bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detecting pM concentrations of prostaglandins in cell culture supernatants by capillary SCX‐LC‐MS/MS
Authors: Rinne Dahl Sandra , Ramstad Kleiveland Charlotte , Kassem Moustapha , Lea Tor , Lundanes Elsa , Greibrokk Tyge
Published: July 2008

A highly sensitive, improved online strong cation exchange (SCX) – RP capillary liquid chromatographic (cLC) method with IT mass spectrometric (IT‐MS/MS) detection for the simultaneous determination of prostaglandin (PG)A1, PGD2, PGE1, PGE2, PGF2α, 8‐iso‐(8i)PGF2α, 6‐keto‐(6k)PGF1α, and 15‐Δ12, 14‐deoxy‐PGJ2 (15dPGJ2) in cell culture supernatants was developed and validated. Pretreatment of the cell culture supernatants included only dilution and filtration, and the analysis time including all sample preparation steps was 60 min per sample. Peptides/proteins contained in the matrix were removed by the SCX column. LODs in the range of 8–44 pg/mL (25–120 pM) cell culture supernatant were obtained. Excellent linearity (R2 > 0.99) and satisfactory recoveries and within‐ and between‐day precisions were obtained. Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) were stimulated with tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) or TNFα/IL‐17, and PG production was analyzed using the developed method. The four PGs, 6kPGF1a, PGF1a, PGE2, and PGE1 were detected both in nonstimulated and stimulated cells. The amount of PG produced by the cell increased when the cell was stimulated.
Methacrylate‐based short monolithic columns: Enabling tools for rapid and efficient analyses of biomolecules and nanoparticles
Authors: Barut Miloš , Podgornik Aleš , Urbas Lidija , Gabor Boštjan , Brne Peter , Vidič Jana , Plevčak Sašo , Štrancar Aleš
Published: July 2008

This review describes the novel chromatography stationary phase – a porous monolithic methacrylate‐based polymer – in terms of the design of the columns and some of the features that make these columns attractive for the purification of large biomolecules. We first start with a brief summary of the characteristics of these large molecules (more precisely large proteins like immunoglobulins G and M, plasmid deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), and viral particles), and a list of some of the problems that were encountered during the development of efficient purification processes. We then briefly describe the structure of the methacrylate‐based monolith and emphasize the features which make them more than suitable for dealing with large entities. The highly efficient structure on a small scale can be transferred to a large scale without the need of making column modifications, and the various approaches of how this is accomplished are briefly presented in this paper. This is followed by presenting some of the examples from the bioprocess development schemes, where the implementation of the methacrylate‐based monolithic columns has resulted in a very efficient and productive process. Following this, we move back to the analytical scale and demonstrate the efficiency of the monolithic column – where the mass transfer between the stationary and mobile phase is greatly enhanced – for the in‐process and final control of the new therapeutics. The combination of an efficient structure and the appropriate hardware results in separations of proteins with residence time less than 0.1 s.
Capillary electrophoresis of some free fatty acids using partially aqueous electrolyte systems and indirect UV detection. Application to the analysis of oleic and linoleic acids in peanut breeding lines
Authors: Bannore Yogita C. , Chenault Kelly D. , Melouk Hassan A. , El Rassi Ziad
Published: July 2008

This study has shown for the first time the suitability of CE with a partially aqueous electrolyte system for the analysis of free fatty acids (FFAs) in small portions of single peanut seeds. The partially aqueous electrolyte system consisted of 40 mM Tris, 2.5 mM adenosine‐5′‐monophosphate (AMP) and 7 mM α‐CD in (N‐methylformamide) NMF/dioxane/water (5:3:2 by volume) mixture, pH 8–9. While AMP served as the background UV absorber for indirect UV detection of the FFAs, the α‐CD functioned as the selectivity modulator by affecting the relative effective electrophoretic mobilities of the various FFAs due to their differential association with α‐CD. This CE method allowed the screening of peanut seeds for their content of oleic and linoleic acids, which is essential in breeding of peanuts of high‐oleic acid content. The extraction method of FFAs from peanut seeds is very reproducible with a high recovery approaching quantitative yield (∼︁97% recovery).
Structure and performance of silica‐based monolithic HPLC columns
Authors: Altmaier Stephan , Cabrera Karin
Published: July 2008

Silica‐based monolithic columns were prepared for HPLC with systematic variations of the tetramethoxysilane (TMOS) and polyethylene oxide (PEO) content as reactants in a sol–gel process accompanied by phase separation. The resulting monoliths showed differences in the macropore and silica skeleton diameter as well as in the corresponding domain sizes (the sum of macropore and skeleton diameter). All monoliths were synthesized with a diameter of 4.6 mm and cladded with a suitable polyaryletheretherketone (PEEK) polymer in a standardized and optimized manner for the subsequent chromatographic evaluation of the resulting monolithic HPLC columns. The columns were tested under normal phase conditions using n‐heptane/dioxane (95:5 v/v) as a mobile phase and 2‐nitroanisole as a test compound for the determination of separation efficiency and permeability. Two different sets of columns were prepared: the first one in which the amount of PEO was stepwise decreased to yield monoliths with identical macropore volumes and variations in the domain sizes. The second group of materials was synthesized adjusting both TMOS and PEO quantities to yield monolithic columns with identical macropore diameters of about 1.80 μm but different skeleton diameters and macropore volumes. The chromatographic results suggest that an increase in the column performance cannot be achieved by just arbitrarily decreasing the domain size of a given column. From a certain point of “downsizing” the monolithic structure a loss of structural homogeneity can be observed, which is apparently responsible for a lower chromatographic performance.
Labour market and skills needs of the tourism and related sectors in Wales
Authors: Haven‐Tang Claire , Jones Eleri
Published: July 2008

