bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review on the Relationship of Climate Variability and Extremes with Crop Production
Authors: Thakur Yashasvi , Sharma Aashima , Sharma Vikas Kumar
Published: April 2024

Risks are always present in agriculture for a variety of reasons. Climate-related risks are the most significant among them since they can occur unexpectedly and cannot be avoided. The main climatic factors influencing crop productivity are rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and rising atmospheric CO2. The average global temperature is expected to rise by 2oC until 2100, which would result in significant global economic losses. The average global temperature is currently rising steadily. The concentration of CO2, which makes up a large amount of greenhouse gases, is rising alarmingly. Climate change, with rising temperatures and increased greenhouse gas emissions, impacts agriculture significantly, leading to varied crop yields and potentially catastrophic economic consequences. While some regions may experience favorable effects, overall, climate variability poses challenges such as reduced crop productivity, increased pest activity, and elevated food costs, particularly affecting underdeveloped nations. Environmental policies must be adaptable and flexible to mitigate these impacts effectively. Farmers' responses to climate change, influenced by perceptions and data accessibility, drive both mitigation and adaptation efforts. Sustainable agriculture, conservation practices, and technological innovations play key roles in mitigating climate change impacts and enhancing resilience in farming communities, though success depends on multiple factors including local perceptions, technical feasibility, and economic viability. This paper reviews the causes of climate change, the climate variables affecting crop production and the mitigation and adaptation strategies against climate change.
Copper‐Catalyzed Direct C Arylation of Heterocycles with Aryl Bromides: Discovery of Fluorescent Core Frameworks
Authors: Zhao Dongbing , Wang Wenhai , Yang Fei , Lan Jingbo , Yang Li , Gao Ge , You Jingsong
Published: March 2009

Die Arylierung von Heterocyclen mit vielfältigen Arylbromiden beruht auf einer allgemeinen kupferkatalysierten C‐H‐Bindungsaktivierung (siehe Schema). Die hoch regioselektive Reaktion ist mit vielen funktionellen Gruppen verträglich. Die 8‐Arylxanthinprodukte fluoreszieren in verschiedenen Lösungsmitteln und sind aussichtsreich als Reagentien für die biologische Bildgebung.

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A Ditopic Ion‐Pair Receptor Based on Stacked Nucleobase Quartets
Authors: van der Wijst Tushar , Fonseca Guerra Célia , Swart Marcel , Bickelhaupt F. Matthias , Lippert Bernhard
Published: March 2009

Pass the salt, please!State‐of‐the‐art computations indicate that the stacking complex of a guanine quartet and an adenine quartet (G4A4) can function as a potent ditopic receptor for NaCl in aqueous solution (see picture; Na+, Cl− yellow, O red, N blue, C black, H white).

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Toward the identification of symptom patterns in people with fibromyalgia
Authors: Wilson Hilary D. , Robinson James P. , Turk Dennis C.
Published: March 2009

Objective

People with fibromyalgia (FM) report a number of physical, cognitive, and psychological symptoms. The purpose of the current study was to determine whether people with FM differed based on the type and severity of symptoms, and if so, whether subgroups differ with respect to health care utilization, functional ability, and work status.

Methods

Symptom, health care utilization, work, and physical data were available for 2,182 female responders to an Internet survey. Factor analysis was conducted on the physical and cognitive/psychological symptoms, and resulting factor scores were utilized in a cluster analysis to identify subgroups based on symptoms. Cluster groups were compared on a set of variables (e.g., health care utilization, coping).

Results

Factor analyses resulted in 3 symptom factor scores: musculoskeletal, non‐musculoskeletal, and cognitive/psychological symptoms. The optimal cluster solution to the cluster analysis revealed 4 clusters. Group 1 was high on all 3 symptom domains, group 2 was moderate on the 2 physical symptom domains and high on cognitive/psychological symptoms, group 3 was moderate on the 2 physical symptom domains and low on cognitive/psychological symptoms, and group 4 was low on all symptom domains. The more symptomatic groups reported the greatest amount of health care utilization and difficulty in coping with symptoms.

Conclusion

The FM population is heterogeneous with regard to symptom reporting. Additional research is needed to better understand differential symptom experience among people with FM. Clarification of these differences may increase understanding of the mechanisms involved in FM and provide guidance for treatment decisions.
Physician ability to assess rheumatoid arthritis disease activity using an electronic medical record–based disease activity calculator
Authors: Collier Deborah S. , Grant Richard W. , Estey Greg , Surrao Dominic , Chueh Henry C. , Kay Jonathan
Published: March 2009

Objective

To assess physicians' concordance with Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28) categories calculated by an electronic medical record (EMR)–embedded disease activity calculator, as well as attitudes toward this application.

Methods

Fifteen rheumatologists used the EMR‐embedded disease activity calculator to predict a rheumatoid arthritis (RA) DAS28 disease activity category at the time of each clinical encounter.

Results

Physician‐predicted DAS28 disease activity categories ranged from high (>5.1, 15% of cohort, 66 of 429 patient visits) to moderate (>3.2–5.1, 21% of cohort, 90 of 429 patient visits) to low (2.6–3.2, 29% of cohort, 123 of 429 patient visits) to remission (<2.6, 35% of cohort, 150 of 429 patient visits). Overall concordance between calculated DAS28 results and physician‐predicted RA disease activity was 64%. Using either the physician‐predicted or the calculated DAS28 category as the gold standard, accuracy was greatest for patients in remission (75% and 88% accuracy, respectively) and those with high disease activity (68% and 79% accuracy, respectively), and less for patients with moderate (48% and 62% accuracy, respectively) or low disease activity (62% and 31% accuracy, respectively).

