bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
To what extent does Tobler's 1st law of geography apply to macroecology? A case study using American palms (Arecaceae)
Authors: Bjorholm Stine , Svenning Jens-Christian , Skov Flemming , Balslev Henrik
Published: May 2008

Background

Tobler's first law of geography, 'Everything is related to everything else, but near things are more related than distant things' also applies to biological systems as illustrated by a general and strong occurrence of geographic distance decay in ecological community similarity. Using American palms (Arecaceae) as an example, we assess the extent to which Tobler's first law applies to species richness and species composition, two fundamental aspects of ecological community structure. To shed light on the mechanisms driving distance decays in community structure, we also quantify the relative contribution of geographic distanceper seand environmental changes as drivers of spatial turnover in species richness and composition.

Results

Across the Americas, similarity in species composition followed a negative exponential decay curve, while similarity in species richness exhibited a parabolic relationship with geographic distance. Within the four subregions geographic distance decays were observed in both species composition and richness, though the decays were less regular for species richness than for species composition. Similarity in species composition showed a faster, more consistent decay with distance than similarity in species richness, both across the Americas and within the subregions. At both spatial extents, geographic distance decay in species richness depended more on environmental distance than on geographic distance, while the opposite was true for species composition. The environmentally complex or geographically fragmented subregions exhibited stronger distance decays than the more homogenous subregions.

Conclusion

Similarity in species composition exhibited a strong geographic distance decay, in agreement with Tobler's first law of geography. In contrast, similarity in species richness did not exhibit a consistent distance decay, especially not at distances >4000 kilometers. Therefore, the degree to which Tobler's first law of geography applies to community structure depends on which aspect hereof is considered – species composition or species richness. Environmentally complex or geographically fragmented regions exhibited the strongest distance decays. We conclude that Tobler's law may be most applicable when dispersal is a strong determinant of spatial turnover and less so when environmental control predominates.
Comprehensive analysis of the mouse renal cortex using two-dimensional HPLC – tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhao Yingxin , Denner Larry , Haidacher Sigmund J , LeJeune Wanda S , Tilton Ronald G
Published: May 2008

Background

Proteomic methodologies increasingly have been applied to the kidney to map the renal cortical proteome and to identify global changes in renal proteins induced by diseases such as diabetes. While progress has been made in establishing a renal cortical proteome using 1-D or 2-DE and mass spectrometry, the number of proteins definitively identified by mass spectrometry has remained surprisingly small. Low coverage of the renal cortical proteome as well as our interest in diabetes-induced changes in proteins found in the renal cortex prompted us to perform an in-depth proteomic analysis of mouse renal cortical tissue.

Results

We report a large scale analysis of mouse renal cortical proteome using SCX prefractionation strategy combined with HPLC – tandem mass spectrometry. High-confidence identification of ~2,000 proteins, including cytoplasmic, nuclear, plasma membrane, extracellular and unknown/unclassified proteins, was obtained by separating tryptic peptides of renal cortical proteins into 60 fractions by SCX prior to LC-MS/MS. The identified proteins represented the renal cortical proteome with no discernible bias due to protein physicochemical properties, subcellular distribution, biological processes, or molecular function. The highest ranked molecular functions were characteristic of tubular epithelium, and included binding, catalytic activity, transporter activity, structural molecule activity, and carrier activity. Comparison of this renal cortical proteome with published human urinary proteomes demonstrated enrichment of renal extracellular, plasma membrane, and lysosomal proteins in the urine, with a lack of intracellular proteins. Comparison of the most abundant proteins based on normalized spectral abundance factor (NSAF) in this dataset versus a published glomerular proteome indicated enrichment of mitochondrial proteins in the former and cytoskeletal proteins in the latter.

Conclusion

A whole tissue extract of the mouse kidney cortex was analyzed by an unbiased proteomic approach, yielding a dataset of ~2,000 unique proteins identified with strict criteria to ensure a high level of confidence in protein identification. As a result of extracting all proteins from the renal cortex, we identified an exceptionally wide range of renal proteins in terms of pI, MW, hydrophobicity, abundance, and subcellular location. Many of these proteins, such as low-abundance proteins, membrane proteins and proteins with extreme values in pI or MW are traditionally under-represented in 2-DE-based proteomic analysis.
Seladin-1 Is a Fundamental Mediator of the Neuroprotective Effects of Estrogen in Human Neuroblast Long-Term Cell Cultures
Authors: Luciani Paola , Deledda Cristiana , Rosati Fabiana , Benvenuti Susanna , Cellai Ilaria , Dichiara Francesca , Morello Matteo , Vannelli Gabriella Barbara , Danza Giovanna , Serio Mario , Peri Alessandro
Published: May 2008

