bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioaccumulation of triclocarban in Lumbriculus variegatus
Authors: Higgins Christopher P. , Paesani Zachary J. , Chalew Talia E. Abbott , Halden Rolf U.
Published: August 2009

The antimicrobial triclocarban (TCC) has been detected in streams and municipal biosolids throughout the United States. In addition, TCC and potential TCC transformation products have been detected at high levels (ppm range) in sediments near major cities in the United States. Previous work has suggested that TCC is relatively stable in these environments, thereby raising concerns about the potential for bioaccumulation in sediment-dwelling organisms. Bioaccumulation of TCC from sediments was assessed using the freshwater oligochaete Lumbriculus variegatus. Worms were exposed to TCC in sediment spiked to 22.4 ppm to simulate the upper bound of environmental concentrations. Uptake from laboratory-spiked sediment was examined over 56 d for TCC and 4,4′-dichlorocarbanilide (DCC), a chemical impurity in and potential transformation product of TCC. The clearance of TCC from worms placed in clean sediment was also examined over 21 d after an initial 35-d exposure to TCC in laboratory-spiked sediment. Concentrations of TCC and DCC were monitored in the worms, sediment, and the overlying water using liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. Experimental data were fitted using a standard biodynamic model to generate uptake and elimination rate constants for TCC in L. variegatus. These rate constants were used to estimate steady-state lipid (lip)– and organic carbon (OC)– normalized biota-sediment accumulation factors (BSAFs) for TCC and DCC of 2.2 ± 0.2 and 0.3 ± 0.1 g OC/g lip (goc/glip), respectively. Alternatively, directly measured BSAFs for TCC and DCC after 56 d of exposure were 1.6 ± 0.6 and 0.5 ± 0.2 goc/glip, respectively. Loss of TCC from pre-exposed worms followed first-order kinetics, and the fitted elimination rate constant was identical to that determined from the uptake portion of the present study. Overall, study observations indicate that TCC bioaccumulates from sediments in a manner that is consistent with the traditional hydrophobic organic contaminant paradigm.
Inhibitory Effects of Safrole on Phagocytosis, Intracellular Reactive Oxygen Species, and the Activity of Myeloperoxidase Released by Human Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes
Authors: Chang Lien‐Yu , Lin Jung‐Chen , Chang Ching‐Wen , Ho Weng‐Hang , Chen Yen‐Ting , Peng Ji‐Lung , Hung Shan‐Ling
Published: August 2009

Background: Safrole, a component of Piper betle inflorescence, inhibits bactericidal activity and the release of superoxide anion (O2−) by polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs). This in vitro study further investigated the effects of safrole on phagocytic activity, the intracellular production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the activity of the lysosomal enzyme myeloperoxidase (MPO), which is released by human PMNs.

Methods: The possible effects of safrole on the phagocytic activity of PMNs against Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (previously Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans) were determined using flow cytometry. PMNs were treated with various concentrations of safrole, which was followed by treatment with Hanks balanced salt solution with or without cytochalasin B and fMet‐Leu‐Phe (CB/fMLP). Intracellular ROS was determined using 2′,7′‐dichlorofluorescein diacetate and a fluorometer, whereas MPO activity was determined using a substrate assay.

Results: Safrole significantly inhibited the phagocytic activity of PMNs in a dose‐dependent manner. Approximately 50% of the phagocytic activity of PMNs was affected when 10 mM safrole was used. Exposure of the PMNs to safrole (up to 5 mM) did not directly affect the intracellular levels of ROS and the extracellular activity of MPO. However, the ability of CB/fMLP to trigger production of intracellular ROS and the activity of MPO released by human PMNs was significantly suppressed by safrole.

Conclusions: Safrole reduced the uptake of A. actinomycetemcomitans by human PMNs. Safrole also impaired the normal activation activity of PMNs. Alterations in the defensive properties of PMNs by safrole might promote bacterial colonization, and this could result in periodontal infection.
Full‐Mouth Ultrasonic Debridement Associated With Amoxicillin and Metronidazole in the Treatment of Severe Chronic Periodontitis
Authors: Ribeiro Érica Del Peloso , Bittencourt Sandro , Zanin Iriana Carla Junqueira , Bovi Ambrosano Glaucia Maria , Sallum Enilson A. , Nociti Francisco H. , Gonçalves Reginaldo Bruno , Casati Márcio Zaffalon
Published: August 2009

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the adjunctive clinical, microbiologic, and immunologic effects of the systemic administration of amoxicillin and metronidazole in the full‐mouth ultrasonic debridement of patients with severe chronic periodontitis.

Methods: Twenty‐five patients presenting at least eight teeth with probing depth (PD) ≥5 mm and bleeding on probing (BOP) were selected and randomly assigned to full‐mouth ultrasonic debridement + placebo (control group) or full‐mouth ultrasonic debridement + amoxicillin and metronidazole (test group). The clinical outcomes evaluated were visible plaque index, BOP, position of the gingival margin, relative attachment level (RAL), and PD. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used for quantitative analysis of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (previously Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans), Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Tannerella forsythia (previously T. forsythensis). The enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique permitted the detection of prostaglandin E2, interleukin‐1β, and interferon‐gamma levels in gingival crevicular fluid. All parameters were evaluated at baseline and at 3 and 6 months post‐treatment.

