bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sheep stromal‐epithelial cell interactions and ovarian tumor progression
Authors: Wang‐Johanning Feng , Huang Miao , Liu Jinsong , Rycaj Kiera , Plummer Joshua B. , Barnhart Kirstin F. , Satterfield William C. , Johanning Gary L.
Published: July 2007

Previous studies suggest that underlying ovarian stromal cues may regulate the ovarian surface epithelium. However, little is known about the interaction between ovarian stromal cells (OSC) and ovarian surface epithelial cells (OSE) under normal physiologic and pathologic conditions, largely because of the lack of a suitable model. In the current study, the OSC obtained from a sheep were immortalized with SV‐40 T/t antigen (designated IOSC) and telomerase reverse transcriptase (designated IOSCH), followed by transfection with the oncogenic allele of the human H‐Ras oncogene (designated IOSChR). IOSC cells transfected with H‐Ras before immortalization with telomerase were designated IOSCRH. These sheep OSCs were used in both in vitro and in vivo model systems to evaluate mechanisms by which OSCs influence ovarian tumor progression. Normal sheep OSCs were found to inhibit the growth of SKOV3 and OVCAR3 human ovarian cancer cells, but not normal sheep OSE and human OSE cells (hOSE137 cells). In contrast, IOSChR and IOSCRH cells stimulated the growth of normal sheep and human OSE cells, as well as cancer cells. These findings were confirmed by in vivo studies. Our data provide compelling support for the importance of stromal‐epithelial cell interactions during tumor progression, and show for the first time that immortalized and transformed OSCs promote growth of ovarian epithelial tumors. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Retracted: RNAi‐mediated downregulation of urokinase plasminogen activator receptor and matrix metalloprotease‐9 in human breast cancer cells results in decreased tumor invasion, angiogenesis and growth
Authors: Kunigal Sateesh , Lakka Sajani S. , Gondi Christopher S. , Estes Norman , Rao Jasti S.
Published: July 2007

The serine protease urokinase‐type plasminogen activator (uPA) plays a significant role in tumor cell invasion and metastasis when bound to its specific receptor, uPAR (also known as CD87). In addition to the uPA‐uPAR system, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are involved in tumor cell invasion and metastasis. In this study, we achieved specific inhibition of uPAR and MMP‐9 using RNAi technology. We introduced small interfering RNA to downregulate the expression of uPAR and MMP‐9 (pUM) in breast cancer cell lines (MDA MB 231 and ZR 75 1). In vitro angiogenesis studies indicated a decrease in the angiogenic potential of the treated cells; in particular, a remarkable decrease was observed in the cells treated with bicistronic construct (pUM) in comparision to the controls. Additionally, bicistronic construct inhibited the formation of capillary‐like structures in in vivo models of angiogenesis. Similarly, the invasive potential and migration decreased dramatically when treated with the bicistronic construct as shown by matrigel invasion and migration assays. These results suggest a synergistic effect from the simultaneous downregulation of uPAR and MMP‐9. We also assessed the levels of phosphorylated forms of MAPK, ERK and AKT signaling pathway molecules and found reduction in the levels of these molecules in cells treated with the bicistronic construct as compared to the control cells. Furthermore, targeting both uPAR and MMP‐9 totally regressed orthotopic breast tumors in nude mice. In conclusion, our results provide evidence that the simultaneous downregulation of uPAR and MMP‐9 using RNAi technology may provide an effective tool for breast cancer therapy. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The farnesyltransferase inhibitor R115777 (ZARNESTRA®) enhances the pro‐apoptotic activity of interferon‐α through the inhibition of multiple survival pathways
Authors: Caraglia Michele , Marra Monica , Viscomi Caterina , D'Alessandro Anna Maria , Budillon Alfredo , Meo Giuseppina , Arra Claudio , Barbieri Antonio , Rapp Ulf R , Baldi Alfonso , Tassone Pierfrancesco , Venuta Salvatore , Abbruzzese Alberto , Tagliaferri Pierosandro
Published: July 2007

Interferon α (IFNα) induces an EGF‐Ras→Raf‐1→Erk dependent survival pathway counteracting apoptosis induced by the cytokine. In this paper we have evaluated the effects of the combination between farnesyl‐transferase inhibitor (FTI) R115777 and IFNα on the growth inhibition and apoptosis of cancer cells. Simultaneous exposure to R115777 and IFNα produced synergistic both antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects. In these experimental conditions, IFNα and R115777 completely antagonized the increased activity of both Ras and Erk‐1/2 induced by IFNα and strongly reduced Akt activity. Furthermore, treatment with R115777 in combination with IFNα regimen induced tumor growth delay on established KB cell xenografts in nude mice, while the single agents were almost inactive. R115777 was again able to antagonize the Ras‐dependent survival pathway induced by IFNα alsoin vivo. Raf‐1, one of the downstream targets of Ras, has been reported to activate bcl‐2 through displacement and/or phosphorylation of Bad. We have found that IFNα induced mitochondrial localization of Raf‐1 that was antagonized by R115777. Moreover, IFNα increased Raf‐1/bcl‐2 immuno‐conjugate formation and intracellular co‐localization and enhanced phosphorylation of Bad at Ser 112 and again R115777 counteracted all these effects. Moreover, the use of plasmids encoding for dominant negative or dominant positive Raf‐1 antagonized and potentiated, respectively, the co‐immunoprecipitation between Raf‐1 and bcl‐2. In conclusion, FTI R115777 strongly potentiates the antitumor activity of IFNα bothin vitroandin vivothrough the inhibition of different survival pathways that are dependent from isoprenylation of intracellular proteins such as ras. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hypoxia upregulates carcinoembryonic antigen expression in cancer cells
Authors: Kokkonen Nina , Ulibarri Ines Fernandez , Kauppila Annika , Luosujärvi Hanne , Rivinoja Antti , Pospiech Helmut , Kellokumpu Ilmo , Kellokumpu Sakari
Published: July 2007

