bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Iron and Manganese Ions on the Crystal Growth of Calcium Carbonate
Authors: Johannsen K. , Alex T. , Burwieck H. , Dorsch T. , Wichmann K.
Published: February 2007

The present study describes examinations of growth rate of calcium carbonate using seed crystals of different sizes in the range of 10 to 50 μm at concentrations in the range of 5 to 50 g·L−1. The rate constant related to the crystal surface per volume was found to be independend of the crystal size. The effect of temperature on the rate constant was described using the Arrhenius equation. The use of suspension of lime as precipitating agent leads to decrease of the rate constant compared to lime water. This effect can be explained by the dissolution of suspended calcium hydroxide particles. Using the presented conditions (SI0 = 2.8), no impact of iron and manganese ions was observed.
Measurement of Low‐level Extracellular Enzyme Activity in Natural Waters Using Fluorigenic Model Substrates
Authors: Hendel B. , Marxsen J.
Published: February 2007

Activities of the extracellular enzymes ß‐D‐glucosidase, phosphatase, and leucine aminopeptidase were investigated in unpolluted waters to test the suitability of fluorigenic model substrates for measuring enzyme activities in water samples expected to sustain low levels of activity. The waters tested were surface running waters, shallow groundwaters, and deep groundwaters from water extraction wells. Enzyme activity was detected in all the waters tested, although some of the hydrolytic rates were at the lower limit of current analytical capability. Rates varied between 1.1 and 291 nmol/(L·h) for ß‐D‐glucosidase, between 9.2 and 320 nmol/(L·h) for phosphatase, and between 5.8 and 1560 nmol/(L·h) for leucine aminopeptidase. The method thus proved to be suitable for measuring low levels of extracellular enzyme activity in natural waters, but in any case, it is necessary to adapt the technique to the type of water investigated.
Biodegradability of Photographic Developers and Ingredients of Photographic Developers, especially of Hydroquinone and Isoascorbic Acid
Authors: Lebertz H. , Springer J.
Published: February 2007

The biodegradability of 5 different commercially available common photographic developers and their ingredients hydroquinone, isoascorbic acid, and its sodium salt was determined in parallel using the OECD‐screening‐test (OECD 301E). The results obtained from the degradation test on hydroquinone were compared with the results of other laboratories. Biodegradability of developers containing isoascorbic acid was in the same range as of comparable products containing hydroquinone.
Abbau von Monochlornitrobenzolen durch Pseudomonas acidovorans CA50
Authors: Kuhlmann A. , Hegemann W.
Published: February 2007

Mit der Reinkultur Pseudomonas acidovorans CA50 wurden aerobe Batch‐Versuche zum Abbau von Monochlornitrobenzolen (CNB) durchgeführt. Die Monochlornitrobenzole wurden zu den entsprechenden Chloranilinen (CA) reduziert. Die Reduktion erfolgte nur mit einer zusätzlichen Kohlenstoff‐ und Stickstoffquelle. 3‐Chlorbrenzcatechin (aus 2‐CA) und 4‐Chlorbrenzcatechin (aus 3‐ und 4‐CA) wurden als weitere Metaboliten detektiert.

Im Gegensatz zu den Monochlornitrobenzolen wurden die Monochloraniline als alleinige Kohlenstoff‐, Energie‐ und Stickstoffquelle unter Chloridfreisetzung verwertet. Deren Abbau erfolgte jedoch auch in Gegenwart leichter verwertbarer Substrate.

Das 2‐Chlornitrobenzol wurde aufgrund des geringen Turnovers seines Metaboliten 2‐Chloranilin überwiegend am schlechtesten abgebaut. 3‐Chlornitrobenzol wurde sowohl als Einzelsubstrat als auch im Gemisch vollständig abgebaut. Ein vollständiger Abbau von 4‐Chlornitrobenzol erfolgte nur als Einzelsubstrat. Die Untersuchungen lassen vermuten, daß eine Dechlorierung und Mineralisierung von Monochlornitrobenzolen möglich ist. Allerdings sind für den endgültigen Beweis weitere Versuche erforderlich.
Bildung bromhaltiger Desinfektionsnebenprodukte nach Chlorung von Bodenseewasser in Abhängigkeit von Aufbereitungsschritten und der Bromidkonzentration
Authors: Petri M. , Wilker M. , Stabel H.‐H. , Gilbert E.
Published: February 2007

In mikrogesiebtem Rohwasser und aufbereitetem Trinkwasser aus dem Bodensee wurde die Bildung halogenorganischer Desinfektionsnebenprodukte (DNP) (Trihalogenmethane (THM), halogenierte Essigsäuren (HES), halogenierte Acetonitrile (HAN), halogenierte Ketone (HKE) und Trichlornitromethan (TCNM)) nach einer Chlordesinfektion (0.5 mg/L) unter besonderer Berücksichtigung des Einflusses von Bromid auf die DNP‐Zusammensetzung untersucht und eine Brommassenbilanz aufgestellt.

Die Aufbereitung von Bodenseewasser mit Ozon verringerte die Bildung der DNP um 35% und der adsorbierbaren organisch gebundenen Halogene (AOX) um 45%. Die Abnahme der DNP‐Summe beruht im wesentlichen auf der Verringerung der Chloroform‐, Dichloressigsäure‐ und Trichloressigsäurebildung. Obwohl das Wasser des Bodensees einen Bromidgehalt von nur 6.2 μg/L hat, lagen nach der Chlorung von aufbereitetem Wasser 32% der THM, 16% der HES und 30% der HAN in Form ihrer bromhaltigen Verbindungen vor.

