bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cultivation of polyhydroxybutyrate-rich aerobic granular sludge in a sequencing batch reactor
Authors: Wang J. , Yu H.Q.
Published: December 2006

In this study a two-step strategy was adopted to cultivate Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB)-rich aerobic granular sludge in a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) fed with a synthetic wastewater. In the first step both oxygen and ammonia were initially limited, in order to enhance the PHB-storage ability of sludge. In the second step granular sludge was cultivated to get a high PHB volumetric productivity. The PHB content of sludge increased to 43.1±2.0% in the first step. During the sludge granulation, the PHB content was constant at 40±4.6%. With the granulation, the settling ability of the PHB-rich sludge continuously improved, as evidenced by a decreased sludge volume index. The matured PHB-rich granular sludge presented a buff color and regular morphology with elliptical and flat shape.
Cultivation, granulation and characteristics of anaerobic ammonium-oxidizing sludge in sequencing batch reactor
Authors: Hu B.L. , Zheng P. , Mahmood Q. , Qian H.F. , Wu D.L.
Published: December 2006

Anaerobic sequencing batch reactor (SBR) was started-up by inoculating the nitrifying activated sludge. After an operation of 72 d, the bioreactor reached at steady state with ammonia and nitrite removal percentages higher than 95%. During operation, the sludge granulated in the reactor. The morphology and internal structure of sludge granules changed conspicuously, the density increased while the color changed from khaki to red. The average granular diameter grew from 1.2 to 3.69 mm, and its settling velocity accelerated from 107.68 to 118.49 m/h. Sludge granulation improved the tolerance to hydraulic shock loading, and reduced sludge washout (TSS < 0.028 g/L). The dominant bacterial communities (filamentous and cocci) in nitrifying activated sludge were replaced by irregular shaped ANAMMOX bacterial species gradually. An increase of ANAMMOX rate was achieved with the increasing granular diameter. SBR is a useful reactor to cultivate ANAMMOX granular sludge, while granular ANAMMOX sludge thus developed can be used as seeding sludge in a pilot-scale or full scale wastewater treatment plant.
Contamination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and their implication for environmental hazard
Authors: Chou P.-H. , Matsui S.
Published: December 2006

Studies concerning the contamination and pollution sources of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the Yodo River System, Japan, are summarized in this review. Mutagenicity and genotoxicity have been frequently detected in the tributary rivers of Yodo River, and novel contaminants such as phenylbenzotriazole type mutagens, nitrated PAHs, and heterocyclic amines have been suggested to be the causative agents. The contribution of nonsubstituted PAHs to the toxicity is considered to be low since only few ng/l of phenanthrene, fluoranthene, and pyrene have been found in the river waters. The application of an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) dependent bioassay in evaluating the combined toxicity caused by various pollutants in environmental samples is also introduced. Point and non-point sources of pollution discharging into the Lake Biwa-Yodo River System, including treated sewage effluents and deposited road particles, have been investigated using the AhR-dependent reporter gene assay. The results suggested the presence of newly identified AhR ligands such as anthraquinone dyes or unidentified AhR ligands in the treated sewage effluents and the road particles, respectively. Finally, toxic effects of PAHs that are mediated via AhR binding are also summarized.
Influence of exercise on thermographically determined surface temperatures of thoracic and pelvic limbs in horses
Authors: Simon Erika L. , Gaughan Earl M. , Epp Tammy , Spire Mark
Published: December 2006

Objective—To determine the amount of time required for surface temperatures of thoracic and pelvic limbs in horses to return to pre-exercise temperatures after high-speed treadmill exercise, as detected via infrared thermographic imaging.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—6 Thoroughbreds.

Procedures—All horses had been trained on and conditioned to use of a high-speed treadmill. Baseline thermographic images were obtained 3 days prior to exercise (baseline). Horses were exercised on a treadmill at a walk for 5 minutes, a slow trot (3 m/s) for 5 minutes, a trot (5 to 6 m/s) for 5 minutes, and a slow gallop (6 to 8 m/s) for 5 minutes, then back to a trot for 3 minutes, a slow trot for 3 minutes, and a walk for 3 minutes prior to stopping. Thermal images were obtained immediately after stopping exercise (0 minutes) and 5, 15, 45, and 60 minutes and 6 hours after stopping exercise. Ambient temperature surrounding each horse was recorded.

Results—In all regions, significant differences in surface temperatures were detected between thermograms obtained before exercise and those obtained immediately after, 5 minutes after, and 15 minutes after exercise was stopped. There were no significant differences in surface temperatures between thermograms obtained before exercise and those obtained ≥ 45 minutes after exercise was stopped.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In horses, images generated via infrared thermography are not influenced by exercise-generated heat ≥ 45 minutes after exercise is stopped.
The Effects of repeated interviewing on children's forensic statements of sexual abuse
Authors: Hershkowitz Irit , Terner Anat
Published: December 2006

Multiple interviews with children alleging sexual abuse are not uncommon. Researchers expressed concern that repeated investigations may create and preserve inaccurate details. However, studies indicated that repeated open‐ended interviews are not necessarily harmful and may have advantages. Forensic interviews were conducted with 40 children, alleged victims of sexual abuse, according to the NICHD investigative protocol. The children were re‐interviewed after a short break. The information obtained in the second interview was almost 25% new. The first interview yielded a larger number of details, both central and peripheral, but the proportion of central details was larger in the second interview. The proportion of details repeated in both interviews was surprisingly low, and most of the original information was not included. Older children repeated more information than younger ones. The data suggest that a repeated forensic interview may elicit new information and preserve central details. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Asymmetric Strecker Reaction of Ketoimines Catalyzed by a Novel Chiral Bifunctional N,N′‐Dioxide
Authors: Huang Xiao , Huang Jinglun , Wen Yuehong , Feng Xiaoming
Published: December 2006

