bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Durability of Adhesive Peel Joints While Stressed in Water
Authors: Carter G. F.
Published: September 2009

A simple, inexpensive, and rapid test for determining the durability of adhesive joints comprises surrounding peel joints with glass tubes containing water, stressing the peel joints at various levels, and measuring the rates of peel. Peel joints made from several commercial and experimental adhesives have been peel tested while stressed in one or more of the following environments: water at room temperature, salt fog at 36 C, and outdoors in Florida. Peel rates for most adhesive joints are nearly constant at a given stress in water, and they usually range from 0.1 to 10 cm/week for stresses of 10 to 50 per cent of the normal T-peel strengths; for a given adhesive the peel rate increases with increasing stress in the presence of water. Durabilities of adhesive peel joints stressed in water at room temperature may be correlated roughly with durabilities obtained in one year of outdoor exposure in Florida.
Fire Tests of Concrete Members: An Improved Method for Estimating Thermal Restraint Forces
Authors: Issen L A , Gustaferro A H , Carlson C C
Published: September 2009

An earlier exploratory study on the effects of restraint of thermal expansion on the fire resistance of prestressed concrete showed that for similar specimens, made of normal weight concrete, maximum thermal thrust was a function of the allowed linear expansion. In the present study, data were obtained for three additional groups of specimens: lightweight prestressed, lightweight reinforced, and normal weight reinforced. A method is presented for estimating the maximum thermal thrust that occurs during a fire test of a concrete floor, roof, or beam. Results of 12 fire tests of restrained concrete flexural members indicate that the method predicts the maximum thrust within about 15 percent. The method is applicable to specimens restrained both longitudinally and laterally as well as those restrained in only one direction. The method underestimates thrust for specimens with embedded underfloor ducts and overestimates thrust for specimens partly insulated from direct contact with the fire. In all 43 fire tests the specimens supported their loads considerably longer than would have been anticipated for either simply supported or fully restrained conditions.
Maintenance of Cleanliness of Hydraulic Fluids and Systems
Authors: Baranowski L. B.
Published: September 2009

The cleanliness of a hydraulic system and its fluid is an important factor in the proper operation of such a system and its components. The sources of contamination and prevention of it are discussed. Types of contaminants are classified as particulate matter or liquids and gases in both free and soluble phases. Their effect on systems and components are discussed briefly. The methods for measurement of contaminants are reviewed with special attention to water and gas content. Techniques and practices for contamination prevention and control are described. Applications of filtration, dehydration, and degasification of hydraulic fluids in hydraulic systems are suggested, including totally enclosed circuits.
Improve System Contamination Control and Increase System Efficiency
Authors: Duncan J. P.
Published: September 2009

This paper presents a manufacturer's view of the critical areas regarding contamination control based on our experience with both hydraulic components and systems. Fluid contamination is a leading contributor to reduced system efficiency, and its control should be given consideration during system design. Contamination sources and the acceptable contamination levels are presented in addition to the types of contamination normally encountered. The ratings and location of filters in the system are discussed, and a brief outline for a maintenance program is included at the end of the paper.
Requirements for an Effective Program in Fluid Contamination Control
Authors: Fitch E. C.
Published: September 2009

Contamination control in a hydraulic system means that the filtration equipment of a system has established a fluid contamination level which is within the contaminant tolerance specifications of the hydraulic components. Such a control condition is not beyond the realm of practicality and must be achieved if hydraulic systems are to function in an optimal manner. Sufficient technology has been developed to permit the specification of the requirements for achieving, maintaining, and appraising contamination control conditions.

This paper reviews the present status of the various factors which are involved in achieving contamination control conditions. A general discussion is presented of such details as sample bottle cleaning, fluid sampling methods, fluid contamination analysis, component tolerance profiles, and filtration performance specifications.
Type S Portland Cement-Lime Mortar as a Low-Lift Grout
Authors: Biggs David T. , Thomson Margaret L.
Published: September 2009

Specification for Grout for Masonry, ASTM C 476, allows grouts to be specified by a proportion method using the cementitious materials of portland cement, blended cement, hydrated or putty lime (with a 1/10 by volume limit), and aggregate. There is no limitation on slump values in ASTM but industry standards recommend a slump of 8 to 11 in. (203 to 279 mm). A second method of specifying grout is by its properties with a minimum 28-day compressive strength value of 2000 psi (13 790 kPa). It is not an uncommon practice, however, for masonry contractors to use portland cement-lime mortars in low-lift (less than 5 ft [1.52 m] height) applications at a consistency of bedding mortar or a pourable consistency. According to ASTM C 476, this application would neither meet the proportion specification because of too much lime nor the property specification because of too low a slump. This study, investigating the comparative compressive strength properties and reinforcement pull-out strength of Type S and Type N ASTM C 270 proportioned cement-lime mortars, ASTM C 476 grout, and grout with comparable hydrated lime proportions to a Type S mortar, supports the following conclusions: • Type S portland cement-lime mortar at a bedding mortar consistency will perform as grout in specific low-lift grouting applications. • Type S portland cement-lime mortar at a pourable consistency will perform as grout in specific low-lift grouting applications. • Type M portland cement-lime mortar at a bedding mortar consistency or pourable consistency could also be used as grout in specific low-lift grouting applications.
Using the Civil Rights Movement to Practice Activism in the Classroom
Authors: Whitt Margaret Earley
Published: September 2009