Bei einer Chlorung des Wassers wurde durch zudotiertes Bromid (bis zu 1 mg/L) die DNP‐Zusammensetzung zugunsten der bromierten Verbindungen verschoben, wobei die Verschiebung im wesentlichen vom Stoffmengenverhältnis des Bromids zum Hypochlorit abhing. Ein mathematisches Modell zur Beschreibung der Veränderungen in der DNP‐Zusammensetzung mit steigendem Br/HOCl‐Stoffmengenverhältnis zeigte eine gute Übereinstimmung mit den gemessenen Werten für mikrogesiebtes Rohwasser und für aufbereitetes Trinkwasser aus dem Bodensee.

Nach der Chlorung von mikrogesiebtem Rohwasser reagierten 27% des Bromids zu den nachgewiesenen DNP, 39% wurden nicht umgesetzt und 34% des Bromids befanden sich in unbekannten Verbindungen. Wird aufbereitetes Wasser gechlort, so wurden nur noch 16% des Bromids in unbekannte Verbindungen eingebaut, während 34% in den bekannten DNP wiedergefunden und 50% nicht umgesetzt wurden. Auch bei Bromidzugaben (bis zu 25 μg/L) zu ozontem und aufbereitetem Wasser hat das nach der Chlorung umgesetzte Bromid zu 60 bis 72% zu den nachgewiesenen niedermolekularen halogenorganischen DNP reagiert.
Determination of Chloroethers in Aqueous Samples Using Solid‐phase Microextraction
Authors: Wennrich L. , Engewald W. , Popp P.
Published: February 2007

A method for the determination of di‐ and tetrachlorinated ethers (haloethers) in aqueous samples using solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) combined with capillary GC has been developed. Using 100‐μm polydimethylsiloxane fibers, the influence of several parameters on the SPME procedure like the exposure time of the fiber in the aqueous sample, the desorption temperature, and the salt content of the sample have been studied.

Salt addition has a strong effect on the extraction efficiency of the haloethers investigated. Working with saturated salt solutions, the factor increase of the peak areas was in the range from 5 to 12. These improvements are accompanied by decreased precision and increased equilibration times.

The SPME method combined with several detectors (FID, ECD, MS in SIM mode) was evaluated with respect to detection limits, linearities, and precisions. Working with salt addition and FID, detection limits of all compounds investigated were in the range of 0.3 to 1.2 μg/L. Using ECD, the LOD values (limits of detection) were only improved for the tetrachlorinated bis(propyl) ethers (<10 ng/L). Employing mass‐spectrometric detection in SIM mode for all chlorinated ethers, detection limits lower than 100 ng/L could be reached. Working with saturated salt solutions, the coefficients of variation were <9% RSD. However, without salt addition, the precision is better than 2.5% RSD for all analytes.

Investigations showed that the analysis of the haloethers with SPME is not influenced significantly by the matrix Elbe water. The results of two series of samples demonstrate that SPME‐GC‐MS allows the sensitive determination of the di‐ and tetrahalogenated ethers in Elbe river water.
Manuelle Vordimensionierung von Stahlbetonbrücken
Authors: Meek Jethro W.
Published: February 2007

Trotz der aufwendigen Vorschriften der DIN ‐Fachberichte 101 und 102 ist es möglich, mit einfachen Handrechnungen eine gewöhnliche Stahlbetonbrücke in beinahe allen Einzelheiten vorzudimensionieren und dann anschließend die gewählte Konstruktion mit einem Minimum an EDV‐Statik zu bestätigen. Hierzu dienen einige einfache Faustregeln zur impliziten Erfüllung vieler rechenintensiver Vorschriftenkriterien und zur Berücksichtigung von Temperaturzwang in statisch unbestimmten Fällen.
Einheitliches Fachwerkmodell für Stahlbeton‐ und Spannbetonbauteile unter Querkraft‐ und Torsionsbeanspruchung
Authors: Görtz Stephan , Zedler Thomas
Published: February 2007

Die Anwendung der Bemessungsgleichungen nach DIN 1045‐1 für Querkraft und Torsion führt in einigen Punkten zu Diskussionsbedarf. Zum einen ergibt sich bei der Bemessung in vielen Fällen ein rechnerischer Druckstrebenwinkel von 18°, was ungewöhnlich flach scheint und in Versuchen nur bei sehr hohen zusätzlichen Druckkräften beobachtet wurde. Zum anderen fehlt ein gleitender Übergang zwischen schubbeanspruchten Bauteilen mit und ohne Querkraftbewehrung. Zur Überprüfung wurden beispielsweise in [1], [2] experimentelle und theoretische Untersuchungen an Bauteilen unter Querkraft‐ und Torsionsbeanspruchung durchgeführt. Aufbauend auf diesen Ergebnissen wurde hier ein einheitliches und einfach anwendbares Fachwerkmodell abgeleitet.
Beeinflussung der Grundwasserqualität durch Frischbeton und Zementinjektionen
Authors: Brameshuber Wolfgang , Vollpracht Anya
Published: February 2007

In diesem Beitrag wird der Stand des Wissens zur Auslaugung aus Frischbeton dargestellt. Es wird wiedergegeben, welche Prüfeinrichtungen verwendet werden, und welche Austräge mit diesen Versuchen für Frischbeton in unterschiedlichen Einbausituationen bestimmt worden sind. Abschließend werden zwei Beispiele für Modellsimulationen der Schadstoffausbreitung im Grundwasser vorgestellt.
Glowworms: a review of Arachnocampa spp. and kin
Authors: Meyer‐Rochow V. B.
Published: February 2007

