bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Controlling the False-Positive Rate in Multilocus Genome Scans for Selection
Authors: Thornton Kevin R , Jensen Jeffrey D
Published: November 2006

Rapid typing of genetic variation at many regions of the genome is an efficient way to survey variability in natural populations in an effort to identify segments of the genome that have experienced recent natural selection. Following such a genome scan, individual regions may be chosen for further sequencing and a more detailed analysis of patterns of variability, often to perform a parametric test for selection and to estimate the strength of a recent selective sweep. We show here that not accounting for the ascertainment of loci in such analyses leads to false inference of natural selection when the true model is selective neutrality, because the procedure of choosing unusual loci (in comparison to the rest of the genome-scan data) selects regions of the genome with genealogies similar to those expected under models of recent directional selection. We describe a simple and efficient correction for this ascertainment bias, which restores the false-positive rate to near-nominal levels. For the parameters considered here, we find that obtaining a test with the expected distribution of P-values depends on accurately accounting both for ascertainment of regions and for demography. Finally, we use simulations to explore the utility of relying on outlier loci to detect recent selective sweeps. We find that measures of diversity and of population differentiation are more effective than summaries of the site-frequency spectrum and that sequencing larger regions (2.5 kbp) in genome-scan studies leads to more power to detect recent selective sweeps.
Ecological Zones Rather Than Molecular Forms Predict Genetic Differentiation in the Malaria VectorAnopheles gambiaes.s. in Ghana
Authors: Yawson Alexander E , Weetman David , Wilson Michael D , Donnelly Martin J
Published: November 2006

The malaria mosquito Anopheles gambiae s.s. is rapidly becoming a model for studies on the evolution of reproductive isolation. Debate has centered on the taxonomic status of two forms (denoted M and S) within the nominal taxon identified by point mutations in the X-linked rDNA region. Evidence is accumulating that there are significant barriers to gene flow between these forms, but that the barriers are not complete throughout the entire range of their distribution. We sampled populations from across Ghana and southern Burkina Faso, West Africa, from areas where the molecular forms occurred in both sympatry and allopatry. Neither Bayesian clustering methods nor FST-based analysis of microsatellite data found differentiation between the M and S molecular forms, but revealed strong differentiation among different ecological zones, irrespective of M/S status and with no detectable effect of geographical distance. Although no M/S hybrids were found in the samples, admixture analysis detected evidence of contemporary interform gene flow, arguably most pronounced in southern Ghana where forms occur sympatrically. Thus, in the sampled area of West Africa, lack of differentiation between M and S forms likely reflects substantial introgression, and ecological barriers appear to be of greater importance in restricting gene flow.
Drosophila melanogasterMale Somatic Cells Feminized Solely by TraF Can Collaborate With Female Germ Cells to Make Functional Eggs
Authors: Evans Daniel S , Cline Thomas W
Published: November 2006

Female differentiation of Drosophila germ cells is induced by cell-nonautonomous signals generated in the gonadal soma that work with germ-cell-autonomous signals determined by germ-cell X chromosome dose. Generation of the nonautonomous feminizing signals was known to involve female-specific protein encoded by the master sex-determination gene Sex-lethal (Sxl) acting on its switch-gene target transformer (tra) to produce TraF protein. However, it was not known whether Sxl's action on tra alone would suffice to trigger a fully feminizing nonautonomous signal. We developed a constitutively feminizing tra transgene that allowed us to answer this question. In gynanders (XX//XO mosaics) feminized by this TraF transgene, functionally Sxl− haplo-X (chromosomally male) somatic cells collaborated successfully with diplo-X (chromosomally female) germ cells to make functional eggs. The fertility of such gynanders shows not only that TraF is sufficient to elicit a fully feminizing nonautonomous signal, but also that haplo-X somatic cells can execute all other somatic functions required for oogenesis, despite the fact that their genome is not expected to be dosage compensated for such diplo-X-specific functions. The unexpected observation that some TraF-feminized gynanders failed to lay their eggs showed there to be diplo-X cells outside the gonad for which TraF-feminized haplo-X cells cannot substitute.
SSP2 and OSW1, Two Sporulation-Specific Genes Involved in Spore Morphogenesis in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Li Jing , Agarwal Seema , Roeder G Shirleen
Published: November 2006

Spore formation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae requires the synthesis of prospore membranes (PSMs) followed by the assembly of spore walls (SWs). We have characterized extensively the phenotypes of mutants in the sporulation-specific genes, SSP2 and OSW1, which are required for spore formation. A striking feature of the osw1 phenotype is asynchrony of spore development, with some spores displaying defects in PSM formation and others spores in the same ascus blocked at various stages in SW development. The Osw1 protein localizes to spindle pole bodies (SPBs) during meiotic nuclear division and subsequently to PSMs/SWs. We propose that Osw1 performs a regulatory function required to coordinate the different stages of spore morphogenesis. In the ssp2 mutant, nuclei are surrounded by PSMs and SWs; however, PSMs and SWs often also encapsulate anucleate bodies both inside and outside of spores. In addition, the SW is not as thick as in wild type. The ssp2 mutant defect is partially suppressed by overproduction of either Spo14 or Sso1, both of which promote the fusion of vesicles at the outer plaque of the SPB early in PSM formation. We propose that Ssp2 plays a role in vesicle fusion during PSM formation.
Specificity of Ubiquitin‐Binding Proteins: Recognition of Different Faces of Ubiquitin
Authors: Yin Luming , Russell Nathaniel S. , Cheng Dongmei , Peng Junmin , Wilkinson Keith D.
Published: November 2006

