bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of a Redox Compensation Index and Its Relationships to Glycaemic Control in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Sugherini Lidia , Valentini Melissa , Cambiaggi Caterina , Tanganelli Italo , Gragnoli Giorgio , Borgogni Patrizia , Comporti Mario , Pompella Alfonso
Published: October 2004

The measurement of single parameters of oxidative
stress in biological fluids can often give results difficult
to interpret as to the real involvement of oxidative
processes in a given disease condition. In the present
study we propose a novel integrated parameter, called
“redox compensation index”, obtained by combining
the results of two established and convenient procedures,
i.e. the Fox-2 assay for plasma lipid hydroperoxides
and the ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP)
assay for total antioxidant potential of plasma. These
procedures were employed for the evaluation of oxidative
stress in a group of patients with type 2 diabetes
mellitus, a condition in which oxidative processes are
implicated in the development of complications. In type
2 diabetic patients, plasma lipid hydroperoxides were
directly correlated with levels of glycated hemoglobin.
On the other hand, a significant inverse correlation was
o b s e rved between levels of glycated hemoglobin and
redox compensation values. The data reported suggest
that the redox compensation index could represent a
convenient parameter for the direct appraisal of oxidative
status in clinical subjects, and are in support of the
proposed role of protein glycation in production of oxidative
alterations during type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Clinical Experiences with a New Semi-Quantitative Solid Phase Immunoassay for Rapid Measurement of Procalcitonin
Authors: Meisner Michael , Brunkhorst Frank-Martin , Reith Hans-Bernd , Schmidt Joachim , Lestin Heiko-Gundmar , Reinhart Konrad
Published: October 2004

A self-developing solid-phase immunoassay (B.R.A.H.M.S. PCT-Q, B.R.A.H.M.S.-Diagnostica GmbH, Hennigsdorf, Germany) has recently become available for the semi-quantitative and rapid measurement of procalcitonin (PCT). In this study we examined the validity of this assay at daily clinical routine conditions at five different hospitals in a prospective study.

After development of the assay (200 μl plasma, 30 minutes incubation), PCT levels were categorized into four groups (< 0.5 μg/l; ≥ 0.5−< 2 μg/l; ≥ 2−< 10 μg/l; ≥ 10 μg/l) according to the provided reference scale. Samples from patients with suspected elevation of PCT of different etiology (n=237) were read by various analyzers and compared with the results of the Lumitest®PCT (B.R.A.H.M.S.-Diagnostica GmbH, Hennigsdorf, Germany).

A total of 74.7% of measurements were categorized according to the results of the Lumitest®PCT, 24.5% were read within the next lower or higher category. Using a ± 10% range at the reference concentrations (20% at 0.5 μg/l), 82.7% of samples were correctly categorized and 16.4% within the next categories. Using a cut-off value of 2.0 μg/l, 92.0% (94.1% for ± 10%) of the results were correctly categorized.

The semi-quantitative solid phase immunoassay allows a rapid, simple and semi-quantitative measurement of plasma PCT. The validity of the test results and its ease of use are sufficient to support acute diagnostic decisions. However, for the follow-up of PCT concentrations and routine daily measurements, the quantitative luminometric assay should be preferred, when available.
Inter-Method Differences and Commutability of Control Materials for HbA2 Measurement
Authors: Mosca Andrea , Paleari Renata , Scimè-Degani Valeria , Leone Leonello , Leone Daniela , Ivaldi Giovanni
Published: October 2004

The intermethod variability of control materials and
patient blood samples for the measurement of hemoglobin
A2 (HbA2) were compared. A set of 54 blood
samples and 10 control materials were analyzed in duplicate
by HPLC and microcolumn methods. For each
set of methods the distances of the materials from the
regression line of patient blood results (expressed as
normalized residuals) were calculated. Four out of ten
controls had normalized residuals exceeding three
standard deviations from the regression line. Moreover,
total Hb and Hb derivatives analysis proved that
only a minority of the controls could be considered
similar to patients' blood samples. Intermethod calibration
performed “a posteriori” by the two best performing
control materials improved intermethod variability
among all the five tested methods. We conclude
that the use of high resolution HPLC methods together
with appropriate commutable control materials allows
for better harmonization of results in the field of
diagnosis of hemoglobin disorders in research and
clinical practice.
High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein: Biological Variations and Reference Limits
Authors: Chenillot Olivier , Henny Joseph , Steinmetz Josiane , Herbeth Bernard , Wagner Carola , Siest Gérard
Published: October 2004

Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration was determined
for 3605 subjects using an immunonephelometric
assay improved to provide greater sensitivity.
Subjects were from 5 to 75 years old and belonging to
1003 nuclear families recruited from the Stanislas Coh
o rt Study between January 1994 and August 1995.
Sample values for CRP ranged from 0.17 mg/l to 100
mg/l. Geometric means (mean − SD; mean + SD) were in
the 5–14 years old group 0.37 (0.17–1.07) mg/l, in the
15–28 years old group 0.47 (0.17–1.38) mg/l and in the
29–75 years old group 0.98 (0.34–2.85) mg/l. For
women, the geometric means were 0.38 (0.17–1.10)
mg/l, 0.62 (0.20–1.90) mg/l and 0.98 mg/l (0.31–3.13)
mg/l respectively. The interindividual variability ranged
from 138% to 759% among different age classes. Biological
factors associated with CRP concentration variations
were examined and accounted for 25% of the CRP
variability in men and 40% in women. The main biological
factors statistically associated with CRP concentration
variations in men were: drugs, leukocyte count,
body mass index, tobacco consumption, age, and in
women: drugs, leukocyte count, age, body mass index
and hemoglobin concentration. These factors were
used to define the exclusion and partition criteria when
obtaining the reference samples. Medians for reference
values ranged from 0.20 to 0.68 mg/l in males and from
0.20 to 0.78 mg/l in women.
A Model for a Multicentre Approach to the Derivation of Reference Intervals for Thyroid Hormones and Testosterone for Laboratories Using Identical Analysers
Authors: Andrew Charles E. , Hanning Ian , M. McBain Alasdair , Moody Denise , Price Alun
Published: October 2004

