bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved resolution in the acidic and basic region of 2‐DE of insect antennae proteins using hydroxyethyl disulfide
Authors: Acín Patricia , Rayó Josep , Guerrero Angel , Quero Carmen
Published: August 2009

Olfaction is essential for processing chemical signals in insects, but characterizing the proteins implicated in this process has proved challenging. We optimized 2‐DE gel resolution of insect proteins by using a buffer containing two reducing agents, DTT and hydroxyethyl disulfide. This buffer clearly improved resolution and decreased spot streaking and spot trains of 2‐DE in comparison to DTT alone. We described for the first time that the buffer with DTT and hydroxyethyl disulfide further to reducing streaking in the basic part of the gel eliminates false spots in the acidic gel regions that appeared when only DTT was used as reducing agent.
Wavelet transform based decomposition and reconstruction for on‐line PD detection and measurement. Part I: Narrow band components decomposition
Authors: Haghjoo Farhad , Shahrtash S. Mohammad
Published: August 2009

In this paper, a novel multi‐resolution filter for on‐line decomposition and analysis of partial discharge (PD) signals based on discrete wavelet transform (DWT) is developed. By applying this filter, as soon as a new sample of the original signal is drawn, the new elements of detail and approximate components at any desired level is derived, and the successive procedure of signal processing in basic DWT is eliminated. Using this filter, the PD or any non‐stationary (transient) signal is decomposed to different frequency band components, simultaneously. Therefore, the decomposition components of PD signals in all frequency bandwidths are simultaneously available. The frequency characteristic of this filter is verified, then in order to make the proposed filter more suitable for on‐line applications, its order is reduced without losing the accuracy of the results. Results, for simulation and field test data, have shown the appropriateness of the proposed filter for on‐line PD detection and measurement. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sub‐Freezing Conductivity of PFSA Membranes
Authors: Álvarez‐Gallego Y. , de Heer M. P.
Published: August 2009

Some properties of perfluorosulphonic acid (PFSA) membranes at sub‐freezing temperatures are presented in this work. Both commercial PFSAs and PFSA‐based membranes, developed within the Autobrane project, have been investigated. The proton conductivity at temperatures between –25 and 0 °C, has been determined by AC Impedance Spectroscopy. At each given condition, the different PFSA membranes exhibit similar values of proton conductivity. At –25 °C, the proton conductivities under ice‐saturated conditions were three to ten times higher than under reduced p conditions. As expected, proton conductivities decreased with decreasing temperature. The phase behaviour of water in the PFSA membranes has been investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) at temperatures between 20 and –60 °C. Water contents of membrane samples were estimated by thermo‐gravimetrical analysis (TGA) before the measurement (in fully hydrated state) and after measurement at –25 °C. For all the membranes, there was a remarkable decrease in the hydration number after the experiment at –25 °C. This fact may also contribute to the decrease in conductivity observed. No evidence of damage as a consequence of the measuring conditions could be detected for any of the membranes.
Dissecting structure–function interactions in acute optic neuritis to investigate neuroplasticity
Authors: Jenkins Thomas , Ciccarelli Olga , Toosy Ahmed , Miszkiel Katherine , Wheeler‐Kingshott Claudia , Altmann Daniel , Mancini Laura , Jones Steve , Plant Gordon , Miller David , Thompson Alan
Published: August 2009

Structural MRI, electrophysiology, and functional MRI (fMRI) elucidate different aspects of damage and repair in demyelinating diseases. We combined them to investigate why patients with optic neuritis (ON) exhibit a wide variation in severity of acute visual loss, with the following objectives: (1) To determine how structural and electrophysiological changes in the anterior and posterior visual pathways contribute to acute visual loss. (2) To combine these data with fMRI, to investigate whether cortical activity modulates visual acuity. The visual system of 28 patients with acute unilateral ON was assessed. Linear regression modeling was used to identify parameters associated with acute visual loss, and to determine whether fMRI activity was associated with vision, after accounting for structural and electrophysiological predictors, age, and gender. Optic nerve lesion length and visual evoked potential (VEP) amplitude were associated with visual loss. Bilateral activation in the extra‐striate occipital cortex correlated directly with vision, after adjusting for optic nerve lesion length, VEP amplitude, and demographic characteristics. These data suggest that acute visual loss is associated with the extent of inflammation and conduction block in the optic nerve, but not with pathology in the optic radiations or occipital cortex. The association of better vision with greater fMRI responses, after accounting for factors which reduce afferent input, suggests a role for adaptive neuroplasticity within the association cortex of the dorsal stream of higher visual processing. Longitudinal studies will clarify whether different extra‐striate cortical regions play a role in adaptive plasticity in the acute and chronic stages of injury. Hum Brain Mapp, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Age‐related differences in multiple measures of white matter integrity: A diffusion tensor imaging study of healthy aging
Authors: Bennett Ilana J. , Madden David J. , Vaidya Chandan J. , Howard Darlene V. , Howard James H.
Published: August 2009

