bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of Functionally Active Melanocortin Receptors and Evidence for an Immunoregulatory Activity of α-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone in Human Dermal Papilla Cells
Authors: Böhm Markus , Eickelmann Mareike , Li Zhuo , Schneider Stefan W. , Oji Vinzenz , Diederichs Sven , Barsh Gregory S. , Vogt Annika , Stieler Karola , Blume-Peytavi Ulrike , Luger Thomas A.
Published: August 2005

Proopiomelanocortin (POMC)-derived peptides and their receptors have been identified in many peripheral organs including the skin in which they exert a diversity of biological actions. We investigated the expression and potential role of the POMC system in human dermal papilla cells (DPCs), a specialized cutaneous mesenchymal cell type regulating hair follicle activity. In culture, these cells expressed POMC and displayed immunoreactivity for ACTH, αMSH, and β-endorphin. Among the prohormone convertases (PCs) tested, only PC2, its chaperone 7B2, and furin convertase but not PC1 and paired basic amino acid cleaving enzyme 4 gene were detected. Human DPCs in vitro expressed both the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC-1R) and MC-4R, and immunoreactivity for these receptors was also present in cells of the human dermal papilla in situ. In contrast to the dermal papilla of agouti mice, agouti signaling protein, a natural and highly selective MC-1R and MC-4R antagonist, was undetectable in human DPCs. The MC-Rs detected in human DPCs were functionally active because αMSH increased intracellular cAMP and calcium. Preincubation of the cells with a synthetic peptide corresponding to the C-terminal domain of agouti signaling protein abrogated cAMP induction by αMSH. Furthermore, αMSH was capable of antagonizing the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 induced by the proinflammatory cytokine interferon-γ. Our data suggest a regulatory function of αMSH within the dermal papilla whose disruption may lead to deregulation of immune and inflammatory responses of the hair follicle, thereby possibly contributing to the development of inflammatory forms of alopecia.
Relationship between Thyroid Peroxidase T Cell Epitope Restriction and Antibody Recognition of the Autoantibody Immunodominant Region in Human Leukocyte Antigen DR3 Transgenic Mice
Authors: Guo Jin , McLachlan Sandra M. , Pichurin Pavel N. , Chen Chun-Rong , Pham Nancy , Aliesky Holly A. , David Chella S. , Rapoport Basil
Published: August 2005

We investigated the relationship between thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibody and T lymphocyte epitopes in TPO-adenovirus (TPO-Ad) immunized BALB/c mice and mice transgenic for the human class II molecule DR3 associated with human thyroid autoimmunity. TPO autoantibodies are largely restricted to an immunodominant region (IDR). BALB/c mice immunized with fewer (107vs. 109) TPO-Ad particles developed TPO antibodies with lower titers that displayed greater restriction to the IDR. However, as with higher-dose TPO-Ad immunization, T cell epitopes (assessed by splenocyte interferon-γ response to TPO in vitro) were highly diverse and variable in different animals. In contrast, DR3 mice immunized the higher TPO-Ad dose (109 particles) had high TPO antibody levels that showed relative focus on the IDR. Moreover, T cell epitopes recognized by splenocytes from DR3 mice showed greater restriction than BALB/c mice. Antibody affinities for TPO were higher in DR3 than in BALB/c mice. The present study indicates that weak TPO-Ad immunization of BALB/c mice (with consequent low TPO antibody titers) is required for enhanced IDR focus yet is not associated with T cell epitopic restriction. Humanized DR3 transgenic mice, despite stronger TPO-Ad immunization, develop higher titer TPO antibodies that do focus on the autoantibody IDR with T cells that recognize a more limited range of TPO peptides. These data suggest a relationship between major histocompatibility complex class II molecules and the development of antibodies to the IDR, a feature of human thyroid autoimmunity.
Unusual Performance for the Selective Oxidation of Ethane to Acrolein over Mesoporous SBA-15-supported Potassium Catalysts
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Zhao Zhen , Xu Chunming , Duan Aijun , Sha Shuang , Zhang Ying , Dou Tao
Published: August 2005

SBA-15 silica-supported potassium catalysts were first reported for the selective oxidation of ethane to aldehydes by using oxygen as oxidant. It was found that SBA-15-supported potassium catalysts exhibited very high yield of aldehydes, especially surprisingly high yield of acrolein in the selective oxidation of ethane. The SBA-15-supported catalyst with 2% loading of potassium showed the best performance for the partial oxidation of ethane to aldehydes. The highest yields of acrolein and total aldehydes (formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acrolein) were 2.5% and 5.2%, respectively, when the ethane conversion was 14.8% at the reaction temperature of 748 K.
STM/STS Study of Electron Density of States at the Bases Sites in the DNA Alternating Copolymers
Authors: Iijima Megumi , Kato Tomoaki , Nakanishi Susumu , Watanabe Hisako , Kimura Kouta , Suzuki Kenji , Maruyama Yusei
Published: August 2005