This paper assesses labour market and skills needs of tourism and related sectors in Wales to inform policy responses by government and Sector Skills Councils. Micro‐businesses, many lifestyle businesses not appreciating the links between skills, training and competitiveness, and typically not undertaking training, dominate Welsh tourism. Sectoral fragmentation challenges the development of a coherent employer perspective. Official statistics provide incomplete, inaccurate information. Employer interviews identify skills gaps and persistent recruitment difficulties with responses including downsizing, deskilling and overseas recruitment. Public sector interventions may better target employer demand for skills and training to support a destination‐level service quality strategy than training supply. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of the dynamics of coal char combustion with ignition and extinction phenomena: Shrinking core model
Authors: Sadhukhan Anup Kumar , Gupta Parthapratim , Saha Ranajit Kumar
Published: July 2008

Single‐particle combustion of coal char is analyzed using a generalized shrinking core model. Finite volume method, which was earlier employed by the authors in solving moving boundary problems involving fluid–solid noncatalytic reactions in general, is used to solve fully transient mass and energy equations. The model takes into account convection and diffusion inside the particle as well as in the boundary layer. The computed results are compared with the experimental data of the authors for combustion of coal char in a fluidized bed combustor. The effects of parameters such as bulk temperature and initial particle radius on the combustion dynamics are examined. The phenomena of ignition and extinction are also investigated. Finally, the importance of Stefan flow, originating due to nonequimolar counterdiffusion, on combustion of coal char is analyzed. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 40: 569–582, 2008
Investigation on the oxidation behaviour of gamma titanium aluminides coated with thermal barrier coatings
Authors: Braun R. , Fröhlich M. , Ebach‐Stahl A. , Leyens C.
Published: July 2008

In the present study, the applicability of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) on γ‐TiAl alloys was investigated. Two alloys with the chemical compositions of Ti‐45Al‐8Nb‐0.2B‐0.15C and Ti‐45Al‐1Cr‐6Nb‐0.4W‐0.2B‐0.5C‐0.2Si were used. Before TBC deposition, the specimens were pre‐oxidised in laboratory air or low partial pressure oxygen atmosphere. Yttria partially stabilised zirconia top coats were then deposited using electron‐beam physical vapour deposition (EB‐PVD). The oxidation behaviour of the γ‐TiAl specimens with TBC was studied by cyclic oxidation testing in air at 850 and 900 °C. Post‐oxidation analysis of the coating systems was performed using scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS). No spallation of the TBC was observed for pre‐oxidised specimens of both alloys when exposed to air at 850 °C for 1100 cycles of 1 h dwell time at high temperature. SEM micrographs of the thermally grown oxide scale revealed outer mixed TiO2/Al2O3 protrusions with a columnar structure. The protrusions contained small particles of zirconia and a low amount of about 0.5 at% zirconium was measured by EDS analysis throughout this outer oxide mixture. The TBCs exhibited excellent adherence on the oxide scale. Intercolumnar gaps and pores in the root area of the TBC were filled with titania and alumina. Below the outer columnar oxide scale, a broad porous zone of predominant titania was observed. The transition region between the oxide scale and substrate consisted of a discontinuous nitride layer intermixed with alumina particles and intermetallic phases rich in niobium formed at the nitride layer/substrate interface. When thermally cycled at 900 °C, the oxide scales on the alloy Ti‐45Al‐8Nb‐0.2B‐0.15C pre‐oxidised in low partial pressure oxygen spalled off after 540 cycles. For the sample with TBC, spallation was observed after 810 cycles. Failure occurred in the thermally grown oxide near the oxide/nitride layer interface. Microstructural examinations revealed again oxide scales with columnar structure beneath the zirconia top coat and good adherence of the TBC on the thermally grown oxides formed at 900 °C.
The role that bond coat depletion of aluminum has on the lifetime of APS‐TBC under oxidizing conditions
Authors: Renusch D. , Schorr M. , Schütze M.
Published: July 2008

Bond coat oxidation as well as bond coat depletion of Al are still believed to be a major degradation mechanism with respect to the lifetime of thermal barrier coating (TBC) systems. In this study the top coat lifetime is described as being limited by both bond coat depletion of Al and mechanical failure of the top coat. The empirical results are introduced by considering three spallation cases, namely, Al depletion failure, thermal fatigue failure, and thermal aging failure. Al depletion failure occurs when the Al content within the bond coat reaches a critical value. In this paper bond coat depletion of Al is modeled by considering the diffusion of Al into both the thermally grown oxide (TGO) and substrate. The diffusion model results are compared to Al concentration profiles measured with an electron beam microprobe. These measured results are from oxidized air plasma sprayed TBC systems (APS‐TBC) with vacuum plasma sprayed (VPS) bond coats for exposures up to 5000 h in the temperature range of 950–1100 °C. This paper focuses on the Al depletion failure and how it relates to top coat spallation.
Behaviour of NiAl APS‐coatings in chlorine‐containing atmospheres
Authors: Latreche H. , Doublet S. , Tegeder G. , Wolf G. , Masset P. , Weber T. , Schütze M.
Published: July 2008

