bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Line‐scan diffusion tensor MR imaging at 0.2 T: Feasibility study
Authors: Hori Masaaki , Aoki Shigeki , Okubo Toshiyuki , Ishigame Keiichi , Kumagai Hiroshi , Araki Tsutomu
Published: November 2005

Purpose

To investigate and measure apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and fractional anisotropy (FA) values using data obtained with line‐scan diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) of human brains on a 0.2 Tesla MR imager.

Materials and Methods

Diffusion‐tensor imaging (DTI) was performed on eight healthy volunteers. The signal‐to‐noise ratios (SNRs) of white matter and cerebrospinal fluid were measured. ADC and FA were also measured from the data obtained from all subjects. Three‐dimensional corticospinal fiber tracts were reconstructed from the DT images and a qualitative evaluation was done.

Results

The total scan time was 52 minutes 30 seconds for 18 slices with full‐tensor images covering the whole brain. The ADCs and FAs show the appropriate values, in comparison with values obtained at high field strength in previous studies. Corticospinal fibers were demonstrated more clearly on images obtained at 0.2 T than at 1.5T.

Conclusion

DTI at low field strength may be feasible for clinical use to estimate the white matter of brain with limited coverage, which often may be sufficient. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Value of contrast‐enhanced, balanced cine‐MR sequences in the assessment of apparent infarct size after acute myocardial infarction: A prospective comparison with delayed‐enhancement sequences
Authors: Laissy Jean‐Pierre , Hyafil Fabien , Huart Valérie , Serfaty Jean‐Michel , Chillon Sylvie , Schouman‐Claeys Elisabeth , Faraggi Marc
Published: November 2005

Purpose

To evaluate the diagnostic value of contrast‐enhanced (CE) delayed cine steady‐state free precession (SSFP) sequences in the assessment of apparent infarct size after acute myocardial infarction (MI).

Materials and Methods

Contrast‐enhanced (CE) balanced cine‐SSFP sequences were compared with delayed‐enhancement (DE) T1 sequences for their ability to detect segmental abnormal enhancement in 29 consecutive patients with recent successfully reperfused acute MI.

Results

The extent of myocardial involvement revealed by postcontrast cine‐SSFP sequences and DE images was closely correlated (Spearman r = 0.86, P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between the two sequences in assessing subendocardial or transmural involvement.

Conclusion

In addition to DE sequences, CE cine‐SSFP sequences should play a role in assessing necrotic and jeopardized myocardium after acute MI. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
3.0 T vs. 1.5 T MR angiography: In vitro comparison of intravascular stent artifacts
Authors: Wall Alexander , Kugel Harald , Bachman Rainald , Matuszewski Lars , Krämer Stefan , Heindel Walter , Maintz David
Published: November 2005

Purpose

To evaluate the signal characteristics of different iliac artery stents in MR angiography (MRA) at 3 T in comparison with 1.5 T.

Materials and Methods

Sixteen iliac artery stents were implanted in plastic tubes filled with a solution of Gd‐DTPA and imaged at 3 T and 1.5 T using a T1‐weighted 3D spoiled gradient‐echo sequence. Image analysis included a subjective assessment of artifact characteristics, signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) and contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) measurements in stented and unstented vessel parts, and quantitative measurements of total artifact size.

Results

The pattern of stent artifacts inside the stents evidently did not differ at 3 T and 1.5 T. The average total size of the artifact areas surrounding the stents was significantly larger at 3 T (P < 0.03). However, within the stented part of the vessel phantom, the signal of the lumen and its contrast to modeled surrounding tissue was significantly higher at the higher field. The mean SNR of the lumen increased from 95.5 at 1.5 T to 127.3 at 3 T, and the CNR of the vessel increased from 70.3 to 93.

Conclusion

Assessment of the stent lumen in iliac artery stents in a phantom model is not compromised by imaging at 3 T compared to 1.5 T. The signal gain inside the stented part of the vessel lumen at higher field compensates for the higher degree of stent artifacts seen in stents made of steel or cobalt. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hemodynamic evaluation of the peripheral pulmonary circulation by cine phase‐contrast magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Kellenberger Christian J. , Macgowan Christopher K. , Roman Kevin S. , Al‐Habshan Fahad , Benson Lee N. , Redington Andrew N. , Yoo Shi‐Joon
Published: November 2005

Purpose

To describe the normal flow patterns in peripheral pulmonary vessels with phase‐contrast (PC) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Materials and Methods

Twelve healthy adults (age = 33 ± 7 years) underwent cine PC MRI of the segmental and central pulmonary arteries and veins by means of a breath‐held segmented k‐space technique. Flow patterns were analyzed on time‐velocity curves and compared between the peripheral and central vessels.

Results

The pulsatile flow patterns in the segmental arteries and veins were similar among individuals. When compared with the central pulmonary arteries, the segmental arteries had a delay in the systolic and diastolic flow velocity waves, and an increased magnitude of the diastolic peaks, in relation to the systolic peaks. A prominent notch was present during the deceleration phase of the systolic flow velocity wave in 79% of the segmental arteries investigated. The segmental veins showed a typical pulmonary venous flow pattern, as seen in the central veins, with similar systolic‐to‐diastolic peak velocity ratios.

