bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cover Picture: Novel Three Dimensional Cubic Fm3m Mesoporous Aluminosilicates with Tailored Cage Type Pore Structure and High Aluminum Content (Adv. Funct. Mater. 4/2008)
Authors: Srinivasu Pavuluri , Alam Sher , Balasubramanian Veerappan V. , Velmathi Sivan , Sawant Dhanashri P. , Böhlmann Winfred , Mirajkar Subhash P. , Ariga Katsuhiko , Halligudi Shivappa B. , Vinu Ajayan
Published: February 2008

Cover:

3D cubic Fm3m mesoporous aluminosilicates (AlKIT‐5) with very high structural order and unprecedented loadings of Al in the silica framework are reported by Ajayan Vinu and co‐workers on p. 640. The specific surface area, specific pore volume, and pore diameter of AlKIT‐5 can be increased by increasing Al incorporation in the silica framework while retaining the well‐ordered 3D cage‐type porous structure. The mechanism of this unusual behavior is discussed in detail. In a catalytic activity study, AlKIT‐5(10) is found to be superior over zeolite catalysts including ZSM‐5.

Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes

A new series of star‐shaped bipolar host molecules thatcontain hole‐transporting triphenylamine andelectron‐transporting benzimidazole moieties are designed,based on calculations using density functional theory, and prepared by Masa‐aki Kakimoto and co‐workers, as reportedon p. 584. The theoretical calculation of energy levels affords helpful ideas to design molecules with a favorable localization of HOMO/LUMO levels and a predefined enhancement ofthe triplet energy gap. The derivatives are employed as hosts to fabricate phosphorescent organic LEDs by spin‐coating and vacuum deposition.

Magnetic Materials

Several nanoscale technological applications rely on the promise of highly anisotropic magnetic materials. Verónica Salgueirin˜o‐Maceira, Miguel A. Correa‐Duarte, andco‐workers report on p. 616 the structure, magnetic properties, and interfacial exchange anisotropy effects of unique wires of Ni/NiO synthesized using carbon nanotubes as substrates.Structural analyses of these nanocomposites in correlation withmagnetic measurements show that the crystalline NiO outershells cause an enhanced exchange bias, providing an extra source of anisotropy that leads to their magnetization stability.

Crosslinked Nanoparticles

An amphiphilic block copolymer is synthesized by RAFTp olymerization and then assembled into micelles in aqueoussolution. Subsequent crosslinking throughout the shell affordswell‐defined nanoparticles. In an attempt to narrow the particlesize distributions, the dodecyl trithiocarbonate chain end of theblock copolymer was replaced by a 2‐cyanoisopropyl moiety.The primary advantages of this system include the ability to conduct in situ synthesis of nanoparticles that are crosslinkeddirectly and derivatized easily before, during, or after the crosslinking, as demonstrated by Karen L. Wooley and co‐workers on p. 551.
Biologie und Chemie der Zoanthamin‐Alkaloide
Authors: Behenna Douglas C. , Stockdill Jennifer L. , Stoltz Brian M.
Published: February 2008

Marine Naturstoffe spielen schon lange eine wichtige Rolle in der Naturstoffchemie und bei der Wirkstoffentwicklung. Die Artenvielfalt und das facettenreiche Wechselspiel im Lebensraum Meer spiegeln sich in den Eigenschaften der Substanzen wider, die aus marinen Lebensformen isoliert werden: Sie zeigen unwahrscheinlich vielseitige Molekülstrukturen und biologische Aktivitäten. Die Naturstoffe aus den Polypen der marinen Zoanthidea bilden darin keine Ausnahme. Die Zoanthamin‐Alkaloide, deren erste Vertreter vor über zwanzig Jahren isoliert wurden, erregten besonderes Interesse als Syntheseziele, weil sie sich durch eine große Bandbreite an biologischen Aktivitäten auszeichnen. Hier fassen wir die wichtigsten Beiträge zur Isolierung und strukturellen Charakterisierung der natürlichen Zoanthamine zusammen und führen Studien zu ihrer biologischen Aktivität und Totalsynthese an.
The ‘real’ of racializing embodiment
Authors: Hook Derek
Published: February 2008

Manganyi's (1981) analysis of racializing embodiment represents an important, historically neglected contribution to psychoanalytic social psychology. Influenced as much by Fanon's anti‐colonial and psycho‐existential concerns as by phenomenology and the imperatives of the Black Consciousness struggle against apartheid, Manganyi's work represents an unusually politically committed form of social psychology. I introduce and elaborate upon Manganyi's single most important essay on racializing embodiment, drawing attention to his assertion that racism—in all its recalcitrance and tenacity—needs be linked to a psycho‐existential problematic, namely that of the disjunctive pairing of body and ego. I critically elaborate upon Manganyi's argument in relation to similar conceptualizations of racism (the Manichean dynamics of colonialism, notions of differential embodiment, epidermalization and the psychosomatics of racism) and in reference to Slavoj Žižek's Lacanian psychoanalytic theorization of similar issues (particularly the notions of the ‘theft of enjoyment’ and the bodily ‘real’). Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of medical treatment and coronary revascularization in patients with moderate coronary lesions and borderline fractional flow reserve measurements
Authors: Courtis Javier , Rodés‐Cabau Josep , Larose Eric , Déry Jean‐Pierre , Nguyen Can Manh , Proulx Guy , Gleeton Onil , Roy Louis , Barbeau Gerald , Noël Bernard , DeLarochellière Robert , Bertrand Olivier F.
Published: February 2008

