bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protein Coated Adsorbents for use in Potential Barrier Chromatography: Fouling Chromatography
Authors: Lesins V. , Ruckenstein E.
Published: December 2008

Fouling is employed as a method of obtaining adsorbents suitable for use in Potential Barrier Chromatography. A relatively inexpensive hydrophobic adsorbent, which is initially unsuitable for protein separations, is intentionally fouled with protein. The packing slowly evolves from an adsorbent which binds proteins strongly, due to strong hydrophobic interactions, to a protein coated adsorbent in which weaker hydrophobic interactions are opposed by enhanced double layer repulsion. As a result, an adsorbent which is suitable for protein separations evolves. Details regarding the fouling process, the chromatographic separation of two model proteins and the physical forces involved are outlined.
Attachment of Sulfolobus Acidocaldarius Cells on Coal Particles
Authors: Chen Chi‐Yu , Skidmore Duane R.
Published: December 2008

Attachment of the thermophilic microorganism Sulfolobus acidocaldarius was studied on Kentucky #9 coal, an Ohio coal mixture, Ohio #6, a European coal designated as Sulzer coal, activated carbon and iron pyrite to define the effects of initial cell density, prior acid leaching, pyrite content, and surface area on rate and extent of preleaching attachment. The results showed that the rate of preleaching attachment was so high that equilibrium was reached in less than 5 min in most cases. Attached cells increased in number with increasing initial cell density. Prior nitric acid leaching of coal reduced the extent of cell adsorption while hydrochloric acid leaching did not affect cell attachment. Some adsorption isotherms fit the Langmuir model. The specific adsorption (cells/cm3 coal) increased with increasing surface areas measured by nitrogen adsorption. Pyrite gave the highest extent of cell attachment based on per unit surface area comparison. Adsorption isotherms of a pyrite‐selective chemical adsorbate revealed that preleaching attachment of cells was affected further by altered surface properties of the coals and that the concept of selective attachment of cells on pyrite surfaces was also supported.
Sticking and Agglomeration of Hygroscopic, Amorphous Carbohydrate and Food Powders
Authors: Wallack David A. , King C. Judson
Published: December 2008

Sticking temperatures as a function of moisture content have been measured for various hygroscopic powders by use of a closed and agitated vessel held in a temperature bath. Earlier results reported by Downton, et al., for a mixture of sucrose and fructose have been extended to cover coffee extract and a mixture of maltodextrin, sucrose, and fructose. Results for these various substances are interpreted in terms of the Frenkel model and approximation, which postulate that these phenomena occur by a coalescence process, driven by surface energy and accomplished through viscous flow. The size of the interparticle bridge required for sticking is an important parameter in the analysis, and has been measured through use of scanning electron microscopy.
Computer Simulation of Potato Processing
Authors: Kozempel M. , Craig J. C. , Sullivan J. F. , Damert W.
Published: December 2008

The ERRC food process simulator computer program is described. With the potato flake process as a prototype, we show that the simulation computer program predicts composition and texture. It is written in a user friendly Fortran, requiring no Fortran knowledge by the user and can be used with an IBM* compatible PC. The program can be expanded, with appropriate models, to other food processes.
The Effect of Sugars on β‐Lactamase Aggregation in Escherichia coli
Authors: Bowden Gregory A. , Georgiou George
Published: December 2008

Overproduction of the secreted protein β‐lactamase in Escherichia coli results in the formation of inclusion bodies in the periplasmic space. The aggregation of β‐lactamase was inhibited when non‐metabolizable sugars, such as sucrose and raffinose, were added into the growth medium. A four‐fold increase in the amount of soluble protein was obtained under optimal conditions. The mechanism for the inhibition of protein aggregation was investigated. Addition of 0.3M sucrose decreased the rate of processing of the β‐lactamase precursor, causing its transient accumulation within the cell.
A Simplified Model for Protein Inclusion in Reverse Micelles SANS Measurements as a Control Test
Authors: Caselli M. , Maestro M. , Morea G.
Published: December 2008

A short time ago a simplified model for inclusion of protein molecules in reverse micelles (r.m.) was presented [1]. The model was originally worked out in order to rationalize the protein extraction process [2, 3], but it has subsequently adapted [4] for dealing with systems obtained by injection technique [3].

The results concerning the ultracentrifugation double‐dye experiments by Zampieri, et al. [5] have been used as a test for the model. The calculated values for the observables show a very good agreement with the experiments.
Microbial Desulfurization of Coals by Organisms of The Genus Pseudomonas
Authors: Rai Charanjit , Reyniers Jon P.
Published: December 2008

Preliminary laboratory results on microbial processing of coals and lignites by the organisms of the genus Pseudomonas show that P. putida was much more effective than P. aeruginosa in removing the sulfur compounds present in the coals. P. putida reduced the pyritic sulfur by 75% and the organic sulfur by 37.4% from the Texas lignites in 5–7 days for particle sizes varying from 74μm to 295 μm. Preliminary screening of other enzymatic activities indicated some differences between the two microorganisms that could help explain observed differences in their activities towards desulfurization of coals and lignites. The slurry pipeline could be used as a biological plug‐flow reactor under aerobic conditions for microbial desulfurization of Texas lignites and coals.
A Transport Controlled Bioreactor for the Simultaneous Production and Concentration of Xanthan Gum
Authors: Robinson David K. , Wang Daniel I. C.
Published: December 2008

