bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling hydrodynamics in Yachiyo Lake using a non‐hydrostatic general circulation model with spatially and temporally varying meteorological conditions
Authors: Lee Han Soo , Yamashita Takao , Haggag Mohammed
Published: May 2009

In this study, a three‐dimensional (3D) non‐hydrostatic circulation model was applied to study the thermal structure, its evolution and water circulation of Yachiyo Lake in Hiroshima, Japan. The simulations were conducted for 1 month during July 2006. The meteorological forcing variables such as wind stress, surface atmospheric pressure and heat flux transfer through the lake surface were provided by an atmospheric mesoscale model run. The vertical mixing process of the lake was calculated using the Mellor‐Yamada turbulence model. The 1‐month numerical simulation revealed the wind‐induced currents of the lake, two gyres in the mid‐layer, and depth‐averaged monthly mean currents. Further numerical experiments studying the mechanism of the two gyres in the lake showed the important role of topography in gyre formation. The thermal structure of the lake and its evolution both in space and in time as predicted by the model showed very good agreement with the observed values and characteristics of Yachiyo Lake. The internal gravity waves, which are crucial for mixing in the stratified lake, are depicted by the vertical fluctuation of isotherms. Using the non‐dimensional gradient Richardson number, Yachiyo Lake was determined to be stable under strong stratification during the study period, and therefore very sensitive to wind stress. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neural network and wavelet conjunction model for modelling monthly level fluctuations in Turkey
Authors: Kişi Özgür
Published: May 2009

This paper proposes the application of a conjunction model (neuro‐wavelet) for forecasting monthly lake levels. The neuro‐wavelet (NW) conjunction model is improved combining two methods, discrete wavelet transform and artificial neural networks. The application of the methodology is presented for the Lake Van, which is the biggest lake in Turkey, and Lake Egirdir. The accuracy of the NW model is investigated for 1‐ and 6‐month‐ahead lake level forecasting. The root mean square errors, mean absolute relative errors and determination coefficient statistics are used for evaluating the accuracy of NW models. The results of the proposed models are compared with those of the neural networks. In the 1‐month‐ahead lake level forecasting, the NW conjunction model reduced the root mean square errors and mean absolute relative errors by 87–34% and 86–31% for the Van and Egirdir lakes, respectively. In the 6‐month‐ahead lake level forecasting, the NW conjunction model reduced the root mean square errors and mean absolute relative errors by 34–48% and 30‐46% for the Van and Egirdir lakes, respectively. The comparison results indicate that the suggested model could significantly increase the short‐ and long‐term forecast accuracy. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Checklist for optimization and validation of real‐time PCR assays
Authors: Raymaekers Marijke , Smets Rita , Maes Brigitte , Cartuyvels Reinoud
Published: May 2009

Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a frequently used technique in molecular diagnostics. To date, practical guidelines for the complete process of optimization and validation of commercial and in‐house developed molecular diagnostic methods are scare. Therefore, we propose a practical guiding principle for the optimization and validation of real‐time PCR assays. Based on literature, existing guidelines, and personal experience, we created a checklist that can be used in different steps of the development and validation process of commercial and in‐house developed real‐time PCR assays. Furthermore, determination of target values and reproducibility of internal quality controls are included, which allows a statistical follow‐up of the performance of the assay. Recently, we used this checklist for the development of various qualitative and quantitative assays for microbiological and hematological applications, for which accreditation according to ISO 15189:2007 was obtained. In our experience, the use of the proposed guidelines leads to a more efficient and standardized optimization and validation. Ultimately, this results in reliable and robust molecular diagnostics. The proposed checklist is independent of environment, equipment, and specific applications and can be used in other laboratories. A worldwide consensus on this kind of checklist should be aimed at. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 23:145–151, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Simplified and versatile method for bisulfite‐based DNA methylation analysis of small amounts of DNA
Authors: Tiwari S.K. , Manoj G. , Prasanth K. , Sivaram G. , Sharma V.K. , Habeeb M.A. , Khan A.A. , Habibullah C.M.
Published: May 2009

Epigenetic alterations of gene function play a central role in the pathogenesis of many tumors and in the process of aging. Abnormal methylation at transcriptional sites of genes results in epigenetic silencing of the genes that protect against tumor formation or that repair DNA. To date, several studies have analyzed methylation status by oligonucleotide arrays, restriction analysis (COBRA), methylation‐specific amplification, and sequence analysis. Thisrequires high concentration of bisulfite‐treated DNA, which mandates use of commercially available expensive kits, and is an often laborious and time‐consuming task. In this article, we report a simplified high‐throughput method, which can serve as a surrogate for screening methylation profiles of various genes and has high sensitivity compared with the other methods described previously. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 23:172–174, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cognitive correlates of mania risk: are responses to success, positive moods, and manic symptoms distinct or overlapping?
Authors: Johnson Sheri L. , Jones Steven
Published: May 2009