Results: At 6 months, the test treatment resulted in lower BOP and an additional reduction (0.83 mm) in PD (P <0.05). Data also showed RAL gain ≥2 mm at 43.52% of sites in control patients compared to 58.03% of sites in test patients (P <0.05). However, both groups had similar mean RAL gain (1.68 and 1.88 mm for the control and test groups, respectively). Real‐time PCR and ELISA failed to identify significant differences between the groups.

Conclusions: Both treatments resulted in significant clinical improvements; however, there was a slight, but significantly greater, improvement in BOP and the percentage of sites with PD ≥5 mm exhibiting RAL gain ≥2 mm in the test group. Nevertheless, no improvement in the microbiologic or immunologic outcome was observed with the adjunctive use of systemic amoxicillin and metronidazole.
Ankyloglossia: Facts and Myths in Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Suter Valérie G.A. , Bornstein Michael M.
Published: August 2009

Background: The objective of this study was to systematically review the diagnostic criteria, indications, and need for treatment of ankyloglossia (tongue‐tie), as well as the various treatment options for patients in different age groups.

Methods: The MEDLINE databases and the Cochrane Library were searched according to well‐defined criteria, resulting in 64 included articles. The evidence regarding the classifications of tongue‐tie, epidemiologic data, inheritance, breastfeeding problems, impaired tongue mobility, speech disorders, malocclusion, gingival recessions, therapy, and complications due to surgery was analyzed in detail.

Results: Different classifications for ankyloglossia have been proposed but not uniformly accepted. Breastfeeding problems in neonates could be associated with a tongue‐tie, but not enough controlled trials have been performed to identify an ideal treatment option. In children and adults with ankyloglossia, limitations in tongue mobility are present, but the individual degree of discomfort, as well as the severity of an associated speech problem, are subjective and difficult to categorize. There is no evidence supporting the development of gingival recessions because of ankyloglossia. Frenotomy, frenectomy, and frenuloplasty are the main surgical treatment options to release/remove an ankyloglossia. Because of the limited evidence available, no specific surgical method can be favored.

Conclusions: The lack of an accepted definition and classification of ankyloglossia makes comparisons between studies almost impossible. Because almost no controlled prospective trials for surgical interventions in patients with tongue‐ties are present in the literature, no conclusive suggestions regarding the method of choice can be made. It also remains controversial which tongue‐ties need to be surgically removed and which can be left to observation.
Bone Microbial Contamination Influences Autogenous Grafting in Sinus Augmentation
Authors: Verdugo Fernando , Castillo Ana , Moragues María D. , Pontón José
Published: August 2009

Background: The oral occurrence of putative microbial pathogens in humans has been documented in health and disease. The presence of periodontopathogens in patients with a history of periodontal disease may have a negative impact on bone regeneration. This investigation was conducted to confirm the presence of periodontal pathogens in bone particles harvested intraorally for maxillary sinus augmentation and to assess the clinical and radiographic outcomes 6 to 12 months after bone augmentation.

Methods: Culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based identification were performed by paper‐point sampling of intraorally harvested bone particles in a group of 12 maintenance patients undergoing maxillary sinus augmentation. Radiographs were taken to assess and compare bone healing and volume gain at baseline and at 6 to 12 months after augmentation.

Results: The presence of periodontal pathogens (Porphyromonas gingivalis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans [previously Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans], Prevotella intermedia, Tannerella forsythia [previously T. forsythensis], Fusobacterium nucleatum, Parvimonas micra [previously Peptostreptococcus micros or Micromonas micros], Campylobacter rectus, enteric Gram‐negative rods, and Dialister pneumosintes) was identified in 10 of 12 patients (83%) by culture, PCR, or both and was associated with greater bone volume loss at 6 months postaugmentation. The PCR‐positive triad, P. gingivalis, A. actinomycetemcomitans, and P. intermedia, was associated with pronounced volume loss of the grafted sinus at 6 months.

Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to confirm osseous microbial contamination with major periodontopathogens in individuals undergoing maxillary sinus augmentation with a history of periodontitis. The effect on the grafting outcome translated into bone volume loss in the grafted sinus 6 months postaugmentation. Specific microbial contamination may have an impact on osteogenesis in osseous regeneration.
Aberrant Cementum Phenotype Associated With the Hypophosphatemic Hyp Mouse
Authors: Fong H. , Chu E.Y. , Tompkins K.A. , Foster B.L. , Sitara D. , Lanske B. , Somerman M.J.
Published: August 2009

Background: Cementogenesis is sensitive to altered local phosphate levels; thus, we hypothesized a cementum phenotype, likely of decreased formation, would be present in the teeth of X‐linked hypophosphatemic (Hyp) mice. Mutations in the phosphate‐regulating gene with homologies to endopeptidases on the X chromosome (Phex) cause X‐linked hypophosphatemia, characterized by rickets, osteomalacia, and hypomineralized dentin formation, a phenotype recapitulated in the Hyp mouse homolog. Here, we report a developmental study of tooth root formation in Hyp mouse molars, focusing on dentin and cementum.

Methods: Light and transmission electron microscopy were used to study molar tissues from wild‐type (WT) and Hyp mice. Demineralized and hematoxylin and eosin–stained tissues at developmental stages 23 to 96 days postcoital (dpc) were examined by light microscopy. Immunohistochemistry methods were used to detect bone sialoprotein (BSP) distribution in Hyp and WT mouse molar tissues, and transmission electron microscopy was used to study similar molar tissues in the non‐demineralized state.