Objectives: (1) To evaluate the clinical outcomes of patients with moderate coronary lesions and borderline fractional flow reserve (FFR) measurements (between 0.75 and 0.80), comparing those who underwent coronary revascularization (CR) to those who had medical treatment (MT), and (2) to determine the predictive factors of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) at follow‐up. Methods: A total of 107 consecutive patients (mean age 62 ± 10 years) with at least one moderate coronary lesion (mean percent diameter stenosis 47 ± 12%) evaluated by coronary pressure wire with FFR measurement between 0.75 and 0.80 (mean 0.77 ± 0.02) were included in the study. MACE [CR, myocardial infarction (MI), cardiac death) and the presence of angina were evaluated at follow‐up. Results: Sixty‐three patients (59%) underwent CR and 44 patients (41%) had MT, with no clinical differences between groups. At a mean follow‐up of 13 ± 7 months, MACE related to the coronary lesion evaluated by FFR were higher in the MT group compared with CR group (23% vs. 5%, P = 0.005). Most MACE consisted of CRs, with no differences between groups in MI and cardiac death rate at follow‐up. Both MT and FFR measurements in an artery supplying a territory with previous MI were independent predictive factors of MACE at follow‐up, respectively (hazard ratio 5.2, 95% CI 1.4–18.9, P = 0.01; hazard ratio 4.1, 95% CI 1.1–15.3, P = 0.03). The presence of angina at follow‐up was more frequent in the MT group compared with the CR group (41% vs. 9%, P = 0.002). Conclusions: In patients with moderate coronary lesions and borderline FFR measurements deferral of revascularization was associated with a higher rate of MACE (CR) and a higher prevalence of angina at follow‐up, especially in those with previous MI in the territory evaluated by FFR. Further prospective randomized studies should confirm whether or not an FFR cut‐off point of 0.80 instead of 0.75 would be more appropriate for deferring CR in these cases. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A new hypothesis of the developmental origin of congenital left anterior descending coronary artery to pulmonary artery fistulas
Authors: Klein Lloyd W.
Published: February 2008

The embryologic origin of fistulous communications between a coronary artery and the pulmonary artery has traditionally been explained as the persistence of an immature supernumerary coronary artery with its origin in the pulmonary trunk. Although this hypothesis is consistent with the occurrence of the termination of the fistula in the posterior sinus of the pulmonary artery, it does not completely explain several morphologic and physiologic aspects. In this report, we present a case illustrating the classic anatomic features of left anterior descending artery to pulmonary artery fistulas and develop a new hypothesis of its embryologic origin and re‐emergence in adults that fully explains its angiographic appearance and clinical attributes. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Closure of the femoral artery after cardiac catheterization: A comparison of Angio‐Seal, StarClose, and manual compression
Authors: Deuling J.H.H. , Vermeulen R.P. , Anthonio R.A. , van den Heuvel A.F.M. , Jaarsma T. , Jessurun G. , de Smet B.J.G.L. , Tan E.S. , Zijlstra F.
Published: February 2008

Objectives: To compare Angio‐Seal (AS) and StarClose (SC) and manual compression (MC) on efficacy of hemostasis, complication rate, safety of early mobilization, and patient comfort. Background: Closure of the femoral artery after cardiac catheterization can be obtained through different methods. Today, physicians can choose from a number of different devices to achieve arterial closure. Methods: In a prospective trial 450 patients were randomized to AS, SC, or MC. Patients were mobilized 1 to 2 hr after device placement, and 6 hr after MC. Data were collected during hospital admission and by telephone at one month after hospital discharge. Results: Devices were used in 138/150 allocated to AS and 124/150 allocated to SC patients (92% vs. 83%, P = 0.015) Patients with MC experienced more pain during sheath removal than patients receiving a device, and rated their period of bed rest as less comfortable. Oozing and need for pressure bandage at the puncture site were observed in 37 AS patients and 57 SC patients (25% vs. 38%, P = 0.002). Hematoma occurred in 15 AS patients, in 17 SC patients, and in 14 MC patients (11 vs. 14 vs. 9%, ns). Conclusion: There is no difference in safety between the three methods of arterial closure. SC was more often not used or successfully deployed. SC patients more often had continuing oozing. On patient comfort, closure devices performed better than MC. Early ambulation in patients with a closure device is safe. AS is the preferred method of arterial closure after cardiac catheterization. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Scheduling Model for a Multi‐Product Batch Plant Using a Pre‐Ordering Approach
Authors: Xue Y. F. , Yuan J. Q.
Published: February 2008

A scheduling model for a multi‐product, multistage batch plant with parallel units is presented. The objective is to maximize the weighted completion times of orders in every processing stage while imposing a penalty on the slower orders. The proposed model uses the continuous‐time representation mode and describes the allocations of tasks, units and stages by a set of binary variables. In order to reduce the model size and provide a more effective solution to the model, a pre‐ordering approach that sorts the processing sequence of orders is developed. The pre‐ordering approach identifies the infeasible assignments through which the number of binary variables is significantly reduced. Illustrative examples are provided to show that the size of the proposed model is small, and therefore, needs much less computational effort in comparison with the existing models in the literature.
Optimization of a Process Synthesis Superstructure Using an Ant Colony Algorithm
Authors: Raeesi B. , Pishvaie M. R. , Rashtchian D.
Published: February 2008

