bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A brainlike learning system with supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning
Authors: Sasakawa Takafumi , Hu Jinglu , Hirasawa Kotaro
Published: September 2007

According to Hebb'scell assembly theory, the brain has the capability of function localization. On the other hand, it is suggested that in the brain there are three different learning paradigms: supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning, which are related deeply to the three parts of brain: cerebellum, cerebral cortex, and basal ganglia, respectively. Inspired by the above knowledge of the brain in this paper we present a brainlike learning system consisting of three parts: supervised learning (SL) part, unsupervised learning (UL) part, and reinforcement learning (RL) part. The SL part is a main part learning input–output mapping; the UL part is a competitive network dividing input space into subspaces and realizes the capability of function localization by controlling firing strength of neurons in the SL part based on input patterns; the RL part is a reinforcement learning scheme, which optimizes system performance by adjusting the parameters in the UL part. Numerical simulations have been carried out and the simulation results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed brainlike learning system. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 162(1): 32–39, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20600
The presence of MOMA‐2+ macrophages in the outer B cell zone and protection of the splenic micro‐architecture from LPS‐induced destruction depend on secreted IgM
Authors: Fischer Michael B. , Rüger Beate , Vaculik Christine , Becherer Alexander , Wadsak Wolfgang , Yanagida Genya , Losert Udo M. , Chen Jianzhu , Carroll Michael C. , Eibl Martha M.
Published: September 2007

The role secretory IgM has in protecting splenic tissue from LPS‐induced damage was assessed in mice incapable of secreting IgM but able to express surface IgM and IgD. Within seconds after LPS challenge, 99% of the 131I‐labeled LPS was found in the liver and the spleen of both sIgM‐deficient and wild‐type mice. In the spleen FITC‐labeled LPS was found on the surface of 2F8+ scavenger receptor macrophages localized in the outer marginal zone, while none of the labeled LPS could be detected on marginal zone ER‐TR9+ and MOMA‐1+ macrophages. An additional population of macrophages, MOMA‐2+, were capable of producing C3 locally in the T and B cell zone after LPS challenge. Local C3 production was regulated, as no C3 was found in splenic tissue of unchallenged mice. Interestingly, in the absence of circulating and locally produced secretory IgM, MOMA‐2+ macrophages of the T and B cell zone failed to establish an additional ring of C3‐producing macrophages in the outer B cell zone close to the marginal zone upon LPS challenge. The consequence was a massive destruction of the microarchitecture of the spleen where marginal zones disorganized, lymphoid follicles and T cell zones disrupted and follicular DC (FDC) networks disappeared.
Synergistic activation of interferon‐β gene transcription by the viral FLICE inhibitory protein of Kaposi's sarcoma‐associated herpesvirus and type I IFN activators
Authors: Cloutier Nathalie , Grandvaux Nathalie , Flamand Louis
Published: September 2007

Expression of Kaposi's sarcoma‐associated herpesvirus v‐FLIP leads to the spindle‐shape morphology of endothelial cells and is essential for the survival of primary effusion lymphoma cells. Activation of the NF‐κB transcription factor by v‐FLIP is responsible for these effects. Considering that the interferon‐β (ifn‐β) gene is regulated partly through NF‐κB, we sought to determine whether v‐FLIP would activate the expression of the ifn‐β gene. Our results indicate that when v‐FLIP is expressed by itself it has no effect on ifn‐β gene activation but when it is combined with known IFN‐β inducers, a synergistic activation of the ifn‐β gene occurs. This effect is strictly dependent on NF‐κB and is mediated through the positive regulatory domain II of the IFN‐β promoter. Furthermore, we report that protection from Fas‐induced cell‐death by v‐FLIP is observed whether or not the type I IFN signaling pathway is activated. Our work therefore contributes to increase our knowledge on v‐FLIP, highlighting the complex immunomodulatory properties of this anti‐apoptotic viral protein.
IL‐23 and the Th17 pathway promote inflammation and impair antifungal immune resistance
Authors: Zelante Teresa , De Luca Antonella , Bonifazi Pierluigi , Montagnoli Claudia , Bozza Silvia , Moretti Silvia , Belladonna Maria L. , Vacca Carmine , Conte Carmela , Mosci Paolo , Bistoni Francesco , Puccetti Paolo , Kastelein Robert A. , Kopf Manfred , Romani Luigina
Published: September 2007

Although inflammation is an essential component of the protective response to fungi, its dysregulation may significantly worsen fungal diseases. We found here that the IL‐23/IL‐17 developmental pathway acted as a negative regulator of the Th1‐mediated immune resistance to fungi and played an inflammatory role previously attributed to uncontrolled Th1 cell responses. Both inflammation and infection were exacerbated by a heightened Th17 response against Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus, two major human fungal pathogens. IL‐23 acted as a molecular connection between uncontrolled fungal growth and inflammation, being produced by dendritic cells in response to a high fungal burden and counter‐regulating IL‐12p70 production. Both IL‐23 and IL‐17 subverted the inflammatory program of neutrophils, which resulted in severe tissue inflammatory pathology associated with infection. Our data are the first demonstrating that the IL‐23/IL‐17 pathway promotes inflammation and susceptibility in an infectious disease model. As IL‐23‐driven inflammation promotes infection and impairs antifungal resistance, modulation of the inflammatory response represents a potential strategy to stimulate protective immune responses to fungi.

