bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overview of on‐farm bioremediation systems to reduce the occurrence of point source contamination
Authors: De Wilde Tineke , Spanoghe Pieter , Debaer Christof , Ryckeboer Jaak , Springael Dirk , Jaeken Peter
Published: January 2007

Contamination of ground and surface water puts pressure on the use of pesticides. Pesticide contamination of water can often be linked to point sources rather than to diffuse sources. Examples of such point sources are areas on farms where pesticides are handled and filled into sprayers, and where sprayers are cleaned. To reduce contamination from these point sources, different kinds of bioremediation system are being researched in various member states of the EU. Bioremediation is the use of living organisms, primarily microorganisms, to degrade the environmental contaminants into less toxic forms. The systems available for biocleaning of pesticides vary according to their shape and design. Up till now, three systems have been extensively described and reported: the biobed, the Phytobac® and the biofilter. Most of these constructions are excavations or different sizes of container filled with biological material. Typical overall clean‐up efficiency exceeds 95%, realising even more than 99% in many cases. This paper provides an overview of the state of the art of these bioremediation systems and discusses their construction, efficiency and drawbacks. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of insulin and its combination with resveratrol or curcumin in attenuation of diabetic neuropathic pain: participation of nitric oxide and TNF‐alpha
Authors: Sharma Sameer , Chopra Kanwaljit , Kulkarni Shrinivas K.
Published: January 2007

Diabetic neuropathic pain, an important microvascular complication in diabetes mellitus, is recognized as one of the most difficult types of pain to treat. The underlying mechanisms of painful symptoms may be closely associated with hyperglycaemia but a lack of the understanding of its proper aetiology, inadequate relief, development of tolerance and potential toxicity of classical antinociceptives warrant the investigation of newer agents to relieve this pain. The aim of the present study was to explore the antinociceptive effect of insulin and its combinations with resveratrol and curcumin in attenuating diabetic neuropathic pain. The study also aimed to examine the effect of these combinations on tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) and nitric oxide (NO) levels in streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic mice. Four weeks after a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (200 mg/kg), mice were tested in the tail immersion and hot‐plate assays. Diabetic mice exhibited significant hyperalgesia along with increased plasma glucose and decreased body weights compared with control mice. Chronic treatment with insulin (10 IU/kg/day, s.c.) and its combinations with antioxidants (resveratrol 20 mg/kg or curcumin 60 mg/kg, p.o.) for 4 weeks starting from the 4th week of STZ injection significantly attenuated thermal hyperalgesia and the hot‐plate latencies. There was a significant inhibition of TNF‐α and NO levels when these drugs were given in combination compared with their effects per se. These results indicate an antinociceptive activity of resveratrol and curcumin and point towards the beneficial effect of these combinations with insulin in attenuating diabetic neuropathic pain, possibly through the participation of NO and TNF‐α. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pharmaceutical and therapeutic Potentials of essential oils and their individual volatile constituents: a review
Authors: Edris Amr E.
Published: January 2007

Essential oils and their volatile constituents are used widely to prevent and treat human disease. The possible role and mode of action of these natural products is discussed with regard to the prevention and treatment of cancer, cardiovascular diseases including atherosclerosis and thrombosis, as well as their bioactivity as antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidants and antidiabetic agents. Their application as natural skin penetration enhancers for transdermal drug delivery and the therapeutic properties of essential oils in aroma and massage therapy will also be outlined. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Theoretical study of the reaction of Cr+ with SCO in gas phase
Authors: Dai Guo‐Liang , Fan Kang‐Nian
Published: January 2007

To elucidate the mechanism of reaction M+ + SCO, the reaction of Cr+ + SCO has been investigated using density functional theory (DFT) with the popular hybrid functional, B3LYP, in conjunction with 6‐311+G* basis set on both the sextet and quartet potential energy surfaces (PESs). To obtain an accurate evaluation of the activation barrier and reaction energy, the coupled cluster single‐point calculations using the B3LYP structures is performed. The crossing points (CPs) of the different PESs have been localized with the approach suggested by Yoshizawa and colleagues. The involving potential energy curve‐crossing dramatically affects reaction mechanism. The present results show that the reaction mechanism is insertion‐elimination mechanism both along the CS and CO bond activation branches, but the CS bond activation is much more favorable than the CO bond activation in energy. All theoretical results not only support the existing conclusions inferred from early experiment study, but also complement the pathway and mechanism for this reaction. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
Diel and lateral patterns of zooplankton distribution in the St. Lawrence River
Authors: Casper Andrew F. , Thorp James H.
Published: January 2007

While the four‐dimensional nature of river ecosystems has been recognized for nearly two decades, the role of lateral complexity has rarely been factored into studies of zooplankton ecology. We examined the importance of hydrologic retention areas (slackwaters) near islands and embayments of the St. Lawrence River for densities, fecundity, and diel migration of planktonic microcrustaceans. Densities of cladocera and copepods (nauplii and adult stages of cyclopoids and calanoids) were sampled from surface and deeper layers both at night (2100–0100 h, near the new moon) and during the day (1000–1400 h) for channel (deep‐fast), offshore (shallow‐slower), and inshore (shallow‐stagnant) habitats. Average zooplankton densities increased laterally from the main channel into the slackwaters with the exception of calanoid copepods, which peaked in the intermediate depths and flows of the offshore habitats. Although the ratio of males to females for the calanoid Eurytemora affinis and the cladoceran Bosmina spp. did not differ among habitats, a greater percentage of ovigerous cladoceran females were present in slackwaters than in channel habitats. Densities of microcrustaceans were generally greater during the night than day, suggesting diel vertical migration. By demonstrating both lateral and diel differences in the spatial distribution of riverine zooplankton, we refute the view of large rivers as well‐mixed homogenous systems. To the contrary, the two non‐random patterns that we document imply that there is an abiotic template that at least microcrustacean potamoplankton can exploit. In turn this suggests more research into the ecological significance of the pelagic structure of other large rivers like the St. Lawrence is justified. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Can Furfuryl Alcohol Generate Single‐Crystalline Nanostructures by Thermal Polymerization?
Authors: Gandini Alessandro
Published: January 2007