Estrogen exerts neuroprotective effects and reduces β-amyloid accumulation in models of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). A few years ago, a new neuroprotective gene, i.e. seladin-1 (for selective AD indicator-1), was identified and found to be down-regulated in AD vulnerable brain regions. Seladin-1 inhibits the activation of caspase-3, a key modulator of apoptosis. In addition, it has been demonstrated that the seladin-1 gene encodes 3β-hydroxysterol Δ24-reductase, which catalyzes the synthesis of cholesterol from desmosterol. We have demonstrated previously that in fetal neuroepithelial cells, 17β-estradiol (17βE2), raloxifene, and tamoxifen exert neuroprotective effects and increase the expression of seladin-1. The aim of the present study was to elucidate whether seladin-1 is directly involved in estrogen-mediated neuroprotection. Using the small interfering RNA methodology, significantly reduced levels of seladin-1 mRNA and protein were obtained in fetal neuroepithelial cells. Seladin-1 silencing determined the loss of the protective effect of 17βE2 against β-amyloid and oxidative stress toxicity and caspase-3 activation. A computer-assisted analysis revealed the presence of half-palindromic estrogen responsive elements upstream from the coding region of the seladin-1 gene. A 1490-bp region was cloned in a luciferase reporter vector, which was transiently cotransfected with the estrogen receptor α in Chinese hamster ovarian cells. The exposure to 17βE2, raloxifene, tamoxifen, and the soy isoflavones genistein and zearalenone increased luciferase activity, thus suggesting a functional role for the half-estrogen responsive elements of the seladin-1 gene. Our data provide for the first time a direct demonstration that seladin-1 may be considered a fundamental mediator of the neuroprotective effects of estrogen.
Antagonistic Effects of Testosterone and the Endocrine Disruptor Mono-(2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate on INSL3 Transcription in Leydig Cells
Authors: Laguë Éric , Tremblay Jacques J.
Published: May 2008

Insulin-like 3 (INSL3) is a small peptide produced by testicular Leydig cells throughout embryonic and postnatal life and by theca and luteal cells of the adult ovary. During fetal life, INSL3 regulates testicular descent in males, whereas in adults, it acts as an antiapoptotic factor for germ cells in males and as a follicle selection and survival factor in females. Despite its considerable roles in the reproductive system, the mechanisms that regulate Insl3 expression remain poorly understood. There is accumulating evidence suggesting that androgens might regulate Insl3 expression in Leydig cells, but transcriptional data are still lacking. We now report that testosterone does increase Insl3 mRNA levels in a Leydig cell line and primary Leydig cells. We also show that testosterone activates the activity of the Insl3 promoter from different species. In addition, the testosterone-stimulating effects on Insl3 mRNA levels and promoter activity require the androgen receptor. We have mapped the testosterone-responsive element to the proximal Insl3 promoter region. This region, however, lacks a consensus androgen response element, suggesting an indirect mechanism of action. Finally we show that mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, a widely distributed endocrine disruptor with antiandrogenic activity previously shown to inhibit Insl3 expression in vivo, represses Insl3 transcription, at least in part, by antagonizing testosterone/androgen receptor action. All together our data provide important new insights into the regulation of Insl3 transcription in Leydig cells and the mode of action of phthalates.
Integrating the Number and Location of Retail Outlets on a Line with Replenishment Decisions
Authors: Naseraldin Hussein , Herer Yale T.
Published: May 2008

We research the management approach that quantitatively combines decisions that affect different planning horizons—namely, the strategic and operational ones—and simultaneously derive the optimal values of these decisions. The system we investigate comprises retail outlets and customers in an infinite-horizon setting. Both retail outlets and customers are located on a finite homogenous line segment. The total demand posed by customers is normally distributed with known mean and variance. To optimally design and operate such a system, we need to determine the optimal values of the number of retail outlets, the location of each retail outlet, and the replenishment inventory levels maintained at each retail outlet. We analyze the system from an expected cost point of view, considering the fixed costs of operating the retail outlets, the expected holding and shortage costs, and the expected delivery costs. We show that all decisions can be represented as a function of the number of retail outlets. Moreover, we show that the system's expected cost function is quasi-convex in the number of retail outlets. We compare our model to a model that does not integrate these decisions at once. We show the advantage of our approach on both the solution and objective spaces. We propose an exact quantification of this advantage in terms of the cost and problem parameters. In addition, we point out several managerial insights.
Microarray Technology and Applications in the Arena of Genome-Wide Association
Authors: Grant Struan F A , Hakonarson Hakon
Published: May 2008

Background: There is a revolution occurring in single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping technology, with high-throughput methods now allowing large numbers of SNPs (105–106) to be genotyped in large cohort studies. This has enabled large-scale genome-wide association (GWA) studies in complex diseases, such as diabetes, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease, to be undertaken for the first time.

Content: The GWA approach serves the critical need for a comprehensive and unbiased strategy to identify causal genes related to complex disease, and is rapidly replacing the more traditional candidate gene studies and microsatellite-based linkage mapping approaches that have dominated gene discovery attempts for common diseases. As a consequence of employing array-based technologies, over the last 3 years dramatic discoveries of key variants involved in multiple complex diseases and related traits have been reported in the top scientific literature and, most importantly, have been largely replicated by independent investigator groups. As a consequence, several novel genes have been identified, most notably in the metabolic, cardiovascular, autoimmune, and oncology disease areas, that are clearly rooted in the biology of these disorders. These discoveries have opened up new avenues for investigators to address novel molecular pathways that were not previously linked to or thought of in relation with these diseases.

