bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early replication and the apoptotic pathway
Authors: Cohen Stephanie M. , Cordeiro‐Stone Marila , Kaufman David G.
Published: May 2007

In higher eukaryotes there is a link between time of replication and transcription. It is generally accepted that genes that are actively transcribed are replicated in the first half of S phase while inactive genes replicate in the second half of S phase. We have recently reported that in normal human fibroblasts there are some functionally related genes that replicate at the same time in S phase. This had been previously reported for functionally related genes that are located in clusters, for example the α‐ and β‐globin complexes. We have shown, however, that this also occurs with some functionally related genes that are not organized in a cluster, but rather are distributed throughout the genome. For example, using GOstat analysis of data from our and other groups, we found an overrepresentation of genes involved in the apoptotic process among sequences that are replicated very early (approximately in the first hour of S phase) in both fibroblasts and lymphoblastoid cells. This finding leads us to question how and why the replication of genes in the apoptotic pathway is temporally organized in this manner. Here we discuss the possible explanations and implications of this observation. J. Cell. Physiol. 213: 434–439, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reducing ammonia emission from poultry manure composting via struvite formation
Authors: Zhang Wenxiu , Lau Anthony
Published: May 2007

Composting can provide a viable alternative for poultry manure management in the Fraser Valley of British Columbia, Canada. However, it has a high potential for ammonia emission because of the high nitrogen content of poultry litter. The objective of this study was to reduce ammonia emission by precipitating ammonia into struvite before it can volatilize from the composting matrix. Nitrogen transformation occurs during composting, but struvite formation can help to conserve nitrogen, and does not allow a large amount of nitrogen to be released into the environment as ammonia or nitrate, because ammonium‐nitrogen becomes bound in struvite. It would also be possible to remove phosphorus from the manure. A laboratory‐scale experiment was conducted to examine the feasibility of struvite formation during poultry manure composting. Magnesium and phosphate salts were supplemented to create favorable conditions to form struvite. Results indicated that ammonia emission was reduced by 40% to 84%, while the nitrogen retention in compost was enhanced. The struvite formed in compost was confirmed by means of X‐ray diffraction; and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Removal of diazinon by various advanced oxidation processes
Authors: Real Francisco J. , Benitez F. Javier , Acero Juan L. , Gonzalez Manuel
Published: May 2007

Diazinon is a widely used organophosphorus insecticide that is an important pollutant in aquatic environments. The chemical removal of diazinon has been studied using UV radiation, ozone, Fenton's reagent, UV radiation plus hydrogen peroxide, ozone plus hydrogen peroxide and photo‐Fenton as oxidation processes. In the photodegradation process the observed quantum yields had values ranging between 2.42 × 10−2 and 6.36 × 10−2 mol E−1. Similarly, the ozonation reaction gave values for the rate constant ranging between 0.100 and 0.193 min−1. In the combined systems UV/H2O2 and O3/H2O2 the partial contributions to the global oxidation reaction of the direct and radical pathways were deduced. In the Fenton's reagent and photo‐Fenton systems, the mechanism of reaction has been partially discussed, and the predominant role of the radical pathway pointed out. Additionally, the rate constant for the reaction between diazinon and the hydroxyl radicals was determined, with the value 8.4 × 109 L mol−1 s−1 obtained. A comparison of the different oxidation systems tested under the same operating conditions revealed that UV radiation alone had a moderate oxidation efficiency, which is enhanced in the case of ozone, while the most efficient oxidant is the photo‐Fenton system. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Electrochemical incineration of dyes using a boron‐doped diamond anode
Authors: Saez Cristina , Panizza Marco , Rodrigo Manuel A. , Cerisola Giacomo
Published: May 2007

The electrochemical oxidation of a synthetic wastewater containing the model dyes alizarin red (an anthraquinone) and Eriochrome black T (an azoic compound) has been studied on a boron‐doped diamond electrode (BDD) by both cyclic voltammetry and bulk electrolysis. The influence of the current density and dye concentration were investigated. The results obtained show that complete chemical oxygen demand (COD) and colour removal was obtained for both wastewaters. However, the nature of the pollutant, and specially the presence of functional groups (such as the azoic group) seems to strongly influence the performance and efficiency of the electrochemical process. The electro‐oxidation of alizarin red behaves as a mass‐transfer‐controlled process. In such a system, an increase in the current density leads to a decrease in the current efficiency. This can be explained by direct or hydroxyl radical mediated oxidation. The contrary tendency has been observed in Eriochrome black T electro‐oxidation. In this case, higher efficiencies were obtained working at high current densities. This may indicate that the mediated oxidation by electrogenerated reagent (such as peroxodisulphate) is the main oxidation mechanism involved in Eriochrome black T treatment. These compounds have a longer average lifetime than hydroxyl radicals, and it allows the reaction to be extended to the whole wastewater volume. This study has shown the suitability of the electrochemical process for completely removing the COD and total organic carbon and effectively decolourising of wastewaters containing synthetic dyes. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Bladder ultrasound in the evaluation of the efficacy of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid injection for treatment of vesicoureteral reflux
Authors: Özcan Coşkun , Ergün Raziye , Özbek Süha Süreyya , Avanoğlu Ali , Ulman ⋖brahim
Published: May 2007

Purpose.

