bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial Databases
Authors: Gandhi Vijay , Kang James M. , Shekhar Shashi
Published: April 2008

Spatial database research has continued to advance greatly in the last three decades addressing the growing data management and analysis needs of spatial applications. This research has produced a taxonomy of models for space, conceptual models, spatial query languages and query processing, spatial file organization and indexes, and spatial data mining. However, emerging needs for spatial database systems include the handling of 3‐D spatial data, temporal dimension with spatial data, and spatial data visualization. In addition, the rise of new systems such as sensor networks and multicore processors is likely to have an impact in spatial databases. The goal of this article is to provide a broad overview of the recent advancements in spatial databases and of research needs in each area.
Energy optimization for the design of corn‐based ethanol plants
Authors: Karuppiah Ramkumar , Peschel Andreas , Grossmann Ignacio E. , Martín Mariano , Martinson Wade , Zullo Luca
Published: April 2008

In this work, we address the problem of optimizing corn‐based bioethanol plants through the use of heat integration and mathematical programming techniques. The goal is to reduce the operating costs of the plant. Capital cost, energy usage, and yields—all contribute to production cost. Yield and energy usage also influence the viability of corn‐based ethanol as a sustainable fuel. We first propose a limited superstructure of alternative designs including the various process units and utility streams involved in ethanol production. Our objective is to determine the connections in the network and the flow in each stream in the network such that we minimize the energy requirement of the overall plant. This is accomplished through the formulation of a mixed‐integer nonlinear programming problem involving short‐cut models for mass and energy balances for all the units in the system, where the model is solved through two nonlinear programming subproblems. We then perform a heat integration study on the resulting flowsheet; the modified flowsheet includes multieffect distillation columns that further reduces energy consumption. The results indicate that it is possible to reduce the current steam consumption required in the transformation of corn into fuel grade ethanol by more than 40% compared to initial basic design. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Schinzel–Giedion syndrome: Report of splenopancreatic fusion and proposed diagnostic criteria
Authors: Lehman Anna M. , McFadden Deborah , Pugash Denise , Sangha Karan , Gibson William T. , Patel Millan S.
Published: April 2008

We report on the 46th patient with Schinzel–Giedion syndrome (SGS) and the first observation of splenopancreatic fusion in this syndrome. In the antenatal period, a male fetus was found to have bilateral hydronephrosis. Postnatally, in keeping with a diagnosis of SGS, there were large fontanelles, ocular hypertelorism, a wide, broad forehead, midface retraction, a short, upturned nose, macroglossia, and a short neck. Other anomalies included cardiac defects, widened and dense long bone cortices, cerebral ventriculomegaly, and abnormal fundi. Splenopancreatic fusion, usually encountered in trisomy 13, was found on autopsy. Schinzel–Giedion syndrome is likely a monogenic condition for which neither the heritability pattern nor pathogenesis has yet been determined. A clinical diagnosis may be made by identifying the facial phenotype, including prominent forehead, midface retraction, and short, upturned nose, plus one of either of the two other major distinguishing features: typical skeletal abnormalities or hydronephrosis. Typical skeletal anomalies include a sclerotic skull base, wide supraoccipital‐exoccipital synchondrosis, increased cortical density or thickness, and broad ribs. Other highly supportive features include neuroepithelial tumors (found in 17%), hypertrichosis, and brain abnormalities. Severe developmental delay and poor survival are constant features in reported patients. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chemical vapor deposition of metal borides: 6. The formation of neodymium boride thin film materials from polyhedral boron clusters and metal halides by chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Kher Shreyas S. , Romero Jennifer V. , Caruso John D. , Spencer James T.
Published: April 2008

The chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of crystalline thin films of neodymium hexaboride (NdB6) was achieved using either nido‐pentaborane(9) or nido‐decaborane(14) with neodymium(III) chloride on different substrates. The highly crystalline NdB6 films were formed at relatively moderate temperatures (835 °C, ca. 1 µm/h) and were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray emission spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction and glow discharge mass spectrometry. The NdB6 polycrystalline films were found to be pure and uniform in composition in the bulk material. Depositions using CoCl2, NdCl3 and B5H9 as the CVD precursors resulted in the formation of a mixture of NdB6 and CoB phases, rather than the ternary phase. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigation of Barton esters as radical photoinitiators
Authors: Dietlin C. , Allonas X. , Morlet‐Savary F. , Fouassier J. P. , Visconti M. , Norcini G. , Romagnano S.
Published: April 2008

Different photoinitiators based on Barton thiohydroxamic esters,O‐acyl‐N‐hydroxy‐pyridine‐2(1H)‐thione andO‐acyl‐N‐hydroxy‐thiazole‐2(3H)‐thione derivatives, were tested in photopolymerization reactions through time‐resolved FTIR spectroscopy. Good rates of polymerization and final monomer conversion were obtained for some compounds. The excited state processes, investigated by time resolved absorption spectroscopy, lie on a fast singlet state cleavage leading to thiyl and alkyl radicals. Both the pyridine‐2(1H)‐thiyl and alkyl radicals are able to initiate a polymerization, in contrast with the thiazole‐2(3H)‐thiyl radical. A triplet state is observed for some derivatives. Computational studies help to describe the excited state properties and show a strong difference in the spin localization in the formed thiyl initiating radicals. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Study on a novel N‐functionalized multilithium initiator and its application for preparing star‐shaped N‐functionalized styrene‐butadiene rubber
Authors: Sun Liang , Wang Yurong , Li Yang , Zhang Chunqing
Published: April 2008