Local electron density of state spectra at the bases sites in the two types (A–T pairs only and G–C pairs only) of double-stranded DNA molecules is measured with the use of STM/STS (scanning tunneling microscopy/scanning tunneling spectroscopy) technique. The difference of electronic structure between A–T pairs and G–C pairs is discussed in relation to the charge-transfer mechanisms in these molecules.
Simultaneous Measurement of 25 Inflammatory Markers and Neurotrophins in Neonatal Dried Blood Spots by Immunoassay with xMAP Technology
Authors: Skogstrand Kristin , Thorsen Poul , Nørgaard-Pedersen Bent , Schendel Diana E , Sørensen Line C , Hougaard David M
Published: August 2005

Background: Inflammatory reactions and other events in early life may be part of the etiology of late-onset diseases, including cerebral palsy, autism, and type 1 diabetes. Most neonatal screening programs for congenital disorders are based on analysis of dried blood spot samples (DBSS), and stored residual DBSS constitute a valuable resource for research into the etiology of these diseases. The small amount of blood available, however, limits the number of analytes that can be determined by traditional immunoassay methodologies.

Methods: We used new multiplexed sandwich immunoassays based on flowmetric Luminex® xMAP technology to measure inflammatory markers and neutrophins in DBSS.

Results: The high-capacity 25-plex multianalyte method measured 23 inflammatory and trophic cytokines, triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1 (TREM-1), and C-reactive protein in two 3.2-mm punches from DBSS. It also measured 26 cytokines and TREM-1 in serum. Standards Recovery in the 25-plex method were 90%–161% (mean, 105%). The low end of the working range for all 25 analytes covered concentrations found in DBSS from healthy newborns. Mean recovery of exogenous analytes added at physiologic concentrations in DBSS models was 174%, mean intra- and interassay CVs were 6.2% and 16%, respectively, and the mean correlation between added and measured analytes was r2 = 0.91. In DBSS routinely collected on days 5–7 from 8 newborns with documented inflammatory reactions at birth, the method detected significantly changed concentrations of inflammatory cytokines. Measurements on DBSS stored at −24 °C for >20 years showed that most cytokines are detectable in equal concentrations over time.

Conclusions: The method can reliably measure 25 inflammatory markers and growth factors in DBSS. It has a large potential for high-capacity analysis of DBSS in epidemiologic case–control studies and, with further refinements, in neonatal screening.
Circulating Placental RNA in Maternal Plasma Is Associated with a Preponderance of 5′ mRNA Fragments: Implications for Noninvasive Prenatal Diagnosis and Monitoring
Authors: Wong Blenda CK , Chiu Rossa WK , Tsui Nancy BY , Chan KC Allen , Chan Lin W , Lau Tze K , Leung Tse N , Lo YM Dennis
Published: August 2005

Background: The molecular characteristics of placental RNA circulating in maternal plasma are unknown. We investigated the integrity of circulating placental RNA in maternal plasma and tested the relevance of plasma RNA integrity for noninvasive prenatal diagnosis.

Methods: Six different placental transcripts and mRNA of the housekeeping gene glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) were quantified for the 5′ and 3′ regions in maternal plasma by 1-step real-time reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) assays. This quantitative strategy was validated by 2-step RT-PCR and serial dilution experiments. The rates of detection by the 5′ and 3′ assays for the β-subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin (βhCG) were assessed in maternal plasma samples collected from different gestational periods.

Results: For 5 of the 7 genes, the plasma mRNA concentrations measured by the 5′ amplicons were significantly higher than those measured by the corresponding 3′ amplicons. Every transcript under study demonstrated a higher rate of detection in the 5′ assay than in the 3′ assay in maternal plasma. In particular, the detection rate of βhCG mRNA in maternal plasma was increased throughout gestation when the 5′ assay was used.

Conclusions: Circulating placental RNA is associated with a preponderance of 5′ mRNA fragments in maternal plasma. Apart from its intrinsic biological interest, this information could have important implications for the development of new assays targeting fetal RNA markers for noninvasive prenatal diagnosis and monitoring.
Simultaneous Multiple Immunoassays in a Compact Disc–Shaped Microfluidic Device Based on Centrifugal Force
Authors: Honda Nobuo , Lindberg Ulrika , Andersson Per , Hoffmann Stephan , Takei Hiroyuki
Published: August 2005

Background: We explored the potential of a microfluidic device based on centrifugal force as an immunoassay platform by examining the imprecision of assays carried out with 200 nL of sample.

Methods: Biotinylated antibodies against α-fetoprotein (AFP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and carcinoembryonic antigen [(CEA); 0.1 g/L each in 15 mmol/L phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) containing 0.1 mL/L Tween 20] were attached to a microcolumn packed with streptavidin-coated particles. A 200-nL sample was then allowed to pass through the microcolumn for 240 s, followed by Alexa 647–labeled detection antibody (7.5 mg/L in 15 mmol/L PBS containing 10 g/L bovine serum albumin). The flow rate was controlled by altering the rotational speed. Up to 104 sandwich type immunoassays were completed within 50 min.

Results: For AFP, IL-6, and CEA the detection limits were, respectively, 0.15, 1.25, and 1.31 pmol/L. Inter- and intraassay imprecisions (CVs) were <10% and <20%, respectively, for analyte concentrations >5 pmol/L. The CEA antibody had the lowest affinity according to fluorescence image analysis of the microcolumn region. The result was confirmed in a comparative study using BIAcore 3000.