The term ‘glowworm’ is used in connection with the flightless females of lampyrid fireflies and to describe the luminescent larvae of certain fungus gnats that belong to the subfamilies Arachnocampinae, Keroplatinae and Macrocerinae of the dipteran family Keroplatidae. This review focuses on the luminescent larval fungus gnats. The weakly luminescent species of the Holarctic feed mainly on fungal spores, but some, such as Orfelia fultoni, have turned to a carnivorous diet. Larval Australian and New Zealand Arachnocampa spp. produce brighter in vivo (but not necessarily in vitro) lights, live in cool, damp and dark places and are exclusively predatory. They lure their prey (usually small flying insects) with the help of their blue‐green light emissions towards snares consisting of vertical silk threads coated with sticky mucus droplets. Fungus gnats with similar ‘fishing lines’ are found in the Neotropics, but they are not luminescent. The larval stage is longest in the life cycle of Arachnocampa, lasting up to a year, depending on climatic conditions such as temperature and humidity as well as food supply. In A. luminosa, but not the Australian A. flava, female pupae and even female imagines are luminescent. However, it remains to be demonstrated whether it is the light of the female, a pheromone or both that attract the males. Light organs and the chemical reactions to produce light differ between the holarctic and the Australian/New Zealand species. Prey is attracted only by the glowworm's light; odours of the fishing lines or the glowworms themselves are not involved. Recognition of the prey by the glowworm involves mechano‐ and chemoreception. The eyes of both larval and adult glowworms are large and functional over a spectral range covering UV to green wavelengths. Adults are poor fliers, live only for a few days, have degenerate mouth parts and do not feed. Maintenance of glowworms in captivity is possible and the impact of tourism on glowworms in natural settings can be minimized through appropriate precautions. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Attribution of blame to rape victims among therapists and non‐therapists
Authors: Idisis Yael , Ben‐David Sarah , Ben‐Nachum Efrat
Published: February 2007

This paper examines the hypothesis of modular judgment in the context of attribution of blame to rape victims. Modular judgment was operationalized using blame schemata suited to judgment of everyday aggression. Subjects were 72 individuals, 36 therapists and 36 non‐therapists; half were men and half women. Each subject was presented with written descriptions of four rapes, which included information regarding victim's gender (male versus female) and victim's prior acquaintance with the rapist (stranger or known). Dependent variables were attribution of blame and judgments regarding severity of the rape and of the punishment deserved by the rapist. Among both therapists and non‐therapists there was a slight general tendency to blame the victim. As expected, women were blamed more than men. Also, men attributed less blame to male victims then did women, whereas women attributed less blame to female victims then did men. These results support the theories of modular judgment and of defensive attribution. As for judgment of severity of the rape, therapists judged the rapes as slightly more severe. Similar results were found regarding judgment of deserved punishment. We suggest further investigation of the connection between blame attribution and rape myths, which may facilitate blaming the victim. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bivalent Peptides as Models for Multimeric Targets of PDZ Domains
Authors: Paduch Marcin , Biernat Monika , Stefanowicz Piotr , Derewenda Zygmunt S. , Szewczuk Zbigniew , Otlewski Jacek
Published: February 2007

PDZ domains are among the most common modules in eukaryotic, including human, genomes. They are found exclusively in large, multidomain cytosolic proteins—often with other domains that belong to a variety of families—and are involved in a plethora of physiological and pathophysiological events. PDZ domains mediate protein–protein interactions by binding to solvent‐exposed and extended C‐terminal short fragments of membrane‐associated proteins, such as receptors and ion channels. Most of what is known about the mechanisms of target binding by PDZ domains is inferred from studies that involve isolated recombinant PDZ domains and short synthetic peptides that represent the targets. These binary systems constitute an obvious oversimplification and disregard factors such as noncanonical modes of binding and enhanced affinity due to multimeric interactions mediated by clusters and oligomers of PDZ‐domain‐containing proteins. We have tested whether the interaction between a dimeric form of PDZ domain that mimics a functional dimeric guanine nucleotide exchange factor, PDZ‐RhoGEF (PDZ‐containing RhoA‐specific guanine nucleotide exchange factor) or LARG (leukemia‐associated RhoA specific guanine nucleotide exchange factor), and a bivalent peptide that mimics the dimer of the plexin B receptor, could enhance the interaction between the two moieties. Peptide dimerization was achieved by cross‐linking the N‐terminal ends of peptides attached to Wang resin with poly(ethylene glycol) spacers (30–45 Å in length). The interaction of dimeric PDZ domains with dimeric peptides resulted in an up to 20‐fold increase in affinity compared to the simple binary system. This is consistent with the notion that multimerization of both receptors and PDZ‐containing proteins might constitute an important regulatory mechanism.
Enhanced inflammatory response to coronary stenting marks the development of clinically relevant restenosis
Authors: Caixeta Adriano M. , Brito Fábio S. , Costa Marco A. , Serrano Carlos V. , Petriz João L. , Da Luz Protásio L.
Published: February 2007

