bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphological changes in the clasper gland of the Atlantic stingray, Dasyatis sabina, associated with the seasonal reproductive cycle
Authors: Piercy A. , Gelsleichter J. , Snelson F.F.
Published: November 2005

The clasper gland of the Atlantic stingray, Dasyatis sabina, was examined over a 1‐year period, covering an entire reproductive cycle. Changes in clasper gland tissue architecture, fluid production, and cell proliferation were assessed. No changes in tissue architecture were observed. Evidence of cell proliferation in the gland epithelium was not detected using immunocytochemistry for proliferating cell nuclear antigen, a cellular marker of mitosis. Epithelial cells were not observed to undergo mitosis, and cell membranes remained intact. The lack of structural changes and epithelial cell proliferation supports the proposed merocrinal mode of fluid secretion. Rays captured in nonbreeding months had clasper glands that exhibited tubules with reduced lumens. In contrast, rays caught during the breeding season had clasper gland tubules with enlarged lumens. Clasper gland fluid production was quantified through measurements of the fluid area and tubule area calculated from digital images. Clasper gland fluid production was significantly higher during the mating period than during months not associated with copulatory activity. These data support the notion that the clasper gland is involved in stingray copulatory activity. This study adds to the limited amount of literature focused on this poorly understood component of reproduction in skates and rays. J. Morphol. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molecular basis for the binding polyspecificity of an anti‐cholera toxin peptide 3 monoclonal antibody
Authors: Otte Livia , Knaute Tobias , Schneider‐Mergener Jens , Kramer Achim
Published: November 2005

The onset of autoimmune diseases is proposed to involve binding promiscuity of antibodies (Abs) and T‐cells, an often reported yet poorly understood phenomenon. Here, we attempt to approach two questions: first, is binding promiscuity a general feature of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and second, what is the molecular basis for polyspecificity? To this end, the anti‐cholera toxin peptide 3 (CTP3) mAb TE33 was investigated for polyspecific binding properties. Screening of phage display libraries identified two epitope‐unrelated peptides that specifically bound TE33 with affinities similar to or 100‐fold higher than the wild‐type epitope. Substitutional analyses revealed distinct key residue patterns recognized by the antibody suggesting a unique binding mode for each peptide. A database query with one of the consensus motifs and a subsequent binding study uncovered 45 peptides (derived from heterologous proteins) that bound TE33. To better understand the structural basis of the observed polyspecificity we modeled the new cyclic epitope in complex with TE33. The interactions between this peptide and TE33 suggested by our model are substantially different from the interactions observed in the X‐ray structure of the wild‐type epitope complex. However, the overall binding conformation of the peptides is similar. Together, our results support the theory of a general polyspecific potential of mAbs. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
STIR vs. T1‐weighted fat‐suppressed gadolinium‐enhanced MRI of bone marrow edema of the knee: Computer‐assisted quantitative comparison and influence of injected contrast media volume and acquisition parameters
Authors: Mayerhoefer Marius E. , Breitenseher Martin J. , Kramer Josef , Aigner Nicolas , Norden Cornelia , Hofmann Siegfried
Published: November 2005

Purpose

To compare short tau inversion recovery (STIR) and T1‐weighted (T1w) gadolinium (Gd)‐enhanced fat‐suppressed MRI of bone marrow edema (BME) of the knee, and investigate the influence of injected contrast media volume and variation of major acquisition parameters on apparent BME volume and signal contrast.

Materials and Methods

STIR and T1w Gd‐enhanced fat‐suppressed images were obtained from 30 patients with BME of the knee. Two groups of patients were examined with different MR scanners, acquisition parameters, and contrast media volumes. For both sequences, BME volume and signal contrast were assessed by computer‐assisted quantification, and were compared through their arithmetic means and correlation coefficients (r2). The injected contrast media volume was also correlated with BME volume and signal contrast differences between sequences.

Results

A strong correlation between the STIR and Gd‐enhanced T1w images was found for BME volume (r2 = 0.96–0.99) and BME signal contrast (r2 = 0.86–0.94). Despite the differences in MR acquisition parameters and injected contrast media volume, both sequences depicted an almost identical BME volume in both groups. Contrast media volume showed a moderate correlation (r2 = 0.40) with BME volume differences.

Conclusion

STIR is the optimum method for determining the size and signal contrast of BME. The injected contrast media volume appears to have only a limited influence on apparent BME volume. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Spontaneous craniospinal hypotension
Authors: Weindling Steven M. , Kotsenas Amy L.
Published: November 2005

Spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak has been called “spontaneous intracranial hypotension,” emphasizing the intracranial symptoms and imaging findings. We present a patient with spontaneous CSF leak whose initial spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings were thought to represent epidural tumor or infection. Subsequent MRI examinations showed an improvement of both intracranial and spinal CSF hypotension findings coinciding with clinical symptom resolution. We propose the term “spontaneous craniospinal hypotension” to better emphasize this syndrome's unifying intracranial and spinal pathophysiology and imaging findings. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Influence of positional and angular variation of automatically planned short‐axis stacks on quantification of left ventricular dimensions and function with cardiovascular magnetic resonance
Authors: Danilouchkine Mikhail G. , van der Geest Rob J. , Westenberg Jos J.M. , Lelieveldt Boudewijn P.F. , Reiber Johan H.C.
Published: November 2005

Purpose

To theoretically and experimentally investigate the influence of the automated cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) scan planning pitfalls, namely inaccurate positioning and tilting of short‐axis (SA) imaging planes, on quantification of the left ventricular (LV) dimensions and function.

