bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Uncommon Phenotype with Familial Central Hypogonadism Caused by a Novel PROP1 Gene Mutant Truncated in the Transactivation Domain
Authors: Reynaud Rachel , Barlier Anne , Vallette-Kasic Sophie , Saveanu Alexandru , Guillet Marie-Pierre , Simonin Gilbert , Enjalbert Alain , Valensi Paul , Brue Thierry
Published: August 2005

Context: PROP1 gene mutations are usually associated with childhood onset GH and TSH deficiencies, whereas gonadotroph deficiency is diagnosed at pubertal age.

Objectives: We report a novel PROP1 mutation revealed by familial normosmic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. We performed in vitro transactivation and DNA binding experiments to study functional consequences of this mutation.

Setting: Three brothers were followed in the Department of Endocrinology of a French university hospital.

Patients: These patients from a consanguineous kindred were referred for cryptorchidism and/or delayed puberty.

Results: Initial investigations revealed hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. One of the patients had psychomotor retardation, intracranial hypertension, and minor renal malformations. The brothers reached normal adult height and developed GH and TSH deficiencies after age 30. A novel homozygous nonsense mutation (W194X) was found in the PROP1 gene, indicating that the protein is truncated in its transactivation domain. Transfection studies confirmed the deleterious effect of this mutation, whose transactivation capacity was only 34.4% of that of the wild-type. Unexpectedly altered DNA-binding properties suggested that the C-terminal end of the factor plays a role in protein-DNA interaction.

Conclusions: PROP1 mutations should be considered among the growing number of genetic causes of initially isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. This report extends the phenotype variability associated with PROP1 mutations.
Analysis of Somatostatin Receptors 2 and 5 Polymorphisms in Patients with Acromegaly
Authors: Filopanti M. , Ronchi C. , Ballarè E. , Bondioni S. , Lania A. G. , Losa M. , Gelmini S. , Peri A. , Orlando C. , Beck-Peccoz P. , Spada A.
Published: August 2005

Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate the possible correlation of single nucleotide polymorphisms in somatostatin receptor (SSTR)2 and SSTR5 genes with the responsiveness to somatostatin analogs in a cohort of acromegalic patients.

Study Design: Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (a-83 g, c-57 g, and t80c) of SSTR2 and three (t-461c, c325t, and c1004t) of SSTR5 were analyzed in 66 acromegalic patients with different responsiveness to somatostatin analogs and 66 healthy controls.

Results: Allele frequencies in patients and controls were similar. No association between SSTR2 genotypes and GH and IGF-I levels was found. When considering SSTR5 variants, patients homozygous or heterozygous for the substitution c1004 (P+) showed basal IGF-I levels significantly lower than patients homozygous for 1004t (P−). Moreover, serum GH levels were lower in patients with P+/T− haplotype (having c1004 allele and no t-461 allele) than in those with P−/T+. No correlation between SSTR2 and SSTR5 genotypes, responsiveness to somatostatin therapy, and mRNA expression in the removed adenomas (n = 10) was found.

Conclusions: These data suggest a role for SSTR5 t–461c and c1004t alleles in influencing GH and IGF-I levels in patients with acromegaly, whereas SSTR2 and SSTR5 variants seem to have a minor role in determining the responsiveness to somatostatin analogs.
Reminiscences on Stereotactic Neurosurgery
Authors: Stellar Stanley
Published: August 2005

THIS REPORT IS a straightforward account of the author's personal experience as a practicing neurosurgeon, particularly his experience in the surgical treatment of Parkinson's disease, before the discovery of the partially successful medical treatment using the drug l-dopa. Even today, l-dopa plays a major role in alleviating the disabling symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Frank revelations are made of events not usually included in the medical literature, or even in public newspapers and journals. Furthermore, no attempt was made by the author to hide facts or to protect anyone, including the author himself.
Impact of Coil Embolization on Overall Management and Outcome of Patients with Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Nilsson Ola G. , Säveland Hans , Ramgren Birgitta , Cronqvist Mats , Brandt Lennart
Published: August 2005

OBJECTIVE:

We report on the consequences of introducing coil embolization for the total management of and outcome in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH).

METHODS:

In southern Sweden, a prospective analysis of all patients with SAH of verified aneurysmal origin was conducted during the 3 years when coiling was gradually being introduced. The incidence of acute or chronic hydrocephalus, vasospasm, delayed ischemic deterioration, and outcome at 3 to 6 months after bleeding was analyzed.

RESULTS:

Coiling of aneurysms was used progressively more compared with clipping during the study period. The number of patients subjected to coiling was 26 (36%) of 73 patients during calendar year 1997, 43 (53%) of 81 patients in 1999, and 55 (74%) of 74 patients in 2001 (P < 0.0001). Gradually, more elderly patients were admitted during the study period. Virtually all aneurysms located in the posterior circulation were treated by coil embolization, even at the start of the study, whereas aneurysms at all other locations were progressively more likely to be treated similarly. The incidence of hydrocephalus in the acute (average for all 3 yr, 39%) or chronic (16%) phase, vasospasm as measured by Doppler sonography (33%), and delayed ischemic deterioration (29%), as well as outcome at 3 to 6 months (61% good recovery, 13% deceased), did not change significantly during the study. The main cause of unfavorable outcome was the severity of the SAH.

