bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of Hybrid Drying- Dedusting Unit Processor for Rough Rice Processing
Authors: Lim Law Chung , Wan Daud Wan Ramli
Published: August 2008

Advanced drying technology enables drying of rough rice and dedusting of rice husks to be carried out simultaneously in the same unit processor. This paper reports the efficiency of dedusting of rice husks in a two-stage inclined cross flow fluidized bed dryer and the drying kinetics of rough rice in a batch fluidized bed dryer as well as the conceptual design of a hybrid drying  dedusting unit processor. Experimental works had been carried out using rough rice (a Group D particle according to Geldart classification of powders) in a 2.5 m height two-stage inclined fluidized bed column of cross sectional area of 0.61m x 0.15m and a 3 m high batch fluidized bed dryer. The objectives of the study was to investigate the separation efficiency of dedusting of rice husks in the two-stage cross flow fluidized bed dryer and to study the drying kinetics of rough rice drying in the batch fluidized bed dryer. The experimental results showed that the dedusting separation efficiency at low superficial gas velocity gave unsatisfactory separation of merely 40% of rice husks. At higher superficial gas velocity, separation efficiency of rice husks as high as 93% was achieved. In addition, higher distributor inclination angle gave slightly improved separation efficiency. The drying kinetics showed that the residence time that is required to reduce the moisture content of rough rice to 18% (intermediate storage moisture content for second stage drying) is 3 minutes whereas the residence time that is required to reduce the moisture content to 13% (desirable final moisture content) is approximately 10 minutes regardless of the effect of kernel cracking. It was also found that higher drying temperatures gave higher drying rate. A conceptual design has been developed based on the results obtained in the studies. In order to maximize the heat utilization and to carry out two processes viz. dedusting and drying in one unit processor, it is suggested that drying  dedusting can be carried out in a multistage mode where drying is taken place at each stage while dedusting is taking place at the upper stage. This concept can be applied to a packed bed or a fluidized bed unit processor.
Fruits & Vegetables Drying Combining Hot Air, DIC Technology and Microwaves
Authors: Haddad M. Al , Mounir S. , Sobolik V. , Allaf K.
Published: August 2008

Dehydration of fruits and vegetables is one of the most ancient and efficient preservation methods. The quality of the product and its cost depend mainly on the final stage of drying. In the present paper we analyze physical mechanisms occurring during drying throughout heat and mass transfer for defining an efficient and economic three stage drying process of hot air drying combined to a texturing stage by DIC (Instant Controlled Pressure Drop) and finally using microwave assisted by ambient temperature air dehydration.
Technological Proximity and Exclusive Buyer-Supplier Relationships
Authors: Milliou Chrysovalantou
Published: August 2008

This paper provides a new rationale for why some final product manufacturers develop exclusive relationships with their input suppliers, highlighting the role of investment incentives. It shows that exclusivity can encourage firms' investments in tailoring their technologies to their trading partners. This holds both for the buyer's and the supplier's investments. Furthermore, this paper argues against claims that exclusive dealing agreements are detrimental to welfare by demonstrating that their positive impact on efficiency translates into both higher consumers' surplus and total welfare.
Political Altruism of Transboundary Water Sharing
Authors: Bhaduri Anik , Barbier Edward B
Published: August 2008

In the paper, using a political altruism model, we make an attempt to explain why an upstream country might agree to a treaty that recognizes and enforces the water claims of a downstream country. In a natural extension of the standard economic model, it is possible to explain the above phenomena, by allowing for altruism between countries. The altruistic concerns of the countries are dependent on other country's willingness to have a good political relationship. If both the countries maintain favorable political relations with one another, then the upstream country will care about the impacts of its water diversion on the downstream country's welfare. The paper also illustrates the case of water sharing of the Ganges River between India and Bangladesh. The Ganges River, like many other rivers in the world, ignores political boundaries. In Bangladesh, the final downstream country along the Ganges, freshwater availability depends on the share of water diverted by the upstream country, India. For decades, India and Bangladesh failed to resolve the water-sharing issues of the Ganges River. However, in 1996, both India and Bangladesh signed a major new agreement on water sharing (Ganges River Treaty) in an effort to resolve the dispute. Using the political altruism model developed in the paper, we examine why despite needing more water than is available under the treaty, India has adapted to shortages instead of resorting to conflict with Bangladesh.
Equilibrium State Aid in Integrating Markets
Authors: Martin Stephen , Valbonesi Paola
Published: August 2008

We present a model of the impact of state aid on equilibrium market structure and on market performance in an integrating market when the process of integration is driven by consumer inertia. In a partial equilibrium model, it is an equilibrium for governments to grant state aid, even though this reduces common market welfare.
Functional Distribution, Land Ownership and Industrial Takeoff: The Role of Effective Demand
Authors: Bilancini Ennio , D'Alessandro Simone
Published: August 2008