A previous report in this journal from Zhao and co‐workers (Small, 2006, 2, 517) described the synthesis of novel organic nanostructures from the polymerization of furfuryl alcohol. The correspondent casts doubt on whether these materials are exactly as the authors of this Communication believe them to be.
Fine Structure, Thermal and Viscoelastic Properties of Starches Separated from Indica Rice Cultivars
Authors: Singh Narpinder , Nakaura Yoshiko , Inouchi Naoyoshi , Nishinari Katsuyoshi
Published: January 2007

Starches were separated from indica rice cultivars (PR‐113, Basmati‐370, Basmati‐386, PR‐115, IR‐64, and PR‐103) and evaluated using gel permeation chromatography (GPC), X‐ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and dynamic viscoelasticity. Debranching of starch with isoamylase and subsequent fractionation by GPC revealed 9.7–28.3% apparent amylose content, 3.7–5.0% intermediate fraction (mixture of short amylose and long side‐chains of amylopectin), 20.6–26.6% long side‐chains of amylopectin and 45.8–59.4% short side‐chains of amylopectin). IR‐64 starch with the highest crystallinity had the highest gelatinization temperatures and enthalpy, To, Tp, Tc, and ΔHgel being 71.8, 75.9, 82.4°C and 5.1 J/g, respectively, whereas PR‐113 starch with lower crystallinity showed the lowest gelatinization temperatures (To, Tp, Tc, of 60.8, 65.7 and 72.2°C, respectively). Basmati‐386 starch exhibited two endotherms during heating, the first and second endotherm being associated with the melting of crystallites and amylose‐lipid complexes, respectively. To, Tp, Tc and ΔHgel of the second endotherm of Basmati‐386 starch were 99.0, 100.1, 101.1°C and 2.0 J/g, respectively. During cooling, Basmati‐386 also showed an exotherm at a peak temperature of 87°C. PR‐113 starch with the highest amylose content and the lowest content of short side‐chains of amylopectin had the highest peak storage modulus (G′= 1.6×104 Pa). The granules of PR‐113 starch were the least disintegrated after heating. The effects of heating starch suspensions at different temperatures (92°C, 130°C and 170°C) on intrinsic viscosity [η], transmittance and viscoelasticity were also studied to evaluate the extent of breakdown of the molecular structure. The intrinsic viscosity of starch suspensions heated at 92, 130 and 170°C ranged between 103–114, 96–110 and 28–93 mL/g. Transmittance value of starches cooked at 92°C decreased with increase in storage duration. All starches except PR103, cooked at 130°C also showed decrease in transmittance during storage, however, at lower rate. PR103 starch heated at 130°C did not show any change in transmittance up to a storage time of 48 h. The changes in viscoelasticity of starch pastes cooked at different temperatures during cooling and reheating were also evaluated. G′ and G′′ increased with decrease in temperature during cooling cycle. Starches heated at 130°C with apparent amylose content ≤21.2% showed an improvement in G′ and G′′ in comparison to the corresponding starches heated at 92°C, this improvement was observed to be higher in starches with lower amylose content. All starches heated at 170°C had a higher proportion of breakdown in molecular structure as indicated by lower G′ and G′′ than the same starches heated at 130 and 92°C.
Preparation, Structure, Spectral, and Magnetic Properties of Copper(II) Halogenonicotinates: Crystal and Molecular Structure of Tetrakis(μ‐2‐chloronicotinato‐O,O′)‐diaquadicopper(II)
Authors: Moncol Jan , Korabik Maria , Segl'a Peter , Koman Marian , Mikloš Dušan , Jašková Jana , Glowiak Tadeusz , Melník Milan , Mrozinski Jerzy , Sundberg Markku R.
Published: January 2007

The characterization of the complexes [Cu2(2‐Clnic)4(H2O)2] (1), [Cu(2,6‐Cl2nic)2(H2O)2] (2) and [Cu(5‐Brnic)2(H2O)2]n (3) (where 2‐Clnic = 2‐chloronicotinate, 2,6‐Cl2nic = 2,6‐dichloronicotinate or 5‐Brnic = 5‐bromonicotinate) was based on elemental analysis, IR, electronic and EPR spectra, and magnetic susceptibility. Complex 1 was also studied by X‐ray analysis at 298 1a and 80 K 1b. The complex 1 contains a dinuclear Cu‐acetate molecular structure in which the carboxyl groups of the 2‐chloronicotinate ligands act as bridges and water molecules are at apical positions. The stereochemistry about Cu atom at both temperatures is typical for square pyramidal geometry with CuO4O chromophore. The Cu‐Cu distance is 2.6513(8) and 2.6382(6) Å for 1a and 1b, respectively. The Cu atoms are displaced by 0.2069(9) and 0.1973(7) Å, respectively, from the plane containing four oxygen atoms bonded to the Cu atom toward the apical water molecules. Strong and weak hydrogen bonds as well as C–Cl···π interactions in the crystal structure are discussed as well. Both complexes, monomeric [Cu(2,6‐Cl2nic)2(H2O)2] (2) and polymeric [Cu(5‐Brnic)2(H2O)2]n (3), possess octahedral copper(II) stereochemistry with differing tetragonal distortions.
Structural and Optical Characterization of Ytterbium Doped Lutetium Double Phosphates
Authors: Guzik M. , Legendziewicz J. , Szuszkiewicz W. , Walasek A.
Published: January 2007

