bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cyclooxygenase‐1 and Cyclooxygenase‐2 Inhibition of Novel 1,2‐Disubtituted Imidazoles
Authors: Handler Norbert , Jaeger Walter , Kuen‐Krismer Bea , Erker Thomas
Published: December 2005

Novel 1,2‐disubstituted imidazoles were synthesized and tested for COX‐1 and COX‐2 inhibition. A substituted phenyl cycle in position 1 and an alicyclic tertiary alcohol in position 2 gave COX‐1‐selective compounds with potency and selectivity depending on the different substituents.
The FedLemur project: Federated search in the real world
Authors: Avrahami Thi Truong , Yau Lawrence , Si Luo , Callan Jamie
Published: December 2005

Federated search and distributed information retrieval systems provide a single user interface for searching multiple full‐text search engines. They have been an active area of research for more than a decade, but in spite of their success as a research topic, they are still rare in operational environments. This article discusses a prototype federated search system developed for the U.S. government's FedStats Web portal, and the issues addressed in adapting research solutions to this operational environment. A series of experiments explore how well prior research results, parameter settings, and heuristics apply in the FedStats environment. The article concludes with a set of lessons learned from this technology transfer effort, including observations about search engine quality in the “real world.”
Statistical properties of bibliometric indicators: Research group indicator distributions and correlations
Authors: van Raan Anthony F.J.
Published: December 2005

In this article we present an empirical approach to the study of the statistical properties of bibliometric indicators on a very relevant but not simply “available” aggregation level: the research group. We focus on the distribution functions of a coherent set of indicators that are used frequently in the analysis of research performance. In this sense, the coherent set of indicators acts as a measuring instrument. Better insight into the statistical properties of a measuring instrument is necessary to enable assessment of the instrument itself. The most basic distribution in bibliometric analysis is the distribution of citations over publications, and this distribution is very skewed. Nevertheless, we clearly observe the working of the central limit theorem and find that at the level of research groups the distribution functions of the main indicators, particularly the journal‐ normalized and the field‐normalized indicators, approach normal distributions. The results of our study underline the importance of the idea of “group oeuvre,” that is, the role of sets of related publications as a unit of analysis.
Estimating the optimal radiotherapy utilization for carcinoma of the central nervous system, thyroid carcinoma, and carcinoma of unknown primary origin from evidence‐based clinical guidelines
Authors: Delaney Geoff , Jacob Susannah , Barton Michael
Published: December 2005

BACKGROUND

In this one in a series of articles, the objective was to estimate the ideal proportion of patients with cancer who should receive radiotherapy at least once during the course of their illness based on the best available evidence. This estimate should be useful in planning for future radiotherapy facilities. Optimal rates of radiotherapy for patients with central nervous system (CNS) carcinoma, thyroid carcinoma, or carcinoma of unknown primary site (CUP) have not been studied previously.

METHODS

A systematic review of evidence‐based treatment guidelines for the treatment of CNS carcinoma, CUP, and thyroid carcinoma was undertaken. An optimal radiotherapy utilization tree was constructed for each of these malignancies depicting the indications for radiotherapy at various stages of disease. The proportion of patients who had clinical attributes that indicated a possible benefit from radiotherapy was calculated by adding epidemiological data to the radiotherapy utilization tree. The optimal proportion of patients who should receive radiotherapy was then calculated using specialized decision‐analysis software. Sensitivity analyses using univariate analysis and Monte Carlo simulations were performed.

RESULTS

The optimal rates of radiotherapy utilization for carcinoma of the CNS, thyroid carcinoma, and CUP were 92%, 10%, and 61%, respectively. Comparison with actual rates of utilization in South Australia, Sweden, and the U.S. suggested an under‐utilization of radiotherapy for CNS carcinoma and CUP. However, the actual rates of radiotherapy for thyroid carcinoma exceeded the optimal rate for some jurisdictions, although some data may have included radioactive iodine, which was not included in the current project.

CONCLUSIONS

It was possible to estimate optimal radiotherapy utilization rates based on evidence. This methodology allowed a comparison of optimal rates with actual rates to identify areas in which improvements in the evidence‐based use of radiotherapy can be made, and it may provide valuable data for future radiotherapy service planning. Cancer 2006. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Study on the Electrochemical Behavior of Dopamine and Uric Acid at a 2‐Amino‐5‐mercapto‐[1,3,4] Triazole Self‐Assembled Monolayers Electrode
Authors: Liu Chuanyin , Lu Guanghan , Jiang Lingyan , Jiang Liping , Zhou Xiangchun
Published: December 2005

