bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The primary structure of a low‐Mr multiphosphorylated variant of β‐casein in equine milk
Authors: Miclo Laurent , Girardet Jean‐Michel , Egito Antonio S. , Mollé Daniel , Martin Patrice , Gaillard Jean‐Luc
Published: March 2007

Highly phosphorylated casein with a low molecular mass was isolated from Haflinger mare's milk by RP‐HPLC. It accounts for 4.0% of the casein content. Its mass was determined by LC‐ESI‐MS before and after treatment by alkaline phosphatase. The molecular mass found for the apo‐form (10 591 ± 2 Da) is in agreement with its primary structure, which was established by ESI‐MS/MS from tryptic peptides. It appeared that this short protein (94 amino acid residues) is an internally truncated form of the full‐length equine β‐casein (226 residues). This low‐Mr variant of equine β‐casein displays a large deletion (residues 50–181), due to a cryptic splice site usage occurring within exon 7 during the course of primary transcripts processing. The phosphorylation pattern of this equine β‐casein variant was investigated by LC‐ESI‐MS and 2‐DE. Seven phosphorylation forms were identified with one to seven phosphate groups with pIs ranging between 4.67 and 4.01. The major isoforms carry five and six phosphate groups.
Comprehensive yeast proteome analysis using a capillary isoelectric focusing‐based multidimensional separation platform coupled with ESI‐MS/MS
Authors: Wang Weijie , Guo Tong , Song Tao , Lee Cheng S. , Balgley Brian M.
Published: March 2007

As demonstrated in this study, a CIEF‐based multidimensional separation platform not only is compatible with the detergent‐based membrane protein preparation protocol, but also achieves both the largest yeast membrane proteome coverage and the most comprehensive analysis of the yeast proteome to date. By using a 1% false discovery rate for total peptide identifications, a total of 2513 distinct yeast proteins are identified from the SDS‐solubilized fraction with an average of 5.4 peptides leading to each protein identification. Among proteins identified from the SDS‐solubilized fraction, 407 proteins are predicted to contain at least two or more transmembrane domains using TMHMM (www.cbs.dtu.dk/services/TMHMM‐2.0/), corresponding to 46% yeast membrane proteome coverage. Only four additional membrane proteins are identified in the soluble and urea‐solubilized fractions, affirming the utility of SDS extraction for enriching the membrane proteome. By combining proteome results obtained from the soluble, urea‐solubilized, and SDS‐solubilized fractions, a single yeast proteome analysis yields the identification of 3632 distinct yeast proteins, corresponding to 55% theoretical yeast proteome coverage or 70% of proteins predicted to be expressed during log‐phase growth in rich media.
Antigen discovery: A postgenomic approach to paratuberculosis diagnosis
Authors: Leroy Baptiste , Roupie Virginie , Noël‐Georis Isabelle , Rosseels Valérie , Walravens Karl , Govaerts Marc , Huygen Kris , Wattiez Ruddy
Published: March 2007

Paratuberculosis is a chronic enteritis caused in domestic and wild ruminant species by Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) that is responsible for major economic losses to the agricultural industry. To date, no satisfactory therapeutic, vaccine, or diagnostic tools are available, globally impairing all control programs. In this study, we have undertaken a large‐scale postgenomic analysis of MAP proteins, to identify specific antigens that could potentially improve the diagnosis of paratuberculosis. Two complementary approaches were implemented, the first one consisting in the systematic proteomic identification of proteins present in MAP culture filtrates (CFs), followed by the selection of MAP‐specific proteins by BLAST query on available mycobacterial genomes. The resulting database represents the first established secretome of MAP and a useful source of potentially specific antigens. The second approach consisted in the immunoproteomic analysis of both MAP extracts and CFs, using sera from MAP‐infected and uninfected cattle. Combining results obtained with both approaches resulted in the identification of 25 candidate diagnostic antigens. Five of these were tested in an ELISA assay for their diagnostic potential, on a limited panel of field sera, and the combination of three of them competed in performance with available commercial assays, reaching a test sensitivity of 94.74% and specificity of 97.92%.
Controlled grafting of ethyl cellulose with azobenzene‐containing polymethacrylates via atom transfer radical polymerization
Authors: Tang Xinde , Gao Longcheng , Fan Xinghe , Zhou Qifeng
Published: March 2007

Graft copolymers of ethyl cellulose with azobenzene‐containing polymethacrylates were synthesized through atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). The residual hydroxyl groups on ethyl cellulose were first esterified with 2‐bromoisobutyryl bromide to yield 2‐bromoisobutyryloxy groups, which was then used to initiate the polymerization of 6‐[4‐(4‐methoxyphenylazo)phenoxy]hexyl methacrylate (MMAzo) in the presence of CuBr/N,N,N′,N″,N″‐pentamethylenetriamine (PMDETA) as catalyst and anisole as solvent. The graft copolymers were characterized by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and 1H‐NMR. The molecular weights of the graft copolymers increased relatively to the macroinitiator, and the polydispersities were narrow. The thermal and liquid crystalline property of the graft copolymers were investigated by differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) and polarizing optical microscope (POM). Photoresponsive property was studied under the irradiation of UV–vis light in THF solution. The graft copolymers have potential applications, including sensors and optical materials. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 1653–1660, 2007
Tailor‐made poly(ethyl acrylate) by atom transfer radical polymerization
Authors: Datta Haimanti , Bhowmick Anil K. , Singha Nikhil K.
Published: March 2007

Atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of ethyl acrylate (EA) was carried out using different initiators, CuBr or CuCl as catalyst in combination with different ligands e.g., 2,2′‐bipyridine (bpy) and N,N,N′,N″N″‐pentamethyl diethylenetriamine (PMDETA). Use of PMDETA as ligand resulted in faster polymerization rate (95% conversion in 15 min) than those using bipyridine (∼58% conversion in 10.5 h). This is due to the lower reduction potential of copper‐amine than that of copper‐bpy complex, resulting in higher rates of activation of dormant halides. Use of ethylene carbonate as solvent lead to faster polymerization rate and better control in polymerization when compared with p‐xylene as solvent. The reaction temperature had a positive effect on polymerization rate and the optimum reaction temperature was found to be 90 °C. An apparent enthalpy of activation of ∼85 kJ/mol was determined for the ATRP of ethyl acrylate, corresponding to an enthalpy of equilibrium of ∼64 kJ/mol. By judicious choice of the reaction parameters it was possible to tailor the end group of the final polymer. MALDI‐TOF‐MS analysis and the chain extension experiment of poly(ethyl acrylate) (PEA) prepared using bpy as ligand showed the presence of Br as the end group. On the contrary, when PMDETA was used as the ligand, the mass spectra analysis showed hydrogen terminated polymer as the major species towards the end of polymerization. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 1661–1669, 2007
A kinetic study of metallocene‐catalyzed ethylene polymerization using different aluminoxane cocatalysts
Authors: Sarzotti Deborah M. , Marshman Devin J. , Ripmeester William E. , Soares João B. P.
Published: March 2007

The kinetics of ethylene polymerization using homogeneous Cp2ZrCl2/aluminoxane catalysts in toluene has been investigated at 70 °C with an ethylene pressure of 30 psi. Four aluminoxanes were used: methylaluminoxane, modified methylaluminoxanes with a fraction of methyl groups substituted with isobutyl (MMAO‐4) or octyl (MMAO‐12) groups, and polymethylaluminoxane (PMAO‐IP). The cocatalyst‐to‐catalyst ratio, [Al]/[Zr], varied from 1000 to 10,000. The experimental results obtained using the four cocatalysts were compared and a model was proposed to fit the rate of polymerization as a function of polymerization time and [Al]/[Zr] ratio. Molecular weight distributions with polydispersities between three and four indicate the presence of more than one active site type. We proposed a model that explained these broad molecular weight distributions using an unstable active complex that is formed in the early stages of the reaction and is transformed over time to a more stable active complex via an intermediate. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 1677–1690, 2007
Cyclic and branched functional polyesters derived from 5,5′,6,6′‐tetrahydroxy‐3,3,3′,3′‐tetramethyl spirobisindane and various dicarboxylic acids
Authors: Kricheldorf Hans R. , Bornhorst Kerstin
Published: March 2007

Triethylamine‐promoted polycondensations of 5,5′,6,6′‐tetrahydroxy‐3,3, 3′,3′‐tetramethyl spirobisindane (TTSBI) and α,ω‐alkane dicarboxylic acid dichlorides were performed with equimolar feed ratios. Three different procedures were compared. At a TTSBI concentration of 0.05 mol/L, gelation was avoided, and soluble cyclic polyesters having two OH groups per repeat unit were isolated. These polyesters were characterized with 1H NMR spectroscopy, MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry, and SEC and DSC measurements. All polycondensations with sebacoyl chloride resulted in gelation, regardless of the procedure. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 1699–1706, 2007
Synthesis and characterization of polyimide containing PEG/PDMS amphiphilic conetworks by hydrosilylation: Correlation between structure and properties
Authors: Srividhya M. , Reddy B. S. R.
Published: March 2007

Soluble poly(imide‐siloxane)s were obtained by carefully designing the synthesis and introducing poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) units, thereby making the system amphiphilic in nature. The solubility of the synthesized PEG containing poly(mide‐siloxane)s (PPIS) in various solvents was tested and their thermal properties were investigated. Polymeric siloxane networks were prepared by combining imide groups and hydrophilic PEG components with sufficient variability in their composition to analyze their physicochemical details. The amine groups of the imides were varied in their rigidity and bulkiness, and their effect on the mechanical and thermal properties was studied. Here we have also examined the surface property of the networks through contact angle measurements, morphology through SEM, existence of amorphous nature by WAXD, and their structure–property relationships were correlated. The thermal analysis revealed the phase separation of the three components poly(dimethyl siloxane) (PDMS), PEG, and imide, showing a tricomponent amphiphilic conetworks. The mechanical properties were found to be improved by the phase separated PPIS containing more rigid imide groups. The overall properties of the amphiphilic conetwork has the features of differing hydrophilicity, mobility, and morphology distributed across a matrix, which has a microphase separated design suitable for gas separation and biomedical applications. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 1707–1726, 2007
Pulmonary function and exercise testing in adult survivors of congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Authors: Peetsold Marieke G. , Vonk‐Noordegraaf Anton , Heij Hugo H. , Gemke Reinoud J.B.J.
Published: March 2007

