bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spirulina Culture in Bangladesh XII. Effects of Different Culture Media, Different Culture Vessels and Different Cultural Conditions on Coiled and Straight Filament Characteristics of Spirulina
Authors: Noor Parvin , Akhtar Nasima , Munshi John Liton , Begum Sajeda
Published: September 2008

Effects of different culture media (Bd-2, Bd-3, Bd-4 and IFP), different culture vessels (conical flasks, plastic bowls and earthen pots) and different cultural conditions (stock, pilot plant and shade culture) on coiled and straight filament characteristics of Spirulina were studied. Stock culture maintained under special conditions, retained coiled filament characteristics even after 17 years, while Spirulina filaments in pilot ponds lost their coiled characteristics. Food value of the straight filaments was acceptable and their survival capacity was more than that of coiled filaments. Key words: Spirulina, Media culture, Vessels culture, Cultural condition, Filaments character. Â DOI = 10.3329/bjsir.v43i3.1152Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 43(3), 369- 376, 2008
Applications of Gauss-Radau and Gauss-Lobatto Numerical Integrations Over a Four Node Quadrilateral Finite Element
Authors: Islam Md Shafiqul , Saha Goutam
Published: September 2008

In this paper Gauss-Radau and Gauss-Lobatto quadrature rules are presented to evaluate the rational integrals of the element matrix for a general quadrilateral. These integrals arise in finite element formulation for second order Partial Differential Equation via Galerkin weighted residual method in closed form. Convergence to the analytical solutions and efficiency are depicted by numerical example. Key words: Gauss-Radau, Gauss-Lobatto, Rational Integrals, Quadrilateral Finite Element. Â DOI = 10.3329/bjsir.v43i3.1153Â Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 43(3), 377-386, 2008
Antimicrobial Activity of Akanda (Calotropis gigantea L.) on Some Pathogenic Bacteria.
Authors: Alam M Ashraful , Habib M Rowshanul , Nikkon Rarjana , Rahman Matiar , Karim M Rezaul
Published: September 2008

The antibacterial activity of methanol extract from the root bark of Akanda (Calotropis gigantea L.) and its petroleum ether, chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions were investigated. Both of methanol extract and its chloroform fraction showed activity against Sarcina lutea, Bacillus megaterium and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Petroleum ether fraction showed activity against Bacillus subtilis and Shigella sonnei whereas ethyl acetate fraction showed activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli at 20Ã¬g/disc, 30Ã¬g/disc and 40Ã¬g/disc doses. Among the tested materials, methanol extract and its chloroform fraction showed comparatively better results. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for methanol extract and each fraction were also determined by serial dilution technique. Keywords: Methanol extract, Akonda (Calotropis gigantea), Petroleum ether fraction, Chloroform fraction and Ethyl acetate fraction. Â Â DOI = 10.3329/bjsir.v43i3.1156Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 43(3), 397-404, 2008
Sirenomelia and cyclopia cluster in Cali, Colombia
Authors: Castilla Eduardo E. , Mastroiacovo Pierpaolo , López‐Camelo Jorge S. , Saldarriaga Wilmar , Isaza Carolina , Orioli Iêda M.
Published: September 2008

Sirenomelia and cyclopia share etiologic and pathogenic characteristics. A cluster of these two patterns of malformation in the city of Cali, Colombia, is described. Four sirenomelia and four cyclopia cases were born within a 165 days period in one hospital in Cali. The lapse between conception dates of first and last cases was shorter for sirenomelia (53 days) than for cyclopia (231 days). Based on ECLAMC (Latin American Collaborative Study of Congenital Malformations) published data, the observed/expected ratio (5.7) for both defects is statistically significant (P < 0.001). Mother's residence during the first trimester of pregnancy is concentrated in a same city quarter for four of the eight cases, close to a know polluting active landfill, and the other four cases, along the Cauca river, downstream from this landfill. Birth prevalence rates for two sentinel anomalies, that is, anal and esophageal atresia for sirenomelia and oral clefts for DeMyer holoprosencephaly spectra, were not higher in Cali than in the rest of ECLAMC material. The Computer Assisted Telephone Interviewing was applied to mothers of the 8 patients, and 32 matched controls. Seven of 295 variables were associated with sirenomelia, 3 of them related to house tap water, one to exposure to street drugs, one to physical injury, and 2 secondary to abnormal pregnancy outcome. None was associated with cyclopia. Results from hair dosage of heavy metals in the 8 patient's mothers were inconsistent. The time‐space cluster is nonrandom for sirenomelia, and possibly random for cyclopia. The polluting landfill remains as a possible etiological factor. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pure duplication 1q41‐qter: Further delineation of trisomy 1q syndromes
Authors: Kulikowski Leslie Domenici , Bellucco Fernanda T.S. , Nogueira Sintia I. , Christofolini Denise M. , Smith Marilia de A.C. , de Mello Claudia B. , Brunoni Decio , Melaragno Maria Isabel
Published: September 2008

Several authors have attempted to characterize the partial 1q trisomy syndrome, reporting clinical features such as mental retardation, macrocephaly, large fontanels, prominent forehead, broad flat nasal bridge, high‐arched palate, micro/retrognathia, low‐set ears, and cardiac defects. However, defining the partial trisomy 1q syndrome is difficult, because it is a rare chromosomal abnormality and in most instances the trisomy 1q is combined with partial monosomy of another autosomal segment. We report on the clinical and molecular cytogenetic study of a patient who presents pure partial 1q duplication. This is the first case of pure duplication 1q41‐qter in the literature. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Familial deletion 11q14.3–q22.1 without apparent phenotypic consequences: A haplosufficient 8.5 Mb region
Authors: Goumy C. , Gouas L. , Tchirkov A. , Roucaute T. , Giollant M. , Veronèse L. , Francannet C. , Vago P.
Published: September 2008

