bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomechanical comparison of three fixation techniques for unstable thoracolumbar burst fractures
Authors: Acosta Frank L. , Buckley Jenni M. , Xu Zheng , Lotz Jeffrey C. , Ames Christopher P.
Published: March 2008

Object

Increased structural stability is considered sufficient justification for higher-risk surgical procedures, such as circumferential fixation after severe spinal destabilization. However, there is little biomechanical evidence to support such claims, particularly after traumatic lumbar burst fracture. The authors sought out to compare the biomechanical performance of the following 3 fixation strategies for spinal reconstruction after decompression for an unstable thoracolumbar burst fracture: 1) short-segment anterolateral fixation; 2) circumferential fixation; and 3) extended anterolateral fixation.

Methods

Thoracolumbar spines (T10–L4) from 7 donors (mean age at death 64 ± 6 years; 1 female and 6 males) were tested in pure moment loading in flexion–extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation. Thoracolumbar burst fractures were surgically induced at L-1, and testing was repeated sequentially for each of the following fixation techniques: short-segment anterolateral, circumferential, and extended anterolateral. Primary and coupled 3D motions were measured across the instrumented site (T12–L2) and compared across treatment groups.

Results

Circumferential and extended anterolateral fixations were statistically equivalent for primary and off-axis range-of-motions in all loading directions, and short-segment anterolateral fixation offered significantly less rigidity than the other 2 methods.

Conclusions

The results of this study strongly suggest that extended anterolateral fixation is biomechanically comparable to circumferential fusion in the treatment of unstable thoracolumbar burst fractures with posterior column and posterior ligamentous injury. In cases in which an anterior procedure may be favored for load sharing or canal decompression, extension of the anterior instrumentation and fusion one level above and below the unstable segment can result in near equivalent stability to a 2-stage circumferential procedure.
The angiosome territories of the spinal cord: exploring the issue of preoperative spinal angiography
Authors: Hong Michael K.-Y. , Hong Matthew K.-H. , Pan Wei-Ren , Wallace David , Ashton Mark W. , Taylor G. Ian
Published: March 2008

Object

The angiosome concept has been the subject of extensive research by the senior author (G.I.T.), but its specific applicability to the spinal cord was hitherto unknown. The aim of this study was to see if the spinal cord vasculature followed the angiosome concept and to review the usefulness of preoperative spinal angiography in surgery for spinal disorders. Spinal cord infarction and permanent paraplegia may result from inadvertent interruption of the artery of Adamkiewicz. Spinal angiography, which may enable avoidance of this catastrophic complication, is still not commonly used.

Methods

Two fresh cadavers were injected with a gelatin–lead oxide mixture for detailed comparative study of spinal cord vasculature. One cadaver had insignificant vascular disease, whereas the other had extensive aortic atherosclerosis, presenting a unique opportunity for study. After removal from each cadaver, radiographs of the spinal cords were obtained, then photographed, and the vascular territories of the cords were defined.

Results

Four angiosome territories were defined: vertebral, subclavian, posterior intercostal, and lumbar. These vascular territories were joined longitudinally by true anastomotic channels along the anterior and posterior spinal cord. Anastomosis between the anterior and posterior vasculature was poor in the thoracolumbar region. The anterior cord relied on fewer feeder arteries than the posterior, and the anterior thoracolumbar cord depended on the artery of Adamkiewicz for its supply. In chronic aortic disease with intercostal artery occlusion at multiple levels, a rich collateral circulation supporting the spinal cord was found.

Conclusions

The arterial supply of the spinal cord follows the angiosome concept. The atherosclerotic specimen supports the suggestion that the blood supply is able to adapt to gradual vascular occlusion through development of a collateral circulation. Nevertheless, the spinal cord is susceptible to ischemia when faced with acute vascular occlusion. This includes inadvertent interruption of the artery of Adamkiewicz. The authors recommend the use of preoperative spinal angiography to prevent possible paraplegia in removal of thoracolumbar spinal tumors.
Mechanistic insights into posttraumatic syringomyelia based on a novel in vivo animal model
Authors: Seki Toshitaka , Fehlings Michael G.
Published: March 2008

Object

Although posttraumatic syringomyelia (PTS) develops in up to 30% of patients after spinal cord injury (SCI), the pathophysiology of this debilitating complication is incompletely understood. To provide greater insight into the mechanisms of this degenerative sequela of SCI, the authors developed and characterized a novel model of PTS.

Methods

The spinal cords of 64 female Wistar rats were injured by 35-g modified aneurysm clip compression at the level of T6–7. Kaolin (5 μl of 500 mg/ml solution) was then injected into the subarachnoid space rostral to the site of the injury to induce inflammatory arachnoiditis in 22 rats. Control groups received SCI alone (in 21 rats), kaolin injection alone (in 15 rats), or laminectomy and durotomy alone without injury (sham surgery in 6 rats).

