bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abnormal sensorimotor control, but intact force field adaptation, in multiple sclerosis subjects with no clinical disability
Authors: Casadio Maura , Sanguineti Vittorio , Morasso Pietro , Solaro Claudio
Published: January 2008

In MS subjects with no clinical disability, we assessed sensorimotor organization and their ability to adapt to an unfamiliar dynamical environment. Eleven MS subjects performed reaching movements while a robot generated a speed-dependent force field. Control and adaptation performance were compared with that of an equal number of control subjects. During a familiarization phase, when the robot generated no forces, the movements of MS subjects were more curved, displayed greater and more variable directional errors and a longer deceleration phase. During the force field phase, both MS and control subjects gradually learned to predict the robot-generated forces. The rates of adaptation were similar, but MS subjects showed a greater variability in responding to the force field. These results suggest that MS subjects have a preserved capability of learning to predict the effects of the forces, but make greater errors when actually using such predictions to generate movements. Inaccurate motor commands are then compensated later in the movement through an extra amount of sensory-based corrections. This indicates that early in the disease MS subjects have intact adaptive capabilities, but impaired movement execution. Multiple Sclerosis 2008; 14: 330—342. http://msj.sagepub.com
Maximal respiratory static pressures in patients with different stages of COPD severity
Authors: Terzano Claudio , Ceccarelli Daniela , Conti Vittoria , Graziani Elda , Ricci Alberto , Petroianni Angelo
Published: January 2008

Background

In this study, we analyzed maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP) values in a stable COPD population compared with normal subjects. We evaluated the possible correlation between functional maximal respiratory static pressures and functional and anthropometric parameters at different stages of COPD. Furthermore, we considered the possible correlation between airway obstruction and MIP and MEP values.

Subject and methods

110 patients with stable COPD and 21 age-matched healthy subjects were enrolled in this study. Patients were subdivided according to GOLD guidelines: 31 mild, 39 moderate and 28 severe.

Results

Both MIP and MEP were lower in patients with severe airway impairment than in normal subjects. Moreover, we found a correlation between respiratory muscle function and some functional and anthropometric parameters: FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in one second), FVC (forced vital capacity), PEF (peak expiratory flow), TLC (total lung capacity) and height. MIP and MEP values were lower in patients with severe impairment than in patients with a slight reduction of FEV1.

Conclusion

The measurement of MIP and MEP indicates the state of respiratory muscles, thus providing clinicians with a further and helpful tool in monitoring the evolution of COPD.
Genetic marker anchoring by six-dimensional pools for development of a soybean physical map
Authors: Wu Xiaolei , Zhong Guohua , Findley Seth D , Cregan Perry , Stacey Gary , Nguyen Henry T
Published: January 2008

Background

Integrated genetic and physical maps are extremely valuable for genomic studies and as important references for assembling whole genome shotgun sequences. Screening of a BAC library using molecular markers is an indispensable procedure for integration of both physical and genetic maps of a genome. Molecular markers provide anchor points for integration of genetic and physical maps and also validate BAC contigs assembled based solely on BAC fingerprints. We employed a six-dimensional BAC pooling strategy and an in silico approach to anchor molecular markers onto the soybean physical map.

Results

A total of 1,470 markers (580 SSRs and 890 STSs) were anchored by PCR on a subset of a Williams 82 Bst Y I BAC library pooled into 208 pools in six dimensions. This resulted in 7,463 clones (~1× genome equivalent) associated with 1470 markers, of which the majority of clones (6,157, 82.5%) were anchored by one marker and 1106 (17.5%) individual clones contained two or more markers. This contributed to 1184 contigs having anchor points through this 6-D pool screening effort. In parallel, the 21,700 soybean Unigene set from NCBI was used to perform in silico mapping on 80,700 Williams 82 BAC end sequences (BES). This in silico analysis yielded 9,835 positive results anchored by 4152 unigenes that contributed to 1305 contigs and 1624 singletons. Among the 1305 contigs, 305 have not been previously anchored by PCR. Therefore, 1489 (78.8%) of 1893 contigs are anchored with molecular markers. These results are being integrated with BAC fingerprints to assemble the BAC contigs. Ultimately, these efforts will lead to an integrated physical and genetic map resource.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that the six-dimensional soybean BAC pools can be efficiently used to anchor markers to soybean BACs despite the complexity of the soybean genome. In addition to anchoring markers, the 6-D pooling method was also effective for targeting BAC clones for investigating gene families and duplicated regions in the genome, as well as for extending physical map contigs.
HLA class I supertypes: a revised and updated classification
Authors: Sidney John , Peters Bjoern , Frahm Nicole , Brander Christian , Sette Alessandro
Published: January 2008

Background

Class I major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules bind, and present to T cells, short peptides derived from intracellular processing of proteins. The peptide repertoire of a specific molecule is to a large extent determined by the molecular structure accommodating so-called main anchor positions of the presented peptide. These receptors are extremely polymorphic, and much of the polymorphism influences the peptide-binding repertoire. However, despite this polymorphism, class I molecules can be clustered into sets of molecules that bind largely overlapping peptide repertoires. Almost a decade ago we introduced this concept of clustering human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles and defined nine different groups, denominated as supertypes, on the basis of their main anchor specificity. The utility of this original supertype classification, as well several other subsequent arrangements derived by others, has been demonstrated in a large number of epitope identification studies.

