bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modified carrageenan. 4. Synthesis and swelling behavior of crosslinked κC‐g‐AMPS superabsorbent hydrogel with antisalt and pH‐responsiveness properties
Authors: Pourjavadi A. , Hosseinzadeh H. , Mazidi R.
Published: July 2005

To synthesize a novel biopolymer‐based superabsorbent hydrogel, 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methylpropanesulfonic acid (AMPS) was grafted onto kappa‐carrageenan (κC) backbones. The graft copolymerization reaction was carried out in a homogeneous medium and in the presence of ammonium persulfate (APS) as an initiator, N,N,N′,N′‐tetramethyl ethylenediamine (TMEDA) as an accelerator, and N,N′‐methylene bisacrylamide (MBA) as a crosslinker. A proposed mechanism for κC‐g‐AMPS formation was suggested and the hydrogel structure was confirmed using FTIR spectroscopy. The affecting variables on swelling capacity, i.e., the initiator, the crosslinker, and the monomer concentration, as well as reaction temperature, were systematically optimized. The swelling measurements of the hydrogels were conducted in aqueous solutions of LiCl, NaCl, KCl, MgCl2, CaCl2, SrCl2, BaCl2, and AlCl3. Due to the high swelling capacity in salt solutions, the hydrogels may be referred to as antisalt superabsorbents. The swelling of superabsorbing hydrogels was measured in solutions with pH ranging 1 to 13. The κC‐g‐AMPS hydrogel exhibited a pH‐responsiveness character so that a swelling–deswelling pulsatile behavior was recorded at pH 2 and 8. The overall activation energy for the graft copolymerization reaction was found to be 14.6 kJ/mol. The swelling kinetics of the hydrogels was preliminarily investigated as well. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 98: 255–263, 2005
Einfluß des Kriechens und des Betonschwindens auf das Tragverhalten von Holz‐Beton‐Verbundbalken – Ein erweiterter Bemessungsvorschlag und dessen Anwendungsgrenzen
Authors: Schmidt Jörg , Lämmel Ralf , Reuter Carsten , Kaliske Michael
Published: July 2005

In diesem Beitrag werden die Auswirkungen des Kriechens und des Betonschwindens auf das Tragverhalten der Verbundkonstruktion untersucht. Dabei wird die zeitliche Veränderung der Werkstoffeigenschaften in einem FE‐Modell erfaßt. Insbesondere die Berücksichtigung des Verhaltens von jungem Beton führt zu signifikanten Veränderungen des Tragverhaltens im Vergleich zu Verbundkonstruktionen mit vereinfacht konstant angenommenen elastischen Betoneigenschaften. Außerdem wird der Einfluß der Dauer und des Entlastungsprozesses einer temporären Montageunterstützung untersucht, um praxisrelevante Handlungsempfehlungen zu gewinnen. Der um die Verminderung des Tragvermögens infolge Betonschwindens erweiterte Bemessungsvorschlag erlaubt hingegen eine wirtschaftliche Bemessung und gewährleistet ein ausreichendes Sicherheitsniveau zum Versagenszustand.
Bahnsteigerweiterung der U6 unter dem neuen Rathaus in München – Spritzbetonvortrieb mit Vereisung
Authors: Fillibeck Jochen , Kellner Christian , Rieken Wolfgang , Scharrer Stephan
Published: July 2005

Im Rahmen der Infrastrukturmaßnahmen für den Bau des neuen Fußballstadions in Fröttmaning wurde es erforderlich, die Bahnsteige der U‐Bahnlinie U6 unter dem Rathaus in München zu erweitern. Nach dem Entwurf des Baureferats der Landeshauptstadt München wurde hierzu parallel und im direkten Anschluß an die beiden bestehenden Tunnelröhren je ein Tunnel in Spritzbetonbauweise unter atmosphärischen Bedingungen ausgeführt. Die Vortriebe liegen in einem vertikalen Abstand von ca. 10 m zum Münchner Rathaus. Zur Sicherung der Firste und zur Reduzierung der Verformungen wurden im Rahmen eines Sondervorschlags Vereisungsschirme vorgesehen, die von einem über der Firste befindlichen Pilotstollen aus hergestellt wurden.

Für die erfolgreiche Umsetzung des Bauvorhabens war es entscheidend, welche Verformungen – Hebungen in der Gefrierphase und Setzungen während des Vortriebs – sich mit dem Baufortschritt einstellen. Dies wurde vorab anhand von Frostversuchen im Labor und mit FE‐Berechnungen untersucht. Durch einen Vergleich der Berechnungsergebnisse mit den umfangreichen Kraft‐ und Verformungsmessungen während des Vortriebs konnte zu jedem Zeitpunkt ein verformungsarmer Tunnelvortrieb mit tolerierbaren Baugrundverformungen sichergestellt werden.

Im folgenden Beitrag werden die wesentlichen Berechnungen und Meßergebnisse zu den Baugrundverformungen und zur Wasserhaltung und die Maßnahmen zur Reduzierung der Frosthebungen erläutert. Ferner werden durch einen Vergleich der Bau‐ und Berechnungsweisen der alten Bestandstunnels mit dem neuen Erweiterungstunnel die mit der Spritzbetonbauweise einhergehenden Entwicklungen im Tunnelbau veranschaulicht.
Probleme und Lösungen beim Feuchtigkeitsschutz des Mauerwerks von Baudenkmälern am Beispiel zweier großer Barockbauten in Wrocław
Authors: Adamowski Józef , Hoła Jerzy , Matkowski Zygmunt
Published: July 2005