Several measures of cognitive style have been shown to be elevated among persons diagnosed with bipolar disorder and those at risk for bipolar disorder. Several of these scales capture responses to positive affect, success, and hypomanic symptoms. We had two goals: (a) to use factor analyses to assess whether the constructs within these scales were statistically independent and (b) to examine whether the factors identified uniquely related to mania risk. A cross‐national sample of 638 participants completed measures of cognitive style, including the Responses to Positive Affect scale, the Positive Overgeneralization Scale, and the Hypomanic Interpretations Questionnaire. To assess whether these measures might simply reflect more impulsive reactions to positive mood states, participants also completed the Barratt Impulsivity Scale. To measure risk of mania, participants completed the Hypomanic Personality Scale (HPS). Factor analyses suggested seven factors of cognitive style and impulsivity. Four factors uniquely correlated with HPS. That is, risk for mania related to higher scores on separable factors of acting before thinking, being overly positive in interpreting manic symptoms, being overly confident in response to success, and tendencies to dampen positive affect. Current findings suggest the need to consider multifaceted aspects of cognition in refining psychological treatments of bipolar disorder. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 65:1–15, 2009.
Parotid gland involvement in sarcoidosis: Sonographic features
Authors: Teymoortash Afshin , Werner Jochen A.
Published: May 2009

Purpose.

The purpose of this study was to describe the sonographic (US) features of parotid gland involvement in patients with sarcoidosis.

Methods.

The US findings of the parotid gland of 6 patients with histologically proven sarcoidosis of the parotid gland were reviewed.

Results.

The sonographic features ranged from nodal enlargement to diffuse or partial involvement of the parotid gland with various degrees of echogenicity and vascularity.

Conclusions.

Because of the lack of specificity of US findings in sarcoidosis involvement of the parotid gland, sarcoidosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of parotid gland lesions in the proper clinical setting. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2009
Bibliometric analysis of ultrasound research trends over the period of 1991 to 2006
Authors: Chen Ran‐Chou , Chu Dachen , Chiang Chih‐Hsin , Chou Chen‐Te
Published: May 2009

Purpose.

The objective of this study is to conduct a bibliometric analysis of all ultrasound‐related publications in the Science Citation Index (SCI).

Method.

A search on the databases of the SCI was performed covering the period of 1991–2006. All selected documents stated “ultrasound” as a part of the title, abstract, or keywords in the two fields of “acoustics” and “radiology, nuclear medicine, and medical imaging.” Analyzed parameters included authorship, total number of publications in each year, document type, and the authors' keywords. The data were recorded by publication year except the authors' keywords, which were grouped into four periods: 1991–1994, 1995–1998, 1999–2002, and 2003–2006.

Results.

A total of 17,775 documents were found, of which 85% were original articles. The yearly production increased from 740 (1991) to 1,208 (2006). The United States dominated with the most publications. The trend towards prenatal research declined in the last 4 years, while Doppler ultrasound research increased during 1999–2006.

Conclusions.

Periodic performance of bibliometric analysis of the ultrasound journals may reveal research trends. The most represented topics of ultrasound research are Doppler, prenatal diagnosis, MRI, contrast medium, and vascular studies. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2009
Sonographic findings in a case of scrotal lymphangioma in a 68‐year‐old male
Authors: Lee Won Chan , Park Sung Bin , Lee Jong Hwa , Jang Jong Chang , Choi Hye Jeong , Park Sungchan , Moon Kyung Hyun
Published: May 2009

Lymphangiomas are benign tumors resulting from a congenital lymphatic malformation in infant and children. Most common sites are head, neck and axilla, and scrotal lymphangioma is very rare. Lymphangiomas are classified as capillary, cavernous, and cystic type and cystic type is most common. Complete surgical excision is definitive treatment and incomplete excision leads to local recurrence. We report a case of scrotal lymphangioma in 68‐year‐old male patient. Gray‐scale sonography revealed multiseptated, hypoechoic mass abutting the upper pole of the normal right testis. Color Doppler sonography showed no remarkable blood flow in the mass. MRI demonstrated multispetated extratesticular and extraepididymal mass in the right scrotum. Surgical excision was performed and the histopathologic diagnosis was a cystic lymphangioma. In conclusion when multiseptated cystic scrotal mass was discovered in an elderly patient, scrotal lymphangioma should be included in differential diagnosis. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 2009
Application of microscopy in authentication and distinguishing of 11 Paris species in West Sichuan
Authors: Xue Dan , Yin Hongxiang , Li Jie , Liu Xianbo , Zhang Hao , Peng Cheng
Published: May 2009

In the trade and raw drug market, the medicinal plants of genus Paris are available in the form of rhizomes without any vouchers, thus making it difficult to identify and distinguish the different species of Genus Paris. Recent studies have shown that the species of Paris possess different chemical constituents, pharmacological activities, and efficiencies in clinical application. To distinguish 11 species of Paris collected from the western Sichuan province of China and ensure their safety and efficacy, in the present work, the microscopic characteristics of rhizomes and the crude drug powder of the 11 species of Paris were compared using a light microscope according to the usual microscopic techniques. The results of the microscopic features were systematically described and illustrated. The differences among these species are great enough that the identity of most material can be easily determined. Also, semiquantitative and quantitative micrographic parameter tables were simultaneously presented. Further, the key authentication parameters based on these anatomic characteristics analyzed was drawn up and presented for the Paris species studied. The study indicated that light microscopy and related techniques could provide a method that is convenient, feasible, and can be unambiguously applied in the authentication of species of Paris. This information is required not only for the identification procedures that guarantee the utilization of the appropriate raw material, but also for the quality control standards demanded. Microsc. Res. Tech. 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Imaging of cochlear tissue with a grating interferometer and hard X‐rays
Authors: Richter Claus‐Peter , Shintani‐Smith Stephanie , Fishman Andrew , David Christian , Robinson Ian , Rau Christoph
Published: May 2009