Results

The combination of SCI and subarachnoid kaolin injection resulted in a significantly greater syrinx formation and perilesional myelomalacia than SCI alone; SCI and kaolin injection significantly attenuated locomotor recovery and exacerbated neuropathic pain (mechanical allodynia) compared with SCI alone. We observed that combined SCI and kaolin injection significantly increased the number of terminal deoxytransferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick-end labeled–positive cells at 7 days after injury (p < 0.05 compared with SCI alone) and resulted in a significantly greater extent of astrogliosis and macrophage/microglial-associated inflammation at the lesion (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The combination of compressive/contusive SCI with induced arachnoiditis results in severe PTS and perilesional myelomalacia, which is associated with enhanced inflammation, astrogliosis, and apoptotic cell death. The development of delayed neurobehavioral deficits and neuropathic pain in this model accurately reflects the key pathological and clinical conditions of PTS in humans.
Survival and performance of the invasive vine Vincetoxicum rossicum (Apocynaceae) from seeds of different embryo number under two light environments
Authors: Hotchkiss Emily E. , DiTommaso Antonio , Brainard Daniel C. , Mohler Charles L.
Published: March 2008

The nonnative vine Vincetoxicum rossicum threatens several ecosystems in the Lower Great Lakes Basin of North America. One feature that may contribute to its invasiveness is the production of some seeds with multiple embryos (polyembryony), which may be beneficial as a bet‐hedging strategy in variable environments. However, lower seed reserves per embryo in polyembryonic seeds may entail costs in low‐light environments. The effect of seed from three embryonic classes (1, 2, or 3 embryos/seed) on V. rossicum survival and growth was studied under two forest understory light environments: full canopy (shade) or canopy gaps (light) in New York state. Two seedling cohorts were planted, in May 2004 and in May 2005. The survival and growth of seedlings was monitored biweekly for two (2005 cohort) or three (2004 cohort) seasons. For both cohorts, plants grown in canopy shade had reduced survival and growth compared with those grown in gaps. Contrary to expectations, seed embryo number had no effect on the final height, survival, or dry mass of plants in either habitat. Our results suggest that any fitness advantage provided by polyembryony may be habitat (light) dependent and not a general trait that affords V. rossicum a benefit in all habitats colonized.
Molecular phylogeny and reticulate origins of the polyploid Bromus species from section Genea (Poaceae)
Authors: Fortune Philippe M. , Pourtau Nathalie , Viron Nicolas , Ainouche Malika L.
Published: March 2008

The origin of polyploid Bromus species of section Genea was investigated using molecular data. This group of annual species native from the Old‐World is composed of three diploids, two tetraploids, one hexaploid, and one octoploid. Molecular cloning, sequencing, and phylogenetic analyses were performed on several accessions per species. We used the low copy nuclear gene Waxy, repeated rDNA spacers ITS1 and ITS2 and chloroplast spacers trnT‐trnL and trnL‐trnF. Our analyses revealed four different lineages involved in the parentage of the polyploids and confirmed their reticulate origin. Three of these lineages are closely related to the diploid species B. sterilis, B. tectorum, and B. fasciculatus. The fourth lineage could not be related to any diploid according to the available data. Our data gave insights on the origin of all the polyploids of section Genea, and chloroplast data allowed us to identify the maternal lineages. The Waxy gene was the most informative regarding origin of the polyploids. The Waxy copies duplicated by polyploidy appear selectively maintained in the polyploid species. No sequence heterogeneity was encountered in the ITS region, where concerted evolution seems to have occurred toward either maternal or paternal repeats. These results provide new information about the origin and molecular evolution of these polyploids and will allow a more accurate taxonomic treatment of the concerned species, based on their evolutionary history.
Adaptive significance of self‐fertilization in a hermaphroditic perennial, Trillium camschatcense (Melanthiaceae)
Authors: Kubota Shosei , Kameyama Yoshiaki , Hirao Akira S. , Ohara Masashi
Published: March 2008

The evolution of self‐fertilization from primarily outcrossing ancestors is one of the most common evolutionary transitions in plants; however, the ecological mechanisms that maintain self‐fertilization have remained controversial. Theoretical studies suggest that selfing is advantageous over outcrossing in terms of genetic transmission and assurance of seed production under pollen‐limited circumstances. Trillium camschatcense is a herbaceous perennial distributed in Hokkaido and northern Honshu, Japan. Geographical variation in the breeding system (self‐compatible, SC; or self‐incompatible, SI) has been reported in populations in Hokkaido. Here, we used several SC and SI populations of T. camschatcense to investigate the adaptive significance and the evolutionary basis of self‐fertilization. Pollination experiments and genetic analyses demonstrated that the potential availability of outcross pollen in SC populations was sufficient and that the number of pollen donors was equal to that of SI populations. However, despite the high availability of outcross pollen, the SC populations produced seeds predominantly by selfing and so underwent severe inbreeding depression. Although none of the suggested advantages for self‐fertilization were supported by our analyses, we propose two possible scenarios for the evolution of self‐fertilization in T. camschatcense.
The relationship between stem and branch wood specific gravity and the ability of each measure to predict leaf area
Authors: Swenson Nathan G. , Enquist Brian J.
Published: March 2008

A few trait axes that represent differential biomass allocation may summarize plant life‐history strategies. Here we examine one of these axes described by wood specific gravity. Wood specific gravity represents the location of a species on a continuum of the rate of growth vs. the likelihood of mechanical failure, ranging from rapid volumetric growth/increased probability of mechanical failure to slow volumetric growth/decreased probability of mechanical failure. Wood specific gravity has been quantified primarily using three separate methods: a section from terminal branch, a section from the main stem or from a trunk wood core. What is unclear is how comparable these methods are and whether one or the other is a better predictor of other important plant traits such as leaf area. Here we measured stem and branch wood specific gravities from individual trees and shrubs in a tropical rain forest, quantified their relationship and determined their ability to predict leaf area. Stem and branch measures were highly correlated with each measure having a weak correlation with leaf area in trees and strong correlation with leaf area in shrubs. These results indicate that various methodologies for measuring wood specific gravity are comparable, and thus less destructive methods than are currently used are available to determine values for this important trait.
A Nonvolatile Organic Memory Device Using ITO Surfaces Modified by Ag‐Nanodots
Authors: Kondo Takeshi , Lee Sang Min , Malicki Michal , Domercq Benoit , Marder Seth R. , Kippelen Bernard
Published: March 2008