Objectives: The aims of this study were to investigate the effect of coronary stenting on the release of cytokines and cell‐mediated immunity factors and to evaluate the association between inflammation and clinical outcomes at 6 months. Background: Circulating levels of inflammatory markers and cytokines are elevated in patients with acute coronary syndromes and are related to an unfavorable outcome. The aims of this study were to investigate the effect of coronary stenting on the release of cytokines and cell‐mediated immunity factors and to evaluate the association between inflammation and clinical outcomes at 6 months. Methods: Forty patients with single native coronary artery disease treated with stenting were enrolled. Peripheral venous blood samples were collected before and 6 h, 48 h, and 12 weeks after stenting. Serum concentrations of high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein, interleukin‐6, interleukin‐8, tumor necrosis factor‐α (markers of inflammation) and serum‐soluble interleukin‐2 receptor for T‐lymphocyte activation (sIL2‐R, marker of cell‐mediated immunity) were measured. Patients also were evaluated clinically one, 3, and 6 months post‐stenting or when they presented with cardiovascular symptoms to identify major adverse cardiac events (cardiac death, MI, revascularization). Results: Concentrations of interleukins 6 and 8 and tumor necrosis factor‐α peaked at 6 h (11.0, 12.6, and 5.3 pg/ml, respectively). The peak level of high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (2.77 mg/dL) occurred 48 h post stenting, while sIL2‐R peaked (495 U/ml) at 12 weeks. Patients who experienced restenosis had higher levels of C‐reactive protein at 48 h (4.94 vs. 1.84 mg/dl; P = 0.043) and of IL‐8 at 6 h (26.75 vs. 13.55 pg/mL; P = 0.048) than those without restenosis. Conclusions: Proinflammatory cytokines and inflammatory markers are released into the peripheral circulation early after coronary stenting, and increased levels of some are associated with clinically relevant restenosis. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dmitrij Ivanovič Mendeleev (1834–1907): Zum 100. Todestag
Authors: Boeck Gisela , Zott Regine
Published: February 2007

Der 100. Todestag von Mendeleev war Anlass, Leben und Werk des Gelehrten zu würdigen, dessen Name untrennbar mit dem Periodischen System der Elemente verbunden ist, der aber auch auf anderen – nicht nur chemischen – Gebieten Wegweisendes vollbracht hat.
Die Chemie des Katers: Alkohol und seine Folgen
Authors: Roth Klaus
Published: February 2007

Das Überfluten jeder einzelnen Zelle unseres Körpers mit einer großen Menge Ethanol führt zu Störungen im Stoffwechsel aller Organe. Dies erklärt die große Variationsbreite der Symptome nach zu großer Ethanolaufnahme. Gegen den Kater gibt es keine echte Heilung. “Chemie in unserer Zeit” empfiehlt: Viel reines Wasser gegen den Wasserverlust, eine Aspirin oder Ibuprofen gegen die pochenden Kopfschmerzen, Fruchtsaft gegen den Glucosemangel, Muttis kräftige Hühnerbrühe gegen den Elektrolytverlust, eine Vitamintablette wegen ihres sehr wirksamen Placebo‐Effekts, Zuspruch und Mitleidsbekundungen der Lieben und dann – wenn der Kreislauf und die Kontrolle der unteren Extremitäten den aufrechten Gang es zulassen, einen Spaziergang an der frischen Luft. Dabei sollte man intensiv über die Sinnlosigkeit übermäßigen Trinkens nachdenken. Das hilft, und am nächsten Tag ist alles vorbei – zumindest bis zum nächsten Mal. Na dann: Helau und Alaaf!
Berlin‐Mitte
Authors: Schwedt Georg
Published: February 2007

1810 wurde in Berlin die Friedrich‐Wilhelm‐Universität eröffnet, die seit 1946 Humdboldt‐Universität heißt. Unsere Lokaltermine zur Chemiegeschichte finden in Berlin‐Mitte am historischen Hauptgebäude (Mitscherlich), im Kupfergraben (Magnus) gegenüber der Museumsinsel (westlich vom Pergamon‐Museum), auf dem Dorotheenstädtischen Friedhof (Hermbstaedt, Klaproth, Magnus, A.W. von Hofmann) an der Chausseestraße und am Gebäude der alten Chemie (Emil Fischer) in der Hessischen Straße statt.
Keimlinge mit Spürnase
Authors: Jacoby Petra
Published: February 2007

Nicht nur in der Tierwelt dienen Duftstoffe als Kommunikationsmittel. Auch Pflanzen tauschen Informationen über flüchtige Substanzen aus.
The polypeptide composition of moving and stationary neurofilaments in cultured sympathetic neurons
Authors: Yan Yanping , Jensen Kitty , Brown Anthony
Published: February 2007

Studies on the axonal transport of neurofilament proteins in cultured neurons have shown they move at fast rates, but their overall rate of movement is slow because they spend most of their time not moving. Using correlative light and electron microscopy, we have shown that these proteins move in the form of assembled neurofilament polymers. However, the polypeptide composition of these moving polymers is not known. To address this, we visualized neurofilaments in cultured neonatal mouse sympathetic neurons using GFP‐tagged neurofilament protein M and performed time‐lapse fluorescence microscopy of naturally occurring gaps in the axonal neurofilament array. When neurofilaments entered the gaps, we stopped them in their tracks using a rapid perfusion and permeabilization technique and then processed them for immunofluorescence microscopy. To compare moving neurofilaments to the total neurofilament population, most of which are stationary at any point in time, we also performed immunofluorescence microscopy on neurofilaments in detergent‐splayed axonal cytoskeletons. All neurofilaments, both moving and stationary, contained NFL, NFM, peripherin and α‐internexin along >85% of their length. NFH was absent due to low expression levels in these neonatal neurons. These data indicate that peripherin and α‐internexin are integral and abundant components of neurofilament polymers in these neurons and that both moving and stationary neurofilaments in these neurons are complex heteropolymers of at least four different neuronal intermediate filament proteins. Cell Motil. Cytoskeleton 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Results of a multicenter phase II trial for older patients with c‐Kit‐positive acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and high‐risk myelodysplastic syndrome (HR‐MDS) using low‐dose Ara‐C and Imatinib
Authors: Heidel Florian , Cortes Jorge , Rücker Frank G. , Aulitzky Walter , Letvak Laurie , Kindler Thomas , Huber Christoph , Döhner Hartmut , Kantarjian Hagop , Fischer Thomas
Published: February 2007

BACKGROUND.

