bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Phosphorus Sources in Rural Watersheds
Authors: Withers P. J. A. , Jarvie H. P. , Hodgkinson R. A. , Palmer‐Felgate E. J. , Bates A. , Neal M. , Howells R. , Withers C. M. , Wickham H. D.
Published: August 2009

Correct identification of P sources in rural watersheds is critical for the development of cost‐effective measures to combat agriculturally‐driven eutrophication. The chemical composition of various storm runoff types (field surface runoff, field drain outfalls, roads, farmyards, and septic tanks) and the receiving streams in three micro (<10 km2) watersheds of varying agricultural intensity were monitored over a 2‐yr period. Mean weekly stream soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) and total phosphorus (TP) concentrations increased from 29 and 69 μg L−1, respectively in the watershed with the lowest intensity agriculture to 382 and 503 μg L−1, respectively in the watershed with high intensity agriculture and a village sewage treatment works. Concentrations of TP in storm runoff varied by up to two orders of magnitude reflecting the complex origins, routing, and composition of contributing source areas. Application of the DESPRAL test suggested field runoff TP concentrations were influenced by both P and organic matter in soil. However, runoff from impervious surfaces (farmyard and roads), and/or influenced by septic tank discharges, was significantly more concentrated (0.08–16 mg TP L−1, mean ≫1 mg L−1) than surface and subsurface runoff from cultivated land and pasture (0.02–3.6 mg TP L−1, mean <1 mg L−1), and/or contained a significantly greater proportion (>50% vs. <50%) of P in dissolved forms. It is concluded that P sources associated with the functioning of rural communities (impervious surfaces, detergents, and wastewater) may be more ecologically relevant than those associated with agriculture and should be better quantified and controlled to avoid localized eutrophication impacts.
Mitigating Diffuse Phosphorus Transfer from Agriculture According to Cost and Efficiency
Authors: Haygarth P. M. , ApSimon H. , Betson M. , Harris D. , Hodgkinson R. , Withers P. J. A.
Published: August 2009

Potential options for mitigating phosphorus (P) transfer from agriculture to water in England and Wales (E&W) were collated across a range of farm systems to assess their potential effectiveness in reducing mass of P transferred and potential cost (pounds sterling [£]) to the farming industry. A simple model framework (called PEASE) incorporating a number of assumptions was used to identify 15 methods for mitigating inputs of P to agricultural systems, 19 methods for preventing mobilization of P, and six methods for controlling the transport of P to streams. The scope for largest reductions in P inputs was to grassland and horticulture. Potential reductions in P mobilization were up to 1.2 kg P ha−1 Reductions in P transfer associated with transport mitigation were larger than those associated with input and mobilization methods (up to 2.2 kg P ha−1). The largest estimated reductions were achieved by installing buffer zones and constructed wetlands, the former being very cost effective (£3–5 kg−1 P saved). Plots of cost curves helped identify where the combined and cumulative P transfer reductions were attainable; these were approximately 0.2 kg ha−1 for uplands, 0.6 kg ha−1 for outdoor pigs, 0.9 kg ha−1 for intensive dairy, and 2.2 kg ha−1 for arable examples. We concluded that established catchment‐scale evidence for mitigation is sparse, especially for specific farm systems in E&W. Sensitivities and uncertainties in the approach, especially associated with expert coefficients, are noted. This approach is nonetheless considered useful for prioritizing where and how best options might be most effectively targeted for least cost but greatest benefit.
Climate Change Effects on Runoff, Catchment Phosphorus Loading and Lake Ecological State, and Potential Adaptations
Authors: Jeppesen Erik , Kronvang Brian , Meerhoff Mariana , Søndergaard Martin , Hansen Kristina M. , Andersen Hans E. , Lauridsen Torben L. , Liboriussen Lone , Beklioglu Meryem , Özen Arda , Olesen Jørgen E.
Published: August 2009

Climate change may have profound effects on phosphorus (P) transport in streams and on lake eutrophication. Phosphorus loading from land to streams is expected to increase in northern temperate coastal regions due to higher winter rainfall and to a decline in warm temperate and arid climates. Model results suggest a 3.3 to 16.5% increase within the next 100 yr in the P loading of Danish streams depending on soil type and region. In lakes, higher eutrophication can be expected, reinforced by temperature‐mediated higher P release from the sediment. Furthermore, a shift in fish community structure toward small and abundant plankti‐benthivorous fish enhances predator control of zooplankton, resulting in higher phytoplankton biomass. Data from Danish lakes indicate increased chlorophyll a and phytoplankton biomass, higher dominance of dinophytes and cyanobacteria (most notably of nitrogen fixing forms), but lower abundance of diatoms and chrysophytes, reduced size of copepods and cladocerans, and a tendency to reduced zooplankton biomass and zooplankton:phytoplankton biomass ratio when lakes warm. Higher P concentrations are also seen in warm arid lakes despite reduced external loading due to increased evapotranspiration and reduced inflow. Therefore, the critical loading for good ecological state in lakes has to be lowered in a future warmer climate. This calls for adaptation measures, which in the northern temperate zone should include improved P cycling in agriculture, reduced loading from point sources, and (re)‐establishment of wetlands and riparian buffer zones. In the arid Southern Europe, restrictions on human use of water are also needed, not least on irrigation.
Streamside Management Zones Effectiveness for Protecting Water Quality after Forestland Application of Biosolids
Authors: Pratt W. A. , Fox T. R.
Published: August 2009

