bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metathesis Transformations of Natural Products: Cross-Metathesis of Natural Rubber and Mandarin Oil by Ru-Alkylidene Catalysts
Authors: Martínez Araceli , Gutiérrez Selena , Tlenkopatchev Mikhail A.
Published: May 2012

This study reports on the degradation of natural rubber (NR) via cross-metathesis with mandarin oil and d-limonene, an abundant compound in essential oils; that were used as chain transfer agents (CTAs) and green solvents. Reactions were performed in the presence of the ruthenium-alkylidene catalysts (PCy3)2(Cl)2Ru=CHPh (I) and (1,3-dimesityl-4,5-dihydroimidazol-2-ylidene) (PCy3)Cl2Ru=CHPh (II), respectively. Catalyst II bears an N-heterocyclic carbene ligand (NHC) bounded to the ruthenium atom, which has a strong basic character; therefore it is more active toward trisubstituted olefins in comparison with catalyst I. In both cases, isolated monoterpene-terminated isoprene oligomers were obtained as products of the cross-metathesis degradation of NR. In the presence of catalyst II molecular weight values around Mn × 102 and yields of 80% were obtained; whereas with catalyst I, the molecular weights of products were about Mn × 104 with yields ranging 70 to 74%. The composition and yield of NR degradation products were determined by GC/MS (EI) analysis and it was found that the oligomers obtained have primarily one vinyl group and one terpene-monocyclic group at the chain end, with isoprene units Am = 2, 3 y 4.
Electrochemical Detection of Anti-Breast-Cancer Agents in Human Serum by Cytochrome P450-Coated Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Baj-Rossi Camilla , Micheli Giovanni De , Carrara Sandro
Published: May 2012

We report on the electrochemical detection of anti-cancer drugs in human serum with sensitivity values in the range of 8–925 nA/µM. Multi-walled carbon nanotubes were functionalized with three different cytochrome P450 isoforms (CYP1A2, CYP2B6, and CYP3A4). A model used to effectively describe the cytochrome P450 deposition onto carbon nanotubes was confirmed by Monte Carlo simulations. Voltammetric measurements were performed in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) as well as in human serum, giving well-defined current responses upon addition of increasing concentrations of anti-cancer drugs. The results assert the capability to measure concentration of drugs in the pharmacological ranges in human serum. Another important result is the possibility to detect pairs of drugs present in the same sample, which is highly required in case of therapies with high side-effects risk and in anti-cancer pharmacological treatments based on mixtures of different drugs. Our technology holds potentials for inexpensive multi-panel drug-monitoring in personalized therapy.
Energy Performance Assessment of Virtualization Technologies Using Small Environmental Monitoring Sensors
Authors: Liu Lu , Masfary Osama , Antonopoulos Nick
Published: May 2012

The increasing trends of electrical consumption within data centres are a growing concern for business owners as they are quickly becoming a large fraction of the total cost of ownership. Ultra small sensors could be deployed within a data centre to monitor environmental factors to lower the electrical costs and improve the energy efficiency. Since servers and air conditioners represent the top users of electrical power in the data centre, this research sets out to explore methods from each subsystem of the data centre as part of an overall energy efficient solution. In this paper, we investigate the current trends of Green IT awareness and how the deployment of small environmental sensors and Site Infrastructure equipment optimization techniques which can offer a solution to a global issue by reducing carbon emissions.
Dynamic Structural Health Monitoring of Slender Structures Using Optical Sensors
Authors: Antunes Paulo , Travanca Rui , Rodrigues Hugo , Melo José , Jara José , Varum Humberto , André Paulo
Published: May 2012

In this paper we summarize the research activities at the Instituto de Telecomunicações—Pólo de Aveiro and University of Aveiro, in the field of fiber Bragg grating based sensors and their applications in dynamic measurements for Structural Health Monitoring of slender structures such as towers. In this work we describe the implementation of an optical biaxial accelerometer based on fiber Bragg gratings inscribed on optical fibers. The proof-of-concept was done with the dynamic monitoring of a reinforced concrete structure and a slender metallic telecommunication tower. Those structures were found to be suitable to demonstrate the feasibility of FBG accelerometers to obtain the structures’ natural frequencies, which are the key parameters in Structural Health Monitoring and in the calibration of numerical models used to simulate the structure behavior.
Disinfection By-Products and Human Health. Edited by Steve E. Hrudey and Jeffrey W.A. Charrois, IWA Publishing, 2012; 304 pages. Price: US178.20/£ 99.00 ISBN 978–1–843–39519–5
Authors: Lin Shu-Kun
Published: May 2012

The following paragraphs are reproduced from the website of the publisher [1].Disinfection By-Products and Human Health is based on contributions from speakers who participated in May 2011 workshops on Disinfection By-Products (DBPs) and Human Health at Ozwater 11 in Adelaide, Australia or at an AWA sponsored workshop at the Curtin Water Quality Research Centre, Perth, Australia.The contributions are prepared to facilitate communication with practitioners, rather than researchers, making use of overview illustrations rather than dense text or data tables. Each chapter concludes with up to 5 key findings that are take-home messages for practitioners. [...]
Identification and isolation of insecticidal oxazoles from Pseudomonas spp.
Authors: Grundmann Florian , Dill Veronika , Dowling Andrea , Thanwisai Aunchalee , Bode Edna , Chantratita Narisara , ffrench-Constant Richard , Bode Helge B
Published: May 2012