During my winter sabbatical of 2004, I found myself one day in Hayneville, Alabama, a small hamlet off highway 80, the lonely stretch of asphalt that connects Selma with Montgomery. This is the same road that hundreds walked in 1965, to be joined by thousands more as they neared the state's capitol building in the last hurrah of the modern civil rights movement.
Inturned
Authors: Beach Sylvia , Walsh Keri
Published: September 2009

Sylvia Beach (1887–1962) is remembered primarily for the two feats of which she was proudest, publishingUlyssesand “STEERing a little bookshop for about twenty-two years between the two wars,” as she puts it in the text reprinted here. Her “little bookshop,” Shakespeare and Company, was for Ernest Hemingway “a warm, cheerful place with a big stove in winter, tables and shelves of books, new books in the window, and photographs on the wall of famous writers both dead and living” (35). In 1919, with support from Adrienne Monnier, the owner of a neighboring bookstore, Beach launched the Left Bank shop that would serve as a hub for French and expatriate writers.1In her 1959 memoir,Shakespeare and Company, Beach tells stories of her friends and patrons, who included F. Scott Fitzgerald, T. S. Eliot, Thornton Wilder, Gertrude Stein, Walter Benjamin, Paul Valéry, Simone de Beauvoir, HD (Hilda Doolittle), Samuel Beckett, and many others. Beach also describes there her other great feat, the publication ofUlysses.When British and American printers were prevented from publishing Joyce's Dublin epic because it was considered too obscene, Beach stepped in. Her fortuitous situation as a seller of English-language books in Paris inspired her to risk bringing outUlyssesherself. In February 1922, after a legendary struggle, the first edition ofUlyssesappeared under the imprint “Shakespeare and Company.”
Use of Masseteric and Deep Temporal Nerve Blocks for Reduction of Mandibular Dislocation
Authors: Young Andrew L. , Khan Junad , Thomas Davis C. , Quek Samuel Y. P.
Published: September 2009

A patient presented with a unilateral dislocated condyle that was resistant to reduction by simple manual manipulation because of elevator muscle spasm and severe muscle and temporomandibular joint pain. A technique involving a masseteric nerve block and a temporal nerve block was used, allowing a quick, safe, and minimally painful reduction. The method used for delivering these nerve blocks is described here.
Lithostratigraphy and late Cenozoic fluvial styles of Siwalik Group along Kankai River section, East Nepal Himalaya
Authors: Ulak Prakash Das
Published: September 2009

This paper describes on lithostratigraphy as well as evolution of the fluvial styles in late Cenozoic Siwalik Group along the Kankai River section of east Nepal Himalaya. The Siwalik Group lies on the southern flank of the Himalaya, is composed of molasse sediments, which were derived from the rising Himalaya in the north. The group along the Kankai River section is lithologically divided into the Lower, Middle and Upper Siwaliks, in ascending order based on increasing grain size and lithology. The Lower Siwaliks is subdivided into the lower and upper members, whereas the Middle Siwaliks is subdivided into the lower, middle and upper members on the basis of the relative thickness of the sandstone and mudstone beds, frequency of occurrence of these beds, and grain size of sandstone. The Upper Siwaliks is subdivided into the lower and upper members based on the clast size in conglomerate and constituent of the Siwalik sandstone boulders in conglomerate. Based on the lithology, assemblages of sedimentary structure and sediment body architectures, seven facies associations (FA1 to FA7) are recognised. These facies associations are closely related to each lithostratigraphic units of the area. The sediments of the lower and upper members of the Lower Siwaliks are products of the fine-grained meandering and flood flow-dominated meandering systems, respectively. The lower, middle and upper members of the Middle Siwaliks are interpreted as the deposits by sandy meandering, deep sandy braided and shallow braided systems, respectively whereas the lower and upper members of the Upper Siwaliks are the products of gravelly braided to debris flow-dominated braided systems, respectively.   doi: 10.3126/bdg.v12i0.2251 Bulletin of the Department of Geology, Vol. 12, 2009, pp. 63-74
Sites of participation: Wiki fandom and the case of Lostpedia
Authors: Mittell Jason
Published: September 2009

This essay explores the award-winning fan site Lostpedia to examine how the wiki platform enables fan engagement, structures participation, and distinguishes between various forms of content, including canon, fanon, and parody. I write as a participant-observer, with extensive experience as a Lostpedia reader and editor. The article uses the "digital breadcrumbs" of wikis to trace the history of fan creativity, participation, game play, and debates within a shared site of community fan engagement. Using the Lostpedia site as a case study of fan praxis, the article highlights how issues like competing fandoms, copyright, and modes of discourse become manifest via the user-generated content of a fan wiki.
"Camgirls: Celebrity and community in the age of social networks," by Theresa M. Senft
Authors: Barone Adriano
Published: September 2009

Review of Theresa M. Senft. Camgirls: Celebrity and community in the age of social networks. New York: Peter Lang, 2008. Paperback, $29.95 (150p) ISBN 978-0-8204-5694-2.
Snogs of innocence, snogs of experience
Authors: Shilling Dana
Published: September 2009