A novel N‐functionalized multilithium (N‐M‐Li) initiator was synthesized from divinylbenzene (DVB) and lithiohexamethyleneimine (LHMI), and its microstructure and molecular weight distribution were characterized by 1H‐NMR and GPC, respectively. Reaction kinetics of synthesis of N‐M‐Li was also studied and the apparent propagation rate constants of different monomers in this reaction were obtained. Star‐shaped N‐functionalized styrene‐butadiene rubber (SBR) was prepared by anionic polymerization using N‐M‐Li as initiator, N,N,N′,N′‐tetramethylethylenediamine (TMEDA) as polar additive, and cyclohexane as solvent. The molecular weight distribution of the target product was measured by GPC and the result showed that it contained a certain amount of star‐shaped polymers. Three types of SBR were initiated by N‐M‐Li, LHMI, and n‐BuLi, respectively, and then were contrasted in terms of the loss factor (tan δ) by DMA, which demonstrated that N‐M‐Li initiator could provide rubbers with improved hysteresis characteristics. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Biomechanical Evaluation of Equine Masticatory Action: Position and Curvature of Equine Cheek Teeth and Age‐Related Changes
Authors: Huthmann Stefanie , Gasse Hagen , Jacob Hans‐Georg , Rohn Karl , Staszyk Carsten
Published: April 2008

The equine cheek tooth battery is part of a very dynamic system. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the curvature and position of the teeth are also involved in such dynamical processes. The alveolar crest was labelled with a radiodense marker (48 cadaver heads, 15 skulls) and laterolateral radiographs were taken. Then a geometrical method was elaborated to determine a cheek tooth's curvature and its position by means of specific angles. This method respects the remarkable changes of the equine dentition throughout life by considering two items: (1) the alveolar crest was taken as a constant landmark, (2) the central axis of the curved dental crown was determined by calculation of a linear regression equation. This equation considered several geometrically determined points on the curved dental crown which had been marked in the radiographs. Our study yielded the following results: Mandibular cheek teeth became more curved with age, but their positions (represented by the so‐called mesio‐occlusal angle between tooth and alveolar crest) did not change significantly. In maxillary cheek teeth, however, the mesio‐occlusal angle became larger with age (indication of change of dental position), while their curvature did not change. Even though changes of the dental position were not always statistically significant, they are discussed as being biologically/functionally relevant. The mandibular anticlinal tooth, i.e. the tooth positioned at a mesio‐occlusal angle of about 90°, was not in contact with the maxillary anticlinal tooth. Interestingly, the maxillary anticlinal tooth is known to cause most clinical dental problems. Anat Rec, 291:565–570, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In Holz eingeklebte stiftförmige faserverstärkte Kunststoffe – Experimentelle Untersuchungen und mechanische Modellierung
Authors: Pörtner Carsten , Seim Werner
Published: April 2008

Der Einsatz faserverstärkter Kunststoffe ist seit mehreren Jahren auf vielen Gebieten des Bauwesens zu beobachten. So wird beispielsweise die Technologie der nachträglichen Biegeverstärkung von Massivbauwerken mittels im Zugbereich aufgeklebter Kohlefaserlamellen schon seit mehr als 10 Jahren im Rahmen von Systemlösungen mit allgemein bauaufsichtlicher Zulassung angeboten.

Dieser Beitrag beschreibt nach einer kurzen Zusammenfassung zu bisherigen Arbeiten anderer Autoren auf diesem Gebiet die Untersuchungen zum Verbundverhalten von in Holz eingeklebten Kunststoffstäben. Es werden Ergebnisse experimenteller und numerischer Untersuchungen vorgestellt und praxisgerechte Hinweise für die Ausführung des Klebverbunds gegeben. Abschließend wird ein für die Praxis handhabbares Rechenmodell vorgestellt, das das Verbundverhalten in Holz eingeklebter Stäbe bis zum Versagen zutreffend abbildet. Dem Anwender werden hierzu erforderliche Materialkennwerte und Modellparameter in Form einer Tabelle an die Hand gegeben.
On the origins of novelty in development and evolution
Authors: Moczek Armin P.
Published: April 2008

The origin of novel traits is what draws many to evolutionary biology, yet our understanding of the mechanisms that underlie the genesis of novelty remains limited. Here I review definitions of novelty including its relationship to homology. I then discuss how ontogenetic perspectives may allow us to move beyond current roadblocks in our understanding of the mechanics of innovation. Specifically, I explore the roles of canalization, plasticity and threshold responses during development in generating a reservoir of cryptic genetic variation free to drift and accumulate in natural populations. Environmental or genetic perturbations that exceed the buffering capacity of development can then release this variation, and, through evolution by genetic accommodation, result in rapid diversification, recurrence of lost phenotypes as well as the origins of novel features. I conclude that, in our quest to understand the nature of innovation, the nature of development deserves to take center stage. BioEssays 30:432–447, 2008. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mechanical restraints as positive reinforcers for aggression
Authors: Kahng SungWoo , Leak Jean‐Marie , Vu Chau , Mishler Brian
Published: April 2008

Research suggests that, in some cases, mechanical restraints may function as positive reinforcers. In this study, we conducted a functional analysis of severe aggression exhibited by an individual with a history of wearing arm splints. The results of this functional analysis demonstrated that his aggression was maintained by access to the arm splints. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exploring sequence space: Profile analysis and protein‐ligand docking to screen ω‐aminotransferases with expanded substrate specificity
Authors: Seo Joo‐Hyun , Park Hyung‐Yeon , Kim Juhan , Lee Bon‐Su , Kim Byung‐Gee
Published: April 2008

