bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stirring
Authors: Zlokarnik Marko
Published: December 2006

The article contains sections titled:

1.Stirring Operations, Stirring Vessels, and Stirrer Types1.1.Stirring Operations1.2.Stirring Vessels and Auxiliary Equipment1.3.Operation of Individual Types of Stirrers1.4.Mechanical Stress Exerted by the Stirrer2.Homogenization of Liquid Mixtures2.1.Problem Definition2.2.Mixing‐Time Characteristic2.2.1.Definition and Measurement Method2.2.2.Mixing‐Time Characteristic at Δϱ ≃ 0 and Δν ≃ 02.2.3.Mixing‐Time Characteristic at Δϱ ≠ 0 and Δν ≠ 02.2.4.Mixing‐Time Characteristics in Non‐Newtonian Liquids2.3.Power Characteristic2.3.1.Definition and Measurement Method2.3.2.Power Characteristics in Homogeneous Systems2.4.Optimization: Minimum Work of Mixing2.5.Homogenization in Storage Tanks2.6.Liquid Throughput of Stirrers2.7.Vortex Depth in Unbaffled Stirred Tanks3.Intensification of Heat Transfer3.1.Problem Definition3.2.Heat‐Transfer Characteristics3.2.1.Definitions3.2.2.Heat‐Transfer Characteristics in the Range Re > 2003.2.3.Heat‐Transfer Characteristics in the Range Re < 2003.3.Stirrer Power During Heat Transfer3.4.Optimum Stirring Conditions for the Removal of Reaction Heat4.Suspension of Solids in Liquids (S/L Systems)4.1.Problem Definition4.2.Classification of the Suspension Conditions4.3.Suspension Characteristic4.3.1.Suspension Characteristics withdpas the Characteristic Particle Dimension4.3.2.Suspension Characteristics withwssas the Characteristic Particle Property4.4.Power Requirements Upon Suspension of Solids4.5.Scale‐up of the Solids Suspension Process4.6.Effect of Geometric and Apparatus‐Related Factors on the Suspension4.7.Mass Transfer in the Solid ‐ Liquid (S/L) System5.Dispersion in Liquid ‐ Liquid (L/L) Systems5.1.Lowest Stirrer Speed for Dispersion5.2.Dispersion Characteristics5.3.Stirrer Power for Dispersion5.4.Scale‐Up of the Dispersion Processes5.5.Mass and Heat Transfer Upon Dispersion6.Dispersion in Gas ‐ Liquid (G/L) Systems6.1.Physical Fundamentals of Mass Transfer6.2.Mass‐Transfer Characteristics in the G/L System6.2.1.Sorption Characteristics in Coalescence‐Bound Systems (Water)6.2.2.Sorption Characteristics in Coalescence‐Inhibited Systems6.2.3.Sorption Characteristics in Non‐Newtonian Material Systems6.3.Stirrer Power in Gassed Liquids6.4.Flooding Point6.5.Special Gas ‐ Liquid Contacting Techniques6.5.1.Hollow Stirrers6.5.2.Surface Aerators6.5.3.Gas Spargers and Injectors
Structure Analysis by Diffraction
Authors: Paulus Erich F. , Gieren Alfred
Published: December 2006

The article contains sections titled:

1.General Principles2.Structure Analysis of Solids2.1.Diffraction by Crystal Lattices2.1.1.Materials and Methods2.1.2.Introduction to X‐Ray Crystallography; History2.1.3.Experimental Principles, Applications2.1.4.Crystal Growth for X‐Ray Structure Analysis2.1.5.X‐Rays, Neutrons, and Electrons2.1.6.Cameras and Diffractometers2.1.7.Safety2.1.8.Instrument Manufacturers2.2.The Phase Problem2.2.1.Patterson (Vector) Methods2.2.2.Direct Methods2.2.3.Trial‐and‐Error Method, R Test2.2.4.Experimental Phase Determination2.3.Least‐Squares Refinement2.4.Determination of Absolute Configuration2.5.Example of a Single‐Crystal X‐Ray Structure Analysis Solved by Direct Methods2.6.Diffraction by Polycrystalline Specimens2.6.1.General Considerations2.6.2.Qualitative and Quantitative Analyses of Powder Specimens2.6.3.Solid Solutions2.6.4.Rietveld Method2.6.5.Texture2.7.Crystallographic Databanks2.8.Noncrystallinity2.8.1.Crystal Quality Analysis2.8.2.Crystallite Size2.8.3.Defects2.8.4.X‐Ray Crystallinity2.8.5.Elastic Stress2.8.6.Radial Electron Density Distribution3.Synchrotron Radiation4.Neutron Diffraction5.Electron Diffraction5.1.Diffraction in the Electron Microscope5.2.Electron Diffraction in the Gas Phase6.Future Developments
Superabsorbents
Authors: Frank Markus
Published: December 2006

The article contains sections titled:

1.Introduction2.Definition3.Theory of Polyelectrolyte Networks3.1.Elasticity3.2.Swelling3.3.Phase Transition4.Chemistry and Production of Superabsorbents4.1.Raw Materials4.2.Radical Solution Polymerization4.2.1.Principles4.2.2.Production Processes4.3.Inverse Suspension Polymerization4.4.Surface Treatment5.Properties, Characterization, and Analysis5.1.Absorption Capacity5.2.Shear Modulus5.3.Kinetics of Absorption5.4.Swelling under Load5.5.Permeability5.6.Test Methods5.7.Stability of Superabsorbents6.Uses6.1.Personal Hygiene Products6.1.1.Diapers6.1.2.Feminine Hygiene Products6.2.Packaging Applications6.3.Soil Conditioners6.4.Cable Applications6.5.Civil Engineering and Construction6.6.Other Applications7.Other Forms of Superabsorbent Polymers7.1.Fibers7.2.Foams and Films8.Environmental Aspects and Toxicology9.Economic Aspects
A transformative learning perspective of continuing sexual identity development in the workplace
Authors: King Kathleen P. , Biro Susan C.
Published: December 2006