The current conventional wisdom is that rape is wrong because it is contrary to the interest in bodily autonomy: human beings are entitled to decide the conditions under which they will have sex. That is, it is grounded in an assumption that sexual pleasure is a good thing, and it is wrong to subject a person to sexual contact contrary to that person's intentions. But this assumption has not entirely replaced earlier assumptions, such as that sexual activity is always wrong and can be justified only by the need to reproduce the human race, or assumptions that sexual activity is right and good in the context of a lifelong marital commitment, but not otherwise. Here, I examine a number of subplots, themes and episodes within the series Dollhouse, Firefly, Blake's 7, The 4400, and Dawson's Creek with a view to analyzing the issues of sexual consent and autonomy raised within them.
Jedi like my father before me": Social identity and the New York Comic Con
Authors: Gunnels Jen
Published: September 2009

Few venues exist for adults to play dress-up, with Renaissance festivals, comic and other media conventions, and live-action role-playing games comprising the bulk of these venues. This sort of behavior is expected of people in their formative years—children and teenagers—where they try on and receive feedback about their selves. What might be the reasoning behind the behavior of adults doing so, especially after primary socialization has occurred?
Transmission Electron Microscopy a Powerful Means to Investigate the Glazed Coating of Ancient Ceramics
Authors: Mirguet Claude , Roucau Christian , Sciau Philippe
Published: September 2009

Optical microscopy allows observation of details of the order of micrometers. In an electron microscope that uses an electron beam to make an image, the resolution is a thousand times better. It becomes possible to observe details of the nanometer (nm) in conventional mode and order of the Angstrom (1 Å = 0.1 nm) in high resolution mode. This technique requires a delicate preparation of samples to be sufficiently thin (≤ 100 nm) to allow the passage of electrons to an observation in transmission. The transfer of energy between incident electrons and atoms in the sample are operated through energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) and X-ray emission (EDX) to perform a chemical analysis of the observed object. The purpose of this paper is to show, through some examples, the potential of transmission electron microscopy and related techniques in the study of structure and composition of heritage materials.
Surface Properties of Superhydrophobic Coatings for Stone Protection
Authors: Manoudis P.N. , Karapanagiotis I. , Tsakalof A. , Zuburtikudis I. , Kolinkeová B. , Panayiotou C.
Published: September 2009

Superhydrophobic films are produced by a simple and low cost method. Silica (SiO2) nanoparticles are dispersed in solutions of Rhodorsil 224, a commercial poly(alkyl siloxane) which is used for the protection of outdoor cultural heritage objects, and the suspensions are sprayed on glass surfaces. It is shown that the siloxane-nanoparticle composite films prepared from dispersions of high particle concentrations (≥ 0.5% w/v) exhibit superydrophobic properties (high static contact angle and small hysteresis) which can be rationalized by the Cassie-Baxter model, according to quantitative measurements obtained by SEM images. Siloxane-nanoparticle films are then deposited (sprayed) on “Opuka”, a fine-grained argillite which was used for the restoration of the castle of Prague. It is shown that the treated stone surfaces exhibit superydrophobic properties, similar to the treated glass surfaces. The efficacy of the superhydrophobic films to protect Opuka is evaluated by performing water contact angle, water capillary absorption, water vapor permeability and colorimetric measurements. It is shown that the use of nanoparticles in the protective coating has a positive effect on the results of the aforementioned tests, except for the colorimetric measurements.
Tribological Studies of a Zr‐Based Glass‐Forming Alloy with Different States
Authors: Jiang Feng , Qu Jun , Fan Guojiang , Jiang Wenhui , Qiao Dongchun , Freels Matthew W. , Liaw Peter K. , Choo Hahn
Published: September 2009

The tribological characteristics of a glass‐forming alloy, Zr52.5Cu17.9Ni14.6Al10.0Ti5.0, in atomic percent (at.%, Vit 105), with different microstructural states have been investigated. Friction and wear studies were conducted using a ball‐on‐flat reciprocating sliding apparatus against an AISI E52100 bearing steel under dry condition. The observed wear resistance in an ascending order is: the deformed, creep‐tested, and as‐cast states. Wear analyses suggested that the wear processes of glass‐forming alloys involved abrasion, adhesion, and oxidation. The differences in hardness, free volume, and brittleness in different states significantly affected the friction and wear behaviors of the glass‐forming alloys.
Carbon black and lung cancer—testing a novel exposure metric by multi‐model inference
Authors: Morfeld Peter , McCunney Robert J.
Published: September 2009

Background

In a recent analysis of a UK cohort Sorahan and Harrington [2007: Am J Ind Med 50: 555–564] assessed the most recent 15 years of exposure (“lugging”) to support their hypothesis that carbon black acts as a late stage lung carcinogen. We tested this metric in a German cohort of 1,528 carbon black workers.

Methods

We used a multi‐model Cox regression approach (720 models) to explore the impact of duration and cumulative exposure to carbon black “lugged” by 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 years. This approach covered four sub‐cohorts, including an inception cohort, different exposure scenarios and varying combinations of confounders.

Results

Seven hundred nineteen models returned negative coefficients. Only one model estimated a small positive, but clearly non‐significant coefficient (P = 0.8).