Conclusions: Day-to-day (total) imprecision (CV) of immunoassays on the compact disc–shaped device are <20%. Analysis of fluorescence images allows rapid ranking of antibodies according to their affinities.
Behavior of Granular Assemblies at High Velocity in a Large Open Shear Box
Authors: Wong RCK
Published: August 2005

Large open shear box tests on granular materials have been conducted to investigate the behavior of these materials at high velocity. Several modes of kinetic motion were identified from the tests: steady sliding, sliding with rolling, impulsive rolling, and steady rolling. The measured resistances in these tests of different modes were observed to be dependent on material friction, base friction, velocity, body shape, and mobilized volume. However, spectral analysis of the measured data in time series shows that there exist no periodicities in the spectra, i.e., frequency- or velocity-independent. Of practical implication for this study is that the measured resistance for constant velocity motion decreases with increasing rolling motion activity within the moving granular mass. The average coefficient of resistance or friction could be less than the coefficient of kinetic friction measured in Coulomb-type shear tests.
Experimental Study of Sand Production from a Supported Wellbore in Weakly Consolidated Sandstone
Authors: Nouri A , Vaziri H , Belhaj H , Shomakhi N , Butt S , Donald A , Islam R
Published: August 2005

Deployment of expandable technology for sand control is experiencing rapid growth. While several expandable systems have been developed, assessment of their long-term performance and effectiveness has not. To alleviate some concerns and uncertainties, criteria are provided in this paper for assessing the possibility of sanding in wellbores that employ reticulated expandable completions and to illustrate an in-depth understanding of the mechanism under which such screens may prevent sand grain mobilization.

To investigate these issues, a series of experiments were conducted using hollow cylinder synthetic sandstone samples involving both fine- and coarse-grained sands. A stiffener of two different opening sizes supported the central hole to check if sanding takes place and if so, how great the influence of the opening size relative to the grain size is in dictating the operational limits.

The experiments on weakly-consolidated sandstones showed that expandable completions were successful in preventing any shear failure around the wellbore. Under excessive drawdown/depletion, volumetric failure (pore collapse) proved to be a plausible failure mechanism in the material. Nevertheless, much less sanding occurred, and this improvement was attributed to grain-to-grain friction, enhancements of effective stresses at the wellface, and some degree of conservation of the original structure of the material, although at the state of pore collapse.
Development of SRMs 295x and 296x, Respirable Crystalline Silica on Filter
Authors: Yu LL , Fassett JD , MacDonald BS , Butler TA , Ramsey DM , Key-Schwartz RJ , Rains TC
Published: August 2005

Standard Reference Material (SRM®) series 2951 to 2958 (5 μg to 1000 μg) Respirable Alpha Quartz on Filter and SRM series 2961 to 2967 (5 μg to 1000 μg) Respirable Cristobalite on Filter were prepared gravimetrically by depositing SRM 1878a Respirable Alpha Quartz and SRM 1879a Respirable Cristobalite on filters, respectively. These new SRMs are developed to assure the quality of respirable crystalline silica measurements using x-ray diffraction and infrared spectrometry around the regulatory limits that are enforced by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The mass of silica determined by highly sensitive, but non-polymorph-specific, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) was successfully used to calculate the mass of polymorphspecific crystalline silica on filter after all sources of Si on the new SRMs were carefully analyzed. The certified values of alpha quartz in SRMs 2951 to 2958 and cristobalite in SRMs 2961 to 2967, respectively, were established from the gravimetric preparation values and the spectrometric measurement values.
Evaluation of Different Techniques for Adhesive Properties of Asphalt-Filler Systems at Interfacial Region
Authors: Huang S-C , Turner TF , Pauli AT , Miknis FP , Branthaver JF , Robertson RE
Published: August 2005

Asphalt is a widely variable product used in public roadways at the rate of 30 million tons per year and is thus the largest volume of adhesive used in any application. Considering the commercial importance of asphalt, several analytical techniques were employed to investigate its adhesive properties. These techniques include the specially designed sliding plate viscometer, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), atomic force microscopy (AFM), liquid chromatography, centrifugation, and infrared (IR) spectroscopy. The specially designed sliding plate rheometer was used to measure the rheological properties of asphalt film in contact with aggregate surface at thin film levels. DSC was applied to measure the effect of fine particles on the low temperature properties. AFM was used to produce a photo-like image of adhesion between asphalt and mineral fines. Chromatography and centrifugation techniques were used to separate the adsorbable, polar asphalt components from aggregate surfaces. Infrared spectroscopy was used to determine the quantities and natures of adsorbed molecules. The results of these asphalt-aggregate experiments have shown what types of organic molecules in asphalt adsorb onto aggregate surfaces. Aggregates are shown to adsorb large concentrations of the most polar functional groups found in asphalts. In addition, the theory of Interfacial Morphological Stability has been used to model air-asphalt film and asphalt film-glass substrate interfacial systems. Separately, a wet-packing chromatographic technique was developed to use pulverized aggregate to separate cyclohexane solutions of asphalt into polar and non-polar components. Furthermore, the DSC evidence suggests the immobilization of a surface layer of binder in contact with aggregate induces a large rigid, amorphous fraction of the binder. These methods have been employed to characterize the fundamentals of asphalt-aggregate interaction in order to devise improved road performance predictive tests.
Influence of Groove Count on Slip Resistance Using NTL Test Feet
Authors: Joganich T , Mc Cuen L
Published: August 2005

