bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of pentachlorophenol and tribromophenol in sawdust by ultrasound‐assisted extraction and MEKC
Authors: Mardones Claudia , von Baer Dietrich , Hidalgo Ariela , Contreras Alejandra , Sepúlveda Carlos
Published: March 2008

An ultrasonic bar‐assisted extraction and CE separation procedure for the determination of pentachlorophenol (PCP) and 2,4,6‐tribromophenol (TBP) residues in sawdust was developed and applied. For this purpose, micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography (MEKC) was used and compared with a GC/MS methodology. This methodology allowed the quantification of PCP and TBP in a concentration range of 2.5–12.0 mg/kg for TBP and 2.8–12.0 mg/kg for PCP. Different sample treatment processes were evaluated in order to extract these compounds from sawdust. Better results were obtained when the residues were extracted with ultrasound‐assisted hexane, filtered, evaporated, dissolved in Na2CO3, and injected into the CE equipment. The optimal option for GC/MS was extraction with Na2CO3 followed by a derivation using acetic anhydride and liquid–liquid extraction with hexane. This method allowed the quantification of TBP and PCP in sawdust in a concentration range of 0.19–12.00 mg/kg and 0.14–12.00 mg/kg, respectively. The CE method was compared with the GC/MS as reference method. The results were shown to be statistically similar by both methods for PCP as well as for TBP.
Alkannin/shikonin mixture from roots of Onosma echioides (L.) L.: Extraction method study and quantification
Authors: Sagratini Gianni , Cristalli Gloria , Giardinà Dario , Gioventù Giorgio , Maggi Filippo , Ricciutelli Massimo , Vittori Sauro
Published: March 2008

This work reports the extraction procedures of alkannin/shikonin mixture from roots of six populations of Onosma echioides, by means of three extraction techniques: Soxhlet extraction, maceration and rapid solid–liquid dynamic extraction (RSLDE). Five solvents with different polarity (hexane, petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanol) were also studied. Analysis of the extracts was performed by an HPLC‐DAD (diode array detector) system. The most efficient extraction technique was Soxhlet procedure using ethyl acetate for 6 h. Studied samples of O. echioides showed an alkannin/shikonin content in the range of 0.02–0.24 mg/kg. Other naphthoquinone derivatives (deoxyalkannin/deoxyshikonin and 5,8‐dihydroxy‐2‐(4‐methyl‐6‐oxo‐5,6‐dihydro‐2H‐pyran‐2‐yl)‐[1,4]naphthoquinone and arnebin‐6) were found for the first time in O. echioides and characterized in the extracts using HPLC‐MS apparatus equipped with an ESI ionization source.
Development of a polymer‐coated stationary phase with improved chemical stability in alkaline mobile phases
Authors: Faria Anizio M. , Silva César R. , Collins Carol H. , Jardim Isabel C. S. F.
Published: March 2008

An endcapped stationary phase is prepared by thermal immobilization of poly(methyltetradecylsiloxane) (PMTDS) onto a doubly zirconized silica support followed by endcapping using a mixture of hexamethyldisilazane and trimethylchlorosilane. The preparation of the Si–Zr(PMTDS)ec phase shows good repeatability with RSD <3.0% for carbon loadings and column efficiency. This new stationary phase has a lower density of residual hydroxyl groups, according to spectroscopic methods while basic compounds from the Tanaka and Engelhardt test mixtures are eluted with essentially symmetric peaks. Furthermore, the stability of the Si–Zr(PMTDS)ec stationary phase, measured using an accelerated aging test, is twice as great as the stability of a similar nonendcapped phase. The new phase shows promise for the separation of basic pharmaceuticals.
Analysis and modification of nonhyperbolic kinetic models
Authors: Juška Alfonsas
Published: March 2008

A nonhyperbolic model of Rabin (Biochem J 1967, 102, 22C–23C) in which four conformational states are considered has been simplified to the three‐state one. Only multistate models (if the concentration of enzyme or receptor is assumed to be low) can yield nonhyperbolic kinetics. The simplified model has been shown to retain all the essential properties of the original four‐state model. The model yields a diversity of nonhyperbolic dose–response curves both with higher and lower steepness than that of Henri‐type ones. The three‐state model can be further reduced to the hyperbolic one by making identical the different (unliganded) states. The bistate model in which protein concentration is assumed to be high yields nonhyperbolic kinetics as well; the model is reduced to the hyperbolic one if the protein concentration is assumed to be low. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 40: 253–258, 2008
Synthesis, characterization, and hoping transport properties of HCl doped conducting biopolymer‐co‐polyaniline zwitterion hybrids
Authors: Tiwari A. , Sen V. , Dhakate S. R. , Mishra A. P. , Singh V.
Published: March 2008

A series of electrically conductive zwitterion hybrid materials were facilely synthesized with anionic acacia gum (AG) and cationic HCl doped polyaniline (PANI) through radical copolymerization method. A representative acacia gum‐polyaniline hybrid (AG‐PANI) was characterized using UV‐vis, FTIR, 1H NMR, and SEM. HCl doped AG‐PANI possesses zwitterion character due to the presence of NH on PANI and COO− of AG. The cyclic voltammogram of AG‐PANI showed three anodic peaks at 0.20 V, 0.58 V, and 0.64 V along with two cathodic peaks at 0.50 V and 0.40 V with large capacitive background currents. AG‐PANI exhibited electrical conductivity that was found dependent on the ratio of aniline to AG, temperature, and pH. Its electrical conductivity versus temperature plot indicated Mott's nearest‐neighbor hopping mechanism at the temperature range 83–323 K. The hybridization of AG and PANI yielded eco‐friendly advanced functional materials for technological applications. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of novel compatibilizers on the properties and morphology of PP/PC blends
Authors: Dai Shanshan , Ye Lin
Published: March 2008

