bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A prospective analysis of the association between macronutrient intake and renal cell carcinoma in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition
Authors: Allen Naomi E. , Roddam Andrew W. , Sieri Sabina , Boeing Heiner , Jakobsen Marianne Uhre , Overvad Kim , Tjønneland Anne , Halkjær Jytte , Vineis Paolo , Contiero Paolo , Palli Domenico , Tumino Rosario , Mattiello Amalia , Kaaks Rudolf , Rohrmann Sabine , Trichopoulou Antonia , Zilis Demosthenes , Koumantaki Yvoni , Peeters Petra H. , Bueno‐de‐Mesquita H. Bas , Barricarte Aurelio , Rodríguez Laudina , Dorronsoro Miren , Sánchez Maria‐José , Chirlaque María Dolores , Esquius Laura , Manjer Jonas , Wallström Peter , Ljungberg Börje , Hallmans Göran , Bingham Sheila , Khaw Kay‐Tee , Boffetta Paolo , Norat Teresa , Mouw Traci , Riboli Elio
Published: March 2009

Previous case‐control studies have suggested that a high intake of animal foods and its associated nutrients are associated with an increased risk of renal cell carcinoma, although data from prospective studies are limited. We report here on the relationship between macronutrient intake and renal cell carcinoma incidence among 435,293 participants enrolled in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition. Cox proportional hazard models were used to examine the association of dietary intake of fat, protein, carbohydrate, fiber and cholesterol and risk of renal cell carcinoma adjusted for age, sex, center, height, body mass index, physical activity, education, smoking, menopausal status, alcohol and energy intake. During an average 8.8 years of follow‐up, 507 renal cell carcinoma cases occurred. Risk of renal cell carcinoma was not associated with macronutrient intake, including nutrients derived from animal sources. Our results indicate that macronutrient intake is not associated with risk of renal cell carcinoma in this cohort of European men and women. © 2009 UICC
IL‐8 induces exocytosis of arginase 1 by neutrophil polymorphonuclears in nonsmall cell lung cancer
Authors: Rotondo Rita , Barisione Gaia , Mastracci Luca , Grossi Francesco , Orengo Anna Maria , Costa Roberta , Truini Mauro , Fabbi Marina , Ferrini Silvano , Barbieri Ottavia
Published: March 2009

Arginase 1 (ARG1) inhibits T‐cell proliferation by degrading extracellular arginine, which results in decreased responsiveness of T cells to CD3/TCR stimulation. In humans, ARG1 is stored in inactive form within granules of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) and gets activated on release. We studied the role of PMNs‐related ARG1 activity in nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSLC), in which tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes showed reduced proliferation in response to CD3/TCR triggering. Patients with NSCLC had increased ARG1 plasma levels as compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry showed that tumor‐infiltrating PMNs display reduced intracellular ARG1, in comparison to intravascular or peritumoral PMNs, suggesting a role of tumor microenvironment in ARG1 release. Indeed, supernatants of NSCLC cell lines induced exocytosis of ARG1 from PMNs. All (4/4) NSCLC cell lines and all (7/7) CD14− cell samples from NSCLC expressed interleukin (IL)‐8 mRNA, whereas TNFα mRNA was expressed by 1 cell line and by 2 tumor specimens. Furthermore, all NSCLC cell lines secreted immunoreactive IL‐8, albeit at different levels. IL‐8 was as effective as TNFα in triggering ARG1 release and the 2 cytokines acted synergistically. Secreted ARG1 was biologically active and catabolized extracellular arginine. The supernatant of IL‐8 gene‐silenced NSCLC cells did not mediate ARG1 release by PMNs. Altogether these findings demonstrate a role of IL‐8 in ARG1 exocytosis by PMNs and indicate that, due at least in part to IL‐8 secreted by NSCLC cells, PMNs infiltrating NSCLC release ARG1. This phenomenon could contribute to local immune suppression. © 2009 UICC
Caveolin‐1 tumor‐promoting role in human melanoma
Authors: Felicetti Federica , Parolini Isabella , Bottero Lisabianca , Fecchi Katia , Errico Maria Cristina , Raggi Carla , Biffoni Mauro , Spadaro Francesca , Lisanti Michael P. , Sargiacomo Massimo , Carè Alessandra
Published: March 2009

Caveolin‐1 (Cav‐1), a member of the caveolin family, regulates caveolae‐associated signaling proteins, which are involved in many biological processes, including cancer development. Cav‐1 was found to exert a complex and ambiguous role as oncogene or tumor suppressor depending on the cellular microenvironment. Here we investigated Cav‐1 expression and function in a panel of melanomas, finding its expression in all the cell lines. The exception was the primary vertical melanoma cell line, WM983A, characterized by the lack of Cav‐1, and then utilized as a recipient for Cav‐1 gene transduction to address a series of functional studies. The alleged yet controversial role of phospho (Ph)‐Cav‐1 on cell regulation was also tested by transducing the nonphosphorylatable Cav‐1Y14A mutant. Wild‐type Cav‐1, but not mutated Cav‐1Y14A, increased tumorigenicity as indicated by enhanced proliferation, migration, invasion and capacity of forming foci in semisolid medium. Accordingly, Cav‐1 silencing inhibited melanoma cell growth reducing some of the typical traits of malignancy. Finally, we detected a secreted fraction of Cav‐1 associated with cell released microvesicular particles able to stimulate in vitro anchorage independence, migration and invasion in a paracrine/autocrine fashion and, more important, competent to convey metastatic asset from the donor melanoma to the less aggressive recipient cell line. A direct correlation between Cav‐1 levels, the amount of microvesicles released in the culture medium and MMP‐9 expression was also observed. © 2009 UICC
Dietary intake of polyphenols, nitrate and nitrite and gastric cancer risk in Mexico City
Authors: Hernández‐Ramírez Raúl U. , Galván‐Portillo Marcia V. , Ward Mary H. , Agudo Antonio , González Carlos A. , Oñate‐Ocaña Luis F. , Herrera‐Goepfert Roberto , Palma‐Coca Oswaldo , López‐Carrillo Lizbeth
Published: March 2009

