bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
α1adrenergic receptor agonist, phenylephrine, actively contracts early rat rib fracture callus ex vivo
Authors: McDonald Stuart J. , Dooley Philip C. , McDonald Aaron C. , Djouma Elvan , Schuijers Johannes A. , Ward Alex R. , Grills Brian L.
Published: December 2010

Early, soft fracture callus that links fracture ends together is smooth muscle‐like in nature. We aimed to determine if early fracture callus could be induced to contract and relax ex vivo by similar pathways to smooth muscle, that is, contraction via α1adrenergic receptor (α1AR) activation with phenylephrine (PE) and relaxation via β2adrenergic receptor (β2AR) stimulation with terbutaline. A sensitive force transducer quantified 7 day rat rib fracture callus responses in modified Krebs–Henseliet (KH) solutions. Unfractured ribs along with 7, 14, and 21 day fracture calluses were analyzed for both α1AR and β2AR gene expression using qPCR, whilst 7 day fracture callus was examined via immunohistochemistry for both α1AR and β2AR‐ immunoreactivity. In 7 day callus, PE (10−6 M) significantly induced an increase in force that was greater than passive force generated in calcium‐free KH (n = 8, mean 51% increase, 95% CI: 26–76%). PE‐induced contractions in calluses were attenuated by the α1AR antagonist, prazosin (10−6 M;n = 7, mean 5% increase, 95% CI: 2–11%). Terbutaline did not relax callus. Gene expression of α1ARs was constant throughout fracture healing; however, β2AR expression was down‐regulated at 7 days compared to unfractured rib (p < 0.01). Furthermore, osteoprogenitor cells of early fibrous callus displayed considerable α1AR‐like immunoreactivity but not β2AR‐like immunoreactivity. Here, we demonstrate for the first time that early fracture callus can be pharmacologically induced to contract. We propose that increased concentrations of α1AR agonists such as noradrenaline may tonically contract callus in vivo to promote osteogenesis. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:740–745, 2011
Low‐magnitude high‐frequency vibration (LMHFV) enhances bone remodeling in osteoporotic rat femoral fracture healing
Authors: Chow Dick Ho‐Kiu , Leung Kwok‐Sui , Qin Ling , Leung Andraay Hon‐Chi , Cheung Wing‐Hoi
Published: December 2010

Low‐magnitude high‐frequency vibration (LMHFV) (35 Hz, 0.3 g) accelerates fracture healing by enhancing callus formation and mineralization for both normal and osteoporotic rats in our previous studies.1,2 We hypothesized that LMHFV enhances fracture healing through bone remodeling. Ibandronate was used to suppress LMHFV‐stimulated bone remodeling and changes in remodeling were investigated to verify our hypothesis. Closed femoral fractures were created in 80 osteoporotic female Sprague–Dawley rats. The rats were randomly assigned into control (CG), LMHFV (VG) (20 min/day, 5 days/week), ibandronate (BG) (7 µg/kg/week), or LMHFV + ibandronate (VBG) for a treatment duration of 2, 4, 6, or 8 weeks. Blood was taken and the femora were harvested for histological and radiological analyses. VG had the fastest drop in callus area (CA) and width (CW), and bone volume to tissue volume ratio (BV/TV); whereas, a plateaued trend in BG and VBG was observed. The fastest callus reduction, highest mineral apposition rate at week 6, and increased serum concentration of osteocalcin and TRAP5b in VG suggested enhanced remodeling. LMHFV partially reversed the inhibition of bone remodeling by ibandronate suggested LMHFV had an opposite effect on bone remodeling to ibandronate. In conclusion, LMHFV accelerated fracture healing by enhancing bone remodeling and the administration of ibandronate can impair this enhancement. LMHFV has great potential in improving fracture outcome clinically. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:746–752, 2011
Estimation of dynamic, in vivo soft‐tissue deformation: Experimental technique and application in a canine model of tendon injury and repair
Authors: Bey Michael J. , Kline Stephanie K. , Baker Andrew R. , McCarron Jesse A. , Iannotti Joseph P. , Derwin Kathleen A.
Published: December 2010

Outcomes after rotator cuff surgery are typically assessed with measures of strength, joint motion, or pain, but these measures do not provide a direct assessment of tissue function as healing progresses. To address this limitation, this manuscript describes biplane X‐ray analysis as a technique for quantifying in vivo soft‐tissue deformation. Tantalum beads were implanted in the humerus and infraspinatus tendon in a canine model of tendon injury and repair. Biplane X‐ray images were acquired during treadmill trotting and tissue deformation was estimated from the three‐dimensional bead positions. Changes over time were characterized by the mean, range, and normalized range (i.e., range/mean) of interbead distance. Intact tendon repair tissue demonstrated significant decreases over time in the mean (p = 0.003), range (p = 0.001), and normalized range (p = 0.001) of interbead distance. Failed tendon repair tissue demonstrated significant decreases over time in the range (p = 0.05) and normalized range (p = 0.04) of interbead distance. In an uninjured control, differences over time in the interbead distance parameters were not detected. This approach is a promising technique for estimating changes over time in soft‐tissue deformation. These preliminary data indicate appreciable differences between normal tendons, intact repairs, and failed repairs. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:822–827
Replication study of the association between adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and two estrogen receptor genes
Authors: Takahashi Yohei , Matsumoto Morio , Karasugi Tatsuki , Watanabe Kota , Chiba Kazuhiro , Kawakami Noriaki , Tsuji Taichi , Uno Koki , Suzuki Teppei , Ito Manabu , Sudo Hideki , Minami Shohei , Kotani Toshiaki , Kono Katsuki , Yanagida Haruhisa , Taneichi Hiroshi , Takahashi Atsushi , Toyama Yoshiaki , Ikegawa Shiro
Published: December 2010