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA, ceacam5) is an important tumor‐associated antigen with reported roles, e.g., in immunological defense, cell adhesion, cell survival and metastasis. Its overexpression in cancer cells is known to involve transcriptional activation of the CEA gene, but the underlying molecular details remain unclear. Here, we show that hypoxia and intracellular alkalinization, 2 factors commonly found in solid tumors, increase CEA protein expression in breast (MCF‐7) and colorectal (CaCo‐2 and HT‐29) cancer cells. The increase was comparable (2–3‐fold) to that observed in colorectal carcinomas in vivo. CEA promoter analyses further revealed that this upregulation involves a known binding site for HIF‐1 transcription factor (5′‐ACGTG‐3′) within one of the CEA promoter's positive regulatory elements (the FP1 site; the E‐box). Accordingly, deletion or targeted mutagenesis of this motif rendered the CEA promoter unresponsive to hypoxia. Our chromatin immunoprecipitation data confirmed that endogenous HIF‐1α binds to the CEA promoter in hypoxic cells but not in normoxic cells. Moreover, overexpression of the hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF‐1α) was sufficient to increase CEA protein expression in the cells. In contrast, c‐Myc, which is known to bind to the overlapping E‐box, did not potentiate HIF‐1α‐induced CEA expression. CEA overexpression in vivo was also found to coincide with the expression of carbonic anhydrase IX, a well‐known hypoxia marker. Collectively, these results define CEA as a hypoxia‐inducible protein and suggest an important role for the tumor microenvironmental factors in CEA overexpression during tumorigenesis. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
An improvement on covering triples by quadruples
Authors: Ji L.
Published: July 2007

Let C(3,4,v) be the minimum number of four‐element subsets (called blocks or quadruples) of a v‐element set X, such that each three‐element subset of X is contained in at least one block. Let $L(3,4,v)=\lceil {v\over 4}\lceil{v-1\over 3}\lceil{v-2\over 2}\rceil\rceil\rceil$. Schönheim has obtained C(3,4,v) ≥  L(3,4,v). Further, Mills showed that C(3,4,v) = L(3,4,v) for v ≢ 7 (mod 12), and Hartman, Mills, and Mullin showed that C(3,4,v) = L(3,4,v) for v ≡ 7 (mod 12) with v ≥  52423 or v = 499. In this article, it is proved that C(3,4,v) = L(3,4,v) for all v ≡ 7 (mod 12) with an exception v = 7 and possible exceptions of v = 12k + 7, k ∈ {1,2,3,4,5,7,8,9,10,11,12,16,21,23,25,29}. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Combin Designs 16: 231–243, 2008
Cyclooxygenase‐2 mRNA expression correlates with aromatase expression in human breast cancer
Authors: Salhab M. , Singh‐Ranger G. , Mokbel R. , Jouhra F. , Jiang W.G. , Mokbel K.
Published: July 2007

Introduction

The cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), responsible for the conversion of arachidonic acid into prostaglandin (PG) E2, is known to increase intracellular cAMP and estrogen production in malignant breast tissue. The aromatase enzyme complex is responsible for local production of estrogens in breast cancer. Increasing evidence supports a role for COX‐2 in upregulation of aromatase activity. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between COX‐2 and aromatase mRNA expression in human breast cancer.

Methods

A total of 160 breast samples (127 tumor tissues and 33 normal tissues) were analyzed. Levels of transcription were determined using real‐time quantitative PCR. COX‐2 and aromatase mRNA expression were normalized against CK19. Levels of expression of COX‐2 were correlated with those of aromatase using Pearson's correlation method.

Results

Levels of expression of COX‐2/CK19 of both benign and malignant tissues were positively correlated with aromatase/CK19 transcript levels (correlation coefficient = +0.536, P < 0.0001). When we compared levels of expression of both genes in malignant samples only, there was a highly significant positive correlation (r = +0.611, P < 0.00001).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates a strong positive relationship between COX‐2 and aromatase mRNA expression, and lends further support to the hypothesis that COX‐2 is an upregulator of aromatase in breast tissue. J. Surg. Oncol. 2007;96:424–428. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Computability of compact operators on computable Banach spaces with bases
Authors: Brattka Vasco , Dillhage Ruth
Published: July 2007