To determine whether sonographic examination of subureteral implants after endoscopic dextranomer/hyaluronic acid (DHA) injection would help to evaluate the efficacy of this method in the treatment of vesicoureteral reflux.

Materials and Methods.

Thirty‐six patients (49 ureters) who underwent endoscopic subureteral DHA injection were evaluated using voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) and bladder sonography for a mean duration of 2.1 years (range, 3 months to 6.5 years) after treatment. Patient records—including the results of VCUG, renal sonography, Dimercapto succinic acid (DMSA) scintigraphy, and periodic urinary analysis—were also reviewed to determine the outcome of treatment.

Results.

Reflux was corrected in 43/49 (88%) ureters (complete cure in 38, downgrading of reflux in 5). No change was noted in 6 (12%) ureters on VCUG. The reflux was found to be corrected in 19/22 (86%) ureters, with the implants clearly identifiable on sonography. However, reflux was documented in only 3/27 (11%) ureters, around which no implant was seen on sonography.

Conclusion.

The identification of the implant in the subureteral region by bladder sonography correlated with resolution of reflux in the early postinjection period. On the other hand, the majority of the implants disappeared on sonography in the long term despite correction of reflux. Therefore, we believe that the use of bladder sonography is not useful in the evaluation of patients in long‐term follow‐up. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2007
First evidence of the presence of chitin in skeletons of marine sponges. Part II. Glass sponges (Hexactinellida: Porifera)
Authors: Ehrlich Hermann , Krautter Manfred , Hanke Thomas , Simon Paul , Knieb Christiane , Heinemann Sascha , Worch Hartmut
Published: May 2007

Sponges (Porifera) are presently gaining increased scientific attention because of their secondary metabolites and specific skeleton structures. In contrast to demosponges, whose skeletons are formed from biopolymer spongin, glass sponges (hexactinellids) possess silica‐organic composites as the main natural material for their skeletal fibres. Chitin has a crystalline structure and it constitutes a network of organized fibres. This structure confers rigidity and resistance to organisms that contain it, including monocellular (yeast, amoeba, diatoms) and multicellular (higher fungi, arthropods, nematodes, molluscs) organisms. In contrast to different marine invertebrates whose exoskeletons are built of chitin, this polysaccharide has not been found previously as an endogenous biopolymer within glass sponges (Hexactinellida). We hypothesized that glass sponges, which are considered to be the most basal lineage of multicellular animals, must possess chitin. Here, we present a detailed study of the structural and physico‐chemical properties of skeletal fragments of the glass sponge Farrea occa. We show that these fibres have a layered design with specific compositional variations in the chitin/silica composite. We applied an effective approach for the demineralization of glass sponge skeletal formations based on an etching procedure using alkali solutions. The results show unambiguously that α‐chitin is an essential component of the skeletal structures of Hexactinellida. This is the first report of a silica–chitin's composite biomaterial found in nature. From this perspective, the view that silica–chitin scaffolds may be key templates for skeleton formation also in ancestral unicellular organisms, rather than silica–protein composites, emerges as a viable alternative hypothesis. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 308B:473–483, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Insights into spawning behavior and development of the european amphioxus (Branchiostoma lanceolatum)
Authors: Fuentes Michael , Benito Elia , Bertrand Stephanie , Paris Mathilde , Mignardot Aurelie , Godoy Laura , Jimenez‐Delgado Senda , Oliveri Diana , Candiani Simona , Hirsinger Estelle , D'Aniello Salvatore , Pascual‐Anaya Juan , Maeso Ignacio , Pestarino Mario , Vernier Philippe , Nicolas Jean‐François , Schubert Michael , Laudet Vincent , Geneviere Anne Marie , Albalat Ricard , Garcia Fernandez Jordi , Holland Nicholas D. , Escriva Hector
Published: May 2007

The cephalochordate amphioxus (Branchiostoma sp.) is an important animal model for studying the evolution of chordate developmental mechanisms. Obtaining amphioxus embryos is a key step for these studies. It has been shown that an increase of 3–4°C in water temperature triggers spawning of the European amphioxus (Branchiostoma lanceolatum) in captivity, however, very little is known about the natural spawning behavior of this species in the field. In this work, we have followed the spawning behavior of the European amphioxus during two spawning seasons (2004 and 2005), both in the field and in captivity. We show that animals in the field spawn approximately from mid‐May through early July, but depending on the year, they show different patterns of spawning. Thus, even if temperature has a critical role in the induction of the spawning in captivity, it is not the major factor in the field. Moreover, we report some improvements on the methodology for inducing spawning in captivity (e.g. in maintenance, light cycle control and induction of spawning in a laboratory without running sea water system). These studies have important implications for amphioxus animal husbandry and for improving laboratory techniques to develop amphioxus as an experimental animal model. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 308B:484–493, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Escaping the mouse trap: the selection of new Evo‐Devo model species
Authors: Milinkovitch Michel C. , Tzika Athanasia
Published: May 2007