This article addresses an important current development in medical and biological imaging: the possibility of imaging soft tissue at resolutions in the micron range using hard X‐rays. Challenging environments, including the cochlea, require the imaging of soft tissue structure surrounded by bone. We demonstrate that cochlear soft tissue structures can be imaged with hard X‐ray phase contrast. Furthermore, we show that only a thin slice of the tissue is required to introduce a large phase shift. It is likely that the phase contrast image of the soft tissue structures is sufficient to image the structures even if surrounded by bone. For the present set of experiments, structures with low‐absorption contrast have been visualized using in‐line phase contrast imaging and a grating interferometer. The experiments have been performed at the Advanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratories, a third generation source of synchrotron radiation. The source provides highly coherent X‐ray radiation with high‐photon flux (>1012 photons/s) at high‐photon energies (5–70 keV). Radiographic and light microscopy images of the gerbil cochlear slice samples were compared. It has been determined that a 20‐μm thick tissue slice induces a phase shift between 1/3π and 2/3π. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A versatile targeting system with lentiviral vectors bearing the biotin‐adaptor peptide
Authors: Morizono Kouki , Xie Yiming , Helguera Gustavo , Daniels Tracy R. , Lane Timothy F. , Penichet Manuel L. , Chen Irvin S. Y.
Published: May 2009

Background

Targeted gene transduction in vivo is the ultimate preferred method for gene delivery. We previously developed targeting lentiviral vectors that specifically recognize cell surface molecules with conjugated antibodies and mediate targeted gene transduction both in vitro and in vivo. Although effective in some experimental settings, the conjugation of virus with antibodies is mediated by the interaction between protein A and the Fc region of antibodies, which is not as stable as covalent conjugation. We have now developed a more stable conjugation strategy utilizing the interaction between avidin and biotin.

Methods

We inserted the biotin‐adaptor‐peptide, which was biotinylated by secretory biotin ligase at specific sites, into our targeting envelope proteins, enabling conjugation of the pseudotyped virus with avidin, streptavidin or neutravidin.

Results

When conjugated with avidin‐antibody fusion proteins or the complex of avidin and biotinylated targeting molecules, the vectors could mediate specific transduction to targeted cells recognized by the targeting molecules. When conjugated with streptavidin‐coated magnetic beads, transduction by the vectors was targeted to the locations of magnets.

Conclusions

This targeting vector system can be used for broad applications of targeted gene transduction using biotinylated targeting molecules or targeting molecules fused with avidin. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diverse genomic integration of a lentiviral vector developed for the treatment of Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome
Authors: Mantovani Julie , Charrier Sabine , Eckenberg Ralph , Saurin William , Danos Olivier , Perea Javier , Galy Anne
Published: May 2009

Background

The genomic integration of a lentiviral vector developed for the treatment of Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome (WAS) was assessed by localizing the vector insertion sites (IS) in a murine model of gene therapy for the disease.

Methods

Transduced hematopoietic progenitor cells were transplanted into mice or cultured in vitro. The IS were determined in the genomic DNA from blood, the bone marrow of the animals and from cultured cells.

Results

Sequencing vector–genomic DNA junctions yielded more than 150 IS of which 50–70% were located in transcription units. To obtain additional sequences from the population of cultured cells, we used a vector‐tag concatenation technique providing 190 additional IS. Altogether, the profiles confirmed the bias for integration in transcription units. The vector did not congregate as hotspots and did not appear to target specific categories of genes. The diversity of the IS reflected the initial marking of a polyclonal population of cells. However, relatively few vector IS were found in vivo because only 30–40 unique IS were identified in each mouse using this approach. Although four to ten IS were shared by the blood and bone marrow, no common IS was found between mice or between any mouse and the cultured cells.

Conclusions

Taken as a whole, the pattern of genomic insertion of the WAS lentiviral vector was diverse and similar to that previously described for other HIV‐1‐derived lentiviral vectors. Testing cells destined for transplantation is unlikely to predict specific IS to be selected in vivo. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and biodistribution studies of iodine‐131 D‐amino acid YYK peptide as a potential therapeutic agent for labeling an anti‐CD20 antibody
Authors: Sadri K. , Gandomkar M. , Babaei M. H. , Najafi R. , Zakavi S. R. , Sadat Ebrahimi S. E.
Published: May 2009