Results: Dentin in Hyp mice exhibited mineralization defects by 33 dpc, as expected, but this defect was partially corrected by 96 dpc. In support of our hypothesis, a cementum phenotype was detected using a combination of immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy, which included thinner BSP‐positive staining within the cementum, discontinuous mineralization, and a globular appearance compared to WT controls.

Conclusion: Mutations in the phosphate‐regulating Phex gene of the Hyp mouse resulted in defective cementum development.
Technical note: A simple and effective CO 2 delivery system for angiography using a blood bag
Authors: Cherian Mathew P , Mehta Pankaj , Gupta Prashant , Kalyanpur Tejas M , Jayesh SR , Rupa R
Published: August 2009

Several angiographic techniques have been developed to image the arterial system, the commonest using iodinated contrast media. Useful as they may be, they are not without disadvantages. One other modality is angiography using CO 2 . Although CO 2 can be used as an alternative contrast medium, delivery systems are expensive to procure. We describe an indigenous and effective delivery system developed at our institute.
Toward Highly Efficient Solid‐State White Light‐Emitting Electrochemical Cells: Blue‐Green to Red Emitting Cationic Iridium Complexes with Imidazole‐Type Ancillary Ligands
Authors: He Lei , Qiao Juan , Duan Lian , Dong Guifang , Zhang Deqiang , Wang Liduo , Qiu Yong
Published: August 2009

Using imidazole‐type ancillary ligands, a new class of cationic iridium complexes (1–6) is prepared, and photophysical and electrochemical studies and theoretical calculations are performed. Compared with the widely used bpy (2,2′‐bipyridine)‐type ancillary ligands, imidazole‐type ancillary ligands can be prepared and modified with ease, and are capable of blueshifting the emission spectra of cationic iridium complexes. By tuning the conjugation length of the ancillary ligands, blue‐green to red emitting cationic iridium complexes are obtained. Single‐layer light‐emitting electrochemical cells (LECs) based on cationic iridium complexes show blue‐green to red electroluminescence. High efficiencies of 8.4, 18.6, and 13.2 cd A−1 are achieved for the blue‐green‐emitting, yellow‐emitting, and orange‐emitting devices, respectively. By doping the red‐emitting complex into the blue‐green LEC, white LECs are realized, which give warm‐white light with Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage (CIE) coordinates of (0.42, 0.44) and color‐rendering indexes (CRI) of up to 81. The peak external quantum efficiency, current efficiency, and power efficiency of the white LECs reach 5.2%, 11.2 cd A−1, and 10 lm W−1, respectively, which are the highest for white LECs reported so far, and indicate the great potential for the use of these cationic iridium complexes in white LECs.
The Materials Science of Functional Oxide Thin Films
Authors: Blamire Mark G. , MacManus‐Driscoll Judith L. , Mathur Neil D. , Barber Zoe H.
Published: August 2009

Research in the area of functional oxides has progressed from study of their basic chemistry and structure to the point at which an enormous range of desirable properties are being explored for potential applications. The primary limitation on exploitation is the difficulty of achieving sufficiently precise control of the properties because of the range of possible defects in such materials and the remarkably strong effect of such defects on the properties. This review outlines the reasons underlying this sensitivity and recent results that demonstrate the levels of control which are now possible.
Copper‐Catalyzed Synthesis of 1,2,4‐Benzothiadiazine 1,1‐Dioxide Derivatives by Coupling of 2‐Halobenzenesulfonamides with Amidines
Authors: Yang Daoshan , Liu Hongxia , Yang Haijun , Fu Hua , Hu Liming , Jiang Yuyang , Zhao Yufen
Published: August 2009

We have developed a simple and practical copper‐catalyzed method for the synthesis of 1,2,4‐benzothiadiazine 1,1‐dioxide derivativesviacascade reactions of substituted 2‐halobenzenesulfonamides with amidines, and the method is of value for the construction of this kind of molecules with biological and medicinal activities.
Untersuchungen zum Sorptionsverhalten von Holzwerkstoffen
Authors: Niemz Peter , Sonderegger Walter
Published: August 2009

Holzwerkstoffe werden in zunehmendem Maße im Bauwesen eingesetzt. Es gibt heute vorgefertigte Bausysteme aus Holz und Holzwerkstoffen und dabei solche, die auf dem überwiegenden Einsatz von Holzwerkstoffen beruhen. Zwischen Vollholz und Holzwerkstoffen sowie innerhalb der Holzwerkstoffe bestehen deutliche Unterschiede im Sorptionsverhalten, die auf den Klebstoff (Art und Menge), die Herstellungstechnologie (Dämpfen, Trocknen, Verpressen) sowie die damit einhergehende Verdichtung und Temperaturbehandlung zurückzuführen sind.

Examination of the sorption characteristics of wood‐based materials.

