bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Hierarchically Structured Ni(OH)2 Monolayer Hollow‐Sphere Array and Its Tunable Optical Properties over a Large Region
Authors: Duan G. , Cai W. , Luo Y. , Sun F.
Published: January 2007

The fabrication of a hierarchically structured Ni(OH)2 monolayer hollow‐sphere array with the shell composed of building blocks of nanoflakelets is demonstrated based on a colloidal monolayer and electrochemical deposition. The morphology can be easily controlled by the colloidal monolayer and deposition parameters. Importantly, such monolayer hollow‐sphere array shows a morphology‐ and size‐dependent tunable optical transmission stop band. This stop band can be easily tuned from 455–1855 nm by changing the size of the hollow spheres between 1000 and 4500 nm, and also fine‐adjusted by changing the deposition time. The array exhibits a nearly incident‐angle‐independent position of the stop band that 3D photonic crystals do not possess. This structure may have potential applications in optical devices, photonic crystals, and sensors for gas detection.
Nanoimprint Lithography: Methods and Material Requirements
Authors: Guo L. J.
Published: January 2007

Nanoimprint lithography (NIL) is a nonconventional lithographic technique for high‐throughput patterning of polymer nanostructures at great precision and at low costs. Unlike traditional lithographic approaches, which achieve pattern definition through the use of photons or electrons to modify the chemical and physical properties of the resist, NIL relies on direct mechanical deformation of the resist material and can therefore achieve resolutions beyond the limitations set by light diffraction or beam scattering that are encountered in conventional techniques. This Review covers the basic principles of nanoimprinting, with an emphasis on the requirements on materials for the imprinting mold, surface properties, and resist materials for successful and reliable nanostructure replication.
Preparative isolation and characterization of heavy metal complexes from acid mine drainage and surface wastewater
Authors: Wengel Marcus , Gleixner Gerd
Published: January 2007

A preparative method was developed to sample dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and heavy metals (Ni, Mn) from polluted surface waters. Main focus was set on the preparative production of freeze‐dried samples mainly composed of organic ligands from heavy metal complexes. First characterizations were done in the aqueous phase. Finally, freeze‐dried samples provide stable organic matter for multiple characterizations. Acid mine drainage of the former mining area of Ronneburg (Germany) hold elevated concentrations of heavy metals and low concentrations of DOC. Municipal wastewater, passing the spoil pile, held elevated concentrations of DOC and low concentrations of heavy metals. Dissolved components smaller than 0.45 μm and larger than 1 nm were concentrated by nanofiltration. Organic heavy metal complexes were isolated from this solution by size‐exclusion chromatography (SEC). Different size classes of molecules were collected from the column effluent, depending on their elution time, and were characterized by UV spectroscopy, ICP‐OES, and DOC measurements. All samples held organic heavy metal compounds with different retention times. The organic heavy metal complexes in acid mine drainage had higher retention times than complexes from municipal wastewater. Most interestingly, we found different affinities of heavy metals to different size classes of DOC. This affinity of the heavy metals differs with size and origin of the DOC.
Local use of antibiotics and their input and fate in a small sewage treatment plant – significance of balancing and analysis on a local scale vs. nationwide scale
Authors: Alexy Radka , Sommer Alexander , Lange Frank T. , Kümmerer Klaus
Published: January 2007

Most antibiotics are only partially metabolised by patients before being discharged into the municipal sewage system along with patient excreta. Studies have shown that the majority of antibiotics pass through sewage treatment and are then released into the environment. Accordingly, investigations conducted in various countries have detected a number of antibiotics in the low μg or ng per litre range in different environmental compartments. Studies connecting mass balances of use on a local scale and of input and analysis of the antibiotic concentrations present in municipal sewage treatment plants are scarce. Data on local use of antibiotics and their relation to nationwide consumption are not available. This study investigated the use, input, and fate of antibiotics on a local scale and this data were compared with the German nationwide consumption. 42 antibiotics and 15 antimycotics were used in the mass balance consideration over a period of one year. It was found that the local pattern of usage differed only little from that found nationwide. Seasonal changes were minor and the concentrations actually measured were found to be in the expected range. Differences in both the identified occurrence and the concentrations of the target compounds were observed within and between the three sampling periods.
Bioassay‐directed fractionation for analyzing estrogens in surface waters of the German Baltic Sea
Authors: Beck Iris‐Constanze , Bruhn Regina , Gandrass Juergen
Published: January 2007

A reversed‐phase fractionation method with subsequent biological and chemical analysis has been developed to estimate the contributions of the most potent estrogens to observed estrogenic effect potentials. Surface water samples were taken in the German Baltic Sea (Inner Wismar Bay and Darss Peninsula, sampling campaign July 2003) and were separated into seven individual fractions. Three fractions showed significant estrogenic activities and clear dose‐dependant responses were obtained in the yeast estrogen screen (YES). In the 2nd fractions liquid chromatographic‐electrospray‐tandem mass spectrometric (LC‐ESI‐MS‐MS) analyses showed the presence of bisphenol A (Inner Wismar Bay: 4.8 ng L–1 and 6 ng L–1; Darss Peninsula: 0.91 ng L–1 and 1.7 ng L–1) and ethinylestradiol (Inner Wismar Bay: 2.0 ng L–1 and 6.0 ng L–1; Darss Peninsula: < MDL and 1.7 ng L–1), whereas estrogenic activities in the YES were only around 10% of the positive control E2. Although not identified prior in the total extract the natural hormones estradiol (Inner Wismar Bay: 0.13 ng L–1 and 0.19 ng L–1; Darss Peninsula: 0.12 ng L–1 and 0.16 ng L–1) and estriol (Inner Wismar Bay: < MDL and 0.33 ng L–1; Darss Peninsula: < MDL) could be detected in the 3rd fractions, where high estrogenic potentials could be observed. The 4th fractions showed high responses as well and estrone were herein quantified with concentrations of 0.16 ng L–1 and 0.18 ng L–1 (Darss Peninsula) up to 0.37 ng L–1 (Inner Wismar Bay). Measured and calculated estradiol equivalents for individual fractions correlated very well (R2 = 0.78), when disregarding results of the 2nd fraction, where high deviations occurred.
The relationship between locomotor behavior and limb morphology in brown (Cebus apella) and weeper (Cebus olivaceus) capuchins
Authors: Wright Kristin A.
Published: January 2007

This study is a comparison of locomotor behavior and postcranial form in two species of capuchin monkey, the brown capuchin (Cebus apella), and the weeper capuchin (Cebus olivaceus). Behavioral data from groups of wild C. apella and C. olivaceus in Guyana were collected during the period of December 1999 through November 2000. Postcranial variables including 40 measurements and three indices were taken from 43 adult and subadult specimens of C. apella and 14 adult and subadult specimens of C. olivaceus housed in American museums, as well as two wild‐caught adult specimens of C. olivaceus from the Georgetown Zoo in Guyana. The results of this study indicate that these two capuchins exhibit similar patterns of locomotor behavior, but that there are important differences in how they move through their homerange, particularly with respect to quadrupedalism. These differences in behavior are reflected in their postcranial morphology and can be related to differences in foraging strategies. This study provides an example of the importance of using more exclusive categories of quadrupedal behaviors when comparing closely related arboreal quadrupeds, as well as an alternative explanation for some of the postcranial features of C. apella that may relate to foraging postures and foraging strategy rather than traditionally categorized patterns of locomotor behavior. Am. J. Primatol. 69:736–756. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Coprophagy by wild ring‐tailed lemurs (Lemur catta) in human‐disturbed locations adjacent to the Beza Mahafaly Special Reserve, Madagascar
Authors: Fish Krista D. , Sauther Michelle L. , Loudon James E. , Cuozzo Frank P.
Published: January 2007

Coprophagy occurs in a number of animal species, including nonhuman primates. During the 2003–2004 dry seasons at the Beza Mahafaly Special Reserve, Madagascar, we observed wild ring‐tailed lemurs (Lemur catta) consuming dried fecal matter from three different species. Ring‐tailed lemurs consumed human feces on 12 occasions, cattle feces twice, and feral dog feces once. Coprophagy in this population may be a behavioral adaptation that provides animals access to energy and nutrients and may be an important nutritional source for older, and/or dentally impaired individuals during the dry season. Am. J. Primatol. 69:713–718, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Who cares who calls? Selective responses to the lost calls of socially dominant group members in the white‐faced capuchin (Cebus Capucinus)
Authors: Digweed Shannon M. , Fedigan Linda M. , Rendall Drew
Published: January 2007

In many social mammals and birds, soft vocalizations are habitually produced during dispersed moving and foraging, the function being to maintain contact and regulate spacing between group members. In some species, much louder calls are given sporadically by specific individuals when they become separated from the group, or ‘lost’. The function of these calls has seldom been specifically tested, particularly among social primates, but is often assumed to involve regaining contact with the group based on a combination of individually distinctive calls and antiphonal responses to them from within the group. To test these assumptions, we conducted research on two groups of white‐faced capuchins (Cebus capucinus) in Costa Rica. We analyzed 82 bouts of ‘lost’ calls given by 13 different adult individuals when separated from the group and the antiphonal responses they elicited. Lost calls were individually distinctive and were answered in 35% of calling episodes. Answers were selective: dominant males and females were answered more than were subordinate callers of either sex. As a result, dominant callers relocated and returned to the group more quickly than did subordinate callers. We discuss the potential proximate motivations for, and ultimate benefits of, such selective answering of dominant group members. Am. J. Primatol. 69:829–835, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A new case of fish‐eating in Japanese macaques: implications for social constraints on the diffusion of feeding innovation
Authors: Leca Jean‐Baptiste , Gunst Noëlle , Watanabe Kunio , Huffman Michael A.
Published: January 2007

This is the first detailed report of social factors affecting fish‐eating in Japanese macaques under natural circumstances. We video‐recorded a complete event of fish eating, involving a new fish food species for the monkeys on Koshima island. Following the discovery of a large beached sea bass by a peripheral male, we observed a total of 16 individuals feeding on the fish in turns, and interacting around it. The rank order of access to the fish was mainly explained by the spatial position of group members, whereas dominance determined how long the fish was monopolized. Although limited, the tolerated presence of close‐bystanders while feeding was affected by kinship and affiliation. Genealogic data suggested that fish‐eating behavior was well maintained in terms of maternal lineages. This report should contribute to a better understanding of how social features may constrain the long‐term diffusion of feeding innovations in free‐ranging primate groups. Am. J. Primatol. 69:821–828, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Long‐tailed macaques use human hair as dental floss
Authors: Watanabe Kunio , Urasopon Nontakorn , Malaivijitnond Suchinda
Published: January 2007

Long‐tailed macaques in Lopburi, Thailand, use human hair as if it were dental floss. This eccentric behavior is seen mainly in a large group of macaques that live at the old Buddhist shrine of Prang Sam Yot. Many monkeys of this group take hair and sort a few pieces to make a string and then brush their teeth by pulling it tightly with right and left hands alternatively between their teeth. This habit is not seen in the other localities near Lopburi and is rare even in the surrounding groups. Monkeys in the Prang Sam Yot shrine are worshipped as servants of God and people respect them, even when they ride on their heads. This behavior could be considered a newly occurring cultural behavior, which has become established under very specialized circumstances. Am. J. Primatol. 69:940–944, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A second major histocompatibility complex susceptibility locus for multiple sclerosis
Authors: Yeo Tai Wai , De Jager Philip L. , Gregory Simon G. , Barcellos Lisa F. , Walton Amie , Goris An , Fenoglio Chiara , Ban Maria , Taylor Craig J. , Goodman Reyna S. , Walsh Emily , Wolfish Cara S. , Horton Roger , Traherne James , Beck Stephan , Trowsdale John , Caillier Stacy J. , Ivinson Adrian J. , Green Todd , Pobywajlo Susan , Lander Eric S. , Pericak‐Vance Margaret A. , Haines Jonathan L. , Daly Mark J. , Oksenberg Jorge R. , Hauser Stephen L. , Compston Alastair , Hafler David A. , Rioux John D. , Sawcer Stephen
Published: January 2007

Objective

Variation in the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) on chromosome 6p21 is known to influence susceptibility to multiple sclerosis with the strongest effect originating from the HLA‐DRB1 gene in the class II region. The possibility that other genes in the MHC independently influence susceptibility to multiple sclerosis has been suggested but remains unconfirmed.

Methods

Using a combination of microsatellite, single nucleotide polymorphism, and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing, we screened the MHC in trio families looking for evidence of residual association above and beyond that attributable to the established DRB1*1501 risk haplotype. We then refined this analysis by extending the genotyping of classical HLA loci into independent cases and control subjects.

Results

Screening confirmed the presence of residual association and suggested that this was maximal in the region of the HLA‐C gene. Extending analysis of the classical loci confirmed that this residual association is partly due to allelic heterogeneity at the HLA‐DRB1 locus, but also reflects an independent effect from the HLA‐C gene. Specifically, the HLA‐C*05 allele, or a variant in tight linkage disequilibrium with it, appears to exert a protective effect (p = 3.3 × 10−5).

Interpretation

Variation in the HLA‐C gene influences susceptibility to multiple sclerosis independently of any effect attributable to the nearby HLA‐DRB1 gene. Ann Neurol 2007
Results of treatment changes in patients with apparently drug‐resistant chronic epilepsy
Authors: Luciano Anna L. , Shorvon Simon D.
Published: January 2007

Objective

It has long been known that the response to treatment in newly diagnosed epilepsy is better than in chronic epilepsy. However, in the past 15 years, 8 major new antiepileptic drugs have been licensed, and the effect of this wider range of treatment options on prognosis has not been fully assessed. The aim of this study was to quantify the effect of adding a previously unused antiepileptic drug to the treatment regimen in adults with uncontrolled chronic epilepsy that had been resistant to previous antiepileptic drug treatment.

Methods

A total of 265 drug additions were studied in 155 adult patients with chronic epilepsy (defined as epilepsy active at least 5 years after and initiation of therapy).

Results

About 16% of all drug introductions resulted in seizure freedom (defined as seizure freedom at last follow‐up for 12 months or longer), and a 50 to 99% seizure reduction occurred in a further 21%. Of the 155 patients, 28% were rendered seizure free by a drug introduction. Clinical factors associated with a better effect were fewer previously used antiepileptic drugs, shorter duration epilepsy, and idiopathic epilepsy.

Interpretation

This study provides a quantitative estimate of the value of changing drug therapy in patients in whom seizures were previously uncontrolled by previous therapy. The application of a systematic protocol to the treatment of chronic epilepsy will improve seizure control in a substantial proportion of cases. The rather nihilistic view that intractability is inevitable if seizure control is not obtained within a few years of the onset of therapy is incorrect. Ann Neurol 2007
Fluorescence excitation spectroscopy of polystyrene near the critical concentration c*
Authors: Healy M. Sean , Hanson James E.
Published: January 2007

The critical concentration c* was measured using both fluorescence excitation spectroscopy and light scattering for four narrow molecular weight distribution samples of polystyrene (MW = 225,000–1,500,000) in bicyclo[4.4.0]decane (decahydronaphthalene, decalin) at 20 and 30°C. A discontinuity in the corrected intensity of a band in the excitation spectrum (assigned to the dimmer complex) as a function of concentration allowed determination of the critical concentration, c*, from the excitation spectra. The c* resulting from fluorescence and light scattering were identical within experimental error and were comparable to c* values calculated from literature methods. Fluorescence excitation spectroscopy should be a convenient method for determining c* for aromatic polymers. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 360–364, 2007
Characterization of surface‐modified hollow fiber polyethersulfone membranes prepared at different air gaps
Authors: Khulbe K. C. , Feng C. Y. , Matsuura T. , Mosqueada‐Jimenaez D. C. , Rafat M. , Kingston D. , Narbaitz R. M. , Khayet M.
Published: January 2007

Hollow fibers were spun from a solution of surface‐modifying macromolecule blended polyethersulfone in dimethyl acetamide by using dry‐wet spinning method at different air gaps and at room temperature. The air gap was varied from 10 to 90 cm. The ultrafiltration performance of hollow fibers was studied by using aqueous solutions of polyethylene glycols and polyethylene oxides of different molecular weights. Significant difference in surface morphology between the inner and outer surface of the hollow fibers was observed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Similar results were obtained by contact angle measurement and XPS. Mean pore sizes of the inner surface and outer surface were calculated from AFM images and compared with the pore sizes obtained from mass transport data. Pore size distribution curves were drawn from both data, i.e., from AFM images and mass‐transport data, both methods gave similar results. Roughness parameters of the inner and outer surfaces and the sizes of nodular aggregates on both surfaces were measured. An attempt was made to correlate the above parameters with the performance of the membranes. Unexpected values of contact angles of both inner surface and outer surface were obtained. It was observed that the studied membranes could be put into two groups: (i) the membranes fabricated between 10 and 50 cm air gap and (ii) fabricated at higher than 50 cm air gap. A plausible mechanism for the unexpected results was discussed. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 710–721, 2007
Migration of substituted aromatic solvents into polyurethane/polystyrene semi‐interpenetrating polymer network
Authors: Kumar H. , Siddaramaiah
Published: January 2007

The molecular transport of substituted aromatic solvents through polyurethane/polystyrene (PU/PS, 50/50) semi interpenetrating polymer network has been investigated at 20, 40, and 60°C. Sorption–desorption–resorption–redesorption (S‐D‐RS‐RD) experiments were performed to determine the true value of transport coefficients. Sorption results are obtained by a gravimetric method and diffusion coefficients have been calculated using Fick's equation for the linear data points of time dependent sorption/resorption curves. It was observed that most of the systems follow the Fickian mode of transport. The first order kinetic equation was used to estimate the kinetic rate constant of sorption. Activation parameters for different transport processes were evaluated and the results were used to discuss the polymer–solvent interactions. The concentration profiles at different depths along the thickness of membranes and at different time intervals were computed using Fick's equation under appropriate boundary conditions. The rate of evaporation of liquids has been calculated for desorption and redesorption processes, and these results depend on the volatility of aromatic solvents. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 378–390, 2007
Cellulose fibers modified by hydrophobic‐type polymer
Authors: Kulpinski Piotr
Published: January 2007

In the present research, we discuss the influence of a hydrophobic modifier on the properties of cellulose fibers. The commercially available fluorocarbon polymer water dispersion was introduced in different concentration ratios to the spinning dope to change the physical properties of cellulose fibers. Cellulose fibers from N‐methylmorpholine‐N‐oxide were prepared as a direct solvent. The fibers obtained contained up to 15% w/w of fluorocarbon polymer. To observe how the modifier influences the fibers' mechanical and thermal properties, fibrillation tendency and moisture absorption were examined. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 398–409, 2007
Mechanical, flow, and morphological properties of talc‐ and kaolin‐filled polypropylene hybrid composites
Authors: Bakar M. B. Abu , Leong Y. W. , Ariffin A. , Ishak Z. A. Mohd.
Published: January 2007

Polypropylene (PP) hybrid composites have been produced by compounding two types of mineral fillers, viz., talc and kaolin with PP copolymer using a twin screw extruder. The PP hybrid composite was injection‐molded into dumbbell specimen for tensile, flexural, and impact properties characterizations. MFI and SEM studies were used to characterize the flow and morphological properties of the PP hybrid composites. The result shows that most of the hybrid composites showed a significant decrease in flow, tensile, flexural, and impact properties compared with the single filler‐filled PP composites. However, a hybridization effect was seen for the PPT20K10 hybrid composites, through the synergistic coalescence of positive characteristics from 20 wt % of talc and 10 wt % of kaolin. This hybrid formulation have given an economically advantageous material with the mechanical properties (tensile, flexural, and impact) comparable to those of the talc‐filled PP composites. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 434–441, 2007
Surface characterization of polyethylene films modified by gaseous plasma
Authors: Deshmukh R. R. , Shetty A. R.
Published: January 2007

Of the several techniques available for surface modification, plasma processing has proved to be very appropriate. The low temperature plasma is a soft radiation source and it affects the material only over a few hundred angstroms deep, the bulk properties remaining unaffected. Plasma surface treatment also offers the advantage of greater chemical flexibility. The improvement in adhesion was studied by measuring T‐peel strength. In addition, printability of plasma‐treated PE films was studied by cross test method. It was found that printability increases considerably for plasma treatment of short duration. It was therefore thought of as interesting to study the surface composition and morphology by contact angle measurement, ESCA, and AFM. Surface energy and surface roughness can be directly correlated to the improvement in above‐mentioned surface‐related properties. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 449–457, 2007
Synthesis of porous poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) gel beads by sedimentation polymerization and their morphology
Authors: Iizawa Takashi , Taketa Hatsumi , Maruta Makoto , Ishido Takashi , Gotoh Takehiko , Sakohara Shuji
Published: January 2007

Sedimentation polymerization of aqueous solutions of N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPA) was carried out to prepare porous poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPA) beads. When small amounts of DMF and a radical accelerator were added to the monomer solution, the polymerization proceeded smoothly to give polymer beads with a very narrow size distribution. The rate of swelling of the resulting bead increased with increasing crosslinker content and was also affected by the type of crosslinker used. When amounts higher than 1 mol % N,N′‐methylenebisacrylamide or 3 mol % diethylene glycol diacrylate (DEGDA) were used as a crosslinker, the resulting beads underwent rapid swelling in water at 20°C, reaching the equilibrium within 5 min. A cross‐sectional photograph of a typical dried bead showed that it had a very complex morphology consisting of a large and irregular void, highly porous region, and nonporous region. The swelling rate was directly dependent on the morphology of the beads. PNIPA beads with well‐developed porous areas show a high swelling rate. Although PNIPA beads produced from DEGDA had well‐developed porous structures, they were able to effectively concentrate blue dextran from the dilute aqueous solution. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 842–850, 2007
Using cycloolefin copolymers as pharmaceutical or cosmetic storage material. I. A study of adjuvant migration and of polymer ageing
Authors: Saunier J. , Chodur C. Aymes , Larbes L. , Mrad O. , Yagoubi N.
Published: January 2007

The aim of this paper is to study the interaction between alcoholic solutions of different polarities and a new class of packaging polymer, the cycloolefins, which can be used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic fields. Different consequences of this interaction were studied as adjuvant migration, and polymer swelling. Very extreme storage conditions were used to accelerate the ageing of the polymer. This study shows the great influence of solvent polarity on the material's thermomechanical properties as well as on its barrier properties. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 585–593, 2007
Evaluation of the crystallization kinetics and melting of polypropylene and metallocene‐prepared polyethylene blends
Authors: Razavi‐Nouri Mohammad , Hay James N.
Published: January 2007

The kinetics of the isothermal crystallization of a polypropylene (PP) random copolymer containing 5 mol % ethylene, a metallocene linear low‐density polyethylene (m‐LLDPE) with 3.3 mol % hexene‐1 as a comonomer, and three blends were studied with differential scanning calorimetry at temperatures sufficiently high to prevent any crystallization of m‐LLDPE. The analysis was carried out with the Avrami equation. The overall crystallization rate and the equilibrium melting temperature of the PP copolymer decreased with increasing amounts of m‐LLDPE in the blends. The former was attributed to the effect of m‐LLDPE in reducing the number of primary nuclei, and the latter was attributed to a lowering of the fold surface energy due to the limited partial miscibility of the blend components. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 634–640, 2007
Aggregation of lead phthalocyanine in blends with polycarbonate
Authors: Ranade Aditya , Hiltner Anne , Baer Eric , Shirk James S. , Lepkowicz Richard S.
Published: January 2007

The blends of a nonlinear optical dye with polycarbonate are described and comparisons are made with solutions of the dye in chloroform. Absorption spectra of blends with up to 1 wt % lead tetracumylphenoxy phthalocyanine showed the dye to be primarily in the monomer form. The monomer absorption spectrum and the measured extinction coefficient replicated those in chloroform solution. As the dye concentration increased to 20 wt %, the monomer intensity decreased and new spectral features characteristic of the dimer appeared. The spectra were resolved into contributions of monomer and dimer, and the concentration effect was analyzed according to the monomer/dimer equilibrium. Much higher monomer concentrations were achieved in polycarbonate blends compared to chloroform solutions. It was concluded that when the blends were quenched from the melt, the equilibrium established at the melt temperature was preserved in the solid state glass. Quenching the blend from different melt temperatures confirmed this interpretation. Extrapolation of the temperature dependent equilibrium constant to 25°C yielded a value close to that reported for chloroform solution at 25°C. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 104: 464–469, 2007
Assessing the status of shallow lakes using an additive model of biomass size spectra
Authors: de Eyto Elvira , Irvine Kenneth
Published: January 2007

Planktonic biomass size spectra were used to summarize the ecological quality of six shallow lakes sampled in spring, early summer and late summer.

A simple additive model fitted to the data was used to assess the applicability of the size spectrum theory to shallow lake ecosystems.

The additive model replicated the hierarchical pattern of biomass predicted by the predator–prey theory of aquatic production, and was a more appropriate model for predicting biomass size spectra than the frequently used linear regression.

Lakes with varying ecological quality were a significant source of variation in the additive model, and further research into using size spectra to monitor ecological quality in shallow lakes is warranted. Specifically, the production of size spectra from a wider range of sites is needed to provide greater statistical validation.

The use of size spectra can provide an attractive and cost‐effective way for classifying lake ecosystems because it circumvents the need for difficult taxonomic description.

Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Low genetic variability of the white‐clawed crayfish in the Iberian Peninsula: its origin and management implications
Authors: Diéguez‐Uribeondo Javier , Royo Félix , Souty‐Grosset Catherine , Ropiquet Anne , Grandjean Frédéric
Published: January 2007

A study on the genetic variability of the white‐clawed crayfish was carried out based on mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene sequences. The sequences applied were more informative regarding white‐clawed crayfish genetic variability than others previously used.

Two haplotypes were found to exist in the Iberian Peninsula. The haplotypes exhibit a strong geographic subdivision (ΦST=0.83). One of the Iberian haplotypes was similar to north Italian haplotypes and the second differed in only one mutation. This pattern of genetic variability contrasts with those found in glacial refugial areas of France, Italy and the Balkan Peninsula.

Two hypotheses on the origin of the white‐clawed crayfish in the Iberian Peninsula are discussed: (i) one based on an anthropogenic origin, and (ii) a second based on a successive number of postglacial ancient and recent bottlenecks, i.e. the disjunction between Iberian and Italian populations of white‐clawed crayfish species is due to competition between A. italicus and A. pallipes, in addition to the impact of crayfish plague and human translocations.

New references for the white‐clawed crayfish in the Iberian Peninsula were found in medieval and Arabic texts. The results show that this species has been thriving in this peninsula since ancient periods and that its indigenous status should not be questioned.

Conservation action and plans should consider the low genetic diversity as a limitation for farm‐raising specimens more adapted and resistant to changing environments and diseases.

Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lempel‐Ziv compression of highly structured documents
Authors: Adiego Joaquín , Navarro Gonzalo , Fuente Pablo de la
Published: January 2007

The authors describe Lempel‐Ziv to Compress Structure (LZCS), a novel Lempel–Ziv approach suitable for compressing structured documents. LZCS takes advantage of repeated substructures that may appear in the documents, by replacing them with a backward reference to their previous occurrence. The result of the LZCS transformation is still a valid structured document, which is human‐readable and can be transmitted by ASCII channels. Moreover, LZCS transformed documents are easy to search, display, access at random, and navigate. In a second stage, the transformed documents can be further compressed using any semistatic technique, so that it is still possible to do all those operations efficiently; or with any adaptive technique to boost compression. LZCS is especially efficient in the compression of collections of highly structured data, such as extensible markup language (XML) forms, invoices, e‐commerce, and Web‐service exchange documents. The comparison with other structure‐aware and standard compressors shows that LZCS is a competitive choice for these type of documents, whereas the others are not well‐suited to support navigation or random access. When joined to an adaptive compressor, LZCS obtains by far the best compression ratios.
Effect of somatic mutation on DNA binding properties of anti‐DNA autoantibodies
Authors: Bobeck Melissa J. , Cleary Joanne , Beckingham Jenny A. , Ackroyd P. Christine , Glick Gary D.
Published: January 2007

Autoantibodies that bind DNA are a hallmark of systemic lupus erythematosus. A subset of autoantibody•DNA complexes localize to kidney tissue and lead to damage and even death. 11F8, 9F11, and 15B10 are clonally related anti‐DNA autoantibodies isolated from an autoimmune mouse. 11F8 binds ssDNA in a sequence‐specific manner and causes tissue damage, while 9F11 and 15B10 bind ssDNA non‐specifically and are benign. Among these antibodies, DNA binding properties are mediated by five amino acid differences in primary sequence. Thermodynamic and kinetic parameters associated with recognition of structurally different DNA sequences were determined for each antibody to provide insight toward recognition strategies, and to explore a link between binding properties and disease pathogenesis. A model of 11F8 bound to its high affinity consensus sequence provides a foundation for understanding the differences in thermodynamic and kinetic parameters between the three mAbs. Our data suggest that 11F8 utilizes the proposed ssDNA recognition motif including Y32VL, a hydrogen bonding residue at 91VL, and an aromatic residue at the tip of the third heavy chain complementarity determining region. Interestingly, a somatic mutation to arginine at 31VH in 11F8 may afford additional binding site contacts including R31VH, R96VH, and R98VH that could determine specificity. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 85: 471–480, 2007.

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
Bioaugmentation of a two‐stage thermophilic (68°C/55°C) anaerobic digestion concept for improvement of the methane yield from cattle manure
Authors: Nielsen Henrik Bangsø , Mladenovska Zuzana , Ahring Birgitte Kiær
Published: January 2007

The possibility of improving a two‐stage (68°C/55°C) anaerobic digestion concept for treatment of cattle manure was studied. In batch experiments, a 10–24% increase of the specific methane yield from cattle manure and its fractions was obtained, when the substrates were inoculated with bacteria of the genus Caldicellusiruptor and Dictyoglomus. In a reactor experiment inoculation of a 68°C pretreatment reactor with Caldicellusiruptor resulted in a 93% increase in the methane yield of the pretreatment reactor for a period of 18 days, but gave only a slight increase in the overall methane yield of the two‐stage setup. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2007; 97: 1638–1643. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Computational identification of combinatorial regulation and transcription factor binding sites
Authors: Ryu Taewoo , Kim Younghoon , Kim Dae‐Won , Lee Doheon
Published: January 2007

A number of computational methods have been used to unravel the core mechanisms governing the regulation of gene expression, but these techniques examine only portions of the genetic regulatory mechanism. For example, some studies have failed to include the combined action of multiple transcription factors (TFs) or the importance of TF binding constraints (i.e., the binding position and orientation), while others have examined combinations of only 2 or 3 TFs. Thus, we sought to develop a new method for identifying regulatory modules in yeast, using an algorithm that includes all combinations of TFs plus a number of binding constraints when identifying target genes. We successfully developed a computational method for using microarray and TF–DNA interaction data to identify regulatory modules. All possible combinations of yeast TFs and various binding constraints were tested to identify regulatory modules. Within the identified modules, target genes were found to have common binding constraints such as fixed binding regions and orientations for each TF. Moreover, targets showed similar mRNA expression profiles and high functional coherence. Our novel approach, which accounts for both combined actions of TFs and their binding constraints, can be used to identify target genes and reliably predict regulatory modules over a broad range of functional categories. Complete results and additional information are available online at http://bisl. kaist.ac.kr/∼dhlee/comModule/index.html. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2007; 97: 1594–1602. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The impact of renal function on the long‐term clinical course of patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Papafaklis Michail I. , Naka Katerina K. , Papamichael Nikos D. , Kolios Georgios , Sioros Lampros , Sclerou Vassiliki , Katsouras Christos S. , Michalis Lampros K.
Published: January 2007

Objectives: To determine the impact of the level of kidney function on the extended (>5 years) long‐term clinical course of patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has been significantly associated with an increased in‐hospital and 1‐year mortality following PCI. Methods: In this single‐centre retrospective study, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) at baseline was estimated in 371 patients not on dialysis, who underwent successful PCI between mid‐1995 and mid‐1999. Baseline demographic and angiographic characteristics, and long‐term major adverse cardiac events and symptoms were compared for patients with GFR ≥60 ml/min/1.73 m2 (normal or mildly impaired renal function) and GFR ≥ 60 ml/ min/1.73 m2 (CKD). The independent effect of GFR, modelled both as a categorical and a continuous variable, on long‐term clinical outcomes was also investigated using multivariate Cox regression analysis. Results: Nine‐year all‐cause and cardiac mortality rates were significantly higher in the CKD group (45.9% vs. 10.6%, P < 0.0001 and 35.4% vs. 7.1%, P < 0.0001 respectively), while there was no difference in the repeat revascularization (P = 0.27) and nonfatal Q‐wave myocardial infarction (P = 0.74) rates. Multivariate analysis demonstrated an independent impact of the level of GFR on long‐term mortality; adjusted 9‐year all‐cause and cardiac mortality increased by approximately 16% and 11%, respectively for a decrease of GFR from 120 to 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 and by approximately 14% and 9%, respectively for a decrease of GFR from 60 to 30 ml/min/1.73 m2. Conclusions: The level of renal function is a strong determinant of long‐term all‐cause and cardiac mortality after successful PCI. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Granulocyte‐colony stimulating factor administration after myocardial infarction in a porcine ischemia‐reperfusion model: Functional and pathological effects of dose timing
Authors: Beohar Nirat , Flaherty James D. , Davidson Charles J. , Vidovich Mladen , Singhal Seema , Rapp Jonathan A. , Erdogan Ata , Lee Daniel C. , Rammohan Chidambaram , Brodsky Adam , Wu Edwin , Pieper Karen , Virmani Renu , Bonow Robert O. , Mehta Jayesh
Published: January 2007

Background: Acute MI results in cardiomyocyte death, left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and adverse remodeling. The use of growth factors may prevent this. The aim of this study was to assess early and delayed administration of granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) in a porcine model of myocardial infarction (MI) and reperfusion.Methods: MI was induced by balloon occlusion followed by reperfusion. There were 3 groups: Control (n = 11), Early (n = 17), and Delayed treatment (n = 8). The Early group received G‐CSF 10 μg/kg/d every other day for 20 days beginning immediately. The Delayed group received G‐CSF 10 μg/kg/d daily for 10 days beginning on day 5. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed on days 5 and 56. LV end‐diastolic volumes (EDV), end‐systolic volumes, ejection fraction, expansion index, sphericity index, thinning ratio, and infarct mass were calculated. Histology was analyzed at 56 days. Results: At 56 days the change in EDV was 53% less in the Early (p = 0.005) and 24% greater in the Delayed (p = NS) group versus Control. The Delayed group also showed a 60% increase in normalized infarct mass (p = 0.055) and an 88% increase in expansion index (p = 0.003). Both groups had significantly less capillary density in the infarct border zone. The Delayed also had decreased arteriolar density in the mid scar. Conclusions: Early treatment with G‐CSF after MI decreases ventricular dilatation, while delayed treatment has a deleterious effect on LV remodeling. This may be related to changes in myocardial vascularity. The effects of G‐CSF therapy and its dose timing help to elucidate the results of recent human trials. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Percutaneous mitral balloon valvotomy
Authors: Fawzy Mohamed Eid
Published: January 2007

Percutaneous mitral balloon valvotomy (PMBV) was introduced in 1984 by Inoue who developed the procedure as a logical extension of surgical closed commissurotomy. Since then, PMBV has emerged as the treatment of choice for severe pliable rheumatic mitral stenosis (MS). With increasing experience and better selection of patient, the immediate results of the procedure have improved and the rate of complications declined. When the reported complications of PMBV are viewed in aggregate, complications occur at approximately the following rates: mortality (0–0.5%), cerebral accident (0.5–1%), mitral regurgitation (MR) requiring surgery (1.6–3%). These complication rates compare favorably to those reported after surgical commissurotomy. Several randomized trials reported similar hemodynamic results with PMBV and surgical commissurotomy. Restenosis after PMBV ranges from 4 to 70% depending on the patient selection, valve morphology, and duration of follow up. Restenosis was encountered in 21% of the author's series at mean follow‐up 6 ± 4.5 years and the 10 and 15 years restenosis‐free survival rates were (70 ± 3)% and (44 ± 5)%, respectively, and were significantly higher for patients with favorable mitral morphology (85 ± 3% and 65 ± 6%), respectively (P < 0.0001). The 10 and 15 years event‐free survival rates were (79 ± 2)% and (43 ± 9)% and were significantly higher for patients with favorable mitral morphology (88 ± 2)% and (66 ± 6)%, respectively (P < 0.0001). The effect of PMBV on severe pulmonary hypertension, concomitant severe tricuspid regurgitation, left ventricular function, left atrial size, and atrial fibrillation are addressed in this review. In addition, the application of PMBV in specific clinical situations such as in children, during pregnancy and for restenosis is discussed. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Drying Kinetics in a Vertical Gas‐Solid System
Authors: Saravanan B. , Balasubramanian N. , Srinivasakannan C.
Published: January 2007

A one‐dimensional steady‐state two‐fluid model has been developed to demonstrate the drying kinetics in the vertical up‐flow gas‐solid system. The model takes into account mass, momentum, and heat transfer between the continuous and dispersed phases. A set of non‐linear differential equations have been solved numerically for the velocity, moisture content, and temperature of both the continuous and dispersed phases along the dryer length. The effect of operating parameters on drying kinetics has been critically examined and the model simulations are compared with the data reported in the literature.
Simple Determination of Segment Numbers for Complex Polymer‐Solvent Systems
Authors: Machefer S. , Schnitzlein K.
Published: January 2007

A theoretical analysis was made to show that segment numbers for complex polymers can be determined by interpreting pVT data in terms of an appropriate segment‐based equation of state (EOS). Typically, experiments at high pressures have to be performed to obtain these data. In this study, pVT‐derived properties, such as compressibility and speed of sound, together with isobaric specific volume measurements were used as an alternative data source. Experiments were carried out for polyol/water mixtures of different compositions. Taking account of the polymorphism of water, segment numbers were obtained by a numerical regression analysis. Mixture viscosities were calculated using an approved segment‐based mixing rule and were in good agreement with experimental data over the temperature range of interest, indicating the validity of the determined segment numbers.
Kinetic Studies on Electrochemical Antimony Removal from Concentrated Sulfuric Acid Systems
Authors: Bergmann M. E. H. , Koparal A. S.
Published: January 2007

The aim of this study was to separate antimony from its acidic aqueous solution with an electrochemical method by cathodic deposition. For this purpose it is essential to know the electrochemical behavior of antimony. Electrochemical studies were conducted on systems in aqueous sulfuric acid solutions containing 20–30 % of antimony. Cyclic voltammetry and stripping experiments were carried out to characterize the removal or deposition process on cathodes of different materials, such as platinum, copper, or glassy carbon. Besides, several types of electrolytes prepared artificially from dissolved Sb2O3 and antimony standard were employed. The results showed that different species were included in the deposits, depending on the chosen cathode material, cathode potential, time of electrolysis, and type of electrolyte. The electrochemical deposition of antimony was confirmed by X‐ray diffraction experiments.
Copper‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Intramolecular Conjugate Addition/Trapping Reactions: Synthesis of Cyclic Compounds with Multichiral Centers
Authors: Li Kangying , Alexakis Alexandre
Published: January 2007

The Cu‐catalyzed enantioselective conjugate addition of dialkylzinc to bis‐α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds followed by the intramolecular trapping of the zinc enolate in the presence of chiral phosphoramidite ligands was investigated. Cyclic and heterocyclic compounds with multichiral centers were formed as a mixture of two diastereomers with excellent diastereoselectivities (up to 99:1) and enantioselectivities (up to 94 % ee, ee=enantiomeric excess). The stereochemistry was determined to be trans,trans for the major products and trans,cis for the minor products. The absolute configuration of the cyclic compounds was assigned by comparison with the analogous adduct derived from trans‐3‐nonen‐2‐one and Et2Zn or the adduct obtained through conjugate addition of Me2Zn to trans‐1‐phenyl‐non‐2‐en‐1‐one. Further transformation of these cyclic products into more complex compounds is under investigation in our laboratory.