Materials and Methods

Eleven healthy subjects and eight patients underwent CMR. Manually and automatically planned SA sets were acquired. To obtain the quantitative measurements of LV function, one observer performed image analysis twice. The agreement between planning methods, as well as the decomposition of the total variation into interstudy and intraobserver components was measured.

Results

The decomposition of the total variation showed that the interstudy factor accounts for 70–85% of the total variation, while the rest is due to the intraobserver factor. Moreover, the relative contribution of the interstudy factor remains independent from errors in slice positioning and small angular deviation of SA stacks from the optimal orientation. Good agreement between the theoretical and measured variability factors was observed.

Conclusion

Global LV function derived from the automatically planned CMR acquisitions yield accurate quantification of the human cardiovascular system. Inaccurate positioning and tilting of SA images does not affect the quantitative measurements of LV function. The computer‐aided system for automated CMR has proven clinical applicability. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Optimization of indirect arthrography of the knee by application of external heat: Initial experience
Authors: Kaura Deepak R. , Schweitzer Mark E. , Weishaupt Dominik , Morrison William B.
Published: November 2005

Purpose

To examine the potential utility of applying heat to increase the uptake of intravenous gadolinium (Gd) contrast into the knee joint in order to optimize MR arthrography.

Materials and Methods

At 1.5T, 16 knees in eight patients without prior surgery, injury, or pain were examined before and 30 minutes after intravenous administration of Gd contrast (0.1 mM/kg). Between scans a heating pad was applied to the anterior aspect of eight randomly selected knees (the contralateral knee served as the control). Initial and postcontrast imaging consisted of identical axial T1‐weighted sequences (TR/TE = 500/14 msec) without fat suppression. On the initial and postcontrast images, regions of interest (ROIs) were placed at identical locations in the suprapatellar pouch and the intercondylar notch by a reader blinded to the treated side. The values at these two locations were averaged and the change in joint signal intensity was calculated. The differences between the heated and unheated knees were also calculated.

Results

Seven of the eight knees treated with heat had increased joint enhancement compared to the contralateral control, with percentage changes in joint signal intensity (heated knee vs. control) of +38%, +80%, +121%, +145%, +150%, +164%, and +177%. Overall there was a doubling of signal intensity (125%) on the heated side compared to the contralateral control (with significance at P = 0.039). One patient was excluded because of a prior knee injury.

Conclusion

The application of external heat increases uptake of intravenously administered Gd contrast into the knee joint, and may help to optimize indirect MR arthrography at a relatively low cost. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
MR‐guided laser irradiation of recurrent glioblastomas
Authors: Schwarzmaier Hans‐Joachim , Eickmeyer Frank , von Tempelhoff Wernholt , Fiedler Volkhard Ulrich , Niehoff Hendrik , Ulrich Slif Dagobert , Ulrich Frank
Published: November 2005

We treated two patients with recurrent glioblastoma multiforme using Nd:YAG laser irradiation in the framework of a salvage therapy. The underlying concept is to achieve cytoreduction by partial coagulation of the tumor. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) follow‐up examinations revealed a volume reduction of the laser‐irradiated areas, while the untreated parts of the tumor exhibited a progression. The survival time after the diagnosis of the recurrence was 16 and 20 months, respectively, which is substantially (about four times) longer than the natural history of the disease would suggest. In conclusion, cytoreduction by laser irradiation may be a promising option for patients suffering from recurrent glioblastoma multiforme. Future work should optimize the therapeutic regimen and evaluate this treatment approach in controlled clinical trials. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Tandem mass spectrometry for the characterisation of sulphated‐phosphorylated analogues of the carbohydrate–protein linkage region of proteoglycans
Authors: Antonopoulos Aristotelis , Favetta Patrick , Jacquinet Jean‐Claude , Lafosse Michel
Published: November 2005

Carbohydrate–protein linkage region of proteoglycans is a key oligosaccharide structure because their sulphated and/or phosphorylated analogues control the biosynthesis of glucosaminoglycans or galactosaminoglycans. Therefore, synthesised sulphated and/or phosphorylated analogues were characterised by tandem mass spectrometry in the negative‐ion mode. Results demonstrated that the product ion profile was characterised by glycosidic and cross‐ring cleavages depending on the position and the type of the charged group (sulphate, phosphate or carboxylate). When the above compounds were sulphated and phosphorylated, the ion found at m/z 79 was the only one that demonstrated a phosphate group on the structure. The data also suggested that when a sodium cation was present in a sulphated and phosphorylated structure, the phosphate group in most cases was neutralised by the sodium cation, and therefore cleaved off the molecule, while the sulphate group was carrying the negative charge. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of lafutidine in human plasma by high‐performance liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization mass spectrometry: application to a bioequivalence study
Authors: Wu Lili , Zhang Zunjian , Tian Yuan , Li Wei , Xu Fengguo , Chen Yun , Wei Huilin
Published: November 2005