Wood‐based materials are increasingly employed in the building industry. Nowadays, prefabricated construction systems based on a combination of wood and wood‐based materials are available, but also systems using predominantly wood‐based materials. Thereby, distinct differences exist between the sorption characteristics of solid wood and wood‐based materials and also within wood‐based materials due to the bonding (type and portion) and manufacturing (steaming, drying, pressing) and the accompanying compression and heat treatment.
Theoretical Analysis of Heat Integration in a Periodically Operated Cascade of Catalytic Fixed‐Bed Reactors
Authors: Zahn V. M. , Mangold M. , Krasnyk M. , Seidel‐Morgenstern A.
Published: August 2009

Forced periodic operation can lead to improved reaction processes. Such operation is studied for the example of the application of a cascade of connected adiabatic fixed‐bed reactors to perform catalytic total oxidation. It is shown that the periodic operation of the configuration considered allows an autothermal operation. The concept can outperform classical reverse‐flow operation concerning the reduction of slips of unconverted feed. A simple model based on the assumption of a hypothetical countercurrent of the solid phase is derived and compared with a standard dynamical model of the reactor cascade. By evaluation of steady state profiles and application of bifurcation theory, it is demonstrated that the reduced model describes the limiting case for an infinitely segmented cascade and allows assessment of important properties of the periodic process. It permits a fast and detailed analysis of limit point bifurcations, which result in curves enclosing the region of desired ignited states of the reactor. Using singularity analysis further helps to understand the influence of secondary parameters and to identify operational limits.
Oligo‐ and Polyselenophenes: A Theoretical Study
Authors: Zade Sanjio S. , Zamoshchik Natalia , Bendikov Michael
Published: August 2009

Recently, a family of conducting polyselenophenes was synthesized, and they were shown to have a number of interesting properties. Here we have studied oligoselenophenes, their cation radicals and dications up to the 50‐mer (50 Se), as well as polyselenophene at the B3LYP/6‐31G(d) level of theory, and compared them with the corresponding oligothiophenes. Although the calculations reveal many similarities between oligo‐ and polyselenophenes and their thiophene‐based counterparts, they also show the important differences between those two types of conjugated systems. Oligo‐ and polyselenophenes have a more quinoid character, lower band gap, and importantly, they are more difficult to twist. The theoretical results suggest that the HOMO–LUMO gap (band gap), bond‐length alternation (BLA), and charge distribution in oligo‐ and polyselenophenes are strongly dependent on inter‐ring twisting, yet twisting costs little energy. The inter‐ring distances in oligo‐ and polyselenophenes are shorter than the related distances in oligothiophenes, whereas the bond lengths within the selenophene rings are comparable to those of the corresponding oligothiophenes.
Carbonyl and Oxalyl Bridged Bis(1,5‐Diaminotetrazole)‐Based Energetic Salts
Authors: Joo Young‐Hyuk , Twamley Brendan , Shreeve Jean'ne M.
Published: August 2009

High density energetic salts containing nitrogen rich cations and carbonyl‐ or oxalylbis(diamino‐tetrazole) anions, which were obtained from cyanogen azide and hydrazine, were readily synthesized. In every case, a new family of energetic salts 3–14 were characterized by vibrational spectroscopy, multinuclear (1H, 13C, 15N) NMR, elemental analyses, density, differential scanning calorimetry and impact sensitivity. Compound 12 was structured by single crystal X‐ray diffraction. The densities of 3‐14, determined by gas pycnometer, range between 1.500 and 1.676 g cm−3. The heats of formation and detonation properties for these stable salts were calculated by using Gaussian 03 and Cheetah 5.0, respectively.
Columnar Mesophases Controlled by Counterions in Potassium Complexes of Dibenzo[18]crown‐6 Derivatives
Authors: Kaller Martin , Tussetschläger Stefan , Fischer Peter , Deck Christopher , Baro Angelika , Giesselmann Frank , Laschat Sabine
Published: August 2009

Dibenzo[18]crown‐6 derivatives 1 with two lateral tetraalkyloxy o‐terphenyl units were prepared and converted to the corresponding complexes KX⋅1 (X=halide, BF4, PF6, SCN) and NH4PF6⋅1. Complexation was probed by MALDI‐TOF spectrometry and NMR spectroscopy. Downfield shifts of 1H NMR signals for complexes with soft anions Br, I, SCN, and PF6 indicated the presence of tight ion pairs, whereas complexes with hard anions F, Cl, or BF4 showed no or little shifts. In 13C NMR spectra, upfield shifts were detected for soft anions. The character of the anion also influenced the mesomorphic properties of complexes MX⋅1 (M=K, NH4), which were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), polarizing optical microscopy (POM), and XRD in comparison to neat 1. Hard anions slightly stabilize or even destabilize the mesophase. Soft anions, however, improve the mesomorphic properties yielding mesophases with up to 70 °C phase widths in the case of KI⋅1, KPF6⋅1, and NH4PF6⋅1. For complexes KSCN⋅1 with a soft and bridging anion, the balance between mesophase stabilization and high order is shifted in favor of the plastic crystal phase.
Aminosäuren und die Entstehung des Lebens. Spuren aus dem Weltraum
Authors: Meierhenrich Uwe J.
Published: August 2009

Um die faszinierende Entstehung des Lebens auf der Erde naturwissenschaftlich exakt und aus Sicht eines Chemikers auf molekularer Ebene zu verstehen, werden moderne chemische Experimente geschildert, die die präbiotische Genese von Aminosäuren simulieren. In Laborproben von interstellarem Eis finden sich überraschenderweise nicht nur die klassischen Aminosäuren, die als molekulare Bausteine der Proteine gelten, sondern darüber hinaus Diaminosäuren, die möglicherweise das erste genetische Material auf der Erde bildeten. Die entwickelten Hypothesen werden hoffentlich durch die Europäische Rosetta‐Mission, die ein Landegerät auf einem Kometen absetzen wird, verifiziert.
Blumige Rezeptoren in der Prostata
Authors: Feil Sylvia
Published: August 2009