A novel bifunctional N,N′‐dioxide derived from L‐prolinamide was employed to catalyze the enantioselective Strecker reaction of a range of N‐tosyl ketoimines, and an effective additive was used to improve the reactivity (up to 99 % yield) as well as the enantioselectivity (up to 91 % ee). In addition, a rational transition state was proposed to elucidate the origin of chiral induction in which an S‐adduct was produced.
Nitrile Hydratase Activity of a Recombinant Nitrilase
Authors: Fernandes Bruno C. M. , Mateo Cesar , Kiziak Christoph , Chmura Andrzej , Wacker Jan , van Rantwijk Fred , Stolz Andreas , Sheldon Roger A.
Published: December 2006

Appreciable amounts of amide are formed in the course of nitrile hydrolysis in the presence of recombinant nitrilase from Pseudomonas fluorescens EBC 191, depending on the α‐substituent and the reaction conditions. The ratio of the nitrilase and nitrile hydratase activities of the enzyme is profoundly influenced by the electronic and steric properties of the reactant. In general, amide formation increased when the α‐substituent was electron‐deficient; 2‐chloro‐2‐phenylacetonitrile, for example, afforded 89 % amide. We found, moreover, that (R)‐mandelonitrile was hydrolysed with 11 % of amide formation whereas 55 % amide was formed from the (S)‐enantiomer; a similar effect was found for the O‐acetyl derivatives. A mechanism that accomodates our results is proposed.
Hydrolytic Kinetic Resolution of Epoxides Catalyzed by Chromium(III)‐endo,endo‐2,5‐diaminonorbornane‐salen [Cr(III)‐DIANANE‐salen] Complexes. Improved Activity, Low Catalyst Loading
Authors: Berkessel Albrecht , Ertürk Erkan
Published: December 2006

The hydrolytic kinetic resolution (HKR) of terminal epoxides, using chiral chromium(III)‐salen catalysts based on DIANANE (endo,endo‐2,5‐diaminonorbornane), was studied. A broad substrate scope was found for the chromium(III)‐DIANANE catalysts, and very low loadings (down to 0.05 mol %) were needed to achieve high enantiomeric purities of both the remaining epoxides and the product diols (up to >99 % ee). Besides monosubstituted epoxides, 2‐methyl‐2‐n‐pentyloxirane, which is an example for 2,2‐disubstituted epoxides, could be ring‐opened in an asymmetric fashion with water in the presence of an electronically tuned chromium(III)‐DIANANE complex.
What appears to be helping or hindering practitioners in implementing the Common Assessment Framework and lead professional working?
Authors: Brandon Marian , Howe Amanda , Dagley Valerie , Salter Charlotte , Warren Catherine
Published: December 2006

The Common Assessment Framework (CAF) and lead professional (LP) working are part of a government strategy in England and Wales for earlier intervention and more integrated services for children and families. A national government evaluation studied the early piloting stage of implementation of CAF and LP working in 12 English trialling group areas. Initial findings suggest a number of interlocking factors, which seem to either help or hinder the process of implementation. Where there is enthusiasm for the work and a clear structure, which is understood and internalized by practitioners, CAF and LP are promoting better multi‐agency working, helping agencies to come together much faster and enabling more rigorous follow‐through of services. Hindrances include the lack of a local history of successful multi‐agency working, which seemed in turn to breed professional mistrust and fuel anxiety. Anxiety is also generated by fears about change and lack of confidence in new skills. For many practitioners aspects of this work are new and the emotional impact of the work needs to be acknowledged in support and training. The task of local implementation would be easier if there were firmer national guidance about CAF and LP roles and processes, for example a single nationally approved CAF form. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Functional Cell‐Surface Display of a Lipase‐Specific Chaperone
Authors: Wilhelm Susanne , Rosenau Frank , Becker Stefan , Buest Sebastian , Hausmann Sascha , Kolmar Harald , Jaeger Karl‐Erich
Published: December 2006

Lipases are important enzymes in biotechnology. Extracellular bacterial lipases from Pseudomonads and related species require the assistance of specific chaperones, designated “Lif” proteins (lipase specific foldases). Lifs, a unique family of steric chaperones, are anchored to the periplasmic side of the inner membrane where they convert lipases into their active conformation. We have previously shown that the autotransporter protein EstA from P. aeruginosa can be used to direct a variety of proteins to the cell surface of Escherichia coli. Here we demonstrate for the first time the functional cell‐surface display of the Lif chaperone and FACS (fluorescence‐activated cell sorting)‐based analysis of bacterial cells that carried foldase–lipase complexes. The model Lif protein, LipH from P. aeruginosa, was displayed at the surface of E. coli cells. Surface exposed LipH was functional and efficiently refolded chemically denatured lipase. The foldase autodisplay system reported here can be used for a variety of applications including the ultrahigh‐throughput screening of large libraries of foldase variants generated by directed evolution.
Tuning the Electronic Communication in Heterobimetallic Mixed‐Valence Ions of (1‐Ferrocenyl)‐ and (2‐Ferrocenyl)indenyl Rhodium Isomers
Authors: Santi Saverio , Orian Laura , Durante Christian , Bisello Annalisa , Benetollo Franco , Crociani Laura , Ganis Paolo , Ceccon Alberto
Published: December 2006