Due to their thermal expansion coefficient being close to those of ferritic steels, NiAl atmospheric plasma spraying (APS)‐coatings have been chosen to be tested in chloridizing atmosphere. A new type of quasi‐stability diagram which couples thermodynamic and kinetic approaches was developed to define the stability domains of the pure metals aluminium and nickel in dynamic chlorine‐ and oxygen‐containing atmospheres. NiAl APS‐coatings (300 µm) with low porosity on steels were applied and tested in an atmosphere containing 0.2 v/o chlorine and 3 ppm oxygen. After 280 h of exposure one quarter of the outer coating was transformed into a protective alumina layer. Much nickel depletion, due to the evaporation of nickel chlorides, was observed.
Parameters governing the reduction of oxide layers on Inconel 617 in impure VHTR He atmosphere
Authors: Chapovaloff J. , Kaczorowski D. , Girardin G.
Published: July 2008

The very high temperature reactor (VHTR) has been selected as among the Generation IV nuclear power system. The coolant, namely helium, has been shown to contain low level of oxidizing as well as carbon‐bearing impurities (such as H2, CO (and CO2), CH4, N2 ranging from a few microbars to hundreds of microbars and water vapour in the microbar range) that can interact with metals at high temperature. In this specific gas phase, there is a competition between the formation of protective oxide scales and deleterious reactions towards carbon. A possible oxide layer reduction could be observed in a particular case detailed in this paper. This destruction of the oxide can imply consequences on the behaviour of the alloy as strong carburization or deep internal oxidation could occur. The influence of the level of impurities was analysed through a parametric approach. The experiments were carried out in a purpose‐designed device that allows the control of low impurity partial pressures.
Oxidation of Cr–C electroplating between 400 and 900 °C in air
Authors: Lee D. B.
Published: July 2008

The high temperature oxidation of Cr–C electroplated on a steel substrate was studied at 400–900 °C in air. Before oxidation, the deposit consisted primarily of C‐supersaturated, amorphous Cr grains. During oxidation, oxygen diffused inward, while Cr and the substrate elements such as Fe diffused outward. Carbon tended to escape, but some of it remained and existed mainly as graphite throughout the oxide layer and the Cr–C electrodeposit. A Cr2O3 oxide layer having dissolved Fe ions formed on the unoxidized, crystalline Cr layer. The Cr–C electrodeposit oxidized approximately parabolically, with a faster oxidation rate than bulk Cr.
Modelling of the long time stability of the fluorine effect in TiAl oxidation
Authors: Zschau H.‐E. , Schütze M.
Published: July 2008

Recently the target temperature of components manufactured from γ‐TiAl alloys like turbine blades, turbocharger rotors or automotive valves has been increased to 900 °C. However, there is an insufficient oxidation resistance above 750 °C. One method used to improve the γ‐TiAl oxidation behaviour is the so‐called fluorine microalloying effect. After application of fluorine to the TiAl surface by ion implantation or treatment with diluted HF and oxidation at 900 °C in air a dense alumina layer is formed. However, after the treatments a distinct loss of fluorine was observed during heating and within the first hours of oxidation. In this work, the long time behaviour during isothermal and cyclic oxidation up to 1500 h/900 °C/air was investigated showing a slow fluorine decrease. The alumina layer acts as a diffusion barrier for fluorine, whereas fluorine diffuses into the metal. The diffusion coefficient was calculated. The results fit the theoretical model of the fluorine effect.
Morphology and Melt Crystallization of PCL‐PEG Diblock Copolymers
Authors: Xu Ying , He Yong , Wei Jia , Fan Zhongyong , Li Suming
Published: July 2008

ROP of PCL was realized in the presence of mPEG with $\overline M _{\rm n}$ = 5 000, using Zn(La)2 as a catalyst. The resulting diblock copolymers with molar ratios of the CL/EO repeat units from 0.2–5.0 were characterized by DSC, WAXD, SEC, and 1H NMR. Melt crystallization was studied and analyzed with the Avrami equation. The spherulite growth rate G was determined at different crystallization temperatures. The G values were found to range between those of mPEG and PCL homopolymers. The morphology of an isothermally crystallized sample with CL/EO = 0.5 was examined. Spherulites with PCL embedded in PEG were observed, in contrast to concentric spherulites reported in the literature.

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Photosensitive High‐Refractive‐Index Poly(acrylic acid)‐graft‐Poly(ethylene glycol methacrylate) Nanocrystalline Titania Hybrid Films
Authors: Su Hung‐Wen , Chen Wen‐Chang
Published: July 2008

In this study, photosensitive high‐refractive‐index poly(acrylic acid)‐graft‐poly(ethylene glycol methacrylate)‐(3‐trimethoxysilyl propyl methacrylate)‐modified titania hybrid materials were synthesized, followed by hydrothermal treatment. Nanocrystalline titania in the hybrid materials, analyzed by high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS), had domain sizes of around 3–7 nm and had a more‐compact anatase structure at a higher titania content. The prepared optically transparent films had a refractive index in the range of 1.528–1.803 as the titania content increased from 5.6 to 61.9 wt.‐%. A fine pattern with a line width of 20 µm was produced by a direct lithographic process on the hybrid films. The present study demonstrates a novel approach for preparing photosensitive high‐refractive‐index hybrid materials with patternability.