We present the prenatal diagnosis of a chromosome 11q14.3–q22.1 deletion identified in three generations without apparent phenotypic consequences. A 25‐year‐old G2, P1 woman underwent amniocentesis at 15 weeks' gestation because of a positive result for Down syndrome maternal serum‐screening test (1/70). The fetal karyotype revealed an interstitial deletion of the long arm of chromosome 11 confirmed by CGH and FISH: 46,XX,del(11)(q14.3q22.1). The mother and grandfather of the fetus presented the same interstitial deletion with a little if any phenotype effect. The pregnancy was carried to term and resulted in the birth of a normal girl. To our knowledge, only one case of a chromosome 11q14.3–q21 deletion without phenotypic anomalies has been reported. Our study allows the initially described haplosufficient region to be extended from 3.6 Mb to at least 8.5 Mb. This large deletion was compatible with fertility and apparently normal phenotype. Identification of such chromosomal regions is important for prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Palladium and Gold–Palladium Catalysts for the Direct Synthesis of Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Edwards Jennifer K. , Hutchings Graham J.
Published: September 2008

Today hydrogen peroxide is produced by an indirect process in which an alkyl anthraquinone is sequentially hydrogenated and oxidized. In this way hydrogen and oxygen are kept separate during the manufacturing process. A process where molecular oxygen is directly hydrogenated could be preferred if control of the sequential hydrogenation can be achieved, particularly if high rates can be attained under intrinsically safe, non‐explosive conditions. Herein we describe recent progress in the direct synthesis of hydrogen peroxide using supported palladium and gold–palladium alloy catalysts and consider some of the problems that have to be overcome.
Endovascular management of post‐traumatic innominate artery transection with pseudo‐aneurysm formation
Authors: Huang Chi‐Lun , Kao Hsien‐Li
Published: September 2008

Although catheter‐based endovascular techniques have been used with increasing frequency for the management of vascular trauma, reports about innominate artery repair were limited. Here we describe a case of blunt traumatic injury with innominate artery transection. Endovascular stent‐graft deployment through femoral artery was performed successfully without any neurologic deficit. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A randomized comparison of the magnetic navigation system versus conventional percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Ramcharitar Steve , van Geuns Robert Jan , Patterson Mark , van der Giessen Willem J. , van der Ent Martin , van Domburg Ron T. , Serruys Patrick W.
Published: September 2008

Objective: A randomized comparison of the magnetic navigation system (MNS) to conventional guidewire techniques in percutaneous coronary interventions. Background: The MNS precisely directs a magnetized guidewire in vivo through two permanent external magnets. Methods: A total of 111 consecutive patients were enrolled. Crossing success, crossing‐/fluoroscopy times, and contrast usage were directly compared. Lesions were classified according to the AHA/ACC criteria. Three tertiles of vessel/lesion complexity [low (<5), medium (6–10) and high (>10)] were defined using 3D reconstructions and angiographic information. Results: The crossing success for magnetic and the conventional wires were 93.3and 95.6%, respectively. Crossing and fluoroscopy times were longer with the magnetic wires (72.9 ± 50.3 sec vs. 58.1 ± 47.2 sec, P < 0.001 and 66.2 ± 44.1 sec vs. 55.2 ± 44.4 sec, P = 0.03, respectively). In vessels with low and medium complexity the magnetic wires had significantly longer times (P < 0.001) but for those with high scores (>10) a trend towards shorter times was observed. The MNS resulted in a small but significant reduction in contrast usage (2.3 ± 3.5 ml vs. 4.5 ± 4.4 ml, P < 0.001). Moreover by superimposing a virtual roadmap of the vessel on the live fluoroscopy image 48% of the lesions were crossed without requiring contrast agents with the MNS. Conclusion: The MNS has comparable crossing success to conventional PCI. It is relatively slower but there is a trend to support a potential advantage in more complex vessels. By simultaneously employing a virtual roadmap there is a small but significant reduction in contrast usage. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) causing pulmonary emboli during coronary intervention
Authors: Jiji Ronny S. , Michaels Andrew D.
Published: September 2008

Thrombotic complications of heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) can be devastating if not recognized and treated promptly. We describe an unusual case of rapid‐onset HIT resulting in massive‐bilateral pulmonary emboli in a 70 year‐old man who developed chest pain during elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The diagnosis was made the following day after persistent chest pain and laboratory work demonstrating a new thrombocytopenia, a mildly elevated troponin, and positive DIC panel led to confirmatory imaging tests. HIT‐related thrombosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of chest pain in patients undergoing PCI. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The ultimate proof of paradoxical embolism and a percutaneous solution
Authors: Osten Mark D. , Horlick Eric M.
Published: September 2008