ω‐Aminotransferase (ωAT) is an interesting biocatalyst for the preparation of chiral amines, which are widely used as building blocks for pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals and fine chemicals. With the assumption that substrate and sequence spaces are in the process of co‐evolution, we explored sequences space to screen the enzymes showing activity to new target compounds. Bacterial genome sequences (n=527) were analyzed by the profiles of subgroups in aminotransferase group II including ornithine aminotransferase (orAT), acetylornithine aminotransferase (aoAT), ωAT, γ‐aminobutyrate aminotransferase (GABAAT) and 7,8‐diaminopelargonate aminotransferase (DAPAAT). We selected the sequences having a Z score of 0‐1.8 to guarantee the ωAT reaction and to avoid the typical ωAT sequences. Among the selected sequences, we filtered out the sequences with very low Z scores for the rest of four subgroups in aminotransferase group II to consider the diversity. For the selected sequences, we performed protein‐ligand docking simulations to predict the docking pose of amino acceptor. Throughout all the analysis procedures, several candidate aminotransferase sequences for the asymmetric synthesis of chiral amines were obtained. An efficient procedure for virtual screening of novel enzymes was demonstrated.
Globotriose‐Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles as Multivalent Probes for Shiga‐like Toxin
Authors: Chien Yuh‐Yih , Jan Mi‐Dan , Adak Avijit Kumar , Tzeng Hsiao‐Chien , Lin Yen‐Ping , Chen Yu‐Ju , Wang Ken‐Tseng , Chen Chien‐Tien , Chen Chia‐Chun , Lin Chun‐Cheng
Published: April 2008

Compared to monovalent carbohydrates, multivalent carbohydrate ligands exhibit significantly enhanced binding affinities to their interacting proteins. Here, we report globotriose (Pk ligand)‐functionalized gold nanoparticle (AuNP) probes for the investigation of multivalent interactions with the B5 subunit of Shiga‐like toxin I (B‐Slt). Six Pk‐ligand‐encapsulated AuNPs (Pk‐AuNPs) of varying particle size and linker length were synthesized and evaluated for their potential as multivalent affinity probes by using a surface plasmon resonance competition assay. The affinity of these probes for the interacting proteins was greatly affected by nanoparticle size, linker length, and ligand density on nanoparticle surface. For example, the 20‐nm 20‐Pk‐l‐AuNP, which had a relatively long linker showed a >108‐fold increase in affinity compared with the mono Pk ligand. This intrinsic high‐affinity AuNP probe specifically captured the recombinant B‐Slt from Escherichia coli lysate, and the resulting purity of the B‐Slt was >95 %. We also developed a robust Pk‐AuNP‐based detection method for Slt‐I by combining the technique with silver enhancement.
GeB4O9⋅H2en: An Organically Templated Borogermanate with Large 12‐Ring Channels Built by B4O9 Polyanions and GeO4 Units: Host–Guest Symmetry and Charge Matching in Triangular‐Tetrahedral Frameworks
Authors: Pan Chun‐Yang , Liu Guang‐Zhen , Zheng Shou‐Tian , Yang Guo‐Yu
Published: April 2008

A new borogermanate open‐framework, FJ‐18, with intersecting 12‐/8‐, 9‐, and 9‐ring channels in multidimensions was synthesized by using an organic diamine as structure‐directing agent (SDA). X‐ray diffraction showed that its structure is constructed by flexible connection of strictly alternate B4O9 clusters (with fictitious tetrahedral geometry) and GeO4 tetrahedra to form a zeotype framework with the CrB4 topology. The topology and structural relations between FJ‐18 and FJ‐16, a known borogermanate based on the linkage of B4O9 clusters and GeO4 units, are described in detail. Different guest SDAs can, by means of their shape, size, and charge, directly influence the structure of the host framework, and the origin of these phenomena can be attributed to fundamental parameters such as host–guest symmetry and charge matching through H‐bonding interactions, the concept of which has for the first time been extended to tetrahedral‐triangular frameworks. This result is a part of our ongoing work aimed at making new large‐pore materials constructed from B–O polyanions and Ge–O cluster units.
Klebstoffe im Fahrzeugbau. Die unsichtbaren Helfer
Authors: Schmitz Franz Peter , Symietz Detlef
Published: April 2008

Klebstoffe haben im heutigen Fahrzeugbau wichtige Funktionen übernommen. Sie ermöglichen crash‐stabile und gleichzeitig dichtende Metall‐Verbindungen, sie halten Scheiben in Position, sie schaffen neue Möglichkeiten bei Produktionsabläufen und beim Automobildesign. Gleichzeitig ist es dem Einsatz von Klebstoffen zu verdanken, dass – trotz einer wachsenden Zahl von eingebauten elektronischen und elektrischen Funktionen – das Gesamtgewicht von Fahrzeugen nicht noch weiter angestiegen ist, da mittels Klebstoffen Leichtbaumaterialien miteinander verbunden werden können. Somit tragen Klebstoffe nicht nur zu größerem Komfort und erhöhter Sicherheit bei, sondern auch zur Reduktion des Kraftstoffverbrauchs.
Grenzflächen fester Ionenleiter. Oberflächen‐Elektrochemie
Authors: Mutoro Eva , Luerßen Bjoern , Janek Jürgen
Published: April 2008

Grenzflächen spielen für die Eigenschaften und die Anwendung fester Ionenleiter eine zentrale Rolle. Die chemischen und strukturellen Aspekte von Grenzflächen fester Ionenleiter werden dargestellt und in drei Beispielen (Metallauflösung und –abscheidung, schneller Ionentransport in Grenzflächen, elektrochemisch kontrollierte heterogene Katalyse) erläutert. Die Bedeutung der Grenzflächen für die Funktion und weitere Optimierung von Lithiumbatterien und Brennstoffzellen wird veranschaulicht.
Responsive Polymerschichten. Schaltbare Oberfläche
Authors: Papaefthimiou Vasiliki , Steitz Roland , Findenegg Gerhard
Published: April 2008