Selected from a series of structurally related heteroaromatic thiols, a newly synthesized reagent 2‐amino‐5‐mercapto‐[1,3,4] triazole (MATZ) was used to fabricate self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) on gold electrode for the first time. The MATZ/Au SAMs was characterized by electrochemical methods and scanning electronic microscopy (SEM). In 0.04 mol/L Britton–Robinson buffer solution (pH 5), the electrochemical behavior of dopamine showed a quasireversible process at the MATZ/Au SAMs with an electrode kinetic constant 0.1049 cm/s. However, the electrochemical reaction of uric acid at the SAMs electrode showed an irreversible oxidation process, the charge‐transfer kinetics of uric acid was promoted by the SAMs. By Osteryoung square‐wave voltammetry (OSWV), the simultaneous determination of dopamine and uric acid can be accomplished with an oxidation peak separation of 0.24 V, the peak current of dopamine and uric acid were linearly to its concentration in the range of 2.5×10−6–5.0×10−4 mol/L for dopamine and 1×10−6–1×10−4 mol/L for uric acid with a detection limit of 8.0×10−7 mol/L for dopamine and 7.0×10−7 mol/L for uric acid. The MATZ/Au SAMs electrode was used to detect the content of uric acid in real urine and serum sample with satisfactory results.
Effect of chemical composition on the induction of DNA damage by urban airborne particulate matter
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Castillo Maria E. , Roubicek Deborah A. , Cebrián‐García Mariano E. , De Vizcaya‐Ruíz Andrea , Sordo‐Cedeño Monserrat , Ostrosky‐Wegman Patricia
Published: December 2005

Airborne particulate matter (PM) contains a large number of genotoxic substances capable of endangering human health. In the present study, we have investigated the ability of chemically characterized water‐soluble and organic‐soluble fractions of two particle sizes (PM2.5 and PM10) from different regions of Mexico City to induce DNA damage in a human lung epithelial cell line. We also evaluated associations between the physicochemical parameters of the PM and its genotoxicity. The airborne particulate samples were collected from four regions of the city; a HiVol air sampler was used to collect PM10 on glass fiber filters and a tapered element oscillating system coupled to an automatic cartridge collection unit was used to collect PM2.5 on teflon filters. PM mass was determined by gravimetric analysis of the filters. Filters containing PM2.5 and one section of each PM10 filter were agitated either with deionized water to extract water‐soluble compound, or with dichloromethane to prepare organic‐soluble compounds. The chemical composition of the extracts was determined by ion and gas chromatography and atomic adsorption spectroscopy. A549 human type II alveolar epithelial cells were exposed to different concentrations of the PM2.5 and PM10 extracts, and alkaline single cell gel electrophoresis or the Comet assay was performed to measure DNA damage and repair. These analyses indicated that soluble transition metals and the organic‐soluble PM fractions are crucial factors in the DNA damage induced by PM. PM composition was more important than PM mass for producing gentotoxicity. The results of this study showed that the constituents of the water‐soluble PM extract are more likely to induce DNA damage than the organic compounds. Environ. Mol. Mutagen., 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of cone and OSU calorimetric techniques to assess the flammability behaviour of fabrics used for aircraft interiors
Authors: Kandola B. K. , Horrocks A. R. , Padmore K. , Dalton Joyce , Owen Tim
Published: December 2005

Two test methods for measuring the heat release rate, HRR have been compared on fabric composites used for aircraft interior materials as side‐wall panels. These methods are based on the principles of direct measurement of the convective and radiant heat by thermopiles using an Ohio State University (OSU) calorimeter, and oxygen consumption using a cone calorimeter. It has been observed when tested by standard procedures, cone results at 35 kW/m2 incident heat flux do not correlate with OSU results at the same heat flux. This is because in the cone calorimeter, the sample is mounted horizontally whereas the OSU calorimetric method requires vertical sampling with exposure to a vertical radiant panel. A further difference between the two techniques is the ignition source—in the cone it is spark ignition, whereas in the OSU it is flame ignition; hence, samples in the OSU calorimeter ignite more easily compared to those in the cone under the same incident heat fluxes. However, in this paper we demonstrate that cone calorimetric exposure at 50 kW/m2 heat flux gives similar peak heat release results as the 35 kW/m2 heat flux of OSU calorimeter, but significantly different average and total heat release values over a 2 min period. The performance differences associated with these two techniques are also discussed. Moreover, the effects of structure, i.e. type of fibres used in warp/weft direction and design of fabric are also analysed with respect to heat release behaviour and their correlation discussed. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A hedging deficiency in eurodollar futures
Authors: Chance Don M.
Published: December 2005

The eurodollar futures contract of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange is arguably the most successful of all futures contracts. The contract is structured such that its price does not converge to the price of the underlying eurodollar time deposit. Ignoring the daily settlement, one typically assumes that a eurodollar futures contract perfectly hedges an anticipated loan pegged to LIBOR, provided the loan rate is set at the eurodollar expiration. This article demonstrates that this hedge is not perfect, leaving a risk empirically estimated at four basis points, a seemingly small amount but considerably larger than the bid–ask spread on the futures. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 26:189–207, 2006
Validity, efficiency, and robustness of a family‐based test of association
Authors: Lewinger Juan Pablo , Bull Shelley B.
Published: December 2005

We propose a new test of linkage in the presence of allelic association that uses all available information in a sample of nuclear families, including parental phenotypes, genotypes from both affected and unaffected siblings, and families with homozygous parents. The test is based on the conditional framework developed by Rabinowitz and Laird [2000: Hum Hered 50:211–223] and is thus immune to population stratification and can be applied to families with any pattern of missing information. The test statistic is a conditional likelihood ratio based on a standard two‐point linkage model with allelic association, where parameters are estimated from the sample. Through a simulation study, we determined that the proposed test has near optimal power for a wide range of scenarios, outperforming FBAT both when data were complete and when parental genotypes were missing, although differences between the two tests diminish as the genetic effect is reduced. To assess robustness, we also evaluated the performance of the tests under scenarios with population stratification and found that although there is a loss of efficiency, our proposed test remains a strong competitor to FBAT. Genet. Epidemiol. 30:62‐76, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of methods incorporating quantitative covariates into affected sib pair linkage analysis
Authors: Tsai Hui‐Ju , Weeks Daniel E.
Published: December 2005