A rapid, sensitive and specific high‐performance liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LC/ESI‐MS) method was developed and validated for the first time to determine the concentration of lafutidine in human plasma. After the addition of diazepam (the internal standard, IS) and 1 M sodium hydroxide solution to 0.5‐ml plasma sample, lafutidine was extracted from plasma with n‐hexane : isopropanol (95 : 5, v/v). The organic layer was evaporated and the residue was redissolved in 200‐µl mobile phase. The analyte was chromatographically separated on a prepacked Shimadzu Shim‐pack VP‐ODS C18 column (250 × 2.0 mm i.d.) using a mixture of methanol‐water (20 mM CH3COONH4) = 80 : 20 (v/v) as mobile phase. Detection was performed on a single quadrupole mass spectrometer using an electrospray ionization interface and the selected‐ion monitoring (SIM) mode. The method showed excellent linearity (r = 0.9993) over the concentration range of 5–400 ng/ml and had good accuracy and precision. The within‐ and between‐batch precisions were within 10% relative standard deviation. The limit of detection was 1 ng/ml. The validated LC/ESI‐MS method has been successfully applied to the bioequivalence study of lafutidine in 24 healthy male Chinese volunteers. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mass spectral studies of a series of N,N‐dialkyl aminoethyl‐2‐chlorides and trimethyl silyl ethers of N,N‐dialkyl aminoethane‐2‐ols under electron impact conditions
Authors: Reddy T. Jagadeshwar , Prabhakar S. , Ravi Kumar M. , Saradhi U. V. R. Vijaya , Vairamani M.
Published: November 2005

The electron impact (EI) mass spectra of a series of N,N‐dialkyl‐aminoethyl‐2‐chlorides, N(R1)(R2)‐CH2‐CH2Cl and trimethylsilyl ethers of N,N‐dialkyl aminoethane‐2‐ols, N(R1)(R2)‐CH2‐CH2‐O‐Si(CH3)3, where R1 and R2 = methyl, ethyl, propyl and isopropyl, which are precursors of VX type of compounds, are studied. All the compounds (1–20) show abundant molecular ions, in addition to a weak [M − H]+ ion, except the N,N‐diisopropyl group containing compounds (8 and 18). A general EI fragmentation pattern for the above two series of compounds is discussed. The observed fragment ions are due to simple homolytic cleavages, and they are distinct to allow the identification of the compounds unequivocally including those of isomeric compounds. The primary fragmentation of compounds 120 is β‐cleavage, i.e. homolytic cleavage of C‐C bond, which is linked to the nitrogen atom. Three types of β‐cleavages are possible for these compounds, in which the abundance of β‐cleavage product ions is found to depend on the size and structure of the alkyl group attached to nitrogen. The α‐cleavage fragment ions are found only for N,N‐dialkyl aminoethyl‐2‐chlorides but are absent in the corresponding trimethylsilyl ethers of N,N‐dialkyl aminoethane‐2‐ols. The retention indices are calculated for all the studied compounds (1–20) and are in the ranges of 750.38–1079.24 for 1–10 and 905.23–1190.25 for 11–20. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Factors contributing to neuronal degeneration in retinas of experimental glaucomatous rats
Authors: Wang Xu , Ng Yee‐Kong , Tay Samuel Sam‐Wah
Published: November 2005

After our studies on ganglion cell degeneration in the glaucomatous retina, the current work further confirmed the reduction of amacrine cells in the retina after the onset of glaucoma. Present study also tried to understand the possible mechanisms underlying neuronal degeneration in the glaucomatous retina. Changes of expressions in immediate early genes (IEGs), glutamate receptors (GluRs), calcium‐binding proteins (CaBPs), 8‐hydroxy‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OH‐dG) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS), as well as apoptotic‐related factors including caspase 3, bax, and bcl‐2 were examined. IEGs such as c‐fos and c‐jun were induced in the retina of the glaucomatous rat as early as 2 hr after the onset of glaucoma and lasted up to 2 weeks. Expressions of GluRs and CaBPs (i.e., parvalbumin and calbindin D‐28k) were observed to be increased in the retinal ganglion cell layer (GCL) and inner nuclear layer (INL) at 3 days and 1 week after the onset of glaucoma. The increase occurred well before and during the phase where significant neuronal death was observed in the GCL and INL of the glaucomatous retinae. Induction of 8‐OH‐dG was present in both the GCL and INL of the glaucomatous retina at 3 days after the onset of glaucoma before significant neuronal death was observed. Furthermore, confocal microscopy study showed the complete colocalization of immunohistochemical expression of caspase 3 with glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), but not with neuronal nuclei (NeuN). It indicates that astrocytes and Müller cells are involved in the pathological processes of neuronal death. The relationship between the linked factors and neuronal degeneration is also discussed. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nuclear factor‐κb activation is associated with glutamate‐evoked tissue transglutaminase up‐regulation in primary astrocyte cultures
Authors: Caccamo Daniela , Campisi Agata , Currò Monica , Aguennouz Mohammed , Li Volti Giovanni , Avola Roberto , Ientile Riccardo
Published: November 2005