To further understand ubiquitin‐binding proteins, we have developed a panel of monoubiquitin affinity resins linked through six different positions: residues 6, 11, 29, 48, 63, and 76. Each resin bound a different subset of yeast proteins. MALDI‐TOF MS analysis of the eluted proteins identified several of these proteins. Adding excess free ubiquitin competes for the binding of specific ubiquitin‐binding proteins. Thus, putative monoubiquitin‐binding proteins could be identified by this method. Analysis of yeast protein with this panel of resins demonstrates clear differences in the protein‐binding pattern, depending on what ubiquitin residue is coupled to the resin. The results suggested that certain proteins show a preference for binding to different faces of ubiquitin. Sap185, an effector of the Sit4 protein phosphatase, has been identified as a putative ubiquitin‐binding protein that binds to a face of ubiquitin other than that containing the hydrophobic patch. The combined affinity chromatography and mass spectrometry approach is a powerful tool for identifying ubiquitin‐binding proteins.
The GI‐UEV Domain, a Catalytically Inactive Ubiquitin‐Conjugating Enzyme Variant With a Role in Translational Regulation
Authors: Scheel Hartmut , Hofmann Kay
Published: November 2006

Ubiquitin‐conjugating enzymes (UBCs) form the second step in the enzyme cascade required for protein ubiquitylation. Most eukaryotic genomes contain a multitude of different catalytically active UBCs. In addition, several proteins contain homology domains related to UBCs that have lost their catalytic activity and are referred to as “ubiquitin‐conjugating enzyme variants” or UEV‐domains. A common property of those domains is a role in ubiquitin binding and recognition. We report here on a novel class of more distantly related UEV domains, which forms a superset of the previously described GI‐homology region found in Gcn2 and IMPACT proteins. In the Gcn2 and IMPACT protein families, the GI‐UEV domain binds to proteins of the Gcn1 family and thus regulates translation levels via eIF2α phosphorylation. Bioinformatical analysis shows that GI‐UEV domains occur in a large number of proteins, many of them without an established role in translational regulation. Residue conservation and domain context predict that GI‐UEV domains might also have a role in the ubiquitin/proteasome system, suggesting a possible cross‐talk between ubiquitylation and translational regulation.
Evaluating Age Determination and Spatial Patterns of Growth in Red Sea Urchins in Southeast Alaska
Authors: Shelton Andrew O. , Woodby Douglas A. , Hebert Kyle , Witman Jon D.
Published: November 2006

The goals of this study were to characterize growth of the commercially harvested red sea urchin Strongylocentrotus franciscanus in southeastern Alaska and test the validity of an aging technique. We aged urchins by counting growth rings on a part (rotula) of the Aristotle's lantern complex from urchins collected at three sites. A subset of collected urchins had three or more years of size measurements from passive integrated transponder (PIT) tag data, allowing us to fit and compare PIT tag and ring‐derived growth curves and test the assumption that rings were formed annually. Growth from PIT‐tagged individuals approximated the growth derived from ring counts for two of three sites. The third site deviated slightly from predicted growth, providing support for our aging technique. However, we failed to detect any extremely old urchins, suggesting that this technique is not appropriate for assessing the longevity or growth trajectory of very large urchins. An additional five sites without PIT‐tagged urchins were sampled to examine spatial variation in growth. Estimates of time to fishery entry varied substantially among sites, but four nonlinear growth functions produced similar estimates at individual sites. Time to fishery entry was positively correlated with an index of food availability, which suggests that the technique revealed true variation in growth rates.
Electrical Stimulation Modulates Fate Determination of Differentiating Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Yamada Masahisa , Tanemura Kentaro , Okada Seiji , Iwanami Akio , Nakamura Masaya , Mizuno Hideaki , Ozawa Michiru , Ohyama-Goto Ritsuko , Kitamura Naohito , Kawano Masako , Tan-Takeuchi Kyoko , Ohtsuka Chiho , Miyawaki Atsushi , Takashima Akihiko , Ogawa Masaharu , Toyama Yoshiaki , Okano Hideyuki , Kondo Takashi
Published: November 2006

A clear understanding of cell fate regulation during differentiation is key in successfully using stem cells for therapeutic applications. Here, we report that mild electrical stimulation strongly influences embryonic stem cells to assume a neuronal fate. Although the resulting neuronal cells showed no sign of specific terminal differentiation in culture, they showed potential to differentiate into various types of neurons in vivo, and, in adult mice, contributed to the injured spinal cord as neuronal cells. Induction of calcium ion influx is significant in this differentiation system. This phenomenon opens up possibilities for understanding novel mechanisms underlying cellular differentiation and early development, and, perhaps more importantly, suggests possibilities for treatments in medical contexts.
Differentiation of Adult Mouse Olfactory Precursor Cells into Hair Cells In Vitro
Authors: Doyle Kharen L. , Kazda Anita , Hort Yvonne , McKay Sarah M. , Oleskevich Sharon
Published: November 2006