A series of heterobimetallic complexes of general structure [RhL2{η5‐(2‐ferrocenyl)indenyl}] (L2=cod, nbd, L=CO; cod=cyclooctadiene; nbd=norbornadiene) has been synthesised with the aim of tuning the metal–metal interaction in their mixed‐valence ions generated both by chemical and electrochemical oxidation, and the results are compared with those obtained for [RhL2{η5‐(1‐ferrocenyl)indenyl}] isomers. Crystallographic studies and DFT calculations provide a detailed description of the structural and electronic features of these complexes evidencing a significant difference in the extent of planarity of the flexible bridging ligand between the 1‐ and 2‐ferrocenyl isomers. Independent experimental probes, in particular the potential splitting in the cyclic voltammograms and the IT bands in the near‐IR spectra, are rationalised in the framework of Marcus–Hush theory and at quantum chemistry level by DFT and TD‐DFT methods. These methods allow us to establish a trend based on the magnitude of iron–rhodium electronic coupling Hab ranging from valence trapped to almost delocalised ions. The quasi planar bridge and the olefin ancillary ligands make [Rh(nbd){η5‐(2‐ferrocenyl)indenyl}]+ and [Rh(cod){η5‐(2‐ferrocenyl)indenyl}]+ rare examples of heterobimetallic systems which can be classified as borderline Class II/Class III species.
Chelating Dialkoxide Titanium Complex: A Versatile Building Block for the Construction of Heterometallic Derivatives
Authors: Fandos Rosa , Hernández Carolina , Otero Antonio , Pastor Cesar , Terreros Pilar , Aullón Gabriel , Álvarez Santiago
Published: December 2006

The heterometallic complex [TiCp*(O2Bz)2AlMe2] (2) has been synthesised by reaction of [TiCp*(O2Bz)(OBzOH)] (1) with AlMe3 (Cp*=η5‐C5Me5; Bz=benzyl). Complex 1 reacts with HOTf to yield the cationic derivative [TiCp*(OBzOH)2]OTf (3) (HOTf=HSO3CF3). Compound 3 reacts with [{M(μ‐OH)(cod)}2] (M=Rh, Ir; cod=cyclooctadiene) to render the early–late heterometallic complexes [TiCp*(O2Bz)2{M(cod)}2]OTf (M=Rh (4); Ir (5)). The molecular structure of complex 4 has been established by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies.
Utility of millipore filter and cell block in thyroid needle aspirates: Which method is superior?
Authors: Nassar Aziza , Cohen Cynthia , Siddiqui Momin T.
Published: December 2006

The main goal of thyroid fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) is to distinguish nodules that require surgery from those that do not, thereby decreasing the number of diagnostic thyroidectomies. Several cytologic preparations are used to reach a definitive diagnosis, including smears using conventional stains, such as Diff‐Quik (DQ) and Papanicolaou (Pap), millipore filters (MF), and cell blocks (CB). This study is undertaken to study the efficacy and adequacy to reach a definitive diagnosis of two cytologic preparations, MF and CB, in thyroid aspirates.

All thyroid needle aspirates performed at Emory University Hospitals from January 2003 to April 2005 that had both MF and CB preparations for microscopic evaluation were studied. Conventional stains (DQ and Pap) were prepared. An initial aliquot of the specimen was divided for MF, and the remaining specimen submitted for CB preparation. All MF and CB slides were reviewed blindly. Adequacy criteria were assessed as 6–8 groups of follicular cells, with each containing 10 or more cells. Patient demographics, cytologic diagnoses, and follow‐up information were retrieved.

A total of 218 cases met our criteria; 21 of these cases were excluded due to lack of available diagnostic slides. Thus, a total of 197 cases were studied. Approximately two‐third of the cases (57.9%) were diagnosed on DQ‐ and Pap‐stained smears only, in which both CB and MF were inadequate. About 4.6% of the cases were diagnostic on both CB and MF; 36.0% on MF only, and 1.5% on CB preparation only.

In more than half the cases (57.9%), diagnosis of thyroid FNA was rendered only on conventional stained smears. MF smears appeared to be superior for diagnostic yield (40.6%) than CB (6.1%), which is dependent on specimen cellularity. Therefore, MF rather than CB should be added to conventional stained smears (DQ and Pap) to supplement the diagnostic yield, especially in specimens of low cellularity. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2007;35:34–38. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Well‐differentiated fetal adenocarcinoma of the lung: Cytomorphologic features on fine‐needle aspiration with emphasis on use of β‐catenin as a useful diagnostic marker
Authors: Proctor Lori , Folpe Andrew L. , Esper Annette , Wolfenden Linda L. , Force Seth , Logani Sanjay
Published: December 2006

Well‐differentiated fetal adenocarcinoma (WDFA), also known as low grade adenocarcinoma of the fetal lung type, is a rare pulmonary neoplasm now considered to be a variant of lung adenocarcinoma rather than a type of pulmonary blastoma. Upregulation of the Wnt signaling pathway with subsequent aberrant nuclear/cytoplasmic β‐catenin expression has been recently described in these tumors providing a possible pathogenetic role for this gene in WDFA. We describe the cytomorphologic findings of a case of WDFA in a 36‐yr‐old female patient and emphasize the diagnostic utility of aberrant nuclear/cytoplasmic expression of β‐catenin as an adjunct to the correct preoperative recognition of this tumor on aspiration cytology. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2007;35:39–42. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Functional expression of chemokine receptor CCR6 on human effector memory CD8+ T cells
Authors: Kondo Takaaki , Takata Hiroshi , Takiguchi Masafumi
Published: December 2006

