bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research Note: Decommodification and the worlds of welfare revisited
Authors: Bambra Clare
Published: January 2006

This paper critically examines the theoretical, empirical and methodological limitations of Esping-Andersen’s Three Worlds of Welfare decommodification index. It highlights an, to date, overlooked error in Esping-Andersen’s original calculations that led to the incorrect positioning of three borderline countries (Japan, the UK and Ireland) and resulted in the empirically erroneous composition of the Three Worlds of Welfare. Updated decommodification data from 1998/99 are used to explore the influential role of variable weighting in the creation of the three worlds typology. Finally, the paper revisits the decommodification index to examine how the relationships between the countries have changed since 1980. The paper concludes by questioning the extent to which the Three Worlds of Welfare still exist, and indeed, at least in empirical terms, the extent to which they ever did.
Descriptive and Prognostic Value of Patient-Reported Outcomes: The Bortezomib Experience in Relapsed and Refractory Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Dubois Dominique , Dhawan Ravinder , van de Velde Helgi , Esseltine Dixie , Gupta Sanjay , Viala Muriel , de la Loge Christine
Published: January 2006

Purpose

Bortezomib, a boronic acid dipeptide, has been recently introduced as a new approach to treating multiple myeloma (MM). The goal of this work was to evaluate the added value of patient-reported outcomes (PRO) in the interpretation of bortezomib clinical trial outcomes.

Patients and Methods

Two hundred two patients with relapsed, refractory MM were treated with bortezomib as part of the SUMMIT (Study of Uncontrolled Multiple Myeloma Managed with Proteasome Inhibition Therapy) study. Patients were administered the following four PRO measures at several time points: the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) core Quality of Life Questionnaire (QLQ-C30) and the myeloma-specific module (QLQ-MY24), the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT) Fatigue scale, and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy (FACT)/Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG) Neurotoxicity (Ntx) scale. Minimal important difference (MID) thresholds were used to define patients as improved, stable, or worsened. A survival analysis was conducted to assess the predictive power of PRO data.

Results

For the total population, there was a positive change between baseline and best end point. Consistent with the clinical responses, change in PRO scores showed statistically significant differences between response groups with PRO improvement in patients with complete response (CR) or partial response (PR), mostly stable scores in patients with minor response or no change, and deterioration in most scores for patients with progressive disease. Change in scores for neuropathy-related symptoms was reasonably stable. In contrast, fatigue scores significantly improved for patients with CR or PR. When various MID thresholds were applied, the proportion of improved patients exceeded 35% for several domains within all change group definitions. Moreover, survival analysis results demonstrated the additional prognostic information PRO data can provide to supplement clinical data.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the complementary value for PRO assessments in further interpreting clinical response, the impact of adverse effects, and patient prognosis in clinical trials.
Characterization of a Trypanosoma brucei RNA cap (guanine N-7) methyltransferase
Authors: HALL MEGAN P. , HO C. KIONG
Published: January 2006

The m7GpppN cap structure of eukaryotic mRNA is formed by the sequential action of RNA triphosphatase, guanylyltransferase, and (guanine N-7) methyltransferase. In trypanosomatid protozoa, the m7GpppN is further modified by seven methylation steps within the first four transcribed nucleosides to form the cap 4 structure. The RNA triphosphatase and guanylyltransferase components have been characterized in Trypanosoma brucei. Here we describe the identification and characterization of a T. brucei (guanine N-7) methyltransferase (TbCmt1). Sequence alignment of the 324–amino acid TbCmt1 with the corresponding enzymes from human (Hcm1), fungal (Abd1), and microsporidian (Ecm1) revealed the presence of conserved residues known to be essential for methyltransferase activity. Purified recombinant TbCmt1 catalyzes the transfer of a methyl group from S-adenosylmethionine to the N-7 position of the cap guanine in GpppN-terminated RNA to form the m7GpppN cap. TbCmt1 also methylates GpppG and GpppA but not GTP or dGTP. Mutational analysis of individual residues of TbCmt1 that were predicted—on the basis of the crystal structure of Ecm1—to be located at or near the active site identified six conserved residues in the putative AdoMet- or cap-binding pocket that caused significant reductions in TbCmt1 methyltransferase activity. We also report the identification of a second T. brucei RNA (guanine N-7) cap methyltransferase (named TbCgm1). The 1050–amino acid TbCgm1 consists of a C-terminal (guanine N-7) methyltransferase domain, which is homologous with TbCmt1, and an N-terminal guanylyltransferase domain, which contains signature motifs found in the nucleotidyl transferase superfamily.
Treatment of multiple hereditary osteochondromas of the forearm in children
Authors: Shin E. K. , Jones N. F. , Lawrence J. F.
Published: January 2006

We have evaluated the clinical outcomes of simple excision, ulnar lengthening and the Sauvé-Kapandji procedure in the treatment of deformities of the forearm in patients with multiple hereditary osteochondromas. The medical records of 29 patients (33 forearms) were reviewed; 22 patients (22 forearms) underwent simple excision (four with ulnar lengthening) and seven the Sauvé-Kapandji procedure.

