bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Telomerase‐targeting antisense oligonucleotides carried by polycation liposomes enhance the growth inhibition effect on tumor cells
Authors: Chen Jin‐Liang , Hu Ying , Shuai Wu‐Ping , Chen Hai‐Liang , Liang Wen‐Quan , Gao Jian‐Qing
Published: October 2008

In this study, a novel nonviral gene delivery system, which could enhance the inhibition effect of antisense oligonucleotides (ASODN) against the tumor cells, was developed. The polycation liposomes (PCLs) were prepared using the film hydration method with dioleoylphosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE) and amphipathic compound polyethylenimine‐cholesterol (PEI 800‐Chol), synthesized by low‐molecular‐weight polyethylenimine (PEI, MW 800) covalent conjugation with cholesterol. The formation of PEI 800‐Chol was confirmed by IR and critical micelle concentration detection. The transfection efficiency of PCLs mediating Green Fluorescence Protein plasmid (pEGFP) in HeLa cells was evaluated and the highest gene expression was obtained by PCLs containing DOPE, which was 1.6‐fold of that induced by commercial Lipofectamine™2000, and the gene expression efficiency was influenced in the present of serum. Subsequently, human telomerase reverse transcriptase gene antisense oligonucleotides (hTERT‐ASODN) were used as therapeutic gene, and the results showed that PCLs, which demonstrated very low cytotoxicity itself, could significantly enhance the inhibition efficiency of hTERT‐ASODN in the growth of tumor cells. These results suggested that the PCLs could be widely applied for ASODN delivery. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
Partially polyurethane‐covered stent for cerebral aneurysm treatment
Authors: Rangwala Hussain S. , Ionita Ciprian N. , Rudin Stephen , Baier Robert E.
Published: October 2008

Partially polyurethane‐covered stent (PPCS) is proposed for the treatment of cerebral aneurysms. The PPCSs were observed to substantially modify the flow entering the aneurysm in a patient‐specific aneurysm phantom (PSAP). These stents can act as flow modulators and the polyurethane (PU) membrane can provide a smooth scaffold for restoring the structural integrity of the diseased vessel. Partial coating of the stent aids in sealing only the entrance to the aneurysm while keeping the perforators around the aneurysm open and patent. Biocompatibility of the PU membrane was monitored using contact angle measurements to show that critical surface tension (CST) values remained in the thromboresistant range of 20–30 mN/m. Stent flexibility, stiffness, and pressure–diameter relationship showed no significant change after asymmetric PU film application. No delamination of the PU membrane from the stent was observed within the working strains of the stent. The flow modulating capability of the PPCS was monitored by intentionally orienting the stent to cover either the proximal or the distal regions along the neck of the PSAP. Time density curves (TDCs) compared the relative metrics of input rate, washout rate, residence time, and influx in the aneurysm before and after the stent placement. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
The study on the degradation and mineralization mechanism of ion‐doped calcium polyphosphate in vitro
Authors: Song Wei , Tian Meng , Chen Feng , Tian Yefei , Wan Changxiu , Yu Xixun
Published: October 2008

Doping with different trace elements can significantly change the original degradability, mineralization, and biological properties of bone repair material. According to the fundamental research on prepared calcium polyphosphate (CPP) as a bone repair material by our group, this article began further exploration on the effect of doping different trace elements (K, Na, Mg, Zn, Sr) into CPP on its degradability and mineralization soaking in simulated body fluids. The results indicated that doped elements significantly changed the lattice parameters and cell volume of crystal, resulted in different types of crystal defect and surface charge distribution, and consequently changed the original degradability and mineralization of CPP. The conclusion is that doped ions with relatively smaller ionic radius and equivalent positive charge compared with Ca2+ can greatly promote the degradability and mineralization of CPP, whereas doped ions with equivalent ionic radius and diverse positive charges compared with Ca2+ provide less contribution on promoting the degradability and mineralization or even counteract. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
Micro‐computed tomographic analysis of bone healing subsequent to graft placement
Authors: Chopra Preeti M. , Johnson Maria , Nagy Tim R. , Lemons Jack E.
Published: October 2008

A micro‐computed tomographic (μCT) analysis of bone healing subsequent to graft (tri calcium phosphate/TCP) placement in the maxillary sinus prior to dental endosteal implant placement was the focus of the current study. Ten trephined rod shaped human bone cores were obtained three months after the placement of particulate graft material. Using the μCT, samples were evaluated at 6 and 20 μm resolutions. The images exhibited regions of different grey scale (GL) magnitudes for bone and graft allowing a differentiation and quantification of the two sample regions. The GL threshold magnitudes at 20 μm resolution were determined to be less than 235 for organic and fluid, 235–450 for bone, 400–600 for bone and graft, and 600 and above for the graft material. The graft material was integrated with the bone showing the osteoconductivity of the TCP material, the mean bone volume was 25.50 (11.28) ranging from 5.66 to 37.9 and the mean graft volume was 0.42 (0.37) ranging from 0.01 to 1.17. The mean graft to bone volume ratio was 0.015 (0.01) with a range from 0.002 to 0.024. The structural data and observations from two‐ and three‐dimensional images provided a valuable assessment of the graft distribution, its relation to modeling bone and also the anatomy of the healing bone. Thus this study demonstrated the capability to uniquely evaluate the status of healing bone associated with this TCP grafting biomaterial with opportunities for subsequent correlations with histomorphometrical studies and clinical outcomes of these type implant treatments. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
Potential of chemically modified hydrophilic surface characteristics to support tissue integration of titanium dental implants
Authors: Schwarz Frank , Wieland Marco , Schwartz Zvi , Zhao Ge , Rupp Frank , Geis‐Gerstorfer Jürgen , Schedle Andreas , Broggini Nina , Bornstein Michael M. , Buser Daniel , Ferguson Stephen J. , Becker Jürgen , Boyan Barbara D. , Cochran David L.
Published: October 2008