The optimization of chemical syntheses based on superstructure modeling is a perfect way for achieving the optimal plant design. However, the combinatorial optimization problem arising from this method is very difficult to solve, particularly for the entire plant. Relevant literature has focused on the use of mathematical programming approaches. Some research has also been conducted based on meta‐heuristic algorithms. In this paper, two approaches are presented to optimize process synthesis superstructure. Firstly, mathematical formulation of a superstructure model is presented. Then, an ant colony algorithm is proposed for solving this nonlinear combinatorial problem. In order to ensure that all the constraints are satisfied, an adaptive, feasible bound for each variable is defined to limit the search space. Adaptation of these bounds is executed by the suggested bound updating rule. Finally, the capability of the proposed algorithm is compared with the conventional Branch and Bound method by a case study.
Isolation and Characterization of Potent Strains for Metabolizing Paint VOCs from an Active Trickle‐bed Air Biofilter
Authors: Mathur A. K. , Majumder C. B.
Published: February 2008

In this study, seven strains of cells were isolated from a trickle‐bed air biofilter used for continuously treating paint of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for six months. The morphology and biochemical study was conducted by streaking isolated mixed culture in solid agar slant media and the cell shapes were identified by using an electron microscope. It was found that this mixed culture was gram‐negative for seven different isolates. The isolated strains were grown on substrates including methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), toluene, n‐butyl acetate, and o‐xylene (MTBX), as the carbon and energy sources. Among the seven isolates, an AKM 02 strain had a high MTBX‐degrading activity and was identified as Shewanella putrefaciens by taxonomical analysis, biochemical tests and 16S rDNA gene analysis methods. All isolates grew in a pH range from 3.0–11.0 with an optimum range of 6.0–8.0. In addition, each of the isolates grew in the temperature range of 15–45 °C with an optimum range between 25–30 °C. The batch experiments were conducted at four different initial MTBX concentrations ranging from 100–1000 mg L–1. S. putrefaciens was capable of completely degrading n‐butyl acetate, MEK and toluene at a concentration lower than 500 mg L–1. When the initial concentration of n‐butyl acetate, MEK and toluene were 500 mg L–1, S. putrefaciens could remove the n‐butyl acetate, MEK and toluene completely within 70, 98 and 110 h, respectively. However, for o‐xylene at concentration of 500 mg L–1, incomplete degradation was observed with only 70 % of the o‐xylene degraded after 135 h. Collectively, the results indicate that the S. putrefaciens strain degrades MTBX at a faster rate, and this strain can be used effectively in trickle‐bed air biofilters for treating high strength mixtures of paint solvents.
Synthesis, Characterisation, and In Vitro Evaluation of Pro2‐Ile3‐S‐Deoxo‐Amaninamide and Pro2‐D‐allo‐Ile3‐S‐Deoxo‐Amaninamide: Implications for Structure–Activity Relationships in Amanitin Conformation and Toxicity
Authors: May Jonathan P. , Fournier Pierre , Patrick Brian O. , Perrin David M.
Published: February 2008

The amatoxins are a family of toxic bicyclic peptides that inhibit RNA polymerase II. Herein we discuss an improved synthesis of these compounds from easily obtainable amino acids by means of a solid‐phase methodology. Interestingly, we obtained two products of the same mass following our final macrocyclisation, relating to a similar distribution of products described in some previous reports. One of these products was the desired amatoxin; Pro2‐Ile3‐S‐deoxo‐amaninamide 1 b. The other compound, after thorough investigation, was confirmed to be the epimer Pro2‐D‐allo‐Ile3‐S‐deoxo‐amaninamide 1 a, not an atropisomer structure as previously suggested in syntheses of related amanitin analogues. Crystallographic data of 1 a confirms the presence of a βII‐turn, rather than a βI‐turn common to the natural toxin and 1 b. This difference explains the large variation in CD spectra, although it seems to have relatively little effect on the bioactivity in vitro. These data provide new insights into the bicyclic amatoxin structure.
Investigation of structural perfection and faceting in highly Er‐doped Yb3Al5O12 crystals
Authors: Kolodziejak K. , Wierzchowski W. , Wieteska K. , Malinowski M. , Graeff W. , Lukasiewicz T.
Published: February 2008

The undoped Yb3Al5O12 (YbAG) single crystals and doped with 1.5, 10 and 30 at% erbium were grown by the Czochralski method. The YbAG crystals offer efficient emission of laser beam of 2.94 µm and 1.55 µm important for practical applications in communication and medicine. The crystals were investigated by various synchrotron X‐ray diffraction methods including white beam topographic methods, monochromatic beam topography and recording of the rocking curves. The experiments were performed at E2 and F1 experimental stations in HASYLAB. The investigations proved a good crystallographic perfection of the crystals, in most cases revealing only segregation fringes and growth facets. The crystallographic identification of the facets was performed together with direct evaluation of growth front radius from the transmission section topographs. Relative lattice parameter changes connected with erbium segregation were found to be less than 2 × 10‐5 inside the segregation fringes and 8 × 10‐5 in the facets. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Two and three‐dimensional numerical modeling of induction heating in oxide Czochralski systems
Authors: Tavakoli M. H. , Wilke H.
Published: February 2008