N‐Nitroso compounds (NOC) are potent animal carcinogens and potential human carcinogens. The primary source of exposure for most individuals may be endogenous formation, a process that can be inhibited by dietary polyphenols. To estimate the risk of gastric cancer (GC) in relation to the individual and combined consumption of polyphenols and NOC precursors (nitrate and nitrite), a population‐based case–control study was carried out in Mexico City from 2004 to 2005 including 257 histologically confirmed GC cases and 478 controls. Intake of polyphenols, nitrate and nitrite were estimated using a food frequency questionnaire. High intakes of cinnamic acids, secoisolariciresinol and coumestrol were associated with an ∼50% reduction in GC risk. A high intake of total nitrite as well as nitrate and nitrite from animal sources doubled the GC risk. Odds ratios around 2‐fold were observed among individuals with both low intake of cinnamic acids, secoisolariciresinol or coumestrol and high intake of animal‐derived nitrate or nitrite, compared to high intake of the polyphenols and low animal nitrate or nitrite intake, respectively. Results were similar for both the intestinal and diffuse types of GC. Our results show, for the first time, a protective effect for GC because of higher intake of cinnamic acids, secoisolariciresinol and coumestrol, and suggest that these polyphenols reduce GC risk through inhibition of endogenous nitrosation. The main sources of these polyphenols were pears, mangos and beans for cinnamic acids; beans, carrots and squash for secoisolariciresinol and legumes for coumestrol. © 2009 UICC
Adipose tissue: A motor for the inflammation associated with obesity
Authors: Vachharajani Vidula , Granger D. Neil
Published: March 2009

Obesity is a worldwide epidemic that continues to grow at an alarming rate. This condition increases the morbidity and mortality associated with both acute and chronic diseases. Some of the deleterious consequences of obesity have been attributed to its induction of a low‐grade chronic inflammatory state that arises from the production and secretion of inflammatory mediators from the expanded pool of activated adipocytes. This review focuses on the mechanisms that underlie the proposed link between obesity and inflammation, and it addresses how obesity‐induced inflammation may account for increased morbidity and mortality that is associated with a diverse group of diseases. © 2009 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 61(4): 424–430, 2009
Simultaneous determination of maraviroc and raltegravir in human plasma by HPLC‐UV
Authors: Notari Stefania , Tommasi Chiara , Nicastri Emanuele , Bellagamba Rita , Tempestilli Massimo , Pucillo Leopoldo Paolo , Narciso Pasquale , Ascenzi Paolo
Published: March 2009

Therapeutic drug monitoring is pivotal to improve the management of HIV infection. Here, a new HPLC–UV method to quantify simultaneously maraviroc and raltegravir levels in human plasma is reported. Remarkably, this is the first method for maraviroc determination in human plasma. The volume of the plasma sample was 600 μL. This method involved automated solid‐phase extraction with Oasis HLB Cartridge 1 cc (30 mg divinylbenzene and N‐vinylpyrrolidone) and evaporation in a water bath under nitrogen stream. The extracted samples were reconstituted with 200 μL 50/50 of mobile‐phase solution (0.01 M KH2PO4 and acetonitrile). Twenty microliters of these samples were injected into a HPLC–UV system, the analytes were eluted on an analytical dC18 Atlantis column (150 mm × 4.6 mm I.D.) with a particle size of 5 μm. The mobile phase (0.01 M KH2PO4 and acetonitrile) was delivered at 1.0 mL/min with isocratic elution. The total run time for a single analysis was 10 min; maraviroc and raltegravir were detected by UV at 197 and 300 nm. The calibration curves were linear up to 2,500 ng/mL. The absolute recovery ranged between 93 and 100%. The HPLC–UV method reported here has been validated and is currently applied to monitor plasma levels of maraviroc and raltegravir in HIV‐infected patients. © 2009 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 61(4):470–475, 2009
Metalation of metallothioneins
Authors: Ngu Thanh T. , Stillman Martin J.
Published: March 2009

Metalloproteins represent ∼30% of all proteins known, yet our understanding of the structures of these metalloproteins, the metal content, and the mechanism for metalation are still very limited. One of the most studied metalloproteins is the ubiquitous metallothionein (MT), which in mammals contains two metal‐binding domains: a 9‐cysteine β domain and a 11‐cysteine α domain. Metals are coordinated in MT via the cysteinyl thiols present in the primary amino acid sequence and the geometry is controlled by the metal ion. This short review discusses the use of optical spectroscopy to study the metalation of MT with particular emphasis on the benefits and pitfalls involved. Further, the new properties of MT that have been revealed using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry in recent metalation studies will also be discussed. © 2009 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 61(4):438–446, 2009
Repair of segmental bone‐defect of goat's tibia using a dynamic perfusion culture tissue engineering bone
Authors: Wang Chaofeng , Wang Zhen , Li Aimin , Bai Feng , Lu Jianxi , Xu Shanglong , Li Dichen
Published: March 2009