In the past, several modifications of specific surface properties such as topography, structure, chemistry, surface charge, and wettability have been investigated to predictably improve the osseointegration of titanium implants. The aim of the present review was to evaluate, based on the currently available evidence, the impact of hydrophilic surface modifications of titanium for dental implants. A surface treatment was performed to produce hydroxylated/hydrated titanium surfaces with identical microstructure to either acid‐etched, or sand‐blasted, large grit and acid‐etched substrates, but with hydrophilic character. Preliminaryin vitrostudies have indicated that the specific properties noted for hydrophilic titanium surfaces have a significant influence on cell differentiation and growth factor production. Animal experiments have pointed out that hydrophilic surfaces improve early stages of soft tissue and hard tissue integration of either nonsubmerged or submerged titanium implants. This data was also corroborated by the results from preliminary clinical studies. In conclusion, the present review has pointed to a potential of hydrophilic surface modifications to support tissue integration of titanium dental implants. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
Evaluation of focal fatty infiltration of the liver using color Doppler and contrast‐enhanced sonography
Authors: Liu Li‐Ping , Dong Bao‐Wei , Yu Xiao‐Ling , Zhang Da‐Kun , Kang Chun‐Song , Zhao Xi‐Hai
Published: October 2008

Purpose.

To investigate the vascular characteristics of focal fatty infiltration (FFI) in the liver using color Doppler sonography (CDUS) and contrast‐enhanced sonography (CEUS).

Methods.

We prospectively examined 25 areas of FFI of the liver in 20 patients via conventional gray‐scale sonography, CDUS, and CEUS. Cadence contrast pulse sequencing and the contrast agent SonoVue were used for CEUS examination. CEUS criteria for diagnosis of FFI were isoenhancement or hypoenhancement in the arterial phase and homogeneous isoenhancement in the portal and late phases.

Results.

CDUS revealed a draining vein in 4 of 9 (44%) lesions in the hepatic hilum, whereas CEUS revealed a draining vein in 8 (89%) lesions. A vein was associated with the 2 lesions located at the edge of segment II on both CDUS and CEUS. Blood flow was seen on both CDUS and CEUS in the 2 lesions adjacent to the falciform ligament. In one patient, CDUS and CEUS revealed the mid‐hepatic vein coursing between 2 FFIs. In the arterial phase of CEUS, the lesions were hypoenhancing in 44% (11/25), iso‐enhancing in 44% (11/25), and hyperenhancing in 12% (3/25). In the portal phase and in the late vascular phase, all 25 lesions (100%) were iso‐enhancing. Sensitivity of combined sonography and CDUS in the diagnosis of FFI was 44%, and overall accuracy was 81%. The sensitivity of CEUS in the diagnosis of FFI was 88%, and its overall accuracy was 96%.

Conclusion.

FFI in the porta hepatis is correlated with aberrant venous drainage. FFI around the falciform ligament may be related to divergence of the portal vein or unusual blood supply. In the arterial phase of CEUS, FFI lesions were iso‐enhancing as often as they were hypoenhancing. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2008
Thanatophoric dysplasia: Role of 3‐dimensional sonography
Authors: Tsai Pei‐Yin , Chang Chiung‐Hsin , Yu Chen‐Hsiang , Cheng Yueh‐Chin , Chang Fong‐Ming
Published: October 2008

Purpose.

Fetal thanatophoric dysplasia (TD) is a lethal skeletal dysplasia. Therefore, antenatal diagnosis of TD is mandatory in routine obstetrical care. However, because TD is relatively rare, prenatal detection is not an easy task. In the past, 2‐dimensional (2D) sonography had been applied as the mainstay of prenatal diagnosis of TD. In this series, we report our work of detecting TD using 3‐dimensional (3D) sonography.

Methods.

We reviewed our computer database of prenatal diagnosis of TD in National Cheng Kung University Hospital from May 1995 to June 2006. All the cases were scanned using 2D and 3D sonography. In total, 9 cases of fetal TD were diagnosed.

Results.

3D sonography can detect fetal TD and provide additional vivid illustration after various modes of reconstruction that 2D sonography cannot afford.

Conclusion.