Many forms of deafness result from degeneration of the sensory cells for hearing, the hair cells in the cochlea. Stem cells offer a potential cell-based therapy for the treatment of deafness. Here, we investigate whether adult olfactory precursor cells can differentiate into hair cells in culture. Precursor cells were isolated from mouse olfactory neuroepithelium, were sphere-forming, showed proliferative capacity, and contained cells expressing neuronal and non-neuronal proteins. To induce differentiation, precursor cells were cocultured with cochlear cells and/or cochlear supernatant. Differentiated precursor cells were immunopositive for specific hair cell markers, including myosin VIIa, FM1-43, calretinin, phalloidin, and espin, and resembled hair cells anatomically and immunocytochemically in culture. The results demonstrate for the first time that adult olfactory precursor cells can differentiate into hair cell-like cells, thus providing a potential autotransplantation therapy for hearing loss.
No Contribution of Multipotent Mesenchymal Stromal Cells to Liver Regeneration in a Rat Model of Prolonged Hepatic Injury
Authors: Popp Felix C. , Slowik Przemyslaw , Eggenhofer Elke , Renner Phillip , Lang Sven A. , Stoeltzing Oliver , Geissler Edward K. , Piso Pompiliu , Schlitt Hans J. , Dahlke Marc H.
Published: November 2006

Multipotent mesenchymal stromal (MS) cells from adult bone marrow are a cell population that can be expanded to large numbers in culture. MS cells might be differentiated toward hepatocytes in vitro and thus are promising candidates for therapeutic applications in vivo. The efficacy of bone marrow-derived MS cells versus hepatocytes to contribute to liver regeneration was compared in a rat model of prolonged toxic hepatic injury. Liver damage was induced by injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) or allyl alcohol (AA) with and without retrorsine (R) pretreatment. MS cells or hepatocytes of wild-type F344 rats were injected into dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPPIV)-deficient syngeneic rats. Hepatocyte chimerism was higher after intraportal hepatocyte transplantation in the R/AA group (mean maximal cluster size [MCS] = 21 cells) compared with the R/CCl4 treatment group (MCS = 18). No hepatocyte engraftment was outlined following post-transplant CCl4 injection only, whereas mere AA injection resulted in small clusters of donor-derived hepatocytes (MCS = 2). Intraparenchymal injection of hepatocytes was associated with a MCS = 11 after R/AA treatment and a MCS = 6 after AA administration alone. Redistribution of MS cells to the liver was shown after intraportal and intraparenchymal injection. In contrast to hepatocyte transplantation, however, donor-derived DPPIV-positive cells could not be demonstrated in any recipient after MS cell transplantation. Data from the present study indicate that a well-defined population of MS cells obtained according to established standard protocols does not differentiate into hepatocytes in vivo when transplanted under regenerative conditions, in which the application of hepatocytes results in stable hepatic engraftment.
Comparative Mapping of Growth Habit, Plant Height, and Flowering QTLs in Two Interspecific Families of Leymus
Authors: Larson Steven R. , Wu Xiaolei , Jones Thomas A. , Jensen Kevin B. , Chatterton N. Jerry , Waldron Blair L. , Robins Joseph G. , Bushman B. Shaun , Palazzo Antonio J.
Published: November 2006

Leymus cinereus (Scribn. & Merr.) Á. Löve and L. triticoides (Buckley) Pilg. are tall caespitose and short rhizomatous perennial Triticeae grasses, respectively. Circumference of rhizome spreading, proportion of bolting culms, anthesis date, and plant height were evaluated in two mapping families derived from two interspecific hybrids of L. cinereus Acc:636 and L. triticoides Acc:641 accessions, backcrossed to one L. triticoides tester. Two circumference, two bolting, and two height QTLs were homologous between families. Two circumference, seven bolting, all five anthesis date, and five height QTLs were family specific. Thus, substantial QTL variation was apparent within and between natural source populations of these species. Two of the four circumference QTLs were detected in homoeologous regions of linkage groups 3a and 3b in both families, indicating that one gene may control much of the dramatic difference in growth habit between these species. A major height QTL detected in both families may correspond with dwarfing mutations on barley 2H and wheat 2A. The L. cinereus parent contributed negative alleles for all four circumference QTLs, five of nine bolting QTLs, two of five anthesis date QTLs, and one of seven height QTLs. Coupling of synergistic QTL allele effects within parental species was consistent with the divergent growth habit and plant height of L. cinereus and L. triticoides Conversely, antagonistic QTL alleles evidently caused transgressive segregation in reproductive bolting and flowering time.
Agronomic Performance of Low Phytic Acid Wheat
Authors: Guttieri M. J. , Peterson K. M. , Souza E. J.
Published: November 2006