Conclusion

Accurate physician prediction of DAS28 remission and high disease activity categories, even without immediate availability of the erythrocyte sedimentation rate or the C‐reactive protein level at the time of the visit, may be used to guide quantitatively driven outpatient RA management.

This article was published online on March 30, 2009. An error was subsequently identified in Figure 4. This notice is included in the online and print versions to indicate that both have been corrected.
Influence of preoperative patient education on the risk of dislocation after primary total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Lübbeke Anne , Suvà Domizio , Perneger Thomas , Hoffmeyer Pierre
Published: March 2009

Objective

Dislocation is a well‐known complication after total hip arthroplasty (THA), and is the second‐highest cause of revision surgery. Our objective was to assess the effect of preoperative patient education on the occurrence of hip dislocation within 6 months after primary THA.

Methods

Between 1998 and 2007, we conducted a prospective cohort study at the Geneva University Hospital Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, including all primary THAs performed via an anterolateral transgluteal approach with the use of a 28‐mm diameter head. The preoperative education session was introduced in June 2002 and included advice on muscle strengthening exercises and postoperative restrictions of range of motion as a means of preventing dislocation. The main outcome was the incidence of dislocation within 6 months of surgery.

Results

A total of 597 patients who underwent 656 THAs between June 2002 and June 2007 participated in the education session, whereas 1,641 patients who underwent 1,945 procedures did not. Forty‐six dislocations occurred over the study period, 5 (0.8%) in participants and 41 (2.1%) in nonparticipants (absolute risk reduction 1.3%; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.4, 2.3), with the time interval between surgery and dislocation being significantly shorter among participants (0.2 versus 1.2 months). Nonparticipants had a 2.8 times higher risk of dislocation than participants (unadjusted odds ratio [OR] 2.80; 95% CI 1.10, 7.13). Adjustment for age, sex, comorbidities, and prior surgery did not change the results (adjusted OR 2.79; 95% CI 1.09, 7.15).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that participation in a preoperative patient education session may reduce the risk of dislocation within 6 months after THA.
Cerebral venous thrombosis in Behçet's disease
Authors: Saadoun D. , Wechsler B. , Resche‐Rigon M. , Trad S. , Le Thi Huong D. , Sbai A. , Dormont D. , Amoura Z. , Cacoub P. , Piette J. C.
Published: March 2009

Objective

To analyze the clinical findings, treatment, outcome, and prevalence of cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) in a large cohort of patients with Behçet's disease (BD) from a single center.

Methods

We reported a series of 64 consecutive patients with CVT who fulfilled the international criteria for BD. Multivariate analysis was performed to define factors that affect prognosis.

Results

Among a cohort of 820 patients with BD, CVT was present in 64 (7.8%). Compared with BD patients without CVT, those with CVT had lower parenchymal central nervous system involvement (4.7% versus 28.7%; P = 0.0001) and higher extraneurologic vascular lesions (62.5% versus 38.8%; P = 0.03). Up to 90% of patients responded to anticoagulation therapy without severe hemorrhagic complications. Neither steroid nor immunosuppressant use provided better outcome. Severe visual loss due to optic atrophy was the main complication of CVT, being found in 15% of patients. In multivariate analysis, papilledema (odds ratio [OR] 7.1, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.6–31.9) and concurrent prothrombotic risk factors (OR 4.6, 95% CI 1.1–20.2) were independently associated with the occurrence of sequelae. Factors associated with relapse of thrombosis were concurrent prothrombotic risk factors (hazard ratio [HR] 4.9, 95% CI 1.5–15.4) and a peripheral venous thrombosis (HR 2.8, 95% CI 0.7–10.5). After a mean ± SD followup of 8.2 ± 6.9 years, 4 deaths unrelated to CVT were noted.

Conclusion

CVT in patients with BD may result in serious neurologic outcomes. Anticoagulation represents a safe and effective therapy. Extensive investigation of prothrombotic disorders should be considered.
Combined oral contraceptive use and the risk of systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Bernier Marie‐odile , Mikaeloff Yann , Hudson Marie , SuissA Samy
Published: March 2009

Objective

To assess whether the risk of incident systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with the use of combined oral contraceptives (COCs), because studies of the link between exogenous hormonal exposure and the risk of SLE have produced conflicting results.

Methods

We conducted a population‐based nested case–control study among women ages 18–45 years, using the UK's General Practice Research Database. All incident cases of SLE from 1994–2004 (n = 786) were identified in the database and matched with up to 10 controls (n = 7,817) among women without SLE at the time of the case's diagnosis.

Results

The adjusted rate ratio (RR) of incident SLE associated with any use of COC was 1.19 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.98–1.45), whereas with current use it was 1.54 (95% CI 1.15–2.07). The rate was particularly increased in current users who had only recently started COC use (RR 2.52, 95% CI 1.14–5.57) compared with longer‐term current users (RR 1.45, 95% CI 1.06–1.99). The risk appeared to be particularly elevated with current exposure to first‐ or second‐generation contraceptives (RR 1.65, 95% CI 1.20–2.26), and increasing with the dose of ethinyl estradiol (RR 1.42, 1.63, and 2.92 for ≤30 μg, 31–49 μg, and 50 μg, respectively).