In Polen sind die meisten aus Ziegeln gemauerten Baudenkmäler infolge fehlenden Wasser‐ und Feuchtigkeitsschutzes in schlechtem technischen Zustand und bedürfen unverzüglicher Instandsetzungsarbeiten. Das Wasser ist der größte Feind der Bauobjekte, insbesondere der Baudenkmäler. Die Hauptursache der Feuchtigkeit der Gebäude ist das Regenwasser, das aus dem Boden kapillar gezogene Wasser sowie das Wasser in der feuchten Luft, das von den porösen und feuchtigkeitsanziehenden Baustoffen aufgenommen wird. Die Planung und die spätere Herstellung eines richtigen und wirksamen Feuchtigkeitsschutzes in den Baudenkmälern ist eine schwierige Aufgabe, die spezifisches interdisziplinäres Wissen voraussetzt. Im Beitrag werden ausgewählte Probleme beschrieben, auf die man während der Herstellung des Feuchtigkeitsschutzes in zwei großen, in der Nähe der Odermündung gelegenen wertvollen Barockobjekten in Wrocław, das Hauptgebäude der Universität Wrocław und das Ossolinski‐Nationalinstitut, gestoßen ist.
Erweiterte Qualitätsprüfungen zum Nachweis ausreichender Betondeckung von bewehrten Bohrpfählen
Authors: Beckhaus Karsten , Vogt Norbert , Gehlen Christoph
Published: July 2005

Für den “Tunnel Unterföhring” wurden von der Firma BAUER Spezialtiefbau GmbH Bohrpfähle mit dem technisch noch jungen Doppelkopfsystem hergestellt. An den fertigen Bohrpfahlwänden von der Bauüberwachung durchgeführte Kontrollmessungen legten die Vermutung nahe, daß die vertrags‐ und normgerechte Betondeckung nicht gegeben sei. Mit einer weit über das übliche Maß hinausgehenden Qualitätsprüfung konnten im Rahmen einer gutachtlichen Beurteilung die Tragfähigkeit und Gebrauchstauglichkeit des Tunnels für die geplante Lebensdauer von 100 Jahren ohne Einschränkungen nachgewiesen werden, und nach Abschluß der Prüfungen konnte auf jegliche Sanierungsmaßnahmen verzichtet werden.

Das Doppelkopfsystem ermöglicht das Herstellen einer verrohrten Bohrung durch gleichzeitiges Vortreiben von Bohrschnecke und Verrohrung in einem Arbeitsschritt. Der Beton wird anschließend durch das Seelenrohr der Schnecke eingebracht, während die mit dem Boden gefüllte Bohrschnecke und die Verrohrung kontinuierlich gezogen werden, und die Bewehrungskörbe werden nachträglich in den frischen Pfahlbeton eingestellt. Inzwischen wurden aufgrund der Erkenntnisse aus dieser Baumaßnahme geräte‐ und verfahrenstechnische nderungen am Doppelkopfsystem und beim Korbeinbau vorgenommen, welche die Qualitätssicherung verbessern und die Bohrpfahlherstellung nach dem neuesten Stand der Technik sicherstellen. So sind auch bei ungünstigen Randbedingungen Probleme und Fragestellungen – wie sie im folgenden Beitrag erläutert werden – zukünftig hinfällig.
Selective Extraction of Bioproducts by Ionic Liquids
Authors: Jian‐Ji Wang , Yuan‐Chao Pei , Yang Zhao , Suo‐Jiang Zhang
Published: July 2005

Imidazolium based room temperature ionic liquids have been used to extract selectively L‐tryptophan from fermentation broth. ${\rm B}{\rm F}^{-}_{4} $ anion was found to enhance dramatically the partitioning of L‐tryptophan into ionic liquid phase from aqueous solutions.
Structures and Properties of Nanometer Size Materials III. Structures and Physical Properties of Iron Nanoparticles
Authors: Xiao‐Hua Li , Mei‐Hua Ma , Jin‐Fan Huang
Published: July 2005

Molecular dynamics computer simulation has been carried out to study the structure and physical properties of iron nanoparticles with 331 to 2133 Fe atoms or with diameter from 2.3 to 4.3 nm. The core of liquid nanodroplets has the similar structure of the bulk molten iron liquid that has an average coordination number around 10.5 and the packing density around 0.45, although the closest FeFe distance is slightly longer in the bulk liquid. Most of the iron nanoparticles formed from the cooling of molten nanodroplets have the same body center cubic crystal structure as it was observed in the bulk under the normal temperature and pressure. Lattice contraction was observed for iron nanoparticles. An amorphous solid and an HCP like solid were obtained accidentally during the quenching runs on Fe331 nanoparticles. The physical properties of iron nanoparticles such as molar volume, density, thermal expansion coefficient, melting point, heat of fusion, heat capacity and diffusion coefficient were estimated based on the results obtained from this simulation. The dependence of physical properties on the nanoparticle sizes was addressed.
Investigations on a New 2‐D Co(II) Framework with Reversed Triangular‐prism Shaped Units
Authors: Qing Chang , Xiang‐Ru Meng , Ying‐Lin Song , Hong‐Wei Hou
Published: July 2005

Treatment of 1,1′‐(1,4‐butylene)bis‐1H‐benzimidazole) (bbbi) with CoSO4·7H2O afforded a novel metal‐organic polymer [Co(bbbi)1.5(SO4)]n (1), where the central Co(II) ions are bridged by bbbi ligands, leading to a two‐dimensional layer with reversed triangular‐prism shaped units. Each reversed triangular‐prism shaped unit is made up of six bbbi ligands and six cobalt atoms. Thermal analysis revealed that polymer 1 was stable below 147 °C, and oxidized and decomposed to Co2O3 at about 787 °C, and to CoO at about 914 °C.
Physicochemical Characterization of Veronicafolin‐β‐cyclodextrin and Solubility Enhancement of Veronicafolin‐HP‐β‐cyclodextrin Inclusion Compound
Authors: Yun‐Shang Yang , Ying‐Peng Zhang , Ai‐Mei Yang , Run‐Hua Lu , Yan‐Ping Shi , Gao‐Feng Shi
Published: July 2005