Powder samples of the ternary phosphates A3Lu(PO4)2:Yb3+ (A = Na, Rb) have been synthesised by solid state reactions. The spectroscopic properties of Yb3+ in double phosphate host lattices were investigated using absorption, emission and excitation spectra at 4, 10 and 293 K in the VUV to IR range. The results obtained for both types of phosphates are compared. Together with the fundamental 2F5/2 → 2F7/2 emission in the IR range, a broad band emission with two peaks in the UV region were observed in Yb3+‐activated Na3Lu(PO4)2. The second emission is due to a charge–transfer transition type. The influence of the alkali metal cation site of the host lattice on the luminescence properties was investigated. The tentative energy level scheme of the ground and excited 2FJ (J=7/2, 5/2) levels is described.
Formation of Unusual Complexes from the Reaction of [C(NMe2)3][(CO)4Fe{C(O)NMe2}] with InMe3; Crystal Structures of [C(NMe2)3]3[Fe2(CO)6(μ‐CO){μ‐InFe(CO)4(μ‐O2CNMe2)InFe(CO)4}] and [C(NMe2)3]2[{(CO)4Fe}2In(O2CNMe2)]·THF
Authors: Neumüller Bernhard , Esser Michael , Petz Wolfgang
Published: January 2007

The carbamoyl complex [C(NMe2)3][(CO)4Fe{C(O)NMe2}] (1) reacts with InMe3 under loss of the methyl groups to produce a variety of compounds from which only the anionic cluster complexes [C(NMe2)3]3[Fe2(CO)6(μ‐CO){μ‐InFe(CO)4(μ‐O2CNMe2)InFe(CO)4}] ([CN3]3[2]) and [C(NMe2)3]2[{(CO)4Fe}2In(O2CNMe2)]·THF ([CN3]2[3]·THF) could be crystallized and characterized by X‐ray analyses. The anion [2]3− has a Fe2(CO)9‐like structure and both anions contain the carbaminato ligand either in a bridging or in a chelating function.
Oxidative Pyrrole Exchange and meso Pyrrylation – Unexpected Reactions of Open‐Chain Tetrapyrrolic 2,2′‐Bidipyrrins
Authors: Bröring Martin , Link Stephan , Cordes Meike , Brandt Carsten D.
Published: January 2007

A new hydrogen terminated 2,2′‐bidipyrrin ligand was prepared from a bipyrrole dialdehyde and 3,4‐diethylpyrrole by a POCl3 induced condensation and isolated as the nickel(II) chelate. Unexpectedly a side reaction occured when base‐deficient and aerobic conditions were chosen in the metalation step. This side reaction led to a novel pentapyrrolic nickel(II) complex with one externally bound pyrrole ring. Further studies showed that the reactions of 2,2′‐bidipyrrins with 3,4‐diethyl‐ or 2,3,4‐trimethylpyrrole and an oxidant resulted in a stepwise exchange of the terminal pyrrole moieties and, in the former case, the introduction of one additional pyrrole ring into one of the two meso positions of the open‐chain tetrapyrrole.
How Common Are True Aminopyridinato Complexes?
Authors: Deeken Stefan , Motz Günter , Kempe Rhett
Published: January 2007

An overview over the binding situation in transition metal and lanthanide aminopyridinato complexes is given. True aminopyridinato complexes in which we observe a significant longer N‐amido than N‐pyridine bond length are rare and for instance observed for ruthenium. Additional examples of ruthenium aminopyridinato complexes were synthesized and characterized by X‐ray crystal structure analysis.
A Novel Two‐dimensional Coordination Polymer based on Rhombic Tetrameric Subunit Zn4O4 as Building Block
Authors: Tang Yun‐Zhi , Tan Yu‐Hui , Chen Shao‐Hu , Chao Yan‐Wen
Published: January 2007

Hydrothermal reaction of olsalazine sodium, phenanthroline and Zn(ClO4)2·6H2O in the presence of water and ethanol affords a two‐dimensional coordination polymer [Zn4(OSA)3(Phen)2(H2O)2]n (1) (OSA = olsalazine) which is characterized by single X‐ray determination, IR and UV spectrum. The local coordination around all zinc ions can be best described as a slightly distorted triangle bipyramid. Complex 1 consists of a tetrameric subunit, which is made up of four Zn atoms bridged by four O atoms. Two types of osalazine ligands can be found in the complex according to their different coordination modes of carboxyl groups. Crystal data for 1: $\rm P{\bar 1}$, a = 10.087(7), b = 12.830(9), c = 14.545(11) Å, α =114.598(10)°, β = 92.552(10)°, γ = 108.515(10)°, V = 1588(2) Å3, Z = 2, R1 = 0.0818, wR2 = 0.1855. In comparison with the free ligand, the UV spectrum of 1 in solution (H2O: EtOH = 1:1) shows a small Einstein shift probably due to the formation of coordination polymer and supramoleculer hydrogen‐bonding interactions.
La6(C2)3Cl4 und La8(C2)5Cl4: Schichten und Kanäle aus La6(C2)‐Clustern
Authors: Mattausch Hansjürgen , Hoch Constantin , Zheng Chong , Simon Arndt
Published: January 2007

La6(C2)3Cl4 and La8(C2)5Cl4: Sheets and Channels of La6(C2)‐Clusters

Single crystals of La6(C2)3Cl4 are formed from a mixture of LaCl3, La und C (2:7:9) at 1000 °C, those of La8(C2)5Cl4 at 975 °C (2:10:15). La6(C2)3Cl4 crystallizes in P21/c with a = 7.770(2) Å, b = 12.962(3) Å, c = 6.910(1) Å and β = 104.30(3)°, La8(C2)5Cl4 in C2/m with a = 22.570(4) Å, b = 3.9300(8) Å, c = 10.190(2) Å and β = 95.69(3)°.