Simple excision increased the mean supination of the forearm from 63.2° to 75.0° (p = 0.049). Ulnar lengthening did not significantly affect the clinical outcome. The Sauvé-Kapandji technique improved the mean pronation from 33.6° to 55.0° (p = 0.047) and supination from 70.0° to 81.4° (p = 0.045). Simple excision may improve the range of movement of the forearm but will not halt the progression of disease, particularly in younger patients. No discernable clinical or radiological improvement was noted with ulnar lengthening. The Sauvé-Kapandji procedure combined with simple excision of osteochondromas can improve stability of the wrist, movement of the forearm and the radiological appearance.
The use of immunomodulators as an adjunct to antituberculous chemotherapy in non-responsive patients with osteo-articular tuberculosis
Authors: Arora A. , Nadkarni B. , Dev G. , Chattopadhya D. , Jain A. K. , Tuli S. M. , Kumar S.
Published: January 2006

We studied 51 patients with osteo-articular tuberculosis who were divided into two groups. Group I comprised 31 newly-diagnosed patients who were given first-line antituberculous treatment consisting of isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol and pyrazinamide. Group II (non-responders) consisted of 20 patients with a history of clinical non-responsiveness to supervised uninterrupted antituberculous treatment for a minimum of three months or a recurrence of a previous lesion which on clinical observation had healed. No patient in either group was HIV-positive. Group II were treated with an immunomodulation regime of intradermal BCG, oral levamisole and intramuscular diphtheria and tetanus vaccines as an adjunct for eight weeks in addition to antituberculous treatment. We gave antituberculous treatment for a total of 12 to 18 months in both groups and they were followed up for a mean of 30.2 months (24 to 49). A series of 20 healthy blood donors served as a control group.

Twenty-nine (93.6%) of the 31 patients in group I and 14 of the 20 (70%) in group II had a clinicoradiological healing response to treatment by five months.

The CD4 cell count in both groups was depressed at the time of enrolment, with a greater degree of depression in the group-II patients (686 cells/mm3(sd 261) and 545 cells/mm3(sd 137), respectively; p < 0.05). After treatment for three months both groups showed significant elevation of the CD4 cell count, reaching a level comparable with the control group. However, the mean CD4 cell count of group II (945 cells/mm3(sd 343)) still remained lower than that of group I (1071 cells/mm3(sd 290)), but the difference was not significant. Our study has shown encouraging results after immunomodulation and antituberculous treatment in non-responsive patients. The pattern of change in the CD4 cell count in response to treatment may be a reliable clinical indicator.
Uptake of platinum-group elements with the diet: A preliminary investigation
Authors: Frazzoli Chiara , Cammarone Roberta , Caroli Sergio
Published: January 2006

Over the past decade, the increasing use of car catalytic converters based on platinum-group elements (PGEs) has been raising more and more concern. Human exposure to these metals occurs indirectly also through the diet. Thus, a pilot investigation was undertaken in order to ascertain the actual intake of PGEs through bread and cow milk. All manipulations were performed in a Class-100 clean room so as to minimize the risk of sample contamination. Digestion of samples was achieved by means of a mixture of HNO3 and H2O2 with the assistance of microwave irradiation.

Determinations were performed by sector field inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (SF-ICP-MS) to quantify Pd, Pt, and Rh. The isotopes 105Pd+, 103Rh+, and 195Pt+ were used for the quantification. Major interferences were caused by 40Ar65Cu+ on 105Pd+, 179Hf16O+ on 195Pt+, and 87Rb16O+ and 87Sr16O+ on 103Rh+. Both physical and mathematical approaches for the interference correction were used. The mean values for PGEs were found to be as follows (in ng kg-1): full-cream milk: Pd, 3790; Pt, 83.2; Rh, 1680; skim milk: Pd, 12 400; Pt, 83.6; Rh, 1090; wholemeal bread: Pd, 3210; Pt, 171; Rh, 139; white bread: Pd, 27 400; Pt, 257; Rh, 2230. The preliminary data obtained in this study are probative of the significant portion of the total exposure to PGEs, which is due to the diet.
Trace element speciation in human milk
Authors: Michalke Bernhard
Published: January 2006

This paper summarizes speciation results in human milk samples. Information is presented about why these elements were speciated, which techniques were applied, and which speciation results were gained in human milk. We focus on a few selected elements, such as Zn, Se, I, and Mn. Each of these elements is regarded as an "essential" element and of specific importance for newborns. At the end of each element section, we attempt to extract the overall speciation information from the different literature sources. In short, for Zn it can be concluded that this element is bound predominantly to low-molecular-weight (LMW) compounds. Several papers identify the major Zn species as Zn-citrate. A few minor species are identified as well. The pattern of Se speciation seems to be dependent on the nutritional intake. Selenium speciation in milk from slightly Se-depleted regions shows Se bound in the LMW range, ligands were partly identified. In Se-rich regions, Se seems to be associated with proteins, e.g., glutathione peroxidase. The major I species in human milk is iodide, as found by several groups. Other I species, however, were seen as well. The results of Mn speciation from different groups agreed that Mn is to a considerable amount in the LMW fraction. Again, citrate seems to play an important role as ligand.
Capabilities and limitations of gel electrophoresis for elemental speciation: A laboratory's experience
Authors: Chéry Cyrille C. , Moens Luc , Cornelis Rita , Vanhaecke Frank
Published: January 2006