Sprichwörtlich rutscht einem manchmal das Herz in die Hose. Bochumer Physiologen suchten dort aber nach der Nase. Genauer gesagt: nach Riechrezeptoren. Dabei ist es Zufall, dass nach den Rezeptoren für Maiglöckchen‐Duft auf Spermien nun Veilchen‐Duft Zellen der Prostata aktiviert.
Pyrimidinnucleotide, präbiotisch auf einleuchtendem Weg
Authors: Jaenicke Lothar
Published: August 2009

Am Lebensursprung stand nach aller Meinung die RNA‐Welt. Sie hat nur das Manko, dass sich zwei ihrer Nucleotidbausteine, nämlich Uridylsäure und Cytidylsäure auf keine erkenn‐ oder nachvollziehbare Weise spontan in Urdampf oder Ursuppe bilden wollen.
“Chemie – die stimmt!” geht in die 10. Runde
Authors: Schwind Markus
Published: August 2009

Zu Beginn des neuen Schuljahres startet der 10. Durchgang des Wettbewerbs “Chemie – die stimmt!” für Schüler der 9. und 10. Klassen. Aus dem Wunsch, mehr Schüler für die Chemie zu begeistern, entwickelte sich in 10 Jahren ein Wettbewerb mit Teilnehmerzahlen im vierstelligen Bereich, der heute in sieben Bundesländern ausgetragen wird.
Für die chemischen Sinne
Authors: Kraft Philip
Published: August 2009

Nach dem überaus positiven Echo auf die erste Rezension über Bücher, die den chemischen Sinn, unseren Geruchssinn, ansprechen, schien eine Aktualisierung nun mehr als überfällig: Neue Geschichten und Romane zum Thema Duft, die nicht nur, aber auch den Chemiker ansprechen!
Interobserver reproducibility of histologic parameters of melanoma deposits in sentinel lymph nodes
Authors: Murali Rajmohan , Cochran Alistair J. , Cook Martin G. , Hillman Joseph D. , Karim Rooshdiya Z. , Moncrieff Marc , Starz Hans , Thompson John F. , Scolyer Richard A.
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND:

Histologic parameters of melanoma deposits in sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) have been shown to be predictive of clinical outcome and the presence or absence of tumor in non‐SLNs, but assessment of these parameters is prone to interobserver variation.

METHODS:

Histologic sections of 44 SLNs containing metastatic melanoma were examined by 7 pathologists. Parameters assessed included cross‐sectional area of tumor deposits, cross‐sectional area of SLNs, percentage of SLN area involved by tumor calculated from the 2 previous parameters, estimated percentage of SLN area involved by tumor, tumor penetrative depth, location of tumor within the SLN, and presence of extracapsular spread. Levels of interobserver agreement were measured by using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC).

RESULTS:

There was good to excellent interobserver agreement on measurement of quantitative parameters: maximal size of largest tumor deposits, calculated area of 3 largest tumor deposits, percentage of the area of SLN involved by tumor, and tumor penetrative depth (ICC, 0.88, 0.73, 0.68, and 0.83, respectively). There was moderate agreement on the evaluation of subcapsular versus nonsubcapsular location of tumor deposits (ICC = 0.50). Agreement on assessment of extracapsular spread was fair (ICC = 0.39).

CONCLUSIONS:

Assessment of some of the quantitative parameters was highly reproducible between pathologists. However, evaluation of the location of tumor deposits within SLNs and assessment of extracapsular spread was less reproducible. Clearer definitions and training can be expected to improve the reproducibility of assessment. These results have important implications for reliability and reproducibility of these parameters in staging, prediction of outcome, and clinical management of melanoma patients. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Identification of borderline thyroid tumors by gene expression array analysis
Authors: Arora Nimmi , Scognamiglio Theresa , Lubitz Carrie C. , Moo Tracy A. , Kato Meredith A. , Zhu Baixin , Zarnegar Rasa , Chen Yao‐Tseng , Fahey Thomas J.
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND:

A subset of follicular lesions of the thyroid is encapsulated similar to follicular adenomas but with partial nuclear features suggestive of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), raising the possibility of biologically borderline tumors.

METHODS:

Gene expression profiling and advanced significance analyses were performed on 50 histologically unequivocal benign and malignant tumors, and a list of 61 differentially expressed genes was generated. By using this 61‐gene list, unsupervised hierarchical and K‐means cluster analyses were performed on 40 additional tumors, including 15 histologically borderline tumors, 11 benign tumors, and 14 PTCs.

RESULTS:

Analysis revealed 3 distinct tumor groups—benign, malignant, and intermediate. Tumors in the intermediate group (n = 15) were mostly histologic borderline tumors and had an expression profile overlapping with the benign and malignant groups. Twenty‐seven genes were expressed differentially between the benign and intermediate groups, including the cyclic AMP response element‐binding protein/p300‐interactivator with glutamic acid/aspartic acid‐rich carboxy‐terminal domain 1 or CITED1 gene and the fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 or FGFR2 gene. Fourteen genes were expressed differentially between the intermediate group and malignant tumors, notably overexpression of the met proto‐oncogene and of the high‐mobility group adenine/thymine‐hook 2 or HMGA2 gene in malignancies. Mutations of the v‐raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1 or BRAF gene were identified in 4 of 14 malignant tumors but not in benign or intermediate tumors. Patients who had either histologically or molecularly borderline tumors did not have metastasis or recurrences.

