bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of the QTL approach to the study of soybean trait relationships in two populations of recombinant inbred lines at the F7 and F8 generations
Authors: Vieira Antonio José Dias , Oliveira Dario Alves de , Soares Taís Cristina Bastos , Schuster Ivan , Piovesan Newton Deniz , Martínez Carlos Alberto , Barros Everaldo Gonçalves de , Moreira Maurílio Alves
Published: October 2006

This work aimed to identify the quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with photosynthesis and growth and productivity traits of soybean and to study possible associations between these traits by the analysis of coincidence of QTL in linkage groups (LGs). Thus, populations of recombinant inbred lines (RILs) of the F7 and F8 generations derived from the cross between the varieties BARC-8 and Garimpo were used. The traits evaluated were net assimilation rate of CO2 under saturating light (Asat), potential photosynthesis rate (Pmax), leaf area (A), specific leaf area (SLA), specific leaf nitrogen (N); root (W R), nodule (W N), stem (W ST), leaf (W L), pod (W P) and plant dry mass (W T); nodule (nN), seed (n s), and pod number (nP); seed fresh mass per plant (W S), one-hundred seed fresh mass (W HS) and seed protein percentage (P%). It was possible to identify the following QTL associated with the following soybean traits: SLA, Asat, N, W R, W ST, W L, W T, W P, W HS, n s and nP, indicating that the RIL population has a great potential for mapping loci associated with quantitative traits of the soybean crop. The correlations between the soybean traits were partially confirmed by coincidence of QTL.
Partitioning of water soluble carbohydrates in vegetative tissues of Lolium multiflorum Lam. ssp. italicum cv. Lema
Authors: Sandrin Carla Zuliani , Domingos Marisa , Figueiredo-Ribeiro Rita de Cássia Leone
Published: October 2006

In temperate grasses, fructans are the major storage polysaccharides, being accumulated mainly in mature leaf sheaths, and also in the roots. The partitioning of carbohydrates within different organs regulates plant growth and development. The aim of the present work was to analyze the partitioning of water soluble carbohydrates in five different parts (elongating leaf blades, expanded leaf blades, upper and lower segments of the stubble, and roots) of plants of L. multiflorum cv. Lema, in order to contribute to an understanding of soluble carbohydrates distribution in these plants. Soluble carbohydrates and total fructose were analyzed in plants cultivated during 4 months in a glasshouse, by colorimetric, TLC and HPAEC-PAD techniques. Results showed that the greatest portion of total soluble carbohydrates was constituted of free and combined fructose, in all parts of the plants. The stubble contained the highest level of carbohydrates, followed by the elongating leaf blades, expanded leaf blades and roots. The leaf sheaths were not analyzed separately from the stubble, which explains the high levels of carbohydrates found in this part of the plant. The high metabolism of the elongating leaf blades, when compared to that of the expanded leaf blades, could explain the increased amounts of fructans stored in those tissues. Analysis by HPAEC-PAD showed that the elongating leaf blades and the roots had the highest proportions of low molecular weight fructans that could be readily mobilized, supplying the demand of growing tissues in other organs.
Changes in pectins of the Xylopodium of Ocimum nudicaule from dormancy to sprouting
Authors: Braga Márcia Regina , Carpita Nicholas C. , Dietrich Sonia M. C. , Figueiredo-Ribeiro Rita de Cássia L.
Published: October 2006

The thickened underground organ of Ocimum nudicaule is a tuber-like structure (xylopodium) that is dormant in winter and sprouts at the beginning of the spring. Changes in content of cell wall polysaccharides were shown to occur from dormancy to sprouting. Pectic polysaccharides of O. nudicaule were analyzed in relation to composition, molecular mass, and linkage structure in these two phenological phases. The pectin content was 33 % lower during sprouting when compared to dormancy. Changes were also observed in the molecular mass of the pectin fraction from dormancy to sprouting. Galacturonic acid was the predominant sugar, suggesting the presence of a homogalacturonan as the main pectic polysaccharide. A decrease in the acidic polysaccharides, homogalacturonans and rhamnogalacturonan I, equally accounted for the decrease in the pectin composition upon sprouting. These acidic carbohydrates were predominantly detected in the cell walls of the phellogen region of the xylopodium, suggesting catabolism of the cell walls of this tissue during bud flushing. These results suggest that variations in the content and in the molecular mass of pectins, in addition to changes in their composition and structure could be related to storage function as well as cell wall extension growth, both required for the sprouting of new buds in the xylopodium of O. nudicaule.
Biological response of pulps submitted to different capping materials
Authors: Briso André Luiz Fraga , Rahal Vanessa , Mestrener Sandra Rahal , Dezan Junior Eloi
Published: October 2006

Pulp capping is a procedure that comprises adequate protection of the pulp tissue exposed to the oral environment, aiming at the preservation of its vitality and functions. This study evaluated the response of the dental pulps of dog teeth to capping with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) or calcium hydroxide P.A. For that purpose, 37 teeth were divided into two groups, according to the capping material employed. Two dogs were anesthetized and, after placement of a rubber dam, their pulps were exposed in a standardized manner and protected with the experimental capping materials. The cavities were then sealed with resin-modified glass ionomer cement and restored with composite resin. After sixty days, the animals were killed and the specimens were processed in order to be analyzed with optic microscopy. It was observed that MTA presented a higher success rate compared to calcium hydroxide, presenting a lower occurrence of infection and pulp necrosis.
Effect of diode laser irradiation on the apical sealing of MTA retrofillings
Authors: Souza Eliana Barbosa de , Amorim Crystiane Venditti Gomes de , Marques José Luiz Lage
Published: October 2006