In this article we report on a set of two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional numerical calculations for three different oxide Czochralski configurations in order to compare the results of the electromagnetic fields and the heat generation distribution. Two configurations without and with a gap between the crucible and active afterheater have axisymmetric conditions while the configuration with an open observation window in the afterheater is characterized by a non‐axisymmetric geometry. It has been found that in the non‐axisymmetric configuration under the influence of the observation window is located at the crucible side wall after a short distance behind the window cut out. Besides this influence the volumetric distribution of heat generation in the system is about symmetric. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A Comparison of the Properties of Contactless Conductivity and Diode‐Array Photometric Detectors in Analyses of Low‐Molecular, Biologically Active Substances by Capillary Electrophoresis in Acetic Acid Solutions
Authors: Tůma Petr , Opekar František , Samcová Eva , Štulík Karel
Published: February 2008

The performance of the contactless conductivity (C4D) and diode array photometric (DAD) detectors has been compared for CE separations of creatinine, arginine and 3‐methylhistidine in acetic acid background electrolytes. The contactless conductivity detector response has also been modeled. It has been found that the two detectors provide similar responses and can readily be used for dual CE detection. Changes in the acetic acid concentration affect the C4D noise less than the DAD noise, but their effect on the C4D response to the analytes is greater than with DAD. In general, C4D provides better detection results at higher acetic acid concentrations, while DAD is more sensitive and reliable at very low ones. Capillaries with greater internal diameters are preferable for both detectors, provided that the separation efficiency is not adversely affected. Acetic acid is a suitable background electrolyte for CE separations of small, basic organic molecules.
Quality, efficiency, and accountability: Definitions and applications
Authors: Hubbell Loren Loomis
Published: February 2008

From a practical standpoint, quality is the value that a college or university seeks through efficiency and accountability to advance its relative position in the market.
Top to bottom reengineering: University System of Maryland enhances productivity, improves accountability, and maintains quality
Authors: Kirwan William E.
Published: February 2008

This chapter examines how the University System of Maryland repositioned itself as a state system able to thrive in an era of permanently diminished resources and perpetually escalating demands.
Strategic collaboration: Building a major league technology infrastructure on a small college budget
Authors: Bielec John A. , Iadarola Antoinette
Published: February 2008

This chapter describes how a small college with limited resources can provide a competitive multipurpose information technology infrastructure that is at the same level as found at major doctoral research universities.
The GNU/Linux platform and freedom respecting software for economists
Authors: Yalta A. Talha , Lucchetti Riccardo
Published: February 2008

The GNU/Linux operating system is rapidly gaining ground as an attractive alternative to the proprietary platforms particularly in academic institutions and government agencies. Here, we supply an assessment of this resource from the perspective of econometricians, discuss its benefits and disadvantages along with a basic overview of some of the popular free/libre and open source programs hosted by this platform for conducting research in economics. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Eldercare and job productivity: An accommodation analysis
Authors: Sherman Kenneth C. , Reed Kendra
Published: February 2008

Over the next decade, the number of working adults relegated to the role of caregiver for one or more elderly family members will rapidly surge. The emotional, physical, and financial stress of caregiving has already begun to impact the productivity of the employee elder caregiver in the workplace, with estimates placing the annual costs around $30 billion. We can expect costs to grow as workers and their elderly parents continue to age. This particular study addresses the fundamental research question of what affects the job performance of employee elder caregivers. The results support the conclusion that the relationship among caregiving, personal support, organizational accommodation, and job productivity is multidimensional. Organizations attuned to the demands of elder caregiving can work with affected employees to reduce or eliminate declines in job productivity. Future researchers and practitioners can reconsider their research protocols and interventions along a wide continuum of interactions in the employee's home and workplace environments.
Time‐resolved MR angiography for the classification of endoleaks after endovascular aneurysm repair
Authors: Cohen Emil I. , Weinreb David B. , Siegelbaum Robert H. , Honig Sean , Marin Michael , Weintraub Joshua L. , Lookstein Robert A.
Published: February 2008

Purpose

To evaluate the utility of time‐resolved MR angiography (TR‐MRA), compared with digital subtraction angiography (DSA), in the classification of endoleaks in patients who have undergone endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR).

Materials and Methods

Thirty‐one patients who had undergone EVAR to repair an abdominal aortic aneurysm were evaluated with both TR‐MRA and DSA to determine endoleak etiology. The patient population consisted of 26 men and 5 women with a mean age of 78.5 years (range, 55–93 years). The mean time interval between TR‐MRA and DSA was 1.5 weeks (range, 1–8 weeks). Endoleaks were classified as type II when enhancement of the external iliac vessels was observed before the appearance of the endoleak; otherwise the endoleak was classified as type I or III. The results of TR‐MRA classification were compared with the reference gold standard, DSA.

Results

Agreement between TR‐MRA and DSA regarding endoleak classification occurred in 30 of 31 cases (97%). Discordant classification occurred in a case in which a Type II endoleak was misclassified as a Type III due to failure to visualize a lumbar vessel.

Conclusion

TR‐MRA is highly effective in classifying endoleaks following EVAR when compared with DSA. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008;27:500–503. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sliding multislice MRI for abdominal staging of patients with pelvic malignancies: A pilot study
Authors: Sommer Gregor , Schaefer Arnd‐Oliver , Baumann Tobias , Ludwig Ute A. , Fautz Hans‐Peter
Published: February 2008

Purpose

To integrate SMS (sliding multislice imaging technique for acquiring axial images during continuous table motion) into a high‐resolution pelvic MRI protocol for additional staging of the entire abdomen within one examination.