Biosolids, materials resulting from domestic sewage treatment, are surface applied to forest soils to increase phosphorus (P), nitrate, and ammonium availability. Retaining streamside management zones (SMZs) can limit nutrient pollution of streams. We delineated 15‐m SMZs along three intermittent streams in an 18‐yr‐old Pinus taeda L. plantation. We applied biosolids at a rate of 1120 and 629 kg ha−1 of total nitrogen and total P outside the SMZ on one side of each of the streams while maintaining the other side of the stream as control. We collected water samples from the three treated and six reference streams and from the perennial stream upstream and downstream from the intermittent streams for 12 mo after treatment. Along transects perpendicular to the treated streams, we collected overland flow samples, soil solution samples at 60 cm, and extracts from ion exchange membranes (IEMs) placed in the surface soil. We observed significantly elevated P concentrations adjacent to the stream in overland flow during one period on the treated side of the stream. We found significantly elevated nitrate concentrations outside the SMZ in the treated‐side soil solution samples, in which concentrations remained below 1.5 mg L−1 Phosphorus, nitrate, and ammonium concentrations outside the SMZ in treated‐side IEM extracts showed significant increases after biosolids application, returning to near control levels after 1 yr. Phosphorus, nitrate, and ammonium concentrations in IEM extracts were not different adjacent to the streams. Stream P, nitrate, and ammonium concentrations showed few differences downstream from the treatment with concentrations below 1.5 mg L−1 Our results indicate that at 15 m, SMZ protected streams from P, nitrate, and ammonium pollution for the first year after biosolids application to adjacent loblolly pine plantations in the Virginia Piedmont.
Evaluation of the Efficiency of a Phytostabilization Process with Biological Indicators of Soil Health
Authors: Epelde Lur , Becerril José M. , Mijangos Iker , Garbisu Carlos
Published: August 2009

A phytostabilization process that combined the addition of a synthetic (Calcinit + urea + PK14% + calcium carbonate) or organic (cow slurry) amendment with Lolium perenne L. growth was used to remediate a mine soil moderately contaminated with Zn, Pb, and Cd. The reduced toxicity caused by both amendments allowed the establishment of a healthy L. perenne vegetation cover that had a positive influence on soil properties, increasing the biomass, activity, and functional diversity of the soil microbial community. The beneficial effects of phytostabilization on soil properties were more accentuated in organically amended than in synthetically amended soils. Root‐to‐shoot translocation factors were smaller in amended versus control plants, indicating a reduction in the risk of metals entering the food chain through phytostabilization. The sensitivity, rapid response, and integrative character of biological indicators of soil health make them valuable tools for assessing the efficiency of metal phytostabilization processes.
Mitigation Options for Sediment and Phosphorus Loss from Winter‐sown Arable Crops
Authors: Deasy Clare , Quinton John N. , Silgram Martyn , Bailey Alison P. , Jackson Bob , Stevens Carly J.
Published: August 2009

Sediment and P inputs to freshwaters from agriculture are a major problem in the United Kingdom (UK). This study investigated mitigation options for diffuse pollution losses from arable land. Field trials were undertaken at the hillslope scale over three winters at three UK sites with silt (Oxyaquic Hapludalf), sand (Udic Haplustept), and clay (Typic Haplaquept) soils. None of the mitigation treatments was effective in every year trialled, but each showed overall average reductions in losses. Over five site years, breaking up the compaction in tramlines (tractor wheel tracks) using a tine reduced losses of sediment and P to losses similar to those observed from areas without tramlines, with an average reduction in P loss of 1.06 kg TP ha−1 Compared to traditional plowing, TP losses under minimum tillage were reduced by 0.30 kg TP ha−1 over five site years, TP losses under contour cultivation were reduced by 0.30 kg TP ha−1 over two site years, and TP losses using in‐field barriers were reduced by 0.24 kg TP ha−1 over two site years. In one site year, reductions in losses due to crop residue incorporation were not significant. Each of the mitigation options trialled is associated with a small cost at the farm‐scale of up to £5 ha−1, or with cost savings. The results indicate that each of the treatments has the potential to be a cost‐effective mitigation option, but that tramline management is the most promising treatment, because tramlines dominate sediment and P transfer in surface runoff from arable hillslopes.
Presenting Concerns and Characteristics of Families Seeking Treatment at a Medical Crisis Coping Center
Authors: Hood Megan M. , Sylvia Susan C.
Published: August 2009

This study describes children presenting for treatment related to coping with personal or family medical crises and explores use of a medical crisis counseling treatment model across crisis types (personal illness, family illness, or death of a loved one). Parents of 109 children reported on problems and functioning via the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). A subset of children completed the Youth Self-Report (YSR). CBCL scores for the clinic children fell between those of referred and non-referred normative populations, but few differences were found across crisis types. Child- and parent-report scores were most highly correlated on externalizing scales, while significant differences were found on internalizing scales with parents reporting more child difficulties than children. Results indicate that patterns of difficulties are similar across presenting crisis type and are generally subtle. Individuals working with these populations may benefit from offering coping support resources to individuals with even mild signs of distress.
Memorializing Columbine
Authors: Bingham Rebecka D. , Heath Melissa Allen , Lyon Rachel Crook , Williams Marleen , Whicker Jenni , Paine Cathy Kennedy
Published: August 2009