A series of compatibilizers, including polypropylene (PP) grafted with 2‐tertbutyl‐6‐(3‐tertbutyl‐ 2‐hydroxy‐5‐methylbenzyl)‐4‐methylphenyl acrylic ester (BPA), glycidyl methacrylate (GMA), GMA/styrene (GMA‐st), and 2‐allyl bisphenol A (2A) were investigated for the purpose of improving the compatibility of PP/polycarbonate (PC) blends. PP‐g‐BPA shows a remarkable compatibilizing effect on PP/PC blends since it has similar group‐benzene ring with PC, and it is a sort of heat‐resistant antioxidant in the meantime, which can reduce the molecular degradation of PP during grafting and blending under high temperatures. Its compatibilizing effect was examined in terms of the mechanical, thermal properties, and morphologies. PP/PC blends show a decreasing and much more homogeneous size of dispersed PC particles through addition of a small amount of PP‐g‐BPA, and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) reveals a noticeable approach of Tg between PP and PC, indicating the improvement of the compatibility of PP/PC blends. Furthermore, styrene‐ethylene‐butylene‐styrene (SEBS) as a toughening rubber and a compatibilizer was applied to PP/PC blends. Around 25 wt% SEBS and 20 wt% PC lead to high toughness and strength of PP. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Clinical consequences of an increasing trend of preferential use of cultured villi for molecular diagnosis by CVS
Authors: Aina‐Mumuney Abimbola , Wood Elizabeth D. , Corson Virginia L. , Stetten Gail , Jari Shama , Boehm Corinne D. , Blakemore Karin J.
Published: March 2008

Objective

To compare the use of uncultured versus cultured villus cells for DNA‐based prenatal diagnosis.

Methods

A retrospective review of molecular testing of chorionic villus sampling (CVS) cases from 1988–2007. Method of analysis, gestational age (GA) at CVS and at diagnosis, time from procedure to results, results of maternal contamination studies, and the laboratory employed were abstracted from patient charts. Trends in laboratory practices over time were analyzed.

Results

Time from CVS to diagnosis was longer when cultured cells were used. Average GA at diagnosis was 14‐6/7 weeks with cultured cells vs 13‐0/7 weeks with uncultured villi (p < 0.001). Recently, laboratories are more frequently requiring cultured cells, resulting in significantly greater delays in time to diagnosis and GA at results.

Conclusions

‘Direct’ DNA extraction saves 2 weeks from CVS to results. More women are afforded the option of an earlier, safer pregnancy termination if uncultured villi are used for molecular diagnosis. Implementation of standardized DNA extraction protocols and sample‐size requirements can optimize the use of uncultured villi for molecular prenatal diagnosis. Increased awareness of the importance of rapid results and the advantages of ‘direct’ DNA extraction from uncultured villi can lead to improvements that are of clinical significance for patients undergoing early prenatal diagnosis. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Risk factors associated with preterm birth according to gestational age at birth
Authors: Ofori Benjamin D. , Le Tiec Magali , Bérard Anick
Published: March 2008

Purpose

To identify and quantify risk factors associated with preterm birth, stratified by gestational age at birth.

Methods

Three case‐control analyses were done. Controls were pregnancies of ≥37 weeks of gestational age at birth. Cases were defined as: <28, 28–32, 33– <37 weeks of gestational age at birth respectively in the three case‐control analyses. Women were categorized according to whether they carried single or multiple infants.

Results

Obstetrical conditions (placenta previa, placental abruption), and maternal hypertension were significantly associated with preterm delivery in all case‐control analyses (adjusted OR between 1.34–19.56, p < 0.05). Leading risk factors for preterm delivery in singleton pregnancies were placental abruption and placenta previa (adjusted ORs 4.85 and 4.13, p < 0.05). For multiple pregnancies they were polyhydramnios and maternal hypertension (adjusted ORs 4.39 and 2.45, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Obstetrical conditions during the pregnancy and maternal hypertension are important risk factors for preterm birth. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of oxygen plasma treatment on the tribological properties of Si‐DLC coatings
Authors: Choi J. , Nakao S. , Ikeyama M. , Kato T.
Published: March 2008

In the present study, the effects of silicon oxide layer of Si‐DLC coatings on the tribological properties were investigated. The Si‐DLC coatings were deposited on Si substrates using a bi‐polar type plasma‐based ion implantation and deposition technique (bi‐polar type PBII&D), and the surface of the Si‐DLC coating was treated by oxygen plasma for 180 seconds. The friction coefficient of the Si‐DLC coatings is effectively reduced due to the treatment of oxygen plasma whereas the wear depth of oxidized Si‐DLC coatings increases due to the wear of soft oxide layer. A transferred layer composed of silicon oxide and graphitic carbon was observed on the counter steel ball surface, and the amount of the transferred layer increases by the treatment of oxygen plasma. The transferred layer prevents contact between the steel and DLC surfaces when sliding, resulting in a low friction coefficient. It seems that the silicon oxide plays a roll to bind the lubricative graphitized carbon debris on the steel ball surface. The treatment of the oxygen plasma on the top surface of the Si‐DLC coatings can effectively reduce the friction coefficient without hardness reduction in the entire Si‐DLC coatings. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Optical emission spectroscopy of CO2 glow discharge at low pressure
Authors: Reyes P. G. , Mendez E. F. , Osorio‐Gonzalez D. , Castillo F. , Martínez H.
Published: March 2008