Apical sealing is essential for the success of paraendodontic surgery, so any procedure that may favor an adequate sealing of the apical remainder should be performed. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of diode laser irradiation on the apical sealing of root-end cavities with MTA retrofillings. Root canals in twenty extracted human teeth were shaped with K-files and filled with gutta-percha. The apexes were cut off and root-end preparations were performed. The roots were divided randomly in 2 groups. Group 1 (ten specimens) was retrofilled with MTA. Group 2 was irradiated with diode laser, with 1 W for 20 seconds, on the apical surface and root end cavity before retrofilling with MTA. The specimens had their external surfaces impermeabilized with cyanoacrylate, except for the apical surface, and were then immersed in 1% rhodamine B dye for 72 h and placed in plaster stone. After that, the specimens were submitted to longitudinal abrasion until half of the root remained. The linear dye leakage was observed in these mid-roots between the root canal wall and retrofilling. The linear dye leakage was measured with Image Lab software, and the results were statistically analyzed with Student's t test. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups (p > 0.05). The diode laser irradiation did not improve the apical sealing of MTA retrofillings under the conditions of this in vitro study.
Monocyte Chemotactic Protein-3 Is a Myocardial Mesenchymal Stem Cell Homing Factor
Authors: Schenk Soren , Mal Niladri , Finan Amanda , Zhang Ming , Kiedrowski Matt , Popovic Zoran , McCarthy Patrick M. , Penn Marc S.
Published: October 2006

MSCs have received attention for their therapeutic potential in a number of disease states, including bone formation, diabetes, stem cell engraftment after marrow transplantation, graft-versus-host disease, and heart failure. Despite this diverse interest, the molecular signals regulating MSC trafficking to sites of injury are unclear. MSCs are known to transiently home to the freshly infarcted myocardium. To identify MSC homing factors, we determined chemokine expression pattern as a function of time after myocardial infarction (MI). We merged these profiles with chemokine receptors expressed on MSCs but not cardiac fibroblasts, which do not home after MI. This analysis identified monocyte chemotactic protein-3 (MCP-3) as a potential MSC homing factor. Overexpression of MCP-3 1 month after MI restored MSC homing to the heart. After serial infusions of MSCs, cardiac function improved in MCP-3-expressing hearts (88.7%, p < .001) but not in control hearts (8.6%, p = .47). MSC engraftment was not associated with differentiation into cardiac myocytes. Rather, MSC engraftment appeared to result in recruitment of myofibroblasts and remodeling of the collagen matrix. These data indicate that MCP-3 is an MSC homing factor; local overexpression of MCP-3 recruits MSCs to sites of injured tissue and improves cardiac remodeling independent of cardiac myocyte regeneration.
Applicability of spraints for monitoring organic contaminants in free-ranging otters (Lutra lutra)
Authors: van den Brink Nico W. , Jansman Hugh A.H.
Published: October 2006

In the current study, the use of spraints for monitoring levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in individual otters was experimentally validated. On the basis of a detailed pattern analysis, it is concluded that in the current study, PCB concentrations in spraints that contain relatively high concentrations of nonmetabolizable PCB congeners (PCB 138 and 153>42.5% of total PCB concentrations) reflect the internal PCB concentrations of the otter that produced the spraint. In general, however, spraints should be selected that contain relative concentrations of PCB 138 and PCB 153>95th percentile of these congeners in samples from local food items of otters. On the basis of relationships between levels in spraints and internal levels and on earlier reported effect concentrations, a threshold level range of 1.0 to 2.3 μg/g (lipid normalized) in such spraints is proposed. The validated methods to monitor PCBs in otters may be combined with genetic marker techniques that can assess the identity of the otter that produced the spraints. In such a design, it is feasible to monitor PCB levels in individual free-ranging otters in a truly animal friendly way.
Acute toxicity of pyrithione antifouling biocides and joint toxicity with copper to red sea bream (Pagrus major) and toy shrimp (Heptacarpus futilirostris)
Authors: Mochida Kazuhiko , Ito Katsutoshi , Harino Hiroya , Kakuno Akira , Fujii Kazunori
Published: October 2006

We evaluated the median lethal concentrations (LC50s) of the pyrithione (PT) antifoulants copper pyrithione (CuPT) and zinc pyrithione (ZnPT) to a teleost, red sea bream (Pagrus major), and a crustacean, toy shrimp (Heptacarpus futilirostris). The 96-h LC50 values of CuPT and ZnPT, on the basis of actual concentrations, were 9.3 and 98.2 μg/L, respectively, for red sea bream and 2.5 and 120 μg/L, respectively, for toy shrimp. Histological observations revealed that the secondary lamellae of the gill filaments of the experimental fish were heavily damaged after exposure to the PTs, suggesting that fatal hypoxemia was one cause of death. Because CuPT and ZnPT are usually used in combination with Cu, we also estimated the joint toxicities of the PTs with Cu using the LC50 values of the PTs and those of Cu (84.4 and 113 μg/L for red sea bream and toy shrimp, respectively). The results suggested that the joint toxicity of the ZnPT and Cu mixture is more than the additive toxicities of CuPT and Cu, especially in toy shrimp. The enhancement of toxicity in the mixture was inferred to be caused by conversion of ZnPT to the more toxic CuPT in the presence of Cu.
Oxidation kinetics of pentachlorophenol by manganese dioxide
Authors: Zhao Ling , Yu Zhiqiang , Peng Ping'an , Huang Weilin , Feng Shunqing , Zhou Haiyan
Published: October 2006