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) measures diffusion of molecular water, which can be used to calculate indices of white matter integrity. Early DTI studies of aging primarily focused on two global measures of integrity; the average rate (mean diffusivity, MD) and orientation coherence (fractional anisotropy, FA) of diffusion. More recent studies have added measures of water movement parallel (axial diffusivity, AD) and perpendicular (radial diffusivity, RD) to the primary diffusion direction, which are thought to reflect the neural bases of age differences in diffusion (i.e., axonal shrinkage and demyelination, respectively). In this study, patterns of age differences in white matter integrity were assessed by comparing younger and healthy older adults on multiple measures of integrity (FA, AD, and RD). Results revealed two commonly reported patterns (Radial Increase Only and Radial/Axial Increase), and one relatively novel pattern (Radial Increase/Axial Decrease) that varied by brain region and may reflect differential aging of microstructural (e.g., degree of myelination) and macrostructural (e.g., coherence of fiber orientation) properties of white matter. In addition, larger age differences in FA in frontal white matter were consistent with the anterior–posterior gradient of age differences in white matter integrity. Together, these findings complement other recent studies in providing information about patterns of diffusivity that are characteristic of healthy aging. Hum Brain Mapp, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Seasonality of epCO2 at different scales along an integrated river continuum within the Dee basin, NE Scotland
Authors: Dawson Julian J.C. , Soulsby Chris , Hrachowitz Markus , Speed Mark , Tetzlaff Doerthe
Published: August 2009

Spatial and temporal variations of free CO2 concentrations in surface waters are mainly controlled by dynamic processes encompassing terrestrial inputs and in‐stream biotic cycling. Free CO2 can be expressed as ‘excess partial pressure of CO2’ (epCO2), indicating supersaturation or under‐saturation with respect to atmospheric CO2. Seasonal patterns of epCO2 at sites draining nested upland catchments between 3·40 and 1837 km2 were assessed within the River Dee basin in NE Scotland. EpCO2 values ranged from 0·14 at the lowermost site on the mainstem in autumn to 12·7 on a major tributary during spring.

A seasonality index was derived to describe contrasting winter/spring maxima and summer/autumn minima as annual mean epCO2 values could not clearly distinguish between different sites. Seasonal differences tended to increase downstream as progressive changes in physicochemical conditions enhanced the influence of autotrophic communities. However, perturbations to this continuum occurred as CO2 inputs from high DOC, heterotrophic tributaries and land‐use changes between open moorland and forest affected downstream continuity. Major tributaries showed reduced differences between seasons compared to the mainstem. Smaller headwaters indicated a lack of seasonality as high connectivity of responsive, peaty soils enabled continual inputs of terrestrially derived free CO2 to streams concomitant with limited autotrophic CO2 removal, maintaining epCO2 > 1 throughout.

Seasonality of epCO2 was mainly driven by the ability of in‐stream biota to consume CO2 during optimal conditions in summer/autumn. This was confirmed by multiple linear regression analysis, which indicated that, apart from catchment area, baseflow and biotic activity indicators were the best predictors of epCO2 seasonality characteristics at any particular stage of the river system. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Versican overexpression in human breast cancer lesions: Known and new isoforms for stromal tumor targeting
Authors: Kischel Philippe , Waltregny David , Dumont Bruno , Turtoi Andrei , Greffe Yannick , Kirsch Stephanie , De Pauw Edwin , Castronovo Vincent
Published: August 2009

Proteoglycans play a key role in cancer development and progression by participating in the constitution of a specific fertile tumor microenvironment. As they are largely overexpressed in the malignant stroma, proteoglycans provide a reservoir of potential new targets for anticancer therapies, because they can serve to convey toxic payloads in the close proximity of cancer cells and subsequently destroy them. In this context, versican, a proteoglycan largely overexpressed in several solid cancers, bears the potential to be such an ideal target. As 4 main versican isoforms have been characterized, we sought to determine which isoform could represent the best target in human breast cancer. We used a series of 10 primary breast cancer lesions that were characterized as overexpressing the versican protein, when compared with matched normal breast tissues, using shotgun mass spectrometry and immunohistochemistry experiments. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western‐blotting experiments were used to evaluate versican isoform expression in breast cancer/normal tissue pairs for which ARN quality was excellent. All known isoforms were significantly overexpressed in the malignant lesions, both at the mRNA and at the protein levels. In the course of this study, we also identified and cloned a new alternatively spliced versican isoform, referred to as V4, which was also found to be upregulated in human breast cancer. This study provides for the first time a comprehensive mRNA and protein analysis of versican isoforms expression in human breast tissues, and offers insights into which therapeutic strategy would be best suited to target versican in human breast cancer lesions.
Cytotoxic effects of antipsychotic drugs implicate cholesterol homeostasis as a novel chemotherapeutic target
Authors: Wiklund Erik D. , Catts Vibeke S. , Catts Stanley V. , Ng Teng Fong , Whitaker Noel J. , Brown Andrew J. , Lutze‐Mann Louise H.
Published: August 2009

