bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anaerobic digestion of gelatinous water at laboratory and pilot scale and nitrogen inhibition
Authors: Martinez-Sosa D. , Rafrafi Y. , Torrijos M. , Bernet N. , Buitron G. , Bosque F. , Delgenès J. P.
Published: June 2008

The anaerobic digestion of the liquid residue (gelatinous water) coming from the production of fat from animal residue, was studied at laboratory and pilot scale. Biodegradability (>98%) and biogas potential (675 mL of biogas/g of CODapplied) of this wastewater are very high. However, due to the high content on nitrogen, an inhibition of the anaerobic activity was observed for quite low concentrations of N-NH3. Dilution of the wastewater and pH regulation in the reactor around 7.3 are the 2 solutions which were investigated to overcome the nitrogen inhibition at industrial scale. These two solutions were validated at laboratory scale in an anaerobic SBR and then onsite at pilot scale in a continuous reactor. A stable anaerobic digestion was observed in both reactors showing that no nitrogen inhibition was obtained when N-NH3 concentration in the reactor was kept low.
Calculating pH in pig manure taking into account ionic strength
Authors: Nielsen A. M. , Spanjers H. , Volcke E. I. P.
Published: June 2008

Models such as the Anaerobic Digestion Model No. 1 (ADM1) assume that pH can be calculated directly from the concentration of hydrogen ions. However because pH is, by definition, the negative logarithm of the hydrogen ion activity, and thus pH measurements represent hydrogen ion activities, this approach may lead to a bias between measured and predicted pH values. Implementing ionic strength effects into the charge balance equation and the calculation of pH is a theoretical improvement to this. In this study a model, implementing a procedure for calculating pH, was developed to analyse the effect of ionic strength on pH in a pig manure. By adding KCl to samples of pig manure, experimental results could be analysed with help from the model. A modified form of the Davies equation was found to give the most accurate prediction of pH in the pig manure studied in this paper with changing ionic strength.
Modelling of long-term simultaneous nitrification and denitrification (SNDN) performance of a pilot scale membrane bioreactor
Authors: Sarioglu M. , Insel G. , Artan N. , Orhon D.
Published: June 2008

Nutrient removal capability of the MBR process has attracted more attention than organics removal in the past few years. Apart from the conventional schemes for nitrogen removal in MBR process, simultaneous nitrification-denitrification (SNDN) requires the most attention for further research. In order to fully understand the fundemantals and mechanism of SNDN in MBRs, a pilot plant was set up. A mathematical model was adopted for investigation and calibration against the observed values. This paper reports a study focusing on evaluating major mechanisms that govern nitrogen removal from domestic wastewater in membrane bioreactors. Two items need to be emphasized in this evaluation: (i) an MBR is basically regarded as an activated sludge process–a suspended growth bioreactor with total biomass recycle and substantially higher biomass concentration; (ii) in this context an AS model, namely ASM1R modified for endogenous respiration, is used for dynamic modelling and calibration of experimental results. The impact of diffusion through biomass which obviously exerts a significant effect on system performance and denitrification is evaluated with success using the adopted model by means of switch functions that regulate nitrification-denitrification with respect to dissolved oxygen concentration in the bulk liquid.
Design of best management practice applications for diffuse phosphorus pollution using interactive GIS
Authors: Kovacs A. S. , Honti M. , Clement A.
Published: June 2008

The paper presents a complex environmental engineering tool, which is appropriate to support decision making in watershed management. The PhosFate tool allows planning best management practices (BMPs) in catchments and simulating their possible impacts on immissions. The method has two parts: (a) a simple phosphorus (P) fate model to calculate diffuse P emissions and their surface transport, and (b) an interactive tool to design BMPs in small catchments. The fate model calculates diffuse P emissions via surface pathways. It is a conceptual, distributed parameter and long-term (annual) average model. The model also follows the fate of emitted P from each cell to the catchment outlets and calculates the field and in-stream retention. The fate model performed well in the Zala River catchment as a case study. Finally, an interactive design tool was developed to plan BMPs in the catchments and simulate their possible impacts on diffuse P fluxes. Different management scenarios were worked out and their effects evaluated and compared to each other. The results show that the approach is suitable to test BMP scenarios at small catchment scale.
Guiding BMP adoption to improve water quality in various estuarine ecosystems in Western Australia
Authors: Keipert N. , Weaver D. , Summers R. , Clarke M. , Neville S.
Published: June 2008

The Australian Government's Coastal Catchment Initiative (CCI) seeks to achieve targeted reductions in nutrient pollution to key coastal water quality hotspots, reducing algal blooms and fish kills. Under the CCI a Water Quality Improvement Plan (WQIP) is being prepared for targeted estuaries (Swan–Canning, near Perth, and the Vasse–Geographe, 140 km south of Perth) to address nutrient pollution issues. A range of projects are developing, testing and implementing agricultural Best Management Practices (BMPs) to reduce excessive loads of nutrients reaching the receiving waters. This work builds on progress-to-date achieved in a similar project in the Peel–Harvey Catchment (70 km south of Perth). It deals with the necessary steps of identifying the applicability of BMPs for nutrient attenuation, developing and promoting BMPs in the context of nutrient use and attenuation on farm and through catchments and estimating the degree to which BMP implementation can protect receiving waters.