The structure of La6(C2)3Cl4 is composed of La octahedra centered by (C2) groups, which are connected via common edges to form buckled sheets. These are coordinated by Cl atoms above and below the tetrahedra edges of close‐packed La atoms. This special arrangement leads to the composition La:Cl = 3:2 and to the corrugation of the layers.

The structure of La8(C2)5Cl4 also contains sheets formed by (C2)‐centered La octahedra. These sheets are further connected by chains of La double octahedra to form tunnels, which contain the Cl atoms.

Both compounds are metallic conductors, La6(C2)3Cl4 becomes superconducting at 2.5 K.

Band structure calculations support the C‐C double bond assignment suggested by the C‐C distance according to ionic formulations as(La3+)6(C24−)3(Cl−)42e− und (La3+)8(C24−)5(Cl−)4.
Synthesis and Characterization of the Zinc Amides: [EtZnL]2 and [ZnL2] (L = N,N‐dimethyl(N′‐trimethylsilyl)ethane‐1,2‐diaminate)
Authors: Bakker Jacinta M. , Deacon Glen B. , Junk Peter C. , Moxey Graeme J. , Turner David R.
Published: January 2007

The ligand N,N‐dimethyl(N′‐trimethylsilyl)ethane‐1,2‐diamine (HL) was treated with ZnEt2 in varying stoichiometric ratios to synthesize [EtZnL]2 and [ZnL2] complexes. Crystal data: [EtZnL]2, monoclinic, P21/n, a = 10.0149(5) Å, b = 8.0296(3) Å, c = 16.1689(8) Å, β = 91.715(2)°. [ZnL2], monoclinic, P21/n, a = 8.8457(3) Å, b = 15.4249(6) Å, c = 16.0121(7) Å, β = 92.656(1)°. The former complex is an amido nitrogen bridged dimer with distorted tetrahedral stereochemistry of the zinc atom and the latter is a distorted tetrahedral monomer based on amide/amine chelation.
A Tetranuclear μ3‐Alkoxo‐bridged Cubane‐like Copper(II) Complex Containing 2‐(Ethylamino)ethanol and Acetate: Synthesis and Structural Characterization
Authors: Yilmaz Veysel T. , Kars Vecdi , Kazak Canan
Published: January 2007

A tetranuclear cubane‐like complex, [Cu4(μ‐Etae)4(OAc)4]·H2O (1), with 2‐(ethylamino)ethanol (EtaeH) and acetate (OAc)− ligands has been synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, and single crystal X‐ray diffraction. Complex 1 crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group Pccn and consists of a tetranuclear [Cu4O4]4+ cubane core in which four copper(II) ions are bridged by μ3‐alkoxide oxygen atoms of the Etae− anion. The amine N atom of Etae−, and one of the O atom OAc also coordinate to the copper(II) ions forming a distorted square‐pyramidal geometry with a CuO4N chromophore. The Cu···Cu separations with in the [Cu4O4]4+ cubane range from 2.905(2) to 3.377(2) Å, and these short Cu–Cu separations are responsible for the anti‐ferromagnetic coupling between the copper centers. The cubane‐like units are linked by N–H···O hydrogen bonds into one‐dimensional supramolecular chains, which are further arranged in a two‐dimensional array by van der Waal's interactions.
Intramedullary Arthrodesis of the Knee in the Treatment of Sepsis after TKR
Authors: Talmo Carl T. , Bono James V. , Figgie Mark P. , Sculco Thomas P. , Laskin Richard S. , Windsor Russell E.
Published: January 2007

Infection is a devastating complication following total knee replacement (TKR). In the majority of cases, single- or two-stage revision has excellent results in eradicating infection and restoring function. Rarely, recurrent infection requires alternative treatments such as resection, amputation, or arthrodesis. A review of infections following TKR treated at two joint replacement centers identified 29 cases of resistant knee sepsis treated with a long intramedullary fusion nail. Clinical outcome and radiographs were reviewed at an average follow-up of 48 months (13–114). After the initial intramedullary arthrodesis union occurred in 24 of 29 patients (83%). The average time to fusion was 6 months (3–18 months). Failures included two cases of nail breakage, one of which subsequently achieved fusion following revision nailing, and three cases of recurrent infection requiring nail removal and permanent resection. At a minimum 2-year follow-up, 28% of the patients that achieved fusion complained of pain in the fused knee, 28% complained of ipsilateral hip pain, and two patients complained of contralateral knee pain. Four of the 25 fused patients (16%) remained nonambulatory after fusion, 17 required walking aids (68%) and only four ambulated unassisted. There was no association between age, number of previous procedures, the use of two-stage versus single stage technique, or infecting organism and failure of arthrodesis. Intramedullary arthrodesis is a viable treatment for refractory infection after TKR. Patients undergoing fusion should be informed of the potential for nonunion, recurrence of infection, pain in the ipsilateral extremity, and the long-term need for walking aids.
Free and Esterified 4,4′‐dimethylsterols in Hazelnut Oil and their Retention During Refining Processes
Authors: Azadmard‐Damirchi Sodeif , Dutta Paresh C.
Published: January 2007