Gel electrophoresis is a fractionation/separation technique that yields valuable information in the field of metalloproteomics, often referred to as metallomics. This paper is based on four years of practical experience of the authors' lab in this domain and highlights the capabilities and limitations of gel electrophoresis. Pitfalls of the technique were recognized by identifying the origin of artefacts in the separation, species degradation being the most important. Gel electrophoresis can be accomplished under either native or denaturing conditions. The speciation of vanadium and selenium among serum and yeast proteins, respectively, is used to illustrate these two major modes. The most powerful approach is two-dimensional denaturing gel electrophoresis. This review of the methods used in our laboratory also describes the application of the two major detection techniques, autoradiography on the one hand and electrothermal vaporization - or laser ablation (LA) - inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) on the other.
A Logical Pozzolanic Index and Its Use in Concrete Proportioning
Authors: Dunstan ER , A Zayed
Published: January 2006

A new approach to pozzolanic index is proposed. The proposed index (from 0 to 1) is based on the percentage of the pozzolan that reacts with lime. The index is logical in that it is a description of the level of reactivity of the pozzolan. The optimum pozzolan percentage for use with cement can be calculated using the index. An index can be estimated from pozzolanic reactions with lime or based on its contribution to the strength of concrete or mortar. A model for concrete strength incorporating the index is proposed that can be used to estimate concrete strength.
Recent Advances in Chemical Synthesis, Self‐Assembly, and Applications of FePt Nanoparticles
Authors: Sun S.
Published: January 2006

This paper reviews recent advances in chemical synthesis, self‐assembly, and potential applications of monodisperse binary FePt nanoparticles. After a brief introduction to nanomagnetism and conventional processes of fabricating FePt nanoparticles, the paper focuses on recent developments in solution‐phase syntheses of monodisperse FePt nanoparticles and their self‐assembly into nanoparticle superlattices. The paper further outlines the surface, structural, and magnetic properties of the FePt nanoparticles and gives examples of three potential applications in data storage, permanent magnetic nanocomposites, and biomedicine.
Kinetic modeling of slurry propylene polymerization using rac‐ET(Ind)2ZrCl2/MAO
Authors: Gonzalez‐Ruiz Ramon A. , Quevedo‐Sanchez Bernabe , Laurence Robert L. , Henson Michael A. , Coughlin E. Bryan
Published: January 2006

The slurry homopolymerization of propylene catalyzed by the isospecific metallocene rac‐Et(Ind)2ZrCl2/MAO was investigated using a semi‐batch reactor. A full factorial design with three temperatures (50, 65 and 75°C) and four monomer partial pressures (1.5, 2.5, 3.2, and 3.8 atm) was performed. Analysis by 1H NMR revealed the formation of vinylidene, cis‐2‐butenyl and 4‐butenyl end‐groups. A kinetic model based on a coordination‐insertion mechanism was developed to predict instantaneous reaction rate, molecular weights and polymer chain ends. The kinetic rate constants were estimated using a systematic optimization strategy. The model predicts that the insertion of the first propylene molecule is rate limiting with respect to propagation. Molecular weight decreases with temperature due to the high activation energy of the main chain transfer reaction (101 kJ/mol) relative to propagation (52 kJ/mol). The percentage of butenyl end‐groups with respect to vinylidene decreases with temperature, thus predicting a lower activation energy for the β‐hydride elimination after secondary insertion (27 kJ/mol). © 2006 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2006
Habitat‐specific ranging patterns of Dian's tarsiers (Tarsius dianae) as revealed by radiotracking
Authors: Merker Stefan
Published: January 2006

Dian's tarsier Tarsius dianae, one of the smallest primates on earth, is endemic to the central regions of Sulawesi, Indonesia. To evaluate the effects of increasing land use by humans on the ranging patterns of this nocturnal insect hunter, four study plots along a gradient of anthropogenic disturbance were selected for this study. In these plots, 71 tarsiers were captured with mist nets, and 30 of these were fitted with 3.9 g radiotransmitters and subsequently tracked over the course of 2 weeks per animal. The average home ranges were 1.1–1.8 ha in size, with the smallest ranges in slightly disturbed habitat and the largest ranges in a heavily disturbed plantation. These findings coincide with different estimates of insect abundance in the study plots. Nightly travel distances were smallest in undisturbed old‐growth forest and slightly increased along a gradient of human disturbance. The tarsiers were most active shortly after dusk and just before dawn. The results of this comprehensive radiotracking study on tarsiers show that T. dianae adapts its ranging behavior to the degree and type of human land use. Integrated data on home range size and travel distance indicate that slightly disturbed forest is as favorable to these animals as undisturbed habitat. However, with increasing anthropogenic effects, the living conditions of the tarsiers appear to deteriorate, resulting in the necessity for larger home and night ranges. The results of this study provide an important tool for directing conservation efforts targeted at the survival of this primate in central Sulawesi. Am. J. Primatol. 68:111–125, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Randomized controlled trial of intraputamenal glial cell line–derived neurotrophic factor infusion in Parkinson disease
Authors: Lang Anthony E. , Gill Steven , Patel Nik K. , Lozano Andres , Nutt John G. , Penn Richard , Brooks David J. , Hotton Gary , Moro Elena , Heywood Peter , Brodsky Matthew A. , Burchiel Kim , Kelly Patrick , Dalvi Arif , Scott Burton , Stacy Mark , Turner Dennis , Wooten V. G. Frederich , Elias William J. , Laws Edward R. , Dhawan Vijay , Stoessl A. Jon , Matcham James , Coffey Robert J. , Traub Michael
Published: January 2006

Objective

Glial cell line–derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) exerts potent trophic influence on midbrain dopaminergic neurons. This randomized controlled clinical trial was designed to confirm initial clinical benefits observed in a small, open‐label trial using intraputamenal (Ipu) infusion of recombinant human GDNF (liatermin).