This chapter provides a framework to facilitate self‐awareness, self‐knowledge, diversity training, and cultural awareness and appreciation for all adults, based on understanding the development of sexual identity and workplace issues for LGBTQ adults.
The quest for a queer inclusive cultural ethics: Setting directions for teachers' preservice and continuing professional development
Authors: Grace André P. , Wells Kristopher
Published: December 2006

This chapter examines changes in preservice and continuing teacher professional development that are aimed at addressing sexual minority issues in schools as students' learning places and teachers' workplaces.
Severe β0 thalassemia/hemoglobin E disease caused by de novo 22‐base pair duplication in the paternal allele of β globin gene
Authors: Rojnuckarin Ponlapat , Settapiboon Rung , Vanichsetakul Preeda , Sueblinvong Tada , Sutcharitchan Pranee
Published: December 2006

β Thalassemia is a major public health concern in Southeast Asia. A prevention program has been implemented in Thailand comprising mass carrier screening and genetic testing. In this study, a Thai girl with severe β thalassemia/hemoglobin (Hb) E disease was born from the mother with Hb E trait and the genotypically normal father. DNA sequencing revealed novel 22‐bp tandem duplication in the paternal allele of β globin gene, producing a severely truncated product. A short recurring nucleotide at the insertion site suggested a predisposition to this mutation. Therefore, spontaneous β globin mutations occasionally occur in normal population. Its clinical significance is noteworthy in countries with high prevalence of β thalassemia. Am. J. Hematol 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Male facial appearance signals physical strength to women
Authors: Fink Bernhard , Neave Nick , Seydel Hanna
Published: December 2006

Previous studies showed that male faces with extreme features that are likely to be associated with testosterone (T) are perceived as dominant and masculine. Women were reported to prefer masculinized male faces, as they may consider T markers to be an “honest” indication of good health. However, it is also likely that female preferences for certain male faces arise from the fact that dominant‐ and masculine‐looking males are signaling characteristics which may be beneficial in intrasexual conflict, and thereby also indicate potential achievers of high status, an important factor in female mate selection. Although numerous studies were built on this assumption, nothing is known about the relationship between perceived facial dominance and physical strength in men. We measured hand‐grip strength, as a measure of overall physical strength, in a sample of 32 male students, and recorded age, body weight, and height. Seventy‐nine women rated facial images of these men for dominance, masculinity, and attractiveness. After controlling for age and body weight, hand‐grip strength was found to correlate significantly positively with all three measures. The present data thus support the supposition that a male's physical strength is also signaled via facial characteristics of dominance and masculinity, which are considered attractive by women. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 19:82–87, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pharmacological approaches to nitric oxide signalling during neural development of locusts and other model insects
Authors: Bicker Gerd
Published: December 2006

A novel aspect of cellular signalling during the formation of the nervous system is the involvement of the messenger molecule nitric oxide (NO), which has been discovered in the mammalian vascular system as mediator of smooth muscle relaxation. NO is a membrane‐permeant molecule, which activates soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) and leads to the formation of cyclic GMP (cGMP) in target cells. The analysis of specific cell types in model insects such asLocusta, Schistocerca, Acheta, Manduca, andDrosophilashows that the NO/cGMP pathway is required for the stabilization of photoreceptor growth cones at the start of synaptic assembly in the optic lobe, for regulation of cell proliferation, and for correct outgrowth of pioneer neurons. Inhibition of the NOS and sGC enzymes combined with rescue experiments show that NO, and potentially also another atypical messenger, carbon monoxide (CO), orchestrate cell migration of enteric neurons. Cultured insect embryos are accessible model systems in which the molecular pathways linking cytoskeletal rearrangement to directed cell movements can be analyzed in natural settings. Based on the results obtained from the insect models, I discuss current evidence for NO and cGMP as essential signalling molecules for the development of vertebrate brains. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 64:43–58, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Production of galacto‐oligosaccharides by immobilized recombinant β‐galactosidase from Aspergillus candidus
Authors: Zheng Pu , Yu Hongfeng , Sun Zhihao , Ni Ye , Zhang Wei , Fan Yunliu , Xu Yan
Published: December 2006

The preparation of galacto‐oligosaccharides (GOSs) was studied using the immobilized recombinant β‐galactosidase from Aspergillus candidus CGMCC3.2919. The optimal pH and temperature for the immobilized enzyme were observed at pH 6.5 and 40°C, respectively. Increasing the initial lactose concentration increased the yield of GOSs. The dilution rate was found to be a key factor during the continuous production of GOSs. The maximum productivity, 87 g/L·h was reached when 400 g/L lactose was fed at dilution rate of 0.8/h. The maximum GOS yield reached 37% at dilution rate of 0.5/h. Continuous operation was maintained for 20 days in a packed‐bed reactor without apparent decrease in GOS production. The average yield of GOSs was 32%, corresponding to the average productivity of 64 g/L·h, which implied that the immobilized recombinant β‐galactosidase has potential application for GOS production.
Ethical questions concerning research on human embryos, embryonic stem cells and chimeras
Authors: Bobbert Monika
Published: December 2006