Low phytic acid (LPA) genotypes of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) improve the nutritional quality of wheat by reducing the concentration of phytic acid (PA) in the aleurone layer, thus reducing the chelation of nutritionally important minerals and improving the bioavailability of phosphorus. Field studies were conducted at Aberdeen and Tetonia, ID, in 2003 and 2004 to evaluate the effects of the LPA genotype on the agronomic performance of wheat. These studies included wild‐type (WT) and LPA genotypes in hard red spring, hard white spring, and soft white spring wheat genetic backgrounds. In the hard red spring genetic background, LPA genotypes had delayed development and reduced grain yield (8–25%) in the high yield environment, in part due to reduced kernel size (up to 3 mg kernel−1). In the hard white spring genetic background, differences in crop development and grain yield were not observed; however, in the high yield environment LPA genotypes produced smaller kernels (2.0–2.4 mg kernel−1). In the soft white spring genetic background, LPA genotypes developed earlier, but the grain yield of LPA genotypes was reduced 20 to 24% in the high yield environment. However, LPA kernels, on average, were heavier and larger in diameter than WT kernels. The absence of consistent effects of the LPA genotype across the three genetic backgrounds suggests that deleterious effects of the LPA genotype may be mitigated by plant breeding.
Combining Abilities and Heterosis for Adaptation in Flint Maize Populations
Authors: Soengas Pilar , Ordás Bernardo , Malvar Rosa Ana , Revilla Pedro , Ordás Amando
Published: November 2006

Breeding of maize (Zea mays L.) in the Atlantic coast of Europe has focused on developing hybrids to exploit heterosis between flint and dent germplasm. Flint × flint hybrids could have some advantages because of their earliness and early vigor that are important in short growing season areas. The objective of this work was to study the adaptation of a set of 10 flint varieties crossed to flint and dent testers and in a diallel design to check the feasibility of a breeding program to obtain flint hybrids well adapted to European Atlantic conditions. In the testcrosses, general combining ability (GCA) of the flint tester EP42 for kernel moisture at harvest and days to silking was lower than those of dent testers. Improvement of flint varieties for combining ability with inbred line EP42 could be done to obtain earlier flint × flint hybrids with a better dry‐down rate than flint × dent hybrids. Diallel entries were analyzed following Analysis II of Gardner and Eberhart. Variety and heterosis effects were significant for all traits. Varieties Gallego and Norteño, besides having large variety effects, also showed intermediate variety heterosis for adaptive traits and they would be the best adapted varieties to include in breeding programs. The cross ‘Gallego × Basto/Enano levantino’ combined the best yield and good specific heterosis for adaptive traits. Thus, flint hybrids to be grown in short season areas could be obtained following this heterotic pattern.
Climatic variation and runoff in mountain basins with differing proportions of glacier cover*
Authors: Collins David N.
Published: November 2006

Records of discharge from partially-glacierised basins in the upper Rhône catchment, Switzerland, were examined together with air temperature and precipitation data in order to assess impacts of climatic fluctuation and percentage glacierisation of basin on runoff, as glaciers declined from dimensions attained during the Little Ice Age. Above 60% glacierisation, year-to-year variations in runoff mimicked mean May–September air temperature, rising in the warm 1940s, declining in the cool 1970s, before increasing (by 50%) into the warm dry 1990s/2000s but not reaching 1940s maxima. In basins with between 35–60% glacierisation, flow also increased into the 1980s but waned through the 1990s. With less than 2% glacierisation, the pattern of runoff was broadly the inverse of that of temperature and followed precipitation, dipping in the 1940s, rising in the cool wet late 1960s, and declining into the 1990s/2000s, with glacier melt in warm years being insufficient to offset lack of precipitation. On mid-sized glaciers at relatively low elevations and with limited vertical extent, in warmer years, the transient snow line was above the highest point of the glacier. Only on large glaciers descending from high elevations can rising transient snowlines continue to expose more ice to melt. Runoff from such large glaciers was enhanced in warm summers but reduction of overall ice area through glacier recession led to runoff in the warmest summer (2003) being lower than the previous peak discharge recorded in the second warmest year (1947).
Anaerobic treatment of volatile and semivolatile organic compounds in municipal wastewater
Authors: Narayanan B. , Suidan Makram T. , Gelderloos Allen B. , Brenner Richard C.
Published: November 2006

The potential of the expanded bed Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) anaerobic reactor in treating a municipal wastewater containing Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) volatile (VOC) and semivolatile organic compounds was studied. The GAC anaerobic reactor was followed by an aerobic nitrification tank. The GAC anaerobic reactor was operated at an empty bed residence time of 3.35 hours, whereas the nitrification tank was operated as a chemostat at a hydraulic residence time of 10 hours. A total of six VOCs (methylene chloride, chlorobenzene, carbon tetrachloride, chloroform, toluene, and tetrachloroethylene) and six semivolatiles (o‐chlorophenol, naphthalene, nitrobenzene, p‐nitrophenol, di‐n‐butyl phthalate, and lindane) were fed to the GAC anaerobic reactor each at a concentration of 1 mg/L. The VOCs and semivolatiles were fed to the reactor as a mixture along with primary effluent from a local sewage treatment plant. The GAC anaerobic reactor was found to achieve greater than 94% removal of all VOCs except chloroform, which was removed to an extent of 75%. The semivolatiles were removed in excess of 95%. The combined GAC anaerobic reactor‐aerobic nitrification system was able to achieve removal efficiencies for chemical oxygen demand and ammonia‐nitrogen in excess of 97%
Nitrification of municipal wastewater in moving‐bed biofilm reactors
Authors: Rusten Bjørn , Hem Lars J. , Ødegaard Hallvard
Published: November 2006