On April 20, 1999, two students, Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold, armed with guns, knives, and bombs, terrorized Columbine High School, killing 13 individuals, wounding 24, and emotionally traumatizing thousands. The perpetrators then completed suicide. Moving beyond the tragic events of that day, this study focused on memorializing victims' lives. In particular, the planning of Columbine Memorial was considered from three committee leaders' perspectives. Supplementing their input, additional information was gathered from the memorial's official website and news articles describing related activities. This information is summarized, offering suggestions for planning permanent memorials and facilitating grief.
Evaluation of Methodologies for Mathematical Modeling of Packaged Conductive Foods Heat Process
Authors: Augusto Pedro Esteves Duarte , Pinheiro Talita Ferramola , Tribst Alline Artigiani Lima , Cristianini Marcelo
Published: August 2009

The heat process is a safe method of food preservation. The use of mathematical modeling for heat transfer by finite elements analysis (FEA) makes it possible to determine the cold spot of conventional and non conventional packages, evaluate their thermal history, microbial and enzyme inactivation and nutrients retention for an optimum process design. Several works use simplifications during mathematical modeling, such as adiabatic headspace, considering the thermal resistance of package negligible. The impact of these simplifications is rarely evaluated. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the effect of these simplifications on sterilization value (Fp) for a conductive food. Two commercial glass bottles (G1 and G2) were selected for the assays. FEA model was built using the bottles' real geometries. Three methodologies were evaluated, considering (i) the four components of the system, i.e., product, glass wall, headspace and metal cap, and uniform heating (PGHM); (ii) adiabatic headspace, i.e., a model considering product and glass wall, with its upper side adiabatic (PG); and (iii) only product, with adiabatic upper side (P). A tomato concentrate industrial pasteurizator profile was used as boundary condition. The Fp was determined by using two values of thermal coefficient (z), 5.5ºC and 12.5ºC, representing a possible range of contaminants z-value. The cold spot of the two packages was located at 32% (G1) and 46% (G2) of the product height. For the same process, the differences of Fp for the two packages ranged between 62 and 320%. Comparing the Fp by PGHM and PG models, differences were observed between 4 and 13%. These differences were over 45% when comparing PGHM with P models, even with similar thermal history. The results indicated the importance of the previous evaluation of the impact of each simplification on the accuracy of the model. Due to exponential relationship between temperature and reactions during the heat process, the need for Fp evaluation instead of thermal history in conductive food was confirmed.
Respiration Rate Models of Agaricus bisporus under Modified Atmosphere Packaging
Authors: Li Xia , Wang Xiangyou , Wang Juan , Liu Zhe
Published: August 2009

The package headspace composition, in terms of O2 and CO2 concentrations, in modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) of Agaricus bisporus at 2, 4, 8 and 20°C were respectively monitored within 15h by a gas chromatograph. The respiration rate of Agaricus bisporus under modified atmosphere packaging at any instant of time were calculated by a C program based on permeable system. The dependence of respiration rate on gas composition was well described by a Michaelis-Menten type enzyme kinetic equation with uncompetitive CO2 inhibition. The model parameters were estimated by fitting the model to the experimental data by non-linear regression using Excel. The relationship between maximum rate Vm and temperature was well described by the Arrhenius equation. The results suggest that, the respiration rate of Agaricus bisporus as well as Vm increased with temperature, and it has a linear relationship between lnVm and T-1. Results of the study can be applied to the MAP design for Agaricus bisporus.
Strongylid Community Structure of the Przewalski's Horses (Equus ferus Przewalskii) from the Biosphere Reserve "Askania-Nova", Ukraine
Authors: Kuzmina T. , Zvegintsova N. , Zharkikh T.
Published: August 2009

Strongylid Community Structure of the Przewalski's Horses (Equus ferus Przewalskii) from the Biosphere Reserve "Askania-Nova", Ukraine

Species composition and the structure of strongylid community of the Przewalski's horse (Equus ferus przewalskiiPoljakov, 1881) semi-free population at the "Askania-Nova" Biosphere Reserve were studied by thein vivomethod of diagnostic deworming. After deworming of 24 adult Przewalski's horses by the anthelmintic "Univerm" (0.2% aversectin C, Russia), 25,815 strongylid specimens were collected and identified. Thirty-one strongylid species of 12 genera were found including 6 species of the subfamily Strongylinae and 25 — of Cyathostominae. Nine to 18 strongylid species (average 14.5 ± 2.5) were found per horse. Cyathostomes (Cyathostominae) dominated in the Przewalski's horse strongylid community: 9 species (Cyathostomum catinatum, C. pateratum, Cylicocyclus nassatus, C. insigne, C. leptostomum, C. ashworthi, Cylicostephanus longibursatus, C. goldi and C. minutus) were found in more than 80% of horses examined and composed 94.1% of the total number of strongylid collected. Strongyles (Strongylinae) were found in 100% of theE. ferus przewalskiiexamined; prevalence of separate species was from 4.2% to 58.3%. The general structure of the strongylid community was multimodal with dominant (9 species), subdominant (4), background (4) and rare (14) species. The list of strongylid species found in the Przewalski'si horses in Ukraine was enlarged to 37 species.
A New Species of the Genus Cymatosus (Diptera, Ulidiidae) from Central America, with a Key to Species
Authors: Kameneva E.
Published: August 2009