See accompanying commentary: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/eji.200737804
IL‐23 and IL‐17 have a multi‐faceted largely negative role in fungal infection
Authors: Cooper Andrea M.
Published: September 2007

The role of IL‐23 and IL‐17 in the response to fungal infection has been the focus of recent reports. In this issue of the European Journal of Immunology there is an article that reports an important role for IL‐23 and IL‐17 in limiting fungal control, promoting neutrophillic inflammation and regulating the killing activity of neutrophils. In the fungal model it appears that IL‐23 and IL‐17 are counter‐productive for protection.

See accompanying article: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/eji200737409
Preparation of 3,3‐Di‐tert‐butylthiirane trans‐1,2‐Dioxide and Its Reaction with a Platinum(0) Complex To Give a (Disulfenato)platinum(II) Complex: Regioselectivity of the Oxidation of a Related (Sulfenato–thiolato)platinum(II) Complex
Authors: Ishii Akihiko , Ohishi Masayuki , Nakata Norio
Published: September 2007

A three‐membered vic‐disulfoxide, 3,3‐di‐tert‐butyldithiirane trans‐1,2‐dioxide (8), was synthesized by oxidation of the corresponding dithiirane 1‐oxide 15 in high yield. Treatment of 8 and 15 with a platinum(0) complex, [(Ph3P)2Pt(η2‐C2H4)], yielded the (disulfenato)PtII complex 18 and the (sulfenato–thiolato)PtII complex 14, respectively, in high yields. Oxidation of the sulfenato–thiolato complex 14 with an acetone solution of dimethyldioxirane (DMD) took place at the sulfenato sulfur atom to yield the (sulfinato–thiolato)PtII complex 19, while the oxidation with CF3CO3H occurred at the thiolato‐sulfur atom leading to the disulfenato complex 18. Oxidation of 14 with MCPBA formed both 18 and 19. The position of oxidation on 14 with DMD was dependent on the acidity of a coexisting acid. Thus, oxidation of 14 with DMD/CF3CO2H provided 18 and that with DMD/PhCO2H gave 19. Oxidation of 14 with an excess amount of DMD yielded the (disulfonato)PtII complex 20.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Sequential Injection Lab‐on‐Valve Procedure for the Determination of Amantadine Using Potentiometric Methods
Authors: Amorim C. G. , Araújo A. N. , Montenegro M. C. B. S. M. , Silva V. L.
Published: September 2007

Amantadine potentiometric detectors were developed, evaluated and incorporated in a SIA‐LOV manifold in order to accomplish the control of pharmaceutical formulations and urine. The electrodes incorporate α‐cyclodextrin as ionophore, dibutyl phthalate or 2‐fluorophenyl 2‐nitrophenyl ether as plasticizers and potassium tetrakis[3,5‐bis‐(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]borate (KTFPB) as cationic additive. The slope increased from 61.2 to 63.8 mV decade−1 and the practical limit of detection from 2.6×10−6 mol L−1 to 2.5×10−5 mol L−1 when the plasticizer was changed from 2‐fluorophenyl 2‐nitrophenyl ether to dibutyl phthalate. When incorporated in the flow‐manifold the membranes composed by dibutyl phthalate or with 2‐fluorophenyl 2‐nitrophenyl ether presented slopes and a practical limit of detection of 69.8 mV decade−1 and 1.5×10−4 mol L−1 or 73.7 mV decade−1 and 5.4×10−5 mol L−1, respectively. The electrode presented stable responses for over a year, and were highly selective concerning the representative species of the two sample matrices assayed as interferents. Comparison of obtained results with those provided by reference methods and recovery assays, revealed adequate accuracy for control assays.
Response of the Iron Chalcogenide Glass Membrane Ion‐Selective Electrode in a Seawater Ligand Mimetic Calibration Buffer
Authors: De Marco Roland , Martizano Jay
Published: September 2007

As a continuation of recent mechanistic studies into the influence of seawater ligands on the surface chemistry of the iron chalcogenide glass membrane ion‐selective electrode (ISE), the present study has investigated the response of the iron(III) ISE in a seawater ligand mimetic system to examine its suitability as a calibration medium for the electroanalysis of raw or natural seawater. Significantly, dip method calibrations of the ISE in a mixture of salicylate, ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA), ethylene diamine and minor amounts of dissolved iron(III) and copper(II) yielded the expected Nernstian response of 30 mV/decade according to the known ion‐exchange/electron transfer response mechanism of this ISE. Furthermore, ideal Nernstian response of the electrode is also obtained in a continuous flow analysis (CFA) mode, noting that this provides scope for using a hydrodynamic flow regime to minimize the electrode release of iron and the concomitant detection limit of the ISE. Ultimately, repetitive CFA analyses of free iron(III) in raw or natural seawater yielded a free iron(III) level commensurate with the expected inorganic and organic speciation of iron(III) in seawater.
Aeolian fetch distance and secondary airflow effects: the influence of micro‐scale variables on meso‐scale foredune development
Authors: Lynch Kevin , Jackson Derek W. T. , Cooper J. Andrew G.
Published: September 2007