A moving‐bed biofilm reactor has been developed, where the biofilm grows on small, free‐floating plastic elements with a large surface area and a density slightly less than 1.0 g/cm3. Nitrification of preprecipitated wastewater in a once‐through system and raw wastewater in a recycled system with predenitrification has been studied in a pilot plant with an active, specific biofilm surface area of approximately 310 m2/m3. Maximum nitrification rates under comparable operating conditions were 20% to 25% higher with preprecipitated wastewater in the once‐through system than with raw wastewater in the recycled system. A temperature coefficient of θ = 1.09 was found. However, under oxygen‐limited conditions, the apparent temperature effect was insignificant in the temperature range from 7 to 18°C because of increased dissolved oxygen levels at low temperatures. At 10°C volumetric nitrification rates from 300 to 400 g NH4‐N/m3·d can be expected.
Living in a Restricted Occupational World: The Occupational Experiences of Stroke Survivors who are Wheelchair Users and Their Caregivers
Authors: Rudman Deborah Laliberte , Hebert Debbie , Reid Denise
Published: November 2006

Background. In order to meet the responsibilities of understanding and enabling occupation, occupational scientists and therapists must conduct research that is framed within an occupational perspective. Purpose. This paper reports the results of a qualitative investigation of the occupational experiences of stroke survivors (n=16) who use wheelchairs and their primary caregivers (n=15). Results. Inductive analysis of data collected via in-depth interviews resulted in two major themes related to occupation, specifically: living in a restricted occupational world and challenges to participation in occupation. These results highlight the overall experience labeled occupation by default, and the intricate interconnections or spill-over effect between the occupations of stroke survivors and caregivers. Practice Implications. In addition to providing empirical support for the importance of having a sense of control over occupation and the connection between occupation and identity, the results have implications for practice aimed at enabling occupation and directions for future research. As well, the results illustrate that occupational therapy services need to extend beyond wheelchair prescription in order to enable occupation with clients.
Factors Related to the Intensity of Occupational Therapy Utilization in a Geriatric Chronic Care Setting
Authors: Dunal Lynda S. , Colantonio Angela , Rappolt Susan
Published: November 2006

Background. There is very little known about the intensity of occupational therapy service provision in relation to client characteristics of a geriatric chronic care population. A model was utilized to study demographic and clinical factors associated with the intensity of occupational therapy utilization. Method. A retrospective correlational design was carried out using secondary analysis of occupational therapy workload data merged with selected variables from the Minimum Data Set (MDS) at Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care, Toronto, Ontario and included a sample of 168 clients receiving occupational therapy. The outcome measure used was the total number of minutes of occupational therapy service provided. Results. Having a pressure relieving device for the chair and being active more than one third of waking hours were significantly associated with the intensity of occupational therapy utilization. The clients received a greater amount of time in indirect therapy compared with the amount of time which they received in direct care. Practice Implications. The method used to examine occupational therapy service utilization developed in this research facilitates the understanding of occupational therapy resource use based on client characteristics.
Informed Choice and Breast Cancer Screening
Authors: Baum Michael
Published: November 2006

It is an accepted principle of clinical practice that any intervention should be preceded by informed consent demonstrating that the individual understands both the potential benefits and harms of that intervention. I believe that this principle has been neglected when women are invited for mammographic screening. Public health agencies promote screening as an unequivocal ‘good’ by publicizing the benefit in mortality reduction in relative terms and avoiding discussion of potential harms. Each woman is encouraged to believe that, whatever the outcome of her individual screening experience, she has in some way benefited. I believe that the harm:benefit margins for screening are finely balanced and that the individual woman should be able to make an informed choice based on the balance of benefit versus harm for an individual, rather than for the total population of women in the screening age group.
Hormonal Therapy for Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Markman Maurie
Published: November 2006

Despite the fact that hormonal therapy has been employed in the management of ovarian cancer for more than 40 years, there is limited information available in the peer-reviewed medical literature to document the beneficial impact of the strategy, either on improvement in cancer-related symptoms or prolongation of survival. Existing data suggest that approximately 5–10% of ovarian cancer patients treated with a hormone-based strategy in the second-line setting will achieve evidence of substantial tumor shrinkage, with a larger proportion of individuals likely to demonstrate stabilization of the disease process for a highly variable time interval. The major advantage with the use of hormonal treatments is the well-recognized and highly favorable toxicity profile associated with this class of antineoplastic agents.
Antiphospholipid Syndrome and Pregnancy
Authors: Zatti Sonia , Rebaioli Chiara Biasini , Lojacono Andrea , Rovetto Bettina , Barbolini Edoardo , Taglietti Marco , Nuzzo Monica , Tincani Angela
Published: November 2006