With a range of BMPs available with varying costs and effectiveness, a Decision Support System (DSS) to guide development of the WQIP and implementation of BMPs to protect receiving waters, is under development. As new information becomes available the DSS will be updated to ensure relevance and accuracy for decision-making and planning purposes. The DSS, calibrated for application in the catchments, will play a critical role in adaptive implementation of the WQIP by assessing the effect of land use change and management interventions on pollutant load generation and by providing a tool to guide priority setting and investment planning to achieve agreed WQIP load targets.
Defining urban diffuse pollution loadings and receiving water hazard
Authors: Ellis J. B. , Revitt D. M.
Published: June 2008

The use of unit area loading approaches to address the requirements of the US Clean Water Act (CWA) and the EU Water Framework Directive (WFD) to identify and manage diffuse urban pollution sources is outlined. Issues relating to traditional volume-concentration probabilistic modelling are highlighted and the robustness of total maximum daily load (TMDL) approaches is discussed. A hazard assessment methodology for catchment scale identification of source area pollutant loadings and receiving water ecological impacts is developed based on urban land use activities.
Hydraulic performance of sewer pipes with deposited sediments
Authors: Banasiak Robert
Published: June 2008

This paper investigates in-sewer sediment deposit behaviour and its influence on the hydraulic performance of sewer pipes. This evaluation is based on experimental results regarding the mobility of non-cohesive and partly cohesive deposits in a partially full circular pipe. The focus of these tests is on the development of bed forms and friction characteristics. In particular, it is investigated to what extent the bed forms from the non-cohesive and (partly) cohesive sediments affect a sewer's discharge capacity. Based on the laboratory study results and on the existing criteria for sewer design, a generic assessment of a sewer's hydraulic performance is made. The relative discharge factor for a pipe with sediment deposit is analysed in terms of the thickness and roughness of the deposit.
Consideration of online rainfall measurement and nowcasting for RTC of the combined sewage system
Authors: Rouault P. , Schroeder K. , Pawlowsky-Reusing E. , Reimer E.
Published: June 2008

In Berlin, Germany, the demand for enhanced protection of the environment and the growing economic pressure have led to an increased application of control concepts within the sewage system. A global control strategy to regulate the pumpage of the combined sewage system to the treatment plant was developed and evaluated in a theoretical study. The objective was to reduce CSO. In this paper an extension of the existing control algorithm by information from online rainfall measurement and radar nowcasting is described. The rainfall information is taken into account by two additive terms describing the predicted volume from rainfall runoff. On the basis of numerical simulation the potential of these two complementary forecast terms in the global control algorithm to further reduce CSO is evaluated. The investigations are based on long-time simulations that are conducted with the dynamic flow routing model InfoWorks for three subcatchments of the Berlin drainage system. The results show that at the current Berlin system a CSO reduction of only 0.8% is possible. The effect of the forecast terms is limited by operational constraints. Limits are set to both, the delivery from each individual pump station and the total pumpage to the treatment plant.
Long-Term Evaluation of Interdigital Neuroma Treated by Surgical Excision
Authors: Womack John W. , Richardson David R. , Murphy G. Andrew , Richardson E. Greer , Ishikawa Susan N.
Published: June 2008

Background: We examined a large cohort of patients who had interdigital neurectomy and evaluated their clinical outcomes by using a previously developed scoring system as well as a visual analog scale (VAS). In addition, we wanted to identify risk factors that may lead to poorer outcomes. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review identified 232 patients who had neuroma excision between 1994 and 2004, after failure of conservative treatment. Each patient was contacted via mail and given a Neuroma Clinical Evaluation Score survey as well as a visual analog score. Each patient received a unique identification number, allowing the evaluation process to be single-blinded. Results: Of the 232 patients contacted, 120 (52%) returned their completed surveys. The average Giannini neuroma score was 53: 61 feet (51%) had good or excellent results, 12 (10%) had fair results, and 48 (40%) had poor results. The average VAS score was 2.5. The only significant ( p = 0.027) difference in outcome was the location of the neuroma: second webspace had worse outcomes than third webspace neuromas on both the VAS and neuroma score. Conclusion: This retrospective review identified location in the second webspace as a possible prognostic indicator of poor outcome, but the more important finding may be that outcomes of neuroma excision do not appear to be as successful at long-term followup as previously reported
Rigidity Comparison of Locking Plate and Intramedullary Fixation for Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis
Authors: O'Neill Patrick J. , Logel Kevin J. , Parks Brent G. , Schon Lew C.
Published: June 2008

Background: Obtaining adequate fixation during tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) arthrodesis may be challenging. Various fixation constructs have been tested biomechanically, but the use of a locking plate has not been reported. We hypothesized that the locking plate with a TTC augmentation screw would provide structural rigidity comparable to that of the intramedullary (IM) nail with a TTC augmentation screw during dorsiflexion testing. Materials and Methods: Six matched pairs of fresh frozen cadavers underwent TTC arthrodesis. Specimens in each pair were randomized to receive a locking plate or an intramedullary nail. Each specimen had an additional TTC augmentation screw through the calcaneus, talus, and medial tibia. All samples underwent dorsiflexion testing with determination of structural rigidity at the first cycle (initial rigidity) and last cycle (final rigidity) and the torque required to achieve a failure of 10 degrees of dorsiflexion. Statistical analysis was performed using a paired t-test to determine whether any differences were significant ( p < 0.05). Results: The locking plate construct showed higher final rigidity (mean ± standard error of the mean) (27.7 ± 2.6 N-m/degree versus 17.6 ± 2.1 N-m/degree, p = 0.01) than the IM nail construct. There were no other differences measured. Conclusion: Rigidity with the the IM nail was inferior to that with locking plate fixation for TTC arthrodesis in one of the four parameters tested. Clinical Relevance: Screw augmented IM nail fixation and augmented locking plate fixation may offer similar rigidity clinically for TTC arthrodesis.
Arch Height and First Metatarsal Joint Axis Orientation as Related Variables in Foot Structure and Function
Authors: Glasoe Ward , Pena Fernando , Phadke Vandana , Ludewig Paula M.
Published: June 2008