A major drawback of conventionally radioiodinated monoclonal antibodies for radioimmunotherapy is in vivo dehalogenation of iodine as a result of deiodinase recognition. To solve this problem we have synthesized a YYK tri‐peptide consisting of non‐metabolizable D‐amino acids modified with the N‐succinimidyl (N‐Succ) function. The chemical purity of the synthesized peptide as assessed by analytical high performance liquid chromatography was 95%. Labeling of the Fmoc‐D‐Tyr(tBu)‐D‐Tyr(tBu)‐D‐Lys(Boc)‐N‐Succ was performed using the chloramine‐T method and the conventional extraction, resulting in a radiochemical yield of 50–71% and a radiochemical purity of >95%. Radioiodination of the peptide was followed by conjugation to anti‐CD20 antibody with 65–75% labeling efficiency and 90% radiochemical purity. The effect of radioiodinated peptide on the biological behavior of the conjugate was evaluated through biodistribution studies in normal Lewis rats. Thyroid and stomach levels from Rituximab labeled with [131I]‐YYK‐peptide were two‐ to four‐fold less than those with directly labeled [131I]‐Rituximab, suggesting low recognition of its D‐iodotyrosine residue by endogenous deiodinases. The favorable in vitro/in vivo stability and biodistribution profiles suggest that this radioiodine‐labeled YYK peptide is a good candidate for further exploration of its potential clinical application. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Purification and properties of an endoglucanase of Aspergillus terreus DSM 826
Authors: Elshafei Ali M. , Hassan Mohamed M. , Haroun Bakry M. , Abdel‐Fatah Osama M. , Atta Housam M. , Othman Abdelmageed M.
Published: May 2009

Endoglucanase (EG) from A. terreus DSM 826 grown on sugar cane bagasse as a carbon source was purified using acetone fractionation, then a Sepharose‐4B chromatographic column, with purification of about 27‐fold and 10.5% recovery. The optimum temperature and pH for activity of the purified EG were found to be 50 °C and pH 4.8, respectively. The purified enzyme can stand heating up to 50 °C for 1 h without apparent loss of activity. However, the enzyme, incubated at 80 °C for 5 min, showed about 56% loss of activity. Optimum EG activity was recorded with a citrate buffer system (pH 4.8; 0.05 M). Co2+ (2.5 × 10–2 M) and Zn2+ (5 × 10–2 M) were found to activate the purified EG of A. terreus DSM 826 by about 83 and 25%, respectively. On the other hand, Hg2+ inhibited the activity of the purified EG by about 50 and 71% at a concentration of 2.5 × 10–2 and 5 × 10–2 M, respectively. Carboxymethyl cellulose was found to be the best substrate for the purified EG, with Vmax values of 4.35 μmol min–1 mg–1 protein. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Classification of new BVDV isolates from Philippine water buffalo using the viral E2 region
Authors: Mingala Claro N. , Konnai Satoru , Tajima Motoshi , Onuma Misao , Ohashi Kazuhiko
Published: May 2009

Characterization of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) isolates has been focused of several studies this last decade. Until now lots of new strains are being unfolded maybe due to the viral fast mutation ability. As we focused our research on water buffalo immunology, we were able to identify a probable new BVDV isolates. RNA was extracted from water buffalo blood in the Philippines. The extracted RNA was reverse‐transcribed and synthesized cDNA. Oligonucleotide primers from the viral E2 region were used to amplify the target viral gene and later purified, cloned and sequenced. The E2 region with 420 bp nucleotides long was compared with existing published sequences in the GenBank. Based on the constructed phylogenetic tree, the isolated strain showed to be a BVDV type 1b along with Osloss and CP7 strains. Further classification of the new isolates was done within the BVDV type 1b1 group, which was compared with other strains in the sub‐group. The analysis revealed that Lamspringe/738, KE9 and 2543/87 were the closest with 92% homology. Additional study is being done to further qualify and quantify the extent of the existence of this new BVDV isolates in water buffalo in the Philippines. This is the first report of BVDV in the Philippines and first concerning BVDV in Philippine water buffalo. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
L‐methioninase production by Aspergillus flavipes under solid‐state fermentation
Authors: El‐Sayed Ashraf S. A.
Published: May 2009

Solid‐state fermentation was carried out for the production of extra‐cellular L‐methioninase by Aspergillus flavipes (Bain and Sart.) using nine agro‐industrial residues, namely wheat bran, rice bran, wheat flour, coconut seeds, cotton seeds, ground nut cake, lentil hulls, soya beans and chicken feathers. Chicken feathers were selected as solid substrate for L‐methioninase production by A. flavipes. The maximum L‐methioninase productivity (71.0 U/mg protein) and growth (11 mg protein/ml) of A. flavipes was obtained using alkali pretreated chicken feathers of 50% initial moisture content as substrate supplemented with D‐glucose (1.0% w/v) and L‐methionine (0.2% w/v). External supplementation of the fermentation medium with various vitamin sources has no overinductive effect on L‐methioninase biosynthesis. The partially purified A. flavipes L‐methioninase preparation showed highest activity (181 U/ml) at pH 8.0 with stability over a pH range (pH 6–8) for 2 h. L‐methioninase activity was increased by preincubation of the enzyme for 2 h with Co2+, Mn2+, Cu2+ and Mg2+ and strongly inhibited by the presence of EDTA, NaN3, Li2+, Cd2+, DMSO and 2‐mercaptoethanol. The enzyme preparation has a broad substrate spectrum showing a higher affinity to deaminate L‐glycine, N ‐acetylglucosamine and glutamic acid, in addition to their proteolytic activity against bovine serum albumin, casein, gelatin and keratin. The partially purified enzyme was found to be glyco‐metalloproteinic in nature as concluded from the analytical and spectroscopic profiles of the enzyme preparation. The demethiolating activity of the enzyme was also visualized chromogenially. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effects of urbanization on the land sea breeze circulation over the Pearl River Delta region in winter
Authors: Lu Xi , Chow Kim‐Chiu , Yao Teng , Lau Alexis K. H. , Fung Jimmy C. H.
Published: May 2009