Imatinib (IM) is a potent tyrosine kinase inhibitor of c‐Kit. c‐Kit is expressed in the majority of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Whereas clinical trials evaluating monotherapy with IM in AML revealed low response rates, Ara‐C and IM showed synergistic effects in vitro. This suggested evaluation of a combination treatment.

METHODS.

Low‐dose Ara‐C (LDAC) combined with IM was tested to determine the efficacy and safety of this regimen. Forty patients from 4 centers with c‐Kit‐positive AML (n = 34) and high‐risk myelodysplastic syndrome (HR‐MDS) (n = 6) with a median age of 73 years were enrolled. They were either not eligible for myelosuppressive therapy and/or had recurring/refractory disease.

RESULTS.

Thirty‐eight patients were evaluable for analysis. In 6 of 38 patients a blast response was observed. Eight of 38 patients showed stable disease for more than 2 months. The objective hematologic response rate was low (11%), with 2 patients showing hematologic improvement and 1 each with a partial response (PR) or complete response (CR). Median overall survival was 138 days, with 20% of patients alive after an observation period of 600 days. Study medication was applied in an ambulatory setting with minimal hospitalization time, an early mortality rate of only 18.9%, and a low toxicity rate.

CONCLUSIONS.

LDAC plus IM does not appear to be inferior in older AML patients incomparison with historic controls receiving myelosuppressive therapy. However, this trial also shows that LDAC/IM does not appear to be more effective than LDAC monotherapy in a patient population not selected for appropriate molecular markers. Cancer 2007 © 2007 American Cancer Society.
Novel marker D2‐40, combined with calretinin, CEA, and TTF‐1
Authors: Mimura Takeshi , Ito Akihiko , Sakuma Toshiko , Ohbayashi Chiho , Yoshimura Masahiro , Tsubota Noriaki , Okita Yutaka , Okada Morihito
Published: February 2007

BACKGROUND.

Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a challenging disease with regard to diagnosis and treatment; early and accurate diagnosis would lead to appropriate therapeutic strategies, including extrapleural pneumonectomy. Immunohistochemistry has proven valuable for the diagnosis of the most common epithelioid mesothelioma, although it is often difficult to differentiate it from pulmonary or metastatic adenocarcinoma with absolute certainty if a single antibody is employed. The current study was designed to identify an immunodiagnostic panel for pleural mesothelioma.

METHODS.

Large surgical specimens from 66 cases with pleural mesothelioma and 66 with lung adenocarcinoma were immunohistochemically reevaluated under uniform conditions. The antibodies examined were directed against the novel mesothelial marker D2‐40, as well as calretinin, CEA, and TTF‐1.

RESULTS.

For mesothelioma the sensitivities of D2‐40 and calretinin were 84.8% and 87.9%, respectively, and their specificities were both 95.5%. For adenocarcinoma, the sensitivities of CEA and TTF‐1 were 95.5% and 92.4%, respectively, and their specificities were both 100%. Immunoreactivity to D2‐40 and calretinin was observed in most areas of epithelioid differentiation in mesothelioma. Western blots also showed higher levels of D2‐40 antigen in pleura invaded by epithelioid mesothelioma as compared with unaffected pleura.

CONCLUSIONS.

These data strongly suggest the significant usefulness of D2‐40 and calretinin as positive markers, and of CEA and TTF‐1 as negative markers, for pleural mesothelioma. The 4‐antibody immunohistochemical panel showed high sensitivity and specificity with regard to differentiation of epithelioid mesothelioma from lung adenocarcinoma. Cancer 2007. © 2007 American Cancer Society.
Maternal and perinatal characteristics in relation to neuroblastoma
Authors: Chow Eric J. , Friedman Debra L. , Mueller Beth A.
Published: February 2007

BACKGROUND.

Neuroblastoma is the most common malignancy among infants, but risk factors remain poorly understood. Because most patients present in the first few years of life, it has been hypothesized that prenatal and perinatal exposures may contribute to the pathogenesis of neuroblastoma.

METHODS.

A population‐based case‐control study was conducted by using linked birth and cancer registry records from 1980 to 2004 in Washington State. Maternal and infant characteristics from birth and hospital discharge records for 240 cases of neuroblastoma and 2400 controls were compared.

RESULTS.

Neuroblastoma was associated with the presence of major congenital abnormalities (odds ratio [OR], 6.86; [95% CI], 2.92–16.08), particularly with cardiac abnormalities (OR, 5.84; 95% CI, 1.93–17.66), even after excluding abnormalities near the primary tumor. A borderline association was observed with maternal gestational diabetes (OR, 1.84; 95% CI, 0.98–3.47). The magnitude of both associations was greater when the analysis was limited to children who were diagnosed at age <1 year.

CONCLUSIONS.

The findings from this population‐based study supported prior case‐control studies that identified an etiologic link between neuroblastoma and congenital abnormalities. However, to the authors' knowledge, the association between neuroblastoma and maternal diabetes has not been reported previously and requires further study. Cancer 2007 © 2007 American Cancer Society.
A phase II study of the safety and efficacy of the multidrug resistance inhibitor VX‐710 combined with doxorubicin and vincristine in patients with recurrent small cell lung cancer
Authors: Gandhi Leena , Harding Matthew W. , Neubauer Marcus , Langer Corey J. , Moore Melvin , Ross Helen J. , Johnson Bruce E. , Lynch Thomas J.
Published: February 2007

BACKGROUND.