Unsuccessful attempts to use process‐scale models to predict long‐term aeolian sediment transport patterns have long been a feature of aeolian research. It has been proposed that one approach to overcome these problems is to identify micro‐scale variables that are important at longer timescales. This paper assesses the contribution of two system variables (secondary airflow patterns and fetch distance) to medium‐term (months to years) dune development. The micro‐scale importance of these variables had been established during previous work at the site (Magilligan Strand, Northern Ireland). Three methods were employed. First, sand drift potentials were calculated using 2 years of regional wind data and a sediment transport model. Second, wind data and large trench traps (2 m length × 1 m width × 1·5 m depth) were used to assess the actual sediment transport patterns over a 2‐month period. Third, a remote‐sensing technique for the identification of fetch distance, a saltation impact sensor (Safire) and wind data were utilized to gauge, qualitatively, sediment transport patterns over a 1‐month period. Secondary airflow effects were found to play a major role in the sediment flux patterns at these timescales, with measured and predicted rates matching closely during the trench trap study. The results suggest that fetch distance is an unimportant variable at this site. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A 2‐year follow‐up of 233 very mild (CDR 0.5) Alzheimer's disease patients (REAL.FR cohort)
Authors: Nourhashémi Fati , Ousset Pierre Jean , Gillette‐Guyonnet Sophie , Cantet Christelle , Andrieu Sandrine , Vellas Bruno
Published: September 2007

Objectives

Making an early diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is becoming increasingly important. The Clinical Dementia Rating scale (CDR), a semi‐structured interview with patient and caregiver, is a global rating scale designed for use in staging dementia. The primary objective of our study was to examine the evolution of AD in individuals with very mild AD (CDR 0.5) across a 2‐year follow up.

Methods

A cohort of AD patients (n = 682) living in the community were followed during 2 years in 16 centres of the French AD network. Each subject underwent extensive medical examination including the MMSE and CDR every 6 months.

Results

Two hundred and thirty‐three AD patients were rated CDR 0.5 at baseline (mean MMSE score: 23.15 ± 2.57). They were younger and reported an average duration of symptoms of approximately 0.8 years less than patients with CDR ≥ 1.

During the 2‐year follow‐up, none of the AD CDR 0.5 subjects improved; 65% of them showed an increase in the CDR score. The rate of cognitive decline was similar between the AD CDR 0.5 and CDR ≥ 1 groups. The ADL decline was more significant in patients with CDR ≥ 1 at inclusion.

Conclusions

It is certainly possible to identify AD at a very early stage focusing on intra individual change in cognitive and functional impairment. Criteria with a high sensitivity and specificity for detecting AD at an early stage will help to further develop effective pharmacological and behavioural interventions for delaying the onset and progression of the disease. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Endodermal sinus tumor of the paranasal sinuses
Authors: Mishra Anupam , El‐Naggar Adel K. , DeMonte Franco , Hanna Ehab Y.
Published: September 2007

Background.

We report a rare case of endodermal sinus tumor (EST) of the paranasal sinus in a 59‐year‐old man with a 6‐week history of nasal obstruction.

Methods and Results.

High‐resolution MRI showed a right nasoethmoid mass with obstructive changes in the sphenoid, frontal, and right maxillary sinuses and orbital and intracranial extension. Histologic analysis showed 2 distinct histologic features: poorly differentiated carcinoma and EST. Immunohistochemical studies showed strong keratin staining in both components and restricted positivity of α‐fetoprotein in the endodermal sinus‐like component. The patient underwent 3 cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy consisting of ifosfamide, paclitaxel, and cisplatin, which resulted in significant regression of the tumor, but after the fourth cycle, the mass showed a slight increase in size. The tumor was excised with clear margins through an anterior craniofacial approach to the skull base. Histologic examination of the resected specimen showed extensive fibrosis with residual areas of viable tumor composed mainly of the poorly differentiated component with only residual microscopic foci of EST. Adjuvant postoperative intensity‐modulated radiation therapy was administered. At 1‐year follow‐up, the patient was tumor free, with normal α‐fetoprotein levels.

Conclusion.

Because of the rarity of this entity, no standardized treatment protocol has been defined. The involvement of the anterior skull base in our case necessitated a radical craniofacial resection, despite a partial response to chemotherapy. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008
Recent changes in the treatment of patients with advanced laryngeal cancer
Authors: Genden Eric M. , Ferlito Alfio , Rinaldo Alessandra , Silver Carl E. , Fagan Johannes J. , Suárez Carlos , Langendijk Johannes A. , Lefebvre Jean Louis , Bradley Patrick J. , Leemans C. René , Chen Amy Y. , Jose Jemy , Wolf Gregory T.
Published: September 2007

Since the original data from the Department of Veterans Affairs Laryngeal Cancer Study Group demonstrated that nonsurgical therapy could achieve survival rates comparable to total laryngectomy in selected cases, there has been a progressive increase in employment of nonsurgical therapy for the management of advanced laryngeal cancer. Both neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by conventionally fractionated or hyperfractioned radiotherapy for chemotherapy responders, or simultaneously administered chemoradiation has resulted in a significant number of patients who achieved cure while preserving their larynges. Nevertheless, combined chemotherapy and external beam radiation is associated with a variety of acute and chronic sequelae that can have a debilitating impact on function and quality of life. Although no therapeutic option is without risk, the decision regarding the modality of therapy for a patient with advanced laryngeal cancer should prompt a careful review of the current surgical techniques available for treatment. Data on quality of life and aging, as well as advances in minimally invasive surgical techniques, are available today that were not available at the time of the Veterans study. Selection of optimal therapy is often complex and raises the question whether the pendulum may have swung too far in the direction of nonsurgical therapy for advanced laryngeal cancer. This article reviews the current options available for a patient with advanced laryngeal cancer and discusses the impact of therapy. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008
Preparation and surface characterization of HMDI‐activated 316L stainless steel for coronary artery stents
Authors: Chuang T.‐W. , Chen M.‐H. , Lin F.‐H.
Published: September 2007