Central venous catheters (CVCs) and ports are frequently used for the administration of total parenteral nutrition, antibiotics, and chemotherapeutic agents. Their use may be associated with serious complications, such as venous thrombosis, embolization, and catheter rupture. Catheter fragments most commonly embolize to the right atrium, right ventricle, and pulmonary artery (Surov et al., Angiology 2008;59:90–97). We report the first case of a CVC that embolized across a patent foramen ovale (PFO) into the left atrium in a 72‐year‐old female who presented with symptoms of a transient ischemic attack (TIA). Treatment consisted of retrieving the embolized portacath, which had lodged in the right upper pulmonary vein followed by percutaneous PFO closure. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Asymmetric Henry reaction catalyzed by bifunctional copper‐based catalysts
Authors: Guo Jun , Mao Jincheng
Published: September 2008

A new bifunctional copper‐based catalytic system has been developed from readily available salen ligand 7 together with Cu(OAc)2·H2O in situ for asymmetric nitro‐aldol reactions between nitromethane and aldehydes, affording corresponding adducts with moderate to good yields and enantioselectivities. Chirality, 2008. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Merkel cell carcinoma
Authors: Andea Aleodor A. , Coit Daniel G. , Amin Bijal , Busam Klaus J.
Published: September 2008

BACKGROUND.

Currently, little is known regarding the potential prognostic value of histologic features in primary cutaneous neuroendocrine (Merkel cell) carcinomas (MCC).

METHODS.

In a retrospective review of the tumor histology and clinical outcome data (median follow‐up, 51 months; range, 3‐224 months) of 156 patients with a diagnosis of MCC, the following histologic features were evaluated: tumor thickness, tumor size (greatest dimension of the tumor), microanatomic compartment involved by tumor (dermis and/or subcutis and/or deeper), tumor growth pattern (nodular circumscribed vs infiltrative), lymphovascular invasion (LVI), tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes, tumor necrosis, ulceration, and solar elastosis.

RESULTS.

The overall 5‐year survival rate was 67.5%. On univariate analysis, parameters that were associated significantly with survival were tumor thickness (P = .001), tumor size (P = .0002), deepest anatomic compartment involved by tumor (P = .0003), tumor growth pattern (P = .003), LVI (P < .00001), tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (P = .05), and solar elastosis (P = .04). On multivariate analysis, the presence of a nodular growth pattern, low tumor depth, and absence of LVI were associated with longer survival.

CONCLUSIONS.

In addition to the known prognostic value of tumor stage, 3 histologic features were identified to have prognostic significance: tumor thickness (depth of tumor invasion), the presence of LVI, and tumor growth pattern. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Effects of LES sub‐grid flow structure on particle deposition in a plane channel with a ribbed wall
Authors: Khan M. A. I. , Luo X. Y. , Nicolleau F. C. G. A. , Tucker P. G. , Lo Iacono G.
Published: September 2008

Transport and deposition of aerosol particles in a plane channel with a ribbed wall are studied in order to investigate the effects of the turbulent flow structure on particle deposition. In this paper, kinematic simulation (KS) has been adapted to be a sub‐grid model for particles, in conjunction with large eddy simulation (LES) in real space with boundaries. KS is a Lagrangian model of turbulent dispersion that takes into account the effects of spatio‐temporal flow structure on particle dispersion. It is a unified Lagrangian model of one‐, two‐ and indeed multi‐particle turbulent dispersion and can easily be used as a Lagrangian sub‐grid model for LES codes, thus enabling complex geometry to be taken into account. To study the effect of small‐scale flow structures on particle deposition in the ribbed channel flow, we use a validated LES code to simulate the flow field, and KS to model the sub‐grid flow structures. Thus, the large scales are resolved by the simulation and the small scales are modelled using various sub‐grid models. As none of the existing sub‐grid models is known to have taken into account the effects of small‐scale turbulent flow structures on particle deposition, it is important to use KS's ability to remodel the sub‐grid velocity field and thereby incorporate its effect on particle deposition. The parameters of our simulations for LES are the Reynolds number, width of the channel, height of the rib and sub‐gridmodel parameters. For KS, the parameters are the energy dissipation rate obtained from LES, the energy spectra, ratio of the largest and smallest sub‐grid scales and the total number of modes for the sub‐grid velocity field. The turbulent flow features thus obtained are compared with published experimental data in a ribbed channel. Our results suggest that while the small‐scale (sub‐grid) turbulent flow structures have negligible effects on particles with large relaxation times (compared with the Kolmogorov dissipation time scale), deposition of the particles with small relaxation times in the ribbed channel can be affected by these sub‐grids. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dynamic Stereochemical Behaviour of Congested Ruthenium(II) Complexes Containing Asymmetric Thioether Ligands Based on Pyridine and Pyrimidine
Authors: Tresoldi Giuseppe , Lanza Santo , Di Pietro Santo , Drommi Dario
Published: September 2008