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a common disorder with a strong genetic predisposition. Associations between AIS and common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in estrogen receptor genes have been reported. rs9340799 in the gene for estrogen receptor α (ESR1) is reported to be associated with curve severity in Japanese and with AIS predisposition and curve severity in Chinese. In addition, rs1256120 in the gene for estrogen receptor β (ESR2) is reported to be associated with AIS predisposition and curve severity in Chinese. However, the sample sizes of these previous studies were small, and the associations of these SNPs have not been replicated. To examine the association between AIS and estrogen receptor genes, we investigated the association of rs9340799 and rs1256120 with AIS predisposition and curve severity using a large Japanese population, consisting of 798 AIS patients and 637 sex‐matched controls. We found no association of either SNP with AIS predisposition or curve severity in the Japanese population. Considering the statistical power of the present study and the limitations of the previous reports, we conclude that the associations of rs9340799 and rs1256120 with AIS predisposition and curve severity are negative. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:834–837
Gait after unilateral total knee arthroplasty: Frontal plane analysis
Authors: Alnahdi Ali H. , Zeni Joseph A. , Snyder‐Mackler Lynn
Published: December 2010

After unilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA), osteoarthritis (OA) in the non‐operated knee often progresses. The altered gait mechanics exhibited by patients after TKA increase the loading on the non‐operated knee and predispose it to disease progression. Therefore, our objective was to examine the potentially detrimental changes in frontal plane kinetics and kinematics during walking in patients who underwent unilateral TKA. Thirty‐one subjects 6 months after TKA, 24 subjects 1 year after unilateral TKA, and 20 control subjects were recruited. All subjects underwent 3D gait analysis. In the TKA groups, the non‐operated knee had a higher adduction angle and higher dynamic loading, knee adduction moment and impulse, compared to the operated knee. This increased loading may be an underlying reason for OA progression in the non‐operated knee. Measures of loading in the control knee did not differ from that of the non‐operated knee in the TKA group, but the TKA group walked with shorter step length. While the non‐operated knee loading was not different from controls, there may be greater risk of cumulative loading in the non‐operated knee of the TKA group given the shorter step length. © 2010 Orthopaedic
Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:647–652, 2011
Effect of irradiation, active and modified atmosphere packaging, container oxygen barrier and storage conditions on the physicochemical and sensory properties of raw unpeeled almond kernels (Prunus dulcis)
Authors: Mexis Stamatios F , Riganakos Kyriakos A , Kontominas Michael G
Published: December 2010

BACKGROUND:The present study investigated the effect of irradiation, active and modified atmosphere packaging, and storage conditions on quality retention of raw, whole, unpeeled almonds. Almond kernels were packaged in barrier and high‐barrier pouches, under N2or with an O2absorber and stored either under fluorescent lighting or in the dark at 20 °C for 12 months. Quality parameters monitored were peroxide value, hexanal content, colour, fatty acid composition and volatile compounds. Of the sensory attributes colour, texture, odour and taste were evaluated.

RESULTS:Peroxide value and hexanal increased with dose of irradiation and storage time. Irradiation resulted in a decrease of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids during storage with a parallel increase of saturated fatty acids. Volatile compounds were not affected by irradiation but increased with storage time indicating enhanced lipid oxidation. Colour parameters of samples remained unaffected immediately after irradiation. For samples packaged under a N2, atmosphereL* andb* values decreased during storage with a parallel increase of valuea* resulting to gradual product darkening especially in irradiated samples.

CONCLUSION:Non‐irradiated almonds retained acceptable quality for ca. 12 months stored at 20 °C with the O2absorber irrespective of lighting conditions and packaging material oxygen barrier. The respective shelf life for samples irradiated at 1.0 kGy was 12 months packaged in PET‐SiOx//LDPE irrespective of lighting conditions and 12 months for samples irradiated at 3 kGy packaged in PET‐SiOx//LDPE stored in the dark. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Expression of genes associated with ethylene‐signalling pathway in harvested banana fruit in response to temperature and 1‐MCP treatment
Authors: Yan Su‐cheng , Chen Jian‐ye , Yu Wei‐min , Kuang Jian‐fei , Chen Wei‐xin , Li Xue‐ping , Lu Wang‐jin
Published: December 2010

BACKGROUND: Little attention has been paid to characterising the ethylene‐signalling pathway genes in relation to abnormal ripening of harvested banana fruit during storage at high temperature. The aim of the present study was to investigate banana fruit abnormal ripening and the expression of ten genes associated with the ethylene‐signalling pathway, namely MaACS1, MaACO1, MaERS1–4 and MaEIL1–4, at high temperature. Changes in these parameters of banana fruit at high temperature in response to 1‐MCP pretreatment were also investigated.