Research using human embryos and embryonic stem cells is viewed as important for various reasons. Apart from questions concerning legal regulations, numerous ethical objections are raised pertaining to the use of surplus embryos from reproductive medicine as well as the creation of embryos and stem cells through cloning. In the hopes of avoiding ethical problems, alternatives have been proposed including the extraction of egg cells from “dead” embryos derived from in vitro fertilization procedures, the extraction of pluripotent stem cells from blastocysts, technologies such as “altered nuclear transfer” (ANT) and “oocyte‐assisted reprogramming” (ANT‐OAR) as well as parthenogenesis. Initial ethical assessments show that certain questions pertaining to such strategies have remained unanswered. Furthermore, with the help of new or more differentiated biotechnological procedures, it is possible to create chimeras and hybrids in which human and non‐human cells are combined. Human‐animal chimeras, in which gametes or embryonic tissue have been mixed with embryonic or adult stem cells, demonstrate a different “quality” and “degree of penetration” from those produced in previous experiments. Not only does this have consequences regarding questions of patentability, this situation also raises fundamental questions concerning the human being's self image, the concept of person, identity and species and the moral rights and duties that are connected with such concepts. There is a need for legal regulation, on the national as well as the international level.
Quantum dots and peptides: A bright future together
Authors: Zhou Min , Ghosh Indraneel
Published: December 2006

Nanocrystalline semi‐conductor materials, called quantum dots (QDs), exhibit unique optical and spectroscopic properties, which include, broad absorption, narrow and tunable emission, resistance to photobleaching, strong luminescence, and long luminescent lifetimes. These remarkable properties of QDs have resulted in their use as an alternative to both small‐molecule and protein fluorophores in innumerable biological applications. The overlap of QDs with the rich chemistry and biology that is characteristic of the peptide arena is an emerging research area. Peptides engineered with appropriate cysteines or histidines have served as ligands for producing water soluble QDs as well as for tagging protein ligands and biosensors to QD surfaces. Incorporation of cell‐penetrating peptides on QD surfaces has allowed for the translocation of functionalized QDs into cells for intracellular imaging applications. QDs containing fluorescently labeled peptide substrates have shown utility in the development of novel protease assays. Moreover, QDs‐labeled peptides that serve as ligands for cellular receptors provide an alternative to antibody mediated imaging at the whole‐cell and single molecule level to study receptor distribution and trafficking. This review highlights the overlap between QD and peptide chemistry and speculates on future research directions. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 88: 325‐339, 2007.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
In silico profiling of tyrosine kinases binding specificity and drug resistance using Monte Carlo simulations with the ensembles of protein kinase crystal structures
Authors: Verkhivker Gennady M.
Published: December 2006

The molecular basis of the tyrosine kinases binding specificity and drug resistance against cancer drugs Imatinib and Dasatinib is elucidated using Monte Carlo simulations of the inhibitor–receptor binding with the ensembles of protein kinase crystal structures. In silico proteomics analysis unravels mechanisms by which structural plasticity of the tyrosine kinases is linked with the conformational preferences of Imatinib and Dasatinib in achieving effective drug binding with a distinct spectrum of the tyrosine kinome. The differences in the inhibitor sensitivities to the ABL kinase mutants are rationalized based on variations in the binding free energy profiles with the conformational states of the ABL kinase. While Imatinib binding is highly sensitive to the activation state of the enzyme, the computed binding profile of Dasatinib is remarkably tolerant to the conformational state of ABL. A comparative analysis of the inhibitor binding profiles with the clinically important ABL kinase mutants has revealed an excellent agreement with the biochemical and proteomics data. We have found that conformational adaptability of the kinase inhibitors to structurally different conformational states of the tyrosine kinases may have pharmacological relevance in acquiring a specific array of potent activities and regulating a scope of the inhibitor resistance mutations. This study outlines a useful approach for understanding and predicting the molecular basis of the inhibitor sensitivity against potential kinase targets and drug resistance. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 85:333–348, 2007.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
The relationship between instability of H2 production and compositions of bacterial communities within a dark fermentation fluidised‐bed bioreactor
Authors: Koskinen Perttu E.P. , Kaksonen Anna H. , Puhakka Jaakko A.
Published: December 2006

Microbial community composition dynamics was studied during H2 fermentation from glucose in a fluidised‐bed bioreactor (FBR) aiming at obtaining insight into the H2 fermentation microbiology and factors resulting in the instability of biofilm processes. FBR H2 production performance was characterised by an instable pattern of prompt onset of H2 production followed by rapid decrease. Gradual enrichment of organisms increased the diversity of FBR attached and suspended‐growth phase bacterial communities during the operation. FBR bacteria included potential H2 producers, H2 consumers and neither H2 producers nor consumers, and those distantly related to any known organisms. The prompt onset of H2 production was due to rapid growth of Clostridium butyricum (99–100%) affiliated strains after starting continuous feed. The proportion trend of C. butyricum in FBR attached and suspended‐growth phase communities coincided with H2 and butyrate production. High glucose loading rate favoured the H2 production by Escherichia coli (100%) affiliated strain. Decrease in H2 production, associated with a shift from acetate–butyrate to acetate–propionate production, was due to changes in FBR attached and suspended‐growth phase bacterial community compositions. During the shift, organisms, including potential propionate producers, were enriched in the communities while the proportion trend of C. butyricum decreased. We suggest that the instability of H2 fermentation in biofilm reactors is due to enrichment and efficient adhesion of H2 consumers on the carrier and, therefore, biofilm reactors may not favour mesophilic H2 fermentation. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2007;97: 742–758. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mimicking Enzymes: Cooperation between Organic Functional Groups and Metal Ions in the Cleavage of Phosphate Diesters
Authors: Livieri Monica , Mancin Fabrizio , Saielli Giacomo , Chin Jik , Tonellato Umberto
Published: December 2006