Since CCR6 is a receptor for the chemokine CCL20, which is produced in tissues such as intestine and colon, it is thought that T cells expressing CCR6 are involved in mucosal immunity. The expression and function of CCR6 on human CD8+ T cells have not well been analyzed, although it is known that this receptor is expressed on a subset of human CD8+ T cells. We here characterize human CCR6+ CD8+ T cells. Multi‐color flow cytometric analysis demonstrated that CCR6+ cells are predominantly found among CD8+ T cells having the memory phenotype. The expression of CCR6 is positively and negatively correlated with that of CCR5 and CCR7, respectively. CCR6+ CD8+ T cells express granzyme A and a low level of perforin but not granzyme B. In addition, a major population among these cells has the ability to produce IFN‐γ and TNF‐α but not IL‐2. These results indicate that CCR6+ CD8+ T cells have characteristics of early effector memory cells rather than effector or central memory cells. A chemotaxis assay revealed that CCR6+ CD8+ T cells have the ability to migrate in response to CCL20, suggesting that these T cells migrate to tissues such as colon and are involved in mucosal immunity.
The germinal center response is impaired in the absence of T cell‐expressed CXCR5
Authors: Arnold Carrie N. , Campbell Daniel J. , Lipp Martin , Butcher Eugene C.
Published: December 2006

Germinal centers support the differentiation of memory B cells and long‐lived antibody‐secreting cells during infection or upon vaccination. Here, we constructed mice with T cells that selectively lack the chemokine receptor CXCR5 to determine if expression of this receptor by T cells is mandatory for germinal center formation and function. In these animals, germinal centers that are properly localized in B cell follicles and contain T cells do form after immunization with a thymus‐dependent antigen. However, fewer and smaller germinal centers form, resulting in a significant reduction in the frequency of germinal center B cells. The defect in germinal center formation is paralleled by decreased frequencies of isotype‐switched antibody‐secreting cells in the spleen and bone marrow and reduced serum concentrations of total and high‐affinity hapten‐specific IgG1. The results demonstrate that although CXCR5‐dependent T cell positioning is important for maximal induction and expansion of germinal centers, stimulation of isotype class switching, and development of antibody‐secreting cells that seed the spleen and bone marrow, it is not absolutely required for the formation and function of follicular germinal centers.
Faithful activation of an extra‐bright red fluorescent protein in “knock‐in” Cre‐reporter mice ideally suited for lineage tracing studies
Authors: Luche Hervé , Weber Odile , Nageswara Rao Tata , Blum Carmen , Fehling Hans Jörg
Published: December 2006

The considerable potential of Cre recombinase as a tool for in vivo fate‐mapping studies depends on the availability of reliable reporter mice. By targeting a tandem‐dimer red fluorescent protein (tdRFP) with advanced spectral and biological properties into the ubiquitously expressed ROSA26 locus of C57BL/6‐ES cells, we have generated a novel inbred Cre‐reporter mouse with several unique characteristics. We directly demonstrate the usefulness of our reporter strain in inter‐crosses with a “universal Cre‐deleter” strain and with mice expressing Cre recombinase in a T lineage‐specific manner. Cytofluorometric and histological analyses illustrate: (i) non‐toxicity and extraordinary brightness of the fluorescent reporter, allowing quantitative detection and purification of labeled cells with highest accuracy, (ii) reliable Cre‐mediated activation of tdRFP from an antisense orientation relative to ROSA26 transcription, effectively excluding “leaky” reporter expression, (iii) absence of gene expression variegation effects, (iv) quantitative detection of tdRFP‐expressing cells even in paraformaldehyde‐fixed tissue sections, and (v) full compatibility with GFP/YFP‐based fluorescent markers in multicolor experiments. Taken together, the data show that our C57BL/6‐inbred reporter mice are ideally suited for sophisticated lineage‐tracing experiments requiring sensitive and quantitative detection/purification of live Cre‐expressing cells and their progeny.
Performance of lipid‐based moisture barriers in food products with intermediate water activity
Authors: Bourlieu Claire , Guillard Valérie , Powell Hugh , Vallès‐Pàmies Baltasar , Guilbert Stephane , Gontard Nathalie
Published: December 2006

Nine lipid‐based barrier films (three chocolates, acetomonopalmitine, white beeswax, and four commercial blends: two acetoglycerides/beeswax blends, two hydrogenated and fractionated vegetable oils) were characterised using classical water‐related and physical properties of edible barriers, such as water vapour permeability, moisture adsorption isotherm, moisture effective diffusivity, surface hydrophobicity, firmness and solid fat content (20 °C). Classifications based on these properties were established and compared to the barrier efficiency under real conditions of use, i.e. in a model food product (cereal‐based component – intermediary aw gel). Moisture migrations were performed using self‐supported barriers (300 µm) and fitted with a predictive model based on Fick's Second Law. White beeswax and acetoglycerides enabled the best extensions of the dry‐component shelf life from 2 h to between 100 and 330 h. Moisture effective diffusivity and calculated water vapour permeability combined to a mechanical property evaluation of the barrier were more discriminating to assess the barrier efficiency in the model food than the moisture sorption and experimental water vapour permeability. The importance of combining both water‐related and physical characteristics of the barrier and the advantages of an integrated approach through the simulation of the material behaviour under its real conditions of use with the model are highlighted.
Cover Picture: Long Chain‐Substituted and Triply Functionalized Molecular Knots – Synthesis, Topological Chirality and Monolayer Formation (Eur. J. Org. Chem. 1/2007)
Authors: Böhmer Athanasia , Brüggemann Jens , Kaufmann Astrid , Yoneva Albena , Müller Sonja , Müller Walter M. , Vergeer Frank W. , Chi Lifeng , De Cola Luisa , Fuchs Harald , Chen Xiaoming , Kubota Takateru , Okamoto Yoshio , Vögtle Fritz
Published: December 2006

