bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What sources contribute to variance in observer ratings? Using generalizability theory to assess construct validity of psychological measures
Authors: Lakes Kimberley D. , Hoyt William T.
Published: January 2008

Cronbach and Meehl (Psychol. Bull. 1955; 52:281–302) stated that the key question to be addressed when assessing construct validity is ‘What sources contribute to variance in test performance?’ We illustrate the utility of generalizability theory (GT) as a conceptual framework that encourages psychological researchers to address this question and as a flexible set of analytic tools that can provide answers to inform both substantive theory and measurement practice. To illustrate these capabilities, we analyze observer ratings of 27 caregiver–child dyads, focusing on the importance of situational (contextual) factors as sources of variance in observer ratings of caregiver–child behaviors. Cross‐situational consistency was relatively low for the categories of behavior analyzed, indicating that dyads vary greatly in their interactional patterns from one situation to the next, so that it is difficult to predict behavioral frequencies in one context from behaviors observed in a different context. Our findings suggest that single‐situation behavioral measures may have limited generalizability, either to behavior in other contexts or as measures of global interaction tendencies. We discuss the implications of these findings for research and measurement design in developmental psychology. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Liver function tests in patients with bacteremia
Authors: Kanai Shinichiro , Honda Takayuki , Uehara Takeshi , Matsumoto Takehisa
Published: January 2008

The purpose of this study was to evaluate liver function tests as potential indicators of bacteremia. We examined 156 patients with laboratory‐confirmed bacteremia (bacteremia group) and 211 bacteremia‐negative patients with bacterial infections (control group). The patients of the two groups had no underlying liver diseases. For patients in the bacteremia group, we analyzed liver function tests results obtained the day when the first positive blood culture was ordered. For those in the control group, the same data were obtained on the day when the first of multiple negative blood cultures was ordered. At t‐test analyses, serum levels of gamma‐glutamyl transpeptidase (γ‐GT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were significantly higher, and those of albumin, total cholesterol, and cholinesterase were significantly lower in the bacteremia group than in the control group. Multivariate analyses found serum cholinesterase as an independent factor with adjusted odds ratio of 0.319 (per 65 U/L, standard deviation [SD] size). Serum level of C‐reactive protein (CRP), on the other hand, showed no significant difference between the two groups. Serum levels of γ‐GT, ALP, albumin, total cholesterol, and cholinesterase more rapidly altered when various bacterial infections accompanied bacteremia. Therefore, they may be useful in detecting sepsis in its early stages. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 22:66–69, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development of multiple complications in type 2 diabetes is associated with the increase of multiple markers of chronic inflammation
Authors: Hwang Jawl‐Shan , Wu Tsu‐Lan , Chou S.C. , Ho C. , Chang Pi‐Yueh , Tsao Kuo‐Chien , Huang Jeng‐Yi , Sun Chien‐Feng , Wu James T.
Published: January 2008

Patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are known at risk for developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), nephropathy, and cancer. We were interested to find out whether multiple markers associated with chronic inflammation are detectable in patients with T2DM and are increased in patients with T2DM who developed additional clinical complications. A sequence of multiple risk markers for atherogenesis, associated with chronic inflammation, was measured in patients with T2DM before and after the development of clinical complications. We found that multiple clinical complications frequently developed simultaneously in patients with T2DM. At the early stage of T2DM, only low levels and low percent elevations of multiple risk markers were detected. However, both the level and the percent elevation of these markers were found to increase with disease progression and the development of clinical complications. We believe that chronic inflammation not only contributes to the pathogenesis of T2DM but also continues to increase in T2DM patients who are developing additional clinical complications. It appears that these multiple markers are potentially useful not only for monitoring the progression of T2DM but also predicting the risk of developing macro‐ and microvascular disease, nephropathy, and cancer. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 22:6–13, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of hemodialysis on traditional and innovative cardiac markers
Authors: Montagnana Martina , Lippi Giuseppe , Tessitore Nicola , Salvagno Gian Luca , Targher Giovanni , Gelati Matteo , Lupo Antonio , Guidi Gian Cesare
Published: January 2008

The diagnostic approach to acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is challenging in patients with impaired renal function since most serum biomarkers are commonly increased in this clinical setting. Cardiac troponin T (cTnT), creatine kinase isoenzyme MB (CK MB), myoglobin, and ischemia modified albumin (IMA), were assayed in 45 patients prehemodialysis (pre‐HD) and posthemodialysis (post‐HD), and results were adjusted for hemoconcentration. The pre‐HD values of serum IMA and cTnT were above the respective diagnostic thresholds (IMA<85 K units/L; cTnT <0.03 ng/mL) in six (13%) and 27 (60%) patients undergoing chronic HD, respectively. A significant (105.0 vs. 79.0 K units/L, P<0.0001) and variable (+38%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 12–65%) increase of serum IMA was observed post‐HD, whereas the other biomarkers significantly decreased (cTnT: 0.029 vs. 0.044 ng/mL, P=0.016; CK‐MB: 2.33 vs. 2.50 µg/L, P<0.0001; myoglobin: 128.1 vs. 148.7 µg/L, P<0.0001). Biomarkers of myocardial injury, especially cTnT and IMA, might be used in HD patients, provided that an appropriate diagnostic interpretation is guarantee, according to individual baseine value, metabolism, and time of sampling. Moreover, IMA might be reliably applied to stratify the long‐term risk of these patients, but not for diagnosing an ACS during or immediately post‐HD. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 22:59–65, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Determination of terephthalic acid isopropylamide in urine with a liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) method
Authors: Baumann F. , Mauz‐Körholz C. , Clauß D. , Borrmann S. , Giannis A. , Merkel N. , Körholz D. , Preiss R.
Published: January 2008