We have previously demonstrated that alterations of cell redox state, evoked by glutamate, are associated with tissue transglutaminase increases in primary astrocyte cultures. Furthermore, glutamate exposure activated the nuclear factor (NF)‐κB pathway, and its effects were significantly reduced by antioxidants. Here, we investigated the possible involvement of activated NF‐κB pathway in glutamate‐evoked tissue transglutaminase up‐regulation in primary astrocytes. The presence of DNA binding activity by NF‐κB in nuclear extracts of astrocytes, treated for 24 hr with glutamate (500 μM) or untreated, was assessed by EMSA, using an oligonucleotide probe containing the NF‐κB consensus sequence present in the tissue transglutaminase promoter. Supershifting with monoclonal antibodies revealed that activated NF‐κB dimer complexes were composed of p50 and p65 subunits. Interestingly, the specific NF‐κB inhibitor SN50 (but not its inactive analogue SN50M), when added to cell cultures 30 min prior to glutamate treatment, was able gradually to reduce glutamate‐induced NF‐κB activation. Western blot analysis confirmed the reduction of the p50 amount in nuclear extracts. Notably, the preincubation with SN50 also diminished glutamate‐increased tissue transglutaminase expression, as showed by both RT‐PCR and Western blotting. Competition experiments, carried out with an excess of a probe containing the NF‐κB consensus sequence present in the κ‐light‐chain promoter, demonstrated a preferential binding of the tissue transglutaminase specific NF‐κB probe in the nuclear extracts of glutamate‐treated astrocytes compared with untreated astrocytes. These preliminary data suggest that NF‐κB activation, which has been demonstrated to be involved in astrocyte response to glutamate, could also be associated with the molecular pathway leading to glutamate‐evoked tissue transglutaminase up‐regulation. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Modulation of excitatory synaptic transmission by endogenous glutamate acting on presynaptic group II mGluRs in rat substantia nigra compacta
Authors: Wang Lie , Kitai Stephen T. , Xiang Zixiu
Published: November 2005

Excitatory synaptic inputs from the subthalamic nucleus (STN) have been proposed to underlie burst firing of substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) dopamine (DA) neurons in Parkinson's disease. Given the potential importance of the STN‐SNc synapse in health and disease, our goal was to study how transmission at this synapse is regulated. We tested the hypothesis that neurotransmission at STN‐SNc synapses is tonically inhibited by endogenous glutamate acting on presynaptic group II metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs). By using whole‐cell recording techniques in brain slices, we examined the effect of LY341495, a mGluR antagonist that is most potent at group II mGluRs, on excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) that either were evoked in SNc DA neurons by stimulation of the STN or were spontaneously occurred in the presence of tetrodotoxin (miniature EPSCs; mEPSCs). LY341495 increased the evoked EPSC amplitude and mEPSC frequency without changing mEPSC amplitude. In contrast, the group III mGluR antagonist UBP1112 failed to increase the evoked EPSC amplitude. An elevation of extracellular glutamate concentration by a glutamate transporter inhibitor, TBOA, suppressed the evoked EPSCs. LY341495, but not UBP1112, partially reversed the TBOA action. The modulations of EPSCs by TBOA and LY341495 were associated with changes in paired‐pulse facilitation ratio. Furthermore, TBOA decreased mEPSC frequency, which was partially reversed by LY341495, without affecting mEPSC amplitude. The results indicate that presynaptic group II mGluRs at STN‐SNc synapses appear to be partially activated by a basal level of extracellular glutamate and able to sense the change in extracellular glutamate concentration, subsequently modulating synaptic glutamate release. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pfizer's prescription for the risky business of executive transitions
Authors: Vollhardt Carlota
Published: November 2005

While transitions in leadership and key expert roles can create opportunities for improvement and innovation, they also run a high risk of failure and loss of business‐critical knowledge and social capital. At Pfizer, key stakeholders engage in a carefully orchestrated process that harvests know‐how critical to the role going forward, transfers it to the successor, and identifies and addresses any remaining knowledge gaps. The approach also provides the successor a transition road map for accelerating learning and capitalizing on strengths while tending to business. © 2005 Carlota Vollhardt
Employee input helps QUALCOMM select the best total rewards investments
Authors: Reichel David A. , Blain Nathan
Published: November 2005

In 2004, QUALCOMM faced a thorny question: Would tinkering with its Total Rewards offerings—especially its attractive health care programs—to control rising health care costs also impair its ability to aggressively recruit and successfully retain the talent that sustains its stellar record of innovation? Leaving nothing to chance, the company used employees' input and a trade‐off analysis to assess the economic and strategic impact of reward changes, and in the process learned the true value of its investments in Total Rewards. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Improving supervisors' effectiveness: Mayo Clinic finds answers through research
Authors: McElrath Matthew , Godat Lynn , Musson Joanne , Libow Judy , Graves Jamen
Published: November 2005

When rapid organizational growth exposed vulnerabilities at the supervisory level, Mayo Clinic Scottsdale tested two interventions, training and coaching, for their relative effectiveness in upgrading the skills of first‐line managers. The results of this applied research in the premier health care and teaching facility not only gave the clinic clear direction for its supervisory development efforts but also produced an impressive reduction in employee turnover and a very healthy return on investment. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A new technology for extraction and purification of proanthocyanidins derived from sea buckthorn bark
Authors: Xu Xiaoyun , Xie Bijun , Pan Siyi , Yang Erning , Wang Kexin , Cenkowski Stefan , Hydamake Arnie W , Rao Shan
Published: November 2005