CONCLUSIONS:

Gene expression profiling supported the finding that encapsulated thyroid follicular lesions with partial nuclear features of PTC are biologically borderline tumors that are distinct molecularly from benign and malignant tumors. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Evaluating color difference equation performance incorporating visual uncertainty
Authors: Shen Shizhe , Berns Roy S.
Published: August 2009

Five thousand randomized ellipsoids for each of 19 color centers comprising the RIT‐DuPont dataset were generated based on both the tolerance median (T50) and visual uncertainty (fiducial limits). When plotted as two‐space projections, they provided a qualitative description of the ellipsoid reliability, this reliability was dependent on visual uncertainty. The ellipsoids were considered as local color‐difference equations. STRESS was calculated for each ellipsoid, quantifying the deviation between visual color differences and numerical color differences calculated by the T50‐based ellipsoids, the randomized ellipsoids and three color‐difference equations: CIELAB, CIE94, and CIEDE2000. F‐tests comparing STRESS determined statistical significance between calculated and visual color differences. The percentage of randomized ellipsoids that were beyond the critical F values was used as a metric for determining whether a color difference equation was under‐ or over‐fitting the visual data. A nonellipsoid method and an average standard error method were developed and tested for cases when the dataset may not enable ellipsoid fitting and where uncertainty has been reported only as an average standard error. In the latter case, only equation under‐fitting could be determined. Thus visual uncertainty can be used as a criterion in both equation development and evaluation. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 34, 375–390, 2009
Variability in estimation of suprathreshold small color differences
Authors: Kuehni Rolf G.
Published: August 2009

Intraobserver and interobserver variability in perceptual small color difference evaluation are known but are rarely analyzed phenomena. They raise the question if humans are equipped to make reliable and uniform estimates of this kind. Data from two recent well‐controlled studies show that intraobserver and, particularly, interobserver variability are surprisingly large. The use of a gray reference scale in place of a single gray reference pair has a small normative effect on the estimate. A large interobserver variability in the estimated magnitude of chromatic differences compared with achromatic reference pairs remains, with an average ratio between largest and smallest estimate of over 3:1 and ratios for individual observers and sample pairs ranging up to 28:1. No correlation was found between the reliability of judgment and the judged magnitude of difference: highly reliable observer groups are not more consistent. Relative reliability of estimate was found inversely related to magnitude of perceived difference. Consequences of these results for the development of improved color difference formulas are discussed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 34, 367–374, 2009
Agent‐based simulation of an N‐person game with parabolic payoff functions
Authors: Szilagyi Miklos N. , Somogyi Iren
Published: August 2009

We report computer simulation experiments based on our agent‐based simulation tool to model a new N‐person game based on John Conway's Game of Life. The individual agents may choose between two behavior options: cooperation or defection. The payoff (reward/penalty) functions are given as two parabolas: one for each option. After a certain number of iterations, the behavior of the agents stabilizes to either a constant value or oscillates around such a value. The simulation's goal is to investigate the effects of intermediate behavior on a society of agents. We have performed a systematic investigation of this game for all six possible cases of the mutual positions of parabolic payoff functions crossing each other at two points:x= 0.3 and 0.7 wherexis the ratio of the cooperation choice to the total number of agents in the agent's neighborhood. The global ratiosX(t) of the total number of cooperators in the entire array of agents as functions of time (iterations) and the solutions of the gameXfinalas functions ofX0were observed for each case for Pavlovian, greedy, and conformist agents. The solutions have predictable tendencies only when the neighborhood is the entire array of greedy or conformist agents. In all other cases unexpected properties emerge. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity, 2010
A novel scale for measuring mixed states in bipolar disorder
Authors: Cavanagh Jonathan , Schwannauer Matthias , Power Mick , Goodwin Guy M.
Published: August 2009

Objectives: Conventional descriptions of bipolar disorder tend to treat the mixed state as something of an afterthought. There is no scale that specifically measures the phenomena of the mixed state. This study aimed to test a novel scale for mixed state in a clinical and community population of bipolar patients. Methods: The scale included clinically relevant symptoms of both mania and depression in a bivariate scale. Recovered respondents were asked to recall their last manic episode. The scale allowed endorsement of one or more of the manic and depressive symptoms. Internal consistency analyses were carried out using Cronbach alpha. Factor analysis was carried out using a standard Principal Components Analysis followed by Varimax Rotation. A confirmatory factor analytic method was used to validate the scale structure in a representative clinical sample. Results: The reliability analysis gave a Cronbach alpha value of 0.950, with a range of corrected‐item‐total‐scale correlations from 0.546 (weight change) to 0.830 (mood). The factor analysis revealed a two‐factor solution for the manic and depressed items which accounted for 61.2% of the variance in the data. Factor 1 represented physical activity, verbal activity, thought processes and mood. Factor 2 represented eating habits, weight change, passage of time and pain sensitivity. Conclusions: This novel scale appears to capture the key features of mixed states. The two‐factor solution fits well with previous models of bipolar disorder and concurs with the view that mixed states may be more than the sum of their parts. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message:

There is no clinical scale that specifically measures the phenomena of the bipolar mixed state. This new scale includes clinically relevant symptoms of both mania and depression in a bivariate scale. The scale appears to capture key features of the mixed state and endorses the view that mixed states may be more than the sum of their parts.
Multispot live‐image autofocusing for high‐throughput microscopy of fluorescently stained bacteria
Authors: Zeder M. , Pernthaler J.
Published: August 2009

Screening by automated high‐throughput microscopy has become a valuable research tool. An essential component of such systems is the autonomous acquisition of focused images. Here we describe the implementation of a high‐precision autofocus routine for imaging of fluorescently stained bacteria on a commercially available microscope. We integrated various concepts and strategies that together substantially enhance the performance of autonomous image acquisition. These are (i) nested focusing in bright‐field and fluorescence illumination, (ii) autofocusing by continuous life‐image acquisition during movement in z‐direction rather than at distinct z‐positions, (iii) assessment of the quality and topology of a field of view (FOV) by multispot focus measurements, and (iv) acquisition of z‐stacks and application of an extended depth of field algorithm to compensate for FOV unevenness. The freely provided program and documented source code allow ready adaptation of the here presented approach to various platforms and scientific questions. © 2009 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Alternative mRNA splicing creates transcripts encoding soluble proteins from most LILR genes
Authors: Jones Des C. , Roghanian Ali , Brown Damien P. , Chang Chiwen , Allen Rachel L. , Trowsdale John , Young Neil T.
Published: August 2009

Leucocyte Ig‐like receptors (LILR) are a family of innate immune receptors expressed on myeloid and lymphoid cells that influence adaptive immune responses. We identified a common mechanism of alternative mRNA splicing, which generates transcripts that encode soluble protein isoforms of the majority of human LILR. These alternative splice variants lack transmembrane and cytoplasmic encoding regions, due to the transcription of a cryptic stop codon present in an intron 5′ of the transmembrane encoding exon. The alternative LILR transcripts were detected in cell types that express their membrane‐associated isoforms. Expression of the alternative LILRB1 transcript in transfected cells resulted in the release of a soluble ∼65 Kd LILRB1 protein into culture supernatants. Soluble LILRB1 protein was also detected in the culture supernatants of monocyte‐derived DC. In vitro assays suggested that soluble LILRB1 could block the interaction between membrane‐associated LILRB1 and HLA‐class I. Soluble LILRB1 may act as a dominant negative regulator of HLA‐class I‐mediated LILRB1 inhibition. Soluble isoforms of the other LILR may function in a comparable way.
T cells require Foxo1 to populate the peripheral lymphoid organs
Authors: Gubbels Bupp Melanie R. , Edwards Bonnie , Guo Caiying , Wei Datsen , Chen Gang , Wong Brian , Masteller Emma , Peng Stanford L.
Published: August 2009

Forkhead transcription factors play critical roles in leukocyte homeostasis. To study further the immunological functions of Foxo1, we generated mice that selectively lack Foxo1 in T cells (Foxo1flox/flox Lck.cre+conditional knockout mice (cKO)). Although thymocyte development appeared relatively normal, Foxo1 cKO mice harbored significantly increased percentages of mature single positive T cells in the thymus as compared with WT mice, yet possessed smaller lymph nodes and spleens that contained fewer T cells. Foxo1 cKO T cells were not more prone to apoptosis, but instead were characterized by a CD62Llo CCR7lo CD44hi surface phenotype, a poorly populated lymphoid compartment in the periphery, and were relatively refractory to TCR stimulation, all of which were associated with reduced expression of Sell, Klf2, Ccr7, and S1pr1. Thus, Foxo1 is critical for naïve T cells to populate the peripheral lymphoid organs by coordinating a molecular program that maintains homeostasis and regulates trafficking.
ULBP6/RAET1L is an additional human NKG2D ligand
Authors: Eagle Robert A. , Traherne James A. , Hair James R. , Jafferji Insiya , Trowsdale John
Published: August 2009

To date five ULBP/RAET (UL16‐binding protein, also known as retinoic acid early transcript) genes, encoded on human chromosome 6q24.2‐q25.3, have been shown to encode ligands of the activating immunoreceptor NKG2D. Here, we show that a sixth gene, ULBP6/RAET1L, is a polymorphic locus that expresses a functional transcript. ULBP6 had a more restricted expression profile in cell lines and primary human tissues than other NKG2D ligands, but expression was detected in several human papillomavirus‐positive cervical carcinoma cell lines and was inducible on infection with human CMV. ULBP6 bound to recombinant NKG2D as well as the human CMV immune evasion molecule UL16. By confocal microscopy we show that UL16 retains ULBP6 inside the cell, preventing it from reaching the cell surface. Expression of ULBP6 on target cells induced a significant increase in NK‐cell killing. Comparison of ULBP6 with ULBP4 and ULBP5 indicated that differences in recombinant NKG2D binding correlated with differences in NK‐cell activation.
Conformationally Restricted Nucleocyclitols: a Study into their Conformational Preferences and Supramolecular Architecture in the Solid State
Authors: Mehta Goverdhan , Talukdar Pinaki , Pullepu Venkatesh , Sen Saikat
Published: August 2009