RESULTS: High temperature accelerated the decline in fruit firmness, increased ethylene production and inhibited degreening in banana fruit, resulting in fruit abnormal ripening. In addition, the expression of MaACS1, MaACO1, MaERS2, MaERS3, MaERS4, MaEIL1, MaEIL3 and MaEIL4 was enhanced in banana fruit stored at high temperature. However, application of 1‐MCP prior to high temperature storage delayed fruit abnormal ripening and simultaneously suppressed the expression of MaACS1, MaERS2, MaERS3, MaEIL1, MaEIL3 and MaEIL4.

CONCLUSION: The findings of this study suggested that the expression of genes associated with the ethylene‐signalling pathway might be involved in banana fruit abnormal ripening at high temperature. Application of 1‐MCP suppressed the expression of genes associated with the ethylene‐signalling pathway, which may be attributed at least partially to 1‐MCP delaying fruit abnormal ripening at high temperature. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of water‐saving superabsorbent polymer on antioxidant enzyme activities and lipid peroxidation in oat (Avena sativa L.) under drought stress
Authors: Islam M Robiul , Xue Xuzhang , Mao Sishuai , Ren Changzhong , Eneji A Egrinya , Hu Yuegao
Published: December 2010

BACKGROUND: Drought stress significantly limits oat (Avena sativa L.) growth and productivity. Thus an efficient management of soil moisture and study of metabolic changes in response to drought are important for improved production of oat. The objective was to gain a better understanding of drought tolerance mechanisms and improve soil water management strategies using water‐saving superabsorbent polymer (SAP) at 60 kg ha−1 under three irrigation levels (adequate, moderate and deficit) using a new type of hydraulic pressure‐controlled auto irrigator.

RESULTS: The results showed that the relative water content and leaf water potential (ψ1) were much higher in oats treated with SAP. Although the SAP had little effect on plant biomass accumulation under adequate and moderate irrigation, it significantly increased the biomass by 52.7% under deficit irrigation. Plants treated with SAP under deficit irrigation showed a significant decrease in superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase and glutathione reductase activities in leaves compared with control plants.

CONCLUSION: Our results suggested that drought stress leads to production of oxygen radicals, which results in increased lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress in the plant, and the application of SAP could conserve soil water, making same available to plants for increased biomass accumulation and reduced oxidative stress especially under severe water stress. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Contribution of sulfur‐containing compounds to the colour‐inhibiting effect and improved antioxidant activity of Maillard reaction products of soybean protein hydrolysates
Authors: Huang Meigui , Liu Ping , Song Shiqing , Zhang Xiaoming , Hayat Khizar , Xia Shuqin , Jia Chengsheng , Gu Fenglin
Published: December 2010

BACKGROUND: Light‐coloured and savoury‐tasting flavour enhancers are attractive to both consumers and food producers. The aim of this study was to investigate the colour‐inhibiting effect of L‐cysteine and thiamine during the Maillard reaction of soybean peptide and D‐xylose. The correlation between volatile compounds and antioxidant activity of the corresponding products was also studied.

RESULTS: Colour formation was markedly suppressed by cysteine. Compared with peptide/xylose (PX), the taste profile of Maillard reaction products (MRPs) derived from peptide/xylose/cysteine (PXC) and peptide/xylose/cysteine/thiamine (PXCT) was stronger, including umami, mouthfulness, continuity, meaty and overall acceptance. PXC and PXCT also exihibited distinctly higher antioxidant activity. Principal component analysis was applied to investigate the correlation between antioxidant activity and volatile compounds. Of 88 volatile compounds identified, 55 were significantly correlated with antioxidant activity by two principal components (accounting for 85.05% of the total variance).

CONCLUSION: Effective colour control of the Maillard reaction by L‐cysteine may allow the production of healthier (higher antioxidant activity) and tastier foods to satisfy consumers' and food producers' demands. Light‐coloured products might be used as functional flavour enhancers in various food systems. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Dry matter content and fruit size affect flavour and texture of novel Actinidia deliciosa genotypes
Authors: Nardozza Simona , Gamble Joanna , Axten Lauren G , Wohlers Mark W , Clearwater Michael J , Feng Jinquan , Harker F Roger
Published: December 2010

BACKGROUND: Previous studies with commercial kiwifruit cultivars have demonstrated that the taste of fruit with higher dry matter content (DM) is more liked by consumers. A unique replicated trial of kiwifruit genotypes (10 high/low DM × small/large‐fruited genotypes) has provided an opportunity to consider how the genetic propensity for a kiwifruit to accumulate DM affects fruit flavour and texture. In the present study, eating‐ripe fruit from each of the genotypes were assessed using a trained sensory panel and the relationships between these sensory attributes and fresh weight, DM, flesh firmness and soluble solids content (SSC) were explored.

RESULTS: The genotypes provided a diversity of flavour and texture attributes, each of which varied in perceived intensity of the sensory experience. High‐DM genotypes had higher SSC and were perceived as sweeter than low‐DM genotypes. Sweet taste was closely associated with the perception of the tropical flavour and high‐DM genotypes were found to have more tropical notes. Fruit size was associated with fruit texture, and small fruit were characterised by a firmer and more fibrous core. Large high‐DM fruit were perceived as juicier than those of all other genotypes.