Conclusion

The use of COCs is associated with an increased risk of SLE. This risk is particularly elevated in women who recently started contraceptive use, suggesting an acute effect in a small subgroup of susceptible women.
Golimumab, a new human tumor necrosis factor α antibody, administered every four weeks as a subcutaneous injection in psoriatic arthritis: Twenty‐four–week efficacy and safety results of a randomized, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Kavanaugh Arthur , McInnes Iain , Mease Philip , Krueger Gerald G. , Gladman Dafna , Gomez‐Reino Juan , Papp Kim , Zrubek Julie , Mudivarthy Surekha , Mack Michael , Visvanathan Sudha , Beutler Anna
Published: March 2009

Objective

To assess the efficacy and safety of golimumab in patients with active psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Methods

Adult patients with PsA who had at least 3 swollen and 3 tender joints and active psoriasis were randomly assigned to receive subcutaneous injections of placebo (n = 113), golimumab 50 mg (n = 146), or golimumab 100 mg (n = 146) every 4 weeks through week 20. Efficacy assessments through week 24 included the American College of Rheumatology 20% improvement criteria (ACR20), the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) in patients in whom at least 3% of the body surface area was affected by psoriasis at baseline, the Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF‐36), the disability index of the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), the Nail Psoriasis Severity Index (NAPSI), the physician's global assessment of psoriatic nail disease, and enthesitis (using the PsA‐modified Maastricht Ankylosing Spondylitis Enthesitis Score [MASES] index).

Results

At week 14, 48% of all patients receiving golimumab, 51% of patients receiving golimumab 50 mg, and 45% of patients receiving golimumab 100 mg achieved an ACR20 response (the primary end point), compared with 9% of patients receiving placebo (P < 0.001 for all comparisons). Among the 74% of patients in whom at least 3% of the body surface area was affected by psoriasis at baseline, 40% of those in the golimumab 50 mg group and 58% of those in the golimumab 100 mg group had at least 75% improvement in the PASI at week 14 (major secondary end point), compared with 3% of placebo‐treated patients (P < 0.001 for both doses). Significant improvement was observed for other major secondary end points (the HAQ and the SF‐36), the NAPSI, the physician's global assessment of psoriatric nail disease, and the PsA‐modified MASES index in each golimumab group compared with placebo. This efficacy was maintained through week 24. Golimumab was generally well tolerated.

Conclusion

Treatment with golimumab at doses of 50 mg and 100 mg significantly improved active PsA and associated skin and nail psoriasis through week 24.
Facile Synthesis and Systematic Investigations of a Series of Novel Bent‐Shaped Two‐Photon Absorption Chromophores Based on Pyrimidine
Authors: Li Lin , Tian Yu‐Peng , Yang Jia‐Xiang , Sun Ping‐Ping , Wu Jie‐Ying , Zhou Hong‐Ping , Zhang Sheng‐Yi , Jin Bao‐Kang , Xing Xiao‐Juan , Wang Chuan‐Kui , Li Ming , Cheng Guang‐Hua , Tang Huo‐Hong , Huang Wen‐Hao , Tao Xu‐Tang , Jiang Min‐Hua
Published: March 2009

Mark us bent! The synthesis, structure, and single‐ and two‐photon spectroscopic properties of a series of pyrimidine‐based (bent‐shaped) molecules are reported. These allow structure‐property relationships and guidelines for both the development and application of TPA compounds to be derived.

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The synthesis, structure, and single‐ and two‐photon spectroscopic properties of a series of pyrimidine‐based (bent‐shaped) molecules are reported. All these stable heterocyclic compounds are fully characterized, and exhibit intense single‐ and two‐photon excited fluorescence (SPEF and TPEF) over a wide spectral range from blue to red, with the spectral peak position of the SPEF being basically the same as that of the TPEF. The well‐conjugated π‐systems, observed from the crystal structure, indicate the charge transfer feature of the ground state. Meanwhile, the theoretical and experimental studies indicate that the charge transfer from donor to acceptor is greatly enhanced in the excited states and the different substituted donor groups on the pyrimidine have a large effect on the optical and electrochemical properties. Based on typical structure data and comprehensive spectral data, the following structure‐property relationships can be determined: for such bent‐shaped chromophores, the absorption and the fluorescence wavelength maximum of the SPEF and TPEF, and two‐photon absorption cross sections show a similar trend with increasing electron‐donating strength of the corresponding terminal group and the number of branches, while the average bond lengths of the π‐linkage and HOMO–LUMO energy levels show an inverse trend. Experimental data and theoretical calculation provide a coherent picture. With these findings, bent‐shaped quadrupolar chromophores combining peak TPA cross sections (up to 2280 GM), broad TPA bands throughout the whole 700–900 nm range, and high fluorescence quantum yields could, thus, be obtained. Such compounds are of particular interest for TPEF microscopy, as well as optical data storage in the visible and NIR regions. A data recording experiment proved the potential application of these materials.
Data reconciliation of concentration estimates from mid‐infrared and dielectric spectral measurements for improved on‐line monitoring of bioprocesses
Authors: Dabros Michal , Amrhein Michael , Bonvin Dominique , Marison Ian W. , von Stockar Urs
Published: March 2009

Real‐time data reconciliation of concentration estimates of process analytes and biomass in microbial fermentations is investigated. A Fourier‐transform mid‐infrared spectrometer predicting the concentrations of process metabolites is used in parallel with a dielectric spectrometer predicting the biomass concentration during a batch fermentation of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Calibration models developed off‐line for both spectrometers suffer from poor predictive capability due to instrumental and process drifts unseen during calibration. To address this problem, the predicted metabolite and biomass concentrations, along with off‐gas analysis and base addition measurements, are reconciled in real‐time based on the closure of mass and elemental balances. A statistical test is used to confirm the integrity of the balances, and a non‐negativity constraint is used to guide the data reconciliation algorithm toward positive concentrations. It is verified experimentally that the proposed approach reduces the standard error of prediction without the need for additional off‐line analysis. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2009
A Rational Design of Catechol‐Based Compounds: An Experimental and Theoretical Study of Optical Properties
Authors: Aronica Christophe , Venancio‐Marques Anna , Chauvin Jérôme , Robert Vincent , Lemercier Gilles
Published: March 2009

Finely tuned optical properties: The optical properties of substituted protected catechol derivatives can be fine‐tuned (see scheme; TBDMS=tert‐butyldimethylsilyloxy). The DFT‐calculated polarisabilities are compared with experimental data.