With the intent of probing the feasibility of employing annulation as a tactic to engender axial rich conformations in nucleoside analogues, two adenine‐derived, “conformationally restricted” nucleocylitols, 9 and 10, have been conceptualized as representatives of a hitherto unexplored class of nucleic acid base‐cyclitol hybrids. A general synthetic strategy, with an inherent scope for diversification, allowed rapid functionalization of indane and tetralin to furnish 9 and 10 respectively in fair yield. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis revealed that the two nucleocyclitols under study, though homologous, present completely dissimilar modes of molecular packing, marked, in particular, by the nature of involvement of the adenynyl NH2 group in the supramolecular assembly. In addition, the crystal structures of 9 and 10 also exhibit two different conformations of the functionalized cyclohexane ring. Thus, while the six‐membered carbocycle in cyclopenta‐annulated 9 exists in the expected chair (C) conformation that in cyclohexaannulated 10, which crystallizes as a dihydrate, shows an unusual twist‐boat (TB) conformation. From a close analysis of the 1HNMR spectroscopic data recorded for 9 and 10 in CD3OD, it was possible to put forth a putative explanation for the uncanny conformational preferences of crystalline 9 and 10.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Catalytic hydroprocessing of biomass fast pyrolysis bio‐oil to produce hydrocarbon products
Authors: Elliott Douglas C. , Hart Todd R. , Neuenschwander Gary G. , Rotness Leslie J. , Zacher Alan H.
Published: August 2009

Catalytic hydroprocessing has been applied to biomass fast pyrolysis liquid product (bio‐oil) in a bench‐scale continuous‐flow fixed‐bed reactor system. The intent of the research was to develop process technology to convert the bio‐oil into a petroleum refinery feedstock to supplement fossil energy resources and to displace imported feedstock. The project was a cooperative research and development agreement among UOP LLC, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL). This article is focused on the process experimentation and product analysis undertaken at PNNL.

This article describes the experimental methods used and relates the results of the product analyses. A range of catalyst formulations were tested over a range of operating parameters including temperature, pressure, and flow rate with bio‐oil derived from several different biomass feedstocks. Effects of liquid hourly space velocity and catalyst bed temperature were assessed. Details of the process results were presented included product yields and hydrogen consumption. Detailed analysis of the products were provided including elemental composition, chemical functional type determined by mass spectrometry, and product descriptors such as density, viscosity, and total acid number. In conclusion, this article provides an understanding of the efficacy of hydroprocessing as applied to bio‐oil. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2009
Thermal pretreatment of lignocellulosic biomass
Authors: Yan Wei , Acharjee Tapas C. , Coronella Charles J. , Vásquez Victor R.
Published: August 2009

Torrefaction is a process to convert diverse lignocellulosic biomass feedstocks into an energy dense homogeneous solid, a pretreatment for subsequent thermochemical conversion. Loblolly pine was treated by wet torrefaction (hot compressed water, 200–260°C) and dry torrefaction (nitrogen, 250–300°C), with mass yield of solid product ranging between 57 and 89%, and energy densification to 108–136% of the original feedstock. The solid product has been characterized, including proximate analysis, fiber analysis, ultimate analysis, and equilibrium moisture. In both dry and wet torrefaction, increasing temperature results in decreased mass yield and increased energy densification, and results in a solid with increased carbon content, decreased oxygen content, and decreased volatiles. The biomass is transformed into a fuel similar to a low‐rank coal. Generally, the wet torrefaction process produces a solid with greater energy density than dry torrefaction, with the same mass yield. The fiber analysis indicates that hemicellulose is quickly removed during wet torrefaction, and the solid product contains substantial quantities of aqueous soluble compounds. The equilibrium moisture content of solids produced by both processes is somewhat decreased from that of the biomass feedstock, indicating a hydrophobic solid suitable for storage and transportation. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2009
Equilibrium pricing of contingent claims in tradable permit markets
Authors: Kijima Masaaki , Maeda Akira , Nishide Katsumasa
Published: August 2009

We advance a model of the tradable permit market and derive a pricing formula for contingent claims traded in the market in a general equilibrium framework. It is shown that prices of such contingent claims exhibit significantly different properties from those in the ordinary financial markets. In particular, if the social cost function kinks at some level of abatement, the forward price, as well as the spot price, can be subject to the so‐called price spike. However, this price‐spike phenomenon can be weakened if a system of banking and borrowing is properly introduced. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 30:559–589, 2010
Design in tunnelling, structural design methods for the inner lining
Authors: Stadelmann Rolf , Pfeffer Alfred , Wei Zhang Qing
Published: August 2009

The following article deals with the design of the inner lining of the Gotthard Base Tunnel and the determination of the design loads. The determination of the loads is based on the geological conditions encountered and takes into account the installed support measures and the deformation, occurring. The observational method also makes a considerable contribution. Together with the criteria stated above, it proved possible to find a definition of the hazard scenarios and the resulting rock pressure in order to optimise the design of the inner lining.

Der folgende Beitrag behandelt die Dimensionierung der Innenschale des Gotthard Basistunnels und die Ermittlung der hierfür anzusetzenden Lasten. Die Lastenermittlung basiert auf der angetroffenen Geologie unter Berücksichtigung der eingebauten Sicherungsmittel und der eingetretenen Deformationen. Einen nicht unwesentlichen Beitrag dazu leistete die Beobachtungsmethode. Zusammen mit den vorgenannten Kriterien gelang es, eine Definition der Gefährdungsbilder und den damit gegebenen Gebirgsdrücken zu finden, um schließlich die Dimensionierung der Innenschale zu optimieren.