Ideally, every laboratory should derive their own reference
intervals for all analytes, but this is difficult in
practice. A survey, by questionnaire, of UK laboratories
using the Chiron Diagnostics ACS:180 (Chiron Diagnostics
Limited, Halstead, Essex, UK), for thyroid
function tests, showed that 10% of laboratories derived
their own reference intervals, 60% quoted values
“adapted” from intervals for previous methods, whilst
the remaining 40% quoted (often incorrectly) reference
intervals supplied by the manufacturer. In addition
only 13% of respondent laboratories derived their
own reference intervals for testosterone. As a result of
this survey, a study was devised to enable the users of
the Chiron Diagnostics ACS:180 immunoassay system
to develop and use within-method, between-laboratory
reference intervals for thyroid hormones and
testosterone. Laboratory collaboration provided the
recommended minimum number of data points by establishing
a reference sample group. This sample
group was used for the calculation of appropriate reference
intervals for each hormone according to the
guidelines published by the IFCC. We propose this approach
as a model for laboratories using identical instrumentation
to produce, through collaboration,
within-method, between laboratory reference intervals.
Comparison of Two Methods for the Detection of Urinary Iodine Used in Epidemiological Studies
Authors: Wuethrich Christian , Jaeggi-Groisman Silvia E. , Gerber Hans
Published: October 2004

Two methods for the determination of iodine in urine
or serum based on the Sandell-Kolthoff reaction were
compared. The first was an autoanalyser method
(AAII, Technicon) where the mineralisation takes place
in a continuous flow manner. This procedure was used
at the Department of Clinical Chemistry of the University
Hospital of Berne (Switzerland) from 1968 until
1993. The second method was evaluated and adapted
in our own laboratory. Each sample and the iodate-standards
are mineralised in a Pyrex glass tube and the
decolorisation reaction takes place in a 96-well-microtiter
plate which was read by a PC-controlled photometer
at 405 nm. This method, with a detection limit
of 0.1 μmol/l showed good analytical recovery (90 to
110%) and a low imprecision (intra-assay coefficient of
variation (CV) of 5% and an inter-assay CV of 7.5%). In
contrast to the autoanalyser method, the microtiter
plate-method is suitable both for series up to 24 samples
(3-fold) and for single samples. A comparison of
87 samples in the range of 0.1 to 60 μmol/l which were
measured with both Sandell-Kolthoff based methods
showed no obvious discrepancy.

These two methods showed a good agreement for
the determination of urinary iodine. This guarantees
that the results of earlier epidemiological studies can
be compared with recent studies performed in our and
many other laboratories.
Evaluation of the Clinical Chemistry Analyser Olympus AU400
Authors: Lasnier Elisabeth , Mario Nathalie , Boque Marie-Chantal , You Sok-Nay , Vaubourdolle Michel
Published: October 2004

The Olympus AU400 analyser (Olympus, Tokyo,
Japan) is an automated chemistry instrument for turbidimetric,
spectrophotometric and ion selective electrode
measurements. Overall analytical performances
of the AU400 and the reagents provided by Olympus
were evaluated according to the French Society of
Clinical Biology guidelines. Twenty parameters including
specific proteins, substrates, enzyme activities and
electrolytes were tested. The linearity exceeded the
specifications given by the manufacturer. Within- and
between-run imprecision (CV%), evaluated at two levels,
was below 1.5% for ion selective electrode parameters
and 3% for other analytes, except for CO2, alkaline
phosphatase at low levels and magnesium.
Results compared well with those obtained with the
analysers routinely used in our laboratory (Behring
BNII, Olympus AU800 and Beckman CX3 Delta). The
usual positive interferences from lipaemia and haemoglobin
on total protein measurement were observed.
Creatine kinase and alkaline phosphatase assays were
the subject of positive and negative interference by
haemoglobin, respectively. There was a negative interference
by bilirubin in the uric acid, aspartate-amino
transferase, creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase
assays and a positive interference in the calcium
assay. The system was found to be very easy to use
and the workstation is user-friendly.
Comparison of Proteolytic Enzymes and Glutathione S-Transferase
Levels in Non-Heart-Beating Donors' (NHBD) Kidney Perfusates
Authors: Balupuri Shlokarth , Talbot David , El-Sheikh Mohamed , Snowden Chris , Manas Derek M. , Kirby John , Mantle David
Published: October 2004

In order to identify biochemical markers of kidney
damage prior to transplantation, we determined the
levels of activity of a range of proteolytic enzymes in
kidney perfusate samples from non-heart-beating
donor (NHBD) cases. Urinary protease activities have
been described as indices of kidney damage in renal
disease; their potential as markers of tissue damage in
kidneys before transplantation has not been assessed.
In an attempt to identify additional/ improved biochemical
markers, the present study compared the
levels of total glutathione S-transferase (GST) with
corresponding levels of several proteolytic enzymes in
perfusate fluid from machine perfused NHBD kidneys.
Proteases were selected to represent factors that may
influence enzyme efflux, such as intracellular localization
or molecular size.