Conclusion

Noninvasive evaluation of blood flow in intraparenchymal pulmonary vessels is feasible with PC MRI. This first description of normal flow patterns in segmental pulmonary arteries and veins can serve as basis for further investigation in the setting of altered pulmonary blood flows. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterization of industrial alkylpolyphosphonates by infusion electrospray ionization‐ion trap mass spectrometry with identification of the impurities by tandem capillary zone electrophoresis
Authors: Ortega‐Gadea Silvia , Bernabé‐Zafón Virginia , Simó‐Alfonso Ernesto F. , Ochs Christopher , Ramis‐Ramos Guillermo
Published: November 2005

Technical grade diethylene‐triaminepentakis(methylenephosphonic acid) (I), dihexamethylene‐triaminepentakis(methylenephosphonic acid) (II), ethylene‐diaminetetrakis(methylenephosphonic acid) (III), hexamethylene‐diaminetetrakis(methylenephosphonic acid) (IV), amino‐tris(methylenephosphonic acid) (V), hydroxyethyl‐aminobis(methylenephosphonic acid) (VI), 1‐hydroxyethylidene‐1,1‐diphosphonic acid (VII), and 2‐phosphonobutane‐1,2,4‐tricarboxylic acid (VIII) were characterized by ion trap mass spectrometry with electrospray ionization (ESI‐ITMS). Using the negative ion mode and acid and alkaline media, peak series corresponding to the nominal compounds and to impurities with a lower number of phosphonate groups were distinguished in I–V. Each series was constituted by [M − nH + (n − 1)Na]− peaks and peaks produced from them by losses of water, H3PO3(or water plus HPO2), and combined losses. For each [M − nH + (n − 1)Na]− peak, the number of losses coincided with the number of phosphonate groups not bound to sodium ions minus one (the group bearing the charge). Owing to the hydroxyethyl group, the spectrum of VI was dominated by the formation of intermolecular esters, with both losses and gains of water according to [nM − H ± mH2O]−. A series of [M − nH + (n − 1)Na]− peaks were observed for VII and VIII, showing in the latter case that the carboxylate groups may also form adducts with sodium ions. Losses of water and H3PO3were observed in VII, whereas losses of water, CO2, and HPO3 were seen in VIII. The reaction pathways leading to the production of the observed ions are described. The nominal compounds and the impurities were also separated and identified by capillary electrophoresis with ESI‐ITMS detection. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of ethyl glucuronide in hair samples by liquid chromatography/electrospray tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Morini Luca , Politi Lucia , Groppi Angelo , Stramesi Cristiana , Polettini Aldo
Published: November 2005

A method for the determination of ethyl glucuronide (EtG) in hair samples, using liquid chromatography/electrospray tandem mass spectrometry (LC/ESI‐MS/MS), was developed and validated. The treatment of hair samples was as follows: to 100 mg of washed (dichloromethane followed by methanol, 1 ml each) and cut (1–2 mm) material, 700 µl of water, 20 µl of internal standard solution (pentadeuterated EtG, D5‐EtG, 500 µg/l) and 20 µl of methanol were added. Samples were incubated at 25 °C overnight and then ultrasonicated for 2 h. Finally, 8 µl of the centrifuged solution (13 000 rpm) were analyzed by LC/ESI‐MS/MS in negative ion mode. The surviving ions of EtG and D5‐EtG were monitored together with the following MRM transitions: m/z 221 → 75, m/z 221 → 85 (EtG) and m/z 226 → 75, m/z 226 → 85 (D5‐EtG). The method exhibited a mean correlation coefficient better than 0.9998 over the dynamic range (3–2000 pg/mg). The lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) and the limit of detection (LOD) were 3 and 2 pg/mg respectively. The intra‐ and interday precision and accuracy were studied at four different concentration levels (3, 5, 56 and 160 pg/mg) and were always better than 7% (n = 5). Matrix effects did not exceed 20%. The method was applied to several hair samples taken from autopsies of known alcoholics, from patients in withdrawal treatment, from social drinkers, from adult teetotalers and from children not exposed to ethanol, with EtG concentrations globally ranging from ≤2 to 4180 pg/mg. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Atmospheric pressure photoionization coupled to porous graphitic carbon liquid chromatography for the analysis of globotriaosylceramides. Application to Fabry disease
Authors: Delobel Arnaud , Roy Sandrine , Touboul David , Gaudin Karen , Germain Dominique P. , Baillet Arlette , Brion Françoise , Prognon Patrice , Chaminade Pierre , Laprévote Olivier
Published: November 2005

Globotriaosylceramides (Gb3) are biological compounds implicated in Fabry disease, a lysosomal storage disease due to the deficient activity of α‐D‐galactosidase A, which results in an accumulation of Gb3 in many organs. The naturally occurring samples are composed of mixtures of several molecular species differing by the structure of the alkyl chains and the nature of the sphingoid base. Atmospheric pressure photoionization mass spectrometry (APPI‐MS) proved to be an efficient method for the analysis of globotriaosylceramide molecular species, both in direct injection and by coupling with liquid chromatography (LC). In the positive ion mode, in‐source fragmentations yield very precious information that can be used to determine the structure of the alkyl chains. In the negative ion mode, the chloroform solvent participates to the analyte ionization by forming an adduct with chloride ions generated in situ. Combination of LC on a Porous Graphitic Carbon stationary phase and APPI‐MS allowed the detection of a great number of species from biological samples isolated from Fabry patients. This method could be an interesting analytical tool for the biochemical investigation of (sphingo) lipid metabolism. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Differential expression of γ‐aminobutyric acid‐A receptor subunits in rat dorsal and ventral hippocampus
Authors: Sotiriou Evangelos , Papatheodoropoulos Costas , Angelatou Fevronia
Published: November 2005