The reported reduction in cancer risk in those suffering from schizophrenia may be because antipsychotic medications have antineoplastic effects. In this study, 6 antipsychotic agents with a range of structural and pharmacological properties (reserpine, chlorpromazine, haloperidol, pimozide, risperidone and olanzapine), were screened for their effect on the viability of cell lines derived from lymphoblastoma, neuroblastoma, non‐small cell lung cancer and breast adenocarcinoma. We aimed to determine if antipsychotic drugs in general possess cancer‐specific cytotoxic potential, and whether it can be attributed to a common mode of action. With the exception of risperidone, all drugs tested displayed selective inhibition of the viability of cancer cell lines compared with normal cells. Using Affymetrix expression microarrays and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, we found that for the antipsychotic drugs, olanzapine and pimozide, cytotoxicity appeared to be mediated via effects on cholesterol homeostasis. The role of cholesterol metabolism in the selective cytotoxicity of these drugs was supported by demonstration of their increased lethality when coadministered with a cholesterol synthesis inhibitor, mevastatin. Also, pimozide and olanzapine showed accelerating cytotoxic effects from 12 to 48 hr in time course studies, mirroring the time‐dependent onset of cytotoxicity induced by the amphiphile, U18666A. On the basis of these results, we concluded that the Class II cationic amphiphilic properties of antipsychotic drugs contribute to their cytotoxic effects by acting on cholesterol homeostasis and altering the biophysical properties of cellular membranes, and that drugs affecting membrane‐related cholesterol pathways warrant further investigation as potential augmentors of standard cancer chemotherapy.
BIIB021, a novel Hsp90 inhibitor, sensitizes head and neck squamous cell carcinoma to radiotherapy
Authors: Yin Xiaoying , Zhang Hong , Lundgren Karen , Wilson Lynn , Burrows Francis , Shores Carol G.
Published: August 2009

Heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) is a molecular chaperone that promotes the conformational maturation of numerous client proteins, many of which play critical roles in tumor cell growth and survival. The ansamycin‐based Hsp90 inhibitor 17‐allylamino‐17‐demethoxygeldanamycin (17‐AAG) is currently in Phase III clinical testing. However, 17‐AAG is difficult to formulate and associated with dose‐limited toxicity issues. A fully synthetic and bioavailable Hsp90 inhibitor, BIIB021, was evaluated for antitumor activity in a variety of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cell lines and HNSCC xenograft models, either as a single agent or in combination with fractionated radiation and the results were compared with that of 17‐AAG. BIIB021 showed strong antitumor activity, comparable with, and in certain instances, superior to 17‐AAG. BIIB021 enhanced the in vitro radiosensitivity of HNSCCA cell lines with a corresponding reduction in the expression of key radioresponsive proteins, increased apoptotic cells and enhance G2 arrest. In xenograft studies, BIIB021 exhibited a strong antitumor effect outperforming 17‐AAG, either as a single agent and or in combination with radiation, thereby improved the efficacy of radiation. These results suggest that this synthetic and bioavailable Hsp90 inhibitor affects multiple pathways involved in tumor development and progression in the HNSCC setting and may represent a better strategy for the treatment of HNSCC patients, either as a monotherapy or a radiosensitizer. Furthermore, it also demonstrates the benefits of using preclinical models of chemosensitization to radiotherapy to explore clinically relevant radiation dosing schemes.
The Role of Early Fungal Colonizers in Leaf‐Litter Decomposition in Portuguese Streams Impacted by Agricultural Runoff
Authors: Sridhar K. R. , Duarte Sofia , Cássio Fernanda , Pascoal Cláudia
Published: August 2009

We conducted a transplant experiment between two streams in NW Portugal impacted by agricultural runoff, mainly differing in phosphate concentration, to determine whether fungi on decomposing leaves would adapt to the new environment or would be replaced by fungi of the recipient stream. The most nutrient enriched stream had lower fungal diversity but faster leaf decomposition. Leaf transplantation did not alter fungal activity or species dominance. Multidimensional scaling ordination of fungal communities, from DNA fingerprint or conidial production, revealed that transplanted communities resembled more those of the original stream than the recipient stream. Results suggest that early fungal colonizers will determine the development and activity of fungal communities on decomposing leaves in streams impacted by agricultural practices. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Sericostoma vittatum (Trichoptera) Larvae Are Able to Use Pine Litter as an Energy Source
Authors: Campos Jaime , González Jose M.
Published: August 2009

We tested the effect of conditioning time of Pinus sylvestris litter on food consumption and growth of laboratory‐reared Sericostoma vittatum larvae. In all cases, larval mass was positively correlated with consumption rates but negatively with growth rates and gross production efficiencies. Conditioning time (4, 8 or 30 weeks) had an effect on feeding rates: they were lowest for the least conditioned pine litter, but no effect of conditioning time on growth rates was observed. Contrary to previous reports on conifer litter use by aquatic detritivores, our results indicate that S.vittatum larvae were able to transform the highly refractory pine litter into secondary production even when it was conditioned for only 4 weeks. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Impacts of Eucalyptus globulus Plantations on Physiology and Population Densities of Invertebrates Inhabiting Iberian Atlantic Streams
Authors: Larrañaga Aitor , Basaguren Ana , Pozo Jesús
Published: August 2009

The aim of our study was to evaluate the effects of Eucalyptus plantations on population and biochemistry parameters of 3 stream invertebrates. The shredder Echinogammarus spp. had significantly lower densities, proportion of adults and lower accumulation rates of mass, lipid, carbon and nitrogen in eucalypt sites than in native deciduous sites. For the shredder Sericostoma pyrenaicum (Pictet) similar densities were found in both site types, but mass accumulation rate was again lower in eucalypt sites than in the native ones. Contrastingly, density of the collector/grazer Habroleptoides confusa (Sartori and Jacob) was higher in eucalypt sites than in native sites and maximum body length and protein accumulation rate was better explained by soluble reactive phosphorus content in the water than with eucalypt cover. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The Impact of Fungal Extracts on Leaf Litter on the Food Preference of Gammarus roeselii
Authors: Aßmann Christine , von Elert Eric
Published: August 2009