Dünne Polymerfilme auf festen Oberflächen können auf einen äußeren Stimulus, speziell auf Änderungen von Temperatur, pH‐Wert oder Ionenstärke des Mediums, mit einer Änderung der Kettenanordnung und damit der Filmdicke reagieren. Von responsiven Polymerschichten spricht man, wenn diese Änderungen stark ausgeprägt und reversibel sind und wenn der entsprechende Schaltvorgang oftmals wiederholbar ist. Polymerbürsten von PNIPAM und dünne Filme von PNIPAM‐Mikrogelen zeigen im Kontakt mit wässrigen Medien ein ausgeprägtes Temperatur‐responsives Verhalten, welches direkt auf das Lösungsverhalten dieses Temperatur‐sensitiven Polymeren in Wasser zurückzuführen ist. Polymerbürsten von kationischen oder anionischen Polyelektrolyten reagieren dagegen auf Änderungen der Ionenstärke, wodurch die Reichweite der elektrostatischen Wechselwirkung zwischen den geladenen Gruppen beeinflusst wird. Auch hier können große und reversible Änderungen der Filmdicke beobachtet werden. Solche Polymerfilme können als Nanocontainer für die gezielte Aufnahme und Abgabe von Wirkstoffen genutzt werden.
Von der Sauce Vinaigrette zur Mayonnaise. Delikate Grenzflächen Teil 1
Authors: Roth Klaus
Published: April 2008

In der Drei‐Sterne‐Küche werden kulinarische Kreationen mit einer von über 3000 erprobten Saucen gekrönt. Die unübersehbare Vielfalt lässt sich auf wenige Grundsaucen zurückführen, wobei die mit Eigelb aufgeschlagenen Saucen eine besonders große Rolle spielen. Tatsächlich grenzt die emulgierende Wirkung eines einzigen Eigelbs schon an ein Wunder. Die physikalisch‐chemischen Grundlagen der instabilen und stabilen aufgeschlagenen Saucen werden analysiert und die chemische Rolle des Eigelbs bei der Saucenbildung untersucht. Rezepte aus Standardkochbüchern und von Paul Bocuse sollen Lust auf eigenes experimentelles Erproben machen.
Fluide in der Nähe fester Oberflächen. Komplexität versus Universalität
Authors: Brovchenko Ivan , Oleinikova Alla
Published: April 2008

Der Dichteverlauf von Fluiden in der Nähe einer Oberfläche wird durch den gegenläufigen Effekt fehlender Nachbarn an der Oberfläche und der Stärke der Fluid‐Oberflächen‐Wechselwirkung bestimmt und kann in manchen Fällen noch durch Oberflächenphasenübergänge kompliziert werden. Trotz der großen Mannigfaltigkeit an möglichen Fluid‐Grenzflächen kann dieser Verlauf in einem weiten thermodynamischen Bereich auf universelle Weise mit Hilfe der Theorie kritischer Phänomene von Fluiden an Oberflächen sowie der Theorie der Oberflächenphasenübergänge beschrieben werden. Dies eröffnet die Möglichkeit, unterschiedliche Fluideigenschaften nahe Oberflächen auf der Nanometerskala beschreiben zu können.
Geschwindigkeitsbegrenzung für nucleophile Substitution
Authors: Feil Sylvia
Published: April 2008

Die Energie bei der Kollision von Iodmethan mit Chlorid‐Ionen hat einen Einfluss auf das Ergebnis der nucleophilen Substitution. Diese Umsetzung klingt zunächst einfach, ist aber ein spannendes Modellsystem für komplexe Reaktionsdynamik und quantenphysikalische Effekte.
Fernhandel im prähistorischen Polynesien
Authors: Jacoby Petra
Published: April 2008

Polynesier durchsegelten bereits um 1000 n. Chr. den offenen Pazifik, um Waren zu tauschen. Dies belegen Spurenelement‐ und Isotopenanalysen von Steinbeilen, die auf dem Südseearchipel Tuamotu gefunden wurden.
Diagnostic Approach and Treatment Strategy in Tachycardia‐induced Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Jeong Young‐Hoon , Choi Kee‐Joon , Song Jong‐Min , Hwang Eui‐Seock , Park Kyoung‐Min , Nam Gi‐Byoung , Kim Jae‐Joong , Kim You‐Ho
Published: April 2008

Background

Due to the absence of differential guidelines for heart failure with tachyarrhythmia, it is difficult to diagnose tachycardia‐induced cardiomyopathy (TIC) at the initial visit. Furthermore, clinical outcomes of rate versus rhythm control in TIC are unclear.

Hypothesis

Because the etiology of TIC is different from dynamic cardiomyoplasty (DCMP), differential parameters may be present.

Methods

We assessed 21 patients with TIC (15 men; mean age, 50 ± 14 years) and 21 control patients with idiopathic DCMP. We assessed clinical courses, echocardiographic parameters, as well as outcomes by treatment.