Poor compatibility between blood and metallic coronary artery stents is one reason for arterial restenosis. Immobilization of anticoagulant agents on the stent's surface is feasible for improving compatibility. We examined possible surface‐coupling agents for anticoagulant agent immobilization. Hexamethylene diisocyanate (HMDI) and 3‐aminopropyl‐triethoxysilane (APTS) were examined as surface‐coupling agents to activate 316L stainless steel (e.g., stent material). The activated surface was characterized using Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), atomic force microscope (AFM), surface plasmon resonance (SPR), and trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) assay. In FTIR analysis, HMDI and APTS were both covalently linked to 316L stainless steel. In AFM analysis, it was found that the HMDI‐activated surface was smoother than the APTS‐activated one. In SPR test, the shift of SPR angle for the APTS‐activated surface was much higher than that for the HMDI‐activated surface after being challenged with acidic solution. TNBS assay was used to determine the amount of immobilized primary amine groups. The HMDI‐activated surface was found to consist of about 1.32 μmol/cm2 amine group, whereas the APTS‐activated surface consisted of only 0.89 μmol/cm2 amine group. We conclude that the HMDI‐activated surface has more desirable surface characteristics than the APTS‐activated surface has, such as chemical stability and the amount of active amine groups. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2008
Separation of hematopoietic stem cells from human peripheral blood through modified polyurethane foaming membranes
Authors: Higuchi Akon , Sekiya Mayu , Gomei Yumiko , Sakurai Masaru , Chen Wen‐Yih , Egashira Satsuki , Matsuoka Yuki
Published: September 2007

Cell separation from peripheral blood was investigated using polyurethane (PU) foam membranes having 5.2 μm pore size and coated with Pluronic F127 or hyaluronic acid. The permeation ratio of hematopoietic stem cells (CD34+ cells) and lymphocytes through the membranes was lower than for red blood cells and platelets. Adhered cells were detached from membrane surfaces using human serum albumin (HSA) solution after permeation of blood through the membranes, allowing isolation of CD34+ cells in the permeate (recovery) solution. High‐yield isolation of CD34+ cells was achieved using Pluronic‐coated membranes. This was because the Pluronic coating dissolved into the recovery solution at 4°C, releasing adhered cells from the surfaces of the membranes during permeation of HSA solution through these membranes. Dextran and/or bovine serum albumin solutions were also evaluated for use as recovery solutions after blood permeation. A high recovery ratio of CD34+ cells was achieved at 4°C in a process using 20% dextran solution through PU membranes having carboxylic acid groups. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2008
Collagen‐based matrices with axially oriented pores
Authors: Madaghiele Marta , Sannino Alessandro , Yannas Ioannis V. , Spector Myron
Published: September 2007

The aim of this work was the implementation of a simple technique for the production of cylindrical collagen‐based scaffolds with axially oriented pore channels. Matrices with this particular porous structure have the potential to improve the regeneration of peripheral nerves and spinal cord by physically supporting and guiding the growth of neural structures across the site of injury. The regenerative potential may be further enhanced when the collagen scaffold is used as a delivery vehicle for exogenous cells and growth factors. The scaffold manufacturing technique described here is based on unidirectional freezing of a collagen suspension and subsequent freeze‐drying, which produces nearly axially oriented pores. The mean pore size is dependent on both the concentration of collagen in suspension and the temperature of freezing. Environmental scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy were used to assess qualitatively and quantitatively the pore size and the pore orientation. In particular the definition of an orientation index (OI) was employed as a means to quantify the orientation of the pore channels inside the scaffolds. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2008
Synthesis, characterization, and antibacterial activities of a novel nanohydroxyapatite/zinc oxide complex
Authors: Zhou Gang , Li Yubao , Xiao Wei , Zhang Li , Zuo Yi , Xue Jing , Jansen John A.
Published: September 2007

Nanohydroxyapatite (n‐HA)/zinc oxide (ZnO) complex was synthesized by a direct precipitation method, and the antibacterial capability and antibacterial mechanism of this complex were investigated in this article. Transmission electron microscope (TEM), Fourier transform infrared, X‐ray photoelectronic spectroscopy (XPS), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) were used to analyze the materials. In addition, the antibacterial capacity of n‐HA/ZnO complex was examined by bacteriolytic plate, inhibition effect, and antibacterial rate assays under light or without light. Furthermore, agarose gel electrophoresis of plasmid DNA (pUC18) was used to study biocidal action of this complex. The results of TEM observation revealed that the complex's rods had a single crystalline obelisk‐like hexagonal wurtzite structure and the crystal retained the nanometer size. XRD analysis indicated that the phase of ZnO appeared and the lattice parameters of n‐HA and ZnO changed. XPS spectra showed that the bonding energy of Ca, P, and O atoms changed in the complex. The analyses also showed that the two phases of ZnO and n‐HA combined closely. Further, the results of the antibacterial test revealed that this complex possessed strong antibacterial capability; the antibacterial rate was 99.45% to S. aureus and 95.65% to E. coli under light, respectively. The antibacterial activity of this complex under light was better than without light, which was attributed to the generation of ·OH under light. From the agarose gel electrophoresis, the dissolving solution of this complex could catalyze the cleavage of pUC18. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2008
Tailoring of multilayered core‐shell nanostructure for multicomponent administration and controllable release of biologically active ions
Authors: Gou Zhongru , Weng Wenjian , Du Piyi , Han Gaorong , Yan Weiqi
Published: September 2007