CONCLUSION:

The increasing use of coil embolization for ruptured aneurysms in the anterior circulation did not have any significant impact on the overall incidence of SAH-related complications or outcome. The main determinant for outcome after SAH is still the severity of the SAH.
Aneurysmal Rupture without Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Thai Quoc-Anh , Raza Shaan M. , Pradilla Gustavo , Tamargo Rafael J.
Published: August 2005

OBJECTIVE:

Although an aneurysmal rupture typically presents on computed tomographic (CT) imaging as only subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), it may be associated with intraparenchymal hemorrhage (IPH), intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), or subdural hemorrhage. On rare occasions, however, an aneurysmal rupture may present with IPH or IVH without SAH.

METHODS:

The Division of Cerebrovascular Neurosurgery at The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions maintains a prospective database of all patients treated for intracranial aneurysms at this institution since 1991. Using this database, we identified patients with ruptured aneurysms who presented with IPH or IVH in the absence of SAH on CT imaging.

RESULTS:

Eight hundred twenty-two patients with radiographically documented ruptured aneurysms were admitted from January 1991 through June 2004. Of these, nine patients presented with IPH only, three with IPH and IVH, and one with IVH only, for a total of 13 cases. There were seven posterior communicating artery, four middle cerebral artery, one basilar apex, and one posterior cerebral artery aneurysms. The incidence of aneurysmal rupture with IPH and/or IVH without SAH is 1.6%

CONCLUSION:

Initial presentation of a ruptured aneurysm without SAH is rare and may have a multifactorial cause attributable to the timing of CT imaging, physiological parameters, or location of the aneurysm. Patients presenting with a head CT scan revealing IPH in the temporal lobe or with IVH should be considered for an urgent workup of a ruptured aneurysm, even in the absence of diffuse SAH.
Continuous Intrathecal Administration of 5-Fluoro-2′-deoxyuridine for the Treatment of Neoplastic Meningitis
Authors: Nakagawa Hidemitsu , Miyahara Eiji , Suzuki Tsuyoshi , Wada Kohichi , Tamura Masakazu , Fukushima Yuji
Published: August 2005

OBJECTIVE:

Previously, we reported a good clinical treatment effect of intrathecal chemotherapy by repeated bolus administration of 5-fluoro-2′-deoxyuridine (FdUrd) for neoplastic meningitis (NM). Moreover, we detected no side effects or neurotoxicity despite the long-term repetition of intrathecal administration. On the basis of these findings, continuous intrathecal chemotherapy (CIC) with FdUrd for patients with NM was attempted using a simple pump system. We evaluated the usefulness of CIC with FdUrd for the treatment of NM.

METHODS:

A total of 25 patients were enrolled in this study. FdUrd (1.0 mg/d) was administered using a balloon pump system. CIC was continued as long as possible. Eight patients received whole-brain irradiation (3 Gy × 10) simultaneously with CIC. The effects of the treatment were analyzed in terms of improvement in neurological signs and symptoms and the findings of ventricular and lumbar cerebrospinal fluid analysis 2 and 4 weeks after CIC was initiated and on magnetic resonance imaging scans 2 months after CIC began.

RESULTS:

No apparent toxicity has been observed to date. Evidence of a cerebrospinal fluid response was observed in 13 patients. Headache and nausea were improved in all patients, and cranial nerve impairment was improved in 12 patients. A magnetic resonance imaging response was observed in only 5 patients. Overall response was observed in 15 patients when cases of stable disease were excluded from the responding cases. Survival time from the commencement of CIC (mean ± standard error of the mean) was 255 ± 30 days in 25 patients.

CONCLUSION:

This therapy may be useful, especially as a maintenance therapy for NM.
Penetrating Civilian Craniocerebral Gunshot Wounds: A Protocol of Delayed Surgery
Authors: Liebenberg W Adriaan , Demetriades Andreas K. , Hankins Matthew , Hardwidge Carl , Hartzenberg Bennie H.
Published: August 2005

OBJECTIVE:

Several factors have led to our unique approach of delayed definitive débridement. We wanted to evaluate the effectiveness of our management and compare it with the existing data in the literature.

METHODS:

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 194 patients presenting between January 1996 and October 2003 with penetrating craniocerebral gunshot wounds. After exclusion criteria, 125 patients qualified.

RESULTS:

Of the patients, 88.8% were male. The mean age was 24.9 ± 10.9 years. In 70.4% of patients, the presenting Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score was 3 to 8. Only 38 (30.4%) of the 125 patients survived, with poor outcome in 2 and good outcome in 36. Bilaterally fixed and dilated pupils and bihemispheric tract on computed tomographic scan were significantly related to poor outcome. There were 49 surgical procedures performed on 27 of the patients, with a mortality rate of 7.4%. Of the 38 survivors, 13 underwent no surgery. Average time to surgery was 11.04 days. Total rate of infection was 8%, and it did not influence outcome. No patient presenting with a GCS score of 3 or 4 survived. Seventeen patients attended follow-up, for a total of 3609 days (average, 212 d) and very few late complications.