Summary: This review provides a synopsis of recent advances and what we may expect to still emerge from this field.
BM88/Cend1 Expression Levels Are Critical for Proliferation and Differentiation of Subventricular Zone-Derived Neural Precursor Cells
Authors: Katsimpardi Lida , Gaitanou Maria , Malnou Cecile E. , Lledo Pierre-Marie , Charneau Pierre , Matsas Rebecca , Thomaidou Dimitra
Published: May 2008

Neural stem cells remain in two areas of the adult mammalian brain, the subventricular zone (SVZ) and the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. Ongoing neurogenesis via the SVZ-rostral migratory stream pathway maintains neuronal replacement in the olfactory bulb (OB) throughout life. The mechanisms determining how neurogenesis is restricted to only a few regions in the adult, in contrast to its more widespread location during embryogenesis, largely depend on controlling the balance between precursor cell proliferation and differentiation. BM88/Cend1 is a neuronal lineage-specific regulator implicated in cell cycle exit and differentiation of precursor cells in the embryonic neural tube. Here we investigated its role in postnatal neurogenesis. Study of in vivo BM88/Cend1 distribution revealed that it is expressed in low levels in neuronal precursors of the adult SVZ and in high levels in postmitotic OB interneurons. To assess the functional significance of BM88/Cend1 in neuronal lineage progression postnatally, we challenged its expression levels by gain- and loss-of-function approaches using lentiviral gene transfer in SVZ-derived neurospheres. We found that BM88/Cend1 overexpression decreases proliferation and favors neuronal differentiation, whereas its downregulation using new-generation RNA interference vectors yields an opposite phenotype. Our results demonstrate that BM88/Cend1 participates in cell cycle control and neuronal differentiation mechanisms during neonatal SVZ neurogenesis and becomes crucial for the transition from neuroblasts to mature neurons when reaching high levels.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Impact of Graduates from an Online Program in Their Work Environment
Authors: Scagnoli Norma , Stephens Melissa , Anderson Thomas
Published: May 2008

Online distance education programs are populated by adult learners who try to continue or complete their education without having to leave their jobs or places of residence. Their work environment becomes not just their working place, but also the lab where they apply new knowledge. The general expectation is that after graduation they will make an impact in their work environment through their job and through interacting with peers and supervisors. This study explored the influence that K-12 teachers had in their work environment as they pursued and graduated from an online Master's program in Education. The study shows the impact that the participants had and how they became agents of change in their immediate workplace.
A Dynamic Programming Approach to Identifying the Shortest Path in Virtual Learning Environments
Authors: Fazlollahtabar Hamed
Published: May 2008

E-learning has been widely adopted as a promising solution by many organizations to offer learning-on-demand opportunities to individual employees (learners) in order to reduce training time and cost. While successful information systems models have received much attention among researchers, little research has been conducted to assess the success and/or effectiveness of e-learning systems in an organizational context. The development of information technologies has contributed to the growth in online training as an important educational method. The online training environment enables learners to undertake customized training at any time and in any place. Moreover, information technology allows both the trainers and learners to be decoupled in terms of time, place, and space. In this article, dynamic programming is applied to find the shortest path in the learning environment for users and an analytical hierarchy process approach is used to turn the qualitative parameters into quantitative ones.
Recombinant Protein Complex Expression in E. coli
Authors: Selleck William , Tan Song
Published: May 2008

This unit provides procedures to design, create, and utilize polycistronic plasmids that express multicomponent protein complexes in E. coli. Both the original pST39 polycistronic expression system, which permits four genes to be coexpressed from a single plasmid, and the more recent pST44 polycistronic system, which facilitates incorporation of affinity tags and simplifies the construction of variant deletion or point mutation polycistronic plasmids, are described. Emphasis is placed on practical details for creating polycistronic expression plasmids, expressing the protein complex in E. coli, purifying the protein complex, and troubleshooting potential expression problems. Curr. Protoc. Protein Sci. 52:5.21.1‐5.21.21. © 2008 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Quantitation of DNA and RNA with Absorption and Fluorescence Spectroscopy
Authors: Gallagher Sean R. , Desjardins Philippe R.
Published: May 2008

Quantitation of nucleic acids is a fundamental tool in molecular biology that requires accuracy, reliability, and the use of increasingly smaller sample volumes. This unit describes the traditional absorbance measurement at 260 nm and three more sensitive fluorescence techniques, as well as three microvolume methods that use fiber optic technology in specialized cells or instrumentation. These procedures allow quantitation of DNA solutions ranging from 1 pg/liter to 50 mg/ml. Curr. Protoc. Protein Sci. 52:A.4K.1‐A.4K.21. © 2008 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Isolation and Molecular Detection ofEhrlichiafrom Vertebrate Animals
Authors: Cheng Chuanmin , Sirigireddy Kamesh R. , Ganta Roman R.
Published: May 2008

Human monocytic ehrlichiosis (HME), caused byEhrlichia chaffeensis, was first recognized in 1986. Infection with this pathogen can be fatal in immune compromised and elderly humans.E. chaffeensiscan also infect dogs and several wild animals. The clinical symptoms of HME include fever, headache, malaise, myalgia, confusion, rash, lymphadenopathy, and nausea. White‐tailed deer serve as the major reservoir host for the natural maintenance ofE. chaffeensis.E. canisis primarily responsible for the canine monocytic ehrlichiosis and is endemic throughout the world. It has a significant impact on the health of dogs. The isolation and growth ofEhrlichiaspecies from vertebrate host samples is difficult and time consuming. In this unit, methods to recoverE. chaffeensisandE. canisfrom infected blood samples collected from dogs, deer, and human patients are described. PCR and RT‐PCR methods for sensitive detection ofEhrlichiainfection are also discussed.Curr. Protoc. Microbiol. 9:3A.3.1‐3A.3.16. © 2008 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Laboratory Maintenance of Bdellovibrio
Authors: Lambert Carey , Sockett R. Elizabeth
Published: May 2008

Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus is a Gram‐negative bacterium that preys upon other Gram‐negative bacteria. It does this by penetrating the outer membrane and peptidoglycan to establish itself in the periplasm where it grows at the expense of the contents of the prey cell before ultimately lysing the prey. Wild‐type Bdellovibrio are prey‐(or host‐) dependent and the protocols described in this unit deal with the techniques required to grow this bacterium on its prey cells. Protocols are also presented to generate and culture host‐independent mutants as well as novel protocols to evaluate Bdellovibrio predation. Curr. Protoc. Microbiol. 9:7B.2.1‐7B.2.13. © 2008 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
An Electron‐Deficient Diene as Ligand for Palladium‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling Reactions: An Efficient Alkylation of Aryl Iodides by Primary and Secondary Alkylzinc Reagents
Authors: Liu Qiang , Duan Hui , Luo Xiancai , Tang Yang , Li Gang , Huang Rong , Lei Aiwen
Published: May 2008

An electron‐deficient diene, L1, was found to be an effective ligand in facilitating palladium‐catalyzed Negishi couplings involving primary and secondary alkylzinc reagents. The reactions took place readily at 60 °C in THF with 5 mol% of a catalyst generated in situ from bis(acetonitrile)palladium dichloride [PdCl2(MeCN)2] and L1, and functional groups such as chloro, bromo, etc. attached to phenyl ring as well as β‐H atoms adjacent to the reaction site were well tolerated. The problematic isomerizations in secondary alkyzinc reagents involved in the reactions reported in the literature were also observed in our system when isopropylzinc chloride was employed alone as the nucleophile. However, the isomerization was significantly suppressed when i‐Pr2Zn was utilized in the presence of L1.
Organocatalytic Asymmetric Formal [3+3] Cycloaddition Reactions of α,β‐Unsaturated Aldehydes with Nazarov Reagents
Authors: Zhu Ming‐Kui , Wei Qiang , Gong Liu‐Zhu
Published: May 2008

An organocatalytic asymmetric formal [3+3] cycloaddition reaction of α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes with Nazarov reagents promoted by prolinol derivatives afforded, after oxidation, 3,4‐dihydropyranones in good yields with high enantioselectivities of up to 97% ee.
Trends in suspected and recognized occupational respiratory diseases in Germany between 1970 and 2005
Authors: van Kampen V. , Merget R. , Butz M. , Taeger D. , Brüning T.
Published: May 2008

Background

Respiratory diseases represent a major proportion of occupational diseases in many countries. Little information is available about their incidences over the past several decades.

Methods

Based on the reports of the three German federal accident insurance agencies, the numbers of suspected and recognized cases of occupational respiratory diseases between 1970 and 2005 were collected and combined. The trends in the rates per 100,000 insured workers were calculated.

Results

In total, a decline in occupational respiratory diseases since 1998 could be observed. This trend is mainly based on the decrease in non‐malignant respiratory diseases due to silica and obstructive airway diseases. In contrast, asbestos‐induced diseases showed a leveling off or an increase (mesothelioma) during the last 10years.

Conclusions

Although trends in occupational disease may be influenced by several factors, the presented data indicate that prevention has been effective in reducing some ofthe most frequent occupational respiratory diseases in Germany. Am. J. Ind. Med. 51:492–502, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Preparation and characterization of a new coagulant based on the sago starch biopolymer and its application in water turbidity removal
Authors: Qudsieh I. Y. , l‐Razi A. Fakhru' , Kabbashi N. A. , Mirghani M. E. S. , Fandi K. G. , Alam M. Z. , Muyibi S. A. , Nasef M. M.
Published: May 2008

A new organic coagulant, sago starch (SS)‐graft‐polyacrylamide (PAm), was prepared by the ceric‐ion‐induced redox polymerization of acrylamide (Am) onto SS at room temperature. The effects of the variation of the concentration of Am and the initiator on the percentages of yield and total conversion were investigated. The chemical composition, viscosity, and side‐chain‐average molecular weight of the obtained graft copolymers were determined. The newly obtained coagulant was tested for the treatment of the turbidity of water. The SS‐g‐PAm coagulants were found to achieve water turbidity removal up to 96.6%. The results of this study suggest that SS‐g‐PAm copolymer is a potential coagulant for reducing turbidity during water treatment. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2008
Development of a synergistic case‐based microanatomy curriculum
Authors: McBride Jennifer M. , Prayson Richard A.
Published: May 2008