In this paper we analyse how the distribution of land property rights affects industrial takeoff and aggregate income through its impact on effective demand. We apply a modified version of the model provided in Murphy et al. (1989, QJE) which allows us to analyse the role of land distribution when it is independent of the distribution of firm ownership. We extend the result of Murphy et al. (1989, QJE) by showing that industrialization and income depend non-monotonically on the distribution of land and by demonstrating that this result is due to the way land distribution affects the distribution of profits among firms. Moreover, we show that there may be a tradeoff between industrialization and income, the latter being associated with a distribution of land which is more equal than that associated with maximum industrialization.
Forkhead Transcription Factors (FoxOs) Promote Apoptosis of Insulin-Resistant Macrophages During Cholesterol-Induced Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress
Authors: Senokuchi Takafumi , Liang Chien-Ping , Seimon Tracie A. , Han Seongah , Matsumoto Michihiro , Banks Alexander S. , Paik Ji-Hye , DePinho Ronald A. , Accili Domenico , Tabas Ira , Tall Alan R.
Published: August 2008

OBJECTIVE—Endoplasmic reticulum stress increases macrophage apoptosis, contributing to the complications of atherosclerosis. Insulin-resistant macrophages are more susceptible to endoplasmic reticulum stress–associated apoptosis probably contributing to macrophage death and necrotic core formation in atherosclerotic plaques in type 2 diabetes. However, the molecular mechanisms of increased apoptosis in insulin-resistant macrophages remain unclear.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—The studies were performed in insulin-resistant macrophages isolated from insulin receptor knockout or ob/ob mice. Gain- or loss-of-function approaches were used to evaluate the roles of forkhead transcription factors (FoxOs) in endoplasmic reticulum stress–associated macrophage apoptosis.

RESULTS—Insulin-resistant macrophages showed attenuated Akt activation and increased nuclear localization of FoxO1 during endoplasmic reticulum stress induced by free cholesterol loading. Overexpression of active FoxO1 or FoxO3 failed to induce apoptosis in unchallenged macrophages but exacerbated apoptosis in macrophages with an active endoplasmic reticulum stress response. Conversely, macrophages with genetic knockouts of FoxO1, -3, and -4 were resistant to apoptosis in response to endoplasmic reticulum stress. FoxO1 was shown by chromatin immunoprecipitation and promoter expression analysis to induce inhibitor of κBε gene expression and thereby to attenuate the increase of nuclear p65 and nuclear factor-κB activity during endoplasmic reticulum stress, with proapoptotic and anti-inflammatory consequences.

CONCLUSIONS—Decreased Akt and increased FoxO transcription factor activity during the endoplasmic reticulum stress response leads to increased apoptosis of insulin-resistant macrophages. FoxOs may have a dual cellular function, resulting in either proapoptotic or anti-inflammatory effects in an endoplasmic reticulum stress–modulated manner. In the complex plaque milieu, the ultimate effect is likely to be an increase in macrophage apoptosis, plaque inflammation, and destabilization.
Cognitive Function in Children With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Gaudieri Patricia A. , Chen Rusan , Greer Tammy F. , Holmes Clarissa S.
Published: August 2008

OBJECTIVE—To quantify the magnitude and pattern of cognitive difficulties in pediatric type 1 diabetes as well as the effects associated with earlier disease onset and severe hypoglycemia.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Pediatric studies of cognitive function since 1985 were identified for study inclusion using MEDLINE and PsycInfo. Effect size (ES, Cohen's d) between the diabetic and control groups, expressed in SD units, were calculated within cognitive domains to standardize meta-analysis test performance.

RESULTS—The meta-analysis sample of 2,144 children consisted of 1,393 study subjects with type 1 diabetes and 751 control subjects from 19 studies. Overall, type 1 diabetes was associated with slightly lower overall cognition (ES −0.13), with small differences compared with control subjects across a broad range of domains, excluding learning and memory, which were similar for both groups. Learning and memory skills, both verbal and visual (−0.28 and −0.25), were more affected for children with early-onset diabetes (EOD) than late-onset diabetes (LOD), along with attention/executive function skills (−0.27). Compared with nondiabetic control subjects, EOD effects were larger, up to one-half SD lower, particularly for learning and memory (−0.49). Generally, seizures were associated with a negligible overall cognition ES of −0.06, with slight and inconsistent cognitive effects found on some measures, possibly reflecting the opposing effects of poorer versus better metabolic control.

CONCLUSIONS—Pediatric diabetes generally relates to mildly lower cognitive scores across most cognitive domains. Cognitive effects are most pronounced and pervasive for EOD, with moderately lower performance compared with control subjects. Seizures are generally related to nominal, inconsistent performance differences.
Strategies for the identification of loci responsible for the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Stern Joel , Keskin Derin
Published: August 2008

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, debilitating disease, which manifests itself by de-myelination of the central nervous system (CNS). MS is predominantly found in Caucasians of European decent and is more prominent in females than males. MS is one of the most prevalent causes of disability of young adults in the world. The exact cause of MS is not known, however genetic susceptibility to MS is linked to the major histocompability complex (MHC). Self reactive CD4+ T cells, specific for CNS antigens, such as myelin basic protein (MBP), myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) and proteolipid protein (PLP), are detectable in MS patients along with pathogenic autoantibodies specific to these CNS antigens produced by B cells. These observations suggest that MS is an autoimmune disease. Epidemiology of MS along with the analysis of sibling pairs and twins suggest that the multiple genetic factors and their interaction with environment contribute to disease susceptibility. Recent developments and advancements in genetic analysis may aid in accurate determination of genetic risk factors for the development of MS. We review these developments, advances in technology and discuss recent results in this article.
Equivalence and symmetries of second-order differential equations
Authors: Tryhuk V. , Dlouhý O.
Published: August 2008