Optical emission spectroscopy was used to study the glow discharge of CO2 in the pressure range of 0.2 to 1.2 mTorr, power of 160 W and a flux of 35 psi. The emission bands and lines were measured using a monochromator in the wavelength range of 200 to 900 nm. The species observed were C2 (A3Πg – X'3Πu) at 435.7nm and (C'1Πg – b1Πu) at 369.2 nm; O2 (b1Σg+ ‐ X3Σg–) at 628.2; CO (a'3Σ ‐ a3Π) at 674.7 nm; O2+ (A2Πu ‐ X2Πg) at 339.3 and 289.2 nm; CO2+ (A2Π ‐ X2Π) at 353.2 nm; CO2 (1B2 – X1Σ+) at 391.7 nm; CO+ (A2Π – X2Σ) at 577.7 nm; and O3 (1B2 – X1A1) at 327.2 nm. We observed that the emission intensities bands have an almost constant behavior as function of the pressure in the range of 0.2 to 0.6 mTorr, followed by an increasing behavior. The electron temperature and ion density were determined by a double Langmuir probe. The electron temperature was found of 8.53 eV, and the electron concentration of 7.11 x 109 cm–3 at a pressure of 0.8 mTorr. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Microstructure of diamond‐like carbon films prepared using acetylene and toluene by bipolar‐type plasma based ion implantation
Authors: Nakao S. , Choi J. , Kato T.
Published: March 2008

Diamond‐like carbon (DLC) films are deposited on Si substrates using acetylene (C2H2), toluene (C7H8) and their mixed gas, and the microstructures are examined by micro‐Raman spectroscopy, Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS) and elastic recoil detection (ERD) analysis as a function of negatively pulsed voltages (Vn). It is found that the formation of graphite‐like structure (aromatic ring clustering) is enhanced with increasing Vn. In addition, the density of the films is increased up to approximately 2.0 g/cm3 and the H concentration is decreased with increasing Vn. The use of C2H2 has much effect on the formation of graphite‐like structure and the reduction of H concentration in the films at high Vn as compared with others. The deposition rate of the films is increased with increasing Vn. Relatively high deposition rate is obtained when using C7H8. In the case of the mixed gas, the deposition rate is found to be close to that of C7H8. These results suggest that C7H8 is dominant to the deposition process when using the mixture of C2H2 + C7H8. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Wave instabilities of longitudinal electro‐kinetic waves in ion implanted semiconductor plasmas
Authors: Ghosh S. K. , Thakur Preeti , Yadav Nishchhal
Published: March 2008

A comprehensive investigation of propagation of new longitudinal electro‐kinetic modes and novel properties introduced due to presence of negatively charged particulates in semiconductor plasma is presented. By employing the multi‐fluid balance equations, a compact dispersion relation for the cases in which wave phase velocity is either larger or smaller than electron thermal velocity is derived. This dispersion relation is used to study wave phenomena and electro‐kinetic mode instability numerically. We find important modifications in electro‐kinetic branch as well as the existence of new modes of propagation in semiconductor plasma in presence of charged particulates. The results of this investigation should be useful in understanding the characteristics of longitudinal electro‐kinetic wave in semiconductor plasmas in presence of charged particulates whose main constituents are electrons, holes and negatively charged particulates. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Plasma deposition of piezoelectric ZnO layers by rf sputtering, SolGel and pulsed laser deposition
Authors: Wätje Kerstin , Ebbecke Jens , Thorwarth Götz , van de Ven Mark , Wixforth Achim
Published: March 2008

As “lab‐on‐a‐chip‐devices” suited for analyses of least amounts of liquids are emerging from prototype status, cost‐effective materials for mass production of these devices are sought. For handling and mixing components, surface acoustic waves generated by piezoelectric elements are routinely employed; however, the LiNbO3 single crystals used in such units are a significant cost factor. As an alternative, zinc oxide layers deposited onto the glass substrates hold the promise of cheaper production and easier integration into the assembly. In the present study, experiments regarding the deposition of such layers using different plasma processes are presented. Film synthesis was performed using rf magnetron sputtering, pulsed laser deposition and plasma based ion bombardment of Sol‐Gel films on crystalline and amorphous substrates. The impacts of significant deposition parameters are discussed. At optimum deposition parameters, excellent columnar growth in the preferred c‐axis orientation could be observed. The suitability of such films for the desired application is substanciated through first mixing experiments using optically lithographed interdigital transducers (IDTs). (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Advanced optimization and process control of plasma doping apparatus
Authors: Miller T. , Dorai R. , Godet L. , Papasouliotis G. D. , Singh V.
Published: March 2008

In keeping with the trend of progressively shrinking device features, future generation advanced Logic and DRAM devices will require shallower junction depths and poly thickness and also higher doses compared to their current day counterparts. Present monomer based beamline technology suffers decreasing throughput during this transition as a result of space charge limitations. Plasma doping is a well characterized alternative that not only meets the doping requirements for <70 nm ITRS DRAM and Logic technology nodes but also features superior throughput levels that are largely energy insensitive. The simplicity of the Plasma doping tool design and evolution in process control offer a promising future for production worthiness of this technique. Key challenges for adoption of plasma doping tools in mainstream doping production are dose and contamination control. In this article, we report on the plasma modeling and diagnostic approaches used to optimize reactor design and describe how a closed loop faraday dose monitoring system is utilized to ensure dose repeatability. This combined modeling, diagnostics and sensor approach, which will be validated with on‐wafer measurements, enables the adoption of plasma doping in a mass production environment. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effect of carbon fiber surface treatments on the flexural strength and tribological properties of short carbon fiber/polyimide composites
Authors: Zhang Xinrui , Pei Xianqiang , Mu Bo , Wang Qihua
Published: March 2008