Background: This study investigated the association of arch height combined with first metatarsal joint axis vertical (V) orientation to the size of the 1–2 intermetatarsal angle (IMA) and first metatarsal adduction/abduction position simulating foot postures during gait, kinematics commonly affected by bunion. Materials and Methods: Nine cadaver specimens were mounted in a loading frame. Measures of arch height ratio and IMA were made. With the foot placed in positions seen during normal gait cycle an electromagnetic device measured displacement of the relative angle of rotations between the first metatarsal and navicular, and helical axis (HA) parameters. Canonical correlation analysis assessed the relationship among the variables. Results: A negative relationship ( r = −0.73) was found between arch height and first metatarsal HA V-orientation. When considered as combined variables, arch height and metatarsal HA V-orientation accounted for 69% of the variance of IMA and change in first metatarsal adduction/abduction position. Conclusion: Orientation of the first metatarsal joint axis was highly variable between specimens but correlated with arch height. The conjoined factors of arch height and first metatarsal HA V-orientation accounted for most of the variance of IMA and change in first metatarsal adduction/abduction position during the sequence of foot position during simulated gait. Clinical Relevance: These findings suggest that orthotic arch support could reorient the metatarsal joint axis out-of-vertical and in effect, limit the first metatarsal from displacing into an adducted bunion deformity. These findings could help to explain the pathogenesis of bunions.
FREUD AND HISTORY BEFORE 1905: FROM DEFENDING TO QUESTIONING THE THEORY OF A GLORIOUS PAST
Authors: Cotti Patricia
Published: June 2008

En suivant l'emploi que Freud fait du terme allemand Geschichte (histoire comme science, mais aussi récit) entre 1894 et 1905, nous découvrirons deux conceptions de l'histoire. La première, la théorie du passé glorieux et de sa métaphore historique, qui accompagne et soutient la théorie de la séduction, fut affaiblie voire même remplacée par la seconde, une théorie de l'histoire de la culture, après 1897. Nous montrerons comment ce changement a été déterminé par une évolution dans les conceptions freudiennes de la préhistoire de l'enfance et de l'histoire originaire. Nous interrogerons aussi la manière dont la question de l'histoire intervient dans l'auto-analyse de Freud.

By sticking closely to Freud's use of the German term Geschichte (history, story) between 1894 and 1905, I will reveal two conceptions of history. The first one, the theory of the glorious past and its archaeological metaphor, which accompanied and sustained the seduction theory, was weakened or even replaced after 1897 by the second one, a theory of cultural history. I will define how this change was determined by an evolution in Freud's conceptions of childhood prehistory and original history. I will also question how the history problem interfered with Freud's auto-analysis.
A VERY FREUDIAN AFFAIR: ERICH FROMM, PETER SWALES AND THE FUTURE OF PSYCHOANALYTIC HISTORIOGRAPHY
Authors: Burston Daniel
Published: June 2008

Despite steadfast denials by Ernest Jones, Peter Gay and Paul Roazen (among others), a recent discovery by Franz Maciejewski renders it reasonably certain that Freud had an affair with his sister-in-law, Minna Bernays. While this discovery vindicates certain claims made by the controversial Freud scholar, Peter Swales, other claims of his vis-à-vis Freud's personality and ideas are open to doubt. Meanwhile, the reception of Swales's ideas, and indeed the whole controversy about Freud's love life, provide ample confirmation of many of Erich Fromm's prescient theses about Freud's personality and the politics and historiography of psychoanalysis.
Neural Networks Grown on Organic Semiconductors
Authors: Bystrenova Eva , Jelitai Marta , Tonazzini Ilaria , N. Lazar Adina , Huth Martin , Stoliar Pablo , Dionigi Chiara , Cacace Marcello G. , Nickel Bert , Madarasz Emilia , Biscarini Fabio
Published: June 2008

We report adhesion, growth, and differentiation of mouse neural cells on ultra‐thin films of an organic semiconductor, pentacene. We demonstrate that i) pentacene is structurally and morphologically stable upon prolonged contact with water, physiological buffer, and cell culture medium; ii) neural stem cells adhere to pentacene and remain viable on it for at least 15 days; iii) densely interconnected neural networks and glial cells develop on the pentacene surface after several days. This implies that adhesion proteins secreted by the cells find suitable adsorption loci to anchor the cells. Pentacene is also a suitable substrate for casting thin layers of cell adhesion molecules, such as laminin and poly‐L‐lysine. Our results show that pentacene, albeit being an aromatic molecule, allows neurons to adhere to and grow on it, which is possibly due to its tightly packed solid state structure. This structure remains unaltered upon exposure to water and interfacial force exerted by the cells. The integration of living cells into organic semiconductors is an important step towards the development of bio‐organic electronic transducers of cellular signals from neural networks.
Treosulfan/fludarabine as an allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant conditioning regimen for high‐risk patients
Authors: Baronciani Donatella , Rambaldi Alessandro , Iori Anna Paola , Di Bartolomeo Paolo , Pilo Federica , Pettinau Martina , Depau Cristina , Mico Caterina , Santarone Stella , Angelucci Emanuele
Published: June 2008