Segmental bone defect resulted from trauma or excision of bone tumor or pathology represents a common and significant clinical problem. In an attempt to solve this dilemma, we use β‐TCP combined with autologous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (auto‐BMSC) and cultured by dynamic perfusion to repair the segmental bone defects of goat's tibia. The β‐TCP scaffolds combined with auto‐BMSC by dynamic perfusion bioreactor or in static state were respectively transplanted into the defect (30 mm) of the goat tibias. The X‐ray films were gathered and analyzed at the different time points. At 24 weeks post‐operation, tissue engineering bones implanted were analyzed by histology and Micro‐CT. Results show that the capacity of osteogenesis in experimental group was higher than that of control group by X‐ray, histological, and micro‐CT analysis (p < 0.05). According to the study, we found that repair for segmental bone defects of tissue engineering bone cultured by dynamic perfusion culture bioreactor outweigh those cultured in static state. And we can conclude that this technology of tissue engineering bone will become a clinical method to the segmental bone‐defects repair in the future. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Implantation of a synthetic meniscal scaffold improves joint contact mechanics in a partial meniscectomy cadaver model
Authors: Brophy Robert H. , Cottrell Jocelyn , Rodeo Scott A. , Wright Timothy M. , Warren Russell F. , Maher Suzanne A.
Published: March 2009

Meniscal substitutes should ideally distribute loads across adjacent articular cartilage much in the way of the native tissue, thereby protecting the cartilage from degeneration. The objective of this study was to quantify the loads transferred to the tibial plateau after implantation of a porous polyurethane scaffold. Our hypothesis was that scaffold implantation would improve the contact mechanics of a partial meniscectomy knee. Six sheep cadaver knees were mounted in a load‐controlled knee‐joint simulator. A pressure‐sensor sheet, secured to the tibial plateau, dynamically recorded pressure data over 10 gait cycles for the following conditions: (i) intact, (ii) partial meniscectomy, (iii) implanted scaffold, and (iv) total meniscectomy. Implantation of the scaffold increased the contact area and decreased the contact pressures compared to the meniscal defect knee. No significant difference was found between the average and peak contact pressures of the intact knees and scaffold‐implanted knees; however, contact area was significantly lower for the scaffold‐implanted knees compared to intact knees. Our hypothesis was accepted; replacement with a polyurethane scaffold improved knee‐contact mechanics relative to a partially meniscectomized knee. On the basis of these findings, the scaffold will be evaluated for its chondroprotective capacity in an in vivo ovine model. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
An understanding of enhanced osteoblast adhesion on various nanostructured polymeric and metallic materials prepared by ionic plasma deposition
Authors: Pareta Rajesh A. , Reising Alexander B. , Miller Tiffany , Storey Dan , Webster Thomas J.
Published: March 2009

The development of new materials through novel surface modification techniques to enhance orthopedic implant lifetimes (hence, decreasing the need for revision surgery) is of great interest to the medical community. The purpose of this in vitro study was to treat common metallic implant materials [such as titanium (Ti) and a titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V)] and traditional polymeric materials (like polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl chloride, polyurethane, polytetrafluoroethylene, ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and nylon) with either nanoparticulate alumina or titanium using novel (i) ionic plasma deposition (IPD) and (ii) nitrogen ion immersion plasma deposition (NIIPD) techniques. The treated surfaces were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy and surface energy, demonstrating greater nanoscale roughness on the modified surfaces regardless of the underlying material or coating applied. These surface‐modified substrates were also tested for cytocompatibility properties with osteoblasts (or bone‐forming cells). Results showed increased osteoblast adhesion on modified compared to control (traditional or untreated) materials. Since the adhesion of osteoblasts is the first crucial step for new bone synthesis, these results are very promising and suggest that the plasma deposition processes used in this study should be further investigated to improve the longevity of orthopedic implants. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Effect of a prostaglandin EP4 receptor agonist on early fixation of hydroxyapatite/titanium composite‐ and titanium‐coated rough‐surfaced implants in ovariectomized rats
Authors: Hayashi K. , Fotovati A. , Ali S. Abu , Nakamura Y. , Inagaki M. , Naito M.
Published: March 2009

The agonist of the prostaglandin EP4 receptor can increase bone density in osteoporosis. Using ovariectomized (OVX) and sham‐operated (SO) rats, the effects of the EP4 receptor agonist, ONO‐4819, and hydroxyapatite (HA) on implant‐bone fixation in implants with a rough surface were investigated. Female Wistar rats (12 weeks old) were divided into either SO or bilateral OVX groups. Twenty four weeks later, either hydroxyapatite/titanium (HA/Ti) composite‐coated or Ti‐coated implants were implanted into the femora, and the animals were treated with either ONO‐4819 or saline for 4 weeks. The fixation strength of the HA/Ti‐coated implants was higher than that of the Ti‐coated implants in the saline‐treated OVX rats. In the OVX rats, ONO‐4819 enhanced fixation of the rough Ti‐coated implants to levels similar to that of HA/Ti‐coated implants. These data suggest that a combination of treatment with an EP4 receptor agonist and a rough‐surfaced implant might be useful in increasing the early fixation of cement‐less arthroplasty, particularly in elderly patients with osteoporosis. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Distribution of ghrelin peptide in the gastrointestinal tract of stomachless and stomach‐containing teleosts
Authors: Arcamone Nadia , Neglia Simona , Gargiulo Giuliana , Esposito Vincenzo , Varricchio Ettore , Battaglini Pietro , De Girolamo Paolo , Russo Finizia
Published: March 2009