Pitch‐based short carbon fibers (CFs) were treated by air oxidation and cryogenic nitrogen, respectively. Thereafter the treated and untreated CFs were incorporated into polyimide (PI) matrix to form composites. The CFs before and after treatment were examined by XPS and SEM.The flexural strength of the specimen was determined in a three‐point test machine and the tribological properties of PI composites sliding against GCr15 steel rings were evaluated on an M‐2000 model ring‐on‐block test rig. The results show that the surface of the treated CFs became rougher. Lots of active groups formed on the CF surface after air oxidation.The treatment can effectively improve the mechanical and tribological properties in their PI composites due to the enhanced fiber‐matrix interfacial bonding. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Measuring the life‐cycle value of enduring systems
Authors: Browning Tyson R. , Honour Eric C.
Published: March 2008

A goal of systems development is to produce enduringly valuable product systems— i.e., systems that are valuable when delivered to their users and which continue to be attractive to their stakeholders over time. However, quantifying the life‐cycle value (LCV) provided by a system has proven elusive. In this paper, we propose an approach to quantifying a system's LCV based on the key parameters that have perceived value to the system's stakeholders. For this, we draw upon insights from the management, marketing, product development, value engineering, and systems engineering literature. We then demonstrate our proposed approach with an example of a cellular telephone system. By designing systems for maximum LCV, systems architects and engineers will provide dramatically increased value to their organizations and other stakeholders. However, to provide maximum LCV, a system may need to be designed to facilitate adaptability to changing circumstances and stakeholder preferences. We conclude the paper with discussions of some of the major difficulties in measuring LCV and some of the opportunities for further research in this area. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng
Laboratory vacuum spectrometer for the soft x‐ray region
Authors: Yuryev Yu. N. , Lee Hwack‐Joo , Kim Ju‐Hwang , Cho Yang‐Koo , Lee Min‐Kyu , Pogrebitsky K. Ju.
Published: March 2008

A laboratory surface x‐ray absorption near edge structure ((S)XANES) spectrometer used for measurements in the soft x‐ray region is described. The x‐ray beam path of the spectrometer is enclosed in a vacuum chamber directly connected to the x‐ray generator output port. With this setup, the absorption of the x‐rays in the air is avoided. The developed spectrometer uses a monochromator equipped with cylindrically bent PET(002), KAP(001), and Ge(111) crystals of different Rowland radii working in the Johann focusing geometry. Nine stepping motors are used to control the positions of the monochromator, receiving slit, sample, and detectors. An x‐ray photon energy available in experiment ranges from about 1 keV to 5 keV. A registration of the photoelectrons emitted from the sample with the channeltron is used to carry out surface‐sensitive measurements. The performance of the developed spectrometer is illustrated by spectra measured at the absorption K‐edges of several elements from the Na‐Ti set. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Competitive exclusion between contest and scramble strategists in Callosobruchus seed–beetle modeling
Authors: Ishii Yumiko , Shimada Masakazu
Published: March 2008

Interspecific competition between an intermediate contest strain of Callosobruchus maculatus and a scramble strain of C. chinensis was investigated on two types of resource beans: the azuki (Vigna anguralis, small seed) and the black‐eye bean (Vigna unguiculata, large seed). We conducted both single‐generation competition experiments and multiple‐generation experiments and then analyzed the system with a discrete version of the Lotka–Volterra competition model. The estimated competition coefficients showed the competitive dominance of the C. maculatus strain over the C. chinensis strain in both types of bean. Zero‐growth isocline analysis based on the predicted model showed that an overall dominance of the contest species, C. maculatus, in azuki beans, whereas the outcome of competition was dependent on the initial population size of each species in the black‐eye beans. In the multiple‐generation experiments, C. maculatus was the successful competitor irrespective of the ratio of the two beans, whereas C. chinensis overcame C. maculatus in one of five replicates with the black‐eye beans system. When we incorporated the cost of scramble competition, or density‐dependent reduction in body mass into the predicted model, the model alteration decreased the survival region of C. chinensis in phase space on the black‐eye bean. Thus, the competitive equations, which do not consider the density‐dependent body size reduction, tend to overestimate the advantages of scramble strategists.
BNP and NT‐proBNP predict echocardiographic severity of diastolic dysfunction
Authors: Grewal Jasmine , McKelvie Robert , Lonn Eva , Tait Peter , Carlsson Jonas , Gianni Monica , Jarnert Christina , Persson Hans
Published: March 2008

Aims:

To evaluate the best combination of clinical parameters and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) or N‐terminal pro‐BNP (NT‐proBNP), to predict diastolic dysfunction (DD) in heart failure with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (HF‐PLEF) as determined by Doppler‐echocardiography.