The microbial production of a biopolymer, xanthan gum, was used to demonstrate that transport resistances inherent in immobilized cell systems can be exploited to concentrate macromolecular products within the porous support matrix. Mathematical models were developed to predict the diffusional limitations responsible for concentrating the xanthan internally in the immobilization matrix. However, total xanthan accumulation is very sensitive to oxygen transport limitations. Therefore, immobilized cell fermentations were conducted with the external oxygen concentration controlled at different levels. In agreement with model simulations, xanthan accumulated to the greatest extent in the absence of oxygen transport limitations, reaching a final internal concentration of 55 kg/m3‐pore volume. In comparable free‐cell fermentations, the maximum achievable xanthan concentration was only 35 kg/m3.
Use of Precipitation to Alter Flux and Fouling Performance in Cheese Whey Ultrafiltration
Authors: Kaiser J. M. , Glatz C. E.
Published: December 2008

Two limitations to the flux rate in ultrafiltration (UF) of cheese whey are fouling and concentration polarization. An attempt was made to improve flux rates by a pretreatment to reduce the level of soluble proteins in the UF feed. The resistances to permeate flux and long‐term fouling behavior for the various feed components for both acid and sweet (Cheddar) wheys was examined.

The rate of fouling could be reduced for the sweet whey by precipitation, but no improvement over simple pH adjustment was observed for acid whey.
Affinity Cross‐Flow Filtration: Experimental and Modeling Work Using the System of HSA and Cibacron Blue‐Agarose
Authors: Herak David C. , Merrill Edward W.
Published: December 2008

A theoretical approach to the prediction of the performance of batch operation of affinity cross‐flow filtration (ACFF) for the separation of biomolecules is presented. The model applies general affinity theory to the ACFF system. Experiments were conducted using the affinity system of Cibacron Blue‐agarose and human serum albumin (HSA). The predictions of the model agree well with the experimental results. The slow kinetics of release of the adsorbed protein during the washing stage can be utilized to minimize the loss of this protein.
Characterization of an Immobilized Biocatalyst System for Production of Thermostable Amylase
Authors: Glassner David A. , Grulke Eric A. , Oriel Patrick J.
Published: December 2008

An immobilized biocatalyst system for enzyme production using a thermophilic organism is described. Bacillus stearothermophilus (ATCC 29609) immobilized on Rohm and Haas IRA–938 ion exchange resin was utilized for the production of a highly thermostable α‐amylase in a bench scale airlift fermentor. The equilibrium between suspended bacterial cells and the resin fit a Langmuir‐type sorption isotherm. Cell and α‐amylase productivity data for free cell and immobilized cell continuous culture were compared as functions of the dilution rate. Cell growth rates for free and immobilized cells were consistent with the Monod kinetic model, α‐Amylase production for free cells was described by an unstructured model associated with cell growth. The immobilized cell systems gave higher α‐amylase productivity than the free cell system but did not achieve the productivities predicted by the unstructured kinetic model.
Ice Cream Components Prepared With Ultrafiltration And Reverse Osmosis Membranes
Authors: Garcia Albert , Medina Benjamin , Verhoek Nico , Moore Patricia
Published: December 2008

Ice cream manufacturers now have the option of using membrane‐based units rather than flash evaporation towers to concentrate milk. This study investigates the manufacture of ice cream using different membrane methods and compares the oricesses to the current industry practice.
Stability of Cytochrome P‐450 Enzyme and the Dehalogenation Activity in Resting Cultures of Pseudomonas putida PpG 786
Authors: Vilker Vincent L. , Khan Fatima
Published: December 2008

The activity of resting cultures of P. putida PpG 786 for dehalogenating trace levels of the substrate 1,2‐dibromo‐3‐chloropropane (DBCP) was examined as a function of the intracellular concentration of the enzyme cytochrome P‐450cam monooxygenase. The stability of both the intracellular enzyme concentration and dehalogenation activity were shown to decline when the resting cultures were aged up to 48 hours at room temperature.

Activity was retained when the cultures were aged to 48 hours at refrigeration temperatures. Dehalogenation activity did not correlate as well with cell viability as with enzyme concentration. DBCP toxicity toward the bacteria was present over the entire substrate concentration range that was investigated, and at about one millimolar initial DBCP concentration, dehalogenation activity was almost completely lost.
Continuous Cell Debris Filtration Using A Magnetically Stabilized Fluidized Bed
Authors: Terranova Brenda E. , Burns Mark A.
Published: December 2008

The magnetically stabilized fluidized bed (MSFB) is capable, unlike most column operations, of handling streams with suspended particles. The MSFB has the contacting properties of a packed bed and the fluidity of a fluidized bed. When cell debris is fed into the column, either filtration or passage of the debris can be obtained depending on the bed height, solids velocity, pH, and liquid composition. Removal rates from as high as 99% to as low as 5% have been observed. The controlling mechanism of filtration appears to be an electrostatic adsorption of the debris onto the surface of the support. Debris/debris adhesion also affects filtration.
Concentration of Bioparticles by Axial Migration in Laminar Flow
Authors: Rakow A. L. , Chappell M. L. , Long R. L.
Published: December 2008