In recent years, new conditioning regimens have been explored in patients not eligible for conventional transplant with the aim to reduce transplant‐related mortality. In a phase II multicentric prospective trial, we investigated the safety and feasibility of the treosulfan–fludarabine combination prior to allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant in patients with various hematological malignancies not eligible for conventional regimens because of previous intensive treatment, older age, and comorbidities. Forty‐six consecutive patients, median age 48 years (range 17–69), were enrolled. Sixteen of them were in complete remission, and 20 had a HSCT comorbidity index ≥ 1. Forty‐four patients had regular and sustained engraftment, and 39 out of 40 evaluable patients developed complete chimerism. Nonhematological toxicity was limited. Risk of transplant‐related mortality was 9% (95% CI, 2–17%) at day +100 and plotted at 15% (95% CI, 7–22%) after 7 months. The estimated overall survival and progression‐free survival with a median follow‐up of 20 months were 51% and 38%, respectively. The estimated 30 months progression‐free survival for patients transplanted in remission was 56%. The treosulfan–fludarabine combination is a reduced‐toxicity but myeloablative regimen that can be proposed to patients not fitting criteria for conventional transplant regimens. Longer follow‐up and further prospective studies are necessary to evaluate this regimen. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Am. J. Hematol., 2008.
The directive is in: European Union strongly backs cross‐border mediation
Authors: Bleemer Russ
Published: June 2008

The European Union makes it official: It prefers mediation for cross‐border civil and commercial disputes. Now, the member states must adopt laws and regulations implementing that preference. Full details on the new EU mediation directive are provided. Also: New York's top court will decide a controversial mediation confidentiality case, and New Jersey's Supreme Court gets a recommendation to ease an ADR representative registration rule.
De novo LMNA mutations cause a new form of congenital muscular dystrophy
Authors: Quijano‐Roy Susana , Mbieleu Blaise , Bönnemann Carsten G. , Jeannet Pierre‐Yves , Colomer Jaume , Clarke Nigel F. , Cuisset Jean‐Marie , Roper Helen , De Meirleir Linda , D'Amico Adele , Ben Yaou Rabah , Nascimento Andrés , Barois Annie , Demay Laurence , Bertini Enrico , Ferreiro Ana , Sewry Caroline A. , Romero Norma B. , Ryan Monique , Muntoni Francesco , Guicheney Pascale , Richard Pascale , Bonne Gisèle , Estournet Brigitte
Published: June 2008

Objective

To describe a new entity of congenital muscular dystrophies caused by de novo LMNA mutations.

Methods

Fifteen patients presenting with a myopathy of onset in the first year of life were subjected to neurological and genetic evaluation. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses were performed for all patients.

Results

The 15 patients presented with muscle weakness in the first year of life, and all had de novo heterozygous LMNA mutations. Three of them had severe early‐onset disease, no motor development, and the rest experienced development of a “dropped head” syndrome phenotype. Despite variable severity, there was a consistent clinical pattern. Patients typically presented with selective axial weakness and wasting of the cervicoaxial muscles. Limb involvement was predominantly proximal in upper extremities and distal in lower extremities. Talipes feet and a rigid spine with thoracic lordosis developed early. Proximal contractures appeared later, most often in lower limbs, sparing the elbows. Ten children required ventilatory support, three continuously through tracheotomy. Cardiac arrhythmias were observed in four of the oldest patients but were symptomatic only in one. Creatine kinase levels were mild to moderately increased. Muscle biopsies showed dystrophic changes in nine children and nonspecific myopathic changes in the remaining. Markedly atrophic fibers were common, most often type 1, and a few patients showed positive inflammatory markers.

Interpretation

The LMNA mutations identified appear to correlate with a relatively severe phenotype. Our results further broaden the spectrum of laminopathies and define a new disease entity that we suggest is best classified as a congenital muscular dystrophy (LMNA‐related congenital muscular dystrophy, or L‐CMD). Ann Neurol 2008.
Flocking in multi‐agent systems with multiple virtual leaders
Authors: Su Housheng , Wang Xiaofan , Yang Wen
Published: June 2008

Many tracking problems in flocking are related to a single (virtual) leader with a constant velocity. In this paper, we investigate the problem of controlling a group of mobile autonomous agents to track multiple virtual leaders with varying velocities in the sense that agents with the same virtual leader attain the same velocity and track the corresponding leader. We propose a provably‐stable flocking algorithm. Moreover, we show that the position and velocity of the center of the mass of all agents will exponentially converge to weighted average position and velocity of the virtual leaders. Numerical simulations are worked out to illustrate theoretical results. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society
Distributed control of multi‐agent systems with second‐order agent dynamics and delay‐dependent communications
Authors: Lin Peng , Jia Yingmin , Du Junping , Yuan Shiying
Published: June 2008