The cover picture shows at the center the long tail‐substituted trefoil knot species synthesized and investigated in this publication. The three peripheric segments show on the upper left side the enantiomers of these topologically chiral compounds, on the upper right side the detected triply bridged double knot and on the bottom a schematical illustration of the obtained Langmuir–Blodgett films. Details are discussed in the article by F. Vögtle et al. on p. 45 ff.
Versatile and Efficient Synthesis of a New Class of Aza‐Based Phosphinic Amide Ligands via Unusual PC Cleavage
Authors: Tsai Shih‐Chung , Fu Yaw‐Shien , Liao Ju‐Hsiou , Yu Shuchun Joyce
Published: December 2006

A new class of bidentate, aza‐based phosphinic amide ligands of the type RN(H)P(O)(2‐py)2 (2‐py = 2‐pyridyl) was synthesized within minutes via a one‐pot process including Staudinger reaction of an organic azide (RN3) with 2‐pyridylphosphines, followed by partial, unprecedented hydrolysis under loss of one aromatic substituent. The structure of the unusual‐hydrolysis product H2CCH(CH2)9N(H)P(O)(2‐py)2 (5a) was characterized by IR, 1H‐ and 31P‐NMR, as well as by X‐ray crystal‐structure analysis (Figure). The tetrahedral P‐atom was found to be surrounded by a trigonal‐pyramidal arrangement of the substituents. To gain insight into the formation of these novel phosphinic amides, a series of intermediate iminophosphoranes, H2CCH(CH2)9NP(Ar)n(2‐py)3 − n (n = 0–3), compounds 1a–1f, were synthesized, and their hydrolyses were studied. All tested compounds followed the classical hydrolysis route of PN cleavage under acidic conditions. Sequential hydrolysis to 5a–5d only occurred under either basic conditions or in wet MeCN as solvent. Notably, H2CCH(CH2)9NP(C6H5)(4‐MeO‐2‐py)2 (1c) was hydrolyzed at a much slower rate compared to its analogue 1b lacking the MeO group. On the contrary, the halogenated compounds H2CCH(CH2)9NP(4‐X‐C6H4)3 (1f,g) (X = F, Cl) were hydrolyzed at a notably faster rate relative to the non‐halogenated congener 1e (X = H).
Preparation and Recognition Properties of Vanillin‐Imprinted Polymers
Authors: Wang Guo‐Song , Cao Qiu‐E , Xiong Jie , Zhu Xiu‐Fang , Hou Neng‐Bang , Ding Zhong‐Tao
Published: December 2006

Some new molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) were prepared by different protocols involving vanillin as the imprinted molecule, methacrylic acid (= 2‐methylprop‐2‐enoic acid; MAA) as the functional monomer, and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA = 2‐methylprop‐2‐enoic acid ethane‐1,2‐diyl ester) as the cross‐linking agent. The adsorption property of the imprinted polymers was studied by UV spectrophotometry and HPLC. The results indicated that the porogen solvent had a certain influence on the adsorption performance of the polymer. The vanillin‐imprinted polymer MIP1 prepared with MeOH as porogen, exhibited advantageous characteristics, i.e., a high binding activity, a good selectivity, and a rapid adsorption equilibrium. The binding parameters studied by Scatchard analysis established that there are two types of binding sites in MIP1. Finally, by packing an SPE column (SPE = solid‐phase extraction) with the polymer MIP1, the vanillin was separated and enriched successfully by this sorbent from the samples of Vanilla fragrans and beer.
Reactions of Thioketones Possessing a Conjugated CC Bond with Diazo Compounds
Authors: Egli Daniel H. , Linden Anthony , Heimgartner Heinz
Published: December 2006

The reactions of several thioketones containing a conjugated CC bond with diazo compounds were investigated. All of the selected compounds reacted via a 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition with the CS group and subsequent N2 elimination to yield thiocarbonyl ylides as intermediates, which underwent a 1,3‐dipolar electrocyclization to give the corresponding thiirane 25, or, by a subsequent desulfurization, to give the olefins 33a and 33b. None of the intermediate thiocarbonyl ylides reacted via 1,5‐dipolar electrocyclization. If the α,β‐unsaturated thiocarbonyl compound bears an amino group in the β‐position, the reactions with diazo compounds led to the 2,5‐dihydrothiophenes 40a–40d. In these cases, the proposed mechanism of the reactions led once more to the thiocarbonyl ylides 36 and thiiranes 38, respectively. The thiiranes reacted via an SNi′‐like mechanism to give the corresponding thiolate/ammonium zwitterion 39, which underwent a ring closure to yield the 2,5‐dihydrothiophenes 40. Also in these cases, no 1,5‐dipolar electrocyclization could be observed. The structures of several key products were established by X‐ray crystallography.
Facile One‐Pot Multicomponent Synthesis of β‐Acetamido Ketones with Amberlyst‐15 as Heterogeneous Catalyst
Authors: Das Biswanath , Reddy Kongara Ravinder
Published: December 2006