Among the many, sometimes contradictory, criteria that have been used for promoting model species, the most prominent has probably been their relevance for understanding human biology. Recently however, the debate has partly shifted from the search for evolutionary conservation (medicine‐driven models) to a better understanding of the generative mechanisms underlying biological diversity (Evo‐Devo‐driven models). Integration of multiple disciplines, beyond developmental genetics and evolutionary molecular genetics, as well as of innovative technologies will help biologists to open the massive realm of living species to genome manipulation and phenotypic investigation. However, a consensual list of model species must still be reached for optimizing the interplay between in silico analyses and in vivo experiments, and we claim that the Evo‐Devo community should play a more energetic role in this endeavor. We discuss here a few criteria and limitations of major relevance to the choice of model species for Evo‐Devo studies, and promote the use of a pragmatic approach. Finally, given the difficulties related to manipulating and breeding model species, we suggest the development of Evo‐Devo virtual zoos maintaining breeding colonies of a selected set of species and from which eggs or staged embryos are available on order. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 308B:337–346, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A poverty‐focused evaluation of commodity tax options
Authors: Essama‐Nssah B.
Published: May 2007

The difficulties faced by many developing countries in raising revenue from direct taxes have forced them to rely heavily on indirect taxes to finance development interventions. The purpose of this paper is to illustrate how to identify socially desirable options for commodity taxation in the context of a poverty reduction strategy. Within the logic of social evaluation we assess tax options on the basis of value judgments underlying members of the additively separable class of poverty measures. The criterion hinges on both the pattern of consumption of each commodity and the price elasticity of the poverty measure used. An application of this methodology to data for Guinea shows that many components of food expenditure (particularly cereals, grains and roots) would be good candidates for exemption from VAT. Even though expenditure on health and education is distributed in favour of the non‐poor, their importance for human capital development argues for a program of targeted subsidies in a broader context of cost recovery. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ribosomal distributions in axons of mammalian myelinated fibers
Authors: Kun Alejandra , Otero Leonardo , Sotelo‐Silveira José R. , Sotelo José R.
Published: May 2007

The distribution of ribosomes and polysomes in uninjured myelinated axons of rat sciatic nerve was analyzed. Ribosomes were identified by immunocytochemistry at the light and electron microscopic levels. A polyclonal antibody developed against ribosomes recognized both rRNA and ribosomal proteins. The distribution of the immunoreaction product was similar to that obtained with human anti‐ribosomal P protein. The immunoreaction product distributions were of two types in axons: 1) periodic localization in the cortical region of axoplasm that appeared as a compact structural aggregate, consistent with that described as a periaxoplasmic ribosomal plaques (PARP) domain (Koenig et al. [2000] J. Neurosci. 20:8390–8400), and 2) scattered small immuno‐reactive clusters of varying sizes (RNP) within the central core of the axon. The latter observation suggested the possibility that RNP‐like particles could be associated with the axonal transport system and in transit. Immunoreaction product was also associated with a novel structural inclusion, possibly multi‐vesicular in makeup that was located in the axon and at the myelin‐axon interface, and visible at the light and EM levels. The potential significance of this structural peculiarity is considered. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mechanisms of nitric oxide‐induced apoptosis in bovine chromaffin cells: Role of mitochondria and apoptotic proteins
Authors: Pérez‐Rodríguez Rocío , Fuentes María P. , Oliván Anna M. , Martínez‐Palacián Adoración , Roncero Cesáreo , González María P. , Oset‐Gasque María J.
Published: May 2007

The aim of this work was to establish the possible involvement of mitochondria in the apoptotic event triggered by nitric oxide (NO) in chromaffin cells. Using bovine chromaffin cells in primary culture and several NO donors (SNP, SNAP, and GSNO) at apoptotic concentrations (50 μM–1 mM), we have shown that NO induces a time‐dependent decrease in the mitochondrial transmembrane potential (ΔΨm), which correlates with the appearance of hypodiploid cells. Disruption in ΔΨmis followed by cytochrome c release to the cytosol, which in turn precedes caspase 3 activation. In this mechanism participates the Bcl‐2 protein family, because NO donors downregulate the expression of anti‐apoptotic members of the family such as Bcl‐2 and Bcl‐XL, and increase the expression of pro‐apoptotic members, Bax and Bcl‐Xs, inductors of cytochrome c release to cytosol. Different cell signaling pathways seem to regulate Bax induction and Bcl‐2 inhibition because decreased Bcl‐2 levels are detected later than enhanced Bax expression. The tumour suppressor protein p53 is also upregulated in a very early phase (30 min) of the NO‐induced apoptosis and may be responsible for the further induction of Bax expression. Finally, the translocation of NF‐κB to the nucleus seems to be another early event in NO‐induced apoptosis and it may be involved in the regulation of p53 expression. These results support strongly the participation of mitochondrial mechanisms in NO‐induced apoptosis in chromaffin cells and suggest that these cells may be good models for the investigation of molecular basis of neurodegeneration and neuroprotection. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Flavoprotein autofluorescence imaging in the cerebellar cortex in vivo
Authors: Reinert Kenneth C. , Gao Wangcai , Chen Gang , Ebner Timothy J.
Published: May 2007