This study examined the abiotic transformation kinetics of pentachlorophenol (PCP) by manganese dioxide (MnO2) at different solution chemistry and initial concentrations of PCP and MnO2. The measured PCP transformation rates were found to be on the order of 1.07 with respect to [PCP] and 0.91 and 0.87 with respect to [MnO2] and [H+], respectively. Dissolved Mn2+ and Ca2+ as background electrolytes considerably decreased the reaction rate because of their adsorption and hence blocking of active sites on MnO2 surfaces. The dechlorination number, 0.59 chloride ions per transformed PCP after a 1-h reaction, suggests that a fraction of the transformed PCP was not dechlorinated and may be coupled directly to dimeric products. Gas chromatography/ mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry techniques were used to identify two isomeric nonachlorohydroxybiphenylethers as major products and 2,3,5,6-tetrachloro-1,4-hydroquinone and tetrachlorocatechol as minor products. Product identification suggested that the reaction may include two parallel reactions to form either dimers or 2,3,5,6-tetrachloro-1,4-hydroquinone and tetrachlorocatechol via simultaneous dehydrochlorination and hydroxylation.
Analysis of nodularin-R in eider (Somateria mollissima), roach (Rutilus rutilus L.), and flounder (Platichthys flesus L.) liver and muscle samples from the western Gulf of Finland, northern Baltic Sea
Authors: Sipiä Vesa O. , Sjövall Olli , Valtonen Terhi , Barnaby Deborah L. , Codd Geoffrey A. , Metcalf James S. , Kilpi Mikael , Mustonen Olli , Meriluoto Jussi A.O.
Published: October 2006

Nodularin (NODLN) is a cyanobacterial hepatotoxin that may cause toxic effects at very low exposure levels. The NODLN-producing cyanobacterium Nodularia spumigena forms massive blooms in the northern Baltic Sea, especially during the summer. We analyzed liver and muscle (edible meat) samples from common eider (Somateria mollissima), roach (Rutilus rutilus L.), and flounder (Platichthys flesus L.) for NODLN-R by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Thirty eiders, 11 roach, and 15 flounders were caught from the western Gulf of Finland between September 2002 and October 2004. Eiders from April to June 2003 were found dead. The majority of samples were analyzed by LC-MS and ELISA from the same sample extracts (water:methanol:n-butanol, 75:20:5, v:v:v). Nodularin was detected in 27 eiders, nine roach, and eight flounders. Eider liver samples contained NODLN up to approximately 200 μg/kg dry weight and muscle samples at approximately 20 μg/kg dry weight, roach liver samples 20 to 900 μg NODLN/kg dry weight and muscle samples 2 to 200 μg NODLN/kg dry weight, and flounder liver samples approximately 5 to 1,100 μg NODLN/kg dry weight and muscle samples up to 100 μg NODLN/kg dry weight. The NODLN concentrations found in individual muscle samples of flounders, eiders, and roach (1–200 μg NODLN/kg dry wt) indicate that screening and risk assessment of NODLN in Baltic Sea edible fish and wildlife are required for the protection of consumer's health.
Cupreine und Cupreidine: eine außergewöhnliche Klasse von bifunktionalen Cinchona‐Organokatalysatoren
Authors: Marcelli Tommaso , van Maarseveen Jan H. , Hiemstra Henk
Published: October 2006

In dem expandierenden Gebiet der Organokatalyse spielen Cinchona‐Alkaloide eine herausragende Rolle. Bis in die späten 90er Jahre fanden nur solche bifunktionalen Cinchona‐Katalysatoren Verwendung, deren Wirkung auf der C9‐Hydroxygruppe als Wasserstoffbrückendonor beruhte. Seither wurden aber neue Cinchona‐Katalysatoren entwickelt, die eine phenolische OH‐Gruppe in der C6′‐Position aufweisen und vielfältige Reaktionen mit hoher Stereoselektivität katalysieren. Dieser Kurzaufsatz fasst die Reaktionen und Wirkungsweisen dieser neuen Klasse von asymmetrischen bifunktionalen Organokatalysatoren zusammen.
Effect of pH, urea, peptide length, and neighboring amino acids on alanine α‐proton random coil chemical shifts
Authors: Carlisle Elizabeth A. , Holder Jessica L. , Maranda Abby M. , de Alwis Adamberage R. , Selkie Ellen L. , McKay Sonya L.
Published: October 2006

Accurate random coil α‐proton chemical shift values are essential for precise protein structure analysis using chemical shift index (CSI) calculations. The current study determines the chemical shift effects of pH, urea, peptide length and neighboring amino acids on the α‐proton of Ala using model peptides of the general sequence GnXaaAYaaGn, where Xaa and Yaa are Leu, Val, Phe, Tyr, His, Trp or Pro, and n = 1–3. Changes in pH (2–6), urea (0–1M), and peptide length (n = 1–3) had no effect on Ala α‐proton chemical shifts. Denaturing concentrations of urea (8M) caused significant downfield shifts (0.10 ± 0.01 ppm) relative to an external DSS reference. Neighboring aliphatic residues (Leu, Val) had no effect, whereas aromatic amino acids (Phe, Tyr, His and Trp) and Pro caused significant shifts in the alanine α‐proton, with the extent of the shifts dependent on the nature and position of the amino acid. Smaller aromatic residues (Phe, Tyr, His) caused larger shift effects when present in the C‐terminal position (∼0.10 vs. 0.05 ppm N‐terminal), and the larger aromatic tryptophan caused greater effects in the N‐terminal position (0.15 ppm vs. 0.10 C‐terminal). Proline affected both significant upfield (0.06 ppm, N‐terminal) and downfield (0.25 ppm, C‐terminal) chemical shifts. These new Ala correction factors detail the magnitude and range of variation in environmental chemical shift effects, in addition to providing insight into the molecular level interactions that govern protein folding. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 85: 72–80, 2007.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
C‐reactive protein impairs human CD14+ monocyte‐derived dendritic cell differentiation, maturation and function
Authors: Zhang Rongxin , Becnel Lauren , Li Min , Chen Changyi , Yao Qizhi
Published: October 2006