Methods: Perfusate samples were obtained over an
8-hour period from machine-preserved NHBD kidneys.
Protease activities in these samples were determined
by fluorometric assays and comparison made with total
GST activity. Individual proteases were analysed in
the transplanted and non-transplanted kidney groups
(discarded on the basis of other viability parameters).

Results: A correlation between protease activity and
total GST was obtained for only leucyl- and pyroglutamyl
aminopeptidase. Furthermore, in the transplanted
group, it was possible to set nominal upper
limits of activity for alanyl-arginyl- and dipeptidyl IV-aminopeptidase
(AP). In the non-transplanted kidney
group protease levels were increased above “normal”
upper limits for the same enzyme types. By the use of
alanyl AP it was possible to discriminate 75% of unsuitable
kidneys discarded by the use of other criteria.

Conclusion: The lack of correlation between total
GST and protease activity for most of the enzymes investigated
and alanyl AP levels in perfusate samples
could be related to differences in cellular localisation,
suggesting that assays of alanyl AP may give complimentary
biochemical information relating to kidney
tissue damage. Quantification of alanyl AP in machine
perfusate samples may be a valuable additional independent
biomarker of tissue damage.
Low Levels of Urinary Albumin Excretion Are Associated with Cardiovascular Risk Factors in the General Population
Authors: Janssen Wilbert M. T. , Hillege Hans , Pinto-Sietsma Sara Joan , Bak Annette A. A. , Zeeuw Dick De , de Jong Paul E.
Published: October 2004

Microalbuminuria is associated with both an increased
prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and greater
renal and cardiovascular morbidity. We questioned
whether in the general population such associations
can be found at lower levels of urinary albumin excretion
than that of classically defined microalbuminuria.
To that purpose urinary albumin concentration was
measured in 40619 subjects aged 28 to 75 years. The
subjects filled in a questionnaire on cardiovascular risk
factors and events and were divided in deciles according
to their urinary albumin concentration.

Smoking was associated with albuminuria in the
fifth or higher decile of urinary albumin concentration,
that is with an albumin concentration of 5.1 mg/l and
higher. The lower cut-off point for a positive association
with hypertension was 8.8 mg/l, and for diabetes
11.2 mg/l. Family history for cardiovascular disease
and hyperlipidaemia were not associated with albuminuria.

We conclude that urinary albumin concentrations
far below the microalbuminuric range are associated
with increased prevalence of established cardiovascular
risk factors. Family history for cardiovascular disease
and hyperlipidaemia seems to behave differently.
These data emphasize the need for more studies on
the impact of albuminuria on the prediction of cardiovascular
and renal disease in the general population.
Factors Affecting Crystalline Structure of Cellulose during Solvent Purification Treatment
Authors: Awadel-Karim S. , Nazhad M. M. , Paszner L.
Published: October 2004

The influence of acetone, as a solvent on crystalline structure of the cellulose, was investigated. Crystalline changes brought about by the solvent treatment on the residual cellulose have been foundto be noticable. The crystallinity index of solvent treated celluloses has shown a trend of a small gradual increase with the progressive increase of acetone concentration in the treatment. The crystallite size of the residual cellulose has also been found to decrease successively with the increase of acetone content in the solvent composition. While the decrease in crystallite size reached approximately 8 %, the equivalent weight loss was only about 0.9 %.

The influence of kinetic parameters on crystalline structure of cellulose during solvent purification (e. g., temperature, reaction time, acidity and type of acid catalyst) was also examined. Acidity and acid catalyst type were found to contribute to crystalline structural changes of cellulose. The use of higher concentrations for acids (TFA, HCl) has led to a decrease in crystallite size and crystallinity index. However, lower concentrations of TFA have a positive impact on the crystallinity index of the treated cotton cellulose. The crystallinity index of the residual cellulose has shown a slight increase with the increase in temperature, while the crystallite size has indicated a successive decrease. The reaction time has offered, in general, better chances for enhancement of the crystallinity index of the cellulose.
Rupture of Pit Membranes in Sugi (Cryptomerica japanica D. Don) Logs by a Smoke Heating System with Increased Far-Infrared Radiation
Authors: Yoshizawa N. , Andoh M. , Ishiguri F. , Yokota S. , Furuno T.
Published: October 2004

A special furnace for smoke-heating logs, with increased far-infrared radiation (FIR), was produced to improve the wood quality. Green sugi (Cryptomeria japonica D.Don) logs were smoke-heated with the direct use of this system. In a short time, this process increased the temperature inside the logs up to 80–100 °C uniformly, without any damage to the wood. The great increase in steam pressure inside the log resulted in the rupture of pit membranes (PMs) with a high frequency, leading to a decrease in the moisture contents of the logs. It was found that when a temperature of 80 °C is attained inside the log, the rupture of PMs occurs. The rupture proceeds from the outer sapwood towards the pith, accompanied by the radiation heat transfer within the log. By the rupture of PMs, smoke-heated sugi wood showed a large improvement in permeability.
Hydroxyl Radical Generation by an Extracellular Low-Molecular-Weight Substance and Phenol Oxidase Activity During Wood Degradation by the White-Rot Basidiomycete Phanerochaete chrysosporium
Authors: Tanaka H. , Itakura S. , Enoke A.
Published: October 2004