This paper discusses the development of an interactive approach to teaching and assessing a microanatomy curriculum in an innovative medical school program. As an alternative to lectures and labs, students are engaged in interactive seminars focused on discussion of clinical and research‐based cases matched with normal histology and pathology slides. A virtual microscopic system is used rather than the traditional glass slide and light microscope. Evaluation of student performance consists of self‐assessment board style questions, concept appraisal problems, and utilization of a portfolio system where the assessment pieces are continuously integrated as part of written formative and summative assessments. Anat Sci Ed 1:102–105, 2008. © 2008 American Association of Anatomists.
Multitemporal climate variability over the Atlantic Ocean and Eurasia: linkages with Mediterranean and West African climate
Authors: Paz Shlomit , Tourre Yves M. , Brolley Justin
Published: May 2008

More linkages between the Atlantic multidecadal oscillation (AMO, and thermohaline circulation), the Polar vortex oscillation (PVO, and vorticity intrusion), the North Africa–West Asia index (NAWA, and NA–WA poles) and Sahelian rainfall, are investigated. Significant positive correlations are found between winter/spring AMO and spring NA pole. Significant positive (negative) correlations are found between winter PVO and NAWA (WA pole). NAWA is shown being modulated by winter AMO to the west, and winter PVO over Eurasia to the east. Winter AMO and PVO can thus be used operationally by decision makers as early predictors of Mediterranean climate and Sahelian rainfall during summer. Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society
MAP D‐PHASE: real‐time demonstration of hydrological ensemble prediction systems
Authors: Zappa Massimiliano , Rotach Mathias W. , Arpagaus Marco , Dorninger Manfred , Hegg Christoph , Montani Andrea , Ranzi Roberto , Ament Felix , Germann Urs , Grossi Giovanna , Jaun Simon , Rossa Andrea , Vogt Stephan , Walser André , Wehrhan Johannes , Wunram Claudia
Published: May 2008

Mesoscale Alpine Programme Demonstration of Probabilistic Hydrological and Atmospheric Simulation of Flood Events (MAP D‐PHASE) is a forecast demonstration project aiming at demonstrating recent improvements in the operational use of end‐to‐end forecasting system consisting of atmospheric models, hydrological prediction systems, nowcasting tools and warnings for end‐users. Both deterministic and ensemble prediction systems (EPSs) have been implemented for the European Alps (atmospheric models) and a selection of mesoscale river basins (hydrological models) in Central Europe. A first insight into MAP D‐PHASE with focus on operational ensemble hydrological simulations is presented here. Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society
Influence of chondroitin sulfate on collagen gel structure and mechanical properties at physiologically relevant levels
Authors: Stuart Kate , Panitch Alyssa
Published: May 2008

The ability to alter collagen organization could lead to more physiologically relevant scaffolds for tissue engineering. This study examined collagen organization in the presence of polysaccharide and the resulting effects on viscoelastic properties. Fibrillogenesis in the presence of chondroitin sulfate (CS) resulted in changes in the collagen network organization with an increase in void space present. The increased void space caused by CS addition correlated with a decreased stiffness of the collagen gel. These changes occurred with physiologically relevant ratios of collagen to CS, at physiological pH and ionic strength, and without a decrease in the amount of collagen incorporated into fibrils. The addition of dextran, an uncharged polysaccharide, yielded no change in network void space or mechanical properties. Changes in fibril diameter caused by CS or dextran were not correlated with mechanical properties. The results of this study demonstrate that collagen organization can be modified by the addition of GAG, leading to altered matrix mechanical properties. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 89: 841–851, 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
Controlled Synthesis and Luminescence of Semiconductor Nanorods
Authors: Li Peng , Wang Leyu , Wang Lun , Li Yadong
Published: May 2008

A variety of nearly monodisperse semiconductor nanocrystals, such as CdS, ZnS, and ZnS:Mn, with controllable aspect ratios have been successfully prepared through a facile synthetic process. These as‐prepared nanocrystals were obtained from the reactions between metal ions and thioacetamide by employing octadecylamine or oleylamine as the surfactants. The effects of reaction temperature and time, ratios of thioacetamide to inorganic precursors, and the reactant content on the size and crystal purity of the nanorods, have been systematically investigated. The optical properties and the formation mechanism of the nanorods have also been discussed. For the next biolabel applications, these hydrophobic nanocrystals have also been transferred into hydrophilic colloidal spheres by means of an emulsion‐based bottom‐up self‐assembly approach.
Pillaring of CdCl2‐Like Layers in Lanthanide Metal–Organic Frameworks: Synthesis, Structure, and Photophysical Properties
Authors: Mahata Partha , Ramya K. V. , Natarajan Srinivasan
Published: May 2008

A hydrothermal reaction of lanthanide salts, pyridine‐2,3‐dicarboxylic acid, benzene‐1,4‐dicarboxylic acid, and water gave rise to a new series of three‐dimensional mixed carboxylates (homocyclic and heterocyclic) of lanthanides with the general formula [M2(H2O)4][{C5H3N(COO)2}2{C6H4(COO)2}], M=La (I), Pr (II), and Nd (III). The structure consists of M2O14N2 dimeric units connected by pyridine‐2,3‐dicarboxylate moieties to form two‐dimensional layers that are pillared by terephthalate units. The structures also possess two coordinated water molecules, which are arranged to form one‐dimensional helical chains and can be reversibly adsorbed. The connectivity within the layers closely resembles that of the CdCl2 layered structure with 36 topology. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first observation of CdCl2 topology in lanthanide metal–organic framework compounds. Partial substitution of La3+ in I by Eu3+ and Tb3+ (2 and 4 %) gives rise to characteristic red/pink or green emission, which suggests a ligand‐sensitized metal‐centered emission. The Nd compound III shows interesting UV and blue emission through an up‐conversion process.
Catalytic Asymmetric Synthesis of Chiral Phosphanes
Authors: Glueck David S.
Published: May 2008