Recent data demonstrate weaker γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)‐ergic inhibition in ventral (VH) compared with dorsal (DH) hippocampus. Therefore, we examined possible differences regarding the GABAAreceptors between VH and DH as follows: 1) the expression of the GABAAreceptor subunits (α1/2/4/5, β1/2/3, γ2, δ) mRNA and protein and 2) the quantitative distribution and kinetic parameters of [3H]muscimol (GABAAreceptor agonist) binding. VH compared with DH showed: 1) lower levels for α1, β2, γ2 but higher levels for α2 and β1 subunits in CA1, CA2, and CA3, the differences being more pronounced in CA1 region; in the CA1 region, the mRNA levels of α5 were higher, whereas those of α4 subunit were slightly lower; in dentate gyrus, the mRNA levels of α4, β3, and δ subunits were significantly lower, presumably suggesting a lower expression of the α4/β3/δ receptor subtype; and 2) lower levels of [3H]muscimol binding, with the lowest value observed in CA1, apparently resulting from weaker binding affinity, insofar as the KDvalues were higher in VH, whereas the Bmaxvalues were similar between DH and VH. The differences in the subunit expression and the lower affinity of GABAAreceptor binding observed predominantly in the CA1 region of VH suggest that the α1/β2/γ2 GABAAreceptor subtype dominates in DH, and the α2/β1/γ2 subtype prevails in VH. This could underlie the lower GABAA‐mediated inhibition observed in VH and, to some extent, explain 1) the higher liability of VH for epileptic activity and 2) the differential involvement of DH and VH in cognitive and emotional processes. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sleep deprivation‐induced protein changes in basal forebrain: Implications for synaptic plasticity
Authors: Basheer Radhika , Brown Ritchie , Ramesh Vijay , Begum Suraiya , McCarley Robert W.
Published: November 2005

The need to sleep is universal and lack of sleep often results in decreases in alertness and cognitive function. Data suggest that sleep‐related mechanisms and deficits resulting from loss of sleep are associated anatomically with the basal forebrain. Long‐term effects of sleep deprivation, those lasting a day or more, likely require transcriptional changes leading to changes in protein synthesis, whereas short‐term effects may be mediated by rapid changes in the functional status of proteins. To understand sleep deprivation‐induced changes in proteins in the wake‐promoting area of the basal forebrain in rat, proteomic analysis was carried out by a combination of 2D gel electrophoresis to separate and visualize proteins and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of flight mass spectrometry for protein identification. Among 969 protein spots that were compared, 89 spots showed more than a twofold difference between 6‐hr sleep‐deprived rats and undisturbed sleeping controls. We have identified 11 of these proteins to be either cytoskeletal or associated with synapses. The changes in four of these proteins were analyzed further by Western blots of 1D and 2D. Two proteins associated with the cytoskeleton, tubulin and GAP43, show posttranslational modifications. Increased tyrosination of α tubulin isoforms and increased phosphorylation of GAP43 was observed after 6‐hr sleep deprivation when compared to that in sleeping controls. The synaptic protein synaptosomal‐associated protein‐25 (SNAP25) is decreased whereas amphiphysin is phosphorylated after sleep deprivation. These changes in proteins in the basal forebrain during short‐term sleep deprivation are suggestive of changes in the substrate for neuronal transmission and plasticity. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Estrogen differentially regulates expression of Per1 and Per2 genes between central and peripheral clocks and between reproductive and nonreproductive tissues in female rats
Authors: Nakamura Takahiro J. , Moriya Takahiro , Inoue Shin , Shimazoe Takao , Watanabe Shigenori , Ebihara Shizufumi , Shinohara Kazuyuki
Published: November 2005

Although it has long been established that estrogen alters circadian rhythms in behavior, physiology, and reproductive functions in mammals, the molecular mechanism for these effects remains unknown. To explore the possibility that estrogen affects circadian rhythms by changing the expression of clock‐related genes, we investigated the effects of chronic treatment with 17β‐estradiol (E2) on the expression of Per1 and Per2 genes in the brain (suprachiasmatic nucleus and cerebral cortex) and periphery (liver, kidney, and uterus) of ovariectomized rats by means of in situ hybridization and northern blotting. In the brain, E2 treatment advanced the peak of Per2 mRNA expression in the SCN; however, it failed to affect the rhythm of Per2 mRNA expression in the CX and Per1 mRNA expression in both the SCN and the CX. In nonreproductive peripheral tissues (liver and kidney), E2 delayed the phase and increased the amplitude of Per1 mRNA expression. In the reproductive tissues (uterus), biphasic rhythms in Per1 and Per2 mRNA were observed after E2 treatment. These findings suggest that the effects of estrogen are different between central and peripheral clock in the brain, and between reproductive and nonreproductive tissues in the periphery. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regeneration of granule neurons after lesioning of hippocampal dentate gyrus: Evaluation using adult mice treated with trimethyltin chloride as a model
Authors: Ogita Kiyokazu , Nishiyama Norito , Sugiyama Chie , Higuchi Kei , Yoneyama Masanori , Yoneda Yukio
Published: November 2005