C‐reactive protein (CRP) is an acute phase reactant protein considered to be the prototypic marker for inflammation and its associated diseases. However, little is known about how CRP affects the immune system. In this study, we investigated the effect of CRP on dendritic cell (DC) differentiation, activation and biological functions. CD14+ monocytes were purified from PBMC and differentiated into DC in vitro. CRP (10 μg/mL) substantially down‐regulated expression of DC‐SIGN (CD209) and the costimulatory molecules CD40 and CD86 during DC differentiation. This inhibitory effect was more pronounced when CRP was added at the early stage (0–2 days) of DC differentiation. The inhibitory effect of CRP could be specifically blocked by an anti‐CD32 Ab. In addition, CRP dramatically down‐regulated expression of the antigen‐uptake molecules CD205 and CD206, resulting in reduced DC endocytosis. Furthermore, CRP down‐regulated expression of the costimulatory molecules CD40, CD80 and CD86 as well as the DC maturation marker CD83 after lipopolysaccharide‐induced DC maturation. CRP‐treated DC also showed an inhibitory effect on allogeneic T cell proliferation in a mixed leukocyte reaction. CRP treatment of activated DC preferentially decreased production of the proinflammatory and inflammatory cytokines IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐12, TNF‐α, MIP‐1α, MIP‐1β and MCP‐1. This work reveals a new role for CRP in modulating the immune system by inhibiting DC differentiation, maturation and functions mainly through FcγRIIa/CD32.
The negative regulators Foxj1 and Foxo3a are up‐regulated by a peptide that inhibits systemic lupus erythematosus‐associated T cell responses
Authors: Sela Uri , Dayan Molly , Hershkoviz Rami , Cahalon Liora , Lider Ofer , Mozes Edna
Published: October 2006

A peptide (hCDR1) based on the complementarity determining region‐1 of an anti‐DNA antibody ameliorates systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in induced and spontaneous lupus models. Our objectives were to determine the effects of hCDR1 on TCR signaling and on its negative regulators, Foxj1 and Foxo3a. BALB/c mice were immunized with the SLE‐inducing anti‐DNA antibody, designated 16/6Id, and treated with hCDR1. hCDR1 treatment specifically inhibited IFN‐γ secretion by T cells in association with down‐regulated T‐bet expression and NF‐κB activation; however, GATA‐3 expression was not affected. Furthermore, TCR signaling (ZAP‐70 phosphorylation) was inhibited, and the mRNA expression of the two modulators of Th1 activation, Foxj1 and Foxo3a, was significantly up‐regulated. The latter were also elevated in SLE‐afflicted (NZB×NZW)F1 mice that were treated with hCDR1. Addition of TGF‐β, which was elevated following treatment with hCDR1, to T cells from 16/6Id immunized mice, up‐regulated Foxj1 and Foxo3a mRNA expression, similarly to hCDR1. In contrast, anti‐TGF‐β antibodies added to hCDR1‐treated T cells abrogated its effect. Thus, hCDR1 elevates TGF‐β, which contributes to the up‐regulation of T cell Foxj1 and Foxo3a expression, leading to inhibition of NF‐κB activation and IFN‐γ secretion, which is required for the maintenance of SLE.
Plasma cell differentiation in T‐independent type 2 immune responses is independent of CD11chigh dendritic cells
Authors: Hebel Katrin , Griewank Klaus , Inamine Ayako , Chang Hyun‐Dong , Müller‐Hilke Brigitte , Fillatreau Simon , Manz Rudolf A. , Radbruch Andreas , Jung Steffen
Published: October 2006

Dendritic cells (DC) play an important role as antigen‐presenting cells in T cell stimulation. Interestingly, a number of recent studies also imply DC as critical accessory cells in B cell activation, isotype switching and plasma blast maintenance. Here we use the conditional in vivo ablation of CD11chigh DC to investigate the role of these cells in T‐independent type 2 immune responses. We show that CD11chigh DC are dispensable for the initiation and maintenance of a primary immune response against the T‐independent type 2 antigen (4‐hydroxy‐3‐nirophenyl)acetyl‐Ficoll. Our results suggest that support for plasma cell formation in T cell‐independent immune responses can be provided by non‐DC such as stromal cells, or is independent of external signals. Interestingly, we found plasma blasts to express CD11c and to be diphtheria toxin‐sensitive in CD11c‐diphtheria toxin receptor‐transgenic mice, providing a unique tool for future analysis of in vivo aspects of plasma cell biology.
Incorporation of conjugated linoleic acid and vaccenic acid into lipids from rat tissues and plasma
Authors: Lund Pia , Sejrsen Kristen , Straarup Ellen Marie
Published: October 2006