Results

Following our original approach, in the present report we provide an updated classification of HLA-A and -B class I alleles into supertypes. The present analysis incorporates the large amount of class I MHC binding data and sequence information that has become available in the last decade. As a result, over 80% of the 945 different HLA-A and -B alleles examined to date can be assigned to one of the original nine supertypes. A few alleles are expected to be associated with repertoires that overlap multiple supertypes. Interestingly, the current analysis did not identify any additional supertype specificities.

Conclusion

As a result of this updated analysis, HLA supertype associations have been defined for over 750 different HLA-A and -B alleles. This information is expected to facilitate epitope identification and vaccine design studies, as well as investigations into disease association and correlates of immunity. In addition, the approach utilized has been made more transparent, allowing others to utilize the classification approach going forward.
Ovarian carcinoma associated with pregnancy: A clinicopathologic analysis of 23 cases and review of the literature
Authors: Behtash Nadereh , Karimi Zarchi Mojgan , Modares Gilani Mitra , Ghaemmaghami Fatemeh , Mousavi Azamsadat , Ghotbizadeh Fahimeh
Published: January 2008

Background

The aim of this study was to analyze and describe cases of ovarian cancer in pregnant women treated at our center and to review the literature concerned, and to discuss the rationale for therapy.

Methods

Twenty-Three patients of ovarian malignancies during pregnancy were treated at Vali- Asr Hospital between 1991 and 2002. Data on treatment and follow-up were evaluated.

Results

The incidence of ovarian carcinoma associated with pregnancy in our series was 0.083/1000 deliveries. Eleven (47.8%) were found with ovarian malignant germ cell tumors, five (21.7%) with low malignant potential tumors, four (17.4%) with invasive epithelial tumors, and three (13%) with sex cord stromal tumors. Seventeen (73.9%) of the patients were diagnosed in stage I and had complete remission. Five of the six in advanced stage died. The mean follow-up was 36.3 months. The prognosis was significantly related with stage and histological type (P< 0.05). Sixteen healthy live babies were recorded in this group, and two premature newborn died of respiratory distress syndrome. Chemotherapy was administered to 44% of the patients, in two cases during pregnancy. Overall survival at 5 years was 61%. In most of case conservative surgical treatment could be performed with adequate staging and debulking.

Conclusion

Early finding of ascitis by ultrasound and persistent large ovarian mass during pregnancy may be related to malignancy and advanced stage. Pregnant women in advanced stage of ovarian cancer seem to have poor prognosis.
Polyamine depletion induces G1 and S phase arrest in human retinoblastoma Y79 cells
Authors: Ueda Akiko , Araie Makoto , Kubota Shunichiro
Published: January 2008

Background

Polyamines and ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) are essential for cell proliferation. DL-α-difluoromethylornithine (DFMO), a synthetic inhibitor of ODC, induces G1 arrest through dephosphorylation of retinoblastoma protein (pRb). The effect of DFMO on cell growth of pRb deficient cells is not known. We examined the effects of DFMO on pRb deficient human retinoblastoma Y79 cell proliferation and its molecular mechanism.

Methods

Using cultured Y79 cells, the effects of DFMO were studied by using polyamine analysis, western blot, gel shift, FACS and promoter analysis.

Results

DFMO suppressed the proliferation of Y79 cells, which accumulated in the G1 and S phase. DFMO induced p27/Kip1 protein expression, p107 dephosphorylation and accumulation of p107/E2F-4 complex in Y79 cells.

Conclusion

These results indicate that p107 dephosphorylation and accumulation of p107/E2F-4 complex is involved in G1 and S phase arrest of DFMO treated Y79 cells.
Effect of a natural extract of chicken combs with a high content of hyaluronic acid (Hyal-Joint®) on pain relief and quality of life in subjects with knee osteoarthritis: a pilot randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Kalman Douglas S , Heimer Maria , Valdeon Anita , Schwartz Howard , Sheldon Eric
Published: January 2008

Background

Intra-articular hyaluronic acid represents a substantive addition to the therapeutic armamentarium in knee osteoarthritis. We examined the effect of dietary supplementation with a natural extract of chicken combs with a high content of hyaluronic acid (60%) (Hyal-Joint®) (active test product, AP) on pain and quality of life in subjects with osteoarthritis of the knee.

Methods

Twenty subjects aged ≥40 years with knee osteoarthritis (pain for at least 15 days in the previous month, symptoms present for ≥6 months, Kellgren/Lawrence score ≥2) participated in a randomized double-blind controlled trial. Ten subjects received AP (80 mg/day) and 10 placebo for 8 weeks. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and quality of life by the Short Form-36 (SF-36v2) were administered at baseline and after 4 and 8 weeks of treatment.