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is accompanied by pulmonary hypoplasia and structural abnormalities of the pulmonary vascular bed. It is unknown whether pulmonary function, exercise capacity, and gas exchange during exercise are impaired in adult CDH survivors. The objective of this study was to assess the long‐term pulmonary function, exercise capacity, and gas exchange during exercise and relate these findings with quality of life. Of the 23 patients eligible for this study, 12 adult CDH survivors (mean age, 24.3 ± 4.1 years) with high‐risk CDH agreed to participate. Pulmonary function tests, diffusion capacity, and a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) were performed. The FEV1 (mean z‐score ± SD; −1.30 ± 1.37), FEF25–75% (−1.49 ± 1.14), and the KCO (−1.03 ± 1.24) were found to be lower in CDH survivors. The RV/TLC ratio (28.2% ± 5.0%) was found to be higher. Despite these abnormalities, percent predicted work load (102% ± 17.2%) and percent predicted maximal oxygen uptake (90.8% ± 18.9%) were normal in most of the patients. The quality of life of CDH survivors, assessed with the SF‐36 questionnaire, is comparable to the general population. Comparison of participants to non‐participants did not reveal significant differences in clinical characteristics. In this first study assessing pulmonary function in adult survivors of CDH, mild airway obstruction was observed in most of the patients together with a slightly reduced diffusion capacity for CO. Exercise capacity and gas exchange parameters were normal in this group, indicating that patients do not have a physical impairment, as reflected by a normal quality of life of CDH patients. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2007; 42:325–331. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Symptom perception and functional morbidity across a 1‐year follow‐up in pediatric asthma
Authors: Feldman Jonathan M. , McQuaid Elizabeth L. , Klein Robert B. , Kopel Sheryl J. , Nassau Jack H. , Mitchell Daphne Koinis , Wamboldt Marianne Z. , Fritz Gregory K.
Published: March 2007

The purpose of this study was to examine the association between asthma symptom perception measured during a 5–6 week baseline and functional morbidity measured prospectively across a 1‐year follow‐up. Symptom perception was measured by comparing subjective ratings with peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1). We hypothesized that accurate symptom perception (ASP) would be associated with less functional morbidity. Participants consisted of 198 children with asthma ages 7–17 recruited from three sites. The children used a programmable electronic spirometer in the home setting to guess their PEFR prior to exhalation. Each “subjective” guess was classified as being in an ASP, dangerous symptom perception (DSP; underestimation of symptoms), or symptom magnification (SM; overestimation) zone based upon the corresponding measurement of PEFR or FEV1. An index of functional morbidity was collected by parent report at baseline and across 1‐year follow‐up. A greater proportion of ASP blows and a lower proportion of DSP blows based on PEFR predicted less functional morbidity reported at baseline, independent of asthma severity and race/ethnicity. A greater proportion of ASP blows (using PEFR and FEV1) and a lower proportion of SM blows (using FEV1) predicted less functional morbidity across 1‐year follow‐up. Symptom perception was not associated with emergency department visits for asthma at baseline or across follow‐up. In comparison to PEFR, FEV1 more frequently detected a decline in pulmonary function that children did not report. Symptom perception measured in naturalistic settings was associated with functional morbidity at baseline and prospectively across 1‐year follow‐up. Support was found for including multiple measures of pulmonary function in the assessment of asthma symptom perception. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2007; 42:339–347. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Anti‐inflammatory pharmacotherapy for wheezing in preschool children
Authors: Kaditis Athanasios G. , Winnie Glenna , Syrogiannopoulos George A.
Published: March 2007

Accumulating evidence indicates that there are at least two phenotypes of wheezing in preschool years with distinct natural history. Frequent wheezing in the first 3 years of life with risk factors for asthma (e.g., eczema, maternal asthma) predicts symptoms in older age, while infrequent viral‐associated wheezing without risk factors for asthma has a benign prognosis. This systematic review summarizes evidence on the use of anti‐inflammatory medications in preschool children with wheezing. Literature search was performed using Medline and the Cochrane Library. Retrieved articles were critically appraised. Episodic use of high‐dose inhaled corticosteroids (>1,600 mcg/day of beclomethasone) may ameliorate severity of intermittent viral‐associated wheezing. Maintenance inhaled corticosteroids can control symptoms in children with frequent wheezing associated with risk factors for asthma. Inhaled corticosteroids do not alter the natural history of wheezing even when started early in life and could have a negative impact on linear growth rate. Short courses of oral corticosteroids have been proposed as an effective measure to control exacerbations of symptoms although there is little evidence supporting their use. Some studies support the administration of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory medications (leukotriene pathway modifiers, cromones, methylxanthines) for mild frequent wheezing. Maintenance inhaled corticosteroids is the most effective measure for controlling frequent wheezing in preschool children, especially when accompanied by risk factors for asthma. This treatment does not affect the natural history of wheezing, although deceleration of linear growth rate is the most commonly recognized systemic adverse effect. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2007; 42:407–420. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reduced toll‐like receptor 4 and substance P gene expression is associated with airway bacterial colonization in children
Authors: Grissell Terry V. , Chang Anne B. , Gibson Peter G.
Published: March 2007

Neuro‐immune interactions are increasingly relevant to human health and disease. The neuropeptide Substance P also has antibacterial activity and bears similarities to the innate immune antibacterial defensins. This suggests possible co‐regulation of neuropeptide and innate immune mediators. In this study, non‐bronchoscopic bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was performed on 69 children. BAL was examined for cellular profile, microbiology (bacteria, virus) and gene expression for TLRs 2, 3, 4; chemokine receptors (CCR3, CCR5, CXCR1); neurotrophins and neurokinin genes (TAC1, TAC3, CGRP, NGF). In children with bacterial colonization (n = 10) there was an airway inflammatory response with increased BAL neutrophils, IL‐8 protein, and CXCR1 expression. Substance P (TAC1) and TLR4 RNA expression were reduced in children with bacterial colonization. TLR3 mRNA was increased in 7.2% (n = 5) children with rhinovirus, and there was a non‐significant trend to increased TLR2. There is evidence for co‐regulation of neurokinin (TAC1) and TLR4 gene expression in airway cells from children with airway bacterial colonization and their reduced expression may be associated with an impaired bacterial clearance. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2007; 42:380–385. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Retracted and replaced: Sodium cromoglicate: an ineffective drug or meta‐analysis misused?
Authors: Stevens M. T. , Edwards A. M. , Howell J. B. L.
Published: March 2007