In recent years, walkway slip-resistance testing with grooved NTL (Neolite® Test Liners) has been the subject of research, as well as used in field investigation practices. Recent research shows that differences between non-grooved and grooved test feet do exist, especially under wet conditions. It is not known how the number of grooves influences the slip resistance. This study investigates the influence of groove count on slip resistance under both wet and dry conditions using the PIAST tribometer. Test feet with 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, and 15 grooves and a non-grooved test foot were used. Polished granite and vinyl composition tile were used as test surfaces. Results for both test surfaces show markedly higher slip resistance for increasing groove counts under wet conditions, while under dry conditions, the results show slight increases in slip resistance. Implications of these results are discussed.
An STR Forensic Typing System for Genetic Individualization of Domestic Cat (Felis catus) Samples
Authors: Menotti-Raymond MA , David VA , Wachter LL , Butler JM , O'Brien SJ
Published: August 2005

A forensic genotyping panel of 11 tetranucleotide STR loci from the domestic cat was characterized and evaluated for genetic individualization of cat tissues. We first examined 49 candidate STR loci and their frequency assessment in domestic cat populations. The STR loci (3–4 base pair repeat motifs), mapped in the cat genome relative to 579 coding loci and 255 STR loci, are well distributed across the 18 feline autosomes. All loci exhibit Mendelian inheritance in a multi-generation pedigree. Eleven loci that were unlinked and were highly heterozygous in cat breeds were selected for a forensic panel. Heterozygosity values obtained for the independent loci, ranged from 0.60–0.82, while the average cat breed heterozygosity obtained for the 11 locus panel was 0.71 (range of 0.57–0.83). A small sample set of outbred domestic cats displayed a heterozygosity of 0.86 for the 11 locus panel. The power of discrimination of the panel is moderate to high in the cat breeds examined, with an average Pm of 3.7E-06. The panel shows good potential for genetic individualization within outbred domestic cats with a Pm of 5.31E-08. A multiplex protocol, designed for the co-amplification of the 11 loci and a gender-identifying locus, is species specific and robust, generating a product profile with as little as 0.125 nanograms of genomic DNA.
An Alu-based, MGB Eclipse™ Real-Time PCR Method for Quantitation of Human DNA in Forensic Samples
Authors: Nicklas JA , Buel E
Published: August 2005

The forensic community needs quick, reliable methods to quantitate human DNA in crime scene samples to replace the laborious and imprecise slot blot method. A real-time PCR based method has the possibility of allowing development of a faster and more quantitative assay. Alu sequences are primate-specific and are found in many copies in the human genome, making these sequences an excellent target or marker for human DNA. This paper describes the development of a real-time Alu sequence-based assay using MGB Eclipse™ primers and probes. The advantages of this assay are simplicity, speed, less hands-on-time and automated quantitation, as well as a large dynamic range (128 ng/µL to 0.5 pg/µL).
Rapid Determination of Carbohydrates in Heroin Drug Seizures Using Capillary Electrophoresis with Short-End Injection
Authors: Anastos N , Barnett NW , Lewis SW , Pearson JR , Kirkbride KP
Published: August 2005

A simple and rapid method for the analysis of carbohydrates in heroin samples by capillary electrophoresis utilizing a borate complexation method is described. Separations were performed using an uncoated fused silica capillary, 50 cm × 50 μm I.D. × 360μm O.D. with an effective separation length of 9 cm. The system was run at 60°C with an applied voltage of −8 kilovolts. Injection of each sample was for 1 sec at −50 mbar. UV detection was employed with the wavelength set at 195 nm. The background electrolyte consisted of 65 mM borate, pH 12.0. Samples and standards were prepared in the run buffer containing 2 mg/mL of mannose as an internal standard. Under these conditions a test mixture containing glucose, sucrose, lactose, mannitol and mannose as an internal standard was resolved within 5 min. The method was used to determine the concentration of carbohydrates in heroin seizure samples and synthetic heroin samples. The results were in good agreement with the reported values.
Fatal Blunt Trauma of the Larynx in a Child
Authors: Durak D , Fedakar R , Eren B , Saka E , Durak VA
Published: August 2005

We report an autopsy case of an 11-year-old girl who suffered mechanical asphyxia from falling off the metal bars in the playground. This autopsy case is interesting because of the atypical trauma and lesions. To our knowledge there has been no similiar published case reports in the forensic literature. The young age of the victim, the setting and the pattern of the injuries are rare in a fall at playground by a child.
Review of: Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS)
Authors: Grieve DL
Published: August 2005

The proliferation of automated fingerprint identification systems (AFIS) during the past 20 years has arguably been the greatest boon to criminal investigation thus far devised. However, as the author notes during the introduction, very little has been written specifically about these systems other than brief, often overly simplified, references in texts devoted to the more general area of fingerprints. This glaring omission has been thankfully remedied by one of the most comprehensive and enlightening explanations of a fascinating process imaginable, and done so with a marvelously cohesive and highly readable style. One's only regret is that this book had not been written a decade or more ago and offered as a newly revised edition.
Polymorphism at 15 Short Tandem Repeat AmpFℓSTR® Identifiler™ Loci in Three Aboriginal Populations of India: An Assessment in Human Identification
Authors: Banerjee J , Trivedi R , Kashyap VK
Published: August 2005