3D sonography may contribute significantly to the detection of TD in utero and provide a novel visual depiction of this defect after reconstruction. Thus, 3D sonography may assist substantially in prenatal diagnosis as well as consultation. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2009
Electron tomography study of isolated human centrioles
Authors: Ibrahim Rana , Messaoudi Cédric , Chichon Francisco Javier , Celati Claude , Marco Sergio
Published: October 2008

Centrioles are components of the centrosome, which is present in most eukaryotic cells (from protozoa to mammals). They organize the microtubule skeleton during interphase and the mitotic spindle during cell division. In ciliate cells, centrioles form basal bodies that are involved in cellular motility. Despite their important roles in biology, the detailed structure of centrioles remains obscure. This work contributes to a more complete model of centriole structure. The authors used electron tomography of isolated centrosomes from the human lymphoblast KE37 to explore the details of subdistal appendages and centriole lumen organization in mother centrioles. Their results reveal that each of the nine subdistal appendages is composed of two halves (20 nm diameter each) fused in a 40 nm tip that extends 100 nm from where it anchors to microtubules. The centriole lumen is filled at the distal domain by a 45 nm periodic stack of rings. Each ring has a 30 nm diameter, is 15 nm thick, and appears to be tilted at 53° perpendicular to the centriole axis. The rings are anchored to microtubules by arms. Based on their results, the authors propose a model of the mother centriole distal structure. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantitative X‐ray microanalysis of hydrogen peroxide within plant cells
Authors: Chen Shaoliang , Olbrich Andrea , Langenfeld‐Heyser Rosemarie , Fritz Eberhard , Polle Andrea
Published: October 2008

Using quantitative X‐ray microanalysis in combination with CeCl3‐based cytochemical staining of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) we have developed a new solution for quantification of H2O2 at the subcellular level. Quantitative X‐ray microanalysis of plastic‐embedded leaves of Populus euphratica Oliv. showed that the obtained cerium precipitates by CeCl3 staining were the mixture of cerium perhydroxides and cerium phosphate, in which the fractions of CePO4 were: (1) 52–74% in cell walls of fresh leaf segments, and (2) 34–70% in the cytoplasm in 10 mM H2O2‐treated leaf segments that were previously freeze‐dried. Taking the concentration of cerium phosphate as staining background, we reached the cellular concentration of cerium perhydroxides and the corresponding concentration of H2O2. Results showed that H2O2 was present in the cytoplasm of rehydrated leaf segments (29–58 mM), but in fresh leaves, H2O2 was observed in the walls of all measured cell types (17–74 mM). Microsc. Res. Tech., 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Morphometric characteristics of choroid plexus epithelial cells in cases with significantly different psammoma bodies' presence
Authors: Jovanović Ivan , Ugrenović Sladjana , Vasović Ljiljana , Čukuranović Rade , Stoiljković Nenad
Published: October 2008

Objectives: Taking into the consideration the fact that psammoma bodies have never been observed in stroma of any other organ as aging change, the aim of our research was to prove some structural similarities of choroids plexus and tumors psammoma bodies, and their possible connection with choroids plexus epithelial cells atrophy. Materials and Methods: We used 30 cadavers' right lateral ventricle central parts of choroid plexus as material. Tissue samples were routinely processed for the applied histochemical and immunohistochemical stainings. ImageJ software was used for morphometric analysis. Results: Cluster analysis showed the presence of two significantly different groups. The first group included the cases with sparse psammoma bodies and milder epithlelial atrophy with dome cells and vacuoles presence in older cases. The second group included the cases with numerous psammoma bodies and more severe epithelial atrophy, significant cystic formations and epithelial flattening presence, even in younger cases. Immunohistochemical analysis showed positive reaction of psammoma bodies and choroid plexus stroma on S100 protein. Application of S100 A8/A9 marker showed partial positive psammoma bodies' reaction and significant presence of S100 A8/A9 positive cells in choroid plexus blood vessels and stroma, especially, in cases with psammoma bodies' positive reaction on this marker. Conclusions: So, presence of more numerous psammoma bodies' might be associated with more severe choroids plexus epithelial cells atrophy. Immunohistochemical analysis showed psammoma bodies' positive reaction on S100 protein and the presence of S100 A8/A9 positive cells in stroma of cases with psammoma bodies' positive reaction on this marker. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Well‐ordered structure of methylene blue monolayers on Au(111) surface: Electrochemical scanning tunneling microscopy studies
Authors: Song Yonghai , Wang Li
Published: October 2008

Well‐ordered structure of methylene blue (MB) monolayers on Au(111) surface has been successfully obtained by controlling the substrate potential. Electrochemical scanning tunneling microscopy (ECSTM) examined the monolayers of MB on Au(111) in 0.1 M HClO4 and showed long‐range ordered, interweaved arrays of MB with quadratic symmetry on the substrate in the potential range of double‐layer charging. High‐resolution ECSTM image further revealed the details of the MB monolayers structure of c(5 × 5√3)rect and the flat‐lying orientation of ad‐molecules. The dependence of molecular organization on the substrate potential and the formation mechanism of well‐ordered structure on Au(111) surface were investigated in detail. The obtained well‐ordered structure at the interface between a metal and an aqueous electrolyte might possibly be used as high‐density device for signal memory and templates for the advanced nanopatterning of surfaces. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reductive amination as a strategy to reduce adenovirus vector promiscuity by chemical capsid modification with large polysaccharides
Authors: Espenlaub Sigrid , Wortmann Andreas , Engler Tatjana , Corjon Stéphanie , Kochanek Stefan , Kreppel Florian
Published: October 2008

Background

Chemical capsid modification of adenovirus vectors with synthetic polymers has been shown to aid in overcoming typical barriers for adenovirus vector‐mediated gene transfer. Carbohydrate‐based polymers for covalent modification of adenovirus vectors have been largely neglected so far. We utilized a reductive amination strategy to generate a novel class of adenovirus‐based glycovectors with a mannan derivative.