The biomaterials that can control the active ions delivery to enhance cell activity are regarded as promising bone regenerative materials. In this study, a new approach aiming to layer‐by‐layer (LbL) assemble the bioavailable zinc ions in the core‐shell‐like silica@octacalcium phosphate (OCP) nanosphere and to analyze its efficacy on improving controlled‐release was reported. Firstly, a pH‐responsive electrostatic interaction was used to adsorb zinc ions on silica nanospheres with different zinc concentration, which was followed by coating silica gel layer. Then the nanospheres were LbL assembled with zinc ions and silica gel alternately until the desired multilayered nanospheres were achieved. Finally, the porous OCP shells were capped onto the outside surface of the nanospheres tailored by poly(aspartic acid) sodium molecules. The ion release tests in Tris buffers in vitro indicated that zinc release was controlled by pH and storage capacity, and silicon release was regulated by the OCP shell barrier. A temporal gradient within short times and sustained‐dosage for a prolonged time toward the zinc and silicon ions could be obtained in this multilayer system. The results of this organized active ion assembly might open a promising future direction for effective delivery of trace elements in bone defect therapy. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2008
Public–private partnerships in developing countries: are infrastructures responding to the new ODA strategy?
Authors: Pessoa Argentino
Published: September 2007

The developing world needs far more financing for infrastructure than can be provided by domestic public finances alone and through Official Development Aid (ODA). Around middle 1980s a new strategy based on the use of public–private agreements, relying on ODA to enhance the quality of projects, reduce risks and raise profitability was gradually implemented for the provision of infrastructures and public utilities. This paper evaluates the more typical forms of private sector involvement (PSI) and its actual importance (by type of public utility and by region) and shows that the new strategy has failed in improving the provision of infrastructures in the developing world. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gas‐phase electrophilic addition promoted by CH3S+ CH2 ions on aromatic systems
Authors: Fileti Eudes E. , Moraes Patrícia R. P. , Domingues Leonardo , Riveros José M.
Published: September 2007

The gas‐phase methylenation reaction between CH3S+CH2 and alkylbenzenes, aniline, phenol and alkyl phenyl ethers, which yields [M + CH]+ and CH3SH, has been studied by Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FT‐ICR) techniques and computational chemistry at the DFT level. The methylthiomethyl cation is less reactive than methoxymethyl and, unlike the latter, is unreactive toward benzene. The calculations suggest that reaction with toluene should proceed primarily by addition at the para and ortho positions resulting in a benzyl‐type ion. Reaction with aniline‐2,3,4,5,6‐d5 reveals that elimination of CH3SD is kinetically favored by a factor of 5 over elimination of CH3SH. Experiments with C6H6ND2 and theoretical calculations suggest that methylenation at the nitrogen atom is energetically favorable and likely, but the observed results may reflect some H/D scrambling, which occurs after attack at a ring position. By comparison, reaction with phenol‐2,3,4,5,6‐d5 reveals that methylenation followed by elimination of CH3SD is kinetically favored by a factor of 3.8 over elimination of CH3SH. For phenol, the theoretical calculations suggest that attack by CH3S+CH2 at the para or ortho position is the only low‐energy pathway for methylenation. However, a low‐energy pathway for hydrogen scrambling is predicted by the calculations originating from the exit complex, [CH3SH··· CH2C6H4OH]+, of reaction at a ring position. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spiroiminodihydantoin nucleoside formation from 2′‐deoxyguanosine oxidation by [18O‐labeled] singlet molecular oxygen in aqueous solution
Authors: Martinez Glaucia Regina , Ravanat Jean‐Luc , Cadet Jean , de Medeiros Marisa Helena Gennari , Di Mascio Paolo
Published: September 2007

The main singlet molecular oxygen (1O2) oxidation products of free 2′‐deoxyguanosine (dGuo) in aqueous solution were identified as a pair of diastereomeric spiroiminodihydantoin 2′‐deoxyribonucleosides (dSp) together with 8‐oxo‐7,8‐dihydro‐2′‐deoxyguanosine (8‐oxodGuo). In the present work, evidence is provided from 18[1O2] and H218O labeling experiments, using HPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS, that the formation of dSp is explained by the addition of water to a reactive quinonoid intermediate, and a second reaction pathway leading to dSp involves 1O2 oxidation of initially generated 8‐oxodGuo. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of GCM bias on downscaled precipitation and runoff projections for the Serpentine catchment, Western Australia
Authors: Charles S. P. , Bari M. A. , Kitsios A. , Bates B. C.
Published: September 2007

An investigation has been undertaken to quantify the uncertainty in statistically downscaled catchment precipitation and runoff projections due to different climate models. A significant component of the investigation was the assessment of climate model reproduction of the seasonal (i.e. monthly) cycle of the atmospheric predictors used by a statistical downscaling model. Four climate model simulations forced by the SRES A2 emission scenario were used: the CSIRO Mk3 GCM, the CSIRO Conformal‐Cubic Atmospheric Model (CCAM, run at high spatial resolution over Australia with far‐field forcing from the Mk3 GCM), the Hadley Centre HadAM3P GCM and the Max Planck Institute ECHAM4 GCM.