CONCLUSIONS: Genotypes were perceived differently from one another, and differences in fruit size and DM content were reflected in fruit sensorial properties. This study is unique in demonstrating interactions between fruit size, DM and sensory properties. These findings could be relevant not only to kiwifruit but to fruiting crop breeders in general, because of the demonstrated potential for effects of fruit size and DM content on sweetness, flavour and fruit texture. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
A study on the 65‐35 brass corrosion inhibitor
Authors: Liang C. , Gao G. , Wu B.
Published: December 2010

The influence of new inhibitor namely 1,3‐bis‐diethylamino‐propan‐2‐ol (DEAP) on the dezincification corrosion of 65‐35 brass in simulated atmospheric water was studied by potentiostatic current transient measurement, solution analysis and surface evaluation techniques. Potentiostatic current transient results showed that the investigated inhibitor can effectively inhibit the chemical dissolution of brass in simulated atmospheric water. Solution analysis revealed that the weigh loss of brass electrode remarkably decreased in the presence of DEAP, changing from 7.375 × 10−3 mg (blank) to 9.567 × 10−4 mg (10−2 M). The scanning electron microscope (SEM) and electron probe microanalyzer (EPMA) measurements showed that DEAP may better adsorb to zinc component than to copper component, inhibiting the dezincification of brass in solution by a mixed complex film of Zn(II)‐DEAP and Cu(I)‐DEAP. The nature of the inhibited film was analyzed by an X‐ray photoelectron spectroscope (XPS) analyzer.
Alternative methods for copper corrosion studies in household plumbing systems
Authors: Armanious A. , Johannsen K
Published: December 2010

Copper corrosion poses a serious challenge to the practice of using copper pipes in household plumbing installations. Copper corrosion can cause health, aesthetic and economic problems. Pipe rig experiments have always been used to study copper corrosion. But the long duration of such experiments, which can last for up to six months, makes them tedious and relatively expensive, thereby limiting the progress of copper corrosion research. The purpose of this study is to establish a laboratory scale experimental setup that takes less time and can be used to study the kinetics of the processes involved in copper corrosion. The developed setup offers a promising alternative to studying copper corrosion using experiments that last for just 24 hours.
Morphology of corrosion products of steel in concrete under macro‐cell and self‐corrosion conditions
Authors: Neff D. , Harnisch J. , Beck M. , L'Hostis V. , Goebbels J. , Meinel D.
Published: December 2010

In this paper investigations into the formation of specific corrosion products during the process of chloride induced corrosion of steel in concrete are presented. The extension of corrosion products within concrete was established by means of X‐ray tomography analyses. Then a detailed analysis of the nature of corrosion products has been conducted by means of Raman micro‐spectroscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy. Results emphasize two different corrosion patterns. The first one is composed of shallow cavities, where mostly magnetite and goethite were identified, traducing aerated to moderate aerated conditions in these media. The second pattern was identified as deep, needle‐like pits, where chlorinated‐iron‐oxides phases were present associated with more or less important chloride enrichments. The presence of these particular species is indicating low redox and low pH conditions within these pits.
Performance of Al‐rich oxidation resistant coatings for Fe‐base alloys
Authors: Pint B. A. , Zhang Y.
Published: December 2010

The oxidation resistance of Al‐rich coatings made by chemical vapor deposition and pack cementation was examined on representative ferritic‐martensitic (FM, e.g. Grade 91, Fe‐9Cr‐1Mo) and austenitic steel substrates at 650°‐800 °C. To evaluate the potential benefits and problems with these alumina‐forming coatings, oxidation exposures were conducted in a humid air environment where the uncoated substrates experience rapid oxidation, similar to steam. Exposure temperatures were increased to accelerate failure by oxidation and interdiffusion of Al into the substrate. The difference in the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) between coating and substrate was found to cause cracking and coating failure during rapid thermal cycling on thicker coatings with Fe‐Al intermetallic phases. Therefore, thinner coatings with less Al and a ferritic Fe(Al) structure were evaluated more extensively and tested to failure at 700° and 800 °C on FM steels. The remaining Al content at failure was measured and used to improve a previously developed coating lifetime model. At 700° and 800 °C, thin coated austenitic specimens continue to exhibit protective behavior at more than double the lifetime of a similar coating on FM steel. The longer lifetime was attributed to the ferritic coating‐austenitic substrate phase boundary inhibiting Al interdiffusion.
Study on particle distribution, microstructure and corrosion behavior of Ni‐Al composite coatings
Authors: Bostani B. , Arghavanian R. , Parvini‐Ahmadi N.
Published: December 2010

Watt's baths containing different amounts of Al powder were used to electroplate the pure Ni and Ni–Al composite coatings. Surface morphology, microstructure of the samples and particle distribution in the coatings were studied using optical microscope, SEM, EDX and XRD. The results showed that the electroplated sample in the bath containing 40 g.L−1 Al has the maximum particle and the best particle distribution. Evaluation of microstructures demonstrated that Al particles change the microstructure of Ni from coarse‐columnar to fine‐granular structure due to providing new nucleation sites and stopping columnar growth of Ni grains. Corrosion measurements revealed that Ni‐Al coatings have lower corrosion resistance than pure Ni probably due to formation of active‐passive cells and weak bandings between Al particles and Ni substrate.
Influence of heat treatment on corrosion behaviour of AlZnMgCuZrSc alloy
Authors: Xiao Y. P. , Pan Q. L. , Li W. B. , Liu X. Y. , He Y. B.
Published: December 2010