For complex traits, it may be possible to increase the power to detect linkage if one takes advantage of covariate information. Several statistics have been proposed that incorporate quantitative covariate information into affected sib pair (ASP) linkage analysis. However, it is not clear how these statistics perform under different gene‐environment (G × E) interactions. We compare representative statistics to each other on simulated data under three biologically‐plausible G × E models. We also compared their performance with a model‐free method and with quantitative trait locus (QTL) linkage approaches. The statistics considered here are: (1) mixture model; (2) general conditional‐logistic model (LODPAL); (3) multinomial logistic regression models (MLRM); (4) extension of the maximum‐likelihood‐binomial approach (MLB); (5) ordered‐subset analysis (OSA); and (6) logistic regression modeling (COVLINK). In all three G × E models, most of these six statistics perform better when using the covariate C1 associated with a G × E interaction effect than when using the environmental risk factor C2 or the random noise covariate C3. Compared with a model‐free method without covariates (Sall), the mixture model performs the best when using C1, with the high‐to‐low OSA method also performing quite well. Generally, MLB is the least sensitive to covariate choice. However, most of these statistics do not provide better power than Sall. Thus, while inclusion of the “correct” covariate can lead to increased power, careful selection of appropriate covariates is vital for success. Genet. Epidemiol. 30:77–93, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Response of Nutrients, Plankton Communities and Macrophytes to Fish Manipulation in a Small Eutrophic Wetland Lake
Authors: Tátrai István , Mátyás Kálmán , Korponai János , Szabó Gitta , Pomogyi Piroska , Héri János
Published: December 2005

A food web manipulation experiment was started in 1999 in a small shallow eutrophic (Major Lake as a part of the wetland area, the Kis‐Balaton Water Protection System, KBWPS). The development of submerged macrophytes, the structure and biomass of phytoplankton and crustacean plankton responded rapidly to the removal of 60% of omnivorous cyprinid fish. An increase in transparency and a decrease in the concentrations of chlorophyll‐a, phytoplankton and phosphorus occurred simultaneously with the increased presence of submerged macrophytes, which covered 45% of the lake area compared with <10% during the premanipulation period. The success of fish manipulation demonstrated the potential of this measure as a short‐term management strategy. Our data also indicated that the clear water state was not stable in the long term. As long as phosphorus level is high, there is a risk that macrophytes will not successfully establish for longer period. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Combined Effects of Food Level and Temperature on Life Table Demography of Moina macrocopaStraus (Cladocera)
Authors: Xi Yi‐Long , Hagiwara Atsushi , Sakakura Yoshitaka
Published: December 2005

The combined effects of four levels of temperatures (18 °C, 23 °C, 28 °C and 33 °C) and food densities (0.5 × 106, 1.0 × 106, 2.0 × 106 and 4.0 × 106 cells ml–1 of Chlorella vulgaris) on the life‐table demographic parameters (age‐specific survivorship and fecundity, average lifespan, gross reproductive rate, net reproductive rate, generation time and intrinsic rate of population increase) of a laboratory population of the cladoceran Moina macrocopa were investigated. Both food level and temperature, independently and in interaction, significantly influenced nearly all the parameters. The average lifespan was maximized at 18 °C under 1.0 × 106 cells ml–1 of Chlorella. The reproductive performance was a direct function of the food level, but the magnitude of food‐level effect depended on temperature. Among the algal concentrations used here, 0.5 × 106 – 2.0 × 106 cells ml–1 were suitable for the survival and reproduction of M. macrocopa. Regardless of the food‐level effect, both the gross reproductive rate and the net reproductive rate at 23 °C was higher, and the generation time generally decreased with the rise of temperature. Within the suitable food‐level range, the average value of the intrinsic rate of population increase ascended with the rise of temperature from 0.72 to 2.41 day–1. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Bone morphogenetic proteins 5 and 6 stimulate osteoclast generation
Authors: Wutzl Arno , Brozek Wolfgang , Lernbass Isolde , Rauner Martina , Hofbauer Guenter , Schopper Christian , Watzinger Franz , Peterlik Meinrad , Pietschmann Peter
Published: December 2005