A series of ligands derived from the bis‐2‐pyridinylmethylamine structure, which bear either additional hydroxyl or aromatic amino groups, were prepared and their ZnIIcomplexes were studied as catalysts for the cleavage of bis‐p‐nitrophenyl phosphate (BNP) and 2‐hydroxypropyl‐p‐nitrophenyl phosphate (HPNP) diesters. A comparative kinetic study indicated that the insertion of organic groups, capable of acting as nucleophiles or as hydrogen‐bond donors, substantially increases the hydrolytic activity of the metal complex. Dissection of the effects of the individual groups revealed that the increase in reactivity can reach up to three orders of magnitude. The improved efficiency of the systems studied, combined with the benefits resulting from the low pKavalue of the active nucleophile, result in an acceleration of the BNP cleavage at pH 7 of six orders of magnitude. The pH‐dependent reactivity profiles follow a bell‐shaped curve and the maximum reactivity is observed at pH 9. The mechanism of the reactions and the structure of the complexes were investigated in detail by means of kinetic analysis, NMR spectroscopy experiments, and theoretical calculations. The reactivity of the complexes that cleave HPNP closely resembles the reactivity observed for BNP, but the accelerations achieved are lower as a result of different reaction mechanisms.
Control of Channel Shapes in a Microporous Manganese(II)–Borophosphate Framework by Variation of Size and Shape of Organic Template Cations
Authors: Huang Ya‐Xi , Hochrein Oliver , Zahn Dirk , Prots Yurii , Borrmann Horst , Kniep Rüdiger
Published: December 2006

The templated microporous compounds [H2(Templ.)][MnII{B2P3O12(OH)}], [templates: 1,3‐diaminopropane, C3H10N2 (DAP); piperazine, C4H10N2 (PIP); 1,4‐diazacyclo[2.2.2]octane, C6H12N2 (DABCO)] were prepared under mild hydrothermal conditions. The crystal structures (H2DAP‐Mn: Pmc21 (no. 26), a=1259.43(5), b=949.86(5), c=1135.92(5) pm, Z=4; H2PIP‐Mn: Ima2 (no. 46), a=1257.9(1), b=948.69(8), c=1158.19(8) pm, Z=4; H2DABCO‐H2PIP‐Mn: Ima2 (no. 46), a=1262.90(7), b=961.05(5), c=1151.42(7) pm, Z=4) are characterized by identical framework connectivities [MnII{B2P3O12(OH)}]2−, but vary in shapes (diameters) of the structural channels depending on the shapes of the templating molecule ions. The situation clearly reflects the directing effect of true templates during endotemplating reactions. The experimental results (preparation, chemical analyses, and X‐ray refinements) are supported by detailed ab initio calculations (structure optimizations).
Phase I/II study of subcutaneous homoharringtonine in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia who have failed prior therapy
Authors: Quintás‐Cardama Alfonso , Kantarjian Hagop , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo , O'Brien Susan , Faderl Stefan , Estrov Zeev , Giles Francis , Murgo Anthony , Ladie Nakia , Verstovsek Srdan , Cortes Jorge
Published: December 2006

BACKGROUND.

Homoharringtonine (HHT) is a cephalotaxus alkaloid that inhibits the synthesis of proteins leading to apoptosis. Intravenous HHT has demonstrated activity in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) after failure with interferon.

METHODS.

A Phase I study was completed of subcutaneous (s.c.) HHT in patients with CML in accelerated or blast phases and demonstrated efficacy and good tolerance at the same doses used by intravenous (i.v.) administration. The maximal tolerated dose (MTD) was 1.25 mg/m2 s.c. twice daily. The cohort was then expanded to treated at the MTD to include patients in late chronic phase CML after imatinib failure. Therapy consisted of an i.v. loading dose of HHT 2.5 mg/m2 over 24 hours, followed by 1.25 mg/m2 s.c. twice daily for 14 days every 28 days until remission, then for 7 days every 28 days. Six patients (median age, 53 years) who had failed imatinib were treated and 5 were evaluable. Patients received a median of 4.5 courses of s.c. HHT.

RESULTS.

Complete hematologic remission was obtained in all 5 evaluable patients and 3 had cytogenetic (CG) responses: 1 complete and 2 minor. The 2 patients with BCR‐ABL kinase domain mutations at the start of therapy with HHT had a CG response and in both instances the mutations became undetectable. All patients developed myelosuppression and 3 had their HHT dose reduced due to prolonged neutropenia. Nonhematologic toxicity was mild and manageable.

CONCLUSIONS.

Subcutaneous HHT is well tolerated and may have clinical activity in patients with CML after imatinib failure. Cancer 2007. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
Up‐front chemotherapy and radiation treatment in newly diagnosed nonsmall cell lung cancer with brain metastases
Authors: Moscetti Luca , Nelli Fabrizio , Felici Alessandra , Rinaldi Massimo , De Santis Stefano , D'Auria Giuliana , Mansueto Giovanni , Tonini Giuseppe , Sperduti Isabella , Pollera Francesco C.
Published: December 2006

BACKGROUND.

For patients with stage IV nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who present with brain metastasis (BMs), standard platinum‐based chemotherapy regimens have challenged the role of up‐front whole‐brain radiotherapy (WBRT).

METHODS.