Results

In the TIC group, the related tachyarrhythmias were atrial fibrillation (n = 12), atrial flutter (n = 5), atrial tachycardia (n = 3) and paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (n = 1). After treatment, all patients became asymptomatic and the ejection fraction (EF) improvement (ΔEF ≥15%) was observed in all patients (left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF], 30 ± 11%initial versus 58 ± 6%last). In the idiopathic DCMP group, no patient showed EF improvement (EF increase ≤ 5%), and 4 patients (19%) underwent heart transplantation. Left ventricle (LV) mass indices, volumes adjusted by BSA, and dimensions were smaller in the TIC group than in the idiopathic DCMP group. Of those, LV end‐diastolic dimension was the only independent predictor of TIC in multiple regression analysis (odds ratio [OR] 0.742 per 1 mm, 95% confidence ratio [CI] 0.618 to 0.891, p = 0.001). The Association of University Cardiologists (AUC) was 0.908 on receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and LV end‐diastolic dimension ≤ 61% mm could predict TIC with a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 71.4%. After restoration of sinus rhythm (n = 8), one experienced recurrent TIC after discontinuation of amiodarone. After control of heart rate (n = 13), one experienced recurrent TIC due to poor control of heart rate (log‐rank test, p = 0.808). There were no differences in the echocardiographic parameters between the 2 groups before and after treatment except for the larger initial LV volumes in the rhythm control.

Conclusions

In patients presented as heart failure with tachyarrhythmia, initial echocardiographic parameters, especially LV end‐diastolic dimension, help to differentiate TIC from idiopathic DCMP. Rate control was as effective as rhythm control for EF improvement and prognosis. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Immobilization using dental material casts facilitates accurate serial and multimodality small animal imaging
Authors: Haney Chad R. , Fan Xiaobing , Parasca Adrian D. , Karczmar Gregory S. , Halpern Howard J. , Pelizzari Charles A.
Published: April 2008

Custom disposable patient immobilization systems that conform to the patient's body contours are commonly used to facilitate accurate repeated patient setup for imaging and treatment in radiation therapy. However, in small‐animal imaging, immobilization is often overlooked or done in a way that is not conducive to reproducible positioning. This has a negative impact on the potential for accurate analysis of serial or multimodality imaging. We present the use of vinyl polysiloxane dental impression material for immobilization of mice for imaging. Four different materials were examined to identify any potential artifacts using magnetic resonance techniques. A water phantom placed inside the cast was used at 4.7 T with magnetic resonance imaging and showed no effect at the center of the image when compared with images without the cast. A negligible effect was seen near the ends of the coil. Each material had no detectable signal using electron paramagnetic resonance imaging at 9 mT. The use of dental material also greatly enhances the use of fiducial markers that can be embedded in the mold. Therefore, image registration is simplified as the immobilization of the animal and fiducials together helps in translating from one image coordinate system to another. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Concepts Magn Reson Part B (Magn Reson Engineering) 33B: 138–144, 2008
A microstrip helmet coil for human brain imaging at high magnetic fields
Authors: Driesel Wolfgang , Mildner Toralf , Möller Harald E.
Published: April 2008

A novel helmet coil for magnetic‐resonance (MR) investigations of the human brain is described. It is based on a pure microstrip transmission‐line (MTL) design. The coil consists of thin strip conductors (Cu) on a curved, low‐loss dielectric material (polypropylene) generating an overall domelike structure. The design concept exploits the combination of the field profile generated by the current distribution along each MTL that is modified by termination and the geometric profile due to the curved MTL shape. Because of the semiopen transmission‐line structure, most of the electromagnetic energy is stored in the dielectric material. Standing, quasi‐transverse electromagnetic (TEM) waves are created in a plane nearly perpendicular to the axis of the MTL leading to a reduced radiofrequency (RF) stray field outside the volume circumscribed by the helmet. Because of the symmetry of the assembly, a high degree of circularly polarized RF is obtained within the brain. A quadrature transmit/receive (T/R) coil and a four‐channel T/R array were built as initial prototypes for operation at 3 T. Computer simulations and imaging experiments verified that the MTL helmet coil permits imaging of the entire human brain including parallel‐imaging capabilities. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Concepts Magn Reson Part B (Magn Reson Engineering) 33B: 94–108, 2008
Design of a ceramic dielectric resonator for NMR microimaging at 14.1 tesla
Authors: Neuberger T. , Tyagi V. , Semouchkina E. , Lanagan M. , Baker A. , Haines K. , Webb A.G.
Published: April 2008

Radiofrequency coil design for magnetic resonance becomes increasingly challenging at high magnetic field strengths due to resonator dimensions being a significant fraction of the electromagnetic wavelength, as well as the increased radiative and component losses intrinsic to higher frequencies. In this article an inductively fed dual‐disk ceramic dielectric resonator was constructed from barium strontium titanate, which has a high relative permittivity of 323, for operation at 600 MHz (14.1 tesla). The design is very simple, avoids wavelength issues, uses high Q‐materials, and has the additional advantage of being able to change the resonator's effective diameter. Preliminary images show a significantly higher signal‐to‐noise than obtained using a similarly‐sized conventional saddle coil. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Concepts Magn Reson Part B (Magn Reson Engineering) 33B: 109–114, 2008
Endoscopic ultrasound and computed tomography in restaging and predicting prognosis after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with locally advanced gastric cancer
Authors: Park Sook Ryun , Lee Jong Seok , Kim Chan Gyoo , Kim Hark Kyun , Kook Myeong‐Cherl , Kim Young‐Woo , Ryu Keun Won , Lee Jun Ho , Bae Jae‐Moon , Choi Il Ju
Published: April 2008

BACKGROUND.

The objective of the current study was to assess the staging accuracy and prognostic role of preoperative endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and computed tomography (CT) in patients with locally advanced gastric cancer (LAGC) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

METHODS.