In this study, the fifth‐generation Pennsylvania State University‐National Center for Atmospheric Research Model (MM5) was used to investigate the effects of urbanization on land–sea breezes (LSBs) in the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region, which is a rapidly developing area located in southern China. LSBs in the 2003/2004 winter were simulated utilizing an approach in which the NCEP Final Analysis data averaged in the 2003/2004 winter is used as initial and lateral boundary conditions for the model. The simulated surface winds are shown to be capable of reproducing the basic features and diurnal variation of the LSBs. Sensitivity experiments with changes in land uses were performed with this model. Results of these experiments show that urbanization in the PRD region can have significant effects on the patterns of the LSBs and circulation in the region. In particular, it has been shown that the urbanization of Shenzhen (a major city located in the eastern coast of the PRD and neighbouring to the north of Hong Kong) may significantly enhance the sea breeze to the west of Hong Kong in the early afternoon. This may enhance the low‐level convergence in Hong Kong and may worsen the air pollution problem there. On the other hand, the effects of urbanization in the western coast of the PRD region are relatively local and LSBs on the eastern PRD are generally not affected. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Fatty acid oxidation and meiotic resumption in mouse oocytes
Authors: Downs Stephen M. , Mosey Jessica L. , Klinger Jonathan
Published: May 2009

We have examined the potential role of fatty acid oxidation (FAO) in AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK)‐induced meiotic maturation. Etomoxir and malonyl CoA, two inhibitors of carnitine palmitoyl transferase‐1 (CPT1), and thus FAO, blocked meiotic induction in dbcAMP‐arrested cumulus cell‐enclosed oocytes (CEO) and denuded oocytes (DO) by the AMPK activator, AICAR. C75, an activator of CPT1 and FAO, stimulated meiotic resumption in CEO and DO. This effect was insensitive to the AMPK inhibitor, compound C, indicating an action downstream of AMPK. Palmitic acid or carnitine also promoted meiotic resumption in DO in the presence of AICAR. Since C75 also suppresses the activity of fatty acid synthase (FAS), we tested another FAS inhibitor, cerulenin. Cerulenin stimulated maturation in arrested oocytes, but to a lesser extent, exhibited significantly slower kinetics and was effective in CEO but not DO. Moreover, etomoxir completely blocked C75‐induced maturation but was ineffective in cerulenin‐treated oocytes, suggesting that the meiosis‐inducing action of C75 is through activation of FAO within the oocyte, while that of cerulenin is independent of FAO and acts within the cumulus cells. Finally, we determined that long chain, but not short chain, fatty acyl carnitine derivatives were stimulatory to oocyte maturation. Palmitoyl carnitine stimulated maturation in both CEO and DO, with rapid kinetics in DO; this effect was blocked by mercaptoacetate, a downstream inhibitor of FAO. These results indicate that activation of AMPK stimulates meiotic resumption in mouse oocytes by eliminating a block to FAO. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 76: 844–853, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Uterine expression of cp4 gene homolog in the Stripe‐faced Dunnart, Sminthopsis macroura: Relationship with conceptus development and progesterone profile
Authors: Menkhorst E. , Selwood L. , Cui S.
Published: May 2009

The marsupial conceptus is surrounded by a uterine‐secreted shell coat for 60–80% of gestation. Coat protein 4 (CP4) is the only marsupial shell coat protein characterized and it has only been identified in one species, the Common Brushtail Possum. In this possum, uterine transcription and secretion of cp4 during the oestrous cycle is biphasic and associated with the stage of conceptus development. Here we cloned cp4 (sm‐cp4) from a distantly related species, the Stripe‐faced Dunnart (Sminthopsis macroura). Transcription of sm‐cp4 and secretion of smCP4 were identified by semi‐quantitative RT‐PCR and immunohistochemistry, respectively. The effect of reproductive hormones on sm‐cp4 transcription was investigated in vitro by treatment of uterine explant cultures with oestrogen and/or progesterone. In vivo, uterine expression of smCP4 was biphasic and associated with conceptus development. Uterine smCP4 expression (transcription and secretion) began during the pre‐ovulatory period and continued post‐ovulation during cleavage stages. Transcription of sm‐cp4 continued during the unilaminar blastocyst stage, but smCP4 secretion was reduced during this stage. During the bilaminar blastocyst stage, both transcription of sm‐cp4 and secretion of smCP4 were low before they both resumed during the trilaminar blastocyst stage, and continued during the embryo and fetal stages. In vitro uterine transcription of sm‐cp4 increased after incubation with progesterone. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 76: 863–872, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The expression of the nuclear receptors NR5A1 and NR5A2 and transcription factor GATA6 correlates with steroidogenic gene expression in the bovine corpus luteum
Authors: Taniguchi Hiroaki , Komiyama Junichi , Viger Robert S. , Okuda Kiyoshi
Published: May 2009