Corrosion behaviour of different tempers (namely NA, UA, PA and OA) of AlZnMgCuZrSc alloy was studied by potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), optical microscopy (OM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Over aged (OA) can decrease the susceptibility to exfoliation due to the discontinuous distribution of the η precipitates at the grain boundaries, cause a negative shift of the corrosion potential (Ecorr), and lead to the prolonging of the time of the appearance of two time constants in impedance diagrams. In addition, AlZnMgCuZrSc alloy with over aged treatment has an enhanced resistance to exfoliation corrosion.
Corrosion behaviour of Cr13 steel in CO2 saturated brine with high chloride concentration
Authors: Yevtushenko O. , Bäßler R. , Pfennig A.
Published: December 2010

The corrosion behaviour of martensitic stainless injection‐pipeline steel X46Cr13 exposed to CO2 saturated artificial saline brine with high chloride concentration similar to onshore CCS‐site at Ketzin, Germany has been investigated by means of electrochemical technique and microscopic observations at short exposure times (up to 24 h) and by mass loss and metallographic observations at exposure times up to 17520 h. Pitting corrosion kinetics has been characterised and the predictions about the corrosion mechanism are made.
The influence of small amounts of KCl(s) on the high temperature corrosion of a Fe‐2.25Cr‐1Mo steel at 400 and 500°C
Authors: Folkeson N. , Jonsson T. , Halvarsson M. , Johansson L.‐G. , Svensson J.‐E.
Published: December 2010

This paper reports the oxidation behaviour of a low‐alloyed steel (Fe‐2.25Cr‐1Mo) in the presence of small amounts of KCl(s) at 400 and 500°C. Cleaned and polished sample coupons were exposed in a horizontal tube furnace with exposure times ranging from one hour to one week. The flue gas composition was 5% O2with 40% H2O in N2, and 0.1 mg KCl/cm2was deposited on the samples prior to exposure. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) analysis were used to characterize the samples. Cross sections were prepared by means of focused ion beam (FIB) and broad ion beam (BIB). At 400°C there was a modest mass gain in the absence of KCl. In the presence of KCl, mass gain is significantly increased and a rapid attack is evident already after short exposure times. At 500°C, the mass gains in the absence of KCl were considerably higher than at 400°C, especially after 168 hours of exposure. KCl had an effect at shorter exposure times, but after one week the samples exposed with and without KCl had mass gains of comparable magnitude.
MS‐based analytical methodologies to characterize genetically modified crops
Authors: García‐Cañas Virginia , Simó Carolina , León Carlos , Ibáñez Elena , Cifuentes Alejandro
Published: December 2010

The development of genetically modified crops has had a great impact on the agriculture and food industries. However, the development of any genetically modified organism (GMO) requires the application of analytical procedures to confirm the equivalence of the GMO compared to its isogenic non‐transgenic counterpart. Moreover, the use of GMOs in foods and agriculture faces numerous criticisms from consumers and ecological organizations that have led some countries to regulate their production, growth, and commercialization. These regulations have brought about the need of new and more powerful analytical methods to face the complexity of this topic. In this regard, MS‐based technologies are increasingly used for GMOs analysis to provide very useful information on GMO composition (e.g., metabolites, proteins). This review focuses on the MS‐based analytical methodologies used to characterize genetically modified crops (also called transgenic crops). First, an overview on genetically modified crops development is provided, together with the main difficulties of their analysis. Next, the different MS‐based analytical approaches applied to characterize GM crops are critically discussed, and include “‐omics” approaches and target‐based approaches. These methodologies allow the study of intended and unintended effects that result from the genetic transformation. This information is considered to be essential to corroborate (or not) the equivalence of the GM crop with its isogenic non‐transgenic counterpart. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 30:396–416, 2011
Mass spectrometry with accelerators
Authors: Litherland A. E. , Zhao X‐L. , Kieser W. E.
Published: December 2010