Conclusions

Despite extensive searching, no exposure scenario suggested an adverse effect of “lugged” carbon black exposure on lung cancer mortality. Our analysis does not support the hypothesis of carbon black being a late stage carcinogen. Am. J. Ind. Med. 52:890–899, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis and Cytotoxic Evaluation of 6‐(3‐Pyrazolylpropyl) Derivatives of 1,4‐Naphthohydroquinone‐1,4‐diacetate
Authors: Molinari Aurora , Oliva Alfonso , Ojeda Claudia , del Corral José M. Miguel , Castro M. Angeles , Cuevas Carmen , San Feliciano Arturo
Published: September 2009

Several new 6‐(3‐pyrazolylpropyl) derivatives of 1,4‐naphthohydroquinone‐1,4‐diacetate (NHQ‐DA) have been prepared by chemical modifications of the Diels–Alder adduct of α‐myrcene and 1,4‐benzoquinone. All these new compounds and precursors have been evaluatedin vitrofor their cytotoxicity against cultured human cancer cells of MB‐231 breast‐adeno carcinoma, A‐549 lung carcinoma, and HT‐29 colon carcinoma. GI50values ranged in and below the micromolar concentration level.
Time‐dependent effects ofKlebsiella pneumoniaeendotoxin on the pharmacokinetics of chlorzoxazone and its main metabolite, 6‐hydroxychlorzoxazone, in rats: restoration of the parameters in 96 hour in KPLPS rats to control levels
Authors: Jung Hye Y. , Kang Hee E. , Choi Young H. , Kim So H. , Lee Myung G.
Published: September 2009

It has been reported that chlorzoxazone (CZX) was primarily metabolized via hepatic Cyp2e1 to form 6‐hydroxychlorzoxazone (OH‐CZX) in rats, and the activity of aniline hydroxylase (a Cyp2e1 marker) in the liver was significantly decreased in rats at 24 h after pretreatment with lipopolysaccharide derived fromKlebsiella pneumoniae(24 h KPLPS rats), whereas the levels were not changed at 2 h and 96 h in the KPLPS rats. Thus, the time‐dependent pharmacokinetic parameters of CZX and OH‐CZX were evaluated after the intravenous administration of CZX (20 mg/kg) to control rats, and the 2 h, 24 h and 96 h KPLPS rats along with the time‐dependent changes in the protein expression of hepatic Cyp2e1. After the intravenous administration of CZX to 24 h KPLPS rats, theAUC0–2 hof OH‐CZX andAUCOH‐CZX, 0–2 h/AUCCZXwere significantly smaller (by 40.5% and 71.2%, respectively) than those of controls due to the significant decrease (by 75.3%) in the protein expression of hepatic Cyp2e1. However, in 96 h KPLPS rats, the pharmacokinetic parameters of both CZX and OH‐CZX were unchanged compared with controls due to the restoration of the protein expression of hepatic Cyp2e1 to control levels. These observations highlighted the existence of the time‐dependent effects of KPLPS on the pharmacokinetics of CZX and OH‐CZX in rats. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of extremely low‐frequency magnetic field exposure on cognitive functions: results of a meta‐analysis
Authors: Barth Alfred , Ponocny Ivo , Ponocny‐Seliger Elisabeth , Vana Norbert , Winker Robert
Published: September 2009

There is extensive literature on possible effects of extremely low‐frequency magnetic fields (ELF‐MFs) on human cognitive functions. However, due to methodological deficits (e.g., low statistical power, small sample sizes) findings have been inconsistent. In the current study we try to overcome these problems by carrying out a meta‐analysis. Literature research revealed 17 studies. Nine of these were included in the meta‐analysis because they fulfilled minimum requirements (e.g., at least single‐blind experimental study design and documentation of means and standard deviation of the dependent variables). All of the studies used a 50 Hz magnetic field exposure. Small but significant effect sizes could be detected in two cognitive dimensions: in the hard level of visual duration discrimination, task‐exposed subjects performed better than controls; at the intermediate level however, exposed subjects performed worse. Additionally, a significant improvement of correct responses was observed in the dimension of “flexibility” under exposure. However, due to the small number of studies per performance dimensions and the resulting instability of estimates, these findings have to be treated with extreme caution. Taken together, the results of the meta‐analysis provide little evidence that ELF‐MFs have any effects on cognitive functions. Bioelectromagnetics 31:173–179, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cell placement and guidance on substrates for neurochip interfaces
Authors: Charrier Anne , Martinez Dolores , Monette Robert , Comas Tanya , Movileanu Raluca , Py Christophe , Denhoff Mike , Krantis Anthony , Mealing Geoff
Published: September 2009

Interface devices such as integrated planar patch‐clamp chips are being developed to study the electrophysiological activity of neuronal networks grown in vitro. The utility of such devices will be dependent upon the ability to align neurons with interface features on the chip by controlling neuronal placement and by guiding cell connectivity. In this paper, we present a strategy to accomplish this goal. Patterned chemical modification of SiN surfaces with poly‐d‐lysine transferred from PDMS stamps was used to promote adhesion and guidance of cryo‐preserved primary rat cortical neurons. We demonstrate that these neurons can be positioned and grown over microhole features which will ultimately serve as patch‐clamp interfaces on the chip. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2010; 105: 368–373. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of Novel Submicrometer‐Scale Flat Carbon Fibers and Application in the Electrooxidation of Methanol
Authors: Zhang L. , Zhang C. , Xiang X. , Li F.
Published: September 2009