Results

WOMAC pain (primary efficacy variable) was similar in both study groups (mean [SD]) with 6.6 (4.0) points in the AP group and 6.4 (2.7) in the placebo group (P = 0.943). As compared with baseline, subjects in both groups showed statistically significant improvements in WOMAC pain, stiffness, physical function subscales, and in the aggregate score, but the magnitude of changes was higher in the AP group for WOMAC physical function (-13.1 [12.0] vs. -10.1 [8.6], P = 0.575) and total symptoms (-18.6 [16.8] vs. -15.8 [11.4], P = 0.694). At 4 weeks, statistically significant mean changes compared with baseline were observed in the SF-36v2 scales of role-physical, bodily pain, social functioning and role-emotional among subjects in the AP group, and in physical functioning, bodily pain, and social functioning in the placebo group. At 8 weeks, changes were significant for role-physical, bodily pain, and physical component summary in the AP group, and for physical functioning and role-emotional in the placebo arm. Changes in bodily pain and social functioning were of greater magnitude in subjects given AP.

Conclusion

This pilot clinical trial showed that daily supplementation with oral hyaluronic acid from a natural extract of chicken combs (Hyal-Joint®) was useful to enhance several markers of quality of life in adults with osteoarthritis of the knee. The results warrant further study in larger sample sizes.
Body composition in male elite athletes, comparison of bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry
Authors: Svantesson Ulla , Zander Martina , Klingberg Sofia , Slinde Frode
Published: January 2008

Background

The aim of this study was to compare body composition results from bioelectrical spectroscopy (BIS) with results from dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in a population of male elite athletes. Body composition was assessed using DXA (Lunar Prodigy, GE Lunar Corp., Madison, USA) and BIS (Hydra 4200, Xitron Technologies Inc, San Diego, California, USA) at the same occasion. Agreement between methods was assessed using paired t-tests and agreement-plots.

Results

Thirty-three male elite athletes (soccer and ice hockey) were included in the study. The results showed that BIS underestimates the proportion of fat mass by 4.6% points in the ice hockey players. In soccer players the BIS resulted in a lower mean fat mass by 1.1% points. Agreement between the methods at the individual level was highly variable.

Conclusion

Body composition results assessed by BIS in elite athletes should be interpreted with caution, especially in individual subjects. BIS may present values of fat mass that is either higher or lower than fat mass assessed by DXA, independent of true fat content of the individual.
Measuring the impact of health problems among adults with limited mobility in Thailand: further validation of the Perceived Impact of Problem Profile
Authors: Misajon RoseAnne , Pallant Julie F , Manderson Lenore , Chirawatkul Siriporn
Published: January 2008

Background

The Perceived Impact of Problem Profile (PIPP) was developed to provide a tool for measuring the impact of a health condition from the individual's perspective, using the ICF model as a framework. One of the aims of the ICF is to enable the comparison of data across countries, however, relatively little is known about the subjective experience of disability in middle and low-income countries. The aim of this study was to assess the validity of the Perceived Impact of Problem Profile (PIPP) for use among adults with a disability in Thailand using Rasch analysis.

Methods

A total of 210 adults with mobility impairment from the urban, rural and remote areas of northeast Thailand completed the PIPP, which contains 23 items assessing both impact and distress across five key domains (Self-care, Mobility, Participation, Relationships, and Psychological Well-being). Rasch analysis, using RUMM2020, was conducted to assess the internal validity and psychometric properties of the PIPP Impact subscales. Validation of the PIPP Impact scales was conducted by comparing scores across the different response levels of the EQ5D items.

Results

Rasch analysis indicated that participants did not clearly differentiate between 'impact' and 'distress,' the two aspects assessed by the PIPP. Further analyses were therefore limited to the PIPP Impact subscales. These showed adequate psychometric properties, demonstrating fit to the Rasch model and good person separation reliability. Preliminary validity testing using the EQ5D items provided support for the PIPP Impact subscales.

Conclusion

The results provide further support for the psychometric properties of the PIPP Impact scales and indicate that it is a suitable tool for use among adults with a locomotor disability in Thailand. Further research is needed to validate the PIPP across different cultural contexts and health conditions and to assess the usefulness of separate Impact and Distress subscales.
Measurement properties of the Brazilian version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL™) cancer module scale
Authors: Scarpelli Ana C , Paiva Saul M , Pordeus Isabela A , Ramos-Jorge Maria L , Varni James W , Allison Paul J
Published: January 2008

Background

The use of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) measurements has been increased progressively in health surveys. These measurements document the functional and psychosocial outcomes of health conditions and complement clinical indicators to provide a comprehensive description of individuals and populations' health. The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ (PedsQL™) is a promising instrument with age-appropriate versions. The objective of the current paper was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the PedsQL™ 3.0 Cancer Module cross-culturally adapted for use in Brazil.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was developed with 190 Brazilian families of individuals from 2 to 18 years of age, of both genders, with cancer in various phases of treatment or control. Subjects were recruited by means of convenience samples from the Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Centers at two public hospitals. 'In-treatment' status was defined as individuals who were receiving medical care to induce remission. 'Off-treatment' status was defined as individuals for whom all therapy was completed for a period of at least one month. Reliability was determined through test-retest reliability and internal consistency. The validity of the Cancer Module was determined through discriminant and convergent validity. Correlations between the scores obtained by the children/adolescents with cancer and their guardians were assessed.