The mechanism of wood degradation by white-rot fungi is not understood in detail other than it is involving phenol oxidases (which are lignin-degrading enzymes) and cellulases. The possible role of hydroxyl radicals in degradation by the white-rot fungusPhanerochaete chrysosporiumwas studied. The production of a low-molecular-weight substance that is secreted was measured periodically. The substance catalyzes a redox reaction between O2and an electron donor producing hydroxyl radicals in the culture fluid of this fungus with glucose or wood as the carbon source. We examined the possible role(s) of one-electron oxidation activity by phenol oxidases and hydroxyl radicals in wood degradation by this fungus. Assays of phenol oxidase activity showed thatP. chrysosporiumproduced much manganese peroxidase in wood culture, and that the activity peaked early in incubation. The generation of hydroxyl radicals in the redox reaction was related to the rate of wood degradation, but the activity of phenol oxidases was not related. Therefore, hydroxyl radicals are important in wood degradation by this fungus.
A New Approach Towards the Yellowing Inhibition of Mechanical Pulps. Part I: Selective Removal of α-Hydroxyl and α-Carbonyl Groups in Lignin Model Compounds
Authors: Hu T. Q. , Leary G. , Wong D.
Published: October 2004

The α-hydroxyl group in lignin model compounds 1-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-2-(2-methoxyphenoxy)-1,3-propanediol (1) and 1-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)ethanol (3), and the α-carbonyl group in
1-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-2-(2-methoxyphenoxy)ethan-1-one (5) are removed by treatment of the
model compounds with trifluoroacetic acid (CF3CO OH) and triethylsilane (Et3sih) in methylene
chloride. The reaction is highly chemoselective and it tolerates the lignin γ-hydroxyl group, phenol
and β-O-4-aryl ether linkage. The α-hydroxyl group in 1 has also been removed with triethylsilane
in aqueous trifluoroacetic acid (CF3CO OH : H2o = 75 : 25).

The combination of trifluoroacetic acid and sodium borohydride, or sodium triacetoxyborohydride, is
also effective in removing the α-carbonyl group in 5 and the α-hydroxyl group in lignin model
compound 1-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-2-(2-methoxyphenoxy)ethanol (7) and in milled wood lignin. The
selective removal of the lignin α-hydroxyl and α-carbonyl groups may potentially be used, in
conjunction with the protection of the lignin phenol, to inhibit the light and/or heat-induced yellowing of mechanical pulps.
Variability of Suberin Composition of Reproduction Cork from Quercus suber Throughout Industrial Processing
Authors: Conde E. , García-Vallejo M. C. , Cadahía E.
Published: October 2004

The chemical composition of suberin was studied in cork planks from three different trees of Spanish
Quercus suber at four different stages of the industrial processing of first transformation: stripping (a),
first rest (b), boiling followed by open air rest (c1) and boiling followed by store-room rest (c2). The
monomeric composition was determined by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry in the product of
depolymerization of the free of extractives cork with sodium methoxide-methanol. The average
concentrations of the main monomers were: 1-alkanols (C20–C26) 4.17 %; alkanoic acids (C20–C26)
5.99%; α, ω-alkanedioic acids (C16–C24) 6.20%; ω-hydroxy-alkanoic acids (C20–C26) 29.41%; erythro and
threo-9,10-dihydroxyoctadecanedioic acids 6.76%, erythro- and threo-9,10,18-trihydroxyoctadecanoic
acids 9.50%, 9,10-epoxy-18-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid 2.72% and 9,10-epoxy-octadecanedioic
acid 2.93% and ferulic acid 5.05%. Significant differences were observed between samples taken at
the stripping and after boiling with store room rest, and both groups of samples differed from those
picked after the other two processing stages. Ten components were selected as providing the greatest
discrimination among stages: 9-octadecenedioic, 18-hydroxy-9-octadecenoic, eicosanedioic and 9,10-epoxy-18-hydroxy-octadecanoic acids, tetracosanol, and five unidentified components.
The Effects of Water Soluble Extractives on the Acoustic Properties of Reed (Arundo donax L.)
Authors: Obataya E. , Umezawa T. , Nakatsubo F. , Norimoto M.
Published: October 2004

The storage modulus (E′) and the loss tangent (tanδ) of reed (Arundo donax L.) used for woodwinds
were measured at 20°C and 60% relative humidity and the effects of water soluble extractives on these
properties were discussed. The extractives increased both the E′ and tanδof reed. There was a linear
relationship between the tanδ change and the weight loss due to extraction. By using an uniaxial
rheological model considering the anatomical structure of reed, the E′ and tanδ of reed were described
using the storage moduli, loss tangents, and volume fractions of bundle sheaths and parenchyma cells.
It was suggested that the extractives in parenchyma cells increased the modulus of elasticity for
parenchyma cells by 25% and reduced the relaxation time of parenchyma cells by a factor of three.
The main constituents of extractives were glucose, fructose and sucrose.
Wood Moisture Gradient Analysis by Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Tiitta M. , Savolainen T. , Olkkonen H. , Kanko T.
Published: October 2004