The hippocampal dentate gyrus in adult animals is known to contain neural progenitors that proliferate and differentiate into neurons in response to brain injury. Little has been observed, however, on regeneration of the granule cell layer of the dentate gyrus that has been directly injured. Using trimethyltin (TMT)‐treated mice as an in vivo model, we evaluated the ability of this layer to regenerate after injury. The administration of TMT induced neuronal death in the dentate gyrus selectively 2 days later, with recovery of granule neurons on day 14 and thereafter. At an early stage (days 2–5) after the damage by TMT treatment, 5‐bromo‐2′‐deoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation into at least two different types of cells was facilitated in the dentate gyrus: BrdU‐positive/neuronal nuclear antigen (NeuN)‐negative cells were found predominantly in the subgranular zone and granule cell layer, whereas BrdU‐positive/NeuN‐positive cells were numerous in the dentate molecular layer and hilus. In addition, expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen, nestin, NeuroD3, and doublecortin, which are markers for proliferating cells and neural progenitors/neuronal precursors, was extremely enhanced in the dentate gyrus at the early stage after treatment. Double staining revealed that BrdU was colocalized with nestin and doublecortin in the subgranular zone. Behavioral analysis revealed that TMT‐induced cognition impairment was ameliorated by day 14 after the treatment. Taken together, our data indicate that the hippocampal dentate gyrus itself is capable of regenerating the neuronal cell layer through rapid enhancement of neurogenesis after injury. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neural precursor cell susceptibility to human cytomegalovirus diverges along glial or neuronal differentiation pathways
Authors: Cheeran Maxim C.‐J. , Hu Shuxian , Ni Hsiao T. , Sheng Wen , Palmquist Joseph M. , Peterson Phillip K. , Lokensgard James R.
Published: November 2005

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a major cause of congenital brain disease, and its neuropathogenesis may be related to viral infection of rapidly dividing, susceptible neural precursor cells (NPCs). In the present study, we evaluated the susceptibility of human fetal brain‐derived NPCs (nestin+, A2B5+, CD133+) to infection with CMV. Data derived from these studies demonstrated that undifferentiated NPCs supported productive viral replication. After differentiation in the presence of serum, a treatment that promotes development of an astroglial cell phenotype (GFAP+, nestin−, A2B5−), viral expression was retained. However, differentiation of NPCs in medium containing platelet‐derived growth factor and brain‐derived neurotropic factor, conditions that support the development of neurons (Tuj‐1+, nestin−, A2B5−), resulted in reduced viral expression, with corresponding decreased CMV major immediate‐early promoter (MIEP) activity relative to undifferentiated cells. Further experiments showed that cellular differentiation into a neuronal phenotype was associated with elevated levels of various CCAAT/enhancer binding protein beta (C/EBP)‐β isoforms, which suppressed MIEP activity in cotransfected NPCs. Taken together, these data demonstrate that the susceptibility of primary human NPCs to CMV is retained concomitantly with differentiation into glial cells but is actively repressed following differentiation into neurons. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Allopregnanolone treatment, both as a single injection or repetitively, delays demyelination and enhances survival of Niemann‐Pick C mice
Authors: Ahmad Iram , Lope‐Piedrafita Silvia , Bi Xiaoning , Hicks Chad , Yao Yueqin , Yu Clara , Chaitkin Elizabeth , Howison Christine M. , Weberg Lyndon , Trouard Theodore P. , Erickson Robert P.
Published: November 2005

Niemann‐Pick C disease (NPC) is an irreversible neurodegenerative disorder without current treatment. It is thought to result from deficient intracellular cholesterol and/or ganglioside trafficking. We have investigated the effects of allopregnanolone treatments on survival, weight loss, motor function, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and neuropathology in the mouse model of NPC (Npc1–/– mice). We confirmed previous results showing that a single injection of 250 μg of allopregnanolone on postnatal day 7 significantly extended the life span of Npc1–/– mice. This caused a marked difference in the weight curves of the treated mice but no statistical difference in the Rota‐Rod performance. T2‐weighted MRI and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) of treated mice showed values of signal intensity and fractional anisotropy closer to those of wild‐type mice than those of untreated Npc1–/– mice. Neuropathology showed that day‐7 treatment markedly suppressed astrocyte reaction and significantly reduced microglial activation. Furthermore, the steroid treatment also increased myelination in brains of Npc1–/– mice. Similar effects of allopregnanolone treatment were observed in Npc1–/–, mdr1a–/– double‐mutant mice, which have a deficient blood–brain barrier, resulting in increased steroid uptake. The effects on survival and weight loss of a single injection on day 7 followed by injections every 2 weeks were also evaluated in Npc1–/– mice, and the beneficial effects were found to be greater than with the single injection at day 7. We conclude that allopregnanolone treatment significantly ameliorates several symptoms of NPC in Npc1–/– mice, presumably by effects on myelination or neuronal connectivity. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Immunolocalization of NFATc4 in the adult mouse brain
Authors: Bradley Katherine C. , Groth Rachel D. , Mermelstein Paul G.
Published: November 2005

NFATc4 has recently been identified as playing an important role in variety of activity‐dependent neuronal processes, including hippocampal plasticity, axonal growth, neuronal survival, and apoptosis. However, a systematic study examining the distribution of NFATc4 within the nervous system has yet to be conducted. With this in mind, we sought to determine the regional localization of NFATc4 within the adult mouse brain. Interestingly, NFATc4 was expressed broadly, but not uniformly, throughout various brain structures. The highest levels of NFATc4 expression were localized to the hippocampus, olfactory bulb, and various hypothalamic nuclei. Other brain regions that expressed NFATc4 included the cerebellum, striatum, globus pallidus, amygdala, neocortex, and brainstem nuclei. Given NFATc4's widespread expression, these results are consistent with the notion that NFATc4 may underlie activity‐dependent neuronal plasticity throughout the adult brain. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Gap Inc. sees supplier ownership of compliance with workplace standards as an essential element of socially responsible sourcing
Authors: Henkle Dan
Published: November 2005