Free and esterified forms of sterols provide detailed information on the identity and the quality of vegetable oils. In this study, 4,4′‐dimethylsterols in free and esterified forms were investigated in hazelnut and virgin olive oils. Moreover, a sample of solvent‐extracted hazelnut oil was refined at the laboratory to monitor the effects of processing on the levels of 4,4′‐dimethylsterols. Generally, the level of total 4,4′‐dimethyslterols was higher in the esterified form (49–68%) compared with that in free form (32–51%) of these compounds in the hazelnut oil. In virgin olive oil samples, cycloartenol and 24‐methylenecycloartanol were present in higher amounts in free forms (70–80%) than in esterified forms (20–30%). Among the refining processes, degumming, deodorization, neutralization and bleaching, only neutralization and bleaching considerably reduced 4,4′‐dimethylsterols. In fully refined hazelnut oil, 18 and 37% of lupeol and an unknown compound X in the esterified form were lost, respectively. The loss of these two compounds in the free form was considerably higher, 26 and 72%, respectively. GC–MS analysis showed that adulteration of olive oil with a sample of fully refined hazelnut oil could be detected at a level as low as 2% by tracing lupeol in total or only in esterified forms of 4,4′‐dimethylsterols. Further studies on the levels of free and esterified 4,4′‐dimethylsterols and their retention during refining processes are anticipated in hazelnut cultivars from different origins.
Reasons for seeking acute care in chronic heart failure
Authors: Patel Harshida , Shafazand Masoud , Schaufelberger Maria , Ekman Inger
Published: January 2007

Background:

Patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) have frequent episodes of exacerbation leading to recurrent hospitalization.

Aims:

To explore factors related to patients seeking care for worsening CHF.

Methods:

Eighty‐eight patients diagnosed with a deteriorating CHF condition were interviewed. Data were analysed using content analysis.

Results:

Overall, 51 (58%) patients sought emergency care because of their symptoms while 37 (42%) were either sent by relatives or referred from outpatient clinics. Delay in seeking care was explained by 62 (71%) patients as a “wait and see” strategy, 9 (10%) were reluctant to use the health care system and 10 (11%) felt that it was futile to seek care. Fifty percent of the patients were uncertain about their current deteriorating status. Only 4 patients reported their symptoms to be related to heart failure.

Conclusions:

Although symptoms were the dominant reason for seeking emergency care, only a few patients related their symptoms to worsening CHF, which might be an important factor for not seeking emergency care earlier. Patient education programs should make efforts to improve understanding of symptom recognition.
Body mass index and functioning in long-term schizophrenia
Authors: Salokangas Raimo K.R. , Honkonen Teija , Stengård Eija , Hietala Jarmo
Published: January 2007

Objective

The study evaluates the association of body mass index (BMI) with functioning in male and female patients with long-term schizophrenia.

Method

722 long-term schizophrenia patients were interviewed three years after discharge from hospital. Their weight and height were recorded and data on their background, illness history, psychosocial functioning (Global Assessment Scale; GAS), health behaviour, daily doses of neuroleptics, and psychiatric symptoms were collected.

Results

BMI correlated significantly with GAS scores in male (r = 0.202, p = 0.000) but not in female patients. In male patients, BMI associated significantly (p = 0.005) with GAS scores even when the effects of psychiatric symptoms and other confounding variables were taken into account.

Conclusions

In male but not in female long-term patients with schizophrenia, low BMI associates with poor functioning. It is suggested that among male schizophrenia patients, low BMI may be an indicator of poor functioning.
Prevalence and demography of transsexualism in Belgium
Authors: De Cuypere G. , Van Hemelrijck M. , Michel A. , Carael B. , Heylens G. , Rubens R. , Hoebeke P. , Monstrey S.
Published: January 2007

Aim

The Belgian medical world has acknowledged the diagnosis of transsexualism and accepted Sex Reassignment Surgery (SRS) as one of the steps in the treatment of choice since 1985. This prevalence and demographic study analyses data on all Belgian individuals who have undergone SRS since that year.

Methods

All (188) plastic surgeons as well as all gender teams (Antwerp, Bruges, Ghent, and Liège) in Belgium were sent demographic questionnaires to be completed for each of their transsexual patients.

Results

The results show an overall prevalence of 1:12,900 for male-to-female and 1:33,800 for female-to-male transsexuals in Belgium. In Wallonia (the French-speaking region of Belgium) the prevalence is significantly lower than in Flanders (the Dutch-speaking region) and in Brussels (the bilingual capital region). In the total Belgian population the male/female sex ratio is 2.43:1, again with a substantial difference between Wallonia on the one hand and Flanders on the other.

Discussion and Conclusion

While in Flanders and in Brussels the prevalence is comparable to that in other Western European countries, in Wallonia it is markedly lower. Transsexualism in Wallonia appears to be socially less acceptable: persons suffering from gender dysphoria in that part of Belgium encounter more problems accessing gender clinics and receiving treatment.
Trade, sociability and governance in an English incorporated borough: ‘formal’ and ‘informal’ worlds in Leicester, c. 1570–1640
Authors: KAWANA YOH
Published: January 2007

This study highlights the simultaneous existence of ‘formal’ and ‘informal’ forces in an incorporated borough and their relevance to civic society and governance in a spatial context. Loosely organized networks of men and women of different ages and status were evidenced in credit arrangements, small-scale dealings and sociability in markets, streets and residential houses. These public and private spaces were also subjected to a civic government which attempted to integrate uncontrolled activities into the society of freemen. It is argued that the actions and decisions taken by informal groups and associations were constitutive of the progress of civic society in early modern England.
Effects of etanercept, a tumour necrosis factor‐α antagonist, in an experimental model of periodontitis in rats
Authors: Di Paola R , Mazzon E , Muià C , Crisafulli C , Terrana D , Greco S , Britti D , Santori D , Oteri G , Cordasco G , Cuzzocrea S
Published: January 2007

Background and purpose:

Etanercept is a tumour necrosis factor antagonist with anti‐inflammatory effects. The aim of our study was to evaluate, for the first time, the therapeutic efficacy of in vivo inhibition of TNF‐α in an experimental model of periodontitis.