We investigated the effect of methanol and methanol/methylene chloride extracts of the oomycete Pythium sp. JN 1‐b and of the fungi Ascomycete sp. PVSo8, Fusarium sporotrichoides, and Cylindrocarpon sp. 94‐2057 on the food preference of Gammarus roeselii. The preference for leaf discs coated with these extracts compared to uncoated leaf discs was tested in food‐choice assays. Methanol extracts of all strains repelled G. roeselii, and the effect of the extract concentration on relative consumption was strain specific. The repellent effect of these extracts, especially of extracts of Cylindrocarpon sp., decreased when the fungi were grown on leaf extract medium as opposed to synthetic medium containing sucrose. None of the methanol/methylene chloride extracts affected the food preference of the gammarid. We conclude that biologically active compounds were extracted from fungi and an oomycete were soluble in methanol but not in methanol/methylene chloride. Only repellent activity was observed with the extracts, and relative ratios of repellents and attractants might determine the consumption of fungi by G. roeselii. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Flow Velocity Effect on Leaf Litter Breakdown in Tufa Depositing System (Plitvice Lakes, Croatia)
Authors: Belančić Anita , Kepčija Renata Matoničkin , Miliša Marko , Moraj Anđelka Plenković , Habdija Ivan
Published: August 2009

Considerable amount of riparian leaf litter is annually supplied to the cascade Plitvice Lakes and trapped on tufa barriers where it decays together with aquatic macrophytes. These barriers are the sites of heavy calcite precipitation that can widely differ in terms of current velocity. We conducted a leafbag experiment at sites differing in flow velocity and tufa deposition rate. Decomposition of Petasites spp. and Fagus sylvatica was higher under high current (0.80 m/s) and high tufa deposition areas than in low current (< 0.20 m/s) and low tufa deposition areas (k = 0.085 vs. 0.021 for Petasites spp. and 0.009 vs. 0.002 for Fagus sylvatica). We concluded that although tufa deposition could interfere with decomposition by obstructing physical abrasion and also restricting microbial conditioning, thin calcite crusts developed on the surface of the leaves made them more fragile and thus accelerated their decomposition. High current velocity probably magnified this effect by supporting higher tufa deposition and coarser type of tufa fabrics. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A position of influence: Variation in offender identification rates by location in a lineup
Authors: O'connell Michael , Synnott John
Published: August 2009

Researchers have identified several threats to the validity of the use of the lineup as a test of true recognition. One concern is related to the structure of the simultaneous lineup. It is argued here that a simultaneous presentation of an array nonetheless requires the viewer to undertake sequential processing of the items in the array. This sequential pattern is unlikely to be random and therefore the position of a culprit in a lineup may have a significant effect on the accuracy of witness selection. A simulated crime (snatching of a handbag) was shown to a convenience sample of 84 undergraduates aged between 18–23 years. In 84 subsequent live lineups, the offender was placed with four foils. He was positioned on the far left (position 1) in 42 cases (50%), and in 14 cases respectively in positions 3 (centre), 4 (centre right) and 5 (extreme right). A very strong association was found between position and correct identification with position 1 placement leading to a significantly lower proportion of correct identification (7.1%) compared to position 3 (50.0%), position 4 (64.3%), and position 5 (21.4%). Steps to remedy possible positional biases are considered. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation and application of a novel environmentally friendly organic seed coating for rice
Authors: Zeng Defang , Shi Yafei
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND: Traditional rice seed coating techniques involve the use of chemical pesticides, which can damage the seed in the process and cause possible physical and environmental damage. Increasing knowledge and concern about the traditional applications have brought new attention to the industry and the search for a novel coating agent that is effective, safe and environmentally friendly. A new type of organic rice seed coating agent was developed using liquid‐based polymeric adhesives. By using chitosan as the main raw material, modified with sodium hydroxide and polymerised with plant growth regulators and other additives, the novel seed coating agent is a safer, cheaper and more environmentally friendly alternative.

RESULTS: The novel seed coating agent significantly enhanced sprout growth over traditional agents. We found it has obvious biological advantages: it stimulates the seedling growth of rice, advances the growth of root, improves root activity and increases the crop yield in the germination test and field trial. Compared with the traditional rice seed coating agent, the crop yield of seeds coated by the novel seed coating agent was increased by 5%, and at 25% less cost. The fungal inhibition test of the novel seed coating agent and acute toxicity test on fish showed that it has an obvious fungal inhibitory effect and a higher safety index during usage and disposal.

CONCLUSION: This result suggests that treating seeds with the novel seed coating agent has significant agricultural implications through the enhanced seed vigour as reflected in growth. It is efficient and effective, resulting in better seed and crop protection. The novel seed coating agent demonstrates unique characteristics with great economic and environmental benefits. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of punicic acid naturally occurring in food on lipid peroxidation in healthy young humans
Authors: Yuan Gao‐Feng , Wahlqvist Mark L , Yuan Jing‐Qun , Wang Qiao‐Mei , Li Duo
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to investigate the physiological roles of punicic acid (PA) naturally occurring in a Chinese snack food, Trichosanthes kirilowii (TK) seeds, in healthy young subjects.