Results

Test-retest reliability demonstrated good correlation (0.69–0.90 for children/adolescents; 0.71–0.93 for guardians) and adequate agreement of the items (0.26–0.85 for children/adolescents; 0.25–0.87 for guardians). Internal consistency demonstrated adequate indices in comparisons between groups (α = 0.78–0.80 for children and adolescents; 0.68–0.88 for guardians). The 'pain and hurt', 'nausea', 'procedural anxiety' and 'treatment anxiety' subscales proved capable of distinguishing the groups of children in treatment and off treatment (p < 0.05). Positive significant correlations were observed between the scores of the PedsQL™ 3.0 Cancer Module and the PedsQL™ 4.0 Generic Core scales. Weak correlations were found between the reports of the children and those of the guardians.

Conclusion

The Brazilian version of the PedsQL™ 3.0 Cancer Module exhibited good measurement properties regarding reproducibility and construct validity.
A modified Gateway cloning strategy for overexpressing tagged proteins in plants
Authors: Dubin Manu J , Bowler Chris , Benvenuto Giovanna
Published: January 2008

Background

Recent developments, including the sequencing of a number of plant genomes, have greatly increased the amount of data available to scientists and has enabled high throughput investigations where many genes are investigated simultaneously. To perform these studies, recombinational cloning methods such as the Gateway system have been adapted to plant transformation vectors to facilitate the creation of overexpression, tagging and silencing vectors on a large scale.

Results

Here we present a hybrid cloning strategy which combines advantages of both recombinational and traditional cloning and which is particularly amenable to low-to-medium throughput investigations of protein function using techniques of molecular biochemistry and cell biology. The system consists of a series of twelve Gateway Entry cassettes into which a gene of interest can be inserted using traditional cloning methods to generate either N- or C-terminal fusions to epitope tags and fluorescent proteins. The resulting gene-tag fusions can then be recombined into Gateway-based Destination vectors, thus providing a wide choice of resistance marker, promoter and expression system. The advantage of this modified Gateway cloning strategy is that the entire open reading frame encoding the tagged protein of interest is contained within the Entry vectors so that after recombination no additional linker sequences are added between the tag and the protein that could interfere with protein function and expression. We demonstrate the utility of this system for both transient and stable Agrobacterium-mediated plant transformations.

Conclusion

This modified Gateway cloning strategy is complementary to more conventional Gateway-based systems because it expands the choice of tags and higher orders of combinations, and permits more control over the linker sequence lying between a protein of interest and an epitope tag, which can be particularly important for studies of protein function.
Pregnancy in dialysis patients: a case series
Authors: Al-Saran Khalid A , Sabry Alaa A
Published: January 2008

Fertility is markedly reduced in patients with chronic renal failure. For women with pre-existing renal disease, pregnancy is associated with an increased rate of fetal complications and a considerable risk of renal disease progression. Due to substantial improvements in antenatal and neonatal care, fetal outcome has improved considerably in the last two decade.

A Saudi survey which examined the frequency of pregnancy among women in end stage renal disease (ESRD) and undergoing regular hemodialysis (HD), showed an incidence of 7% over a five year period (1.4 per year). This may reflect the cultural endorsement of having offspring.

We hereby report 2 cases of successful pregnancy managed at the Prince Salman Center for Kidney Diseases (PSCKD).
In-vitro permeation of drugs into porcine hair follicles: is it quantitatively equivalent to permeation into human hair follicles?
Authors: Frum Yakov , Eccleston Gillian M , Meidan Victor M
Published: January 2008

It is already well-established that the general permeability properties of porcine skin are close to those of human skin. However, very little is known with respect to drug absorption into hair follicles and the similarities if any between the two types of tissue. The aim of this study was to use the skin sandwich system to quantify follicular drug absorption into porcine hair follicles. To our knowledge, this is the first time that the skin sandwich has been extended to porcine tissue. For this purpose, seven different drugs — estradiol, corticosterone, hydrocortisone, aldosterone, cimetidine, deoxyadenosine and adenosine — exhibiting a wide range of log octanol-water partition coefficients (log Ko/w), but comparable molecular weights, were chosen as candidate solutes. The results showed a parabolic profile with maximal follicular contribution occurring at intermediate log Ko/w values. Linear regression analysis indicated that the follicular contributions in porcine skin correlated well with previously published follicular contributions in human skin (r2 = 0.87). The novelty of this research is that we show that porcine tissue is a good surrogate for modelling human skin permeability within the specific context of quantifying drug absorption into hair follicles.
Effects of cysteine on metformin pharmacokinetics in rats with protein-calorie malnutrition: partial restoration of some parameters to control levels
Authors: Choi Young H , Lee Inchul , Lee Myung G
Published: January 2008