We develop some parts of the theory of compact operators from the point of view of computable analysis. While computable compact operators on Hilbert spaces are easy to understand, it turns out that these operators on Banach spaces are harder to handle. Classically, the theory of compact operators on Banach spaces is developed with the help of the non‐constructive tool of sequential compactness. We demonstrate that a substantial amount of this theory can be developed computably on Banach spaces with computable Schauder bases that are well‐behaved. The conditions imposed on the bases are such that they generalize the Hilbert space case. In particular, we prove that the space of compact operators on Banach spaces with monotone, computably shrinking, and computable bases is a computable Banach space itself and operations such as composition with bounded linear operators from left are computable. Moreover, we provide a computable version of the Theorem of Schauder on adjoints in this framework and we discuss a non‐uniform result on composition with bounded linear operators from right. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
On the complexity of the pancake problem
Authors: Yu Fuxiang
Published: July 2007

We study the computational complexity of finding a line that bisects simultaneously two sets in the two‐dimensional plane, calledthe pancake problem, using the oracle Turing machine model of Ko. We also study the basic problem of bisecting a set at a given direction. Our main results are:

(1) The complexity of bisecting a nice (thick) polynomial‐time approximable set at a given direction can be characterized by the counting class #P.

(2) The complexity of bisecting simultaneously two linearly separable nice (thick) polynomial‐time approximable sets can be characterized by the counting class #P.

(3) For either of these two problems, without the thickness condition and the linear separability condition (for the two‐set case), it is arbitrarily hard to compute the bisector, even if it is unique. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Polyester‐based Copolymers for Biomaterials Fabrication
Authors: Koseva Neli , Kurcok Piotr , Adamus Grazyna , Troev Kolio , Kowalczuk Marek
Published: July 2007

Summary: Results on synthesis of poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate)s possessing one or two hydroxyl groups at one terminus of the chain and carboxylic group at the other chain end are reported. These polymers were further functionalised via transesterification with dimethyl H‐phosphonate thus incorporating a reactive/biodegradable center in the polyester backbone. Block/star‐like copolymers composed of hydrophilic PEG and hydrophobic poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) segments linked by phosphoester moiety were also obtained. Chemical structure and composition of the reaction products were analysed applying different spectroscopic techniques (1H, and 31P NMR, IR and ESI‐MS) and size exclusion chromatography was applied to describe molecular weight averages and distribution.
Biodegradable Polyesters for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Slomkowski Stanislaw
Published: July 2007

Summary: Paper describes basic characteristics of synthesis and properties of aliphatic polyesters used for tissue engineering. Described is also synthesis of polyester containing block copolymers suitable for surface modification. Described are methods used for scaffold fabrication with required porosity. In particular, presented are methods according to which scaffolds are made from prefabricated polyester micro‐ and nanoparticles.
IntelliDrug Implant for Medicine Delivery in Alzheimer's Disease Treatment
Authors: Moscicka Aleksandra E. , Czarnecka Kinga , Ciach Tomasz
Published: July 2007

Summary: IntelliDrug it is a denture implant containing a reservoir with drug and making enable a galantamine transport via buccal mucosa by means of iontophoresis. The in vitro experimental studies on drug passive and iontophoretic transport through porcine buccal mucosa were carrying out in horizontal two‐chamber permeation cell with silver electrodes. The drug mass flux was investigated. The influences of initial drug concentration and current density for transport velocity were defined.
Sleep‐related faciomandibular myoclonus: A sleep‐related movement disorder different from bruxism
Authors: Loi Daniela , Provini Federica , Vetrugno Roberto , D'Angelo Roberto , Zaniboni Anna , Montagna Pasquale
Published: July 2007

We describe a 33‐year‐old man who presented with lip and tongue nibbling and bleeding during sleep. Videopolysomnography revealed myoclonic jerks involving the masticatory and facial muscles recurring mainly during NREM sleep. There was no tonic EMG masticatory activity typical of bruxism. EMG analysis demonstrated the recruitment of V‐ to VII innervated muscles and, in half of the episodes, also the sternocleidomastoideus. Our patient had sleep‐related faciomandibular myoclonus (SFMM) with spontaneous jerks of oromasticatory and cervical muscles, occurring only during sleep. Tooth grinding, temporomandibular joint pain, abnormal tooth mobility, tooth wear, and other dental problems were clinically absent. We propose that, on the basis of the clinical and EMG features, SFMM may be considered a distinct disorder and different from sleep bruxism. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Isolated tongue tremor after removal of cerebellar pilocytic astrocytoma: Functional analysis with SPECT study
Authors: Kim Suk Jae , Lee Won Yong , Kim Byoung Joon , Kim Ji‐Youn , Hong Seung Bong , Tae Woo Suk , Seo Dae‐Won
Published: July 2007

Tongue tremor is a rare form of focal tremor. Even though the dysfunction of the dentato‐rubro‐olivary circular pathway has been proposed as its mechanism, the origin of the rhythmic activities remains unknown. We experienced a case of isolated tongue tremor after the removal of a cerebellar pilocytic astrocytoma. To localize the activated structures corresponding to the isolated tongue tremor, we analyzed subtracted ictal SPECT coregistered to MRI (SISCOM). SISCOM demonstrated multiregional hyperperfusion including the Guillain‐Mollaret triangular and extratriangular structures. The activation of the inferior olive and red nucleus and accompanying extratriangular structures might be related to the isolated tongue tremor. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Medullary infarcts may cause ipsilateral masseter reflex abnormalities
Authors: Thömke Frank , Marx Jürgen J. , Cruccu Giorgio , Stoeter Peter , Hopf Hanns C.
Published: July 2007