The occurrence and localization of ghrelin peptide in the gastrointestinal tract of Carassius auratus and Dicentrarchus labrax, two fish species that exhibit different feeding behavior, different habitats, and different anatomical organizations of the gastroenteric tract, were examined by immunohistochemical methods and western blotting analysis. All of the gastrointestinal segments studied displayed immunohistochemical localizations of ghrelin peptide. Numerous single or clustered immunoreactive cells were found along the gastric folds, particularly in the pyloric region of Dicentrarcus labrax, whereas scattered ghrelin immunoreactive cells were observed in the intestinal epithelium of both fish species. Double immunolabeling PGP 9.5/ghrelin demonstrated the localization of ghrelin peptide also in nerve fibers and neuronal cells of the submucosal and myenteric plexuses, often in association with vascular structures. Western blotting analysis confirmed the presence of ghrelin peptide in the gatrointestinal tract of both species studied, whose molecular weight was similar to that of the corresponding mammalian prepro‐ghrelin. The findings could support the hypothesis that this peptide is an important appetite regulator in fish and could confirm the presence of the ghrelin peptide, starting from its precursor proteins, in the gastrointestinal tract of the goldfish and the sea bass. Microsc. Res. Tech. 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ultrastructural study of the ability of seminal plasma proteins to protect ram spermatozoa against cold‐shock
Authors: Colás Carmen , Junquera Concepción , Pérez‐Pé Rosaura , Cebrián‐Pérez José A. , Muiño‐Blanco Teresa
Published: March 2009

The process of sperm cryopreservation, involving cooling, freezing, and thawing, induces serious detrimental changes in sperm function. The plasma and acrosomal membranes of spermatozoa are considered to be the primary site of these modifications due to thermal, mechanical, chemical, and osmotic stress. In previous studies, we demonstrated the ability of seminal plasma (SP) proteins to protect ram spermatozoa against cold‐shock by using biochemical markers and scanning electron microscopy. In this study, we have attempted to examine the potential protective effect of SP proteins in membrane ultrastructure of ram spermatozoa subjected to cold‐shock, by means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM). All the experiments were carried out with fresh spermatozoa freed from SP by a dextran/swim‐up procedure. The high proportion of viable spermatozoa found in the swim‐up obtained sample decreased drastically after the cold‐shock treatment, and a considerable blebbing and vesiculation of the plasma and acrosomal membranes was found. The addition of SP proteins increased the sperm resistance to damage due to cold‐shock (48% membrane‐intact spermatozoa versus 15% in the control sample), and TEM analysis revealed that membrane alteration was prevented. This protective effect seems to be specific for SP proteins, as the addition of BSA did not provide any protection. Microsc. Res. Tech. 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cloning, sequencing and expression of full‐length Campylobacter invasion antigen B gene operon from Campylobacter lari
Authors: Onozato Junnosuke , Kumagai Atsuko , Sekizuka Tsuyoshi , Tazumi Akihiro , Moore John E. , Millar B. Cherie , Matsuda Motoo
Published: March 2009

A novel PCR primer pair for amplification of full‐length cia B gene from thermophilic campylobacters, generated an amplicon of approximately 2.2 kilo base pairs (kbp) with all 18 isolates (n = 7 for urease‐negative (UN) C. lari; n = 9 urease‐positive thermophilic Campylobacter (UPTC); n = 1 C. jejuni; n = 1 C. coli). The putative open reading frame (ORF) of the cia B from C. lari isolates consisted of 1,833 bp similarly, but differing from those of C. jejuni and C. coli isolates. The putative promoter structures consisting of a semi‐conserved T ‐rich sequence and a consensus sequence at the –10 region were identified upstream of the putative ORF in all the C. lari isolates. A start codon ATG and a probable ribosome binding site were also identified in all the isolates. In addition, two distinctly different and taxon (UN C. lari and UPTC) dependent hypothetically intrinsic ρ ‐independent transcriptional terminators for the cia B were identified to occur within the C. lari. Reverse transcription–PCR analysis identified the transcription of cia B gene in the C. lari cells. The neighbor joining tree suggested that the nucleotide sequence information of the cia B had molecular discrimination efficacy among UN C. lari, UPTC, C. jejuni and C. coli organisms. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Destruxin production of Metarhizium anisopliae under carbon and nitrogen exhaustion
Authors: Wang Hui , Hutwimmer Stefan , Strasser Hermann , Burgstaller Wolfgang
Published: March 2009

Destruxins (dtx) A, B, and E, showing a variety of biological activities, are the main toxic secondary metabolites of the entomopathogenous ascomycete Metarhizium anisopliae Bipesco 5, a widely used biocontrol production strain. Dynamics of dtx biosynthesis were monitored during liquid fermentation in a chemically defined medium. During shake flask cultivation with excess carbon, nitrogen and phosphate, approximately 50, 20, and 100 mg l–1 dtx A, B, and E were produced after 12 d. Destruxins were produced during exponential growth phase and in the stationary phase. Carbon exhaustion in the culture broth was demonstrated to affect destruxin production to a minor degree: Absolute dtx amounts in the liquid increased also after glucose exhaustion; dtx amounts referred to biomass increased further evidently in shake flasks or slightly in bioreactor experiments after carbon limitation occurred. Contrarily, nitrogen exhaustion resulted in an evident decline in dtx amounts referred to biomass. Absolute amounts in the culture broth, however, still increased slightly the following four days in bioreactor experiments. From this we conclude that dtx production is highly influenced by nitrogen availability. Generally, dtx production in bioreactors with controlled aeration (1 vvm) was significantly lower than in shake flasks. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A novel way to enhance the oil recovery ratio by Streptococcus sp. BT‐003
Authors: Xu Tao , Chen Chang , Liu Chunqiao , Zhang Shurong , Wu Ying , Zhang Peng
Published: March 2009