The author looks at the evolution of Gap Inc.'s program for socially responsible sourcing—from a policing model to multistakeholder partnerships—and examines the next stage, which includes a promising resource for placing accountability and compliance management systems where they will have the greatest impact—with the factory owners. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Travels with Cypress Semiconductor on the road to service excellence
Authors: Schremp Barbara
Published: November 2005

A multiyear initiative to become more customer focused has produced several victories and a few disappointments at Cypress Semiconductor. With careful tailoring—and occasional retooling—the initiative is gradually transforming a technically oriented culture into one that believes customer satisfaction and loyalty are drivers of success. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The influence model: Using reciprocity and exchange to get what you need
Authors: Cohen Allan R. , Bradford David L.
Published: November 2005

In organizational life, you can't always get what you want, especially from people over whom you have no authority. The Cohen‐Bradford Influence model offers a practical process of reciprocity and exchange—trading what you have that the other person desires in exchange for what you need to accomplish workplace and personal goals. The authors also discuss some common currencies of exchange in organizational life and how to use them effectively. © 2005 Allan R. Cohen & David L. Bradford
Effect of storage temperature and size of stalks on quality of minimally processed leeks
Authors: Tsouvaltzis Pavlos , Gerasopoulos Dimitrios , Siomos Anastasios S
Published: November 2005

Minimally processed leek stalks were produced by trimming of freshly harvested leeks (Allium porrum L.) to sizes of 0–22, 0–11 and 11–22 cm. Trimmed stalks were then stored at 0, 10 and 20 °C in air for 8 days to determine the effects of temperature and stalk size on quality during storage, including inner leaf growth, fresh weight loss and discoloration. Both inner leaf growth and fresh weight loss were increased linearly with storage duration. Growth of cut leek inner leaves was significantly reduced to 4 mm at the end of 0 °C storage in all three types of cut stalks. Inner leaf growth was maximized during storage at 10 and 20 °C in 0–11 cm stalks, medium in 0–22 cm stalks and minimal in 11–22 cm stalks. Fresh weight loss of 0–11 cm size was significantly higher than that of 0–22 cm size at both 0 and 10 °C, whereas there was no difference between 0–11 and 11–22 cm sizes. At 10 and 20 °C the 0–11 cm size lost more weight than the 11–22 and 0–22 cm ones. Differences in color attributes were observed in most cases between stalk sizes, due to different coloration of intact leeks. Discoloration was observed particularly at the stalk base at 20 °C. Low temperatures effectively control discoloration, and reduce considerably inner leaf growth of minimally processed leeks, but do not control it. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Characterization of Fusarium verticillioides strains by PCR‐RFLP analysis of the intergenic spacer region of the rDNA
Authors: Patiño Belén , Mirete Salvador , Vázquez Covadonga , Jiménez Misericordia , Rodríguez M Teresa , González‐Jaén M Teresa
Published: November 2005

Thirty‐three Fusarium verticillioides strains from diverse origins and hosts have been analysed for fumonisin production and characterized in order (i) to detect the variability present in this species and (ii) to discriminate among isolates. The method used was a combination of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) generated by restriction endonucleases applied to the IGS region (intergenic spacer of rDNA). All the F. verticillioides strains associated with crops produced fumonisins B1 and B2 except those isolated from banana. Analysis of the IGS region by PCR‐RFLP proved to be useful to detect variability within F. verticillioides and allowed discrimination of two related groups of isolates belonging to distinct lineages differing in fumonisin production and host preferences: the fumonisin‐producing group associated with cereals and the fumonisin non‐producing group associated with banana. The method used facilitates early detection and characterization of F. verticillioides strains required to control both types of pathogens and to evaluate plant exposure to the toxin, quality of the raw material to be processed and the potential fumonisin contamination in order to prevent fumonisins entering the food chain. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of nitrogen and manure fertilizer on grain quality, baking and rheological properties of wheat grown in sandy soil
Authors: Al‐Eid Salah M
Published: November 2005

Winter wheat was grown under various nitrogen (N) fertilizer regimes (with/without manure application) under calcareous sandy soils, control wheat being grown without fertilization. Six levels of N fertilizer were applied. The technological and baking characteristics of the wheat were closely related to N and nitrogen + manure (NM) fertilization. Contents of protein increased with increase in fertilization level, which also improved the rheological properties of dough and baking quality. N fertilization increased farinograph stability time, which increased with increasing flour protein content. NM fertilization affected protein content as well as farinograph stability time and farinograph maximum viscosity, thereby affecting the relationship between these properties. The increase in bread volume due to fertilizers was more noticeable with NM than with N. Application of 60 t ha−1 manure along with 200 kg ha−1 N onwards improved technological properties of flour in comparison with wheat grown with the basic N fertilizer only. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Carcass characteristics and meat quality of broilers fed periwinkle flesh (Pachymelania aurita), palm kernel cake and oil‐based rations
Authors: Igri Okon B , Ausaji Ayuk A
Published: November 2005