Inclusion complexation between veronicafolin, 3,5,4′‐trihydroxy‐6,7,3′‐trimethoxyflavone, and β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) was investigated by using1H NMR, IR, X‐ray diffraction, thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA), and elemental analysis in the solid state. The elemental analysis showed that the complex (1:1) of flavonol‐β‐CD·20H2O with C 39.58% and H 5.75% has been formed. The phase solubility profile of the favonol by UV‐Vis in solution in the presence of hydroxypfropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin (HP‐β‐CD) was classified as AL‐type, indicating the formation of 1:1 inclusion complex. And the calibration equationy=24148x+0.0075 (r=0.9999) and phase‐solubility diagram y=0.4738x‐2.0×10‐7(r=0.9490) were obtained. Stability constant Kswas calculated from the phase solubility diagram (Ks=4.5×106). Solubility of the veronicafolin was enhanced in the presence of HP‐β‐CD.
A New Hydroxo‐bridged Chromium(III) Dimer [Cr(saltn)OH]2·4H2O: Synthesis, Crystal Structure and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Zhong‐Hai Ni , Yi‐Hua Zhao , Lei Zheng , Hui‐Zhong Kou , Ai‐Li Cui
Published: July 2005

A new hydroxo‐bridged dimeric Cr(III) complex [Cr(saltn)OH]2·4H2O [H2saltn=N,N′‐bis(salicylidene)trimethylenediamine] has been synthesized and its structural and magnetic properties have been investigated. The complex crystallizes in the triclinic space groupP‐1 with one dimeric formula unit in a cell of dimensions a=0.95828(19) nm, b=0.95926(19) nm, c=1.0437(2) nm, α=86.77(3)°, β=82.48(3)°, and γ=64.93(3)°. The geometry around each chromium(III) center is six‐coordinate, distorted‐octahedral. The bridging Cr2O2unit is strictly planar, as required by the crystallographic symmetry. The CrOCr′ bridging angle is 99.94(16)°, and the distance between Cr…Cr′ is 0.3019 nm. The magnetic susceptibility of the complex has been examined in the range of 2‐300 K. By using the spin‐spin coupled model for an S1=S2=3/2 dimeric system$({\hat H}=-2J{\hat S}_{1}{\hat S}_{2})$, the magnetic data were fitted to give the parameters ofg=2.01(1),J=‐0.85(2) cm‐1, and zJ' =0.18(3)cm‐1, indicating the presence of a weak antiferromagnetic spin‐exchange interaction between the Cr(III) ions in the binuclear complex.
Novel π‐Conjugated Poly(Schiff base) Containing Thiazole and Tetrathiatetrahydropentalene Moieties
Authors: Li‐Ming Jiang , Wei‐Lin Sun , Zhi‐Quan Shen
Published: July 2005

A new kind of π‐conjugated heterocyclic poly(Schiff base) was firstly prepared by the condensation reaction between tetrathiatetrahydropentalene‐type diketone and bithiazole‐diamine in good yields. The polymers were characterized by VPO, FTIR and 1H NMR spectroscopy. A large bathochromic shift was observed in UV‐Vis spectra for these polymers due to the π‐π* transition in the conjugated main chain. Brief examination indicated that the nitrogen‐ and sulfur‐containing polymers exhibited an excellent chelating tendency to metal ions and the corresponding polymeric complexes would be expected to have potential in applications.
Multiinstitutional European validation of the 2002 TNM staging system in conventional and papillary localized renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Ficarra Vincenzo , Schips Luigi , Guillè François , Li Guorong , De La Taille Alexandre , Prayer Galetti Tommaso , Cindolo Luca , Novara Giacomo , Zigeuner Richard E. , Bratti Emiliano , Tostain Jacques , Altieri Vincenzo , Abbou Claude C. , Artibani Walter , Patard Jean‐Jacques
Published: July 2005

BACKGROUND

The current study validated the 2002 edition of the TNM staging system in a multicenter, multinational European series of localized renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

METHODS

The authors analyzed the clinical data of 2217 patients who had undergone radical or partial nephrectomy for localized RCC in 7 urologic centers.

RESULTS

In the current study, 1065 patients (48%) were classified as having pT1a disease, 771 (34.8%) were classified as having pT1b disease, and 381 (17.2%) were classified as having pT2 disease. Tumor histotype was conventional RCC in 1886 patients (85%), papillary in 182 (8.2%) patients, chromophobe in 64 (2.9%) patients, and unclassified in 85 (3.8%) patients. The mean follow‐up time was 65.36 ± 52.09 months. The 5 and 10‐year disease‐specific survival probabilities were 95.3% and 91.4% in patients with pT1a disease, 91.4% and 83.4% in patients with pT1b disease, and 81.6% and 75.2% in patients with pT2 disease (log‐rank test P value = 0.0000). The disease‐specific survival rates of patients with pT1a RCC were significantly higher than those recorded in patients with pT1b and pT2 RCC. Similarly, the disease‐specific survival probabilities of patients with pT1b RCCwere significantly better than those of patients with pT2 RCC. Analyzing the seven series individually, the 2002 TNM staging system provided appropriate stratification for only one series. The 2002 TNM staging system allowed significant stratification of the cancer‐related outcomes in the subgroup of patients with conventional RCC but not in those with papillary carcinomas.