Dilute suspensions of Spirulina microalgae were pumped in laminar flow thru a 650‐micron diameter vertically mounted tube. Photographs of the tube bore at various downstream positions from the entrance at different Reynolds numbers indicate significant migration of the particles. Equilibrium radial position appears to be established within 30 cm from the tube entrance. A concentrated region of particles occupies a decreasing cross‐sectional area as the Reynolds number increases. Based on an order argument involving a balance between inertial and viscous forces, a relationship is established between the diameter of the concentrated particle region (dimensionless) and the tube Reynolds number, which provides a good fit of the data. The form is similar to an empirical form for spheres with one major difference: the helical Spirulina particles migrate inward with increasing Reynolds number whereas the spheres migrate outward. Since the Spirulina are individually aligned in the flow direction and since nonrotating spheres are known to migrate inwards, we believe that nonrotation might explain the inward migration. Since the particles migrate to a narrow region around the tube axis, Bioseparation potential is discussed and a comparison is made with microfiltration, which indicates significant advantages for an effective separator based on axial migration.
Phase Partitioning of Biomolecules: Solubilities of Amino Acids
Authors: Chen Chau‐Chyun , Zhu Yizu , Evans Lawrence B.
Published: December 2008

The representation of phase equilibrium for amino acids, peptides, and proteins in solution is an important problem in the design and optimization of downstream processes for recovery of the biomolecules. This paper presents a molecular thermodynamic framework [1, 2] for the representation of the solubilities of amino acids and small peptides. With this framework, satisfactory results have been obtained in representing and predicting the solubilities of amino acids and small peptides in aqueous solution as functions of temperature, ionic strength, dipolar species concentrations, solvent compositions, and pH.
Metabolic Pathway Rates and Fluorescence Measurements During Bioconversions by Non‐Growing Immobilized Clostridium Acetobutylicum
Authors: Reardon Kenneth F. , Bailey James E.
Published: December 2008

Metabolic and physiological aspects of non‐growing calcium alginate‐immobilized Clostridium acetobutylicum were investigated in a continuous‐flow reactor system. Changes in metabolic reaction rates and product selectivity were analyzed via metabolic pathway rate analysis, and variations in intracellular NAD(P)H‐dependent fluorescence were monitored using an on‐line fluorometer. In addition, the effects of sporulation were studied by comparing experiments utilizing either a sporulating strain (ATCC 824) or a sporulation mutant (ATCC 39236). In both cases, biocatalytic activity was lost through an initial period of cell lysis; afterwards, the sporulation mutant retained overall activity for a longer time because of the much lower degree of sporulation in this strain. The analysis of metabolic pathway rates in both experiments showed that early formation of solvent products was replaced by acid product formation, that the specific rates of all metabolic reactions were likely enhanced by the release of cytoplasmic compounds from the lysed cells (to a greater extent for the ATCC 824 cells), and that the patterns of specific activity loss were different between the two strains.
An experimental model for assessing fibroblast migration in 3‐D collagen matrices
Authors: Karamichos Dimitris , Lakshman Neema , Petroll W. Matthew
Published: December 2008

The purpose of this study was to develop and test a novel culture model for studying fibroblast migration in 3‐D collagen matrices. Human corneal fibroblasts were seeded within dense, randomly oriented compressed collagen matrices. A 6 mm diameter button of this cell‐seeded matrix was placed in the middle of an acellular, less dense outer collagen matrix. These constructs were cultured for 1, 3, 5 or 7 days in serum‐free media, 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS), or 50 ng/ml PDGF. Constructs were then fixed and labeled with AlexaFluor 546 phalloidin (for f‐actin) and TOTO‐3 (for nuclei). Cell‐matrix interactions were assessed using a combination of fluorescent and reflected light confocal imaging. Human corneal fibroblasts in serum‐free media showed minimal migration into the outer (non‐compressed) matrix. In contrast, culture in serum or PDGF stimulated cell migration. Cell‐induced collagen matrix reorganization in the outer matrix could be directly visualized using reflected light imaging, and was highest following culture in 10% FBS. Cellular contraction in 10% FBS often led to alignment of cells parallel to the outer edge of the inner matrix, similar to the pattern observed during corneal wound healing following incisional surgery. Overall, this 3‐D model allows the effects of different culture conditions on cell migration and matrix remodeling to be assessed simultaneously. In addition, the design allows for ECM density, geometry and mechanical constraints to be varied in a controlled fashion. These initial results demonstrate differences in cell and matrix patterning during migration in response to serum and PDGF. Cell Motil. Cytoskeleton 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nitrogen‐Rich Compounds in Pyrotechnics: Alkaline Earth Metal Salts of 5,5′‐Hydrazine‐1,2‐diylbis(1H‐tetrazole)
Authors: Karaghiosoff Konstantin , Klapötke Thomas M. , Sabaté Carles Miró
Published: December 2008

Alkaline earth metal (2: Mg, 3: Ca, 4: Sr, and 5: Ba) salts with the nitrogen‐rich 5,5′‐hydrazine‐1,2‐diylbis(tetrazolate) anion (HBT2–) were synthesized in high purities and yields and fully characterized by spectroscopic and analytical methods. In addition, the crystal structures of the new compounds were determined by X‐ray diffraction techniques. Whereas the tetrazole rings in 2 are twisted with respect to one another, as reported for compounds with the same anion, in the heavier‐metal salts 3–5 there exists “apparent coplanarity” between the same rings due to disorder, which is discussed. A detailed description of the structures is given. The compounds, obtained as the hydrated species, are insensitive to friction, shock, and electrostatic discharge (BAM testing), but react vigorously in a flame upon loss of water to give the characteristic flame color for the metal atom. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements showed strong bonding of the water of crystallization, which is lost at temperatures equal to or above 130 °C, and great thermal stabilities with decomposition points above 220 °C without melting. Additionally, loss of water was determined by using thermal gravimetry (TG). Lastly, due to the prospective interest in metal salts containing the HBT2– anion as energetic materials, their constant‐volume energies of combustion were measured experimentally by bomb calorimetry and their heats of formation were back‐calculated from these results. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Loss of NECL1, a novel tumor suppressor, can be restored in glioma by HDAC inhibitor‐Trichostatin A through Sp1 binding site
Authors: Gao Jing , Chen Tao , Liu Jin , Liu Wei , Hu Guangyu , Guo Xiaoxiao , Yin Bin , Gong Yanhua , Zhao Jizong , Qiang Boqin , Yuan Jiangang , Peng Xiaozhong
Published: December 2008