The one‐pot multicomponent coupling of an aromatic aldehyde, an enolizable ketone or keto ester, acetonitrile, and acetyl chloride at room temperature in the presence of Amberlyst‐15 as catalyst affords β‐acetamido ketones in high yields. The inexpensive catalyst works under heterogeneous conditions and can be readily reused.
Enhanced production of lovastatin in a bubble column by Aspergillus terreus using a two‐stage feeding strategy
Authors: Rodríguez Porcel EM , Casas López JL , Sánchez Pérez JA , Chisti Y
Published: December 2006

A two‐stage feeding strategy is shown to improve the rate of production of lovastatin by Aspergillus terreus when compared with conventional batch fermentation. The feeding strategy consisted of an initial batch/fed‐batch phase and a semi‐continuous culture dilution phase with retention of pelleted biomass in a slurry bubble column reactor. The batch phase served only to build up the biomass for producing lovastatin, a secondary metabolite that inhibits its own synthesis in the producing microfungus. The semi‐continuous dilution phase provided nutrients to sustain the fungus, but prevented biomass growth by limiting the supply of essential nitrogen. (Synthesis of lovastatin does not require nitrogen.) The preferred pelleted growth morphology that favors lovastatin synthesis was readily obtained and maintained in the 20 L bubble column used. In contrast, a stirred tank fermentation had a substantially lower production of lovastatin because mechanical agitation damaged the fungal pellets. The two‐stage feeding method increased lovastatin production rate by more than 50% in comparison with the conventional batch operation. Rheological data for the fungal broth are presented. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Studies in mineralization of aqueous aniline using Fenton and wet oxidation (FENTWO) as a hybrid process
Authors: Gunale Tukaram L , Mahajani Vijaykumar V
Published: December 2006

A hybrid process for mineralization of aqueous aniline using Fenton and wet oxidation (FENTWO) is studied. It is important to have maximum conversion of ‘N’ atoms from the waste to N2. The conversion of input ‘N’ atoms in aniline to N2 was 15% during wet oxidation without the Fenton process and was improved to 50% with the Fenton process. Therefore, a hybrid process of Fenton followed by wet oxidation was studied for mineralization of the aqueous aniline stream. The parameters for the Fenton process were optimized (pH, catalyst, H2O2 to catalyst (FeSO4) ratio, quantity of H2O2). The waste obtained after the Fenton process was then treated by wet oxidation for mineralization by having homogeneous CuSO4 as the catalyst by keeping FeSO4 therein. This combined catalyst was found to be more effective for the degradation of the intermediates formed in the Fenton process. Wet oxidation (WO) was studied in the temperature range 473–513 K and the oxygen partial pressure range 0.345–1.38 MPa at pH 6.5. The kinetic data was modeled using a power law rate expression in terms of chemical oxygen demand (COD). The optimum temperature for formation of more N2 gas was found to be 493 K. The treated waste stream was found to contain oxalic acid using HPLC, and NH4+, NO3− and NO2− ions using ion chromatography analysis. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Correlations between dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging–derived measures of tumor microvasculature and interstitial fluid pressure in patients with cervical cancer
Authors: Haider Masoom A. , Sitartchouk Igor , Roberts Timothy P.L. , Fyles Anthony , Hashmi Ali T , Milosevic Michael
Published: December 2006

Purpose

To correlate permeability (rktrans), extracellular volume fraction (rve), relative to muscle and initial area under the enhancement curve (IAUC60m) determined by dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‐MRI) with in vivo measurements of interstitial fluid pressure (IFP) in patients with cervical cancer.

Materials and Methods

DCE‐MRI and IFP measurements were performed of cervical tumors of 32 patients prior to therapy. Median tumor rktrans and rve were derived from a bidirectional two‐compartment model using an input function derived from muscle. Median IAUC60m was defined as the integral of tumor enhancement in the first 60 seconds divided by the similar muscle enhancement integral. These parameters were correlated with the mean tumor IFP.

Results

There was a significant negative correlation between IAUC60m and IFP (r = –0.42, P = 0.016) and between rktrans and IFP (r = –0.47, P = 0.008). The was no significant correlation between IFP and rve.

Conclusion

There is a moderate negative correlation between IAUC60m, rktrans, and IFP in cervical cancer. This suggests that these parameters may be of value in assessment of tumor behavior. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Overexpression of hippocampal Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II improves spatial memory
Authors: Poulsen D.J. , Standing D. , Bullshields K. , Spencer K. , Micevych P.E. , Babcock A.M.
Published: December 2006

Hippocampal α‐calcium/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II (αCaMKII) has been implicated in neuronal plasticity and spatial learning. In the present experiment, an adeno‐associated virus (AAV) vector was designed to express αCaMKII driven by the U6 promotor. Microinfusion of this vector into the rat hippocampus increased αCaMKII immunoreactivity by ∼73% (Western analysis) and improved performance in a water maze task. Locomotor activity and exploratory behavior in an open field task were not altered by the overexpression of αCaMKII. These data support a role for αCaMKII in spatial or explicit memory storage. The advantages of viral vectors for manipulating target proteins expression compared with genetically modified mouse models are discussed. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The application of monolithic columns in pesticides analysis
Authors: Wang Jinfang , Xu Yanjun , Liu Shuaigang , Jiang Shuren , Pan Canping
Published: December 2006