A sensitive and simple liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) method was developed for the determination of terephthalic acid isopropylamide, the final metabolite of procarbazine in human urine. A solid‐phase extraction with C18 cartridges was used followed by LC/MS with a single mass spectrometer (SSQ 7000 from Finnigan). Terephthalic acid isobutylamide was the internal standard. The quantification limit was 30 ng/mL in urine (6 × noise). This assay was applied for drug monitoring of terephthalic acid isopropylamide in urine after oral administration of procarbazine in children and adolescents with Hodgkin lymphomas. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 22:21–28, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinical and laboratory evaluation of idiopathic male infertility in a secondary referral center in India
Authors: Abid Shadaan , Maitra Anurupa , Meherji Pervin , Patel Zareen , Kadam Seema , Shah Jatin , Shah Rupin , Kulkarni Vijay , Baburao V. , Gokral Jyotsna
Published: January 2008

The genetic basis of infertility has received increasing recognition in recent years, particularly with the advent of assisted reproductive technology. It is now becoming obvious that genetic etiology for infertility is an important cause of disrupted spermatogenesis. Y‐chromosome microdeletions and abnormal karyotype are the two major causes of altered spermatogenesis. To achieve biological fatherhood, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is performed in cases of severe infertility with or without genetic abnormalities. There is a concern that these genetic abnormalities can be transmitted to the male progeny, who may subsequently have a more severe phenotype of infertility. A total of 200 men were recruited for clinical examinations, spermiograms, hormonal profiles, and cytogenetic and Yq microdeletion profiles. Testicular biopsy was also performed whenever possible and histologically evaluated. Genetic abnormalities were seen in 7.1% of cases, of which 4.1% had chromosomal aberrations, namely Klinefelter's mosaic (47XXY) and Robertsonian translocation, and 3.0% had Yq microdeletions, which is very low as compared to other populations. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) were significantly increased in men with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) as compared to severe oligoasthenozoospermia (P<0.0001), whereas testosterone levels were significantly decreased in men with microdeletions as compared to men with no microdeletions (P<0.0083). Low levels of androgen in men with microdeletions indicate a need to follow‐up for early andropause. Patients with microdeletions had more severe testicular histology as compared to subjects without deletions. Our studies showed a significant decrease (P<0.002) in the serum inhibin B values in men with NOA, whereas FSH was seen to be significantly higher as compared to men with severe oligoasthenozoospermia (SOAS), indicating that both the Sertoli cells as well the germ cells were significantly compromised in cases of NOA and partially affected in SOAS. Overall inhibin B in combination with serum FSH would thus be a better marker than serum FSH alone for impaired spermatogenesis. In view of the genetic and hormonal abnormalities in the group of infertile men with idiopathic severe oligozoospermia and NOA cases, who are potential candidates for ICSI, genetic testing for Y‐chromosome microdeletions, karyotype, and biochemical parameters is advocated. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 22:29–38, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Association of interleukin‐18 gene polymorphism with asthma in Chinese patients
Authors: Lee Cheng‐Chun , Lin Wei‐Yong , Wan Lei , Tsai Yuhsin , Tsai Chang‐Hai , Huang Chung‐Ming , Chen Chih‐Ping , Tsai Fuu‐Jen
Published: January 2008

Like other allergic diseases, asthma results from multiple conditions. Asthmatic beginning and severity are mediated by both environmental and genetic factors. In asthma studies, important work is realization of the genetic background and identification of genetic factors resulting in asthma development and phenomena. Here, we investigated whether interleukin (IL)‐18 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are involved in Chinese asthma patients. IL‐18 (IL‐18) SNP was detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based restriction analysis in 201 patients with asthma and 60 normal controls. Significant differences were found in the genotype distribution of IL‐18 SNP between asthma patients and controls (P=0.000003). Allelic frequency of the IL‐18 gene distinguished asthma patients from controls (P=0.000066). The results revealed a significant difference between asthma patients and normal controls in IL‐18 SNP and a statistical correlation between IL‐18 polymorphisms (105A/C) and asthma formation. We concluded that Chinese who carry the C/C homozygote of the IL‐18‐105A/C gene polymorphism in coding regions may have a higher risk of developing asthma. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 22:39–44, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison between two PCR‐based bacterial identification methods through artificial neural network data analysis
Authors: Wen Jie , Zhang Xiaohui , Gao Peng , Jiang Qiuhong
Published: January 2008