Two new and five known oxazoles were identified from two different Pseudomonas strains in addition to the known pyrones pseudopyronine A and B. Labeling experiments confirmed their structures and gave initial evidence for a novel biosynthesis pathway of these natural oxazoles. In order to confirm their structure, they were synthesized, which also allowed tests of their bioactivity. Additionally, the bioactivities of the synthesis intermediates were also investigated revealing interesting biological activities for several compounds despite their overall simple structures.
A review of medicinal plants that modulate nitric oxide activity
Authors: Borchard Jillian , Mazzarella Lily , Spelman Kevin
Published: May 2012

Modulation of nitric oxide (NO) may offer novel approaches in the treatment of a variety of diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. A strategy in the modulation of NO expression may be through the use of herbal medicines. We surveyed medicinal plant research that utilized multicomponent extracts similar to what is used in clinical phytotherapy or in commerce, for demonstrated effects on NO activity. SciFinder Scholar, Pubmed, Web of Science, and BIOSIS were searched to identify human, animal, in vivo, ex vivo or in vitro research on botanical medicines, in whole or standardized form, that act on nitric oxide activity. iNOS was the most frequently investigated enzyme system and this system was up-regulated by many plant extracts, including, Chicorium intybus, Cocos nucifera, Echinacea purpurea, Euonymus alatus, Ixeris dentate, Oldenlandia diffusa, Rhinacanthus nasutus, and Sida cordifolia. Many plant extracts down-regulated iNOS, including Centella asiatica, Dichroa Febrifuga, Echinacea purpurea, Evolvulus alsinoides, Fagonia cretica, Ginkgo biloba, Mollugo verticillata, Lactuca indica, Lithospermum erythrorhizon, Pueraria thunbergiana, and Taraxacum officinale. The eNOS system was stimulated by Eucommia ulmoides, Sida cordifolia, and Thymus pulegioides while Fagonia cretica, Rubia cordifolia and Tinospora cordifolia down-regulated nNOS. Given the activity demonstrated by many of these herbal medicines, the increasing awareness of the effects of nitric oxide on a wide variety of disease processes and the growing incidence of these conditions in the population, further study of medicinal plants on nitric oxide signaling may lead to novel therapies and further insight into human physiology.
Complementary use of topical bitter melon for atopic dermatitis
Authors: Park Dai , Tran Nguyen P. , Duncan Jerald M. , Lew D. Betty
Published: May 2012

Momordica charantia (bitter melon) is popular in systems of traditional medicine to treat a variety of diseases including atopic dermatitis, which is an inflammatory, chronically relapsing skin disorder characterized by dry, scaly, pruritic skin. While there is growing community interest in adopting bitter melon as a complementary medicine, there are no clinical studies looking at its use for atopic dermatitis. Here we report a case of a 6-yearold female with severe refractory atopic dermatitis that responded to treatment with topical bitter melon in an open half-side comparison trial.
Application of Salicylic Acid Increases Contents of Nutrients and Antioxidative Metabolism in Mungbean and Alleviates Adverse Effects of Salinity Stress
Authors: Khan Nafees , Syeed Shabina , Masood Asim , Nazar Rahat , Iqbal Noushina
Published: May 2012

Salicylic acid (SA), a naturally occurring plant hormone, is an important signal molecule known to have diverse effects on biotic and abiotic stress tolerance. Its growth-promoting effect on various plants has been shown, but the information on the response of mungbean, an important leguminous plant, to SA application under salt stress is limited. Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.) cultivar Pusa Vishal plants grown with 50 mM NaCl were sprayed with 0.1, 0.5, or 1.0 mM SA and basic physiological processes were studied to substantiate our understanding of their role in tolerance to salinity-induced oxidative stress and how much such processes are induced by SA application. Treatment of plants with 0.5 mM SA resulted in a maximum decrease in the content of Na+, Cl−, H2O2, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and electrolyte leakage under saline conditions compared to the control. In contrast, this treatment increased N, P, K, and Ca content, activity of antioxidant enzymes, glutathione content, photosynthesis, and yield maximally under nonsaline and saline conditions. The application of higher concentration of SA (1.0 mM) either proved inhibitory or was of no additional benefit. It was concluded that 0.5 mM SA alleviates salinity-inhibited photosynthesis and yield through a decrease in Na+, Cl−, H2O2, and TBARS content, and electrolyte leakage, and an increase in N, P, K, and Ca content, activity of antioxidant enzymes, and glutathione content.
A Simplified Method for Differential Staining of Aborted and Non-Aborted Pollen Grains
Authors: Peterson Ross , Slovin Janet P. , Chen Changbin
Published: May 2012

The ability to use chemical staining to discriminate aborted from non-aborted pollen grains has well-known practical applications in agriculture. A commonly used technique for assessing pollen vitality, Alexander’s stain, uses chloral hydrate, phenol and mercuric chloride, all of which are highly toxic. We describe here an improved pollen staining technique that avoids the use of a regulated chemical chloral hydrate and two extremely toxic chemicals mercuric chloride and phenol, and requires a much shorter time period for sample preparation and staining. This simplified method is very useful for field studies without high-end equipments such as fluorescence microscopes. Samples can be collected and fixed in the fields and examined in a simple laboratory that has light microscopes.
A Rapid Method for Isolation of Low-Molecular-Weight Rna from Arabidopsis Using Low Salt Concentration Buffer
Authors: Cheng Han , Gao Jing , An Ze-Wei , Huang Hua-Sun
Published: May 2012