HPLC and HPLC/MS are the most widely used analytical techniques in the field of pesticides analysis. In recent years, there has been considerable focus on fast separations in HPLC in order to reduce analysis time as well as cost. Monolithic columns, consisting of continuous beds with macropores and mesopores, can meet this requirement and have been widely used in the medical and biological fields. However, it has seldom been used when analyzing pesticides. In this work, the application of monolithic columns in pesticides analysis and their advantages are evaluated and compared with those obtained using conventional packed columns.
Preparation and application of monolithic beds in the separation of selected natural biologically important compounds
Authors: Szumski Michal , Buszewski Boguslaw
Published: December 2006

The importance of monolithic (continuous) beds is connected with their easy preparation and the far‐reaching possibilities of modification of their surface and porous properties. These properties make them particularly attractive for the analysis of biologically important compounds characterized by a wide spectrum of physico‐chemical properties. This review summarizes their preparation methods as well as their application as continuous beds for determination of such biologically important compounds as catecholamines, vitamins, flavonoids, amino acids, peptides, and proteins.
Mass spectrometry and scanning electron microscopy study of silicone tunneled dialysis catheter integrity after an exposure of 15 days to 60% ethanol solution
Authors: Guenu Sophie , Heng Anne‐Elisabeth , Charbonné Françoise , Galmier Marie‐Josèphe , Charlès Franck , Deteix Patrice , Souweine Bertrand , Lartigue Claire
Published: December 2006

Anti‐infectious lock is an emerging therapeutic option for preventing and/or controlling catheter‐associated infection. Ethanol has widespread bactericidal activity, limited side effects, and low risk of inducing antimicrobial resistance. However, concerns have been raised about ethanol‐induced catheter structural degradation. In this study, silicone catheters were immersed at 37°C in three different solvents: 0.9% sodium chloride, 60% ethanol, and 95% ethanol for 4 h, 15 days and 15 days after a first storage of 4 h. Scanning electron microscopy (magnification 1000–20 000 times) of the inner surface of the catheter revealed no damage to the lumen surfaces of catheters immersed in 95% ethanol for 15 days compared with the reference catheter. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOFMS) analysis of the storage solutions revealed a significant release of polydimethylsiloxanes having a number of dimethylsiloxane units lower than 30 in the 95% ethanol solution and a structure highly consistent with a cyclic structure. Most release occurred within the first 4 h of exposure. In contrast, there was no difference in the small amounts of silicone released in 0.9% sodium chloride as reference and 60% ethanol solution, whatever the exposure time. These results should allow the development of clinical trials to assess the efficacy of the 60% ethanol lock technique in preventing or controlling the infectious complications of silicone dialysis catheters. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Atrial fibrillation in heart failure patients: Prevalence in daily practice and effect on the severity of symptoms. Data from the ALPHA study registry
Authors: De Ferrari Gaetano M. , Klersy Catherine , Ferrero Paolo , Fantoni Cecilia , Salerno‐Uriarte Diego , Manca Lorenzo , Devecchi Paolo , Molon Giulio , Revera Miriam , Curnis Antonio , Braga Simona Sarzi , Accardi Francesco , Salerno‐Uriarte Jorge A. ,   ALPHA Study Group1
Published: December 2006

Background

Estimates of the prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in heart failure (HF) originate from patients enrolled in clinical trials.

Aims

To assess the prevalence and clinical correlates of AF among HF patients in everyday clinical practice from HF patients screened for the T‐wave ALternans in Patients with Heart fAilure (ALPHA) study; to investigate the correlation between AF and functional status.

Methods and results

Consecutive patients (N=3513) seen at nine Heart Failure Clinics were studied; 21.4% were in AF. AF prevalence was greater with increasing age (OR 1.04/year, p<0.001) in non‐ischaemic cardiomyopathy (OR 2.34, p<0.001) and with increasing NYHA class (p<0.0001). Multiple logistic regression predictors of AF were age >70 years (OR 2.35), NYHA class II III or IV vs class I (OR 1.8, 4.4 and 3.1) and non‐ischaemic cardiomyopathy (OR 3.2).

A logistic model indicated that AF was associated with a 2.5 OR of being in NYHA class III–IV vs I–II while accounting for age, gender, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and aetiology of HF.

Conclusions

The prevalence of AF in HF patients exceeds 20%, and increases with age and functional class. The presence of AF leads to a more severe NYHA class, indicating that AF contributes to the severity of heart failure.
On the origin and evolution of vertebrate and viral profilins
Authors: Polet Debby , Lambrechts Anja , Vandepoele Klaas , Vandekerckhove Joël , Ampe Christophe
Published: December 2006

The three dimensional structures of profilins from invertebrates and vertebrates are remarkably similar despite low sequence similarity. Their evolutionary relationship remains thus enigmatic. A phylogenetic analysis of profilins from Deuterostoma indicates that profilin III and IV isoforms each form distinct groups. Profilin IV is most related to invertebrate profilins and originated prior to vertebrate evolution whereas separation of profilin I, II and III isoforms occurred early in vertebrate evolution. Viral profilins are most similar to profilin III. In silico analysis of representative profilin gene structures corroborates the phylogenetic result and we discuss this in terms of biochemical differences.
Involvement of a Rho‐ROCK‐JNK pathway in arsenic trioxide‐induced apoptosis in chronic myelogenous leukemia cells
Authors: Potin Sophie , Bertoglio Jacques , Bréard Jacqueline
Published: December 2006