The 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA) and 16S‐23S rRNA spacer region genes are commonly used as taxonomic and phylogenetic tools. In this study, two pairs of fluorescent‐labeled primers for 16S rRNA genes and one pair of primers for 16S‐23S rRNA spacer region genes were selected to amplify target sequences of 317 isolates from positive blood cultures. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products of both were then subjected to restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis by capillary electrophoresis after incomplete digestion by Hae III. For products of 16S rRNA genes, single‐strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis was also performed directly. When the data were processed by artificial neural network (ANN), the accuracy of prediction based on 16S‐23S rRNA spacer region gene RFLP data was much higher than that of prediction based on 16S rRNA gene SSCP analysis data(98.0% vs. 79.6%). This study proved that the utilization of ANN as a pattern recognition method was a valuable strategy to simplify bacterial identification when relatively complex data were encountered. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 22:14–20, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis of tritium‐labeled bilirubin
Authors: Latli Bachir , Hrapchak Matt , Krishnamurthy Dhileepkumar , Senanayake Chris H.
Published: January 2008

Tritium‐labeled bilirubin with specific activities ranging from 6.8 to 8.8 Ci/mmol was prepared in a single step by reducing biliverdin dihydrochloride with sodium borotritide in ethanol. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A survey of the year 2006 literature on applications of isothermal titration calorimetry
Authors: Okhrimenko Oksana , Jelesarov Ilian
Published: January 2008

Isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) is a fast and robust method to determine the energetics of association reactions in solution. The changes in enthalpy, entropy and heat capacity that accompany binding provide unique insights into the balance of forces driving association of molecular entities. ITC is used nowadays on a day‐to‐day basis in hundreds of laboratories. The method aids projects both in basic and practice‐oriented research ranging from medicine and biochemistry to physical chemistry and material sciences. Not surprisingly, the range of studies utilizing ITC data is steadily expanding. In this review, we discuss selected results and ideas that have accumulated in the course of the year 2006, the focus being on biologically relevant systems. Theoretical developments, novel applications and studies that provide a deeper level of understanding of the energetic principles of biological function are primarily considered. Following the appearance of a new generation of titration calorimeters, recent papers provide instructive examples of the synergy between energetic and structural approaches in biomedical and biotechnological research. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A sialylation study of mouse brain gangliosides by MALDI a‐TOF and o‐TOF mass spectrometry
Authors: Zarei Mostafa , Bindila Laura , Souady Jamal , Dreisewerd Klaus , Berkenkamp Stefan , Müthing Johannes , Peter‐Katalinić Jasna
Published: January 2008

Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) process of sialoglycoconjugates is generally accompanied by different levels of cleavage of sialic acid residues and/or by dehydration, and decarboxylation reactions. Quantitative densitometry of the mouse brain ganglioside (MBG) components separated by high‐performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) and evidenced by orcinol staining was a basis to verify the ganglioside composition pattern with respect to the relative abundances of individual components in the mixture. A systematic mass spectrometry (MS) sialylation analysis has been carried out to evaluate the feasibility of an axial time‐of‐flight (a‐TOF) MS, equipped with a vacuum MALDI source and an orthogonal‐TOF (o‐TOF) instrument with an ion source operated at about 1 mbar of N2. Besides, the esterification by one methyl group of the carboxyl group in sialic acid to increase the stability of the ganglioside species for MALDI MS analysis has been tested and the yield of intact ganglioside species and of the neutral loss of water and carbon dioxide estimated. For the sialylation analysis of native ganglioside mixtures the MALDI o‐TOF analysis with 6‐azo‐2‐thiothymine/diammonium citrate (ATT/DAC) as a matrix appears as an optimal approach for ganglioside profiling. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long‐term trends of synoptic‐scale breaking Rossby waves in the Northern Hemisphere between 1958 and 2001
Authors: Isotta F. , Martius O. , Sprenger M. , Schwierz C.
Published: January 2008

Breaking synoptic‐scale Rossby waves are frequent features of the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UTLS) which affect both global‐ and regional‐scale dynamics. Furthermore, they directly influence ozone distribution through meridional transport of ozone‐rich air towards the south and ozone‐poor air towards the north. Here, trends in the frequency of these breaking waves are assessed by analysing a 44‐year climatology (1958–2002) of potential vorticity (PV) streamers on isentropic surfaces from 310 to 350 K. These streamers are viewed as breaking Rossby waves, whereby stratospheric (tropospheric) streamers indicate southward (northward) breaking waves. Two complementary techniques are used to analyse the trends. First, linear trends are computed using the least‐squares regression technique. Statistically significant linear trends are found to vary in location and magnitude between isentropic levels and the four seasons. In winter significant trends are detected in the eastern Pacific between 340 and 350 K. A positive trend of stratospheric streamers in the Tropics is related to an increase of total column ozone, whereas the positive trend of tropospheric streamers in the mid‐latitudes is associated with a decrease of total ozone. Secondly, a nonlinear trend analysis is performed using the seasonal‐trend decomposition procedure based on Loess (STL). With this technique, the low‐frequency variability of the time series is analysed during the 44‐year period. For instance, over the eastern Atlantic on 350 K, a phase of decreasing PV streamer frequencies in the 1950s and 1960s is followed by a positive streamer tendency after the 1970s. Additionally, trends of the zonal wind are investigated. One prominent outcome of this analysis is the observation that equatorial easterlies over the Atlantic are weakening. A dynamically meaningful link exists between the trends observed in both wind velocity and PV streamers. Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society
Evaluation of barley and triticale as feed ingredients in growing Iberian pigs: amino acid and carbohydrate ileal digestibility
Authors: Fernández‐Fígares Ignacio , García María A , Ruiz Raquel , Rubio Luis A
Published: January 2008