STR polymorphisms have proven to be extremely useful in population genetics studies and human identification. The fifteen analysed STR loci were tetra-nucleotide repeats: D5S818, FGA, D8S1179, D21S11, D7S820, CSF1PO, D3S1358, THO1, D13S317, D16S539, D2S1338, D19S433, vWA, TPOX, D18S51.
Characterization of 17 Y-STR Loci in a Population from El Salvador (San Salvador, Central America) and Their Potential for DNA Profiling
Authors: Martínez-Jarreta B , Vásquez P , Abecia E , Budowle B , Luna A , Peiró F
Published: August 2005

Blood samples were taken from 120 healthy unrelated male individuals born and living in El Salvador (San Salvador, Central America). All the individuals were Mestizos who are descendents of Spanish and Amerindian people and represent the largest population of the country. DNA was isolated from the samples using standard phenolchloroform extraction method and quantification of DNA was carried out by fluorescence detection with DyNAQuant 200 (APB).
Review of : Statistics and the Evaluation of Evidence for Forensic Scientists, 2nd Ed.
Authors: Buckleton J , Roux C
Published: August 2005

This book is the second edition of the highly successful book initially authored by Colin Aitken, Professor of Statistics at Edinburgh University. This second edition brings into the authorship team Franco Taroni, one of the highly respected graduates from Pierre Margot's school at Luassane and now deservedly Professor at that same school. Dr Aitken has a long and highly respected career as a forensic commentator.
Considerations in Developing a Network Pavement Inventory Friction Test Program for a State Highway Agency
Authors: Li S , Zhu K , Noureldin S
Published: August 2005

A network pavement inventory friction test program should consist of three parts: testing system calibration and performance verification, friction testing, and data management. The friction testing system must be calibrated and its performance must be verified before test seasons and whenever significant changes have occurred. Friction testing should be conducted annually on interstates. Test frequency for other routes may be reduced. Also, friction testing should be conducted consistently in the driving lane. Test intervals should be large enough for the operator to adjust test speed.

Differences exist between the friction numbers measured by smooth and ribbed tires. For grooved concrete surfaces, the difference is negligible. For others with low or medium friction, the average difference is about 17 or 12. Different surface features may result in different speed gradient curves. Seasonal variation is not significant. A minimum friction requirement of 20 to 23 was identified for the smooth tire. Friction data management is an important part for the network inventory friction test program. Geographical information system (GIS) technology can be utilized to monitor network pavement friction condition efficiently.
Hoop Tensile Properties of Ceramic Matrix Composite Cylinders
Authors: Verrilli MJ , DiCarlo JA , Calomino A , Yun HM , Barnett TR
Published: August 2005

Tensile stress-strain properties in the hoop direction were obtained for 100-mm diameter ceramic matrix composite cylinders using ring specimens machined from the cylinder ends. The silicon carbide fiber-reinforced silicon carbide matrix composite (SiC/SiC) cylinders were fabricated from 2D balanced SiC fabric with several material variants, including wall thickness (6, 8, and 12 plies), SiC fiber type (Sylramic, Sylramic-iBN, Hi-Nicalon, and Hi-Nicalon S), fiber sizing type, and matrix type (full CVI SiC, and partial CVI SiC plus slurry cast + melt-infiltrated SiC-Si). Cloth ply splices existed in all the hoops. Tensile hoop measurements were made at room temperature and 1200°C using hydrostatic ring test facilities. Room temperature hoop strengths for the various cylinders were generally similar and at 1200°C, ultimate strengths and strains of the hoops were about 70 % of their room temperature values, and elastic moduli were about 90–100 % of their room temperature values. The hoop properties are compared with in-plane data measured on flat panels using same material variants, but containing no splices. A lower strength and failure strain of hoops compared to panels was observed and was due to a stress concentration associated with the cloth splice geometry. The failure mode of the hoops, determined through microstructural examination, revealed that a fracture surface always existed at the cloth ply splice on the inner diameter of the failed specimens.
Quantitative and Qualitative Bacterial Flora of Giant Freshwater Prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii Cultured in Earthen Ponds in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Uddin M. Naim , Al-Harbi A. H.
Published: August 2005