There is a suprasegmental influence on the masseter reflex (MassR) in animals, which is mediated via the fifth nerve spinal nucleus (5SpN). Corresponding data in humans are lacking. Out of 268 prospectively recruited patients with clinical signs of acute brainstem infarctions, we identified 38 with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–documented unilateral infarcts caudal to the levels of the fifth nerve motor and main sensory nuclei. All had biplanar T2‐ and echo planar diffusion‐weighted MRI and MassR testing. Five patients (13%) had ipsilateral MassR abnormalities. In all, the infarcts involved the region of the 5SpN. Patients with medullary infarcts involving the region of the 5SpN may thus have ipsilateral MassR abnormalities. This possibly represents an interruption of an excitatory projection mediated via the 5SpN to masseter motoneurons in the fifth nerve motor nucleus. MassR abnormalities with medullary lesions restrict the topodiagnostic value of the MassR. Muscle Nerve, 2007
Lateral femoral cutaneous neuropathy and its surgical treatment: A report of 167 cases
Authors: Benezis Igor , Boutaud Benoit , Leclerc Jerome , Fabre Thierry , Durandeau Alain
Published: July 2007

Surgical treatment of lateral femoral cutaneous neuropathy (LFCN) is performed only after failure of conservative management. We reexamined 167 cases (7 bilateral) of LFCN of various etiologies (idiopathic, abdominal surgery, iliac crest bone grafting, trauma, and total hip arthroplasty) operated on between 1987 and 2003. Average follow‐up was 98 months (20–212). The intervention was performed under local anesthesia in 139 cases (83%). Surgical release of the nerve was performed in 153 cases (92%) and transection in 14 cases (8%). Surgical treatment of LFCN led to improvement and patient satisfaction in 130 cases (78%). The results depended on several factors, especially the underlying etiology, duration of symptoms before intervention, and integrity of the nerve. Nerve release remains the first‐line surgical technique, improving painful symptoms in many cases while preserving sensation of the thigh. It can be performed under local anesthesia by an experienced surgeon. Muscle Nerve, 2007
Using prescription claims data for drugs available over‐the‐counter (OTC)
Authors: Yood Marianne Ulcickas , Campbell Ulka B. , Rothman Kenneth J. , Jick Susan S. , Lang Janet , Wells Karen E. , Jick Hershel , Johnson Christine C.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

Many pharmacoepidemiologic studies use automated prescription claims data to estimate the association between exposure and disease. One limitation of automated data, when studying drugs that are also available via retail, is that over‐the‐counter (OTC) exposure is missed. The purpose of this study is to quantify the effect of misclassification of OTC use in research that uses prescription claims data as the sole source of exposure information.

Methods

We conducted a sensitivity analysis in the context of studies of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and colorectal cancer. The following factors were widely varied to examine the impact on the validity of the effect estimate for NSAIDs and colorectal cancer: (1) the overall prevalence of NSAID exposure in the population, (2) the proportion of NSAID exposure due to OTC use (the prevalence of missed NSAID exposure in studies of prescription claims), and (3) the true risk ratio (RRtrue). We graphed the RR that would be observed (RRobserved) as a function of overall prevalence of NSAID use and the prevalence of NSAID use that is OTC exposure.

Results

We found that when the true RR ranges from 0.25 to 0.75, missing OTC drug exposure is not a large source of bias in those situations in which the overall prevalence of drug use is relatively low (less than 35%) and the proportion of drug use that is OTC exposure is as high as 80%.

Conclusion

Results from our sensitivity analysis indicate that, in many circumstances, prescription claims data can give valid estimates of association even though some of the drugs are available OTC. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predictive factors of self‐medicated drug use among the Spanish adult population
Authors: Carrasco‐Garrido P. , Jiménez‐García R. , Barrera V. Hernández , Gil de Miguel A.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

Our study aimed at describing the prevalence of self‐medicated drug use among the Spanish adult population and to identify the predictive factors of such self‐medication in Spain.

Methods

Descriptive, cross‐sectional study covering the Spanish adult population, using data drawn from the 2003 Spanish National Health Survey (ENSS). A total of 19 514 subjects were analysed. The independent variables were socio‐demographic and health‐related, and the dependent variable was self‐medicated drug use. Using logistic multivariate regression models we have estimated the independent effect of each of these variables on the self‐medicated consumption.

Results

The 18.1% of all Spaniards indulge in self‐medication. Our study shows that 45% of all cold and influenza medication and 39.4% of analgesics consumed by the population involve self‐medication. It should be stressed here that 17.7% of persons who took antibiotics did so in the form of self‐medication. The variables that were independently and significantly associated with a greater probability of self‐medicated consumption were: sex; lower age; higher educational level; consumption of alcohol; smoking habit; use of alternative medical products; absence of chronic disease and a positive perception of health.