Nectin‐like molecule 1 (NECL1)/CADM3/IGSF4B/TSLL1/SynCAM3 is a neural tissue‐specific immunoglobulin‐like cell–cell adhesion molecule downregulated at the mRNA level in 12 human glioma cell lines. Here we found that the expression of NECL1 was lost in six glioma cell lines and 15 primary glioma tissues at both RNA and protein levels. Re‐expression of NECL1 into glioma cell line U251 would repress cell proliferation in vitro by inducing cell cycle arrest. And also NECL1 could decrease the growth rate of tumors in nude mice in vivo. To further investigate the mechanism why NECL1 was silenced in glioma, the basic promoter region located at −271 to +81 in NECL1 genomic sequence was determined. DNA bisulfite sequencing was performed to study the methylation status of CpG islands in NECL1 promoter; however, no hypermethylated CpG site was found. Additionally, the activity of histone deacetylase (HDACs) in glioma was higher than that in normal brain tissues, and the expression of NECL1 in glioma cell lines could be reactivated by HDACs inhibitor‐Trichostatin A (TSA). So the loss of NECL1 in glioma was at least partly caused by histone deacetylation. Luciferase reporter assays, chromatin immunoprecipitation and co‐immunoprecipitation (co‐IP) assays indicated that Sp1 played an important role in this process by binding to either HDAC1 in untreated glioma cells or p300/CBP in TSA treated cells. Our finding suggests that NECL1 may act as a tumor suppressor in glioma and loss of it in glioma may be caused by histone deacetylation. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
From helicopter parent to valued partner: Shaping the parental relationship for student success
Authors: Cutright Marc
Published: December 2008

Parents of college students influence the transition experiences of their sons and daughters, and they also experience significant transitions of their own.
Ruminative thought style and depressed mood
Authors: Brinker Jay K. , Dozois David J.A.
Published: December 2008

Recent research has suggested that the measure most commonly used to assess rumination, the Response Style Questionnaire (RSQ; L. D. Butler & S. Nolen‐Hoeksema, 1994), may be heavily biased by depressive symptoms, thereby restricting the scope of research exploring this construct. This article offers a broader conceptualization of rumination, which includes positive, negative, and neutral thoughts as well as past and future‐oriented thoughts. The first two studies describe the development and evaluation of the Ruminative Thought Style Questionnaire (RTS), a psychometrically sound measure of the general tendency to ruminate. Further, the scale is comprised of a single factor and shows high internal consistency, suggesting that rumination does encompasses the factors mentioned. The final study involved a longitudinal diary investigation of rumination and mood over time. Results suggest that the RTS assesses a related, but separate, construct than does the RSQ. RTS scores predicted future depressed mood beyond the variance accounted for by initial depressed mood whereas RSQ scores did not. The implications of these results and directions for future research are discussed. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 65:1–19, 2009.
Study on the redox reactions for organic dyes and S‐nitrosylated peptide in electrospray droplet impact
Authors: Asakawa Daiki , Hiraoka Kenzo
Published: December 2008

Reduction of analytes in ionization processes often obscures the determination of molecular structure. The reduction of analytes is found to take place in various desorption/ionization methods such as fast atom bombardment (FAB), secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) and desorption ionization on porous silicon (DIOS). To examine the extent of the reduction reactions taking place in electrospray droplet impact (EDI) processes, reduction‐sensitive dyes and S‐nitrosylated peptide were analyzed by EDI. No reduction was observed for methylene blue. While methyl red has a lower reduction potential than methylene blue, the reduction product ions were detected. For S‐nitrosylated peptide, protonated molecule ion [M + H]+ and NO‐eliminated molecular ion [M − NO + H]+• were observed but reduction reactions are largely suppressed in EDI compared with that in MALDI. As such, the analytes examined suffer from little reduction reactions in EDI. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Point‐wise decay estimate for the global classical solutions to quasilinear hyperbolic systems
Authors: Zhou Yi
Published: December 2008

In this paper, we first consider the Cauchy problem for quasilinear strictly hyperbolic systems with weak linear degeneracy. The existence of global classical solutions for small and decay initial data was established in (Commun. Partial Differential Equations 1994; 19:1263–1317; Nonlinear Anal. 1997; 28:1299–1322; Chin. Ann. Math. 2004; 25B:37–56). We give a new, very simple proof of this result and also give a sharp point‐wise decay estimate of the solution. Then, we consider the mixed initial‐boundary‐value problem for quasilinear hyperbolic systems with nonlinear boundary conditions in the first quadrant. Under the assumption that the positive eigenvalues are weakly linearly degenerate, the global existence of classical solution with small and decay initial and boundary data was established in (Discrete Continuous Dynamical Systems 2005; 12(1):59–78; Zhou and Yang, in press). We also give a simple proof of this result as well as a sharp point‐wise decay estimate of the solution. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Kinetics of the in vivo expression of glucocorticoid receptor splice variants during prednisone treatment in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Lauten Melchior , Fernandez‐Munoz Ivonne , Gerdes Katrin , von Neuhoff Nils , Welte Karl , Schlegelberger Brigitte , Schrappe Martin , Beger Carmela
Published: December 2008

Background

The in vivo glucocorticoid response in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) correlates with the response to multi‐agent chemotherapy. However, it is still unclear, whether the expression levels of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) splice variants facilitate the escape from glucocorticoid‐induced apoptosis and hence contribute to glucocorticoid resistance.