Bone regeneration is required for fracture‐healing, and different procedures have been used to promote osteogenesis. Recently, BMP‐2 has been shown to induce bone formation in vivo and has been tested in clinical trials. A recent in vitro study evaluated the osteogenic activity of 14 BMPs on osteoblastic progenitor cells with an osteogenic hierarchical model in which BMP‐2 and BMP‐6 may play an important role in inducing osteoblast differentiation. Although the relative osteoinductive activity of each BMP is important, bone regeneration is a process consisting of bone formation and bone resorption. Therefore, it remains unclear which effects BMP‐5 and ‐6 have on the generation of osteoclasts and by which mechanism osteoclastogenesis is stimulated. To compare osteoclastic potency of each BMP, primary murine bone marrow cells were treated with human recombinant BMP‐2, BMP‐5, or BMP‐6 and 1,25‐(OH)2 vitamin D3 and stained for the TRAP enzyme. Osteogenic activity of BMP‐5 was determined by measuring induction of ALP‐activity and proliferation after incubation with primary murine osteoblasts. For elucidating the molecular mechanism, primary bone marrow cells with various concentrations of OPG were added to the TRAP assay and mRNA levels of RANKL and OPG were measured after stimulation with BMP‐5. The presented data show that BMP‐5 and BMP‐6, unlike BMP‐2, enhanced the formation of murine TRAP+/MNCs in a biphasic curve. BMP‐5 and ‐6 were less potent in stimulating osteoclastogenesis compared to BMP‐2. Concerning the effects of BMP‐5 on osteoblasts, there was a dose‐dependent increase of ALP activity and proliferation up to a maximum dose of 300 ng/mL. At the mRNA level, BMP‐5 increased the RANKL/OPG ratio. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that in contrast to BMP‐2, BMP‐5 and ‐6 influences the generation of osteoclasts in a biphasic mode. Both proteins might be very important regulators of bone homeostasis, and therefore, potent candidates for future treatment strategies of bone regeneration. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2006
Effects of a biodegradable polymer synthesized with inorganic tin on the chondrogenesis of human articular chondrocytes
Authors: Banu Nasreen , Tsuchiya Toshie , Sawada Rumi
Published: December 2005

Recent study has shown that biodegradable polymers are attractive candidates for chondrocyte fixation and further transplantation in cartilage tissue engineering. Poly (glycolic acid) (PGA), a polymer of glycolic acid, is widely used in orthopedic applications as a biodegradable polymer. Organotin, lead, antimony, and zinc are catalysts commonly used in synthesizing PGA. Here, we investigated the biocompatibility of PGA, synthesized with and without inorganic tin as a catalyst in chondrogenesis of human articular chondrocytes in a micromass culture system. Significant enhancement of chondrocyte proliferation and expression of the collagen type II protein gene were observed in cultures treated with PGA synthesized with a tin catalyst. However, aggrecan gene expression was very similar to the control culture. Amount of collagen type II protein was also increased in the same group of cultured chondrocytes. In contrast, PGA without a catalyst caused overall inhibition of chondrogenesis. Despite several positive findings, extensive investigations are essential for the feasibility of this PGA(Sn) in future clinical practice. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., J Biomed Mater Res, 2006
Three‐dimensional culture of porcine fetal liver cells for a bioartificial liver
Authors: Ehashi Tomo , Ohshima Norio , Miyoshi Hirotoshi
Published: December 2005

A three‐dimensional (3‐D) culture experiment of porcine fetal liver cells (FLCs) was performed using a porous resin substrate, for the purpose of developing a bioartificial liver. A long‐term 3‐D culture and monolayer culture as the control were performed for more than 1 month. To promote cell growth and maturation, human oncostatin M (OSM), the human leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), or cortisol was added to the cultures, and the effect of each agent on cell proliferation and liver‐specific cellular functions was investigated. The cell numbers in both the monolayer and 3‐D cultures increased gradually with time, irrespective of the supplementation of the stimulating agents. In the monolayer culture, the albumin secretion of FLCs decreased rapidly, and scarce activity was detected from 2 weeks onward under all culture conditions tested. In the 3‐D cultures, neither human OSM nor human LIF had any definite effect on the albumin secretion of FLCs. However, in the cultures with cortisol, albumin secretion was maintained for a considerably long period. These findings suggest that a bioartificial liver can be developed by culturing porcine FLCs with cortisol as the stimulant. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., J Biomed Mater Res, 2006
Application of programmable temperature vaporisation injection with resistive heating‐gas chromatography flame photometric detection for the determination of organophosphorus pesticides
Authors: Patel Katan , Fussell Richard J. , Goodall David M. , Keely Brendan J.
Published: December 2005

The combination of a programmable temperature vaporisation (PTV) injector with resistive heating GC (RH‐GC), a form of fast GC, has been applied to the analysis of organophosphorus (OP) pesticides. The PTV injector was optimised in the ‘at‐once’ solvent vent mode for the injection of ethyl acetate (10–40 μL) or ACN (10 μL). The short RH‐GC column (5 m×0.25 mm ID) with fast temperature ramps (up to 153°C/min) allowed the separation of a total of 20 OP pesticides in less than 6 min. Average recoveries between 67 and 119% were obtained for pesticides spiked at 0.01 mg/kg into apple and pear matrix. Extraction of orange juice with ACN provided higher recoveries (92–104%) for methamidophos, acephate and omethoate compared to ethyl acetate (62–73%). Results for analysis of OP pesticides in samples containing incurred residues were in good agreement with those obtained using GC‐MS. The overall method was rapid, allowing 20 samples to be analysed in 4 h.