In this survey, the authors analyzed the decision tree by which 6 oncologic centers guided the pattern of care in an unselected population of patients with NSCLC who presented with BMs at first diagnosis. The impact of front‐line, platinum‐based chemotherapy also was evaluated. Individual data were reviewed from 156 eligible patients who were referred to participating centers.

RESULTS.

Up‐front treatment included chemotherapy in 110 patients and WBRT followed by chemotherapy in 46 patients. The selection of first treatment was guided based mainly on the presence of by BM symptoms, with chemotherapy selected for 24% of patients in the chemotherapy cohort and for 76% of patients in the chemotherapy and WBRT cohort. Regardless of treatment, the brain response was 29% (27% and 35% for the chemotherapy and WBRT cohorts, respectively; P value not significant). For the entire population, the overall response rate was 37%, progression‐free survival was 6 months, and the median survival was 11 months. At multivariate analysis, significant predictors for survival were: brain response (hazard ratio [HR], 2.59; P = .0001), modified Radiation Therapy Oncology Group class (HR, 0.87; P = .003), and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (HR, 1.49; P = .04).

CONCLUSIONS.

For patients with NSCLC who present with BMs at first diagnosis, the results of the current survey confirmed that the expected benefit of platinum‐based chemotherapy may be translated into clinical practice and that selected subsets of patients who receive frontline chemotherapy (ie, patients in whom BM symptoms are absent or are controlled by supportive therapy) may be spared from WBRT. Further prospective studies evaluating different approaches and interventions are warranted. Cancer 2007. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
Topoisomerase 2α plays a pivotal role in the tumor biology of stage IV thymic neoplasia
Authors: Liu J. M. , Wang L. S. , Huang M. H. , Hsu W. H. , Yen S. H. , Shiau C. Y. , Li A. F. Y. , Tiu C. M. , Tseng S. W. , Huang B. S.
Published: December 2006

BACKGROUND.

Microsatellite studies in histologic types B3 and C thymic neoplasia detected gains on chromosome 17q, which contains the Her‐2/neu and its juxtaposed topoisomerase 2α (T2α) genes. The study aimed to evaluate their impact on tumor biology and survival of advanced thymic neoplasia patients.

METHODS.

From 1991 to 2005, 36 consecutive stage IV thymic carcinoma patients were treated, 18 men and 18 women, aged 11 to 84 years. There were 22 thymic carcinoma, 13 type B3, and 1 type B2 thymoma. Patients received treatment consisting of surgical resection, combination chemotherapy with the CAP (cyclophosphamide, Adriamycin, cisplatin) regimen, or radiation therapy potentiated by high‐dose weekly 5‐fluorouracil infusion. Permutations of these 3 treatment modalities were prescribed as necessary.

RESULTS.

T2α gene amplification was detected in 4 of 14 thymic carcinoma and 1 of 15 type B3 thymoma. Three thymic carcinoma patients had Her‐2/neu coamplification and these 3 patients had rapidly growing tumor and extensive disease at initial diagnosis. CAP was prescribed in 28 patients and 20 patients responded (response rate, 71.4%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 52.8% to 85%); all responders overexpressed (≥10% nuclei positive) the T2α protein, whereas 4 nonresponders had very low expression. T2α overexpression predicts CAP response, and its absence predicts resistance (P = .001). Overall survival was significantly prolonged if the tumor was resectable (P = .001), of type B3 histology (P = .0039), and had no Her‐2 gene amplification (P = .0081).

CONCLUSION.

T2α and Her‐2/neu genes play a pivotal role in the tumor biology, CAP response, and survival of advanced thymic neoplasia patients. Cancer 2007;109:502–509. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
EphA2 overexpression is associated with angiogenesis in ovarian cancer
Authors: Lin Yvonne G. , Han Liz Y. , Kamat Aparna A. , Merritt William M. , Landen Charles N. , Deavers Michael T. , Fletcher Mavis S. , Urbauer Diana L. , Kinch Michael S. , Sood Anil K.
Published: December 2006

BACKGROUND.

EphA2 is overexpressed in the majority of ovarian cancers and predicts poor clinical outcome. Based on EphA2's emerging role in angiogenesis, we hypothesized that tumors overexpressing EphA2 demonstrate greater microvessel density (MVD) and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression.

METHODS.

After Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, 77 invasive epithelial ovarian tumors were analyzed for CD31, EphA2, MMP‐2, MMP‐9, and MT1‐MMP expression.

RESULTS.

The median age of the patients was 59 years (range, 34‐83). EphA2 was overexpressed in 76% of tumors and was associated with advanced‐stage disease (P< .001) and high‐grade histology (P= .04). MVD was stratified into high (>12.7 vessels/high‐power field [HPF]) versus low (≤12.7 vessels/HPF) counts. High MVD was significantly associated with advanced stage (P< .001), presence of ascites (P< .001), and suboptimal surgical cytoreduction (P= .01). MMP expression was scored separately in the stromal (percentage of tumors with high expression: MMP‐2 = 43%; MMP‐9 = 74%; MT1‐MMP = 40%) and epithelial (percentage of tumors with high expression: MMP‐2 = 52%; MMP‐9 = 61%; MT1‐MMP = 44%) compartments. Endothelial cell EphA2 overexpression correlated with epithelial MMP‐9 (P= .02), whereas EphA2 overexpression in tumor cells was significantly associated with high MVD (P= .002), as well as strong stromal and epithelial MMP‐9 (P= .01 andP= .04, respectively), epithelial MMP‐2 (P= .006), and epithelial MT1‐MMP (P= .01) expression.

CONCLUSIONS.