The effect of supplementation of palm kernel oil in periwinkle flesh and palm kernel cake‐based diets on carcass characteristics and meat quality of broilers was evaluated. Birds were assigned to five dietary treatments in a completely randomized design. The first diet, which was the control, contained 20 mg kg−1 fishmeal but it did not contain palm kernel cake and periwinkle flesh. The second diet contained 20 mg kg−1 fishmeal, 250 mg kg−1 palm kernel cake but no periwinkle flesh. The third diet contained 60 mg kg−1 periwinkle flesh, 250 mg kg−1 palm kernel cake and no fishmeal. Present in the fourth diet were 250 mg kg−1 palm kernel cake, 30 mg kg−1 periwinkle flesh, no fishmeal and 20 mg kg−1 palm kernel oil. Similarly, the fifth diet contained 250 mg kg−1 palm kernel cake, 30 mg kg−1 periwinkle flesh, no fishmeal and 40 mg kg−1 palm kernel oil. Carcass measures and cuts were significantly influenced (P < 0.05) by dietary treatments. Diets 2, 3 and 5 gave significantly higher plucked dressed weights, total edible meat and total bone weights, respectively. Also carcass cuts were significantly increased (P < 0.05) in birds on periwinkle and palm kernel oil diets, with abdominal fat being highest in diet 5 having 40 mg kg−1 palm kernel oil. However, proximate composition, physical and sensory properties were not significantly (P < 0.05) influenced by dietary treatment. Results showed that carcass characteristics improved as compared to the control group. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Pre‐harvest application of calcium to control black heart disorder in Mauritius pineapples during low‐temperature storage
Authors: Hewajulige Ilmi GN , Wilson Wijeratnam Shanthi , Wijesundera Ravindra LC
Published: November 2005

The chill‐sensitive pineapple cv. Mauritius grown in Sri Lanka was subjected to different pre‐harvest calcium treatments in order to determine an effective means of increasing calcium levels in the fruit, thereby reducing the incidence and severity of black heart disorder. Treatments of CaO and CaSO4 (10 g and 15 g per plant) were applied to soil as side dressing 6 weeks after planting, while CaCl2 (1.3 g and 2 g per fruit) were applied as a spray treatment to 1‐month‐old fruit (red bud stage). Fruit were harvested at the 10–20% yellow stage of maturity. Incidence of black heart disorder and observations on total acids, °Brix, ascorbic acid content and total calcium levels were recorded on waxed and unwaxed fruit before and after 17 days storage at 10 °C and 85–90% relative humidity, followed by 2 days at ambient temperature 28 ± 2 °C. Combined treatment of pre‐harvest CaCl2 fruit spray (1.3 g per fruit) followed by post‐harvest wax treatment showed 80% good fruit with no black heart symptoms after low‐temperature storage at 10 °C for 17 days followed by 2 days at ambient temperature of 28 ± 2 °C. However, side dressings of CaO and CaSO4 were found to be less effective in reducing the symptoms, showing less than 30% of good fruit without black heart symptoms. Both core and flesh regions of pineapples subjected to pre‐harvest fruit spray treatment showed higher total calcium levels compared to controls as well as other calcium treatments. Results obtained from the field experiment confirmed that the calcium chloride fruit spray treatment of 1.3 g per fruit in three split doses at 2‐week intervals could be used to reduce the incidence of black heart disorder in Mauritius pineapples. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Continuous baker's yeast production using orange peel as promoting support in the bioreactor
Authors: Plessas Stavros , Kourkoutas Yiannis , Psarianos Constantinos , Kanellaki Maria , Koutinas Athanasios A
Published: November 2005

Improvements in maximum growth rate and productivity in biomass production using orange peel as promoter were observed in batch aerobic fermentation. Daily biomass productivity and biomass yield up to 14.9 g (dry weight) L−1 and 0.22 g (dry weight) g−1 utilized sugar respectively in batch aerobic fermentation by the presence of orange peel as promoter were reported. A novel bioreactor for continuous aerobic fermentation of molasses is described and its suitability for baker's yeast production using orange peel as promoter is investigated. The continuous bioreactor was operated for 12 days, stored for 20 days at 10 °C and operated again for another 13 days without any diminution of biomass productivity. Daily biomass productivity, yield and conversion up to 11.2 g (dry weight) L−1, 0.16 g (dry weight) produced g−1 utilized sugar and 90.4% respectively were recorded. The possibility of using such a system for industrial continuous baker's yeast production is discussed. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Tocopherol, phytosterol and phospholipid compositions of genetically modified peanut varieties
Authors: Jonnala Ramakanth S , Dunford Nurhan T , Chenault Kelly
Published: November 2005

Genetic engineering offers great potential for developing peanut cultivars resistant to a broad spectrum of pathogens that pose a recurring threat to peanut health. In an effort to improve the disease resistance of peanuts, three transgenic peanut lines were developed. Somatic embryos of the peanut cultivar Okrun were transformed by inserting a chitinase gene from rice and/or a β‐1‐3‐glucanase gene from alfalfa. The main objective of this research project was the assessment of composition of the nutritionally beneficial bioactive components in biotechnology‐derived peanut lines. The transgenic peanut lines 188, 540 and 654, which showed increased resistance to fungal diseases, as compared to the parent line, were analyzed for their tocopherol, phytosterol and phospholipid compositions. The compositions of transgenic lines were compared to those of the parent cultivar. The experimental results indicate no major changes in the composition of transgenic peanut lines examined in this study with respect to the cultivar Okrun. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Evaluation of two biodegradable coatings on corn silage quality
Authors: Denoncourt Patrick , Amyot André , Lacroix Monique
Published: November 2005