The asymmetric thioethers L [L = 2‐pyridylmethyl 2′‐pyrimidyl sulfide (pps) and 2‐(4‐methylpyrimidyl) 2′‐pyridylmethyl sulfide (mps)] reacted with cis‐[RuCl2(N,N‐L′)2] [L′ = di‐2‐pyridyl sulfide (dps); 2,2′‐bis(4‐methylpyridyl) sulfide (4mdps); 2,2′‐bis(5‐methylpyridyl) sulfide (5mdps)] to give the five‐membered‐ring chelate complexes [Ru(N,N‐L′)2(Npyridine,S‐L)]++ as the major products (92–95 %). Because the sulfur and ruthenium atoms are stereogenic centres, with (R) and (S) and Δ and Λ configurations, respectively, four isomers, including the enantiomers were obtained. At low temperature and in the methylene region of the 1H NMR spectra, two AB systems due to the enantiomer couples ΔS ΛR (a) and ΔR ΛS (b) were observed with abundances of 77–89 and 6–18 %, respectively. Furthermore, NMR spectroscopic investigations showed that the hybrid polydentate ligands L change their coordination mode. Thus, although a and b largely predominate, a mixture of species containing L and the Ru(N,N‐L′)2 unit in the ratio 1:1 are present. The four‐membered‐ring chelate complexes [Ru(N,N‐L′)2(Npyrimidine,S‐L)]++ (c), as minor species (abundance 1–8 %), are always observed, whereas the dinuclear species [{Ru(N,N‐L′)2}2(μ‐L)2]+4 (d, e) are observed when L′ = dps or 5mdps. In these cases, four AB systems are assigned to dinuclear species d and e containing two bridging L that act as Npyridine,S‐ or Npyridine,Npyrimidine‐donor ligands. The 1H NMR spectra are temperature dependent in that at low temperature the complexes undergo inversion of the chiral centre of the coordinated sulfur atom (a [rlhar2] b) and the dimer (d, e) and monomer (c) are in equilibrium; at higher temperatures the complexes undergo a structural dynamic rearrangement, which involves exchange between the coordinated and uncoordinated N atoms (b [rlhar2] c). One‐dimensional band‐shape analysis of the exchanging methylene and methyl proton signals showed that the energy barriers for inversion of the sulfur centre are in the 50–53 kJ mol–1 range, whereas those for the higher‐temperatures process are in the 62–68 kJ mol–1 range. The possible mechanisms of the processes are discussed. NMR spectroscopic findings suggest that inversion at the sulfur centre occurs without any bond rupture, whereas the exchange, at higher temperatures (b [rlhar2] c), is a dissociative process involving the breaking of a Ru–Npyridine bond.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Synthetic Studies Directed towards Agelasine Analogs – Synthesis, Tautomerism, and Alkylation of 2‐Substituted N‐Methoxy‐9‐methyl‐9H‐purin‐6‐amines
Authors: Roggen Heidi , Gundersen Lise‐Lotte
Published: September 2008

N‐Methoxy‐9‐methyl‐9H‐purin‐6‐amines, carrying various substituents in the 2 positions, were synthesized by the N‐methylation of known 6‐chloropurines, followed by a displacement of the chlorine. Great variations in the amino/imino tautomer ratio among the compounds studied were observed. The tautomers were identified by NMR methods. Treatment of N‐methoxy‐9‐methyl‐9H‐purin‐6‐amines carrying alkyl, alkoxy, or amino substituents in the 2 position with benzyl bromide resulted in a mixture of N‐7‐ and N6‐benzylated compounds with the former as the major products. N‐Methoxy‐9‐methyl‐9H‐purin‐6‐amines with strongly electronegative substituents at C‐2 hardly reacted at all under the same set of reaction conditions.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Ready Transformation of Partially Unprotected Thioglycosides into Glycosyl Fluorides Mediated by NIS/HF–Pyridine or Et3N·3HF
Authors: López J. Cristóbal , Bernal‐Albert Paloma , Uriel Clara , Gómez Ana M.
Published: September 2008

The transformation of partially unprotected phenyl 1‐thioglycosides into glycosyl fluorides can be conveniently carried out by treatment with NIS in the presence of HF–pyridine. Other sources of halonium ions such as NBS, IDCP, have also been employed. The combination NIS/Et3N·3HF, where triethylamine–tris(hydrogen fluoride) (Et3N·3HF) replaces HF–pyridine, can also effect this transformation when acid‐sensitive substituents are present. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
In Vivo Electrochemical Detection of Nitroglycerin‐Derived Nitric Oxide in Tumor‐Bearing Mice
Authors: Griveau Sophie , Seguin Johanne , Scherman Daniel , Chabot Guy G. , Bedioui Fethi
Published: September 2008

The ability of an inserted electrode to detect in vivo NO in tumor was achieved by using a chemically modified Pt/Ir electrode as NO‐sensor and nitroglycerin NTG as NO donor. Enzymatically induced release of NO from NTG was tracked in the tumor, upon intra peritoneal injection of NTG. This approach allowed in vivo monitoring of the bioavailability of NO and could be applied to the in vivo study of candidate anticancer drugs acting on the NO pathways.
Multilayer Assembly of Hemoglobin and Colloidal Gold Nanoparticles on Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes/Chitosan Composite for Detecting Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Chen Shihong , Yuan Ruo , Chai Yaqin , Yin Bing , Xu Yang
Published: September 2008

Chitosan (CS) was chosen for dispersing multi‐wall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) to form a stable CS‐MWNTs composite, which was first coated on the surface of a glassy carbon electrode to provide a containing amino groups interface for assembling colloidal gold nanoparticles (GNPs), followed by the adsorption of hemoglobin (Hb). Repeating the assembly step of GNPs and Hb resulted in {Hb/GNPs}n multilayers. The assembly of GNPs onto CS‐MWNTs composites was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. The consecutive growth of {Hb/GNPs}n multilayers was confirmed by cyclic voltammetry and UV‐vis absorption spectroscopy. The resulting system brings a new platform for electrochemical devices by using the synergistic action of the electrocatalytic activity of GNPs and MWNTs. The resulting biosensor displays an excellent electrocatalytic activity and rapid response for hydrogen peroxide. The linear range for the determination of H2O2 was from 5.0×10−7 to 2.0×10−3 M with a detection limit of 2.1×10−7 M at 3σ and a Michaelis–Menten constant KMapp value of 0.19 mM.
Gas Diffusion Electrodes for Use in an Amperometric Enzyme Biosensor
Authors: Hämmerle Martin , Achmann Sabine , Moos Ralf
Published: September 2008