Autofluorescence optical imaging is rapidly becoming a widely used tool for mapping activity in the central nervous system function in vivo and investigating the coupling among neurons, glia, and metabolism. This paper provides a brief review of autofluorescence and of our recent work using flavoprotein imaging in the cerebellar cortex. Stimulation of the parallel fibers evokes an intrinsic fluorescence signal that is tightly coupled to neuronal activation and primarily generated postsynaptically. The signal originates from mitochondrial flavoproteins. The signal is biphasic, with the initial increase in fluorescence (light phase) resulting from the oxidation of flavoproteins and the subsequent decrease (dark phase) from the reduction of flavoproteins. The light phase is primarily neuronal, and the dark phase is primarily glial. Exploiting the spatial properties of molecular layer inhibition in the cerebellar cortex, we show that flavoprotein autofluorescence can monitor both excitatory and inhibitory activity in the cerebellar cortex. Furthermore, flavoprotein autofluorescence has revealed that molecular layer inhibition is organized into parasagittal domains that differentially modulate the spatial pattern of cerebellar cortical activity. The reduction in flavoprotein autofluorescence occurring in the inhibitory bands most likely reflects a decrease in intracellular Ca2+ in the neurons inhibited by the molecular layer interneurons. Therefore, flavoprotein autofluorescence imaging is providing new insights into cerebellar cortical function and neurometabolic coupling. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Copper activates TrkB in cortical neurons in a metalloproteinase‐dependent manner
Authors: Hwang Jung Jin , Park Mi‐Ha , Koh Jae‐Young
Published: May 2007

Copper (Cu) is an endogenous metal that is physiologically essential in the brain and that, like zinc (Zn), may be synaptically released in certain regions. Previously, we demonstrated that Zn activates TrkB in cultured cortical neurons in a metalloproteinase (MP)‐dependent manner. To determine whether Cu has similar properties, we exposed cortical cultures for 15 min to various metals and performed Western blots to detect tyrosine‐phosphorylated TrkB (p‐Trk). Whereas Cd, Mn, Fe(II), and Fe(III) had no effect on the level of p‐Trk, 10 μM of Cu in phosphate‐containing (Hanks' balanced salt solution) or 10 nM in phosphate‐lacking salt solution (control salt solution), increased levels of p‐Trk. Cu also activated extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 and Src tyrosine kinase, signaling molecules activated downstream of TrkB. Cu decreased levels of probrain‐derived neurotrophic factor (pro‐BDNF) in cells but increased levels of pro‐ and mature BDNF in the media. Addition of MP inhibitors completely blocked the Cu‐induced increases in pro‐BDNF and BDNF as well as TrkB activation, indicating that MP mediates most of the Cu effect. Furthermore, Cu increased the activity of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) and MMP9 in cortical neurons. These findings indicate that, like Zn, Cu activates MPs, releases pro‐BDNF from cells, and phosphorylates TrsB. Because Cu, like Zn, is released in certain brain areas with neuronal activity, metal‐triggered TrkB activation may occur in both Cu‐ and Zn‐containing synapses. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Erratum: Old faces, new places: equity theory in cross‐cultural contexts
Authors: Bolino Mark C. , Turnley William H.
Published: May 2007

The above article (DOI: 10.1002/job.454) was published online in Early View on 12 April 2007. A printing error was subsequently identified in the article:

Page 10, line 27: ‘likelihood that he or she will select particular referent’ should read ‘likelihood that he or she will select a particular referent’
Effects of irrigation water quantities and seasonal variation on oil content and fatty acid composition of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)
Authors: Mula Ahmed Mahmoud Fadl el , Ahmed Shouk Ahmed Khalid , Gasim Ahmed Faisal el
Published: May 2007

A field experiment was conducted in the North Western Group of the Gezira Scheme (longitude 32°48′ and latitude 15°14′) for four successive seasons, two winter and two summer seasons, during the years 1999–2002, to study the effect of different irrigation water quantities (300, 400, 500, 600 and 700 mm per season) on oil content and oleic acid and linoleic acid percentages in two sunflower cultivars [Rodeo, an open‐pollinated variety, and Hysun33, a hybrid). The experiment was designed in a split plot design, with four replicates. The cultivars were allotted to the sub‐plots while the irrigation treatments were assigned to main plots. The results showed that different irrigation water quantities had significant effects on all parameters studied and the cultivar Hysun33 gave a higher oil content (36.6%) at 700 mm whereas the open‐pollinated variety Rodeo gave 34.1% oil at that level of irrigation. The overall percentages of oleic and linoleic acids were 29.7 and 58.1 in winter and 47.6 and 43.1 in summer, respectively. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Role of gluten and its components in influencing durum wheat dough properties and spaghetti cooking quality
Authors: Sissons Mike J , Soh Hwee N , Turner Matthew A
Published: May 2007