CONCLUSIONS

The application of the 2002 TNM staging system in the current multicenter series enabled the authors to demonstrate optimal stratification of patients with localized RCC. Stratifying by tumor histotype, the data coming from the whole group analysis were reconfirmed for clear cell RCC only. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Optimal treatment of intermediate‐risk prostate carcinoma with radiotherapy
Authors: Nichol Alan M. , Warde Padraig , Bristow Robert G.
Published: July 2005

The clinical heterogeneity of intermediate‐risk prostate carcinoma presents a challenge to urologic oncology in terms of prognosis and management. There is controversy regarding whether patients with intermediate‐risk prostate carcinoma should be treated with dose‐escalated external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) (e.g., doses > 74 gray [Gy]), or conventional‐dose EBRT (e.g., doses < 74 Gy) combined with androgen deprivation (AD). Data for this review were identified through searches for articles in MEDLINE and in conference proceedings, indexed from 1966 to 2004. Currently, the intermediate‐risk prostate carcinoma grouping is defined on the basis of prostate‐specific antigen (PSA), tumor classification (T classification), and Gleason score. Emerging evidence suggests that additional prognostic information may be derived from the percentage of positive core needle biopsies at the time of diagnosis and/or from the pretreatment PSA doubling time. Novel prognostic biomarkers include protein expression relating to cell cycle control, cell death, DNA repair, and intracellular signal transduction. Preclinical data support dose escalation or combined AD with radiation as a means to increase prostate carcinoma cell kill. There is Level I evidence that patients with intermediate‐risk prostate carcinoma benefit from dose‐escalated EBRT or AD plus conventional‐dose EBRT. However, clinical evidence is lacking to support the uniform use of AD plus dose‐escalated EBRT. Patients in the intermediate‐risk group should be entered into well designed, randomized clinical trials of dose‐escalated EBRT and AD with sufficient power to address biochemical failure and cause‐specific survival endpoints. These studies should be stratified by novel prognostic markers and accompanied by strong translational endpoints to address clinical heterogeneity and to allow for individualized treatment. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
MDM2 as a predictor of prostate carcinoma outcome
Authors: Khor Li‐Yan , DeSilvio Michelle , Al‐Saleem Tahseen , Hammond M. Elizabeth , Grignon David J. , Sause William , Pilepich Michael , Okunieff Paul , Sandler Howard , Pollack Alan
Published: July 2005

BACKGROUND

The MDM2 oncoprotein promotes p53 degradation via ubiquitin, establishing negative feedback control of p53 and consequently affecting cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. The authors evaluated the association between MDM2 expression and local failure, distant metastasis (DM), cause‐specific mortality, and overall mortality in men treated in Radiation Therapy Oncology Group 8610 with radiotherapy, with or without androgen deprivation.

METHODS

Of the 456 eligible and analyzable patients (parent cohort), adequate archival diagnostic tissue specimens from 108 patients were available for MDM2 analysis (MDM2 cohort). Cox proportional hazards multivariate analysis (MVA) was used to determine the relation of MDM2 to the endpoints. MDM2 overexpression was manually classified as > 5% nuclear staining. An image analysis system was also used to quantify the proportion of tumor nuclei with MDM2 staining (ACIS index) and staining intensity.

RESULTS

Overexpression of MDM2 by manual counts was seen in 44% (n = 47) of the patients. In the manual count analysis, there was no significant relation between MDM2 overexpression and outcome. The ACIS index, using a cutoff point defined by the median value, ≤ 3% versus > 3%, was related to 5‐year DM rates in univariate analyses (32.6% vs. 45.8%; P = 0.057) and MVA (P = 0.06). The intensity of MDM2 staining was not significant.

CONCLUSIONS

MDM2 expression quantified by image analysis was weakly associated with DM. The cohort examined was relatively small and with larger patient numbers, MDM2 overexpression may emerge as a more significant covariate. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
CCI‐779 in metastatic melanoma
Authors: Margolin Kim , Longmate Jeffrey , Baratta Tracey , Synold Tim , Christensen Scott , Weber Jeffrey , Gajewski Thomas , Quirt Ian , Doroshow James H.
Published: July 2005

BACKGROUND

CCI‐779 is an analog of the immunosuppressive agent, rapamycin, that has demonstrated activity against melanoma in preclinical models and shown clinical benefit in patients with breast and renal carcinoma. CCI‐779 is not immunosuppressive when administered on an intermittent schedule, and its toxicity is modest, consisting of nausea, diarrhea, hypertriglyceridemia, thrombocytopenia, asthenia, and follicular dermatitis.

METHODS

The current trial was designed to detect a median time to disease progression of >18 weeks in patients with metastatic melanoma treated with a 250‐mg weekly dose of CCI‐779 administered intravenously after diphenhydramine premedication. Patients with measurable disease, no more than one previous chemotherapy regimen for metastatic disease, and normal organ function were eligible, and patients with central nervous system involvement, P450‐inducing or P450‐suppressing drugs, or hypertriglyceridemia were excluded.

RESULTS

Thirty‐three patients (21 males) were treated, 21 of whom had been treated previously with chemotherapy and/or biologic agents for advanced‐stage disease. One patient had a partial response lasting 2 months. The median time to disease progression and overall survival were 10 weeks and 5 months, respectively. Toxicity was mild and predominantly mucocutaneous (stomatitis, diarrhea, and rash). Hyperlipidemia was cumulative and was managed with lipid‐lowering agents.

CONCLUSIONS

CCI‐779 was not sufficiently active in melanoma to warrant further testing as a single agent. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
The ratio of prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) to prostate volume (PSA density) as a parameter to improve the detection of prostate carcinoma in PSA values in the range of < 4 ng/mL
Authors: Stephan Carsten , Stroebel Greta , Heinau Marc , Lenz Andre , Roemer Andreas , Lein Michael , Schnorr Dietmar , Loening Stefan A. , Jung Klaus
Published: July 2005

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to evaluate the prostate specific antigen (PSA) density (PSAD) (the quotient of PSA and prostate volume) compared with the percent free PSA (%fPSA) in different total PSA (tPSA) ranges from 2 ng/mL to 20 ng/mL. Possible cut‐off levels depending on the tPSA should be established.