Conclusions

In Spain, the prevalence of self‐medicated drug use is higher in women than men. In our population, the influence of unhealthy lifestyles, such as alcohol and tobacco consumption, is related to a higher likelihood of self‐medication. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Elaboration of open‐cell microcellular nanocomposites
Authors: Lépine O. , Birot M. , Deleuze H.
Published: July 2007

Stable water‐in‐oil high internal phase emulsions, containing styrene and divinylbenzene monomers and exfoliated montmorillonite, were prepared and polymerized to obtain nanocomposite microcellular materials. The porous structure was investigated by scanning electron microscopy, mercury intrusion porosimetry, and nitrogen adsorption/desorption analyses. The exfoliation of clay was investigated by X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy analyses. The presence of inorganic filler did not modify the microcellular structure of the composite, while the use of modified clay significantly enhanced its mechanical properties. No influence on the thermal degradation was noted, except for materials with high clay content that tended to deteriorate at lower temperature than the other materials. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 4193–4203, 2007
Synthesis and characterization of tris(2,2′‐bipyridine)ruthenium‐cored star‐shaped polymers via RAFT polymerization
Authors: Zhou Guangchang , He Jibao , Harruna Issifu I.
Published: July 2007

A new bipyridine‐functionalized dithioester was synthesized and further used as a RAFT agent in RAFT polymerization of styrene and N‐isopropylacrylamide. Kinetics analysis indicates that it is an efficient chain transfer agent for RAFT polymerization of the two monomers which produce polystyrene and poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) polymers with predetermined molecular weights and low polydispersities in addition to the end functionality of bipyridine. The bipyridine end‐functionalized polymers were further used as macroligands for the preparation of star‐shaped metallopolymers. Hydrophobic polystyrene macroligand combined with hydrophiphilic poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) was complexed with ruthenium ions to produce amphiphilic ruthenium‐cored star‐shaped metallopolymers. The structures of these synthesized metallopolymers were further elucidated by UV–vis, fluorescence, size exclusion chromatography (SEC), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) as well as NMR techniques. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 4225–4239, 2007
Measurement of gas solubility in linear/branched PP melts
Authors: Li G. , Wang J. , Park C. B. , Simha R.
Published: July 2007

A magnetic suspension balance was employed in experiments to measure gas solubility in the polymer melts. The gas solubilities of CO2and N2in both linear and branched Polypropylene (PP) were investigated. The swollen volumes predicted by the Sanchez–Lacombe equation of state (EOS) and Simha–Somcynsky EOS were applied to incorporate the buoyancy effect, which is essential for the accurate measurement of solubility data. The effects of the branched structure on the swollen volume and gas solubility were discussed. It was observed that the long chain branched PP exhibited less expandability than the linear PP, due to the entangled molecular chain structure. Therefore, the total amount of gas that was able to dissolve into the long chain branched PP turned out to be less. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 45: 2497–2508, 2007
Molecular orientation study of uniaxially drawn nafion polymer electrolyte membranes utilizing polarized UV–Raman spectra
Authors: Chourdakis N. , Voyiatzis G. A.
Published: July 2007

Nafion® perfluorosulfonic acid polymer electrolyte membranes were uniaxially drawn at a temperature where the α‐relaxation is active. Polarized UV–Raman spectra revealed the anisotropy developed. They strongly suggest that, upon uniaxial drawing, Nafion macromolecular chains are oriented parallel to the drawing axis, while the perfluorinated side chains exhibit a tendency to be oriented perpendicular to the draw axis. The drawing process resulted in the reduction of the membrane thickness in addition to an enhanced mechanical strength along the draw direction, measured with dynamic mechanical analysis. In a parallel study, a preliminary molecular orientation study of uniaxially drawn Teflon samples allowed a better assignment of the Raman bands of Nafion. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 45: 2509–2517, 2007
Design and power management of a solar‐powered “Cool Robot” for polar instrument networks
Authors: Ray Laura E. , Lever James H. , Streeter Alexander D. , Price Alexander D.
Published: July 2007

TheCool Robotis a four‐wheel‐drive, solar‐powered, autonomous robot designed to support summertime science campaigns in Antarctica and Greenland over distances exceeding 500 km. This paper provides an overview of key features of the robot, including design for good mobility, high efficiency, and long‐term deployment under solar power in harsh polar environments. TheCool Robot's solar panel box, comprising panels on four sides and a top panel, encounters insolation variations with a bandwidth of up to 1 Hz due to sastrugi. The paper details a unique photovoltaic control algorithm to accommodate these variations. We deployed the robot at Summit Camp, Greenland to validate its mobility and power budget and to assess the photovoltaic control system. The 61 kg robot drove continuously at 0.78 m/s on soft snow, its 160 W average power demand met by solar power alone under clear skies above 16° sun elevation. The power‐control system reliably matched input with demand as insolation varied during testing. A simple GPS waypoint‐following algorithm provides low‐bandwidth path planning and course correction and demonstrated reliable autonomous navigation during testing over periods of 5–8 h. Field data validate theCool Robotdesign models and indicate that it will exceed its design goal of carrying a 15 kg payload 500 km across Antarctica in 2 weeks. A brief description of instrument payloads and scientific studies aided by networks of such autonomous solar robots is provided. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Active ensemble learning: Application to data mining and bioinformatics
Authors: Mamitsuka Hiroshi , Abe Naoki
Published: July 2007