The corpus luteum (CL) is the major site of progesterone (P4) production during the luteal phase of the estrous cycle in cattle. To better understand the molecular mechanisms underlying P4 production, we compared the mRNA and protein expression profiles of key components of the steroidogenic pathway (StAR, CYP11A, and 3β‐HSD) during the bovine CL luteal phase with that of several transcription factors (NR5A1, NR5A2, GATA4, GATA6) known for their roles in the control of steroidogenic gene expression. In the bovine CL, StAR, CYP11A, and 3β‐HSD mRNA and protein levels remained constant at the mid and late luteal phases but markedly declined at the regressed luteal stage. NR5A1 and NR5A2 exhibited a similar pattern with a significant decrease in expression at the regressed luteal stage. Both GATA4 and GATA6 mRNA and proteins could be detected in bovine CL; GATA6 levels, however, were generally higher. Although GATA4 expression did not change during the luteal phase, GATA6 showed a marked decrease at the regressed luteal stage, like NR5A1, NR5A2, and the other steroidogenic markers. Thus, we suggest that NR5A1, NR5A2, and GATA6, but not GATA4, contribute to the transcriptional regulation of steroidogenic gene expression, and hence P4 production, in the bovine CL. Furthermore, we have demonstrated the association of NR5A1 and NR5A2 with the bovine StAR promoter in the mid‐luteal CL using chromatin immunoprecipitation, suggesting that these factors have definitive roles in the regulation of StAR gene transcription in vivo. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 76: 873–880, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The association between chorionic villus sampling and preeclampsia
Authors: Grobman William A. , Auger Melissa , Shulman Lee P. , Elias Sherman
Published: May 2009

Objective

To determine whether an association exists between prenatal diagnostic procedures and preeclampsia.

Methods

All women who underwent invasive prenatal diagnosis and were not at high risk for preeclampsia were identified during a 15‐month period and matched by age with women who had not had invasive prenatal diagnosis. The association between prenatal diagnosis [amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling (CVS)] and the development of preeclampsia was assessed in univariable and multivariable analyses.

Results

Six‐hundred and fifty‐three women who underwent prenatal diagnosis (501 by amniocentesis and 152 by CVS) were matched by age with 653 women who did not undergo the test. In multivariable analysis, the factors that remained significantly associated with preeclampsia were (1) maternal age less than 25 years (OR 7.4, 95% CI 23.3–23.6); (2) nulliparity (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.1–6.9); and (3) having had a CVS as a nulliparous woman (OR 4.2, 95% CI 1.4–12.6).

Conclusion

These data suggest that CVS is associated with the subsequent development of preeclampsia in nulliparous women; this relationship should be confirmed in further studies. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
How the blind cope with problems of medicine utilization: a study in Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: Riewpaiboon Arthorn
Published: May 2009

Purpose

This project is aimed at studying medicine utilization among blind people in Bangkok, Thailand.

Methods

The study was designed as a cross‐sectional descriptive research. The study group comprised visually impaired persons, aged at least 18 years, and living in Bangkok. Data were collected via face‐to‐face interviews in 2007.

Results

The study included 86 people. The majority of the subjects were 31–50 years old (65%) and male (61%). During the two weeks before the interview, the most frequently used medicines were anti‐inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants (26%), followed by antipyretics. Most of the subjects received their medicines from drugstores. During the three months before the interview, 75% of the subjects received pharmacy information through various channels. The major source was drugstores, followed by radio. With regard to procurement of medication, 79% of the subjects went to hospitals and 57% acquired the medicines by themselves. Approximately 20% of the subjects received medicines with touchable‐differentiated packaging. For purposes of self‐medication, the subjects were able to differentiate types, doses, and durations of drug use based on memory. Regarding pharmaceutical services, 81% of the subjects required special services intended for the disabled, as well as further explanation of the medicine's use, including drug labeling.

Conclusions

Based on the study results, most of the blind did not receive assistance regarding medicine use. Their use of medicine was based on memory, and they were in need of improved pharmaceutical services. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Numerical simulation and experimental validation of mixing performance of kneading discs in a twin screw extruder
Authors: Zhang Xian‐Ming , Feng Lian‐Fang , Chen Wen‐Xing , Hu Guo‐Hua
Published: May 2009

This work aims at simulation by particle tracking the local residence time distributions (RTDs) of a co‐rotating twin‐screw extruder using computational fluid dynamics. Simulated results follow reasonably well the trend of experimental results obtained by an in‐line measuring instrument for different screw configurations and feed rates. To analyze the distributive mixing performance and overall efficiency of different types of kneading discs (KDs), mixing parameters such as area stretch ratio, instantaneous efficiency, and time‐average efficiency are calculated. Among KDs with stagger angles 45°, 60°, and 90°, the 90/10/64 with disc gaps is most efficient in terms of distributive mixing. The effects of the disc width and disc gap on the local RTD and distributive mixing are also discussed. This provides a numerical tool for assessing point‐by‐point information on the local RTD, flow, and mixing along the screw extruder. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Coating weight reduction by a carrier layer for tensioned‐web slot coating
Authors: Tsai Han‐Chih , Chang Hsien‐Ming , Liu Ta‐Jo
Published: May 2009