Methods

Reductive amination to covalently couple polysaccharides to the capsid surface of adenovirus serotype 5‐based vectors was investigated utilizing an oxidized derivative of mannan. After biochemical and physical characterization of mannanylated vectors, their performance was analysed in vitro in cell lines and primary human cells, and in vivo in mice after local and systemic vector injection.

Results

We describe the successful modification of adenovirus vectors with large polysaccharides by reductive amination. The particles were efficiently modified, physically intact and, importantly, detargeted from the natural Coxsackie and adenovirus receptor/integrin pathway in vitro. In addition, they exhibited significantly decreased transduction of muscle after local delivery and of liver after systemic delivery in mice. However, despite the modification of 60% of capsid surface amino groups, mannanylated particles were unable to evade neutralizing anti‐Ad5 antibodies.

Conclusions

Mannanylated vectors are a paradigm for a novel class of glycoviruses modified with large polysaccharides. Vector promiscuity as one of the important hurdles for Ad‐mediated gene transfer could be significantly decreased in vivo, whereas mannanylated vectors were unable to escape from anti‐adenovirus antibodies. Our studies provide a detailed analysis of mannan‐modified Ad vectors and suggest further improvements for this novel class of glycovectors. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A reversal of educational fortune? Educational gender gaps in Bangladesh
Authors: Shafiq M. Najeeb
Published: October 2008

Historically, educational gender gaps in Bangladesh persisted as households invested more in the education of boys than girls. Recent anecdotal and descriptive reports, however, claim that Bangladesh has achieved gender parity in education. Using advanced empirical methods and nationally representative data, this study finds that urban and rural boys (relative to urban and rural girls) have a 7.4–27.4% lower likelihood of being enrolled in school, 0.4–1.5 fewer years of educational attainment and 9.7–30.8% lower likelihood of being literate. These findings draw attention to the causes of the reversal in the educational gender gap in Bangladesh. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Governance and foreign aid in Pacific Island countries
Authors: Gani Azmat
Published: October 2008

This paper examines the relationship between indicators of governance and per capita foreign aid in a cross‐section of seven PICs. Controlling for poor economic growth, foreign exchange shortage and small size, a fixed‐effects model correcting for AR (1) errors is tested for the period 1996–2004 that incorporates five measures of governance. The findings here confirm that voice and accountability, rule of law and corruption are negatively correlated with per capita foreign aid. However, regulatory quality and government effectiveness are positively associated with per capita foreign aid. Some policy implications are drawn. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Failures of the state failure debate: Evidence from the Somali territories
Authors: Hagmann Tobias , Hoehne Markus V.
Published: October 2008

Much of the current literature on state failure and collapse suffers from serious conceptual flaws. It ignores the variegated types of empirical statehood that exist on the ground, it conflates the absence of a central government with anarchy, it creates an unhelpful distinction between ‘accomplished’ and ‘failed’ states, and it is guided by a teleological belief in the convergence of all nation‐states. Particularly African states figure prominently in this debate and are frequently portrayed in almost pathological terms. Proposing a comparative analysis of politics in the Somali inhabited territories of the Horn of Africa, this article challenges state failure discourses on both theoretical and empirical grounds. We draw attention to the multiple processes of state‐building and forms of statehood that have emerged in Somalia, and the neighbouring Somalia region of Ethiopia, since 1991. The analysis of the different trajectories of these Somali political orders reveals that state formation in Africa contradicts central tenets of the state failure debate and that external state‐building interventions should recognise and engage with sub‐national political entities. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimising the policy cost of market stabilisation: Which commodity matters most in Ethiopia?
Authors: Getnet Kindie
Published: October 2008

Unprecedented food crop price spikes in recent years prompted the Ethiopian government to impose grain export ban and to distribute grain stocks as price stabilization strategies. Successful price stabilization and size of public spending for such programs depend, to a large extent, on the choice and targeting of stabilization strategies. In a situation where a single commodity plays a leadership role in the price dynamics of other crops, targeting intervention at such a commodity would provide a useful mechanism to reduce policy cost of price stabilization while achieving commodity‐wide stabilization objectives. Using multiple cointegration analysis techniques to generate knowledge useful in targeting price stabilization intervention, this study investigates whether there is a single food crop in Ethiopia, among the three major ones (teff, wheat, and maize), with an exclusive price leadership role in the price formation process of the rest. The results show that maize price plays a leadership role in the dynamics of teff and wheat prices at all markets studied, except that of Addis Ababa teff market. Given the major evidence of a price leadership role of maize, it might be possible to achieve commodity‐wide price stabilization objectives through targeting intervention on maize. Such targeted intervention may also prove efficiency in terms of reducing policy cost and public spending. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The net contribution of the Mauritian export processing zone using benefit–cost analysis
Authors: Sawkut Rojid , Vinesh Sannassee , Sooraj Fowdar
Published: October 2008