RESULTS: Following a 7 day adaptation period with sunflower seed kernel supplementation, 30 subjects were divided into control and test groups (n = 15 per group). The test group was supplemented daily with TK seed kernels containing 3 g PA in the form of triacylglycerols for 28 days. The control group was provided with sunflower seed kernels. Urinary 8‐iso‐prostaglandin F2α concentration increased significantly in the test group (P = 0.004). However, there were no significant effects on body weight, plasma lipid profile, cholesterol‐reactive protein, interleukin 6, insulin, glucose and insulin resistance.

CONCLUSION: PA naturally occurring in TK seeds increases lipid peroxidation in healthy young humans. Further studies of the mechanism behind and the possible consequences of the increased lipid peroxidation after PA supplementation are needed. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Development of orthogonal two‐dimensional hydrophilic interaction chromatography systems with the introduction of novel stationary phases
Authors: Liu Yanming , Guo Zhimou , Feng Jiatao , Xue Xingya , Zhang Feifang , Xu Qing , Liang Xinmiao
Published: August 2009

Two different offline 2‐D hydrophilic interaction chromatography (2D‐HILIC/HILIC) systems have been developed. In the two systems, a click maltose column was used in the first dimension, an amide column or a click β‐CD column was used in the second dimension, respectively. Both of the systems were used for the analysis of very polar components in Carthamus tinctorius Linn., which is a traditional Chinese medicine. Excellent orthogonality and separation results were obtained in both 2D‐HILIC/HILIC systems, while the peak capacity of the system based on click maltose and amide column was higher for its adoption of stationary phase with smaller particle size in the second dimension.
Solid‐phase extraction and HPLC determination of fluoroquinolones in surface waters
Authors: Sturini Michela , Speltini Andrea , Pretali Luca , Fasani Elisa , Profumo Antonella
Published: August 2009

An investigation on filtration procedures and SPE sorbents used for the determination of traces of the most common veterinary fluoroquinolones (FQs), marbofloxacin (MAR) and enrofloxacin (ENR) used as antibacterial agents in cattle and swine farms in the province of Pavia (Italy), was performed in natural waters. The filter composition and the sorbent used in the SPE strongly influence the correct recovery, both in terms of total and dissolved FQs concentration. An accurate comparison among different filters and SPE sorbents showed that a full determination of analytes was possible on nylon filters followed by anionic (WAX) and hydrophilic–lipophilic balance (HLB) resins as SPE. Quantitative analysis was done by chromatography with fluorescence detection (HPLC‐FD). Fluoroquinolones recovery was between 90 and 116% with RSD not greater than 10% (sample volume 250 mL). The developed method allowed to determine both dissolved and NOM‐absorbed fractions of FQs, therefore a full determination of the analytes was possible. Limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) were, respectively, 0.7 and 2.2 ng/L for ENR and 2 and 6 ng/L for MAR. The kinetics of degradation under solar light was explored.
Determination of pKa values of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug‐oxicams by RP–HPLC and their analysis in pharmaceutical dosage forms
Authors: Demiralay Ebru Cubuk , Alsancak Guleren , Ozkan Sibel A.
Published: August 2009

In this study, pKa values were determined by using the dependence of the capacity factor on the pH of the mobile phase for four ionizable substances, namely, tenoxicam, piroxicam, meloxicam, and naproxen (I.S.). The effect of the mobile phase composition on the ionization constant was studied by measuring the pKa at different ACN concentrations, ranging from 30 to 40%. The adequate condition for the chromatographic determination of these compounds in pharmaceutical dosage forms was established based on the different retention behaviors of the species. An octadecylsilica Nucleosil C18 column (150×4.6 mm, 5 μm) was used for all the determinations. The chromatographic separation of oxicams was carried out using acetonitrile (ACN)/water at 35% v/v, containing 65 mM phosphoric acid and UV detection at a wavelength of 355 nm. The method developed was successfully applied to the simultaneous determination of these drug compounds in laboratory‐prepared mixtures and their commercial pharmaceutical dosage forms. Each analysis requires no longer than 12 min.
Thermally induced dissolution/precipitation – A simple approach for the preparation of macroporous monoliths from linear aliphatic polyamides
Authors: Nguyen Anh Mai , Nordborg Anna , Shchukarev Andrei , Irgum Knut
Published: August 2009