The feasibility of using a dilute bottom carrier layer to reduce the thickness of a viscous top layer for tensioned‐web slot coating was examined experimentally. Aqueous poly(vinyl) alcohol solutions were prepared for both the carrier and the top layers. The solutions were coated on poly(ethylene terephthalate) films for observation. The thickness ratio of the two layers has to be in a certain range for stable coating, otherwise different types of coating defects would appear. The effects of viscosity, wrapping angle, surface tension, and web tension were studied. It was found that the viscosity ratio of the top layer to the carrier layer is the most critical factor; a large ratio is more helpful in reducing the thickness of the top layer. Increasing the wrapping angle, web tension, and surface tension of the top layer can also decrease the coating thickness of the top layer. The drying load is reduced substantially owing to the significant reduction of the top layer thickness. It was estimated that 50–90% of the energy required for drying could be saved by introducing a carrier layer in this study. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Investigation on the multiwalled carbon nanotubes reinforced polyamide 6/polypropylene composites
Authors: Zhang Lingyan , Wan Chaoying , Zhang Yong
Published: May 2009

Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) reinforced polyamide 6/polypropylene (PA6/PP = 70/30) composites were prepared by melt compounding. Maleated polypropylene (MPP) was used as a compatibilizer for the composites. The morphology, mechanical properties, thermal stability, rheological properties and crystallization behavior of the composites were investigated. It was found that the addition of MWNTs to PA6/PP blend resulted in decrease in the size of the dispersed particles. Most of MWNTs were selectively dispersed in the PA6 phase and a small amount of MWNTs were located in the interphase between PA6 matrix and PP phase as characterized by scanning electric microscopy. The strength and stiffness of the PA6/PP blend were greatly improved by the addition of MWNTs. The MPP and MWNTs had a synergistic effect on the improvement ofthe thermal stability. In addition, the complex viscosity, storage modulus and loss modulus of the composites increased with the addition of MWNTs or MPP. MWNTs could induce the formation of α crystalline form of PA6. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Chitin and chitosan: Transformations due to the electrospinning process
Authors: Schiffman Jessica D. , Stulga Laura A. , Schauer Caroline L.
Published: May 2009

Electrospinning is a complex process that requires numerous interacting physical instabilities. Assuming that a chosen polymer and solvent system can be spun, the chosen polymer exists in various states, which have variable crystallinities starting with the highest degree of crystallinity (when in bulk form) and ultimately being transformed into a non‐woven mat. In an effort to better understand the effects that the electrospinning process has on the biopolymers chitin [practical grade (PG)] and chitosan [PG and medium molecular weight (MMW)], including post‐production neutralization and cross‐linking steps, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and solubility studies were performed. An evaluation of diffraction peaks of the bulk, solution, and fibrous forms of chitin and chitosan were evaluated by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and determined that the formation of chitosan chains is influenced by the addition of solvent and cross‐linking agent. This study is of importance since the crystallinity of chitin and chitosan directly relate to the ability of the biopolymers to chelate metals, and the chemical stability of non‐woven mats aid in the creation of functional filtration membranes. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Influence of processing window and weight ratio on the morphology of the extruded and drawn PET/PP blends
Authors: Li Wenjing , Schlarb Alois K. , Evstatiev Michael
Published: May 2009

To obtain polyethylene terephthalate (PET)/polypropylene (PP) microfibrillar composite (MFC) with good mechanical properties, a high content of PET fibrils in the drawn strand (i.e. PET droplets in the extrudate) is preferred. However, a phase inversion (from PP matrix to PET matrix) takes place when the concentration of the PET reaches 40 wt% at the screw speed of 40 rpm (rounds per minute). This “PP domains in PET matrix” phase structure is the undesired phase structure for preparing MFC. However, the desired phase structure of “PET droplets in PP matrix” can be regained by adopting a low screw speed (20 rpm) during extrusion of the PET/PP (40/60); if a higher screw speed is adopted (80 rpm), then a suitable amount of PP grafted maleic anhydride (PP‐g‐MA) should be incorporated. The PET/PP blends which demonstrate the desired “PET droplets in PP matrix” phase structure were stretched into strands, and PET/PP MFC was prepared. The MFC with high content of PET microfibrils as the reinforcement exhibits superior tensile properties than the neat PP. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
The use of crack layer theory to predict the lifetime of the fatigue crack growth of high density polyethylene
Authors: Choi Byoung‐Ho , Balika Werner , Chudnovsky Alexander , Pinter Gerald , Lang Reinhold W.
Published: May 2009