Metformin is metabolized primarily via hepatic microsomal cytochrome P450 (CYP)2C11, CYP2D1 and CYP3A1/2 in rats. The expression and mRNA levels of hepatic CYP2C11 and CYP3A1/2 are decreased in rats with protein-calorie malnutrition (PCM), but these levels are fully or partially restored to control levels in PMC rats by oral cysteine supplementation (PCMC rats). Thus, it would be expected that the pharmacokinetic parameters of metformin in PCM rats would be returned to control levels in PCMC rats. Metformin was administered i.v. (100 mg kg−1) and orally (100 mg kg−1) to control, CC (control rats with oral cysteine supplementation), PCM and PCMC rats. The following pharmacokinetic parameters of metformin following i.v. administration were restored from levels in PCM rats to levels in control rats in PCMC rats: intrinsic clearance (0.0350, 0.0309, 0.0253 and 0.0316 mL min−1 mg−1 protein for control, CC, PCM, and PCMC rats, respectively), total area under the plasma concentration-time curve from time zero to time infinity (AUC; 4110, 4290, 5540 and 4430 μg min mL−1, respectively), and time-averaged non-renal clearance (8.12, 7.95, 5.94 and 8.17 mL min−1 kg−1, respectively). AUC values following oral administration were comparable between control and PCMC rats (1520, 1480, 2290 and 1680 μg min mL−1, respectively).
Evaluation of the NO-releasing properties of NO-donor linkers
Authors: Calderone Vincenzo , Digiacomo Maria , Martelli Alma , Minutolo Filippo , Rapposelli Simona , Testai Lara , Balsamo Aldo
Published: January 2008

This work describes the synthesis of some benzoic (1–4) and alcoholic (5–7) nitrooxy derivatives, which are nitric oxide (NO) donors in themselves, and can also be seen as useful linkers that can be used in multi-target drugs capable of releasing NO. The NO-mediated vasorelaxing effects of the compounds were tested on endothelium-denuded isolated rat aortic rings pre-contracted with KCl. The pharmacological study of these compounds demonstrated that slight structural modification, such as the insertion of (a) methyl group(s) into the nitrooxymethyl chain or into the aromatic ring, and a change in the position of this nitrooxymethyl chain, could exert a marked (and potentially useful) influence on the NO releasing properties.
Cytotoxic effects and pro-apoptotic mechanism of TBIDOM, a novel dehydroabietylamine derivative, on human hepatocellular carcinoma SMMC-7721 cells
Authors: Li Fu , He Ling , Song Zhan-Qian , Yao Jin-Cheng , Rao Xiao-Ping , Li Hai-Tao
Published: January 2008

We have investigated the antiproliferative effects of TBIDOM (N-(4-(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl) benzylidene) (7-isopropyl-1,4a-dimethyl-1,2,3,4,4a,9,10,10a-octahydrophenanthren-1-yl) meth-anamine) and have explored its possible mechanisms on human hepatocellular carcinoma SMMC-7721 cells. The proliferative status of cells treated with TBIDOM was measured by the colorimetric MTT assay. Cellular apoptosis was analysed using Hoechst 33342 staining and flow cytometry. Reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm) was also detected by flow cytometry. Western blotting assay was used to evaluate the release of cytochrome c and expression of p53, Bcl-2 and Bax proteins. It was shown that TBIDOM displayed a significant inhibitory effect on growth of SMMC-7721 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Hoechst 33342 staining and flow cytometry analysis showed an increase of apoptosis rate and decrease of mitochondrial membrane potential after SMMC-7721 cells were exposed to TBIDOM for 24 h. Pretreatment of SMMC-7721 cells with TBIDOM significantly induced a decrease of Bcl-2 protein expression and an increase of caspase-3 activity and Bax protein expression. The results indicated that TBIDOM could effectively inhibit proliferation by induction of apoptosis and could be a promising candidate in the development of a novel class of antitumour agent.
Oral administration of submerged cultivated Grifola frondosa enhances phagocytic activity in normal mice
Authors: Wang Lisu , Ha Choi-Lan , Cheng Tso-Lin , Cheng Su-Yun , Lian Tzi-Wei , Wu Ming-Jiuan
Published: January 2008

Grifola frondosa fruiting body (Maitake) has been used as a dietary supplement due to its anti-tumour and immunomodulatory properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the immunomodulatory effects of orally administered submerged cultivated G. frondosa mixture, including both mycelium and culture broth, in a healthy murine model. Composition analyses showed that submerged cultivated G. frondosa mixture contained only 32.48% carbohydrate, which was less than half of fruiting bodies. The content of adenosine, a potential immunomodulatory agent in medicinal mushrooms, was 2.8 mg g−1. After feeding 8-week-old female BALB/cByJ mice with AIN-93G diet containing 0% (C), 1% (G1), 3% (G3) or 5% (G5) (wt/wt) G. frondosa mixture for 31 days, neither body weight nor the outward appearance of organs showed any significant difference among different diet groups. Splenocyte subpopulation, mitogen-activated cytokine release and splenic NK activity were not affected by G. frondosa administration, either. On the other hand, the phagocytic activity was enhanced in leucocytes of groups G3 and G5, without exerting detectable levels of serum proinflammatory cytokines. These results suggested that oral administration of submerged cultivated G. frondosa mixture may enhance host innate immunity against foreign pathogens without eliciting adverse inflammatory response.
Gastroprotective activity of ferruginol in mice and rats: effects on gastric secretion, endogenous prostaglandins and non-protein sulfhydryls
Authors: Areche Carlos , Theoduloz Cristina , Yáñez Tania , Souza-Brito Alba R M , Barbastefano Víctor , de Paula Débora , Ferreira Anderson L , Schmeda-Hirschmann Guillermo , Rodríguez Jaime A
Published: January 2008