This paper investigates distributed consensus problems in networks of second‐order agents with time‐delay and switching topology. A delayed linear consensus protocol is introduced and the corresponding convergence analysis is provided as well. Some sufficient conditions are given which ensure the agreement of all agents under arbitrary switching of the network topology in presence of time‐delay. All obtained conditions are expressed as linear matrix inequalities. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society
Stereoselective analysis of carvedilol in human plasma and urine using HPLC after chiral derivatization
Authors: Peccinini Rosângela G. , Ximenes Valdecir F. , Cesarino Evandro J. , Lanchote Vera L.
Published: June 2008

An enantioselective high‐performance liquid chromatographic method for the analysis of carvedilol in plasma and urine was developed and validated using (‐)‐menthyl chloroformate (MCF) as a derivatizing reagent. Chloroform was used for extraction, and analysis was performed by HPLC on a C18 column with a fluorescence detector. The quantitation limit was 0.25 ng/ml for S(−)‐carvedilol in plasma and 0.5 ng/ml for R(+)‐carvedilol in plasma and for both enantiomers in urine. The method was applied to the study of enantioselectivity in the pharmacokinetics of carvedilol administered in a multiple dose regimen (25 mg/12 h) to a hypertensive elderly female patient. The data obtained demonstrated highest plasma levels for the R(+)‐carvedilol (AUC 75.64 vs 37.29 ng/ml). The enantiomeric ratio R(+)/S(−) was 2.03 for plasma and 1.49 for urine (Ae0–12 17.4 vs 11.7 µg). Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of green and black tea on folic acid pharmacokinetics in healthy volunteers: potential risk of diminished folic acid bioavailability
Authors: Alemdaroglu N. Ceren , Dietz Ulrich , Wolffram Siegfried , Spahn‐Langguth Hildegard , Langguth Peter
Published: June 2008

Previous in vitro studies using Caco‐2 cell monolayers suggested a possible interaction between green and black tea and folic acid at the level of intestinal absorption. The main purpose of the present study was to investigate a possible pharmacokinetic interaction between tea and folic acid in healthy volunteers. In an open‐labeled randomized cross‐over study, the pharmacokinetic interaction between tea and folic acid (0.4 mg and 5 mg) was investigated in healthy volunteers. Water was used as the reference drink. Subjects ingested 0.4 mg folic acid tablets with water, green or black tea (0.3 g extract/250 ml) or 5 mg folic acid tablets with water or green tea (0.3 g extract/250 ml). Blood samples were collected over a period of 8 h. Serum folate analysis was carried out by a competitive immunoassay which uses direct chemiluminescent technology. At the 0.4 mg folic acid dose, green and black tea reduced the mean Cmax of serum folate by 39.2% and 38.6%, and the mean AUC0 → ∞ by 26.6% and 17.9%, respectively. At the 5 mg folic acid dose, the mean Cmax of serum folate was reduced by 27.4% and the mean AUC0 → ∞ was decreased significantly by 39.9% by the co‐application of green tea. The present results suggest an in vivo interaction between tea and folic acid with even low concentrations of green and black tea extracts yielding decreased bioavailabilities of folic acid. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reaction mechanism of surfactant‐sensitized chemiluminescence of bis(2,4,6‐trichlorophyenyl) oxalate and hydrogen peroxide induced by gold nanoparticles
Authors: Liang Shu‐Xuan , Li Haifang , Lin Jin‐Ming
Published: June 2008

The chemiluminescence (CL) of bis(2,4,6‐trichlorophyenyl) oxalate with hydrogen peroxide in the present of cationic surfactant and gold nanoparticles was studied. The CL emission was obviously enhanced in the presence of surfactant at a suitable concentration, with a synergetic catalysis effect exhibited. Different sizes of gold nanoparticles (15 and 50 nm) showed different effects on CL intensity. Mechanisms of the CL reaction and sensitization effect are discussed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prospective study of bone scintigraphy as a staging investigation for oesophageal carcinoma
Authors: Jennings N A , Griffin S M , Lamb P J , Preston S , Richardson D , Karat D , Hayes N
Published: June 2008

Background

About 10 per cent of patients undergoing radical oesophagectomy for transmural (T3) carcinoma with lymph node involvement (N1) develop symptomatic bone metastases within 12 months of surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the introduction of targeted preoperative bone scintigraphy.

Methods

Of 790 patients with oesophageal carcinoma staged between December 2000 and December 2004, 189 were eligible for potentially curative treatment. 99mTc-labelled hydroxymethylene diphosphonate bone scintigraphy was performed in those with stage T3 N1 disease (identified by computed tomography and endoscopic ultrasonography) who were suitable for radical treatment.

Results

A total of 115 patients had bone scintigraphy. The histological diagnosis was adenocarcinoma in 82 patients and squamous cell carcinoma in 33. Bone scintigraphy was normal or showed degenerative changes in 93 patients, and abnormal requiring further investigation in 22. Plain radiography, magnetic resonance imaging and biopsy confirmed the presence of bone metastases in 11 patients (9·6 per cent).

