , Li Bing , Hu Songqing , Zhao Xihong
Published: June 2009

The present study was aimed at selecting an efficient binary solvent mixture for monoacylglycerol (MAG) synthesis by enzymatic glycerolysis of soybean oil. Solvent combinations of tert‐butanol/isopropanol (v/v) at different ratios were studied. Of the investigated cases, tert‐butanol:isopropanol at ratio 80:20 was the most suitable organic medium. The optimum conditions for MAG synthesis under the selected mixture were: water 10 wt% based on glycerol, Lipozyme TL IM 15 wt% based on oil and glycerol, weight ratio of solvent to oil 4:1, and molar ratio of glycerol to oil 3.5:1. Under these conditions with a 4‐h reaction, the yield of MAG was 72.0% where the triacylglycerol (TAG) content was reduced to only 1.0% (based on acylglycerols). Fatty acid ester (FAE) formation from the solvents was very low in the final product (1.3% based on reaction mixture). The selected binary solvent mixture has good physical properties with low melting point (−26.5 °C), which can avoid the risk of crystallization in practical operations.
Being Fair and Being Seen to be Fair: Corporate Reputation and CSR Partnerships
Authors: Mutch Nicola , Aitken Robert
Published: June 2009

Over the past two decades, corporate social responsibility (CSR) has been a growth area in managerial practice and academic consideration, as companies pursue the strategy to advance their corporate reputation goals. A popular CSR activity for many companies has been to enter into social alliance partnerships with nonprofit organisations [Berger, I., Cunningham, P., Drumwright, M., 2004. Social alliances: company/nonprofit collaboration. California Management Review 47 (1), 58–90]. This has been met by a sceptical yet pragmatic public, willing to support the partnerships so long as corporates are seen to be fair and just in their dealings with the nonprofit partner. Currently, however, there is little ability for stakeholders to know whether the partnerships are fair. This paper considers conflicting conceptions of how justice may be understood in corporate-nonprofit partnerships. It offers a model for how stakeholders may judge justice in CSR partnerships and relate this to corporate reputation.
ON THE LENGTHS OF PAIRS OF COMPLEX MATRICES OF SIZE SIX
Authors: LAMBROU M. S. , LONGSTAFF W. E.
Published: June 2009

The length of every pair {A,B} of 6×6 complex matrices is shown to be at most 10, that is, the words in A,B of length at most 10, including the empty word, span the unital algebra generated by A,B. This supports the conjecture that the length of every pair of n×n complex matrices is at most 2n−2, known to be true for n<6.
EIGHT CONSECUTIVE POSITIVE ODD NUMBERS NONE OF WHICH CAN BE EXPRESSED AS A SUM OF TWO PRIME POWERS
Authors: CHEN YONG-GAO
Published: June 2009

In this paper we prove the following result: there exists an infinite arithmetic progression of positive odd numbers such that for any term k of the sequence and any nonnegative integer n, each of the 16 integers k−2n, k−2−2n, k−4−2n, k−6−2n, k−8−2n, k−10−2n, k−12−2n, k−14−2n, k2n−1, (k−2)2n−1, (k−4)2n−1, (k−6)2n−1, (k−8)2n−1, (k−10)2n−1, (k−12)2n−1 and (k−14)2n−1 has at least two distinct odd prime factors; in particular, for each term k, none of the eight integers k, k−2, k−4, k−6, k−8, k−10, k−12 or k−14 can be expressed as a sum of two prime powers.
History of health technology assessment in Sweden
Authors: Jonsson Egon
Published: June 2009

Sweden has a long history of using data as a basis to form policies in many sectors of society. The very first documented efforts to collect data and use some kind of evidence to judge health care began 350 years ago in Sweden. In 1663, theSwedish Collegium Medicorum(re-namedCollegium Medicumin 1688) was established; initially to distinguish quackery from medicine, to develop a pharmacopoeia, to control the trade of poisonous drugs, and banish all swindlers who “grease people with their fake, fraudulent, and harmful medicaments”(12;20;25;26).
History of health technology assessment in Belgium
Authors: Cleemput Irina , Van Wilder Philippe
Published: June 2009

Objectives: This paper gives an overview of health technology assessment (HTA) in Belgium.

Methods: The information included in the overview is based on legal documents and publicly available year reports of the Belgian Health Care Knowledge Centre (KCE).

Results: Belgium has a relatively young history in HTA. The principle of evidence-based medicine (EBM) was introduced in the drug reimbursement procedure in 2001, with the establishment of the Drug Reimbursement Committee (DRC). The DRC assesses the efficacy, safety, convenience, applicability, and effectiveness of a drug relative to existing treatment alternatives. For some drugs, relative cost-effectiveness is also evaluated. The activities of the DRC can, therefore, be considered to be the first official HTA activities in Belgium. Later, in 2003, KCE was established. Its mission was to perform policy preparing research in the healthcare and health insurance sector and to give advice to policy makers about how they can obtain an efficient allocation of limited healthcare resources that optimizes the quality and accessibility of health care. This broad mission has been operationalized by activities in three domains of research: HTA, health services research, and good clinical practice. KCE is independent from the policy maker. Its HTAs contain policy recommendations that may inform policy decisions but are not binding.

Conclusions: Although the Belgian history of HTA is relatively short, its foundations are strong and the impact of HTA increasing. Nevertheless KCE has many challenges for the future, including continued quality assurance, further development of international collaboration, and further development of methodological guidance for HTA.
Health technology assessment in Finland
Authors: Mäkelä Marjukka , Roine Risto P.
Published: June 2009

Since the 1990s, health policy makers in Finland have been supportive of evidence-based medicine and approaches to implement its results. The Finnish Office for Health Technology Assessment (Finohta) has grown from a small start in 1995 to a medium-sized health technology assessment (HTA) agency, with special responsibility in providing assessments to underpin national policies in screening. External evaluations enhanced the rapid growth. In the Finnish environment, decision making on health technologies is extremely decentralized, so Finohta has developed some practical tools for implementing HTA findings. The Managed Uptake of Medical Methods program links the hospital districts to agree on introduction of technologies. The Ohtanen database provides Finnish-language summaries of major assessments made in other countries.
Analysis ofBufo arenarumoviductal secretion during the sexual cycle
Authors: Crespo Claudia A. , Ramos Inés , Medina Marcela F. , Fernández Silvia N.
Published: June 2009

Bufo arenarumoocytes are oviposited surrounded by jelly coats, one component of the extracellular matrix required for fertilization. The secretion, released to the oviductal lumen, was analysed by SDS-PAGE. The coomassie blue staining evidenced an electrophoretic pattern with molecules ranging between 300 and 19 kDa that showed variations in their secretion profiles during the sexual cycle. In the preovulatory period the densitometric analysis showed the presence of nine peaks with marked predominance of the 74 kDa molecule. Once ovulation has occurred, the jelly coats become arranged around the oocytes during their transit throughout the oviductal pars convoluta (PC), revealing the addition of three proteins only observed during this period, which suggests a differential secretion. Some of these proteins could not diffuse under any extraction treatment, indicating for them a structural orin situfunction. Proteins of low molecular mass diffused totally while others showed a partial diffusing capacity. After ovulation a marked decrease in the relative amount of all the proteins released to the lumen, especially the 74 kDa protein, could be detected. During this period, unlike the other stages of the sexual cycle, a differential secretion pattern was observed along the PC. The histochemical analysis performed during the ovulatory period showed the presence of glycoconjugates including both acidic and neutral groups. The present results are in agreement with previous ultrastructural and histochemical studies that describe the role ofBufo arenarumjelly coats in fertilization.