This paper describes a new set of learning procedures which have been proposed by the authors. The method combines active learning and the accuracy enhancement techniques of bagging and boosting, and may be called active ensemble learning. Any of these procedures achieves highly accurate learning by iteratively selecting (querying) a small amount of data with large information content from a data space or database. This paper describes not only the technical aspect of the method, but also the results of application to two real problems, namely, active planning of biochemical or molecular biological experiments in immunology, and customer segmentation from a large‐scale body of data in the CRM (customer relationship management) field. It is demonstrated that the proposed methods can achieve greater data efficiency and prediction accuracy than conventional methods. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Comp Jpn, 38(11): 100–108, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/scj.10355
Recognition and tracking of object positions in image sequences using multiple‐viewpoint television broadcast images
Authors: Sakaki Kazunori , Yokota Kenichiro , Ohno Keiji , Suzuki Kohei , Arisawa Hiroshi
Published: July 2007

In this paper we examine whether semantic information can be extracted automatically from the type of multichannel images currently broadcast in Japan and whether such information can be used in practical applications as a forerunner of next‐generation broadcasting systems. We propose a method for extracting objects from multiple‐viewpoint broadcast television images that is based on analyzing a core wide‐view image; we then apply this method to a real multiple‐viewpoint television broadcast of a soccer match. Specifically, we extract information regarding the location of each player based on the relations between the wide‐view image and other local‐view images using both of these to extract the location of players and perform tracking. We show that each player can be tracked over a long period of time using this method. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Comp Jpn, 38(11): 64–79, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/scj.20195
Development of security functions for a medical information sharing platform
Authors: Kiyomoto Shinsaku , Tanaka Toshiaki , Miyake Yutaka , Mitamura Yoshinori
Published: July 2007

It is considered important in the medical care sector to share medical information such as case information. There have been positive moves toward electronic storage and sharing of various data. There have been many studies of systems to realize such services, but the usual approach is to construct a network system of client–server type with concentrated information management at one site. In contrast, we are promoting the development of a medical information sharing platform in which information distributed among peers (hospitals) is shared. The P2P configuration has the advantage that the processing load is distributed and a relatively low‐cost system can be created. The keys to creating this platform include the development of a secure information sharing mechanism, and also an efficient retrieval mechanism. This paper presents a security mechanism which was constructed for verification experiments on such a platform. In the design of the security mechanism, the above characteristics of the platform are considered, and an attempt is made to provide content in a practical processing time. The implemented security mechanism is evaluated assuming the processing loads that occur in actual operation, and its effectiveness is demonstrated. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Comp Jpn, 38(11): 49–63, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/scj.20466
Discrimination of similar characters with a nonlinear compound discriminant function
Authors: Suzuki Hitoshi , Waizumi Yuji , Kato Nei , Nemoto Yoshiaki
Published: July 2007

In studies of similar character recognition, the quadratic compound discriminant function has been proposed, in which a quadratic nonlinear transformation is applied to the compound discriminant function. It has been shown that the method can achieve high discrimination power. It may be true that a better decision boundary is estimated by raising the order of the nonlinear transformation, but the realization of third‐ or higher‐order nonlinear compound discriminant functions is difficult due to the explosive increase of the amount of computation. On the other hand, the nonlinear transformation using kernel functions has recently been attracting attention. The high‐order nonlinear transformation can be realized by this approach with a small amount of computation. It is expected that the above problem will be solved by performing a nonlinear transformation of the compound discriminant function by this method. This paper shows that the nonlinear transformation of the compound discriminant function can be formulated by using a kernel function, and proposes the nonlinear compound discriminant function. A recognition experiment shows that greater discrimination power than the quadratic compound discriminant function can be acquired by the proposed method with almost the same amount of computation as that using the compound discriminant function. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Comp Jpn, 38(11): 36– 48, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/scj.20530
A virtual type for a multiple‐type object and its implementation
Authors: Sato Hideki , Aritsugi Masayoshi
Published: July 2007

To deal with the evolution of data and applications and with the existence of multiple views for the same data, the object data model needs to be extended with the object extension functionality to allow an object to dynamically change its type, and the object viewing functionality to allow an object to be seen as if it had a different structure and behavior. This paper proposes the virtual type facility which provides a persistent object of ?, an enhanced C++ persistent programming language compliant with the ?standard, with a different structure and behavior from those of its base types. Additionally, it presents the implementation details of the facility. The virtual type facility gives a different interface of an object to redefine its structure and behavior without affecting the behavior of a base type, while the multiple‐type object of ?allows an object to be dynamically extended to model an entity which changes its behavior with time. The virtual type facility integrates the object extension functionality and the object viewing functionality for dealing with the database evolution. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Comp Jpn, 38(11): 25–35, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/scj.20781
A statistical error model for image sensors and its testing
Authors: Ichihara Hideyuki , Kuchii Toshimasa , Yamadate Masaaki , Sakaguchi Hideaki , Uemura Hiroshi , Kinoshita Kozo
Published: July 2007