A new technology involving resin purification of proanthocyanidins extracted from sea buckthorn bark has been studied. By investigating single‐factor effects, the main factors affecting proanthocyanidin extraction were identified as extraction temperature, pH and ethanol concentration. A central composite design and response surface analysis were used to determine the optimal parameters of the extraction process (temperature 21 °C, pH 5.13, ethanol concentration 65%). The optimal resin for purification, D3520, was selected from 16 different resins by means of static adsorption and dynamic adsorption/desorption tests. After using this resin to purify the crude extract, a proanthocyanidin extract was obtained whose yield and purity were above 80% and greater than 95% respectively. Procyanidin dimers and trimers predominated among oligomer procyanidins of the proanthocyanidin extract according to analyses by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and HPLC/mass spectrometry. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
A proposed mechanism for the inhibition of soybean lipoxygenase by β‐carotene
Authors: Serpen Arda , Gökmen Vural
Published: November 2005

The inhibition mechanism of soybean lipoxygenase (LOX) by β‐carotene was studied. Addition of β‐carotene into the reaction mixture decreased the rate of conjugated diene formation. Increasing the concentration of β‐carotene in the reaction mixture resulted in a decrease in the rate of conjugated diene formation. Although the rate of conjugated diene formation was lower in the presence of β‐carotene, the same amounts of linoleic acid hydroperoxides were formed by the enzyme at the end of the reaction, both with and without β‐carotene in the reaction medium. The rates of conjugated diene formation for 40, 20, 10 and 4 U mL−1 LOX enzyme were almost equal to zero when the concentrations of β‐carotene were 20, 17.5, 15 and 10 µmol L−1 in model reaction systems, respectively. β‐Carotene directly influences the amount of enzyme in the reaction medium available for the catalytic conversion of linoleic acid into corresponding hydroperoxides. The results obtained here suggest that β‐carotene reacts with linoleyl radical (L•) at the beginning of the chain reaction, preventing the accumulation of conjugated diene forms (LOO•, LOO− and LOOH). Since L• transforms back to its original form of LH, the enzyme cannot complete the chain reaction and thus remains at inactive Fe(II) form. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Extraction of natural dyes for textile dyeing from coloured plant wastes released from the food and beverage industry
Authors: Bechtold Thomas , Mussak Rita , Mahmud‐Ali Amalid , Ganglberger Erika , Geissler Susanne
Published: November 2005

The food and beverage industry releases considerable amounts of wastes which contain natural dyes. Such wastes could serve as a sources for the extraction of natural dyes for textile‐dyeing operations. The extraction of brilliant yellow and red colours from fruits and vegetables is of particular interest. Wastes, e.g. pressed berries, pressed grapes, distillation residues from strong liquor production, and wastes and peels from vegetable processing, have been extracted with boiling water and test dyeings on wool yarn were performed. Colour strength, shade and fastness properties of the dyeings have been tested. The extracts were applied as direct dyes and in the presence of iron(II) or alum mordants. The results prove the potential of such wastes as a source for natural dyestuff extraction. To obtain textile dyeings with acceptable fastness properties, however, rigorous selection of dyes and development of suited processes is required. A considerable number of red natural dyes need further research to optimise the low level of fastness to light. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of growing site and nitrogen fertilization on biomass production and lignan content of linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.)
Authors: Zimmermann Ralf , Bauermann Ulrike , Morales Fermin
Published: November 2005

There is strong evidence that the lignan precursors from vegetable material, secoisolariciresinol (seco) and matairesinol (mata), are major sources to support the development of lignans in the mammalian colon. Recent studies have shown these active agents to have anticancer properties, especially for mammary or prostatic carcinomas. Linseed is currently by far the best‐known source of seco and mata. To support the development of a food supplement, cultivars of linseed were tested at two sites and under increasing nitrogen supply to investigate how the lignan content is affected. The results indicated that the nitrogen supply did not affect the content of seco and mata at either site. A significant difference in seed yield could be measured between the sites, but the overall lignan content—even though significant—was less affected. The main effects were relatively similar at both sites and derived from the cultivars, indicating that the lignan content is very much dependent on genetic predisposition. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
The interaction between threonine and avilamycin on piglet performance and diet digestibility post weaning
Authors: O'Connell Michael J , Callan James J , O'Doherty John V
Published: November 2005

A 3 × 2 factorial experimental design was used to investigate the interaction between threonine level (8.6, 10.5 or 12.1 g kg−1) and an antimicrobial growth promoter (0 or 60 mg kg−1avilamycin) in piglet starter diets. Three hundred and sixty weaned piglets (24 d of age; 5.9 kg live weight) were blocked on the basis of live weight and assigned to one of six dietary treatments. The treatments were (1) 8.6 g kg−1threonine and avilamycin, (2) 10.5 g kg−1threonine and avilamycin, (3) 12.1 g kg−1threonine and avilamycin, (4) 8.6 g kg−1threonine and no avilamycin, (5) 10.5 g kg−1threonine and no avilamycin and (6) 12.1 g kg−1threonine and no avilamycin. The diets were formulated to have identical concentrations of digestible energy (16 MJ kg−1) and total lysine (16 g kg−1). There was no interaction between threonine and avilamycin in any performance variable measured. Neither the level of threonine nor the inclusion of avilamycin in the diet had any effect on feed intake, average daily gain or food conversion ratio. There was a significant interaction between threonine level and avilamycin inclusion in the apparent digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, nitrogen, ash, neutral detergent fibre and gross energy and also digestible energy content. In the absence of avilamycin, there was a linear increase in nutrient digestibility to increased threonine levels in the diet. However, in the presence of avilamycin there was a quadratic response to increased threonine levels. In conclusion, optimum piglet performance was achieved at a threonine level of 8.6 g kg−1and there was no advantage to avilamycin inclusion under current conditions. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Determination of Al(III) activation conditions for white bentonite used for cottonseed oil bleaching by robust design
Authors: Caglayan Mustafa Oguzhan
Published: November 2005