A New Species of the Genus Cymatosus (Diptera, Ulidiidae) from Central America, with a Key to Species

Cymatosus icarus Kameneva, sp. n. from Costa Rica is described. It differs from the four previously described species by the wing pattern with an additional arcuate hyaline stripe parallel to the wing margin, and a rounded brown spot in the middle of the wing disc, resembling that in Callistomyia icarus Osten Sacken (Tephritidae). A key to the species of the genus Cymatosus Enderlein and notes on other species are provided.
Thermoeconomic Optimum Operation Conditions of a Solar-driven Heat Engine Model
Authors: Barranco-Jiménez Marco  A. , Sánchez-Salas Norma , Rosales Marco  A.
Published: August 2009

In the present paper, the thermoeconomic optimization of an endoreversible solardriven heat engine has been carried out by using finite-time/finite-size thermodynamic theory. In the considered heat engine model, the heat transfer from the hot reservoir to the working fluid is assumed to be the radiation type and the heat transfer to the cold reservoir is assumed the conduction type. In this work, the optimum performance and two design parameters have been investigated under three objective functions: the power output per unit total cost, the efficient power per unit total cost and the ecological function per unit total cost. The effects of the technical and economical parameters on the thermoeconomic performance have been also discussed under the aforementioned three criteria of performance.
Chemical Interactions and Their Role in the Microphase Separation of Block Copolymer Thin Films
Authors: Farrell Richard A. , Fitzgerald Thomas G. , Borah Dipu , Holmes Justin D. , Morris Michael A.
Published: August 2009

The thermodynamics of self-assembling systems are discussed in terms of the chemical interactions and the intermolecular forces between species. It is clear that there are both theoretical and practical limitations on the dimensions and the structural regularity of these systems. These considerations are made with reference to the microphase separation that occurs in block copolymer (BCP) systems. BCP systems self-assemble via a thermodynamic driven process where chemical dis-affinity between the blocks driving them part is balanced by a restorative force deriving from the chemical bond between the blocks. These systems are attracting much interest because of their possible role in nanoelectronic fabrication. This form of self-assembly can obtain highly regular nanopatterns in certain circumstances where the orientation and alignment of chemically distinct blocks can be guided through molecular interactions between the polymer and the surrounding interfaces. However, for this to be possible, great care must be taken to properly engineer the interactions between the surfaces and the polymer blocks. The optimum methods of structure directing are chemical pre-patterning (defining regions on the substrate of different chemistry) and graphoepitaxy (topographical alignment) but both centre on generating alignment through favourable chemical interactions. As in all self-assembling systems, the problems of defect formation must be considered and the origin of defects in these systems is explored. It is argued that in these nanostructures equilibrium defects are relatively few and largely originate from kinetic effects arising during film growth. Many defects also arise from the confinement of the systems when they are ‘directed’ by topography. The potential applications of these materials in electronics are discussed.
Synthesis and Antitumor Activity of Amino Acid Ester Derivatives Containing 5-Fluorouracil
Authors: Xiong Jing , Zhu Hai-Feng , Zhao Ya-Juan , Lan Yun-Jun , Jiang Ji-Wang , Yang Jing-Jing , Zhang Shu-Feng
Published: August 2009

A series of amino acid ester derivatives containing 5-fluorouracil were synthesized using 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC•HCl) and N-hydroxybenzotriazole (HOBt) as a coupling agent. The structures of the products were assigned by NMR, MS, IR etc. The in vitro antitumor activity tests against leukaemia HL-60 and liver cancer BEL-7402 indicated that (R)-ethyl 2-(2-(5-fluoro-2,4-dioxo-3,4-dihydropyrimidin-1(2H)-yl)acetamido)-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl) propanoate showed more inhibitory effect against BEL-7402 than 5-FU.
MEKK1 Binds HECT E3 Ligase Itch by Its Amino-Terminal RING Motif to Regulate Th2 Cytokine Gene Expression
Authors: Enzler Thomas , Chang Xing , Facchinetti Valeria , Melino Gerry , Karin Michael , Su Bing , Gallagher Ewen
Published: August 2009

MEKK1-dependent signaling regulates HECT E3 ligase Itch, resulting in elevated catalytic activity. After TCR costimulation, MEKK1 predominantly induces JNK1 activation, whereas the related kinase MEKK2 regulates ERK5 activation. MEKK1 becomes phosphorylated on multiple sites and polyubiquitinated following TCR costimulation. E3 ligase Itch is recruited to activated MEKK1, but not MEKK2, and this novel scaffolding interaction is dependent on MEKK1 Thr1381 phosphorylation within the kinase domain and an intact MEKK1 RING finger motif. MEKK1 phosphorylation on Thr1381 is observed during Th2 differentiation, but not under Th1 differentiation. Both Itch and the MEKK1 kinase domain are important for Il4 and Il6 cytokine gene expression under Th2 conditions.
Regulation of Murine Splenic B Cell CR3 Expression by Complement Component 3
Authors: Jacobson Amanda C. , Roundy Kirstin M. , Weis Janis J. , Weis John H.
Published: August 2009