Methods and Results:

HF patients with EF > 40% in the CHARM Echocardiographic Substudy were included and classified to have normal diastolic function, or mild, moderate or severe diastolic dysfunction. Plasma BNP and NT‐proBNP levels were measured and relevant clinical characteristics recorded. 181 participants were included in this analysis, 72 (40%) had moderate to severe DD. A model including age, sex, BNP, body mass index, history of atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, diabetes mellitus, hypertension and left atrial volume was highly predictive of moderate to severe DD; AUC 0.81 (0.73–0.88; p < 0.0001). Similarly, substitution of BNP with NT‐proBNP resulted in an AUC 0.79 (0.72–0.87; p < 0.0001). In these models; BNP> 100 pg/ml (OR 6.24 CI 2.42–16.09, p=0.0002), history of diabetes (OR 3.52 CI 1.43–8.70, p=0.006) and NT‐proBNP > 600 pg/ml (OR 5.93 CI 2.21–15.92, p=0.0004), history of diabetes mellitus (OR 2.75 CI 1.12–6.76, p=0.03) respectively remained independent predictors of DD in HF‐PLEF.

Conclusions:

Natriuretic peptides were the strongest independent predictors of DD, as determined by Doppler‐echocardiography, in HF‐PLEF.
IFNγ enhances IL‐23 production during Francisella infection of human monocytes
Authors: Butchar Jonathan P. , Parsa Kishore V.L. , Marsh Clay B. , Tridandapani Susheela
Published: March 2008

We previously demonstrated that monocytes produce IL‐23 during Francisella infection, and that IL‐23 induces IFNγ from NK cells. Here, we demonstrate that IFNγ‐priming of monocytes enhances IL‐23 production during Francisella infection. This effect was seen on the IL12/23 p40 subunit. Induction of IL‐12/23 p40 is reported to be enhanced by IRF‐1 and IRF‐8. Consistently, microarray analysis of IFNγ‐treated monocytes revealed a significant induction of the IRFs. Interestingly, IFNγ‐primed monocytes produced IL‐12 p70, a more potent inducer of IFNγ than IL‐23. We propose that there exists an amplification loop between monocyte IL‐23 and NK/T cell IFNγ that leads to IL‐12 p70 production.
Visceral helminths of wild boars (Sus scrofa leucomystax) in Japan, with special reference to a new species of the genusMorgascaridiaInglis, (Nematoda: Schneidernematidae)
Authors: Sato H. , Suzuki K. , Yokoyama M.
Published: March 2008

Twenty-nine Japanese wild boars (Sus scrofa leucomystax), collected during the hunting seasons of 2005 and 2006 in the western part of the mainland of Japan (Honshu), were examined for their visceral helminths. Eighteen helminth parasites were prevalent in them, including 17 Nematoda species (Metastrongylus elongatus,Metastrongylus salmi,Metastrongylus asymmetricus,Metastrongylus pudendotechus,Stephanurus dentatus,Gnathostoma doloresi,Physocephalus sexulata,Ascarops strongylina,Capillaria suis,Ascaris suum,Globocephalus samoensis,Globocephalus longimucronatus,Strongyloides ransomi,Trichuris suis,Bourgelatia diducta,Oesophagostomum dentatum, andOesophagostomum watanabei), and one Cestoda species (Pseudanoplocephala nipponensis). Muscle digestion of the diaphragm (using an artificial gastric juice) of 24 wild boars detected a single diplostomulum of probablyPharyngostomum cordatum. In addition, four female and six male adults ofMorgascaridia kugiisp. n. (Nematoda: Schneidernematidae) were recovered from the large intestine of a single wild boar. Examination of an additional 20 samples of the stomach and 27 samples of the large intestine could not find this species. To date, recorded species of the genusMorgascaridiaare limited toM. sellsicollected from wild boars in Uganda and Congo several decades ago, and thence, no records of the recovery are available.Morgascaridia kugiisp. n. differed fromM. sellsiby smaller body dimensions, shorter distance between the precloacal sucker and the cloaca, smaller sizes of the copulatory spicules and the gubernaculum, and smaller sizes of uterine eggs.
Functional motivations in the development of nominal and verbal gerunds in Middle and Early Modern English
Authors: DE SMET HENDRIK
Published: March 2008

This article examines the use of three gerund constructions in Middle and Early Modern English on the basis of corpus data covering the period 1250–1640. The constructions examined are verbal gerunds (eating the apple), bare nominal gerunds (eating of the apple), and definite nominal gerunds (the eating of the apple). It is argued that the success of verbal gerunds in the history of English can only be understood against the background of the interaction with their nominal counterparts. An analysis is offered of how the system of gerund constructions is functionally organised, comparing discourse-functional behaviour, distribution, and internal syntax across the three gerund types. It is shown that verbal gerunds closely resemble bare nominal gerunds in terms of discourse-functional behaviour and distribution, but are syntactically more flexible. As a result, verbal gerunds could replace bare nominal gerunds, copying their function but adding syntactic flexibility. By contrast, definite nominal gerunds, being functionally distinct from the other two types, developed a number of specialised uses, which ensured their survival. These conclusions throw light on issues of functional motivation in the development of the English gerund. Historical change is seen to be grounded in synchronic functional organisation. At the same time, it is shown that the only existing explanation for the rise of verbal gerunds (attributing their success to their ability to combine with prepositions) can only be partly correct.
Seeing as though
Authors: TAYLOR JOHN R. , PANG KAM-YIU S.
Published: March 2008