METHODS

In total, 1809 men with no pretreatment of the prostate were enrolled between 1996 and 2004. Total and free PSA were measured with the IMMULITE PSA and Free PSA kits (Diagnostic Products, Los Angeles, CA). Prostate volume was determined by transrectal ultrasound. The diagnostic validity of tPSA, %fPSA, and PSAD was evaluated by receiver operation characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.

RESULTS

The PSAD differed significantly (P < 0.0001) between patients with prostate carcinoma and patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia in all analyzed ranges of tPSA and prostate volume. At the 90% and 95% sensitivity levels and regarding the area under the ROC curve (AUC) within the tPSA range of 2–4 ng/mL, The PSAD was significantly better than tPSA and %fPSA. Within the tPSA range of 4–10 ng/mL, the PSAD did not perform better than %fPSA.

CONCLUSIONS

PSAD showed a better performance than %fPSA at tPSA concentrations < 4 ng/mL for detecting prostate carcinoma, with a significantly larger AUC for PSAD (0.739) compared with %fPSA (0.667). PSAD did not perform better than %fPSA when the tPSA range of 4–10 ng/mL was analyzed. Different PSAD cut‐off values of 0.05 at tPSA 2–4 ng/mL, 0.1 at tPSA 4–10 ng/mL, and 0.19 at 10–20 ng/mL were necessary to reach 95% sensitivity. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Localization of the endothelin system in human diffuse astrocytomas
Authors: Naidoo Vinogran , Naidoo Strinivasen , Mahabeer Rajeshree , Raidoo Deshandra M.
Published: July 2005

BACKGROUND

Endothelin‐1 (ET‐1), a vasoconstrictor and mitogen, has recently been implicated in the pathogenesis of human glioblastoma, neuroblastoma, and meningioma. ET‐1, formed by proteolysis of the propeptide big ET‐1 by endothelin‐converting enzyme‐1 (ECE‐1), mediates its cellular actions through ETA and ETB receptors. Because only immunoreactive ET‐1 has been observed within human astrocytic tumor cells, the authors investigated the localization of the entire ET‐1 system (ET‐1 mRNA, ET‐1, ECE‐1, ETA and ETB receptors) in surgical samples of human diffuse astrocytomas WHO Grade II (n = 6).

METHODS

ET‐1 mRNA expression was elucidated by in situ reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) using synthetic primers. Polyclonal antibodies were used to localize ET‐1, ECE‐1, ETA and ETB receptors by immunocytochemistry.

RESULTS

All ET components were detected in the six tumor samples. Intense (3+) cytoplasmic ET‐1 mRNA labeling was observed in more than 75% of cells in all 6 astrocytomas. Up to 75% of tumor cells displayed intense ET‐1 and ECE‐1 immunolabeling distributed throughout their cytoplasm. Immunoreactive ETA and ETB receptors, observed in 25% to 75% of astrocytic tumor cells, were of moderate intensity. In addition, all components of the ET system were seen within endothelial cells of tumor blood vessels.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of ET‐1 mRNA, ECE‐1, and ET‐1 within tumor astrocytes suggests local ET synthesis and processing. The mitogenic and antiapoptotic properties of ET‐1, as well as the vasodilatory signaling of ETB receptors, may promote tumorigenesis. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
The performance evaluation of spatial–temporal algorithms in W‐CDMA systems
Authors: Jeng Shiann‐Shiun , Tsung Chen‐Wan
Published: July 2005

Differing from FDMA, TDMA, and CDMA, space division multiple access (SDMA) uses space resources to improve communication system performance. Utilizing the smart antenna system is an approach to realize the SDMA technique. Smart antenna systems using the beamforming technique can reduce the co‐channel interference and multipath fading to increase the channel capacity and communication quality. In this study the smart antenna system and rake receiver are integrated. The performance of spatial–temporal structure applied to the W‐CDMA system is evaluated. From the cumulative distribution function simulation results, W‐CDMA system with spatial–temporal algorithm can exactly provide SINR gain to improve the system performance and capacity. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Facile Method for the Preparation of Gold Glyconanoparticles from Free Oligosaccharides and Their Applicability in Carbohydrate‐Protein Interaction Studies
Authors: Halkes Koen M. , Carvalho de Souza Adriana , Maljaars C. Elizabeth P. , Gerwig Gerrit J. , Kamerling Johannis P.
Published: July 2005

The weak binding affinity of monomeric oligosaccharides with carbohydrate‐binding proteins are hampering their use in in‐vivo and in‐vitro bio‐assays. Gold glyconanoparticles (GNPs), prepared from synthetic oligosaccharides, have been used to overcome this weak binding affinity. In this paper, a convenient method for the preparation of GNPs from free oligosaccharides is presented. The reductive amination of saccharides with trityl‐protected cysteamine, followed by de‐tritylation, afforded cysteamine‐extended saccharides that could be used for the preparation of GNPs under reducing conditions in water. The robust chemistry and facile purification of intermediate and final compounds ensure high yields and reproducible results and the, subsequent, preparation of GNPs proceeded smoothly, even with minute quantities (nanomolar scale) of the cysteamine‐extended saccharide. The described method was used to synthesize a series of gluco‐ and manno‐oligosaccharide‐containing GNPs. The prepared GNPs were validated in interaction studies with Con A, using either surface plasmon resonance (SPR), UV/Vis spectroscopy, or transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The described method for the preparation of water‐soluble gold glyconanoparticles can be used for the identification of carbohydrate ligands for novel carbohydrate‐binding proteins, and can find application as inhibitors of pathological interactions. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2005)
Electron‐Rich Cavitands via Fourfold Sonogashira Cross‐Coupling Reaction of Calix[4]arenes and Bromopyridines – Effect of the Nitrogen Position on Complexation Abilities
Authors: Dyker Gerald , Mastalerz Michael , Müller Iris M.
Published: July 2005