British Crown Copyright © 2005 Published by WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim
Feasibility of gas chromatography – ion trap tandem mass spectrometry for the determination of polychlorinated biphenyls in food
Authors: Gómara Belen , Fernández Mario Antonio , González M.‐José , Ramos Lourdes
Published: December 2005

The different parameters affecting the ionisation and fragmentation of selected polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in an IT detector working in the MS/MS mode, ITD(MS/MS), have been optimised for maximum selectivity and sensibility. The low LODs (in the range 0.03–0.3 μg/L), the satisfactory repeatability (RSDs in general below 11%) and reproducibility (RSDs below 17%) obtained when analysing standard solutions ensured proper determination of the PCBs studied at the concentrations typically found in food samples. Foodstuffs naturally contaminated with varying levels of PCBs have been analysed using the optimised GC–ITD(MS/MS) method. The results obtained compared favourably with those found using more conventional detectors, such as (micro‐)electron capture detection (for ortho‐PCBs) and high‐resolution MS (for non‐ortho‐PCBs), as well as with the consensus PCB levels established for these particular samples via an international interlaboratory exercise. The relative merits of these three detectors have been discussed.
Headspace solvent microextraction as a simple and highly sensitive sample pretreatment technique for ultra trace determination of geosmin in aquatic media
Authors: Bagheri Habib , Salemi Amir
Published: December 2005

A headspace solvent microextraction method was developed for the trace determination of geosmin, an odorant compound, in water samples. After performing the extraction by a microdrop of an organic solvent, the microdrop was introduced directly into a GC‐MS injection port. One‐at‐the‐time optimization strategy was applied to investigate and optimize some important extraction parameters such as type of solvent, drop volume, temperature, stirring rate, ionic strength, sample volume, and extraction time. The analytical data exhibited an RSD of less than 5% (n = 5), a linear calibration range of 5–900 ng/L (r2 > 0.998), and a detection limit of 0.8 and 3.3 ng/L using two different sets of selected ions. The proposed method was successfully applied to the extraction and determination of geosmin in the spiked real water sample and reasonable recovery was achieved.
Determination of fluoroquinolones in chicken tissues by LC‐coupled electrospray ionisation and atmospheric pressure chemical ionisation
Authors: Bailac Sandra , Barrón Dolores , Sanz‐Nebot Victoria , Barbosa José
Published: December 2005

The aim of this work was to develop a method for determining seven quinolones (ciprofloxacin, danofloxacin, enrofloxacin, sarafloxacin, difloxacin, oxolinic acid and flumequine) in chicken muscle by LC coupled to MS. Two ionisation techniques, ESI and atmospheric pressure chemical ionisation (APCI) were compared using standard solutions. LOD and LOQ were determined under the optimised conditions for the two sources. The ESI was found the best for the purpose. The optimised method (LC‐ESI‐MS) was validated for the simultaneous analysis of the quinolones regulated by European Community in spiked chicken tissues, using norfloxacin as internal standard. Recoveries obtained varied in the range 60–109%. This method was compared with LC‐UV method established previously.
Gene‐chip analysis of the effect of tripeptide tyroservatide (YSV) on gene‐expression in human hepatocarcinoma BEL‐7402 tumors transplanted to nude mice
Authors: Jia Jing , Lu Rong , Zhou Chunlei , Zhao Lan , Fu Zheng , Zhu Zhitong , Wang Li , Zheng Minna , Yang Jing , Zhang Yanjun , Yao Zhi
Published: December 2005

Tyroservatide (YSV) is a bioactive tripeptide of tyrosyl‐seryl‐valine. In this study, we studied the effects of YSV on human hepatocarcinoma BEL‐7402 tumors transplanted in BALB/c (nu/nu) nude mice, and gene expression in the tumor cells with gene‐chip analysis. Results show that YSV significantly inhibits the growth of transplanted human hepatocarcinoma BEL‐7402 in nude mice (n = 12) compared with the control group (P < 0.05); with an inhibition rate of 55% at 320 µg/kg/d. Seven hundred eighty‐one genes were different between the YSV group and the control group. Fifty‐two genes changed in expression level by onefold or more including 37 downregulated genes and 15 upregulated genes. Probably, YSV exhibits a significant antitumor activity by inhibiting the expression of tumor cells histone genes, then damaging tumor cell chromosome and killing tumor cells. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ligand effect in Ti‐mediated living radical styrene polymerizations initiated by epoxide radical ring opening. III. Substituted sandwich metallocenes
Authors: Asandei Alexandru D. , Moran Isaac W.
Published: December 2005

The ligand effect and reaction conditions for the living radical polymerization of styrene initiated by epoxide radical ring opening were investigated in a series of substituted sandwich metallocenes: L2Ti(IV)Cl2 [L = cyclopentadienyl (Cp), EtCp, iPrCp, tBuCp, pentamethylcyclopentadienyl (Cp*), or indenyl (Ind)], Cp2TiX2 (X = F, Cl, Br, or CO), tBuCp2TiMe2, and PcTiCl2 (Pc = phthalocyanine). The polymerization was mediated by the reversible termination of growing chains with Ti(III) species derived from the Zn reduction of the Ti(IV) precursors. With the exception of Ti derivatives with Cp*, Pc, F, CO, and Me ligands, which could not be reduced, all other complexes catalyzed a living radical process with a linear dependence of the number‐average molecular weight on the conversion and a narrow polydispersity at 70–90 °C. A relatively weak dependence (RCp: R = H ∼ Et ∼ iPr ∼ tBu > Ind) of the polymerization on the nature of the Cp substituent was observed. This was provisionally rationalized as a result of the constant balance between electronic and steric effects with increasing substituent size. By contrast, the apparent Cl > Br ≪ F and L2TiCl2 > LTiCl3 trend qualitatively paralleled the decrease in the Lewis acidity with a decreasing number of Cl ligands and the increased electron donation and steric effects of the metallocene ligands. Thus, sandwich metallocenes are better suited for this polymerization than Ti bisketonates, alkoxides, and half‐sandwich derivatives. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 1060–1070, 2006
Synthesis of polyisoprene–poly(methyl methacrylate) block copolymers via a two‐electron‐transfer mechanism
Authors: Janeczek Henryk
Published: December 2005