The preparation of gas diffusion electrodes and their use in an amperometric enzyme biosensor for the direct detection of a gaseous analyte is described. The gas diffusion electrodes are prepared by covering a PTFE membrane (thickness 250 μm, pore size 2 μm, porosity 35%) with gold, platinum, or a graphite/PTFE mixture. Gold and platinum are deposited by e‐beam sputtering, whereas the graphite/PTFE layer is prepared by vacuum filtration of a respective aqueous suspension. These gas diffusion electrodes are exemplarily implemented as working electrodes in an amperometric biosensor for gaseous formaldehyde containing NAD‐dependent formaldehyde dehydrogenase from P. putida [EC. 1.2.1.46] as enzyme and 1,2‐naphthoquinone‐4‐sulfonic acid as electrochemical mediator. The resulting sensors are compared with regard to background current, signal noise, linear range, sensitivity, and detection limit. In this respect, sensors with gold or graphite/PTFE covered membranes outclass ones with platinum for this particular analyte and sensor configuration.
Electroanalytical Responses of Arsenic Oxide, Methanol, and Oxygen at the Ruthenium Oxide–Hexachloroiridate with Platinum Hybrid Film
Authors: Umasankar Yogeswaran , Chen Shen‐Ming , Li Sheh‐Hung
Published: September 2008

Electrochemically active ruthenium oxide (RuOx⋅nH2O), ruthenium oxide/hexachloroiridate (RuOx⋅nH2O/IrCl62−), and ruthenium oxide/hexachloroiridate/platinum (RuOx⋅nH2O/IrCl62−/Pt) hybrid films have been prepared from the mixture of Ru3+, IrCl62−, and PtCl62− ions in an acidic aqueous solution. The repetitive cyclic voltammetry (CV) has been used for the film preparation process. The electrochemical properties and the growth mechanism of the above mentioned different kinds of hybrid films have been investigated using CV and electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance. The morphological and quantitative analyses have been carried out using scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy and energy dispersive X‐ray. Among these above mentioned films, RuOx⋅nH2O/IrCl62−/Pt hybrid film exhibits promising electrocatalytic activity towards the oxidation of arsenic oxide, methanol and reduction of oxygen. Further, detailed study of electrocatalysis using rotating ring disk electrodes and amperometric methods have been carried out for arsenic oxide oxidation and oxygen reduction reactions at the hybrid films. From the results, the sensitivity of RuOx⋅nH2O/IrCl62−/Pt hybrid film has been calculated for arsenic oxide as 0.7 mA mM−1; and for oxygen as 1.8 mA mM−1.
Thiol‐Functionalized Silica Thin Film Modified Electrode in Determination of Mercury Ions in Natural Water
Authors: Cesarino Ivana , Cavalheiro Éder Tadeu Gomes
Published: September 2008

The use of a thin thiol‐functionalized silica film modified glassy carbon electrode in the determination of Hg(II) ions in a natural water sample is described. A typical measurement involves two successive steps: a glassy carbon electrode coated with a thin mesoporous silica film containing 10% of mercaptopropyl groups, according to the MPTMS/TEOS ratio in the starting sol‐gel, was first immersed into the accumulation medium for 15 min, then removed, and finally transferred into a detection solution containing KCl 1.0 mol L−1 where detection was performed by anodic stripping voltammetry. In this medium the previously accumulated Hg2+ species complexed by the thiol groups in an open circuit preconcentration step is then directly reduced at −0.6 V during 60 s prior to be quantified by a differential pulse anodic scan from −0.6 to 0.3 V (vs. Ag/AgCl). A stripping peak appeared at about −0.01 V, which is directly proportional to the quantity of the analyte previously accumulated into the film. The best results were obtained under the following conditions: 100 mV pulse amplitude and 10 mV s−1 scan rate in 1.0 mol L−1 KCl solution pH 2.0. Using such parameters a linear dynamic range from 1.00 to 10.0×10−8 mol L−1 Hg(II) was observed with a limit of detection of 4.3 nmol L−1 for an accumulation time of 15 min. Hg(II) spiked in a natural water sample was determined between 97.0 and 101.4% mean recovery at 10−8 mol L−1 level. The results indicate that this electrode is sensitive and selective for the Hg(II)determination.
Analysis and prediction of faunal distributions from video and multi‐beam sonar data using Markov models
Authors: Foster Scott D. , Bravington Mark V. , Williams Alan , Althaus Franziska , Laslett Geoff M. , Kloser Rudy J.
Published: September 2008

We present a statistical framework for analysing video transect data from the marine environment. Variables observed in the video data, especially those describing marine fauna, are related to physical variables derived from coarser scale acoustic data that has much greater spatial coverage. The observations from the video data are multivariate, and their distribution is factorised conditionally into univariate distributions. We accommodate the auto‐correlation in each conditional univariate distribution using a reversible Markov model, where the transition probabilities vary with the physical explanatory variables and the conditioning observed variables. Predictions for a random variable's stationary distribution, marginal to other observed variables, are made using a suitably weighted average. An average prediction and an approximation to its variance are given for large spatial areas. This is an important application for resource management in the deep ocean where spatially based management approaches are commonly used, and where the cost of collecting fine‐scale data is high. We demonstrate the method using data from the east coast of Tasmania, Australia. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the simulation of a time‐dependent cavity flow of an Oldroyd‐B fluid
Authors: Pan Tsorng‐Whay , Hao Jian , Glowinski Roland
Published: September 2008