Novel submicrometer‐scale flat carbon fibers (SFCF) have been synthesized by catalytic chemical vapor deposition of acetylene over an Ni‐Al layered double hydroxide (NiAl‐LDH) compound, and the electrochemical activity of Pt supported on as‐synthesized SFCF for methanol oxidation has been investigated. The materials were characterized by power X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Raman spectra, and cyclic voltammetry tests. The results reveal that the active crystal facets of the NiAl2O4 spinel phase derived from NiAl‐LDH can deposit carbon atoms to grow SFCF, and that the co‐growing Ni nanoparticles are not catalytically active for the formation of SFCF. Furthermore, after support with Pt, the resultant Pt/SFCF electrocatalyst shows much higher activity for methanol oxidation than the Pt/C one in both acid and alkaline media, which is attributed to the combined beneficial effects of the microstructure of the SFCF support, improved electrical conductivity originating from the NiAl2O4 spinel catalyst embedded in SFCF, and improved dispersion of Pt particles through exposed Ni nanoparticles adhering intimately to the SFCF.
Depression as a predictor of disease progression and mortality in cancer patients
Authors: Satin Jillian R. , Linden Wolfgang , Phillips Melanie J.
Published: September 2009

BACKGROUND:

Cancer patients and oncologists believe that psychological variables influence the course of cancer, but the evidence remains inconclusive. This meta‐analysis assessed the extent to which depressive symptoms and major depressive disorder predict disease progression and mortality in cancer patients.

METHODS:

Using the MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and EMBASE online databases, the authors identified prospective studies that examined the association between depressive symptoms or major/minor depression and risk of disease progression or mortality in cancer patients. Two raters independently extracted effect sizes using a random effects model.

RESULTS:

Based on 3 available studies, depressive symptoms were not shown to significantly predict cancer progression (risk ratio [RR] unadjusted = 1.23; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.85‐1.77; P = .28). Based on data from 25 independent studies, mortality rates were up to 25% higher in patients experiencing depressive symptoms (RR unadjusted = 1.25; 95% CI, 1.12‐1.40; P < .001), and up to 39% higher in patients diagnosed with major or minor depression (RR unadjusted = 1.39; 95% CI, 1.10‐1.89; P = .03). In support of a causal interpretation of results, there was no evidence that adjusting for known clinical prognostic factors diminished the effect of depression on mortality in cancer patients.

CONCLUSIONS:

This meta‐analysis presented reasonable evidence that depression predicts mortality, but not progression, in cancer patients. The associated risk was statistically significant but relatively small. The effect of depression remains after adjustment for clinical prognosticators, suggesting that depression may play a causal role. Recommendations were made for future research to more clearly examine the effect of depression on cancer outcomes. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Relationships between early maladaptive schemas and psychosocial developmental task resolution
Authors: Thimm Jens C.
Published: September 2009

In schema therapy, early maladaptive schemas (EMS) are hypothesized to be the result of adverse relational experiences in childhood that hinder the resolution of important psychological developmental tasks. The purpose of the present study was to examine the relationships between EMS and the resolution of the developmental tasks that are described in Erikson's scheme of personality development. One hundred and forty‐five adult psychiatric outpatients completed measures of EMS and resolution of psychosocial development tasks at two occasions. Results from correlational and regression analyses showed that EMS are generally associated with unsuccessful psychosocial task resolution. Furthermore, schema change predicted changes in the resolution of developmental tasks. These findings give support to Young's theory of schema development. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message:

• Early maladaptive schemas and negative resolution of psychosocial developmental tasks are closely linked.

• Changes in early maladaptive schemas predict changes in psychosocial developmental task resolution.
A stable silagermene (tBu3Si)2Si=Ge(mes)2 (mes = 2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl): Synthesis, X‐ray crystal structure, and thermal isomerization
Authors: Igarashi Masayasu , ıchinohe Masaaki , Sekiguchi Akira
Published: September 2009

A stable silagermene, 1,1‐bis(tri‐tert‐butylsilyl)‐2,2‐bis(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl)silagermene, was synthesized by the reaction of dilithiosilane (tBu3Si)2SiLi2 with dichlorodimesitylgermane. Its structure was determined by spectroscopic data and X‐ray crystallography, which showed the SiGe length to be 2.2769(8) Å. The silagermene underwent isomerization at 100ˆC to form the corresponding symmetrically substituted isomer (E)‐1,2‐bis(tri‐tert‐butylsilyl)‐1,2‐bis(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl)silagermene. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 19:649–653, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.20503
Synthesis, characterization, and biological activity of organophosphates derived from substituted benzoxazole
Authors: Samota Mahesh Kumar , Jhajharia Priyanka , Seth Gita
Published: September 2009

The reaction of phosphorus oxychlo‐ ride/phosphorus thiochloride with 2‐(2′‐mercapto‐ phenyl)benzoxazole in 1:1, 1:2, and 1:3 molar ratio in the presence of stoichiometric amounts of triethyl‐ amine has afforded a series of organophosphates. These organophosphates have been characterized by elemental analyses, infrared, 1H NMR, 31P NMR, and mass spectral studies. The antifungal activity of these organophosphates has been evaluated against pathogenic fungi Aspergillus niger and Fusarium oxysporium. The antifungal screening data reveal that these compounds are more fungitoxic than 2‐(2′‐mercaptophenyl) benzoxazole. These organophosphates were also found to be insecticidal when tested against Periplenata americana.© 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 20:309–315, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.20551
A mechanistic study of in vitro degradation of magnesium alloy using electrochemical techniques
Authors: Bobby Kannan M. , Singh R. K. Raman
Published: September 2009