The following article from Pharmaceutical Statistics, Sodium cromoglicate: an ineffective drug or meta‐analysis misused? by M. T. Stevens, A. M. Edwards, J. B. L. Howell published online on 15 March 2007 in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com), has been retracted by agreement between the author, the journal Editor in Chief, Steven Julious, and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The retraction has been agreed because the article is not yet ready for publication and an early version without revisions was published in error. Replacement article pending. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stabilization of an underactuated bottom‐heavy airshipviainterconnection and damping assignment
Authors: Cai Zili , Qu Weidong , Xi Yugeng , Wang Yongjun
Published: March 2007

This paper focuses on feedback stabilization of a neutrally buoyant and bottom‐heavy airship actuated by only five independent controls (with the rolling motion underactuated). The airship is modelled as an eudipleural submerged rigid body whose dynamics is formulated as a Hamiltonian system with respect to a Lie–Poisson structure. By exploiting the geometrical structure and using the so‐called interconnection and damping assignment (IDA) passivity‐based methodology for port‐controlled Hamiltonian systems, state feedback control laws asymptotically stabilizing two typical motions are designedviaLa Salle invariance principle and Chetaev instability theorem. Simulation results verify the control laws. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Research into long‐term improvements in small‐ to medium‐sized organisations using SPICE as a framework for standards
Authors: Sanders Marty , Richardson Ita
Published: March 2007

From 1994 to 1999, M. Sanders worked on several European Commission (E.C.)‐sponsored programmes to transfer knowledge on how best to implement software process improvement (SPI). Each had its own formula, some using a specific standard or model. She had a hand in developing and/or delivering six programmes that reached dozens of companies in many European countries.

Various reports were written about the short‐term benefits of these programmes. This research is to revisit companies that took part in these programmes to determine what long‐term (6–12 years) benefits, if any, they derived from SPI. And if they did derive benefits, how much of this can be attributed to the work done in these early SPI programmes?

The overall research has a sub‐research component, that of developing a Software Process Improvement and Capability dEtermination (SPICE)‐assessment model which can be used to evaluate the current status of companies, no matter what improvement process or standard they followed. This article describes the activities involved in development of this model and how it is being used in the context of the overall research. Other pre‐research activities are described in this article, such as selection of an assessment tool; database developed for companies; development profile for each company selected; development of tools for communications with companies—letters, questionnaires and communications protocols. We are in the middle of the research phase now. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Contact hypersensitivity to stainless steel cages (chromium metal) in hairless descendants of mexican hairless dogs
Authors: Kimura Tohru
Published: March 2007

Canine allergic contact hypersensitivity is an uncommon skin disease as compared with human beings because hair coat is a good natural barrier to environmental contactants. In our colony of hairless dogs housed in stainless steel cages, we have encountered spontaneously occurring contact hypersensitivity. The author has attempted to study the toxicological effects of environmental sensitizing substances on the canine skin. The purpose of this study is to elucidate dermatological characteristics in canine species with contact hypersensitivity. This skin lesion was investigated by patch tests, macroscopic observations, and histopathological examinations. Patch tests exhibited positive reactions to potassium dichromate. Macroscopically, early lesions were macules and/or papules and they gradually progressed to severe inflammatory dermatitis over the dorsum. In the chronic phase, lichenification, kyperkeratosis, hyperpigmentation, dryness, scaliness, and fissuring were observed in the skin. Avoidance of contact with the stainless steel cages resulted in clinical improvement. Histopathologically, the epidermis apparently showed hyperkeratosis, thickening, hyperplasia, and rete ridge formation. Lichenified lesions had clumps of melanin granules in the stratum basale and spinosum. In the dermis, there was marked edema and dense mononuclear cell infiltration. Vasodilation, hemorrhage, and hyperplasia of sebaceous glands were also found. Both dermal mast cells and epidermal Langerhans cells significantly increased in the skin lesions, as compared with nonlesional sites. The present results revealed that constant contact with stainless steel cages (chromium metal) caused contact hypersensitivity in hairless dogs with very sparse hairs. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 22: 176–184, 2007.
Infrasound‐induced hemodynamics, ultrastructure, and molecular changes in the rat myocardium
Authors: Pei Zhaohui , Sang Hanfei , Li Ruiman , Xiao Pingxi , He Jiangui , Zhuang Zhiqiang , Zhu Miaozhang , Chen Jingzao , Ma Hong
Published: March 2007