An electrical impedance frequency spectrum (20Hz to 1MHz) was measured in wood specimens with
uniform, absorption and desorption transverse moisture content (MC) gradient. Parallel plate single
sided capacitive and conductive electrodes were used. Capacitance, conductance and impedance locus
analyses were included in the study, the desorption and absorption moisture gradients (MG) were
estimated using frequency based analysis. This study suggests that the transverse MG can be estimated
using impedance spectroscopy analysis. Both used electrode types and all the studied methods gave
similar results which shows that frequency based analysis can be used. It was not possible to achieve
very good accuracy when estimating MG using pure conductive or capacitance measurement method.
The electrical distributed network circuit modelling was found to be the most promising method in
estimation of transverse MG.
Non-Darcian Air Flow in Wood. Part 2. Nonlinear Flow
Authors: Lu J. , Avramidis S.
Published: October 2004

In this study, permeability measurements and flow rate-pressure-relationship analysis were carried out
to determine whether non-Darcian flow due to nonlinear flow is present during air flow through red
oak and red alder heartwood, and ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir sapwood. The results indicated
that there was no evidence of nonlinear flow in red alder, ponderosa pine, and Douglas-fir throughout
the entire range of flow rates, and for red oak at flow rates below 19.57 cm3/s. At higher flow rates,
the results for red oak showed that the superficial specific permeability at the mean pressure of
50kPa decreased with the increase of the flow rates, and the equation relating pressure drop and
flow rate at a given mean pressure of 50 kPa involved both a linear and quadratic dependence, thus
demonstrating the presence of nonlinear flow components in wood. The calculated Reynolds number
that was in the range of 0.263 to 1.05, further suggested that the nonlinear flow found in red oak
heartwood at higher flow rates was probably nonlinear laminar flow due to the kinetic-energy losses
occurring in the curved openings.
Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS) for Quantification of Cell-Wall Penetration of a Melamine Resin
Authors: Rapp A.O. , Bestgen H. , Adam W. , Peek R.-D.
Published: October 2004

A literature survey was performed to find progress in techniques for monitoring penetration of synthetic
resins in wood cell walls. Electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) in combination with transmission
electron microscopy (TEM) was successfully applied for the high resolution examination of the
distribution of a partly methylated hydroxymethyl melamine resin in Norway spruce (Picea abies
Karst.) earlywood cell walls. The nitrogen of the resin was found as clearly detectable signals in all
layers of the lignified cell wall, thus allowing the quantification of resin which had penetrated into the
different layers. Possible principles of decay protection of wood which has been upgraded with low
concentrated aqueous solutions of modified hydroxymethyl melamine resins with medium to low
hydroxymethyl/melamine ratios are discussed.
Identification of the Dry Rot Fungus, Serpula lacrymans, and the Wild Merulius, S. himantioides, by Amplified Ribosomal DNA Restriction Analysis (ARDRA)
Authors: Schmidt Olaf , Moreth Ute
Published: October 2004

Isolates of the dry rot fungus,Serpula lacrymans, and of the morphologically similar wild merulius,S. himantioides, were investigated by amplified ribosomal DNA restriction analysis (ARDRA) of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region to prove this method as diagnosis tool for the economically important indoor rot fungi. The technique uses the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to amplify the relatively variable sequences of the ITS region arranged between the highly conserved portions of the 18S and 28S RNA genes of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) repeat unit. Subsequent digestion of the amplicon with restriction endonucleases may exhibit differences at species and subspecies level. Using the universal ITS 1/ITS 4 primer combination, the ITS region of all isolates ofS. lacrymansandS. himantioideswas amplified. The size of the amplified products was about 630bp in both species, as estimated from agarose gel electrophoresis. Digestion of the amplicon with the endonuclease pairsAluI/HhaI andAvaII/MboII, respectively, revealed identical rDNA-ITS fragments for the isolates of both species, indicating their genetic relationship. On the other hand, digestion withBglI/HinfI andHaeIII/TaqI, respectively, separated the fungi by means of different fragment patterns. Thus, ARDRA-ITS proved to be suited for the identification of both fungi.
Chemical Constituents and Mechanisms of Discoloration of Taiwania (Taiwania cryptomerioides Hayata) Heartwood. The Structure Reconfirmation and Conversion Mechanism of Taiwanin A
Authors: Chang Shang-Tzen , Wang Sheng-Yang , Su Yu-Chang , Huang Shou-Ling , Kuo Yueh-Hsiung
Published: October 2004

One of the color substances, taiwanin A, was isolated from Taiwania (Taiwania cryptomerioides Hayata)
heartwood. According to the 13C-NMR, 1H-NMR, HSQC, HMBC, and NOE difference spectroscopy
analyses, the diene structure of taiwanin A was reconfirmed to be the trans-trans formulation. In
addition, it was proven that deep orange crystalline taiwanin A changed to white and pale yellow
compounds, taiwanin C and taiwanin E, after light irradiation. The conversion mechanism of taiwanin
A into taiwanin C and taiwanin E is also proposed and discussed in this study.
Deposition of Lignin in Differentiating Xylem Cell Walls of Normal and Compression Wood of Buxus microphylla var. insularis Nakai
Authors: Yoshizawa Nobuo , Ohba Hiromi , Uchiyama Junko , Yokota Shinso
Published: October 2004