Conclusion

Bone is frequently the first site of identifiable distant metastatic spread, and bone scintigraphy is recommended to exclude metastatic disease before radical treatment of advanced oesophageal carcinoma.
Asymmetric Three‐Component Strecker Reactions Catalyzed by trans‐4‐Hydroxy‐L‐proline‐Derived N,N′‐Dioxides
Authors: Wen Yuehong , Gao Bo , Fu Yingzi , Dong Shunxi , Liu Xiaohua , Feng Xiaoming
Published: June 2008

Novel trans‐4‐hydroxy‐L‐proline‐derived N,N′‐dioxides have been developed and used as efficient organocatalysts for the one‐pot three‐component Strecker reaction with an aldehyde, (1,1‐diphenyl)methylamine, and TMSCN. Both aromatic and aliphatic aldehydes were found to be suitable substrates. The corresponding α‐amino nitriles were obtained in high yields with up to 95 % ee (ee=enantiomeric excess) under mild conditions. Optically pure products could be obtained after a single recrystallization. The catalyst can be easily prepared from trans‐4‐hydroxy‐L‐proline and a diamine in three steps. Based on the experimental results and the observed absolute configurations of the products, a possible transition state has been proposed to explain the origin of the asymmetric induction.
Entorhinal cortex of the monkey: IV. Topographical and laminar organization of cortical afferents
Authors: Insausti Ricardo , Amaral David G.
Published: June 2008

The nonhuman primate entorhinal cortex is the primary interface for information flow between the neocortex and the hippocampal formation. Based on previous retrograde tracer studies, neocortical afferents to the macaque monkey entorhinal cortex originate largely in polysensory cortical association areas. However, the topographical and laminar distributions of cortical inputs to the entorhinal cortex have not yet been comprehensively described. The present study examines the regional and laminar termination of projections within the entorhinal cortex arising from different cortical areas. The study is based on a library of 51 3H‐amino acid injections that involve most of the afferent regions of the entorhinal cortex. The range of termination patterns was broad. Some areas, such as the medial portion of orbitofrontal area 13 and parahippocampal areas TF and TH, project widely within the entorhinal cortex. Other areas have a more focal and regionally selective termination. The lateral orbitofrontal, insular, anterior cingulate, and perirhinal cortices, for example, project only to rostral levels of the entorhinal cortex. The upper bank of the superior temporal sulcus projects mainly to intermediate levels of the entorhinal cortex, and the parietal and retrosplenial cortices project to caudal levels. The projections from some of these cortical regions preferentially terminate in the superficial layers (I–III) of the entorhinal cortex, whereas others project more heavily to the deep layers (V–VI). Thus, some of the cortical inputs may be more influential on the cortically directed outputs of the hippocampal formation or on gating neocortical information flow into the other fields of the hippocampal formation rather than contributing to the perforant path inputs to other hippocampal fields. J. Comp. Neurol. 509:608–641, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Robust tracking control for robot systems with discontinuous uncertainty: an approach based on Filippov's framework
Authors: Nakakuki Takashi , Shen Tielong , Tamura Katsutoshi
Published: June 2008

In this paper, the robust tracking control problem for a rigid robot with discontinuous uncertainty is considered. The controller design approach is based on Filippov's framework and generalized Lyapunov stability theory. It is shown that no Lipschitz continuous controller to stabilize the error system asymptotically exists because of the existence of nontrivial equilibrium set including the origin. A robust controller which makes the error system asymptotically stable is derived in Filippov's framework. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 164(4): 53–61, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www. interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20303
Potentiality of a new minimum‐order back‐EMF state observer taking acceleration into account for sensorless vector control of permanent‐magnet synchronous motors
Authors: Shinnaka Shinji , Saito Yoji
Published: June 2008

This paper proposes new sensorless vector control methods for permanent‐magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs), which are based on a new minimum‐order back‐EMF state observer taking acceleration into account, and examines potentiality of the improved back‐EMF observer through experiments. Conventional sensorless vector control methods for PMSMs using an estimate of back‐EMF are established under the assumption of constant speed or zero acceleration, and consequently cannot operate properly at modes requiring rapid speed change especially in low speed region. On the other hand, the proposed back‐EMF observer has the following features: (1) it is a new back‐EMF state observer taking acceleration into account and requiring no additional approximation to motor mathematical model; (2) it is a minimum‐order state observer; (3) it utilizes motor parameters in the simplest manner; (4) it can be applied to both salient‐pole and non‐salient‐pole PMSMs; (5) it can be realized in both rotor and stator reference frames. Detailed designs and analyses for the improved state observer and the sensorless vector control systems in both rotor and stator reference frames are given. In relation to the sensorless vector control systems, this paper newly proposes a double‐integral‐type PLL method and an integral‐feedback‐type acceleration/speed estimation method. Their potentialities are examined through experiments. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 164(4): 78–92, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ eej.20630
Magnetic properties of melt‐spun Pr(Nd)‐Fe‐Co‐Nb‐Cu‐Si‐B system ribbons and their bonded magnets
Authors: Yamamoto Hiroshi , Shinagawa Hiroki
Published: June 2008