CONCLUSION:

Our supportive care of patients is not optimal. We should have saved more of our patients who presented with GCS scores of 14 and 15 who subsequently died. We have been able to report unconventionally late surgical management of two-thirds of survivors, with no surgery in one-third of survivors. Despite a high rate of infectious complications, infection did not lead to death or disability. Our protocol rarely leads to patients surviving in a permanently vegetative state. In the future, we would perform early surgery for patients who present awake and continue our current management for poor-grade patients. In this way, we will improve the number of good outcomes without increasing the population of severely damaged and dependent survivors.
Primary Extradural Epithelioid Leiomyosarcoma of the Cervical Spine: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Marshman Laurence A.G. , Pollock Jonathan R. , King Andrew , Chawda Sanjiv J.
Published: August 2005

OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE:

No case of primary epithelioid leiomyosarcoma involving the spine has been reported previously.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION:

A 61-year-old Nigerian woman presented with progressive spastic quadriparesis and acute urinary retention. Her only medical history included a total abdominal hysterectomy for fibroids 10 years earlier in Nigeria. Results of the general examination were normal. Pyramidal spastic quadriparesis (3/5) with a sensory level at C5–C6 was found neurologically. Magnetic resonance imaging scans of the brain and spine revealed extradural cord compression at C3–C5 as the sole abnormality. This was caused by a large, soft tissue mass arising from the erector spinae muscles, which was predominantly isointense on T1-weighted images, of mixed intensity on T2-weighted images, and homogenously enhanced after gadolinium contrast agent administration. There was an associated signal change in the cord at C3–C4. Computed tomography confirmed the predominantly soft tissue involvement, but with bone erosion and infiltration within the posterior elements of C4. Systemic screening for cancer was negative.

INTERVENTION:

At decompressive laminectomy, urgently undertaken under corticosteroid cover, an excessively vascularized, soft tissue tumor was subtotally excised, after which independent walking and normal sphincter function were regained within 1 week. Four weeks later, a complete macroscopic tumor excision was undertaken, incorporating lateral mass (C3–C6) and C2 pedicle screw stabilization, along with iliac crest bone grafting. The patient's neurological status continued to improve. However, while awaiting radical radiotherapy, the patient declined further treatment and returned to her native Nigeria. Histopathological findings were consistent with an epithelioid leiomyosarcoma.

CONCLUSION:

This is the first reported case of a primary craniospinal epithelioid leiomyosarcoma.
Gas-phase Catalytic Beckmann Rearrangement over Crystalline BPO4 of Dehydration Ability
Authors: Tsuji Hideto , Setoyama Tohru
Published: August 2005

The crystalline BPO4 with a P/B ratio around 1.5 prepared by dehydration of boric and phosphoric acid was found to be an effective heterogeneous catalyst for the gas-phase Beckmann rearrangement of cyclohexanone oxime to ε-caprolactam.
Ultrathin Gold Nanosheets Formed by Photoreduction at the Ionic Liquid/Water Interface
Authors: Soejima Tetsuro , Kimizuka Nobuo
Published: August 2005

Ultrathin, single-crystalline gold nanosheets with thickness of ca. 10 nm are successfully obtained in water by photoreduction of Au(OH)4− ions at the surface of ionic liquid (IL) μ-droplets. The nanosheets produced at the interface are spontaneously extracted into the ionic liquid phase, which effectively prevents the formation of thicker nanoplates.
The Light-induced Excited Spin State Trapping Effect on Ni(dmit)2 Salt with an Fe(III) Spin-crossover Cation: [Fe(qsal)2][Ni(dmit)2]·2CH3CN
Authors: Takahashi Kazuyuki , Cui HengBo , Kobayashi Hayao , Einaga Yasuaki , Sato Osamu
Published: August 2005

The Ni(dmit)2 salt with an Fe(III) spin-crossover cation, Fe(qsal)2, was prepared and showed a cooperative spin transition based on π–π interactions between π-ligands. The light-induced excited spin state trapping effect on this complex was also observed.
Excited States and Electron-transfer Mechanism in the Photosynthetic Reaction Center of Rhodobactor sphaeroides: SAC-CI Theoretical Study
Authors: Hasegawa Jun-ya , Nakatsuji Hiroshi
Published: August 2005

The SAC-CI calculations clarify the natures of the excited states and the electron-transfer (ET) processes in the photosynthetic reaction center (PSRC) of Rhodobactor (Rb.) sphaeroides. The absorption spectrum was assigned with the averaged error of 0.11 eV. The electronic factors calculated from the SAC-CI wave functions clarified the mechanism of the unidirectionality of the ET in Rb. sphaeroides. It is controlled by the ET step from bacteriochlorophyll (B) to bacteriopheophytin (H), not from the special pair (P) to B as in the Rhodopseudomonas (Rps.) viridis reported previously: the electronic factor of the A-branch ET is 20 times larger than that of the B-branch. An analysis clarified that the unidirectionality originates from the inter-chromophore distances, and further that the hyperconjugations of the methyl groups with the π electrons of the chromophores have primary contributions to the electronic factor.
Formation and Photoelectron Spectroscopy of Nanoscale Cluster Anions of Biphenyl, (BP)n− (n = 2–100)
Authors: Mitsui Masaaki , Matsumoto Yukino , Ando Naoto , Nakajima Atsushi
Published: August 2005

Evolution of electronic structures of nanoscale biphenyl cluster anions, (BP)n− (n = 2–100), have been studied by photoelectron spectroscopy in a size-selective fashion. The energetics of vertical detachment energy (VDE) revealed negative electron affinity of a biphenyl molecule and substantial cluster reorganizations via electron attachment. Comparison of the VDE energetics with naphthalene cluster anions implied that the freezing (and/or melting) temperatures of the BP clusters may be much lower than those of naphthalene clusters.
Luminescence Enhancement of Ruthenium Complexes in Polymer Nanosheet by Surface Plasmon Resonance of Metal Nanoparticle
Authors: Tanaka Hiroyuki , Mitsuishi Masaya , Miyashita Tokuji
Published: August 2005