Methods

Thirty‐four PD patients were randomized 1 to 1 to receive bilateral continuous Ipu infusion of liatermin 15μg/putamen/day or placebo. The primary end point was the change in Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) motor score in the practically defined off condition at 6 months. Secondary end points included other UPDRS scores, motor tests, dyskinesia ratings, patient diaries, and 18F‐dopa uptake.

Results

At 6 months, mean percentage changes in “off” UPDRS motor score were −10.0% and −4.5% in the liatermin and placebo groups, respectively. This treatment difference was not significant (95% confidence interval, −23.0 to 12.0, p = 0.53). Secondary end point results were similar between the groups. A 32.5% treatment difference favoring liatermin in mean 18F‐dopa influx constant (p = 0.019) was observed. Serious, device‐related adverse events required surgical repositioning of catheters in two patients and removal of devices in another. Neutralizing antiliatermin antibodies were detected in three patients (one on‐study and two in the open‐label extension).

Interpretation

Liatermin did not confer the predetermined level of clinical benefit to patients with PD despite increased 18F‐dopa uptake. It is uncertain whether technical differences between this trial and positive open‐label studies contributed in any way this negative outcome. Ann Neurol 2006
Signal Amplification by Allosteric Catalysis
Authors: Zhu Lei , Anslyn Eric V.
Published: January 2006

In this article we unify a series of recent studies on bio‐ and chemosensors under a single signaling strategy: signal amplification by allosteric catalysis (SAAC). The SAAC strategy mimics biological signal transduction processes, where molecular recognition between an external signal and a protein receptor is allosterically transduced into catalytically amplified chemical information (usually second messengers). Several recent biosensing and chemosensing studies apply this nature‐inspired strategy by using engineered allosteric enzymes, ribozymes, or regulatable organic catalysts. The factors pertinent to achieving high sensitivity and specificity in SAAC strategies are analyzed. The authors believe that these early studies from a variety of research groups have opened up a new venue for the development of sensing technologies where molecular recognition and catalysis can be coupled for practical purposes.
Blends of modified epoxy resin and carboxyl‐terminated polybutadiene. I
Authors: Shukla Shailesh Kumar , Srivastava Deepak
Published: January 2006

Six blend samples were prepared by the physical mixing of epoxidized resole (EDR) with different weight ratios of carboxyl‐terminated polybutadiene (CTPB) liquid rubber ranging from 0 to 25 wt % in intervals of 5 wt %. The formation of various reaction products during the curing of unblended EDR and CTPB‐blended EDR were studied with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The curing time at 100°C for the blend sample containing 15 wt % CTPB was the least among all of the blend samples. This blend sample, also, showed the highest initial degradation temperature, as obtained from thermogravimetric analysis thermograms, which indicated that it was the most thermally stable matrix system. The films of coatings based on the blend of EDR with 15 wt % CTPB offered the highest resistance toward different concentrations of acids and alkalis compared to the films having 5, 10, 20, and 25 wt % CTPB in the EDR/CTPB blends. Solvents showed almost the same behavior as acids and alkalis for these films except for hydrocarbon solvents such as mineral turpentine oil, toluene, and xylene. The resistance toward these solvents was poor and slightly inferior to those found with EDR unblended with CTPB. The tensile, flexural, and impact strengths of the molded specimens derived from the EDR/CTPB blends initially increased up to 15 wt % CTPB addition in the blend and then decreased, whereas the elongation at break remained constant for all blend compositions. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 1802–1808, 2006
On trust, good, and evil
Authors: Jaques Elliott
Published: January 2006

This article deals with a basic concept informing the work of Elliott Jaques: trust which is the social glue that binds people together and has consequences for all social domains. The etymological origins of “trust” connect with major normative concepts, including truth and relying upon others. These are vitally connected with the psychoanalytic approaches of Sigmund Freud and Melanie Klein as well as the nature of requisite and anti‐requisite practices throughout society. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Jaques and the early years in Australia
Authors: Carnegie Sir Roderick
Published: January 2006

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of any organization, by the nature of his or her title and role, sets the culture (the “how we do things around here”) which becomes either paranoiagenic or trust‐inducing to greater or lesser extremes. This account of one CEO emphasizes the relationships between past managerial experiences, the business requirements of a highly competitive industry, the nature of the impact of local government on globally dispersed installations, and an intense interest in bringing together a better understanding of trust‐inducing top‐down managerial leadership. Thus follows an examination of one CEO's journey with a nascent body of research and the researcher as, together, they struggle with understanding what requirements and actions will be interpreted as not only “good for the company” but also “good for me” as an employee. The paper describes the added value of a CEO's systematic organizational analysis and structural design of a managerial work system focused on the employment of the discretion and judgment of each employee within appropriate role boundaries, thereby inserting a large amount of psychologically sound, creative problem‐solving focused on competitive business outcomes. It develops understanding of the business reasons for fair pay for levels of work assigned, and the recognition of current potential capability and development of individuals as they naturally mature in future potential capability to handle more complex assignments. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simultaneous Determination of Essential Basic Amino Acids in Pharmaceuticals by Capillary Isotachophoresis
Authors: Kubačák Peter , Mikuì Peter , Valáìková Iva , Havránek Emil
Published: January 2006