Supramolecular complexes of alkali metals were used as catalysts in the polymerization of isoprene via a two‐electron‐transfer mechanism. The obtained polyisoprene, having a living end group, was subsequently used to initiate methyl methacrylate polymerization in tetrahydrofuran. Polyisoprene–poly(methyl methacrylate) block copolymers were obtained, and their structure was established with 1H NMR, gel permeation chromatography, differential scanning calorimetry, and experiments of selective extraction. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 1086–1092, 2006
Inorganic–organic nanocomposites of polybenzoxazine with octa(propylglycidyl ether) polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane
Authors: Liu Yonghong , Zheng Sixun
Published: December 2005

Octa(propylglycidyl ether) polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (OpePOSS) was used to prepare the polybenzoxazine (PBA‐a) nanocomposites containing polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS). The crosslinking reactions involved with the formation of the organic–inorganic networks can be divided into the two types: (1) the ring‐opening polymerization of benzoxazine and (2) the subsequent reaction between the in situ formed phenolic hydroxyls of PBA‐a and the epoxide groups of OpePOSS. The morphology of the nanocomposites was investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. Differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis showed that the nanocomposites displayed higher glass‐transition temperatures than the control PBA‐a. In the glassy state, the nanocomposites containing less than 30 wt % POSS displayed an enhanced storage modulus, whereas the storage moduli of the nanocomposites containing more than 30 wt % POSS were lower than that of the control PBA‐a. The dynamic mechanical analysis results showed that all the nanocomposites exhibited enhanced storage moduli in the rubbery states, which was ascribed to the two major factors, that is, the nanoreinforcement effect of POSS cages and the additional crosslinking degree resulting from the intercomponent reactions between PBA‐a and OpePOSS. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated that the nanocomposites displayed improved thermal stability. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 1168–1181, 2006
Serum hepatocyte growth factor activator inhibitor type I (HAI‐I) and type 2 (HAI‐2) in prostate cancer
Authors: Nagakawa Osamu , Yamagishi Toshiya , Akashi Takuya , Nagaike Kazuhiro , Fuse Hideki
Published: December 2005

BACKGROUND

Hepatocyte growth factor activator inhibitor type 1 (HAI‐1) and type 2 (HAI‐2) are Kunitz‐type serine protease inhibitors for hepatocyte growth factor activator (HGFA). We attempted to clarify whether serum levels of HAI‐1 and HAI‐2 could be a useful marker in patients with prostate cancer.

METHODS

Serum levels of HAI‐1 and HAI‐2 were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in 27 patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and 118 patients with prostate cancer.

RESULTS

The mean serum levels of HAI‐1 in patients with prostate cancer were significantly higher than those in patients with BPH. Furthermore, the serum HAI‐1 levels in patients with distant metastasis and hormone resistant prostate cancer were significantly elevated compared with those in patients with organ‐confined diseases. There were no significant differences in serum HAI‐2 levels among prostate cancer subgroups according to clinical stage. Significantly elevated levels of HAI‐1 were detected in 38 patients with prostate cancer before any treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

HAI‐1 may be a potential tumor marker for prostate cancer. Further studies in large groups of patients are needed to define the clinical value of HAI‐1. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthetic dimer of indole‐3‐carbinol: Second generation diet derived anti‐cancer agent in hormone sensitive prostate cancer
Authors: Garikapaty Venkata P.S. , Ashok Badithe T. , Tadi Kiranmayi , Mittelman Abraham , Tiwari Raj K.
Published: December 2005

BACKGROUND

Cruciferous vegetables have been found to have anti‐prostate cancer effects. The active compounds mediating these effects include indoles such as indole‐3‐carbinol (I3C) and isothiocyanates. I3C is unstable having tissue tropic effects and clinical utility has been partly addressed by the synthesis of a more stable dimer diindolylmethane (DIM).

METHODS

Anti‐proliferative activity was measured by XTT assay and cytosolic proteins quantitated by Western blot analysis.

RESULTS

DIM (IC50 50 µM) is a better anti‐proliferative agent than I3C (IC50 150 µM) in androgen dependent LNCaP cells, inhibits DNA synthesis, and growth of R1881 stimulated LNCaP cells. Androgen receptor (AR), cyclin D1, and cdk4, induced by R1881, are downregulated by DIM. DIM downregulates phosphorylated Akt and phosphatidyl inositol 3‐kinase and downstream inhibition of cyclin D1 and cdk4.