Experimental approach:

Periodontitis was induced in adult male Sprague‐Dawley rats by placing a nylon thread ligature around the lower 1st molars. Etanercept was administered at a dose of 5 mg kg−1, s.c., after placement of the ligature.

Key results:

Periodontitis in rats resulted in an inflammatory process characterized by oedema, neutrophil infiltration and cytokine production that was followed by the recruitment of other inflammatory cells, production of a range of inflammatory mediators, tissue damage, apoptosis and disease. Treatment of the rats with etanercept (5 mg kg−1, s.c., after placement of the ligature) significantly reduced the degree of (1) periodontitis inflammation and tissue injury (histological score), (2) infiltration of neutrophils (MPO evaluation), (3) iNOS (the expression of nitrotyrosine and cytokines (eg TNF‐α)) and (4) apoptosis (Bax and Bcl‐2 expression).

Conclusions and Implications:

Taken together, our results clearly demonstrate that treatment with etanercept reduces the development of inflammation and tissue injury, events associated with periodontitis.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2007) 150, 286–297. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0706979
Extracellular nucleotides induce migration of renal mesangial cells by upregulating sphingosine kinase‐1 expression and activity
Authors: Klawitter S , Hofmann L P , Pfeilschifter J , Huwiler A
Published: January 2007

Background and purpose:

Extracellular nucleotides act as potent mitogens for renal mesangial cells (MC). In this study we determined whether extracellular nucleotides trigger additional responses in MCs and the mechanisms involved.

Experimental approach:

MC migration was measured after nucleotide stimulation in an adapted Boyden‐chamber. Sphingosine kinase‐1 (SK‐1) protein expression was detected by Western blot analysis and mRNA expression quantified by real‐time PCR. SK activity was measured by anin vitrokinase assay using sphingosine as substrate.

Key results:

Nucleotide stimulation caused biphasic activation of SK‐1, but not SK‐2. The first peak occurred after minutes of stimulation and was followed by a second delayed peak after 4–24 h of stimulation. The delayed activation of SK‐1 is due to increased SK‐1 mRNA steady‐state levels andde novosynthesis of SK‐1 protein, and depends on PKC and the classical MAPK cascade. To see whether nucleotide‐stimulated cell responses require SK‐1, we selectively depleted SK‐1 from cells by using small‐interference RNA (siRNA). MC migration is highly stimulated by ATP and UTP; this is mimicked by exogenously added S1P. Depletion of SK‐1 by siRNA drastically reduced the effect of ATP and UTP on cell migration but not on cell proliferation. Furthermore, MCs isolated from SK‐1‐deficient mice were completely devoid of nucleotide‐induced migration.

Conclusions and implications:

These data show that extracellular nucleotides besides being mitogenic also trigger MC migration and this cell response critically requires SK‐1 activity. Thus, pharmacological intervention of SK‐1 may have impacts on situations where MC migration is important such as during inflammatory kidney diseases.

British Journal of Pharmacology(2007)150, 271–280. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0706983
Role of calcineurin in the regulation of human lung mast cell and basophil function by cyclosporine and FK506
Authors: Harrison C A , Bastan R , Peirce M J , Munday M R , Peachell P T
Published: January 2007

Background and purpose:

Cyclosporine and FK506 are thought to act by targeting the Ca2+‐dependent protein phosphatase, calcineurin. The aim of the present study was to determine whether cyclosporine and FK506 stabilize mast cells and basophils by interacting with calcineurin.

Experimental approach:

The effects of cyclosporine and FK506 on the IgE‐mediated release of histamine from mast cells and basophils were evaluated. The presence of calcineurin in cells was determined by Western blotting. Ca2+‐dependent protein phosphatase activities were assessed in cell extracts using a synthetic phosphorylated peptide that is known to serve as a substrate for calcineurin.

Key results:

FK506 was about 100‐fold more potent than cyclosporine as an inhibitor of IgE‐dependent histamine release from mast cells and basophils. Immunoblotting of solubilized preparations of purified cells demonstrated the presence of calcineurin in mast cells and basophils. In enzyme assays, mast cells expressed approximately 7‐fold higher Ca2+‐dependent protein phosphatase activity than basophils. Whereas cyclosporine effectively inhibited Ca2+‐dependent protein phosphatase activity in cell extracts, FK506 was considerably less effective.

Conclusions and implications:

FK506 and cyclosporine inhibit the stimulated release of histamine from mast cells and basophils. However, the ability of cyclosporine, but not FK506, to inhibit Ca2+‐dependent protein phosphatase activity questions whether FK506 stabilizes mast cells and basophils by interacting with calcineurin.