Materials and Methods

Axial two‐dimensional images were acquired during continuous table motion using a fat‐saturated contrast‐enhanced T1‐weighted gradient echo sequence. Patients held their breath during the first 20 s of the examination and breathed normally afterward while data acquisition continued. Measurement parameters were adjusted to optimize image quality throughout the total field of view. The method was investigated in 22 patients with pelvic malignancies. Two readers independently compared SMS image quality to conventional abdominal MR images, generated by a stationary multi‐breath‐hold gradient echo sequence.

Results

Qualitative evaluation yielded high diagnostic value of SMS data in body regions with no or minor breathing motion, and in those acquired during the initial breath‐hold. Image quality in the upper abdomen, retroperitoneum, and pelvis is reproducible and equivalent to stationary MRI. Interfering artifacts are related to the intestine in the mid‐abdomen.

Conclusion

SMS is a promising technique that may have the potential for a first‐line abdominal staging tool in patients with pelvic malignancies. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008;27:666–672. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Diagnostic efficacy of bone scintigraphy, magnetic resonance imaging, and positron emission tomography in bone metastases of myxoid liposarcoma
Authors: Conill Carlos , Setoain Xavier , Colomo Luis , Palacín Antonio , Combalia‐Aleu Andreu , Pomés Jaime , Marruecos Jordi , Vargas Mauricio , Maurel Joan
Published: February 2008

Myxoid liposarcomas (MLS) have a tendency to metastasize to unusual sites. We report an unusual case of bone metastases not detected by bone scan and neither by fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (PET‐FDG) and successfully identified with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in a patient with metachronic MLS. Histopathological examination of the primary tumor evidenced a tumor with unfavorable prognostic markers, and the biopsy of an iliac bone lesion confirmed the diagnosis of metastatic disease. On histological grounds, the tumor showed features of a more differentiated neoplasm without foci of round cells or necrosis in the latter. MRI allowed the identification of disseminated disease compared to computed tomography (CT) and PET scans. Thus, because of the heterogeneous histological features of MLS and the biolog‐ical behavior of the disease, a combined approach of FDGPET‐CT and MRI, may allow a more accurate staging of soft tissue sarcomas. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008;27:625–628. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A two step fractionation approach for plasma proteomics using immunodepletion of abundant proteins and multi‐lectin affinity chromatography: Application to the analysis of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension diseases
Authors: Dayarathna M. K. Disni R. , Hancock William S. , Hincapie Marina
Published: February 2008

Plasma is an important biological material for biomarker discovery. However, the wide dynamic range in protein concentration remains a major challenge. In this paper, we introduce the development of a proteomic platform for analysis of plasma samples. The method utilizes a double fractionation approach which combines the MARS immunodepletion column with multi‐lectin affinity chromatography, M‐LAC, to deplete the most abundant proteins in plasma, the majority of which are glycosylated. To determine the suitability of this methodology, we applied the workflow described in this study to a sample set composed of four groups: a control pool and three different disease pools: obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. We were able to identify changes in the level of several proteins; for example, a protein such as angiotensinogen was found to be present at high levels in patients with obesity plus diabetes and hypertension. On the other hand, apolipoprotein CI was shown to be elevated in all disease groups. A review of the literature supported our observation. The methodology presented in this report was shown to be effective for profiling changes in the plasma proteome of subjects with obesity and its associated complications such as diabetes and hypertension.
Two‐dimensional LC–MS analysis of components in Swertia franchetiana Smith
Authors: Liu Yanming , Xu Qing , Xue Xingya , Zhang Feifang , Liang Xinmiao
Published: February 2008

An off‐line 2‐D‐LC approach was developed for the separation and identification of components in extracts of Swertia franchetiana Smith, which is a traditional Chinese medicine. An octadecylsilica column was used for further separation of fractions from a cyano column with UV and MS detection. In this method, a longer column was used in the second dimension to improve the separation ability, and “on‐column focusing” was adopted to reduce sample loss and pollution on concentrating the fractions from the first dimension. More than 118 and 575 components were detected in the chloroform and n‐butanol extracts by this method, respectively. In contrast, only 20 and 95 peaks were detected by the one‐dimensional method. Most of the additionally detected compounds were of low‐abundance components. Many compounds can be preliminarily identified according to their UV and mass spectra in the two‐dimensional method. The obtained results not only demonstrated the powerful resolution of 2‐D‐LC, but also led to in‐depth comprehension of the UV and mass spectra of complex samples.
Affinity chromatography for the purification of therapeutic proteins from transgenic maize using immobilized histamine
Authors: Platis Dimitris , Labrou Nikolaos E.
Published: February 2008