Protein is an important component of grain which affects the technological properties of durum wheat. It is known that the amount and composition of protein can influence dough rheology and pasta quality but the influence of the major classes of protein is not well documented. The influence of the various gluten components on dough and pasta properties was investigated. The protein composition of durum semolina was altered by either adding gluten fractions to a base semolina or preparing reconstituted flours with varying protein composition. The effects on semolina dough rheology and spaghetti texture were measured. Published methods to isolate relatively pure quantities (gram amounts) of glutenin, gliadin, high molecular and low molecular weight glutenin subunits were evaluated and modified procedures were adopted. Reconstituted flours with additional glutenin increased dough strength while additional gliadin and LMW‐GS decreased strength. These changes did not impact on spaghetti texture. Results from using the addition of protein fractions to a base semolina showed that gluten and glutenin addition increased the dough strength of a weak base semolina while gliadin addition weakened the base dough further. Addition of HMW‐GS greatly increased dough strength of the base while addition of LMW‐GS greatly reduced dough strength. Again, these affects were not translated into firmer pasta. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Interaction of phytate with protein and minerals in a soybean–maize meal blend depends on pH and calcium addition
Authors: Pontoppidan Katrine , Pettersson Dan , Sandberg Ann‐Sofie
Published: May 2007

In order to investigate possible interactions of phytate with protein and minerals in simplified animal diets, studies were conducted on the solubility of endogenous phytate, protein and essential minerals in a soybean–maize meal blend within a physiological relevant pH range. The blend was mixed with water for 10 min and then allowed to incubate at 40 °C (30 min) after adjustment of the pH. Finally, soluble phytate, protein, zinc, manganese and iron were determined. Phytate and mineral solubility was highly influenced by pH whereas protein solubility was less affected. Addition of 5 g Ca2+ kg−1 drastically reduced the solubility of phytate, zinc, manganese and iron at pH above 4.4, indicating that the formation of insoluble phytate–mineral complexes is increased in the presence of calcium. The action of pepsin increased the solubility of protein and phytate at pH below 4, indicating that insoluble phytate–protein complexes are present at low pH. Calcium had the same solubilising effect as pepsin at pH 2–4 but to a lesser degree. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Increased intakes of selenium‐enriched foods may benefit human health
Authors: Finley John Weldon
Published: May 2007

Selenium is an essential nutrient and deficient intakes compromise health in domestic animals and humans. A recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of 55 µg d−1 has been set for adult males and females in the United States; most North Americans consume more than this amount, but many residents of Europe, Asia and Africa consume less. While there are very few reports of outright Se deficiency in people consuming mixed Western diets that have Se intakes below the RDA, there is evidence that dietary intakes of selenium greater than the requirement may help reduce the risk of cancer, especially prostate cancer, to men. Selenium metabolism depends on the chemical form of Se in the diet, and some forms are better for some actions (e.g., cancer reduction) than other forms. Foods may contain different amounts and chemical forms of Se; consequently the benefits of Se may depend on the particular foods consumed. There are many reports of the chemistry and health benefits of Se from plant foods; animal foods also contain Se, but there are fewer reported studies. Fully understanding the health benefits of Se that may be gained by consumption of Se‐enriched foods will require multidisciplinary approaches by teams of medical researchers, chemists, nutritionists, and agricultural scientists. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Using the RBFN model and GIS technique to assess wind erosion hazard of Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Huading Shi , Jiyuan Liu , Dafang Zhuang , Yunfeng Hu
Published: May 2007

Soil wind erosion is the primary process and the main driving force for land desertification and sand‐dust storms in arid and semi‐arid areas of Northern China. While many researchers have studied this issue, this study quantified the various indicators of soil wind erosion, using the GIS technology to extract the spatial data and to construct a RBFN (Radial Basis Function Network) model for Inner Mongolia. By calibrating sample data of the different levels of wind erosion hazard, the model parameters were established, and then the assessment of wind erosion hazard. Results show that in the southern parts of Inner Mongolia wind erosion hazards are very severe, counties in the middle regions of Inner Mongolia vary from moderate to severe, and in eastern are slight. Comparison of the results with other research shows conformity with actual conditions, proving the reasonability and applicability of the RBFN model. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of experimental restoration on the diaspore bank of an upland moor degraded by Pteridium aquilinum invasion
Authors: Ghorbani J. , Le Duc M. G. , McAllister H. A. , Pakeman R. J. , Marrs R. H.
Published: May 2007

We assessed the effects of a range of experimental restoration treatments on the diaspore bank (seed and spores) on an upland moor infested by dense Pteridium aquilinum, 9 years after implementation. Experimental treatment included both Pteridium control (cutting, spraying and combinations) and restoration treatments (grazing, seeding); both univariate and multivariate analyses of variance were used to assess significant effects. The seed bank was made up largely of Calluna vulgaris, Juncus effusus and Agrostis capillaris with the majority germinating from the litter (38 per cent) and upper soil layer (53 per cent). Soil depth influenced species composition and density, with greatest numbers near the surface, in keeping with a negative exponential response. In the lowest soil depth only ferns were abundant. A. capillaris seed density was greater in the most disturbed treatment (cut twice yearly with grazing), whereas C. vulgaris was greater in the low‐disturbance treatment (herbicide application only). The diaspore bank composition response identified that certain treatment combinations had a grass‐heath composition in the upper soil layer, which may assist future restoration. There was a significant effect of C. vulgaris seed addition detected in the Pteridium litter layer suggesting that this litter acted as a barrier to seed transfer to the soil. There was little evidence of coupling developing between the diaspore bank and vegetation. The most successful treatment combination was cutting twice per yr with low grazing plus C. vulgaris addition as brash. Where seed is added the Pteridium litter should be disturbed. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using farmers' criteria to assess profitability of fodder shrubs in the desert margins of West Africa
Authors: Hamer A. G. , Franzel S. , Mounkoro B.
Published: May 2007