Degrading hydrocarbon by Streptococcus sp. BT‐003 as a kind of microbe for oil recovery was analyzed in this paper. The Streptococcus sp. BT‐003 showed that it could use crude oil as the sole source of carbon and produce organic acid, bio‐gas and polysaccharide which were propitious to emulsify and reduce the viscosity of crude oil. After cultivating 8–14 h, the viscosity of crude oil reduced from 8000–15000 mPa · s to 50–250 mPa · s. The content of organic acid increased 8–15 times, and carbon dioxide and polysaccharide reached 55 ml/l and 8 g/l respectively. Paraffin and resin reduced by 60–95%, and light components increased obviously. Fluid rheology was better than before, the interfacial tension between the crude oil and water were reduced effectively. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Genetic characterization of vancomycin‐resistant enterococci isolates from wild rabbits
Authors: Figueiredo Nicholas , Radhouani Hajer , Gonçalves Alexandre , Rodrigues Jorge , Carvalho Carlos , Igrejas Gilberto , Poeta Patrícia
Published: March 2009

The presence of van A‐containing E. faecium isolates was demonstrated in three of 77 faecal samples (3.9%) of wild rabbits recovered in Portugal. Enterococcal strains with intrinsic vancomycin resistance (van C‐1 or van C‐2/3 gene) were found in five (6.5%) and three (3.9%) faecal samples, respectively. The mechanisms of resistance for other antibiotics were studied in these vancomycin‐resistant isolates. All van A strains showed resistance for tetracycline [with the presence of tet (L) gene, associated or not with tet (M) gene] and for erythromycin [with the presence of the erm (B) gene]. Two isolates were resistant to ciprofloxacin and one to ampicillin. Two van C‐1 strains and one van C‐2/3 strain were tetracycline resistant [containing the tet (M) gene associated with tet (L) gene] and erythromycin resistant [with erm (B) gene]. Two van C‐1 and two van C‐2/3 strains were also ciprofloxacin resistant and one van C‐1 strain was, additionally, resistant to quinupristin‐dalfopristin. The two remaining isolates (van C‐1, van C‐2/3) did not show resistance for any additional antibiotic. The intestinal tract of wild rabbits could be a reservoir of van A‐containing enterococci. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Blood flow analysis of compressed nerve root after intravenous injection of lipo‐prostaglandin E1
Authors: Kobayashi Shigeru , Baba Hisatoshi , Takeno Kenichi , Shimada Seiichro , Kubota Masafumi , Yayama Takafumi , Miyazaki Tsuyoshi , Uchida Kenzo , Suzuki Yoshihiko
Published: March 2009

Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) is a potent vasodilator as well as an inhibitor of platelet aggregation and has therefore attracted interest as a therapeutic drug for lumbar canal stenosis. However, investigations in the clinical setting have shown that PGE1 is effective in some patients but not in others, although the reason for this is unclear. The aim of the present study was to measure changes in intraradicular blood flow after intravenous injection of lipo‐PGE1 (0.15 µg/kg) using a laser Doppler flow meter in control model and nerve root compression model. Then, the nerve root in which blood flow was measured was removed and examined histologically. Intravenous injection of lipo‐PGE1 also resulted in marked increase of blood flow in the uncompressed nerve roots of the control group, but caused minimal enhancement of blood flow at the sites of nerve root compression exhibiting Wallerian degeneration. It is concluded that lipo‐PGE1 has less effect on markedly degenerated nerve roots than it does on those that are normal. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res
Coronatine‐induced lateral‐root formation in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) seedlings under potassium‐sufficient and ‐deficient conditions in relation to auxin
Authors: Zhang Zhiyong , Yang Fuqiang , Li Bo , Egrinya Eneji A. , Li Jianmin , Duan Liusheng , Wang Baomin , Li Zhaohu , Tian Xiaoli
Published: March 2009

A large root system plays a decisive role in potassium (K)‐acquisition efficiency of cotton. Coronatine (COR), a non‐host‐specific phytotoxin, may affect the auxin level in plants and might therefore be useful in regulating lateral‐root (LR) development. Our objectives were (1) to examine the effects of COR on root development, especially the LR formation in hydroponically grown cotton seedlings, and (2) to explore possible mechanisms involved. The results showed that K deficiency (0.05 mM) significantly reduced LR formation in cotton seedlings, possibly due to the decrease of endogenous indole acetic acid (IAA) in roots by more than half. Following the application of 10 nM COR, the LRs significantly increased by 26% in K‐sufficient (0.5 mM) solution and by 95% in K‐deficient solution. Although COR did not increase the free IAA level in the primary root, the polar auxin‐transport inhibitor N‐1‐naphthylphthalamic acid (NPA) decreased its stimulating effects on LR formation by 25%–30%, suggesting that the COR‐induced LR formation was independent of increased auxin level but likely associated with auxin transport. Treatment of plants with 1‐naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) increased LR formation at NAA concentrations of 100 nM, but had no effect at 10 nM. In the presence of 1 nM COR, however, NAA increased LR formation at 10 nM concentrations. This indicates that LR formation due to COR possibly involves changes in auxin sensitivity. In addition, the shorter LRs of COR‐treated seedlings were clearly restored when COR was removed from solutions for 12 d, and the total root length, total root surface area as well as K uptake increased significantly, suggesting that COR may be potentially useful for enhancing the K‐acquisition efficiency of cotton seedlings.
Effect of phosphite–phosphate interaction on growth and quality of hydroponic lettuce (Lactuca sativa)
Authors: Thi Bich Thao Hoang , Yamakawa Takeo , Shibata Katsuhiro
Published: March 2009