Quantitative and qualitative analyses of bacterial flora associated with the digestive tract of the giant freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii cultured in earthen ponds of Saudi Arabia were carried out. Bacterial counts and flora of prawn-culture pond water, sediment, and prawn carapaces, along with important physicochemical parameters, were investigated, and the isolates were identified to the genus or species level. Total viable counts (TVC; mean ± SD) varied between (1.0 ± 2.3) × 104 and (1.7 ± 0.8) × 105 colony-forming units (cfu) per milliliter in pond water, (5.8 ± 1.7) × 107 and (1.1 ± 2.9) × 109 cfu/g in sediment, (1.5 ± 0.9) × 105 and (1.6 ± 2.4) × 106 cfu/cm2 in the carapace, and (9.1 ± 1.5) × 106 and (8.7 ± 1.8) × 107 cfu/g in the digestive tract of freshwater prawns. The bacterial flora was predominantly gram-negative, accounting for 80% of total isolated strains. Altogether, 21 bacterial species of 16 genera were identified. Aeromonas hydrophila, Shewanella putrefaciens, other Aeromonas spp., Vibrio spp., and Enterococcus spp. were the most abundant bacterial species (prevalence ≥10%) in pond water; A. hydrophila, S. putrefaciens, Vibrio spp., and Pseudomonas spp. were the most abundant in sediment; S. putrefaciens, A. hydrophila, Vibrio spp., Enterococcus spp., and Aeromonas spp. were the most abundant on the prawn carapace; and A. hydrophila, S. putrefaciens, Vibrio spp., Enterococcus spp., and Pasteurella spp. were the most abundant in the digestive tracts. In every population studied, Aeromonas spp., S. putrefaciens, Enterococcus spp., Vibrio spp., Pasteurella spp., Chryseomonas spp., and Pseudomonas spp. were present.
Changes in Soil Microbial Community Structure in a Tallgrass Prairie Chronosequence
Authors: Allison Victoria J. , Miller R. Michael , Jastrow Julie D. , Matamala Roser , Zak Donald R.
Published: August 2005

Increasing the abundance of fungi relative to bacteria should favor C accrual, because fungi use C more efficiently, and are composed of more recalcitrant C compounds. We examined changes in soil microbial community structure following cessation of tillage‐based agriculture and through subsequent succession in a C‐accruing tallgrass prairie restoration chronosequence. We predicted that the relative abundance of fungi would increase following conversion from tillage‐based agriculture. Soil microbial community structure was assessed as relative abundances of phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs). Cessation of tillage‐based agriculture did initially lead to an increase in the abundance of fungi, particularly arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), relative to bacteria. We suggest this is primarily due to reduced disturbance when tilling ceases. Vegetation characteristics also appear to be important, with high cyclopropyl/precursor PLFA ratios indicating bacterial communities under stress in agricultural soils, probably due to low C, and possibly to low C relative to N inputs. A secondary gradient in soil microbial community structure was related to successional time, and tied to soil characteristics, particularly bulk density (Db), pH, and soil organic C and N. However, while the fungi/bacteria (F/B) ratio was high in early succession plots, it declined later in succession. In addition, although the F/B ratio increased with SOC in the agricultural soils, it decreased with SOC in prairie soils. We conclude that increased community metabolic efficiency due to higher relative abundances of fungi is not the primary mechanism leading to enhanced C storage in these soils.
Linking Manure Properties to Phosphorus Solubility in Calcareous Soils
Authors: Leytem April B. , Turner Benjamin L. , Raboy Victor , Peterson Kevin L.
Published: August 2005

Land application of manure can increase P transfer in runoff, although the risk depends in part on the characteristics of the manure. We assessed this for calcareous soils using manures from swine (Sus domesticus) fed one of five barley varieties (Hordeum vulgare L.), including four low phytate mutants and a normal variety, to produce manures with a range of total P (6.8–4.9 g P kg−1), water‐soluble P (4.3–8.0 g P kg−1), total N/P ratios (2.5:1–5.5:1), and total C/P ratios (31:1–67:1). Two experiments were conducted. First, manures were incorporated into three soils on a N (150 mg N kg−1 soil) or P (27.5 mg P kg−1 soil) basis three times during a 7‐wk incubation. Second, 10 additional soils were incubated for 2 wk following a single P‐based manure application (82.5 mg P kg−1 soil). Water and NaHCO3 (Olsen) extractable P were determined at regular intervals, with microbial P determined by fumigation–extraction after each incubation. For N‐based application (i.e., variable P amendment), extractable P increased with total P applied. For P‐based applications, the increase in soil P was more closely correlated to microbial P concentration than manure P composition or soil properties. These results suggest that stimulation of the microbial biomass by added organic C is important in determining soil P solubility following manure application.
Prediction of Boron Adsorption by Field Samples of Diverse Textures
Authors: Goldberg Sabine , Corwin D. L. , Shouse P. J. , Suarez D. L.
Published: August 2005

Soil texture often varies dramatically in both vertical and horizontal directions in field situations and affects the amount of B adsorbed and B movement. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of clay content on B adsorption and to test the predictive ability of the constant capacitance model to describe B adsorption as related to changes in clay content. Boron adsorption on 15 soil samples constituting five depths of each of three sites in the western San Joaquin Valley of California was investigated. Boron adsorption increased with increasing pH, reached an adsorption maximum around pH 9, and decreased with further increases in pH. The model was able to describe B adsorption on the soils by simultaneously optimizing three surface complexation constants. The model was able to predict B adsorption by using surface complexation constants calculated from easily measured chemical parameters. The model was also able to predict B adsorption at all of the depths using the surface complexation constants predicted with the chemical properties of one of the surface depths and a surface area value calculated from clay content. These results are very encouraging, suggesting that for a particular soil series, B adsorption for various sites and depths in a field can be predicted using only clay content and the chemical information from a different site in the same field. Incorporation of the prediction equations into chemical speciation‐transport models will allow simulation of soil solution B concentrations in horizontal and vertical space under diverse environmental and agricultural conditions.
A Physically Derived Water Content/Permittivity Calibration Model for Coarse‐Textured, Layered Soils
Authors: Robinson D. A. , Jones S. B. , Blonquist J. M. , Friedman S. P.
Published: August 2005