To understand the in vitro degradation mechanism of magnesium alloy, electrochemical experiments viz., electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic polarization, were carried out on AZ91 magnesium alloy under different experimental conditions. The study suggests: (i) the body temperature decreases significantly the corrosion resistance of the alloy, (ii) alkali‐treatment of the alloy enhances the corrosion resistance, and (iii) although chloride in simulated body fluid minimizes the corrosion resistance, the presence of other constituents viz., phosphate, calcium, and carbonate, enhances the film forming tendency and hence increases the corrosion resistance of the alloy. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Granulocyte transfusion therapy in abdominal organ transplant recipients
Authors: Oak Nikhil R. , Triulzi Darrell J.
Published: September 2009

Background: Patients with neutropenia are at increased risk for infections. Granulocyte transfusions (GT) have had mixed success in treatment of neutropenic infections in adult patients with hematologic malignancy. This study examined the outcomes of GT therapy in neutropenic solid organ transplant recipients, a novel population for this therapy. Methods: We performed a retrospective examination of the transfusion and medical records of all 14 solid organ‐transplant recipients without hematologic malignancy who experienced neutropenia and received GT therapy from 2004 to 2006. Results: Twelve patients received GT therapy for an active infection and two patients for infection prophylaxis. The mean absolute neutrophil count (ANC) one day increment per GT in these patients was 526/μl (median 215/μl). The mean ANC one day increment per dose of 1010 granulocytes was 246/μl (median 86/μl). Of the 12 infected patients, four patients (33%) showed a clinical response to GT with improvement or resolution of the infection, 7 (58%) patients had no clinical response and one additional patient had a clinical response to a course of GT but died during a second GT course. Neither patient receiving GT for prophylaxis developed an infection. Conclusions: We observed temporal increases in ANC to levels above 1,000/μl in 15/18 (83.3%) courses of GT. We observed a clinical response to infection in 5/12 (42%) patients, the remaining infected patients had no clinical response. Our results suggest that GT therapy in neutropenic solid organ transplant recipients can boost peripheral blood neutrophil counts. Additional studies areneeded to document an independent clinical benefit for GT in this patient population. J. Clin. Apheresis, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prevalence of previously unknown elevation of glycosylated hemoglobin in spine surgery patients and impact on length of stay and total cost
Authors: Walid M. Sami , Newman Brooke F. , Yelverton Joshua C. , Nutter Jonathan P. , Ajjan Mohammed , Robinson Joe Sam
Published: September 2009

BACKGROUND:

Elevated levels of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) among spine surgery patients may have an impact on length of stay (LOS) and healthcare cost.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 556 spine surgery patients who underwent 1 of 3 types of surgery: lumbar microdiscectomy (LMD), anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF), and lumbar decompression and fusion (LDF). Information was collected about their diabetes mellitus (DM) history and HbA1c levels. We used HbA1c 6.1% as the screening cutpoint. Percentages of nondiabetic patients, those with subclinical elevation of HbA1c and those with already known DM were calculated and statistical analysis was applied.

RESULTS:

After excluding the small group of well‐controlled DM (n = 14), 72.4% of patients were nondiabetic, 14.3% were subclinical patients with previously unknown HbA1c elevation, and 13.3% were already known, confirmed DM patients. There were significant differences in the LDF group between the “No DM” and “Subclinical” groups (P < 0.05) in terms of cost and LOS (P < 0.05). Age and body mass index (BMI) were very significant predictors of total cost in spine surgery patients (P ≤ 0.001), in addition to the type of surgery. Univariate analysis with age, BMI, or both as covariates deprived DM‐HbA1c status of statistical significance (P > 0.05) in determining cost.

CONCLUSIONS:

There is a significant segment of spine surgery patients who were unaware of their elevated HbA1c status before their preoperative visit. These patients seem to utilize more healthcare resources, which is especially evident in the LDF group. We believe that HbA1c should be considered in the routine preoperative workup of spine surgery patients. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2010;5:E10–E14. © 2010 Society of Hospital Medicine.
Optimizing prevention of hospital‐acquired venous thromboembolism (VTE): Prospective validation of a VTE risk assessment model
Authors: Maynard Gregory A. , Morris Timothy A. , Jenkins Ian H. , Stone Sarah , Lee Joshua , Renvall Marian , Fink Ed , Schoenhaus Robert
Published: September 2009

BACKGROUND:

Hospital‐acquired (HA) venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common source of morbidity/mortality. Prophylactic measures are underutilized. Available risk assessment models/protocols are not prospectively validated.

OBJECTIVES:

Improve VTE prophylaxis, reduce HA VTE, and prospectively validate a VTE risk‐assessment model.

DESIGN:

Observational design.

SETTING:

Academic medical center.

PATIENTS:

Adult inpatients on medical/surgical services.

INTERVENTIONS:

A simple VTE risk assessment linked to a menu of preferred VTE prophylaxis methods, embedded in order sets. Education, audit/feedback, and concurrent identification of nonadherence.