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The synthesis and optical properties of 4,5‐disubstituted (tert‐butyldimethylsilyloxy)‐protected catechol derivatives are reported. One or two carboncarbon triple bond functions were introduced through the Sonogashira cross‐coupling reaction. The effects on the optical properties of monosubstitution at the 4‐position or disubstitution at the 4‐ and 5‐positions of these catechol derivatives with electron‐withdrawing or ‐donating substituents have been investigated. The experimental chemical‐structure–polarisability relationship has been studied by using the Lippert–Mataga correlation and compared with the results of a theoretical study carried out with DFT calculations. These compounds are promising candidates for the fine‐tuning of internal charge transfer, but also as potential non‐linear chromophores and ligands within multifunctional coordination complexes.
Lanthanide‐Based Coordination Polymers Assembled by a Flexible Multidentate Linker: Design, Structure, Photophysical Properties, and Dynamic Solid‐State Behavior
Authors: Marchal Claire , Filinchuk Yaroslav , Chen Xiao‐Yan , Imbert Daniel , Mazzanti Marinella
Published: March 2009

Flexible director: A flexible multidentate linker containing picolinate chromophores directs the selective formation of luminescent 1D lanthanide‐based polymers. Partial protonation significantly decreases the preorganization of the linker, thus leading to supramolecular 1D and 2D isomers (see scheme). The lanthanide‐containing 1D polymers undergo reversible structural modification in the hydration/dehydration process, which is also associated with significant differences in the luminescence emission.

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Four picolinate building blocks were implemented into the multidentate linker N,N′,N′‐tetrakis[(6‐carboxypyridin‐2‐yl)methyl]butylenediamine (H4tpabn) with a linear flexible spacer to promote the assembly of lanthanide‐based 1D coordination polymers. The role of the linker in directing the geometry of the final assembly is evidenced by the different results obtained in the presence of Htpabn3− and tpabn4− ions. The tpabn4− ion leads to the desired 1D polymer {[Nd(tpabn)]H3O⋅6 H2O}∞ (12). The Htpabn3− ion leads to the assembly of TbIII and ErIII ions into 1D zigzag chains of the general formula {[M(Htpabn)]⋅x H2O}∞ (M=Tb, x=14 (1); M=Tb, x=8 (11); M=Er, x=14 (2); M=Er, x=5.5 (4)), a 2D network is formed by the EuIII ion (i.e., {[Eu(Htpabn)]⋅10 H2O}∞ (7)), and both supramolecular isomers (1D and 2D) are obtained by the TbIII ion. The high flexibility of the polymeric chains results in a dynamic behavior with a solvent‐induced reversible structural transition. The TbIII‐ and EuIII‐containing polymers display high‐luminescence quantum yields (38 and 18 %, respectively). A sizeable near‐IR luminescence emission is observed for the ErIII‐ and NdIII‐containing polymers when lattice water molecules are removed.
Dose‐finding study of 153Sm‐EDTMP in patients with poor‐prognosis osteosarcoma
Authors: Loeb David M. , Garrett‐Mayer Elizabeth , Hobbs Robert F. , Prideaux Andrew R. , Sgouros George , Shokek Ori , Wharam Moody D. , Scott Tammy , Schwartz Cindy L.
Published: March 2009

BACKGROUND:

Samarium‐153 ethylenediaminetetramethylene phosphonic acid (153Sm‐EDTMP) has been used to treat patients with high‐risk osteosarcoma. The purpose of the current study was to determine the maximally tolerated dose of 153Sm‐EDTMP that permits hematopoietic recovery within 6 weeks.

METHODS:

Patients with recurrent or refractory osteosarcoma with bone metastases were enrolled in this study. Subjects were treated with increasing doses of 153Sm‐EDTMP, beginning with 1.0 millicuries (mCi)/kg and followed initially with 40% increment dose level escalations, using a continual reassessment method for dose escalation and de‐escalation with a target dose–limiting toxicity (DLT) rate of 30%. Complete blood counts were monitored weekly, and the primary DLT was defined as failure to achieve an absolute neutrophil count >750/mm3 and a platelet count >75,000/mm3 within 6 weeks of treatment. In addition to assessing toxicity, dosimetry measurements were made to estimate the radiation dose delivered to target lesions.

RESULTS:

The maximally tolerated dose of 153Sm‐EDTMP was 44.8 megabecquerel (MBq)/kg (1.21 mCi/kg). DLTs were confined to hematologic toxicities, particularly delayed platelet recovery in 2 patients treated at a dose of 51.8 MBq/kg (1.4 mCi/kg). Grade 2 and 3 pulmonary toxicity (graded according to the National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria [version 3.0]) as reported in 2 patients (at administered activities of 44.8 MBq/kg and 51.8 MBq/kg) was attributable to progressive pulmonary disease. No other significant nonhematologic toxicities were observed.