Procedure

In the present study, the initial in vivo expression of the common GR (cGR) and its splice variants GR‐alpha, GR‐gamma and GR‐P was determined using a quantitative RT‐PCR approach. Two cohorts of glucocorticoid sensitive (prednisone good responder, PGR) and resistant (prednisone poor responder, PPR) patients were compared. The kinetics of GR splice variant expression was measured during 36 hr following the first use of glucocorticoids in seven patients.

Results

The GR splice variant GR‐gamma showed the most pronounced differential regulation comparing PPR and PGR patients in both cohorts. GR‐alpha and GR‐gamma were upregulated faster and to a higher level in PGR as compared to PPR in the in vivo stimulation cohort. Here as well, the most pronounced effect was observed for GR‐gamma.

Conclusions

Differential regulation of the cGR and its splice variants under glucocorticoid treatment rather than the expression level at diagnosis is associated with glucocorticoid response. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:459–463. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantifying the recruitment challenges with couple‐based interventions for cancer: applications to early‐stage breast cancer
Authors: Fredman Steffany J. , Baucom Donald H. , Gremore Tina M. , Castellani Angela M. , Kallman Theresa A. , Porter Laura S. , Kirby Jennifer S. , Claire Dees E. , Klauber‐Demore Nancy , Peppercorn Jeffrey , Carey Lisa A.
Published: December 2008

Objective: Despite mounting evidence supporting the use of psychosocial interventions to promote adaptation to cancer, enrolling participants into these interventions is challenging. This is particularly salient for couple‐based interventions, and newer, more targeted recruitment strategies to increase enrollment are needed. However, there have been few published empirical studies focused specifically on recruitment‐related variables associated with enrollment into these types of interventions. To better understand how to encourage participation in couple‐based psychosocial interventions for cancer, we examined facilitating and impeding factors to enrollment into a couple‐based intervention for women with early‐stage breast cancer.

Method: In this sample of 99 women diagnosed with early‐stage breast cancer, patient demographic variables and method of approaching eligible patients were examined as predictors of enrollment into a randomized controlled trial comparing couple‐based relationship enhancement with treatment as usual.

Results: Results indicated that women were more likely to enroll if they were contacted at home or at a follow‐up medical appointment rather than when first diagnosed at a busy multidisciplinary clinic; they were also more likely to enroll the closer they lived to the research facility.

Conclusions: In addition to decreasing participant burden, timing and setting of recruitment efforts may have important implications for enhancing participation rates in couple‐based intervention studies for cancer. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pulsed Plasma Polymerization of Hexamethyldisiloxane onto Wool: Control of Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate and Surface Adhesion
Authors: Dai Xiujuan J. , Church Jeffrey S. , Huson Mickey G.
Published: December 2008

A new fabric with potential in medical textiles has been developed by application of a surface coating on wool using pulsed plasma polymerization of HMDSO. This coating enabled a controllable MVTR and surface adhesion. MVTR in the range recommended for optimum wound healing was obtained by varying frequency, monomer pressure and deposition time. Lower surface adhesion was achieved. Peeling tests, contact angle measurements, SPM force curves and ATR FT‐IR were used to characterize the surfaces for both wool and a PE model substrate. All these results were consistent with a decrease in surface energy after PP‐HMDSO treatment. ATR FT‐IR results showed a siloxane film with less organic Si(CH3)n groups and more SiOSi cross‐links.

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A case of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis following active pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Boz Aysen Bingol , Celmeli Fatih , Arslan Ahmet Gokhan , Cilli Aykut , Ogus Candan , Ozdemir Tulay
Published: December 2008

Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis usually occurs in children with underlying airway disease such as asthma and cystic fibrosis. While the colonization and infection of pre‐existing tuberculosis lesions by aspergillus species is well known, occurrence of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis following pulmonary tuberculosis in children has not been reported yet. Here, an 11‐year‐old girl who developed allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis following active pulmonary tuberculosis is reported and the mechanisms of causality are also speculated. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2009; 44:86–89. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sequential changes of hemodynamics and blood gases in newborn piglets with developing pneumothorax
Authors: Liu Jiangqin , Joynt Chloe , Tymafichuk Corinne , Cheung Po‐Yin
Published: December 2008

Introduction

Little information is available regarding the temporal changes in hemodynamics and blood gases during the development of a moderate pneumothorax in a neonate. In this study, we aim to investigate the temporal changes of hemodynamics and arterial blood gases in a neonatal swine model of unilateral pneumothorax.

Study Design

Prospective observational controlled animal research.

Methods

Experimental pneumothorax (n = 9) was created by intermittent progressive introduction of 10 ml/kg of room‐air every 5 min to a total 40 ml/kg, via a 20G Insyte® angiocatheter placed in the fourth intercostal space in line with the right frontal limb. Changes in heart rate, mean arterial pressure, central venous pressure (CVP), common carotid arterial flow (CCAF) and arterial blood gases were measured and compared with the normoxic baseline and a control group (n = 7) (ANOVA).