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Groupwise density cannot be much bigger than the unbounded number
Authors: Shelah Saharon
Published: July 2008

We prove that g (the groupwise density number) is smaller or equal to 𝔟+, the successor of the minimal cardinality of an unbounded subset of ωω. This is true even for the version of 𝔤 for groupwise dense ideals. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Measurable groups of low dimension
Authors: Elwes Richard , Ryten Mark
Published: July 2008

We consider low‐dimensional groups and group‐actions that are definable in a supersimple theory of finite rank. We show that any rank 1 unimodular group is (finite‐by‐Abelian)‐by‐finite, and that any 2‐dimensional asymptotic group is soluble‐by‐finite. We obtain a field‐interpretation theorem for certain measurable groups, and give an analysis of minimal normal subgroups and socles in groups definable in a supersimple theory of finite rank where infinity is definable. We prove a primitivity theorem for measurable group actions. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
On triangular norm based axiomatic extensions of the weak nilpotent minimum logic
Authors: Noguera Carles , Esteva Francesc , Gispert Joan
Published: July 2008

In this paper we carry out an algebraic investigation of the weak nilpotent minimum logic (WNM) and its t‐norm based axiomatic extensions. We consider the algebraic counterpart of WNM, the variety of WNM‐algebras (𝕎ℕ𝕄) and prove that it is locally finite, so all its subvarieties are generated by finite chains. We give criteria to compare varieties generated by finite families of WNM‐chains, in particular varieties generated by standard WNM‐chains, or equivalently t‐norm based axiomatic extensions of WNM, and we study their standard completeness properties. We also characterize the generic WNM‐chains, i. e. those that generate the variety 𝕎ℕ𝕄, and we give finite axiomatizations for some t‐norm based extensions of WNM. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Determinant factors of mobile‐based word‐of‐mouth campaign referral among Japanese adolescents
Authors: Okazaki Shintaro
Published: July 2008

This study addresses why Japanese teenagers participate in mobilebased word‐of‐mouth (WOM) campaigns. It is posited that commitment to the promoted brand, relationship with the mobile device, and group–person connectivity act as antecedents of two primary gratifications of the campaign, entertainment value and purposive value, which in turn determine the direction and strength of the attitude–intention–behavior chain. A “real” mobile campaign was used as stimulus. Based on a random sampling method, 22,500 structured questionnaires were sent to young consumers, 13–18 years old, via mobile device. Our data fit the proposed model fairly well, and all hypothesized paths are supported. There are significant differences in the strength of the paths between teenagers who learned of the campaign from non‐WOM sources (i.e., content‐based Web sites and e‐mail magazines) versus WOM sources (pass‐along e‐mail and direct referral). In closing, theoretical and managerial implications are discussed and important limitations are recognized. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparing the perceived value of information and entertainment mobile services
Authors: Pihlström Minna , Brush Gregory J.
Published: July 2008

The importance of perceived value in customer decision making is well known. However, few studies assess empirically the direct effects of various perceived value dimensions on post‐purchase behavior. This article examines differences between information and entertainment mobile content service users in how their value perceptions influence intentions to repurchase, intentions to spread positive word of mouth, and willingness to pay a price premium. The direct effects of four value dimensions are analyzed: monetary, convenience, emotional, and social value. Within this study we also propose and test the antecedent effects of conditional and epistemic value. This approach advances the value literature through increasing our understanding of how individual value dimensions influence post‐purchase behavior and of the role of epistemic and conditional value. Using a sample of 579 mobile service users, results are analyzed with multi‐group structural equation modeling. The findings support use of multidimensional value and loyalty constructs to identify differences between service user groups, and argue for the use of differentiated value‐based marketing strategies for entertainment and information mobile services. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Gearing up for mobile advertising: A cross‐cultural examination of key factors that drive mobile messages home to consumers
Authors: Choi Yung Kyun , Hwang Jang‐Sun , McMillan Sally J.
Published: July 2008

Mobile advertising is gearing up for success, but researchers and practitioners need to understand how to measure the effectiveness of this advertising form—particularly the factors that drive mobile messages home in different cultures. This study identifies key measures of effectiveness as well as antecedent variables in the context of 629 Korean and American consumers. Entertainment and credibility were key factors predicting positive attitude and purchase intention among both Koreans and Americans. However, this study found multiple cross‐cultural differences—particularly in informativeness, perceived interactivity, and the value of mobile advertising. Theoretical explanations and practical implications are suggested. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An examination of factors influencing consumer adoption of short message service (SMS)
Authors: Kim Gil Son , Park Se‐Bum , Oh Jungsuk
Published: July 2008