The fourfold Sonogashira cross‐coupling reaction is described as efficient synthetic tool for the preparation of calixarenes with relatively deep electron‐rich cavities. Reactions of halocalixarenes with terminal alkynes led to coupling products in yields up to 95 %. Two synthetic pathways to the tetraethynylcalixarene 5 were elaborated and their efficencies were compared. This calixarene was used for the synthesis of the three isomeric tetrakis(pyridylethynyl) compounds 10a–c, which were tested as hosts for the binding of pyridinium salts by mass spectrometric and 1H NMR examinations. The effect of the nitrogen position of the host systems revealed an interesting result: calixarene 3 (phenyl), 10a (2‐pyridyl), and 10c (4‐pyridyl) were able to bind NMP+ inside the cavity, calixarene 10b (3‐pyridyl) was not. Association constants were estimated for the complexes in CDCl3/CD3CN (9:1). (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2005)
In pursuit of social betterment: A proposal to evaluate the Da Vinci Learning Model
Authors: Henry Gary T.
Published: July 2005

Rigorous information on the implementation and effectiveness of the Da Vinci Model would be produced by the evaluation proposed in this chapter.
Neocartilage from human mesenchymal stem cells in alginate: Implied timing of transplantation
Authors: Ma Hsiao‐Li , Chen Tain‐Hsiung , Low‐Tone Ho Larry , Hung Shih‐Chieh
Published: July 2005

Previous reports have demonstrated the suitability of alginate microencapsulation for chondrogenesis of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in vitro. This study examined the MSCs‐alginate constructs that were transplanted beneath the dorsal skin of nude mice for 8 weeks after a variety of in vitro culture periods. The in vitro culture had great effects on gross morphology and histological characteristics of transplants. The integrity of alginate of transplants increased as the in vitro culture period increased. Transplants were characterized by an opaque and yellowish color, fair burnish, a firm to elastic texture, but without any evidence of calcification spots. Histological findings agreed with the clinical determination of hyaline cartilage, characterized by isolated cells with basophilic ground substance positive in Safranin‐O staining and collagen type II immunohistochemistry. Transplants with exposure to TGF‐β1 for more than 2 weeks before transplantation, lost burnish, were flexible in texture, and had an increased formation of calcification spots. Accordingly, 1‐week exposure to TGF‐β1 in vitro before transplantation is appropriate for neocartilage formation of human MSCs in alginate. These findings suggested that regeneration using cell therapy or tissue engineering should assist in ascertaining the optimal timing of transplantation. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2005
Introduction to LNG safety
Authors: Alderman John A.
Published: July 2005

A multitude of new liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipping, storage, and receiving projects will be undertaken in the next five years. LNG is the liquid version of natural gas and poses several unique fire and explosion hazards. This paper will discuss the safety and fire protection considerations that should be applied to new LNG projects. Essentially, LNG is characterized by unique fire and explosion hazards, which pose many safety challenges to project managers, design engineers, safety professionals, and operators over the life of these projects. It is paramount that consideration is given to the hazards and sound process safety principles are applied during all phases of these projects: design, construction, start‐up, and operation. This paper covers siting of the plant and equipment within the plant, fire protection, fire and explosion modeling, and impacts. © 2005 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2005
LNG safety: An issue of increasing importance
Authors: West Harry H. , Chiu Chen‐Hwa
Published: July 2005

The emergence of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to fill the growing gap in natural gas supply has led to a renewed interest in LNG safety. LNG regulations, which developed primarily in the 1970s, do not contain many process safety management concepts currently practiced by the rest of the process industry. Rather than continuous patching of federal LNG rules, a complete revamp using process safety concepts is long overdue, to maintain the excellent safety record that the LNG industry has enjoyed. © 2005 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 24, 2005
First‐principles calculations of the structural, electronic and optical properties of IIA–IV antifluorite compounds
Authors: Benhelal O. , Chahed A. , Laksari S. , Abbar B. , Bouhafs B. , Aourag H.
Published: July 2005

The structural, electronic and optical properties of the antifluorite semiconductors Mg2X (X = Si, Ge, Sn) have been studied using the full potential linearized augmented plane wave (FPLAPW) method. For treating the exchange‐correlation term, the local density approximation (LDA) has been chosen. The total energy approach is used to determine the equilibrium volume. The energy gap is found to be indirect for all the compounds. Results for electronic properties such as band structures, density of states and electronic charge densities are presented. The optical properties are derived and interpreted. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
On dislocations in a special class of generalized elasticity
Authors: Lazar Markus , Maugin Gérard A. , Aifantis Elias C.
Published: July 2005

In this paper we consider and compare special classes of static theories of gradient elasticity, nonlocal elasticity, gradient micropolar elasticity and nonlocal micropolar elasticity with only one gradient coefficient. Equilibrium equations are presented but higher‐order boundary conditions are not of concern here, since they are not required for the problems considered. The connection between gradient theory and nonlocal theory is discussed for elasticity as well as for micropolar elasticity. Nonsingular solutions for the elastic fields of screw and edge dislocations are given. Both the elastic deformation (distortion, strain, bend‐twist) and the force and couple stress tensors do not possess any singularity unlike ‘classical’ theories. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Quantum dynamics of inelastic scattering with a moving grid
Authors: Puzari Panchanan , Sarkar Biplab , Adhikari Satrajit
Published: July 2005