This paper presents the results of a study carried out in the Ségou region of Northern Mali to analyse the use of fodder shrubs. The farmer‐level fodder banks consisted of three perennial legumes (Gliricidia sepium, Pterocarpus erinaceus and Pterocarpus lucens). The main question addressed is whether this new type of fodder was more profitable for smallholder farmers compared to alternative fodder options. To test hypotheses for profitability, farmers were grouped in two different ways. The first grouping was based on the different village communities the farmers belonged to. The second grouping consisted of three user groups based on individual (non‐) use patterns of the fodder banks. ‘Passives’ were non‐users because of apparent disinterest. ‘Actives’ were the group of users whose fodder banks performed well and who harvested in time while ‘Unfortunates’ were non‐users unable to harvest fodder mostly through high mortality rates of the shrubs. Profitability was measured by increases in income or increases in the productivity of labour spent on feeding livestock. Profitability was shown to be dependent on the use pattern of the fodder shrubs. In the actual situation no user group had gained any concrete financial benefits. The several scenarios in which other use modalities were modelled, did show gains of using fodder shrubs, but only under conditions where alternative options were expensive. The perceived value of this technology was high. The use patterns indicated that this did not necessarily reflect farmers' long term interest in the technology itself. Rather, farmers were motivated by perceived opportunities to gain short term material and social benefits from the project promoting the shrubs. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Skin changes following minor trauma
Authors: Randeberg Lise Lyngsnes , Winnem Andreas M. , Langlois Neil E. , Larsen Eivind L.P. , Haaverstad Rune , Skallerud Bjørn , Haugen Olav A. , Svaasand Lars O.
Published: May 2007

Background and Objective

Bruises are currently evaluated by visual inspection, and little is known about the first phase after injury. The temporal development of fresh injuries must be accurately described to be able to age bruises in a reliable manner. Color changes in a bruise caused by hemoglobin breakdown products will depend on the severity of the trauma, and thus on the local immune response in the skin. It is therefore important to relate the nature of the impact to the temporal tissue responses.

Materials and Methods

Controlled injuries were inflicted on anesthetized domestic pigs. Trauma was induced either by a pendulum device, or by paintballs released using pressurized air. The speed of the projectiles was recorded using a high speed camera. Biopsies and reflection spectra (400–850 nm) were collected from normal and bruised skin. The experiments were approved by the national animal research authority.

Results

The temporal development of the injury was found to depend strongly on the weight and speed of the object. Low speed, blunt objects did not cause persistent skin changes. However, deep muscular bleeding could be found in most cases. High speed, light weight objects caused a rapidly developing bruise. These bruises were fully developed within 15–20 minutes. No deep muscular hemorrhages were observed in those cases. White blood cells (neutrophilic granulocytes) could be found in biopsies from high speed injuries. The amount of white blood cells depended on the time between injury and collection of the biopsies.

Conclusion

Further investigations utilizing a larger range of object weight and velocities are required to be able to fully classify minor traumatic injuries. Preliminary results indicate that this can be achieved by controlled experiments using a porcine model. Reflectance spectroscopy was found to be a useful tool to study immediate skin reactions to the trauma. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of low‐level laser treatment after installation of dental titanium implant‐immunohistochemical study of RANKL, RANK, OPG: An experimental study in rats
Authors: Kim Yong‐Deok , Kim Sung‐Sik , Hwang Dae‐Seok , Kim Sung‐Gil , Kwon Yong‐Hoon , Shin Sang‐Hun , Kim Uk‐Kyu , Kim Jong‐Ryoul , Chung In‐Kyo
Published: May 2007

Background and Objectives

This experiment using an animal experimental model was conducted in order to investigate the effect of low‐level laser therapy (LLLT) on the healing of the dental titanium implant.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

The experimental group received LLLT for a week and the control group did not. Each group consisted of 10 rats. Two rats from the groups were euthenized on the days 1, 3, 7, 14, and 21 of the experiment. The expression of receptor activator of nuclear factor kB ligand (RANKL), osteoprotegerin (OPG), and receptor activator of nuclear factor kB (RANK) were investigated.

Results

The expression of RANKL was observed from the initial stage of the installation of the implant for both the experimental and control groups. However, the degree of expression was higher in the experimental group. The degree of expression of OPG increased remarkably in the experimental group, while in the control group the degree of expression increased only slightly. In the experimental group, the expression of RANK was observed from the first day, but in the control group, it was weakly observed after day 3. The overall expression within the bone was slight on day 7 in the control group, while an active expression was observed in the experimental group. Bone density after installation of dental titanium implant during osseointegration in the experimental group was higher than the control group. The surface and structure of the titanium implant was not damaged by low‐level laser (LLL).