We report on a single‐layer organic memory device made of poly(N‐vinylcarbazole) embedded between an Al electrode and ITO modified with Ag nanodots (Ag‐NDs). Devices exhibit high ON/OFF switching ratios of 104. This level of performance could be achieved by modifying the ITO electrodes with some Ag‐NDs that act as trapping sites, reducing the current in the OFF state. Temperature dependence of the electrical characteristics suggest that the current of the low‐resistance state can be attributed to Schottky charge tunnelling through low‐resistance pathways of Al particles in the polymer layer and that the high‐resistance state can be controlled by charge trapping by the Al particles and Ag‐NDs.
Sulphonated “Click” Dendrimer‐Stabilized Palladium Nanoparticles as Highly Efficient Catalysts for Olefin Hydrogenation and Suzuki Coupling Reactions Under Ambient Conditions in Aqueous Media
Authors: Ornelas Cátia , Ruiz Jaime , Salmon Lionel , Astruc Didier
Published: March 2008

Water‐soluble 1,2,3‐triazolyl dendrimers were synthesized by “click chemistry” and used to stabilize palladium nanoparticles (PdNPs). These new “click” dendrimer‐stabilized nanoparticles (DSN) are highly stable to air and moisture and are catalytically active for olefin hydrogenation and Suzuki coupling reaction, in aqueous media, under ambient conditions using a low amount of palladium (0.01 mol% Pd). Kinetic studies show high catalytic efficiency and high stability for the new “click” DSN in both reactions. The complexation of potassium tetrachloropalladate (K2PdCl4) to the triazole ligands present in the dendritic structures was monitored by UV/vis and, after reduction, the nanoparticles were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
Rhodium‐Catalyzed Cyclopropanation of Alkenes with Dimethyl Diazomalonate
Authors: González‐Bobes Francisco , Fenster Michaël D. B. , Kiau Susanne , Kolla Laxma , Kolotuchin Sergei , Soumeillant Maxime
Published: March 2008

The outstanding ability of dirhodium α,α,α′,α′‐tetramethyl‐1,3‐benzenedipropanoate [Rh2(esp)2; esp=α,α,α′,α′‐tetramethyl‐1,3‐benzenedipropanoate] to catalyze the cyclopropanation of a wide range of alkenes with malonate‐derived carbenoids under mild reaction conditions is reported in this communication. The experimental protocol is remarkably simple, uses readily accessible and stable dimethyl diazomalonate with very low catalyst loading. More importantly, the alkene is employed as a limiting reagent.
5‐Chloro‐7‐iodo‐8‐quinolinolatomanganese(III) with the Feature of pH‐Regulated Molecular Switches as a Highly Efficient Catalyst for Epoxidation of Olefins with Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Zhong Sheng , Fu Zaihui , Tan Yueming , Xie Qingji , Xie Fang , Zhou Xiaoping , Ye Zhengpei , Peng Guosheng , Yin Dulin
Published: March 2008

A simple 5‐chloro‐7‐iodo‐8‐quinolinolato‐manganese(III) complex with the feature of pH‐regulated molecular switches was conveniently synthesized and found to be a novel and highly efficient catalyst for the epoxidation of olefins with aqueous hydrogen peroxide in water‐acetone media containing ammonium acetate and acetic acid as additives. This should be due to its special hexadentate binding structure that could be easily converted to the corresponding pentadentate form with a pendant hydroxy group via the opening of an axial MnO bond in the reaction media, as supported by in situ cyclic voltammetry and UV‐vis spectra characterization.
Organocatalytic anti‐Mannich Reactions with Dihydroxyacetone and Acyclic Dihydroxyacetone Derivatives: A Facile Route to Amino Sugars
Authors: Zhang Haile , Ramasastry S. S. V. , Tanaka Fujie , Barbas Carlos F.
Published: March 2008

The first primary amine‐containing amino acid‐catalyzed anti‐Mannich reactions of dihydroxyacetone and acyclic dihydroxyacetone derivatives with a variety of imines have been developed. This approach complements proline‐based strategies in the preparation of amino sugars.
Gas‐solids flow structures in a novel circulating‐turbulent fluidized bed
Authors: Zhu Haiyan , Zhu Jesse
Published: March 2008

In this article a novel circulating‐turbulent fluidized bed (C‐TFB) featured by high solids holdup and high gross solids circulation has been introduced and tested. The purpose of the new design was to integrate conventional circulating and turbulent fluidized beds into a unique high‐density fluidization system for more efficient gas‐solid contact and significantly reduced solids backmixing. The hydrodynamic characteristics of the C‐TFB were analyzed in terms of differential pressure, solids concentration, particle velocity, and local solids flux distributions. An axial homogeneous flow structure was easily obtained with cross‐sectional average solids volume concentrations higher than 0.25 throughout the entire C‐TFB. At all measuring positions there was no net downflow of solids and a good gas‐solid mixing was observed. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Osteoporosis in a chinese population due to occupational exposure to lead
Authors: Sun Yi , Sun Donghong , Zhou Zhijun , Zhu Guoying , Zhang Haiying , Chang Xiuli , Lei Lijian , Jin Taiyi
Published: March 2008

Background

Recent studies indicate that lead may exert actions both directly on osteoblast and osteoclast function, and indirectly via kidney dysfunction on bone turnover. The main focus of this study was to investigate whether occupational lead exposure is associated with low bone mass in a population working in a storage battery plant.