This experiment was performed to assess two different biodegradable coating formulations for the preservation of corn silage quality. Soy‐ and casein‐based biodegradable coatings were evaluated for their ability to exclude oxygen and preserve corn silage. Experiments were conducted under natural conditions outdoors. The effect of the coating composition on silage quality was compared with the quality of silage covered with a plastic (0.15 mm) (positive control) and uncovered (negative control) after 4 and 8 week periods. The results showed that the two biodegradable coatings offered the same level of silage protection during the overall experiment (8 weeks). As compared with the negative control, the two formulations prevented deterioration associated with air infiltration (heating, mold growth and dry matter losses) and limited the decrease in nutritive value. Also, the pH of the coated silage was significantly lower (P ≤ 0.05) than the negative control after 4 weeks of storage. Silage coated with the biodegradable coatings was able to maintain the pH below 4.5 during the first 4 weeks of storage. The decline in lactic acid concentration seems to have been initiated by the lactate‐utilizing yeasts, responsible for the increase in the silage pH. No visual growth of mold was observed in silage sealed with biodegradable coatings. This study showed that biodegradable coatings were able to protect the quality of silage during 4 weeks but the biodegradable coatings were not as good as plastic at preserving silage after 8 weeks of storage. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
The Guru–Shishya process for radiating knowledge in organizations
Authors: Pio Edwina
Published: November 2005

India is increasingly becoming a destination for organizations seeking to remain profitable in an intensely competitive international environment. This paper intermeshes the ancient EasternGuru–Shishyaor revered teacher‐pupil process with communities of practice to radiate knowledge in organizations. This Eastern process, based on evidence from three labour intensive organizations in India, is described and analysed, along with the results. The paper contributes to knowledge and process management in organizations by tapping into ancient values as the source for embedding both knowledge sharing and knowledge production. In addition, this paper adds to the managerial discourse on developing countries, and is particularly useful for organizations wishing to engage with, or already doing business in India. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Leading Roles: What coaches of women need to know
Authors: Ruderman Marian N. , Ohlott Patricia J.
Published: November 2005

Traditional notions of leadership are largely derived from a male context, but organizations are having to face the fact that the number of women in managerial roles has increased significantly. Th ese women leaders require leadership development techniques that address their particular needs. For executive coaches, this means they must understand the gender differences that may affect the coaching of high‐level women managers and the development needs of these managers.
Urinary calculus fragmentation during Ho: YAG and Er:YAG lithotripsy
Authors: Lee Ho , Kang Hyun Wook , Teichman Joel M.H. , Oh Junghwan , Welch Ashley J.
Published: November 2005

Background and Objectives

We tested Ho:YAG and Er:YAG laser ablation of human urinary calculi to determine if Er:YAG is a more efficient lithotripsy device.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Ablation efficiency of Ho:YAG and Er:YAG lasers was tested at varying energy settings, ranging from the damage threshold to clinical energy setting associated with Ho:YAG laser. Stones of known composition (calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM), cystine, and uric acid (UA)) were irradiated. Crater width, depth, and ablation volumes were determined using an optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Results

For all stones and energy settings, the Er:YAG laser produced deeper craters and larger ablation volumes than Ho:YAG laser. The Ho:YAG laser created wider craters during the multiple pulse process and the shape of craters was irregular.

Conclusions

The Er:YAG laser is more efficient than the Ho:YAG laser for lithotripsy. The deeper craters produced by the Er:YAG laser is attributed to the high absorption of energy at its wavelength. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Polynorbornene Dicarboximides with Cyclic Pendant Groups: Synthesis and Gas Transport Properties
Authors: Díaz Kenya , Vargas Joel , Del Castillo Luis F. , Tlenkopatchev Mikhail A. , Aguilar‐Vega Manuel
Published: November 2005

Summary: The synthesis of new N‐cyclopentyl‐exo,endo‐norbornene‐5,6‐dicarboximide (CpNDI) (3a) and N‐cyclohexyl‐exo,endo‐norbornene‐5,6‐dicarboximide (ChNDI) (3b) monomers was carried out. From these monomers, two polynorbornene dicarboximides with cyclopentyl and cyclohexyl pendant groups, poly(exo,endo‐N‐cyclopentyl norbornene‐5,6‐dicarboximide) (PCpNDI) and poly(exo,endo‐N‐cyclohexyl norbonene‐5,6‐dicarboximide) (PChNDI), respectively, were synthesized by ring opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP). PCpNDI, which bears a cyclic pentyl moiety, shows a higher Tg and mechanical properties compared to PChNDI. A comparison of density, fractional free volume, and gas permeability coefficients of the synthesized polynorbornenes shows that PCpNDI presents a slightly higher density and lower fractional free volume than PChNDI. It was also found that gas permeability coefficients for PCpNDI are lower than those of PChNDI. In all cases, the selectivity followed the usual trade‐off found in other glassy polymers: as gas permeability coefficients increase selectivity decreases.

Poly(exo,endo‐N‐cyclopentyl norbornene‐5,6‐dicarboximide) (PCpNDI) was synthesized here by ROMP.

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Poly(exo,endo‐N‐cyclopentyl norbornene‐5,6‐dicarboximide) (PCpNDI) was synthesized here by ROMP.
UV Assisted Surface Modification of Polystyrene in the Presence of Trialkylsilanes
Authors: Spanring Julia , Buchgraber Christian , Ebel Maria F. , Svagera R. , Kern Wolfgang
Published: November 2005

Summary: A process for the photochemical modification of polystyrene (PS) surfaces employing organosilane compounds has been developed. Polystyrene was irradiated in presence of trialkylsilanes [ethyldimethylsilane (EDMS), trimethylsilane (TrMS)]. UV irradiation was carried out with a medium pressure (MP) Hg lamp and a 193 nm ArF* excimer laser. FT‐IR and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) evidenced that after irradiation alkylsilyl groups were covalently bond to the polymer surface. Contact angle measurements proved a significant lowering in surface energy of polystyrene as a result of the photomodification process. When EDMS was used as photoreactive reagent, the introduction of SiH groups onto the polymer surface was also found. The introduction of SiH bonds onto polymer surfaces provides new possibilities for further surface functionalization. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) showed that Hg lamp irradiation does not exert significant changes in surface topography, while 193 nm excimer laser irradiation leads to surface corrugation. Summing up, it is demonstrated that organosilanes can be employed in UV reactions to attach silyl and also SiH groups onto polystyrene surfaces. Possible reaction mechanisms are discussed.