The non‐homogeneous hidden Markov model (NHMM), a stochastic downscaling model, was used to quantify the impacts of the projected climate change on multi‐site, daily precipitation. A catchment water balance model (LUCICAT), calibrated under existing conditions, was driven by the downscaled precipitation to produce runoff projections. Land use and potential evaporation (evapotranspiration potential) were kept fixed for the future climate in order to assess the catchment response to differences in the downscaled precipitation series.

Biases in climate model reproduction of the season cycles of the atmospheric predictors used in downscaling are shown to have significant impacts on simulated precipitation, and hence runoff. The downscaled CCAM and Mk3 results project reductions in annual precipitation ranging from 12 to 14% by mid century (2035–2064), resulting in a decline in runoff ranging from 30 to 44%. Downscaling the HadAM3P output, available at the daily time step only for the period 2070–2099, produces a precipitation decline of 24% and a runoff reduction of 69%. The ECHAM4 downscaled precipitation inadequately reproduced the observed annual cycle and so was not used for runoff projection. Copyright © 2007 Royal Meteorological Society
Reversal of suppressed metabolism in prolonged cold preserved cartilage
Authors: Pylawka Tamara K. , Virdi Amarjit S. , Cole Brian J. , Williams James M.
Published: September 2007

Chondrocytes in cold preserved cartilage are metabolically suppressed. The goal of this study was to address this metabolic suppression and seek ways to reverse it. Specifically, we examined the roles of rewarming protocols and nitric oxide (NO) in this metabolic suppression. Bovine and canine full‐thickness articular cartilage explants were cultured under various temperature conditions, and NO production, proteoglycan (PG) synthesis, and cell viability were measured. Nitric oxide was shown to be negatively correlated with PG synthesis following abrupt rewarming of cold preserved osteochondral allografts. Gradual rewarming of the allograft tissue decreased NO production with higher PG synthesis. Inhibition of nitric oxide synthases (NOS) led to a decrease in NO production and a concomitant increase in PG synthesis. We were able to partially reverse metabolic suppression of cold preserved osteochondral allograft material with gradual rewarming and decrease NO production with NOS inhibition. Chondrocytes in cold preserved allograft material may be metabolically suppressed predisposing the graft to failure in vivo. Minimizing this loss of metabolic function by gradual graft rewarming and decreasing NO production by NOS inhibition at the time of graft implantation may have implications on graft survival in vivo. © 2007 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 26:247–254, 2008
Enveloping bioabsorbable polyglycolide membrane and immobilization in achilles tendon repair: A comparative experimental study on rabbits
Authors: Pihlajamäki Harri , Tynninen Olli , Karjalainen Pertti , Rokkanen Pentti
Published: September 2007

Using qualitative and histoquantitative methods, we investigated the effect of immobilization versus nonimmobilization on the biodegradation process, implant‐tissue interaction, and scar formation after enveloping a rejoined rabbit Achilles tendon with a self‐reinforced polyglycolide (SR‐PGA) membrane. The soleus and gastrocnemius tendons of the right hind legs of 40 rabbits were transected. After suturing the ends, the seam was enveloped with the bioabsorbable membrane. Twenty ankles were immobilized with cast, 20 remained nonimmobilized. All nonoperated left ankles served as intact controls. During the follow‐up of 3, 6, 12, and 24 weeks, scar formation, tissue response, and membrane biodegradation were studied histologically and histomorphometrically. The amount of scar tissue, highest at 3 weeks, gradually approached intact controls. SR‐PGA degradation in both cast and noncast specimens was near complete by 24 weeks. Signs of an inflammatory process were most prominent at 3 weeks and diminished gradually by 24 weeks. No significant difference between cast and noncast specimens was noted at any time point regarding the amount of scar tissue, degradation process of PGA, or intensity of inflammatory reaction. In the present experimental setting, cast immobilization influenced neither scar formation nor speed of degradation during reunion of transected Achilles tendon ends as compared with nonimmobilization. No differences in the reunion process of the tendon ends were seen between the immobilized and nonimmobilized groups. Moreover, inflammatory cells were similar in both groups and reflected a transient tissue reaction to the membrane. Within the follow‐up, the seam area (cross‐sectional) approached that of intact controls. © 2007 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 26:264–270, 2008
Excision of selectable marker genes from transgenic crops as a concern for environmental biosafety
Authors: Natarajan Satheesh , Turna Ján
Published: September 2007

The main task in the development of transgenic plants is the capability to distinguish between plant cells with an integrated transgene and the bulk of non‐transformed cells. Selectable marker genes are required to achieve this goal within the transgene, and to select for their expression. These selectable markers are mostly based on genes conferring antibiotic or herbicide resistance. The presence of the marker gene will lead to unpredictable environmental hazards, so on the basis of economic incentives and safety concerns, several methods, such as site‐specific recombination, homologous recombination and co‐transformation, have been developed to eliminate these genes from the genome after successful transformation has been achieved. Gene transfer without the incorporation of an antibiotic‐resistance marker or herbicide‐resistance marker in the host genome should convince the public with regard to the field release of transgenic organisms. Moreover, it would obviate the need for different selectable markers in subsequent rounds of gene transfer into the same host. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Herpes Simplex Virus Hepatitis
Authors: Norvell John P. , Blei Andres T. , Jovanovic Borko D. , Levitsky Josh
Published: September 2007