Complement component C3 has established roles in both innate and adaptive immune responses. C3 cleavage products function in B cell activation through the complement receptors CD21/35. Phenotypes of Ab production between CD21/35−/− and C3−/− mice are not always congruent, implicating additional roles for C3 in B cell responses. To further characterize complement and complement receptors, we have identified a role for C3 in the regulation of CR3 on splenic B cells. Splenic B2 cells are not defined as expressing CR3, yet the analysis of splenic B cells from C3−/− animals demonstrate cell surface expression of CR3. B cells from both wild-type (WT) and C3−/− animals express CR3/CD11b/Itgam (integrin α M) gene transcripts although the level of such transcripts is 2- to 3-fold higher in B cells from the C3−/− animal vs WT cells. C3−/− and WT animals have similar B cell subpopulations with identical CR3 expression on B220− cells from the spleen, marrow, and lymph nodes. The C3-deficient environment is responsible for altered CR3 expression as WT splenic B cells transferred into C3−/− animals expressed cell surface CR3 within 48 h while transfer of C3−/− splenic B cells into WT animals depressed surface expression of CR3. Furthermore, transfer of C3-producing splenic macrophages into C3−/− mice depressed CR3 expression by resident B cells. These data suggest a role for C3 in influencing the level of expression of CR3 by modulating the transcript levels encoding the CD11b α integrin protein.
Cutting Edge: TGF-β1 and IL-15 Induce FOXP3+ γδ Regulatory T Cells in the Presence of Antigen Stimulation
Authors: Casetti Rita , Agrati Chiara , Wallace Marianne , Sacchi Alessandra , Martini Federico , Martino Angelo , Rinaldi Alessandra , Malkovsky Miroslav
Published: August 2009

Several subsets of αβ regulatory T cells (Tregs) have been described and studied intensively, but the potential regulatory role of γδ T cells remains largely unclear. Lymphocytes expressing γδ TCR are involved in both innate and adaptive immune responses, and their major adult human peripheral blood subset (Vγ9Vδ2) displays a broad reactivity against microbial agents and tumors. In this study we report that γδ T lymphocytes with regulatory functions (Vδ2 Tregs) are induced in vitro in the presence of specific Ag stimulation and cytokines (TGF-β1 and IL-15). These cells express FOXP3 and, similarly as αβ Tregs, suppress the proliferation of anti-CD3/anti-CD28 stimulated-PBMC. Phenotypic and functional analyses of Vδ2 Tregs will very likely improve our understanding about the role of γδ T cells in the pathogenesis of autoimmune, infectious, and neoplastic diseases.
An Accessory Role for B Cells in the IL-12-Induced Activation of Resting Mouse NK Cells
Authors: Haddad Evette A. , Senger Laura K. , Takei Fumio
Published: August 2009

IL-12 is a potent proinflammatory cytokine. The effects of IL-12 are thought to be mediated by IFN-γ production by NK, NKT, and T cells. In this study, we show that although IL-12 stimulates NK and NK1.1+ T cells in bulk mouse splenocytes, it does not significantly stimulate purified NK cells, indicating that other cells are required. IL-12 stimulates T cell-deficient spleen cells and those depleted of macrophages. Unexpectedly, the depletion of dendritic cells also has little effect on the stimulation of spleen cells with IL-12. In contrast, B cell depletion almost completely inhibits IL-12-induced IFN-γ production and B cell-deficient spleen cells are poorly stimulated with IL-12. Furthermore, purified NK cells are stimulated with IL-12 in the presence of purified B cells. Thus, B cells are necessary and also sufficient for the stimulation of purified NK cells with IL-12. Whereas spleen cells from IL-18-deficient mice are not stimulated with IL-12, NK cells purified from IL-18-deficient mice are stimulated with IL-12 in the presence of wild-type (WT) B cells, and WT NK cells are not stimulated with IL-12 in the presence of IL-18-deficient B cells. Cell contact between B and NK cells is also required for IL-12-induced IFN-γ production. Finally, B cell-deficient mice injected with IL-12 produce significantly less IFN-γ and IL-18 in the sera than WT mice do. Thus, stimulation of NK cells with IL-12 requires B cell cooperation in vitro as well as in vivo.
Deficiency of Endothelial Heparan Sulfates Attenuates Allergic Airway Inflammation
Authors: Zuberi Riaz I. , Ge Xiao Na , Jiang Shuxia , Bahaie Nooshin S. , Kang Bit Na , Hosseinkhani Reza M. , Frenzel Elizabeth M. , Fuster Mark M. , Esko Jeffrey D. , Rao Savita P. , Sriramarao P.
Published: August 2009