In this article we present a finite element method for simulating the time‐dependent flow of an Oldroyd‐B fluid in a lid‐driven cavity, which is a stringent test problem at high Weissenberg number. The key considerations for developing the methodology are the preservation of the positive definiteness of the conformation tensor via the log‐conformation representation and additional diffusion, from second‐order upwind scheme, to smooth the high‐frequency modes. The combination of the log‐conformation representation, finite element method, and an operator‐splitting Lie's scheme, gives us a robust and easy‐to‐implement scheme. We have obtained convergent results when simulating time‐dependent cavity flows. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Functional soft palate reconstruction: A comprehensive surgical approach
Authors: Seikaly Hadi , Rieger Jana , Zalmanowitz Jana , Tang Judith Lam , Alkahtani Khalid , Ansari Khalid , O'Connell Daniel , Moysa Gerald , Harris Jeffrey
Published: September 2008

Background.

Dysfunction of the soft palate is devastating to the patient's quality of life, resulting in unintelligible speech and poor swallowing. Reconstruction of the soft palate is complex because the dynamic fibromuscular structure cannot be duplicated. The efficacy of soft palate reconstruction has therefore been called into question. The purpose of this article is: (1) to describe our comprehensive surgical paradigm for soft palate reconstruction, (2) to provide details of the surgical techniques used, and (3) to report on patient functional outcomes.

Methods.

Fifty‐two patients spanning 3 different size‐based categories of soft palate reconstruction were included in the final analysis. Using videofluoroscopic studies of swallowing, the presence of nasopharyngeal reflux and any instance of aspiration of a bolus into the airway was noted. In addition, a simple diet survey was completed, and the use of a g‐tube was noted.

Results.

The results revealed that our protocol for soft palate reconstruction provided the majority of our patients with separation of the oropharynx and nasopharynx, while maintaining nasal patency. Restoration of swallowing function was timely, with 91% of the patients returning to an oral diet at the early postoperative visit and only 14% of patients demonstrating mild nasopharyngeal reflux.

Conclusion.

We have developed a comprehensive reconstructive protocol that provides patients with separation of the oropharynx and nasopharynx, while maintaining nasal patency. Restoration of function is timely, with reestablishment of normal intelligibility and resonance of speech as well as safe and efficient swallowing function. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008
Validation and assessment of voice‐related quality of life in Indian patients undergoing total laryngectomy and primary tracheoesophageal puncture
Authors: Deshpande Mandar S. , Kakade Anagha C. , Chaukar Devendra A. , Gore Vinod T. , Pai Prathamesh S. , Chaturvedi Pankaj , D'Cruz Anil K.
Published: September 2008

Background.

Voice‐related quality of life (V‐RQOL) has never been studied in Indian patients. This study was planned to validate and assess V‐RQOL in patients using tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP).

Methods.

A cross‐sectional study was undertaken to validate V‐RQOL questionnaire by testing reliability, validity, and responsiveness. V‐RQOL was assessed in patients undergoing total laryngectomy with primary TEP.

Results.

One hundred thirty‐two patients filled 188 questionnaires. Analysis was carried out on 122 patients. Reliability and validity of questionnaire were tested by Cronbach's alpha (.84–.91) and item‐scale correlation (.67–.86). Median V‐RQOL‐Total score was 76.2 indicating excellent V‐RQOL. Higher scores were observed in patients less than 50 years (82.5 vs 72.5,p= .08). There was no effect of time interval between laryngectomy and assessment of questionnaire on the V‐RQOL scores.

Conclusion.

V‐RQOL questionnaire can be used reliably to assess V‐RQOL, which is found to be excellent in Indian patients undergoing TEP. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009
Can the office environment stimulate a manager's creativity?
Authors: Ceylan Canan , Dul Jan , Aytac Serpil
Published: September 2008

This article explores whether the manager's physical office work environment can stimulate the manager's creativity. A total of 60 managers from a large manufacturing company participated in the study. They rated the creativity potential and physical elements of office environments shown in 25 photographs. The results indicate that offices differ in terms of creativity potential. Compared to offices with low creativity potential, offices with high creativity potential have lower complexity, more plants, bright lighting conditions, windows, cooler colors, and a computer facility. The results suggest that a good interior design of manager's office environment could stimulate a manager's creativity and could therefore contribute to an organization's innovation. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Knowledge transfer barriers between research and development and marketing groups within Taiwanese small‐ and medium‐sized enterprise high‐technology new product development teams
Authors: Huang Chung‐Ming , Chang Han‐Chao , Henderson Steven
Published: September 2008