The deposition process of lignins within differentiating xylem walls of normal and compression wood
of Buxus microphylla var. insularis Nakai was examined by visible-light microspectrophotometry
coupled with the Wiesner and Mäule reactions. Buxus formed compression wood on the underside of
the leaning stems. The secondary walls of the vessels and fibre tracheids in compression wood showed
an intense lignification in the outer region of S2 layer. The spectra of tissues after Mäule and Wiesner
reactions showed absorption maxima of around 515 nm and 570 nm, respectively. In differentiating
xylem cells of normal wood, lignin composed of both guaiacyl and syringyl units was deposited mainly
during the S2 thickening and after formation of the S3 layer in fibre tracheids, whereas in vessels it was
actively deposited mainly during the S2 thickening. In compression wood, the deposition of the lignin
composed of guaiacyl units was observed for a long period from the early stages of the S2 thickening.
Lignification was becoming particularly active at the outer portion of S2 layer after completion of the
S2 thickening in both vessels and fibre tracheids. On the other hand, the syringyl units were deposited
mainly during the S2 thickening in both cell types.
Depolymerization of Straw Lignin by Manganese Peroxidase from Nematoloma frowardii is Accompanied by Release of Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Hofrichter Martin , Scheibner Katrin , Bublitz Friedemann , Schneegaß Ivonne , Ziegenhagen Dirk , Martens Rainer , Fritsche Wolfgang
Published: October 2004

Manganese peroxidase preparations (MnP) from the white-rot fungusNematoloma frowardiiwere able to release14CO2directly from14C-labeled milled wheat straw (MWS; total lignin fraction) and milled straw lignin (MSL; dioxane soluble part of MWS). Apart from the formation of14CO2(4–10 %) the treatment of insoluble MWS and MSL with MnP resulted in the formation of water-soluble14C-lignin fragments (lignin solubilization, 14–25%). Analyses with gel permeation chromatography (GPC) demonstrated the formation of lignin fragments with predominant molecular masses around 1 kDa. The extent of MWS mineralization and solubilization was enhanced in the presence of reduced glutathione (GSH) acting as thiol mediator, whereas MSL mineralization was not stimulated by GSH. The principle of direct extracellular mineralization of lignin catalyzed by the MnP system may make a significant contribution to the formation of carbon dioxide in lignincellulose containing habitats.
Use of an Improved Chemiluminescence Assay for Non-Intrusive Measurement of Hydroxyl Radicals in a Biomimetic Pulp Bleaching Model System
Authors: Walker C. C. , Dinus R. J. , McDonough T. J. , Eriksson K.-E. L.
Published: October 2004

A chemiluminescence assay was used to measure the production of hydroxyl radicals (·OH) in aqueous
solutions of hydrogen peroxide and iron-containing catalysts. Preliminary experiments evaluating assay
sensitivity revealed that one of the required reagents, phthalhydrazide (PtH), interfered with the studied
reactions. In addition, undesirable degradation of the chemiluminescent form of PtH was observed. By
removing PtH from reaction solutions and modifying the published procedures, a successful non-intrusive
method for measurement of ·OH was obtained. The modified assay was used to compare the rate of ·OH
generation in solutions of H2O2, either FeSO4 or Fe-EDTA and a substrate, lignosulfonate. This “biomimetic”
pulp bleaching system is meant to simulate naturally occurring biological reactions utilized for
degradation of lignins by wood-degrading fungi. Results from these experiments show that FeSO4
produced more ·OH than Fe-EDTA. The improved non-intrusive chemiluminescence assay has proven to
be an excellent tool for investigating the role of the ·OH in biomimetic pulp bleaching and potentially
other systems.
Effect of Silvicultural Practice and Wood Type on Loblolly Pine Particleboard and Medium Density Fiberboard Properties
Authors: Shupe Todd F. , Hse Chung Y. , Choong Elvin T. , Groom Leslie H.
Published: October 2004

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of five different silvicultural strategies and wood
type on mechanical and physical properties of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) particleboard and
fiberboard. The furnish was prepared in an unconventional manner from innerwood and outerwood
veneer for each stand. Modulus of rupture (MOR) differences between the stands were insignificant for
particleboard. Some significant modulus of elastisity (MOE) differences existed between the stands for
particleboard and fiberboard. Differences between the wood types were minimal for each stand.
Innerwood yielded higher mean MOR, MOE, and internal bond (IB) values than outerwood for most
of the stands. The differences between the stand and wood types for 2 and 24 h thickness swell and 2
and 24h water adsorption were very minimal. This research has shown that innerwood can produce
particleboard and fiberboard panels with very comparable mechanical and physical properties to
outerwood. The effect of the silvicultural strategy (i. e., stand) was minimal for most properties.
Rapid Determination of the Chemical Composition and Density of Pinus radiata by PLS Modelling of Transmission and Diffuse Reflectance FTIR Spectra
Authors: Meder R. , Gallagher S. , Mackie K.L. , Böhler H. , Meglen R.R.
Published: October 2004

Transmission and diffuse reflectance FTIR spectra of samples of Pinus radiata wood have been used as the basis of PLS-1 (partial least squares) and PLS-2 (projection to latent structures) models for the prediction of extractives, lignin, total carbohydrate and basic density. Very little difference was observed between models based on transmission spectra and those based on diffuse reflectance spectra. Because of the ease of sample preparation and presentation the diffuse reflectance technique was chosen as the method of preference. Similarly very little difference was observed between models prepared using PLS-1 and models prepared using PLS-2 correlations of diffuse reflectance spectra. Multiple correlation coefficients between the four measured properties and the diffuse reflectance spectra using PLS-2 modelling with four principal components are respectively: extractives, 0.87; Klason lignin, 0.84; total carbohydrate, 0.58; and density, 0.87.
Dimensional Changes in Corsican Pine Sapwood due to Chemical Modification with Linear Chain Anhydrides
Authors: Hill C.A.S. , Jones D.
Published: October 2004