Presurgical LAGC patients underwent EUS and CT before and after 3 cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Chemotherapy was comprised of docetaxel (at a dose of 36 mg/m2) and cisplatin (at a dose of 40 mg/m2) on Days 1 and 8 of a 3‐week cycle.

RESULTS.

Forty patients were enrolled in the study. After chemotherapy, the accuracy of EUS and CT was found to be 47% and 57%, respectively for T classification (P = .22) and 39% and 37%, respectively for N classification (P > .99). The 3‐year overall survival (OS) rate for patients downstaged with EUS for T and/or N classification was greater than that for nondownstaged patients (69% vs 41%; P = .05). The 2‐year recurrence‐free survival (RFS) rate was also better for the EUS‐downstaged patients than for the nondownstaged patients (77% vs 47%; P = .04). On multivariate analysis, EUS downstaging was found to be correlated with OS (hazards ratio [HR] of 0.12; P = .04), and was correlated with RFS with borderline statistical significance (HR of 0.27; P = .07). The differences in OS and RFS between the patients downstaged with CT and those not downstaged were not found to be statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS.

Restaging by EUS and CT after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with LAGC was found to be inaccurate. However, T and/or N downstaging by EUS was found to be correlated with better OS and RFS. Thus, downstaging by EUS may be a useful clinical parameter with which to predict a better outcome for LAGC patients. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
A novel basal ganglia pathway forms a loop linking a vocal learning circuit with its dopaminergic input
Authors: Gale Samuel D. , Person Abigail L. , Perkel David J.
Published: April 2008

Dopamine has been implicated in mediating contextual modulation of motor behaviors and learning in many species. In songbirds, dopamine may act on the basal ganglia nucleus Area X to influence the neural activity that contributes to vocal learning and contextual changes in song variability. Neurons in midbrain dopamine centers, the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) and ventral tegmental area (VTA), densely innervate Area X and show singing‐related changes in firing rate. In addition, dopamine levels in Area X change during singing. It is unknown, however, how song‐related information could reach dopaminergic neurons. Here we report an anatomical pathway that could provide song‐related information to the SNc and VTA. By using injections of bidirectionally transported fluorescent tracers in adult male zebra finches, we show that Area X and other song control nuclei do not project directly to the SNc or VTA. Instead, we describe an indirect pathway from Area X to midbrain dopaminergic neurons via a connection in the ventral pallidum (VP). Specifically, Area X projects to the VP via axon collaterals of Area X output neurons that also project to the thalamus. Dual injections revealed that the area of VP receiving input from Area X projects to the SNc and VTA. Furthermore, VP terminals in the SNc and VTA overlap with cells that project back to Area X. A portion of the arcopallium also projects to the SNc and VTA and could carry auditory information. These data demonstrate an anatomical loop through which Area X activity could influence its dopaminergic input. J. Comp. Neurol. 508:824–839, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Environmental conflict resolution practice and performance: An evaluation framework
Authors: Orr Patricia J. , Emerson Kirk , Keyes Dale L.
Published: April 2008

Challenges to successful environmental management, such as costly litigation, planning delays, and contentious stakeholder relations, suggest a need for improved environmental governance. The need for improvement does not, however, in and of itself make a case for alternatives that engage diverse interests collaboratively in environmental decision making, commonly referred to as environmental conflict resolution (ECR). To better make the case for ECR and to understand what contributes to ECR success, a group of federal and state agencies developed an ECR evaluation framework. This article describes the evolution, structure, associated instrumentation, and current applications of this ECR evaluation framework.
What sticks: How medical residents and academic health care faculty transfer conflict resolution training from the workshop to the workplace
Authors: Zweibel Ellen B. , Goldstein Rose , Manwaring John A. , Marks Meridith B.
Published: April 2008

Workshops in conflict resolution were given to enhance the ability of residents and academic health care faculty to collaborate in multidisciplinary teams, patient care, hospital committees, public health issues, teaching, and research. A qualitative research study on the transfer of learning from the workshops to the workplace reports on the attitude, knowledge, and skills consistently reported both immediately after the workshops and twelve months later. Learners' descriptions of workplace conflict confirmed they gained a positive outlook on conflict and their own ability to solve problems and apply conflict resolution skills, such as interest analysis and communication techniques, to gain perspective, reduce tension, increase mutual understanding, and build relationships in patient care, teaching, research, and administration.
Is FOXP3 a bona fide marker for human regulatory T cells?
Authors: Roncarolo Maria‐Grazia , Gregori Silvia
Published: April 2008

FOXP3 is a specific marker for naturally occurring regulatory T cells (nTreg). FOXP3 expression is correlated with development and function of nTreg. Recent evidence suggests that, upon activation, human effector T (Teff) cells and type 1 regulatory T (Tr1) cells can express FOXP3, albeit transiently. While the role of transient FOXP3 expression in Teff cells is poorly understood, it is becoming clear that it does not correlate with suppressor function. Furthermore, FOXP3‐independent mechanisms, mediated by IL‐10, contribute to the induction and suppressor functions of Tr1 cells.