A versatile way of preparing macroporous monolithic materials from linear aliphatic polyamides is presented. Simply, polyamide pellets were treated in benzyl alcohol (BA) at elevated temperature, causing dissolution by interchain hydrogen bond disruption. Subsequent cooling below the upper critical solution temperature (UCST) resulted in precipitation and partial restoration of the semicrystalline polymer, which is organized into network structures. The final steps were a solvent exchange of BA for methanol, followed by drying to form monolithic entities. A number of polyamides ranging from hydrophilic to hydrophobic were tested and under the experimental conditions, poly(1‐aza‐2‐cycloheptanone (PA6) and (poly‐[imino‐1,6‐hexanediylimino{1,10‐dioxo‐1,10‐decanediyl}] (PA610) yielded entities with macroporous properties that were deemed useful for liquid chromatography. The morphological features and porous properties of the monoliths produced by this dissolution–precipitation procedure were studied by scanning electron microscopy, adsorption/desorption of N2(g) according to the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) principle, and mercury intrusion porosimetry. Degradation of the polymer backbone was noticeable when the dissolution time was extended and shortening of the polymer chains was confirmed by MALDI‐MS, viscosity measurements, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and potentiometric titration. When the heating was limited to the time it took to dissolve the polymers, mechanically stable monoliths could be obtained. The dissolution/heat treatment time further seemed to be useful for controlling the macroporous morphology.
Sediment and phosphorus loss in runoff from an agroforestry catchment, NW Spain
Authors: Rodríguez‐Blanco M. L. , Taboada‐Castro M. M. , Taboada‐Castro M. T.
Published: August 2009

This study was conducted to evaluate the factors controlling sediment and phosphorus export in a small agroforestry catchment located in NW Spain. At the catchment outlet discharge was continuously measured and suspended sediment (SS) and total (PT), particulate phosphorus (PP) and dissolved phosphorus (DP) were determined during seven rainfall events occurred in autumn. Sediment and sediment‐associated P export differed significantly between events. Particulate P was a greater portion of P transported in runoff. A large proportion of SS and PP exported from the catchment occurred from a relatively small portion of the catchment and during only two events. Rills and gullies delivered most of the eroded sediment directly to the stream, which contribute to high sediment and phosphorus exportation at the catchment outlet. Strong correlations between P and SS concentrations suggest that erosion processes are important in P fluxes. The highly significant correlation between SS and P concentrations in the stream enables to estimate transported P using SS in the Corbeira catchment. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessment of soil erosion hazard and prioritization for treatment at the watershed level: Case study in the Chemoga watershed, Blue Nile basin, Ethiopia
Authors: Bewket W. , Teferi E.
Published: August 2009

Soil erosion by water is the most pressing environmental problem in Ethiopia, particularly in the Highlands where the topography is highly rugged, population pressure is high, steeplands are cultivated and rainfall is erosive. Soil conservation is critically required in these areas. The objective of this study was to assess soil erosion hazard in a typical highland watershed (the Chemoga watershed) and demonstrate that a simple erosion assessment model, the universal soil loss equation (USLE), integrated with satellite remote sensing and geographical information systems can provide useful tools for conservation decision‐making. Monthly precipitation, soil map, a 30‐m digital elevation model derived from topographic map, land‐cover map produced from supervised classification of a Land Sat image, and land use types and slope steepness were used to determine the USLE factor values. The results show that a larger part of the watershed (>58 per cent of total) suffers from a severe or very severe erosion risk (>80 t ha−1 y−1), mainly in the midstream and upstream parts where steeplands are cultivated or overgrazed. In about 25 per cent of the watershed, soil erosion was estimated to exceed 125 t ha−1 y−1. Based on the predicted soil erosion rates, the watershed was divided into six priority categories for conservation intervention and 18 micro‐watersheds were identified that may be used as planning units. Finally, the method used has yielded a fairly reliable estimation of soil loss rates and delineation of erosion‐prone areas. Hence, a similar method can be used in other watersheds to prepare conservation master plans and enable efficient use of limited resources. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pyrene Containing Polymers for the Non‐Covalent Functionalization of Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Meuer Stefan , Braun Lydia , Zentel Rudolf
Published: August 2009

Pyrene containing diblock copolymers based on poly(methyl methacrylate) were synthesized and investigated regarding their adsorption on carbon nanotubes (CNT). The pyrene units were introduced using a reactive ester monomer for the build up of the second block which later on was reacted polymer‐analogously with amine functionalized pyrene derivatives. As we started from the same reactive ester intermediate, full block length identity is given. We varied the length of the anchor block to find an optimal block length and used pyren‐1‐yl‐methylamine as well as 4‐pyren‐1‐yl‐butylamine as anchor units. For both anchor units a maximal adsorption was found for 13 and 20 anchor units, respectively. The absolute adsorption was best for the 4‐pyren‐1‐yl‐butylamine anchor units as the longer spacer enhances the mobility of the anchor unit. The dispersion diagram of CNTs and diblock copolymer in terms of dispersion stability was investigated and a stable dispersion of 2.5 mg · ml−1 CNTs in THF was found.

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Conjugated Oligomers and Polymers Containing Dithienosilole Units
Authors: Ohshita Joji
Published: August 2009

Dithienosilole (DTS) with a silole ring fused to a bithiophene unit are of interest. The condensed tricyclic system shows extended conjugation compared with that of silicon‐free bithiophene. This is because the planar structure of the bithiophene unit is retained by the silicon bridge and also because the interaction between the silicon σ* and bithiophene π* orbitals lowers the LUMO energy level. This review describes the synthesis and properties of conjugated oligomers and polymers containing DTS units in their backbones. The applications of DTS‐containing oligomers and polymers to organic light‐emitting diodes, organic photovoltaic cells, and organic thin‐film transistors are also introduced.