This article reports on efforts to explore barriers to the transfer of knowledge from provider to seeker and the role of knowledge management strategies during the new product development (NPD) period. The study used the cultural‐historical activity theory (CHAT) framework from Hasan and Gould (2001) to examine the cross‐functional knowledge creation process and details surrounding the concept of stickiness (Szulanski, 1996). Strategies we observed can be categorized as being classical or processual oriented (Whittington, 1993). We describe how NPD teams can reduce barriers by aligning strategies in the four knowledge‐creation steps: socialization, externalization, combination, and internalization. This CHAT framework was verified on the basis of samples from 107 Taiwanese NPD teams. Results show that the barriers differed among stages within the NPD period. During the transfer process, the processual strategy reduced barriers to knowledge transfer during the planning, developing, and commercialization stages of the NPD period. In contrast, the classical strategy was shown only to have a positive effect during the marketing stage. Survey results also showed that the highly formalized communication model and periodic meetings advocated by Song and colleagues (Song, Sabrina, & Zhao, 1996; Song, van der Bji, & Weggeman, 2005) and Ingelgard, Roth, Shani, and Styhre (2002) were gradually replaced by bounded transfer and a less formalized approach. These preliminary results suggest that if team leaders can use classical and processual strategies in real time, the barriers to the transfer of knowledge from provider to seeker in the four steps of the NPD period can be effectively reduced. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Temporally weighted average curve number method for daily runoff simulation
Authors: Kim Nam Won , Lee Jeongwoo
Published: September 2008

The modified Soil Conservation Service curve number (CN) method is widely used in long‐term continuous models to predict daily surface runoff. However, it has been shown that this method gives poor results in reproducing peak flows in high rainfall periods. This is because there is an inaccuracy stemming from the model algorithm as it adjusts the daily runoff curve number as a function of soil moisture content at the end of the previous day. This paper proposes an alternative daily based curve number technique that can provide better prediction of daily runoff during the high flow season. The proposed method uses the temporally weighted average curve number (TWA‐CN) to estimate daily surface runoff, while considering the effect of rainfall during a given day as well as the antecedent soil moisture condition. To test the applicability of the TWA‐CN method, it was incorporated with the long‐term, continuous simulation watershed models SWAT and SWAT‐G. Simulations were conducted for the Miho River watershed located in the middle of South Korea. The graphical displays and statistics of the determination coefficient (R2) and the Nash–Sutcliffe model efficiency (NSE) of the observed and simulated daily runoff indicated that the modified SWAT with the TWA‐CN method may provide better runoff prediction (R2 = 0·837, NSE = 0·833) than the original SWAT (R2 = 0·815, NSE = 0·824). Likewise, the determination coefficient (R2 = 0·816) and the Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE = 0·834) for the modified SWAT‐G are also higher than the original version (R2 = 0·782, NSE = 0·825). It is expected that the improved capability in predicting surface runoff using the suggested CN estimate method will provide a sound contribution to the accurate simulations of water yield. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Notch1 is a frequent mutational target in chemically induced lymphoma in mouse
Authors: Karlsson Anneli , Ungerbäck Jonas , Rasmussen Anna , French John E. , Söderkvist Peter
Published: September 2008

Activating Notch1 mutations have been reported in human T‐lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T‐ALL) and lymphomas from genetically modified mice. We report that Notch1 is a prevalent and major mutational target in chemically induced mouse lymphoma. The regions of the gene that are frequently mutated are the heterodimerization domain and the N‐terminal ligand‐binding region, important for protein stability, and the polypeptide rich in proline, glutamate, serine and threonine (PEST) domains, which is critical for protein degradation. Another gene, CDC4, is also involved in Notch1 degradation and shows frequent mutations. Mutations in the heterodimerization and the ligand‐binding regions may cause ligand‐independent signaling, whereas mutations preventing protein degradation result in accumulation of intracellular Notch1. We analyzed 103 chemical‐induced mouse lymphomas for mutations in the Notch1 gene using single strand conformation analysis (SSCA) and DNA sequencing. Genetic alterations resulting in premature truncation of Notch1 were identified in 28 tumors, whereas 8 revealed alterations in the heterodimerization and 16 harbored deletions in the ligand‐binding region. Dideoxycytidine‐induced lymphomas displayed the highest frequency of Notch1 mutations (49%), whereas in butadiene‐ and phenolphthalein‐induced tumors showed lower frequencies (26 and 10%, respectively). In total, 26 novel and 3 previously reported mutations were detected. This report shows that Notch1 is a prevalent and major mutational target for 2′,3′‐dideoxycytidine and butadiene‐induced lymphoma. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Probability of parenthood after early onset cancer: A population‐based study
Authors: Madanat Laura‐Maria S. , Malila Nea , Dyba Tadeusz , Hakulinen Timo , Sankila Risto , Boice John D. , Lähteenmäki Päivi M.
Published: September 2008

We evaluated in a population‐based setting the postdiagnosis parenthood among survivors compared with the fertility patterns of siblings. Cancer patients aged 0–34 years at diagnosis were identified from the Finnish Cancer Registry (N= 25,784), and their siblings (N= 44,611) by registry linkage. Further linkage identified the offspring of the patient and sibling cohorts. The relative probabilities of parenthood for first and second births separately were estimated for male and female survivors in different diagnostic age‐groups and subsites using a Cox proportional hazards model, with age as the time variable and adjusting for the birth cohort of parents. In addition, estimates were calculated for 5 diagnostic eras in all subsites combined. Compared to siblings, both female and male cancer survivors were less likely to parent at least 1 child (RR 0.46, 95% CI 0.44–0.48 and RR 0.57, 95% CI 0.54–0.60, respectively). The relative probability of parenthood was especially low in male childhood cancer survivors and female young adult cancer survivors. However, cancer patients were only slightly less likely than siblings to parent a second child, with RR 0.91, 95% CI 0.86–0.97 and RR 0.95, 95% CI 0.89–1.01 for females and males, respectively. The relative probability of parenthood increased over calendar time among young adult cancer patients. The relative probability of parenthood following early onset cancer was overall significantly reduced by ∼50%. Parenting a second child, however, was not reduced among pediatric and adolescent survivors, and only slightly reduced among early adulthood cancer survivors compared to siblings. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Anthropometric factors in relation to different tumor biological subgroups of postmenopausal breast cancer
Authors: Borgquist Signe , Jirström Karin , Anagnostaki Lola , Manjer Jonas , Landberg Göran
Published: September 2008