BACKGROUND: Iberian pig production is linked to the use of the Mediterranean woodland, where the use of local feed resources is of paramount importance for the sustainability of the system. The aim of the present work was to explore the potential of triticale cv. Camarma as compared to barley cv. Esgueva in Iberian pig feeding by studying their respective ileal digestibilities of amino acids and carbohydrates in animals cannulated at the end of the ileum.

RESULTS: Leu, Met and Tyr had (P < 0.05) greater standardised ileal digestibilities (SID) in pigs fed triticale diet. There was a trend (P = 0.07) towards greater SID of Thr in pigs fed the barley diet. The least digestible indispensable amino acids were Ile (74.6% SID) for barley and Thr (78.9% SID) for triticale. Except for β‐glucans, apparent ileal digestibilities (AIDs) of individual non‐starch polysaccharide (NSP), sugars and starch were greater in pigs fed triticale (P < 0.05). Nevertheless, total amounts of NSP digested were greater in pigs fed the barley diet (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: Overall, triticale cv. Camarma had greater amino acid and carbohydrate AID than barley cv. Esgueva and may represent a valuable grain for Iberian pig feeding. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of a chitosan‐based coating with ascorbic acid on post‐harvest quality and core browning of ‘Yali’ pears (Pyrus bertschneideri Rehd.)
Authors: Lin Lin , Wang Baogang , Wang Meng , Cao Jiankang , Zhang Jingjing , Wu Yu , Jiang Weibo
Published: January 2008

BACKGROUND: Chitosan (CTS), as an ideal coating material, has been used for post‐harvest treatment of fruits and vegetables. The effects of coating with 1.5% CTS, alone or combined with 10 mmol L−1 ascorbic acid (AsA), on post‐harvest quality and core browning (CB) incidence in ‘Yali’ pears during storage at room temperature (25 ± 1 °C) were investigated in this study.

RESULTS: It was found that both CTS coating and CTS + AsA coating delayed the increase of weight loss, retained greater firmness, total soluble solids and titratable acidity content than controls; coatings decreased respiration rate and membrane permeability, and also effectively inhibited CB after 60 days of storage. Compared with CTS coating alone, CTS + AsA coating increased these beneficial effects and also helped to retain a much higher AsA content and the activities of antioxidative enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase and ascorbate peroxidase).

CONCLUSION: The CTS coating has the potential to maintain post‐harvest quality and control CB which is the main problem in ‘Yali’ pears during storage. The CTS + AsA coating has more effective application in this study, which could not only be due to reducing the respiration rate and inhibiting the senescence process, but also to increasing the antioxidant capability of the fruit. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Impact of cultivar variation in grain density of rice panicle on grain weight and quality
Authors: Wang Feng , Cheng Fangmin , Zhang Guoping
Published: January 2008

BACKGROUND: In the last two decades, newly released rice cultivars in southeastern China have been mainly characterised by more grains per cm panicle (GPCP), i.e. a compact panicle. These compact panicle cultivars show high yield potential but inferior quality. Accordingly, experiments were conducted to study the effect of GPCP on grain weight and quality.

RESULTS: Two compact panicle and two loose panicle cultivars of japonica rice were used to investigate the effect of GPCP on the variation in grain weight and quality within a panicle. Significant differences in grain quality, including brown rice length, width and length/width ratio, brown rice and head‐milled rice percentages, chalky grain percentage and amylose and protein contents, were found among grains within a panicle. In general, the compact panicle cultivars showed lower grain weight and larger variation in brown rice length, width and length/width ratio, chalky grain percentage and amylose content among grains within a panicle than the loose panicle cultivars.

CONCLUSION: GPCP is negatively associated with quality uniformity, and increasing the grain number on top secondary rachises may reduce the variation in grain weight and quality within a panicle. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Formation of Ordered Two‐Dimensional Polymer Latticeworks With Polygonal Meshes by Self‐Organized Anisotropic Mass Transfer
Authors: Li Wei , Nie Yaru , Zhang Junhu , Zhu Difu , Li Xiao , Sun Haizhu , Yu Kui , Yang Bai
Published: January 2008