In this article we address a hitherto unstudied causal conjunction in English,seeing as though. Occurring predominantly in informal registers, the conjunction is typically used to introduce information which the speaker takes to be self-evidently true and on whose basis some further comment, or query, is made. Drawing on data derived from internet searches we draw up a semantic profile of the expression in comparison and contrast with other reason connectives, namely, seeing (that)andsince. The data suggest thatseeing as thoughis associated with highly subjective construals of the reason relation. We also address the internal structure of the expression. The use ofseeingin a reason conjunction is traced to a common conceptual metaphor, wherebyknowing is seeing. More puzzling is the occurrence ofas though. While rejecting the possibility of a compositional analysis of the expression, we note thatas thoughis only one of a number of items which can occur with causalseeing. These items have to do with the appearance of things and are in fact able to occur as complementizers after predicates of seeming and appearing. To this extent,as thoughis consistent with the subjectivity associated with the complex conjunction. In the course of our investigation, we also document the extraordinary proliferation of reason connectives that involve lexical items such asseeing,as,though, and several others, and suggest that this exuberance of new forms may not be unrelated to the subjectivity inherent in the construal of causal relations.
The PPARγ agonist pioglitazone is effective in the MPTP mouse model of Parkinson's disease through inhibition of monoamine oxidase B
Authors: Quinn L P , Crook B , Hows M E , Vidgeon‐Hart M , Chapman H , Upton N , Medhurst A D , Virley D J
Published: March 2008

Background and purpose: The peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ (PPARγ) agonist pioglitazone has previously been shown to attenuate dopaminergic cell loss in the 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) mouse model of Parkinson's disease, an effect attributed to its anti‐inflammatory properties. In the present investigation, we provide evidence that pioglitazone is effective in the MPTP mouse model, not via an anti‐inflammatory action, but through inhibition of MAO‐B, the enzyme required to biotransform MPTP to its active neurotoxic metabolite 1‐methyl‐4‐phenylpyridinium (MPP+).

Experimental approach: Mice were treated with pioglitazone (20 mg kg−1 b.i.d. (twice a day), p.o., for 7 days), prior and post or post‐MPTP (30 mg kg−1 s.c.) treatment. Mice were then assessed for motor impairments on a beam‐walking apparatus and for reductions in TH immunoreactivity in the substantia nigra and depletions in striatal dopamine. The effects of pioglitazone on striatal MPP+ levels and MAO‐B activity were also assessed.

Key results: Mice treated with MPTP showed deficits in motor performance, marked depletions in striatal dopamine levels and a concomitant reduction in TH immunoreactivity in the substantia nigra. Pretreatment with pioglitazone completely prevented these effects of MPTP. However, pretreatment with pioglitazone also significantly inhibited the MPTP‐induced production of striatal MPP+ and the activity of MAO‐B in the striatum.

Conclusions and implications: The neuroprotection observed with pioglitazone pretreatment in the MPTP mouse model was due to the blockade of the conversion of MPTP to its active toxic metabolite MPP+, via inhibition of MAO‐B.
Does the RET variant G691S influence the features of sporadic medullary thyroid carcinoma?
Authors: Cardot‐Bauters C. , Leteurtre E. , Leclerc L. , Vantyghem M.‐C. , Do cao C. , Wemeau J.‐L. , D’Herbomez M. , Carnaille B. , Barbu V. , Pinson S. , Pigny P. ,   Groupe d’Etude des Tumeurs Endocrines (GTE)
Published: March 2008

Objective  The RET (rearranged during transfection) proto‐oncogene G691S variant is over‐represented in the germline of patients with sporadic medullary thyroid carcinoma (sMTC) vs. normal controls but so far is not associated with any medical or pathological features of the tumour. The aim of our study was to assess the influence of this variant on the age of onset, clinical, biological and pathological features of sMTC.

Design and patients  One hundred patients with histologically proven MTC, for whom the germline genetic analysis of RET was negative and medical records were available, were included in the study.

Results  Patients with the heterozygous GS variant or the homozygous SS variant (n = 36) were on average 8·0 years younger than patients with the wild‐type GG variant (n = 64, mean age 43·9 vs. 51·9 years, P < 0·01). The former group did not differ from the wild‐type group in terms of MTC size, prevalence of C‐cell hyperplasia (CCH) or papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). However, the prevalence of an increased preoperative basal calcitonin (bCT) level (> 1000 pg/ml) was 2·75‐fold higher in the patients with the GS or SS variant than in those with the wild‐type variant (P < 0·001). The proportion of patients with lymph node metastases was also higher in the former group (P < 0·05). Multivariate analysis confirmed that the presence of the RET variant is independently associated with higher preoperative bCT values (P = 0·011).

Conclusions  Our data demonstrate that the RET G691S variant could modulate the age of onset of sMTC as demonstrated previously for familial tumours. Moreover, this variant is an independent predictor of a higher basal calcitonin synthesis rate in patients with sMTC.
A study on the correlation of duodenal‐ulcer healing with campylobacter‐like organisms
Authors: HO JOANNA , LUI IRENE , HUI WAI‐MO , NG MATTHEW M. T. , LAM SHIU‐KUM
Published: March 2008