Plant molecular pharming is a technology that uses plants as bioreactors to produce recombinant molecules of medical and veterinary importance. In the present study, we evaluated the ability of histamine (HIM), tryptamine (TRM), phenylamine (PHEM) and tyramine (TYRM) coupled to Sepharose CL‐4B via a 1,4‐butanediol diglycidyl ether spacer to bind and purify human monoclonal anti‐HIV antibody 2F5 (mAb 2F5) from spiked maize seed and tobacco leaf extracts. Detailed studies were carried out to determine the factors that affect the chromatographic behaviour of mAb 2F5 and also maize seed and tobacco leaf proteins. All affinity adsorbents showed a reduced capacity to bind and a reduced ability to purify proteins from tobacco extract compared to maize extract. Under optimal conditions, HIM exhibited high selectivity for mAb 2F5 and allowed a high degree of purification (>95% purity) and recovery (>90%) in a single step with salt elution (0.4 M KCl) from spiked maize seed extract. Analysis of the purified antibody fraction by ELISA and Western blot showed that the antibody was fully active and free of degraded variants or modified forms. The efficacy of the system was assessed further using a second therapeutic antibody (human monoclonal anti‐HIV antibody mAb 2G12) and a therapeutic enzyme (α‐chymotrypsin). HIM may find application in the purification of a wide range of biopharmaceuticals from transgenic plants.
Laserschweißen kombiniert mit Wirbelstromtechnik
Authors: Meier Oliver , von der Haar Christian , Kallage Peter
Published: February 2008

Das Fügen von Blechteilen erfordert heute eine hohe Präzision. Die genaue Positionierung von Fügepartnern und Laserfokus bestimmen Kosten und Geschwindigkeit bei vielen Verfahren. Beim Nullspaltfügen bietet ein Wirbelstromsensor die Möglichkeit, schnell, robust und präzise die Lage des Spalts zu bestimmen. Damit lässt sich der Laserfokus effizient und in fast beliebigen Konturen über dem Werkstück positionieren.
Pikosekunden‐Laser: Strahlquellen für die moderne Fertigung
Authors: Herrmann Thomas
Published: February 2008

Die Industrie ist dauernd bemüht ihre Produkte zu verbessern oder neue Ideen innovativ umzusetzen. Diese Ziele erfordern oft neue Fertigungsmethoden oder neue Werkzeuge. Bei der lasergestützten Fertigung spielen dabei ultrakurze Laserpulse eine besondere Rolle, da hier mit der sogenannten kalten Ablation Material ohne Wärmeeintrag bearbeitet werden kann. Pikosekunden Laser heben sich dabei besonders hervor: Höchste Qualität im Abtrag bei allen Materialien, Wirtschaftlichkeit und Flexibilität – mit diesen Eigenschaften kann der Pikosekunden Laser helfen, in der modernen Mikrofertigung viele neue Produkte auf den Weg zu bringen.
Ultrasound‐guided injection of the iliopsoas muscle with botulinum toxin in camptocormia
Authors: von Coelln Rainer , Raible Armin , Gasser Thomas , Asmus Friedrich
Published: February 2008

Camptocormia is characterized by an abnormal posture of the trunk with pronounced flexion of the thoraco‐lumbar spine during standing and walking, which abates in a supine position. Treatment options for camptocormia are limited and mostly futile. Here, we report on the ultrasound‐guided ventral injection of botulinum toxin A (BTX) into deep portions of the iliopsoas muscle in four parkinsonian patients with camptocormia as chief complaint. Using this novel and safe application technique, all patients received 500–1,500 MU of BTX per side in 4–6 month intervals. Treatment was generally well tolerated. At the highest dose, all patients complained of mild weakness of hip flexion. Standardized physical exam at follow‐up visits, as well as self‐assessment of patients, failed to show a relevant and lasting improvement of posture. In conclusion, injection of BTX into the iliopsoas does not appear to be a promising approach for the treatment of parkinsonism‐associated camptocormia. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
Evaluation of extra‐ and intracellular apparent diffusion coefficient of sodium in rat skeletal muscle: Effects of prolonged ischemia
Authors: Babsky Andriy M. , Topper Stephen , Zhang Hong , Gao Yong , James Judy R. , Hekmatyar Shahryar K. , Bansal Navin
Published: February 2008

The mechanism of water and sodium apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) changes in rat skeletal muscle during global ischemia was examined by in vivo 1H and 23Na magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). The ADCs of Na+ and water are expected to have similar characteristics because sodium is present as an aqua‐cation in tissue. The shift reagent, TmDOTP5‐, was used to separate intra‐ and extracellular sodium (Na and Na, respectively) signals. Water, total tissue sodium (Na), Na, and Na ADCs were measured before and 1, 2, 3, and 4 hr after ischemia. Contrary to the general perception, Na and Na ADCs were identical before ischemia. Thus, ischemia‐induced changes in Na ADC cannot be explained by a simple change in the size of relative intracellular or extracellular space. Na and Na ADCs decreased after 2–4 hr of ischemia, while water and Na ADC remained unchanged. The correlation between Na and Na ADCs was observed because of high Na concentration. Similarly, the correlation between water and Na ADCs was observed because cells occupy 80% of the tissue space in the skeletal muscle. Ischemia also caused an increase in the Na and an equal decrease in Na signal intensity due to cessation of Na+/K+‐ATPase function. Magn Reson Med 59:485–491, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Relational victimization: The association between recalled adolescent social experiences and emotional adjustment in early adulthood
Authors: Dempsey Allison G. , Storch Eric A.
Published: February 2008