An EPZ is basically no more than a device whereby imports, to be used in the production of exports, can be acquired by manufacturers on a bonded duty‐free basis. They are literally industrial zones with special incentives to attract foreign investors in which imported materials undergo some degree of processing before being exported again. The logic behind these zones was the creation of an area in which domestic policies do not hold and in which, therefore, a government could implement policies designed to enable individual firms to invest profitably on the basis of a country's comparative advantage. However, although there is significant literature on the impact of EPZs on host countries, nevertheless, the evidence has mainly been concerned with their benefits and costs and has stopped short of formal benefit‐cost analysis. In essence, what the empirical studies have lacked, including those done on the Mauritius Export Processing Zone (MEPZ), has been an analytical framework within which the benefits and costs of EPZs can be identified conceptually and quantified empirically. In this respect, the objective of the current paper is to formally attempt to calculate the net contribution of the MEPZ using a modified version of the enclave model put forward by Warr (1988). The results show that although Mauritius has been able to attain its objective of reducing employment and raising foreign exchange through the creation of the EPZ, yet overall the EPZ has cost more to the economy than the benefits it has conferred to the economy. This is principally because of the incentives that were given to the producers working in the EPZ sector. The costs of these incentives were higher than the overall returns obtained from the sector. The two variables that negatively contributed to the sector were domestic borrowings and electricity usage. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
There's more to life than money: Exploring the levels/growth paradox in income and health
Authors: Kenny Charles
Published: October 2008

This paper discusses historical and recent cross‐country evidence relating income to measures of health. After a review of the literature on income and the quality of life, the paper looks at long‐term historical evidence on the link between income change and health indicators. Using data on life expectancy, infant mortality and income for a small subset of largely wealthy countries over the 1913–1999 period, the paper examines correlations between income and health at period start and end as well as using the growth of the variables. Using a larger set of data over the period 1975–2000, the paper repeats these tests, as well as looking for any evidence of a larger impact of income, when different data are used or the sample is split. Results suggest a strong cross‐country link between income and health and considerable evidence of global improvements over time, but a comparatively weak relationship between improvements in income and improvements in health, even over the very long term. The paper discusses a model based on technology and institutions that might account for such results as well as some preliminary evidence in favour of such a model. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exports and economic growth: The case of South Africa
Authors: Rangasamy Logan
Published: October 2008

Economic policy has always accorded an important role to export production in the overall growth process in South Africa. Recent policy proposals once again reaffirm this commitment. This paper attempts to ascertain whether the emphasis on export production is justified. Using modern econometric techniques within a multivariate framework, the results show that there is uni‐directional Granger‐causality running from exports to economic growth in South Africa. In addition, the gross domestic product (GDP) accounting identity underestimates the contribution of exports to economic growth. Thus, deliberate policy measures that stimulate export production will greatly enhance the growth prospects for the South African economy. The results in this paper also indicate that more attention should be given to the promotion of non‐primary exports. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Microfinance asymmetric information problems in Cameroon
Authors: Tche Jacob
Published: October 2008

In recent financial liberalisation debates, increasing attention has been paid to the role of financial intermediation on the economy. Little research addressing the behaviour of bank lending interest rates under a financial liberalisation system has been articulated. This paper, therefore, draws a parallel between a completely liberalised microfinance and independent banks under financial liberalisation to indicate that in the presence of imperfect information there is a high probability of banks exhibiting a monopolistic behaviour. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Policy, vulnerability and the new debt sustainability framework
Authors: Ferrarini Benno
Published: October 2008

We investigate the empirical foundations of the New Debt Sustainability Framework (NDSF), which was recently endorsed by the IMF and the World Bank in support of low‐income countries' (LICs) debt sustainability. Our empirical re‐assessment questions the existence of a probabilistic relationship between the quality of countries' policies and institutions and their risk of debt distress. In contrast, we find that indicators of economic vulnerability are more significant predictors of debt distress among LICs. We argue that the NDSF is bound to distort aid allocation away from the country‐specific circumstances which truly matter for the achievement of debt sustainability. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Acid‐formed pectin gel delays major incomplete kiwi fruit allergen Act c 1 proteolysis in in vitro gastrointestinal digestion
Authors: Polovic Natalija Dj , Pjanovic Rada V , Burazer Lidija M , Velickovic Sava J , Jankov Ratko M , Cirkovic Velickovic Tanja D
Published: October 2008

BACKGROUND: It is thought that food sensitisers must be able to reach the intestine in order to sensitise patients. Pectin is a gel‐forming plant polysaccharide that can protect allergens from in vivo gastric digestion and in vitro pepsin digestion. The aim of this study was to examine if pectin gel formed in the acidic environment of the stomach can protect labile allergen from in vitro gastrointestinal digestion.