Since images obtained from image sensor devices are commonly tested by performing a manual inspection or by means of procedures that involve large amounts of image processing, the growth in testing costs as the size of such devices increases poses a significant problem. Several approaches to automating the testing process have been proposed with a view to reducing testing costs but trial and error is needed to set the parameters required by such test procedures. In this paper we propose an error model for images taken by image sensor devices that can perform a quantitative evaluation with a small number of free parameters. Image quality testing can be performed relatively easily using this model since it replaces a previously ambiguous error model by one that can be determined uniquely. In addition, since the proposed error model is defined statistically in terms of the brightness levels of pixels in each of the individual images, even if there are individual differences between the image sensor devices, these have no influence on the testing procedure. Experimental results demonstrate that an image quality testing based on the proposed error model has the same level of accuracy as manual inspections performed by an experienced technician. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Comp Jpn, 38(11): 1– 11, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/scj.20804
Brain metabolic changes following 4‐week citalopram infusion: Increased 18FDG uptake and γ‐amino butyric acid levels
Authors: Marsteller Douglas A. , Barbarich‐Marsteller Nicole C. , Patel Vinal D. , Dewey Stephen L.
Published: July 2007

We used 2‐week and 4‐week citalopram infusion (10 mg/kg/day) to determine how this selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) would alter 2‐deoxy‐2‐[18F]‐fluoro‐D‐glucose (18FDG) uptake and neurotransmitter tissue levels in male Sprague‐Dawley rodents. A weekly time course of 18FDG uptake altered by chronic citalopram treatment was determined in vivo with small animal positron emission tomography (microPET®). Additionally, end of study monoamine levels were measured ex vivo using high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and amino acid levels were determined ex vivo with proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H‐NMRS). We found increased striatal 18FDG uptake, reduced tissue levels of noradrenaline and serotonin in the striatum and prefrontal cortex, and increased striatal γ‐amino‐butyric acid following 4‐week citalopram infusion. Synapse 61:877–881, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fostering conceptual change and critical reasoning about HIV and AIDS
Authors: Keselman Alla , Kaufman David R. , Kramer Sharon , Patel Vimla L.
Published: July 2007

One of the challenges of science education is for students to develop scientific knowledge that is personally meaningful and applicable to real‐life issues. This article describes a middle‐school science intervention fostering adolescents' critical reasoning in the context of HIV by strengthening their conceptual understanding of HIV biology. The intervention included two components: critical reasoning activities that fostered knowledge integration and application to real‐world problem solving, and science writing activities that promoted argument building. Two seventh‐grade classes participated in the study. One class participated in the critical reasoning and writing activities (CR&W); the other class participated in critical reasoning activities only (CR group). Results demonstrate significant pre‐ and posttest improvements on measures of students' HIV knowledge, HIV understanding, and critical reasoning about realistic scenarios in the context of HIV, with the improvements being greater in the CR&W group. The discussion focuses on the role of conceptual knowledge in health reasoning, the role of science writing in fostering knowledge integration, and the benefits of a “thinking curriculum” approach to integrated health and science education. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 44: 844–863, 2007
Thermal behavior of prospective hydroxy acid grease thickeners
Authors: Hagemann J. W. , Rothfus J. A.
Published: July 2007

Melting points and heats of fusion were determined for 13 hydroxy acids and their lithium salts with chain lengths ranging from 14 to 24 carbons. Included were hydroxy acids prepared from two unusual plant sources,Lesquerella sp. andCrambe abyssinica. Upper melting point temperatures, transition entropies, and heat capacity changes of the lithium salts on heating and cooling suggest that many of the salts, particularly those of 14‐hydroxyeicosanoic and 9(10)‐hydroxystearic acids, would perform satisfactorily as gelling agents in the production of lubricating greases.
Relationship between slip melting point and pulsed NMR data of palm kernel oil
Authors: Goh E. M. , Ker T. H.
Published: July 2007

A quantitative relationship between slip melting point (SMP) of palm kernel oil and pulsed nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data was established. Regression analysis on the SMP and solid fat content (SFC) data by NMR afforded the following relationship: SMP (°C) = 0.03278 X (SFC 10) + 0.1458 X (SFC 20) + 19.1738 where SFC 10 was the solid fat content (%) at 10°C and SFC 20 was the solid fat content (%) at 20°C. The coefficient of multiple correlation was 0.87871. The equation was tested with 12 samples of crude and refined palm kernel oil. SMPs as determined indirectly by NMR correlated well with the conventional open capillary tube results (r = 0.99998). The maximum difference observed was 0.3°C. The correlation can be applied usefully for quality control.
Identification of conjugated fatty acids in the seed oil of Acioa edulis (Prance) syn. Couepia edulis (Chrysobalanaceae)
Authors: Spitzer V. , Marx F. , Maia J. G. S. , Pfeilsticker K.
Published: July 2007

The oil ofAcioa edulis has the fatty acid composition: palmitic acid 28.3%, palmitoleic acid 1.3%, stearic acid 6.8%, oleic acid 26.5%, vaccenic acid 1.3%, linoleic acid 8.8%, arachidic acid 0.7%, a‐eleostearic acid 7.3% and a‐licanic acid 19%. The oil was analyzed and components were identified by ultraviolet (UV), infrared (IR), nuclear magnetic resonance OH‐NMR,13C‐NMR), gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/ MS) and chemical methods. For transesterification the tetramethylguanidine reagent was used and it was shown that the method is very suitable for conjugated fatty acids. The equivalent chain lengths of α‐eleostearic acid and a‐licanic acid and their all‐trans isomers were determined on DB 23 and OV‐1. The electron impact (El) and chemical ionization (CI) (with isobutane) mass spectra of licanic acid, eleos‐tearic acid and the El mass spectrum of 4‐oxo‐azelaic acid are presented and discussed. Furthermore, a comparison of literature data of seeds with the same common name is presented.
Omega‐three fatty acids in purslane (Portulaca oleracea) Tissues
Authors: Omara‐Alwala Thomas R. , Mebrahtu Tadesse , Prior Debra E. , Ezekwe Michael O.
Published: July 2007