In this article we investigate the equivalence of underdetermined differential equations and differential equations with deviations of second order with respect to the pseudogroup of transformations $$
\bar x
$$ = φ(x), ȳ = ȳ($$
\bar x
$$) = L(x) + y(x), $$
\bar z
$$ = $$
\bar z
$$($$
\bar x
$$) = M(x) + z(x). Our main aim is to determine such equations that admit a large pseudogroup of symmetries. Instead the common direct calculations, we use some more advanced tools from differential geometry, however, our exposition is self-contained and only the most fundamental properties of differential forms are employed.
Sequence spaces of fuzzy real numbers defined by Orlicz functions
Authors: Tripathy Binod , Sarma Bipul
Published: August 2008

In this article we study different properties of convergent, null and bounded sequence spaces of fuzzy real numbers defined by an Orlicz function, like completeness, solidness, symmetricity, convergence free etc. We prove some inclusion results, too.
Extensions of homogeneous polynomials on c
0(l
2i)
Authors: Lourenço M. , Pellegrini L.
Published: August 2008

We show that a 2-homogeneous polynomial on the complex Banach space c
0
l
2i) is norm attaining if and only if it is finite (i.e, depends only on finite coordinates). As the consequence, we show that there exists a unique norm-preserving extension for norm-attaining 2-homogeneous polynomials on c
0(l
2i).
Early bilingualism: children of immigrants in an English-language childcare center
Authors: Chumak-Horbatsch Roma
Published: August 2008

Early bilingualism: children of immigrants in an English-language childcare center

In this study, language views and home language practice of sixteen immigrant parents were documented and related to the dual language behaviors of their young children (ages 1:09 to 3;06) who were enrolled in a Toronto English-language childcare center. De Houwer's (1999) model of early bilingualism was applied to the minority language context and external factors were used to explain the short-lived active bilingualism of the younger children and the passive bilingualism of the preschoolers. Presenting mothers and fathers with separate questionnaires proved to be a valuable methodological tool, which revealed similar language thinking but different home language practice. Immigrant mothers were more committed to their children's L1 development than were fathers, a finding, which supports and extends the parental gender difference noted in earlier work (Gleason, 2005; Lyon, 1991; Lyon & Ellis, 1999). Negative effects of early L2 exposure on minority language children's incomplete L1, reported in earlier studies, were confirmed. A concrete outcome of the present study was the creation mylanguage.ca, a website intended to help immigrant parents understand their children's dual language learning. Even though the study presents a somewhat bleak picture of the continuation of L1, it concludes on an optimistic note, encouraging immigrant fathers to join forces with their L1-committed spouses and to help provide a nurturing L1 environment for their young children.
Development of comprehension of ironic utterances in 3- to 9-year-old Finnish-speaking children
Authors: Loukusa Soile , Leinonen Eeva
Published: August 2008

Development of comprehension of ironic utterances in 3- to 9-year-old Finnish-speaking children

This study explores the comprehension of simple ironic utterances in 210 Finnish children aged from 3 to 9 years. If the child answered the question correctly, he/she was asked to explain correct answers. The results indicated that there was large individual variation within age groups both in answers and explanations. In terms of correct answers there was a significant difference between 6- and 7-year-olds and in correct explanations between age groups of 3-4, 6-7 and 7-8. Analysis of incorrect answers showed that literal interpretation of an utterance was the most common incorrect answer type in all age groups. Totally irrelevant answers occurred only in children aged 3 and 4. In terms of incorrect explanations, "turntaking" and "incorrect focus" categories were the most common incorrect explanation types. Contrary to previous studies, in this study already some of the 3- and 4-year-olds showed an emerging ability to comprehend irony.
Long-Term Performance of Reflective Cracking Mitigation Techniques in Nevada
Authors: Loria Luis , Sebaaly Peter E. , Hajj Elie Y.
Published: August 2008

Hot-mix asphalt (HMA) overlay is one of the commonly used methods for rehabilitating deteriorated pavements. The Nevada Department of Transportation (DOT) uses HMA overlays as a rehabilitation technique for the majority of the state's flexible pavements. One major type of distress influencing the life of an overlay is reflective cracking. In the past, Nevada DOT has experimented with a number of techniques— such as cold in-place recycling, reinforced fabrics, stress relief courses, and mill and overlay—to reduce the impact of reflective cracking on HMA overlays. Several projects were constructed under each category. The long-term field performance of various Nevada DOT reflective cracking mitigation techniques was evaluated; the techniques were used on flexible pavements at 33 field projects. Performances of the various projects were analyzed by fatigue, transverse, and block cracking measurements from Nevada DOT's pavement management system data. In addition, the statistical approach called principal component analysis was used to asses the effectiveness of each of the reflective cracking techniques. The study indicated that cold in-place recycling and mill and overlay were the most effective treatments for reflective cracking of HMA overlays over HMA pavements under Nevada's conditions, except when the existing pavement experiences severe alligator cracking. In such situations, it is recommended that HMA pavement be subjected to reconstruction or full-depth reclamation.
Evaluation of Methodology in Analyzing Compost for Erosion Control
Authors: Ho Carlton , Wong Kelvin , Reckhow David A.
Published: August 2008