RESULTS: Pectin forms a gel in the acidic conditions of gastric fluid up to a concentration of 1.0 ± 0.14 g L−1. Four allergenic fruits (kiwi, cherry, apple and banana) form gels in the same manner at the dilutions 14.8 ± 0.4; 8.4 ± 0.2, 9.4 ± 0.35 and 29.1 ± 0.2, respectively. The time necessary for dissolution of 50 g L−1 pectin gel in intestinal fluid was found to be 70 ± 0.2 min. Pectin gel formed in situ was able to protect Act c 1 from pepsin digestion for 1 h and from further intestinal digestion for one additional hour.

CONCLUSION: Pectin gel in an acidic environment protects Act c 1 from pepsin digestion and dissolves slowly in the slightly basic environment of the intestine allowing the survival of fruit allergen for additional time and possible interaction with the gut immune system. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Enzymes in lipid production and modification – Current knowledge and future perspectives
Authors: Cowan David
Published: October 2008

Microbial enzymes are today used in a range of lipid processing from refining through to fat modification. The range of options is increasing following new research into enzyme types and functionalities. Within the near future, improved methods of enzymatic degumming will be developed as well as alternative enzymes for interesterification and synthesis of nutritionally interesting fats. An enzymatic route to Biod‐diesel is also a distinct possibility focussing on the waste oils and fats which are today difficult to process through chemical esterification.
Rheological Properties of Cross‐Linked Hyaluronan–Gelatin Hydrogels for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Vanderhooft Janssen L. , Alcoutlabi Mataz , Magda Jules J. , Prestwich Glenn D.
Published: October 2008

Hydrogels that mimic the natural extracellular matrix (ECM) are used in three‐dimensional cell culture, cell therapy, and tissue engineering. A semi‐synthetic ECM based on cross‐linked hyaluronana offers experimental control of both composition and gel stiffness. The mechanical properties of the ECM in part determine the ultimate cell phenotype. We now describe a rheological study of synthetic ECM hydrogels with storage shear moduli that span three orders of magnitude, from 11 to 3 500 Pa, a range important for engineering of soft tissues. The concentration of the chemically modified HA and the cross‐linking density were the main determinants of gel stiffness. Increase in the ratio of thiol‐modified gelatin reduced gel stiffness by diluting the effective concentration of the HA component.

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Anisotropic Electrical Transport Properties of Aligned Carbon Nanotube/PMMA Films Obtained by Electric‐Field‐Assisted Thermal Annealing
Authors: Valentini Luca , Bon Silvia Bittolo , Kenny Josè M.
Published: October 2008

This paper demonstrates how the electric‐field‐assisted thermal annealing of octadecylamine‐functionalized SWNT/PMMA films induces an increase in the composite transversal conductivity of several orders of magnitude and a decrease in the lateral conductivity. This difference has been rationalized in terms of the nanotube alignment into the polymer matrix along the electric field direction. This result provides an initial understanding of how electric fields can be used to control the bulk physical properties of such nanocomposites.

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Macromol. Mater. Eng. 10/2008
Authors: von Graberg Till , Thomas Arne , Greiner Andreas , Antonietti Markus , Weber Jens
Published: October 2008

Cover: The preparation of hybrid nonwovens, composed of silica nanoparticles and poly(benzimidazole), by an electrospinning process is described. The nonwovens are composed of nanofibers and can be processed into dense sheets. Further details can be found in the article by T. von Graberg, A. Thomas, A. Greiner, M. Antonietti, and J. Weber* on page 815.
Deterministic and fuzzy verification methods for a hierarchy of numerical models
Authors: Amodei Marielle , Stein Joël
Published: October 2008

Deterministic and fuzzy verification methods are compared to assess the Quantitative Precipitation Forecasts (QPF) performance of an hierarchy of models run at Météo‐France: two operational models (ARPEGE and ALADIN) and a prototype version of the high resolution model AROME. The reference data are 24‐h accumulated rainfall values measured by the French climatological network of rain gauges. The deterministic forecasts are converted to frequencies of threshold exceedence in a neighbourhood in order to apply a fuzzy verification method, able to determine the influence of the double penalty. Local and regional versions of the Brier skill score (BSS) are computed and persistence is the selected reference system. An optimal size of the neighbourhood can be determined from the local version of the BSS. The regional version of the BSS increases with the size of the neighbourhood and provides useful information on the reduction of the error for large scales. All the scores show that the ALADIN 3DVAR implementation improves the quality of the ALADIN QPF in comparison to the ARPEGE QPF. Deterministic verification methods show that AROME improves the QPF for weak precipitation but produces too many false alarms for heavy rain. Moreover, the fuzzy approach removes more substantially the double penalty for the heavy rain forecasts of AROME than for the light precipitation of ALADIN. After recalibration the ALADIN QPF have better deterministic scores than the AROME QPF. Nevertheless, fuzzy verification methods prove the contrary: for scales larger than 50 km, the AROME scores exceed the ALADIN scores, but not significantly. Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society
Inextensible reinforcement on non‐linear elasto‐plastic subgrade under oblique pull
Authors: Shahu J. T.
Published: October 2008