The volumetric changes in Corsican pine sapwood due to modification with an homologous series of linear chain anhydrides has been studied. The results have been interpreted in terms of the molar volume occupied by the substituent groups in the wood cell wall. At low levels of substitution, the molar volume is larger at low weight gains. Thus if the volume increase is due to a volume occupied by the reagent molecules and a void volume created within the wood matrix, then the void volume is larger at low levels of substitution. A non-linear relationship has also been found between the void volume and volume occupied by adduct as the size of the anhydride increases. By determining the relationship between average molar volume at high weight gains and ultimate level of OH substitution, for the range of anhydrides studied, it is possible to estimate the number of accessible OH groups at 5.7 (+/− 0.4) mMoles/gm, this contrasts with a theoretically calculated value of 8.6 mMoles/gm.
The Reactions of Lignins with High Temperature Hydrogen Peroxide Part 2. The Oxidation of Kraft Lignin
Authors: Kadla J.F. , Chang H.-m. , Jameel H.
Published: October 2004

A technical pine kraft lignin was subjected to alkaline hydrogen peroxide oxidation in the presence of DTMPA and molecular oxygen at various temperatures. In the presence of DTMPA the lignin was found to undergo increasing levels of oxidation and degradation with increasing temperature. At 110°C over 80% of the kraft lignin was degraded. Analyses of the degraded lignins indicated that both phenolic and nonphenolic lignin moieties were degraded. At 90°C the addition of molecular oxygen resulted in further lignin demethoxylation, but did not decrease the amount of phenolic hydroxyl groups or hydrogen peroxide consumed. In the absence of DTMPA the hydrogen peroxide was rapidly degraded, and accompanied by only minimal lignin oxidation.
Detection of Radicals Generated by Strong Oxidants in Acidic Media
Authors: Ragnar M. , Eriksson T. , Reitberger T.
Published: October 2004

A new method to study superoxide and hydroxyl radicals in aqueous solution in the pH range 1 to 6 is described and critically evaluated. The method primarily detects superoxide, which reacts with tetranitromethane (TNM) by reductive cleavage. The strongly coloured nitroform anion (ε350nm = 15000M−1 cm−1) formed, is easily measured in a spectrophotometer or in a stopped-flow equipment. Hydroxyl radicals are measured indirectly. In a first step the hydroxyl radical reacts with iso-propyl alcohol to give acetone and superoxide. The superoxide formed is then in a second step detected with TNM. The TNM-method was primarily designed to monitor the radical formation under ozone bleaching conditions, but it is also applicable in acidic hydrogen peroxide.
The Investigation of Hydration Processes in Horse Chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum L.) and Pine (Pinus silvestris L.) Bark and Bast Using Proton Magnetic Relaxation
Authors: Haranczyk H. , Weglarz W. P. , Sojka Z.
Published: October 2004

The proton free induction decay (FID) was shown to be effective in monitoring of hydration and the water soluble extractive fraction in horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum, L.) and pine (Pinus silvestris, L.) bark and bast. The signal from the first bound water layers was separated from the whole liquid signal (L) and at low hydration the liquid signal from the stable sealed bark pores was detected. The liquid-to-solid (L/S) signal ratio as a function of relative mass increase (∆m/m0) was proposed as a convenient method to evaluate the relative mass of water, necessary to dissolve the whole soluble proton pool (∆M/m0), the relative mass contribution of solid proton component (p0 in absence of water soluble fraction or pS0 in presence of water soluble fraction), the saturation concentration of the water soluble fraction (cs) and the effective (scaled to water) proton density of solid protons (βs). The measurement of the absolute (in arbitrary units) proton signal versus relative mass increase yielded additionally the effective proton density water soluble proton fraction in solid (βcu) and in liquid (βcd) phase. For the system containing the soluble proton fraction (horse chestnut bast), the values of the parameters obtained from L/S versus ∆m/m0 dependence were compared with the calculated (or fitted) values obtained from the results of the absolute (in arbitrary units) NMR signal measurements.

The effective proton densities (βs) were: 0.33 for pine bark, 0.31 for horse chestnut bark and 0.20 for horse chestnut bast, which suggests the presence of paramagnetic impurities in the solid matrix. The presence of various paramagnetic species was further confirmed by ESR spectroscopy.

For horse chestnut bast, in which a water soluble extractive fraction is present, the saturation concentration (cs) of the water soluble fraction was 0.64. The contribution of the water soluble fraction was 0.324 of the total dry mass and the relative proton density βcu = 0.55 (in the solid phase). The contribution of non-removable liquid fraction was 0.004 of the total dry mass.