Methods

Monophoton absorptiometry was used to measure bone mineral density (BMD) in the population and the Z score was introduced to define osteoporosis (Z score <−2). Lead concentration of urine and blood was determined by graphite‐furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry as an exposure biomarker. A total of 249 persons (191 males and 58 females) participated and completed a questionnaire in order to obtain information on height, weight, age, medical and drug history, cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, job position, work year, physical exercise, etc.

Results

The BMD was significantly decreased in the groups of the high urinary lead (UPb) level compared with the low UPb level with a significant difference (P < 0.05) in both genders, but no such significant difference was observed in the relationship between blood lead (BPb) and BMD. The prevalence of osteoporosis would increase significantly with the increase of the UPb (P < 0.01) in the linear correlation manner (P < 0.01). There was also such a significant relationship between BPb and osteoporosis (P < 0.01). There was a dose–response relationship between lead exposure and prevalence of osteoporosis.

Conclusions

In contrast to BPb, UPb had a more close relationship with osteoporosis caused by lead. It was concluded that occupational exposure to lead is associated with osteoporosis. Am. J. Ind. Med. 51:436–442, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Properties of polyacrylonitrile‐N‐(2‐hydroxy) propyl‐3‐trimethylammonium chitosan chloride blend films and fibers
Authors: Mivehi Leila , Hajir Bahrami S. , Malek Reza M. A.
Published: March 2008

A water‐soluble chitosan derivative namely, N‐(2‐hydroxy) propyl‐3‐trimethylammonium chitosan chloride (HTCC) was synthesized by the reaction of chitosan with glycidyltrimethyl ammonium chloride in a neutral aqueous condition and solution blended with polyacrylonitrile (PAN) in an organic solvent. Polymeric films were made by casting, and they were dyed with an acid dye, a basic dye, and mixture of them. Results obtained from differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscopy, and dyeing show that these polymers are immiscible even at low percentage of HTCC (lower than 20%). However, at higher ratio, the phase separation takes place. Fibers obtained from this blend system by wet‐spinning technique show a good mechanical properties and increasing the amount of HTCC causes an increment in the mechanical strength of the fibers up to 20% of HTCC and beyond that due to phase separation mechanical strength reduces. Blending PAN with HTCC improves the dyeing behavior of the films and fibers. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Non‐labeled detection of waterborne pathogen Cryptosporidium parvum using a polydiacetylene‐based fluorescence chip
Authors: Park Cheon Kyo , Kang Chang Duk , Sim Sang Jun
Published: March 2008

A non‐labeling fluorescence sensor system was developed using polydiacetylene (PDA) liposomes composed of 10,12‐pentacosadiynoic acid (PCDA) and 1,2‐dimyristoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine (DMPC) at a 8:2 molar ratio. The PDA liposomes were immobilized onto an amine‐coated glass surface using peptide bonding between the carboxyl group of the liposome and the amine group of the glass surface. The optimum ratio of the cross linker (NHS/EDC) to PDA liposome was determined to be 50% for strong immobilization of the liposomes. Residual carboxyl groups of the PDA liposomes were selectively biotinylated, followed by sequential binding of streptavidin and biotin‐antibody (bioreceptor). Finally, the performance of the PDA liposome chip was tested for detecting Cryptosporidium parvum, and yielded a detection limit of 1 × 103 oocysts/mL. From these results, it is expected that the PDA liposome chip will have high application potential for the detection of waterborne pathogens including C. parvum.
Synthesis and in vivo studies of carbohydrate‐based vaccines against group A Streptococcus
Authors: Simerska Pavla , Abdel‐Aal Abu‐Baker M. , Fujita Yoshio , Batzloff Michael R. , Good Michael F. , Toth Istvan
Published: March 2008

Carbohydrates, as carriers, providing numerous attachment points for the conjugation of peptide antigens and their optimal orientation for the recognition by cells of the immune system, reducing degradation of the attached peptide antigens and many other advantages make carbohydrate‐based vaccine highly promising approach. Multiple copies of a single group A streptococcal (GAS) M protein derived specific peptide antigens (J8 or J14) were coupled onto carbohydrate cores (D‐glucose and D‐galactose) linked to lipophilic amino acids to produce a self‐adjuvanting liposaccharide vaccine against GAS strains. In vivo experiments showed high serum IgG antibody titers against each of the incorporated peptide epitopes, J8 or J14. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 90: 611–616, 2008.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
A poke in the eye: Inhibiting HIV‐1 protease through its flap‐recognition pocket
Authors: Damm Kelly L. , Ung Peter M. U. , Quintero Jerome J. , Gestwicki Jason E. , Carlson Heather A.
Published: March 2008