Results

As the pneumothorax developed, SaO2 and PaO2 deteriorated after injecting 20 ml/kg of room‐air (P < 0.001 vs. baseline and control), whereas the pH and PaCO2 remained unchanged. CVP increased after injecting 30 ml/kg of room‐air (P < 0.001), with no significant changes in heart rate and mean arterial pressure. Meanwhile, CCAF increased and carotid oxygen delivery declined after 30 ml/kg (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Deterioration in oxygenation was noted early in the development of pneumothorax in newborn piglets followed by metabolic acidosis. CVP progressively increased despite the lack of significant changes in systemic hemodynamics when moderate pneumothorax developed. Although CCAF increased during a moderate pneumothorax, carotid oxygen delivery decreased. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2009; 44:70–75. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The 18O signature of biogenic nitrous oxide is determined by O exchange with water
Authors: Kool D. M. , Wrage N. , Oenema O. , Harris D. , Van Groenigen J. W.
Published: December 2008

To effectively mitigate emissions of the greenhouse gas nitrous oxide (N2O) it is essential to understand the biochemical pathways by which it is produced. The 18O signature of N2O is increasingly used to characterize these processes. However, assumptions on the origin of the O atom and resultant isotopic composition of N2O that are based on reaction stoichiometry may be questioned. In particular, our deficient knowledge on O exchange between H2O and nitrogen oxides during N2O production complicates the interpretation of the 18O signature of N2O.

Here we studied O exchange during N2O formation in soil, using a novel combination of 18O and 15N tracing. Twelve soils were studied, covering soil and land‐use variability across Europe. All soils demonstrated the significant presence of O exchange, as incorporation of O from 18O‐enriched H2O into N2O exceeded their maxima achievable through reaction stoichiometry. Based on the retention of the enrichment ratio of 18O and 15N of NO into N2O, we quantified O exchange during denitrification. Up to 97% (median 85%) of the N2O‐O originated from H2O instead of from the denitrification substrate NO.

We conclude that in soil, the main source of atmospheric N2O, the 18O signature of N2O is mainly determined by H2O due to O exchange between nitrogen oxides and H2O. This also challenges the assumption that the O of N2O originates from O2 and NO, in ratios reflecting reaction stoichiometry. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
EPX ‐ die Ein‐Pumpen‐Lösung
Authors: Chew Andrew D
Published: December 2008

Ein einzelner Pumpenmechanismus, der von Atmosphärendruck bis ins Hochvakuum arbeitet, wäre ein Wundermittel für viele Anwendungen. Die Entwicklung und Verfügbarkeit der trockenverdichtenden EPX‐Pumpe, mit mehreren Pumpmechanismen auf gemeinsamer Antriebswelle hoher Drehzahl, bringt uns diesem Ziel sehr nahe. Der nachfolgende Artikel beschreibt den Verlauf der Entwicklung und die relevanten Applikationen.
Kennfeldanalyse einer Schraubenvakuumpumpe
Authors: Stratmann Dirk , Kauder Knut , Brümmer Andreas
Published: December 2008

Eine detaillierte Analyse des Betriebsverhaltens trockenlaufender Schraubenvakuumpumpen fehlt bisher. Die integralen prozessbeschreibenden charakteristischen Pumpenkenngrößen Saugvermögen und erreichbarer Enddruck, die in erster Linie die Leistungsfähigkeit und den Einsatzbereich von Schraubenvakuumpumpen bestimmen, werden sowohl in experimentellen als auch theoretischen Untersuchungen beschrieben.

Simulation und Versuch erlauben Aussagen über den Zusammenhang und die Wechselwirkungen der vorherrschenden und bestimmenden physikalisch‐technischen Wirkmechanismen untereinander sowie mit dem integralen charakteristischen Maschinenkennfeld von Schraubenvakuumpumpen. Das Verständnis der speziellen Maschinenphysik von Rotationsverdränger‐Vakuumpumpen, insbesondere Schraubenvakuumpumpen, ist für den Anwender und Entwickler wertvoll im Hinblick auf den Auslegungs‐ und Optimierungsprozess.

In experimentellen Untersuchungen wird das charakteristische thermodynamische Betriebsverhaltens hinsichtlich der prozessbeschreibenden Kenngrößen Enddruck und Saugvermögen für eine isochore Schraubenvakuumpumpe bestimmt, die gegen den Atmosphärendruck fördert. Variationen der Betriebsparameter Einlassdruck (1000mbar bis 10‐3mbar) und Maschinendrehzahl werden in einem weiten Umfang angestrengt, um die Abhängigkeit der Maschinencharakteristik und der Wirkmechanismen beschreiben zu können.