MEASUREMENTS:

Randomly sampled inpatient audits determined the percent of patients with “adequate” VTE prevention. HA VTE cases were identified concurrently via digital imaging system. Interobserver agreement for VTE risk level and judgment of adequate prophylaxis were calculated from 150 random audits.

RESULTS:

Interobserver agreement with 5 observers was high (kappa score for VTE risk level = 0.81, and for judgment of “adequate” prophylaxis = 0.90). The percent of patients on adequate prophylaxis improved each of the 3 years (58%, 78%, and 93%; P < 0.001) and reached 98% in the last 6 months of 2007; 361 cases of HA VTE occurred over 3 years. Significant reductions for the risk of HA VTE (risk ratio [RR] = 0.69; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.47‐0.79) and preventable HA VTE (RR = 0.14; 95% CI = 0.06‐0.31) occurred. We detected no increase in heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) or prophylaxis‐related bleeding using administrative data/chart review.

CONCLUSIONS:

We prospectively validated a VTE risk‐assessment/prevention protocol by demonstrating ease of use, good interobserver agreement, and effectiveness. Improved VTE prophylaxis resulted in a substantial reduction in HA VTE. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2010;5:10–18. © 2010 Society of Hospital Medicine.
Peak width‐mass correlation in CID MS/MS of isomeric oligosaccharides using traveling‐wave ion mobility mass spectrometry
Authors: Yamagaki Tohru , Sato Akihiro
Published: September 2009

Isomeric oligosaccharides γ‐cyclodextrin (γ‐CD), glucosyl‐βCD (Glc1‐βCD) and maltosyl‐αCD (Glc2‐αCD) were analyzed by traveling‐wave ion mobility (twIM) mass spectrometry (MS). Their formation of multicharged multimers differed from each other. The ion mobility‐mass spectrometry was useful in the self‐assembling and complex formation analyses of CD isomers. The drift times of the isomers and their product ions with the same mass were almost the same in collision‐induced dissociation (CID) MS/MS. In contrast, the ion mobility peak widths were sensitive to structural differences of the isomeric product ions. The twIM peak width (ms ‐ µs) of the product ions [M − Glcn + H]+ (n = 0 ∼ 6) of γ‐CD correlated linearly with their masses (Da); the large and/or long chain product ions had wider peak widths, which were much wider than those from the general diffusion effect. This was a novel and useful ‘trend line’ to discriminate between the three isomers. Plots of [M − Glc2 ∼ 6 + H]+ of Glc1‐βCD and [M − Glc3 ∼ 6 + H]+ of Glc2‐αCD product ions' plots were on the same trend line as γ‐CD. The plots of [M − Glc1 + H]+ of Glc1‐βCD and [M − Glc1, 2 + H]+ of Glc2‐αCD strayed from the γ‐CD line; their peak widths were narrower than those of γ‐CD. These results indicated that product ions from the chemical species of Glc1‐β CD and Glc2‐αCD retained their CD structure. Analyses of the IM peak widths enable us to elucidate the structures of the product ions. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of basic residues on dissociation kinetics and dynamics of singly protonated peptides: time‐resolved photodissociation study
Authors: Yoon So Hee , Moon Jeong Hee , Chung Yeon Ji , Kim Myung Soo
Published: September 2009

Product ion yields in postsource decay and time‐resolved photodissociation at 193 and 266 nm were measured for some peptide ions with lysine ([KF6 + H]+, [F6K + H]+, and [F3KF3 + H]+) formed by matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization. The critical energy (E0) and entropy (ΔS‡) were determined by RRKM fitting of the data. The results were similar to those found previously for peptide ions with histidine. To summarize, the presence of a basic residue, histidine or lysine, inside a peptide ion retarded its dissociation by lowering ΔS‡. On the basis of highly negative ΔS‡, presence of intramolecular interaction involving a basic group in the transition structure was proposed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of apple polyphenols on GSTT2 gene expression, subsequent protection of DNA and modulation of proliferation using LT97 human colon adenoma cells
Authors: Miene Claudia , Klenow Stefanie , Veeriah Selvaraju , Richling Elke , Glei Michael
Published: September 2009

Apple extract (AE) enhances expression of glutathione S‐transferases (e.g., GSTT2) in human colon cells (LT97). Therefore, aim of the present study was to identify functional consequences of GSTT2 induction by AE and to determine the relation of AE effects to isolated compounds. Polyphenol composition of AE was analyzed. LT97 cells were treated with AE or synthetic polyphenol mixture (SPM) under conditions that induced GSTT2, and challenged with GSTT2‐2 substrate cumene hydroperoxide (CumOOH) to determine DNA damage using comet assay. Modulation of GSTT2 expression (real‐time PCR) was reassessed, and the influence on cell proliferation and pro‐oxidative potential of AE and SPM were assessed to understand additional mechanisms. Induction of GSTT2 by AE was accompanied by protection of LT97 cells from CumOOH‐induced genotoxicity. Although SPM was unable to reflect AE‐specific bioactivity related to GSTT2 modulation and anti‐genotoxicity, inhibition of LT97 cell proliferation by SPM was comparable. Storage of AE caused changes in phenolic composition along with loss of activity regarding GSTT2 induction and amplified growth inhibition. At the applied concentrations, no H2O2 formation was detectable with any of the substances. AE can protect against oxidatively induced DNA damage. Nevertheless, chemopreventive effects of AE strongly depend on the specific composition, which is modified by storage.
Optimized electron propagation on a quantum chain by a topological phase
Authors: Paganelli S. , Giorgi G.L. , de Pasquale F.
Published: September 2009