Preventing erosion has been considered an important, pressing issue for decades. The latest techniques in conventional erosion control near wetlands use hay bales and silt fences. Although these conventional methods may reduce the amount of erosion, their effectiveness is infrequently reliable. Such methods are considered the standard means of erosion prevention in Massachusetts. Research from other states demonstrates growing interest in the use of compost for erosion control. The purpose of research was to determine the environmental acceptability of wood wastes and composted materials from various locations throughout Massachusetts to control erosion. Specific validation was done on the methodology constructed to test compost for individual analytes. Nutrient measurements consisted of total organic carbon, total nitrogen, and total phosphorus. Testing for microbial growth included enterococci and E. coli. The pH was also measured. Further assessment included a statistical analysis of the data, conducted to ensure repeatability of results from the test methods. Nine different sample locations were included in the testing. Synthetic precipitation was passed through each sample, and the effluent was collected at various time intervals. Overall, concentrations of each analyte decreased expectedly with leaching. Of note is that the average carbon–nitrogen ratio was 11:1, typical for plant organic material. Furthermore, the compost beneficially acted as a pH buffer. The repeatability of results is supportive of testing procedures, for ratios of replicate samples because both total organic carbon and total nitrogen concentrations justified a semipredictable trend despite nonquantifiable variability.
Fleet Transport for Roadway Maintenance Equipment
Authors: Lawson William D.
Published: August 2008

Policy, practice, and procedure are addressed relative to the transport of heavy-duty roadway construction and maintenance equipment by department of transportation maintenance personnel. Findings are from a 2-year study sponsored by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), which focused on a review of TxDOT's existing and future off-road equipment and transport requirements and an assessment of the agency's current knowledge base and practices in transporting off-road equipment. Statewide focus is made in the context of nationwide perspectives on equipment transport. Procedures and practices vary between states, with certain challenges common to all. Relative to equipment, the need exists for newer, better trailers; more lowboy-type trailers; and better trucks. Equipment transport policy is minimal to nonexistent in many states, and transport practices and procedures are sometimes unworkable. Inadequate trailer preventive maintenance, less-than-effective purchasing practices, and poor-quality training programs in regard to equipment load and tie-down are common themes. For Texas, research indicates that overall knowledge of equipment transport is high, especially for practices and procedures, trailer hitches and hitching systems, load securement, chains and tie-downs, and safety. However, equipment transport knowledge about load distribution concepts and practices, training, and compliance with laws and regulations is not as strong. The one thing that field personnel stated would most improve equipment transport at TxDOT would be training. They want more training, better training, and refresher training. Efforts to address these challenges amount to continuous quality improvement to a functional, working system.
Depictions of Martial and Spiritual Power in Eighteenth-Century Japanese Children's Picturebooks: Two Early Kusazōshi Works Featuring the Warrior Kumagai Naozane
Authors: MILLS JONATHAN
Published: August 2008

This article deals with early Kusazōshi a genre of Japanese picturebook published during the eighteenth century, and one of the antecedents of modern Japanese manga. It is thought that these books were enjoyed by both adults and children. I consider two works which deal with the twelfth-century warrior Kumagai Naozane, who famously became a monk in later life after reluctantly slaying a young noble on the battlefield. Firstly, after looking at previous literary depictions of Naozane, and placing the two Kusazōshi works in their historical context, I examine the unique way in which Naozane's martial and spiritual power is depicted, a depiction which provides a hint as to why this historical figure was so popular in the culture of the eighteenth century. Secondly, I look at elements in the two works (such as the fantastic and comic), that may have implied a child readership.
Fine mapping of breakpoints in two unrelated patients with rare overlapping interstitial deletions of 9q with mild dysmorphic features
Authors: Kulharya Anita S. , Flannery David B. , Norris Karen , Lovell Carolyn , Levy Brynn , Velagaleti Gopalrao V.N.
Published: August 2008

Approximately, 20 cases of interstitial deletions of 9q have been reported in the literature spanning the breakpoints from 9q21 to 9q34. Unlike the 9q subtelomeric deletions, the interstitial deletions do not demonstrate a specific recognizable phenotype, although the majority of patients had microcephaly. Lack of precise molecular delineation of the extent of deletions in the published cases makes it difficult to develop an accurate genotype–phenotype correlation. We report on fine mapping of breakpoints using the Affymetrix Human Mapping 500K Array Set in two unrelated female patients with overlapping de novo deletion in 9q. SNP oligonucleotide microarray analysis (SOMA) indicated these to be relatively large deletions with Patient 1 having a 6.47 Mb deletion (>60 genes) spanning 9q32–q33.2 and Patient 2 having a 9.68 Mb deletion (>20 genes) localized to 9q31.1–q33.1. FISH analysis with BAC clones localized to the breakpoints showed discrepant results in Patient 1. Based on the review of previously reported interstitial 9q deletion patients and our patients, the minimal region of overlap (MRO) appears to encompass the 9q32 region and a phenotype characterized by microcephaly, neurological dysfunction and facial dysmorphism can be deduced. Our study shows the investigative nature of the latest array technology and the limitations of this technology in the accurate delineation of breakpoints. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Functional modification of poly(vinyl alcohol) through phosphorus containing nitrogen heterocyclic moieties
Authors: Karpagam S. , Thangaraj R. , Guhanathan S.
Published: August 2008