Tumors with multidrug resistance (MDR) frequently up‐regulate efflux proteins, including MDR‐associated protein (MRP‐1) and P‐glycoprotein (Pgp). MDR represents an obstacle to successful chemotherapy treatment and is reversible in Pgp‐ or MRP‐1‐expressing cells by the inhibitor VX‐710. A Phase II study was designed to evaluate VX‐710 in combination with doxorubicin and vincristine in patients with sensitive, recurrent small cell lung cancer (SCLC).

METHODS.

Eligible patients had recurrent SCLC after a response to first‐line chemotherapy. Stage 1 safety evaluation was completed with planned expansion if 9 responses were confirmed in the first 35 patients. Patients were treated every 21 days until progression or intolerable adverse events (AEs).

RESULTS.

Thirty‐six patients were enrolled from 1998 to 2000. Neutropenia was the major toxicity, occurring in 26 of 36 patients (72%). Neutropenia was more severe (30% vs 20% grade 4) and developed earlier (58% vs 38% in Cycle 1) among the 15 patients who were enrolled prior to an amendment that required neutropenia prophylaxis. Four patients died on study: 2 from infections likely related to therapy and 2 from cancer progression. Seven of 36 patients (19%) had partial responses; 6 patients sustained responses through 6 cycles of treatment, with 1 response lasting 3 years. Three additional patients had unconfirmed responses, and 4 patients had stable disease. The median survival was 6 months. No correlative 99mTc‐sestamibi uptake in tumor tissue was observed with the addition of VX‐710 in this study.

CONCLUSIONS.

The addition of VX‐710 to doxorubicin and vincristine therapy did not significantly enhance antitumor activity or survival. Although there were durable responses, criteria were not met to proceed with Stage 2 expansion. Cancer 2007 © 2007 American Cancer Society.
What is the role of adjuvant radiotherapy in the treatment of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma with perineural invasion?
Authors: Han Anne , Ratner Désireé
Published: February 2007

BACKGROUND.

Perineural invasion (PNI) in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is infrequent, occurring in 2.5% to 14% of patients, but it is important prognostically, because it carries an increased risk of recurrence and metastasis. Although both excision and Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) are used to treat SCC with PNI, postoperative radiation therapy (XRT) often is recommended to minimize the risk of recurrence. To date, the effectiveness of adjuvant XRT in this setting has not been determined definitively.

METHODS.

The authors evaluated the effectiveness of adjuvant XRT in treating SCC with PNI by performing a thorough literature review.

RESULTS.

For SCC with PNI, the local control rate after MMS with or without XRT was from 92% to 100% compared with a control rate from 38% to 100% after standard excision with or without XRT. A better prognosis was associated with negative pretreatment magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography findings than with positive radiographic evidence of PNI. Primary SCC with PNI was associated with better local control than recurrent SCC with PNI. When treatment outcomes were stratified by PNI type, SCC with microscopic PNI and SCC with extensive PNI had local control rates from 78% to 87% and from 50% to 55%, respectively. Adjuvant XRT was associated in selected patients with 100% local control.

CONCLUSIONS.

Few studies addressed the effectiveness of adjuvant XRT in patients who have SCC with PNI. Although XRT has been established as an adjuvant treatment for selected patients, the extent of nerve involvement by tumor, particularly in the setting of other high‐risk features, may be helpful in defining its role. In the future, a multicentered, prospective, randomized clinical trial will be needed to assess the true efficacy of adjuvant XRT in the treatment of patients with SCC and PNI. Cancer 2007 © 2007 American Cancer Society.
Diagnosing PNH with FLAER and multiparameter flow cytometry
Authors: Sutherland D. Robert , Kuek Nancy , Davidson Jeff , Barth David , Chang Hong , Yeo Erik , Bamford Sylvia , Chin‐Yee Ian , Keeney Michael
Published: February 2007

Background:

PNH is an acquired hematopoietic stem cell disorder leading to a partial or absolute deficiency of all glycophosphatidyl‐inositol (GPI)‐linked proteins. The classical approach to diagnosis of PNH by cytometry involves the loss of at least two GPI‐linked antigens on RBCs and neutrophils. While flow assays are more sensitive and specific than complement‐mediated lysis or the Hams test, they suffer from several drawbacks. Bacterial aerolysin binds to the GPI moiety of cell surface GPI‐linked molecules and causes lysis of normal but not GPI‐deficient PNH cells. FLAER is an Alexa488‐labeled inactive variant of aerolysin that does not cause lysis of cells. Our goals were to develop a FLAER‐based assay to diagnose and monitor patients with PNH and to improve detection of minor populations of PNH clones in other hematologic disorders.

Methods:

In a single tube assay, we combined FLAER with CD45, CD33, and CD14 allowing the simultaneous analysis of FLAER and the GPI‐linked CD14 structure on neutrophil and monocyte lineages.

Results:

Comparison to standard CD55 and CD59 analysis showed excellent agreement. Because of the higher signal to noise ratio, the method shows increased sensitivity in our hands over single (CD55 or CD59) parameter analysis. Using this assay, we were able to detect as few as 1% PNH monocytes and neutrophils in aplastic anemia, that were otherwise undetectable using CD55 and CD59 on RBC's. We also observed abnormal FLAER staining of blast populations in acute leukemia. In these cases, the neutrophils stained normally with FLAER, while the gated CD33bright cells failed to express normal levels of CD14 and additionally showed aberrant CD45 staining and bound lower levels of FLAER.