The luminescence properties of tris(2,2′-bipyridine) ruthenium complex (Ru(bpy)32+) incorporated into polymer Langmuir–Blodgett (LB) films (polymer nanosheets) excited by localized surface plasmon on metal nanoparticles are described. It was clearly demonstrated that the luminescence intensity of Ru(bpy)32+ was changed by the distance from the localized surface plasmon on the nanoparticle. The enhancement of luminescence by silver nanoparticle and the quenching of luminescence by gold nanoparticle were observed.
Synthesis and Gelation Properties of N,N′-Bis(3,4,5-trialkoxy)benzoylurea: Terpene and Perfume Gels
Authors: Kubo Kanji , Mori Akira
Published: August 2005

New organogelator, N,N′-bis(3,4,5-tridodecyloxy)benzoylurea (1), gelled organic liquid such as alcohol, hydrocabons, ethyl acetate, salad oil, terpenes, and essential and perfume oil at low concentration of gelator. The terpene and perfume gels show good release of the volatile components for a long time.
Fluorescence Studies on New Epoxypolymer—Dye Compositions for Ultrafast Wavelength Shifters
Authors: Liu Lin-I , Barashkov Nikolay N. , Novikova Tamara S. , Palsule Chintamani P. , Gangopadhyay Shubhra , Borst Walter L.
Published: August 2005

Fast wavelength shifters with fluorescence decay times in the low nanosecond range were prepared from mixtures of various dyes in epoxypolymer compositions on the base of diglycidyl ether of bisphenol-A (DGEBA) with hexahydrophthalic anhydride (HHPA) or trimethoxyboroxine (TMBOX). Three possible sample preparation methods yielding high transmittance and high-fluorescence intensity were compared. The characteristics of the new wavelength shifters were determined with continuous-wave (cw) excitation of the fluorescence and by pulsed-laser excitation, the latter coupled with an analysis of the fluorescence decay times. The cw emission and time-resolved fluorescence spectra of these new wavelength shifters were studied as a function of component concentration in order to optimize the decay times, the emission peaks, and the quantum efficiencies for potential use in high-energy particle detectors. The mean decay times of most of the epoxypolymer–dye mixtures were found to be 2.6–3.1 ns, which is significantly shorter than the wavelength shifters currently in use. We also used fluorescence techniques to study the cure kinetics and fluorescence yields in epoxypolymer–diglycidyl ether of 3′,3″-dihydroxy-2,5-diphenyloxadiazole (DGEPOD) compositions.
Tools for Combinatorial Chemistry: In situ Infrared Analysis of Solid-Phase Organic Reactions
Authors: Pivonka D. E. , Russell K. , Gero T.
Published: August 2005

Methodology for in situ infrared monitoring and analysis of solid-phase organic reactions has been developed. The real-time, single-bead capabilities of this technique are illustrated through the analysis of solvent diffusion into, and subsequent wash-out from, a 70-μm aminomethyl polystyrene bead. This report further illustrates application of this technology for solid-phase synthesis with real-time analysis using two example reactions. Analytical hardware and the inherent benefits of real-time analysis with respect to precursor referencing and the quality, utility, and interpretation of the infrared data are also discussed.
Relevance of Protein Thin Films Prepared for Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy: Significance of the pH
Authors: Goormaghtigh Erik , de Jongh Harmen H. J. , Ruysschaert Jean-Marie
Published: August 2005

Amide hydrogen–deuterium exchange rates were recorded on thin lysozyme films by attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy as a function of the pH of the solution from which the films were prepared. We describe the appropriate spectral corrections for atmospheric water absorption and for lateral side-chain contribution in the amide I/amide II region required to correctly evaluate the exchange rate from the amide II integrated intensity decrease. We show that the pH dependence of the exchange rate in our experimental conditions (0.4 g water/g protein) parallels the solution behavior. This observation confirms that the technique can be used to monitor pH-sensitive effects and allows exchange curves to be made which include most of the protein amide protons.
Spectrochemical Behavior of Carcinogenic Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Biological Systems. Part I: Steady-State Fluorometry of BaP and BeP in Living Cells
Authors: Chiang Ping , Li Kuang-Pang , Hseu Tong-Ming
Published: August 2005

The rates of interactions of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) with biological cells studied with fluorescence appear to be different for cells from different origins. The monomer emission of benzo[ a]pyrene (BaP) is enhanced as in liposomes, but more significantly in normal liver cells than in liver cancer cells or kidney cells, and that enhancement is proportional to the amount of cells added. When PAHs are allowed to interact with cells for a certain period of time, metabolism appears to occur. The excimer emission is seen to dissipate continuously as reactions proceed, whereas the monomer emission increases, passes through a maximum, then starts to decrease when excimer emission becomes exhausted. The time plot of the BaP excimer emission in semilogarithmic coordinates indicates that the decrease or the mass transfer of microcrystalline BaP to the cell membrane is a first-order process. Metabolism has been investigated by monitoring the monomer emission. Liver cells have higher monomer emission than the kidney cells in the early stages of interaction, indicating that these cell membranes are more amenable to PAH absorption. Effects of vitamin K3 and radiation have also been investigated.
Effect of Thermal Treatment on the EPR Spectrum and on Catalytic Properties of Pure Co3O4
Authors: Oliva C. , Forni L. , Formaro L.
Published: August 2005