Total lipids and omega‐3 fatty acids in purslane(Portulaca oleracea) were determined in leaves, stems and whole plants at three ages. Significant differences (P<0.05) existed in levels of total lipids among ages and between leaves and stems, but no relationship of age to plant part (>O5) was found. Contents of 18:3ω3,20:5ω3, 22:5ω3,22:6ω3,18:2ω6 and 18:loω9 showed that leaves were the richer source of omega‐3 acids at each age.
Genetics of the kunitz trypsin inhibitor: An antinutritional factor in soybeans
Authors: Orf J. H. , Hymowitz T.
Published: July 2007

The major trypsin inhibitor present in soybean seed [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] is the Kunitz trypsin inhibitor or soybean trypsin inhibitor A2 (SBTI‐A2). Four types of SBTI‐A29 have been identified in the U.S. soybean germplasm collection. Three of the types designated Tia, Tib, and Tic are electrophoretically distinguishable from one another by their different Rf values of 0.79, 0.75, and 0.83, respectively. The three types are inherited as codominant alleles in a multiple allelic system at a single locus. The fourth type which is the absence of SBTI‐A2 is found in P.I. 157440 and P.I. 196168. The gene for the lack of SBTI‐A2 is designated ti and is inherited as a recessive allele to the other three SBTI‐A2 9 types. Tia is the most common SBTI‐A2 type in the germplasm collection. Linkage studies revealed that the SBTI‐A2 protein is inherited independently of certain morphological characters and chemical components of seed. Potential applications of the SBTI‐A2 types are discussed.
Gossypol and some other terpenoids, flavonoids, and phenols that affect quality of cottonseed protein
Authors: Jones Lynn A.
Published: July 2007

Recent interest in gossypol, the biologically active phenol characteristic of the cotton genusGossypium, has been generated by concerns beyond its physiological effects on animals. These concerns are primarily investigations into possible natural pest resistance factors in cotton and were prompted by differences noted in glanded and glandless varieties. This work has led to the characterization of gossypol‐like compounds in other parts of the plant as well as in the seed. Likewise, work on the investigation of color and flavor components of cottonseed, carried out in an effort to characterize the product for food flavonoids. Phenolic acid fractions have also been indicated in flour preparations of both glandless and glanded cottonseed.
Effect of sugars and sugar alcohols on autoxidation of safflower oil in emulsions
Authors: Sims R. J. , Fioriti J. A. , Trumbetas J.
Published: July 2007

Oxygen absorption rates were measured on liquid emulsions containing safflower oil and glycerol, sugars or sugar alcohols. Stability to oxidation improved as the level of added compound was increased. Emulsion viscosities were higher, and resistance to creaming was better at the higher concentrations of additives. It is suggested that diffusion of oxygen through the oil‐water interface is the rate determining step which is probably slower at high viscosity and in the absence of creaming. Freezedried emulsions containing safflower oil, protein, polyols and anionic surfactant oxidized more rapidly than did those samples in which either polyol or surfactant was omitted. The differences in oxidation rate could be accounted for on the basis of degree of oil dispersion and porosity of the dried particles. No evidence has been found for any true antioxidant or pro‐oxidant effect of these compounds.
The DSC thermal analysis of crystallization behavior in palm oil
Authors: Kawamura K.
Published: July 2007

Polymorphic behavior of palm oil crystals was studied by DSC isothermal analysis and microscopic observation. Different crystal forms developed specific spherulites depending on the degree of super‐cooling from the melt. The A‐form crystal was capable of forming a dotted spherulite and the B‐form crystal of forming a dendritic spherulite. Experimental results of B form crystallization studied by the DSC and a microscope under kinetic conditions were evaluated using Avarami's theory, since the behavior of the oil during crystallization related well to that of high polymers. The crystallization process was divided into nucleation and crystal‐growth phases to facilitate a theoretical treatment similar to that of high polymers, providing crystals possessing overall structural regularity.
Soap—Based detergent formulations: XXV. Synthesis and surface active properties of higher molecular weight betaine lime soap dispersants
Authors: Kaminski Joan M. , Linfield Warner M.
Published: July 2007

A series of surface active betaines have been prepared via the quaternization of a tertiary amine with drolysis. The betaines possessed a hydrophobic (C12‐C16) alkyl side chain, and the anionic and cationic sites were separated by one, two, or three methylene groups or a benzyl group. The betaines were more water soluble and were poorer lime soap dispersants than analogous sulfobetaines. Detergency of most soap‐based detergent formulations containing the betaine lime soap dispersants was good and generally close to that of a commercial control detergent containing 50% sodium tripolyphosphate in screening tests conducted in water of 300 ppm hardness.