Capillary isotachophoresis (ITP) in cationic regime of the separation with conductometric detection has been used for the separation and determination of basic amino acids (arginine, histidine, and lysine) in pharmaceutical preparations. Several electrolyte systems of different compositions and pH were examined. The optimized ITP electrolyte system consisted of 10 mmol/L potassium acetate adjusted to pH 4.0 with acetic acid as the leading electrolyte with the electroosmotic‐flow (EOF) suppressing additive, 0.2% (w/v) methylhydroxyethylcellulose (m‐HEC), and 10 mmol/L β‐alanine as the terminating electrolyte. The proposed electrophoretic method was successfully validated. It was convenient for the sensitive, simple, rapid and highly reproducible assay of these amino acids. Good quantitation was obtained in short analysis times (a single analysis took about 10 min). The minimal sample pretreatment and low running costs make the proposed ITP method a good alternative to commonly used analytical methods. The obtained results suggest that the proposed method is suitable for routine assay of basic amino acids in pharmaceuticals.
Deactivation mechanisms of chloroperoxidase during biotransformations
Authors: Park Jin‐Byung , Clark Douglas S.
Published: January 2006

Inactivation mechanisms of chloroperoxidase (CPO) from Caldariomyces fumago have been investigated with the aim of improving the practical utility of CPO for hydrocarbon oxidation. Deactivation studies in the presence of oxidants (i.e., hydrogen peroxide and t‐butyl hydroperoxide) indicated that CPO lost oxidation activity toward hydrocarbon substrates during dismutation of hydrogen peroxide. The loss of enzyme activity was accompanied by the apparent destruction of the heme rather than aggregation or denaturation of the apo‐protein. The decrease of enzyme activity was significantly retarded by adding the radical scavenger t‐butyl alcohol at pH 4.1, or by optimizing the reaction pH. CPO retained greatest oxidation activity at pH 5–6, which may produce a more favorable ionization state of the key amino acid (Glu‐183) and thus reduce radical formation. As a result of higher activity at pH 5–6, the total turnover numbers (TTN, defined as the amount of product produced over the catalytic lifetime of the enzyme) for the oxidation of toluene and o‐, m‐, p‐xylenes in substrate/aqueous emulsion systems ranged from ca. 10% to 110% higher at pH 5.5 (20,000 to 45,000 mol product/mol enzyme) compared to pH 4.1. Furthermore, TTNs of CPO increased with increasing turnover frequencies, indicating that higher activity toward reducing substrates reduces radical formation and stabilizes CPO toward inactivation by H2O2. These findings demonstrate the important relationship between CPO stability and activity, and illustrate that large improvements in CPO activity and stability can be achieved through solvent engineering. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Characterization of maleuric acid derivatives on transgenic human monoclonal antibody due to post‐secretional modifications in goat milk
Authors: Santora L. C. , Stanley K. , Krull I. S. , Grant K.
Published: January 2006

A fully human antibody to tumor necrosis factor‐αwas expressed in the mammary glands of transgenic goats. The goat expressed antibody (gAb) is heterogeneous and has several isoforms due to typical cellular post‐translational modifications. In addition, one post‐secretional modification on gAb was discovered by high‐resolution cation exchange chromatography (CIEX). The presence of these variants in the final product was shown to be dependent upon the initial milk storage and traditional purification methodologies used. These observations allow for the development of new sample recovery and purification processes to eliminate these variants. Various enzymatic treatments were used to characterize different gAb heavy chain C‐terminal lysine and sialic acid variants. In addition, an unknown derivative with the additional mass of 140 Da was found in transgenic gAb using mass spectrometry (MS). The modification sites were identified as theN‐termini of gAb light chains and heavy chains using Q‐TOF MS. Characterization of transgenic gAb isoforms was facilitated by utilizing different enzymes, CIEX and MS techniques. A maleuric acid modification on theN‐terminal portion of gAb was shown to be consistent with the available data characterizing this new derivative of transgenic gAb isoforms in goat milk. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Absolute configuration determination of donor–acceptor [2.2]paracyclophanes by comparison of theoretical and experimental vibrational circular dichroism spectra
Authors: Furo Takahiro , Mori Tadashi , Origane Yumi , Wada Takehiko , Izumi Hiroshi , Inoue Yoshihisa
Published: January 2006

Vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) spectra were obtained for the assignments of the absolute configurations of diastereomeric 4,7‐bis(methoxycarbonyl)‐12,15‐dimethoxy‐[2.2]paracyclophanes (1 and 2), and density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed at the B3LYP/6‐31G(d) level for all possible conformations of both 1 and 2 to give the theoretical VCD spectra. Comparisons of the experimental and theoretical VCD spectra obtained unambiguously established the absolute configurations of the dextrorotatory (+)‐enantiomers as (4Sp;12Sp)‐1 and (4Sp;12Rp)‐2, respectively. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Chirality
Effect of phosphatidylcholine vesicle size on chirality induction and chiral discrimination
Authors: Nakagawa Hiroko , Onoda Mayumi , Masuoka Yuichi , Yamada Koh‐Ichi
Published: January 2006