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Resurfacing tophaceous gout in the foot with anterolateral thigh flap
Authors: Ou Kuang‐Ling , Tzeng Yuan‐Sheng , Yu Chien‐Chih , Chen Tim‐Mo
Published: August 2009

We report the case of a 46‐year‐old patient who suffered from huge tophus masses involving the metatarsal joints of the big toes of both feet, with infection and skin necrosis secondary to chronic tophaceous gout. After conventional curettage and debridement of each lesion, a free anterolateral thigh flap (ALTF) was used to resurface the circumferential wound, protect the underlying structures, and provide a gliding surface for the exposed tendons. The flap was safely raised and debulked during revision surgery, and excellent functional and cosmetic results were apparent at the 2‐year follow‐up. We consider ALTF to be a valuable option for the coverage of necrotic skin over tophi after adequate debridement. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery 2010.
Thermal‐crosslinked polyacrylonitrile fiber compacts
Authors: Kalfon‐Cohen E. , Harel H. , Saadon‐Yechezkia M. , Timna K. , Zhidkov T. , Weinberg A. , Marom G.
Published: August 2009

Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) textile fibers, in the form of fabrics or threads, were compacted in a heat‐pressure cycle and crosslinked by nitrile polymerization to form a thermoset composite article, whose mechanical properties were found to surpass those of commercially available polypropylene (PP) fiber counterparts. Additional advantages of the PAN compacts included their significant thermal stability (>300°C, i.e., twice that of PP) in addition to their flame retardancy, thereby rendering them as the structural material of choice for applications where heat protection and fire resistance are essential. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A rapid isolation and identification method for blocked N‐terminal peptides by isothiocyanate‐coupled magnetic nanoparticles and MS
Authors: Zhao Liyan , Zhang Yangjun , Wei Junying , Cao Dong , Liu Kehui , Qian Xiaohong
Published: August 2009

A quick isolation and identification of N‐blocked peptides from protein digest mixtures were achieved by diisothiocyanate or isothiocyanate‐coupled magnetic nanoparticles and MS. After protein digests were guanidinated and then mixed with diisothiocyanate or isothiocyanate‐coupled magnetic nanoparticles, unmodified N‐terminal peptides were covalently bound to magnetic nanoparticles, and can be removed from the mixture under magnetic field. Therefore, N‐blocked peptides could be isolated and analyzed by MALDI or ESI MS. This new strategy was demonstrated with model peptides, proteins, and the lysates of HepG2 cells.
Proteomic analysis from haploid and diploid embryos of Quercus suber L. identifies qualitative and quantitative differential expression patterns
Authors: Gómez Aranzazu , López Juan Antonio , Pintos Beatriz , Camafeita Emilio , Bueno Ma Ángeles
Published: August 2009

Quercus suber L. is a Mediterranean forest species with ecological, social and economic value. Clonal propagation of Q. suber elite trees has been successfully obtained from in vitro‐derived somatic and gametic embryos. These clonal lines play a main role in breeding and genetic studies of Q. suber. To aid in unravelling diverse genetic and biological unknowns, a proteomic approach is proposed. The proteomic analysis of Q. suber somatic and gametic in vitro culture‐derived embryos, based on DIGE and MALDI‐MS, has produced for the first time proteomic data on this species. Seventeen differentially expressed proteins have been identified which display significantly altered levels between gametic and somatic embryos. These proteins are involved in a variety of cellular processes, most of which had been neither previously associated with embryo development nor identified in the genus Quercus. Some of these proteins are involved in stress and pollen development and others play a role in the metabolism of tannins and phenylpropanoids, which represent two of the major pathways for the synthesis of cork chemical components. Furthermore, the augmented expression levels found for specific proteins are probably related to the homozygous state of a doubled‐haploid sample. Proteins involved in synthesis of cork components can be detected at such early stages of development, showing the potential of the method to be useful in searching for biomarkers related to cork quality.
A guide to the Proteomics Identifications Database proteomics data repository
Authors: Vizcaíno Juan Antonio , Côté Richard , Reisinger Florian , M. Foster Joseph , Mueller Michael , Rameseder Jonathan , Hermjakob Henning , Martens Lennart
Published: August 2009

The Proteomics Identifications Database (PRIDE, www.ebi.ac.uk/pride) is one of the main repositories of MS derived proteomics data. Here, we point out the main functionalities of PRIDE both as a submission repository and as a source for proteomics data. We describe the main features for data retrieval and visualization available through the PRIDE web and BioMart interfaces. We also highlight the mechanism by which tailored queries in the BioMart can join PRIDE to other resources such as Reactome, Ensembl or UniProt to execute extremely powerful across‐domain queries. We then present the latest improvements in the PRIDE submission process, using the new easy‐to‐use, platform‐independent graphical user interface submission tool PRIDE Converter. Finally, we speak about future plans and the role of PRIDE in the ProteomExchange consortium.
Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid proteomic patterns of sulfur mustard‐exposed patients
Authors: Mehrani Hossein , Ghanei Mostafa , Aslani Jafar , Golmanesh Leila
Published: August 2009