Functional modification of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) with phosphorus containing nitrogen heterocyclic has been believed to have extensive thermal and biological applications in the area of polymers. Efforts have been taken for the synthesis of phosphorus‐containing N‐heterocyclic (5,6 member and fused ring) based PVA. The synthesized compounds were characterized using UV, FTIR, and NMR spectral studies. Thermal studies (DSC‐TGA) scans display phosphorus‐containing five membered and fused heterocyclic‐based PVA has less thermal stability than six‐membered compounds. Modified polymers infer to have excellent bacterial response against micro‐organisms. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Influence of γ irradiation on the properties of polyacrylonitrile films
Authors: Pawde S. M. , Deshmukh Kalim
Published: August 2008

In this study, we examined the effects of γ irradiation on the mechanical, thermal, structural, and electrical properties of polyacrylonitrile (PAN). Irradiation doses of 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 kGy were used, with nonirradiated PAN films serving as control samples. Microhardness measurements, mechanical tests, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry analysis, color determination, X‐ray diffraction, and electrical properties were investigated to evaluate the effects of the irradiation treatments on the PAN films. A fair consistency was observed between the microhardness results. Irradiation caused a significant deterioration in the mechanical properties of the samples. The tensile strength and percentage elongation at break decreased with increasing irradiation dose. Similarly, Young's modulus and toughness also decreased with increasing irradiation dose. The melting and crystallization temperatures decreased, whereas the degree of yellowness increased with increasing irradiation dose. The percentage crystallinity of the PAN film increased with increasing irradiation dose. The FTIR spectra showed that there was a tendency toward a greater effect of γ irradiation on the structure of PAN at higher irradiation doses. The values of the electrical parameters, such as capacitance in parallel, dielectric constant, dielectric loss, resistance in series, resistance in parallel, reactance, and quality factor, increased, whereas the values of capacitance in series, impedance, conductance, susceptance, admittance, and phase angle decreased because of the γ irradiation. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Polyethyleneimine‐Functionalized Platinum Nanoparticles with High Electrochemiluminescence Activity and Their Applications to Amplified Analysis of Biomolecules
Authors: Li Tao , Du Yan , Wang Erkang
Published: August 2008

Polyethyleneimine‐functionalized platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) with excellent electrochemiluminescence (ECL) properties were synthesized and applied to the amplified analysis of biomolecules. These particles were prepared at room temperature, with hyperbranched polyethyleneimine (HBPEI) as the stabilizer. The UV/Vis absorption spectra and transmission electron microscopy images clearly confirmed the formation of monodisperse PtNPs. Such particles proved to possess high stability against salt‐induced aggregation, enabling them to be employed even under high‐salt conditions. Owing to the existence of many tertiary amine groups, these particles exhibited excellent ECL behavior in the presence of tris(2,2′‐bipyridyl)ruthenium(II). An HBPEI‐coated particle possessed an ECL activity that was at least 60 times higher than that of a tripropylamine molecule. Furthermore, these particles could be immobilized on the 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane‐treated quartz substrates to amplify the binding sites for carboxyl groups. Through this approach, PtNPs were applied to the amplified analysis of the hemin/G‐quadruplex DNAzyme by using the luminol/H2O2 chemiluminescence method.
Selective Colorimetric Sensing of Geometrical Isomers of Dicarboxylates in Water by Using Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Chatterjee Amrita , Oh Dong Ju , Kim Kyung Mi , Youk Kyung‐Seog , Ahn Kyo Han
Published: August 2008

A colorimetric sensing system based on gold nanoparticles functionalized with a water‐soluble anion‐recognition motif, an o‐(carboxamido)trifluoroacetophenone analogue, has been developed. The nanoparticle system selectively senses specific isomers of dicarboxylates that are geometrically favorable for the binding‐induced aggregation process; thus, it discriminates a trans‐dicarboxylate fumarate from its cis‐isomer maleate, and benzene‐1,4‐dicarboxylate from its isomeric benzene‐1,2‐and benzene‐1,3‐dicarboxylates in water, exhibiting a color change from red to blue.
Unterscheidung und Synthese: Rezeptionsformen akustischer Forschung in der Musikliteratur des 19. Jahrhunderts
Authors: Rieger Matthias
Published: August 2008