Theoretische Analysen beinhalten einen vereinfachenden Modellansatz zur allgemeinen Beschreibung des Einflusses äußerer Leckagen auf den erreichbaren Enddruck in Abhängigkeit des theoretischen Saugvermögens. Mit Hilfe der thermodynamischen Simulation werden darüber hinaus die Einflüsse und die Korrelation von Leckagen und Spaltströmungen auf das charakteristische Maschinenkennfeld detailliert beschrieben.
Reliable identification of closely related Issatchenkia and Pichia species using artificial neural network analysis of Fourier‐transform infrared spectra
Authors: Büchl Nicole R. , Wenning Mareike , Seiler Herbert , Mietke‐Hofmann Henriette , Scherer Siegfried
Published: December 2008

A reliable identification system for closely related species of the genera Issatchenkia and Pichia was established, using artificial neural network‐based Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy; 16 common Pichia species and all five known Issatchenkia species were included. A total of 238 strains isolated from a large variety of habitats were used as reference strains to generate an artificial neural network (ANN) identification system. This system consists of 10 single subnets connected to an ANN with four consecutive levels. An internal validation of the system, using unknown spectra of each reference strain, yielded an identification rate of 99.2%. To evaluate the performance of the ANN in routine diagnostics, 1608 spectra of 179 strains unknown to the ANN were used as a test dataset in an external validation. An overall identification rate of 98.6%, including a success rate of 100% for two common species, P. anomala and P. membranifaciens, demonstrates considerable potential of this FTIR‐based artificial neural network for the identification of closely related yeast species. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Brewing characteristics of haploid strains isolated from sake yeast Kyokai No. 7
Authors: Katou Taku , Kitagaki Hiroshi , Akao Takeshi , Shimoi Hitoshi
Published: December 2008

Sake yeast exhibit various characteristics that make them more suitable for sake brewing compared to other yeast strains. Since sake yeast strains are Saccharomyces cerevisiae heterothallic diploid strains, it is likely that they have heterozygous alleles on homologous chromosomes (heterozygosity) due to spontaneous mutations. If this is the case, segregation of phenotypic traits in haploid strains after sporulation and concomitant meiosis of sake yeast strains would be expected to occur. To examine this hypothesis, we isolated 100 haploid strains from Kyokai No. 7 (K7), a typical sake yeast strain in Japan, and compared their brewing characteristics in small‐scale sake‐brewing tests. Analyses of the resultant sake samples showed a smooth and continuous distribution of analytical values for brewing characteristics, suggesting that K7 has multiple heterozygosities that affect brewing characteristics and that these heterozygous alleles do segregate after sporulation. Correlation and principal component analyses suggested that the analytical parameters could be classified into two groups, indicating fermentation ability and sake flavour. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Acetaldehyde tolerance in Saccharomyces cerevisiae involves the pentose phosphate pathway and oleic acid biosynthesis
Authors: Matsufuji Yoshimi , Fujimura Shuki , Ito Takashi , Nishizawa Makoto , Miyaji Tatsuro , Nakagawa Junichi , Ohyama Tohru , Tomizuka Noboru , Nakagawa Tomoyuki
Published: December 2008

To identify genes responsible for acetaldehyde tolerance, genome‐wide screening was performed using a collection of haploid Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains deleted in single genes. The screen identified 49 genes whose deletion conferred acetaldehyde sensitivity, and these were termed the genes required for acetaldehyde tolerance. We focused on six of these genes required for acetaldehyde tolerance, ZWF1, GND1, RPE1, TKL1 and TAL1, which encode enzymes in the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), and OAR1, which encodes for NADPH‐dependent 3‐oxoacyl‐(acyl‐carrier‐protein) reductase. These genes were not only responsible for acetaldehyde tolerance but also turned out to be induced by acetaldehyde. Moreover, the content of oleic acid was remarkably increased in yeast cells under acetaldehyde stress, and supplementation of oleic acid into the media partially alleviated acetaldehyde stress‐induced growth inhibition of strains disrupted in the genes required for acetaldehyde tolerance and OLE1. Taken together, our data suggest that the supply of NADPH and the process of fatty acid biosynthesis are the key factors in acetaldehyde tolerance in the yeast, and that oleic acid plays an important role in acetaldehyde tolerance. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification of common traits in improved xylose‐growing Saccharomyces cerevisiae for inverse metabolic engineering
Authors: Bengtsson Oskar , Jeppsson Marie , Sonderegger Marco , Parachin Nadia Skorupa , Sauer Uwe , Hahn‐Hägerdal Bärbel , Gorwa‐Grauslund Marie‐F.
Published: December 2008

Four recombinant Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains with enhanced xylose growth (TMB3400, C1, C5 and BH42) were compared with two control strains (TMB3399, TMB3001) through genome‐wide transcription analysis in order to identify novel targets for inverse metabolic engineering. A subset of 13 genes with changed expression levels in all improved strains was selected for further analysis. Thirteen validation strains and two reference strains were constructed to investigate the effect of overexpressing or deleting these genes in xylose‐utilizing S. cerevisiae. Improved aerobic growth rates on xylose were observed in five cases. The strains overexpressing SOL3 and TAL1 grew 19% and 24% faster than their reference strain, and the strains carrying deletions of YLR042C, MNI1 or RPA49 grew 173%, 62% and 90% faster than their reference strain. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aetiology and Management of Acute Female Urinary Retention
Authors: Ahmad Imran , Krishna Nalagatla Sarath , Small Douglas Ramsay , Conn Ian Graeme
Published: December 2008

Aims:

Interest in female urinary retention has increased recently because of improved understanding in the pathophysiology as well as the availability of specialised treatments such as sacral neuromodulation. There is little in the literature regarding the incidence and aetiology of urinary retention in females. We therefore undertook a review of all female retention patients presenting to our urology unit over an 11 year period.