We have developed a rapid extraction method using low salt concentration buffer for the isolation of low-molecular-weight RNA from Arabidopsis tissues. The method was quick and efficient, and the small scale extraction process took no more than 1 hour, while yield and RNA quality were comparable with those of previously reported. The LMW RNA isolated using this method was high quality, abundant in small RNA and free of high molecular weight RNA. This method can be used to extract low-molecular-weight RNA for the purpose of small RNA cloning and detection, and library construction.
Daily Changes of Amino Acids in Soybean Leaflets Are Modified by CO2 Enrichment
Authors: Sicher Richard Charles
Published: May 2012

The effects of CO2 enrichment on plant growth and on nitrogen partitioning were examined using soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr. cv. Clark] leaflets. Plants were grown from single seeds in matching controlled environment chambers. Continuous ambient CO2 partial pressures were from 38 to 40 Pa and elevated CO2 treatments were 68 to 70 Pa. Total above ground biomass, total leaf area and specific leaf weight of soybean were increased 78%, 58% and 33%, respectively, in response to CO2 enrichment when measured 25 days after sowing. Total chlorophyll (a+b) was 25% greater in third trifoliolate soybean leaflets in response to CO2 enrichment but total soluble protein did not differ between treatments. These and other measurements indicated that soybean plants were nitrogen sufficient in this study. Variations of total soluble amino acids were observed in soybean leaflets and these were enhanced by CO2 enrichment when measurements were performed mid-day. However, concentrations of total amino acids were similar in both CO2 treatments by end of the photoperiod. Glycine was lower in the elevated compared to the ambient CO2 treatment suggesting that rates of photorespiration were diminished by elevated CO2. Alanine increased 20% in response to CO2 enrichment. Overall, changes of soluble amino acids in response to CO2 enrichment were smaller than in other crop species and a temporal shift occurred in the daily accumulation of amino acids in soybean leaflets.
Consequences of Geographical Habitats on Population Structure and Genetic Diversity in Campanula spp.
Authors: Caser Matteo , Scariot Valentina , Arens Paul
Published: May 2012

Characterization of populations by means of DNA techniques provides a tool for precise identification and a quantitative estimate of genetic diversity, crucial in evaluation of genetic fragmentation within and among populations. NBS profiling are PCR-based approaches that sample genetic variation in resistance genes (R-gene), and R gene analogs (RGA). To date, myb patterns have not been used for evaluating genetic diversity in other species. NBS primers are homologous to the conserved sequences in the Nucleotide-Binding-Site of the NBS-LRR class of R-genes. A total of 12 populations from five Campanula species (C. barbata L., C. latifolia L., C. rapunculoides L., C. spicata L. and C. trachelium L.), autochthonous of the West Italian Alps, were genotyped via nucleotide-binding site (NBS) and myb gene profiling. The selected markers produced a total of 361 bands, showing high levels of polymorphism. Genetic diversity among and within species and population structure was evaluated by different statistical analyses performed using TREECON software, Mantel Nonparametric Test, NTSYS package, AMOVA and STRUCTURE. The correlation between genetic variability and geographical location suggests that the five Campanula species have been subjected to long-term evolutionary processes consistent with the natural fragmentation of continuous mountains areas.
Identification of a Differentially Expressed Thymidine Kinase Gene Related to Tapping Panel Dryness Syndrome in the Rubber Tree (Hevea brasiliensis Muell. Arg.) by Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Screening
Authors: Venkatachalam Perumal , Geetha Natesan , Priya Padmanabhan , Thulaseedharan Arjunan
Published: May 2012

Tapping panel dryness (TPD) syndrome is one of the latex yield affecting factors in the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis Mull. Arg.). Therefore, identification of a DNA marker will be highly useful for screening progenies in breeding programs. The major goal of this study was to detect genetic variations and/or identification of gene fragments among 37 Hevea clones by the random amplified polymorphic DNA “fingerprinting” technique. Different levels of DNA polymorphism were detected with various primers and a distinct polymorphic band (2.0 kb) was obtained with OPA-17 primer. It was cloned into a plasmid vector for further sequence characterization and the nucleotide sequence shows homology with a novel putative plant thymidine kinase (TK) gene, designated as HbTK (Hevea brasiliensis thymidine kinase; GenBank accession number AY130829). The protein HbTK has 67%, 65%, 64%, and 63% similarity to TK genes of Medicago, Oryza, Arabidopsis, and Lyco-persicon, respectively, and it was highly conserved in all species analyzed. The predicted amino acid sequence contained conserved domains of TK proteins in the C-terminal half. Southern blot analysis indicated that HbTK is one of the members of a small gene family. Northern blot results revealed that the expression of the HbTK gene was up-regulated in mature bark tissues of the healthy tree while it was down-regulated in the TPD-affected one. These results suggest that this gene may play important roles in maintaining active nucleotide metabolism during cell division at the tapped site of bark tissues in the healthy tree under stress (tapping) conditions for normal latex biosynthesis.
Saussurea Species in Indian Himalayan Region: Diversity, Distribution and Indigenous Uses
Authors: Butola Jitendra Singh , Samant Sher S.
Published: May 2012