EphA2 overexpression in endothelial and ovarian cancer cells was strongly associated with critical factors involved in angiogenesis and invasion. These findings may explain the poor clinical outcome of patients with EphA2 overexpression. Cancer 2007. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
Understanding the link between body checking cognitions and behaviors: The role of social physique anxiety
Authors: Haase Anne M. , Mountford Victoria , Waller Glenn
Published: December 2006

Objective:

Recent evidence supports the utility of a model where body checking cognitions and behaviors influence disordered eating. It can be hypothesized that emotional states might explain the links between checking cognitions and behaviors. Social physique anxiety is associated with disordered eating and is an important form of affect to consider in this model. This study aims to examine the associations between these variables, testing a mediational model of the role of social physique anxiety in the links between body checking cognitions and behaviors.

Method:

A nonclinical group of 292 women completed well‐validated measures of social physique anxiety, body checking cognitions, and body checking behaviors.

Results:

The data were compatible with a model where social physique anxiety partially mediates the relationship between body checking cognitions and body checking behavior. The combination of cognitions and affect explained a significant proportion of variance in body checking behavior.

Conclusion:

Incorporating affect allows for a more comprehensive model of understanding the antecedent factors of body checking behaviors. The impact of body checking cognitions on physique anxiety might serve to drive the repetitive body checking behaviors, potentially contributing to disordered eating. Interventions for body checking might be more effective if they included an affective treatment component. © 2006 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 2007
Handedness differences in body image distortion and eating disorder symptomatology
Authors: Christman Stephen D. , Bentle Michelle , Niebauer Christopher L.
Published: December 2006

Objective:

Previous research has shown decreased access in strong right‐handers to processes lateralized to the right cerebral hemisphere. The current studies tested the hypothesis that decreased access to right hemisphere processes, as indexed by increasing strength of right‐hand preference, is associated with deficits in body image representation.

Method:

Experiment 1 measured individual's perceived versus actual BMI values. Experiment 2 involved the administration of the Eating Disorders Inventory‐2 (EDI‐2).

Results:

Experiment 1 revealed that strong right‐handedness was associated with a larger discrepancy between actual and perceived BMI, relative to mixed‐handedness. In Experiment 2, strong‐handers scored higher on the EDI‐2 than did mixed‐handers.

Conclusion:

The results indicate that strong degrees of handedness are associated with deficits in accurate representation of body image and with increased eating disorder symptomatology in a nonclinical sample. Implications for research into the neural bases of eating disorders are discussed. © 2006 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 2007
The Hydrothermal Synthesis of Transition Metal Complex Templated Octamolybdates
Authors: Pavani Katikaneani , Lofland Samuel E. , Ramanujachary Kandalam V. , Ramanan Arunachalam
Published: December 2006

The hydrothermal reaction of an aqueous ammonium heptamolybdate solution with cobalt or copper metal salts in the presence of imidazole (imi) or pyrazole (pz) in the temperature range 120–180 °C and at autogenous pressure yields four fully oxidized metal‐complex‐templated octamolybdates, namely [{CuI(imi)2}4(imi)2Mo8O26]·4H2O (1), (Himi)2[{CuII(imi)2}2Mo8O27] (2), [{CoII(pz)4}2(pz)2Mo8O26] (3), and [{CuII(pz)4}2Mo8O26]·2H2O (4). The single‐phase nature of the solids was established by single‐crystal and powder X‐ray diffraction, thermal analysis, and spectroscopic techniques. Compounds 1, 3, and 4 are neutral composite solids – 1 is a discrete molecular unit while 3 and 4 are 2D sheets. Compound 2 consists of anionic chains with imidazolium counter cations. The influence of the metal complex and temperature of the hydrothermal reaction on the formation of the different hybrid solids built of octamolybdate clusters is discussed. We also provide plausible mechanisms for the self‐assembly of the crystals in terms of supramolecular organization between metal complexes and soluble molybdenum precursors in the initial stages of the reaction. The magnetic properties of 2, 3, and 4 confirm the presence of Cu and Co in the divalent state with no appreciable long‐range order down to 5 K, whereas 1 is diamagnetic.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Glucose Biosensor Mediated by 1,2‐Diferrocenylethane in a Sono‐Gel Composite Electrode
Authors: Ballarin Barbara , Cassani Maria Cristina , Mazzoni Rita , Scavetta Erika , Trioschi Gabriele , Tonelli Domenica
Published: December 2006

An amperometric glucose biosensor was constructed based on a renewable carbon composite sono‐gel matrix incorporating 1,2‐diferrocenylethane as electron transfer mediator between the electrode and the active site of glucose oxidase. The enzyme was immobilized on the electrode surface by cross‐linking with glutaraldehyde and bovine serum albumin. The process parameters for the fabrication of the biosensor and the influence of various experimental conditions (i.e., pH, temperature, operating potential) were investigated. Cyclic voltammetry and amperometric measurements were used to study the response of the glucose sensor, which displayed fast response time and good reproducibility. The analytical performances and the apparent Michaelis‐Menten constant of the biosensor were evaluated.
Microchip free‐flow electrophoresis on glass substrate using laser‐printing toner as structural material
Authors: de Jesus Dosil Pereira , Blanes Lucas , do Lago Claudimir Lucio
Published: December 2006