This manuscript addresses the formation of self‐assembled two‐dimensional (2D) polymer latticeworks with multiple polygonal meshes packed in various ordered arrays. Firstly, ordered arrays of water droplets were formed in the hydrophilic regions of patterned self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) consisting of isolated hydrophilic circles surrounded by a continuous hydrophobic region. After dip‐coating this water‐patterned surface into a polymer solution in chloroform, dewetting of the polymer solution led to the formation of a crater‐like porous polymer film. Next, the resulting polymer film with round pores arranged in a 2D ordered array was subjected to a thermal treatment carried out at a temperature higher than the glass‐transition temperature (Tg) of the polymer. The thermal annealing process resulted in a morphological transformation from circular pores into polygonal meshes packed in either a similar or different ordered array. This morphological transition is self‐organized, involving mass transfer, an anisotropic process, and is controlled by the minimization of the Gibbs free energy. An empirical equation was established to guide the experiments. Thus, the patterned features of the polymer meshes can be designed via the ordered arrays of the hydrophilic circles of the SAMs as well as by experimental parameters such as the concentration of the polymer solution. The formation of the polymer latticework with polygonal meshes reveals that self‐organized mass transfer can be applied in micropatterning by elaborate experimental design.

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Incorporation of Polyoxometalates Into Polystyrene Latex by Supramolecular Encapsulation and Miniemulsion Polymerization
Authors: Li Haolong , Li Pan , Yang Yang , Qi Wei , Sun Hang , Wu Lixin
Published: January 2008

Submicrometer polystyrene (PS) latex doped with functional polyoxometalates (POMs) has been elaborated via two steps. The first step is the electrostatic encapsulation of POMs by polymerizable surfactants through the replacement of counterions, forming the supramolecular complexes which are organic compatible. And the second step is the incorporation of the complexes into PS latex chemically by miniemulsion polymerization. TEM images indicate that POMs are evenly dispersed in the hybrid latex, and spectral characterizations demonstrate that the properties of POMs are well retained, leading to the functional features of polymer latex, such as luminescence and coloration. Furthermore, the supramolecular encapsulation and the hydrophobic latex matrix provide an effective protection to POMs, which greatly enhances their stability against the ambient acid or basic environment.

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Treatment alternatives of congenital hand differences with thumb hypoplasia involvement
Authors: Papadogeorgou Ellada V. , Soucacos Panayotis N.
Published: January 2008

Congenital thumb hypoplasia is a complex and heterogeneous congenital difference that is detrimental to hand function. Apart from its' classic form, which is now considered to be part of radial dysplasia, it can occur as part of other congenital anomalies including, syndactyly, symbrachydactyly, atypical cleft hand, bifid thumb, triphalangeal thumb, mirror hand, constriction band syndrome, as well as generalized anomalies and syndromes. Management is aimed primarily at restoring basic hand function, specifically, power grasp and precision pinch, and secondarily to improve cosmoses, which inevitably is going to be impaired. Several treatment alternatives have been proposed to manage the specific disabling condition and include, 1st web space reconstruction and opponensplasty, pollicization, toe‐to‐hand transfer, distraction lengthening, free toe phalangeal transfer or the use of allograft, stabilization of the metacarpophalangeal joint, and surgery of “spare parts.” The purpose of this study is to evaluate the various alternatives available today and propose an algorithm applicable for the appropriate management of thumb deficiency, based on their specific characteristics. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2008.
Ursolic acid: An anti‐ and pro‐inflammatory triterpenoid
Authors: Ikeda Yasutaka , Murakami Akira , Ohigashi Hajime
Published: January 2008

There is growing interest in the elucidation of the biological functions of triterpenoids, ubiquitously distributed throughout the plant kingdom, some of which are used as anticancer and anti‐inflammatory agents in Asian countries. Ursolic acid (UA), a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid carboxylic acid, is the major component of some traditional medicine herbs and is well known to possess a wide range of biological functions, such as antioxidative, anti‐inflammation, and anticancer activities, that are able to counteract endogenous and exogenous biological stimuli. In contrast to these beneficial properties, some laboratory studies have recently revealed that the effects of UA on normal cells and tissues are occasionally pro‐inflammatory. Thus, UA may be designated as a double‐edged sword with both positive and negative effects, and further evaluations of the effects of UA on the biological status of target cells or tissues are necessary. This review summarizes previous and current information regarding UA, and provides new insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms of its activities.
Molecular cloning and characterization of three distinct choriogenins in masu salmon, Oncorhynchus masou
Authors: Fujita Toshiaki , Fukada Haruhisa , Shimizu Munetaka , Hiramatsu Naoshi , Hara Akihiko
Published: January 2008

Three cDNAs, each encoding a different choriogenin (Chg), were isolated from a female masu salmon (Oncorhynchus masou) liver cDNA library. Two of the cDNA clones, Chg Hα and Chg Hβ, showed a close relationship and contained the typical domains of zona pellucida (ZP) B genes in fish, namely proline and glutamine rich repeats, a trefoil factor family domain, and a ZP domain. Specific antibodies against recombinant Chg H products (rmHα and rmHβ) were generated to elucidate the relationship between the Chg H cDNAs and two types of serum Chg H protein, which were previously purified and characterized, and designated as very‐high‐molecular‐weight vitelline envelope‐related protein (vhVERP) and Chg H of masu salmon. The immunobiochemical analyses revealed that the Chg Hα and Chg Hβ clones encoded vhVERP and Chg H proteins, respectively. The third cDNA clone (Chg L) appeared to be a ZPC gene and, by mapping the N‐terminal sequence of purified Chg L, was shown to encode serum Chg L protein. Various types of heteromultimer of the three Chgs were identified immunologically as high molecular weight chorion components, indicating the involvement of complex heterodimerization of multiple Chgs in the construction of chorion architecture in masu salmon. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 75: 1217–1228, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genetic modification of primordial germ cells by gene trapping, gene targeting, and ϕC31 integrase
Authors: Leighton Philip A. , van de Lavoir Marie‐Cecile , Diamond Jennifer H. , Xia Chunyao , Etches Robert J.
Published: January 2008