The time‐dependent discrete variable representation (TDDVR) of a wave function with grid points defined by the Hermite part of the Gauss–Hermite (G‐H) basis set introduces quantum corrections to classical mechanics. The grid points in this method follow classical trajectory and the approach converges to the exact quantum formulation with sufficient trajectories (TDDVR points) but just with a single grid point; only classical mechanics performs the dynamics. This newly formulated approach (developed for handling time‐dependent molecular quantum dynamics) has been explored to calculate vibrational transitions in the inelastic scattering processes. Traditional quantum mechanical results exhibit an excellent agreement with TDDVR profiles during the entire propagation when enough grid points are included in the quantum‐classical dynamics. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2005
Cytotoxic assays for screening anticancer agents
Authors: Baharith Lamya A. , Al‐Khouli Abeer , Raab Gillian M.
Published: July 2005

In the process of identifying potential anticancer agents, the ability of a new agent is tested for cytotoxic activity against a panel of standard cancer cell lines. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) present the cytotoxic profile for each agent as a set of estimates of the dose required to inhibit the growth of each cell line. The NCI estimates are obtained from a linear interpolation method applied to the dose–response curves. In this paper non‐linear fits are proposed as an alternative to interpolation. This is illustrated with data from two agents recently submitted to NCI for potential anticancer activity. Fitting of individual non‐linear curves proved difficult, but a non‐linear mixed model applied to the full set of cell lines overcame most of the problems.

Two non‐linear functional forms were fitted using random effect models by both maximum likelihood and a full Bayesian approach. Model‐based toxicity estimates have some advantages over those obtained from interpolation. They provide standard errors for toxicity estimates and other derived quantities, allow model comparisons. Examples of each are illustrated. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Non‐linear random effects models with continuous time autoregressive errors: a Bayesian approach
Authors: De la Cruz‐Mesía Rolando , Marshall Guillermo
Published: July 2005

Measurements on subjects in longitudinal medical studies are often collected at several different times or under different experimental conditions. Such multiple observations on the same subject generally produce serially correlated outcomes. Traditional regression methods assume that observations within subjects are independent which is not true in longitudinal data. In this paper we develop a Bayesian analysis for the traditional non‐linear random effects models with errors that follow a continuous time autoregressive process. In this way, unequally spaced observations do not present a problem in the analysis. Parameter estimation of this model is done via the Gibbs sampling algorithm. The method is illustrated with data coming from a study in pregnant women in Santiago, Chile, that involves the non‐linear regression of plasma volume on gestational age. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The probability of germination and establishment in discrete density‐dependent plant populations with a seed bank: a correction formula
Authors: Damgaard Christian
Published: July 2005

The effect of ignoring a seed bank in unstructured population models of annual plants is investigated under the assumption of ecological equilibrium. It is demonstrated that if delayed germination is an important life‐history strategy and seed mortality in the seed bank is relatively low then it is important to take the effect of the seed bank into account. A formula that corrects the probability of germination and establishment in unstructured population models of annual plants for the effect of a seed bank is derived. This correction formula may be used in order to apply plant ecological data to a number of published unstructured plant ecological models.
Cellular levels of TrkB and MAPK in the neuroprotective role of BDNF for embryonic rat cortical neurons against hypoxia in vitro
Authors: Meng Mao , Zhiling Wang , Hui Zhou , Shengfu Li , Dan Yu , Jiping Hua
Published: July 2005

Intrauterine asphyxia often results in neonatal loss or mental retardation. Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been shown to be a protective agent against hypoxic damage to neurons. To understand the signaling mechanism underling the neuroprotective function of BDNF and to find therapeutic interventions for intrauterine asphyxia, we utilized an immunofluorescent technique to measure the intracellular levels of tyrosine kinase B (TrkB), phosphorylated TrkB, and the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) in the rat embryonic cortical neurons cultured in hypoxic conditions with and without BDNF pretreatment. The results showed that the fluorescent intensity of TrkB and phosphorylated TrkB in the cytoplasm and the fluorescent intensity of MARK in both cytoplasma and nucleus of the neurons were significantly increased in the presence of BDNF. The results indicate that the neuroprotective function of BDNF against hypoxia‐induced neurotoxicity requires the participation of TrkB and is transduced via the Ras–MAPK signaling pathway.
Lecania fructigena Zahlbr., a coastal saxicolous lichen, new for Europe, with notes on related species
Authors: van den BOOM Pieter P. G. , BRAND A. Maarten
Published: July 2005

Lecania fructigena has been found in western Europe. This species, previously known only from western North America and north-western Mexico, is described and compared with related species. It is easily overlooked for L. aipospila. Lecania sampaiana is a synonym of L. aipospila.
Notes on Mycomicrothelia (Arthopyreniaceae s. lat.), with two new species
Authors: SIPMAN Harrie J. M. , APTROOT André
Published: July 2005

Descriptions are provided for two new species, Mycomicrothelia lateralis Sipman from Norfolk Island and M. triangularis Aptroot from Puerto Rico, both characterized by lateral ostioles and uniseriate ascospores. Based on the examination of additional fresh material, the genus Ornatopyrenis is included in Mycomicrothelia and the new combination Mycomicrothelia queenslandica (Müll. Arg.) Sipman & Aptroot is made. Ornatopyrenis muriformis Aptroot is proposed as a synonym of M. decipiens (Müll. Arg.) R. C. Harris.
Nimisia deusta, the correct name for N. fuegiae, with additional notes on morphology, chemical composition, and distribution
Authors: FRYDAY Alan M.
Published: July 2005

Nimisia deusta, based on Parmelia enteromorpha var. deusta, is shown to be the correct name for the species currently known as N. fuegiae. Original material collected by J. D. Hooker in 1842, and collections made by Henry Imshaug between 1968 and 1971, have shown that the species is more widely distributed than previously reported, being known throughout the southern tip of South America (Argentina: Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego, Isla de los Estados; Chile: Cape Horn Islands; Falkland Islands), that it has a uniform secondary metabolite chemistry of fumarprotocetraric acid in the upper medulla (not lacking lichen substances as previously reported), and that it is not uniformly black but has a partly pale brown upper cortex.
Withdrawing an explicit request for euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide: a retrospective study on the influence of mental health status and other patient characteristics
Authors: MARCOUX ISABELLE , ONWUTEAKA-PHILIPSEN BREGJE D. , JANSEN-VAN DER WEIDE MARIJKE C. , WAL GERRIT VAN DER
Published: July 2005

Background. Mental health status may be closely related to an instability of intentions toward a premature death, but little is known about such instability following an explicit request for euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide (EAS) and patient characteristics associated with a change of mind.