Recent interest in adverse effects of infrasound on organisms arises from health concerns. We assessed the association between infrasound exposure of 5 Hz at 130 dB and changes of cardiac ultrastructure and function in rats. Thirty‐two Sprague–Dawley rats were randomized into control, 1, 7, and 14 days groups for 2 h of infrasound once daily according to planned schedules. Changes of cardiac ultrastructure, hemodynamics indices, intracellular Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]i), and sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase 2 (SERCA2) were detected. Heart rates in 1 day group were significantly increased compared with control group and no significant changes in other groups. Left ventricular systolic pressures were significantly increased with time. Left ventricular diastolic end pressure and maximum rising rates of left ventricular pressure (+dl/dt) were significantly increased in 7 and 14 days groups and not changed in 1 day group, compared with control group. Maximum dropping rates of left ventricular pressure (−dl/dt) were significantly decreased in 7 and 14 days groups and not changed in 1 day group, compared with control group. In heart cells, there were several swelled mitochondria in 1 day group, more swelled mitochondria in 7 days group, platelet aggregation in the intercellular substance in 14 days group. [Ca2+]i were significantly increased with time. There was a significant increase in SERCA2 in 1 day group, while a significant decrease in 7 and 14 days groups, compared with control group. Infrasound of 5 Hz at 130 dB can damage cardiac ultrastructure and function. Changes of [Ca2+]i and SERCA2 play an important role in the secondary cardiac damage. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 22: 169–175, 2007.
Mechanism of DNA damage by cadmium and interplay of antioxidant enzymes and agents
Authors: Badisa Veera L. D. , Latinwo Lekan M. , Odewumi Caroline O. , Ikediobi Christopher O. , Badisa Ramesh B. , Ayuk‐Takem Lambert T. , Nwoga Jude , West John
Published: March 2007

Cadmium is an environmental toxicant, which causes cancer in different organs. It was found that it damages DNA in the various tissues and cultured cell lines. To investigate the mechanism of DNA damage, we have studied the effect of cadmium‐induced DNA damage in plasmid pBR322 DNA, and the possible ameliorative effects of antioxidative agents under in vitro conditions. It was observed that cadmium alone did not cause DNA damage. However, it caused DNA damage in the presence of hydrogen peroxide, in a dose dependent manner, because of production of hydroxyl radicals. Findings from this study show the conversion of covalently closed circular double‐stranded pBR 322 DNA to the open circular and linear forms of DNA when treated with 10 μM cadmium and various concentrations of H2O2. The conversion was due to nicking in DNA strands. The observed rate of DNA strand breakage was dependent on H2O2 concentration, temperature, and time. Metallothionein I failed to prevent cadmium‐induced DNA nicking in the presence of H2O2. Of the two antioxidant enzymes (catalase and superoxide dismutase) studied, only catalase conferred significant (50–60%) protection. EDTA and DMSO exhibited protection similar to catalase, while mannitol showed only about 20% protection against DNA damage. Ethyl alcohol failed to ameliorate cadmium‐induced DNA strands break. From this study, it is plausible to infer that cadmium in the presence of hydrogen peroxide causes DNA damage probably by the formation of hydroxyl ions. These results may indicate that cadmium in vivo could play a major role in the DNA damage induced by oxidative stress. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 22: 144–151, 2007.
Relationship between clinical features and blood levels of pentachlorodibenzofuran in patients with Yusho
Authors: Imamura Tomoaki , Kanagawa Yoshiyuki , Matsumoto Shinya , Tajima Bunichi , Uenotsuchi Takeshi , Shibata Satoko , Furue Masutaka
Published: March 2007

Background: Yusho is a form of food poisoning that occurred in 1968, as a result of consuming rice bran oil contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and various dioxins such as polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs). The victims of Yusho suffered from various dermatological, ophthalmological, and mucosal symptoms in addition to general fatigue, weight loss, anorexia, headache, paresthesia of the extremities, abdominal pain, cough and sputa, dysmenorrhea, and growth retardation in infants and children. We measured the blood levels of dioxins in the annual medical check‐up of Yusho patients from 2001 to 2003. Purpose: To analyze the relationship between the concentrations of PCDFs/PCBs and the subjective/objective/laboratory findings of patients with Yusho. We also compared the present clinical findings with those collected in 1988. Results and discussion: The mean blood level of 2,3,4,7,8‐pentachlorodibenzofuran (PeCDF) in 359 patients with Yusho was 177.50 pg/g lipids, which was much higher than that of normal controls (15.2 ± 8.9 pg/g lipids). The blood levels of PeCDF were significantly correlated with total PCB levels, hexachlorobiphenyl levels, urinary sugar, 2‐h erythrocyte sedimentation rate, thymol turbidity test, and sodium levels. A significant correlation was also noted with dermatological findings (acneform eruption and comedones), mucosal findings (oral pigmentation), constipation, numbness in the extremities, body weight loss, and abnormal abdominal ultrasonography. The incidence and severity of most of the dermatological and ophthalmological symptoms decreased from 1988 to 2001–2003. In conclusion, high amounts of PCBs and PeCDF are still present in a number of patients with Yusho. The patients still suffer from various mucocutaneous and subjective symptoms. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 22: 124–131, 2007.
In vitro synthesis of 1,N6‐etheno‐2′‐deoxyadenosine and 1,N2‐etheno‐2′‐deoxyguanosine by 2,4‐dinitrophenol and 1,3‐dinitropyrene in presence of a bacterial nitroreductase
Authors: Chiron Serge , Barbati Stéphane , De Méo Michel , Botta Alain
Published: March 2007