Thermal treatment of Co3O4 decreases the number of cationic vacancies by reducing the oxygen excess in the “as prepared” sample. Correspondingly, a narrower Lorentzian-shaped EPR line is detectable after higher temperature treatment, because of a more efficient Co–O–Co super-exchange effect, favored by the Co2+ enrichment of the sample. Furthermore, the linewidth increases linearly with electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) recording temperature. We attribute this effect to the onset of antisymmetric exchange in layer-like structures. Catalytic activity tests have been carried out at 323, 373, and 423 K on oxidation of CO by air oxygen as a probe reaction. Samples calcined at 536 and 773 K were tested. Both the catalysts proved to be practically inactive at 323 K. However, at 423 K the specific activity of the catalyst calcined at higher temperature was approximately twice as high as that shown by the sample calcined at lower temperature. Also, this effect has been attributed to the enrichment in Co2+ ions, which would act as catalytic centers when located at the solid surface.
Crosslinking of Gelatin in the Reaction with Formaldehyde: An FT-IR Spectroscopic Study
Authors: Salsa T. , Pina M. E. , Teixeira-Dias J. J. C.
Published: August 2005

The reaction of an aqueous solution of formaldehyde with gelatin dispersed in a potassium bromide pellet is monitored in real time by FT-IR spectroscopy. Principal component regression analysis of the spectra recorded at different times is carried out. On the whole, the latter results and the observed spectral changes are in agreement with a previously reported interpretation for the kinetics of the crosslinking reaction of gelatin with formaldehyde, according to which the reaction is initialized by the lysine–methylol formation and is subsequently followed by arginine–methylol, which, in turn, reacts with lysine–methylol to originate arginine–lysine crosslinks.
Intense Room-Temperature Phosphorescence of 1-Bromonaphthalene in Organized Media of Beta-Cyclodextrin and Triton X-100
Authors: Du Xin-Zhen , Zhang Yong , Huang Xian-Zhi , Jiang Yun-Bao , Li Yao-Qun , Chen Guo-Zhen
Published: August 2005

In aerated aqueous solution, intense room-temperature phosphorescence (RTP) of 1-bromonaphthalene (1-BrN) is observed with an host–guest inclusion complex composed of Triton X-100, 1-BrN, and beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD). Triton X-100 is incorporated into the hydrophobic cavity of β-CD as the second guest molecule, and a 1:1:1 ternary complex is formed. This complex, with a polar head group, can be well distributed in aqueous solution, and stable RTP is obtained. Ethanol further enhances the RTP of the ternary complex, whereas 1-propanol and 1-butanol greatly attenuate RTP. Spectral analyses indicate that 1-BrN in the β-CD cavity is replaced by 1-propanol and 1-butanol.
Biological Applications of Anti-Stokes Raman Spectroscopy: Quantitative Analysis of Glucose in Plasma and Serum by a Highly Sensitive Multichannel Raman Spectrometer
Authors: Dou Xiaoming , Yamaguchi Yoshinori , Yamamoto Hiroshi , Uenoyama Harumi , Ozaki Yukihiro
Published: August 2005

This study demonstrates the potential of anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy in investigating biological samples in a nondestructive manner; quantitative analysis of glucose in plasma and serum has been studied as an example. The efficient collection of anti-Stokes Raman scattering by use of chromatic aberration of a lens has allowed us to obtain high-quality anti-Stokes Raman spectra from glucose in plasma and serum, which is a strongly fluorescent biological sample. The concentration of glucose in these materials can be estimated by the anti-Stokes Raman intensity of the band at 1130 cm−1 due to the C–O stretching mode. The correlation coefficient between the concentration and the intensity has been calculated to be 0.993 and 0.991 for glucose in plasma and serum, respectively. The detection limits for these materials have been found to be 45 mg/dL and 50 mg/dL, respectively.
Distribution of Benzalkonium Cation into Mixed Cationic/Nonionic Micelles: Verification of Ion-Selective Electrode Measurements by UV Spectrophotometry
Authors: Missel Paul J.
Published: August 2005

Coated-wire electrodes were fabricated to be selective for the cation portion of benzalkonium chloride (BAC), a preservative commonly used in ophthalmic pharmaceuticals. Measurements were conducted on formulations containing a nonionic alkyl ethoxylate surfactant phase into which benzalkonium could distribute, potentially reducing its effectiveness as a preservative. Distribution coefficients for benzalkonium into the micellar phase were measured independently with the use of UV spectroscopy and corroborated with electrode measurements. The positions of three peaks in the benzalkonium spectrum in the region 250 to 275 nm shifted by less than 1 nm in the limit of complete distribution. It was possible to determine the peak positions to within an accuracy of ∼0.005 nm by using a de-convolution algorithm in GRAMS 386. A brief mathematical treatment shows good agreement between the free cation concentration as deduced from electrode and UV measurements.
Description and Theory of a Fiber-Optic Confocal and Super-Focal Raman Microspectrometer
Authors: Schrum Kimberley F. , Ko Seung Hyeon , Ben-Amotz Dor
Published: August 2005

A fiber-optic bundle, placed in the imaging plane of a microspectrometer, functions as a variable-size pinhole. This arrangement allows for conventional confocal measurements to be made by collecting the signal from the central fiber. On the other hand, measurements arising from a larger focal volume are made by integrating the signal from the entire bundle. This new “super-focal” imaging technique yields larger imaging depth without any loss in spectral resolution. The instrument design and performance are described, as well as geometric optics calculations which accurately predict the depth resolution and oscillations in the super-focal depth response. Raman scattering from a three-component layered sample is used to illustrate the extension of this technique to more complicated systems.
Inhibition of aldosterone biosynthesis by staurosporine
Authors: Bureik Matthias , Mion Alexander , Kenyon Christopher J. , Bernhardt Rita
Published: August 2005