The effect of targeted inactivation of the gene encoding N-deacetylase/N-sulfotransferase-1 (Ndst1), a key enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of heparan sulfate (HS) chains, on the inflammatory response associated with allergic inflammation in a murine model of OVA-induced acute airway inflammation was investigated. OVA-exposed Ndst1f/fTekCre+ (mutant) mice deficient in endothelial and leukocyte Ndst1 demonstrated significantly decreased allergen-induced airway hyperresponsiveness and inflammation characterized by a significant reduction in airway recruitment of inflammatory cells (eosinophils, macrophages, neutrophils, and lymphocytes), diminished IL-5, IL-2, TGF-β1, and eotaxin levels, as well as decreased expression of TGF-β1 and the angiogenic protein FIZZ1 (found in inflammatory zone 1) in lung tissue compared with OVA-exposed Ndst1f/fTekCre− wild-type littermates. Furthermore, murine eosinophils demonstrated significantly decreased rolling on lung endothelial cells (ECs) from mutant mice compared with wild-type ECs under conditions of flow in vitro. Treatment of wild-type ECs, but not eosinophils, with anti-HS Abs significantly inhibited eosinophil rolling, mimicking that observed with Ndst1-deficient ECs. In vivo, trafficking of circulating leukocytes in lung microvessels of allergen-challenged Ndst1-deficient mice was significantly lower than that observed in corresponding WT littermates. Endothelial-expressed HS plays an important role in allergic airway inflammation through the regulation of recruitment of inflammatory cells to the airways by mediating interaction of leukocytes with the vascular endothelium. Furthermore, HS may also participate by sequestering and modulating the activity of allergic asthma-relevant mediators such as IL-5, IL-2, and TGF-β1.
Blocking of CD27-CD70 Pathway by Anti-CD70 Antibody Ameliorates Joint Disease in Murine Collagen-Induced Arthritis
Authors: Oflazoglu Ezogelin , Boursalian Tamar E. , Zeng Weiping , Edwards Ana C. , Duniho Steve , McEarchern Julie A. , Law Che-Leung , Gerber Hans-Peter , Grewal Iqbal S.
Published: August 2009

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by inflammation and cellular proliferation in the synovial lining of joints that result in cartilage and bone destruction. Although the etiology of RA is unclear, activated lymphocytes and proinflammatory molecules, in particular TNF superfamily members, have been implicated in the disease pathology. A TNF superfamily member, CD70, is found on activated lymphocytes and shown to be important in memory and effector responses of lymphocytes. CD70 is expressed at high levels on chronically activated T cells in patients with autoimmune disorders, including RA. The involvement of CD70 in the progression of RA, however, remains unknown. In this study, we report effects of targeting CD70 on disease pathogenesis by using an anti-mouse CD70 Ab in a murine model of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). In addition to blocking CD70 binding to its receptor CD27, the anti-CD70 Ab used also engages Fc-dependent effector functions including Ab-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, phagocytosis, and complement fixation. Treatment of mice with anti-CD70 Ab both before the onset or after the established disease in CIA model resulted in marked improvements in disease severity and significant reduction in the production of autoantibodies. Histopathological analyses of the joints of mice revealed a substantial reduction of inflammation, and bone and cartilage destruction in response to the anti-CD70 Ab treatment. These results uncover a novel role for CD27-CD70 interactions in the regulation of in vivo inflammatory response leading to arthritis, and provide a molecular basis to support the rationale for anti-CD70 therapy for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
Reasons for non-compliance among patients with hypertension at Vanga Hospital, Bandundu Province, Democratic Republic of Congo: A qualitative study
Authors: Fina Lubaki Jean-Pierre , Mabuza Langalibalele , Malete Nomsa , Maduna Patrick , Ndimande John V.
Published: August 2009

Background: Hypertension is a serious public health challenge in both economically developing and developed countries. Patients on outpatient medication for hypertension at Vanga Hospital in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) often present with uncontrolled hypertension and some with hypertension emergencies. On enquiry, the problem appeared to revolve around compliance.Method: The study was a qualitative, descriptive study using the focus group interview technique for data collection. Subjects were purposely selected. Interviews were conducted from 23 March to 19 July 2006. Three focus groups were formed: The first was heterogeneous in terms of gender (five males and three females), the second homogeneous (six males) and the last also homogeneous (six females). The group members varied with respect to characteristics such as place of residence, occupation and educational standard. The data collected were analysed using the thematic analysis method within grounded theory.Results: Five themes emerged as possible explanations for non-compliance: Side effects discouraged patients from taking medication; patients took medication only when they experienced perceived symptoms of hypertension; poor knowledge of the disease and the medication used; lack of support by family members; and difficulty in obtaining antihypertensive medication.Conclusion: Side effects of the medication, lack of information and support, difficulty in obtaining the medication and the fact that the disease is mainly silent played a major role in the poor adherence to hypertension medication. Sustained health promotion and education should be undertaken at all levels of patient contact to ensure good compliance.
CFD modeling of the Wurster bed coater
Authors: Karlsson Stina , Rasmuson Anders , van Wachem Berend , Björn Ingela Niklasson
Published: August 2009

In the Wurster bed coater, the wetting, drying, and circulation of particles are combined to produce a high quality coating. The drying and wetting conditions in a laboratory scale Wurster bed coater are modeled and compared with experimental data. A model combining multiphase fluid dynamics with heat and mass transfer is developed to model the particle and gas motion and the transport of thermal energy and moisture. A wetting region is defined, where a specified moisture content is set in the particle phase, above the jet inlet, to describe the injection of coating liquid. The simulation shows the characteristic circulation of particles in the equipment, as well as the behavior of the moisture in the system and agrees well with measurements. The simulation indicates how different process conditions influence the drying regions. The results show that most of the drying, under typical operating conditions, takes place in the Wurster tube. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2009
Analysis of stirred tanks with two‐zone models
Authors: Alopaeus Ville , Moilanen Pasi , Laakkonen Marko
Published: August 2009