A novel mechanism of inhibiting HIV‐1 protease (HIVp) is presented. Using computational solvent mapping to identify complementary interactions and the Multiple Protein Structure method to incorporate protein flexibility, we generated a receptor‐based pharmacophore model of the flexible flap region of the semiopen, apo state of HIVp. Complementary interactions were consistently observed at the base of the flap, only within a cleft with a specific structural role. In the closed, bound state of HIVp, each flap tip docks against the opposite monomer, occupying this cleft. This flap‐recognition site is filled by the protein and cannot be identified using traditional approaches based on bound, closed structures. Virtual screening and dynamics simulations show how small molecules can be identified to complement this cleft. Subsequent experimental testing confirms inhibitory activity of this new class of inhibitor. This may be the first new inhibitor class for HIVp since dimerization inhibitors were introduced 17 years ago. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 89: 643–652, 2008.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Angiotensin II induces endothelial cell senescence via the activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinases
Authors: Shan HaiYan , Bai XiaoJuan , Chen XiangMei
Published: March 2008

Vascular endothelial cells have a finite cell lifespan and eventually enter an irreversible growth arrest, cellular senescence. The functional changes associated with cellular senescence are thought to contribute to human aging and age‐related cardiovascular disorders, for example, atherosclerosis. Angiotensin II (Ang II), a principal effector of the renin‐angiotensin system (RAS), an important signaling molecule involved in atherogenic stimuli, is known to promote aging and cellular senescence. In the present study, induction of Ang II promoted a growth arrest with phenotypic characteristics of cell senescence, such as enlarged cell shapes, increased senescence‐associated ß‐galactosidase (SA‐ß‐gal) positive staining cells, and depressed cell proliferation. Ang II drastically decreased the expression level of Bcl‐2, in part via the activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK). Our results suggest that Ang II can induce HUVEC senescence; one of its molecular mechanisms is a probability that the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signal pathway is involved in the process of pathological and physiological senescence of endothelial cells as well as vascular aging. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Secondary genomic rearrangements involving immunoglobulin or MYC loci show similar prevalences in hyperdiploid and nonhyperdiploid myeloma tumors
Authors: Gabrea Ana , Martelli Maria Luisa , Qi Ying , Roschke Anna , Barlogie Bart , Shaughnessy John D. , Sawyer Jeffrey R. , Kuehl W. Michael
Published: March 2008

The pathogenesis of multiple myeloma (MM) is thought to involve at least two pathways, which generate hyperdiploid (HRD) or nonhyperdiploid (NHRD) tumors, respectively. Apart from chromosome content, the two pathways are distinguished by five primary immunoglobulin heavy chain (IGH) rearrangements (4p16, FGFR3, and MMSET; 6p21, CCND3; 11q13, CCND1; 16q23, MAF; 20q12, MAFB) that are present mainly in NHRD tumors. To determine the prevalence and structures of IGH, immunoglobulin (IG) light chain, and MYC genomic rearrangements in MM, we have done comprehensive metaphase fluorescent in situ hybridization analyses on 48 advanced MM tumors and 47 MM cell lines. As expected, the prevalence of the five primary IGH rearrangements was nearly 70% in NHRD tumors, but only 12% in HRD tumors. However, IGH rearrangements not involving one of the five primary partners, and IG light chain rearrangements, have a similar prevalence in HRD and NHRD tumors. In addition, MYC rearrangements, which are thought to be late progression events that sometimes do not involve an IG heavy or light chain locus, also have a similar prevalence in HRD and NHRD tumors. In contrast to the primary IGH rearrangements, which usually are simple balanced translocations, these other IG rearrangements usually have complex structures, as previously described for MYC rearrangements in MM. We conclude that IG light chain and MYC rearrangements, as well as secondary IGH rearrangements, make similar contributions to the progression of both HRD and NHRD MM tumors. Published 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Future hydroclimatology of the Mekong River basin simulated using the high‐resolution Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) AGCM
Authors: Kiem Anthony S. , Ishidaira Hiroshi , Hapuarachchi Hapuarachchige P. , Zhou Maichun C. , Hirabayashi Yukiko , Takeuchi Kuniyoshi
Published: March 2008

Analysis of future Japan Meteorological Agency atmospheric general circulation model (JMA AGCM) based climate scenarios for the Mekong River basin (MRB) indicates that annual mean precipitation will increase in the 21st century (2080–2099) by 4·2% averaged across the basin, with the majority of this increase occurring over the northern MRB (i.e. China). Annual mean temperatures are also projected to increase by approximately 2·6 °C (averaged across the MRB). As expected, these changes also lead to significant changes in the hydrology of the MRB. All MRB subbasins will experience an increase in the number of wet days in the ‘future’ and, importantly for sustainable water resources management and the mitigation of extreme events (e.g. floods and droughts), the magnitude and frequency of what are now considered extreme events are also expected to increase resulting in increased risk of flooding, but a reduction in the likelihood of droughts/low‐flow periods—assuming water extraction is kept at a sustainable level. Despite the fact that the climate change impact projections are associated with significant uncertainty, it is important to act now and put in place policies, infrastructure and mitigation strategies to protect against the increased flooding that could occur. In addition, despite this study indicating a decrease in the number of ‘low‐flow’ days, across most of the MRB, further analysis is needed to determine whether the reduction in low‐flow days is enough to compensate for (and sustain) the rapidly increasing population and development in the MRB. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Estimating the evolution of vegetation cover and its hydrological impact in the Mekong River basin in the 21st century
Authors: Ishidaira Hiroshi , Ishikawa Yuichi , Funada Susumu , Takeuchi Kuniyoshi
Published: March 2008