Chiral phosphanes, important ligands for metal‐catalyzed asymmetric syntheses, are often prepared with compounds from the chiral pool, by using stoichiometric chiral auxiliaries, or by resolution. In some cases, this class of valuable compounds can be prepared more efficiently by catalytic asymmetric synthesis. This Concepts article presents an overview of these synthetic methods, including recent advances in catalysis by metal complexes, biocatalysis, organocatalysis, and ligand‐accelerated catalysis.
Virgin hemp seed oil: An interesting niche product
Authors: Matthäus Bertrand , Brühl Ludger
Published: May 2008

Virgin hemp seed oil is not widespread on the market, although it is characterised by an interesting fatty acid composition with a high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Linoleic acid is the predominant fatty acid, which comes, together with α‐linolenic acid (18:3n‐3), to approximately 80% of the total fatty acids. From a nutritional point of view, up to 7% γ‐linolenic acid (18:3n‐6) and 2.5% stearidonic acid (18:4n‐3) are very interesting. The total amount of tocopherols is high between 80 and 110 mg/100 g, with γ‐tocopherol as the main tocopherol (85%). Due to the high amount of unsaturated fatty acids, hemp seed oil is very susceptible to oxidative deterioration, which results in a fast impairment of the oil during storage. In addition, the high amounts of chlorophyll in the oil due to harvesting of high amounts of immature seeds require light protection, which is often neglected because of merchandising purposes. The virgin oil is characterised by a nutty taste with a slightly bitter aftertaste. The use of virgin hemp seed oil is recommended during mild processing of food without heat.
Bitter off‐taste in stored cold‐pressed linseed oil obtained from different varieties
Authors: Brühl Ludger , Matthäus Bertrand , Scheipers Anne , Hofmann Thomas
Published: May 2008

Freshly pressed linseed oil shows a delicate nutty flavor. However, after only 1 day of storage, a bitter off‐taste develops. It is caused mainly by the formation of a cyclic octa‐peptide named cyclolinopeptide E (CLE) containing the oxidized amino acid methionine. A simple and fast determination by solid‐phase extraction and high‐performance liquid chromatography with UV detection has been developed in order to measure the formation of this cyclic peptide during storage in correlation with the increasing bitter off‐taste of the oil, which was determined by a sensory panel. The development of this bitter off‐taste was analyzed in several oils prepared from linseed of a single variety from seeds obtained during a growing test. Highest bitterness was perceived in oil from the variety Eurodor, corresponding to CLE contents of 925 mg/kg, and lowest bitterness was perceived in oil from the variety Baladin, corresponding to a CLE content of 485 mg/kg. In some varieties, additional bitter compounds might be present in significant amounts.
Evaluation of the volatile and chiral composition in Pistacia lentiscus L. essential oil
Authors: Lo Presti Maria , Sciarrone Danilo , Crupi Maria Lucia , Costa Rosaria , Ragusa Salvatore , Dugo Giovanni , Mondello Luigi
Published: May 2008

In the present research, the chemical composition of the volatiles present in the fresh leaves and twigs of Pistacia lentiscus L. was determined by using GC–FID and GC–MS. In past years the oil was employed in the perfumery, food and pharmaceutical industries, while recently it has been re‐evaluated as a flavouring in alcoholic beverages and chewing gums, due to the natural production of the exudate called ‘mastic gum’. The present study was carried out on Sicilian plants with the aim of integrating the already existing information on the chemical composition of the oil. The oil samples were obtained using traditional hydrodistillation (HD) and simultaneous distillation and extraction (SDE). For the first time, the enantiomeric distribution of 17 chiral couples by means of enantioselective multidimensional gas chromatography (Es‐MDGC), was determined. The results showed that more compounds were detected in the SDE extract (96 components) than in the HD extract (62 components). Several minor components contained in the HD product probably contribute significantly to its aromatic properties and could be useful for chemotaxonomic characterization. P. lentiscus L. leaf and twig oil, although not considered until now, could be employed as a flavour contributor or as food preservative. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of a “make” or internal human resource management system in Spanish manufacturing companies: Empirical evidence
Authors: Lytras Miltiadis D. , Pablos Patricia Ordóñez de
Published: May 2008

The combined study of the literature about human resource management and the resource‐based view of the firm and organizational learning provides an analysis framework useful for understanding how strategic human resource management systems contribute to the creation and development of a sustained competitive advantage for the firm. This article has two major aims. First, it provides a conceptual framework linking simultaneously three theoretical blocks: (a) human resource management, (b) organizational learning and knowledge management, and (c) sustained competitive advantage. Second, the article builds a causal model and tests it with a sample of Spanish firms from the manufacturing industry using structural equation modeling (SEM). After the performance of a cluster analysis, a group of 72 learning firms is identified and used to test the model. Finally, major conclusions and implications for management are drawn and further avenues for research are suggested. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Flavonoids and ovarian cancer risk: A case–control study in Italy
Authors: Rossi Marta , Negri Eva , Lagiou Pagona , Talamini Renato , Dal Maso Luigino , Montella Maurizio , Franceschi Silvia , La Vecchia Carlo
Published: May 2008