In this work, a microfluidic free‐flow electrophoresis device, obtained by thermal toner transferring on glass substrate, is presented. A microdevice can be manufactured in only 1 h. The layout of the microdevice was designed in order to improve the fluidic and electrical characteristics. The separation channel is 8 μm deep and presents an internal volume of 1.42 μL. The deleterious electrolysis effects were overcome by using a system that isolates the electrolysis products from the separation channel. The Joule heating dissipation in the separation channel was found to be very efficient up to a current density of 8.83 mA/mm2 that corresponds to a power dissipation per unit volume of running electrolyte of 172 mW/μL. Promising results were obtained in the evaluation of the microdevices for the separation of ionic dyes. The microfluidic device can be used for a continuous sample pretreatment step for micro total analysis system.
DNA damage induced in human peripheral blood lymphocytes by industrial solid waste and municipal sludge leachates
Authors: Bakare Adekunle A. , Pandey Alok K. , Bajpayee Mahima , Bhargav Devyani , Chowdhuri Debapratim Kar , Singh Kunwar P. , Murthy Ramesh C. , Dhawan Alok
Published: December 2006

Exposure of humans to toxic compounds occurs mostly in the form of complex mixtures. Leachates, consisting of mixtures of many chemicals, are a potential risk to human health. In the present study, leachates of solid wastes from a polyfiber factory (PFL), an aeronautical plant (AEL), and a municipal sludge leachate (MSL) were assessed for their ability to induce DNA damage in human peripheral blood lymphocytes using the alkaline Comet assay. The leachates also were examined for their physical and chemical properties. Lymphocytes were incubated with 0.5–15.0% concentrations (pH range 7.1–7.4) of the test leachates for 3 hr at 37°C, and treatment with 1 mM ethyl methanesulfonate served as a positive control. All three leachates induced significant (P < 0.05), concentration‐dependent increases in DNA damage compared with the negative control, as measured by increases in Olive tail moment (arbitrary units), tail DNA (%), and tail length (μm). A comparison of these variables among the treatment groups indicated that the MSL induced the most DNA damage. Inductively coupled plasma emission spectrometry analysis of the leachates indicated that they contained high concentrations of heavy metals, viz. iron, manganese, nickel, zinc, cadmium, chromium, and lead. The individual, synergistic, or antagonistic effects of these chemicals in the leachates may be responsible for the DNA damage. Our data indicate that the ever‐increasing amounts of leachates from waste landfill sites have the potential to induce DNA damage and suggest that the exposure of human populations to these leachates may lead to adverse health effects. Environ. Mol. Mutagen., 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A relaxation multiresolution scheme for accelerating realistic two‐phase flows calculations in pipelines
Authors: Andrianov N. , Coquel F. , Postel M. , Tran Q. H.
Published: December 2006

We wish to demonstrate that it is judicious to combine various existing computational techniques that appeared for academic cases in seemingly unrelated areas, namely, semi‐implicit relaxation schemes for hyperbolic systems and adaptive multiresolution algorithms, in order to achieve fast and accurate simulations of realistic two‐phase flows problems in oil transportation. By ‘realistic’ we mean problems that are modelled by partial differential equation (PDE) systems closed by sophisticated thermodynamics and hydrodynamics laws, set out over a terrain‐induced geometry and associated with time‐dependent boundary conditions. Although the combination of these techniques is not a straightforward matter, it is made possible via a careful examination of the objectives of the simulation problem and suitable adaptations of which we shall give the details. Significant benchmarks demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed method. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Computation of 2D Navier–Stokes equations with moving interfaces by using GMRES
Authors: Wang Jin
Published: December 2006

In this paper, we present a novel numerical algorithm to compute two‐dimensional (2D) viscous interfacial flows governed by the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations together with interfacial conditions. The essential idea is to use the generalized minimum residual (GMRES) method to efficiently solve the large algebraic system resulting from the temporal and spatial discretizations. With this algorithm, moving interfaces can be captured with high accuracy and viscous effects on wave motion can be studied in detail. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of the Addition of SDC on the Performance of a LSCN Anode
Authors: Li S. , Wang S. , Wang Y. , Nie H. , Wen T.‐L.
Published: December 2006

50 wt.‐% of Ce0.8Sm0.2O2 (SDC) is added to La0.85Sr0.15Cr0.9 Ni0.1O3 (LSCN) to investigate its use as an alternative anode for solid oxide fuel cells, especially for hydrocarbon fuels. When LSCN is mixed and sintered together with SDC or YSZ at 1,500 °C for 12 h, no obvious second phase is observed from the XRD patterns. Although the conductivity of LSCN‐SDC is lower than LSCN, the polarization overpotential is reduced by a factor of 10. The mixed electronic‐ionic conductivity of SDC enlarges the reaction zone and improves the catalytic activity of the anode. The interface bonding between LSCN and the YSZ electrolyte is also modified by the nanometer SDC. An improved output performance on a self supported SOFC (LSCN‐SDC/YSZ/PSM‐YSZ) is obtained with H2 fuel compared with CH4 fuel.
Structure and Local Reactivity of Supported Catalyst/Nafion® Layers studied by in‐situ STM
Authors: Hiesgen R. , Eberhardt D. , Aleksandrova E. , Friedrich K. A.
Published: December 2006

The electrodes are crucial components for fuel cells, since this is where the electrochemical reactions take place. In order to provide an insight into the structure/activity relationships of the rather complex electrodes, a high‐resolution measuring technique, based on a scanning tunneling microscope operating in an electrochemical cell, has been developed. The structure of the electrode surface can be imaged from the microscale to the nanoscale, under conditions quite close to those in a working fuel cell. The relative reactivity is measured by using the STM tip as a sensor electrode for the ORR. Here, the first results of the surface structure of the electrode materials are presented, as well as measurements of the local reduction current, related to the oxygen reduction reaction, giving a relative measure for the local reactivity.
Preparation and Characterization of Stable Ionomers and Ionomer Membranes for Fuel Cells
Authors: Mitov S. , Vogel B. , Roduner E. , Zhang H. , Zhu X. , Gogel V. , Jörissen L. , Hein M. , Xing D. , Schönberger F. , Kerres J.
Published: December 2006