The terrestrial biosphere plays a key role in regional energy and water cycles. Thus, for long‐term hydrological predictions, possible future changes in vegetation cover must be understood. This study examined the evolution of vegetation cover in the 21st century and its estimated impact on river discharge in the Mekong River basin. Based on climatic predictions (TYN SC 2·03) under the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Special Report on Emissions Scenarios (IPCC SRES) A1FI, A2, B1, and B2, changes in vegetation type and the leaf area index (LAI) were simulated using a Lund‐Potsdam‐Jena‐Dynamic Global Vegetation Model (LPJ‐DGVM) and Terrestrial Biogeochemical Cycle Model (BIOME‐BGC). The estimated LAI was then used in the rainfall‐runoff analysis in the Yamanashi Distributed Hydrological Model (YHyM).

The simulation results indicated a significant change in vegetation type mainly on the Tibetan Plateau and in mountainous areas, with the degree of change differing for each SRES scenario; LAI increases around the edge of the Tibetan Plateau and decreases in the lower reaches of the basin; and more conspicuous changes in river discharge in upstream areas than in the middle to lower reaches, mainly due to increases in precipitation in the plateau region. After the 2050s, the results suggested changes in river discharge will be slowed due to changes in evapotranspiration. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using grey dynamic modeling and pseudo amino acid composition to predict protein structural classes
Authors: Xiao Xuan , Lin Wei‐Zhong , Chou Kuo‐Chen
Published: March 2008

Using the pseudo amino acid (PseAA) composition to represent the sample of a protein can incorporate a considerable amount of sequence pattern information so as to improve the prediction quality for its structural or functional classification. However, how to optimally formulate the PseAA composition is an important problem yet to be solved. In this article the grey modeling approach is introduced that is particularly efficient in coping with complicated systems such as the one consisting of many proteins with different sequence orders and lengths. On the basis of the grey model, four coefficients derived from each of the protein sequences concerned are adopted for its PseAA components. The PseAA composition thus formulated is called the “grey‐PseAA” composition that can catch the essence of a protein sequence and better reflect its overall pattern. In our study we have demonstrated that introduction of the grey‐PseAA composition can remarkably enhance the success rates in predicting the protein structural class. It is anticipated that the concept of grey‐PseAA composition can be also used to predict many other protein attributes, such as subcellular localization, membrane protein type, enzyme functional class, GPCR type, protease type, among many others. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 2008.
Raman spectroscopy of the nickel silicate mineral pecoraite—an analogue of chrysotile (asbestos)
Authors: Frost Ray L. , Jagannadha Reddy B. , Dickfos Marilla J.
Published: March 2008

The molecular structure of the mineral pecoraite, the nickel analogue of chrysotile of formula Ni3Si2O5(OH)4, was analysed by a combination of Raman and infrared spectroscopies. A comparison is made with the spectra of the minerals nepouite and chrysotile and a synthetic pecoraite. Pecoraite is characterised by OH stretching vibrations at 3645 and 3683 cm−1 attributed to the inner and inner surface hydroxyl stretching vibrations. Intense infrared bands at around 3288 and 3425 cm−1 are assigned to the stretching vibrations of water strongly hydrogen‐bonded to the surface of the pecoraite. The asbestos‐like mineral is characterised by SiO stretching vibrations at 979, 1075, 1128 and 1384 cm−1, OSiO chain vibrations at 616 and 761 cm−1 and NiO(H) vibrations at 397 and 451 cm−1. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermo‐Raman spectroscopy of synthetic nesquehonite — implication for the geosequestration of greenhouse gases
Authors: Hales Matthew C. , Frost Ray L. , Martens Wayde N.
Published: March 2008

Pure nesquehonite (MgCO3·3H2O)/Mg(HCO3)(OH)·2H2O was synthesised and characterised by a combination of thermo‐Raman spectroscopy and thermogravimetry with evolved gas analysis. Thermo‐Raman spectroscopy shows an intense band at 1098 cm−1, which shifts to 1105 cm−1 at 450 °C, assigned to the ν1CO32− symmetric stretching mode. Two bands at 1419 and 1509 cm−1 assigned to the ν3 antisymmetric stretching mode shift to 1434 and 1504 cm−1 at 175 °C. Two new peaks at 1385 and 1405 cm−1 observed at temperatures higher than 175 °C are assigned to the antisymmetric stretching modes of the (HCO3)− units. Throughout all the thermo‐Raman spectra, a band at 3550 cm−1 is attributed to the stretching vibration of OH units. Raman bands at 3124, 3295 and 3423 cm−1 are assigned to water stretching vibrations. The intensity of these bands is lost by 175 °C. The Raman spectra were in harmony with the thermal analysis data. This research has defined the thermal stability of one of the hydrous carbonates, namely nesquehonite. Thermo‐Raman spectroscopy enables the thermal stability of the mineral nesquehonite to be defined, and, further, the changes in the formula of nesquehonite with temperature change can be defined. Indeed, Raman spectroscopy enables the formula of nesquehonite to be better defined as Mg(OH)(HCO3)·2H2O. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The analysis of naturally and artificially aged protein‐based paint media using Raman spectroscopy combined with Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Nevin Austin , Osticioli Iacopo , Anglos Demetrios , Burnstock Aviva , Cather Sharon , Castellucci Emilio
Published: March 2008