The proton relaxation experiment did not directly reveal a percolation threshold, however, the dehydration extended below the removal of the loosely bound mobile water fraction.
Influence of Degree of Polymerization of Cellulose and Hemicellulose on Strength Loss in Fire-Retardant-Treated Southern Pine
Authors: Sweet M.S. , Winandy J.E.
Published: October 2004

Southern pine boards, both untreated and treated with a fire retardant, were exposed to either a room temperature or high temperature (66°C (150°F)) environment. Strength properties were measured after 1 and 1-1/2 years of exposure, respectively. The degree of polymerization and the chemical composition of α- cellulose isolated from the exposed wood were measured. Little relationship was found between degree of polymerization and strength. However, a strong relationship was found between the amount of mannan in the α-cellulose isolated from the wood and the modulus of rupture and the work-to-maximum load of solid wood. This correlation leads to the conclusion that hemicellulose plays an important role in determining the strength of wood.
Hexamethyldisiloxane-Plasma Coating of Wood Surfaces for Creating Water Repellent Characteristics
Authors: Denes A. R. , Tshabalala M. A. , Rowell R. , Denes F. , Young R.A.
Published: October 2004

Southern yellow pine wood surfaces were modified under cold plasma conditions in order to create water repellent characteristics. The surface chemistry of the plasma “polymerized” hexamethyldisiloxane (PHMDSO) deposited onto wood surfaces was investigated using Electron Spectroscopy for Chemical Analysis (ESCA) and Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). The presence of a crosslinked macromolecular structure, based on Si-O-Si and Si-O-C linkages was detected. Pyrolysis Mass Spectroscopy (MS) was carried out to investigate the nature of the building blocks of the plasma generated macromolecular structure. Plasma modified samples exhibited very high water contact angle values (contact angle = 130 degrees) in comparison to the unmodified samples (contact angle ≤ 15 degrees), indicating the presence of a hydrophobic surface. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) images, collected both from unmodified and HMDSO-plasma modified samples, indicate the progressive growth of the plasma “polymer”, resulting in the deposition of a smooth layer at 10 minutes treatment time. Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) indicated high thermal stability of the PHMDSO.
Eco-ing in the Canyon: Ferde Grofè's Grand Canyon Suite and the Transformation of Wilderness
Authors: Toliver Brooks
Published: October 2004

In the early decades of the twentieth century, many Americans harbored mixed feelings toward wilderness. On the one hand, the recent closing of the frontier increased an already strong affection for the nation's remaining open spaces. On the other, the land's potential for development had traditionally determined its value. The result was a contradiction discernable in both the ideology of the National Park Service and the best-known composition about a national park, Ferde Grofè's Grand Canyon Suite (1931). Borrowing from the relatively new field of ecocriticism, I propose several ways of hearing in the work a simultaneous celebration and conquest of the Grand Canyon. The goal is a better historical understanding of a love for wilderness that forever promises to turn wilderness into something else.
A Voice Unknown: Undercurrents in Mussorgsky's Sunless
Authors: Perry Simon
Published: October 2004

Mussorgsky's Sunless cycle is aesthetically and stylistically an anomalous member of his oeuvre. Its notably effaced, pared-down, and withdrawn qualities present challenges to critical interpretation. Its uniqueness, however, renders it a crucial work for furnishing the fullest possible picture of Mussorgsky as a creative artist. The author of its texts, Golenishchev-Kutuzov (whose relationship with Mussorgsky at the time of its writing possibly extended beyond the platonic) has been identified by recent scholarship as an essential "eye-witness" for those to whom Stasov's populist characterization of the composer does not ring entirely true. Golenishchev-Kutuzov believed that in Sunless Mussorgsky first revealed his authentic artistic self. According to Golenishchev-Kutuvoz, Mussorgsky regarded his signal achievement in Sunless to have been the eradication of all elements other than "feeling." In other words, he had thrown off the stylistic shackles imposed by the aesthetics of realism and relied entirely on intuitive harmonic invention as the sole conveyor of a purely subjective, "affective" meaning in the cycle. This hypothesis forms the point of departure for an investigation of select numbers of the cycle. Analysis reveals that the affective aspect is not the only significant element operative. Alongside remnants of the realist style, there is evidence, of varying degrees of subtlety, for a knowing use of symmetrical pitch organization. Mussorgsky not only adapted the usual referential attachments of symmetrically based chromaticism--typically found in Russian operas of the second half of the nineteenth century--he also, through extremely simple but effective means, synthesized the "intuitive" harmonic and "rational" symmetrical elements of the cycle's pitch organization so that the latter emerges seamlessly out of the former. This remarkable synthesis ensures the cycle's uniformity of tone while also allowing for a reading that extends beyond the generally affective to the symbolically more specific. This symbolic level of reading offers several interpretative possibilities, one of which may refer even to the relationship of the poet and the composer. Irrespective of such potentials for interpretation, the most significant achievement in the cycle remains the synthesis of the intuitive/affective and rational/symbolic elements of its organization. Songs 1, 2, 3, and 6 of the cycle are considered in detail.
The Origins of Daphnis et Chloe (1912)
Authors: Morrison Simon
Published: October 2004

Beyond Maurice Ravel's 1910 score, the remnants of the original production of Daphnis et Chloe--one known stage photograph, an assortment of studio photographs, seven known costumes, brief reviews, anecdotal memoirs, and a bundle of pastel drawings--constitute choreographer Michel Fokine's 1907 scenario. These materials are scattered across the globe, preserved in libraries and museums in Russia, Sweden, France, England, and the United States. They compose less a ballet, even the archival detritus of a ballet, than a haunting absence. This article assembles all of these materials in an assessment of the differences between Ravel's and Fokine's conceptions of Hellenic antiquity. The discussion focuses on the draft and revised versions of the literary scenario and the draft and revised versions of the finale of the score, cast in 3/4 and 5/4 meter respectively. The ending of the article offers brief remarks on the music-dance relationship in the original and two subsequent productions of the ballet.