Sulfur mustard is an alkylating agent that reacts with ocular, respiratory, cutaneous, and bone marrow tissues. Main late respiratory complications are chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchiectasis, asthma, and bronchiolitis obliterans. The aim of the present study was to identify differentially expressed proteins in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid of control healthy and sulfur mustard‐exposed lung disease patients. The BAL protein profile of ten healthy and 30 exposed patients with mild, moderate, and severe conditions (ten males in each group) were separated with 2‐D SDS‐PAGE and differentially expressed protein spots were successfully identified with MALDI TOF TOF MS. Among the differentially expressed proteins we observed a significant increase in vitamin D binding protein isoforms, haptoglobin isoforms, and fibrinogen especially in exposed moderate and severe lung diseases patients (p<0.01). Moreover, compared with healthy controls, significant decreases was noted in calcyphosine, surfactant protein A, and transthyretin in these patients (p<0.01). Apolipoprotein A1 was detected in all patients' BAL fluid but none of the healthy controls. Furthermore, S100 calcium‐binding protein A8 was only detected in BAL fluid of moderate and severe groups. These findings will be useful to improve current methods of monitoring and helps to identify new therapeutic targets for treatment of this complicated illness.
The solution structure and dynamics of the DH‐PH module of PDZRhoGEF in isolation and in complex with nucleotide‐free RhoA
Authors: Cierpicki Tomasz , Bielnicki Jakub , Zheng Meiying , Gruszczyk Jakub , Kasterka Marta , Petoukhov Maxim , Zhang Aming , Fernandez Erik J. , Svergun Dmitri I. , Derewenda Urszula , Bushweller John H. , Derewenda Zygmunt S.
Published: August 2009

The DH‐PH domain tandems of Dbl‐homology guanine nucleotide exchange factors catalyze the exchange of GTP for GDP in Rho‐family GTPases, and thus initiate a wide variety of cellular signaling cascades. Although several crystal structures of complexes of DH‐PH tandems with cognate, nucleotide free Rho GTPases are known, they provide limited information about the dynamics of the complex and it is not clear how accurately they represent the structures in solution. We used a complementary combination of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS), and hydrogen‐deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (DXMS) to study the solution structure and dynamics of the DH‐PH tandem of RhoA‐specific exchange factor PDZRhoGEF, both in isolation and in complex with nucleotide free RhoA. We show that in solution the DH‐PH tandem behaves as a rigid entity and that the mutual disposition of the DH and PH domains remains identical within experimental error to that seen in the crystal structure of the complex, thus validating the latter as an accurate model of the complex in vivo. We also show that the nucleotide‐free RhoA exhibits elevated dynamics when in complex with DH‐PH, a phenomenon not observed in the crystal structure, presumably due to the restraining effects of crystal contacts. The complex is readily and rapidly dissociated in the presence of both GDP and GTP nucleotides, with no evidence of intermediate ternary complexes.
Use of antimicrobial methylcellulose films to control Staphylococcus aureus during storage of Kasar cheese
Authors: Ayana Belgizar , Turhan K. Nazan
Published: August 2009

Olive leaf extract (OLE) (Olea europaea L.) is a natural product that has antimicrobial effect on many food pathogens. In this study, methylcellulose (MC) based antimicrobial films containing 0.5–3% (w/v) OLE and glycerol (1.6%, v/v) were produced. The effects of OLE amount on the water vapour permeability (WVP), mechanical and antimicrobial properties of the films were investigated. The films were effective against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923). The OLE in the film solution caused a decrease in WVP and elongation (E), and an increase in tensile strength (TS). The MC films containing 1.5% (w/v) OLE were applied on Kasar cheese slices inoculated with S. aureus. The count of S. aureus decreased 0.68 and 1.22 log cycle at the 7th and 14th days, respectively. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Victims arrested for domestic violence: unintended consequences of arrest policies
Authors: Hovmand Peter S. , Ford David N. , Flom Ingrid , Kyriakakis Stavroula
Published: August 2009

Domestic violence is a major social problem. In the United States, the failure of communities and police departments to intervene resulted in a push to implement pro‐ and mandatory arrest policies for domestic violence. These policies have led to an unexpected increase in the number of victim arrests. Competing explanations have been offered. This paper describes the development of a system dynamics model of victim arrests. Results of model structure analysis suggest that these policies may have created or strengthened a crossover mechanism that shifts the risk of arrests in domestic violence cases from aggressors to victims. Model analysis also demonstrates how the changing role of cooperation between advocates and police can help explain the trends in victim arrests. Implications for research and policy are discussed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structural and Magnetic Characterisation of La1+xSr1–xCo0.5M0.5O4±δ (M = Cr, Mn)
Authors: El Shinawi Hany , Greaves Colin
Published: August 2009

The K2NiF4 phases La1+xSr1–xCo0.5Cr0.5O4±δ (x = 0, 0.15) and La1+xSr1–xCo0.5Mn0.5O4±δ (x = 0, 0.2) have been synthesised and examined by X‐ray powder diffraction, thermal analysis, neutron powder diffraction and magnetic susceptibility measurements. Mn3+/Co3+ and Cr3+/Co3+ states predominate in the oxidised forms. Structural stability and crystal symmetry are retained under reducing conditions which cause reduction of Co3+ into Co2+ and the creation of oxide ion vacancies within the equatorial planes of the K2NiF4 structure. Excess oxygen in La1.2Sr0.8Co0.5Mn0.5O4.1 is accommodated in the ideal interstitial positions (0, 0.5, 0.25) of the tetragonal structure of these materials in an oxygen/air atmosphere. No long‐range magnetic order has been observed because of competing AFM and FM interactions in these B‐site disordered materials.