The effect of the size of phosphatidylcholine (PC) vesicles on the induction of chirality and chiral discrimination was examined. Three kinds of vesicles formed with l‐dimyristoyl, l‐dipalmitoyl, or egg yolk PCs induced circular dichroisms (CDs) with the sign and intensity of the Cotton effect different from those of monomeric PCs. The CD intensity of the vesicles increased with a decrease in the vesicle size. Furthermore, the helicity of heterohelicene derivatives in a rapid equilibrium between right‐handed (P) and left‐handed (M) enantiomers was biased toward the M enantiomer side in l‐PC vesicles, implying chiral discrimination by the vesicles. The extent of the bias toward the M enantiomer increased with an increase in vesicle size. Both the chirality induction and chiral discrimination were enhanced in a low‐fluidity gel phase in comparison with those in a high‐fluidity liquid‐crystalline phase for every kind of vesicle of every size examined. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Chirality
Kontinuierlich betriebene Flüssig/Flüssig‐Extraktion im elektrischen Hochspannungsfeld (DC) in einem Taylor‐Couette‐Elektroextraktor
Authors: Wildberger A. , Bart H.‐J.
Published: January 2006

Sowohl beim physikalischen als auch beim reaktiven Stoffsaustausch ist eine starke Stoffaustauscherhöhung durch externe Gleichspannungsfelder erreichbar. Die größte Stoffaustauscherhöhung kann unabhängig vom Extraktionssystem immer dann erzielt werden, wenn das elektrische Feld orthogonal zur Phasengrenzfläche angelegt ist und direkt in Stoffaustauschrichtung wirken kann. Zur Berechnung des Stoffübergangs im Taylor‐Couette‐Elektroextraktor wird ein Stoffübergangsmodell vorgestellt und mit experimentellen Daten verglichen.
Anlagenkonzepte in der Mikroverfahrenstechnik
Authors: Kirschneck D. , Marr R.
Published: January 2006

Die Mikroverfahrenstechnik hat sich in der Forschung seit einigen Jahren etabliert. Nun befindet sich diese Technologie auf dem Sprung in den Produktionsmaßstab, und es konnten bereits die ersten Projekte im Tonnen‐pro‐Stunde‐Maßstab realisiert werden. Wesentliche Faktoren dafür reichen von Prozessentwicklungsstrategien über neue Prozessfenster bis hin zu ersten Erfahrungen mit der Maßstabsvergrößerung. Dieser Beitrag gibt eine Übersicht über den aktuellen Stand der Entwicklung und zeigt an Beispielen die Umsetzung in die Produktion auf. Auch Perspektiven für vollkommen neue Möglichkeiten, die dank dieser Verfahrensweise entstehen, werden vorgestellt.
Urokinase system expression in gastric carcinoma
Authors: Beyer Bianca C. M. , Heiss Markus Maria , Simon Erich H. , Gruetzner Klaus‐Uwe , Babic Rudolf , Jauch Karl‐Walter , Schildberg Friedrich‐Wilhelm , Allgayer Heike
Published: January 2006

BACKGROUND

The prognostic relevance of urokinase‐type plasminogen activator (u‐PA), u‐PA receptor (u‐PAR), and plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI‐1) in gastric carcinoma was demonstrated in an independent patient series. To the authors' knowledge,the roles of these activators as predictors of aggressive phenotypes in preoperative biopsies, Helicobacter pylori infection, and intestinal metaplasia have to date not been investigated simultaneously in resected tumors. The objectives of the current study were 1) to demonstrate the prognostic relevance of u‐PA, u‐PAR, and PAI‐1 in an independent series; 2) to evaluate u‐PA system expression in preoperative biopsy specimens compared with resected tumors; and 3) to evaluate u‐PA system expression in intestinal metaplasias and samples with H. pylori infection.

METHODS

In 104 patients with gastric carcinoma (median follow‐up, 68 mos), u‐PA, u‐PAR, and PAI‐1 in tumors and metaplasias were evaluated immunohistochemically. Preoperative biopsies were evaluated in a subset of patients. Patients were screened for H. pylori (urease) and tumor cells in bone marrow (u‐PAR/CK18).

RESULTS

u‐PA and PAI‐1 were confirmed as independent prognostic parameters, and u‐PAR was associated with a trend toward a poor prognosis. u‐PA system tumor expression was found to be correlated significantly with u‐PAR in disseminated tumor cells and H. pylori‐infected tumors, implicating a role of H. pylori in protease induction. There was a significant correlation noted between u‐PA system staining between preoperative biopsies and the results in resected tumors. The expression of u‐PAR and PAI‐1 in intestinal metaplasias was found to be associated significantly with advanced tumor stage (depth of invasion; pathologic tumor status) and lymph node involvement (pathologic lymph node status) and was correlated significantly with u‐PA system expression in tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

To the author's know the current study is the first to date to demonstrate that u‐PA system expression may serve as a predictor of risk in intestinal metaplasias and preoperative biopsies, implicating consequences for neoadjuvant therapy. The independent impact on recurrence and survival and a correlation with u‐PAR‐expression of minimal residual disease were identified in this independent series. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
Landmark trials in endocrine adjuvant therapy for breast carcinoma
Authors: Gradishar William
Published: January 2006