Conclusion:

FLAER combined with multiparameter flow cytometry offers an improved assay for diagnosis and monitoring of PNH clones and may have utility in detection of unsuspected myeloproliferative disorders. © 2007 Clinical Cytometry Society
A new approach of selecting real input ground motions for seismic design: The most unfavourable real seismic design ground motions
Authors: Zhai Chang‐Hai , Xie Li‐Li
Published: February 2007

This paper presents a new way of selecting real input ground motions for seismic design and analysis of structures based on a comprehensive method for estimating the damage potential of ground motions, which takes into consideration of various ground motion parameters and structural seismic damage criteria in terms of strength, deformation, hysteretic energy and dual damage of Park & Ang damage index. The proposed comprehensive method fully involves the effects of the intensity, frequency content and duration of ground motions and the dynamic characteristics of structures. Then, the concept of the most unfavourable real seismic design ground motion is introduced. Based on the concept, the most unfavourable real seismic design ground motions for rock, stiff soil, medium soil and soft soil site conditions are selected in terms of three typical period ranges of structures. The selected real strong motion records are suitable for seismic analysis of important structures whose failure or collapse will be avoided at a higher level of confidence during the strong earthquake, as they can cause the greatest damage to structures and thereby result in the highest damage potential from an extended real ground motion database for a given site. In addition, this paper also presents the real input design ground motions with medium damage potential, which can be used for the seismic analysis of structures located at the area with low and moderate seismicity. The most unfavourable real seismic design ground motions are verified by analysing the seismic response of structures. It is concluded that the most unfavourable real seismic design ground motion approach can select the real ground motions that can result in the highest damage potential for a given structure and site condition, and the real ground motions can be mainly used for structures whose failure or collapse will be avoided at a higher level of confidence during the strong earthquake. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Some pedological features affecting the permeability of hillside soils in Caydale, Yorkshire
Authors: Arnett R. R.
Published: February 2007

Weekly interflow and permeability data were obtained for 15 sites in two field plots in North Yorkshire. Both plots are similar in terms of lithology, slope, micro‐relief, climate and soil type, one being dominated by rough pasture grasses and the second by bracken. One factor which explained 75 per cent of the variation in interflow was the difference between topsoil and subsoil permeabilities, the former always being the greater. This permeability difference is discussed in terms of soil texture, porosity and plant‐rooting systems. Textural contrasts are considered insufficient to cause the large‐scale variations in permeability observed throughout the year. Being a fixed variable, texture cannot influence a characteristic which varies from one week to the next. Contrasts in total porosity between topsoil and subsoil also effected no discernible influence on measured permeability differences, although measures of association increased as smaller pores were excluded from the analysis. Utilizing only those pores drained at 20 cm of water tension, highly significant correlations were established. In the plot dominated by bracken, greater ‘lateral permeabilities’ are produced by well‐developed systems of Pteridium rhizomes. As the advancing front of such rhizomes extends forwards at quoted rates of up to 45 cm/yr, the rear portions decay, leaving horizontal ‘tubes’ in the soil. Recognized omissions from this analysis are the effects of soil fauna and desiccation fissures.
Slope form and basal stream relationships: A case study in the westend basin of the Southern Pennines, England
Authors: Summerfield M. A.
Published: February 2007

Relationships between slope form and stream magnitude, drainage area and stream gradient are investigated in a small upland catchment experiencing active stream incision. Profiles selected on a stratified random basis provide data on five slope form variables. The observed relationships suggest a spatial sequence of slope form, associated with a downstream increase in discharge, characterized by decreasing overall slope convexity and increasing mean slope angle and attributed to a reduction in the relative length of the upslope convexity with respect to the essentially stream‐controlled main slope.
Factors relating to the landslide process in Canadian quickclays
Authors: Smalley Ian
Published: February 2007

The formation of. and landsliding in extremely sensitive postglacial clay soils (quickclays). could be affected by certain factors including mineralogical composition, interparticle bond type, soil structure, leaching, cementation and particle coatings. Factors which should be taken into account during related investigations include nomenclature and size limits, model soils, distribution, rheology, scientific status, local earthquake intensity and frequency. Landsliding in quickclays occurs largely by means of catastrophic flowslides. These are due to the predominance of short range bonds in the soil system. The short range bonds ensure a very low plasticity index (of the order of 10 or below) and may be due to the inherent nature of the material or to post‐depositional events. Mineralogical studies suggest that the former is more critical although cementation plays a major role in Canadian quickclays. The Yatsu philosophy of material investigation should be applied to quickclays on a larger scale: landsliding and slope evolution are ultimately controlled by the forces operating (or not operating) between two adjacent soil particles. A particular set of tectonic, glacial and sedimentological circumstances are required for quickclay formation; the correct combination rarely occurs which accounts for the very limited occurrence of clay soils with sensitivities of greater than 100.
Tests of the random network model, and its application to basin hydrology
Authors: Kirkby M. J.
Published: February 2007

If the random model, in which all topologically distinct channel networks are equally likely, is assumed valid, then general explanations of network structure from basin geomorphic processes cannot be expected. Tests for the random model are therefore critical to the direction of future work. Proposed tests are based on frequencies of basins of different magnitudes or diameters, and on network maximum widths. Network topology is also shown to be potentially significant in the prediction of basin hydrographs. Network width commonly varies by a factor of 2 × for a given drainage area and drainage density, and is shown to influence peak discharge in proportion. Lag‐to‐peak can also be predicted better, using network topology. The paper pursues these applications of network topology using random walk theory and simulated random networks.
Air–sea–river interactions
Authors: Radok R.
Published: February 2007