Although the fungicidal properties of phosphite have been recognized, its potential as a fertilizer is still being debated. The information on how phosphite affects the growth and quality of plants in relation to phosphate (Pi) also remains unknown. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of phosphite in relation to Pi on growth and quality parameters of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.). The results showed that addition of phosphite to the nutrient solution at different rates ranging from 0.05 to 2 mM significantly increased total P, water‐extractable Pi, and phosphite in both shoots and roots, but did not improve plant growth under various Pi supplies (0.05, 0.1, 0.15, and 0.3 mM as Pi levels for approximately 50%, 80%, 90%, and 100% of the maximum plant growth, respectively), indicating that phosphite was well absorbed by roots and mobile inside the plants, but did not provide any P nutrition. Also, no stimulating effect of any Pi–phosphite combination was observed. The effect of phosphite on plant growth was strongly dependent on the level of Pi supply. In general, application of phosphite up to 2 mM did not influence the growth of Pi‐sufficient plants. However, plants fertilized with Pi for about 90% of maximum growth were still vulnerable to phosphite at 2 mM. The negative effect of phosphite was found even at concentrations as low as 0.2 mM, when plants were supplied with Pi adequate for about 80% of maximum growth or less. At 0.05 mM, phosphite had marginal effects on plant growth under all the Pi levels. Although phosphite itself had little influence on the ascorbate and mineral concentrations of lettuce, its application to Pi‐deficient plants may decrease the mineral concentrations of plants brought about by the inhibitory effect of phosphite on root growth and hence nutrient uptake. Since phosphite is an effective fungicide for lettuce, care should be taken on Pi supplies prior to application of phosphite products to minimize the harmful effects.
Effects of head group of cationic surfactants on the hydrolysis of p‐nitrophenyl acetate catalyzed by α‐chymotrypsin
Authors: Ghosh Kallol K. , Verma Santosh Kumar
Published: March 2009

The kinetics of hydrolysis of p‐nitrophenyl acetate catalyzed by α‐chymotrypsin (α‐CT) has been studied in the presence of several cationic surfactants having different head groups maintaining the dodecyl hydrophobic residue and bromide counterion. The enzyme activity was tested in the presence of dodecyl trimethylammonium bromide (DTAB), dodecylpyridinium bromide (DPB), dodecyldimethylethanolammonium bromide (DDMEAB), dodecyldiethylethanolammonium bromide (DDEEAB), benzyldimethyldodecylammonium bromide (BDDAB), and dodecyltriphenylphosphonium bromide (DTPB) surfactants. The extent of superactivity depends upon head groups of surfactants. The activity of α‐CT depends on the surfactant concentration and it varies with the surfactant head group dimensions (DTPB > DDEEAB > DTAB > BDDAB > DDMEAB > DPB). For all surfactants, DTPB exhibits highest superactivity. The effects of surfactants on the apparent kinetic parameters like Michaelis constant Km and the catalytic constant kcat have been determined. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 41: 377–381, 2009
Solvent interactions in the allylation of piperidine
Authors: Devender T. , Manikyamba P.
Published: March 2009

The reaction between allylbromide and piperidine has been studied in different protic and aprotic solvents. The reaction is first order with respect to [allylbromide] and [piperidine]. A correlation analysis of the rate data with solvent properties shows that polarity (Y), polarizability (P), and electrophilicity (E) of the solvent simultaneously influence the rate of reaction. From the regression analysis, information regarding the relative solvation of the reactants and the activated complex is obtained and a solvation model is proposed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 41: 421–425, 2009
The oxyfunctionalization of 4‐methylcoumarins using dimethyldioxirane
Authors: Ćavar Sanja , Kovač Franci
Published: March 2009

The kinetic study of the efficient regioselective oxidation of the CC double bond of 4‐methylcoumarins with isolated dimethyldioxirane was investigated using UV–vis spectroscopy methods. In the excess of dimethyldioxirane, the pyrone ring of a coumarin skeleton is selectively epoxidated and hydroxylated in neutral media, in high yields. Kinetic analyses demonstrate two independent reaction pathways, epoxidation and hydroxylation, respectively, which was also confirmed using kinetic isotope effect methods. Both reaction products were isolated, and their structures were determined by NMR and mass spectra. The position of methyl groups attached at the aromatic part of coumarin molecule shows significant influence on kinetic rate constants and activation parameters. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 41: 414–420, 2009
Hochfester und leicht umformbarer Stahl für den Automobilbau
Authors: Ganzer Stefan , Albert Florian , Schmidt Michael
Published: March 2009