Although the relationship between relational victimization and psychosocial adjustment in adolescence has been established, it is unknown whether it extends into early adulthood. The current retrospective study investigated the relationship between recall of adolescent relational victimization and symptoms of depression, social anxiety, and loneliness in 205 undergraduate students. The effects of gender and perceived social support on these relationships were assessed, as were the psychometric qualities of the Relational Victimization Questionnaire (RVQ). Recalled adolescent relational victimization was related to increased symptoms of depression and social anxiety; neither gender nor perceived social support affected the strength of these relationships. Results indicated that the RVQ has adequate internal consistency and a single factor structure. Implications for psychologists working with adolescents are highlighted. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cyberbullying: A preliminary assessment for school personnel
Authors: Mason Kimberly L.
Published: February 2008

Because of the advent and growth of technology, a new variation of bullying—cyberbullying—has transformed from the physical to the virtual. Cyberbullying is a form of psychological cruelty. Although cyberbullying usually occurs off school grounds, schools are experiencing its repercussions (Li, 2006). This article provides an overview of cyberbullying, defines the difference between bullying and cyberbullying, and provides a psychological explanation of cyberbullying behaviors and the psychological impact of cyberbullying. The review of literature suggests that there is a lapse in preventative intervention to create and maintain awareness and safety for young people. Implications and guidelines are provided for school personnel to address this problem and develop prevention strategies. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
For the proposition: for the diagnosis of viral infections, commercial assays provide more reliable results than do in‐house assays
Authors: Gammie Alistair James
Published: February 2008

It cannot be disputed that in‐house (‘home brew’) assays have a part to play in the diagnosis of emerging or evolving infections such as avian influenza H5N1. In such circumstances, diagnostic companies can provide Research Use Only (RUO) or analyte specific reagents (ASR) to facilitate development. In contrast, the provision of commercial assays is governed by regulatory approval and subject to regular audit by the relevant regulatory bodies to ensure continued quality process throughout the continuum of product management. From initial design, through to post‐launch support, the process has to meet the requirements of the USA Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Quality System Regulation (FDA, 1996) as well as that of the international quality standards, for example ISO 9001 (Int. Standard ISO 9001, 2000). Because of the quality policies that are implemented in the commercial environment, I will argue that, where available, commercial assays should replace in‐house methods in order to ensure long term reliability of results. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pain experienced during transvaginal ultrasound, saline contrast sonohysterography, hysteroscopy and office sampling: a comparative study
Authors: Van den Bosch T. , Verguts J. , Daemen A. , Gevaert O. , Domali E. , Claerhout F. , Vandenbroucke V. , De Moor B. , Deprest J. , Timmerman D.
Published: February 2008

Objective

To evaluate and compare the pain experienced by women during transvaginal ultrasound, saline contrast sonohysterography (SCSH), diagnostic hysteroscopy and office sampling.

Methods

This was a descriptive study of 402 consecutive patients presenting at a ‘one‐stop’ Bleeding Clinic between October 2004 and November 2006. Thirty‐nine percent of the patients were postmenopausal. The patients underwent the following examinations transvaginally: first ultrasound with color Doppler, second SCSH, third diagnostic hysteroscopy and fourth endometrial biopsy. After completion of the examinations the patients were asked to complete a questionnaire including a visual analog scale (VAS) about their subjective appreciation of all four examinations. Two‐hundred and ninety‐three (72%) patients returned the questionnaire.

Results

The median (range) VAS scores for transvaginal ultrasound, SCSH, diagnostic hysteroscopy and endometrial sampling were 1.0 (0–8.1), 2.2 (0–10), 2.7 (0–10) and 5.1 (0–10), respectively (P < 0.0001). The patients' answers to the other questions about the pain experienced, including comparison with other minor procedures such as venous blood sampling, were all concordant with the VAS scores.

Conclusions

Transvaginal ultrasound was the procedure best accepted, followed by SCSH, hysteroscopy and endometrial sampling. These results suggest that patients would prefer SCSH over hysteroscopy as an initial diagnostic approach in the evaluation of abnormal uterine bleeding. Copyright © 2008 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
What information on fetal anatomy can be provided by a single first‐trimester transabdominal three‐dimensional sweep?
Authors: Fauchon D. E. V. , Benzie R. J. , Wye D. A. , Cairns D. R.
Published: February 2008

Objective

To determine the extent to which the fetal anatomy detailed in The Fetal Medicine Foundation Nuchal Translucency software program can be visualized using the stored dataset of a single transabdominal three‐dimensional (3D) volume sweep of the entire fetus between 11 and 13 + 6 weeks' gestation.

Methods

Transabdominal 3D volume sweeps of the entire fetus in 273 singleton pregnancies were performed in the mid‐sagittal plane (Observer 1). The datasets were copied to a compact disc and manipulated on a personal computer using ultrasound software in the sectional planes mode. Each dataset was manipulated and analyzed by two separate investigators (Observers 2 and 3), who were blinded to each other's results.

Results

The crown–rump length (CRL) and nuchal translucency thickness (NT) were measured by both investigators in 100% and 84.6% of cases, respectively. Increasing maternal weight significantly reduced the odds of the investigators being able to visualize most of the anatomical characteristics tested, and increasing CRL significantly increased the odds of the investigators being able to identify half of the characteristics tested. There were negligible clinical differences in measurements of NT and CRL between the three observers. Paired t‐tests and intraclass correlations showed that, while there were statistically significant differences for NT measurements, the effect size was small and would have little clinical impact on screening results.