Since the 1960s, antiphospholipid antibodies have been known to be associated with repeated miscarriages and fetal losses. Other complications of pregnancy, such as preterm birth, with pre-eclampsia or severe placental insufficiency were also frequently reported and are included in the current classification criteria of the antiphospholipid syndrome. The titer, isotype or antigen specificity of the antibodies may be important in risk determination. The pathogenesis of pregnancy failures is not only linked to the thrombophilic effect of antiphospholipid antibodies but also to a direct effect of antibodies on trophoblast differentiation and invasion. The study of experimental animal models provided sound evidence of the pathogenic role of antiphospholipid antibodies both in lupus-prone and -naive mice. The classification of pregnant antiphospholipid syndrome patients as being at a ‘high risk’ has completely changed their prognosis due to obstetric monitoring and the application of effective therapy. In fact, despite the high rates of complications and preterm delivery, a successful outcome can now be achieved in a large majority of cases.
Contraceptive Options during Perimenopause
Authors: Bazi Tony , Zreik Tony G
Published: November 2006

During the transition years leading to menopause, the possibility of conception persists, although at a lower rate. Contraceptive choices available to perimenopausal women are as varied as those for their younger counterparts, albeit with some limitations related predominantly to coexisting medical conditions rather than the advancing age itself. In this review, different contraceptive choices pertaining to this age group will be discussed, with a focus on evidence-based data.
Lord Byron and the Genteel Reformers
Authors: Erdman David V.
Published: November 2006

Mr. Johnstone … who had more acquaintance with the springs and
wires that move people than I had, suggested that we should wait
upon Lady Oxford …

When the asterisks in the following passage of Byron's diary are
replaced by the correct name, light is shed on the practically unexplored
problem of Byron's political connections and ambitions during his life in
London—and on the question, crucial to an understanding of the later Byron,
of what was going on in the poet's mind in his twenty-fifth year.
Nosology and classification of genetic skeletal disorders: 2006 revision
Authors: Superti‐Furga Andrea , Unger Sheila ,   and the Nosology Group of the International Skeletal Dysplasia Society
Published: November 2006

The objective of the paper is to provide the revision of the Nosology of Constitutional Disorders of Bone that incorporates newly recognized disorders and reflects new molecular and pathogenetic concepts. Criteria for inclusion of disorders were (1) significant skeletal involvement corresponding to the definition of skeletal dysplasias, metabolic bone disorders, dysostoses, and skeletal malformation and/or reduction syndromes, (2) publication and/or MIM listing, (3) genetic basis proven or very likely, and (4) nosologic autonomy confirmed by molecular or linkage analysis and/or distinctive diagnostic features and observation in multiple individuals or families. Three hundred seventy‐two different conditions were included and placed in 37 groups defined by molecular, biochemical and/or radiographic criteria. Of these conditions, 215 were associated with one or more of 140 different genes. Nosologic status was classified as final (mutations or locus identified), probable (pedigree evidence), or bona fide (multiple observations and clear diagnostic criteria, but no pedigree or locus evidence yet). The number of recognized genetic disorders with a significant skeletal component is growing and the distinction between dysplasias, metabolic bone disorders, dysostoses, and malformation syndromes is blurring. For classification purposes, pathogenetic and molecular criteria are integrating with morphological ones but disorders are still identified by clinical features and radiographic appearance. Molecular evidence leads to confirmation of individual entities and to the constitution of new groups, but also allows for delineation of related but distinct entities and indicates a previously unexpected heterogeneity of molecular mechanisms; thus, molecular evidence does not necessarily simplify the Nosology, and a further increase in the number of entities and growing complexity is expected. By providing an updated overview of recognized entities with skeletal involvement and of the underlying gene defects, the new Nosology can provide practical diagnostic help, facilitate the recognition of new entities, and foster and direct research in skeletal biology and genetic disorders. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Unusually mild tuberous sclerosis phenotype is associated withTSC2R905Q mutation
Authors: Jansen An C. , Sancak Ozgur , D'Agostino Maria Daniela , Badhwar Amanpreet , Roberts Penelope , Gobbi Gabriella , Wilkinson Ralph , Melanson Denis , Tampieri Donatella , Koenekoop Robert , Gans Mark , Maat‐Kievit Anneke , Goedbloed Miriam , van den Ouweland Ans M. W. , Nellist Mark , Pandolfo Massimo , McQueen Mary , Sims Katherine , Thiele Elisabeth A. , Dubeau François , Andermann Frederick , Kwiatkowski David J. , Halley Dicky J. J. , Andermann Eva
Published: November 2006

Objective

To report the clinical manifestations and functional aspects of Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC), resulting from Codon 905 mutations inTSC2gene.

Methods

We performed a detailed study of the TSC phenotype and genotype in a large French‐Canadian kindred (Family A). Subsequently, clinical and molecular data on 18 additional TSC families with missense mutations at the same codon ofTSC2were collected. Functional studies were performed on the different missense changes and related to the phenotype.

Results

A 2714G>A (R905Q) mutation was identified in Family A. The TSC phenotype in this family was unusually mild and characterized by hypomelanotic macules or focal seizures that remitted spontaneously or were easily controlled with medication. Diagnostic criteria were met in only a minority of mutation carriers. Other families with the R905Q mutation were found to have a similar mild phenotype. In contrast, patients with a 2713C>T (R905W) or a 2713C>G (R905G) mutation had more severe phenotypes. Although all three amino acid substitutions were pathogenic, the R905W and R905G substitutions affected tuberin function more severely than R905Q.