See accompanying commentary: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/eji.200838147
Cover Picture: How many mechanisms do regulatory T cells need? – Eur. J. Immunol. 4/2008
Authors: Vignali Dario
Published: April 2008

The cover picture has been specifically designed to introduce the first viewpoint series to be published in the European Journal of Immunology. The image combines a picture of a set of scales with a schematic picture of the Treg arsenal, depicting the different cell types influenced by Treg and underlining the crucial role that Treg play in immune regulation. The image is based on a figure in the article by Dario Vignali (pp. 908–911) in which the author discusses the effector functions of Treg and the potential mechanisms involved; this is also the theme of the related article by Cohen et al. (pp.903–907).
Low‐Potential Sensitive Hydrogen Peroxide Detection Based on Nanotubular TiO2 and Platinum Composite Electrode
Authors: Cui Xiaoli , Li Zhizhou , Yang Yanchao , Zhang Wei , Wang Qingfei
Published: April 2008

In this work, a novel sensor for detecting hydrogen peroxide was constructed on the base of nanotubular TiO2 and platinum nanoparticles. The morphology, structural, and electrochemical properties of the Pt/TiO2 nanocomposite electrodes were characterized by SEM, XRD and electrochemical methods. With an operating potential of +0.3 V versus Ag/AgCl, the sensor produces catalytic oxidation currents at the nanocomposite electrode, which can be exploited for quantitative determinations. The amperometric signals are linearly proportional to hydrogen peroxide concentration in the range 4×10−6 to 1.25×10−3 M. The regression equation is I (μA)=0.85 c (mM)+0.16 with a correction coefficient of 0.997. At a signal‐to‐noise ratio of 3, a detection limit of 4.0 μM H2O2 can be observed for the nanocomposite electrode. In addition, the sensor has a good stability and reproducibility. The construction process is simple and inexpensive. The results demonstrated that nanotubular TiO2 exhibits great prospect for developing a class of ideal and novel bioreactors and biosensors.
Renewable New Copper Complex Bulk‐Modified Carbon Paste Electrode: Preparation, Electrochemistry, and Electrocatalysis
Authors: Wang Xiuli , Zhao Haiyan , Lin Hongyan , Liu Guocheng , Fang Jiani , Chen Baokuan
Published: April 2008

A conductive carbon paste electrode (CPE) comprised of a new copper‐complex of [Cu2(Dpq)2(Ac)2(H2O)2](ClO4)2⋅H2O (Dpq=dipyrido[3,2‐d : 2′,3′‐f]quinoxaline, Ac=acetate) and carbon powder, was fabricated by the direct mixing method. The electrochemical behavior and electrocatalysis of the new copper‐complex modified CPE (Cu‐CPE) have been studied in detail. Cyclic voltammograms showed that the Cu‐CPE had a favorable electrochemical response of a reversible redox couple of Cu(II)/Cu(I). The Cu‐CPE showed good electrocatalytic activity toward the reduction of the bromate, nitrite and hydrogen peroxide. The electrocatalytic reduction peak current of KBrO3, KNO2 and H2O2 showed a linear dependent on their concentrations. All of the results revealed that the Cu‐CPE had a good reproducibility, remarkable long term stability and especially good surface renewability by simple mechanical polishing in the event of surface fouling, which is important for practical application.
Paste Electrode Based on Short Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes and Room Temperature Ionic Liquid: Preparation, Characterization and Application in DNA Detection
Authors: Zhang Xuzhi , Jiao Kui , Wang Xueliang
Published: April 2008

A paste electrode (SWNT&RTIL PE) has been prepared using carboxylic group‐functionalized short single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) mixed with 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate (BMIMPF6, one kind of room temperature ionic liquid, RTIL). Its electrochemical behavior was investigated by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in comparison with the paste electrode using mineral oil as a binder. Results highlighted the advantages of the paste electrode: not only higher conductivity, but also lower potential separation (ΔEp), higher peak current (ip) and better reversibility towards dopamine (DA), methylene blue (MB) and K3[Fe(CN)6]. The SWNT&RTIL PE could be used to detect the number of guanine bases and adenine bases contents in per mol oligonucleotides according to the current response in the range of 0.05–2.0 nM. Based on the current response of guanine bases, oligonucleotides could be detected sensitively in the B–R buffer solution with a detection limit of 9.9 pM. The heterogeneous electron transfer rate constant (ks) of guanine bases contents in the oligonucleotides was investigated and its value was 0.90 s−1. In essence the SWNT&RTIL PE showed high sensitivity, reliability, stability and reproducibility for the detection of DNA.
Modelling increased soil cohesion due to roots with EUROSEM
Authors: Baets S. De , Torri D. , Poesen J. , Salvador M. P. , Meersmans J.
Published: April 2008

As organic root exudates cause soil particles to adhere firmly to root surfaces, roots significantly increase soil strength and therefore also increase the resistance of the topsoil to erosion by concentrated flow. This paper aims at contributing to a better prediction of the root effects on soil erosion rates in the EUROSEM model, as the input values accounting for roots, presented in the user manual, do not account for differences in root density or root architecture. Recent research indicates that small changes in root density or differences in root architecture considerably influence soil erosion rates during concentrated flow. The approach for incorporating the root effects into this model is based on a comparison of measured soil detachment rates for bare and for root‐permeated topsoil samples with predicted erosion rates under the same flow conditions using the erosion equation of EUROSEM. Through backwards calculation, transport capacity efficiencies and corresponding soil cohesion values can be assessed for bare and root‐permeated topsoils respectively. The results are promising and present soil cohesion values that are in accordance with reported values in the literature for the same soil type (silt loam). The results show that grass roots provide a larger increase in soil cohesion as compared with tap‐rooted species and that the increase in soil cohesion is not significantly different under wet and dry soil conditions, either for fibrous root systems or for tap root systems. Power and exponential relationships are established between measured root density values and the corresponding calculated soil cohesion values, reflecting the effects of roots on the resistance of the topsoil to concentrated flow incision. These relationships enable one to incorporate the root effect into the soil erosion model EUROSEM, through adapting the soil cohesion input value. A scenario analysis shows that the contribution of roots to soil cohesion is very important for preventing soil loss and reducing runoff volume. The increase in soil shear strength due to the binding effect of roots on soil particles is two orders of magnitude lower as compared with soil reinforcement achieved when roots mobilize their tensile strength during soil shearing and root breakage. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Longitudinal assessment of psychotherapeutic day hospital treatment for elderly patients with depression
Authors: Canuto Alessandra , Meiler‐Mititelu Corina , Herrmann François R. , Delaloye Christophe , Giannakopoulos Panteleimon , Weber Kerstin
Published: April 2008