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Miscibility Enhancement on the Immiscible Binary Blend of Poly(vinyl phenol) and Poly(acetoxystyrene) with Poly(ethylene oxide)
Authors: Kuo Shiao‐Wei , Liu Wen‐Pin , Chang Feng‐Chih
Published: November 2005

Summary: The miscibility and hydrogen‐bonding behaviors of ternary polymer blends of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)/poly(vinyl phenol) (PVPh)/poly(acetoxystyrene) (PAS) were investigated by using DSC and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The PEO is miscible with both PVPh and PAS based on the observed single Tg over the entire composition range. FTIR was used to study the hydrogen‐bonding interactions between PEO with PAS and PVPh, respectively. Quantitative analyses show that the strength of hydrogen‐bonding strength is of the order of the hydroxyl‐ether inter‐association of PVPh/PEO blend > the hydroxyl‐hydroxyl self‐association of pure PVPh > the hydroxyl‐carbonyl inter‐association PVPh/PAS blend at room temperature. Furthermore, the addition of PEO is able to enhance the miscibility of immiscible PVPh/PAS binary blends at lower (20 wt.‐%) or higher (60 and 80 wt.‐%) PEO content. However, there exists a closed immiscibility loop in the phase diagram at 40 wt.‐% PEO content due to the “Δχ” and “ΔK” effects in this hydrogen‐bonded ternary polymer system. Therefore, an interesting and unusual sandwich phase diagram has been observed in this ternary polymer blend.

Ternary phase diagram of the PEO/PAS/PVPh system.

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Ternary phase diagram of the PEO/PAS/PVPh system.
Propylene Polymerization Using ansa‐Zirconocenes with Water/Pentafluorophenol‐Modified Methylaluminoxane
Authors: Fujita Masayuki , Seki Yoshinori , Miyatake Tatsuya
Published: November 2005

Summary: We have confirmed that water‐ and pentafluorophenol‐modified isobutylmethylaluminoxane (W/PM‐MMAO) enhances the productivity and stereoregularity of the yielded polymer and increases its molecular weight when propylene is polymerized using C2‐symmetric ansa‐zirconocenes. 13C NMR analysis shows that when W/PM‐MMAO is used as a cocatalyst with C2‐symmetric ansa‐zirconocenes, although the pentad peaks of the stereoerrors derived from enantiofacial misinsertion have still existed; those derived from the epimerization of the growing chain end that occurred with β‐hydride elimination disappear. Therefore, we propose that W/PM‐MMAO interacts more strongly to the cationic metal center of metallocene than does MMAO owing to steric and electronic effect, and W/PM‐MMAO suppresses β‐hydride elimination, resulting in the production of polypropylene with higher molecular weight and isotacticity. To the contrary, there was no significant difference in the structure of the yielded polymer when W/PM‐MMAO was used with Cs‐symmetric ansa‐zirconocenes. In the case of Cs‐symmetric ansa‐zirconocene, the stereoerror is mostly the result of monomer insertion error, and small amount of stereoerror caused by “skipped” insertion, not from the epimerization of the polymer chain end that occurs after β‐hydride elimination; therefore, there might not be any difference of the microstructure of yielded polymers between MMAO and W/PM‐MMAO. It can be concluded that the both cases of C2‐ and Cs‐symmetric ansa‐zirconocenes are used as a catalyst, and water and phenol modification of MMAO does not affect the monomer misinsertion which is one of the mechanisms of the stereoerrors.

13C NMR spectra of isotactic PP. (a) Sample 1. (b) Sample 2.

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13C NMR spectra of isotactic PP. (a) Sample 1. (b) Sample 2.
Core–Shell–Corona Micellar Complexes between Poly(ethylene glycol)‐block‐poly(4‐vinyl pyridine) and Polystyrene‐block‐poly(acrylic acid)
Authors: Zhang Wangqing , Shi Linqi , Miao Z.‐J. , Wu Kai , An Yingli
Published: November 2005

Summary: The complexation between polystyrene‐block‐poly(acrylic acid) (PS‐b‐PAA) micelles and poly(ethylene glycol)‐block‐poly(4‐vinyl pyridine) (PEG‐b‐P4VP) is studied and a facile strategy is proposed to prepare three‐layered core–shell–corona micellar complexes. Micellization of PS‐b‐PAA in ethanol gives rise to spherical core–shell micelles with the PS block as the core and the PAA block as the shell. When PEG‐b‐P4VP is added into the core–shell micellar solution, the P4VP block penetrates into the PAA shell and is absorbed into the core–shell micelles to form spherical core–shell–corona micellar complexes with the PS block as the core, the bonded PAA/P4VP blocks as the shell, and the PEG block as the corona. The core radius, Rc, of the core–shell–corona micellar complexes, 15.1 nm, is equal to that of the core–shell micelles, and the thickness, Ds, of the PEG corona is about 1.5 nm, while the shell thickness, Ds, ranges from 12.2 to 15.7 nm depending on the weight ratio of PEG‐b‐P4VP to PS‐b‐PAA.

Schematic formation of core–shell–corona micellar complexes.

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Schematic formation of core–shell–corona micellar complexes.