We study the quantum diffusion of an electron in a quantum chain starting from an initial state localized around a given site. As the wavepacket diffuses, the probability of reconstructing the initial state on another site diminishes drastically with the distance. In order to optimize the state transmission we find that a topological quantum phase can be introduced. The effect of this phase is the reduction of wavepacket spreading together with almost coherent group propagation. In this regime, the electron has a quasi‐linear dispersion and high fidelity can be achieved also over large distances in terms of lattice spacing.
Color tunable light‐emitting diodes with modified pulse‐width modulation
Authors: Cho Jaehee , Shan Qifeng , Kim Jong Kyu , Schubert E. Fred
Published: September 2009

In this study, a color tunable light source, operated by a modified pulse width modulation method, is investigated. By utilizing this method along with anti‐parallel connected discrete light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) and two electrical terminals, a wide range of the chromaticity coordinates is attained and varied by electrical control. Using the combination of a blue LED and a phosphor‐converted yellow LED (blue LED plus yellow phosphor), the chromaticity range is varied by electrical control from pure blue to pure yellow. In addition, using the modified pulse‐width modulation method and a combination of white and red LEDs, white light with correlated color temperatures ranging from 5000 K to 2000 K is demonstrated. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
First‐principle investigation of strain effects on the electronic properties of germanium nanowires
Authors: Kong Yifan , Shiri Daryoush , Buin Andrei
Published: September 2009

Using the GGA functional in density functional theory, the effects of axial strain on the band structure and effective mass of narrow [110] and [100] germanium nanowires are investigated. It is observed that both compressive and tensile strain cause indirect‐to‐direct bandgap transitions. One percent of tensile strain can cause a 40 meV change in the bandgap of [110] nanowires. Effective masses of electrons and holes are subject to a change of 3–4 times in the strain‐induced transition point. This change translates into a density of state modulation which opens new possibilities for the construction of Ge nanowire‐based sensors. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The role of dendritic cells in alphaherpesvirus infections: archetypes and paradigms
Authors: Van de Walle Gerlinde R. , Cox Eric , Nauwynck Hans , Favoreel Herman W.
Published: September 2009

Dendritic cells (DCs) play a critical role in orchestrating both innate and adaptive components of the immune system and are therefore of pivotal importance in the initiation of immune responses to control and eliminate viral infections. A major focus of this review is to give an overview on the recent findings that point out the importance of DCs in controlling alphaherpesvirus infections, but also indicate that these viruses have evolved several strategies to inhibit and/or exploit DC functions to delay or escape elimination by the immune system. In addition, we point out the common features and interspecies differences between DCs from man and animal, and discuss the potential use of animal alphaherpesvirus homologues to gain further insights into the interaction between alphaherpesviruses and DCs in their natural virus–host environment. Finally, recent knowledge on the potential of alphaherpesviruses as vectors for DC stimulation and their use for immunotherapy is presented. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hand Gangrene Following Unsuccessful Cannulation of the Internal Jugular Vein: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Roettges Paul S. , Murray Peter M. , Hill David
Published: September 2009

Hand gangrene following vascular cannula placement is uncommon and is usually the result of thrombotic occlusion of an artery. We describe a case of hand gangrene resulting in wrist disarticulation, following multiple unsuccessful attempts at internal jugular vein cannulation in a critically ill patient.
Genistein inhibits glucose and sulphate transport in isolated rat liver lysosomes
Authors: Chou Hsu-Fang , Chuang Kun-Hung , Tsai Yi-Shan , Chen Yi-Ju
Published: September 2009

Genistein and daidzein are known to have both beneficial and adverse effects on human health due to their many biological actions at the cellular level. Both isoflavones have been shown to inhibit GLUT-mediated glucose transport across the plasma membrane of mammalian cells. Since lysosomal membrane transport is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis, the present study examined the effects of genistein and daidzein on glucose and sulphate transport in isolated rat liver lysosomes. Both genistein and daidzein significantly inhibited lysosomal glucose uptake. Genistein was a more potent glucose transport inhibitor than daidzein, with a half-maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 45 μmol/l compared with 71 μmol/l for daidzein. Uptake kinetics ofd-glucose showed a significant decrease inVmax(control:genistein treat = 1489 (sem91):507 (sem76) pmol/unit of β-hexosaminidase per 15 s) without a change inKm. The presence of 50 μm-genistein in the medium also reduced glucose efflux from lysosomes preloaded with 100 mm-d-glucose. Genistein also inhibited lysosomal sulphate transport. Similar to its effects on glucose uptake kinetics, genistein treatment caused a significant decrease in sulphate uptakeVmax(control:genistein treat = 87 (sem4):59 (sem5) pmol/unit of β-hexosaminidase per 30 s), while theKmwas not affected. The evidence provided by the present study suggests that the most likely mechanism of lysosomal glucose transport inhibition by genistein is via direct interaction between genistein and the transporter, rather than mediation by tyrosine kinase inactivation. Genistein likely has a similar mechanism of directly inhibiting sulphate transporter.