Interpretation

Codon 905 missense mutations inTSC2are relatively common. TheTSC2R905Q mutation is associated with unusually mild disease, consistent with functional studies. Combined with previous reports, it is apparent that certainTSC2missense mutations are associated with a mild form of tuberous sclerosis, which in many patients does not meet standard diagnostic criteria. These findings have implications for the large number of patients with limited clinical features of TSC and for genetic counseling in these families.
Recombinant therapeutics: From bench to bedside (if your health plan concurs)
Authors: Hauser Stephen L. , Johnston S. Claiborne
Published: November 2006

A talented medical student at our institution was recently diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). β interferon was prescribed; however, her annual cap from student health insurance coverage for outpatient drug expenses is only $3,000, a sum that would be exceeded within 3 months and leave her without coverage for symptomatic medications also required for her care. Unable to pay for the treatment from personal resources, she qualified to receive β interferon without cost from a universal access program established by the manufacturer. Unfortunately, it was evident within a few months that she had a poor therapeutic response, so her physician prescribed natalizumab. Her health care plan requires that infusion therapy be given at the hospital's infusion center, yet for various reasons, the drug was not yet approved by the formulary. She remains unable to receive the drug.
Nonlinear behavior of reactor separator networks with mass and energy recycle
Authors: Sree Rama Raju V. , Pushpavanam S. , Kienle Achim
Published: November 2006

In this paper we investigate the nonlinear behavior of a coupled reactor separator system. The focus is on considering the effect of energy as well as the mass coupling between the reactor and the separator. The reactor holdup is controlled using the reactor effluent stream and the flash is operated under a constant heat duty. The fresh feed flow rate is flow controlled. We compare the behavior of the system when there is only mass coupling to the case when there is mass and energy coupling. It is shown that the presence of energy coupling can render a system unstable. We also investigate the effect of a nonideal vapor liquid equilibrium (VLE) in the form of a minimum boiling azeotrope and a maximum boiling azeotrope. It is shown that, when the VLE exhibits a minimum boiling azeotrope, the system is more stable when the liquid stream is recycled from the flash to the reactor. Copyright © 2006 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of magnetic field and rare‐earth ions on properties of polyaniline nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Shuling , Tang Rong , Kan Jinqing
Published: November 2006

The uniform polyaniline nanoparticles with the size of about 50 nm were electropolymerized using the method of constant potential of 0.8 V. The effects of rare‐earth cations and magnetic field on the preparation and properties of polyaniline were investigated. It was found that the addition of rare‐earth cations could enhance the effect of magnetic field on the properties of polyaniline. The resulting products were characterized by FTIR spectra, UV–vis spectra and scanning electron microscope (SEM); the conductivity and cyclic voltammetry (CV) were also investigated. The experimental results show that the magnetic field has an orientation effect on polyaniline chain and there exists the interaction between rare‐earth cations and polyaniline chain because of the electrostatic interaction. The addition of rare‐earth cations can increase electrical conductivity, moreover, the effect of NdCl3 and ErCl3 on properties of polyaniline is more remarkable than LaCl3 and SmCl3. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 103: 2286–2294, 2007
Preparation and optical properties of an all‐polymer light modulator using colored N‐isopropylacrylamide gel particles in a gel‐in‐gel system
Authors: Tsutsui Hiroaki , Akashi Ryojiro
Published: November 2006

A novel all‐polymer light modulator with a gel‐in‐gel system was developed. The gel‐in‐gel system was constructed with colored gel particles responsive to stimuli held independently in another stimuli‐nonresponsive gel matrix. Well‐known thermoresponsive N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) gel particles containing a pigment were dispersed and fixed in an outer stimuli‐nonresponsive gel matrix. When poly(vinyl alcohol)–styrylpyridinium (PVA–SbQ) was used for the outer gel matrix, the light modulator showed excellent color‐changing properties because the PVA–SbQ matrix was selectively formed around the NIPAM gel particles and the particles exhibited a large volume change in the matrix. The temperature when the outer gel matrix was formed affected the haze of the light modulator. When the outer gel matrix was formed in the swollen state of the NIPAM gels, the haze of a light modulator increased with heating. On the contrary, the haze of a light modulator prepared in the shrunken state of the NIPAM gels decreased with heating. The response time of the color change was less than 1 s. The gel‐in‐gel system made a very fast macroscopic color change, taking advantage of the fast response of the micrometer‐sized gel particles. We believe that a light modulator with a gel‐in‐gel system may find various applications in optical devices. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 103: 2295–2303, 2007
Diffusion of two associated solvents in various compositions through a swelling polymer material, EVAc
Authors: Oughilas A. , Roukbi O. , Benghalem A. , Rabah M. Zouaoui , Chafi N.
Published: November 2006

The particular sorption by a swelling polymer with the transfer of hydrocarbons was studied in order to evaluate some barrier properties of this material. The transfer of two types of solvents through two varieties of ethylene vinyl acetate was investigated: absorption of pure toluene and pure n‐hexane and absorption of a toluene/hexane mixture in various compositions. A comparison between the two processes showed that these transfers were very different and depended on two factors: vinyl acetate content and composition of the mixture. The kinetics of absorption were calculated for various compositions. The profiles of concentration as well as the kinetics of swelling were evaluated using a numerical model deduced from the general theory of radial diffusion of a substance with change in dimensions. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 103: 2099–2106, 2007
Rheological investigation of microphase separation transition of polyurethane elastomer
Authors: Yang I‐Kuan , Wang Pei Ju , Tsai Ping Hung
Published: November 2006