Hepatitis is a rare complication of herpes simplex virus (HSV), often leading to acute liver failure (ALF), liver transplantation (LT), and/or death. Our aim was to identify variables associated with either survival or progression (death/LT), based on an analysis of cases in the literature and our institution. A total of 137 cases (132 literature, 5 institutional) of HSV hepatitis were identified. The main features at clinical presentation were fever (98%), coagulopathy (84%), and encephalopathy (80%). Rash was seen in less than half of patients. Most cases (58%) were first diagnosed at autopsy and the diagnosis was suspected clinically prior to tissue confirmation in only 23%. Overall, 74% of cases progressed to death or LT, with 51% in acyclovir-treated patients as compared to 88% in the untreated subjects (P = 0.03). Variables on presentation associated with death or need for LT compared to spontaneous survival: male gender, age >40 yr, immunocompromised state, ALT >5,000 U/L, platelet count <75 × 103/L, coagulopathy, encephalopathy, and absence of antiviral therapy. In conclusion, HSV hepatitis has a high mortality and is often clinically unsuspected. Patients who are male, older, immunocompromised, and/or presenting with significant liver dysfunction are more likely to progress to death and should thus be evaluated for LT early. Based on the frequent delay in HSV diagnosis, low risk-benefit ratio, and significantly improved outcomes, empiric acyclovir therapy for patients presenting with ALF of unknown etiology is recommended until HSV hepatitis is excluded. Liver Transpl 13:1428–1434, 2007. © 2007 AASLD.
Rh Blood Group and Liver Transplantation
Authors: Perkins James D.
Published: September 2007

Abstract

Background:

Cold ischemia time and the presence of postoperative hepatic arterial thrombosis have been associated with biliary complications (BC) after liver transplantation. An ABO-incompatible blood group has also been suggested as a factor for predisposal towards BC. However, the influence of Rh nonidentity has not been studied previously.

Materials:

Three hundred fifty six liver transplants were performed from 1995 to 2000 at our hospital. BC incidence and risk factors were studied in 345 patients.

Results:

Seventy patients (20%) presented BC after liver transplantation. Bile leakage (24/45%) and stenotic anastomosis (21/30%) were the most frequent complications. Presence of BC in Rh-nonidentical graft-host cases (23/76, 30%) was higher than in Rh-identical grafts (47/269, 17%) (P = 0.01). BC was also more frequent in grafts with arterial thrombosis (9/25, 36% vs 60/319, 19%; P = 0.03) and grafts with cold ischemia time longer than 430 min (26/174, 15% vs 44/171, 26%; P = 0.01). Multivariate logistic regression confirmed that Rh graft-host nonidentical blood groups [RR = 2(1.1-3.6); P = 0.02], arterial thrombosis [RR = 2.6(1.1-6.4); P = 0.02] and cold ischemia time longer than 430 min [RR = 1.8(1-3.2); P = 0.02] were risk factors for presenting BC.

Conclusion:

Liver transplantation using Rh graft-host nonidentical blood groups leads to a greater incidence of BC.
Curing Behavior and Final Properties of Nanostructured Thermosetting Systems Modified with Epoxidized Styrene‐Butadiene Linear Diblock Copolymers
Authors: Serrano Elena , Tercjak Agnieszka , Ocando Connie , Larrañaga Maider , Parellada M. Dolores , Corona‐Galván Sergio , Mecerreyes David , Zafeiropoulos Nikolaos E. , Stamm Manfred , Mondragon Iñaki
Published: September 2007

Nanostructured thermosetting materials based on thermosetting matrices were prepared by modification of an epoxy system with linear PS‐block‐PB copolymers. The nanostructured thermosets were obtained through PS block segregation. Depending on the block‐copolymer content in the thermosets and its epoxidation degree, the PS domains can display micellar, worm‐like or hexagonally‐packed cylinder structures, retaining the stiffness of the epoxy matrix, where the hexagonally cylindrical morphology lead to a significant increase in fracture toughness. The rheokinetics of microphase separation during network formation was investigated. Nanostructures are judged to be formed by polymerization‐induced microphase separation, in marked contrast to equilibrium self‐organized structures that are preformed, with the microphases fixed via a curing reaction.

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An Omitting Types Theorem for first order logic with infinitary relation symbols
Authors: Ahmed Tarek Sayed , Samir Basim
Published: September 2007

In this paper, an extension of first order logic is introduced. In such logics atomic formulas may have infinite lengths. An Omitting Types Theorem is proved. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Two cardinal models for singular μ
Authors: Garti Shimon , Shelah Saharon
Published: September 2007

We deal here with colorings of the pair (μ+, μ), when μ is a strong limit and singular cardinal. We show that there exists a coloring c with no refinement. It follows that the properties of colorings of (μ+, μ) when μ is singular differ in an essential way from the case of regular μ (although the identities may be the same). (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
On witnessed models in fuzzy logic II
Authors: Hájek Petr
Published: September 2007

First the expansion of the Łukasiewicz (propositional and predicate) logic by the unary connectives of dividing by any natural number (Rational Łukasiewicz logic) is studied; it is shown that in the predicate case the expansion is conservative w.r.t. witnessed standard 1‐tautologies. This result is used to prove that the set of witnessed standard 1‐tautologies of the predicate product logic is Π2‐hard. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Corrigendum to “Generalized periodicity and primitivity for words”
Authors: Ito Masami , Lischke Gerhard
Published: September 2007