The optimum Al(III) activation conditions for white bentonite (Ordu, Turkey), used as a bleaching agent for cottonseed oil, were investigated. AlCl3–clay suspension was hydrolyzed in situ using NaOH to investigate possible pillars. Five controllable factors that mainly affect the activation process were specified as initial AlCl3 concentration (F1), OH−/Al3+ molar ratio (F2), NaOH volumetric flow‐rate (F3), cation‐exchange temperature (F4) and thermal treatment temperature (F5). Each factor was examined at four levels by using a robust (Taguchi) design to determine optimum activation conditions. The response variable of each experimental run was taken as bleaching efficiency, which is defined in terms of absorbance at 420 nm. The effect of desired levels of factors to the system response was compared using the signal‐to‐noise (S/N) ratio. An importance factor (IF) was suggested in order to compare the affectability of each factor to the response variable by using the integrated area under the S/N ratio curves. The most important factor affecting bleaching efficiency was F5, followed in sequence by F2 > F1 > F4 > F3. The availability of AlO species after activation in the clay crystal structure was determined by FTIR analysis. The optimum levels of each factor for Al3+ activation of clay were F1 5 meq g−1 clay, F2 2.0, F3 1200 mL h−1, F4 25 °C and F5 700 °C. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
An isozyme analysis of four species in the family Cyprinidae: genetic, taxonomic and germplasm significance
Authors: Jiang Jian‐Guo , Xiong Quan‐Wei
Published: November 2005

The tissue distribution of products of 35 enzymatic loci (19 enzyme systems and soluble protein) was examined with different buffer systems and gel thicknesses to identify optimal polyacrylamide gel electrophoretic conditions for allozymic and isozymic studies of the black carp (Mylopharyngodon picius), grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus), silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) and bighead carp (Aristichys nobilis). Relative levels of enzyme activity are reported for extracts prepared from brain, eye, heart, kidney, liver and muscle. The results showed that the difference within species tissues was greater than that among species; the results showed that the differences of activity between tissues within species was greater than among species; however Acp, Adh, Amy, Cat, Est, Ichh, Gtdh, Mdhp, Pox, Iddh and SP activities present differences among the four species and could be used as genetic markers of species. The electrophoretogram characteristics of Cox, Ldh and G6pdh can be employed as the markers for distinguishing the Leuciscinae and Hypophthalmichthyinae. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
A short‐cut DNA extraction from cod caviar
Authors: Aranishi Futoshi , Okimoto Takane , Ohkubo Makoto
Published: November 2005

Caviars represent the most consumed form of fish roe products. Due to high demand, ingredient roes of fish are often susceptible to illegal substitution with those of related fish. This study developed a simple and inexpensive protocol enabling the rapid extraction of DNA of acceptable quality and amount to PCR amplification from both cod caviars and their ingredient pollack roes. The protocol was based on extracting total genomic DNA from eggs using urea and a Chelex 100 chelating resin, and could be completed in less than 15 min. Approximately 8 µg of DNA were reproducibly obtained from single eggs of cod caviars and pollack roes in eight individual experiments, and the quality and amount of DNA were sufficient to serve as template for hundreds of PCR reactions of polymorphic DNA markers for phylogenetic analysis. Being applicable to various caviars, this protocol can be useful to detect illegal substitution among ingredient roes of related fishes in PCR‐based food inspection. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Antioxidant properties of commercial soft and hard winter wheats (Triticum aestivum L.) and their milling fractions
Authors: Liyana‐Pathirana Chandrika M. , Shahidi Fereidoon
Published: November 2005

The total phenolic content (TPC), total antioxidant activity (TAA), 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging capacity, inhibition of coupled oxidation in a β‐carotene–linoleate model system, iron(II) chelation activity and inhibition of copper‐induced oxidation of human low‐density lipoprotein (hLDL) cholesterol of 80% ethanolic extracts of soft and hard winter wheat samples and their milling fractions, namely flour, germ, bran and shorts, were investigated. Soft wheat extracts examined demonstrated higher TPC and TAA compared to those of hard wheat extracts. The germ fraction possessed the highest TPC, followed by bran, shorts, whole grain and flour for both wheat types examined. The TAA of both wheat types showed similar results except that shorts performed better than bran in this assay. Free radical scavenging properties of whole grain and milling fractions of both soft and hard wheat samples were examined against DPPH radical. The germ and flour fractions demonstrated the highest and lowest DPPH radical scavenging activity, respectively, among wheat fractions. Wheat extracts were also efficient in preventing bleaching of β‐carotene, which is also known to be free radical mediated. In the iron(II) chelation assay the flour extracts demonstrated excellent activity, while the germ extracts showed a weak activity. The trends were similar in both soft and hard wheat for the iron(II) chelation assay. Wheat extracts also inhibited copper‐induced oxidation of hLDL. In LDL oxidation assay, wheat extracts performed better than the reference antioxidant, ferulic acid. Thus wheat phenolics may serve as effective antioxidative components as measured by in vitro techniques. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of bovine lactoferrin and lactoferricin on cytokine expression in LPS‐treated cultivated bovine blood cells
Authors: Prgomet Christian , Peters Solveig , Pfaffl Michael W
Published: November 2005

Lactoferrin (LF), an iron‐binding glycoprotein, and a bactericidal pepsin‐derived fragment of LF, lactoferricin (LFcin), are involved in host defense mechanisms via bacteriostatic activity and immuno‐regulatory properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of bovine LF and LFcin on the synthesis of immunologically important factors in leukocytes [white blood cells (WBC)] and monocytes. Monocytes were isolated from bovine blood using antibody‐coated magnetic beads and cultured in parallel to WBC. Cells were treated with LF or LFcin and with Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Various pro‐inflammatory [tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin‐1 (IL‐1) and IL‐6] and anti‐inflammatory (IL‐10) cytokine mRNA expression responses were quantified via a one‐step real‐time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). Furthermore, the gene expression for TNFα and IL‐10 and the transcriptional activity of nuclear transcription factor kappa B (NF‐κB) were measured after 0, 1, 2, 4 and 8 h. LF, LFcin and LPS strongly up‐regulated the mRNA expression of all investigated cytokines, with peaks after 1 or 2 h for TNFα and IL‐10. The magnitude of increase varied from modest (6‐fold) to dramatic (64‐fold). In contrast to LF and LPS treatment, LFcin induced a slight increase in TNFα mRNA in both cell culture types, which continued to be expressed at a higher level after 8 h. Compared with LPS‐stimulated cells a combination of LF and LPS did not alter the TNFα and IL‐10 expression. Simultaneous treatment of LFcin and LPS could increase the TNFα mRNA production, in contrast to LPS treatment alone. The effects of all agents used on cytokine mRNA expression were dose dependent. The NF‐κB gene expression in monocytes and leukocytes was not affected by the treatment with LF and LFcin. The ability of LF and LFcin to bind free LPS and to interfere with the LBP/CD14 pathway has been suggested to restrain the activity of this bacterial immuno‐stimulatory compound. These studies could not reveal these neutralizing effects because LF and LFcin showed no inhibitory activities on the cytokine production at several LPS concentrations. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Monitoring the stepwise phytate degradation in the upper gastrointestinal tract of pigs
Authors: Kemme Paul A , Schlemmer Ulrich , Mroz Zdzislaw , Jongbloed Age W
Published: November 2005

The degradation and formation of inositol phosphates as affected by microbial phytase and gastrointestinal enzyme activities during the passage of phytate through the stomach and small intestine were studied in two experiments with four barrows and three collection periods. The degradation and formation of inositol phosphates were measured at the duodenal and ileal sites using Cr‐NDR, TiO2and Co‐EDTA as indigestible markers. In experiment 1, the effect of graded doses ofAspergillus nigerphytase (0, 150 and 900 FTU Natuphos®kg−1), added to a maize–soybean meal‐based diet with very low intrinsic phytase activity on the degradation of phytate and the formation of inositol phosphates during digestion in the stomach and small intestine was investigated. In experiment 2, three different mixtures of inositol phosphates, produced byAspergillus nigerphytase, containing mainly high, intermediate and low phosphorylated inositol phosphates, were added to the same maize–soybean meal‐based diet as used in experiment I. The fate of the inositol phosphates during digestion in the stomach and small intestine was studied. Experiment 1 showed that the extent of phytate degradation was dependent of the graded dietary phytase activities. At high phytase activity (900 FTU kg−1of diet), strong phytate degradation occurred and the once hydrolysed phytate was rapidly dephosphorylated to lower inositol phosphates (mainly inositol di‐ and triphosphates). Intermediate inositol phosphates, such as inositol tetraphosphates, were quantitatively unimportant in duodenal and ileal digesta. At a phytase activity of 150 FTU kg−1of diet, a broader spectrum of intermediate inositol phosphates was determined, which was probably due to a slower breakdown of phytate. Experiment 2 showed as a predominant result that lower inositol phosphates such InsP4and InsP3were degraded, whereas InsP2accumulated in the duodenal and ileal digesta. No substantial disappearance of phytate from the stomach and small intestine was found when high concentrations of soluble phytate were added to the diet, which indicates that no substantial phytate absorption occurs in the upper part of the pig gut. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Ultratraces analysis of organochlorine pesticides in drinking water by solid phase extraction coupled with large volume injection/gas chromatography/mass spectrometry
Authors: Brondi Silvia H. G. , Spoljaric Fernanda C. , Lanças Fernando M.
Published: November 2005