Flavonoids belong to a vast group of polyphenols widely distributed in all foods of plant origin. Because of their antioxidant, antimutagenic and antiproliferative properties, they have been hypothesized to contribute to the favorable effects of fruit and vegetables against cancer. The aim of this study is to investigate the relation of 6 classes of flavonoids (flavan‐3‐ols, flavanones, flavonols, flavones, anthocyanidins and isoflavones) with ovarian cancer risk, using data from a multicentric case–control study conducted in Italy between 1992 and 1999. The study included 1,031 cases with incident, histologically confirmed epithelial ovarian cancer and 2,411 controls admitted for acute, nonneoplastic conditions to major hospitals in the same catchment areas. In logistic regression models including study center, education, year of interview, parity, oral contraceptive use and family history of ovarian or breast cancer or both, an inverse relation with significant trend in risk was found between ovarian cancer and flavonols [odds ratio (OR), 0.63; 95% confidence intervals (CI) 0.47–0.84] as well as isoflavones (OR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.37–0.69), comparing the highest versus the lowest quintile. Further adjustment for fruit and vegetable intake did not modify these associations, suggesting that isoflavones and flavonols may have a distinct role in explaining the effect of fruit and vegetable against ovarian cancer. On the basis of our findings and the relevant literature, we infer that isoflavones, and perhaps flavonols, may have favorable effects with respect to ovarian cancer risk. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Impact of polymer hydrophilicity on biocompatibility: Implication for DES polymer design
Authors: Hezi‐Yamit Ayala , Sullivan Carol , Wong Jennifer , David Laura , Chen Mingfei , Cheng Peiwen , Shumaker David , Wilcox Josiah N. , Udipi Kishore
Published: May 2008

Polymer coatings are essential for local delivery of drug from the stent platform. In designing a DES, it is critical to balance the hydrophilic and hydrophobic components of the polymer system to obtain optimal biocompatibility, while maintaining controlled drug elution. This study investigates the impact of polymer composition of the BioLinx™ polymer blend on in vitro biocompatibility, as measured by monocytic adhesion. Comparable evaluation was performed with polymers similar to those utilized in various DES that are currently being marketed. Relative hydrophilicities of polymer surfaces were determined through contact angle measurements and surface analyses. Polymer biocompatibility was evaluated in a novel in vitro assay system in which activated monocyte cells were exposed to polymer coated on 96‐well plates. Enhanced monocyte adhesion was observed with polymers of a more hydrophobic nature, whereas those which were more hydrophilic did not induce activated monocyte adhesion. Our data supports the hypothesis that polymer composition is a feature that dictates in vitro biocompatibility as measured by monocyte driven inflammation. Monocyte adhesion has been shown to induce local inflammation as well as promote vascular cell proliferation factors contributing to in stent restenosis (Rogers et al., Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 1996;16:1312–1318). Observed results suggest hydrophobic but not hydrophilic polymer surfaces support adhesion of activated monoctyes to the polymer scaffold. The proprietary DES polymer blend BioLinx has a hydrophilic surface architecture and does not induce an inflammatory response as measured by these in vitro assays. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
Aspects of the in vitro bioactivity of hydraulic calcium (alumino)silicate cement
Authors: Coleman Nichola J. , Awosanya Kunle , Nicholson John W.
Published: May 2008

In response to a burgeoning interest in the prospective clinical applications of hydraulic calcium (alumino)silicate cements, the in vitro bioactivity and dissolution characteristics of a white Portland cement have been investigated. The formation of an apatite layer within 6 h of contact with simulated body fluid was attributed to the rapid dissolution of calcium hydroxide from the cement matrix and to the abundance of pre‐existing SiOH nucleation sites presented by the calcium silicate hydrate phase. A simple kinetic model has been used to describe the rate of apatite formation and an apparent pseudo‐second‐order rate constant for the removal of HPO42− ions from solution has been calculated (k2 = 5.8 ×10−4 g mg−1 min−1). Aspects of the chemistry of hydraulic cements are also discussed with respect to their potential use in the remedial treatment of living tissue. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
Pertussis toxin induces angiogenesis in brain microvascular endothelial cells
Authors: Lu Changming , Pelech Steven , Zhang Hong , Bond Jeffrey , Spach Karen , Noubade Rajkumar , Blankenhorn Elizabeth P. , Teuscher Cory
Published: May 2008