We correct a mistake in the paper “Generalized periodicity and primitivity for words” [4] and justify the existence of regular languages all of whose roots are not even context‐sensitive. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Large‐Scale Production of Homogeneous Helical Amylose/SWNTs Complexes with Good Biocompatibility
Authors: Fu Chuanlong , Meng Lingjie , Lu Qinghua , Zhang Xiaoke , Gao Chao
Published: September 2007

The key to developing novel applications of SWNTs in biotechnology and biomedicine is to improve their biocompatibility and solubility in water and to assemble them into useful architectures. We describe how amylose can help to solubilize SWNTs and wrap around SWNTs into helical superstructures with periodic pitch. FT‐IR, Raman spectroscopy, 1H NMR and HR‐TEM are used to confirm the generation of amylose/SWNTs complexes (A/S‐C). It is demonstrated that most of the A/S‐C have similar diameters (ca. 20–30 nm) and a helical morphology with a pitch of ca. 14 nm. A test of Hela cell viability revealed that the A/S‐C had much better biocompatibility than SWNTs.

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Critical exponent for non‐Newtonian filtration equation with homogeneous Neumann boundary data
Authors: Wang Zejia , Yin Jingxue , Wang Lusheng
Published: September 2007

This paper is concerned with large time behavior of solutions to the homogeneous Neumann problem of the non‐Newtonian filtration equation. It is shown that the critical Fujita exponent for the problem considered is determined not only by the spatial dimension and the nonlinearity exponent, but also by the coefficient k of the first‐order term. In fact, we show that there exist two thresholds k∞ and k1 on the coefficient k of the first‐order term, and the critical Fujita exponent is a finite number when k is between k∞ and k1, while the critical exponent does not exist when k⩽k∞ or k⩾k1. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Substituent effects on 15N and 13C NMR chemical shifts of 5‐phenyl‐1,3,4‐oxathiazol‐2‐ones: a theoretical and spectroscopic study
Authors: Markgraf J. Hodge , Hong Lu , Richardson David P. , Schofield Mark H.
Published: September 2007

The synthesis and assignment of 15N and 13C NMR signals of the 1,3,4‐oxathiazol‐2‐one ring in a series of para‐substituted 5‐phenyl derivatives are reported. DFT calculations of 15N and 13C chemical shifts correspond closely to observed values. Substituent effects are interpreted in terms of the Hammett correlation and calculated bond orders. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analyzing equilibrium water exchange between myocardial tissue compartments using dynamical two‐dimensional correlation experiments combined with manganese‐enhanced relaxography
Authors: Seland John Georg , Bruvold Morten , Brurok Heidi , Jynge Per , Krane Jostein
Published: September 2007

Water compartments were identified and equilibrium water exchange was studied in excised rat myocardium enriched with intracellular manganese (Mn2+). Standard relaxographic measurements were supplemented with diffusion‐T2 and T1‐T2 correlation measurements. In nonenriched myocardium, one T1 component (800 ms) and three T2 components (32, 120, and 350 ms) were identified. The correlation measurements revealed fast‐ and slow‐diffusing water fractions with mean diffusion coefficients of 1.2 × 10−5 and 3.0 × 10−5 cm2 s−1. The two shortest T2 components, which had different diffusivities, both originated from water in intracellular compartments. A component with longer relaxation time (T1 ≈ 2200 ms; T2 ≈ 1200 ms), originating from extra‐tissue water, was also observed. The presence of this component may lead to erroneous estimations of water exchange rates from multiexponential relaxographic analyses of excised tissues. The tissue T1 value is strongly reduced with increasing enrichment of Mn2+, and eventually a second tissue T1 component emerges, indicating a shift in the equilibrium water exchange between intra‐ and extracellular compartments from the fast‐exchange limit to the slow‐exchange regime. Using a two‐site water exchange analysis, the lifetime of intracellular water, Tic, was found to be 475 ms, with a fraction, pic, of 0.71. Magn Reson Med 58:674–686, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fluorine‐19 MRI for visualization and quantification of cell migration in a diabetes model
Authors: Srinivas Mangala , Morel Penelope A. , Ernst Lauren A. , Laidlaw David H. , Ahrens Eric T.
Published: September 2007

This article describes an in vivo imaging method for visualizing and quantifying a specific cell population. Cells are labeled ex vivo with a perfluoropolyether nanoparticle tracer agent and then detected in vivo using 19F MRI following cell transfer. 19F MRI selectively visualizes only the labeled cells with no background, and a conventional 1H image taken in the same imaging session provides anatomical context. Using the nonobese diabetic mouse, an established model of type 1 diabetes, 19F MRI data were acquired showing the early homing behavior of diabetogenic T cells to the pancreas. A computational algorithm provided T cell counts in the pancreas. Approximately 2% of the transferred cells homed to the pancreas after 48 hr. The technique allows for both unambiguous detection of labeled cells and quantification directly from the in vivo images. The in vivo quantification and cell trafficking patterns were verified using 19F spectroscopy and fluorescence microscopy in excised pancreata. The labeling procedure did not affect T‐cell migration in vivo. This imaging platform is applicable to many cell types and disease models and can potentially be used for monitoring the trafficking of cellular therapeutics. Magn Reson Med 58:725–734, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.