As one in a series of articles on Canadian contributions to mass spectrometry, this review begins with an outline of the history of accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS), noting roles played by researchers at three Canadian AMS laboratories. After a description of the unique features of AMS, three examples, 14C, 10Be, and 129I are given to illustrate the methods. The capabilities of mass spectrometry have been extended by the addition of atomic isobar selection, molecular isobar attenuation, further ion acceleration, followed by ion detection and ion identification at essentially zero dark current or ion flux. This has been accomplished by exploiting the techniques and accelerators of atomic and nuclear physics. In 1939, the first principles of AMS were established using a cyclotron. In 1977 the selection of isobars in the ion source was established when it was shown that the 14N− ion was very unstable, or extremely difficult to create, making a tandem electrostatic accelerator highly suitable for assisting the mass spectrometric measurement of the rare long‐lived radioactive isotope 14C in the environment. This observation, together with the large attenuation of the molecular isobars 13CH− and 12CH during tandem acceleration and the observed very low background contamination from the ion source, was found to facilitate the mass spectrometry of 14C to at least a level of 14C/C ∼ 6 × 10−16, the equivalent of a radiocarbon age of 60,000 years. Tandem Accelerator Mass Spectrometry, or AMS, has now made possible the accurate radiocarbon dating of milligram‐sized carbon samples by ion counting as well as dating and tracing with many other long‐lived radioactive isotopes such as 10Be, 26Al, 36Cl, and 129I. The difficulty of obtaining large anion currents with low electron affinities and the difficulties of isobar separation, especially for the heavier mass ions, has prompted the use of molecular anions and the search for alternative methods of isobar separation. These techniques are discussed in the latter part of the review. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 30:1037–1072, 2011
Novel conserved structural domains of acrosome reaction‐inducing substance are widespread in invertebrates
Authors: Naruse Masahiro , Ishikawa Riho , Sakaya Hiroshi , Moriyama Hideaki , Hoshi Motonori , Matsumoto Midori
Published: December 2010

In the starfish Asterias amurensis, acrosome reaction inducing substance (ARIS) is the main factor responsible for allowing sperm to recognize the egg jelly and begin the acrosome reaction (AR). ARIS is a large proteoglycan‐like molecule, and its pentasaccharide repeat, Fragment 1 (Fr. 1), is responsible for inducing AR. Here, we investigated the primary structure of ARIS for the first time in order to improve our understanding of its functionality. Electrophoretic analysis revealed that ARIS is a complex of three proteins, all of which are modified by the Fr. 1 sugar chain. Sequencing indicated that there are two novel, conserved domains in all three ARIS proteins: ARIS N‐terminus (AR‐N) and ARIS C‐terminus (AR‐C) domains. We also found that other echinoderms possess ARIS proteins that are capable of inducing the AR for homologous sperm, indicating that ARIS proteins may be a ubiquitous component for echinoderm fertilization. Moreover, we identified ARIS‐like genes from Ctenophora to Protochordata. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 78:57–66, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Big segment small segment global optimization algorithm on networks
Authors: Berman Oded , Drezner Zvi , Krass Dmitry
Published: December 2010

In this article, we propose a global optimization technique (Big Segment Small Segment) for solving single facility location problems on a network when the location of the facility can either at nodes or along the links of the network. Some multiple facility location problems can be solved by recursively solving single facility problems. The technique is tested on five problems: the mixed weights 1‐median problem where the weights are a mix of positive and negative values, the obnoxious facility location problem assuming that the nuisance function declines by the square of the distance, the competitive facility location problem using the gravity model, and minimizing cover by locating two facilities while requiring a minimum distance between them. Computational experiments provided excellent results. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 58(1), 1–11 2011
Continuum‐Mechanical Modelling of Hip Cartilage under Physio‐Dynamical Loading
Authors: Mabuma Joffrey , Markert Bernd , Ehlers Wolfgang
Published: December 2010

Articular cartilage is a very resilient material which lines the bony ends in synovial joints and has a gel‐like hydrated structure reinforced by a collagen fibre network. Despite its high load‐bearing and almost frictionless low‐wear capabilities, the high dynamical contact loads acting on cartilage can cause degenerative changes inside the tissue, whose internal structure hardly regenerates due to its avascular nature. One goal of the presented research is the appropriate modelling of the chemo‐mechanical behaviour of such materials under physio‐dynamical loading to foster the principle understanding of articulating joint mechanics. In particular, the tissue is described as a charged biphasic solid‐fluid aggregate based on the well‐founded Theory of Porous Media (TPM) against the background of large strain inelastic multi‐field continuum mechanics. The description of the inherent tissue heterogeneities over the cartilage thickness starting from the outer contact surface to the underlying bone layer as well as the strong anisotropic behaviour remains a challenge. The numerical treatment of the coupled PDE system is carried out in the framework of the mixed Finite Element Method (FEM) applying an efficient implicit monolithic solution procedure allowing the computer‐based analysis of a realistic hip joint contact. (© 2010 Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Stress‐dependent Failure Surface of Granular Materials
Authors: Avci Okan , Ehlers Wolfgang
Published: December 2010

Numerical computations of geotechnical problems will become increasingly important because of the growing complexity of geotechnical applications. Therefore, a well‐founded prediction of stability statements requires appropriate models, which are able to realistically depict the stress‐strain behaviour of non‐cohesive‐frictional granular materials.

On several stress paths, drained triaxial compression experiments on compact dense sand specimen exhibited that the size of the failure surface is not independent from the hydrostatic pressure. The failure surface and, thus, the maximal shear stresses at a specific confining pressure σ3exp can be increased by a compression preload at a level higher than σ3exp. This means that granular materials own several failure surfaces in dependence of the hydrostatic pressure. Consequently, the failure criteria based on the assumption of a compression stress‐path‐independent single‐failure surface cannot recover the newly detected plastic yielding behaviour of granular materials. An improved approach for modelling the plastic hardening and softening behaviour coupled with the new yield properties at the limit state will be presented. (© 2010 Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Nonlinear Piezoelectric Effects Including Minor Hystereses
Authors: Bossong Heiko , Schmidt Rüdiger
Published: December 2010

Piezoelectric ceramics are often used in active structures for shape and vibration control. Since the operation range is not limited to small signals the nonlinear behaviour of the actuator under high electric loads has to be known. There are several approaches in literature to model the hysteretic effects, each having its assets and drawbacks. When a model is able to reproduce the minor loops of the strain ‐ electric field hysteresis, it often lacks the consideration of stress dependence which is fundamental for actuators attached to elastic structures. On the other hand constitutive models which take into account all ferroelectric and ferroelastic effects are not capable of representing the minor hystereses in acceptable calculation times.