Method. A questionnaire was sent to 6596 general practitioners in The Netherlands (response rate 60%). Of these, 1681 provided descriptions of the most recent explicit request for EAS they had received in the preceding 18 months.

Results. Symptoms of depression and anxiety were related to a change of mind, but no relationship was found with the total score of the NOSGER Mood Dimension. Multinomial regression analysis revealed that patients who changed their mind had more mental health problems and less mental clarity than those who died by EAS. They also had fewer general health problems, had less unbearable and pointless suffering (according to the physician), were less concerned about loss of dignity and alternative treatment options were more frequently available. A further analysis revealed that mental health problems were more prevalent among patients whose requests were refused than among those who changed their mind. The physicians' evaluations of the reasons why a patient requested EAS were similar to a more objective measure of the patient characteristics.

Conclusions. These findings suggest that mental health status must be carefully assessed, and possible instability of desire must be taken into account in the course of a request for EAS. These results require replication, and future studies should adopt a prospective method.
Estimation of ocean contribution at the MODIS near‐infrared wavelengths along the east coast of the U.S.: Two case studies
Authors: Wang Menghua , Shi Wei
Published: July 2005

Atmospheric correction for the ocean color products derived from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) uses two near‐infrared (NIR) bands centered at 748 and 869 nm. Ocean is usually assumed to be black at these two NIR wavelengths. For Case‐2 and high productive Case‐1 waters, however, ocean could have significant contributions in the NIR, leading to significant under‐estimation of the MODIS‐derived water‐leaving radiances. This is often the case in coastal regions. In this paper, measurements from the MODIS Terra at the short wave infrared (SWIR) wavelengths (1240 and 1640 nm) are used to evaluate the ocean contributions at wavelengths 748 and 869 nm. The ocean is black in coastal regions in these SWIR bands due to much stronger water absorption. Studies of two MODIS granules off the east coast of the U.S. show that the ocean could have reflectance values of ∼3.1% and ∼1.8% at the top of atmosphere (TOA) for bands 748 and 869 nm in the Outer Banks, while these values are ∼0.15% and ∼0.1% in the Chesapeake Bay region. Thus, for the turbid waters, it is important to accurately account for the ocean contributions in the NIR bands for the atmospheric correction of ocean color remote sensing.
Nonlinear atmospheric variability in the winter northeast Pacific associated with the Madden‐Julian oscillation
Authors: Jamet Cédric , Hsieh William W.
Published: July 2005

The Madden‐Julian Oscillation (MJO), the primary mode of large‐scale intraseasonal variability in the tropics, is known to relate to the mid‐latitude atmospheric variability. Using neural network techniques, a nonlinear projection of the MJO onto the precipitation and 200‐hPa wind anomalies in the northeast Pacific during January–March shows asymmetric atmospheric patterns associated with different phases of the MJO. For precipitation, the strength of the nonlinear effect to the linear effect was 0.94 (in terms of the squared anomalies and averaged over all phases of the MJO), indicating strong nonlinearity, while for the 200‐hPa wind, the ratio was 0.55, indicating moderate nonlinearity. In general, anomalous winds blowing from the north or from land were associated with negative precipitation anomalies, while winds from the south or from the open ocean, with positive precipitation anomalies. The nonlinear effects generally induced positive precipitation anomalies during all phases of the MJO.
Membrane activity of the phospholipase C-δ1 pleckstrin homology (PH) domain
Authors: Flesch Frits M. , Yu Jong W. , Lemmon Mark A. , Burger Koert N. J.
Published: July 2005

PH-PLCδ1 [the PH domain (pleckstrin homology domain) of PLCδ1 (phospholipase C-δ1)] is among the best-characterized phosphoinositide-binding domains. PH-PLCδ1 binds with high specificity to the headgroup of PtdIns(4,5)P2, but little is known about its interfacial properties. In the present study, we show that PH-PLCδ1 is also membrane-active and can insert significantly into PtdIns(4,5)P2-containing monolayers at physiological (bilayer-equivalent) surface pressures. However, this membrane activity appears to involve interactions distinct from those that target PH-PLCδ1 to the PtdIns(4,5)P2 headgroup. Whereas the majority of PtdIns(4,5)P2-bound PH-PLCδ1 can be displaced by adding excess of soluble headgroup [Ins(1,4,5)P3], membrane activity of PH-PLCδ1 cannot. PH-PLCδ1 differs from other phosphoinositide-binding domains in that its membrane insertion does not require that the phosphoinositide-binding site be occupied. Significant monolayer insertion remains when the phosphoinositide-binding site is mutated, and PH-PLCδ1 can insert into monolayers that contain no PtdIns(4,5)P2 at all. Our results suggest a model in which reversible membrane binding of PH-PLCδ1, mediated by PtdIns(4,5)P2 or other acidic phospholipids, occurs without membrane insertion. Accumulation of the PH domain at the membrane surface enhances the efficiency of insertion, but does not significantly affect its extent, whereas the presence of phosphatidylethanolamine and cholesterol in the lipid mixture promotes the extent of insertion. This is the first report of membrane activity in an isolated PH domain and has implications for understanding the membrane targeting by this common type of domain.