Abstract Campylobacter‐like organisms (CLOS) occur frequently in the antrum of patients with duodenal ulcer, but their pathogenetic role has remained uncertain. This study examined prospectively endoscopic biopsies of the antrum of 109 patients with duodenal ulcer, taken before and after 4–12 weeks of treatment with either a prostaglandin E1 or its placebo, for the density of campylobacter‐like organisms and the severity of antral gastritis. Antral biopsies from 30 non‐ulcer dyspeptic patients were used as controls. Active chronic antral gastritis and CLOS respectively occurred in 98% and 99% of patients with duodenal ulcer, and in 50% and 57% of the controls (P < 0.005). CLOS occurred in 97% of all subjects with active chronic gastritis and in 14% of those with normal gastric mucosa (P < 0.0005). The density of CLOS correlated with the severity of gastritis. After treatment with prostaglandin E1 and placebo, 89% and 51% respectively of ulcers healed, and 42% and 6% respectively of gastritis improved from a moderate to a mild grade, but bacteria remained positive and persisted in the same density as before treatment. The conclusion was that CLOS, antral gastritis and duodenal ulcer are closely associated, but that healing of duodenal ulcer and improvement of antral gastritis are unaffected by CLOS.
Elevation of gastric pH heals peptic oesophagitis ‐ A role for omeprazole
Authors: DOWNTON JOY , DENT JOHN , HEDDLE RICHARD , TOOULI JAMES , BUCKLE PETER J. , MACKINNON A. MALCOLM , WYMAN J. BRYANT
Published: March 2008

The aim of this study was to investigate the hypothesis that the prolonged and substantial elevation of gastric pH which can be achieved with the antisecretory agent omeprazole will result in healing of peptic oesophagitis. Eight patients with erosive or ulcerative peptic oesophagitis were treated with omeprazole (30 mg daily) for 8 weeks. Complete healing occurred in seven patients after 8 weeks of omeprazole therapy. Only a small area of residual ulceration persisted in one unhealed patient. Heartburn resolved within the first 2 weeks of therapy in all but one patient. Specific food intolerances also were eliminated in most cases. Post‐prandial oesophageal pH monitoring during omeprazole administration showed abolition of acid reflux episodes (pH < 4). This effect appeared to be due solely to the antisecretory effect of omeprazole, since motility measurements demonstrated a continued high frequency of reflux while concurrent gastric pH monitoring showed sustained elevation of gastric pH above 4. These results support the hypothesis that a prolonged and potent inhibition of gastric acid secretion renders refluxed gastric juice sufficiently innocuous to allow healing of severe peptic oesophagitis.
Endoscopic sphincterotomy for retained common duct stones
Authors: CHUNG S. C. S. , LEUNG J. W. C. , LI A.K.C.
Published: March 2008

Twenty‐one patients with retained stones after biliary surgery were managed by endoscopic sphincterotomy and stone extraction in the postoperative period. The bile duct was cleared of stones in 20 patients (95%). In one patient stone extraction was unsuccessful. There were no complications. Compared to percutaneous trans‐T‐tube tract stone extraction, endoscopic sphincterotomy does not require a 6 week waiting period. Endoscopic sphincterotomy should be considered for retained bile duct stones if endoscopic expertise is available.
Epidemiology of hepatitis δ virus infection in China
Authors: KAI MAI , ROGGENDORF MICHAEL , ZHIHONG JIN , SHISONG XIONG , GUOLONG ZHAO , GENSHAN TIAN , DEINHARDT FRIEDRICH
Published: March 2008

The prevalence of hepatitis δ virus (HDV) was evaluated in 1027 HBsAg positive people living in five provinces, two municipalities and four autonomous regions of China. Seventeen people had antibodies to HDV (anti‐HD — 13 of 454 asymptomatic carriers of HBsAg, two of 151 patients with chronic persistent hepatitis and two of 59 patients with chronic active hepatitis). All of those who were anti‐HD lived in the autonomous regions of Inner Mongolia, Tibet, and Xinjiang.
Gastrin and somatostatin cells in dyspeptic patients with and without duodenal ulcer: A quantitative study based on multiple biopsy specimens
Authors: JIE CHEN , TONG‐HUA LIU , SHENG‐FANG YE , CHANG‐FANG GU , SHOU‐PO CHEN
Published: March 2008

Abstrat

The numbers of immunoreactive gastrin and somatostatin cells in gastric and duodenal mucosal biopsy specimens from dyspeptic patients with duodenal ulcers and dyspeptic controls without ulcers were calculated using a morphometric method. The levels of gastrin and somatostatin in the tissue were also measured by the radioimmunoassay. The results showed no significant difference in the number of G cells and the level of gastrin in the tissue between the ulcer and non‐ulcer groups. However, the number of D cells and the level of somatostatin in the tissue in ulcer patients were remarkably reduced in comparison with those in non‐ulcer patients (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively). The G: D cells and gastrin: somatostatin ratios in ulcer patients were much higher than those in the non‐ulcer control group. It is considered that the reduction of D cells and the relative lack of somatostatin in duodenal ulcer patients might have a role in the mechanism of the duodenal ulceration.
Haem in the gut. I. Fate of haemoproteins and the absorption of haem
Authors: YOUNG GRAEME P. , ROSE IAN S. , ST JOHN D. JAMES B.
Published: March 2008

Haem (FeII‐protoporphyrin‐IX) is presented to the gut lumen as haemoproteins derived from exogenous (dietary) and endogenous (mucosal cell desquamation and bleeding) sources. Haemoproteins such as haemoglobin, myoglobin and catalase undergo hydrolysis by luminal proteases to release the haem. Released haem is maintained in a soluble form in the gut lumen by the products of haemoprotein digestion. Chelators of elemental iron do not bind haem‐iron and so haem‐iron is better absorbed than elemental iron. Haem‐iron does not exchange with luminal elemental iron. Mucosal uptake of haem is limited. Less than 10% binds to the brush border of the villus cell. Although the mechanisms by which haem binds to the brush border and is transported to the intracellular environment are poorly understood, it is known that some haem is transferred to secondary lysosomes where the porphyrin ring is split to release iron and form bilirubin. Depending upon the composition of the diet, the iron released from haem within the villus cell can be the major physiological source of iron. In iron‐deficiency in humans, absorption of haem‐iron can increase threefold whereas absorption of elemental‐iron can increase tenfold. These observations indicate that haem‐iron and elemental‐iron are absorbed via different mechanisms which are subject to different regulation. For haem‐iron to be absorbed, the haem itself must be taken up by the mucosa.
Mechanism of action of Roter (bismuth subnitrate) in patients with duodenal ulcer disease and healthy volunteers
Authors: PUGH S. , LEWIN M. R.
Published: March 2008