The review summarizes the outcomes of several landmark trials involving aromatase inhibitors that helped formulate current therapeutic approaches recommended by the American Society of Clinical Oncology for breast carcinoma treatment. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
Results of intensive chemotherapy in 998 patients age 65 years or older with acute myeloid leukemia or high‐risk myelodysplastic syndrome:
Authors: Kantarjian Hagop , O'Brien Susan , Cortes Jorge , Giles Francis , Faderl Stefan , Jabbour Elias , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo , Wierda William , Pierce Sherry , Shan Jianqin , Estey Elihu
Published: January 2006

BACKGROUND

Elderly patients (age ≥ 65 years) with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) generally have a poor prognosis. AML‐type therapy results are often derived from studies in younger patients and may not apply to elderly AML. Many investigators and oncologists advocate, at times, only supportive care or frontline single agents, Phase I–II studies, low‐intensity regimens, or ‘targeted’ therapies. However, baseline expectations for outcomes of elderly AML with ‘standard’ AML‐type therapy are not well defined. The aim was to develop prognostic models for complete response (CR), induction (8‐week) mortality, and survival rates in elderly AML, which would be used to advise oncologists and patients of expectations with standard AML type therapy, and to establish baseline therapy results against which novel strategies would be evaluated.

METHODS

A total of 998 patients age ≥ 65 years with AML or high‐risk myelodysplastic syndrome (> 10% blasts) treated with intensive chemotherapy between 1980 and 2004 were analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analyses of prognostic factors associated with CR, induction (8‐week) mortality, and survival used standard methods.

RESULTS

The overall CR rate was 45% and induction mortality 29%. Multivariate analysis of prognostic factors identified consistent independent poor prognostic factors for CR, 8‐week mortality, and survival. These included age ≥ 75 years, unfavorable karyotypes (often complex), poor performance (3–4 ECOG [Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group]), longer duration of antecedent hematologic disorder, treatment outside the laminar airflow room, and abnormal organ functions. Patients could be divided into: 1) a favorable group (about 20% of patients) with expected CR rates above 60%, induction mortality rates of 10%, and 1‐year survival rates above 50%; 2) an intermediate group (about 50–55% of patients) with expected CR rates of 50%, induction mortality rates of 30%, and 1‐year survival rates of 30%; and 3) an unfavorable risk group (about 25–30% of patients) with expected CR rates of less than 20%, induction mortality rates above 50%, and 1‐year survival rates of less than 10%.

CONCLUSIONS

Prognostic models, based on standard readily available baseline characteristics, were developed for elderly patients with AML, which may assist in therapeutic and investigational decisions. These predictive models, based on a retrospective analysis, will require validation in independent study groups. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
Compression‐Inhibited Pore Formation of Polyelectrolyte Multilayers Containing Weak Polyanions: A Scanning Force Microscopy Study
Authors: Wang Bo , Liu Lili , Chen Ke , Chen Lin , Feng Jie , Gao Changyou
Published: January 2006

Morphological changes of poly(acrylic acid)/poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) multilayers induced by low pH were investigated by scanning force microscopy. The weakened interaction between the charged polymer chains in the protonation process is believed to be the reason for this variation. Kinetic studies have shown that during protonation phase separation and dissociation of the multilayers took place successively. The compression of the multilayers, however, caused a transition of the multilayers from a rubbery state to a glassy state. As a result, the closely compacted multilayers lost their sensitivity to pH change. An increase of electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions, can decrease the free energy of the multilayers, and stabilize the films. By compression of the multilayers with a rubber stamp having geometric patterns, films with spatially localized pores were produced.
Application of modified ultrafast Papanicolaou stain in cytology of various organs
Authors: Shinde Pravin Bhausaheb , Pandit Ajita Avinash
Published: January 2006

This prospective study was conducted to assess the use of modified ultrafast Papanicolaou (MUFP) stain for fine‐needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) of various organs. In India, many reagents are not easily available. In this modification, Gill's haematoxylin, EA‐36, and isopropanol substitute Richard‐Allan haematoxylin, cytostain, and ethanol, respectively. Group I included 40 FNAC smears of various organs. In each case, three smears were prepared and stained by MUFP, Papanicolaou, and May‐Grunwald Giemsa (MGG) stains. In group II, 10 intraoperative cytology smears of different organs were stained with MUFP and rapid haematoxylin–eosin (H&E). For assessment of MUFP stain, scores were given on four parameters: background of smears, overall staining pattern, cell morphology, and nuclear staining. Quality index was calculated from ratio of score achieved to maximum possible score.

Diagnosis made by MUFP stain was compared with standard stains. It was observed that MUFP‐stained smears had clear RBC free background, crisp nuclear chromatin, well‐stained nucleoli, and transparent cytoplasm. The diagnosis made was correct except in three cases of metastatic squamous‐cell carcinoma. Hence, it was concluded that MUFP stain is useful for rapid diagnosis by FNAC, but is not useful for squamous‐cell lesions. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2006; 34:135–139. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Utility of cell blocks in the diagnosis of thyroid aspirates
Authors: Sanchez Niria , Selvaggi Suzanne M.
Published: January 2006