CONCLUSIONS:

Patients with osteosarcoma who have previously been heavily treated with chemotherapy can be safely administered 153Sm‐EDTMP with rapid hematologic recovery. The data from the current study support the development of a future trial to assess the efficacy of combining targeted radiotherapy with cytotoxic chemotherapy as a treatment option for patients with high‐risk osteosarcoma. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Periostin promotes a fibroblastic lineage pathway in atrioventricular valve progenitor cells
Authors: Norris Russell A. , Potts Jay D. , Yost Michael J. , Junor Lorain , Brooks Tim , Tan Hong , Hoffman Stanley , Hart Mary M. , Kern Michael J. , Damon Brooke , Markwald Roger R. , Goodwin Richard L.
Published: March 2009

Differentiation of prevalvular mesenchyme into valve fibroblasts is an integral step towards the development of functionally mature cardiac valves. Although clinically relevant, little is known regarding the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which this process proceeds. Genes that are regulated in a spatio‐temporal pattern during valve remodeling are candidates for affecting this differentiation process. Based on its expression pattern, we have focused our studies on the role of the matricellular gene, periostin, in regulating the differentiation of cushion mesenchymal cells into valve fibroblasts. Herein, we demonstrate that periostin expression is coincident with and regulates type I collagen protein production, a major component of mature valve tissue. Adenoviral‐mediated knock‐down of periostin in atrioventricular mesenchyme resulted in a decrease in collagen I protein expression and aberrant induction of myocyte markers indicating an alteration in AV mesenchyme differentiation. In vitro analyses using a novel “cardiotube” assay further demonstrated that expression of periostin regulates lineage commitment of valve precursor cells. In these cells, expression of periostin and collagen I are regulated, in part, by TGFβ‐3. We further demonstrate that TGFβ‐3, through a periostin/collagen pathway, enhances the viscoelastic properties of AV cushion tissue surface tension and plays a crucial role in regulating valve remodeling. Thus, data presented here demonstrate that periostin, a TGFβ‐3 responsive gene, functions as a crucial mediator of chick AV valve maturation via promoting mesenchymal‐to‐fibroblast differentiation while blocking differentiation of alternative cell types (myocytes). Developmental Dynamics 238:1052–1063, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression of WNT signalling pathway genes during chicken craniofacial development
Authors: Geetha‐Loganathan Poongodi , Nimmagadda Suresh , Antoni Laurent , Fu Katherine , Whiting Cheryl J. , Francis‐West Philippa , Richman Joy M.
Published: March 2009

A comprehensive expression analysis of WNT signalling pathway genes during several stages of chicken facial development was performed. Thirty genes were surveyed including: WNT1, 2B, 3A, 4, 5A, 5B, 6, 7A, 7B, 8B, 8C, 9A, 9B, 11, 11B, 16, CTNNB1, LEF1, FRZB1, DKK1, DKK2, FZD1‐8, FZD10. The strictly canonical WNTs (2B, 7A, 9B, and 16) in addition to WNT4 WNT6 (both canonical and non‐canonical) are epithelially expressed, whereas WNT5A, 5B, 11 are limited to the mesenchyme. WNT16 is limited to the invaginating nasal pit, respiratory epithelium, and lip fusion zone. Antagonists DKK1 and FRZB1 are expressed in the fusing primary palate but then are decreased at stage 28 when fusion is beginning. This suggests that canonical WNT signalling may be active during lip fusion. Mediators of canonical signalling, CTNNB1, LEF1, and the majority of the FZD genes are expressed ubiquitously. These data show that activation of the canonical WNT pathway is feasible in all regions of the face; however, the localization of ligands and antagonists confers specificity. Developmental Dynamics 238:1150–1165, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Xenopus pancreas development
Authors: Pearl Esther J. , Bilogan Cassandra K. , Mukhi Sandeep , Brown Donald D. , Horb Marko E.
Published: March 2009

Understanding how the pancreas develops is vital to finding new treatments for a range of pancreatic diseases, including diabetes and pancreatic cancer.Xenopusis a relatively new model organism for the elucidation of pancreas development, and has already made contributions to the field. Recent studies have shown benefits of usingXenopusfor understanding both early patterning and lineage specification aspects of pancreas organogenesis. This review focuses specifically onXenopuspancreas development, and covers events from the end of gastrulation, when regional specification of the endoderm is occurring, right through metamorphosis, when the mature pancreas is fully formed. We have attempted to cover pancreas development inXenopuscomprehensively enough to assist newcomers to the field and also to enable those studying pancreas development in other model organisms to better place the results fromXenopusresearch into the context of the field in general and their studies specifically. Developmental Dynamics 238:1271–1286, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis, Spectroscopic Properties and Electrochemical Oxidation of RuII‐Polypyridyl Complexes Attached to a Peptide Nucleic Acid Monomer Backbone
Authors: Nickita Nickita , Gasser Gilles , Bond Alan M. , Spiccia Leone
Published: March 2009