In spite of the high economic value of the Saussurea species in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR), the potential of most of the species is yet to be investigated. Therefore, an attempt has been made to study the diversity, distribution, habitat preference, nativity, endemism, status and indigenous uses of Saussurea species in the IHR. A total of 62 species were recorded from the IHR; of these, 37 species were native to the Himalayan region, 8 were endemic and 21 were near endemic to the IHR. Twenty-seven of the 28 species that were known to have indigenous uses also had medicinal value and are used for the treatment of various diseases/ailments. Many species, e.g., S. affinis (Ganga Mula*), S. auriculata (Pachak Kut), S. bracteata (Prerak Mul), S. costus (Kuth), S. gossypiphora (Kasturi Kamal) and S. obvallata (Brahm Kamal), have multiple uses. The genus showed high habitat specificity in that 16 species were recorded to be restricted to one or two habitats only. As many as 44 species were identified as rare in the study region. Considering the high industrial demand for raw materials and the endangered status of S. costus, S. gossypiphora, S. obvallata and S. simpsoniana (Fen Kamal), these species should be prioritized for conservation (in situ and ex situ) throughout the IHR. Population assessment of the rare-endangered, native, endemic and economically important species using standard ecological methods has been suggested for the quantification of the existing stock of these species in their natural habitats. Further, phyto-chemical investigations for the identification of active ingredients are suggested. Propagation and cultivation techniques are lacking for most of the species of Saussurea except for S. costus, S. obvallata and S. medusa (Snow Lotus). Furthermore, the native communities need to be sensitized to the sustainable use and conservation value of the species in this genus. * Local names given in parentheses throughout are in the Pahari language, spoken by native communities in the Himalayan region.
An Assessment of Plant Growth Regulators on Asymbiotic Cevelopment and Germination	of Immature Embryos of Beclardia macrostachya (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Bhoyroo Vishwakalyan , Puchooa Daneshwar , Sanmukhiya Vijayanthi Mala
Published: May 2012

Beclardia macrostachya is one of the rarest orchids in Mauritius. In vitro techniques are being used for mass propagation of this orchid for subsequent restoration programs. Successful asymbiotic germination of Beclardia macrostachya was obtained through embryo rescue under in vitro conditions. Modified half MS medium supplemented with 10% coconut milk was used as basal culture medium and the effect of plant growth regulators at different concentrations on embryo development was assessed through qualitative and quantitative parameters. Diameter of embryos, length of protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) and length of developing shoots were calculated using digital photography. Maximal growth was obtained in treatments without any plant growth regulators and with 0.5 mg/L N6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP). Higher levels of Thidiazuron/TDZ (0.3 mg/L) and BAP (1.0 mg/L) though they stimulated embryo development faster, yielded higher level of necrosis later. The results also suggest that plant growth regulator treatments that stimulate fastest embryo development from immature embryos/ovules need not be reliable for further development to PLB and plantlet regeneration.
In Vitro Host-Free Seed Culture, Callus Development and Organogenesis of an Obligatory Root-Parasite Striga hermonthica (Del.) Benth: The Witch-Weed and Medicinal Plant
Authors: Koua Faisal Hammad Mekky , Abbas Fatima Misbah , Elgaali Eisa Ibrahim , Khalafallah Mutasim Mohammed , Babiker Hind Ahmed Ali
Published: May 2012

Striga hermonthica (Del.) Benth a well-known hemi-parasitic weed, it also has been used widely in African folk medicine to remedy broad spectra of diseases. The current contribution is an attempt to establish reproducible in vitro callusing system. In vitro seedling’s stem segments were used as an explant for callus induction, in 1.5% or 3.0% sucrose added into Murashig and Skoog medium (MS) and supplemented with different auxins, α-Naphthalene-3-acetic acid (NAA), 2,4-dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D), Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), or Indole-3-butryic acid (IBA) at different concentrations each alone or in combination with cytokinin 0.5 mgL−1 6-benzyl aminopurine. The most effective auxin was NAA with maximum 79% callus induction rate. All auxin treatments induced callus in all concentration when used alone or combined with BAP, except 2,4-D, which induced the callus only when combined with BAP. A high sucrose concentration was required for high callus induction rate by all auxin treatments. IAA and IBA auxins induced direct shoot regeneration and had low callus induction rates. NAA, IAA and IBA induced organogenic calli, whereas 2,4-D in combination with BAP induced non-organogenic callus. We further screened preliminarily the phytochemical contents of the callus and intact plant, which was revealed the presence of flavonoids, terpenes, saponins, cardiac glycosides, alkaloids, tannins and coumarins. Experimental data of both seed culture and callus induction could provide a route to further enhance the efficiency of callus initiation of S. hermonthica for medicinal purposes and understanding the infection mechanism of the witch-weed plant.
An increase in dietary non-structural carbohydrates alters the structure and metabolism of the rumen epithelium in lambs
Authors: Steele M. A. , Greenwood S. L. , Croom J. , McBride B. W.
Published: May 2012

Steele, M. A., Greenwood, S. L., Croom, J. and McBride, B. W. 2012. An increase in dietary non-structural carbohydrates alters the structure and metabolism of the rumen epithelium in lambs. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 92: 123–130. This study investigated the effect of a grain challenge on the structure and metabolism of the rumen epithelium in lambs. In a randomized design, lambs (n = 8) received either a control diet [30% dry matter (DM) grain], or a diet of increasing amounts of grain to a maximum inclusion of 79% of DM for 12 d prior to slaughter. Rumen papillae were collected from the ventral sac on day 13 and prepared for histological and gene expression analyses. All lambs fed the high-grain diet were diagnosed with ruminal parakeratosis as the thickness of the corneum was higher (P<0.01) compared with control lambs (51.0±2.3 vs. 17.3±2.5 µm). Plasma beta-hydroxybutyric acid concentrations increased linearly (P<0.05) with increased grain consumption compared with the control. However, the relative mRNA expression of the ketogenic enzyme 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl CoA-synthase (HMGCS2) in rumen papillae was not different between treatments. The expression of cholesterolgenic enzyme HMGCS1 was down-regulated by 0.70±0.06 (P<0.05) fold in lambs fed the high-grain diet compared with the control. These results suggest that a short-term grain challenge in lambs is associated with altered rumen epithelium metabolism and structural changes indicative of ruminal parakeratosis.
Fractionation of wheat distillers' dried grains and solubles by particle size and density improves its digestible nutrient content for rainbow trout
Authors: Reveco Felipe E. , Drew Murray D.
Published: May 2012