Staurosporine (STS) is a very potent broad-range kinase inhibitor, and its antiproliferative properties made it a lead compound for protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitors with therapeutic potential. Because STS also causes hypotension, we investigated in this study whether it directly interferes with the terminal steps of aldosterone biosynthesis; these are catalysed by a mitochondrial steroid hydroxylase system consisting of adrenodoxin reductase, adrenodoxin, and the cytochrome P450 enzyme hCYP11B2 (aldosterone synthase). Here we demonstrate that nanomolar concentrations of STS significantly reduced aldosterone synthase activity in transiently transfected COS-1 cells and in stably transfected V79MZh11B2 cells (IC50=11 nM). However, STS did not inhibit bovine aldosterone synthase in a reconstituted steroid hydroxylation assay. In transiently transfected COS-1 cells, the protein level of adrenodoxin (but not that of adrenodoxin reductase or of hCYP11B2) was significantly reduced after treatment with 2 nM STS. Finally, we show that STS treatment (1 μg/day) of mice reduced their aldosterone/renin ratio by almost 50% (p=0.015). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a directin vivoeffect of STS on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. We conclude (i) that the hypotensive effect of staurosporine is at least partly due to inhibition of aldosterone biosynthesis via adrenodoxin depletion, and (ii) that aldosterone biosynthesis can be regulatedin vivoat the level of adrenodoxin availability.
A possible alternative mechanism of kinin generation in vivo by cathepsin L
Authors: Puzer Luciano , Vercesi Juliana , Alves Marcio F.M. , Barros Nilana M.T. , Araujo Mariana S. , Aparecida Juliano Maria , Reis Marina L. , Juliano Luiz , Carmona Adriana K.
Published: August 2005

We investigated the ability of cathepsin L to induce a hypotensive effect after intravenous injection in rats and correlated this decrease in blood pressure with kinin generation. Simultaneously with blood pressure decrease, we detected plasma kininogen depletion in the treated rats. The effect observedin vivowas abolished by pre-incubation of cathepsin L with the cysteine peptidase-specific inhibitor E-64 (1 μM) or by previous administration of the bradykinin B2receptor antagonist JE049 (4 mg/kg). A potentiation of the hypotensive effect caused by cathepsin L was observed by previous administration of the angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitor captopril (5 mg/kg).In vitrostudies indicated that cathepsin L excised bradykinin from the synthetic fluorogenic peptide Abz-MTSVIRRPPGFSPFRAPRV-NH2, based on the Met375–Val393sequence of rat kininogen (Abz=o-aminobenzoic acid). In conclusion, our data indicate thatin vivocathepsin L releases a kinin-related peptide, andin vitroexperiments suggest that the kinin generated is bradykinin. Although it is well known that cysteine proteases are strongly inhibited by kininogen, cathepsin L could represent an alternative pathway for kinin production in pathological processes.
The prediction of pulp yield using selected fiber properties
Authors: Çöpür Yalçin , Makkonen Hannu , Amidon Thomas E.
Published: August 2005

The present study is dealing with the question how the major yield-controlling components in pulp (i.e.,hemicelluloses and lignin) alter the behavior and/or properties (e.g., dimensions, flexibility, sugar content) of the fibers. The hypothesis should be verified that certain fiber properties can be used as marker for yield information. Pine and maple wood were digested under specific conditions to produce unbleached pulps with two different lignin contents per method. Screened pulps were chemically analyzed using a new NMR technique for carbohydrates, and the fibers were fractionated using a modified Bauer McNett classification. Pulp yields were related to the pulping methods in the sequence: polysulfide>kraft>biokraft>soda. Carbohydrate analysis revealed that the glucose content (glucose method) was related to the pulping yield. Certain fiber properties (fiber width and coarseness measured directly from the screened pulps) also provided close correlations with the pulp yield. The arithmetic average fiber length and width of the R14 Bauer McNett screen was a significant predictor of yield at the 95% confidence level, with a mean error of 0.43%.
Acid hydrolysis kinetics and identification of erythro and threo α-ethyl ether derivatives of non-phenolic arylglycerol-β-syringyl ether lignin model compounds
Authors: Ohi Hiroshi , Kishino Masanori
Published: August 2005

Based on their hydrolysis behavior, NMR spectra of the erythro and threo forms of 3-(3,4-dimethoxy-phenyl)-2-(2,6-dimethoxyphenoxy)-3-ethoxypropan-1-ol (named VSE, i.e., α-ethyl ether derivative of veratrylglycerol-β-syringylether) were successfully assigned. A mixture of erythro and threo VSEs was treated at 90°C in pH 1.2 nitric acid solution. In order to assign them, the molar ratios of erythro and threo forms of 1-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-2-(2,6-dimethoxy-phenoxy)propane-1,3-diol (named VS, i.e., veratrylglycerol-β-syringyl) ether given by each VSE were kinetically determined during the treatment. It was found that the inversion ratio at which the first VSE isomer gave erythro-VS was 0.73. Therefore, this isomer was identified as threo-VSE. In addition, from calculations using the least-squares method, the inversion ratio at which the other VSE isomer gave threo-VS was found to be >0.73. These values mean that threo-VSE yields 73% erythro- and 27% threo-VS, while erythro-VSE yields mainly threo-VS.
Stabilization of cellulose solutions in N-methylmorpholine-N-oxide (Lyocell dopes) by addition of an N-oxide as sacrificial substrate
Authors: Rosenau Thomas , Schmid Peter , Potthast Antje , Kosma Paul
Published: August 2005