Methods:

300 females presented with retention in 11 years January 1996 to January 2007 (7% of the male incidence). 81 presented more than once. Median age was 67. Aetiology included urethral stenosis ( n = 51), urinary tract infection ( n = 33), constipation ( n = 23), neurological causes ( n = 14), gynaecological causes ( n = 16), non urological post-operative patients ( n = 21), medications ( n = 7) and clot retention secondary to bladder cancer ( n = 12). Results: Ultrasound ( n = 240) was carried out in the majority, cystoscopy ( n = 140), and urodynamics in a minority ( n = 38). Urethral pressure profilometry ( n = 38) revealed significantly higher closure pressures as compared to a control group—median 90 vs. 57mmH20 ( p = 0.02). 245 had successful trials without catheter. Prior to this, treatments included cystoscopy and urethral dilatation ( n = 73), laxatives ( n = 25) or antibiotics ( n = 29). Initially 54 patients were taught intermittent self-catheterisation; 38 patients were unable to perform this, and left with a long-term catheter.

Conclusions:

The number of female retentions encountered in our practice is fairly high, with very few of these fitting the criteria for sacral nerve stimulation. In a third no aetiology was found. Approximately half of those who successfully voided did so with no treatment.
Kinetic mechanisms for overexpression insensitivity and oncogene cooperation
Authors: Legewie Stefan , Sers Christine , Herzel Hanspeter
Published: December 2008

Minor (5–10 fold) activation of mitogenic signalling cascades typically induces cell division upon extracellular stimulation and is sufficient to support tumourigenesis when permanently triggered by activating mutations. Surprisingly, even strong signalling protein overexpression usually does not trigger deregulated cell proliferation, suggesting that basal state signalling is insensitive to wildtype protein overexpression. Using kinetic modelling of the core Ras cycle, we show that basal RasGTP signalling can be insensitive to Ras overexpression and thus identify a possible tumour suppression mechanism. We further show how phenotypically silent overexpression events within signalling cascades cooperate to bring about carcinogenesis. Our analyses underscore the need for a systems level understanding of tumour formation.
Evaluation of cytochrome c affinity to anionic phospholipids by means of surface plasmon resonance
Authors: Stepanov German , Gnedenko Oksana , Mol'nar Andrey , Ivanov Alexis , Vladimirov Yuri , Osipov Anatoly
Published: December 2008

We attempted to evaluate the affinity of the anionic phospholipids to cytochrome c by means of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) technique and to correlate it with the cytochrome c active site alterations and peroxidase activity. Our experiments showed a strong interdependence between the phospholipid fatty acid saturation degree, the active site structure alterations and peroxidase activity of the cytochrome c phospholipid complex. Cytochrome c peroxidase activity and Trp59 fluorescence increase in the sequence of phosphatidyl choline (PC) → phosphatidylserine (PS) → cardiolipin (CL) → phosphatidic acid (PA). The association constant (
K
a
) increased in the sequence PC → PA → PS → CL. The SPR spectroscopy data shows that
K
a
is independent of lipid saturation degree, but correlates with phospholipid negative charge value.
Breaking the VE‐cadherin bonds
Authors: Gavard Julie
Published: December 2008

Exchanges between the blood compartment and the surrounding tissues require a tight regulation by the endothelial barrier. Recent reports inferred that VE‐cadherin, an endothelial specific cell–cell adhesion molecule, plays a pivotal role in the formation, maturation and remodeling of the vascular wall. Indeed, a growing number of permeability inducing factors (PIFs) was shown to elicit signaling mechanisms culminating in VE‐cadherin destabilization and global alteration of the junctional architecture. Conversely, anti‐PIFs protect from VE‐cadherin disruption and enhance cell cohesion. These findings provide evidence on how endothelial cell–cell junctions impact the vascular network, and change our perception about normal and aberrant angiogenesis.
Postnatal nutrition alters body composition in adult offspring exposed to maternal protein restriction
Authors: Gosby Alison K. , Stanton Lisa M. L. , Maloney Christopher A. , Thompson Madeleine , Briody Julie , Baxter Robert C. , Bryson Janet M. , Denyer Gareth S. , Caterson Ian D.
Published: December 2008

The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system is altered with intra-uterine growth retardation and in adult metabolic disease. The aim of the present study was to observe effects of continued protein restriction on the IGF-I system and body composition in offspring of mothers fed a low-protein (LP) diet. Offspring from Wistar dams fed either a 20 % (CON) or 8 % (LP) protein diet during gestation and lactation were studied at birth, 10 d, weaning and at 12 weeks after maintenance on either the 8 % (lp) or 20 % (con) protein diet from weaning. LP offspring had reduced weaning weights (P < 0·05) and reduced serum insulin (P < 0·005). Serum IGF-I (P < 0·001) and acid-labile subunit (ALS) (P < 0·0001) were reduced at 10 and 21 d. Hepatic expression of IGF-I (P < 0·05) and ALS (P < 0·005) were reduced at 10 and 21 d. IGF binding protein (IGFBP)-1 hepatic expression was elevated at 10 d (P < 0·001) but not at 21 d. Adult LP-con offspring had reduced body weight (P < 0·05), lean (P < 0·0001) and bone (P < 0·0001) but not fat (P = 0·6) mass with no persistent effects on IGF-I, ALS and IGFBP-1.Postnatal lp feeding reduced lean mass (P < 0·0001) and bone mass (P < 0·0001) in CON and LP animals. Percentage fat (LP P = 0·04; CON P = 0·6) and IGFBP-1 (LP P = 0·01; CON P = 0·2) were increased in LP-lp but not CON-lp offspring. This suggests that postnatal nutrition is important in the effects of maternal protein restriction on adult body composition and that IGFBP-1 may be involved.