Gerade im Automobilbau stellt der Stoff‐, Fertigungs‐ und Konzeptleichtbau, nicht nur im Hinblick auf die CO2‐Debatte, ein wichtiges Thema dar. Gesucht werden unter anderem Materialien, die eine hohe Festigkeit erreichen, sich aber dennoch leicht umformen lassen. Eine Möglichkeit stellt der warmumformbare höchstfeste Mangan‐Bor‐Stahl 22MnB5 (1.5528) dar. Dieser Artikel präsentiert Ergebnisse zum Laserstrahlschweißen von Usibor 1500P und BTR 165 jeweils vor und nach der Warmumformung.
Computer Simulations of Interpolyelectrolyte Complexes Formed by Star‐like Polymers and Linear Polyelectrolytes
Authors: Larin Sergey , Lyulin Sergey , Lyulin Alexey , Darinskii Anatoly
Published: March 2009

Complexes formed by star‐like polymers of various topology and oppositely charged linear polyelectrolytes were simulated using Brownian dynamics technique. Structural properties and their dependence on the polyelectrotyte charge were investigated and compared with similar data for complexes with dendrimers. Remarkable overcharging was observed for all stars in complexes.
Sensitivity of feedback‐enhanced MRI contrast to macroscopic and microscopic field variations
Authors: Huang Susie Y. , Yang Sophia S. , Lin Yung‐Ya
Published: March 2009

Nonlinear feedback interactions have been shown to amplify contrast due to small differences in resonance frequency arising from microscopic susceptibility variations. Determining whether the selectivity of feedback‐based contrast enhancement for small resonance frequency variations remains valid even in the presence of macroscopic field inhomogeneity is important for transitioning this new methodology into in vivo applications in imaging systems with lower field strengths and poorer homogeneity. This work shows that contrast enhancement under the radiation damping (RD) feedback field is sensitive to microscopic intravoxel frequency variations. Feedback‐enhanced contrast provides superior signal differentiation from voxels with distinct microscopic frequency distributions compared with T‐weighted imaging, while remaining robust to macroscopic field gradients, which frequently give rise to artifacts by other frequency‐sensitive methods. Applying multiple RF pulses during evolution under RD and actively adjusting the phase and amplitude of the feedback field are shown to further improve signal differentiation. Experimental results reveal that feedback‐enhanced contrast can generate positive contrast, reflecting microscopic field variations induced by strong local dipole fields, such as those created by blood vessels and superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles. Extensions to in vivo imaging at lower field strengths are discussed in the context of amplifying the RD field via active electronic feedback. Magn Reson Med, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fast high‐resolution T1 mapping using inversion‐recovery look‐locker echo‐planar imaging at steady state: Optimization for accuracy and reliability
Authors: Shin Wanyong , Gu Hong , Yang Yihong
Published: March 2009

A fast T1 measurement sequence using inversion recovery Look‐Locker echo‐planar imaging at steady state (IR LL‐EPI SS) is presented. Delay time for a full magnetization recovery is not required in the sequence, saving acquisition time significantly for high‐resolution T1 mapping. Imaging parameters of the IR LL‐EPI SS sequence were optimized to minimize the bias from the excitation pulses imperfection and to maximize the accuracy and reliability of T1 measurements, which are critical for its applications. Compared with the conventional inversion recovery Look‐Locker echo‐planar imaging (IR LL‐EPI) sequence, IR LL‐EPI SS method preserves similar accuracy and reliability, while saving 20% in acquisition time. Optimized IR LL‐EPI SS provided quantitative T1 mapping with 1 × 1 × 4 mm3 resolution and whole‐brain coverage (28 slices) in approximately 4 min. Magn Reson Med, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Investigation of quantitative magnetisation transfer parameters of lesions and normal appearing white matter in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Cercignani M. , Basile B. , Spanò B. , Comanducci G. , Fasano F. , Caltagirone C. , Nocentini U. , Bozzali M.
Published: March 2009

The aim of this study was to use quantitative magnetisation transfer (MT) imaging to assess the different pathological substrates of tissue damage in multiple sclerosis (MS) and examine whether the MT parameters may be used to explain the disability in relapsing remitting (RR) MS. Thirteen patients with RRMS and 14 healthy controls were prescribed conventional MRI and quantitative MT imaging at 3.0 T. A two‐pool model of MT (where A refers to the free pool and B to the macromolecular pool) was fitted to the data yielding a longitudinal relaxation rate RA, a relative size F of macromolecular pool, transverse relaxation times T and T for the two pools and a forward exchange rate RM. The MT ratio (MTR) was also computed. The mean MT parameters of the normal appearing white matter (NAWM) and of lesions in patients, and of white matter in controls were estimated. MT parameters were significantly different between lesions and NAWM in patients, and between the NAWM and the white matter of controls (with the exception of T and the MTR). Two models were investigated using ordered logistic regression, with the expanded disability status scale (EDSS) as the dependent variable. In the first one, mean NAWM MT parameters and lesion load were entered as explanatory variables; in the second one, mean MT variables within lesions and lesion load were entered as explanatory variables. Unexpectedly, T was the parameter most significantly associated with EDSS in NAWM. This parameter might represent a weighted average of the relaxation times of spins with different molecular environments, and therefore its variation could indicate a change in the balance between subpopulations of macromolecular spins. Conversely, in lesions, RM, T, F, RA, and lesion load significantly predicted disability only when combined together. This might reflect the complex interaction between demyelination, remyelination, gliosis, inflammation and axonal loss taking place within lesions. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Manganese‐enhanced MRI visualizes V1 in the non‐human primate visual cortex
Authors: Bock Nicholas A. , Kocharyan Ara , Silva Afonso C.
Published: March 2009