In the case of high density polyethylene (HDPE), the fatigue crack propagates in a discontinuous manner, which can be observed by distinct striations. In this article, fatigue crack growth (FCG) experiments were conducted on two grades of HDPE pipe with compact‐tension (CT) and cracked round bar (CRB) specimens. The effects of the stress ratio (R‐ratio) which is defined as the ratio of minimum stress and maximum stress of fatigue loadings and the frequency on FCG behavior were experimentally studied. Although FCG rates showed a great dependence on the R‐ratio in terms of the range of the stress‐intensity factor, the effect of the frequency may be considered to be significant in the low crack growth region. In addition, these experimental data were employed for predicting the lifetime on the basis of the crack layer (CL) theory. Only a few steps of FCG are needed to determine all necessary parameters for CL theory, and the FCG behavior can be reconstructed based on a computer program that has been developed for the application of CL theory. The predictions from this program accord with experimental data. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Genetic and plasma variation of insulin‐like growth factor binding proteins in relation to prostate cancer incidence and survival
Authors: Johansson Mattias , McKay James D. , Rinaldi Sabina , Wiklund Fredrik , Adami Hans‐Olov , Grönberg Henrik , Kaaks Rudolf , Stattin Pär
Published: May 2009

BACKGROUND

Binding proteins regulate bioavailability of insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐I) in the circulation and affect apoptosis of tumor cells in the prostate. We analyzed genetic variation within genes coding for IGF binding proteins in relation to prostate cancer incidence and survival. We also investigated if circulating IGFBP3 affects prostate cancer‐specific survival.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eleven haplotype tagging SNPs and two single SNPs in the IGFBP1, IGFBP3, and IGFALS genes were genotyped within the CAncer Prostate in Sweden (CAPS) study including 2,774 cases and 1,736 controls. Plasma samples for analyses of total‐ and intact IGFBP3 levels were available for 1,521 cases and 909 controls. Complete follow‐up of vital status was achieved by linkage to the Swedish Cause of Death Register.

RESULTS

We found no clear association between the genetic variants and prostate cancer incidence or survival. The rare allele of the IGFBP3 SNP rs2854744 was associated with elevated plasma levels of total IGFBP3 (Ptrend = 9 × 10−8), but not intact IGFBP3 (Ptrend = 0.16). Elevated levels of total‐ (Ptrend = 0.03) and intact IGFBP3 (Ptrend = 6 × 10−14) were associated with increased risk of prostate cancer specific death. Treatment and tumor characteristics accounted for the association with total IGFBP3, whereas the association with intact IGFBP3 was attenuated, but still statistically significant in adjusted analysis (Ptrend‐adjusted = 0.0004). Elevated intact IGFBP3 was also significantly associated with increased risk of prostate cancer‐specific death among patients who were chemically or surgically castrated (Ptrend‐adjusted = 0.0003), and among patients who had not been treated (Ptrend‐adjusted = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Circulating levels of intact IGFBP3 measured after diagnosis is associated with increased risk of prostate cancer‐specific death. Prostate 69:1281–1291, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cell selectivity and mechanism of action of short antimicrobial peptides designed from the cell‐penetrating peptide Pep‐1
Authors: Zhu Wan Long , Hahm Kyung‐Soo , Shin Song Yub
Published: May 2009

Pep‐1‐K (PK) is a good cell‐selective antimicrobial peptide designed from cell‐penetrating peptide Pep‐1. To develop novel short antimicrobial peptides with higher cell selectivity and shorter length compared with PK, several PK analogs were designed by the deletion, addition and/or substitution of amino acids. Among these analogs, PK‐12‐KKP (KKPWWKPWWPKWKK) showing the sequence and structure homology with a Trp/Pro‐rich natural antimicrobial peptide, indolicidin (IN), displayed a 20‐fold higher cell selectivity as compared to IN. Circular dichroism analysis revealed that PK‐12‐KKP adopts a folded structure combined with some portions of unordered structure. PK‐12‐KKP selectively binds to negatively charged bacterial membrane–mimetic vesicles, and its high phospholipid selectivity corresponds well with its high cell selectivity. Moreover, it showed very weak potential in depolarization of the cytoplasmic membrane of Staphylococcus aureus at 8 µM (4× minimal inhibitory concentration) and dye leakage from negatively charged liposomes. These results suggest that the ultimate target of our designed PK‐12‐KKP maybe the intracellular components (e.g. protein, DNA or RNA) rather than the cytoplasmic membranes. Collectively, our designed short Trp/Pro‐rich peptide, PK‐12‐KKP, appears to be an excellent candidate for future development as a novel antimicrobial agent. Copyright © 2009 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
QSAR Studies of HEPT Derivatives Using Support Vector Machines
Authors: Darnag Rachid , Schmitzer Andreea , Belmiloud Yamina , Villemin Didier , Jarid Abdellah , Chait Abderrahman , Seyagh Maria , Cherqaoui Driss
Published: May 2009

Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 reverse transcriptase is an important target for chemotherapeutic agents against the AIDS disease. 1‐[2‐Hydroxyethoxy‐methyl]‐6‐(phenylthio) thymine] derivatives are potent nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. In the present work, quantitative structure‐activity relationship analysis for a set of 79 HEPT derivatives has been investigated by means of support vector machines. The relationships between structure and activity were examined quantitatively using descriptors encoding the steric, hydrophobic, electronic and structural features of 1‐[2‐hydroxyethoxy‐methyl]‐6‐(phenylthio) thymine] derivatives. The performance and predictive capability of support vector machines method are investigated and compared with other methods such as artificial neural network and multiple linear regression methods. The obtained results indicate that the support vector machines model with the kernel radial basis function can be employed as a forceful tool for quantitative structure‐activity relationship studies. The contribution of each descriptor to the structure‐activity relationships was evaluated.