Conclusion

A single transabdominal 3D sweep at 11 to 13 + 6 weeks' gestation provides appropriate views of the fetus for evaluation of both anatomy and NT in the vast majority of cases. Copyright © 2008 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Observations of enhanced aerosol longwave radiative forcing over an urban environment
Authors: Panicker A. S. , Pandithurai G. , Safai P. D. , Kewat S.
Published: February 2008

Collocated measurements of sun/sky radiance, aerosol chemical composition and radiative fluxes have been utilized to estimate longwave aerosol radiative forcing over Pune, an Indian urban site during dry winter [Dec2004 to Feb2005] by two methods. Hybrid method which uses observed downwelling and modeled upwelling longwave fluxes for different aerosol loadings yielded a surface forcing of 9.4 Wm−2. Model approach includes utilization of skyradiometer derived spectral aerosol optical properties in the visible and near infra‐red wavelengths, modeled aerosol properties in 1.2‐40 μm using observed soot and chemical composition data, MODIS water vapor and TOMS column ozone in a radiative transfer model. Estimates from model method showed longwave enhancement of 6.5 and 8.2 Wm−2 at the surface with tropical model atmosphere and temporally varying profiles of temperature and humidity, respectively. Study reveals that about 25% of the aerosol shortwave cooling is being compensated by increase in longwave radiation due to aerosol absorption.
Zakharov simulation study of spectral features of on‐demand Langmuir turbulence in an inhomogeneous plasma
Authors: Eliasson B. , Thidé B.
Published: February 2008

We have performed a simulation study of Langmuir turbulence in the Earth's ionosphere by means of a Zakharov model with parameters relevant for the F layer. The model includes dissipative terms to model collisions and Landau damping of the electrons and ions, and a linear density profile, which models the ionospheric plasma inhomogeneity whose length scale is of the order 10–100 km. The injection of energy into the system is modeled by a constant source term in the Zakharov equation. Langmuir turbulence is excited “on‐demand” in controlled ionospheric modification experiments where the energy is provided by an HF radio beam injected into the overhead ionospheric plasma. The ensuing turbulence can be studied with radars and in the form of secondary radiation recorded by ground‐based receivers. We have analyzed spectral signatures of the turbulence for different sets of parameters and different altitudes relative to the turning point of the linear Langmuir mode where the Langmuir frequency equals the local plasma frequency. By a parametric analysis, we have derived a simple scaling law, which links the spectral width of the turbulent frequency spectrum to the physical parameters in the ionosphere. The scaling law provides a quantitative relation between the physical parameters (temperatures, electron number density, ionospheric length scale, etc.) and the observed frequency spectrum. This law may be useful for interpreting experimental results.
Observations of the diurnal tide during seven intensive radiosonde campaigns in Australia and Indonesia
Authors: Alexander S. P. , Tsuda T.
Published: February 2008

Seven intensive radiosonde campaigns of between five days and one month duration were conducted in northern Australia and the Indonesian region between 2001 and 2006. These data were used to study the diurnal tide below 30 km altitude. Inter‐campaign comparisons were made at Darwin (12°S, 131°E) and Koto Tabang (0°S, 100°E). The amplitudes of the diurnal tide did not depend upon the strength of tropospheric convection at Koto Tabang or whether there were monsoon conditions at Darwin. However, the amplitude of the zonal wind component at Koto Tabang during the different campaigns was influenced by the background QBO zonal wind structure. Stratospheric amplitudes exceeded 2.0 m s−1 at 16–17 km and 24–26 km, where the zonal wind shear was greater than 15 m s−1 km−1 during November–December 2005, but were 0.3 m s−1 when the wind shear was close to zero above 25 km during April–May 2004. The local time phase structures at Darwin and Koto Tabang were similar between campaigns and also similar to previous observations in the region, suggesting a uniform regional scale heating source. Vertical wavelengths of the stratospheric diurnal tide were generally 5–20 km. This, together with the tidal interaction with the background wind shear, suggests the presence of non‐migrating components.
The implications for dust emission modeling of spatial and vertical variations in horizontal dust flux and particle size in the Bodélé Depression, Northern Chad
Authors: Chappell Adrian , Warren Andrew , O'Donoghue Alice , Robinson Andrea , Thomas Andrew , Bristow Charlie
Published: February 2008

The Bodélé Depression has been confirmed as the single largest source of atmospheric mineral dust on Earth. It is a distinctive source because of its large exposure of diatomite and the presence of mega‐barchan dunes. Direct measurements of horizontal dust flux and particle size were made to investigate dust emission processes and for comparison with mechanisms of emission assumed in current dust models. More than 50 masts, with traps mounted on each, were located across and downwind of three barchans in 56 km2 study area of the eastern Bodélé. The size‐distribution of surface material is bi‐modal; there are many fine dust modes and a mixed mineralogy with a particle density three times smaller than quartz. Horizontal fluxes (up to 70 m above the playa) of particles, up to 1000 μm in diameter, are produced frequently from the accelerated flow over and around the barchans, even in below‐threshold shear conditions on the diatomite playa. Our data on dust sizes do not conform to retrievals of dust size distributions from radiance measurements made in the same area. Dust emission models for the region may need to be revised to account for: saltators in the Bodélé, which are a mixture of quartz sand and diatomite flakes; the great spatial and vertical variation in the abundance, mass and density of dust and abraders; and the patterns of surface erodibility. All of these have important local effects on the vertical dust flux and its particle sizes.