MRI at 7 Tesla has been used to investigate the accumulation of manganese in the occipital cortex of common marmoset monkeys (Callithrix jacchus) after administering four fractionated injections of 30 mg/kg MnCl2 · 4H2O in the tail vein. We found a statistically significant decrease in T1 in the primary (V1) and secondary (V2) areas of the visual cortex caused by an accumulation of manganese. The larger T1 shortening in V1 (ΔT1 = 640 ms) relative to V2 (ΔT1 = 490 ms) allowed us to robustly detect the V1/V2 border in vivo using heavily T1‐weighted MRI. Furthermore, the dorso‐medial (DM) and middle‐temporal (MT) areas of the visual pathway could be identified by their T1‐weighted enhancement. We showed by comparison to histological sections stained for cytochrome oxidase (CO) activity that the extent of V1 is accurately identified throughout the visual cortex by manganese‐enhanced MRI (MEMRI). This provides a means of visualizing functional cortical regions in vivo and could be used in longitudinal studies of phenomena such as cortical plasticity, and for non‐destructive localization of cortical regions to guide in the implementation of functional techniques. Published in 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Catalytic performance of chitosan‐Schiff base supported Pd/Co bimetallic catalyst for acrylamide with phenyl halide
Authors: Li‐xia Wang , Zi‐wei Wang , Guo‐song Wang , Xiao‐dong Lin , Jian‐guo Ren
Published: March 2009

The chitosan‐Schiff base supported palladium and cobalt bimetallic complex was synthesized in a simple method and characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and X‐ray photoelectron spectra (XPS). It was found that the catalyst has great activity and stability in the coupling of acrylamide (AA) with the phenyl halide. The influence of various bimetallic catalysts, the different molar ratio of Co/Pd, the bases, the amount of the catalyst and base, and the molar ratio of iodobenzene/AA on the reaction were investigated. The results showed that the catalytic activity of the molar ratio of Co/Pd (3/1) was the best when the iodobenzene was used as a substrate. The yield of the cinnamamide did not change significantly after ten runs. It has been revealed that the catalyst was efficient for the reaction. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conductive polymers/polyacrylonitrile composite fibers: Fabrication and properties
Authors: Xia Youyi , Lu Yun
Published: March 2009

Polypyrrole/polyacrylonitrile, polyaniline/polyacrylonitrile, and poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)/polyacrylonitrile composite fibres were fabricated successfully by in situ polymerization. The morphologic observations confirmed the uniformly‐covered polyacrylonitrile fiber surface by conductive conjugated polymers. These composite fibers exhibited conductivity in the range of 1.4 × 10−2 to 5.2 × 10−1 S cm−1. Improved thermal stability of the composite fibers was observed from thermogravimetric analysis results. Structural analysis indicated that the interactions of both hydrogen‐bonding and the electrostatic attraction existed between polyacrylonitrile chains and conjugated polymers. These novel composite fibers still possessed original fibrillar morphology and strength properties and showed a good stability to atmosphere and washing. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effect of polyphosphazene elastomer on the compatibility and properties of PES/TLCP composites
Authors: Bose Saswata , Mukherjee Madhumita , Das Chapal K. , Saxena Arvind K.
Published: March 2009

In this article, the chemistry of interfacial adhesion between different additive systems has been dealt with to develop a high performance nanocomposite and in the process, a comprehensive study on the reinforcing effect of nanosilica has been carried out. The base polymer was considered as the blends of Poly ethersulfone (PES) and thermotropic liquid crystalline polymer (TLCP). A novel polymeric compatibilizer, polyphosphazene elastomer, has been utilized and the interchain crosslinking has been explained. Results of experimental investigations demonstrate that the nanofillers play an important role in reducing the interfacial tension. However, the presence of Polyphosphazene elastomer, acted as compatibilizer further reducing the interfacial tension through the inter‐molecular interaction. The nanocomposites, thus developed, have better thermal stability and improved rheological properties. In addition, it has also been observed that Polyphosphazene elastomer impart flexibility in the composite. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Agro‐wastes: Mechanical and physical properties of resin impregnated oil palm trunk core lumber
Authors: Abdul Khalil H.P.S. , Bhat Aamir H. , Jawaid Mohammad , Amouzgar Parisa , Ridzuan R. , Said M.R.
Published: March 2009

Agro‐wastes, oil palm trunk core or sap was utilized for the production of new palm‐wood material using phenol formaldehyde resin as a matrix. The kiln‐dried (moisture content 10%) oil palm trunk was impregnated with phenol formaldehyde resin using a high power vacuum pump. The oil palm trunk core lumber (OPTCL) was loaded with different percentages of phenol formaldehyde (PF) resin. The mechanical properties (tensile, flexural, and impact) and physical properties (water absorption and density) were studied and compared with rubberwood. Testing of mechanical and physical properties was done according to the ASTM standard. The morphology of the resin loaded OPTCL was analyzed by using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). In general, the result showed that impregnated OPTCL exhibited good mechanical and physical properties when compared with untreated oil palm trunk core (OPTCL with 0% resin content) and rubberwood. Tensile and flexural strength of OPTCL increased with the increase in the resin content up to 15% and showed a decreasing trend with the increase in the loading percentage beyond 15%.The impact strength also increased with the increase in the resin content from 5% to 15%. However, impregnated OPTCL with 15% resin loading showed lower water absorption uptake as compared with the other composite materials and rubberwood. SEM micrograph confirmed that the resin was impregnated efficiently within the pores of OPTCL fibers. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers