bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeting the Hippo pathway in cancers via ubiquitination dependent TEAD degradation
Authors: Pham Trang H. , Pahuja Kanika Bajaj , Hagenbeek Thijs J. , Zbieg Jason , Noland Cameron L. , Pham Victoria C. , Yao Xiaosai , Rose Christopher M. , Browder Kristen , Lee Ho-June , Yu Mamie , Liang-Chu May , Martin Scott , Verschueren Erik , Li Jason , Kubala Marta H. , Fong Rina , Lorenzo Maria , Beroza Paul , Hsu Peter , Paul Sayantanee , Villemure Elisia , Lee Wendy , Cheung Tommy K. , Clausen Saundra , Lacap Jennifer , Liang Yuxin , Cheng Jason , Schmidt Steve , Modrusan Zora , Cohen Michael , Crawford James , Jasper Heinrich , Ashworth Alan , Lill Jennie R. , Malek Shiva , Rudolph Joachim , Wertz Ingrid E. , Chang Matthew T. , Ye Xin , Dey Anwesha
Published: January 2024

The Hippo pathway is among the most frequently altered key signaling pathways in cancer. TEAD1-4 are essential transcription factors and key downstream effectors in the Hippo pathway. Here we identified RNF146 as a ubiquitin ligase (E3) that can catalyze TEAD ubiquitination and negatively regulate their function in cells. We show that this ubiquitin of TEADs is governed by their PARylation state and validated the genetic interaction between RNF146 and the Hippo pathway in cancer cell lines and the model organism
Drosophila melanogaster.
Furthermore, we demonstrate that pharmacologically induced ubiquitination of TEADs by heterobifunctional chemical inducers of protein degradation (CIDE) molecules can promote potent pan-TEAD degradation. These TEAD-CIDEs can effectively suppress activation of TEAD target genes in a dose-dependent manner and exhibited significant anti-proliferative effects in Hippo-dependent tumor cells, thus phenocopy the effect of genetic ablation of TEAD protein. Collectively, this study demonstrates a post-translational mechanism of TEAD protein regulation and provides a proof-of-concept demonstration that pharmacological induced TEAD ubiquitination could be an effective therapeutic strategy to target Hippo-driven cancers.
STAT3 is a genetic modifier of TGF-beta induced EMT in KRAS mutant pancreatic cancer
Authors: D’Amico Stephen , Kirillov Varvara , Petrenko Oleksi , Reich Nancy C.
Published: January 2024

Oncogenic mutations in KRAS are among the most common in cancer. Classical models suggest that loss of epithelial characteristics and the acquisition of mesenchymal traits are associated with cancer aggressiveness and therapy resistance. However, the mechanistic link between these phenotypes and mutant KRAS biology remains to be established. Here we identify STAT3 as a genetic modifier of TGF-beta-induced epithelial to mesenchymal transition. Gene expression profiling of pancreatic cancer cells identifies more than 200 genes commonly regulated by STAT3 and oncogenic KRAS. Functional classification of STAT3 responsive program reveals its major role in tumor maintenance and epithelial homeostasis. The signatures of STAT3-activated cell states can be projected onto human KRAS mutant tumors, suggesting that they faithfully reflect characteristics of human disease. These observations have implications for therapeutic intervention and tumor aggressiveness.The identification of the molecular and genetic characteristics of tumors is essential for understanding disease progression and aggressiveness. KRAS mutations are the most frequent oncogenic drivers in human cancer. In this study we demonstrate that the ubiquitously expressed transcription factor STAT3 is a genetic modifier of TGF-beta-induced EMT, and thereby oncogenic KRAS dependency. Both
in vitro
and
in vivo
studies demonstrate that STAT3 responsive program is an inherent part of oncogenic KRAS outcome.
Reassessing the substrate specificities of the major Staphylococcus aureus peptidoglycan hydrolases lysostaphin and LytM
Authors: Antenucci Lina , Virtanen Salla , Thapa Chandan , Jartti Minne , Pitkänen Ilona , Tossavainen Helena , Permi Perttu
Published: January 2024

Orchestrated action of peptidoglycan (PG) synthetases and hydrolases is vital for bacterial growth and viability. Although the function of several PG synthetases e.g., penicillin binding proteins is well-understood, the function, regulation, and mechanism of action of the majority of PG hydrolases have remained elusive. Lysostaphin-like zinc-dependent metalloendopeptidases specifically hydrolyse the glycyl-glycine peptide bond in the notorious pathogen
Staphylococcus aureus
. In this work, we have employed NMR spectroscopy to study the substrate specificity of the well-established bactericide lysostaphin as well as pre-designated
S. aureus
autolysin LytM. Our results show that the substrate specificities of these highly homologous enzymes are divergent and formerly also inaccurately defined. Yet, we provide substrate-level evidence for the functional role of these enzymes. Indeed, we show that LytM and anti-staphylococcal bactericidin lysostaphin target the D-Ala-Gly cross-linked part of mature peptidoglycan.
SCC3 acts as the cohesin and inhibits inter-sister chromatids repair during rice meiosis
Authors: Zhao Yangzi , Ren Lijun , Zhao Tingting , You Hanli , Miao Yonjie , Liu Huixin , Cao Lei , Wang Bingxin , Shen Yi , Li Yafei , Tang Ding , Cheng Zhukuan
Published: January 2024

Cohesin is a multi-subunit protein responsible for holding sister chromatids together during mitosis and meiosis. Each subunit is functionally essential, and their deletion is always lethal. SCC3 is a highly conserved constituent of the cohesin complex. However, the exact mitotic and meiotic functions of SCC3 in rice remains to be elucidated. Here, we found null alleles of
SCC3
cause embryo lethality. Only
scc3
weak mutants could survive and show vegetative and reproductive defects. Specifically, the replication process of sister chromatids is disturbed in
scc3
during interphase both in mitosis and meiosis. Moreover, SCC3 has distinct localization patterns between mitotic and meiotic cells. The numbers of DMC1, RAD51 and ZIP4 foci are significantly decreased in
scc3
, and ZEP1 displays as an abnormal punctate foci during zygotene. Importantly, the
scc3
fails to synapse, but in this case chromosome fragmentation is absent. Thus, SCC3 seems to inhibit inter-sister chromatids repair (ISR), and this process is independent of DMC1-mediated ISR.
CEP44 is required for maintaining centriole duplication and spindle integrity
Authors: Zhang Donghui , Wei Wenlu , Zou Xiaopeng , Meng Hui , Li Fangyuan , Yao Minjun , Teng Junling , Huang Ning , Chen Jianguo
Published: January 2024

In animal cells, the centrosome, consisting of two centrioles, duplicates only once per cell cycle for bipolar spindle formation. Defective centriole duplication results in abnormal spindle formation and chromosome missegregation, which is closely linked to tumor growth. However, the molecular mechanisms licensing only one centriole duplication cycle within a cell cycle are less well known. Here we found that CEP44 is negatively correlated with breast carcinoma. CEP44, jointly with CEP57 and CEP57L1, maintains centriole engagement in the interphase to ensure centriole duplication once per cell cycle. Depletion of CEP44 leads to centriole overduplication because of premature centriole disengagement and multipolar spindle formation. Additionally, CEP44 is phosphorylated by Aurora A at the G2/M phase to facilitate spindle localization and maintain spindle integrity. Collectively, our results reveal the function of CEP44 in spindle formation by preventing centriole overduplication and maintaining spindle integrity, and CEP44 may serve as a potential marker for breast carcinoma prognosis.
Estudo e desenvolvimento de algoritmos de IA para análise de indicadores de desempenhos e classificação
Authors: Sousa Suely dos Santos , Divino Madalena de Oliveira Barbosa , Cordeiro Luana dos Santos , Fernandes Marcelo Eloy , Okano Marcelo Tsuguio
Published: January 2024

Uma forma de trabalhar com os indicadores de forma automatizada e obter os resultados desejado é utilizar as tecnologias digitais, como a Inteligência Artificial (IA). Os sistemas de IA têm uma variedade de aplicações, como IA generativa (CHATGPT), análise preditiva de falhas do sistema operacional, reconhecimento facial, medicina preventiva, veículos autônomos, mercados financeiros, detecção de fraudes, recrutamento de funcionários, comportamento do consumidor e muito mais. O objetivo principal deste artigo é estudar e analisar os algoritmos de IA para manipular indicadores de desempenho e classificação e desenvolver protótipos de softwares para aplicá-los. Os meios de investigação utilizados para o estudo exploratório foram à pesquisa bibliográfica, a pesquisa documental, reuniões em campo com os especialistas e profissionais de empresas (presencial e virtual) para estudar e analisar os principais algoritmos de IA para manipular indicadores. Os protótipos de software foram desenvolvidos utilizando-se as principais tecnologias atuais, como Inteligência Artificial (IA), Machine learning, Analytics e Computação em Nuvem (Cloud Computing). Para que este estudo apresente resultados práticos e parte do algoritmo gerado, os pesquisadores apresentam fragmentos dos códigos gerados na aplicação, e os indicadores computacionais gerados para também entender o desenvolvimento de performance de cada modelo de IA gerado neste estudo. Neste sentido, concluímos que existe a necessidade de se aprofundar a pesquisa no tema algoritmos e inteligência artificial e suas variações dada a amplitude de novidades existentes.  Neste contexto, é latente tal condição para desenvolver o aproveitamento da temática pesquisada, e assim, ter um trabalho com amplitude e robusto dado a vanguarda da temática.
Battling Burnout: Raising Resilience in Education. Chiropractic Educators Research Forum (CERF), December 2, 2023
Authors:   Chiropractic Educators Research Forum
Published: January 2024

This conference was convened by the Chiropractic Educators Research Forum (CERF) on December 2, 2023. This conference took a closer look at what chiropractic programs are doing to identify burnout and build student, faculty, and staff resilience in the psychosocial domain. During the meeting, presenters and panelists took an in-depth look at research related to how chiropractic programs are addressing issues in mental health of students, faculty, and staff as this relates to burnout and resilience in the chiropractic program and practice.
Global Impact of Soybean Production: A Review
Authors: Hamza Muhammad , Basit Abdul Waheed , Shehzadi Iram , Tufail Usman , Hassan Ali , Hussain Tafseer , Siddique Muhammad Usama , Hayat Hafiza Mubeen
Published: January 2024

Soybean is among the most significant crops in the world. Vegetable oil and protein meal both benefit from the use of soybean seeds. Soybean output has increased at the greatest percentage rate of any major crop during the 1970s. The crop is projected to be cultivated on 6% of the world's arable land. The recent surge in output is in line with the rising demand for oil and meal. Since soybeans are one of the most significant crops in the world, more study is being done to learn more about how they are produced under various circumstances, including stress. Information on the pace of soybean production throughout the globe may be utilized to enhance soybean production and mitigate variables like stressors that have a negative impact on soybean yield. The productivity of soybeans is significantly impacted by the action of soil bacteria. Only a few nations, including the United States, Brazil, Argentina, China, and India, account for the majority of the world's soybean output. For managerial and ecological reasons, it is crucial to have a deeper grasp of the vast range of farming techniques used in soybean crops. We will also talk about the potential relationship between improved management of microbial inocula and soil conditions. Gaining a deeper comprehension of the vast range of plant interactions is crucial for both managing and comprehending the ecology of this crop. Due to our direct and indirect reliance on the soybean crop for food goods, significant yield reductions in soybeans beyond present levels may have an impact on food security. Additionally, the crop provides resources to solve global food concerns via present and future use techniques due to its high nutritional value and versatility. Whether used as a vegetable crop or processed into a variety of soybean food products, soybean production is predicted to rise in the future in direct proportion to rising demand. With the application of newer genomic technologies, the crop has enormous potential to improve dietary quality for people worldwide.
Studying the Blood Virtues of Animals Spontaneously Infected with Microsporum spp. and the Scheme in the Treatment of the Fungal Disease Microsporum spp.
Authors: Alasgarova Narmin Z. , Omarov Asaf M. , Naghiyeva Iryna N.
Published: January 2024

This article focuses on performing clinical, laboratory examination, isolation, and identification of Microsporum spp., general and biochemical analyzes of the blood of spontaneously infected animals and the successful treatment of Microsporum spp. infection in cats and dogs using miconazole/chlorhexidine combination and itraconazole. Skin scraping, hair samples and blood samples were collected from a total of 132 animals. Out of 132 examined dogs and cats, 43 animals were diagnosed with the disease, 28 of the sick animals were cats and 15 were dogs. Based on the results of RBCs (Red Blood Cell) Count, HGB (Hemoglobin), HCT (Hematocrit), MCH (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin) blood tests and MCHC (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration), low levels of healthy red blood cells, hemoglobin, and low results in MCHC blood tests were observed in the blood of all of infected dogs and cats, a high level of AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) is also observed in some infected animals. Among the sick animals, there were also animals with normal AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) levels. In our study, 29 infected cats and dogs were treated with itraconazole and one of two topical therapies including 2% chlorhexidine and 2% miconazole shampoo (VetWELL Micoseb Medicated Shampoo for Dogs & Cats - Medicated Dog Shampoo with Miconazole, Chlorhexidine & Aloe for Skin Infection Treatment of Skin Conditions 12oz). This study aimed to perform clinical characteristics, laboratory examination, isolation and identification of zoophilic dermatophytes due to Microsporum spp. In addition, to evaluate general and biochemical analyses of the blood of spontaneously infected pets and stray and shelter animals with Microsporum spp. in Baku and Ganja cities in Azerbaijan, and to focus the treatment includes systemic and topical therapy.
Study of Correlation Analysis and Path Analysis in Different Genotypes of Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.)
Authors: Andhale G. R. , Bhavsar V. V. , Goykar M. B. , Pawar V. Y. , Thorat V. V.
Published: January 2024

The present investigation was carried out as a field experiment for the evaluation of fifty genotypes for various traits and multivariant analysis. The research aims to study correlation between grain yield and its yield-contributing characteristic. The investigation was carried out at the Bajara Research Scheme, College of Agriculture, Dhule in 2021. Correlation studies revealed that grain yield per plant showed a significant positive association with traits such as plant height, productive tillers, panicle girth, panicle length, and test seed weight. While iron and zinc showed a non-significant positive genotypic correlation; negative correlation with days 50 percent flowering, days to maturity, and protein content. Analysis of direct and indirect effects for effective selection.
Etiological Factors Contributing to Orbital and Oculoplastic Conditions at University Teaching Hospital in Zambia: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Mulenga Juliet , Ng’andwe Brian , Moonga Phyliss , Buchan John , Foster Allen
Published: January 2024

Purpose: Orbital, Oculoplastic including Ocular Oncology are not only sight threatening but potentially life threatening. This study examines the causes of these conditions at University Teaching Hospitals-Eye Hospital in Lusaka Zambia.

Methods: A retrospective review of 150 case files of patients with an Orbital, Oculoplastic and Ocular Oncology diagnosis presenting at UTHs-EH over a 4-year period, 2018-2021.

Results: Of the 150 cases 54% were under the age of 40 years.  The most common condition seen was squamous cell carcinoma of the conjunctiva (SCC), usually confined to the globe, but sometimes spreading to the orbit. There was a positive association between HIV infection and SCC.

Conclusion: This study at University Teaching Hospital revealed a spectrum of orbital and oculoplastic diseases, with Squamous Cell Carcinoma emerging as a predominant concern. The insights gained pave the way for enhanced service delivery.  These findings, while specific to Zambia, hold relevance for the broader African context, offering a basis for future assessments, interventions, and policy enhancements.
Porous SiC‐Preforms by Intergranular Binding with Preceramic Polymers
Authors: Thünemann M. , Herzog A. , Vogt U. , Beffort O.
Published: March 2004

The covalent character of the high performance ceramics used for the fabrication of MMC preforms demands high sintering temperatures to guarantee sufficient interconnection between powder particles. To minimize this cost‐intensive sintering step, several preceramic polymers suitable for binding MMC preform particles were tested with a view to obtaining strong and machinable materials with tailored porosity.
Cellular Solids beyond the Apparent Density – an Experimental Assessment of Mechanical Properties
Authors: Woesz A. , Stampfl J. , Fratzl P.
Published: March 2004

Rapid prototyping was used to fabricate periodical cellular solid with identical bulk material properties and apparent density. The structures were tested in compression, in order to assess the influence of the architecture on the mechanical properties. It was shown that the design of the elementary cell can account for variations by almost a factor of three in strength and, independently, in defect tolerance.
Development of an Active Brazed Ceramic‐Cemented Carbide Compound Drill
Authors: Bach F.‐W. , Weinert K. , Deißer T.A. , Peters C.
Published: March 2004

Subject of the investigations is the manufacturing and performance of a compound drilling tool consisting of a cemented carbide shank combined with a ceramic cutting edge (Si3N4). The developed drilling tools makes it possible to take advantage of technical ceramics properties for small diameter drilling operations.
Characterisation and Optimisation of Innovative Solders for Transient Liquid Phase Bonding and Active Soldering
Authors: Lugscheider E. , Ferrara S.
Published: March 2004

Hybrid microstructures, able to combine the different properties of metallic and ceramic materials, are a source of growing interest in the field of microsystem engineering. Besides the construction technique, the joining technique plays a crucial role within this framework. Two innovative bonding technologies have been investigated: Transient Liquid Phase (TLP) Bonding and Active Soldering. New solders have been developed, evaluated and characterized with regard to fundamental parameters for the microstructures.
Ultrasonic Welding of Metal/Composite Joints
Authors: Krüger S. , Wagner G. , Eifler D.
Published: March 2004

Ultrasonic metal welding joins load‐bearing glass fibres of composites or pure glass fibres directly to metal sheets. The weldings reach tensile shear strengths of up to 23 MPa. A possible application is given in the Figure which shows aluminium sheets welded to a composite (left) and a glass fibre fabric (right).
Influence of the Matrix Microstructure on the Creep Behavior of SiC‐Fiber Reinforced Ti‐Alloys
Authors: Hemptenmacher J. , Peters P. W. M. , Weber K.
Published: March 2004

Fiber reinforced titanium alloys are promising candidates for high performance applications at high temperatures. The graph shows a typical cross section of a composite specimen which was used for creep tests at 600 °C. On the basis of the measured relaxation behavior of the unreinforced Ti‐alloy the relaxation of the Ti‐matrix in the composite material is predicted. The predicted creep strain of the composite material is compared with the experimental results.
Dedicated Applications of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastics in Machine Engineering
Authors: Wielage B. , Thielemann G.
Published: March 2004

Machine engineering has an inherent potential concerning the use of high performance material like Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastics. The authors show some successful substitutions of formerly conventionally designed components by CFRP‐parts. The examples are taken from several branches of machine engineering, especially from textile machine engineering.
Metal Oxide / Silica and Metal / Silica Nanocomposites from Organofunctional Single‐Source Sol‐Gel Precursors
Authors: Schubert U.
Published: March 2004

Single‐source precursors of the type (RO)3Si‐X‐M, where X represents a tethering organic group and M a metal‐containing unit (metal ion or metal alkoxide group), allow the preparation of MOx/SiO2 or M/SiO2 nanocomposites with a controllable nanoparticle size. After sol‐gel processing, the organic groups are removed by controlled thermal treatment, whereby the metal oxide nanoparticles are formed. This approach is exemplified for precursors based on amino‐substituted (for the late transition metals) and β‐diketonate‐substituted alkoxysilanes (for the early transition metals).
Thermal Management Materials for High‐Performance Applications
Authors: Luedtke A.
Published: March 2004

A main issue of the radio frequency power amplifier semiconductor components for base stations is the large amount of thermal energy created by the semiconductor. Packaging technology including heat dissipation is a critical element in nearly all new chip generations, caused by a power multiplication combined with a size reduction. This requires the use of special materials possessing both high thermal conductivity and a thermal expansion matching semiconductor materials like Si or GaAs as well as certain packaging ceramics.
Enhancing the Properties of Composites by Controlling Their Interphase Parameters
Authors: Mäder E. , Gao S.‐L. , Plonka R.
Published: March 2004

The interfacial interaction between reinforcement and polymer is of crucial importance for the performance of composites. In recent years, special attention has been focused on the exploration and comprehensive description of the relationship between the surface properties of the polymer and fiber, adhesion, and of the resulting mechanical properties.
Calculations and Experiments for Impact Strength of Natural Long‐Fiber Reinforced Composites
Authors: Mieck K.‐P. , Reußmann T. , Lützkendorf R.
Published: March 2004

Plastics reinforced with natural fibers became much important in automotive industry for manufacturing light‐weight and rigid inner linings. However, these applications should meet the high requirements regarding impact resistance as well. Composites reinforced with natural fibres offered deficits in many cases. Fundamental investigations carried out with different natural fibre composites could reveal essential correlations and reasons in theory and in experiments regarding impact resistance lowering.
Synthesis and Properties of Nanocomposites
Authors: Vollath D. , Szabó D.V.
Published: March 2004

Nanocomposites may exhibit new properties of technical interest. Technical applications require many particles, leading to interaction of the particles thwarting the performance of these materials. To exploit specific nano‐properties, the use of composites preventing the particles from interaction is necessary. This leads to the application of nanocomposites. The most homogeneous composites consist of a core coated with an outer layer of a second ceramic or a polymer. For industrial or at least semi‐industrial production of nanocomposites, a process leading to non‐agglomerated powders in a sufficient quantity is needed. Additionally, coating of the particles with either a second ceramic phase or an organic one is necessary. The Karlsruhe Microwave Plasma Process fulfils these conditions.
Scanning Kelvin Probe Measurements of the Stability of Adhesive/Metal Interfaces in Corrosive Environments
Authors: Wapner K. , Grundmeier G.
Published: March 2004

The strength of structural adhesive joints for the bonding of metals such as steel or aluminium is mainly reduced by the degradation of the polymer/metal interface due to the ingression of water and subsequent electrochemical reactions. In this work, adhesive/metal interfaces were modified with ultra‐thin adhesion promoting and corrosion resistant bilayer films. A Scanning Kelvin Probe was used for the in‐situ measurement of the interfacial ingression of water and ions as well as for the characterisation of electron transfer processes that lead to a corrosive de‐adhesion.
Significant decreased dielectric constant and loss of polystyrene–clay nanocomposite materials by using long‐chain intercalation agent
Authors: Wang Hong‐Wen , Chang Kung‐Chin , Chu Hsuan‐Chih , Liou Shir‐Joe , Yeh Jui‐Ming
Published: April 2004

Polystyrene–clay nanocomposite (PsCN) materials have been prepared by a free radical polymerization process. Montmorillonite (MMT), modified by two different organics, was investigated: one contains a short chain and three benzyl groups on the ammonium ion (DAETPB), while the other contains a long chain (HTAC). The organic modification determines the extent of exfoliation or intercalation of the materials. Exfoliation is more likely to occur using HTAC, as then the gallery of clay has been opened more due to the long chain structure. Exfoliation of MMT in polystyrene (PS) matrix was revealed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were employed to confirm the increased thermal stability of these PsCN materials. Dielectric properties of polystyrene‐clay nanocomposites, in the form of film with clay loading from 1.0 to 5.0 wt %, were measured under frequencies of 100 Hz∼1 MHz at 25∼70°C. Decreased dielectric constant and low dielectric loss were observed for PsCN materials. Especially, the decrease of dielectric constant was found to be related to the extent of exfoliation of clay. It is recognized that the confinement effect of clay results in the suppression of the dielectric response of the nanocomposite materials at low frequency. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 92: 2402–2410, 2004
Influence of the comonomers (styrene and methyl acrylate) on the rate of photocrosslinking of 4‐{[‐3‐(4‐hydroxybenzylidene)‐2‐oxocyclohexylidene]methyl}‐ phenyl acrylate
Authors: Arun A. , Reddy B. S. R.
Published: April 2004

[2,6‐Bis(4‐hydroxybenzylidene)cyclohexanone] (HBC) was prepared by reacting cyclohexanone and p‐hydroxybenzaldehyde in the presence of acid catalyst. Acrylated derivative of HBC, 4‐{[‐3‐(4‐hydroxybenzylidene)‐2‐oxocyclohexylidene]methyl}phenyl acrylate (HBA), was prepared by reacting HBC with acryloyl chloride in the presence of triethylamine. Copolymers of HBA with styrene (S) and methyl acrylate (MA) of different feed compositions were carried out by solution polymerization technique by using benzoyl peroxide (BPO) under nitrogen atmosphere. All monomers and polymers were characterized by using IR and NMR techniques. Reactivity ratios of the monomers present in the polymer chain were evolved by using Finnman–Ross (FR), Kelen–Tudos (KT), and extended Kelen–Tudos (ex‐KT) methods. Average values of reactivity were achieved by the following three methods: r1 (S) = 2.36 ± 0.45 and r2 (HBA) = 0.8 ± 0.31 for poly(S‐co‐HBA); r1 = 1.62 ± 0.06 (MA); and r2 = 0.12 ± 0.07 (HBA) for poly(MA‐co‐HBA). The photocrosslinking property of the polymers was done by using UV absorption spectroscopic technique. The rate of photocrosslinking was enhanced compared to that of the homopolymers, when the HBA was copolymerized with S and MA. Thermal stability and molecular weights (Mw and Mn) were determined for the polymer samples. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 92: 2494–2503, 2004
Radiation synthesis and characterization of poly(N‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone/acrylic acid) and poly(N‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone/acrylamide) hydrogels for some metal‐ion separation
Authors: Hegazy El‐Sayed A. , Abd El‐Aal S. E. , Abou Taleb M. F. , Dessouki A. M.
Published: April 2004

Two different hydrogels, prepared from N‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone/acrylic acid (NVP/AAc) and N‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone/acrylamide (NVP/AAm), were studied for the separation and extraction of some heavy‐metal ions from wastewater. The hydrogels were prepared by the γ‐radiation‐induced copolymerization of the aforementioned binary monomer mixtures. Further modification was carried out for the NVP/AAc copolymer through an alkaline treatment to improve the swelling behavior by the conversion of the carboxylic acid groups into its sodium salts. The thermal stability and swelling properties were also investigated as functions of the N‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone content. The characterization and some selected properties of the prepared hydrogels were studied, and the possibility of their practical use in wastewater treatment for heavy metals such as Cu, Ni, Co, and Cr was investigated. The maximum uptake for a given metal was higher for a treated NVP/AAc hydrogel than for an untreated NVP/AAc hydrogel and was higher for an untreated NVP/AAc hydrogel than for an NVP/AAm hydrogel. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 92: 2642–2652, 2004
Effect of epolene E‐43 as a compatibilizer on the mechanical properties of palm fiber–poly(propylene) composites
Authors: Abu‐Sharkh B. F. , Kahraman R. , Abbasi S. H. , Hussein I. A.
Published: April 2004

Composites of palm fibers and poly(propylene) (PP) were compounded in an extruder at 200°C. The composites were subsequently injection molded into standard tensile specimens for mechanical characterization. The fracture morphology of the specimens was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. It was observed that the composite modulus increased with the increase of fiber content, indicating the existence of adhesion between PP and the much stiffer palm fibers. However, the adhesion was not satisfactory and resulted in a decrease in the composite tensile strength with fiber addition. The compatibilizer Epolene E‐43 was used to minimize this incompatibility between the wood fibers and the PP matrix. The maleated PP additive enhanced the fiber–matrix adhesion, resulting in an improvement in composite performance. Also, small fibers showed better mechanical properties than those of long fibers. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 92: 2581–2592, 2004
Investigation on the kinetic mechanism of structure healing for block copolymer materials after large elongation
Authors: Wang You , Wang Binsong , Shen Jingshu
Published: April 2004

The kinetic mechanism of structure healing after unloading from large elongation for styrene–butadiene–styrene (SBS) block copolymer materials was investigated by following their residual deformation recovery behaviors upon annealing. A linear relationship was found to exist between the deformation recovery percentage and the logarithm of time at different temperatures, which shed light on the mechanism of structure healing. A modified activation energy model was proposed to describe the kinetics of the process. It was also found that the model agrees well with other SBS structure healing–related experimental data such as the recovery of hardness as well as dynamic mechanical property after large elongation. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 92: 2593–2598, 2004
Preparation of narrowly distributed nanoparticles of poly(n‐butyl methacrylate‐co‐vinyl pyrrolidone) through microemulsion polymerization
Authors: He Wei‐Dong , Ye Fang‐Mao , Wang Yan‐Mei , Li Lin‐Feng
Published: April 2004

Narrowly distributed nanoparticles of poly (n‐butyl methacrylate‐co‐vinyl pyrrolidone) were prepared through microemulsion polymerization with a nonionic surfactant of Tween‐80 as emulsifier (6 wt % of the latex) and n‐butanol as coemulsifier. The polymerizations were initiated with benzoylperoxide (BPO), potassium persulfate (KPS), KPS/ferric sulfate (FeSO4), and BPO/FeSO4, respectively, where the initiation in the case of BPO/FeSO4 took place mainly at the interphase between the oil phase and the reaction media. Namely, this interfacial‐initiated microemulsion polymerization resulted in larger particles with relatively narrower particle size distribution as well as higher limiting monomer conversion but lower polymerization rate compared with the polymerization initiated with KPS/FeSO4. In this article, the influences of initiation method, monomer ratio, and addition of water‐soluble components on microemulsion polymerization and latex particle size were studied to discuss the mechanism of interfacial‐initiated microemulsion polymerization. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 92: 2334–2340, 2004
Analysis of stability of food emulsions by Eyring's theory: Influence of different biopolymers
Authors: Dolz M. , Hernández M. J. , Cabeza C. , Casanovas A. , Delegido J.
Published: April 2004

Eyring's kinetic theory of liquids was applied to the study of flow behavior of low oil content mayonnaises at different temperatures. These food emulsions were formulated with different biopolymers as stabilizers (polysaccharides such as modified starch, gellan gum, and pectin). The analysis of the values obtained for the parameters of the Eyring equation for viscosity determined the emulsion containing only starch as a stabilizer is the most unstable to stirring. Replacement of part of the starch with gellan gum or pectin enhances the stability of the emulsion. The results for activation energy are quite similar for high shear rates, which can be explained by the evolution of the average drop size distribution. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 92: 2653–2657, 2004
Evolution of electrooptical properties of epoxy–amine thermoset/liquid crystal blends during polymerization after the gel point of the polymer matrix
Authors: Sannier Lucas , Masood Siddiqi Humaira , Maschke Ulrich , Dumon Michel
Published: April 2004

Polymer dispersed liquid crystals (PDLC) were obtained by polymerization‐induced phase separation of the nematic E7 liquid crystal in a reactive diepoxide–diamine thermosetting matrix prepared by polycondensation (in two thermal steps). The evolution of some important electrooptical characteristics (transmittance in the off‐state, threshold voltage, maximum transmittance of the on‐state, transmittance at maximum applied voltage) were studied at three different reaction conversions of the polymer matrix beyond the gel point. The electrooptical curves greatly depended on the reaction conversion, especially beyond the gel point of the polymer matrix. It was found that the transmission in both the off‐state and the on‐state decreased with the extent of cure. In addition, threshold and saturation voltages increased with the reaction conversion. The electrooptical curve showed unusual behavior at approximately 60% of reaction conversion (i.e., near the gel conversion). At higher conversions, the expected normal mode was recovered. We discussed these electrooptical characteristics in the light of the very significant evolution of some properties of the crosslinked polymer matrix (glass‐transition temperatures, concentration of crosslink points, molar mass, and weight fraction of the residual uncrosslinked oligomers), whereas the droplet morphology did not exhibit dramatic changes. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 92: 2621–2628, 2004
Interaction of poly(maleic anhydride‐alt‐acrylic acid) with transition metal cations, Ni2+, Cu2+, and Cd2+: A study by UV–Vis spectroscopy and viscosimetry
Authors: Kavlak Serap , Kaplan Can Hatice , Güner Ali
Published: April 2004

Interactions between poly(maleic anhydride‐alt‐acrylic acid), [poly(MA‐alt‐AA)] and Cu2+, Ni2+, and Cd2+ ions were studied by UV–vis spectroscopy and viscosimetry. Effects of nature and the concentrations of the metal ions on the complex formation were investigated and the formation constants of each complex were determined by the mole‐ratio method. UV–vis studies showed that the complex formation tendency increased in the followed order: Cd(II) < Ni(II) < Cu(II). This order was confirmed by the Irving–William series and the Pearson's classification. The influence of metal ions on the reduced viscosity of poly(MA‐alt‐AA) increased in the following order: Cu(II) < Ni(II) < Cd(II), and this result was explained by the concentration effect. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 92: 2698–2705, 2004
Surface treatments of subdenier monofilament polypropylene fibers to optimize their reinforcing efficiency in cementitious composites
Authors: Pei Meishan , Wang Dujin , Zhao Ying , Hu Xianbo , Xu Yizhuang , Wu Jingguang , Xu Duanfu
Published: April 2004

The surface properties of polypropylene (PP) fibers have an important effect on their reinforcing efficiency in cementitious composites. Two new methods of modifying the surface of subdenier monofilament polypropylene fibers were introduced, as well as the performances of the fiber‐reinforced mortar. The results show that the surface modification improved the mechanical performance of the fiber‐reinforced mortars, such as compressive strength and flexural strength, and the reinforcing efficiency depends on the adopted method. The enhanced interfacial bonding between treated fibers and the cementitious matrix, compared with that of unmodified fibers, was investigated using scanning electronic microscopy. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 92: 2637–2641, 2004
Simultaneous multiple sample light scattering for analysis of polymer solutions
Authors: Drenski Michael F. , Reed Wayne F.
Published: April 2004

An instrument for performing Simultaneous Multiple Sample Light Scattering (SMSLS) is introduced, which allows multiple, independent polymer samples to be analyzed simultaneously. Three demonstrations of SMSLS capabilities are made; proof of the SMSLS ability to make absolute Rayleigh scattering ratio measurements on well‐defined standards, the monitoring of a biopolymeric degradation process (hyaluronate degradation using hyaluronidase), with subsequent determination of the Michaelis‐Menten constant, and an aggregation process (low concentration gelatin solutions). It is hoped that SMSLS will become a valuable tool for rapid screening and characterization of both equilibrium properties and nonequilibrium processes in polymer solutions. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 92: 2724–2732, 2004
Interspecies scaling of the monoclonal anti‐EGF receptor ior EGF/r3 antibody disposition using allometric paradigm: is it really suitable?
Authors: Ducongé Jorge , Fernández‐Sánchez Eduardo , Alvarez Daniel
Published: March 2004

The pharmacokinetic regularity of the murine monoclonal antibody ior EGF/r3 across mammals was studied using allometry. The allometric relationship between the volume of distribution and body weight (W) across mammalian species was characterized by the power equation Vd=218.8 W0.84 (r=0.92), and that for clearance by CL=2.96 W0.76 (r=0.97, excluding the dog). The complex Dedrick plot of the ior EGF/r3 pharmacokinetic data produced a superimposable profile (r=0.73). However, a 4‐fold variation was observed between the expected human ior EGF/r3 clearance and the cancer patients' values, using apolysichron time units. The patients showed clearance values that overreached the prediction, and the neoteny phenomena cannot explain such a difference. The pharmacokinetic data from cancer patients, rather than healthy volunteers, suggested any tumour‐associated drug clearance process as a possible determinant of the mentioned underestimation. Finally, the results obtained in this study confirmed the potential use of allometric scaling to obtain more insight into the similarities and/or differenhyphences of the ior EGF/r3 disposition behaviour among mammals. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Weighting information from outside sources: a biased process
Authors: Luan Shenghua , Sorkin Robert D. , Itzkowitz Jesse
Published: March 2004

How do people utilize information from outside sources in their decisions? Participants observed a signal‐plus‐noise or noise‐alone event and then made a yes–no decision about whether a signal had occurred. Participants were provided with two information sources to aid decision making. Each source consisted of four components that provided estimates of signal likelihood. In Experiment 1, the two sources had equal overall accuracy but differed in the expertise and internal correlation of their components. A regression analysis indicated that participants overweighed the high‐expertise‐high‐correlation source. This bias occurred on trials when the aggregate opinions of the sources disagreed. In Experiment 2, both the overall accuracy of the source and its components were manipulated. Participants overweighed information from the higher accuracy source. These biases reflect people's sensitivity to across‐trial and within‐trial differences in the accuracy and internal consistency of information sources. Experiment 3 provided additional evidence supporting these conclusions. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Search strategies in decision making: the success of “success”
Authors: Newell Ben R. , Rakow Tim , Weston Nicola J. , Shanks David R.
Published: March 2004