The gastroprotective mechanism of the natural diterpene ferruginol was assessed in mice and rats. The involvement of gastric prostaglandins (PGE2), reduced glutathione, nitric oxide or capsaicin receptors was evaluated in mice either treated or untreated with indometacin, N-ethylmaleimide (NEM), N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) or ruthenium red, respectively, and then orally treated with ferruginol or vehicle. Gastric lesions were induced by oral administration of ethanol. The effects of ferruginol on the parameters of gastric secretion were assessed in pylorus-ligated rats. Gastric PGE2 content was determined in rats treated with ferruginol and/or indometacin. The reduction of gastric glutathione (GSH) content was determined in rats treated with ethanol after oral administration of ferruginol, lansoprazole or vehicle. Finally, the acute oral toxicity was assessed in mice. Indometacin reversed the gastroprotective effect of ferruginol (25 mg kg−1) but not NEM, ruthenium red or L-NAME. The diterpene (25 mg kg−1) increased the gastric juice volume and its pH value, and reduced the titrable acidity but was devoid of effect on the gastric mucus content. Ferruginol (25, 50 mg kg−1) increased gastric PGE2 content in a dose-dependent manner and prevented the reduction in GSH observed due to ethanol-induced gastric lesions in rats. Single oral doses up to 3 g kg−1 ferruginol did not elicit mortality or acute toxic effects in mice. Our results showed that ferruginol acted as a gastroprotective agent stimulating the gastric PGE2 synthesis, reducing the gastric acid output and improving the antioxidant capacity of the gastric mucosa by maintaining the GSH levels.
Comparison of simulation and practical results for a microelectromechanical systems microturbine module
Authors: Dhariwal R , Leonard M , Sriphung C
Published: January 2008

A comparison of simulation and practical results for torque and power measurement have been undertaken for an impulse type of microelectromechanical systems microturbine. The microturbine module having a rotor diameter of just under 4 mm, an inlet channel that is 1 mm wide by 0.5 mm high, using an air drive has been extensively studied over the last few years. The simulation work has been undertaken using commercially available ANSYS and FEMLAB finite-element methods packages. From extensive simulation studies, the levitation of the rotor by using an appropriately shaped stepped base bearing plate on the stator surface was predicted by Flockhart in 1998 in her PhD thesis working under the direction of the principal author of the current paper. Only very recently has it been possible to carry out practical studies on the module to determine parameters such as, speed, torque, power, and especially levitation height. The practical results are in good agreement with the simulation results, bearing in mind that frictional effects were not accounted for, in the simulations. The feasibility of using the module as a microgenerator has been demonstrated by making use of commercially available minimagnets and a power of 1.2 mW was developed at 250 kPa input air pressure. At this value of input air pressure, a rotational speed of 30 000 r/min was obtained and a torque of 0.4 μNm could be produced.
Principles of free-space optical microelectromechanical systems
Authors: Syms R R A
Published: January 2008

Optical microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) combine miniature optical components with precision fixtures, elastic suspensions, and microactuators, and allow complex functionality at low cost. However, the effect of the bounded nature of the beams propagating through the system on design is profound. The current paper reviews the fundamental consequences. Using a Gaussian beam formulation, models of guided modes in gradient index media, bounded beams and imaging components are constructed. Propagation algorithms are described. The alignment tolerances for common component trains such as fibre-to-fibre and beam-to-fibre connections are derived, limits on the curvature of reflecting surfaces are established, the scaling laws of free-space optical MEMS are presented and the effect of beam size on filter performance is clarified. Examples such as variable optical attenuators, optical cross-connect switches, filters and tunable lasers are discussed.
Thermal and mechanical analysis of an SU8 polymeric actuator using infrared thermography
Authors: Solano B , Rolt S , Wood D
Published: January 2008

In the current paper, report the detailed thermomechanical analysis of a polymeric thermal actuator integrated in a microelectromechanical systems microgripper, is reported. The inclusion of an actuator design which eliminates completely the parasitic resistance of the cold arm improves considerably the thermal efficiency of the system and enables large displacements at lower input voltages and operating temperatures than reported previously. Two different microgrippers built using a trilayer polymer/metal/polymer combination of SU8/gold/SU8 have been modelled, fabricated, and tested. As opposed to standard models, heat transfer by conduction to the ambient as well as between adjacent beams has been modelled. A semi-empirical approach for the calculation of conductive heat transfer coefficients has also been provided. The analysis combines simulations with electrical, deflection, and spatially resolved temperature measurements. The latter was carried out using infrared thermography, its use in polymeric actuators reported here for the first time. The good agreement between the models and the experimental data support the conclusions of the basic analytical model, i.e. thermal losses are dominated by two conduction mechanisms (into the ambient and between the hot and cold arms), and encourage its use for qualitative thermal design assessment and optimization.
Thick photoresists for electroforming metallic microcomponents
Authors: Wei X , Lee C-H , Jiang Z , Jiang K
Published: January 2008