Reveco, F. E. and Drew, M. D. 2012. Fractionation of wheat distillers' grains and solubles by particle size and density improves its digestible nutrient content in rainbow trout. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 92: 197–205. The nutritional value of wheat distillers' dried grains and solubles (WDDGS) in aquaculture is poor because of its relatively low crude protein (CP) and high fibre content. In this study WDDGS was fractionated using grinding, sieving and elutriation sequentially. The WDDGS was ground in a hammer mill using a 3-mm screen and sieved using six sieves (20M, 30T, 40T, 50T, 60M and 80M) into seven fractions (>841, 590–840, 426–589, 298–425, 251–297, 178–250 and<177 µm). Elutriation was then performed to further fractionate based on particle shape and density. The higher density sub-fractions from the three smallest particle size fractions were mixed to produce a fractionated WDDGS containing 20.7 MJ kg−1 gross energy (GE), 454.6 g kg−1 CP, 260.4 g kg−1 neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and 93.2 g kg−1 acid detergent fibre (ADF). The digestibility of the unprocessed and fractionated WWDGS products was assessed in rainbow trout. Apparent digestibility coefficient (ADC) of DM, GE, acid ether extract (AEE), ash and amino acids (AA) did not differ between the unprocessed material and the fractionated WDDGS (P>0.05). However, the ADC of CP was higher for fractionated WDDGS (0.88) than the unprocessed WDDGS (0.85) (P<0.05). This fractionation scheme can be used to improve the nutritional value of WDDGS for rainbow trout.
Short Communication: The double deletion diplotype showed low levels of prion protein at two indel loci ofPRNPin the medulla oblongata of Japanese Brown cattle
Authors: Msalya George , Shimogiri Takeshi , Okamoto Shin , Kawabe Kotaro , Maeda Yoshizane
Published: May 2012

Msalya, G., Shimogiri, T., Okamoto, S., Kawabe, K. and Maeda, Y. 2012. Short Communication: The double deletion diplotype showed low levels of prion protein at two indel loci of PRNP in the medulla oblongata of Japanese Brown cattle. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 92: 153–157. Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) are a class of fatal neurodegenerative diseases caused by abnormally folded prion proteins (PrP). The PrP is necessary for the transmission and propagation of TSE diseases. In this study, PrP was quantified in the medulla oblongata of 39 Japanese Brown (JBr) animals that were genotyped for two indels in the PRNP gene – a 23 bp deletion in the promoter region and a 12 bp deletion in the first intron. The mean level of PrP was greater in the ++/++ diplotype than in −−/−− and +−/+− diplotypes, although the differences were not significant. These results suggest that the amount of PrP in the medulla oblongata of animals is related to these indels. However, given that there have been no reported cases of BSE in Japanese Brown animals, the relationship of the indels and PrP levels with the incidence of BSE is unclear.
Short Communication: Effects of duodenal infusion of increasing amounts of α-linolenic acid on composition and susceptibility to peroxidation of blood lipids in lactating dairy cows
Authors: Sun Peng , Wang Jia-Qi , Liu Qing-Sheng , Khas-Erdene  , Yang Guang
Published: May 2012

Sun, P., Wang, J.-Q., Liu, Q.-S., Khas-Erdene and Yang, G. 2012. Short Communication: Effects of duodenal infusion of increasing amounts of α-linolenic acid on composition and susceptibility to peroxidation of blood lipids in lactating dairy cows. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 92: 219–223. Duodenal infusion of increasing amounts of α-linolenic acid (LNA) in dairy cows linearly decreased the percentages of 18:0, 18:2n-6 and saturated fatty acids (P<0.01), linearly and quadratically reduced 23:0 and 18:1 cis-9 (P<0.01), but linearly increased the content of 18:3 n-3 and PUFA (P<0.01) in blood plasma. As amount infused increased, concentrations of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and total cholesterol increased quadratically and peaked at 139.9 mg dL−1 and 182.0 mg dL−1, respectively (P<0.01). No differences were observed in the activity of blood serum total superoxide dismutase and total antioxidant capacity, but the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances tended (P=0.07) to increase linearly. Duodenally infused increasing amounts of LNA altered the composition of fatty acids and distribution of lipids in blood, but did not affect the oxidative stability of the blood in dairy cows.
Modification of beef quality through steer age at slaughter, breed cross and growth promotants
Authors: Girard I. , Aalhus J. L. , Basarab J. A. , Larsen I. L. , Bruce H. L.
Published: May 2012