Conclusions

From the above results, the expression of OPG, RANKL, and RANK during the osseointegration of the dental titanium implant was observed within bone tissue. The application of the LLL influenced the expression of OPG, RANKL, and RANK, and resulted in the expansion of metabolic bone activity and increased the activity of bone tissue cells. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Immunohistochemical characterization of periodontal wound healing following nonsurgical treatment with fluorescence controlled Er:YAG laser radiation in dogs
Authors: Schwarz Frank , Jepsen Søren , Herten Monika , Aoki Akira , Sculean Anton , Becker Jürgen
Published: May 2007

Background and Objective

The aim of the present study was to immunohistochemically characterize periodontal wound healing following nonsurgical treatment with fluorescence controlled Er:YAG laser radiation in dogs.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Five beagle dogs suffering from naturally occurring chronic periodontitis were randomly allocated in a split‐mouth design to nonsurgical periodontal treatment using either (a) an Er:YAG laser at 10.2, 12.8, 15.4, 18, and 20.4 J/cm2 (ERL1‐5), or (b) an ultrasonic device (VUS) serving as control. The animals were sacrificed after 3 months. Histomorphometrical (e.g. inflammatory cell infiltrate, surface changes, cementum formation), and immunohistochemical parameters (collagen type I, CD68, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐8) were assessed.

Results

Inflammatory cell infiltrates of different extent were commonly observed in all treatment groups. However, histomorphometrical analysis revealed new cementum formation with inserting collagen type I fibers along the instrumented root surfaces in most specimens of both ERL (ERL2: 31±81 to ERL5: 595±575 µm) and VUS (50± 215 µm) groups. This was associated with pronounced CD68 and weak MMP‐8 antigen reactivity.

Conclusion

Within the limits of the present study, it was concluded that both treatment procedures (i) were effective in controlling inflammatory cell infiltrates, and (ii) may support the formation of a new connective tissue attachment. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Natural History of Unexplained Chronic Hepatitis After Liver Transplantation
Authors: Syn Wing-Kin , Nightingale Peter , Gunson Bridget , Hubscher Stefan G. , Neuberger James M.
Published: May 2007

Unexplained chronic hepatitis (CH) in the adult liver allograft recipient is not uncommon, but its natural history and clinical significance is unknown. A retrospective study was undertaken of adult liver allograft recipients to determine the frequency and natural history of unexplained CH. We evaluated only those patients who had undergone ≥2 liver biopsies after 6 months and were grafted for indications where recurrent disease could be confidently excluded (alcoholic liver disease [ALD] in those who remained abstinent and fulminant hepatic failure [FHF] from drug reactions). Of 288 patients who were transplanted for ALD or FHF, 30 fulfilled the above criteria. CH was first diagnosed at a median of 15.25 months after transplantation. A total of 24 patients showed mild necroinflammatory changes, and 12 had mild or moderate fibrosis. Liver tests did not reflect the presence or degree of inflammation or fibrosis. After a median of 4 years, necroinflammatory scores were increased in 5; new or progressive fibrosis was noted in 13%; 3 had developed cirrhosis; and 5 developed clinical evidence of portal hypertension. Progressive fibrosis was associated with a high titer of anti-nuclear antibodies (>1:1600) and a portal tract plasma cell infiltrate. There was a trend for correlation between necroinflammatory activity and fibrosis stage, but this did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.06). Serum alkaline phosphatase (P = 0.012) and female gender of the donor (P = 0.033) were associated with progressive fibrosis. Unexplained CH is not uncommon in the liver allograft and may progress to established cirrhosis in a subgroup of patients transplanted for ALD or FHF. Standard liver tests do not reflect the extent of these changes, so protocol liver biopsies may be required to detect these changes. We recommend careful history and follow-up in these patients. Liver Transpl, 2007. © 2007 AASLD.
Hydrogels Prepared from Unsubstituted Cellulose in NaOH/Urea Aqueous Solution
Authors: Zhou Jinping , Chang Chunyu , Zhang Ruping , Zhang Lina
Published: May 2007

Novel cellulose hydrogels were synthesized through a “one‐step” method from cellulose, which was dissolved directly in NaOH/urea aqueous solution, by using epichlorohydrin as crosslinker. Structure and properties of the hydrogels were characterized by using SEM, NMR, and water absorption testing. The hydrogels are fully transparent and display macroporous inner structure. The equilibrium swelling ratios of the hydrogels in distilled water at 25 °C are in the range from 30 to 60 g H2O/g dry hydrogel. Moreover, the reswelling water uptake of the hydrogels could be achieved to more than 70% compared with their initial swelling states. This work provided a simple and fast method for preparing eco‐friendly hydrogels from unsubstituted cellulose.