British Journal of Pharmacology(2007)150, 509–518. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0707002
Defining target antigens for CD25+FOXP3+IFN‐γ− regulatory T cells in chronic hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: Li Shuo , Jones Kathryn L , Woollard David J , Dromey James , Paukovics Geza , Plebanski Magdalena , Gowans Eric J
Published: January 2007

The mechanism behind the apparent lack of effective antiviral immune responses in chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients is poorly understood. It remains unclear if natural regulatory T cells (Treg) contribute to the induction and maintenance of HCV persistence. We herein report for the first time that CD25highIFN‐γ−FOXP3high Tregs can be rapidly induced by culturing peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of HCV‐positive patients with HCV protein‐derived peptides. The HCV‐specific Tregs, generally CD4+CD45RO+, did not proliferate in response to HCV peptide and failed to produce interferon (IFN)‐γ, in distinct contrast to antiviral effector cells. Stimulation of healthy donor PBMCs with HCV peptides did not result in CD25 and FOXP3 upregulation above non‐antigen background. To further investigate the antigen specificity of these potentially disease‐associated natural Tregs, CD25+ cells were isolated from PBMCs, labeled with carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidylester and added back to CD25‐depleted PBMCs, and the co‐cultures were then stimulated with individual peptides derived from the HCV core protein. We found that the actual peptide that can stimulate Treg varied between patients, but within any given subject only a small number of the peptides were able to stimulate Treg, suggesting the existence of dominant Treg epitopes. Although functional experiments for these peptides are ongoing in our laboratory, data presented here suggests that HCV‐specific natural Tregs are abundant in infected individuals, in contrast to the extremely low frequency of anti‐HCV effector T cells, supporting the view that natural Treg may be implicated in host immune tolerance during HCV infection.
3D computation modelling of the influence of cytokine secretion on Th‐cell development suggests that negative selection (inhibition of Th1 cells) is more effective than positive selection by IL‐4 for Th2 cell dominance
Authors: Jansson Andreas , Harlen Mikael , Karlsson Stefan , Nilsson Patric , Cooley Margaret
Published: January 2007

Th‐cell development has been suggested to include selective mechanisms in which certain cytokines select either Th1 or Th2 cells to proliferate and grow. The selective theory is based on the observation that Th2 cells secrete IL‐4, a cytokine that promotes Th2 development, whereas Th1 cells secrete interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) that favours Th1 development, and both positive and negative selective influences have been suggested to operate. In this study, we investigate the role of autocrine secretion and utilization of IL‐4 by Th2 cells and address the question of whether an activated Th2 cell can be positively selected by IL‐4 secreted from other Th2 cells. We present a spatial three dimensional (3D) modelling approach to simulate the interaction between the IL‐4 ligand and its IL‐4 receptors expressed on discrete IL‐4 secreting cells. The simulations, based on existing experimental data on the IL‐4 receptor–ligand system, illustrate how Th‐cell development is highly dependent on the distance between cells that are communicating. The model suggests that a single Th2 cell is likely to communicate with possible target cells within a range of approximately 100 μm and that an activated Th2 cell manages to fill most of its own IL‐4 receptors, even at a low secretion rate. The predictions made by the model suggest that negative selection against Th1 cells is more effective than positive selection by IL‐4 for promoting Th2 dominance.
Changes in seed characteristics during the domestication of the lablab bean (Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet: Papilionoideae)
Authors: Maass Brigitte L. , Usongo Macalister F.
Published: January 2007

Morphological, anatomical, physiological, and nutritional seed characteristics of the lablab bean (Lablab purpureus) were investigated in 46 germplasm accessions, from wild through semi-domesticated forms to landraces and current cultivars. This study aimed to improve the understanding of the domestication process in this tropical crop legume. Wild accessions were distinguished by typical small, brownish and mottled seeds. Cultivated and semi-domesticated forms showed much wider variation in size, colour and shape. Most wild accessions had a thicker seed testa as well as a greater spread of germination over time and larger proportions of hard seeds than most cultivated and semi-domesticated accessions, which germinated more uniformly. Generally, wild accessions showed higher tannin and nitrogen values. In most characteristics, semi-domesticated accessions were intermediate. Not all cultivated accessions combined all typical features of the ‘domestication syndrome’. This was particularly obvious in the dendrogram generated by cluster analysis from a relative domestication index calculated from seed mass and seed-coat texture for any pair of accessions. On the basis of seed characteristics of the germplasm studied, the crop is considered to have originated from Africa.
Response of barley genotypes to terminal soil moisture stress: phenology, growth, and yield
Authors: González Agueda , Martín Isaura , Ayerbe Luis
Published: January 2007

Terminal drought is the main factor limiting the yield of cereals in the central area of Spain because rainfall is scarce and temperatures are high during the grain-filling period. The response of 12 cultivated barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) genotypes consisting of 6 breeding lines showing high yield under terminal water stress and 6 commercial varieties was studied in a rain shelter. Trials were performed over 3 years to determine the influence of terminal water stress on yield and yield components and the relationship between yield and phenological and agronomic traits. When the crop reached the flag-leaf stage, half of the experimental plots were subjected to a water-stress treatment and the remainder were maintained at optimal water conditions. Variations were observed in number of days to ear emergence, days to maturity, and length of grain-filling period. Precocity strongly influenced the length of the grain-filling period so that the earlier genotypes had the longest grain-filling periods. Among yield components, mean grain weight had the greatest influence on yield under terminal water stress conditions. Earliness and length of grain-filling period were the phenological traits that most influenced yield in water stress conditions. These traits and harvest index (HI) showed a significant correlation (P < 0.001) with grain yield. Earliness, mean grain weight, and HI contributed to greater yields under terminal water stress.
Potential involvement of flavonoids in the rooting response of chestnut hybrid (Castanea crenata × Castanea sativa) clones
Authors: Osterc G. , Štefančič M. , Solar A. , Štampar F.
Published: January 2007