Girard, I., Aalhus, J. L., Basarab, J. A., Larsen, I. L. and Bruce, H. L. 2012. Modification of beef quality through steer age at slaughter, breed cross and growth promotants. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 92: 175–188. A 23 factorial experiment tested the interactions of slaughter age (12–13 or 18–20 mo), growth implants use (Component E-S, TE-S), ractopamine hydrochloride (RAC) feed supplementation use and breed cross [Hereford–Aberdeen Angus (HAA) or Charolais–Red Angus (CRA)] on pH, temperature, objective colour measurements, relative myoglobin states, sarcomere lengths, shear force, and water losses of m. semitendinosus (ST) and m. gluteus medius (GM) from 112 crossbred steers. In the ST, age affected objective colour measurements by increasing chroma and decreasing lightness (L*) and hue angle (P<0.05). Metmyoglobin (MMB) content of the ST also increased with steer age (P<0.05). In the GM, yearling-fed steers had greater MMB content than calf-fed steers, while hue angle varied the opposite way (P<0.05). Other variations in meat colour and myoglobin contents were more complex in the GM than the ST as they involved three-way interactions between the different treatments. Shear force and purge loss of the ST increased with implantation (P<0.05) with no change in sarcomere length (P>0.05). Shear force standard deviation was similar for breed crosses when yearling-fed but greatest for CRA breed cross when calf-fed (P<0.05). In both muscles, purge loss was increased by RAC supplementation (P<0.05). RAC supplementation did not affect sarcomere length and shear force in both muscles (P>0.10). In the GM, shear force increased with age and with CRA genetics (P<0.05). Results indicated that producers seeking to reduce beef toughness should consider using British crossbreds, exclude the use of hormonal implants and slaughter process steers at 12 to13 mo of age.
Cycling Characteristics of Lithium Powder Polymer Batteries Assembled with Composite Gel Polymer Electrolytes and Lithium Powder Anode
Authors: Lee Yoon‐Sung , Lee Jae Ha , Choi Ji‐Ae , Yoon Woo Young , Kim Dong‐Won
Published: May 2012

Novel composite gel polymer electrolytes exhibiting high ionic conductivity and good mechanical stability are prepared, and their electrochemical properties are characterized. As lithium ion sources of a single ion conductor, the core‐shell structured SiO2(Li+) nanoparticles with uniform spherical shape are synthesized and used as functional fillers in the composite gel polymer electrolytes. By using the composite gel polymer electrolytes, the lithium powder polymer batteries composed of a lithium powder anode and a layered lithium vanadate (LiV3O8) cathode are assembled and their cycling performance is evaluated. The resulting lithium powder polymer batteries deliver a high discharge capacity of 264 mAh g−1 at room temperature and exhibit good capacity retention even at high current rates. The morphological analysis of the lithium powder anode reveals that the dendrite growth during cycling can be effectively suppressed by using the composite gel polymer electrolytes.
Electrodeposited MnOx Films from Ionic Liquid for Electrocatalytic Water Oxidation
Authors: Zhou Fengling , Izgorodin Alexey , Hocking Rosalie K. , Spiccia Leone , MacFarlane Douglas R.
Published: May 2012

A novel method for the electrodeposition of highly active water oxidation catalysts is described. The manganese oxide (MnOx) films are electrodeposited on fluorine tin oxide (FTO) glass substrate at high temperature (120 °C) from an ionic liquid electrolyte (ethylammonium nitrate). A range of analytical techniques, including X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and energy‐dispersive X‐ray analyzer (EDX), indicate that the valence state of manganese in the deposited films can be controlled by changing the electrolyte composition. Along with the different phase compositions, a number of different morphologies including nanowires, nanoparticles, nanofibers as well as highly open and dense structures are obtained by varying the acidity of the electrolyte. The effect of morphology and chemical composition on the catalytic activity towards water oxidation is investigated. The film composed of Mn3O4 shows low catalytic activities, while the films composed of birnessite‐like manganese oxide phase and Mn2O3 exhibit high catalytic activities for water oxidation. The catalytic activities are also affected by the surface morphology, i.e., a higher surface area and more open structure shows a higher catalytic activity. High rates of oxygen production are observed from MnOx films prepared in a neutral electrolyte.
Electrochemical Performance of Solid‐State Lithium–Air Batteries Using Carbon Nanotube Catalyst in the Air Electrode
Authors: Kitaura Hirokazu , Zhou Haoshen
Published: May 2012

Solid‐state lithium–air cells using lithium anode, a polymer electrolyte, Li1+x+yAlx(Ti, Ge)2−xSiyP3−yO12 inorganic solid electrolyte, and an air electrode composed of carbon nanotubes and an inorganic solid electrolyte are constructed and their electrochemical properties investigated. The cells show a reversible capacity of about 400 mA h g−1 during the first few cycles. The rate performance and impedance measurements are also examined. The large cell resistance, which mainly comes from the interfacial resistance between Li and the polymer electrolyte, limits the rate performance. The results indicate that such all‐solid‐state lithium–air batteries without polymer electrolytes have good potential for development.
Organic Electrode Materials for Rechargeable Lithium Batteries
Authors: Liang Yanliang , Tao Zhanliang , Chen Jun
Published: May 2012

Organic compounds offer new possibilities for high energy/power density, cost‐effective, environmentally friendly, and functional rechargeable lithium batteries. For a long time, they have not constituted an important class of electrode materials, partly because of the large success and rapid development of inorganic intercalation compounds. In recent years, however, exciting progress has been made, bringing organic electrodes to the attention of the energy storage community. Herein thirty years' research efforts in the field of organic compounds for rechargeable lithium batteries are summarized. The working principles, development history, and design strategies of these materials, including organosulfur compounds, organic free radical compounds, organic carbonyl compounds, conducting polymers, non‐conjugated redox polymers, and layered organic compounds are presented. The cell performances of these materials are compared, providing a comprehensive overview of the area, and straightforwardly revealing the advantages/disadvantages of each class of materials.
Monitoring of fluidized beds hydrodynamics using recurrence quantification analysis
Authors: Babaei Behzad , Zarghami Reza , Sotudeh‐Gharebagh Rahmat
Published: May 2012