N-Methylene(morpholinium) ions (carbenium-iminium ions) are responsible for uncontrollable reactions of Lyocell dopes – solutions of cellulose in N-methylmorpholine-N-oxide monohydrate at process temperatures of approximately 100°C – as they are able to induce autocatalytic decomposition of the solvent. The carbenium-iminium ions derived from N-benzylmorpholine-N-oxide (NBnMO) are less reactive, affording innocent products instead of entering an uncontrollable decomposition pathway. The “dangerous” carbenium-iminium ions derived from NMMO are efficiently scavenged by NBnMO, which is in turn converted into these “innocent” NBnMO-derived carbenium-iminium ions. Color generation in NBnMO-stabilized NMMO is far less pronounced, than in the case of the traditionally used phenolic anti-oxidant stabilizers. This suggests that NBnMO could be used in a novel approach to stabilize Lyocell solutions.
Mechanism of decomposition of peracetic acid by manganese ions and diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA)
Authors: Popov Evgeny , Eloranta Jussi , Hietapelto Vesa , Vuorenpalo Veli-Matti , Aksela Reijo , Jäkärä Jukka
Published: August 2005

The decomposition mechanism of peracetic acid by free Mn2+ ions and by Mn2+-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid complexes was studied by UV/Vis, electrospray ionization-time of flight-mass spectrometry (ESI-TOF-MS), electron spin resonance (ESR), and Raman spectroscopy. The experimental results demonstrate that a number of different oxidation states of manganese are involved in the decomposition reaction. Furthermore, the kinetics observed show oscillatory features that are characteristic of autocatalytic processes. Radical pathways were found to play a negligible role in the reaction. Based on the experimental observations, an overall reaction scheme for the decomposition process is proposed.
Long-term development of VOC emissions from OSB after hot-pressing
Authors: Makowski Mathias , Ohlmeyer Martin , Meier Dietrich
Published: August 2005

An oriented strand board (OSB) made of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) was tested for volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions 24 h after the hot-pressing process over a period of 2 months. The predominant emissions from the OSB were monoterpenes and aldehydes. Terpene emissions decreased continuously, whereas aldehyde concentrations initially increased and subsequently decayed. Aldehydes are formed by the autoxidative splitting of unsaturated fatty acids contained in the wood. Due to the delayed release of aldehydes, a comparison of different emission test results is only possible if age and storage conditions are clearly specified. For a reduction in VOC emissions from wood-based materials, wood properties, manufacturing process, and storage conditions have to be considered.
Correlated Formation and Stability of SIA Loops and Stacking Fault Tetrahedra in High Energy Displacement Cascades in Copper
Authors: Voskoboinikov RE , Osetsky YN , Bacon DJ
Published: August 2005

Atomistic modeling was conducted for an investigation of primary damage creation, self-interstitial and vacancy clusters formation, and their stability in high energy displacement cascades in copper. The simulations were carried out for a wide range of temperatures (100 K ≤ T ≤ 900 K) and primary knock-on atom (PKA) energies 5 keV ≤ Epka ≤ 25 keV. This study of over 400 cascades is the largest yet reported for this metal. At least 20 cascades for each (Epka, T) pair were simulated in order to ensure statistical reliability of the results. The number of surviving point defects for each cascade and the mean value for cascades at the same temperature and PKA energy were found. The corresponding fraction of self-interstitial atoms (SIA) in dislocation loops and vacancies in stacking fault tetrahedron (SFT)-like clusters was calculated. Strong spatial and size correlation of SFTs and SIA clusters at low temperatures were established.

In the context of high dose irradiation and the spatial overlap of displacement cascades, the stability of SFTs and dislocation loops inside an overlapping cascade region was investigated. It was observed that an SFT destroyed in the collision phase by a cascade is always recreated. On being completely enveloped by the region of displaced atoms, both SFT and SIA dislocation loops are destroyed with corresponding decrease of the number of residual point defects, whereas partial overlapping leads to increase in size of both types of cluster.
Characterization of Damage and Failure Mechanisms of Co-Cured Fiber-Reinforced Composite Joints under Quasi-Static, Tensile Loading
Authors: Cao C , Stefan Dancila D
Published: August 2005

This research investigates two co-cured joint configurations, the conventional single lap joint, and the modified single nested overlap joint, which is obtained by a minor alteration of the former configuration. A systematic comparison of damage initiation, damage progression mechanisms, and failure modes of co-cured joint specimens under quasi-static tensile loading is carried out. Several investigation methods are used including acoustic emission, visual observation, optical microscopy, and X-ray radiography.
Mechanical and Physical Properties of Titanium-12Molybdenum-6Zirconium-2Iron Beta Titanium Alloy
Authors: Murray NGD , Jablokov VR , Freese HL
Published: August 2005

Howmedica developed the Titanium-12Molybdenum-6Zirconium-2Iron beta titanium alloy (also known as TMZF® beta titanium alloy) in the late 1980s. Two patents were issued for this high strength, low modulus, ductile, biocompatible, titanium base alloy [1,2]. The mechanical properties for wrought machining and forging bar in ASTM F 1813 show higher tensile and yield strengths than Ti-6Al-4V ELI (ASTM F 136), the most widely used titanium grade for medical and surgical implant applications. According to the ASTM standard, the TMZF alloy also has improved ductility over Ti-6Al-4V ELI, which is to be expected when comparing beta and alpha+beta titanium alloys. TMZF alloy offers higher tensile strength and greater flexibility than Ti-6Al-4V alloy. Data are presented for semi-finished TMZF mill product forms in the solution-annealed condition. The influence of oxygen as an interstitial strengthening element is shown for Ti-12Mo-6Zr-2Fe and compared with common titanium alloys used in or being considered for use in the medical device industry.
Beta Titanium Alloy Processed for High Strength Orthopedic Applications
Authors: Marquardt B , Shetty R
Published: August 2005