Recently, microelectroforming has been extensively applied to fabricating metallic components for sensors, actuators, and other systems. Thick photoresists are used for making micromoulds for electroforming and closely related to the quality and costs of an electroforming process. In the current paper, thick UV photoresists SU8, BPR100, and KMPR are analysed and compared in their electroforming performance of nickel microcomponents. Optimized UV lithography processes are introduced for producing micromoulds in each of the resists and scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of the moulds are presented and analysed. Then, electroformed nickel components from the micromoulds are presented. Finally, applicability of the photoresists to electroforming microcomponents is discussed. Each of the resists demonstrates advantages and disadvantages to suit different applications.
Design, development, and performance evaluation of high-speed magnetorheological brakes
Authors: Sukhwani V K , Hirani H.
Published: January 2008

Magnetorheological (MR) fluids change their flow resistance on the application of magnetic field. This variation in resistance to shear, offered by MR fluid, is rapid and almost completely reversible (no hysteresis). This unique feature has motivated authors to design a variable resistance brake using MR fluid. The present paper describes the design procedure of MR brake and discusses the effect of MR gap on its braking torque. Two brakes, Brake 1 with MR gap 1 mm and Brake 2 with MR gap 2 mm have been designed and fabricated. To generate magnetic field one central electro-magnet and two side electromagnets have been suggested. To validate the theoretical design and its findings, prototyping, and experimental study of MR brake have been performed. Vibrating sample magnetometer test has been carried out to obtain magnetic properties of the MR fluid and its magnetic phase. An experimental test setup has been developed to measure the braking torque under various operating speeds (200 to 1200 r/min) and control currents (0.0 to 1.2 A). The effects of central and side electromagnets on braking torque have been examined. The observed results are presented in tabular and graphical form. A close agreement between theoretical and experimental results has been noticed.
Finite-element buckling and vibration analysis of functionally graded box columns in thermal environments
Authors: Ramkumar K. , Ganesan N.
Published: January 2008

In the current paper, buckling and vibration behaviours of thin-walled box columns in a thermal environment made of functionally graded materials are investigated, using finite-element method based on classical laminated plate theory. The four node thin-plate element with five degrees of freedom is employed in the study. The box column is considered as assemblages of plates, and a continuously graded variation in composition of the ceramic and metal phases across the plate wall thickness in terms of a simple power law distribution is implemented. The effects of temperature dependent material properties on the critical buckling and the free vibration response are studied. The analysis is carried out under thermal environment for clamped—clamped boundary condition and results are presented.
Finite-element modelling of mechanical behaviour of rapid manufactured textiles
Authors: Crookston J J , Long A C , Bingham G A , Hague R J M
Published: January 2008

Novel textile-like linked structures, realised using a rapid manufacturing (RM) process, have been proposed and developed recently. Various potential applications exist, and in most cases the mechanical performance must be evaluated. The present paper outlines a method to solve this problem by employing finite-element (FE) techniques at two scales, using the results of analysis at the meso-scale (the scale of the repeating unit) to provide equivalent non-linear spring behaviour for each textile link at the macro-scale. Validation with experimental test data from each scale was performed and these results are presented. Initial results overestimated mechanical performance. Microscopy suggested that this may be due to edge porosity in the specimens, and the dimensions of the FE models were adjusted accordingly as an initial approach to account for this. Predictions incorporating this modification exhibited excellent agreement with experimental measurements. The current work demonstrates both a technique, which could be automated for use in the design environment, and the potential value of developing an integrated process simulation to provide local material property data for the FE model.
Metal Ion Biosorption Potential of Lignocellulosic Biomasses and Marine Algae for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Cukierman Ana Lea
Published: January 2008

The metal ion-binding abilities of six lignocellulosic biomasses obtained from agro-industrial products and sustainable plantations, as well as of two red and one green marine algal species, were examined in a comparative manner to ascertain their potential as biosorbents of heavy metals from low concentration wastewater. Dilute single-solute solutions of cadmium and nickel ions (≤ 1 mM) were used as models. All the biomaterials showed appreciable Cd(II) ion biosorption which was strongly dependent on the dosage used. The maximum Cd(II) ion biosorption capacities (XmL), as estimated from the experimental isotherms using the Langmuir model, indicated that the red algae (XmL= 0.26–0.52 mmol/g) and the lignocellulosic biomasses with larger lignin contents (XmL= 0.17–0.20 mmol/g) possessed the greatest potential. This behaviour also applied to Ni(II) ion biosorption, although the biomaterials proved to be less effective in this case, especially towards low dosage. Comparison of the Cd(II) ion equilibrium sorption by one of the lowest performing biomasses (sawdust from Arundo donax stems) with that for activated carbons developed from the same biomass under different atmospheres revealed that the biomass behaviour was similar to that of carbons activated by heating in inert or mildly oxidative atmospheres.
The Effect of Thermal Treatment under Different Atmospheric Conditions on the Catalytic Performance of Nickel Supported on Porous Silica in the Gas-Phase Hydrogenation of Acetonitrile
Authors: Braos-García Pilar , Durán-Martín Desireé , Infantes-Molina Antonia , Eliche-Quesada Dolores , Rodríguez-Castellón Enrique , Jiménez-López Antonio
Published: January 2008