The genome of germline committed cells is thought to be protected by mechanisms of transcriptional silencing, posing a barrier to transgenesis using cultured germline cells. We found that selection for transgene integration into the primordial germ cell genome required that the transgenes be flanked by the chicken β‐globin insulator. However, integration frequency was low, and sequencing of the insertion sites revealed that the transgenes preferentially inserted into active promoter regions, implying that silencing prohibited recovery of insertions in other regions. Much higher frequencies of integration were achieved when the ϕC31 integrase was used to insert transgenes into endogenous pseudo attP sites. Despite the evidence for transcriptional silencing in PGCs, gene targeting of a nonexpressed gene was also achieved. The ability to make genetic modifications in PGCs provides unprecedented opportunities to study the biology of PGCs, as well as produce transgenic chickens for applications in biotechnology and developmental biology. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 75: 1163–1175, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Isolation and characterization of a novel perivitellin from the eggs of Pomacea scalaris (Mollusca, Ampullariidae)
Authors: Ituarte S. , Dreon M.S. , Ceolín M. , Heras H.
Published: January 2008

Perivitellins are important components of the perivitelline fluid (PVF) that surrounds gastropod embryos. The glyco–lipo–carotenoprotein ovorubin (OR) from eggs of the snail Pomacea canaliculata has been the most studied to date. Here we report the characterization of scalarin (SC), a glyco–lipo–carotenoprotein from the PVF of P. scalaris. SC was purified by ultracentrifugation and exclusion chromatography. It is the major egg protein, representing 64% of the total soluble protein. The particle has a hydration density of 1.26 g/ml, an apparent molecular mass of 380 kDa and it is an elongated compact protein as estimated by small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS). It is composed of three subunits of ca. 35, 28, and 24 kDa noncovalently bonded. SC is highly glycosylated (carbohydrate content 20.1%, by wt.), with a low lipid content (0.7%), being esterified sterols, pigments and polar lipids the most abundant lipid classes. HPTLC and spectrophotometric analysis of the carotenoid fraction revealed the presence of free astaxanthin (ASX; 62.0%), and an unidentified carotenoid (38.0%). The carotenoid–apoprotein interaction was studied by spectrophotometry. Carotenoids do not seem to affect the structural characteristics of the oligomer. However, the carotenoid–protein association protected ASX against oxidation. The cross‐reactivity between SC and perivitellins of P. canaliculata was tested using polyclonal antibodies (PAb) against SC, OR, and perivitellin PV2. The PAbs failed to cross‐react with any egg proteins of either the same or other species. SC, among other functional similarities with OR, would be an antioxidant carrier, protecting at the same time carotenoids from oxidation in the perivitellin fluid of the egg. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 75: 1441–1448, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Changes of PKA and PDK1 in the principal piece of boar spermatozoa treated with a cell‐permeable cAMP analog to induce flagellar hyperactivation
Authors: Harayama Hiroshi , Nakamura Kazumi
Published: January 2008

A cAMP‐induced protein tyrosine phosphorylation and flagellar hyperactivation are controlled via complicated signaling cascades in mammalian spermatozoa. For instance, these events seem to be regulated positively by the PKA‐mediated signaling and negatively by the PI3K/PDK1‐mediated signaling. In this article, we have shown molecular changes of PKA and PDK1 in cAMP analog (cBiMPS)‐treated boar spermatozoa in order to disclose possible roles of these kinases in protein tyrosine phosphorylation and hyperactivation. Ejaculated spermatozoa were incubated with cBiMPS, and then they were used for biochemical analyses of sperm kinases by Western blotting and indirect immunofluorescence and for assessment of flagellar movement. The first 30‐min incubation with cBiMPS highly activated PKA of the principal piece to the accompaniment of autophosphorylation on Thr‐197 of catalytic subunits. However, protein tyrosine phosphorylation and hyperactivation were fully induced in the sperm samples after the 180‐min incubation. A potentially active form of PDK1 (54/55‐kDa phospho‐PDK1) was detected in the principal piece of the spermatozoa during the 90‐min incubation. Another potentially active form (59‐kDa phospho‐PDK1) gradually increased during the same incubation period. However, the PDK1 suddenly became inactive by the dephosphorylation after the 180‐min incubation, namely coincidently with full induction of protein tyrosine phosphorylation and hyperactivation. Additionally, existence of PI3K‐dependently suppressing mechanisms for protein tyrosine phosphorylation was confirmed in the principal piece by pharmacological experiments with LY294002 and biochemical analyses with anti‐PI3K p85 antibodies. These findings suggest that dephosphorylation of PDK1 may be a molecular switch for enhancement of protein tyrosine phosphorylation and flagellar hyperactivation in boar spermatozoa. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 75: 1396–1407, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A tree‐based approach to matchmaking algorithms for resource discovery
Authors: Islam Md. Rafiqul , Islam Md. Zahidul , Leyla Nazia
Published: January 2008