Monomeric peptide nucleic acid (PNA) derivatives incorporating [Ru(bpy)2(Mebpy‐PNA‐OH)](PF6)2 (M1) and [Ru(bpy)2(Mebpy‐(CH2)4‐PNA‐OH)](PF6)2 (M2), where bpy = 2,2′‐bipyridine, Mebpy‐PNA‐OH = 2‐[N‐(2‐{[(9H‐fluoren‐9‐yl)methoxy]carbonylamino}ethyl)‐4‐methyl‐2,2′‐bipyridin‐4′‐ylcarboxamido]acetic acid and Mebpy‐(CH2)4‐PNA‐OH = 2‐[(2‐{[(9H‐fluoren‐9‐yl)methoxy]carbonylamino}ethyl){[5‐(4‐methyl‐2,2′‐bipyridin‐4′‐ylcarboxamido)pentyl]carbonyl}amino]acetic acid, have been synthesised and characterised by IR and 1H NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and elemental analysis. [Ru(bpy)2(Mebpy‐(CH2)4‐COOH)](PF6)2 (4) where Mebpy‐(CH2)4‐COOH = (4‐methyl‐2,2′‐bipyridin‐4′‐yl)hexanoic acid, has been prepared as part of the multi‐step conversion of [Ru(bpy)2(Mebpy‐COOH)](PF6)2 (1) to M2, as have tert‐butyl ester precursors of M1 and M2, [Ru(bpy)2(Mebpy‐PNA‐OC(CH3)3)](PF6)2 (2) and [Ru(bpy)2(Mebpy‐(CH2)4‐PNA‐OC(CH3)3)](PF6)2 (5). 1H NMR spectroscopy showed that M1 and M2 are present as rotamers in a 3:1 and 3:2 ratio, respectively. The UV/Vis spectra of 1, 2, 4, 5, M1 and M2 display a MLCT band at 452–454 nm. The emission maximum of M1 in acetonitrile, detected on excitation at 450 nm, was slightly red‐shifted compared to the emission of M2 (622 nm), 1 (623 nm) and [Ru(bpy)3]2+ (615 nm). The RuII/RuIII redox centers in 2, 4 and 5 have E°f (reversible potentials) of +857 mV, +884 mV and +901 mV, respectively, vs. the Fc0/+ (Fc = ferrocene) couple as determined from voltammetric studies in CH3CN (0.1 M nBu4NPF6). Cleavage of the tert‐butyl groups in 2 and 5 forms M1 and M2 whose E°f values lie at +908 mV and +895 mV vs. Fc0/+ respectively, similar to those reported for 1 (+914 mV vs. Fc0/+) and [Ru(bpy)3]2+ (+888 mV vs. Fc0/+). A shift in the E°f of –57 mV was observed between 2 and M1, but little difference was detected 5 and M2, presumably due to the presence of a linker group in this latter case. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Micro‐reactor for transesterification of plant seed oils
Authors: Kaewkool Phattaraporn , Kittiratanapiboon Kanisa , Aryusuk Kornkanok , Krisnangkura Kanit
Published: March 2009

The fatty acid compositions of vegetable or other plant seed oils are generally determined by gas chromatography (GC). Methyl esters (the most volatile derivatives) are the preferred derivatives for GC analysis. Esters of higher alcohols are good for the separation of volatile and positional isomers. All the esters of the C1–C8 alcohols of vegetable oils were silmilarly prepared by passing the reaction mixture containing the desired alcohol, oil and tetrahydrofuran through the micro‐reactor (a 3‐mL dispossible syringe packed with 0.5 g of NaOH powder). The reaction products were acidified with acetic acid and the mixture was analyzed by high‐performance size exclusion chromatography and GC. Transesterification was quantitative for primary alcohols, but an appreciable amount of free fatty acids was formed for secondary alcohols. Coriander seed oil was quantitatively esterified with 2‐ethyl 1‐hexanol with the micro‐reactor in less than 1 min. Oleic and petroselinic acid 2‐ethyl 1‐hexyl esters are baseline separated on an Rtx‐2330 capillary column (30 m×0.25 mm, 0.25 µm film thickness).
Processed animal products with emphasis on polyunsaturated fatty acid content
Authors: Sampels Sabine , Strandvik Birgitta , Pickova Jana
Published: March 2009

The fat composition of processed fish and meat varies due to the source of the animal diet and to the fats used during processing. The aim of this study was to analyse the fatty acid profiles in some commonly available fish and meat fast foods. Variation between similar products from different brands indicated the use of different fat sources during processing. Especially in fish products, a high variation was found in the n‐6/n‐3 ratio, being up to more than 400‐fold higher than in plain fish, which might be of special concern in the evaluation of diet‐related health claims. Many products showed considerable differences compared to those included in the official database used for calculation of dietary intake. This leads to the conclusion that the fat sources used during processing of fast food should be reported and available to the consumers. Interdisciplinary dialogue between all sectors involved in food production, processing and health care is proposed to evaluate optimal development of fast foods with nutritionally favourable fat composition.
Effects of conjugated linolenic acid and conjugated linoleic acid on lipid metabolism in mice
Authors: Yuan Gaofeng , Sun Haiyan , Sinclair Andrew J. , Li Duo
Published: March 2009

The effects of two isomers of conjugated linolenic acid (CLnA), α‐eleostearic acid (α‐ESA) and punicic acid (PA), on body fat and lipid metabolism were investigated, compared with a conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) mixture (primarily cis9,trans11‐ and trans10,cis12‐18:2) and α‐linolenic acid (ALA), a non‐conjugated octadecatrienoic acid, in the present study. ICR mice were fed either a control diet or one of four experimental diets supplemented with 1% α‐ESA, 1% PA, 1% CLA mixture and 1% ALA in the form of triacylglycerols (TAG) for 6 weeks. The weights of perirenal and epididymal adipose tissues were significantly decreased while the liver weight was significantly increased in mice fed CLA, compared with the control. In contrast to CLA, the tissue weights in α—ESA‐, PA‐ and ALA‐fed mice were not affected. No significant differences were observed in TAG, total cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels among the five groups. The liver TAG level was significantly decreased in mice fed α‐ESA and PA while it was significantly increased in mice fed the CLA mixture. These results indicate that CLnA and CLA have differential effects on body fat mass and liver TAG levels in mice.
o‐Amine‐Assisted Cannizzaro Reaction of Glyoxal with New 2,6‐Diaminoanilines
Authors: Irie Yuhki , Koga Yuji , Matsumoto Taisuke , Matsubara Kouki
Published: March 2009