The involvement of different quercetins [quercetin-3-O-rhamnoside (quercitrin), quercetin-3-D-galactoside (hyperoside) and rutin] and catechins (catechin, catechol) in the rooting process of leafy cuttings was studied in two hybrid chestnut (Castanea crenata × Castanea sativa) clones, Maraval and Marsol. Both clones differed strongly in rooting results. The Maraval clone cuttings, which had a high rooting rate, contained, on average, higher amounts of all quercetins in different plant parts (leaves and basal cuttings) than the Marsol clone, which had a low rooting rate. There was a highly significant correlation between the quercetin contents of the cutting leaves and the rooting process (number of main roots). The catecechin contents of the cutting leaves did not show any correlation with the rooting process.
Increasing plant density improves weed competition in lentil (Lens culinaris)
Authors: McDonald G. K. , Hollaway K. L. , McMurray L.
Published: January 2007

Lentil (Lens culinaris) is an important pulse crop in the southern and western cropping zones. Weed management can be difficult in lentil because of its poor early growth and the limited range of safe selective post-emergent herbicides available. Experiments were conducted at Minlaton, South Australia, and Horsham, Victoria, to examine the effects of early vigour on the ability of lentil to compete against a broadleaf weed. Early growth in lentil was manipulated by selecting genotypes with different levels of early vigour and by using a range of sowing rates. Canola (Brassica napus cv. Beacon) was used to mimic the growth of a cruciferous weed and it was sown at 0, 0.25 (Minlaton only), 0.5, 1 or 2 kg/ha. Lentil genotypes were selected that represented the range in early vigour currently available within the breeding program. Another experiment examined the effect of plant density of lentils with different degrees of early vigour on the yield of canola. Grain yield of lentil declined as the density of canola increased. The initial reduction in canola yield over sites was about 4%/plant.m2, but was as high as 12%/plant.m2 in one treatment. This yield loss is similar to that reported for other grain legume crops, but is much higher than the initial yield loss reported for wheat. The differences in early vigour between genotypes were insufficient to affect the competitive ability of lentil. In contrast, increasing the sowing rate of lentil significantly reduced canola grain yield and increased lentil grain yield. When the density of canola was low (10 plants/m2), doubling the lentil plant density to 200 plants/m2 limited the yield loss to 10%. The results suggest the level of variation in early vigour among the present genotypes is insufficient to increase the competitive ability of the crop. Increasing the plant population of lentil is a more effective means of suppressing weed growth and increasing grain yield.
Two binding partners cooperate to activate the molecular motor Kinesin-1
Authors: Blasius T. Lynne , Cai Dawen , Jih Gloria T. , Toret Christopher P. , Verhey Kristen J.
Published: January 2007

The regulation of molecular motors is an important cellular problem, as motility in the absence of cargo results in futile adenosine triphosphate hydrolysis. When not transporting cargo, the microtubule (MT)-based motor Kinesin-1 is kept inactive as a result of a folded conformation that allows autoinhibition of the N-terminal motor by the C-terminal tail. The simplest model of Kinesin-1 activation posits that cargo binding to nonmotor regions relieves autoinhibition. In this study, we show that binding of the c-Jun N-terminal kinase–interacting protein 1 (JIP1) cargo protein is not sufficient to activate Kinesin-1. Because two regions of the Kinesin-1 tail are required for autoinhibition, we searched for a second molecule that contributes to activation of the motor. We identified fasciculation and elongation protein ζ1 (FEZ1) as a binding partner of kinesin heavy chain. We show that binding of JIP1 and FEZ1 to Kinesin-1 is sufficient to activate the motor for MT binding and motility. These results provide the first demonstration of the activation of a MT-based motor by cellular binding partners.
Constitutional Complaints: The European Perspective
Authors: Dannemann Gerhard
Published: January 2007

Until recently the judicial remedy of a constitutional complaint existed in very few European countries, but has now been introduced in a number of Central and Eastern European States. An increased awareness of human rights questions resulting from the abuse of State power by former regimes, combined with the room to manoeuvre provided by the radical change in the political and constitutional system, has led to the introduction or expansion of existing legal mechanisms for the protection of constitutional rights and freedoms in these countries. The following remarks are intended to give an overview of the main procedural questions relating to the nature and functioning of constitutional complaints, and to examine the extent to which Western European experience might be used in the development of constitutional complaint mechanisms in Central and Eastern Europe
Nondenaturing Protein Immunoprecipitation from Mammalian Cells
Authors: Tansey William P.
Published: January 2007

INTRODUCTION

This protocol describes a nondenaturing immunoprecipitation (IP) for mammalian cells. Where possible, we prefer to use denaturing IPs to recover labeled proteins from pulse-chase experiments. However, the nondenaturing protocol is useful when one wishes to separate soluble from insoluble proteins, or when the antibody being used recognizes a native epitope.
Pulse-Chase Assay for Measuring Protein Stability in Yeast
Authors: Tansey William P.
Published: January 2007

INTRODUCTION

This assay directly measures the stability of a specific protein in yeast. Following pulse-labeling of yeast cells, the target protein is recovered by denaturing immunoprecipitation.
Denaturing Protein Immunoprecipitation from Yeast
Authors: Tansey William P.
Published: January 2007

INTRODUCTION

Where possible, it is preferable to use denaturing IPs to recover labeled proteins from pulse-chase experiments. The use of denaturing IPs reduces background and simplifies protein harvest. Yeast are boiled in an SDS-containing solution to liberate total proteins. This is also much safer than bead-beating radioactive yeast samples.