CONCLUSION

These studies provide evidence that DIM is a second‐generation chemopreventive agent with a viable cellular target and has clinical potential as an anti‐prostate cancer chemopreventive. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Generalized correlation for biomolecular dynamics
Authors: Lange Oliver F. , Grubmüller Helmut
Published: December 2005

Correlated motions in biomolecules are often essential for their function, e.g., allosteric signal transduction or mechanical/thermodynamic energy transport. Because correlated motions in biomolecules remain difficult to access experimentally, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are particular useful for their analysis. The established method to quantify correlations from MD simulations via calculation of the covariance matrix, however, is restricted to linear correlations and therefore misses part of the correlations in the atomic fluctuations. Herein, we propose a general statistical mechanics approach to detect and quantify any correlated motion from MD trajectories. This generalized correlation measure is contrasted with correlations obtained from covariance matrices for the B1 domain of protein G and T4 lysozyme. The new method successfully quantifies correlations and provides a valuable global overview over the functionally relevant collective motions of lysozyme. In particular, correlated motions of helix 1 together with the two main lobes of lysozyme are detected, which are not seen by the conventional covariance matrix. Overall, the established method misses more than 50% of the correlation. This failure is attributed to both, an interfering and unnecessary dependence on mutual orientations of the atomic fluctuations and, to a lesser extent, attributed to nonlinear correlations. Our generalized correlation measure overcomes these problems and, moreover, allows for an improved understanding of the conformational dynamics by separating linear and nonlinear contributions of the correlation. Proteins 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Magnetic studies of the carbothermal effect on LiFePO4
Authors: Ait‐Salah A. , Zaghib K. , Mauger A. , Gendron F. , Julien C. M.
Published: December 2005

The effect of carbon coating on the properties of LiFePO4 particles is studied from magnetic measurements. Magnetization experiments are an excellent tool to detect very low concentrations of iron‐based impurities (<1 ppm) which are poisoning the phospho‐olivine used as positive electrode material in rechargeable Li‐ion batteries. The results indicate that addition of 5% carbon withdraws traces of the Fe(III) phase such as Fe2P and/or Fe2O3. This carbothermal effect appears to be beneficial for long‐term application of LiFePO4 materials in Li‐ion batteries. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
On Selection of Training and Test Sets for the Development of Predictive QSAR models
Authors: Leonard J. Thomas , Roy Kunal
Published: December 2005

The development of predictive QSAR models depends not only on the statistical method but also on the algorithm used for the selection of training and test sets. Here, we describe the validation of QSAR models for three data sets with different sizes (n=35, 56 and 87) based on random division, sorted biological activity data andK‐means clusters for the factor scores of the original variable matrix along with/without biological activity values. When the training and test sets were generated by random division or by the activity‐range algorithm, predictive models were not obtained in most of the cases. In case of random division of the data sets into training and test sets, there is no correlation between internal and external validation statistics. However, good external validation statistics were obtained when training and test sets were selected based onK‐means clusters of factor scores of the descriptor space along with/without the biological activity values. So, the selection of training and test sets should be based on the proximity of the representative points of the test set to representative points of the training set in the multidimensional descriptor space. The concept of closeness is based on the general assumption underlying all QSAR theories: similar compounds have similar activities. Thus, if one wishes to validate a QSAR model, the points of the test set must be close to the points of the training set in the multidimensional descriptor space. Based on the results of several methods for the division of the training and test sets, we propose thatK‐means‐cluster‐based division of training and prediction sets can be used as a reliable method of division of data set into training and test sets for developing predictive QSAR models.
On the design and development of hybrid journal bearings: a review
Authors: Garg H.C. , Sharda H.B. , Kumar V.
Published: December 2005

This paper presents a comprehensive review of developments in the design and application of hydrostatic and hybrid journal bearing systems during the last few decades. Revolutionary changes have taken place in the applications of hydrostatic and hybrid journal bearings, from very low‐speed radar to very high‐speed turbo‐machinery and ultra‐precision machine tools requiring high stiffness to improve accuracy. Hydrostatic and hybrid bearings are of interest because of their potential at very high operating speed and heavy load‐carrying capacity. This paper also outlines the analyses done of these types of journal bearings in practical application, which has led to improved bearing design. This review critically discusses the parameters that significantly affect the static and dynamic performance of a journal bearing. This review includes coverage of recent publications in the literature pertaining to hydrostatic and hybrid journal bearings focusing on the influence of parameters such as bearing geometry, supply pressure, flow control devices, fluid compressibility, fluid inertia, journal misalignment, bearing flexibility, surface roughness, and thermal effects. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of wear on EHD film thickness in sliding contacts
Authors: Michalczewski R. , Szczerek M. , Wiśniewski M.
Published: December 2005

A theoretical solution to the elastohydrodynamic (EHD) lubrication problem in sliding contacts, which takes into consideration the effect of the change in shape of the gap due to wear on the load‐carrying capacity, is presented. The model of such a contact is based on assumptions of Grubin and Ertel (von Mohrenstein). The resultant dimensionless Reynolds and film profile equations have been solved numerically for a number of cases with several values of thickness of the worn layer. Iteration of the EHD film thickness is performed by means of the secant method.