Stirred tank turbulence and fluid flow characteristics are analyzed based on a two‐zone model. Instead of using the zonal model for stirred tank performance prediction as often proposed in the literature, the zoning is used here as a tool for mixing analysis. A systematic zoning approach is proposed, where the tank is divided into two nested regions. By gradually increasing the inner zone volume, continuous curves can be obtained for turbulent energy dissipation distribution and pumping numbers between the zones as functions of the zone sizes. It is shown here that these curves can be used as a powerful tool for visualizing stirred tank performance. They can be used, e.g., in impeller performance comparisons and analysis of mixing characteristics with changing rheology, or to examine various numerical aspects related to stirred tank CFD modeling. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2009
A robust calibration modeling strategy for analysis of interference‐subject spectral data
Authors: Zhao Chunhui , Gao Furong , Yao Yuan , Wang Fuli
Published: August 2009

Preprocessing and correction of mixture spectra have been an important issue with regard to the removal of undesired systematic variation due to variations in environmental, instrumental, or sample conditions. In this article, a new robust calibration modeling strategy is proposed on the basis of independent component analysis (ICA). It aims at separating the interference‐subject parasitic subspace from the interference‐immune common subspace among all considered cases. The common subspace is further divided into two orthogonal parts according to their relationship with quality: one is quality‐irrelevant and the other is quality‐informative, in which, only the second part is employed for quality prediction. Focusing on each subspace, it identifies distinct types of underlying source components underlying different spectra subspaces, analyzes their characteristics and roles, and accordingly models them for different applications, respectively. This approach provides a comprehensive insight into the inherent nature of interference‐subject mixture spectra. Furthermore, several model statistics are defined to give quantitative indication on the effectiveness of the correction strategy. The feasibility and performance of the proposed method are illustrated with data from laboratory experiments. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2010
A novel thermoresponsive graft copolymer containing phosphorylated HEMA for generating detachable cell layers
Authors: Abraham Thomas N. , Raj Vidya , Prasad Tilak , Kumar P. R. Anil , Sreenivasan K. , Kumary T. V.
Published: August 2009

A novel polymeric formulation based on N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAAm), methylmethacrylate (MMA), and phosphorylated hydroxylethyl methacrylate (Phosp‐HEMA) was synthesized and characterized. NIPAAm was copolymerized with a known quantity of MMA to form a poly(NIPAAm–MMA) copolymer and was subsequently grafted with Phosp‐HEMA by gamma irradiation to a total dose of 0.5 kGy. The thermoresponsive graft copolymer was characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, contact angle measurements, and energy dispersive X‐ray analysis. The cytotoxicity of the graft copolymer analyzed using L‐929 fibroblast cells showed noncytotoxic response. The cell adhesion on the graft copolymer was studied using rabbit corneal cells (SIRC) and human osteoblasts (HOS). The adhered cells were found to spread leading to the formation of cell layers. The cell layers with intact cell–cell and cell–extra cellular matrix contact were detached by lowering temperature below the lower critical solution temperature (29°C) of the graft copolymer. The viability and morphology of the cells in detached cell sheets were assessed by live dead staining and environmental scanning electron microscopy, respectively. This interesting feature of cell adhesion to form cell layers and cell sheet retrieval is implicit to be due to the properties of phosphate moieties on thermoresponsive copolymer. To the authors knowledge there is no previous report on phosphate moiety containing thermo responsive polymeric formulations which can modulate cell adhesion and cell sheet retrieval. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Tensile properties of a poly(vinyl chloride) composite filled with poly(methyl methacrylate) grafted to oil palm empty fruit bunches
Authors: Bakar Aznizam Abu , Keat Tham Boon , Hassan Azman
Published: August 2009

The influence of oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) fiber and oil palm empty fruit bunches grafted with poly(methyl methacrylate) (OPEFB‐g‐PMMA) on the tensile properties of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) was investigated. The OPEFB‐g‐PMMA fiber was first prepared with the optimum conditions for the grafting reaction, which were determined in our previous study. To produce composites, the PVC resin, OPEFB‐g‐PMMA fiber or ungrafted OPEFB fiber, and other additives were first dry‐blended with a laboratory blender before being milled into sheets on a two‐roll mill. Test specimens were then hot‐pressed, and then the tensile properties were determined. A comparison with the composite filled with the ungrafted OPEFB fiber showed that the tensile strength and elongation at break increased, whereas Young's modulus decreased, with the incorporation of 20 phr OPEFB‐g‐PMMA fiber into the PVC matrix. The trend of the tensile properties obtained in this study was supported by functional group analysis, glass‐transition temperature measurements, and surface morphological analysis. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Removal of alkylphenols by the combined use of tyrosinase immobilized on ion‐exchange resins and chitosan beads
Authors: Tamura Ayumi , Satoh Erika , Kashiwada Ayumi , Matsuda Kiyomi , Yamada Kazunori
Published: August 2009