Differentiation and synthesis. Forms of reception of acoustical research in the musical literature of the nineteenth century. In the nineteenth century, both musical scholars and natural scientists discussed the relevance of acoustical research for the theory and practice of music. Whereas some musical theorists and acousticians plead together for an acoustical foundation of musical theory, other scholars questioned the significance of physical and physiological knowledge for a deeper understanding of music. Based on an analysis of musical journals, popular scientific writings, theoretical treatises and musical dictionaries this article demonstrates how musical scholars and natural scientists argued about the question which discipline should have the final say about musical concepts and terminologies. To merge both heterogeneous spheres – music and acoustics – or to carefully distinguish between them – these two positions shaped the dispute over the relationship between music and natural sciences in the nineteenth century.
An integrated solution and analysis of bioluminescence tomography and diffuse optical tomography
Authors: Han Weimin , Cong Wenxiang , Kazmi Kamran , Wang Ge
Published: August 2008

While diffuse optical tomography (DOT) has been studied for years, bioluminescence tomography (BLT) is emerging as a promising optical molecular imaging tool. These two modalities have different goals. DOT is for reconstruction of optical parameters of a medium such as a breast from surface measurements induced by external sources. BLT is for reconstruction of a bioluminescent source distribution in a medium such as a mouse from surface measurements induced by internal bioluminescent sources. However, an important pre‐requisite for BLT reconstruction is the knowledge on the distribution of optical parameters within the medium, which is the output of DOT. In this paper, we propose a mathematical model integrating BLT and DOT at the fundamental level; that is, performing the two types of reconstructions simultaneously instead of doing them sequentially. The model is introduced through minimizing the difference between predicted quantities and boundary measurements, as well as incorporating regularization terms. Then, we show the solution existence, introduce numerical schemes and prove convergence of the numerical solution. We also present numerical results to illustrate the utility of our approach. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Computational methods for optical molecular imaging
Authors: Chen Duan , Wei Guo‐Wei , Cong Wen‐Xiang , Wang Ge
Published: August 2008

A new computational technique, the matched interface and boundary (MIB) method, is presented to model the photon propagation in biological tissue for the optical molecular imaging. Optical properties have significant differences in different organs of small animals, resulting in discontinuous coefficients in the diffusion equation model. Complex organ shape of small animal induces singularities of the geometric model as well. The MIB method is designed as a dimension splitting approach to decompose a multidimensional interface problem into one‐dimensional ones. The methodology simplifies the topological relation near an interface and is able to handle discontinuous coefficients and complex interfaces with geometric singularities. In the present MIB method, both the interface jump condition and the photon flux jump conditions are rigorously enforced at the interface location by using only the lowest‐order jump conditions. This solution near the interface is smoothly extended across the interface so that central finite difference schemes can be employed without the loss of accuracy. A wide range of numerical experiments are carried out to validate the proposed MIB method. The second‐order convergence is maintained in all benchmark problems. The fourth‐order convergence is also demonstrated for some three‐dimensional problems. The robustness of the proposed method over the variable strength of the linear term of the diffusion equation is also examined. The performance of the present approach is compared with that of the standard finite element method. The numerical study indicates that the proposed method is a potentially efficient and robust approach for the optical molecular imaging. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New gas environment leading to new kinds of state regulations
Authors: Willett Robert E.
Published: August 2008

On the state level, several economic developments—open access, prices that will be more fluid from the effect of the futures market, and the outlook for tighter supplies—are leading to new kinds of regulations in the consuming states and to strengthened regulations in the producing states. In all states, the regulators must react to a situation in which they must pick up much of the oversight that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is putting down.

To get a more clear idea of these trends, in late February we talked with Charles D. Gray, assistant general counsel of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners, the Washington group that represents the interests of state regulators on the national level.
Horizontal drilling for gas when prices, technology improve
Authors: Willett Robert E.
Published: August 2008

The moss media that occasionally touches on the energy industry has been breathing heavily lately about horizontal drilling (see figure). Dallas's Oryx Energy has had very good, recent success with the technique, and I thought I would find whether companies in general could use it to explore for gas.

In this connection, according to financial analyst Paul R. Leibman of Denver's Petrie Parkman & Co., even though today the technique was primarily an oil play, it might eventually be a way to free tight‐sand gas in areas like West Texas. Liebman also told me that the development leader was Houston's Baker Hughes. Accordingly, in late February I interviewed Pat Herbert, president of Baker Hughes Drilling Systems, and David M. Adams, director of operations‐North America for the same company.
Independent component analysis as a model‐free approach for the detection of BOLD changes related to epileptic spikes: A simulation study
Authors: LeVan Pierre , Gotman Jean
Published: August 2008