Extensive recording of currents, collection of water samples and routine meteorological and tide records provide a base for this study of the dynamics of Australia's largest river, the Murray, during one of its rare floods in 1974. The results suggest that the Coorong. a narrow lagoon extending from the river mouth to the Southeast, at right angles to prevailing winds, was formed as a flood escape mechanism. Geological evidence displays the existence of similar geometries formed in the past in an area which at one time was a deep gulf of the Southern Ocean extending into Australia. The same mechanism may have been at work elsewhere in the world.
Aggregate stability and colluviation in the Luxembourg ardennes; an experimental and micromorphological study
Authors: Imeson A. C. , Jungerius P. D.
Published: February 2007

To obtain a better understanding of the colluvial deposits in two catchments in the Luxembourg Ardennes, structural aggregates from forest and farmland soils were subjected to the impact of falling water drops. The changes that the aggregates underwent and the material eroded from them were studied in thin section. Predictably, forest aggregates were more resistant to water‐drop impacts than those from farmland. Farmland aggregates tended to slake upon wetting and to break down into many micro‐aggregates having a size‐frequency distribution similar to that of the micro‐aggregates in the undisturbed soil. The forest aggregates were eroded slowly under water‐drop impact, losing material from their surfaces or occasionally shearing into several smaller equally resistant aggregates. The size‐frequency distributions of the break‐down products differed from the micro‐aggregates in the untreated aggregates or original forest soil, probably because of bonding by organic material. The differing composition of the aggregates points to the importance of oriented clay and planes for the lack of stability of the farmland aggregates. It can be concluded that agricultural colluvium is probably largely deposited by processes other than splash and that splash is an important process, but not the only one, in the formation of colluvium under forest.
Rockfalls and rockfall inventory data: Some observations from surprise valley, Jasper National Park, Canada
Authors: Luckman B. H.
Published: February 2007

The major controls of rockfall activity are divided into two interacting groups.

(a)Climatic factors which, through their control of temperatures and the availability and state of water, are primary controls of rockfall trigger mechanisms.

(b) Geologic factors which, via cliff form (plan, profile, dissection etc.) and the character and availability of materials, influence the type, spatial distribution and intensity of rockfall activity.

Detailed examination of these controls suggest that both seasonal and daily patterns of rockfall activity can vary markedly over a very small area.

The implications of this variability for the design and interpretation of rockfall inventories are discussed using sample data from Surprise Valley, Jasper National Park, for the period from May‐October 1969. On a seasonal basis rockfall activity showed a major spring peak with secondary maxima in the fall and associated with major summer storms. Two sites of differing aspect and morphology were studied in more detail revealing marked differences in the mean hourly frequency (0·94:0·20), mean hourly probability (0·40:0·16, hours with rockfall/hours observed) and daily pattern of rockfall activity. The west facing site showed equal hourly probability of rockfalls from 1000 to 2000 hr whereas the east facing slope had a greater hourly probability when it was in the sun (1100 1400hr) than in the shade (1400‐1900hr). The differences in rockfall frequency and probabilities reflect the physical characteristics of the individual sites whereas the daily pattern of rockfalls is related to microclimate.

These results suggest that if future inventory studies are to make a significant contribution, they must be carefully designed field experiments in which.

(i) Data are restricted to the study or comparison of single continuously observed sites.

(ii) Study sites and/or data periods are carefully selected to isolate and investigate specific controls e.g. the influence of cliff form, aspect, periods of rainfall etc. on rockfall patterns.

(iii) Good on‐site microclimate data are available.

Also comparison of frequency measures based on the arithmetic mean should be avoided since the distribution of rockfalls per hour closely follows a Poisson distribution with occasional high values which unduly influence the value of the arithmetic mean. It is suggested that rockfall probabilities, based on the binary decision of whether or not a rockfall occurs in a given period, are a more useful measure for daily patterns of rockfall activity.
An evaluation of surface‐mine spoils area restoration in wyoming using rainfall simulation
Authors: Lusby Gregg C. , Toy Terrence J.
Published: February 2007

A recently developed rainfall simulator was used to apply ‘rainstorms’ on restored spoils areas at two coal mining sites in Wyoming. Runoff and sediment yield were considerably greater from the reworked areas compared to similar measurements on nearby undisturbed areas. This may possibly be attributed to the fact that in the disturbed areas mean slopes were generally greater, there was more clay at the surface, and concentration of roots was not as great as in the undisturbed areas.

The rainfall simulator appears to be a valuable tool in determining baseline data for later comparison with data form areas under rehabilitation.
Hillslope hydrographs by the finite element method
Authors: Beven Keith
Published: February 2007

Simulation models may be used to explore the implications of making specific assumptions about the nature of a real world system, and then to make predictions of the behaviour of that system under a set of naturally occurring conditions. It is important that understanding generated by the former should be gained before predictive use of the system model. This paper describes and uses a finite‐element model of transient, partially saturated water flow within a hillslope soil mantle overlying an impermeable bedrock, to make an investigation into the effects of parameter variations and initial conditions on the hillslope hydrograph. The results clearly demonstrate that the response of the hillslope system to rainfall is highly non‐linear and that the initial conditions, particularly in the unsaturated zone, are of paramount importance in governing the timing and magnitude of the hydrograph peak. Hillslope convergence appears as the dominant topographic parameter but the non‐linearity of the response and the complex interdependence between the soil and topographic parameters restrict the possibility of further definite conclusions about the relative sensitivity of the simulated hillslope hydrograph to changes in these parameters.