The analysis of protein‐based paint media used in paintings is presented using micro‐Raman spectroscopy, carried out with a diode laser emitting at a wavelength of 785 nm. Following a contextualisation of the analysis and ageing of protein‐based binding media, a consideration of the effects of artificial ageing using visible light on the Raman spectra of binding media is given and the interpretation of changes to the Raman spectra of selected binding media is presented. Bands associated with aromatic amino acids are most affected by ageing, but spectra retain diagnostic information for the identification of proteins. Specific changes to the spectra of dairy and collagen‐based binding media are described and explained with reference to the oxidation of amino acids. A multivariate approach using Principal Component Analysis has been chosen for the assessment of the bands in CH stretching region for which a large set of over 150 spectra were recorded from artificially and naturally aged binding media which included egg white, egg yolk, milk and casein, and collagen‐based glues from rabbit skin, ox bone, parchment and sturgeon bladder. Raman spectroscopy has been used for an assessment of the effects of ageing and the detection of degradation due to exposure of light. Multivariate analysis has allowed the differentiation between a large data set of spectra of naturally and artificially aged binding media. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polymorphism incidence in commercial tablets of mebendazole: a vibrational spectroscopy investigation
Authors: Ayala A. P. , Siesler H. W. , Cuffini S. L.
Published: March 2008

Mebendazole is a broad spectrum anthelminthic drug, which is widely used in large scale deworming programmes. This active pharmaceutical ingredient exhibits three crystal forms, namely, polymorphs A, B, and C. Therapeutic trials suggested that the most stable form, polymorph A, is inactive. However, the dissolution test normally used as a quality control tool is not able to discriminate among the polymorphs of mebendazole. In this work, the ability of the vibrational spectroscopic techniques (mid and nearinfrared absorption and Raman scattering) for the identification of the crystal form of this compound is evaluated. On the basis of these observations, this methodology is applied to determine the polymorphs of MBZ used in the formulation of the commercial tablets available in the Brazilian and German markets. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Resonance Raman studies of photochemical molecular devices for multielectron storage
Authors: Tschierlei Stefanie , Dietzek Benjamin , Karnahl Michael , Rau Sven , MacDonnell Frederick M. , Schmitt Michael , Popp Jürgen
Published: March 2008

Resonance Raman spectroscopy was utilized for the first time to characterize the nature of the 1metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer (MLCT) state of a ruthenium complex containing the redoxactive tetraazatetrapyrido‐pentacene (tatpp) ligand. The presented results show that the long‐wavelength absorption is originating from transitions involving the terminal phenanthroline and the tatpp ligands. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman spectroscopic study of the uranyl mineral, compreignacite, K2[(UO2)3O2(OH)3]2·7H2O
Authors: Frost Ray L. , Dickfos Marilla J. , Čejka Jiří
Published: March 2008

Raman spectra of the uranyl oxyhydroxy‐hydrated mineral compreignacite, K2[(UO2)3O2(OH)3]2·7H2O, were measured and interpreted. Observed bands were attributed to the stretching and bending vibrations of uranyl units, molecular water and hydroxyl ions. UO bond lengths in uranyl and OHO hydrogen bond lengths were inferred from the spectra and compared with those from the X‐ray single crystal structure data. The importance of this spectroscopic study rests with the ability to analyze very small amounts of the mineral. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lithium solvation in a PMMA membrane plasticized by a lithium‐conducting ionic liquid based on 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide
Authors: Duluard Sandrine , Grondin Joseph , Bruneel Jean‐Luc , Campet Guy , Delville Marie‐Hélène , Lassègues Jean‐Claude
Published: March 2008

The Raman and Infrared (IR) spectra of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) membranes plasticized by ionic liquids of the (1 − x)[1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (BMITFSI)],xLiTFSI type, where BMI+ is the 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium cation and TFSI− the bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide anion, are analyzed for a lithium bis(trifluoromethane sulfone)imide (LiTFSI) mole fraction x = 0.23 and PMMA contents from 0 to 50 wt%. The lithium is found to have an average coordination of about three CO groups and less than one TFSI− anion. It plays the role of a cross‐linker between the ester groups of PMMA and the nonvolatile ionic liquid. Addition of PMMA to the (1 − x)(BMITFSI),xLiTFSI ionic liquid lowers the conductivity but might improve the lithium transference number by transforming the [Li(TFSI)2]− anionic clusters present in the pure ionic liquid into a mixed coordination by ester groups and TFSI− anions. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structural and chemical differences in the cell wall regions in relation to scale firmness of three onion (Allium cepa L.) selections at harvest and during storage
Authors: Coolong Timothy W , Randle William M , Wicker Louise
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND: Firmness in vegetables is an important textural attribute affecting consumer attitudes toward freshness and quality. Firmness, structural carbohydrates, polygalacturonase (PG), and pectin methylesterase (PME) activity were measured in three onion (Allium cepa L.) lines at harvest and after 4, 8, and 12 weeks of storage.