Examination of search strategies has tended to focus on choices determined by decision makers' personal preferences among relevant cues, and not on learning cue‐criterion relationships. We present an empirical and rational analysis of cue search for environments with objective criteria. In such environments, cues can be evaluated on the basis of three properties: validity (the probability that a cue identifies the correct choice if cue values differ between alternatives); discrimination rate (the proportion of occasions on which a cue has differing values); and success (the expected proportion of correct choices when only that cue can be used). Our experiments show that though there is a high degree of individual variability, success is a key determinant of search. Furthermore, a rational analysis demonstrates why success‐directed search is the most adaptive strategy in many circumstances. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Contingent application of the cancellation editing operation: the role of semantic relatedness between risky outcomes
Authors: Bonini Nicolao , Tentori Katya , Rumiati Rino
Published: March 2004

This article presents findings on the restructuring component of the decision process. Two experiments are described employing hypothetical vacation choice dilemmas. The aim was to explore the conditions under which outcomes common to two risky prospects with the same probabilities of occurrence are or are not cancelled and how consequent decisions are influenced. The design of the options presented to participants was based on pilot work to establish appropriate contexts. The key independent variable was the semantic relatedness between outcomes of the same risky prospect. The main finding was that the participants did not cancel the outcome shared by two prospects when it was semantically related to another outcome within the same prospect. In this case, the prospect with greater risk was chosen significantly more frequently in comparison to when the common outcome was unrelated to other outcomes. An interpretation of the findings is presented in terms of contingent editing processes. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transient response of aerobic and anoxic activated sludge activities to sudden substrate concentration changes
Authors: Vanrolleghem Peter A. , Sin Gürkan , Gernaey Krist V.
Published: April 2004

The state‐of‐the‐art understanding of activated sludge processes as summarized in activated sludge models (ASMs) predicts an instantaneous increase in the biomass activity (which is measured, e.g., by the corresponding respiration rate OUR, NUR, etc.) under sudden substrate concentration changes. Experimental data (e.g., short‐term batch respiration experiments under aerobic or anoxic conditions) collected for the calibration of the dynamic models (ASMs) often exhibit a transient phenomenon while attaining maximum activity, which cannot be explained by the current understanding of the activated sludge process. That transient phenomenon exhibits itself immediately upon addition of a substrate source to an endogenously respiring activated sludge sample and it usually takes a few minutes until the activated sludge reaches its maximum possible rate under given environmental conditions. This discrepancy between the state‐of‐the‐art model and the experimental data is addressed in detail in this investigation. It is shown that the discrepancy is not caused by an error in the experimental set‐up/data but it is rather due to model inadequacy. Among the hypotheses proposed, it appears that this transient response of the activated sludge most likely results from the sequence of intracellular reactions involved in substrate degradation by the activated sludge. Results from studies performed elsewhere with pure cultures (S. cerevisae and E. coli) support the hypothesis. The transient phenomenon can be described by a dynamic metabolic network model or by a simple first‐order model, as adopted in this study. The transient phenomenon occurring in short‐term batch respiration experiments is shown to interfere severely with parameter estimation if not modeled properly (2.8%, 11.5%, and 16.8% relative errors [average of three experiments] on YH, μmaxH, and KS, respectively). Proper modeling of this transient phenomenon whose time constant is on the order of minutes (1 to 3 min) is expected to contribute fundamentally to a better understanding and modeling of Orbal, carousel, and SBR‐type treatment plants with fast‐alternating process conditions, although such studies are beyond the scope of this report. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Kinetics and mechanism of a reaction catalyzed by PST‐01 protease from Pseudomonas aeruginosa PST‐01
Authors: Bobe Iulian M. , Abdelmoez Wael , Ogino Hiroyasu , Yasuda Masahiro , Ishimi Kosaku , Ishikawa Haruo
Published: April 2004

The initial rates of carboxybenzoyl‐alanyl‐l‐leucyl‐amide (Z‐l‐Ala‐l‐Leu‐NH2) synthesis from carboxybenzoyl‐l‐alanine (Z‐l‐Ala) and l‐leucineamide (l‐Leu‐NH2) and Z‐l‐Ala‐l‐Leu‐NH2 hydrolysis in a homogeneous dimethyl sulfoxide‐aqueous buffer solution [1:1 (v/v)] system catalyzed by PST‐01 protease from Pseudomonas aeruginosa were measured under a wide range of Z‐l‐Ala, l‐Leu‐NH2 and Z‐l‐Ala‐l‐Leu‐NH2 concentrations. The initial rates of the synthetic reaction, in which Z‐l‐Ala‐l‐Leu‐NH2 was produced from Z‐l‐Ala and l‐Leu‐NH2, were inhibited by the substrates. Furthermore, the initial rates of the synthetic reaction were not inhibited by the product Z‐l‐Ala‐l‐Leu‐NH2, and those of the hydrolytic reaction were inhibited by Z‐l‐Ala and l‐Leu‐NH2. All the initial rate data of the synthetic and hydrolytic reactions were well correlated with the rate equation derived based on the proposed reaction scheme. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.