bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LONELINESS, SOCIAL CONNECTEDNESS, AND FAMILY INCOME AMONG UNDERGRADUATE FEMALES AND MALES IN TAIWAN
Authors: Chen Li-Jane , Chung Shi-Kai
Published: February 2008

This study investigated loneliness and its relationships with social connectedness and family income among female and male college students in Taiwan. The Revised UCLA, Loneliness Scale (R-UCLA; Russell, Peplau, & Cutrona, 1980); translated into Chinese and adapted by Wang, 1989,
for measuring global, intimate, and social loneliness, and the Social Connectedness Scale (Lee, Draper, & Lee, 2001), were administered to undergraduates. Analysis of the statistical data utilized Pearson's, product-moment correlations and multiple regression techniques. The findings
reveal that college males experienced more loneliness than females in global and social loneliness. Furthermore, social connectedness significantly predicted global, intimate, and social loneliness in both females and males. Family income significantly predicted global and social loneliness
in college men only. Implications for future research are discussed.
THE EFFECTS OF AN EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE EDUCATION PROGRAM ON THE EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE OF CHILDREN
Authors: Ulutaş İLkay , Ömeroğlu Esra
Published: February 2008

Our aim was to research the effect of emotional intelligence education on the emotional intelligence of young children. The sample group were 6-year-old children attending preschool classes (N = 120). A subgroup of 40 students attended a 12-week emotional intelligence program.
After 12 weeks the children were measured using the Sullivan Emotional Intelligence Scale (Sullivan, 1999); results showed that an emotional intelligence education program contributed significantly to children's emotional intelligence levels.
PSYCHOMETRIC PROPERTIES OF RAVEN'S COLORED PROGRESSIVE MATRICES FOR OMANI CHILDREN AGED 5 THROUGH 11 YEARS
Authors: Kazem Ali M. , Alzubiadi Abdulqawi S. , Yousif Yousif H. , Aljamali Fawzia A. , Al-Mashdany Skreen I. , Alkharusi Hussain A. , Al-Busaidi Omayma B. , Al-Bulushi Sana S. , Al-Bahrani Wedad A. , Al-Fori Suad M.
Published: February 2008

The aim in this study was to identify Omani children's psychometric properties on the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (CPM; Raven, Court, & Raven, 1986; Raven, Raven, & Court, 1998), using a sample of 372 5- to 11-year-olds. Analysis of the data shows that
the sample was distributed normally. The test demonstrated good validity and reliability indices and is considered to be a suitable measure to assess nonverbal intelligence of young Omani children. The authors recommend carrying out further studies comparing Omani children's performance
with their counterparts from other countries and sociocultural backgrounds.
THE IMPACT OF NEUROTICISM ON LEISURE SATISFACTION: ONLINE GAME APPLICATION
Authors: TU HILL HUNG-JEN , CHEN LILY SHUI-LIEN , WANG MICHAEL CHIH-HUNG , LIN JULIA YING-CHAO
Published: February 2008

This study was designed to uncover the impact of neuroticism on leisure satisfaction based on online games in Taiwan, the country that has the second largest online game-playing market in the world. A systematic sampling produced 500 usable questionnaires for the final data analysis.
The findings indicate a negative relationship between neuroticism and leisure satisfaction. This research therefore provides evidence that overall leisure satisfaction decreases in persons with a greater neuroticism tendency.
PERFORMANCE ANXIETY, DYSFUNCTIONAL ATTITUDES AND GENDER IN UNIVERSITY MUSIC STUDENTS
Authors: Yondem Zeynep Deniz
Published: February 2008

The aims of this study were twofold: 1) to investigate the relationships between anxiety and general dysfunctional attitudes, perfectionism, and the need for approval in the solo performance examination of Turkish university music students, and 2) to examine the effects of perfectionism,
need for approval, and gender on anxiety. Fifty-four instrumental music students participated in this study. Research data were collected using the Beck Anxiety Inventory (Beck, Epstein, Brown, & Steer, 1988) and the Dysfunctional Attitudes Scale (Weissman & Beck, 1978). The results
revealed that there are significant positive correlations between anxiety and total score of dysfunctional attitudes, and the need for approval (p < .05). The ANOVA results also showed that while there was no main effect of perfectionism, need for approval and gender had significant
effects (p < .05) on anxiety. However, interaction effects of perfectionism, need for approval, and gender on anxiety were not significant. Results are discussed in the context of related literature.
PERSONALITY AND INTENTION TO SHARE KNOWLEDGE: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY OF SCIENTISTS IN AN R&D LABORATORY
Authors: Wang Chih-Chien , Yang Yann-Jy
Published: February 2008

A survey was used in this empirical study to explore the relationship between individuals' personality and their intention to share knowledge. A 39-item Five-Factor Model (FFM) personality inventory (adapted from Buchanan, Johnson, & Goldberg, 2006) was used to measure individuals'personality, and a scale of four items was used to measure individuals' intention to share knowledge. The questionnaire was answered by 173 participants working in a high-technology laboratory. The results of statistical analysis indicated that extraversion, agreeableness and conscientiousness are positively related to individuals'intention to share knowledge.
Visceral Adiposity, Not Abdominal Subcutaneous Fat Area, Is Associated With an Increase in Future Insulin Resistance in Japanese Americans
Authors: Hayashi Tomoshige , Boyko Edward J. , McNeely Marguerite J. , Leonetti Donna L. , Kahn Steven E. , Fujimoto Wilfred Y.
Published: February 2008

OBJECTIVE—Visceral adiposity is generally considered to play a key role in the metabolic syndrome. We sought to determine whether greater visceral adiposity directly measured by computed tomography (CT) is associated with increased future insulin resistance independent of other adipose depots.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS— We followed 306 nondiabetic Japanese Americans over 10–11 years. Baseline variables included BMI; waist circumference; and abdominal, thoracic, and thigh fat areas measured by CT. Total fat area was estimated by the sum of all of these fat areas. Visceral adiposity was measured as intra-abdominal fat area at the umbilicus level. Total subcutaneous fat area was defined as total fat area minus intra-abdominal fat area. Insulin resistance was evaluated by homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), fasting plasma insulin level, Matsuda index, and area under the oral glucose tolerance test curve (AUC) of insulin.

RESULTS— Both baseline intra-abdominal fat area (P = 0.002) and HOMA-IR (P < 0.001) were independently associated with increased HOMA-IR at 10–11 years in a multiple linear regression model after adjustment for abdominal subcutaneous fat area, age, sex, 2-h plasma glucose level, and incremental insulin response. Intra-abdominal fat area remained a significant predictor of increased HOMA-IR at 10–11 years even after adjustment for total subcutaneous fat area, total fat area, BMI, or waist circumference, but no other measure of CT-measured regional or total adiposity was significantly related with HOMA-IR at 10–11 years in models that contained intra-abdominal fat area. Similar results were obtained for predicting future fasting plasma insulin level, Matsuda index, and AUC of insulin.

CONCLUSIONS— Greater visceral adiposity is associated with an increase in future insulin resistance.
Inhibition of Dipeptidyl Peptidase IV With Sitagliptin (MK0431) Prolongs Islet Graft Survival in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Mice
Authors: Kim Su-Jin , Nian Cuilan , Doudet Doris J. , McIntosh Christopher H.S.
Published: February 2008

OBJECTIVE—Dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV) inhibitors have been introduced as therapeutics for type 2 diabetes. They partially act by blocking degradation of the incretin hormones glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), thus increasing circulating levels of active hormones. In addition to their insulinotropic actions, GLP-1 and GIP also promote β-cell proliferation and survival, and DPP-IV inhibitors exert similar effects in rodent type 2 diabetes models. The study objective was to establish whether DPP-IV inhibitor treatment prolonged survival of transplanted islets and to determine whether positron emission tomography (PET) was appropriate for quantifying the effect of inhibition on islet mass.

RESEARCH DESIGN & METHODS—Effects of the DPP-IV inhibitor MK0431 (sitagliptin) on glycemic control and functional islet mass in a streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type 1 diabetes mouse model were determined with metabolic studies and microPET imaging.

RESULTS—The type 1 diabetes mouse model exhibited elevated plasma DPP-IV levels that were substantially inhibited in mice on an MK0431 diet. Residual β-cell mass was extremely low in STZ-induced diabetic mice, and although active GLP-1 levels were increased by the MK0431 diet, there were no significant effects on glycemic control. After islet transplantation, mice fed normal diet rapidly lost their ability to regulate blood glucose, reflecting the suboptimal islet transplant. By contrast, the MK0431 group fully regulated blood glucose throughout the study, and PET imaging demonstrated a profound protective effect of MK0431 on islet graft size.

CONCLUSIONS—Treatment with a DPP-IV inhibitor can prolong islet graft retention in an animal model of type 1 diabetes.
Oscillating Glucose Is More Deleterious to Endothelial Function and Oxidative Stress Than Mean Glucose in Normal and Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Ceriello Antonio , Esposito Katherine , Piconi Ludovica , Ihnat Michael A. , Thorpe Jessica E. , Testa Roberto , Boemi Massimo , Giugliano Dario
Published: February 2008

OBJECTIVE—To explore the possibility that oscillating glucose may outweigh A1C levels in determining the risk for cardiovascular diabetes complications.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—A euinsulinemic hyperglycemic clamp at 5, 10, and 15 mmol/l glucose was given in increasing steps as a single “spike” or oscillating between basal and high levels over 24 h in normal subjects and type 2 diabetic patients. Flow-mediated dilatation, a marker of endothelial function, and plasma 3-nitrotyrosine and 24-h urinary excretion rates of free 8-iso PGF2α, two markers of oxidative stress, were measured over 48 h postclamp.

RESULTS—Glucose at two different levels (10 and 15 mmol/l) resulted in a concentration-dependent fasting blood glucose–independent induction of both endothelial dysfunction and oxidative stress in both normal and type 2 diabetic patients. Oscillating glucose between 5 and 15 mmol/l every 6 h for 24 h resulted in further significant increases in endothelial dysfunction and oxidative stress compared with either continuous 10 or 15 mmol/l glucose.

CONCLUSIONS—These data suggest that oscillating glucose can have more deleterious effects than constant high glucose on endothelial function and oxidative stress, two key players in favoring cardiovascular complications in diabetes. Concomitant vitamin C infusion can reverse this impairment.
Codes that attain minimum distance in every possible direction
Authors: Katona Gyula , Sali Attila , Schewe Klaus-Dieter
Published: February 2008

The following problem motivated by investigation of databases is studied. Let $$
\mathcal{C}
$$ be a q-ary code of length n with the properties that $$
\mathcal{C}
$$ has minimum distance at least n − k + 1, and for any set of k − 1 coordinates there exist two codewords that agree exactly there. Let f(q, k)be the maximum n for which such a code exists. f(q, k)is bounded by linear functions of k and q, and the exact values for special k and qare determined.
Topological groups and convex sets homeomorphic to non-separable Hilbert spaces
Authors: Banakh Taras , Zarichnyy Igor
Published: February 2008

Let X be a topological group or a convex set in a linear metric space. We prove that X is homeomorphic to (a manifold modeled on) an infinite-dimensional Hilbert space if and only if X is a completely metrizable absolute (neighborhood) retract with ω-LFAP, the countable locally finite approximation property. The latter means that for any open cover $$
\mathcal{U}
$$ of X there is a sequence of maps (f
n: X → X)nεgw
such that each f
n is $$
\mathcal{U}
$$-near to the identity map of X and the family {f
n(X)}n∈ω
is locally finite in X. Also we show that a metrizable space X of density dens(X) < $$
\mathfrak{d}
$$ is a Hilbert manifold if X has gw-LFAP and each closed subset A ⊂ X of density dens(A) < dens(X) is a Z
∞-set in X.
Explicit rational solutions of Knizhnik-Zamolodchikov equation
Authors: Sakhnovich Lev
Published: February 2008

We consider the Knizhnik-Zamolodchikov system of linear differential equations. The coefficients of this system are rational functions generated by elements of the symmetric group $$
\mathcal{S}_n
$$
n. We assume that parameter ρ = ±1. In previous paper [5] we proved that the fundamental solution of the corresponding KZ-equation is rational. Now we construct this solution in the explicit form.
Relatively pseudocomplemented Hilbert algebras
Authors: Cīrulis Jānis
Published: February 2008

We characterise those Hilbert algebras that are relatively pseudocomplemented posets.
Physico-chemical and microbiological investigation of the lipid from Bangladeshi fresh water fish Mystus vittatus
Authors: Molla AH , Saha Camellia , Ahsan MS , Talukder SM , Alam MT
Published: February 2008

This study dealt with physical, chemical and microbiological characteristics of the lipid obtained from Mystus vittatus and some nutritional properties of the fish. The fish was found to contain moisture 76.98%, calcium 521.072 mg / 100gm, vitamin C 11.276 mg / 100 gm., lipid 1.89%, and protein 10.94% respectively. The specific gravity, refractive index and co-efficient of viscosity of this lipid were recorded as 0.935 at 30°c, 1.4662 at 30°c and 409.26 millipoise at 30°C respectively. The saponification value, iodine value, peroxide value, acid value, percentage of free fatty acid, percentage of unsaponifiable matter , Reicher-Meissel value, Polenske value and Acetyl value were found to be 218.12, 96.17, 1.79, 1.92, 0.968, 0.632, 0.932, 0.652 and 11.97 respectively. The GLC analysis revealed that the lipid is composed of palmitic acid (30.79%), oleic acid (29.50%), palmotelic acid (15.97%), stearic acid (11.89%), linoliec acid (5.43%), myristic acid (5.15%), lauric acid (1.07%), arachidic acid (.57%). The chloroform extract of this lipid showed some microbiological actively. The minimum inhibitory concentration of the extract was 0.5 μl/ ml against Staphylococcus aureus (107 cells/ ml) and 0.125μl/ ml against Shigella dysenteriae (107 cells/ ml).

Key words: Physico-chemical, fish nutrition, M. vittatus

Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 26, 2007. pp. 21-25
Culture of rotifer Brachionus angularis Hauer feeding with dried Chlorella
Authors: Mostary Shabnam , Rahman M Shahidur , Hossain M Amzad
Published: February 2008

A study was carried out to know the performance of powdered dried Chlorella for culture of rotifer Brachionus angularis. B. angularis was fed with powdered dried Chlorella in treatment 1, live or fresh cultured Chlorella in treatment 2 and bakers yeast in treatment 3. The rage of physicochemical parameters during culture of rotifer such as water temperature, air temperature, pH and dissolved oxygen were within the suitable ranges for B. angularis culture and more or less similar in all the treatments. The highest population densities of B. angularis recorded in treatment 1, treatment 2 and treatment 3 were 50, 60 and 30 ind/ml, respectively. The mean population densities were 30.1±12.2, 37.4±14.6 and 21.1±6.1 ind./ml in treatment 1, treatment 2 and treatment 3, respectively. The results revealed that the powdered dried Chlorella had significant effect on the population density of B. angularis and was better than that of bakers yeast. So, when live Chlorella will not be available, powdered dried Chlorella can be successfully used as feed for B. angularis culture.

Keywords: Rotifer, Chlorella, yeast, culture medium

Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 26, 2007. pp. 73-76
Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents: Benefits and Risks in Supportive Care of Cancer
Authors: Melosky Barb
Published: February 2008

Anemia, already common in cancer patients, is often exacerbated by chemotherapy. Cancer patients who are anemic have been shown to have a blunted response for production of endogenous erythropoietin growth factor. This anemia can be corrected with exogenous erythropoietin growth factors, of which three available are worldwide: epoetin alfa, epoetin beta, and darbepoetin alfa. Collectively, these drugs are known as erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAS). Orders for ESAS have been used not only to reverse anemia so as to avoid blood transfusion, but also to improve quality of life. Guidelines have been developed for initiation, dosage titration, and termination of these agents. Since the late 1990s, trials have been conducted using esas in unapproved dosing regimens or to reach hemoglobin levels outside of approved guidelines, raising several safety concerns. The present article explores the risks and benefits of ESAS.
Going beyond efficacy: supportive care and addressing the toxicity of systemic therapy
Authors: Verma S.
Published: February 2008

Despite great advances in the fields of pain management and palliative care, pain directly or indirectly associated with a cancer diagnosis remains significantly undertreated. The present paper reviews the current standard for cancer pain management and highlights new treatments and targeted interventional techniques.
The Effect of Interfacial Roughness on the Thin Film Morphology and Charge Transport of High‐Performance Polythiophenes
Authors: Jung Youngsuk , Kline R. Joseph , Fischer Daniel A. , Lin Eric K. , Heeney Martin , McCulloch Iain , DeLongchamp Dean M.
Published: February 2008

We control and vary the roughness of a dielectric upon which a high‐performance polymer semiconductor, poly(2,5‐bis(3‐alkylthiophen‐2‐yl)thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene) (pBTTT) is cast, to determine the effects of roughness on thin‐film microstructure and the performance of organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs). pBTTT forms large, well‐oriented terraced domains with high carrier mobility after it is cast upon flat, low‐surface‐energy substrates and heated to a mesophase. Upon dielectrics with root‐mean square (RMS) roughness greater than 0.5 nm, we find significant morphological changes in the pBTTT active layer and significant reductions in its charge carrier mobility. The pBTTT films on rough dielectrics exhibit significantly less order than those on smooth dielectrics through characterization with atomic force microscopy and X‐ray diffraction. This critical RMS roughness implies that there exists a condition at which the pBTTT domains no longer conform to the local nanometer‐scale curvature of the substrate.
High‐Performance, Low‐Operating‐Voltage Organic Field‐Effect Transistors with Low Pinch‐Off Voltages
Authors: Wu Weiping , Liu Yunqi , Wang Ying , Xi Hongxia , Gao Xike , Di Chongan , Yu Gui , Xu Wei , Zhu Daoben
Published: February 2008

Organic field‐effect transistors suffer from ultra‐high operating voltages in addition to their relative low mobility. A general approach to low‐operating‐voltage organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs) using donor/acceptor buffer layers is demonstrated. P‐type OFETs with acceptor molecule buffer layers show reduced operating voltages (from 60–100 V to 10–20 V), with mobility up to 0.19 cm2 V−1 s−1 and an on/off ratio of 3 × 106. The subthreshold slopes of the devices are greatly reduced from 5–12 V/decade to 1.68–3 V/decade. This favorable combination of properties means that such OFETs can be operated successfully at voltages below 20 V (|VDS| ≤ 20 V, |VGS| ≤ 20 V). This method also works for n‐type semiconductors. The reduced operating voltage and low pinch‐off voltage contribute to the improved ordering of the polycrystalline films, reduced grain boundary resistance, and steeper subthreshold slopes.
Cyclization of Allenyne‐1,6‐diols Catalyzed by Gold and Silver Salts: An Efficient Selective Synthesis of Dihydrofuran and Furan Derivatives
Authors: Kim Sundae , Lee Phil Ho
Published: February 2008

Treatment of allenyne‐1,6‐diols with gold and silver catalysts selectively produced 2,5‐dihydrofuran and furan derivatives, respectively, in good to excellent yields through the selective activation and differentiation of the double and triple bonds in allenyne‐1,6‐diols. It is noteworthy that the chemoselectivity is clearly switched by simply changing the metal from gold to silver.
Rationally‐Designed S‐Chiral Bissulfinamides as Highly Enantioselective Organocatalysts for Reduction of Ketimines
Authors: Pei Dong , Zhang Yu , Wei Siyu , Wang Meng , Sun Jian
Published: February 2008

We recently reported the first example of S‐chiral organocatalysts, that are highly efficient and enantioselective in substoichometric amounts, and which use a chiral monosulfinamide group as Lewis base to activate trichlorosilane (HSiCl3) to reduce N‐arylketimines. A plausible mechanism involving two molecules of the monosulfinamde catalyst for the activation of HSiCl3 prompted us to design S‐chiral bissulfinamides as new catalysts. We herein describe our findings that an easily prepared S‐chiral bissulfinamide bearing a five‐methylene linkage not only inherited the excellent substrate generality from the monosulfinamide catalysts, but also exhibited further improved enantioselectivity.
Multiscale characterization framework for sorption enhanced reaction processes
Authors: Kapil Ankur , Bhat Shrikant A. , Sadhukhan Jhuma
Published: February 2008

A multiscale simulation and characterization framework has been developed for sorption enhanced reaction processes with heterogeneous multifunctional catalysts with sorption properties. Particles with in situ catalytic and sorption functionalities have obvious advantages in achieving high‐purity and productivity. These processes are strongly limited by diffusion inside particle. In order to tackle this problem a more detailed characterization at particle level is essential, which is the main objective here. A unified framework has been developed that integrates continuum model at bulk scale with the diffusion‐reaction‐sorption model at particle porous scale in a fixed‐bed reactor. At bulk scale the objectives of purity and productivity are sensitive to various design and operating variables, such as wall temperature, bed voidage and feed compositions, etc. Two important particle level characteristics are also identified: distribution of catalyst and sorbent inside particles, and the ratio of pore radius to tortuosity. It has been demonstrated that considering detailed diffusivity model at porous level offers better insights into catalyst design and process intensification. Natural gas reforming reaction with sorption producing pure hydrogen for fuel cell and combustion applications has been used as a case study to establish the effectiveness of the methodology. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Decision framework for chemical process design including different stages of environmental, health, and safety assessment
Authors: Sugiyama Hirokazu , Fischer Ulrich , Hungerbühler Konrad , Hirao Masahiko
Published: February 2008

In recent years, many chemical companies have adopted the concept of sustainable development as a core business value. In this context and with focus on early phases, we present a novel design framework that comprises four stages of process modeling and multiobjective evaluation considering monetary and nonmonetary aspects. Each stage is characterized by the available information as a basis for process modeling and assessment. Appropriate modeling approaches, and evaluation indicators for economy, life‐cycle environmental impacts, environment, health, and safety (EHS) hazard, and technical aspects are selected for each defined stage. The proposed framework is demonstrated on the design of a methyl methacrylate (MMA) process: considering 17 synthesis routes, the framework is mimicked step‐by‐step, to select the route with the best multiobjective performances, and to produce an optimized process flowsheet. As a validation of the framework, evaluation profile of six routes over all stages are compared, and crucial points are identified that should be estimated considerably well in early stages of the framework. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Causes of work‐related injuries among young workers in British Columbia
Authors: Holizki Theresa , McDonald Rose , Foster Valerie , Guzmicky Michael
Published: February 2008

Background

We conducted a study to determine the types and causes of serious injuries to young workers (YW) (ages 14–24) in British Columbia.

Methods

The WorkSafeBC database from 2000 to 2005 was searched for all claims, all non‐health‐care‐only (NHCO) injuries and all serious injury claims involving workers aged 14–24.

Results

Of 384,250 NHCO claims, 15.6% were for YW, not significantly different from the British Columbia workforce (P > 0.75). Of the 5217 serious injuries, 9.8% (including 40 fatalities) were to YW—455 males and 56 females, significantly different from the workforce (50% male) (2 = 259.8; df = 1; P < 0.001). Ten percentage of YW injuries occurred in the first week, 20% in the first month, of employment. Education level of injured YWs was lower than average for the provincial workforce. Only 38% of YWs injured in vehicle crashes (the most common cause of fatalities) were wearing seatbelts.

Conclusions

Safety training should be provided before YWs start work and in media other than school. Seatbelt use should be addressed. Am. J. Ind. Med. 51:357–363, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis of polypyrrole nanofibers by ultrasonic waves
Authors: Athawale Anjali A. , Katre Prachi P. , Bhagwat S. V. , Dhamane A. H.
Published: February 2008

Nanofibers of polypyrrole have been synthesized by sonochemical method in the presence of a structure directing agent, i.e. dodecyl benzene sulphonic acid (DBSA). The length of the fibers is seen to increase significantly from ∼13 nm to greater than ∼1700 nm, while the diameter is ∼13–17 nm, respectively. The reaction was carried out under ambient conditions by varying the concentration of pyrrole (0.001–0.1M), ammonium persulphate (0.0075–0.02M), and DBSA (0.05–0.2M). However, the formation of fibers is observed at a specific ratio of 1 : 0.5 : 5. The UV–vis spectra exhibit a sharp peak at a wavelength of ∼490 nm corresponding to the polaron band indicating the formation of polypyrrole. The X‐ray diffractogram shows a broad peak in the 2θ range of ∼10°–30° and two sharp peaks at ∼31° and 32° confirming the formation of polypyrrole. The morphological analysis of the sample have been carried out by transmission as well as scanning electron microscopy which reveals the formation of extraordinary long fibers having the length extending to more than ∼1700 nm. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Preparation of cellulose sulfate from α‐cellulose isolated from Lantana camara by the direct esterification method
Authors: Bhatt Neetu , Gupta P. K. , Naithani Sanjay
Published: February 2008

Cellulose, a (1→4)‐linked β‐D‐glucopyranosyl polysaccharide, is the main plant cell wall constituent and is water insoluble in its native form. Sodium cellulose sulfate possesses excellent water solubility at degree of substitution (DS) levels as low as 0.25. Cellulose sulfate was prepared from α‐cellulose isolated from Lantana camara by sulfation in a heterogeneous medium. The variables studied were reaction time, reaction temperature, normality of sulfuric acid, and quantity of sulfuric acid. A water‐soluble cellulose sulfate ester with a DS of 0.392 was obtained at a reaction time of 60 min, a temperature 0°C, a normality of 34.2N aqueous sulfuric acid, and a quantity of aqueous sulfuric acid of 40 mL/g of α‐cellulose. The optimized product exhibited cold‐water solubility and a clear solution in an aqueous medium, which suggested interesting rheological properties. The optimized product was further evaluated with IR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis/differential thermal analysis, and wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Transgenic plant factories for the production of biopolymers and platform chemicals
Authors: van Beilen Jan B.
Published: February 2008

In the mid‐to long‐term, resource constraints will force society to cover a significant share of the future demand for fuels, materials and chemicals by renewable resources. This trend is already visible in the increasing conversion of carbohydrates and plant oils to fuels, chemicals, and polymers. In this perspective, we discuss current efforts and ideas to produce platform chemicals and polymers directly in transgenic plants. © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Structure‐activity relationship study and NMR analysis of fluorobenzoyl pentapeptide GPR54 agonists
Authors: Tomita Kenji , Oishi Shinya , Ohno Hiroaki , Fujii Nobutaka
Published: February 2008

GPR54 is a Gq‐protein coupled receptor involved in cancer metastasis and regulation of the endocrine system. GPR54 activation by endogenous ligands attenuates the mobility of carcinomas and stimulates the secretion of gonadotropin‐releasing hormone. GPR54 agonists are, therefore, potential therapeutic candidates for cancer metastasis and hormonal diseases. Pentapeptide derivatives of kisspeptin C‐terminus were identified as potent GPR54 agonists in our previous studies. In the present study, we investigated the structure‐activity relationship of a variety of pentapeptides having various fluorine‐substituted benzoyl groups at the N‐terminus. Among these, a 4‐fluorobenzoyl derivative was the most potent agonist. On the other hand, the derivatives having multiple fluoro‐substituting groups showed less binding affinity. NMR analysis of these peptides and their N‐terminal partial structures suggested that fluorine substituents affect the benzoyl conformation. o‐Monofluorobenzoyl is likely to be in a coplanar conformation due to the intramolecular CFHN hydrogen bonding between o‐fluorine and amide hydrogen; the o,o‐difluorobenzoyl moiety exists in a distorted conformation probably due to the steric hindrance and/or electrostatic repulsion between two o‐fluorine atoms and carbonyl oxygen. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 90: 503–511, 2008.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Peptide‐polymer biotherapeutic synthesis on novel cross‐linked beads with “spatially tunable” and “isolated” functional sites
Authors: Jacob M. K. , Leena S. , Kumar K. S.
Published: February 2008

Solid phase synthesis of polymer biotherapeutics using conventional polymers suffers from many limitations such as low synthetic yield and purity. The conventional polymers prepared by either pre‐ or post‐functionalization strategies have no control over the point of functionalization. Hence we report a novel cross‐linked polymer in which the functional groups are spatially tuned to predefined distance with optimal site isolation. This has been achieved by the design and synthesis of a tetra functional PEG, 3,3′‐(PEG)bis(1‐(4‐vinylphenoxy)propan‐2‐ol) (bis(VPP)PEG). It has been incorporated at cross‐linking of 1–12%, into a polystyrene network by free radical suspension polymerization. In this polymer, the distance between hydroxyl functional groups has been spatially tuned in a predefined manner by varying the length of the cross‐linker backbone from ethylene glycol to PEG1000 Da and the loading capacity could be varied from 0.1 to 0.9 mmol/g. The polymer has been characterized by SEM, FTIR, and 13C NMR. The polymer exhibits excellent swelling behavior and high chemical stability. The synthetic efficiency of the polymer was demonstrated by the successful synthesis of three structural classes of PEGylated antimicrobial peptide biotherapeutics and the difficult ACP (65–74) fragment. Thus the “spatially defined” and “site isolated” synthesis within the new polymer offers a novel strategy for synthesis of difficult peptide‐polymer bioconjugates. The bioassay studies shows that PEGylation of AMPs significantly reduces their hemolytic potential but the retainment of antibacterial property was dependent both on the peptide sequence and the size of PEG used. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 90: 512–525, 2008.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Tropomyosin expression and dynamics in developing avian embryonic muscles
Authors: Wang Jushuo , Thurston Harold , Essandoh Eugene , Otoo Mary , Han Mingda , Rajan Arun , Dube Syamalima , Zajdel Robert W. , Sanger Jean M. , Linask Kersti K. , Dube Dipak K. , Sanger Joseph W.
Published: February 2008

The expression of striated muscle proteins occurs early in the developing embryo in the somites and forming heart. A major component of the assembling myofibrils is the actin‐binding protein tropomyosin. In vertebrates, there are four genes for tropomyosin (TM), each of which can be alternatively spliced. TPM1 can generate at least 10 different isoforms including the striated muscle‐specific TPM1α and TPM1κ. We have undertaken a detailed study of the expression of various TM isoforms in 2‐day‐old (stage HH 10–12; 33 h) heart and somites, the progenitor of future skeletal muscles. Both TPM1α and TPM1κ are expressed transiently in embryonic heart while TPM1α is expressed in somites. Both RT‐PCR and in situ hybridization data suggest that TPM1κ is expressed in embryonic heart whereas TPM1α is expressed in embryonic heart, and also in the branchial arch region of somites, and in the somites. Photobleaching studies of Yellow Fluorescent Protein‐TPM1α and ‐TPM1κ expressed in cultured avian cardiomyocytes revealed that the dynamics of the two probes was the same in both premyofibrils and in mature myofibrils. This was in sharp contrast to skeletal muscle cells in which the fluorescent proteins were more dynamic in premyofibrils. We speculate that the differences in the two muscles is due to the appearance of nebulin in the skeletal myocytes premyofibrils transform into mature myofibrils. Cell Motil. Cytoskeleton 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Design, Synthesis, and Stereochemical Evaluation of a Novel Chiral Amine–Palladacycle
Authors: Ding Yi , Li Yongxin , Zhang Yi , Pullarkat Sumod A. , Leung Pak‐Hing
Published: February 2008

A novel chiral palladacycle containing ortho‐metallated (±)‐1‐(3,6‐dimethylnaphthalen‐2‐yl)‐N,N‐dimethylethylaminewas designed and synthesized by a multi‐step synthesis by using 2,7‐dimethylnaphthalene as the starting material. The structure and palladacycle ring conformation of the triphenylphosphane derivative was investigated by X‐ray structural analysis in the solid state and by 2D ROESY NMR spectroscopy in solution. Through a designed intramolecular steric interaction, the five‐membered naphthylamine chelate can be locked into a fixed conformation, both in the solid state and in solution. The racemic cyclopalladated complex could be efficiently resolved through the formation of its (S)‐prolinato and (S)‐alaninato derivatives. The structure and absolute configuration of the two optically resolved palladium complexes were determined by X‐ray diffraction. Both the (R,R) and (S,S)‐di‐μ‐chlorido dimeric palladium complexes containing the resolved amine ligand was obtained chemoselectively by treating the corresponding prolinato and alaninato derivatives with 1 M hydrochloric acid. Despite the severe interchelate steric constraint within these new organopalladium complexes, the bulky monodentate ligand 3,4‐dimethyl‐1‐phenylphosphole (dmpp) was able to split the chlorido bridges regiospecifically in the position trans to the NMe2 group. With the new palladacycle used as the chiral template, the stereoselectivity of Diels–Alder cycloaddition between dmpp and ethyl vinyl ketone significantly improves relative to that of other analogue complexes.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Characterization of DNA Layers Adsorbed on Glassy Carbon Electrodes
Authors: Pedano María L. , Pietrasanta Lía I. , Teijelo Manuel López , Rivas Gustavo A.
Published: February 2008

A DNA layer adsorbed at glassy carbon electrodes (GCE) was characterized by ellipsometry, atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The presence of the adsorbed DNA layer on polished glassy carbon electrodes was assessed indirectly by ellipsometric measurements. Ellipsometry was also useful to evaluate the influence of the oxide layer formed on glassy carbon electrodes, either spontaneously or after electrochemical pretreatments, on the DNA adsorption and further electrooxidation process. SEM and AFM images of the electrode surface covered by a thick layer of DNA reveal a nonuniform distribution, leaving channels and islands of the biological material.
Simultaneous Determination of Glucose and L‐Glutamate Using a Capillary Enzyme Reactor with Electrochemical Detection
Authors: Hooper Stephanie E. , Anderson Mark R.
Published: February 2008

An electrophoresis capillary that incorporates two enzymes for the simultaneous determination of glucose and L‐glutamate is described. The enzymes deposited along the separation capillary walls react with their respective substrate as they are separated during the electrophoresis to produce hydrogen peroxide that is detected by amperometry as the hydrogen peroxide zone emerges from the end of the capillary. Even though both enzyme reactions produce a common product, hydrogen peroxide, the hydrogen peroxide produced by each enzyme reaction stays in narrow zones that migrate the length of the capillary at different rates. The rate of migration for the individual H2O2 zones is consistent with the expected mobility of neutral glucose and of anionic L‐glutamate, respectively. This property allows each enzyme substrate to be characterized in a single experiment and in the presence of other electroactive substances.
Technical Concept of a Flow‐through Microreactor for In‐situ RT‐PCR
Authors: Felbel J. , Reichert A. , Kielpinski M. , Urban M. , Häfner N. , Dürst M. , Köhler J. M. , Weber J. , Henkel T.
Published: February 2008

This paper presents a novel flow‐through reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) microreactor with optimized thermal and fluidic characteristics. It integrates the steps of reverse transcription of the initially applied RNA sample and the amplification of specific DNA fragments of the cDNA formed. The microreactor comprises a heating plate with different temperature zones and an interchangeable fluidic chip with serpentine microchannels. The heating plate provides temperature zones for reverse transcription, hot start activation, denaturation, annealing and extension. The fluidic chip contains a serpentine microchannel with integrated features for segmented sample stream generation and dosing operations, which is guided over the temperature zones according to the thermal protocol of RT‐PCR. Reverse transcription is performed in an integrated microchannel section immediately before the amplification of the cDNA's, generated from the primarily applied RNA sample. One feature of this chip system is the generation of a segmented flow for high‐throughput analysis of RT‐PCR samples. It is shown that RT‐PCR reactions can be performed successfully in the microreactor with continuous and segmented flow regimes. The aim of the experiments was the detection of the HPV 16 DNA genome and of viral oncogene transcripts (E6/E7), respectively. Both markers are of importance in medical diagnostics and will be applied in further studies for the identification of oncogene positive cells in cell populations by means of flow‐through in‐situ RT‐PCR.
System Development for Generating Homogeneous Cell Suspensions and Transporting them in Microfluidic Components
Authors: Schumacher J. T. , Grodrian A. , Lemke K. , Römer R. , Metze J.
Published: February 2008

Miniaturized biological test assays require an even distribution of the utilized cells in every single segment. For the cell dispension, two devices with a volume of about 2 milliliter were developed enabling simultaneous mixing and processing of suspensions into capillaries. These items will be used to generate homogeneous suspensions for a duration of up to one hour and distributing them with special microfluidic chips. Both devices could be easily sterilized by autoclaving and contain an agitator which is contactlessly driven with variable speed. Precise transportation of the mixed fluid in the lower microliter per minute range was realized by the use of syringe pumps. Suspensions with yeast, mammalian cells and beads were applied to investigate the efficiency of mixing and transportation as well as the effect on viability. At certain time intervals, samples were taken from the outlet, and the cell and bead content with the related viability was determined using an automated particle analyzer and counting chamber under the microscope. Yeast suspensions were handled up to two hours and hybridoma cells up to one hour without remarkable loss of viability whereby the degree of mixing was sufficient for these time periods. The results show that these modules are feasible tools for homogeneous mixing of cell suspensions, and transport through microfluidic devices allows dispensation of them into fluid segments on a microliter or nanoliter scale.
Development of Live Cell Chips to Monitor Cell Differentiation Processes
Authors: Maercker C. , Rogge T. , Mathis H. , Ridinger H. , Bieback K.
Published: February 2008

A big demand exists for high‐throughput functional in vitro assays which can measure cellular phenotypes by molecular methods and therefore improve the resources of primary cells for cell therapy, tissue engineering and high‐content screenings in drug development. This approach focuses on cellular adhesion which is an important differentiation process during homing of stem cells. Moreover, it is a promising method especially for adherent cells which are not accessible by classical cell sorting methods. The chip design includes a housing with electrodes to measure electric field densities and impedance, respectively. Moreover, specific coatings of the wells permit a perfect growth of the selected cell types. In parallel, protein biomarkers can be followed by light microscopy. So far, experiments have been started to discriminate between different cell densities and cell types. In addition, after stimulating human cardiac fibroblasts and human umbilical vein endothelial cells, concentrations of proteins involved in adhesion had been increased, and proteins were translocated within the cells. In ongoing experiments, different human cell lines and fibroblastoid mesenchymal stem cells isolated from fat tissue, umbilical cord, or bone marrow are tested in the chip. To optimize the adhesion conditions, the surfaces within the vials of the chip were specifically activated. Microscopy was adjusted to be able to measure cellular morphology in parallel. This concept allows to identify the behavior of mesenchymal stem cells, which cannot be described so far by standard biomarkers. In addition, simulation of the homing process of the cells within its stem cell niche in an in vitro assay is a promising setup for large‐scale gain‐of‐function or loss‐of‐function screenings in functional genomics as well as for generating precursor cells relevant for the therapy of various diseases.
A Small‐Scale Calorimetric Reactor System Combined with Several Chemical Sensors for the Investigation of Microbial Growth Processes
Authors: Hüttl R. , Harmel J. , Lißner A. , Wolf G. , Klare P. , Vonau W. , Berthold F. , Herrmann S.
Published: February 2008

A miniaturized reactor system based on a small‐scale calorimeter (25 mL vessel) equipped with different chemical sensors is presented in this contribution. Apart from the sensor for the detection of the thermal power, the system was equipped with two chemical sensors. In comparison to established calorimeters, this newly designed combination as a whole significantly extends the range of application. The miniaturized chemical sensors can be chosen from a pool of potentiometric and amperometric ones, measuring pH value, redox potential, nitrate and glucose concentrations, as well as dissolved carbon dioxide and oxygen content. The miniaturized sensors were developed by the Kurt‐Schwabe‐Institute (Meinsberg) and the electrical circuit of the system was designed by IMM (Mittweida). The reactor was tested for batch cultivations using Paracoccus pantotrophus DSM 65 as a model culture.
Geoarchaeological prospection of a medieval manor in the dutch polders using an electromagnetic induction sensor in combination with soil augerings
Authors: Simpson David , Lehouck Alexander , Meirvenne Marc Van , Bourgeois Jean , Thoen Erik , Vervloet Jelier
Published: February 2008

In archaeological prospection, geophysical sensors are increasingly being used to locate buried remains within their natural context. To cover a large area in sufficient detail, an electromagnetic induction sensor can be very useful, measuring simultaneously the electrical conductivity and the magnetic susceptibility of the soil (e.g., Geonics EM38DD). In this study, an 8 ha field containing a Medieval manor was mapped in a submeter resolution, using a mobile sensor configuration equipped with a GPS. As different soil features can yield analogous responses, the interpretation of geophysical maps can be ambiguous. Therefore, soil auger observations were laid out along two perpendicular transects to provide vertical profiles across the sensor measurements. This information greatly enhanced the interpretation of the anomalies obtained by the sensor. Both natural and anthropogenic features were delineated, which clearly presented a moated site along a former tidal channel. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Frequent biallelic inactivation and transcriptional silencing of the DIRAS3 gene at 1p31 in oligodendroglial tumors with 1p loss
Authors: Riemenschneider Markus J. , Reifenberger Julia , Reifenberger Guido
Published: February 2008

Deletion of the short arm of chromosome 1 is common in oligodendroglial tumors and has been identified as a powerful molecular marker for response to radio‐ and chemotherapy as well as favorable prognosis. Here, we investigated a series of 59 human primary gliomas for aberrations of the DIRAS3 (ARHI) gene, a maternally imprinted RAS‐related tumor suppressor at 1p31. We found that DIRAS3 mRNA expression levels were significantly decreased in oligodendrogliomas with 1p deletion when compared to tumors with retention on 1p. While mutational analysis yielded no tumor‐associated mutations, assessment of the methylation status of DIRAS3 showed biallelic DIRAS3 inactivation due to methylation of the retained allele in 95% of oligodendrogliomas (19 out of 20) with 1p deletions. In contrast, only 28% of oligodendrogliomas (5 out of 18) without 1p deletions and less than 5% of astrocytic tumors (1 out 21) had biallelic inactivation, i.e., methylation of both DIRAS3 alleles. Furthermore, in oligodendroglioma patients biallelic DIRAS3 inactivation was significantly associated with low DIRAS3 transcripts levels and longer overall survival. Taken together, our data suggest DIRAS3 as a novel, prognostically relevant candidate gene that is frequently methylated and silenced in oligodendroglial tumors with 1p deletion. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.