Factors related to consumer adoption of short message service (SMS) are analyzed in this article. Our structural equation model identifies perceived enjoyment (PENJ), perceived monetary value (PMV), perceived usefulness (PU), and perceived ease of use (PEU) as four major factors that directly affect Korean mobile phone users' SMS adoption. We also find that network factor (NET), interface convenience (IC), and context controllability (CC) have significant indirect impacts on consumer adoption of SMS through their respective paths on perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEU). Our findings demonstrate that SMS must be perceived as enjoyable and pleasant, because consumers' motivation to use enjoyable and pleasant services like SMS enhances their value perceptions of SMS such as perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEU). The findings also suggest that more convenient and easier‐to‐use system interfaces, greater context controllability across various SMS usage contexts, and greater network externalities can facilitate SMS adoption in the future. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Understanding the acceptance of mobile SMS advertising among young Chinese consumers
Authors: Zhang Jing , Mao En
Published: July 2008

This study examined the acceptance of SMS advertising, an increasingly popular mobile marketing practice, among young Chinese consumers. A modified technology acceptance model (TAM) was developed to test the intention to use SMS advertising—that is, to read the advertising message and take action as suggested by the message. Data were collected from 262 mobile phone users who were 21–35 years old. The research model was analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). Results showed that the two key determinants of TAM, the perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use of SMS advertising messages, predicted the intention to use them. In addition, trust in SMS advertising and subjective norms also contributed to the intention to use. The antecedents and consequents of perceived usefulness and trust were also examined in the SMS advertising context. Overall, the model is well supported. This study represents a novel approach to studying the effectiveness of SMS advertising by applying a model developed in information technology. It also revitalizes the theory of reasoned action in advertising research. The findings have important implications for studying advertising and marketing activities that utilize new media. In addition, practical implications are discussed and directions for future research are suggested. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Kinetic Investigations on the Polymerization of 2‐Oxazolines Using Pluritriflate Initators
Authors: Luxenhofer Robert , Bezen Manuela , Jordan Rainer
Published: July 2008

In our ongoing efforts to develop poly(2‐oxazoline)s (POx) for biomedical applications, we report on the preparation of defined, star‐like hydrophilic POx. Using pluritriflate initiators, we show, through online kinetic measurements by gas chromatography, that multiple initiating groups are of equal reactivity for the initiation of the polymerization of 2‐oxazolines. The overall polymerization rate increases linearly with the number of initiator functions per molecule. Thus, all initiating moieties are of the same reactivity and all arms grow at the same rate. This is crucial for the establishment of a meaningful structure‐property relationship for polymers of star architectures.

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Macromol. Rapid Commun. 14/2008
Authors: Keg Peisi , Lohani Anup , Fichou Denis , Lam Yeng Ming , Wu Yiliang , Ong Beng S. , Mhaisalkar Subodh G.
Published: July 2008

Front Cover: Polyquarterthiophenes studied by scanning tunneling microscopy, at the liquid/solid interface, display perfect self‐organization of the polymeric lamellae with interdigitated dodecyl chains. Linear as well as U‐shaped and closed segments facilitated by a rotational disorder of syn‐ and anti‐conformation are observed. Further details can be found in the article by P. Keg,* A. Lohani, D. Fichou, Y. M. Lam, Y. Wu, B. S. Ong, and S. G. Mhaisalkar on page 1197.
Macromol. Rapid Commun. 14/2008
Authors: Han Yongsheng , Radziuk Darya , Shchukin Dmitry , Moehwald Helmuth
Published: July 2008

Back Cover: Magnetic protein carriers have been prepared by coating magnetic nanoparticles on protein microspheres which were produced by sonicating oil in a protein solution. Drugs can be easily loaded in such carriers by dissolution in oil phase before sonication. The loaded drugs can be targeted delivery in an external magnetic field. Further details can be found in the article by Y. Han,* D. Radziuk, D. Shchukin, and H. Moehwald on page 1203.
When electrons meet molecular ions and what happens next: Dissociative recombination from interstellar molecular clouds to internal combustion engines
Authors: Thomas Richard D.
Published: July 2008

The interaction of matter with its environment is the driving force behind the evolution of 99% of the observed matter in the universe. The majority of the visible universe exists in a state of weak ionization, the so called fourth state of matter: plasma. Plasmas are ubiquitous, from those occurring naturally; interstellar molecular clouds, cometary comae, circumstellar shells, to those which are anthropic in origin; flames, combustion engines and fusion reactors. The evolution of these plasmas is driven by the interaction of the plasma constituents, the ions, and the electrons. One of the most important subsets of these reactions is electron–molecular ion recombination. This process is significant for two very important reasons. It is an ionization reducing reaction, removing two ionised species and producing neutral products. Furthermore, these products may themselves be reactive radical species which can then further drive the evolution of the plasma. The rate at which the electron reacts with the ion depends on many parameters, for examples the collision energy, the internal energy of the ion, and the structure of the ion itself. Measuring these properties together with the manner in which the system breaks up is therefore critical if the evolution of the environment is to be understood at all. Several techniques have been developed to study just such reactions to obtain the necessary information on the parameters. In this paper the focus will be on one the most recently developed of these, the Ion Storage Ring, together with the detection tools and techniques used to extract the necessary information from the reaction. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 27: 485–530, 2008
Mass spectrometry‐based proteomics in reproductive medicine
Authors: Kolialexi Aggeliki , Mavrou Ariadni , Spyrou George , Tsangaris George Th.
Published: July 2008