A technique of linear viscoelasticity measurements coupling with temperature scanning was found effective in the detection of microphase separation transition (MST) and in the determination of MST temperature. The validity and accuracy of the technique were confirmed and reinforced by atomic force microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The technique was applied to a study of the MST of a series of 13 polyurethane (PU) elastomers based on mixed toluene diisocyanate (TDI), 1,4 butadiol, and poly(tetramethylene oxide) (PTMO) of two different molecular weights; the MST temperatures of the PU elastomer samples were measured. Although each of the 13 polymer samples had distinct hard segment content and used PTMO of different chain lengths, or mixed PTMO, the MST temperatures of the 13 samples formed a linear master curve when the MST temperature was plotted against the fraction of hard segment. The master curve indicated that the MST temperature is independent of the length and type of PTMO. It was also found that 2,4 TDI prevailing over its isomer 2,6 TDI played a dominant role in the MST of this series of PU elastomers. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 103: 2107–2112, 2007
Comparison of molecular adsorption ability of the molecularly imprinted polymers prepared by ethylene glycol dimethacrylate and trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate as cross linkers
Authors: Saenkasa Zikant , Chaiyasut Chaiyavat , Srichana Roongnapa , Piyamongkol Sirivipa
Published: November 2006

The target of this study was to synthesize the molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) of L‐phenylalanine as the solid phases for characterization of molecular adsorption by molecularly imprinted solid phase extraction (MISPE). These MIPs, in microscale, were synthesized using thermal (40°C)‐compared with thermal (65°C)‐initiated polymerization process. Itaconic acid was chosen as the functional monomers, and either ethylene glycol dimethacrylate or trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate (TRIM) was used as the cross linker and was compared together. The influences of several parameters on the properties of the MIPs were investigated, especially physical robustness from the percentage yields and molecular adsorption from the percentage recovery by MISPE. The best yields were obtained from polymers made using TRIM and thermal (65°C)‐initiated polymerization. However, there were no significant differences in molecular adsorption. It was concluded that these parameters can be considered to synthesize MIPs for chiral separation in advance steps such as other related chromatographic techniques. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 103: 2325–2330, 2007
Effect of aniline‐formaldehyde resin on the reduced conjugation length of doped polyaniline: Thermal studies
Authors: Ho Ko‐Shan , Huang Ying‐Jie , Kuo Chung‐Wen , Lee Swu‐Wen , Hsieh Tar‐Hwa , Chuang Ching‐Nan
Published: November 2006

A linear aniline‐formaldehyde resin (AF) complexed with different acids was successfully synthesized with the traditional way of polymerizing a novolac‐type phenolic resin. When the AF(DBSA)1.0 (AF complexed with only HDBSA (n‐dodecyl benzene sulfonic acid)) was blended with PANI(DBSA)0.5 (polyaniline doped only by HDBSA, the Tgs (glass transition temperatures) of the polyblends decreased with PANI(DBSA)0.5, indicating the presence of the compatibility that can alter the doping condition of PANI(DBSA)0.5 by changing the conjugation length. In the polyblend system, it was also confirmed when the polyblend of 50/50 showed a higher residue weight than the rest of polyblends after being heated up to 450°C. The λmax of UV–vis spectra of PANI (DBSA)0.5 demonstrates a red shifts indicating the secondary doping effect (increasing conjugation length) was recovered when PANI(DBSA)0.5 was mixed with less than 50% of AF(DBSA)0.5 (HCl)0.5. Similar phenomenon of red shift was found for the blended samples of PANI(DBSA)0.5/AF(DBSA)1.0 at high temperatures. IR spectra revealed an alkyl affinity interaction is present between PANI(DBSA)0.5 and AF(DBSA)1.0 at room temperature and a strong and free localized polaron band appeared at high temperatures due to the recovery of secondary doping. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 103: 2120–2128, 2007
Copolymerization of phenylisocyanate and ϵ‐caprolactone with rare earth chloride systems
Authors: Ni Xufeng , Xu Xiaoyan , Shen Zhiquan
Published: November 2006

A copolymer of phenylisocyanate (PhNCO) and ε‐caprolactone (CL) was synthesized by the rare earth chloride systems lanthanide chloride isopropanol complex (LnCl3·3iPrOH) and propylene epoxide (PO). Polymerization conditions were investigated, such as lanthanides, reaction temperature, monomer feed ratio, La/PO molar ratio, and aging time of catalyst. The optimum conditions were: LaCl3 preferable, [PhNCO]/[CL] in feed = 1 : 1 (molar ratio), 30°C, [monomer]/[La] = 200, [PO]/[La] = 20, aging 15 min, polymerization in bulk for 6 h. Under such conditions the copolymer obtained had 39 mol % PhNCO with a 78.2% yield, Mn = 20.3 × 103, and Mw/Mn = 1.60. The copolymers were characterized by GPC, TGA, 1H‐NMR, and 13C‐NMR, and the results showed that the copolymer obtained had a blocky structure with long sequences of each monomer unit. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 103: 2135–2140, 2007