The formation of covalent nitro‐PAH DNA adducts and nitro‐PAH mediated oxidative lesions are two possible mechanisms for the initiation of nitro‐PAH carcinogenesis. Sixty‐minute incubation of 1,3‐dinitropyrene (100 μM) or 1,4‐dinitrophenol (100 μM) with a mixture of 150 μM NADH, 0.5 units of E. coli nitroreductase, 100 μM linoleic acid, 0.5 mM ferrous iron, and 100 μM 2′‐deoxyadenosine (2′‐dA) or 100 μM 2′‐deoxyguanosine (2′‐dG) were analyzed by liquid chromatography multistage mass spectrometry. Mixtures of 1,N6‐etheno‐2′‐deoxyadenosine (εdA) plus 4‐oxo‐2‐nonenal (4‐ONE) and 1,N2‐etheno‐2′‐deoxyguanosine (εdG) plus 4‐ONE could be detected from 2′‐dA and 2′‐dG, respectively. Addition of 2% propanol inhibited the formation of etheno adducts. Analyses of disappearance kinetics of dA and dG showed that dG was more rapidly eliminated than does dA (t[1/2] = 23.3 min and 98.3 min for dG and dA, respectively). Curves of formation kinetics revealed that the peak of εdG was at 55.6 min while that of εdA was at 186.9 min. These peaks represented 1.43% and 1.25% of the original dG and dA, respectively. In both cases, the peaks were followed by rapid degradations of etheno adducts. The results, obtained in this system, do not allow any extrapolation to realistic cellular responses; nevertheless, these data questioned the validity of the use of unsubstituted etheno adducts as reliable oxidative stress and nitro‐PAH exposure biomarkers. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 22: 222–227, 2007.
Testing estrogenicity of known and novel (xeno‐)estrogens in the MolDarT using developing zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Muncke Jane , Junghans Marion , Eggen Rik I. L.
Published: March 2007

The MolDarT is a novel short‐term assay for testing mechanism‐based molecular effects in developing zebrafish embryos. The objective of this study was to evaluate the inducibility of vitellogenin1 mRNA (Vtg1) by the estrogenically active compounds 17β‐Estradiol (E2), 17α‐Ethinylestradiol (EE2), Nonylphenol (NP), Bisphenol A (BPA), Cyproconazol, and the suspected xeno‐estrogen Atrazin in the MolDarT. Freshly fertilized zebrafish eggs were exposed semistatically for 120 h. Using reverse transcription real‐time PCR, the relative abundance of Vtg1 was measured. For EE2 a dose‐response relationship was established with EC50 = 60.7 ng/L (205 pM). Induction of Vtg1 was significant at concentrations of 84 pM EE2 (25 ng EE2/L) and above, 10 nM E2 (2.7 μg E2/L), 100 nM E2 (27 μg E2/L), 10 μM BPA (2280 μg BPA/L), and 15 μM BPA (3420 μg BPA/L). At NP concentrations of 0.75 μM (165 μg NP/L) and 1.5 μM (330 μg NP/L) Vtg1 was significantly down‐regulated. Both atrazine and cyproconazol showed no effect on relative Vtg1 abundance. With this study we further characterize the MolDarT assay and show its applicability for effect screening of compounds. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 22: 185–193, 2007.
Short‐term effects of Quirlan® (chlorfenvinphos) on the behavior and acetylcholinesterase activity of Gambusia holbrooki
Authors: Sismeiro‐Vivas J. , Abrantes N. , Pereira J. L. , Castro B. B. , Gonçalves F.
Published: March 2007

Chlorfenvinphos is a widespread organophosphorous (OP) insecticide and it is a reported hazardous chemical for aquatic nontarget organisms. This study intended to evaluate the effects of sublethal concentrations of Quirlan® (commercial formulation of chlorfenvinphos) on several behavioral parameters of the mosquitofish, Gambusia holbrooki. The insecticide showed high toxicity to G. holbrooki by significantly impairing all the behavioral responses (location in the test vessel, activity/excitability, swimming, and feeding), exhibiting a time‐dependent pattern. Behavioral EC50s, after a 96‐h exposure, ranged from 5.2 to 9.0 μg L−1. As OP pesticides are acutely neurotoxic, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was also selected for use as a biomarker in this study for the establishment of a relationship with the observed behavior abnormalities. A strong inhibition of AChE was observed in fish exposed to chlorfenvinphos (IC50 = 3.55 μg L−1). Behavioral impairment was registered in fish with >40% AChE inhibition levels, while mortality was only observable in fish exhibiting AChE inhibition levels >80%. Additionally, significant correlations were found between behavioral impairment and AChE inhibition, suggesting a mechanistic link. These results show the usefulness of integrating biochemical and individual endpoints in a small‐sized model species, and confirm a potential hazard of chlorfenvinphos to nontarget aquatic organisms. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 22: 194–202, 2007.
Oxidative stress in the clam Ruditapes decussatus (Linnaeus, 1758) in relation to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon body burden
Authors: Barreira Luísa A. , Mudge Stephen M. , Bebianno Maria J.
Published: March 2007

Seasonal variation of antioxidant enzymes activities (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidases) and lipid peroxidation (LPO) were studied in the clam Ruditapes decussatus in relation to body burdens of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Clams were sampled in eight sites from the Ria Formosa lagoon. PAH concentrations were seasonally rather than spatially dependent, being higher in summer (August). Antioxidant enzymes activities and LPO levels in the clam digestive gland were also seasonally dependent. Antioxidant enzymes presented distinct seasonal variations: Mit SOD (superoxide dismutase activity measured in the mitochondrial fraction) was induced in the summer and down‐regulated in winter and spring, while Cyt SOD activity (measured in the cytosolic fraction) was highest in autumn and lower in the summer. Neither Mit nor Cyt SOD were related to the clam PAH body burden, suggesting that cells are using other antioxidant systems to eliminate oxyradicals. Catalase (CAT), however, was induced in spring and down‐regulated in summer, the inverse of the PAH concentrations in clam tissues. CAT induction in spring appears to be related to the excess of oxyradicals arising from the metabolic activity associated with the reproductive cycle. Conversely, the decrease in CAT activity in the summer may be related to the high water temperatures reached in the Ria Formosa (up to 30 °C). Glutathione peroxidases (total fraction ‐ T‐GPx and dependent on selenium ‐ Se‐GPx) presented a similar seasonal pattern, and were negatively related to PAH concentrations, which may indicate a precarious state of the clams, associated with PAH toxicity. Similarly, LPO was also inversely correlated to the PAH concentrations indicating that increases in PAH concentrations were not causing membrane oxidative damage in R. decussatus digestive gland. The results suggest that antioxidant enzymes in R. decussatus digestive gland are strongly affected by seasonal factors stressing the need of other experiments to clarify the PAHs effect on this clam species. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 22: 203–221, 2007.
Measurements of K‐shell x‐ray production cross sections and K to L and M‐shell radiative vacancy transfer probabilities for Nd, Eu, Gd, Dy and Ho at excitation with 59.5 keV photons in an external magnetic field
Authors: Demir Demet , Şahin Yusuf
Published: March 2007

The effect of the ± 0.75 T external magnetic field on the Kα1, Kα2, Kβ′1 and Kβ′2 x‐ray production cross sections and radiative vacancy transfer probabilities from K‐shell to L2 and L3 subshells and M‐shell for ferromagnetic Nd, Gd and Dy and paramagnetic Eu and Ho have been investigated, using the 59.5 keV incident photons. K‐shell fluorescence yields and K x‐ray intensity ratios for these elements have been determined in the external magnetic field also. The K x‐rays from different targets were detected using a high‐resolution Si(Li) semiconductor detector. For B = 0, the present experimental results were compared with the experimental and theoretical data in the literature. The results show that K‐shell fluorescence parameters such as photoionization cross section, fluorescence yield, radiation rates, vacancy transfer probabilities and spectral linewidth can change owing to the applied magnetic field. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Delayed accumulation of the yeast G1 cyclins Cln1 and Cln2 and the F‐box protein Grr1 in response to glucose
Authors: Fey Julien P. , Lanker Stefan
Published: March 2007

The ability to integrate nutrient availability into cell cycle regulation is critical for the viability of organisms. The Saccharomyces cerevisiae ubiquitin ligase SCF(Grr1) regulates the stability of several proteins that participate in cell division or nutrient sensing. Two of its targets, the cyclins Cln1 and Cln2, accumulate in the presence of glucose. When glucose is added to cells growing asynchronously, we show that the accumulation of the cyclins is a very slow response. We report that the F‐box protein Grr1 also accumulates at higher levels in the presence of glucose, and that the response to glucose follows a delayed pattern strikingly similar to that described for Cln1 and Cln2. A model for the regulation of F‐box proteins predicts that substrate accumulation could stabilize Grr1. While we found that Grr1 is more stable in cells growing with glucose, we show that the delayed responses to glucose occur independently: Grr1 accumulates in the absence of the cyclins, and vice versa. Thus, our results indicate that this model might not apply to the cyclins and Grr1. Glucose is known to strengthen the interaction of Grr1 with Skp1 in the SCF complex. We hypothesize that glucose could promote the accumulation of Grr1 and its assembly into a SCF complex as a feedback regulation that helps compensate for higher cyclins levels. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative study of additive basal area of conifers in forest ecosystems along elevational gradients
Authors: Aiba Shin‐ichiro , Hanya Goro , Tsujino Riyou , Takyu Masaaki , Seino Tatsuyuki , Kimura Katsuhiko , Kitayama Kanehiro
Published: March 2007

We examined the basal area of two life forms (conifers vs. broadleaf trees) along elevational gradients on Yakushima Island, Japan and on two series of geological substrate on Mount Kinabalu, Borneo. On Yakushima, total stand basal area abruptly increased from 700 to 1,050 m in accordance with the high dominance of conifers, indicating the presence of additive basal area of conifers in conifer–broadleaf mixed forests at higher elevations (1,050–1,300 m). Along two substrate series on Kinabalu, some forests at higher elevations (1,860–3,080 m) showed relatively high dominance of conifers, but conifer basal area did not appear to be additive. Conifers were emergents above the canopy of broadleaf trees in mixed forests on Yakushima, but two life forms usually coexisted in the single‐story canopy in mixed forests on Kinabalu. Litterfall rate as a surrogate of productivity decreased with decreasing temperature along elevation on both the sites, but the rate of decrease was slower on Yakushima, where mixed forests at higher elevations showed relatively high rates. Thus, we suggest that additive basal area of conifers was linked to their emergent status, and that it enhanced productivity by complementary use of light by two life forms that occupy different stories. On Yakushima, typhoons are a major disturbance, but do not severely limit the height growth of conifers, allowing the development of two‐story mixed forests. On Kinabalu, a major disturbance is El Niño‐driven drought, and hydraulic limitation to tree height may explain the non‐additive and non‐emergent nature of conifers.
Synthesis and Characterization of Multifunctional Surfactants in Oil‐Field Protection Applications
Authors: Negm Nabel A. , Aiad Ismail A.
Published: March 2007