One of the essential operations in a distributed computing is resource discovery. A resource discovery service provides mechanisms to identify the set of resources capable of satisfying the requirements of a job from a large collection of resources. The matchmaking framework provides a reasonable solution to resource management in a distributed environment; it is composed of four important components as classified advertisement (classad), matchmaker protocol, matchmaking algorithm and claiming protocols. Most of the time required to find a resource depends on the performance of the matchmaking algorithms. A distributed environment introduces a large set of heterogeneous resources which is always changing. The matchmaking algorithms should incorporate with this highly changing environment. In this paper we proposed a fast and efficient searching method for matchmaking algorithms which also deals with resource heterogeneity. The proposed approach reduces the searching time to a linear function from a cubic function proposed by R. Raman, M. Livny, and M. Solomon. We discuss briefly the working principles of the method and compare the experimental results of the proposed matchmaking algorithm with those of the existing algorithm. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficiency‐based h‐ and hp‐refinement strategies for finite element methods
Authors: De Sterck H. , Manteuffel T. , McCormick S. , Nolting J. , Ruge J. , Tang L.
Published: January 2008

Two efficiency‐based grid refinement strategies are investigated for adaptive finite element solution of partial differential equations. In each refinement step, the elements are ordered in terms of decreasing local error, and the optimal fraction of elements to be refined is determined based on efficiency measures that take both error reduction and work into account. The goal is to reach a pre‐specified bound on the global error with minimal amount of work. Two efficiency measures are discussed, ‘work times error’ and ‘accuracy per computational cost’. The resulting refinement strategies are first compared for a one‐dimensional (1D) model problem that may have a singularity. Modified versions of the efficiency strategies are proposed for the singular case, and the resulting adaptive methods are compared with a threshold‐based refinement strategy. Next, the efficiency strategies are applied to the case of hp‐refinement for the 1D model problem. The use of the efficiency‐based refinement strategies is then explored for problems with spatial dimension greater than one. The ‘work times error’ strategy is inefficient when the spatial dimension, d, is larger than the finite element order, p, but the ‘accuracy per computational cost’ strategy provides an efficient refinement mechanism for any combination of d and p. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The relationship of military imposed marital separations on maternal acceptance of pregnancy
Authors: Weis Karen L. , Lederman Regina P. , Lilly Anne E. , Schaffer Judith
Published: January 2008

The effect of military deployment and perceived availability and source of community support on women's acceptance of pregnancy were examined in each trimester of pregnancy at four military bases. The sample was 503 primigravida or multigravida women eligible for care in the military medical system. Military deployment and community support had a statistically significant effect on pregnancy acceptance. Gravidas with deployed husbands had higher conflict for accepting pregnancy than gravidas without deployed spouses. Community support had a significant positive effect on pregnancy acceptance. Women perceiving support predominantly from off‐base versus on‐base communities had significantly higher conflict with acceptance of pregnancy. Findings point to improved maternal acceptance of pregnancy with paternal presence and community support in the event of military deployment. Published 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 31:196–207, 2008
Development of an educational programme for caregivers of people aging with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Finlayson Marcia , Garcia Jennifer Dahl , Preissner Katharine
Published: January 2008

This article describes a three‐phase project to identify and develop an occupational therapy response to the challenges experienced by caregivers of middle‐aged and older adults with multiple sclerosis (MS). In Phase 1 302 caregivers of middle‐aged and older adults with MS were interviewed by telephone to identify the care‐giving challenges they experienced. A total of eight challenges were identified, with the four most prevalent ones including finding and using formal support services, managing the emotional aspects of caregiving, doing the physical aspects of care‐giving and dealing with informal supports. In Phase 2 a comprehensive literature review was conducted to identify existing caregiver education programmes that could be used to address these challenges. None of the 21 programmes that were located addressed all of the challenges identified through the Phase 1 interviews. In response, a new five‐session psycho‐educational group programme entitled ‘Meeting the Challenges of MS’ was developed in Phase 3. The programme was empirically grounded in Phase 1 findings, and drew on theory to guide group process and sequencing. The findings from Phases 1 and 2 and the resulting programme cannot be generalized to caregivers of younger adults with MS, although the steps taken to develop this programme have the potential for replication with other populations served by occupational therapists. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Haem oxygenase‐1 regulates catabolic and anabolic processes in osteoarthritic chondrocytes
Authors: Guillén MI , Megías J , Gomar F , Alcaraz MJ
Published: January 2008