The objective of this study was to determine the incorporation of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) into triacylglycerols (TAG) and phospholipids (PL) of tissues and plasma, and to interpret the role of dietary‐derived vaccenic acid (VA) in increasing the tissue content of CLA (c9,t11) and the influence on the fatty acid profile. We fed five groups of rats semi‐purified diets with varying levels of CLA and VA: control butter with low CLA (c9,t11) and VA; control butter added 5% CLA (c9,t11); control butter added 5% Tonalin [equal amount of CLA (c9,t11) and CLA (t10,c12)]; control butter added 5% VA; butter with high CLA (c9,t11) and VA (H‐CLA), for 3 weeks. The highest incorporation of CLA (c9,t11) was found in adipose tissue, and the lowest was observed in liver. Low intake of CLA (c9,t11) combined with high intake of VA resulted in a higher incorporation of CLA (c9,t11) in tissues due to the conversion of VA to CLA (c9,t11), compared to feeding CLA (c9,t11) without VA. However, in enterocytes, the proportion of CLA (c9,t11) was low after feeding VA, indicating no or only a minor conversion of VA to CLA (c9,t11) in the intestine. The incorporation of CLA (t10,c12) into TAG from plasma and tissues was generally much lower than that of the CLA (c9,t11) isomer, except in the enterocyte TAG, which had similar proportions of the two isomers.
The Synthesis of Brominated Tetrafluoro[2.2]paracyclophanes
Authors: Bondarenko Lidija , Kampf Jeff W. , Lahann Jörg
Published: October 2006

The bromination of the two isomeric tetrafluoro[2.2]paracyclophanes was investigated under various conditions.We found selective conditions for mono‐ and dibrominationof 1,1,9,9‐tetrafluoro[2.2]paracyclophane in high yields. Furthermore, three tetrabromo isomers were characterized. The para‐dibromide of 1,1,10,10‐tetrafluoro[2.2]paracyclophane was prepared in high yields. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
Site‐Directed Immobilization of Proteins Through Electrochemical Deprotection on Electroactive Self‐Assembled Monolayers
Authors: Dondapati Srujan Kumar , Montornes Josep M. , Sanchez Pablo Lozano , Sanchez Josep Lluis Acero , O'Sullivan Ciara , Katakis Ioanis
Published: October 2006

Self‐assembled monolayers (SAM) were obtained on gold electrodes using thioctic esters of benzo[1,3]dioxinol. These SAMs present a group that can be electroactivated selectively and was used for the directed, reagentless, covalent patterning of proteins. The advantage of this moiety is that it allows electroactivation at low potentials increasing selectivity and reliability. In this study, the efficiency of this patterning system is examined. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) was used to confirm the electroactive nature of SAM modified electrodes, showing fast and complete electrochemical deprotection with one scan. The enzymes glucose oxidase (GOx) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) were patterned on the SAM‐modified electrode through Schiff's base formation after electrochemical deprotection, confirming the selective nature of the electroactive substrate. Amperometric response was measured after the GOx immobilization showing high selective response. Real time monitoring is shown by immobilization of HRP on the SAM modified surface using electrochemical surface plasmon resonance (ESPR) after electrochemical deprotection, again showing high selective response when compared to the protected control.
Bioelectrocatalytic Oxidation of Glucose by Immobilized Bacteria Gluconobacter oxydans. Evaluation of Water‐Insoluble Mediator Efficiency
Authors: Babkina Elena , Chigrinova Ekaterina , Ponamoreva Ol'ga , Alferov Valery , Reshetilov Anatoly
Published: October 2006

For the first time it has been shown possible to use strain G. oxydans sbsp. industrius VKM B‐1280 in combination with water‐insoluble mediators: ferrocene, 1,1′‐dimethylferrocene, 2,5‐dibromo‐1,4‐benzoquinone, and 2‐methyl‐1,4‐benzoquinone in the process of electrocatalytic oxidation of glucose. Cell‐mediator interaction has been studied using a carbon paste electrode that comprised a mediator and immobilized bacteria. Catalytic activity of the system “mediator – bacterial cell – substrate” was characterized by three quantities: the maximum reaction rate and the ratios of the Michaelis constant to the distribution constant for the substrate and to that for the electron acceptor. It has been revealed that 2,5‐dibromo‐1,4‐benzoquinone is the most efficient for high catalytic activity.
Characterization of Nanopore Electrode Structures as Basis for Amplified Electrochemical Assays
Authors: Neugebauer Sebastian , Müller Ulrich , Lohmüller Theobald , Spatz Joachim P. , Stelzle Martin , Schuhmann Wolfgang
Published: October 2006

A nanopore electrode structure was fabricated consisting of ensembles of nanopores with separately addressable electrodes at the pore bottoms and the rims. A metal/insulator/metal layer structure allowed for adjusting the spacing between the bottom and rim electrodes to be in the range of about 200 nm. Pore diameters varied between 200 and 800 nm. The electrochemical properties of this electrode structure and its perspectives for applications in bioelectronics were studied using cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry along with high‐resolution scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) in constant‐distance mode. It was possible to visualize the electrochemical activity of a single nanometric electrode using high‐resolution SECM in a combination of sample‐generation‐tip‐collection mode and positive feedback mode. The SECM images suggested an influence of the unbiased rim electrode on redox amplification which was used as a basis for evaluating the feasibility of current amplification by means of redox cycling between the bottom and rim electrodes. Amplification factors superior to those obtained with interdigitated array electrodes could be demonstrated.
Nanoarray‐Surfaces by Reconstitution of the Porin MspA into Stabilized Long‐Chain‐Lipid‐Monolayers at a Gold‐Surface
Authors: Wörner Michael , Niebler Sandra , Gogritchiani Eliso , Egner Nicole , Braun André M. , Niederweis Michael , Bossmann Stefan H.
Published: October 2006