A series of cationic surfactants was prepared using economical raw materials. The chemical structures of the prepared compounds were confirmed using elemental analysis, FTIR and 1H‐NMR spectra, and melting point determination. The synthesized surfactants were evaluated as oil‐field protective additives. In this regard, several surface properties of the synthesized surfactants were studied including surface tension, critical micelle concentration, effectiveness, efficiency, maximum surface excess and minimum surface area. The results obtained from the surface activity measurements were correlated to their chemical structures. The emulsification power measurements for solutions of these surfactants showed their low emulsifying tendency towards paraffin and crude oil. The synthesized surfactants also exhibited high biocidal activity towards gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria and fungi. This activity was increased by increasing the hydrophobic chain length. The corrosion inhibition measurement of these surfactants for mild steel alloys in acidic media using a weight loss technique showed good protection of mild steel alloys against acidic environments. These properties qualify the synthesized compounds as economical oil‐field protective additives.
Genetic and epigenetic alterations as biomarkers for cancer detection, diagnosis and prognosis
Authors: Herceg Zdenko , Hainaut Pierre
Published: March 2007

The development of cancer is driven by the accumulation of scores of alterations affecting the structure and function of the genome. Equally important in this process are genetic alterations and epigenetic changes. Whereas the former disrupt normal patterns of gene expression, sometimes leading to the expression of abnormal, constitutively active proteins, the latter deregulate the mechanisms such as transcriptional control leading to the inappropriate silencing or activation of cancer‐associated genes. Both types of changes are inheritable at the cellular level, thus contributing to the clonal expansion of cancer cells. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on how genetic alterations in oncogenes or tumour suppressor genes, as well as epigenetic changes, can be exploited in the clinics as biomarkers for cancer detection, diagnosis and prognosis. We propose a rationale for identifying alterations that may have a functional impact within a background of “passenger” alterations that may occur solely as the consequence of deregulated genetic and epigenetic stability. Such functional alterations may represent candidates for targeted therapeutic approaches.
Perceived body size and desire for thinness of young Japanese women: a population-based survey
Authors: Hayashi F. , Takimoto H. , Yoshita K. , Yoshiike N.
Published: March 2007

The present study describes findings in relation to perceived body size and ‘desire for thinness’ by age and residential areas (‘metropolitan areas’, ‘large cities’, ‘small cities’ and ‘towns’) among young Japanese women. Data on 1731 non-pregnant, non-lactating women aged 15–39 years from the 1998 National Nutrition Survey of Japan were used. Current body size was evaluated by BMI percentiles (lean, < 5th; underweight, 5th ≤  BMI < 25th; normal, 25th ≤  BMI <  75th; overweight, 75th ≤ BMI < 95th; obese, ≥ 95th), calculated for 5-year age groups. Perceived body size was obtained by self-report. We defined ‘overestimation’ as non-overweight, non-obese women who perceived themselves as being ‘overweight’ or ‘obese’. Desired body size was evaluated by applying the desired BMI to these cut-off points. Of all the women, 48·4 % perceived themselves as being ‘overweight’ or ‘obese’, and 43·7 % desired a ‘lean’ or ‘underweight’ body size. Adjusted for the current BMI, the OR for ‘overestimation’ calculated by a logistic regression model was significantly elevated in the 15–19-year age group (OR 2·79; 95 % CI 1·76, 4·43), compared with the 25–29-year age group. The OR for ‘desire for thinness’ was significantly high in the 35–39-year age group (OR 2·74; 95 % CI 1·93, 3·89) and the 15–19-year age group (OR 2·26; 95 % CI 1·57, 3·24). Women living in metropolitan areas had higher OR for ‘desire for thinness’ (but not for ‘overestimation’) than did women in towns (OR 1·47; 95 % CI 1·05, 2·07). The findings suggest the nature of excessive weight concerns of young women in Japan; thus efforts to control such health-risk behaviours at a national level are urgent.
Conventional and real-time polymerase chain reaction assessment of the fate of transgenic DNA in sheep fed Roundup Ready®rapeseed meal
Authors: Alexander Trevor W. , Reuter Tim , Okine Erasmus , Sharma Ranjana , McAllister Tim A.
Published: March 2007

Conventional and real-time PCR were used to detect transgenic DNA in digesta, faeces and blood collected from six ruminally and duodenally cannulated sheep fed forage-based (F) or concentrate-based (C) diets containing 15 % Roundup Ready®(RR) rapeseed meal (n3). The sheep were adapted for 14 d to F or C diets containing non-GM rapeseed, then fed the RR diets for 11 d. On day 12, they were switched back to non-GM diets for a further 11 d. Ruminal and duodenal fluids (RF, DF) and faecal samples were collected at 3 or 4 h intervals over the 4 d immediately following the last feeding of GM diets. DNA was isolated from whole RF and DF, from the cell-free supernatant fraction, and from culture fermentation liquid. Blood was collected on days 1, 5 and 9 of feeding the RR rapeseed meal. The 1363 bp 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase transgene (epsps) was quantifiable in whole RF and DF for up to 13 h, and a 108 bpepspsfragment for up to 29 h. Transgenic DNA was not detectable in faeces or blood, or in microbial DNA. Diet type (Fv.C) did not affect (P>0·05) the quantity of transgenic DNA in digesta. More (P < 0·05) transgenic DNA was detected in RF than in DF, but there was an interaction (P < 0·05) between sample type and collection time. In supernatant fractions from RF and DF, three different fragments of transgenic DNA ranging in size from 62 to 420 bp were not amplifiable.