The preparation of several new o‐amine‐substituted anilines was achieved according to a new bifunctional molecular design, and their reactions with glyoxal were conducted. Cannizzaro reactions of glyoxal proceeded using specifically designed anilines, such as 2,6‐dipyrrolidinyl‐, 2,6‐dipiperidinyl‐, 2,6‐dimorpholinyl‐, and 2‐pyrrolidinyl‐aniline, which are new and can easily be synthesized by substitution of halogen‐substituted nitrobenzene with amines and subsequent reduction with hydrogen, to form α‐hydroxy acetamide and α‐amino acetamide derivatives, as a result of the Cannizzaro reaction. In comparison with the reaction of glyoxal with p‐pyrrolidinylaniline to form a common diimine product, the reaction with o‐pyrrolidinylaniline leads only to α‐hydroxy amides, strongly suggesting that the abnormal Cannizzaro reactions are attributed to the existence of basic nitrogen atoms at the o‐positions, which suppress diimine formation and assist the generation of acetamides.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Supramolecular Organization Based on van der Waals Forces: Syntheses and Solid State Structures of Isomeric [6.6]Cyclophanes with 2,5‐Diselenahex‐3‐yne Bridges
Authors: Lari Alberth , Gleiter Rolf , Rominger Frank
Published: March 2009

The ortho, meta, and para isomers 4–6 of [6.6]cyclophanes with 2,5‐diselenahex‐3‐yne bridges were synthesized by reacting the bis(selenocyanatomethyl)benzene derivatives 8a–8c with the lithium salt of trimethylsilylethyne to yield 9a–9c, deprotection of which afforded the bis(ethynylselenylmethyl)benzenes 10a–10c. The condensation of the bis‐lithium salts of 10a–10c with 8a–8c yielded the target compounds 4–6. X‐ray investigations on single crystals of 4–6 revealed intermolecular Se···Se interactions which contribute significantly to the solid‐state structures of these species. In the case of the orthocyclophane 4, we found short distances between one Se–C≡C–Se unit of each molecule leading to a linear chain of orthocyclophane rings. In the metacyclophane, 5, the rings adopt a chair conformation and are piled on top of each other. The resulting molecular channels are connected with each other by intermolecular Se···Se interactions. For 6 also a chair conformation of the [6.6]paracyclophane unit was encountered. In the solid state the rings of 6 are connected by intermolecular Se···Se bridges.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Streambank dewatering for increased stability
Authors: Shields F. Douglas , Simon Andrew , Dabney Seth M.
Published: March 2009

Streambank erosion is often the dominant source of sediment leaving modified watersheds. Mass failure of high, steep banks is one of the most serious forms of streambank erosion. The risk of a given bank experiencing mass failure is a function of bank height, angle, and soil strength, which is governed by soil moisture. Two methods for bank dewatering were tested in adjacent sections of streambank bordering a deeply incised channel in northern Mississippi: a low‐cost pump system and subsurface horizontal drains. Pore water pressures (both positive and negative pressures, or matric suction) were continuously monitored for 2 years at the pumped site, at an adjacent untreated control section, and for 1 year at the site stabilized with horizontal drains. Resulting data were used to calculate a time series of the factor of safety using a computer model. Over the course of two wet seasons, average bank retreats for the control and pumped plots were 0·43 and 0·21 m, respectively. More limited monitoring revealed that the site with passive drains retreated about 0·23 m. At the pumped site pore water pressure was 3–4 kPa lower than at the control site during the most critical periods. Accordingly, computed factors of safety were above the failure threshold at the pumped site, but fell below unity at the control site on 11 occasions over the period of observation. Similarly, the drained site displayed generally lower pore water pressure and higher safety factors except for two events when drains were evidently overwhelmed with the volume of local surface and subsurface flows. These results suggest, but do not prove, that bank dewatering promoted lower rates of bank retreat and higher levels of stability since the three sites had slight differences in soils, geometry and boundary conditions. Initial cost of the dewatering treatments were significantly less than orthodox bank stabilization measures, but operation and maintenance requirements may be greater. Published in 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the existence of (3,λ)‐semiframes of type 3u
Authors: Cao H.
Published: March 2009

A (k,λ)‐semiframe of type gu is a (k,λ)‐group‐divisible design of type gu (𝒳, 𝒢, ℬ︁), in which the collection of blocks ℬ︁ can be written as a disjoint union ℬ︁=𝒫∪ℒ︁ where ℒ︁ is partitioned into parallel classes of 𝒳 and 𝒫 is partitioned into holey parallel classes, each holey parallel class being a partition of 𝒳\Gj for some Gj∈𝒢. In this paper, we shall prove that the necessary conditions for (3,λ)‐semiframes of type 3u are also sufficient with one exception. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Combin Designs 17: 253–265, 2009
A joint FTIR, FT‐Raman and scaled quantum mechanical study of 1,3‐dibromo‐2,4,5,6‐tetra‐fluoro benzene (DTB) and 1,2,3,4,5‐pentafluoro benzene (PB)
Authors: Krishnakumar V. , Mathammal R.
Published: March 2009

The liquid phase FTIR and FT‐Raman spectra of 1,3‐dibromo‐2,4,5,6‐tetrafluoro benzene (DTB) and 1,2,3,4,5‐pentafluoro benzene (PB) were recorded in the regions 4000–400 cm−1 and 4000–50 cm−1, respectively. The spectra were interpreted with the aid of normal coordinate analysis following full structure opti1mization and force field calculations based on the density functional theory using the standard B3LYP/6‐31G* method and basis set combination. The scaled force field reproduced the experimental wavenumbers of the molecule for DTFB and PFB, respectively. The effects of halogen substituents on the structure and vibrational wavenumbers have been investigated. Assignments of fundamental modes were made based on the comparison between calculated and experimental results. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of soil‐protecting agricultural practices on soil organic carbon and productivity in fruit tree orchards
Authors: Montanaro G. , Celano G. , Dichio B. , Xiloyannis C.
Published: March 2009

This 4‐year on‐farm study reports the effects of different agricultural practices on yield and soil organic carbon (SOC) in kiwifruit and apricot orchards grown in a Mediterranean area. Groups of plants under local orchard management (LOM,§

Correction made here after initial publication.