A new method is presented for on‐line monitoring of fluidized beds hydrodynamics using pressure fluctuations signal by recurrence quantification analysis. The experiments were carried out at different gas velocities and sand types. A 95% confidence interval was computed for determinism (Det) of signals obtained from reference state as well as other operating conditions named as unideal states. Det of unideal states was compared with Det of the reference state to reject the null hypothesis that all the signals have been generated from the reference state. It was shown that Det is sensitive to small change in particles size whereas it is not sensitive to minor superficial gas velocity variations, indicating its ability for hydrodynamic on‐line monitoring. Furthermore, in this method it is no need for time series embedding, long‐term data sampling and time‐consuming numerical algorithms. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 399–406, 2013
Mantle cell lymphoma: 2012 update on diagnosis, risk‐stratification, and clinical management
Authors: Vose Julie M.
Published: May 2012

Disease Overview: Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a non‐Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by involvement of the lymph nodes, spleen, blood, and bone marrow with a short remission duration to standard therapies and a median overall survival of 4–5 years.

Diagnosis: Diagnosis is based on lymph node, bone marrow, or tissue morphology of centrocytic lymphocytes, small cell type, or blastoid variant cells. A chromosomal translocation t(11:14) is the molecular hallmark of MCL, resulting in the overexpression of cyclin D1. Cyclin D1 is detected by immunohistochemistry in 98% of cases. The absence of SOX‐11 or a low Ki‐67 may correlate with a more indolent form of MCL. The differential diagnosis of MCL includes small lymphocytic lymphoma, marginal zone lymphoma, and follicular lymphoma.

Risk Stratification: The mantle cell lymphoma international prognostic index (MIPI) is the prognostic model most often used and incorporates ECOG performance status, age, leukocyte count, and lactic dehydrogenase. A modification of the MIPI also adds the Ki‐67 proliferative index if available. The median overall survival (OS) for the low‐risk group was not reached (5‐year OS of 60%). The median OS for the intermediate risk group was 51 and 29 months for the high‐risk group.

Risk‐Adapted Therapy: For selected indolent, low MIPI MCL patients, initial observation may be appropriate therapy. For younger patients with intermediate or high risk MIPI MCL, aggressive therapy with a cytarabine containing regimen ± autologous stem cell transplantation should be considered. For older MCL patients with intermediate or high risk MIPI, combination chemotherapy with R‐CHOP, R‐Bendamustine, or a clinical trial should be considered. At the time of relapse, agents directed at activated pathways in MCL cells such as bortezomib (NFkB inhibitor), BTK inhibitors or CAL‐101 (B‐cell receptor inhibitors) or lenalidamide (antiangiogenesis) have clinical activity in MCL patients. Autologous or allogeneic stem cell transplantation can also be considered in young patients. Am. J. Hematol. 87:604–609, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lineage switch in childhood acute leukemia: An unusual event with poor outcome
Authors: Rossi Jorge G. , Bernasconi Andrea R. , Alonso Cristina N. , Rubio Patricia L. , Gallego Marta S. , Carrara Carolina A. , Guitter Myriam R. , Eberle Silvia Eandi , Cocce Mariela , Zubizarreta Pedro A. , Felice María S.
Published: May 2012

Although rarely, switches between lymphoid and myeloid lineages may occur during treatment of acute leukemias (AL). Correct diagnosis relies upon confirmation by immunophenotyping of the lineage conversion and certification that the same cytogenetic/molecular alterations remain despite the phenotypic changes. From a total of 1,482 AL pediatric patients, we report nine cases of lineage conversion (0.6%), seven from lymphoid (four Pro‐B, two Pre‐B, one Common) to myelo‐monocytic, and two from myeloid (bilineal, with myeloid predominance) to Pro‐B. Eight patients were infants. Switches were suggested by morphology and confirmed with a median of 15 days (range: 8 days‐6 months) from initiation of therapy. Of note, in five cases switches occurred before day 15. Stability of the clonal abnormalities was assessed by cytogenetic, RT‐PCR/Ig‐TCR rearrangement studies in all patients. Abnormalities in 11q23/MLL gene were detected in seven cases. Treatment schedules were ALL (two pts), Interfant‐99 (five pts) and AML (two pts) protocols. Despite changing chemotherapy according to the new lineage, all patients died. Our findings support the association of lineage switches with MLL gene alterations and the involvement of a common lymphoid B‐myeloid precursor. New therapies should be designed to address these rare cases. Possible mechanisms implicated are discussed. Am. J. Hematol., 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Long‐term follow‐up analysis after rituximab salvage therapy in adult patients with immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Zaja Francesco , Volpetti Stefano , Chiozzotto Marianna , Puglisi Simona , Isola Miriam , Buttignol Silvia , Fanin Renato
Published: May 2012