The emergence of powerful mass spectrometry‐based proteomic techniques has added a new dimension to the field of biomedical research. Application of these high throughput methodologies in pregnancy‐related pathology has contributed to the comprehension of the underlying pathophysiologies and the successful identification of relevant protein biomarkers that can potentially change early diagnosis and treatment of several medical conditions related to human pregnancy. Most of the existing research on human reproduction and gestation has focused on follicular fluid, cervical/vaginal fluid, and amniotic fluid. Although proteome technologies in reproductive medicine research are not as yet widely applied, characterization of the proteome of reproductive fluids can be expected to significantly improve maternal healthcare. This article aims to summarize the applications of mass spectrometry based technology on the most important and specific biological fluids related to reproduction and gestation. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 27: 624–634, 2008
Plant proteomics: Concepts, applications, and novel strategies for data interpretation
Authors: Baginsky Sacha
Published: July 2008

Proteomics is an essential source of information about biological systems because it generates knowledge about the concentrations, interactions, functions, and catalytic activities of proteins, which are the major structural and functional determinants of cells. In the last few years significant technology development has taken place both at the level of data analysis software and mass spectrometry hardware. Conceptual progress in proteomics has made possible the analysis of entire proteomes at previously unprecedented density and accuracy. New concepts have emerged that comprise quantitative analyses of full proteomes, database‐independent protein identification strategies, targeted quantitative proteomics approaches with proteotypic peptides and the systematic analysis of an increasing number of posttranslational modifications at high temporal and spatial resolution. Although plant proteomics is making progress, there are still several analytical challenges that await experimental and conceptual solutions. With this review I will highlight the current status of plant proteomics and put it into the context of the aforementioned conceptual progress in the field, illustrate some of the plant‐specific challenges and present my view on the great opportunities for plant systems biology offered by proteomics. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 28:93–120, 2009
Polysilanes. A New Route Toward High Performance EL Devices
Authors: Sacarescu Liviu , Mangalagiu Ionel , Simionescu Mihaela , Sacarescu Gabriela , Ardeleanu Rodinel
Published: July 2008

The discovery of a remarkable class of plastics that can conduct electricity has opened a new era of plastics science and technology that has just been recognized by the award of the 2000 Nobel prize for chemistry. They can be used to make a wide range of electronic devices such as transistors, light‐emitting diodes, solar cells and even lasers, through much simpler manufacture than conventional inorganic materials, increasing flexibility, reducing cost, and opening up new markets. Polysilanes are subject of an intensive research work aiming to various optoelectronic applications. Through this work the chemical structure of polydiphenylsilane was modified to obtain both solubility in common solvents and to induce new properties by attaching of various organic segments.
Comparative study of some metallic biomaterials used as implants
Authors: Al‐Mobarak N. A.
Published: July 2008

The electrochemical behavior of two Ti alloys (TA and TAV) and two grades of stainless steels (SS1 and SS2), commonly used as biomedical implant materials, particularly for orthopedic and osteosynthesis applications, was investigated in Hank's solution at 37 °C and different pH. The aim was to distinguish between the behavior of these materials in artificial physiological solution through analysis of their corrosion potential variation with time and potentiodynamic polarization curves. Characterization of the modified surface layers was made by means of microscopic examinations, hardness measurements and X‐ray diffraction analysis. The results indicated that in neutral Hank's solution (pH = 7.2) SS2 and SS1 samples were of higher corrosion resistance than titanium alloys. The behavior was reversed in the acidic media (pH = 5.0 or 3.0), where TA had the least corrosion rate and the corrosion susceptibility increased in the order TA < TAV < SS1 < SS2.
Granulare ultradünne Nanoschichtsysteme Fe/FeO auf Aluminiumsubstrat, Modellierung einer 1 D ultradünnen granularen Schicht für elektromagnetische Verträglichkeitsanwendungen (EMV) der Flachbandkabeltechnik
Authors: Gräbner F. , Hirsch D. , Herrmann R. , Rabe C. , Winkler R. , Müller T. , Hungsberg A. , Kallmeyer Ch.
Published: July 2008

Die magnetischen Verluste, welche nach dem phänomenologischen Modell von Landau Lifschitz betrachtet werden, können unter Nutzung der mikroskopischen und makroskopischen Werkstoffeigenschaften entwickelt werden. Jedoch beziehen sich diese Betrachtungen auf kristalline Schichten und nicht auf reale granulare Strukturen. Granulare Strukturen sollen [ 2 ] eine höhere Absorption der elektromagnetischen Energie realisieren können als kristalline Schichten.

Ziel dieser Arbeit ist es ein Simulationsmodell unter Nutzung realer amorpher und kristalliner Schichteigenschaften aufzubauen und einen Designhinweis zur Entwicklung einer Schicht hin zu höheren Absorptionen aufzuzeigen. Die erhöhte Absorption der granularen Nanomaterialien soll in elektromagnetischer Verträglichkeitsanwendungen (EMV) für Leitungen und Schichten für Entstörfolien eingesetzt werden. Eine RF – Materialanalyse, eine AFM ‐ Schichtanalyse und EMV ‐ Analyse schließt den Kreis zum Materialdesign und EMV zur Industrieanwendung als Absorbermaterial bzw. Entstörmaterial.
Nichtmagnetisierbarer warmbeständiger nichtrostender Stahl für Wälzlager
Authors: Riedner S. , Berns H. , Tyshchenko A. I. , Gavriljuk V. G. , Schulte‐Noelle C. , Trojahn W.
Published: July 2008

Durch Legieren von Chrom‐Mangan‐Stählen mit rund 1 % Kohlenstoff und Stickstoff wurde ein kostengünstiger, unter Normaldruck erschmelzbarer austenitischer Stahl entwickelt, der über eine neue und erstaunliche Eigenschaftskombination verfügt. Ausgehend von einer Streckgrenze um 600 MPa lässt er sich durch Kaltverformen auf eine Härte von 60 HRC verfestigen. Diese hohe Härte wird erstmals ohne das für Wälzlager übliche Martensitgefüge erzielt. Er ist außerdem nichtrostend, nichtmagnetisierbar und bis rund 500 °C warmbeständig, d. h. ein Werkstoff für komplexe Betriebsbedingungen.

Die Herstellbarkeit durch Blockguss, ESU, Warmumformen, Lösungsglühen und Drehbearbeiten wurde im industriellen Maßstab nachgewiesen. Die Untersuchung der Struktur des neuen Stahles erfolgte mehrskalig, beginnend bei der Elektronenstruktur und weiter über die Feinstruktur im Elektronenmikroskop, die Mikrostruktur im Lichtmikroskop bis hin zur Makroätzung. So konnte ein weitgehendes Verständnis für die außergewöhnliche Eigenschaftskombination des neuen, mit CARNIT bezeichneten Stahles gewonnen werden.
Mechanical property analysis of Nitinol defective stent under uniaxial loading/unloading
Authors: Zhi Y.H. , Wang X.M. , Gao Z.Z. , Liu Y.S. , Yue Z.F.
Published: July 2008

The vascular stents are important medical devices introduced into a vessel to protect the lumen from unfriendly stenosis. However, Nitinol stent is easy to fail in practice. The present paper focuses on the influence of defects on its mechanical behavior by finite element analysis. The essential stent cell is used with two different type of defects, which includes the face bulge defect resulted from laser burrs or TiC inclusion arises and C‐contained particle voids. Auricchio’s super‐elastic consititutive equations are used in the finite element simulations. It is found that the stress distribution is not only related to the defect type but also to the defect position. With the increasing distance from the TiC defect to the knot’s notch, the influence of defects on stress distribution of stents becomes small. For void defects, those near both the inner fillet and the outer fillet have grand influence on the stent’s global stress distribution. In particular, the higher stress concentrations are undergone near knot’s defects. For all models, the maximum Martensite Volume Fraction is near knots. The finite element analysis shows that cracks/fractures can easily appear near knots. A stent with a TiC inclusion or void defect is likely to fail. All obtained conclusions can be useful to design against stent premature mechanical failure.
Rad51 overexpression rescues radiation resistance in BRCA2‐defective cancer cells
Authors: Brown Erika T. , Holt Jeffrey T.
Published: July 2008

Breast cancers with BRCA2 mutations exhibit DNA repair defects and are particularly sensitive to radiation. BRCA2 interacts with Rad51 in a complex manner involving internal BRC and C‐terminal TR2 domains which play a key role in homologous recombination. BRCA2 expression also modulates Rad51 protein levels such that Rad51 protein is relatively decreased in BRCA2‐defective cancer cells. This is mediated in part through BRCA2's capacity to protect Rad51 from caspase‐3 proteolytic degradation. In order to distinguish between functional and expression related roles for BRCA2 we studied the results of Rad51 overexpression in mouse and human cells with inactivating BRCA2 mutations. The results show that overexpression of wild‐type Rad51 partially rescues BRCA2 deficiency but that overexpression of a caspase‐3 resistant Rad51 completely complements the BRCA2 defect in radiation responsiveness. These results indicate that Rad51 can compensate for some aspects of a BRCA2 gene defect and suggest that Rad51 expression levels may be an important modifier of the BRCA2 defective genotype. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molecular mechanisms of Nrf2‐mediated antioxidant response
Authors: Li Wenge , Kong Ah‐Ng
Published: July 2008

Nrf2 is the key transcription factor regulating the antioxidant response. Nrf2 signaling is repressed by Keap1 at basal condition and induced by oxidative stress. Keap1 is recently identified as a Cullin 3‐dependent substrate adaptor protein. A two‐sites binding “hinge & latch” model vividly depicts how Keap1 can efficiently present Nrf2 as substrate for ubiquitination. Oxidative perturbation can impede Keap1‐mediated Nrf2 ubiquitination but fail to disrupt Nrf2/Keap1 binding. Nrf2 per se is a redox‐sensitive transcription factor. A new Nrf2‐mediated redox signaling model is proposed based on these new discoveries. Free floating Nrf2 protein functions as a redox‐sensitive probe. Keap1 instead functions as a gate keeper to control the availability of Nrf2 probes and thus regulates the overall sensitivity of the redox signaling. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effectiveness of acupuncture for Parkinson's disease: A systematic review
Authors: Lee Myeong Soo , Shin Byung‐Cheul , Kong Jae Cheol , Ernst Edzard
Published: July 2008