Pertussis toxin (PTX) is an ancillary adjuvant used to elicit experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE), the principal autoimmune model of multiple sclerosis. One mechanism whereby PTX potentiates EAE is to increase blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability. To elucidate further the mechanism of action of PTX on the BBB, we investigated the genomic and proteomic responses of isolated mouse brain endothelial cells (MBEC) following intoxication. Among ∼14,000 mouse genes tracked by cDNA microarray, 34 showed altered expression in response to PTX. More than one‐third of these genes have roles in angiogenesis. Accordingly, we show that intoxication of MBEC induces tube formation in vitro and angiogenesis in vivo. The global effect of PTX on signaling protein levels and phosphorylation in MBEC was investigated by using Kinex antibody microarrays. In total, 113 of 372 pan‐specific and 58 of 258 phospho‐site‐specific antibodies revealed changes ≥25% following intoxication. Increased STAT1 Tyr‐701 and Ser‐727 phosphorylation; reduced phosphorylation of the activating phospho‐sites in Erk1, Erk2, and MAPKAPK2; and decreased phosphorylation of arrestin β1 Ser‐412 and Hsp27 Ser‐82 were confirmed by Kinetworks multi‐immunoblotting. The importance of signal transduction pathways on PTX‐induced MBEC tube formation was evaluated pharmacologically. Inhibition of phospholipase C, MEK1, and p38 MAP kinase had little effect, whereas inhibition of cAMP‐dependent protein kinase, protein kinase C, and phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase partially blocked tube formation. Taken together, these findings are consistent with the concept that PTX may lead to increased BBB permeability by altering endothelial plasticity and angiogenesis. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A meshless method for numerical solution of a linear hyperbolic equation with variable coefficients in two space dimensions
Authors: Dehghan Mehdi , Shokri Ali
Published: May 2008

A meshless method is proposed for the numerical solution of the two space dimensional linear hyperbolic equation subject to appropriate initial and Dirichlet boundary conditions. The new developed scheme uses collocation points and approximates the solution employing thin plate splines radial basis functions. Numerical results are obtained for various cases involving variable, singular and constant coefficients, and are compared with analytical solutions to confirm the good accuracy of the presented scheme. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2009
Systemic calciphylaxis
Authors: Suryadevara Manika , Schurman Scott J. , Landas Steve K. , Philip Abraham , Gerlach Christopher B. , Tavares Trisha , Souid Abdul‐Kader
Published: May 2008

An 11‐year‐old male developed systemic calciphylaxis during induction therapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. His predisposing conditions were hypercalcemia, supplements for pamidronate‐induced hypocalcemia and hypophosphatemia and renal insufficiency. He died of cardiorespiratory arrest on the 20th day of induction treatment. Autopsy revealed extensive calcium deposits in the heart, lungs and kidneys. He had diffused alveolar damage, acute tubular necrosis, chronic pancreatitis and marked hepatic steatosis. Systemic calcium deposition may progress rapidly in children with hypercalcemia of malignancy. Since pamidronate reduces mineral resorption from tissues, calcium and phosphate replacements increase systemic mineral deposits. Thus, mineral supplements should be considered only to combat symptoms. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;51:548–550. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Attempts to prevent holiday‐related diabetic foot ulceration
Authors: Pickin R , Kaye L , Bush A , Thomas C , Gill GV
Published: May 2008

The risk of diabetic foot ulceration is increased on holidays (‘ Diabetic Holiday Foot Syndrome’), often related to barefoot walking and poorly fitting sandals or beach shoes.

We introduced an intensive educational programme in our clinic population in order to increase awareness of the problem and advise on preventive approaches. Case notes were audited for the year before (Year 1) and year after (Year 2) introduction of the programme to assess the impact on holiday‐related foot ulceration, and its characteristics.

In Year 1 there were three new holiday foot ulcers, out of a total of 52 new ulcers in the year (5.8%). In Year 2 the figure was four out of 55 (7.3%). The difference was not significant. There was evidence from individual case histories that educational messages were being received but ignored in a holiday situation.

New preventive strategies, other than direct patient education, will be needed if the prevalence of holiday‐related diabetic foot ulceration is to be reduced. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons.
Identification of potential serum biomarkers of inflammation and lipid modulation that are altered by fish oil supplementation in healthy volunteers
Authors: de Roos Baukje , Geelen Anouk , Ross Karen , Rucklidge Garry , Reid Martin , Duncan Gary , Caslake Muriel , Horgan Graham , Brouwer Ingeborg A.
Published: May 2008

Long chain n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n‐3 LCPUFA) lower risk of coronary heart disease (CHD), but mechanisms are not well understood. We used proteomics to identify human serum proteins that are altered by n‐3 LCPUFA. Such proteins could identify pathways whereby they affect CHD. Eighty‐one healthy volunteers entered a double blind randomised trial to receive 3.5 g of fish oil or 3.5 g of high oleic sunflower oil daily. Serum was collected before and after 6 wk of intervention. Serum was analysed by proteomics using 2‐DE. Proteins that were differentially regulated were identified by MS. We also analysed serum apolipoprotein A1 (apo A1), high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) particle size and haptoglobin. Serum levels of apo A1, apo L1, zinc‐α‐2‐glycoprotein, haptoglobin precursor, α‐1‐antitrypsin precursor, antithrombin III‐like protein, serum amyloid P component and haemopexin were significantly downregulated (all p<0.05) by fish oil compared with high oleic sunflower oil supplementation. Fish oil supplementation caused a significant shift towards the larger, more cholesterol‐rich HDL2 particle. The alterations in serum proteins and HDL size imply that fish oil activates anti‐inflammatory and lipid modulating mechanisms believed to impede the early onset of CHD. These proteins are potential diagnostic biomarkers to assess the mechanisms whereby fish oil protects against CHD in humans.