In this work a phenomenological constitutive model is verified using the experimental data of an active plate structure. Therefore, the ceramic is characterised under mechanically unconstrained conditions and afterwards attached onto a steel plate. The bonding to the substructure leads to a mechanical stress depending on the actuation state of the ceramic. (© 2010 Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A Three‐Dimensional Model for Fiber Lay‐Down Processes
Authors: Maringer Johannes , Klar Axel , Wegener Raimund
Published: December 2010

We present an improved stochastic model concerning the lay‐down of fibers on a conveyor belt in the production of nonwovens. The model is based on stochastic differential equations describing the resulting position of the fiber on the belt having regard to its motion in the deposition region under influence of turbulent air flow. Our aim is to generalize an existing model to 3D. By introducing a parameter we have an alternative to consider both isotropic and anisotropic orientation of the fibers generating the nonwoven. (© 2010 Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Malignant rhabdoid tumours of the kidney (MRTKs), registered on recent SIOP protocols from 1993 to 2005: A report of the SIOP renal tumour study group
Authors: van den Heuvel‐Eibrink Marry M. , van Tinteren Harm , Rehorst Harriet , Coulombe Aurore , Patte Catharine , de Camargo Beatriz , de Kraker Jan , Leuschner Ivo , Lugtenberg Rieneke , Pritchard‐Jones Kathy , Sandstedt Bengt , Spreafico Filippo , Graf Norbert , Vujanic Gordan M.
Published: December 2010

Background

Survival data of malignant rhabdoid tumour of the kidney (MRTK) registered in SIOP trials, advocating preoperative chemotherapy, are not available. Aim To evaluate characteristics, response and survival of MRTK patients registered in recent SIOP protocols.

Methods

An evaluation of all MRTK patients treated from 1993 to 2005 (SIOP trials 93‐01 and 2001) was performed. Data were obtained from study specific case record forms and entered centrally in a database.

Results

Hundred and seven patients were identified (57 male), with a median age at diagnosis of 13 months (interquartile range 6–27 months), and a median follow‐up time of 60 months. Left and right kidneys were equally affected. Tumour stage distribution was stage I (6%), stage II (22%), stage III (43%), stage IV (22%) and stage V (3%). Stage IV patients included 17 with pulmonary metastasis (8 lung‐only) and 12 with multiple organ metastases (bone, brain and liver). Primary surgery was the upfront treatment approach in 22/107 patients (21%), by which 19 patients reached a complete remission (CR). Median difference in tumour volume before and after preoperative chemotherapy was 69 ml (interquartile range: 4.5–158.0, P < 0.0001), indicating marked chemosensitivity. The 5‐year event‐free survival (EFS) of the total group was 22% (95% CI: 15–33) and overall survival 26% (95% CI: 18–37). Most events (86%) occurred within the first 2 years after diagnosis. Younger age at diagnosis was an important adverse prognostic factors for survival. In contrast, tumour volume at diagnosis, nor volume reduction was associated with outcome.

Conclusion

MRTK has a poor outcome especially in young and advanced‐stage disease patients. Neither tumour volume at diagnosis, nor pre‐operative chemosensitivity are prognostic factors for survival. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011;56:733–737. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Antibiotic resistance is associated with longer bacteremic episodes and worse outcome in febrile neutropenic children with cancer
Authors: El‐Mahallawy Hadir A. , El‐Wakil Mohamed , Moneer Manar M. , Shalaby Lobna
Published: December 2010

Purpose

With the increasing emergence of multiresistant pathogens, better understanding of these infections is necessary. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the risk factors associated with isolating a multiresistant organism (MRO) from a positive blood culture in pediatric cancer patients with febrile neutropenia (F&N), and to study its impact on clinical course and outcome of febrile episodes.

Patients and Methods

The association between MRO with underlying malignancy, age, disease status, hospitalization during episode, absolute neutrophil count, absolute monocyte count, clinical foci of infection, and pathogens isolated was assessed in bacteremic pediatric cancer patients. The MRO phenotype was defined as diminished susceptibility to ≥3 of the broad spectrum antibody classes.

Results

Among 239 episodes of blood stream infections (BSI), Gram‐positive, and Gram‐negative organisms were detected in 180 (75%), and 59(25%) episodes, respectively; with 38% of isolates showing multiresistance (n = 92). Significant risk factors (P < 0.05) for MRO were hospitalization, Gram‐negative organisms, presence of clinical focus of infection, reduced ANC, prolonged duration of neutropenia, and previous intake of antibiotics. Of the episodes with prolonged duration of fever extending for more than 7 days 62% (64|93) were associated with a multiresistant phenotype, while it accompanied 72% (18|25) of the cases with an unfavorable outcome; P‐value <0.001.