) practices (i.e. soil tillage, removing of pruning residues and mineral fertilisers) were compared with plots under soil‐protecting orchard management (SPOM) actions (i.e. cover crop, no‐tillage, compost application and mulching of pruning residues). In the SPOM blocks fertilisation rate was based on plant demand and irrigation volumes calculated on the evapotranspiration values, while they were empirically calculated in the LOM plots. Results show that yield was 28–50 per cent enhanced by SPOM practices while SOC remained close to the initial values. In comparison with LOM plots, changed practices increased up to 28–90 per cent the amount of P and K, and 13 per cent that of N annually incorporated into soil increasing their reservoir in the soil. The study demonstrates that appropriate land management can increase the mean annual carbon soil inputs from about 1·5 to 9·0 t ha−1 per year. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proteomic identification of differentially expressed plasma membrane proteins in renal cell carcinoma by stable isotope labelling of a von Hippel‐Lindau transfectant cell line model
Authors: Aggelis Vassilis , Craven Rachel A. , Peng Jianhe , Harnden Patricia , Cairns David A. , Maher Eamonn R. , Tonge Robert , Selby Peter J. , Banks Rosamonde E.
Published: March 2009

The von Hippel‐Lindau (VHL) tumour suppressor gene plays a central role in development of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Using a cell line pair generated from the VHL‐defective RCC cell line UMRC2 by transfection with vector control or VHL (−/+VHL) and stable isotope labelling with amino acids in cell culture (SILAC) followed by enrichment of plasma membrane proteins by cell surface biotinylation/avidin‐affinity chromatography and analysis by GeLC‐MS/MS, VHL‐associated changes in plasma membrane proteins were analysed. Comparative analysis of ‐/+VHL cells identified 19 differentially expressed proteins which were confirmed by reciprocal SILAC labelling. These included several proteins previously reported to be VHL targets, such as transferrin receptor 1 and the α3 and β1 integrin subunits and novel findings including upregulation of CD166 and CD147 in VHL‐defective cells. Western blotting confirmed these changes and also revealed VHL‐dependent alterations in protein form for CD147 and CD166, which in the case of CD166 was shown to be due to differential glycosylation. Analysis of patient‐matched normal and malignant renal tissues confirmed these differences were also present in vivo in a subset of clear cell RCCs. These results illustrate the potential of this approach for identifying VHL‐dependent proteins that may be important in tumorigenesis.
Proteomic analysis of human papillomavirus‐related oral squamous cell carcinoma: Identification of thioredoxin and epidermal‐fatty acid binding protein as upregulated protein markers in microdissected tumor tissue
Authors: Melle Christian , Ernst Günther , Winkler Robert , Schimmel Bettina , Klussmann Jens Peter , Wittekindt Claus , Guntinas‐Lichius Orlando , von Eggeling Ferdinand
Published: March 2009

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has been identified as an etiologic agent for a subset of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) with increasing incidence. HPV DNA‐positivity may confer better prognosis but the related oncogenic mechanisms are unknown. For the identification of HPV relevant proteins, we analyzed microdissected cells from HPV DNA‐positive (n = 17) and HPV DNA‐negative (n = 7) OSCC tissue samples. We identified 18 proteins from tumor tissues by peptide fingerprint mapping and SELDI MS that were separated using 2‐DE. Among a number of signals that were detected as significantly different in the protein profiling analysis, we identified thioredoxin (TRX) and epidermal‐fatty acid binding protein as upregulated in HPV related tumor tissue. This study, investigating for the first time proteomic changes in microdissected HPV infected tumor tissue, provides an indication on the oncogenic potential of viruses.
Template‐free protein structure prediction and quality assessment with an all‐atom free‐energy model
Authors: Gopal Srinivasa Murthy , Klenin Konstantin , Wenzel Wolfgang
Published: March 2009

Biophysical forcefields have contributed less than originally anticipated to recent progress in protein structure prediction. Here, we have investigated the selectivity of a recently developed all‐atom free‐energy forcefield for protein structure prediction and quality assessment (QA). Using a heuristic method, but excluding homology, we generated decoy‐sets for all targets of the CASP7 protein structure prediction assessment with <150 amino acids. The decoys in each set were then ranked by energy in short relaxation simulations and the best low‐energy cluster was submitted as a prediction. For four of nine template‐free targets, this approach generated high‐ranking predictions within the top 10 models submitted in CASP7 for the respective targets. For these targets, our de‐novo predictions had an average GDT_S score of 42.81, significantly above the average of all groups. The refinement protocol has difficulty for oligomeric targets and when no near‐native decoys are generated in the decoy library. For targets with high‐quality decoy sets the refinement approach was highly selective. Motivated by this observation, we rescored all server submissions up to 200 amino acids using a similar refinement protocol, but using no clustering, in a QA exercise. We found an excellent correlation between the best server models and those with the lowest energy in the forcefield. The free‐energy refinement protocol may thus be an efficient tool for relative QA and protein structure prediction. Proteins 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.