Melt‐spun ribbons of Pr‐Fe‐Co‐Nb‐Cu‐Si‐B system alloys were prepared by a single roller rapid‐quenching method. The effects of composition, wheel velocity, and heat treatment on their magnetic properties were investigated. The optimum preparation conditions of compounds were as follows: composition Pr9Fe68.5Co10Nb1CuSi0.5B10.5; wheel velocity 12.5 m/s; heat treatment 625°C for 5 min. The magnetic properties obtained were (BH)max=121.8kJ/m3,Jr=0.90 T, HcJ=898.7kA/m, and HcB=509.0kA/m. The temperature coefficients of Jr and HcJ of the ribbons of Pr9Fe68.5Co10Nb1Cu0.5Si0.5B10.5 alloy were α(Jr)ave=–0.034%/°C and α(HcJ)ave=–0.290%/°C, respectively. The value of (BH)max for isotropic Pr9Fe68.5Co10Nb1Cu0.5Si0.5B10.5 bonded magnets prepared by using ribbons annealed at 625°C for 5 min was 84.4kJ/m3. The irreversible loss of the bonded magnets was –2.74% at 125°C. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 164(4): 1–7, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20638
Development of satellite glia in mouse sympathetic ganglia: GDNF and GFRα1 are not essential
Authors: Callahan Thomas , Young Heather M. , Anderson Richard B. , Enomoto Hideki , Anderson Colin R.
Published: June 2008

The phenotypic development of satellite cells in mouse sympathetic ganglia was examined by localizing the transcription factors, Sox10 and Phox2b, the neuronal marker, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), and brain‐derived fatty acid binding protein (B‐FABP), which identifies glial precursors and mature glia. In E10.5 mice, most cells in the sympathetic chain expressed both Sox10 and Phox2b, with a minority of cells expressing Sox10 only or Phox2b only. In E11.5 mice, the majority of cells expressed Sox10 only or Phox2b only. B‐FABP was colocalized with Sox10 in satellite glial precursors, which were located on the periphery of the ganglion. There was no overlap between B‐FABP and Phox2b or B‐FABP and TH. During subsequent development, the number of B‐FABP+ cells increased and they became more common deep within the ganglion. In E12.5 and E18.5 mice, there was no overlap between Sox10 and Phox2b, and 98% of Sox10 cells were also B‐FABP+. Satellite glial precursors in E11.5–E15.5 mice also expressed the GDNF‐binding molecule, GFRα1. B‐FABP immunoreactive cells did not express Ret or NCAM, two potential signaling molecules for GDNF/GFRα1. In E12.5 and E18.5 mice lacking GFRα1 or GDNF, the development of B‐FABP immunoreactive satellite cells was normal, and hence neither GDNF or GFRα1 are essential for the development of satellite glia in sympathetic ganglia. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nucleotide‐induced Ca2+signaling in sustentacular supporting cells of the olfactory epithelium
Authors: Hassenklöver Thomas , Kurtanska Silvia , Bartoszek Ilonka , Junek Stephan , Schild Detlev , Manzini Ivan
Published: June 2008

Extracellular purines and pyrimidines are important signaling molecules acting via purinergic cell‐surface receptors in neurons, glia, and glia‐like cells such as sustentacular supporting cells (SCs) of the olfactory epithelium (OE). Here, we thoroughly characterize ATP‐induced responses in SCs of the OE using functional Ca2+imaging. The initial ATP‐induced increase of the intracellular Ca2+concentration [Ca2+]ialways occurred in the apical part of SCs and subsequently propagated toward the basal lamina, indicating the occurrence of purinergic receptors in the apical part of SCs. The mean propagation velocity of the Ca2+signal within SCs was 17.10 ± 1.02 μm/s. ATP evoked increases in [Ca2+]iin both the presence and absence of extracellular Ca2+. Depletion of the intracellular Ca2+stores abolished the responses. This shows that the ATP‐induced [Ca2+]iincreases were in large part, if not entirely, due to the activation of G protein‐coupled receptors followed by Ca2+mobilization from intracellular stores, suggesting an involvement of P2Y receptors. The order of potency of the applied purinergic agonists was UTP > ATP > ATPγS (with all others being only weakly active or inactive). The ATP‐induced [Ca2+]iincreases could be reduced by the purinergic antagonists PPADS and RB2, but not by suramin. Our findings suggest that extracellular nucleotides in the OE activate SCs via P2Y2/P2Y4‐like receptors and initiate a characteristic intraepithelial Ca2+wave. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
E‐cadherin expression in postnatal Schwann cells is regulated by the cAMP‐dependent protein kinase a pathway
Authors: Crawford Audrita T. , Desai Darshan , Gokina Pradeepa , Basak Sayantani , Kim Haesun A.
Published: June 2008

Expression of E‐cadherin in the peripheral nervous system is a highly regulated process that appears postnatally in concert with the development of myelinating Schwann cell lineage. As a major component of autotypic junctions, E‐cadherin plays an important role in maintaining the structural integrity of noncompact myelin regions. In vivo, the appearance of E‐cadherin in postnatal Schwann cell is accompanied by the disappearance of N‐cadherin, suggesting reciprocal regulation of the two cadherins during Schwann cell development. The molecular signal that regulates the cadherin switch in Schwann cell is unclear. Using a neuron‐Schwann cell co‐culture system, here we show that E‐cadherin expression is induced by components on the axonal membrane. We also show that the axonal effect is mediated through cAMP‐dependent protein kinase A (cAMP‐PKA) activation in the Schwann cell: (1) inhibition of cAMP‐PKA blocks axon‐induced E‐cadherin expression and (2) cAMP elevation in the Schwann cell is sufficient to induce E‐cadherin expression. In addition, cAMP‐dependent E‐cadherin expression is promoted by contact between adjacent Schwann cell membranes, suggesting its role in autotypic junction formation during myelination. Furthermore, cAMP‐induced E‐cadherin expression is accompanied by suppression of N‐cadherin expression. Therefore, we propose that axon‐dependent activation of cAMP‐PKA serves as a signal that promotes cadherin switch during postnatal development of Schwann cells. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Eight new bispyridinium oximes in comparison with the conventional oximes pralidoxime and obidoxime: in vivo efficacy to protect from diisopropylfluorophosphate toxicity
Authors: Lorke D. E. , Nurulain S. M. , Hasan M. Y. , Kuča K. , Musilek K. , Petroianu G. A.
Published: June 2008