Many empirical formulas relating TDR‐measured permittivity (Ka) to volumetric water content (θ) have been presented owing to the lack of a robust and accurate physically derived model describing this relationship across a range of soils. Soil‐specific calibrations are often infeasible due to the time‐consuming gravimetric sampling required for adequate calibration. In this work we propose a sample scale model for the Ka–θ relationship in coarse‐grained media using physically based pore‐scale, or calibrated two‐point, anchoring. Materials tested include mono‐size glass spheres and quartz sand grains in addition to two sandy soils. The performance of the model was comparable with the empirical models of Topp et al. (1980) for the different media. The model accounts for particle shape and bulk density using a two‐phase pore‐scale mixing model and refers to a wetting or draining profile with a sharp wetting or drying front. Our measurements indicate the absence of dielectric hysteresis for the narrow size distribution materials studied. An alternate calibration approach only requires the measured soil effective permittivities for dry (εdry) and saturated (εsat) conditions (i.e., two‐phase mixtures) and knowledge of the bulk density. We recommend a general value of 2.8 for εdry in soils with predominantly quartz mineralogy; the model then requiring only the εsat to develop a soil specific calibration. The results provide insight into the appropriate ‘refractive index’ modeling of layered (wetting/drying) soil profiles with the grain‐scale modeled two‐phase permittivity providing bounds for the sample‐scale three‐phase porous medium.
Predicting Arsenate Adsorption by Soils using Soil Chemical Parameters in the Constant Capacitance Model
Authors: Goldberg Sabine , Lesch S. M. , Suarez D. L. , Basta N. T.
Published: August 2005

The constant capacitance model, a chemical surface complexation model, was applied to arsenate, As(V), adsorption on 49 soils selected for variation in soil properties. The constant capacitance model was able to fit arsenate adsorption on all soils by optimizing either three monodentate or two bidentate As(V) surface complexation constants. A general regression model was developed for predicting soil As(V) surface complexation constants from easily measured soil chemical characteristics. These chemical properties were cation exchange capacity (CEC), inorganic C (IOC) content, organic C (OC) content, iron oxide content, and surface area (SA). The prediction equations were used to obtain values for the As(V) surface complexation constants for five additional soils, thereby providing a completely independent evaluation of the ability of the constant capacitance model to describe As(V) adsorption. The model's ability to predict As(V) adsorption was quantitative on three soils, semi‐quantitative on one soil, and poor on another soil. Incorporation of these prediction equations into chemical speciation‐transport models will allow simulation of soil solution As(V) concentrations under diverse agricultural and environmental conditions without the requirement of soil specific adsorption data and subsequent parameter optimization.
Gracile bones, periostal appositions, hypomineralization of the cranial vault, and mental retardation in brothers: Milder variant of osteocraniostenosis or new syndrome?
Authors: Verloes Alain , Garel Catherine , Robertson Stephen , Merrer Martine Le , Baumann Clarisse
Published: August 2005

We report on two brothers with ossification anomalies of membranous and cranial bones, remodeling defect of long bones leading to dense, overtubulated, narrow diaphyses, metaphyseal flare, periostal hyperosotosis that increased during the first months of life, thoracic dystrophy and severe hypotonia. One boy had hypospadias and cleft palate. Follow‐up of the surviving boy documented progressive osteopenia, slow healing of the periostal anomalies, liver angiomatosis, mental and motor delay, thoracic deformity, delay in tooth eruption, and progressive microcephaly with enlargement of the cerebral ventricles. This disorder shares some traits with osteocraniostenosis, but lacks the cranial deformity and acromelic micromelia of the latter, in which periostal anomalies are not described. The syndrome reported here may represent a milder form of osteocraniostenosis, or a new entity belonging to the same “family.” Genealogical data are consistent with AR or XLR inheritance. No mutations were found in the coding sequence of filamin A. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Marshall–Smith syndrome: Natural history and evidence of an osteochondrodysplasia with connective tissue abnormalities
Authors: Adam Margaret P. , Hennekam Raoul C.M. , Keppen Laura Davis , Bull Marilyn J. , Clericuzio Carol L. , Burke Leah W. , Ormond Kelly E. , Hoyme Eugene H.
Published: August 2005

The Marshall–Smith syndrome (MSS) is a distinct malformation syndrome characterized by accelerated skeletal maturation, relative failure to thrive, respiratory difficulties, mental retardation, and unusual facies, including prominent forehead, shallow orbits, blue sclerae, depressed nasal bridge, and micrognathia. At least 33 cases have been reported in the literature, mostly as single case reports or small series. The purpose of the present study is to report on the clinical findings and natural history of MSS in five children and to review the features of three others previously reported, with particular attention to the skeletal and connective tissue findings. Our study demonstrates an increased rate of nontraumatic fractures and other bony and connective tissue abnormalities that support the hypothesis that MSS should be considered an osteochondrodysplasia. In addition, long‐term survival beyond infancy is possible if respiratory problems are expectantly and aggressively managed. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Phylogenetic analysis of family 6 glycoside hydrolases
Authors: Mertz Blake , Kuczenski Robert S. , Larsen Robert T. , Hill Anthony D. , Reilly Peter J.
Published: August 2005