This study describes an SPE coupled with large volume injection (LVI) analytical method for the analysis of organochlorine pesticides, BHC (α, β, Δ), aldrin, endosulfan (α, β), endrin, dieldrin, and DDT, from aqueous samples. Determination was carried out by GC with MS. The LODs of organochlorine pesticides were determined at 10 ng/L concentration levels, and the results show that SPE‐LVI‐GC/MS has the potential to accurately determine organochlorine pesticides in water, as it avoids analyte classes in the various steps of a typical extraction procedure.
Regional learning networks: the reality
Authors: Kiely Julia A. , Armistead Colin
Published: November 2005

The purpose of this paper is to report on two consecutive regional learning networks operating over a two‐year period. The reality of setting up and operating learning networks and the learning emanating from them for network participants and those facilitating the process is captured through case study. The research methodology incorporates features of action research and collaborative inquiry. The experience gained from the set up and operation of the learning networks is captured and shared. The study concludes by offering guidelines for developing and maintaining learning networks. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Storm Warning: Managing knowledge in turbulent times
Authors: Wallace Richard B.
Published: November 2005

The upcoming retirement of the baby boomers poses a threat for companies: critical organizational information may be lost, setting off a destructive dynamic. What is needed is effective knowledge management. It is imperative that leaders educate themselves to promote and implement efforts to manage knowledge well by creating a holistic approach to sharing, capturing, storing, and reusing knowledge.
Photoablation of inner limiting membrane and inner retinal layers using the Erbium:YAG‐laser: An in vitro study
Authors: Hoerauf Hans , Brix Alexandra , Winkler Jörg , Droege Gerit , Winter Christian , Birngruber Reginald , Laqua Horst , Vogel Alfred
Published: November 2005

Background and Objectives

To explore the potential of Er:YAG‐laser irradiation for precise and tractionless retinal tissue and inner limiting membrane ablation.

Materials and Methods

We used free‐running Er:YAG‐laser irradiation (λ = 2.94 µm) transmitted either through a 10 cm long low‐OH‐quartz fiber or a 2 m long sapphire fiber that produced a more homogenous light distribution at the fiber tip. Retinal ablation in porcine retinal explants was performed under air or perfluorodecaline (PFD). Ablation depth was evaluated by optical coherence tomography (OCT) and from histologic sections.

Results

A radiant exposure of 5.0 J/cm2 delivered through a low‐OH‐quartz fiber and PFD caused a complete transsection of the neurosensory retina. Radiant exposures between 3.5 and 2.0 J/cm2 resulted in marked variations of ablation depth and adjacent thermal damage. By contrast, laser pulses of 4.0 and 3.0 J/cm2 transmitted through the sapphire fiber produced more homogenous defect patterns and less thermal damage. Close to the ablation threshold, with 1.0–2.0 J/cm2, ablation was limited to a 10–20 µm thin layer of the neural retina.

Conclusions

We achieved in vitro ablation of inner retinal layers, but could not produce selective and reproducible ILM removal. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cover Picture: Macromol. Biosci. 11/2005
Authors: Nishino Satoru , Kitamura Yoshiro , Kishida Akio , Yoshizawa Hidekazu
Published: November 2005

Cover: Novel functional polymer surfactant, poly(ethylene oxide monooleate‐block‐D,L‐lactide), was designed for the preparation of microcapsules with precise release properties. The hydrophobic chain length was an important factor for their interfacial property. It gives the information with respect to the formation of polymer micelles, nanocapsules and nanospheres. Further details can be found in the Full Paper by S. Nishino, Y. Kitamura, A. Kishida, and H. Yoshizawa* on page 1066.
Encapsulation of High Biocompatible Hydrophobe Contents in Nonionic Nanoparticles by Miniemulsion Polymerization of Vinyl Acetate or Styrene: Influence of the Hydrophobe Component on the Polymerization
Authors: Bathfield Mael , Graillat Christian , Hamaide Thierry
Published: November 2005

Summary: Encapsulation of hydrophobic compounds in non ionic nanoparticles can easily be performed directly by miniemulsion polymerization of vinyl acetate or styrene with Pluronic F68 as nonionic surfactant and AIBN as initiator. Triglycerides from fatty acid (Miglyol®) or mixture of benzyl benzoate and oligocaprolactones have been used as the hydrophobe component in order to get biocompatible systems. Latexes containing 50% organic phase have been obtained with up to 50% Mygliol engulfed in the nanoparticles. The influence of these hydrophobic compounds on kinetics and molecular weight distribution has been investigated, emphasizing a particular behavior with each one of the two different monomers and compared with the classical hexadecane.

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Narrowly Distributed Surfactant‐Free Polystyrene Latex with a Water‐Soluble Comonomer
Authors: Qiu Dong , Cosgrove Terence , Howe Andrew M.
Published: November 2005

Summary: The surfactant‐free synthesis of latex polymers of styrene and sodium styrenesulfonate (NaSS) was investigated. The development of size and size distribution of the particles was studied by photo‐correlation spectroscopy (PCS) and transmission electronic microscopy (TEM). The effects of NaSS concentration and the order of addition of reactants were examined in detail. The results showed that the particle size decreases with an increase in the styrene sulfonate concentration. The polydispersity index can be reduced by mixing NaSS with styrene homogeneously before adding initiator, but this leads to a slightly larger mean particle size.

TEM image of surfactant‐free polystyrene latex made by the modified method.

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TEM image of surfactant‐free polystyrene latex made by the modified method.