Mushroom tyrosinase was covalently immobilized on a poly(acrylic acid)‐type, weakly acidic cation‐exchange resin (Daiaion WK10, Mitsubishi Chemical Corp., Tokyo, Japan) with 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide hydrochloride salt as a water‐soluble carbodiimide. Ion‐exchange resins immobilized with tyrosinase were packed in one column, and crosslinked chitosan beads prepared with epichlorohydrin were packed in another column. The enzymatic activity was modified by covalent immobilization, and the immobilized tyrosinase had a high activity in the temperature range of 30–45°C and in the pH range of 7–10. When solutions of various alkylphenols were circulated through the two columns packed with tyrosinase‐immobilized ion‐exchange resins and crosslinked chitosan beads at 45°C and pH 7 (the optimum conditions determined for p‐cresol), alkylphenols were effectively removed through quinone oxidation with immobilized tyrosinase and subsequent quinone adsorption on chitosan beads. The use of chemically crosslinked chitosan beads in place of commercially available chitosan beads was effective in removing alkylphenols from aqueous solutions in shorter treatment times. The removal efficiency increased with an increase in the amount of crosslinked chitosan beads packed in the column because the rate of quinone adsorption became higher than the rate of enzymatic quinone generation. The activity of tyrosinase was iteratively used by covalent immobilization on ion‐exchange resins. One of the most important findings obtained in this study is the fact that linear and branched alkylphenols suspected of weak endocrine‐disrupting effects were effectively removed from aqueous solutions. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Reduction of volatile organic compound emission. I. Synthesis and characterization of alkoxy‐modified silsesquioxane
Authors: Hergenrother William L. , Lin Chenchy J. , Hilton Ashley S. , Hogan Terrence E. , Brumbaugh Dennis R.
Published: August 2009

The preparation and characterization of a class of alkoxy‐modified silsesquioxane (AMS) compounds containing less than 5 wt % of latent alcohol is described. The AMS derived from octyl triethoxysilane (OTES) behaves as a shielding agent in silica‐filled rubbers while significantly reducing the volatile organic compounds that are released during the manufacture of rubber articles. Analysis of AMS by high pressure liquid chromatography and 29Si NMR shows that it has a plethora of structures present that can best be described as a highly condensed opened oligomeric, branched arrangement of silsesquioxanes units. This structure is moisture stable, hydrocarbon soluble, and reactive with silica at compounding temperatures. The AMS has been prepared by acid‐ or base‐catalyzed hydrolysis and condensation in alcohol solution to form a product that often separates from the lower density reaction mixture. The kinetics of the AMS formation was examined and showed two separate rate processes occurring. The co‐AMS prepared from OTES and 3‐mercaptopropyl trimethoxysilane yielded an effective shielding agent and coupling agent when used in silica‐filled vulcanizates. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Studies on heterogeneous degradation of polypropylene/talc composite: Effect of iron impurity on the degradation behavior
Authors: Nakatani Hisayuki , Shibata Hiroshi , Miyazaki Kensuke , Yonezawa Tetsu , Takeda Hidetoshi , Azuma Yutaka , Watanabe Shin
Published: August 2009

In this study, an effect of iron oxide (Fe2O3) impurity in talc on degradation behavior of polypropylene (PP)/talc composite was studied using a PP/Fe2O3 model composite sample. The thermal oxidative degradation was performed at 100°C. Although the degradation of a pure PP sample hardly occurred at such temperature, the existence of Fe2O3 induced the PP degradation. The degraded PP part was formed around the Fe2O3 grain in the PP/Fe2O3 sample. It was found from the optical microscope observation that the degraded PP was able to diffuse only within the PP amorphous part. The analysis of the oxidation distribution on the degraded PP surface was performed employing a scanning electron microscope/electron dispersive spectrometer. The result showed that the PP spots in the vicinity of the Fe2O3 grain were unoxidized during the initial degradation process, and the oxidized PP spots were located at around 6 μm distance from the Fe2O3 grain. It was concluded that the degradation was initiated microscopically away from the Fe2O3 grain so that the Fe2O3 had both the abilities to accelerate the decomposition of PP hydroperoxide compounds and to reduce the produced radical species into nonradical products. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Super‐toughed polymer blends derived from polypropylene random copolymer and ethylene/styrene interpolymer
Authors: Tang Jian , Tang Weihua , Yuan Huilin , Jin Riguang
Published: August 2009

In this article, blends of polypropylene random copolymer (PP‐R) with a novel impact modifier, namely ethylene/styrene interpolymer (ESI), were prepared to evaluate the effectiveness of ESI in toughening PP‐R and the influence of ESI content on the mechanical, thermal, and rheological properties of polymer blends. Results showed that super‐toughened PP‐R/ESI blends (ca. Izod impact strength ≥ 500 J/m) were readily achieved with only 5 wt % ESI. The blends exhibited significant improvement in both impact strength and elongation, while small loss in tensile strength and elastic modulus when increasing ESI content. ESI had a nucleating effect that caused PP matrix to crystallize at higher temperatures, whereas PP‐R/ESI blends presented lower melting temperatures (Tm) than PP‐R matrix and Tm decreased with the increment of ESI content. Rheology study indicated that both PP‐R matrix and PP‐R/ESI blends presented shear thinning behaviors during melt processing. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010