In this paper, a rational analysis of pullout resistance of inextensible sheet reinforcement subjected to oblique end force has been presented considering a non‐linear (hyperbolic), elasto‐plastic, normal stress–displacement relationship of the subgrade. Under an oblique pull, high normal stresses develop on stronger subgrades, thus mobilizing high shearing resistance at the reinforcement–soil interface. The higher the bearing resistance of the subgrade, the higher the horizontal component of pullout force and the lower the end displacement of the reinforcement. On the other hand, the end displacement at pullout can become very high for weaker subgrades especially at high values of the angle of obliquity. Also, the pullout capacity under oblique loading for weaker subgrades may approach or even fall below the axial pullout capacity at high values of the angle of obliquity. These adverse pullout responses owing to a low value of bearing resistance of subgrade are magnified when the subgrade stiffness is also small. On weaker subgrades, improvement in angle of interface shear is not advisable as this leads to further reduction in the pullout force and increase in the end displacement. Results are compared with back analysis of published test data on model reinforced soil walls. The comparison suggests that the present model leads to a more rational and better prediction of the pullout failure. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A combined neural network/gradient‐based approach for the identification of constitutive model parameters using self‐boring pressuremeter tests
Authors: Obrzud Rafał F. , Vulliet Laurent , Truty Andrzej
Published: October 2008

This paper presents a numerical procedure of material parameter identification for the coupled hydro‐mechanical boundary value problem (BVP) of the self‐boring pressuremeter test (SBPT) in clay. First, the neural network (NN) technique is applied to obtain an initial estimate of model parameters, taking into account the possible drainage conditions during the expansion test. This technique is used to avoid potential pitfalls related to the conventional gradient‐based optimization techniques, considered here as a corrector that improves predicted parameters. Parameter identification based on measurements obtained through the pressuremeter expansion test and two types of holding tests is illustrated on the Modified Cam clay model. NNs are trained using a set of test samples, which are generated by means of finite element simulations of SBPT. The measurements obtained through expansion and consolidation tests are normalized so that NN predictors operate independently of the testing depth. Examples of parameter determination are demonstrated on both numerical and field data. The efficiency of the combined parameter identification in terms of accuracy, effectiveness and computational effort is also discussed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Role of α1‐adrenergic receptors in detrusor overactivity induced by cold stress in conscious rats
Authors: Chen Zhong , Ishizuka Osamu , Imamura Tetsuya , Aizawa Naoki , Igawa Yasuhiko , Nishizawa Osamu , Andersson Karl‐Erik
Published: October 2008

Aims

α1‐Adrenergic receptors (ARs) are involved in micturition control both centrally and peripherally. α1‐AR antagonists improve not only voiding but also storage symptoms in patients with bladder outlet obstruction. We investigated the role of α1‐AR mechanisms involved in detrusor overactivity induced by cold stress in conscious rats.

Methods

Continuous cystometry was performed at room temperature (RT, 28 ± 2°C) and for 40 min at cold temperature (CT, 4 ± 2°C). Voiding interval (VI), micturition volume (MV), and bladder capacity (BC) were evaluated before and after intravenous administration of KMD‐3213 (selective α1A‐AR antagonist), naftopidil (selective α1D‐AR antagonist), tamsulosin (selective α1A/1D‐AR antagonist), and prazosin (non‐selective α1‐AR antagonist). Blood pressure (BP), cumulative voided volume and body temperature were also evaluated.

Results

At RT, none of the AR antagonists caused significant change in the cystometric parameters. During 40 min of cold stress cumulative voided volume and body temperature did not change, but there were significant decreases in VI, MV, and BC. Low doses of the AR antagonists had no effect on CT‐induced decreases of these variables. However, high doses of KMD‐3213, tamsulosin, naftopidil and prazosin significantly inhibited the CT‐induced decreases in VI, MV, and BC. CT caused a significant increase in BP, and this was not affected by low doses of the AR antagonists. However, high doses of prazosin significantly lowered the CT‐induced increase of BP.

Conclusions

Cold stress induces detrusor overactivity and increases BP in conscious rats. These effects are mediated, at least in part, by α1A‐AR and α1D‐AR subtypes and can be prevented/reduced by α1‐AR antagonists. Neurourol. Urodynam. 28:251–256, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Coenzyme Q10 diminishes ischemia–reperfusion induced apoptosis and nerve injury in rabbit urinary bladder
Authors: Juan Yung‐Shun , Chuang Shu Mien , Mannikarottu Anita , Huang Chun‐Hsung , Li Suning , Schuler Catherine , Levin Robert M.
Published: October 2008

Aims

Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) can significantly change the nerve function of the bladder, thus resulting in detrusor weakness and overactivity. CoQ10 is a lipid‐soluble cofactor found naturally in the mitochondria and has been reported to have neuroprotective and antiapoptosis effects. The aim of this study is to determine if CoQ10 can protect bladders subjected to I/R injury.