Overweight and obesity is associated with an increased risk of postmenopausal breast cancer. However, less is known about the impact of anthropometric factors on tumor pathology and biology. A Swedish population‐based prospective cohort study of 9,685 postmenopausal women not using hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) were followed for an average of 10.3 years during which 305 incident breast cancer cases were diagnosed. Invasive and sufficient tumor material was available in 248 cases. Pathological reevaluation of histological type and grade was conducted. Using a tissue microarray (TMA), the tumor expression of Ki67, HER2, ERα, ERβ, PgR, cyclin D1 and p27 was evaluated. Six anthropometric factors: height, weight, body mass index (BMI), waist‐ and hip circumference and body fat percentage were categorized by quartiles of baseline anthropometric measurements, and relative risks were calculated using multivariate Cox regression models. Invasive breast cancer incidence was increased for women in the higher quartiles of all anthropometric measurements. Height was positively associated with Grade I and ERα‐positive tumors. Women in the highest quartiles of weight, BMI, waist‐ and hip circumference and body fat percentage were all associated with tumors of ductal type, Grade II, low Ki67 index, HER2 negativity and low expression of the oncogene cyclin D1. Obesity was further associated with tumors expressing ERα and PgR but interestingly not ERβ. This study confirmed previously described associations between overweight/obesity and increased risk of postmenopausal breast cancer. Furthermore, obesity was associated with tumors expressing several markers corresponding with low malignancy. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification of new accessible tumor antigens in human colon cancer by ex vivo protein biotinylation and comparative mass spectrometry analysis
Authors: Conrotto Paolo , Roesli Christoph , Rybak Jascha , Kischel Philippe , Waltregny David , Neri Dario , Castronovo Vincent
Published: September 2008

One of the most promising new strategies for the development of efficacious cancer therapies relies on the targeted delivery of biopharmaceutical to the tumor environment by the use of selective and specific antibodies. The identification of accessible perivascular proteins selectively overexpressed in cancer tissue may facilitate the development of antibody‐based biopharmaceutical administration. This approach is potentially highly selective and specific, combining the presence of tumor biomarkers readily accessible from the blood vessels and the high rate of angiogenesis characteristic of cancer tissues. We performed ex vivo perfusions of surgically resected human colon cancer using a reactive ester derivative of biotin, thus achieving a selective covalent modification of accessible proteins in vascular structures and stroma. After extraction and purification, biotinylated proteins were digested and the resulting peptides submitted to a comparative mass spectrometry‐based proteomic analysis, revealing quantitative differences between normal and cancer colon. Sixty‐seven of the total 367 proteins identified were found to be preferentially expressed at the tumor site. We generated human monoclonal antibodies against 2 potential tumor targets, NGAL and GW112, and we proved their selective expression in cancer colon and not or barely in healthy tissues. This article presents the first proteomic analysis of human colorectal cancer structures readily accessible from the tumor vasculature, revealing the overexpression of novel tumor antigens which may serve as selective targets for antibody‐based imaging and therapeutic biomolecular strategies. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Epigenetic regulation and molecular characterization of C/EBPα in pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Kumagai Takashi , Akagi Tadayuki , Desmond Julian C. , Kawamata Norihiko , Gery Sigal , Imai Yasufumi , Song Jee Hoon , Gui Dorina , Said Jonathan , Koeffler H. Phillip
Published: September 2008

Molecular‐targeted therapy is a hopeful approach for pancreatic cancer. Silencing of tumor suppressor genes can occur by histone deacetylation and/or DNA methylation in the promoter. Here, we identified epigenetically silenced genes in pancreatic cancer cells. Pancreatic cancer cell line, PANC‐1 cells were treated either with or without 5Aza‐dC (a DNA methyltransferase inhibitor) and suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA, a histone deacetylase inhibitor), and mRNA was isolated from these cells. Oligonucleotide microarray analysis revealed that 30 genes including UCHL1, C/EBPα, TIMP2 and IRF7 were up‐regulated after treatment with 5Aza‐dC and SAHA in PANC‐1. The induction of these 4 genes was validated by real‐time PCR in several pancreatic cancer cell lines. Interestingly, expression of C/EBPα was significantly restored in 6 of 6 pancreatic cancer cell lines. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay revealed that histone H3 of the promoter region of C/EBPα was acetylated in PANC‐1 treated with SAHA; and bisulfate sequencing showed methylation of its promoter region in several pancreatic cancer cell lines. Forced expression of C/EBPα markedly suppressed clonal proliferation of PANC‐1 cells. Co‐immunoprecipitation assay showed the interaction of C/EBPα and E2F1; and the interaction caused the inhibition of E2F1 transcriptional activity. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that C/EBPα localized in the cytoplasm in pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells, whereas it localized predominantly in the nucleus in normal pancreatic cells. Our data demonstrated that aberrant silencing, as well as, inappropriate cytoplasmic localization of C/EBPα causes dysregulation of its function, suggesting that C/EBPα is a novel candidate tumor suppressor gene in pancreatic cancer cells. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.