The objective of this review is to assess the clinical evidence for or against acupuncture as a treatment for Parkinson's disease (PD). We searched the literature using 17 databases from their inception to September 2007 (searched again 3rd January 2008), without language restrictions. We included all randomized clinical trials (RCTs) regardless of their design. Methodological quality was assessed using the Jadad score. Eleven RCTs met all inclusion criteria. Three RCTs assessed the effectiveness of acupuncture on Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) compared with placebo acupuncture. A meta‐analysis of these studies showed no significant effect (n = 96, WMD, 5.7; 95% CI −2.8 to 14.2, P = 0.19, heterogeneity: tau2 = 0, χ2 = 0.97, P = 0.62, I2 = 0%). Another six RCTs compared acupuncture plus conventional drugs on improvement of symptoms of PD with drugs only. A meta‐analysis of two of these studies suggested a positive effect of scalp acupuncture (n = 106, RR, 1.46, 95% CI = 1.15 to 1.87, P = 0.002; heterogeneity: tau2 = 0.00, χ2 = 1.14, P = 0.29, I2 = 12%). Two further RCTs tested acupuncture versus no treatment. The meta‐analysis of these studies also suggested beneficial effects of acupuncture. The results of the latter two types of RCTs fail to adequately control for nonspecific effects. In conclusion, the evidence for the effectiveness of acupuncture for treating PD is not convincing. The number and quality of trials as well as their total sample size are too low to draw any firm conclusion. Further rigorous trials are warranted. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
Uric acid in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Schlesinger Ilana , Schlesinger Naomi
Published: July 2008

Recent studies have provided evidence that uric acid may play a role in the development and progression of Parkinson's disease (PD). Uric acid is a natural antioxidant that may reduce oxidative stress, a mechanism thought to play a role in the pathogenesis of PD. Higher levels of serum urate (SU) may have a neuroprotective effect. High SU levels reduced the risk of developing PD and correlated with slower PD progression. Among PD patients SU levels were lower as compared with controls. The manipulation of SU levels holds promise in the treatment of PD. It is possible that a high purine diet in patients with PD may slow progression of the disease. Milk and meat consumption as well as exercise modify the risk of developing PD possibly through their influence on SU levels. In this article, we review the association between PD and SU levels and its implication on the management of PD. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
Emergence of Parkinson's disease in essential tremor: A study of the clinical correlates in 53 patients
Authors: Minen Mia T. , Louis Elan D.
Published: July 2008

Patients with essential tremor (ET) may develop Parkinson's disease (PD); however, few studies have examined the clinical features of this combination syndrome. Fifty‐three patients with ET‐PD were studied and compared to 53 PD and 150 ET patients. Although the latency from onset of ET to PD was brief (<5 years) in 38.5%, in a sizable proportion (30.8%), it was very long (>20 years). The gender distribution of ET‐PD (67.9% male) was identical to that of PD (67.9% male), yet differed from that of ET (50.0% male) (P = 0.02). The initial cardinal sign of PD was rest tremor in 100% of patients. In ET‐PD, the side of greatest initial ET severity usually matched that of greatest PD severity (P < 0.05). In ET‐PD, male gender predominated and the sidedness of the ET and PD usually matched. The co‐occurrence of the two diagnoses in the same patient may be mechanistically related. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
Benign nocturnal alternating hemiplegia of childhood: The first clinical report with paroxysmal events home‐video recordings
Authors: Sartori Stefano , Vecchi Marilena , Toldo Irene , Boniver Clementina , Dalla Bernardina Bernardo , Maria Laverda Anna
Published: July 2008

Benign familial nocturnal alternating hemiplegia of childhood (BNAHC) is a rare disorder characterized by recurrent attacks of hemiplegia, arising from sleep without progression to neurological or intellectual impairment. It is distinct from the malignant, relatively more common, alternating hemiplegia of childhood (AHC), complicated by developmental deterioration, cognitive impairment, and permanent neurological deficits such as choreoathetosis. The authors add a new case of BNAHC to the pertinent literature and report, for the first time, a video with the typical nocturnal hemiplegic attacks in order to improve knowledge about this disorder among child neurologists and pediatricians and increase the possibility of clarifying its pathogenesis and molecular basis. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
Free DIEP and SIEA breast reconstruction to internal mammary intercostal perforating vessels with arterial microanastomosis using a mechanical coupling device
Authors: Rad Ariel N. , Flores Jaime I. , Rosson Gedge D.
Published: July 2008

Autologous breast reconstruction with microsurgical free tissue transfer has become routine, and perforator‐based adipocutaneous flaps are recognized as an excellent option for many patients. Current efforts to optimize patient outcomes focus on minimizing operative morbidity both at the donor and recipient sites. The DIEAP flap avoids most of the abdominal wall morbidity associated with the TRAM. At the recipient site, however, partial rib resection, for access to the internal mammary (IM) artery and vein as recipient vessels, has a risk of chest wall pain, deformity, and pneumothorax. Perhaps more importantly, sacrifice of the IM vessels precludes their use for potential future coronary revascularization. To avoid this, the intercostal perforating branches from the internal mammary system may be used as recipient vessels for microanastomosis. This has been well described using suture technique, although the use of a mechanical coupling device for arterial anastomosis to the perforator has not been reported. We report nine cases whereby a mechanical coupling device was used to perform both the arterial and venous anastomoses of DIEAP and SIEA flap pedicles to IM intercostal perforating vessels. Flap ischemia time was shorter in all cases, allowed ease of anastomosis for vessel size mismatch, and is technically easier in deep wounds. This technique is a further refinement to free flap breast reconstruction and is a powerful application of the coupling device. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2008.