We have reconstituted the channel porin MspA from M. smegmatis on a gold electrode into a long‐chain lipid monolayer resembling a biological membrane. The tailored deposition of the self‐assembled monolayer (SAM) on gold was achieved by employing electrochemically initiated generation of thiyl‐radicals from organic thiosulfates (Bunte‐Salts), which then adsorb onto the gold's surface. At surface coverage of the lipids of approximately 80%, MspA reconstituted efficiently from the aqueous buffer into the SAM. The combination of cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), reflection electron microscopy (REM) and the formation of copper(0)‐nanoparticles from copper(II)‐ions inside the MspA‐channels proved that MspA forms SAM‐spanning ion channels on gold, keeping the electrode (surface) accessible through the pores.
Straw bed priming enhances the methane yield and speeds up the start‐up of single‐stage, high‐solids anaerobic reactors treating plant biomass
Authors: Svensson L Mattias , Björnsson Lovisa , Mattiasson Bo
Published: October 2006

A simple and potentially inexpensive implementation of a high‐solids reactor is a single‐stage, stratified bed reactor, in which the bed is made up of the plant biomass fed into the system. In the present study, the stratified bed was started up for a period of four weeks by either direct feeding of sugar beet leaves at four different feeding rates, or by introducing a straw bed primer which was batch digested without feeding. During weeks five to six both systems were fed with sugar beet leaves at such a rate that the total amount of beet leaves added at the end of week six was the same in each of the four corresponding pairs of straw and ‘no‐straw’ reactors. Straw bed priming enhanced the methane yield of the sugar beet leaves, with 0.33–0.37 m3 kg−1 VSadded (volatile solids) accumulated at average solid retention times as short as 11–25 days, while the ‘no‐straw’ reactors had lower yields at longer average solid retention times. The levels and speciation of the organic acids suggested that both the rate and extent of the anaerobic digestion of the sugar beet leaves added in the straw reactors were improved. At the highest loading rate, the straw reactor failed, while the ‘no‐straw’ reactor did not. It is hypothesised that the microbial biomass was better established in the straw reactors than in the ‘no‐straw’ reactors. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Application of a silica gel prolonged‐release system for methanol in the production of biodiesel
Authors: Luo Yu , Wang Gang , Ma Yushu , Wei Dongzhi
Published: October 2006

A silica gel‐based prolonged‐release system for methanol was applied in biodiesel production catalyzed by lipase LipB68, instead of the traditional method of three‐step addition of methanol. With the application of the prolonged‐release system, the recycle times of the catalyst increased substantially from one‐off usage to at least six cycles with no detectable decrease in activity, and the yield of biodiesel (94%) remained at a higher level compared with the yield of 92% with the previous method. The results showed the potential of this methanol addition method with little harm to the catalyst. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
High hydrostatic pressure enhances whey protein digestibility to generate whey peptides that improve glutathione status in CFTR‐deficient lung epithelial cells
Authors: Vilela Regina Maria , Lands Larry C. , Chan Hing M. , Azadi Behnam , Kubow Stan
Published: October 2006

Whey protein isolates (WPI) may provide anti‐inflammatory benefits to cystic fibrosis (CF), which could be mediated via peptides, as proteolytic digests of WPI enhance intracellular glutathione (GSH) concentrations. The objectives of this study were to investigate whether high hydrostatic pressure can (i) improve the in vitro digestibility of WPI; and (ii) generate low molecular weight (< 1 kDa) peptides from WPI hydrolysates that exert GSH‐enhancing and anti‐inflammatory properties in wild type and mutant CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) tracheal epithelial cells. Hydrostatic pressure processing enhanced the in vitro digestibility of WPI to proteolytic enzymes resulting in altered peptide profiles as assessed by CZE and GC‐MS. The exposure of mutant CFTR cells to low molecular weight (< 1 kDa) peptides isolated from WPI hydrolysates exposed to pressure processing (pressurized WPI hydrolysates, pWPH), showed increased intracellular levels of reduced GSH and total GSH relative to treatment with peptides obtained from native WPI hydrolysates (nWPH). A tendency for decreased interleukin‐8 secretion was associated with the pWPH and nWPH treatments in mutant CFTR cells, which was not observed in wild type cells. Hydrostatic pressure processing of whey proteins appears to enhance their impact on cellular GSH status in cells with the mutant CFTR condition.
Thermal properties and toughness performance of hyperbranched‐polyimide‐modified epoxy resins
Authors: Jin Fan‐Long , Park Soo‐Jin
Published: October 2006

An amine‐terminated hyperbranched polyimide (HBPI) was prepared by the condensation polymerization of a commercially available triamine monomer with a dianhydride monomer. The effects of the HBPI content on the thermal and mechanical interfacial properties of diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) epoxy resins were investigated with several techniques. The thermogravimetric analysis results showed that the thermal stability of the DGEBA/HBPI blends did not obviously change as the HBPI content increased. The glass‐transition temperature (Tg) of the DGEBA/HBPI blends increased with the addition of HBPI. Improvements in the critical stress intensity factor (KIC) and impact strength of the blends were observed with the addition of HBPI. The KIC value and impact strength were 2.5 and 2 times the values of the neat epoxy resins with only 4 wt % HBPI. The fractured surfaces were studied with scanning electron microscopy to investigate the morphology of the blends, and they showed that shear deformation occurred to prevent the propagation of cracks in the DGEBA/HBPI blends. These results indicated that a toughness improvement was achieved without a decrease in the thermal stability or Tg. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 44: 3348–3356, 2006
The relation between phosphine sorption and terminal gas concentrations in successful fumigation of food commodities
Authors: Vanitha Reddy Palvai , Rajashekar Yellappa , Begum Khamrunissa , Chandrappa Leelaja Bhadravathi , Rajendran Somiahnadar
Published: October 2006

Owing to increased tolerance and the development of resistance in stored product insects to the fumigant phosphine, in recent years there has been a shift in the target terminal concentration from 100 ppm (100 mL m−3) to a higher level of 1000 ppm to achieve 100% insect mortality in 7 day commodity treatments. Therefore, there is a need to investigate whether the revised target concentration could be achieved for food commodities fumigated with phosphine at the standard dose of 2 g m−3 for 7 days under airtight conditions at ≥ 25°C. When different types of food commodity (total 74) were fumigated (300 g per replicate) with phosphine at 2 g m−3 for 7 days, the terminal gas concentrations in the free space of the commodities varied from 0 to > 2000 ppm. In chambers containing no substrate, a 1417 ppm concentration was recorded. Paddy rice, most of the oilseeds, shelled tree nuts, butter beans, cardamom, green gram splits, coriander powder, rice bran and cocoa powder were more sorptive (≥60%), such that the target concentration of 1000 ppm was not achieved at the end of 7 days. For these commodities, increased doses of 3–6 g m−3 were required to attain 1000 ppm. In‐shell almonds, green cardamom, in‐shell peanuts, leaf tea, tamarind pulp and sunflower seeds were exceptionally sorptive (>90%), so that 0, 41, 112, 168, 203 and 217 ppm respectively were noted at the end of 7 days; the dose must exceed 6 g m−3 for effective fumigation of these commodities. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Electrospray tandem mass spectrometry of alkali‐cationized BocN‐carbo‐α,β‐ and ‐β,α‐peptides: differentiation of positional isomers
Authors: Reddy P. Nagi , Srikanth R. , Srinivas R. , Sharma V. U. M. , Sharma G. V. M. , Nagendar P.
Published: October 2006

Dissociation pathways of a series of alkali‐cationized hybrid peptides, viz., Boc‐α,β‐ and ‐β,α‐carbopeptides, synthesized from C‐linked carbo‐β3‐amino acids [Caa (S)] and α‐alanine (L‐Ala), have been investigated by electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. The positional isomers (six pairs) of the cationized α,β‐ and β,α‐peptides can be differentiated by the collision‐induced dissociation (CID) spectra of their [M + Cat‐Boc + H]+ ions which give characteristic series of alkali‐cationized C‐ (x, y, z) and N‐terminal (a, b, c) ions. Another noteworthy difference is cationized β,α‐peptides eliminate a molecule of ammonia whereas this pathway is absent for α,β‐peptides. This is useful for identifying the presence of a β‐amino acid at the N‐terminus. The CID spectra of [M + Cat‐Boc + H]+ ions of these peptide acids show abundant rearrangement [bn + 17 + Cat]+ (n = 1 to n–1) ions which is diagnostic for distinguishing between α‐ and β‐amino acid at the C‐terminus. MSn experiments of [bn + Li–H]+ ions from these hybrid peptides showed the loss of CO and 72 u giving rise to [an + Li–H]+ and cationized nitrile product ions which render support to earlier proposals that b or [bn + Cat–H]+ ions have protonated or cationized oxazolinone structures, respectively. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hepatitis E virus
Authors: Panda Subrat Kumar , Thakral Deepshi , Rehman Shagufta
Published: October 2006

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the aetiological agent of non‐HAV enterically transmitted hepatitis. It is the major cause of sporadic as well as epidemic hepatitis, which is no longer confined to Asia and developing countries but has also become a concern of the developed nations. In the Indian subcontinent, it accounts for 30–60% of sporadic hepatitis. It is generally accepted that hepatitis E is mostly self‐limited and never progresses to chronicity. It has a higher mortality in pregnant women where the disease condition is accentuated with the development of fulminant liver disease. Currently, no antiviral drug or vaccine is licensed for HEV, although a vaccine candidate is in clinical trials. HEV genome is 7.2kb in size with three open reading frames (ORFs) and 5′ and 3′ cis acting elements, which have important roles to play in HEV replication and transcription. ORF1 codes for methyl transferase, protease, helicase and replicase; ORF2 codes for the capsid protein and ORF3 for a protein of undefined function. HEV has recently been classified in the genus Hepevirus of the family Hepeviridae. There are four major recognised genotypes with a single known serotype. The absence of a reliable in vitro propagation system is an obstacle to deciphering HEV biology. The genome of HEV has been cloned, sequenced and the infectious nature of these replicons has been established. However, questions related to replication, transcription, virus‐host interactions and pathogenesis remain to be answered. This comprehensive review summarises the progress made so far in HEV research, and addresses some of the unanswered questions. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polynomial control: past, present, and future
Authors: Kučera Vladimír
Published: October 2006

Polynomial techniques have made important contributions to systems and control theory. Engineers in industry often find polynomial and frequency domain methods easier to use than state equation‐based techniques. Control theorists show that results obtained in isolation using either approach are in fact closely related.