Pro‐inflammatory cytokines, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and other catabolic factors participate in the pathogenesis of cartilage damage in osteoarthritis (OA). Pro‐inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) mediate cartilage degradation and might be involved in the progression of OA. Previously, we found that haem oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) is down‐regulated by pro‐inflammatory cytokines and up‐regulated by IL‐10 in OA chondrocytes. The aim of this study was to determine whether HO‐1 can modify the catabolic effects of IL‐1β in OA cartilage and chondrocytes. Up‐regulation of HO‐1 by cobalt protoporphyrin IX significantly reduced glycosaminoglycan degradation elicited by IL‐1β in OA cartilage explants but increased glycosaminoglycan synthesis and the expression of collagen II in OA chondrocytes in primary culture, as determined by radiometric procedures, immunoblotting and immunocytochemistry. HO‐1 decreased the activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2. This was accompanied by a significant inhibition in MMP activity and expression of collagenases MMP‐1 and MMP‐13 at the protein and mRNA levels. In addition, HO‐1 induction caused a significant increase in the production of insulin‐like growth factor‐1 and a reduction in the levels of insulin‐like growth factor binding protein‐3. We have shown in primary culture of chondrocytes and articular explants from OA patients that HO‐1 counteracts the catabolic and anti‐anabolic effects of IL‐1β. Our data thus suggest that HO‐1 may be a factor regulating the degradation and synthesis of extracellular matrix components in OA. Copyright © 2008 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of cenosphere filler additions on the three‐body abrasive wear behavior of glass fiber‐reinforced epoxy composites
Authors: Suresha B. , Chandramohan G. , Siddaramaiah  , Jayaraju T.
Published: January 2008

The dry three‐body abrasive wear behavior of bi‐directional glass fabric reinforced epoxy composites with and without cenosphere filler have been studied using dry sand/rubber wheel abrasion tester. The angular silica sand particle sizes in the range 200–250 μm were used as dry and loose abrasives. The wear experiments have been conducted at two different loads viz., 22 and 32 N and different abrading distances viz. 270, 540, 810, and 1,080 m. The wear volume increases with an increase in load/abrading distance for all composites. From the experimental wear data it was observed that the abrasive wear of the composites dependent on the applied load and abrading distance. Further, the cenospheres filler inclusion in glass fiber reinforced epoxy (G‐E) composite showed poor abrasive wear performance. Scanning electron microscopy was used to study the morphology of the worn surface features of composites and to understand the mechanisms involved in the wear analysis. POLYM. COMPOS., 2008. © 2008 Society of Plastics Engineers
Establishment of a pharmacoepidemiological database in Germany: methodological potential, scientific value and practical limitations
Authors: Pigeot Iris , Ahrens Wolfgang
Published: January 2008

Purpose

We present a new population‐based pharmacoepidemiological (PE) database obtained from statutory health insurances (SHIs) that is able to generate signals, to monitor prescribed drugs and to describe drug utilisation. We discuss methodological features of the database and we assess to which degree this database reflects basic demographic characteristics and hospitalisation rates of the general population.

Methods

Files of three SHIs were linked with drug dispensation data from a pharmacies' electronic data processing centre on an individual basis using the unique subject identification number (ID) at a trusted third party centre. Plausibility checks and descriptive analyses were carried out.

Results

The database covers 3.6 million SHI‐members, provides drug utilisation data and data on hospitalisations. SHI membership is fairly stable over time. Our data indicate marked differences in socio‐demographic characteristics between SHIs. Hospital admission rates standardised for age vary between 0.164 and 0.229 per person year, which is in good agreement with official statistics (0.20). The age distribution shows good agreement for men and some underrepresentation for women above the age of 60 as compared to the general population.

Conclusions

Confounder information on medical conditions, concomitant medications and socio‐demographic variables can be obtained from the database, while the assessment of confounders related to lifestyle requires supplementary data collection. The database allows for a population‐based approach and reflects daily practice including off‐label use of drugs. Independent recording of exposure and outcome data prevents reporting bias on medication or outcome. Legal conditions that allow continuous updating of the database need to be settled. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Luminescence imaging for the detection of shunts on silicon solar cells
Authors: Kasemann M. , Grote D. , Walter B. , Kwapil W. , Trupke T. , Augarten Y. , Bardos R.A. , Pink E. , Abbott M.D. , Warta W.
Published: January 2008

Luminescence imaging is a non‐destructive, fast, and versatile imaging method for spatially resolved solar cell and material characterization. In this paper, we investigate its ability to detect shunts on silicon solar cells. We give a detailed description of the relation between local junction voltage and local luminescence signal. This relation is important because shunts drain majority currents causing voltage drops across the surrounding series resistances and that way affect luminescence images. To investigate effects related to majority currents, we describe and apply a simulation model that allows the simulation of lateral voltage distributions on solar cells. This model, and a comparison to illuminated lock‐in thermography, helps to discuss some practical aspects about shunt detection by luminescence imaging. We will discuss a procedure to distinguish between ohmic and diode‐like shunts and finally present simulations and measurements showing that luminescence imaging is only weakly sensitive to shunts under the metallization. However, we also show its high sensitivity for remote shunts and propose a possible application where this high sensitivity could be especially helpful. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.