RESULTS: The high‐dry‐matter onion, MBL87‐WOPL, had the firmest bulbs at harvest and delayed softening during storage. MBL87‐WOPL had the thickest cell wall/middle lamella region, and highest levels of dry matter and total uronic acid. Furthermore, MBL87‐WOPL had the lowest levels of PG and PME activity during storage. Pegasus, a poor‐storing cultivar, had the softest bulbs at harvest, lowest levels of uronic acid, and thinnest cell wall/middle lamella. A good storing, moderately firm onion cultivar (MSU4535B) presented intermediate levels of firmness and total uronic acid content. Differences in uronic acid in water‐soluble pectin accounted for much of the difference in total uronic acid among lines. Cellulose concentrations were similar among all lines at harvest. In addition, cellulose concentrations decreased in all lines during storage. Transmission electron microscopy performed on bulbs at harvest and after 12 weeks of storage indicated that degradation of the middle lamella had occurred during storage, leading to cell separation.

CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that differences in onion scale firmness at harvest may be due to differences in water‐soluble pectin uronic acid concentrations. Furthermore, the rate of bulb softening during storage at 6.6 °C was greater in onion lines with higher levels of PME and PG activity in storage. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Antioxidative capacity produced by Bifidobacterium‐ and Lactobacillus acidophilus‐mediated fermentations of konjac glucomannan and glucomannan oligosaccharides
Authors: Wang Cheng‐Hsin , Lai Phoency , Chen Mei‐En , Chen Hsiao‐Ling
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND: Konjac glucomannan (KGM) has been shown to stimulate the growth of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli in the human and rat colon. This study investigated the antioxidative effects produced after 48 h in vitro fermentation of unhydrolysed KGM and two hydrolysed KGM fractions (KH1 and KH2 with degree of polymerisation 10 and 5 respectively) by Bifidobacterium adolescentis, B. bifidum, B. breve, B. longum and Lactobacillus acidophilus respectively. The inhibitory effect on conjugated diene formation, ferric‐chelating capacity, α,α‐diphenyl‐β‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical‐scavenging ability and thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS) concentration produced by these fermentations were compared with those of oligofructose (OF) fermentation.

RESULTS: The fermentation of KGM by each bacterial strain produced higher ferric‐chelating capacity of the culture supernatant compared with KH2 or OF fermentation. In contrast, the fermentation of KGM by each bacterial strain led to lower inhibition of conjugated diene formation and lower radical‐scavenging ability compared with KH2 fermentation. The fermentation of KH2 produced the lowest amount of TBARS.

CONCLUSION: The fermentation of unhydrolysed KGM by colonic lactic acid bacteria in vitro produced antioxidative capacity mainly by preventing the initiation of ferrous ion‐induced peroxidation, whereas the fermentation of konjac oligosaccahrides did so by increasing the radical‐scavenging ability and eliminating lipid peroxide formation. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Long‐term survival after radical prostatectomy compared to other treatments in older men with local/regional prostate cancer
Authors: Liu Liqian , Coker Ann L. , Du Xianglin L. , Cormier Janice N. , Ford Charles E. , Fang Shenying
Published: March 2008

Background

This study aimed to address long‐term survival in a large population‐based cohort of men with prostate cancer receiving radical prostatectomy compared to other treatments.

Methods

We studied 5,845 patients diagnosed with local/regional stage prostate cancer at age 65–74 in 1992 with comorbidity score <2, who were defined as potential candidates for radical prostatectomy and identified from the SEER (Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results)‐Medicare cohort with median follow‐up of 11 years.

Results

Of 5,845 patients, 10‐year all‐cause survival rates were the highest for patients receiving radical prostatectomy (81.0%; 95% CI: 79.4–82.4%), followed by radical prostatectomy in combination with radiotherapy (67.6%; 62.0–72.5%), radiotherapy (60.5%; 58.3–62.6%), and were the lowest for watchful‐waiting (50.7%; 47.5–53.8%). A similar pattern was found for 10‐year prostate cancer‐specific survivals by treatments. After adjusting for age, ethnicity, region, Gleason Score, comorbidity, median annual household income, hormone therapy and chemotherapy, the hazard ratio of all‐cause mortality was 0.31 (95% CI: 0.25–0.37) for radical prostatectomy and 0.38 (95% CI: 0.28–0.52) for radical prostatectomy plus radiation therapy compared to those with watchful‐waiting.

Conclusions

There was a significant long‐term survival benefit in men receiving radical prostatectomy compared to those receiving watchful‐waiting or radiotherapy. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;97:583–591. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Syntheses and Comparison of 2,6‐Di‐O‐methyl Celluloses from Natural and Synthetic Celluloses
Authors: Kamitakahara Hiroshi , Koschella Andreas , Mikawa Yuji , Nakatsubo Fumiaki , Heinze Thomas , Klemm Dieter
Published: March 2008

2,6‐Di‐O‐methylcellulose was prepared from natural and synthetic celluloses. Natural cellulose was converted to 2,6‐di‐O‐thexyldimethylsilylcellulose, then to 3‐mono‐O‐allyl‐2,6‐di‐O‐methylcellulose, and finally into 2,6‐di‐O‐methylcellulose. Alternatively, 2,6 di‐O‐methylcellulose was synthesized from the synthetic cellulose derivative 3‐mono‐O‐benzyl‐2,6‐di‐O‐pivaloylcellulose by depivaloylation and methylation to give 3‐mono‐O‐benzyl‐2,6‐di‐O‐methylcellulose, which was debenzylated to yield the dimethyl ether. Both types of 2,6‐di‐O‐methylcellulose are insoluble in water and common organic solvents. The structures of all cellulose derivatives were determined by NMR.

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