Multiple sequence alignment separates members of glycoside hydrolase Family 6 into eight subfamilies: one of mainly actinobacterial endoglucanases (EGs), one of ascomycotal EGs, one of chytridiomycotal EGs and cellobiohydrolases (CBHs), one of actinobacterial and proteobacterial CBHs, one of chytridiomycotal CBHs, two of ascomycotal CBHs, and one of basidiomycotal CBHs. Each also has some proteins of unknown function. Multiple sequence alignment also extends to all of Family 6 the observation that lengths of loops that form the active‐site tunnel in CBHs vary among subfamilies, and along with loop conformations, determine enzyme function. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 79: 197–206, 2005

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Charge‐Shift Bonding—A Class of Electron‐Pair Bonds That Emerges from Valence Bond Theory and Is Supported by the Electron Localization Function Approach
Authors: Shaik Sason , Danovich David , Silvi Bernard , Lauvergnat David L. , Hiberty Philippe C.
Published: August 2005

This paper deals with a central paradigm of chemistry, the electron‐pair bond. Valence bond (VB) theory and electron‐localization function (ELF) calculations of 21 single bonds demonstrate that along the two classical bond families of covalent and ionic bonds, there exists a class of charge‐shift bonds (CS bonds) in which the fluctuation of the electron pair density plays a dominant role. In VB theory, CS bonding manifests by way of a large covalent‐ionic resonance energy,RECS, and in ELF by a depleted basin population with large variances (fluctuations). CS bonding is shown to be a fundamental mechanism that is necessary to satisfy the equilibrium condition, namely the virial ratio of the kinetic and potential energy contributions to the bond energy. The paper defines the atomic propensity and territory for CS bonding: Atoms (fragments) that are prone to CS bonding are compact electronegative and/or lone‐pair‐rich species. As such, the territory of CS bonding transcends considerations of static charge distribution, and involves: a) homopolar bonds of heteroatoms with zero static ionicity, b) heteropolar σ and π bonds of the electronegative and/or electron‐pair‐rich elements among themselves and to other atoms (e.g., the higher metalloids, Si, Ge, Sn, etc), c) all hypercoordinate molecules. Several experimental manifestations of charge‐shift bonding are discussed, such as depleted bonding density, the rarity of ionic chemistry of silicon in condensed phases, and the high barriers of halogen‐transfer reactions as compared to hydrogen‐transfers.
Two‐Photon Dyes Containing Heterocyclic Rings with Enhanced Photostability
Authors: Kim Hwan Myung , Yang Wen Jun , Kim Chang Ho , Park Won‐Hwa , Jeon Seung‐Joon , Cho Bong Rae
Published: August 2005

A series of donor–π–donor derivatives containing phenyl, naphthyl, and anthryl groups as the π‐center and heterocyclic rings as the conjugation bridge have been synthesized and their one‐ and two‐photon spectroscopic properties and photostability were determined. These compounds show bathochromic shifts in the absorption and emission spectra, larger two‐photon cross‐section, and enhanced photostability in comparison to their open‐chain analogues. In addition, a convenient method for the qualitative photostability measurement is proposed.
Organolanthanide‐Mediated Intermolecular Hydroamination of 1,3‐Dienes: Mechanistic Insights from a Computational Exploration of Diverse Mechanistic Pathways for the Stereoselective Hydroamination of 1,3‐Butadiene with a Primary Amine Supported by an ansa‐Neodymocene‐Based Catalyst
Authors: Tobisch Sven
Published: August 2005

The complete catalytic reaction course for the organolanthanide‐mediated intermolecular hydroamination of 1,3‐butadiene and n‐propylamine by an archetypical [Me2Si(η5‐Me4C5)2NdCH(SiMe3)2] precatalyst was critically scrutinized by employing a reliable gradient‐corrected DFT method. A free‐energy profile of the overall reaction is presented that is based on the thorough characterization of all crucial elementary steps for a tentative catalytic cycle. A computationally verified, revised mechanistic scenario is proposed which is consistent with the experimentally derived empirical rate law and accounts for crucial experimental observations. It involves kinetically mobile reactant association/dissociation equilibria and facile, reversible intermolecular diene insertion into the Nd–amido bond, linked to turnover‐limiting protonolysis of the η3‐butenyl–Nd functionality. The computationally predicted effective kinetics (Δ${H{{{\ne}\hfill \atop {\rm tot}\hfill}}}$=11.3 kcal mol−1, Δ${S{{{\ne}\hfill \atop {\rm tot}\hfill}}}$=−35.7 e.u.) are in reasonably good agreement with experimental data for the thoroughly studied hydroamination of alkynes. The thermodynamic and kinetic factors that determine the almost complete regio‐ and stereoselectivity of the mechanistically diverse intermolecular 1,3‐diene hydroamination have been unraveled. The present computational study complements experiments because it allows, first, a more detailed understanding and a consistent rationalization of the experimental results for the hydroamination of 1,3‐dienes and primary amines and, second, enhances the insights into general mechanistic aspects of organolanthanide‐mediated intermolecular hydroamination.