Objective

Although previous studies suggested that psychiatric day hospital care is a valuable alternative to inpatient treatment, its effectiveness for elderly patients is disputed. Small number of cases, poor definition of the psychotherapeutic setting, and absence of systematic assessment at different time points may explain the observed discrepancies. We performed an assessment of a psychiatric day hospital treatment combining individual and group psychotherapy in a series of 122 elderly depressed outpatients.

Methods

The Geriatric Depression Scale, Short Form Survey, as well as a Therapeutic Community Assessment Scale and Group Evaluation Scale were repeated at admission, 3, 6, 12 months and discharge. The day hospital program was based on psychotherapeutic treatment combining individual and group settings. All patients presented with major depression or a depressive episode of bipolar disease. Variables included severity of depressive symptoms, quality of life, adhesion to therapeutic community treatment and progress in groups of psychotherapy, art‐therapy, and psychomotricity.

Results

There was a significant reduction of depressive symptoms, and improvement in mental quality of life across all time points studied. Adhesion to therapeutic community increased from admission to discharge. This was also the case for the progress in group therapy for all three groups used, yet the evolution of this parameter at intermediate time points was highly variable. Neither demographic characteristics, nor pharmacological treatment or presence of stressful life events predicted the clinical improvement.

Conclusions

Psychotherapeutic care program in day hospitals may improve clinical status and quality of life in elderly depressed patients. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Decreased hippocampal cell proliferation correlates with increased expression of BMP4 in the APPswe/PS1ΔE9 mouse model of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Li Dabing , Tang Jun , Xu Haiwei , Fan Xiaotang , Bai Yun , Yang Li
Published: April 2008

Alterations in hippocampal cell proliferation have been identified in transgenic (tg) mouse models of Alzheimer's disease (AD); however, relatively little is known about the underlying mechanisms. Previously, we have demonstrated that endogenous level of BMP4 in the dentate gyrus (DG) affects hippocampal cell proliferation in a pentylentetrazol kindling‐induced epilepsy model. In the present study, we evaluated hippocampal cell proliferation and BMP4 mRNA level in the APPswe/PS1ΔE9 tg mouse, a well‐established mouse model in which coexpression of familial AD‐linked APP “Swedish” (APPswe) and PS1ΔE9 polypeptide variants leads to Aβ deposition throughout the hippocampus and cortex. The number of bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU)‐labeled cells in the DG subgranular zone (DG‐SGZ) of 9‐ and 12‐month‐old APPswe/PS1ΔE9 tg mice was markedly reduced compared with age‐matched nontransgenic littermates, whereas, the BMP4 mRNA level was significantly increased in the tg mice. There was a significant correlation between the increased BMP4 mRNA expression and the decreased number of BrdU labeled cells. After effectively blocking the expression of endogenous BMP4 with antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (ASODN), the decrease in hippocampal cell proliferation in the DG‐SGZ and hilus of 9‐ and 12‐month‐old tg mice was reversed. These findings suggest that the increased expression of BMP4 mRNA within the DG of the hippocampus may contribute to the decrease in cell proliferation in APPswe/PS1ΔE9 tg mice. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Opposite impact of NKG2D genotype by lifestyle exposure to risk of aerodigestive tract cancer among Japanese
Authors: Furue Hiroki , Kumimoto Hiroshi , Matsuo Keitaro , Suzuki Takeshi , Hasegawa Yasuhisa , Shinoda Masayuki , Sugimura Tomotaka , Mitsudo Kenji , Tohnai Iwai , Ueda Minoru , Tajima Kazuo , Ishizaki Kanji
Published: April 2008

It was reported that there are 2 haplotypes in natural killer complex (NKC) region. One of them could be divided by NKG2D polymorphism into 2 haplotype alleles (high and low natural killer (NK) cell activity) and were associated with overall cancer risks. However, its impact on a specific cancer is unclear. Therefore, by a case‐control study, we analyzed the association between NKG2D genotype and aerodigestive tract cancer risk. Subjects were 502 aerodigestive tract cancer patients (276 with head and neck, 226 with esophageal) and 1,004 sex‐age matched noncancer controls. Exposures to 2 lifestyle factors, smoking and drinking, were evaluated by a self‐administered questionnaire. The genotype of NKG2D was determined by the TaqMan method, and its impact was assessed by multivariable logistic regression models. Association strength was measured by the odds ratio (OR) and its confidence intervals (CI). An overall analysis revealed no statistically significant association between NKG2D genotype and the risk of aerodigestive tract cancer. However, we found protective effects of G allele among never smokers (OR 0.35; 95% CI 0.15–0.84) and never drinkers (0.42; 0.19–0.94). In contrary, increased risks were observed for G allele among heavy smokers (5.92; 3.23–10.85) and heavy drinkers (4.13; 2.29–7.47). Interactions between NKG2D genotype and lifestyle exposure were statistically significant (interaction p = 0.001 for smoking, 0.005 for drinking). The same trends were observed in both sexes, and in head and neck cancer and esophageal cancer independently. These results suggest an opposite impact of NKG2D genotype by lifestyle exposure to the risk of aerodigestive tract cancer among a Japanese population. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.