Polynomial system description provides input–output models for linear systems with rational transfer functions. These models display two important system properties, namely poles and zeros, in a transparent manner. A performance specification in terms of polynomials is natural in many situations; see pole allocation techniques.

A specific control system design technique, called polynomial equation approach, was developed in the 1960s and 1970s. The distinguishing feature of this technique is a reduction of controller synthesis to a solution of linear polynomial equations of a specific (Diophantine or Bézout) type.

In most cases, control systems are designed to be stable and meet additional specifications, such as optimality and robustness. It is therefore natural to design the systems step by step: stabilization first, then the additional specifications each at a time. For this it is obviously necessary to have any and all solutions of the current step available before proceeding any further.

This motivates the need for a parametrization of all controllers that stabilize a given plant. In fact this result has become a key tool for the sequential design paradigm. The additional specifications are met by selecting an appropriate parameter. This is simple, systematic, and transparent. However, the strategy suffers from an excessive grow of the controller order.

This article is a guided tour through the polynomial control system design. The origins of the parametrization of stabilizing controllers, called Youla–Kučera parametrization, are explained. Standard results on reference tracking, disturbance elimination, pole placement, deadbeat control, H2 control, l1 control and robust stabilization are summarized. New and exciting applications of the Youla–Kučera parametrization are then discussed: stabilization subject to input constraints, output overshoot reduction, and fixed‐order stabilizing controller design. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Blind identification of polynomial matrix fraction via independent component analysis
Authors: Nitta Masuhiro , Sugimoto Kenji
Published: October 2006

This paper proposes a method for blind system identification based on independence of input signals. Under the assumption that the system is multi‐input multi‐output, square, and represented by a polynomial matrix fraction with constant numerator matrix, the method makes it possible to identify the system parameter without observation of input signals. This rather challenging problem is solved by applying independent component analysis to an augmented state‐space representation in order to estimate coefficients of the denominator polynomial matrix and the numerator matrix. After giving this blind system identification algorithm, the paper shows how the proposed method is used in application. The first issue is suppression of disturbance with unknown dynamics. Assuming that a disturbance enters into a system independently of the control input signals, the method identifies a denominator polynomial matrix of the disturbance dynamics. Then an H∞ controller is designed in order to suppress the effect of the disturbance. The second is fault detection of mechanical systems subject to vibration from the environment. The vibration source is assumed to be unmeasurable, and yet the method achieves detection of a parameter change of the system due to fault. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cajal bodies and interchromatin granule clusters in cricket oocytes: Composition, dynamics and interactions
Authors: Stepanova Irina S. , Bogolyubov Dmitry S. , Skovorodkin Ilya N. , Parfenov Vladimir N.
Published: October 2006

The organization and molecular composition of complicated Cajal bodies (CBs) and interchromatin granule clusters (IGCs) in oocytes of the house cricket, Acheta domesticus, were studied using immunofluorescent/confocal and Immunogold labeling/electron microscopy. In A. domesticus oocytes, the CB consists of the fibrillar matrix and a central cavity containing a predominantly granular body with insertions of tightly packed fibrillar material. The latter structure was identified as an “internal” IGC, since it is enriched with the SC35 protein, a marker for IGCs. The IGCs located outside the CB were also identified. Microinjections of the fluorescein‐tagged U7 snRNA into the ooplasm showed the targeting of the U7 to the matrix of the CB. Some other essential CB components (coilin, snRNPs, fibrillarin) were found to be colocalized in the matrix of the CB. Neither confocal nor Immunogold microscopy revealed significant amounts of RNA polymerase II (pol II) in the CB of A. domesticus oocytes. The splicing factor SC35 was detected in the matrix of the CB. In oocytes treated with DRB, the amount of IGCs in the nucleoplasm increased significantly, granular and fibrillar components of IGCs were segregated, and the fibrillar areas accumulated pol II. Additionally, IG‐like granules were shown to display on the surface of the CB probably due to a shifting from the internal IGC. We believe that in A. domesticus oocytes, CBs are involved in nuclear distribution of splicing factors, but their role in pol II transport is less significant. We also suggest that the formation of complicated CBs is a result of interconnection between two different nuclear domains, CBs and IGCs.
Evaluation of aneuploidy frequency for chromosomes 6 and 17 in eyelid tumours using the FISH technique
Authors: Özkağnici Ahmet , Acar Hasan , Zengin Nazmi , Okudan Süleyman
Published: October 2006

Although basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are very common skin tumours, the incidence of chromosome aneuploidy with regard to the eyelid has not been investigated. We aimed to find the frequency of chromosome 6 and 17 aneuploidies in eyelid tumours' interphase nuclei with fluorescence in situ hybridization (I‐FISH) with chromosome specific DNA probes. I‐FISH with chromosome 6 and 17 centromere specific DNA probes was used in the eyelids of 10 patients with BCC or SCC and the peripheral blood cells of 10 healthy donors as controls. The frequency of chromosome 6 and 17 aneuploidies was significantly higher in 7 out of 10 patients and 5 out of 10 patients, respectively, than in controls, indicating a higher frequency of aneuploidy in BCC than in SCC of the eyelid. Distribution of hybridization signals for chromosome 6 and 17 was wide ranging, indicating heterogeneity of cell populations with aneuploidy between patients. These findings indicate that acquisition of chromosome aneuploidies in eyelid tumours may have an important pathogenic role in both BCC and SCC of the eyelid area.