EEG‐fMRI in epileptic patients is commonly analyzed using the general linear model (GLM), which assumes a known hemodynamic response function (HRF) to epileptic spikes in the EEG. In contrast, independent component analysis (ICA) can extract Blood‐Oxygenation Level Dependent (BOLD) responses without imposing constraints on the HRF. This technique was evaluated on data generated by superimposing artificial responses on real background fMRI signals. Simulations were run using a wide range of EEG spiking rates, HRF amplitudes, and activation regions. The data were decomposed by spatial ICA into independent components. A deconvolution method then identified component time courses significantly related to the simulated spikes, without constraining the shape of the HRF. Components matching the simulated activation regions (“concordant components”) were found in 84.4% of simulations, while components at discordant locations were found in 12.2% of simulations. These false activations were often related to large artifacts that coincidentally occurred simultaneously with some of the random simulated spikes. The performance of the method depended closely on the simulation parameters; when the number of spikes was low, concordant components could only be identified when HRF amplitudes were large. Although ICA did not depend on the shape of the HRF, data processed with the GLM did not reveal the appropriate activation region when the HRF varied slightly from the canonical shape used in the model. ICA may thus be able to extract BOLD responses from EEG‐fMRI data in epileptic patients, in a way that is robust to uncertainty and variability in the shape of the HRF. Hum Brain Mapp, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Correlation Between Liver Histology and Markers of Hepatitis B Virus Replication in Infected Patients: A Study by In Situ Hybridization
Authors: Burrell Christopher J. , Gowans Eric J. , Rowland Robert , Hall Pauline , Jilbert Allison R. , Marmion Barrie P.
Published: August 2008

Liver sections from 18 patients positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), and from 12 negative patients, were examined for the presence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA using an in situ hybridization assay that would identify only those hepatocytes containing more than 10 to 15 HBV genome equivalents per cell. Such cells are likely to be undergoing active viral replication, rather than latent infection. The findings were correlated with results of tissue immunofluorescence for HBV antigens and the presence of serum hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg), together with histologic assessment of each liver. HBV DNA detected in the above assay was predominantly cytoplasmic; it was associated with the presence of hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg) in hepatocytes and HBeAg in serum, and to a lesser extent with cirrhosis and immunosuppression, but not with the presence of HBsAg in hepatocytes, nor with histological evidence of disease activity judged by the presence of piece-meal necrosis and lobular and portal tract inflammation. These findings support the view that liver HBcAg and serum HBeAg are markers of virus replication, and demonstrate that active liver disease in HBsAg-positive patients may occur with or without such markers of replication. It is proposed that alternative mechanisms for hepatocyte injury may apply in different chronic HBV patients, one related to virus replication and one dependent on immunological factors.
Caffeine: A Model Compound for Measuring Liver Function
Authors: Renner Eberhard , Wietholtz Hubertus , Huguenin Philipp , Arnaud Maurice J. , Preisig Rudolf
Published: August 2008

The effects of liver disease on caffeine plasma clearance (CI) and on exhalation of 14CO2 following i.v. injection of 2 μCi of [ 3-methyl-14C]caffeine together with 125 mg of the unlabeled compound were measured in 15 patients with cirrhosis, 11 subjects with miscellaneous liver disease, and 10 normal volunteers. Compared to mean values for CI (2.02 ± S.D. 0.68 ml per min per kg) and t½ (3.8 ± 0.9 hr) in normal volunteers, cirrhotics were characterized by highly significant reductions in CI (to 0.76 ± 0.40) and prolongation in t½ (to 13.7 ± 13.0), whereas the volume of distribution (VD) remained relatively unchanged (0.57 ± 0.16 vs. 0.64 ± 0.13 liter per kg in normals). Cumulative 14CO2 production and specific activity of 14CO2 in breath decreased in parallel (r = 0.83) with Cl. Patients with miscellaneous liver disease exhibited only small changes in Cl and t½; however, 14CO2 parameters in breath appeared more sensitive in indicating the slight functional derangement. In view of the correlation (Rs = 0.83) of cumulative 14CO2 excretion with the initial disappearance constant for bromosulfophthalein, the caffeine breath test may be considered as a quantitative measure of hepatic microsomal activity; based on a surprisingly close, hyperbolic relationship between Cl and fasting caffeine plasma concentrations, the latter might serve as a simple guide to severity of liver disease.
A [14C]Phenacetin Breath Test to Measure Hepatic Function in Man
Authors: Breen Kerry J. , Bury Ross W. , Calder Ian V. , Desmond Paul V. , Peters Marion , Mashford Laurie M.
Published: August 2008

Phenacetin, a high-clearance drug, was labeled as [14C-ethyl]phenacetin and used in a breath test of hepatic function. 14CO2 appeared rapidly in breath such that more than 30% of the administered radioactivity was expired in 2 hr. For all means of expression used to describe the appearance of 14CO2 in breath, normal controls and hospitalized patients without liver disease were clearly separated from cirrhotic subjects with moderate and severe liver damage.