The apoptotic signals activated by As2O3 in the chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) cell lines K562 and KCL22 were investigated. As2O3 was found to induce apoptosis in these cells via the intrinsic pathway. As2O3 also induced a sustained c‐Jun NH2‐terminal kinase (JNK) activation which preceded and was necessary for caspase‐9 activation. We established that Rho and its effector, the kinase ROCK, are activated by As2O3. Inhibition of either Rho or ROCK prevented JNK activation and protected against apoptosis. Thus, in CML cells, apoptosis induced by As2O3 is mediated, at least in part, via a Rho‐ROCK‐JNK axis. These findings define a novel signaling pathway for As2O3‐induced apoptosis.
Blinded Like a State: The Revolt against Civil Registration in Nineteenth-Century Brazil
Authors: Loveman Mara
Published: December 2006

The first reports of popular disturbances in connection with Decree 798, calling for obligatory civil registration of births and deaths in the Brazilian empire, surfaced in the early days of January 1852. In the ensuing weeks, men, women, and children from across the impoverished northeastern Brazilian backlands convened in small settlements and towns to protest the decree. Local authorities reported being forced to abandon their posts, fleeing from the “mass of ignorants,” who, armed with knives and stones, threatened violence against those who would implement the law. Disturbances were reported in at least thirty-one localities, with crowds estimated at one hundred to several thousand people.
Census and Sensibilities in Sarajevo
Authors: Markowitz Fran
Published: December 2006

During the latter part of the twentieth century, there was a country called Yugoslavia. Built on the ruins of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, the post-World War II Socialist Federated Republic of Yugoslavia was an ethnically diverse state comprised of six republics, which, by the 1960s, was committed to a foreign policy of non-alignment and to the domestic programs of worker self–management and “brotherhood and unity” among its peoples (see, e.g., Banac 1984; P. Ramet 1985; Shoup 1968; Zimmerman 1987). Like most other European states, the decennial census became a defining feature of Yugoslavia's sovereignty and modernity (Kertzer and Arel 2002: 7).
Exporting Development: The League of Nations and Republican China
Authors: Zanasi Margherita
Published: December 2006

In 1931, the Chinese minister of finance, Song Ziwen (T. V. Soong), reached an agreement with the League of Nations on a Program of Technical Cooperation with China. The program was intended to provide the Nationalist government—the republican government that ruled China from 1927 to 1949—with much-needed technological and financial aid in support of its nation-building effort. As a result, the League sent a number of experts to China. The first group focused mostly on public health, education, water conservation, and transportation (Zhang 1999). In 1933, however, the original agreement was revised and expanded to include economic development, with special emphasis on agriculture. In this context, a new group of League specialists visited China. Among them were three experts in rural cooperative societies: the Briton William Kenneth Hunter Campbell, the Italian Mario Dragoni, and the German Max Brauer.
Epifaunal composition and fractal dimensions of intertidal marine macroalgae in relation to emersion
Authors: Hooper Garnet J. , Davenport John
Published: December 2006

The effect of tidal emersion on the epifauna of three common British intertidal macroalgae, Cladophora rupestris (Chlorophyceae), Laminaria digitata (Phaeophyceae) and Fucus serratus (Phaeophyceae) was investigated. Tidally-induced migration of intertidal fauna is well documented, but the aim of this study was to determine the effect of algal complexity on the degree of change in epifaunal community structure between tidal states. The structural complexity of each algal species was determined by measuring the fractal dimension (D) of algal outlines (1.76, 1.23 and 1.11 respectively for the three species). In the case of L. digitata, a weighted value for D was used to take account of the varying morphologies of the holdfast, stipe and blade. The hypotheses tested were: (i) that increased algal fractal complexity is associated with increased abundance and diversity of associated epifaunal communities; (ii) that community composition is significantly reduced during emersion in intertidal algae (due to faunal migration); and (iii) that the degree of migration due to the receding tide is significantly reduced in more geometrically complex algae. Overall, faunal communities associated with C. rupestris were significantly more abundant and diverse than those associated with the other algal species investigated. No significant migration away from seaweeds was observed for any faunal taxon from any of the algal species studied during emersion. However, harpacticoid copepod abundance increased significantly on L. digitata at low tide. It is likely that these copepods were associated with the holdfast or underside of the lamina for protection from desiccation and the elements. This suggested an advantage associated with inhabiting low shore macroalgae during emersion compared with migration into the subtidal zone.
Recruitment of Serpuloidea (Annelida: Polychaeta) in a marine cave of the Ionian Sea (Italy, Central Mediterranean)
Authors: Denitto Francesco , Licciano Margherita
Published: December 2006

This paper is the first attempt to study the recruitment of Serpuloideans in a Mediterranean marine cave through the use of artificial substrates placed in three different positions, from the entrance to the interior of the cave. This study provides qualitative and quantitative data concerning Serpuloidea recruitment on panels removed successively after one, three, six and 12 months of permanence in the cave. A homogeneous distribution of juveniles Spirorbidae throughout the cave axis had already been detected after one month of panel immersion. Spirorbids were recorded also on panels removed after three months as well as serpulids, which began to be detected during this sampling time, even though represented by just one species. A significantly different pattern of distribution throughout the cave axis was observed after only six months, while other serpulids were detected for the first time. The pattern of species distribution seemed to reflect the biotic and environmental conditions of the cave. The highest serpuloidean species abundance and diversity was found on panels placed in the intermediate position within the cave. After only one year of panel immersion, a total of 20 taxa (11 Serpulidae and 9 Spirorbidae) was recorded, including five species listed for the first time in the marine caves of the Salento Peninsula.