A series of mesoporous silica-supported nickel catalysts (2.2 wt% Ni) were prepared by impregnation employing the incipient wetness technique using Ni(II) formate as the impregnation salt. Three different atmospheric conditions were employed during the thermal treatment: air, He and H2. The catalysts were characterised by chemical analysis, XRD, N2 adsorption at −196°C, H2-TPR, H2-TPD and XPS. A direct relationship was found between catalytic activity in the gas-phase hydrogenation of acetonitrile and the Ni 2p3/2 binding energy assigned to the Ni0 atoms of the reduced catalysts, where the catalytic activity decreased with increasing binding energy. The best catalyst obtained was that prepared by thermal decomposition in air and subsequent reduction in a hydrogen atmosphere; this catalyst displayed a high metallic surface and a low value for the Ni 2p3/2 binding energy of Ni0.
A Load Model Based on Antecedent Dry Periods for Pollutants in Stormwater
Authors: Soonthornnonda Puripus , Christensen Erik R.
Published: January 2008

A load model for stormwater constituents is proposed that describes mass retained on the drainage area after previous storms, as a function of a weighted sum of previous antecedent dry periods. It was used to compute the event load for 14 constituents—zinc, copper, cadmium, nickel, chromium, lead, mercury, silver, total suspended solids (TSS), E. coli, fecal coliform, total soluble phosphorus, total phosphorus, and 5‐day biochemical oxygen demand. The results show acceptable fits for most constituents based on over 400 rain events (2000 to 2004) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Considering the retained pollutant mass after one previous storm rather than assuming the area to be clean after the previous storm gives more accurate results for all constituents, except TSS and silver. The model can be used for mixed land‐use areas. The ratios of deposition fluxes of zinc and individual metals were determined at a major parking lot producing a profile characteristic of automobile emissions.
Investigation and Modeling of Solar UV‐Induced Chlorine Decay in Disinfection Contact Basins at Full‐Scale Wastewater Treatment Plants
Authors: Gu April Z. , Neethling J. B.
Published: January 2008

Residual chlorine loss due to UV sunlight in the chlorine disinfection contact basins (DCBs) was investigated at two full‐scale wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Chlorine decay due to solar UV‐induced photochemical reaction was found to be significant and had diurnal and seasonal variations. The total chlorine loss due to sunlight ranged from 19 to 26% of the total chlorine chemical use at the two plants studied. Covering chlorine contact basins led to more stable chlorine demand regardless of the diurnal and seasonal sunlight intensity. Therefore, covering chlorine contact basins offers more stable, or accurate, chlorine dosage and effluent residual control and requires less effort by plant operators. A mathematical model was developed to calculate the amount of UV‐induced chlorine decay. The model developed can be used to estimate the UV‐induced chlorine decay rate and total chlorine loss due to sunlight at WWTPs with various basin configurations, flowrates, chlorine dosages, and geographical locations. The model results allow the capital cost of covering needs to be assessed against the chlorine chemical cost savings.
Physical and Chemical Changes in Fresh Chilled Muscle Tissue of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) Packed in a Modified Atmosphere
Authors: Ježek F. , Buchtová H.
Published: January 2008

The aim of the study was to monitor the course of physical and chemical changes taking place in stored fresh chilled muscle tissue of carp packed in modified atmosphere (MAP), and to determine its shelf life. Samples of muscle tissue of common carp (Cyprinus carpio, L.) were packed in MAP (80% O2, 20% CO2) and stored for 15 days at +2 ± 2 °C max. During the storage period, O2 level in packs decreased from 78.7 ± 0.39% (day 1) to 63.8 ± 1.30% (day 15). Decrease in O2 in packs between storage days 7 and 9 was highly significant (p < 0.01). During storage, muscle tissue pH decreased during the experiment from 6.46 ± 0.22% (day 1) to 6.17 ± 0.10% (day 15). Levels of N-substances of low-molecular character increased during the experiment from 12.33 ± 2.11 (day 1) to 20.07 ± 3.16 mg 100 g-1 (day 15). Hydrolytic lipid decomposition (FFA) was more intensive in carp muscle tissue (2.09 ± 1.07% total lipid as oleic acid) than in carp skin (1.01 ± 0.31% total lipid as oleic acid) (day 15). Lipid oxidation (PV) in skin showed differences from lipid oxidation in muscle tissue. Oxidation processes in muscle correlated positively with the length of storage (r = 0.90). Over the storage period, peroxide levels increased from 2.58 ± 1.19 mekv O2 kg-1 (day 1) to 6.76 ± 1.78 mekv O2 kg-1 (day 15). Because of low TVBN levels in muscle tissue, shelf life was limited mainly by sensory changes (green discoloration, odour deviations, slime production), which were observed from storage day 9 onwards. It was found that the maximum shelf life of carp packed in MAP (80% O2, 20% CO2) was 7 days. The optimum parameter to determine the remaining shelf life of common carp muscle tissue stored at +2 ± 2 °C max is the TVBN level. As concerns shelf life, TVBN levels in carp muscle should not exceed 15 mg 100 g-1. This level of TVBN (max. 15 mg 100 g-1) for carp (MAP 80% O2, 20% CO2) is much more lower in comparison with levels TVBN (max 25 - 35 mg 100 g-1) which have been determined by Commission Regulation (EC) No. 2074/2005 for sea fish. For that reason we suggest to amplify the study by other monitoring (higher number of samples, various breeds of carp in different weight categories for all the year). On the basis of these analyses the level of TVBN for carp could be determined and incorporated to the legislation.