We report the long‐term outcome results of 57 consecutive adult patients with immune thrombocytopenia after being treated with rituximab. According to the different period of therapy, patients received either standard dose (SD) rituximab (i.e., 375 mg/m2 weekly for 4 weeks) or low dose (LD) rituximab (i.e., 100 mg flat dose weekly for 4 weeks). Overall (OR) and complete response (CR) rates were 60 and 40%, respectively. Patients' median follow‐up was 52 months, 82 months in the SD, and 44 months in the LD group; 15 out of 34 responsive patients (44%) relapsed, with median response duration of 24 months (range 3–120). The estimated 4‐years event‐free survival (EFS, considering events the non response status at month 2 or relapses in responders) was 30%. Patients who received SD vs. LD rituximab had better outcome with regard to short term response (OR 66 vs. 52%, CR 50 vs. 28%), relapse rate (38 vs. 54%), probability to achieve and maintain long‐term response (41 vs. 24%) and estimated 4‐years EFS (35 vs. 23%). Patients with a longer interval between diagnosis and rituximab therapy had worse EFS [HR = 1.005; 95%IC: (1.002–1.009), P = 0.019]. Three patients developed short‐term adverse events, two‐serum sickness, and one interstitial pneumonia. Four cases of malignancies and two herpes zoster reactivations were registered during long‐term follow‐up; one patient died for cerebral bleeding. Rituximab SD appears a safe and active agent allowing in nearly 40% of cases to achieve long‐term response and splenectomy sparing effect. Am. J. Hematol. 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Germline variation in complement genes and event‐free survival in follicular and diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Charbonneau Bridget , Maurer Matthew J. , Fredericksen Zachary S. , Zent Clive S. , Link Brian K. , Novak Anne J. , Ansell Stephen M. , Weiner George J. , Wang Alice H. , Witzig Thomas E. , Dogan Ahmet , Slager Susan L. , Habermann Thomas M. , Cerhan James R.
Published: May 2012

The complement pathway plays a central role in innate immunity, and also functions as a regulator of the overall immune response. We evaluated whether polymorphisms in complement genes are associated with event‐free survival (EFS) in follicular lymphoma (FL) and diffuse large B‐cell (DLBCL) lymphoma. We genotyped 167 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 30 complement pathway genes in a prospective cohort study of newly diagnosed FL (N = 107) and DLBCL (N = 82) patients enrolled at the Mayo Clinic from 2002 to 2005. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for individual SNPs with EFS, adjusting for FLIPI or IPI and treatment. For gene‐level analyses, we used a principal components based gene‐level test. In gene‐level analyses for FL EFS, CFH (P = 0.009), CD55 (P = 0.006), CFHR5 (P = 0.01), C9 (P = 0.02), CFHR1 (P = 0.03), and CD46 (P = 0.03) were significant at P < 0.05, and these genes remained noteworthy after accounting for multiple testing (q < 0.15). SNPs in CFH, CFHR1, and CFHR5 showed stronger associations among patients receiving any rituximab, while SNPs from CD55 and CD46 showed stronger associations among patients who were observed. For DLBCL, only CLU (P = 0.001) and C7 (P = 0.03) were associated with EFS, but did not remain noteworthy after accounting for multiple testing (q>0.15). Genes from the regulators of complement activation (CFH, CD55, CFHR1, CFHR5, CD46) at 1q32–q32.1, along with C9, were associated with FL EFS after adjusting for clinical variables, and if replicated, these findings add further support for the role of host innate immunity in FL prognosis. Am. J. Hematol. 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lemur habitat and dental senescence in Ranomafana National Park, Madagascar
Authors: King Stephen J. , Boyer Doug M. , Tecot Stacey , Strait Suzanne G. , Zohdy Sarah , Blanco Marina B. , Wright Patricia C. , Jernvall Jukka
Published: May 2012

Not only can teeth provide clues about diet, but they also can be indicators of habitat quality. Conspecific groups living in different habitats with different kinds of foods may exhibit different rates of dental attrition because their teeth are less well adapted to some foods than to others. Ecological disequilibrium describes the situation in which animals live in habitats to which they are relatively poorly adapted. We test whether dental senescence, the wear‐related decrease in dental functionality that is associated with decreased survival of infants born to older Propithecus edwardsi females, can be explained by ecological disequilibrium. Specifically, we compare the rates of dental wear in sifaka groups living in nearby habitats that differ in the degree of anthropogenically induced disturbance. We hypothesize that sifakas living in disturbed areas have an unusual rate of tooth wear compared to those living in a more pristine area, and that dental senescence is a consequence of an atypically high wear rate in a degraded habitat. To test whether habitat quality affects tooth wear more generally, we compare rates of use‐wear in two subsets of Microcebus rufus living in either relatively undisturbed or disturbed habitats. Contrary to our predictions, we did not detect different rates of tooth wear in disturbed versus undisturbed habitats for either species and consider that reproductively detrimental dental senescence in P. edwardsi females is unlikely to be a pathological consequence of ecological disequilibrium. Am J Phys Anthropol 148:228–237, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A dental topographic analysis of chimpanzees
Authors: Klukkert Zachary S. , Teaford Mark F. , Ungar Peter S.
Published: May 2012

Molar tooth morphology is generally said to reflect a compromise between phylogenetic and functional influences. Chimpanzee subspecies have been reported to exhibit differences in molar dimensions and nonmetric traits, but these have not been related to differences in their diets. And in fact, observations to date of the diets of chimpanzees have not revealed consistent differences among subspecies. This study uses dental topographic analyses shown to reflect diet‐related differences in occlusal morphology among primate species, to assess within‐species variation among chimpanzee subspecies. High‐resolution casts from museum collections were examined by laser scanning, and resulting data were analyzed using GIS algorithms and a two‐factor ANOVA model. Although differences were noted between wear stages within subspecies in surface slope, relief, and angularity, none were found to distinguish the subspecies from one another in these attributes. This might reflect limitations in the ability of this method to detect diet‐related differences, but is also consistent with a lack of differences in functionally relevant aspects of occlusal morphology among chimpanzee subspecies. Am J Phys Anthropol 148:276–284, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.