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Propositions in Prepositional Logic Provable Only by Indirect Proofs
Authors: Ekman Jan
Published: May 2007

In this paper it is shown that addition of certain reductions to the standard cut removing reductions of deductions in prepositional logic makes prepositional logic non‐normalizable. From this follows that some provable propositions in prepositional logic has no direct proof.
Linearly Stratified Models for the Foundations of Nonstandard Mathematics
Authors: Nasso Mauro Di
Published: May 2007

Assuming the existence of an inaccessible cardinal, transitive full models of the whole set theory, equipped with a linearly valued rank function, are constructed. Such models provide a global framework for nonstandard mathematics.
The Semantic Completeness of a Global Intuitionistic Logic
Authors: Aoyama Hiroshi
Published: May 2007

In this paper we will study a formal system of intuitionistic modal predicate logic. The main result is its semantic completeness theorem with respect to algebraic structures. At the end of the paper we will also present a brief consideration of its syntactic relationships with some similar systems.
A Model‐Theoretic Property of Sharply Bounded Formulae, with some Applications
Authors: Johannsen Jan
Published: May 2007

We define a property of substructures of models of arithmetic, that of being length‐initial, and show that sharply bounded formulae are absolute between a model and its length‐initial submodels. We use this to prove independence results for some weak fragments of bounded arithmetic by constructing appropriate models as length‐initial submodels of some given model.
Some Special Pairs of Σ2 e‐Degrees
Authors: Ahmad Seema , Lachlan Alistair H.
Published: May 2007

It is shown that there are incomparable Σ2 e‐degrees a, b such that every e‐degree strictly less than a is also less than b.
A Remark on Independence Results for Sharply Bounded Arithmetic
Authors: Johannsen Jan
Published: May 2007

The purpose of this note is to show that the independence results for sharply bounded arithmetic of Takeuti [4] and Tada and Tatsuta [3] can be obtained and, in case of the latter, improved by the model‐theoretic method developed by the author in [2].
Mass‐selective vibrational spectroscopy of vanadium oxide cluster ions
Authors: Asmis Knut R. , Sauer Joachim
Published: May 2007

A corner stone in the study of the size‐dependent properties of cluster ions in the gas phase is their structural characterization. Over the last 10 years, significant progress has been in this research field because of significant advances in the gas phase vibrational spectroscopy of mass‐selected ions. Using a combination of modern experimental and quantum chemical approaches, it is now in most cases possible to uniquely identify the geometric structure of cluster ions, based on the comparison of the experimental and simulated infrared spectra. In this article, we highlight the progress made in this research area by reviewing recent infrared photodissociation (IR‐PD) experiments on small and medium sized (up to 30 atoms) vanadium oxide ions. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev.
Microgel Formation in Emulsion Polymerization
Authors: Butté Alessandro , Storti Giuseppe , Morbidelli Massimo
Published: May 2007

A deterministic model for describing microgel formation in emulsion is developed. Classical deterministic models account for segregation of free radicals only. They provide an accurate description of kinetics, but fail in describing the formation of microgel chains. Since segregation of dead chains is not accounted for, gel chains whose size exceed that of the emulsion particles are typically predicted. In this work, segregation of microgel chains is introduced and this inconsistency is eliminated. The model was tested on a gelating system with chain transfer to polymer and bimolecular combination. The results have been compared to those obtained by a Monte‐Carlo model, where segregation of all dead chains is correctly accounted for, showing that the model satisfactorily predicts the time evolution of microgel chain length distribution (CLD).

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Modeling the Viscoelastic Response of Suspension of Particles in Polymer Solution: The Effect of Polymer‐Particle Interactions
Authors: Sarvestani Alireza S. , Jabbari Esmaiel
Published: May 2007

A conceptual model is proposed for the viscoelastic response of dilute polymer solutions containing well‐dispersed low volume fraction spherical particles. The equilibrium structure of the reversibly adsorbed polymer layer on the particle surface was characterized by a scaling theory. The dynamics of the polymer chains were studied by a Maxwell type kinetic model. At the limit of small particle size, our results show that the monomer‐filler energetic affinity, particle volume fraction and surface friction strongly affect the overall viscoelastic response of the filled solutions and lead to unusual viscoelastic properties that have been observed experimentally. These properties include a dramatic increase in shear viscosity, intense shear thinning, and solid‐like behavior at low frequency domains.

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Staged unilateral versus bilateral subthalamic nucleus stimulator implantation in Parkinson disease
Authors: Samii Ali , Kelly Valerie E. , Slimp Jefferson C. , Shumway‐Cook Anne , Goodkin Robert
Published: May 2007

In 17 consecutive patients with Parkinson disease (PD), bilateral subthalamic nucleus (STN) stimulators were implanted during staged surgeries. The Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) and the Dyskinesia Disability Scale were completed both off and on medication prior to any surgery and also OFF and ON stimulation after each surgery. On‐medication UPDRS activities of daily living (ADL) and motor examination scores changed little with unilateral or bilateral stimulation. Off‐medication UPDRS motor examination scores improved to similar degrees after each staged STN electrode implantation. Most of the improvements in off‐medication ADL scores, dyskinesia scores, complications of therapy, and medication dose reduction occurred after unilateral STN stimulation with smaller improvements after the second operation. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society