Membranes based on sulfonated arylene polymers and their cross‐linked blends were prepared. Embedding the ionomers into textile or porous PTFE matrix and/or doping with ZrP nanoparticles reduced the swelling, and improved the thermal stability. PTFE reinforcement led to an excellent single cell performance, which is promising for PEMFC applications. Some of the membranes performed better than Nafion®. The net methanol crossover correlates with the membrane thickness and composition, but surprisingly, suppression of the methanol crossover alone, does not enhance U/I performance. ESR experiments of oxidative degradation of the monomer by OH• at pH > 10 leads to phenoxyl and semi‐quinone radicals. The study focuses on the case where O2•– or 1O2 are the damaging species, i.e. above pH 11.7, and the dominant reaction is that involving the aromatic ring. Under conditions of fuel starvation, the acid protons get depleted, which may lead to high local pH values, even in an overall acidic environment. It is therefore important to be aware of the entirely different form of degradation chemistry at high pH. In the presence of both HO• radicals and oxygen, complete degradation of the aromatic rings can be observed, within hours. In view of this, perfluorinated membranes are more inert. Cross‐linked arylene polymer blend membranes and PTFE‐reinforced arylene ionomer membranes can be regarded as promising for further development, due to their high stability and excellent PEMFC performance.
Mental disorders and asthma in the elderly: a population‐based study
Authors: Ng Tze‐Pin , Chiam Peak‐Chiang , Kua Ee‐Heok
Published: December 2006

Background

Clinical studies have mostly linked anxiety disorders with asthma in young patients, but the data are inconsistent for depression. Few population‐based studies have investigated the co‐morbid diagnoses of mental disorders with asthma in older adults.

Method

Cross‐sectional study of a population sample of older adults aged 60 and above (n = 1092). The diagnoses of recent depression and anxiety were made using the Geriatric Mental State (GMS) Schedule. The presence of asthma was ascertained by self‐reports of physician‐diagnosed asthma.

Results

Asthma was associated with a higher prevalence of depressive disorders, with odds ratio of 2.45 (95% CI, 1.06–5.69) when compared against non‐asthmatic controls; and 2.42 (95% CI, 1.04–5.64) when compared against controls with other chronic illnesses, after adjusting for psychosocial factors, physical co‐morbidity and use of depression‐causing drugs. Odds ratios were elevated but statistically insignificant for anxiety disorders and dementia.

Conclusion

We observed that asthma in the elderly was more evidently associated co‐morbidly with depression, rather than anxiety disorder. However, possible associations with anxiety and dementia are not excluded, and should be further investigated. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reliability and validity of a short form of the Severe Impairment Battery in Korean Alzheimer's disease patients
Authors: Ahn Inn‐Sook , Kim Ji‐Hae , Saxton Judith , Kim Doh Kwan
Published: December 2006

The objective of this study was to evaluate the reliability and validity of a short form of the Severe Impairment Battery (SIB) for a Korean population. Eighty‐four Alzheimer's disease patients with Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) stages 2 (n = 32) or 3 (n = 52) and scores of less than 15 on the Korean version‐Mini Mental State Examination (K‐MMSE) participated in this study. Seventeen of the patients were men and 67 were women, and the mean age was 75 (SD = 10.4). Cronbach's coefficient alpha of the shortened SIB (SIB‐S) was 0.93, and the item‐total correlation was significant. Test–retest correlation for the total SIB‐S score and subscale scores was significant, with the exception of the ‘orienting to name’ subscale. Construct validity was confirmed by evaluating the correlation between the SIB‐S and the SIB, K‐MMSE, CDR, and S‐ADL; Spearman correlation coefficients were 0.96, 0.88, −0.67, and −0.63, respectively, which were found to be significant. The difference in the total SIB‐S score and its subscale scores between the CDR 2 and CDR 3 groups was significant, except for the ‘orienting to name’ subscale. More severely demented patients also showed a wide range of the SIB‐S score. Finally, the diagnostic accuracy of the SIB‐S was high (AUC = 89.5%) in the differentiation of the CDR 2 and 3 patients. The sensitivity and specificity of the SIB‐S were 91% and 80%, respectively, when the cut‐off score was 32.5. Our results indicate that the SIB‐S is a reliable and valid instrument for evaluating patients with severe dementia in the Korean population. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Elderly suicide in primary care
Authors: Tadros George , Salib Emad
Published: December 2006

Background

Primary care is probably the most suitable setting to start a strategy for suicide prevention for the elderly especially as more people are seen before committing suicide in primary care than in secondary care.

Aim

This study examines the nature of complaints and timing of presentation to general practitioners by suicide victims in their last GP consultation, comparing persons aged 65 and over with those aged between 18 and 64.

Methods

Details of all cases of suicide verdict and open verdict, which were returned in inquests, held at the Coroner's Court of Birmingham and Solihull, between January 1995 and December 1999 were reviewed. The study provided a comparison between older people (65+) and younger adults.

Results

Older people had more physical illness, and were more likely to have seen their GP in the 6 months before suicide. Younger adults presented with more psychiatric symptoms, while older adults presented with more physical symptoms. Complaints to the GP in the last consultation were significantly different between the two age groups. Older people are more commonly present with physical pain and depression.

Conclusions

The study found that elderly suicide victims had different characteristics and attributes from those of younger adults presenting to primary care. This difference may have implications for suicide research, training of primary care staff and suicide prevention programmes. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.