Conclusion

Isolation of MRO is more likely to be associated with a prolonged course and an unfavorable outcome. Continuous multidisciplinary surveillance of BSI is warranted to develop strategies for antimicrobial resistance control. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011; 57: 283–288. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Increased CCL2 and IL‐8 in the bone marrow microenvironment in acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: de Vasconcellos Jaíra Ferreira , Laranjeira Angelo Brunelli Albertoni , Zanchin Nilson Ivo Tonin , Otubo Rosemary , Vaz Thais Haline , Cardoso Angelo Almeida , Brandalise Silvia Regina , Yunes José Andrés
Published: December 2010

Background

The interactions of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) blasts with bone marrow (BM) stromal cells have a positive impact on leukemia cell survival. In the present study, we proposed to identify and investigate the role of molecules critically involved in leukemia—microenvironment crosstalk.

Procedure

Gene expression profiling analyses of BM mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSC) were performed following stimulation by ALL cells. CCL2 and IL‐8 plasma levels were evaluated from ALL patients and controls. Expression of the CCL2 and IL‐8 receptors in ALL was determined by RT‐PCR. The biological effects of CCL2, IL‐8 or its neutralizing antibodies in primary precursor‐B ALL and BMMSC cells were evaluated using in vitro assays.

Results

Leukemia stimulation of BMMSC upregulated the expression of several inflammatory chemokines, including CCL2 and IL‐8. The BM plasma levels of CCL2 and IL‐8 in children at diagnosis were significantly higher than in healthy controls (P < 0.001). Functional studies revealed that CCL2 and IL‐8 enhanced the capacity of BMMSC to support adhesion of ALL cells. CCL2 and IL‐8 were also found to enhance BMMSC survival and to increase their proliferation. ALL cells were not directly affected by CCL2 or IL‐8.

Conclusions

The leukemic BM microenvironment had increased levels of CCL2 and IL‐8. These chemokines are known to have suppressive effects in normal hematopoiesis. Our data indicate that CCL2 and IL‐8 have a positive impact on BMMSC survival, proliferation, and adhesiveness to ALL cells. Leukemia‐associated CCL2 and IL‐8 upregulation may represent one possible mechanism of microenvironment perversion in favor of ALL cells. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011;56:568–577. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Acquired growth hormone deficiency in a girl with chronic myelogenous leukemia treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy
Authors: Hobernicht Susan L. , Schweiger Bahareh , Zeitler Philip , Wang Michael , Hunger Stephen P.
Published: December 2010

Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) is caused by the BCR‐ABL1 fusion gene that encodes for a constitutively‐active tyrosine kinase. Adults and children with CML are typically treated with imatinib mesylate, a BCR‐ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), or a second‐generation TKI. Several case reports have documented growth delay of unknown mechanism in children with CML treated with imatinib. We report a seven‐year‐old identical twin with CML who developed significant growth delay, as compared to her twin, during five years of TKI therapy. Detailed endocrine evaluation showed acquired growth hormone deficiency, a pathway potentially inhibited by TKIs. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011;56:671–673. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Treatment efficiency, outcome and surgical treatment problems in patients suffering from localized embryonal bladder/prostate rhabdomyosarcoma: A report from the cooperative soft tissue sarcoma trial CWS‐96
Authors: Seitz Guido , Dantonello Tobias M. , Int‐Veen Christoph , Blumenstock Gunnar , Godzinski Jan , Klingebiel Thomas , Schuck Andreas , Leuschner Ivo , Koscielniak Ewa , Fuchs Jörg ,   on behalf of the CWS‐96 Study Group
Published: December 2010

Background

To analyze the clinical course, treatment modalities, complications and outcome of patients suffering from localized embryonal bladder/prostate rhabdomyosarcoma (BPRMS) treated on the CWS‐96 trial.

Procedure

There were 85 patients with BPRMS enrolled and 63 patients with embryonal non‐metastatic BPRMS were analyzed. Fifty‐six patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy and response was assessed radiographically after 9 weeks. Local therapy with radiation and or surgery was performed based on age, tumor size, and response. Patients were treated with adjuvant chemotherapy following local control.

Results

Patient's age ranged from 0 to 16 years with a median follow up of 5.3 years. Eighty nine percent of the patients had IRS group III disease. The 5‐year overall survival (OS) for the whole group was 76.3 ± 5.6% and the 5‐year event‐free survival (EFS) 69.8 ± 6.2%. Seventeen patients underwent preoperative radiochemotherapy followed by tumor resection (5‐year‐OS: 87.8 ± 8.1%). Eight patients were treated with solely radiochemotherapy (87.5 ± 11.7%). Twenty‐five patients received chemotherapy and tumor resection (OS: 83.6 ± 7.5%). Thirteen patients underwent incomplete tumor resection and were treated with radiochemotherapy postoperatively (OS: 39.9 ± 14.8%, P < 0.05 vs. other groups).

Conclusions

Local therapy is an important factor for prognosis of localized embryonal BPRMS. Inadequate primary or secondary surgery compromises the outcome and should be avoided. Radiotherapy alone, complete surgical tumor resection or combined preoperative radiotherapy with surgical resection lead to similar good local control rates and prognosis. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011;56:718–724. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.