Methods

Four groups of male New Zealand White rabbits (N = 4) were treated with CoQ10 (3 mg/kg body weight/day) (groups 1and 2) or vehicle (groups 3 and 4). In groups 2 and 4 (I/R groups), bilateral vesicular ischemia was induced for 2 hr and the rabbits allowed to recover for 2 weeks. Groups 1 and 3 were controls and given sham surgery. The cholinergic nerve marker, vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT), was examined by western blotting. Nerve density and cell apoptosis were calculated by immunohistochemistry.

Results

I/R significantly decrease bladder innervation; CoQ10 has significant neuroprotective effects, which are evidenced by increased VAChT expression and neurofilament immunostaining. Detrusor cells apoptosis increase significantly by I/R. CoQ10 control and I/R groups both show significantly lower apoptosis than vehicle groups.

Conclusions

The current study clearly demonstrated that these CoQ10 supplement provides significant bladder protection against I/R injury. This protective effect is in part by protecting damage to cholinergic innervation. Neurourol. Urodynam. 28:339–342, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lagrange‐Projection scheme for two‐phase flows. 2. Boundary and conditions second‐order enhancement.
Authors: Coquel F. , Nguyen Q. L. , Postel M. , Tran Q. H.
Published: October 2008

In this paper, we propose a new way to perform second‐order enhancement using slope‐limiters for the numerical linear advection ∂t Ψ + u ∂x Ψ = 0, while ensuring not only the monotonicity of each component of Ψ, but also that of a nontrivial combination G (Ψ) called control variable. This problem arises in fluid mechanics codes using the Lagrange‐Projection formalism, such as [1], where the additional monotonicity property is required by physical considerations within the “remap” step. The sophisticated slope reconstruction procedure we devised can be extended to a large number of industrial problems. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Basic studies on the dynamics of rotating circular structures
Authors: Brinkmeier Maik , Nackenhorst Udo
Published: October 2008

In this paper the dynamic effects due to rotation of spinning circular structures will be discussed by analytical, experimental and numerical investigations. Basic phenomena of spinning are studied on the analytical solution of a spinning ring. The observed effects will be underlined by rather simple experimental investigations on a rotating wine glass. Based on this fundamental knowledge special attention has to be payed to the finite element modeling and implementation of the eigenvalue analysis of gyroscopic systems, which requires the numerical solution in complex numbers. Besides the influence of rotational speed, the disturbances due to rolling contact will be discussed on rotating tubes as well as detailed finite element models of rolling tires. The application of these techniques with emphasis to the prediction of tire noise will be outlined. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A posteriori error analysis for eigenvalue problems
Authors: Carstensen Carsten , Gedicke Joscha , Livshits Ira
Published: October 2008

A new a posteriori error analysis for symmetric eigenvalue problems of the adaptive finite element method (AFEM) is presented. Based on an H1 stable L2 projection, we prove reliability of the edge contribution for P1 finite element methods. Hence the AFEM proposed can ignore the volume contribution as well as oscillations. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Dimension reduction in multiobjective optimization
Authors: Costa Lino , Oliveira Pedro
Published: October 2008

In multiobjective optimization there is often the problem of the existence of a large number of objectives. For more than two objectives there is a difficulty with the representation and visualization of the solutions in the objective space. Therefore, it is not clear for the decision maker the trade‐off between the different alternative solutions. Thus, this creates enormous difficulties when choosing a solution from the Pareto‐optimal set and constitutes a central question in the process of decision making. Based on statistical methods as Principle Component Analysis and Cluster Analysis, the problem of reduction of the number of objectives is addressed. Several test examples with different number of objectives have been studied in order to evaluate the process of decision making through these methods. Preliminary results indicate that this statistical approach can be a valuable tool on decision making in multiobjective optimization. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Aircraft wake vortices – prediction and mitigation
Authors: Holzäpfel Frank , Gerz Thomas , Baumann Robert
Published: October 2008

The current abstract presents selected topics investigated within the wake‐vortex research program of DLR. Two approaches are addressed that both aim at increasing airport capacity without compromising safety. One approach is to directly alleviate wake vortex strength and stability by constructive measures at the aircraft wings. The other approach utilizes the dominant influence of meteorological parameters like turbulence, wind shear, and temperature stratification on wake vortex fate. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Preconditioners for solving the indefinite linear system for higher order H (curl) discretisations
Authors: Ledger Paul David
Published: October 2008

This paper presents numerical results for a preconditioning technique for the iterative solution of the indefinite linear system of equations obtained when a higher order H (curl) conforming finite element approximation is adopted for the vector wave equation. Numerical results are presented for a model problem that includes a singularity at the origin and dicretisations that include graded meshes and uniform p. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
New methods in fluid‐structure coupling with application to biomechanics
Authors: Cottet Georges‐Henri , Maitre Emmanuel , Milcent Thomas
Published: October 2008

An Eulerian approach is presented for generic fluid‐structure coupling of an elastic body with an incompressible fluid. We consider the coupling as a multiphysics problem where fluid‐solid interfaces are captured by a level‐set method. The main features of the method are its simplicity, and its natural control of mass and energy. We are indeed able to prove an energy equation which ensures in particular that the regularization of the force does not involve any energy dissipation. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)