The phenacetin breath test was validated by the close correlation of 14CO2 appearance with the disposition of the parent compound examined after its intravenous administration, and by demonstration that the rate-limiting step in 14CO2 generation from labeled phenacetin occurred proximal to 14CO2 generation from [14C]acetate given intravenously. Correcting for the actual volume of CO2 exhaled by control and cirrhotic subjects did not increase the sensitivity of the test. The phenacetin breath test has potential as a simple procedure to quantitate hepatic metabolism of drugs, particularly those mediated by cytochrome P448.
Reticuloendothelial System Phagocytic Activity in Cirrhosis and Its Relation to Bacterial Infections and Prognosis†
Authors: Rimola Antoni , Soto Ramón , Bory Felipe , Arroyo Vicente , Piera Carlos , Rodes Joan
Published: August 2008

The reticuloendothelial system phagocytic activity, estimated by the plasma elimination rate constant of 99mtechnetium-sulfur colloid, was studied in 41 decompensated cirrhotics and 10 normal subjects. The results were related to the incidence and type of bacterial infections occurring during hospitalization and follow-up, and to survival. The elimination rate constant of 99mtechnetium-sulfur colloid was lower in cirrhotic patients (0.168 ± 0.007) (x ± S.E.) than in normal subjects (0.220 ± 0.005) (p < 0.01). Cirrhotics were divided into two groups. Group I (16 patients) and Group II (25 patients) had normal or reduced elimination rate constant of 99mtechnetium-sulfur colloid, respectively. Both groups were similar in relation to clinical and biochemical data, hepatic blood flow, and wedged hepatic venous pressure. However, the liver scan and the elimination rate constant of indocyanine green were more altered in Group II. Patients in Group II developed acute bacterial infections more frequently than did patients in Group I. During hospitalization (24 ± 2 days), bacteremia occurred in six patients in Group II and in none in Group I (p < 0.05). During follow-up (28 ± 3 months), 5 patients in Group II and none in Group I developed bacteremia (p < 0.05). The cumulative survival rate of Group I patients was higher (p < 0.05) than that of Group II patients at 3 months (100 vs. 80%), 6 months (94 vs. 68%), 24 months (74 vs. 42%), and 48 months (68 vs. 34%). We suggest that decompensated cirrhotics with depressed reticuloendothelial system phagocytic activity are at great risk to acquire bacteremia, and that reticuloendothelial system phagocytic activity has prognostic value in cirrhosis.
Inhibition of Bile Flow in the Isolated Perfused Rat Liver by a Synthetic Parenteral Amino Acid Mixture: Associated Net Amino Acid Fluxes†
Authors: Graham Martin F. , Tavill Anthony S. , Halpin Thomas C. , Louis Loizos N.
Published: August 2008

To identify a role for amino acids in cholestasis associated with total parenteral nutrition, we measured bile formation by the isolated perfused rat liver in the presence and absence of added amino acids. All livers were infused,constantly with sodium [14C]taurocholate (0.28 μmoles per min) for 90 min. At 40 min, a primed-constant infusion of a synthetic L-amino acid mixture (121 + 19.3 μmoles of N per min) was administered for an additional 50 min. Mean bile flow rates during the amino acid infusion were reduced from 15.4 μl per min per 10 gm liver weight to 10.4 μl per min per 10 gm (p < 0.005). There was no significant change during saline infusion of control livers, and there was no significant difference in perfusate osmolalities in the two groups. Although biliary recovery of infused taurocholate was slightly lower in the experimental perfusions than in controls (95.3% vs. 101.7%, p < 0.05), there was no significant reduction in taurocholate excretion rate during the infusion in either group. Bile flow changes were related to ambient concentrations and net fluxes of individual amino acids in the perfusate. Of the 14 infused amino acids, glycine and arginine achieved levels >3 times greater than reported physiological postprandial portal venous concentrations in the rat, and together constituted about 25% of the 9 0-min perfusate amino acids (8.3 mM). The highest net hepatic uptake was for glycine (125 μmoles per hr per 10 gm), which was almost 50% of its infusion rate. These observations lead us to propose that nonphysiological hepatic concentrations and uptake of certain amino acids interfere with bile formation, particularly with bile acid-independent flow.
Detection of Hepatitis B Virus DNA in Hepatocellular Carcinomas in Japan
Authors: Hino Okio , Kitagawa Tomoyuki , Koike Katsuro , Kobayashi Midori , Hara Mitsuru , Mori Wataru , Nakashima Toshiro , Hattori Nobu , Sugano Haruo
Published: August 2008

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and/or cirrhotic livers of Japanese patients in Japan was investigated by molecular hybridization utilizing a 32P-labeled cloned HBV DNA of adr subtype. Among 24 HCC cases, 9 (37.5%) were positive for serum HBsAg and 10 (41.7%), including 2 cases which were negative for serum HBV markers, were positive for tissue HBsAg in noncancerous portions of the liver. In the latter 10 cases, integrated HBV DNA was detected in HCC. The restriction pattern of integrated viral DNA was different from one case to another. In the noncancerous portion of these 10 HCC cases, free (3/10), random integration (2/10), or clonal integration (1/10) of viral DNA was demonstrated; no hybridization was detected in the remaining 14 HCC cases, either in cancerous or noncancerous portions.

Of 6 cases of liver cirrhosis, 2 were positive for serum and histochemical HBsAg; viral DNA was in free state. Viral DNA was not detected in pancreatic tissue in 5 HBsAg-positive cases.

The present results are in agreement with previous reports indicating a high frequency of integrated viral DNA in HBV-associated HCC and heterogeneity in the mode of integration. Our results differ in finding no HBV DNA in HCC cases not associated with HBV markers and in finding clonal populations of hepatocytes with integrated HBV DNA less frequently in the noncancerous portion of the liver of HBsAg carriers.