Cell blocks (CBs) are often prepared with fine‐needle aspirates (FNAs) from multiple organs as an adjunct to smears in the diagnosis of aspirated lesions. However, the literature contains few reports on their utility with regard to specific organ sites. At our institution, CBs are made routinely on FNAs when there is sufficient material remaining after smear preparation, with thyroid representing the largest volume. The aim of this study was to determine the utility of CBs in the diagnosis of thyroid lesions. From January 2002 to April 2004, 546 thyroid FNAs were performed. Eighty‐two (15%) cases, from 60 females and 20 males (age range, 17–88 yr; mean, 50 yr), had CBs and formed the basis of this study. Seventy‐four (90%) of the cases were performed by the radiologist or the clinician and 8 (10%) by the pathologist, all of which had an immediate assessment for adequacy. One to 7 passes were performed with an average of 3/case. The needles were immediately rinsed in Hanks' Balanced Salt Solution after smear preparation. CBs were made on bloody specimens/those with tissue fragments. Cell‐block slides were reviewed for the presence of cellular elements and classified into three categories: (1) contributory, (2) noncontributory, or (3) provides additional information. Of the 82 cases, 23 (28%) were neoplastic, 51 (62%) were nonneoplastic, and 8 (10%) were nondiagnostic. Fifteen of the neoplastic cases had confirmatory biopsies, 9 of which were papillary carcinoma. The overall cellularity of the CBs was low, varying from 0 to 2 follicular groups in the noncontributory CBs and 3 to 6 follicular groups or papillary formations in the contributory CBs. CBs were contributory in 25 (31%) cases: 5 neoplastic (1 follicular neoplasm, 3 papillary carcinoma, and 1 suspicious for papillary carcinoma), 18 nonneoplastic, and 2 nondiagnostic. CBs were noncontributory in 56 (68%) cases: 18 neoplastic (4 papillary carcinomas, 1 suspicious for papillary carcinoma, 4 Hürthle cell neoplasms, and 9 follicular neoplasms), 33 nonneoplastic, and 5 nondiagnostic. One case was categorized as provided additional information because the CB showed material that was not present on the slides; however, it was still nondiagnostic. In summary, CBs did not help in the majority of cases. They were contributory in only 25 (31%) of the 82 cases, and of the 23 neoplastic cases, only 5 (22%) CBs were contributory. The contribution of the CBs in the diagnosis of thyroid lesions was minimal because of the low cellularity. On‐site assessment of specimen adequacy often results in fewer passes, thus contributing to the low cellularity present in cell‐block preparations. Ancillary studies may require additional passes. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2006; 34:89–92. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of oxygen plasma treatment of indium tin oxide for organic solar cell
Authors: Hashimoto Yuichi , Hamagaki Manabu
Published: January 2006

We have investigated the contribution of oxygen ions and electrons in the oxygen plasma treatment of an indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode for organic solar cell (ITO/CuPc/C60/CuPc/Al). The cell characteristics were markedly improved by the treatments using positive oxygen ions and electrons. In the case of treatment by positive oxygen ions, short‐circuit photocurrent density increased markedly. The enhancement of photocurrent was explained in terms of a lowering of the total resistance between the CuPc layer and ITO due to an increase in the work function and highly oriented stacking in CuPc molecular configurations during the growth process. In the case of treatment by electrons, on the other hand, the fill factor showed a high value of about 0.5. However, further studies are needed for confirmation of this phenomenon. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 154(4): 1–7, 2006; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20313
Electrodeposited Nickel/Platinum Alloy as a Biosensor for Acetyl Choline
Authors: Shibli S. M. A. , Beenakumari K. S.
Published: January 2006

Nickel and platinum find extensive use in preparation of biosensors. In the present work, Ni/Pt alloy was plated on graphite to make acetylcholine sensor. The microstructure, surface composition and electrochemical performance of the electrode was analyzed by different techniques. The sensing performance was evaluated by cyclic voltammetry. The prepared alloy plate exhibited very good linear relationship between acetyl choline concentration and response current. The sensitivity and reproducibility of the prepared electrode were found better than other nickel electrodes reported.
Real‐time environmental site management: Example of automation of the borehole logging process
Authors: Fattahipour Mitra , Pawlowicz Richard , Versteeg Roelof
Published: January 2006

Environmental management presently relies on outdated, legacy workflow processes to collect, evaluate, and communicate field data used to characterize and monitor contaminants that have been released to air, soil, surface water, and groundwater that may pose a human and/or ecological health risk.

These field data are used to make critical time‐sensitive decisions regarding the fate and transport of contaminants and the safety of workers and the public. Unfortunately, field data are generally collected manually, and accessibility is often delayed for months while the data are hand‐transcribed from field logbooks using a variety of client‐based software. With advances in available technology such as wireless devices, sensors, motes, and radio frequency identification tags (RFIDs), on‐demand environmental data analysis is slowly becoming a reality. This article presents a discussion of automating borehole logging and data processing. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Chemical composition of the leaf essential oil of Cinnamomum pauciflorum Nees
Authors: Nath Subhan C. , Baruah Akhil , Kanjilal Purnendu B.
Published: January 2006

The composition of leaf essential oil of Cinnamomum pauciflorum Nees, growing wild in northeast India, was studied by GC and GC‐MS. Twenty‐five components representing 98.8% of the total oil were identified. Cinnamaldehyde [=(E)‐cinnamaldehyde] was the major component which alone constituted 89.8% of the oil. Other components above 1% concentration in the oil are linalool (2.6), (Z)‐cinnamaldehyde (1.2) and α‐pinene (1.0). Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.