The effects of Roter (compound bismuth subnitrate) on antacid activity and mucosal prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) synthesis were variously investigated in patients with duodenal ulcer disease and healthy volunteers. Roter had a significant but small antacid activity with a buffering capacity of 10.9 mmol per tablet. In healthy volunteers, this was assessed by 24 h gastric pH monitoring on matched days with and without Roter treatment. The percentage of time that gastric pH was above 3 and the time after a standard meal that the pH was above 3, were both significantly increased by treatment with Roter (II tds post‐cibal) (P 0.01). Endogenous PGE2 synthesis was measured in endoscopic duodenal biopsies taken both before and after Roter treatment in patients with acute untreated duodenal ulceration. There was a significant deficiency of mucosal PGE2 synthesis in untreated patients compared with controls (P 0.005). However, following 4 weeks' treatment with Roter, there was a 90% rate of healing accompanied by a significant increase in PGE2 synthesis (P 0.05) up to control levels.

These findings suggest that Roter heals by the combined effects of a modest antacid neutralizing capacity and the ability to restore mucosal prostaglandins to normal levels, thereby mediating prostaglandin‐dependent defence mechanisms.
Bacterial biofilm formation on nasogastric tubes
Authors: MARRIE T. J. , SUNG J. Y. , COSTERTON J. W.
Published: March 2008

We examined the external surfaces of the gastric portion of nasogastric tubes recovered from hospitalized patients. Most of these surfaces were covered with a thick amorphous biofilm which was shown to be largely composed of microbial microcolonies in which individual cells were enclosed in their exopolysaccharide glycocalyces. Bacteria of many different morphotypes and some yeast cells were found in a fibrillar matrix that appeared to mediate their attachment to the silastic tubing. Within these mature biofilms some microcolonies were structurally intact and apparently vigorous, while others were composed largely of dead cells and empty cell walls. We conclude that nasogastric tubes that remain in patients for as short a time as one day are heavily colonized by a rich variety of biofilm‐forming bacteria and yeasts.
Auto‐immune features in patients with idiopathic chronic active hepatitis who are seronegative for conventional auto‐antibodies
Authors: JOHNSON PHILIP J. , MCFARLANE IAN G. , MCFARLANE BARBARA M. , WILLIAMS ROGER
Published: March 2008

In patients with chronic active hepatitis (CAH), the absence of the conventional serum auto‐antibodies (antinuclear, smooth muscle and liver‐kidney microsomal) is often taken as evidence against an auto‐immune aetiology and as indicative that the disease is unlikely to respond to immunosuppressive therapy. We report 12 British patients (11 female) who presented with histologically florid CAH (11 with cirrhosis or fibrosis and seven with ascites) but without significant titres of these antibodies or any other demonstrable aetiological feature (cryptogenic CAH), who have been followed up for a median of 5.25 years (range: 0.75–16 years). Ten had hypergammaglobulinaemia and/or specific elevations of serum IgG concentrations at presentation and five of 10 patients tested were found to have the HLA allotypes B8 and DR3. Remission was initially induced with prednisolone with or without azathioprine in all patients. Six patients subsequently relapsed on one or more occasions, either spontaneously while on maintenance therapy or during attempts to withdraw corticosteroids, and required increases or reintroduction of immunosuppressive therapy to regain disease control. Retrospective analysis of pretreatment samples from 11 of the patients revealed that all had been seropositive at presentation for auto‐antibodies against the liver membrane lipoprotein preparation known as liver‐specific membrane lipo‐protein (LSP) and/or against the hepatic asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGP‐R), titres of which subsequently fluctuated in direct relation to response to treatment. The findings suggest that in this group of patients (i) the absence of conventional auto‐antibodies does not exclude the likelihood of a response to immunosuppressive therapy, (ii) auto‐immune mechanisms underlie the disease, and (iii) screening for anti‐LSP and anti‐ASGP‐R may be useful for discriminating them from patients with chronic non‐A, non‐B viral hepatitis.
Structural and functional changes of the gastric mucosa in rats with portal hypertension
Authors: DOBBS BRUCE R. , HIDER RICHARD N. , BAXTER JOHN N.
Published: March 2008

Structural and functional changes of the gastric mucosa were studied in rats made portal hypertensive by partially ligating the portal vein. Studies were carried out at either 3 or 12 days after ligation or sham operation.

At 3 days, structural changes were greater than at 12 days, the major effects being vascular congestion in the lamina propria, muscularis mucosa, submucosa, and submucosal oedema. Transmission electron microscopy showed only a mild hyperplasia in the muscularis mucosa.

Gastric blood flow appeared to decrease at 3 days post‐ligation compared to sham‐operated control rats, but was significantly increased by 12 days after ligation (P < 0.01). Cardiac output also appeared to increase in the portal hypertensive rats by 12 days post‐ligation but this was not statistically significant; Portal venous inflow was significantly increased by 12 days (P < 0.05) but after correction for collateral circulation liver blood flow had returned to normal values by 12 days post‐ligation.