Values of the calculated dimensionless film thickness are presented as a function of dimensionless wear. The conclusions concern the influence of the linear wear on the film thickness in heavily loaded sliding contacts. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Studies of lubricating oil base stock: characterisation and composition
Authors: Khan H.U. , Nautiyal S.P. , Anwar M. , Agrawal K.M.
Published: December 2005

A lubricating oil base stock, Inter Neutral type, boiling range 282–562°C, was fractionated into three boiling ranges of 282–456, 456–492, and 492–562°C. The waxes were isolated from the parent base stock and its fractions by solvent dewaxing. Hydrocarbon‐type constituents, i.e., saturates, naphthenic aromatics, and polar aromatics, were separated by elution chromatography and were characterised for their physical properties. The viscosity–temperature behaviour of the base stock sample and its various fractions and components, i.e., dewaxed oil, extracted waxes, saturates, naphthenic aromatics, and polar aromatics, was determined and correlated with the composition. It was found that the concentration, nature, and type of hydrocarbon components present greatly influenced the physical properties as well as the viscosity–temperature behaviour. The average chain lengths of the waxes obtained by 1H NMR match well with those determined by gas chromatography. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dynamic characteristics of spiral groove bearing spindles: comparison between rotating‐shaft and fixed‐shaft designs
Authors: Zou Q. , Tian Y. , Wen S. , Konno D.
Published: December 2005

In this paper, two types of spiral groove bearing (SGB) spindles, a rotating‐shaft spindle and a fixed‐shaft spindle, are analysed, and the dynamic characteristics of these two types of spindles are tested and compared. The effects of lubricants on the dynamic characteristics and power consumption of the spindles are considered. It is found that the dynamic characteristics of the fixed‐shaft spindle are much better in terms of non‐repeatable run out than those of the rotating‐shaft spindle. The lubricants are found to have significant effects on both the dynamic characteristics and power consumption of the spindles. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Geology and volcanology of San Venanzo volcanic field (Umbria, Central Italy)
Authors: ZANON VITTORIO
Published: December 2005

The purpose of this paper is to integrate, or even modify where necessary, the geo-volcanological setting outlined by other authors on the history of the small volcanic field of San Venanzo (Umbria, Central Italy). To attain this goal, new accurate field investigations were carried out in that area, coupled with detailed stratigraphic studies and laboratory analyses, to support field evidence with experimental results. The first objective was to stress the importance of a groundwater reservoir whose interaction with magma at various degrees was responsible not only for the explosive character of volcanism in that area, but also for the complex morphology of the volcanic deposits that are widely scattered on the underlying sedimentary basement. Another objective was to clarify the role played by tectonic activity in enhancing the fast and discontinuous ascent of batches of magma from the mantle to the surface, through two different sets of faults, opened by tectonic unrest into the crust, that were also responsible for the morphology and spatial distribution of volcanic centres. This was considered to be very important in consideration of the still-active stress field of the region. Finally, special attention was focused on the presence of a palaeosol between two eruptive sequences, as it most likely denoted a split in the volcanic activity of this site into two separate phases. This observation leads to the conclusion that, in spite of its eruptive characteristics, the small volcano of San Venanzo is not monogenic. For all of these topics, a number of conclusions have been drawn and they are reported with more data in the following sections of this paper.
Interdigitating dendritic cell sarcoma of the parotid gland
Authors: Sharma M , Ahsan F , Ah-See K W , McKean M E , Kain R , Chapman A D
Published: December 2005

Interdigitating dendritic cell sarcomas (IDCSs) are extremely uncommon tumours that arise predominantly in lymphoid tissue. We report a case of an IDCS arising in the parotid gland of a 73-year-old man. Clinically, a primary salivary gland tumour was suspected but fine needle aspiration cytology suggested a soft tissue tumour. A diagnosis of IDCS was made on histopathological examination of the resection specimen, with subsequent confirmation by electron microscopy. Given the extreme rarity of this tumour at this site, it is unlikely to be a common diagnostic problem, but the importance of multiple diagnostic modalities is emphasized. The findings of cytology, histology, immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy have not previously been described together in a single case report of this tumour.
Reconstruction of the tensor tympani tendon
Authors: Bauer M , Vóna I , Gerlinger I
Published: December 2005

We describe a case in which reconstruction of the tendon of the tensor tympani muscle was necessary for the successful restoration of sound conduction.

The right ear of a nine-year-old boy was treated for cholesteatoma with staged surgery. During the first operation, the tendon was cut to ensure good visibility in the tympanic cavity. Post-operatively, maintenance of aeration of the middle ear required ventilation tubes at first and Valsalva manoeuvres later on. The position of the reconstructed tympanic membrane varied a great deal, moving between the medial wall of the tympanic cavity and extreme bulging. This made exact measurement of a columella for ossicular reconstruction impossible.

The preserved handle of the malleus was bound to the cochleariform process with ionomer cement, using a piece of surgical suture material as a substitute for the tendon. This arrangement prevented the tympanic membrane from undergoing excessive lateral movement after inflation and the ossicular chain was replaced with a successful ossiculoplasty with an autogenous bone ‘drum to footplate’ columella. The pre-operative 55.0 dB air–bone gap decreased immediately to 3.3 dB, widening after three years to 15.0 dB.
Extracranial internal carotid artery aneurysm presenting as pharyngeal mass with dysphagia
Authors: Sergi Bruno , Alberti Vittorio , Paludetti Gaetano , Snider Francesco
Published: December 2005

Aneurysms of the extracranial portion of the internal carotid artery are rare. Generally, they occur just at the level of, or above, the bifurcation. Here we report a case of a left internal carotid artery aneurysm presenting as an oropharyngeal mass causing dysphagia.