In search for more efficacious reactivators of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibited by organophosphorus compounds, experimental K‐oximes have been synthesized which show good in vitro efficacy. However, AChE inhibition by oximes themselves (as quantified by their intrinsic IC50) is the major cause of oxime toxicity and the dose‐limiting factor. To assess K‐oxime efficacy in vivo, the extent of protection from mortality induced by diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) was quantified by Cox survival analysis and compared with that of the clinically available oximes. Oximes were administered in an equitoxic dosage, i.e. half the LD01. Best protection was conferred by K‐27, reducing the relative risk of death (RR) to 16% of control RR (P ≤ 0.05), which was statistically significantly better (P ≤ 0.05) than all other tested oximes, except obidoxime, K‐53 and K‐75. The efficacy of obidoxime (RR = 0.19), K‐48 (RR = 0.28), K‐53 (RR = 0.22), K‐74 (RR = 0.38) and K‐75 (RR = 0.29) was significantly (P ≤ 0.05) better than that of 2‐PAM (RR = 0.62) and K‐113 (RR = 0.73). No significant protective effect was observed for K‐107 and K‐108. Our LD50 data show that K‐107, K‐108 and K‐113 (which strongly inhibit AChE in vitro) are in vivo markedly more toxic than all other oximes tested and can therefore only be safely administered at a low dosage which is insufficient to protect from DFP‐induced mortality. Dosage calculations based on in vitro IC50 measurements may therefore in future replace in vivo LD50 determinations, thereby reducing the number of animals required. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Induction of hepatotoxicity by sanguinarine is associated with oxidation of protein thiols and disturbance of mitochondrial respiration
Authors: Choy Cheuk‐Sing , Cheah Khoot‐Peng , Chiou Hung‐Yi , Li Joe‐Sharg , Liu Yung‐Hung , Yong Seet‐Foong , Chiu Wen‐Ta , Liao Jiunn‐Wang , Hu Chien‐Ming
Published: June 2008

Sanguinarine (SANG) has been suggested to be one of the principle constituents responsible for the toxicity of Argemone mexicana seed oil. In this study, we focused on the possible mechanism of SANG‐induced hepatotoxicity. The serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities, hepatic vacuolization, lipid accumulation and lipid peroxidation of the liver were increased, and triglyceride (TG) was decreased in SANG‐treated mice (10 mg kg−1 i.p.), indicating damage to the liver. SANG induced cell death and DNA fragmentation, in a concentration‐ (0–30 µm) and time‐dependent (0–24 h) manner, and the cytotoxicity of SANG (15 µm) was accompanied by an increase in reactive oxygen species and a lessening in protein thiol content; these outcomes were reversed by glutathione, N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine and 1,4‐dithiothretol, and slightly improved by other antioxidants in hepatocytes. SANG can affect the function of mitochondria, leading to the depletion of the mitochondrial membrane potential and adenosine 5′‐triphosphate content of hepatocytes. SANG caused an uncoupling effect of the respiratory chain at lower concentrations, but inhibited the respiratory chain at higher concentrations in mitochondria isolated from rat liver. In conclusion, the data suggest that SANG is a liver toxin that induces cytotoxicity in liver cells, possibly through oxidation of protein thiols, resulting in oxidative stress on the cells and disturbance of mitochondrial function. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative detection of norovirus excretion in pediatric patients with cancer and prolonged gastroenteritis and shedding of norovirus
Authors: Ludwig A. , Adams O. , Laws H.‐J. , Schroten H. , Tenenbaum T.
Published: June 2008

Although chronic courses of norovirus infection have been described in immunocompromised patients, little is known about noroviral shedding and correlation with clinical symptoms in these patients. In this report, the quantitative courses of norovirus excretion in nine pediatric patients with hematologic and oncologic disorders and prolonged gastroenteritis were investigated. In a retrospective study multiple fecal samples from nine pediatric cancer patients were examined by a one‐step real‐time PCR. Clinical data of the patients were reviewed and virological data were correlated with clinical symptoms. All nine patients presented with prolonged illness and prolonged noroviral shedding. Vomiting and diarrhea were associated with high norovirus concentrations and norovirus excretion declined slowly in the patients. Retrospectively, initial PCR‐testing for norovirus was performed with a median of 7 days after onset of symptoms. This finding hints at the difficulty of obtaining early diagnosis of the infection in these children. The patients were shedding high norovirus concentration over a long period of time. Results of sequential quantitative PCR‐testing for norovirus correlated with clinical symptoms. Both clinical symptoms and quantitative PCR‐testings help to define the severity of norovirus infection and to estimate the risk for transmission. To prevent the spread of the disease, usage of virocidal disinfectants and isolation procedures should be maintained as long as patients are positive for noroviruses. Since vomiting is frequent in pediatric patients with oncological conditions, a screening program for rapid detection of norovirus infection in this group of patients should be considered. J. Med. Virol. 80:1461–1467, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.