The general material requirements for Ti-15Mo have been standardized for surgical implant applications in ASTM F 2066 [1]. This particular standard is currently limited to one microstructural condition that is produced by beta solution treating and rapidly quenching the material to avoid the formation of alpha phase. When the alloy is processed in this way, it maintains a very high level of ductility but relatively low tensile and bending fatigue strengths. Since beta titanium alloys can be strengthened substantially by thermal processes that introduce alpha phase, it may be possible to adjust the microstructure to achieve a balance of properties that will meet the requirements for more highly stressed applications. Tensile and rotating beam fatigue data for several dual phase material conditions of Ti-15Mo indicate that the alloy can be strengthened substantially without introducing tensile notch sensitivity. However, it was necessary to use an alpha/beta annealing process and avoid beta solution treatment prior to aging at 480 °C to achieve this balance of properties. The potential benefits of alpha/beta processing appear to warrant expansion of ASTM F 2066 beyond the current beta solution treated and quenched condition.
Uncertainty Analyses on Reference Values of Charpy Impact Test Specimens
Authors: Takagi S , Yamaguchi Y , Usuda T
Published: August 2005

The uncertainties of reference values of specimens, which are used for the verification of the secondary standard Charpy impact test machine, are investigated. To evaluate the uncertainty of the reference values of specimens, the results of the direct verification of the machine and the repeatability of measurement are considered. The uncertainty components estimated from the direct verification are calculated multiplying the uncertainty of each item and corresponding sensitivity coefficient. The repeatability of measurement is estimated from the results of the routine check data of the standard machine. By combining these components, the overall uncertainties of reference specimens are presented at 30, 100, and 160 J levels of absorbed energy.
Improving the Infiltration of Water through Repellent Soils Using Synergistic Surfactant Blends Based on Alkyl Glucosides and Ethylene Oxide-Propylene Oxide Block Copolymers
Authors: Bially PT , Kostka SJ , Buckman RC
Published: August 2005

Soil water repellency arises as a consequence of initial soil water content and the type of organic matter incorporated into or adsorbed onto the individual soil particles. Water repellent soils create significant agronomic and hydrologic challenges, retarding water infiltration into the soil profile and often rendering entire areas impervious to water penetration. These soils often prevent effective wetting of the rootzone during precipitation or irrigation and lead to increased runoff and leaching of pesticides, fertilizers, and other amendments. Agriculturalists have approached the soil water repellency problem through the use of wetting agent surfactant compositions. The degree of wetting efficacy among surfactant chemistries and formulations has varied significantly. The wetting characteristics of alkyl glucosides and ethylene oxide-propylene block copolymers, two nonionic surfactant classes, were evaluated in the context of improving the infiltration of water through water repellent soil profiles. A laboratory column test was used to measure the initial effectiveness of the wetting agent compositions on synthetically hydrophobized and naturally water repellent soils. A synergistically enhanced wetting rate occurred when the alkyl glucoside to block copolymer ratio was from approximately 6:1 to 0.5:1 by weight, ideally when the ratio was from approximately 4:1 to 0.7:1. Within these ratios, synergism was inversely proportional to the HLB and proportional to the molecular weight of the block copolymer used. This research is the first to demonstrate the promising effects of formulations comprising alkyl glucosides and EO/PO block copolymers on improving the distribution and dynamics of water in repellent soils.
Passivity-based Feedback Design for Polynomial Control Systems (Passivitätsbasierter Reglerentwurf für polynomiale Systeme)
Authors: Ebenbauer Christian , Raff Tobias , Allgöwer Frank
Published: August 2005

This paper proposes a simple computer-aided feedback design strategy for polynomial control systems. The design strategy is based on passivity and semidefinite programming, two well-established concepts from control theory and optimization. The combination of these two concepts leads to a physically motivated feedback design strategy which can be efficiently and reliably solved on a computer. In particular, this paper addresses the problem of designing globally stabilizing feedbacks via state feedback passivation and via dynamic output feedback passivation using semidefinite programming and the sum of squares decomposition.
Kartesische Impedanzregelung von Robotern mit elastischen Gelenken: Ein passivitätsbasierter Ansatz (Cartesian Impedance Control of Flexible Joint Robots: A Passivity Based Approach)
Authors: Ott Christian , Albu-Schäffer Alin , Kugi Andreas , Stramigioli Stefano , Hirzinger Gerd
Published: August 2005

Der Beitrag beschreibt einen neuen Ansatz zur kartesischen Impedanzregelung von Robotern mit elastischen Gelenken. Die vorgeschlagene Reglerstruktur basiert auf einfachen physikalischen Überlegungen, die eine Erweiterung klassischer Positionsrückführungen um eine zusätzliche Rückführung der Gelenk-Drehmomente motivieren. Der Regler benötigt nur die ersten Ableitungen der Messgrößen und kann somit einfach implementiert werden. Es wird gezeigt, dass sich der geschlossene Regelkreis als Zusammenschaltung passiver Teilsysteme darstellen lässt. Abschließend werden experimentelle Ergebnisse des vorgestellten Reglers mit dem DLR-Leichtbauroboter-II beschrieben.