bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cathepsin B, D, H and L activities in the processing of dry‐cured ham
Authors: Toldrá Fidel , Rico Elías , Flores José
Published: October 2006

The activities of cathepsins B, D, H and L have been assayed at various stages in the slow processing (15 months) of dry‐cured ham. Cathepsins B, H and L showed low recovered activity (5–10% of the initial activity) at the end of the process. However, cathepsin D almost disappeared after 5–10 months. Water‐soluble protein extractability decreased throughout the process while myofibrillar protein extractability was constant. There was a progressive disappearance of myosin heavy chain, myosin light chains 1 and 2, and troponins I and C, a marked increase of three breakdown products with molecular weights of about 150, 95 and 16 kDa and some minor products in the ranges 50–100 kDa and 20–45 kDa. Cathepsins B and L could be particularly active in the observed proteolysis which had a special relevance when the drying started. Actin, actinin, troponin T and tropomyosin did not seem to change.
Purification and properties of the major pectinesterases in lemon fruits (Citrus limon)
Authors: Macdonald Helen M , Evans Roger , Spencer Wendy J
Published: October 2006

Pectinesterase from lemon was separated into seven fractions by chromatography on CM‐Sephadex C‐50. Purification was hindered by the presence of pectin, for which the pectinesterase had a high affinity. Two major pectinesterases were purified: one was located solely in the peel and the other in the endocarp. They possessed similar molecular weights (35 kDa and 33 kDa, respectively) and high isoelectric points (> 11, and c 9). They required the presence of cations for optimal activity, the peel pectinesterase requiring a higher concentration of cations than the endocarp enzyme. Both enzymes were completely inactivated at temperatures above 88°C. Although neither enzyme destabilised the cloud of lemon juice or of comminuted lemon beverages, they caused cloud destabilisation of orange juice.
Synthesis of volatile phenols by Saccharomyces cerevisiae in wines
Authors: Chatonnet Pascal , Dubourdieu Denis , Boidron Jean‐noël , Lavigne ValéRie
Published: October 2006

Vinylphenols (4‐vinylphenol and 4‐vinylguaiacol) are natural constituents of wine and can play a role in wine aroma. However, only white wines contain important quantities of these volatile substances which, beyond a certain concentration (limit threshold = 725 μg litre−1 of 4‐vinylguaiacol+4‐vinylphenol (1:1)), can be responsible for a depreciating ‘phenolic’ or ‘pharmaceutic’ characteristic, Saccharomyces cerevisiae possesses a type‐(E) enzymic activity, substituted cinnamate carboxy‐lyase (SCD), which is capable of transforming, by non‐oxidative decarboxylation, the phenolic acids in the must, (E) p‐coumaric and (E) ferulic acids, into corresponding vinylphenols. This endocellular activity is constitutive, it is only expressed during alcoholic fermentation and with a variable intensity depending on the yeast strain. Furthermore, the enzyme is rapidly inhibited by catechic tannins, which explains why, in comparison with white wines, red and rosé wines contain low levels of vinylphenols despite having more precursors. A yeast strain with a weak SCD activity has been selected and its use in vinification should eliminate the appearance of the phenolic taint in white wines coming from grapes rich in decarboxylable hydroxycinnamic acids.
Composition, variation of nutritional contents in leaves, seed protein, fat and fatty acid profile ofchenopodium species
Authors: Prakash Dhan , Nath Pashupati , Pal M
Published: October 2006

The foliage of Chenopodium belonging to 10 species were analysed for selected nutritional and antinutritional components. The overall range of moisture was 757‐910 g kg−1, carotenoid 78‐190 mg kg−1, vitamin C 0.5‐2.4 g kg−1, protein 26‐64 g kg−1, nitrate 2.6‐5.0 g kg−1 and oxalate 9‐39 g kg−1 (fresh wt). Variation of all the six parameters with respect to leaf position from the apex showed the highest amount of carotenoid at 7‐8, vitamin C at 9‐10, protein at 5‐6 and nitrate in the youngest leaves, followed by a continuous decrease with age (increasing position). However, oxalate contents always tended to increase with leaf position (age). The protein, fat and fatty acid composition in seeds of eight species were also analysed. Protein varied from 106 to 142 g kg−1 and fat from 30 to 62 g kg−1; palmitic, oleic and linoleic were the major fatty acids in the oils.
Effects of heat treatment on lysine in soya protein
Authors: Mao Lin‐Chun , Lee Kyung‐Hea , Erbersdobler Helmut F
Published: October 2006

Total lysine and available lysine were used For predicting the damage to lysine in soya protein heated with glucose and in alkali. The amounts of both types of lysine decreased during the treatments. The content of total lysine was much higher than that of available lysine. In soya protein heated with glucose, the available lysine content decreased by 78‐85 % and that of total lysine by 17‐40 %. In soya protein heated in alkali, available lysine decreased by 7‐24% and total lysine by 7‐13%. Since available lysine was more sensitive, changes in total lysine underestimated the nutritional damage.
The application of sub‐2‐μm particle liquid chromatography‐operated high mobile linear velocities coupled to orthogonal accelerated time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry for the analysis of ranitidine and its impurities
Authors: Jones Michael D. , Plumb Robert S.
Published: October 2006

Impurity profiling of pharmaceutical drug substances or dosage formulations require methods involving high sensitivity and resolution from LC and MS alike as well as an acceptable analysis time. While throughput can be increased, it is usually at the expense of chromatographic resolution. The application of sub‐2‐μm stationary phases and high mobile linear velocities has been combined with orthogonal acceleration (oa)‐TOF MS for the impurity structural characterization analysis of small‐molecule pharmaceutics. A pharmaceutical drug substance was forcefully degraded and used to test the proof of concept of developing an impurity profile method by ultra performance liquid chromatography (UPLC). Optimum conditions were identified by use of method development simulation software as well as traditional approaches of method scouting with columns and a varied range of pH. Further analysis illustrated the effectiveness of applying oa‐TOF MS techniques to assist in achieving exact mass coupled with MS/MS to define the structural characterization of the related substances relative to the pharmaceutical active ingredient and identification of any unknown impurity substances. The barriers with trade‐offs between resolution and speed are overcome by the application of UPLC, whereas the increased sensitivity provides for superior exact mass oa‐TOF MS.
Use of a superabsorbent polymer for the pre‐concentration of volatile components from complex matrices
Authors: Flores Gema , Herraiz Marta , Ruiz del Castillo Maria Luisa
Published: October 2006

A polymeric material commonly used as a superabsorbent in the sanitary industry is proposed for the first time for analytical purposes. Specifically, we have evaluated in this work the possibility of using this material in a programmed‐temperature vaporizer (PTV) injector for the introduction of large volume samples. To that end, the viability of this superabsorbent polymer as a retaining material was first studied by testing the stability of its absorption capacity in the presence of various solvents and at various temperatures. Subsequently, its effectiveness in the isolation of menthol and its isomers from Mentha piperita essential oil as well as γ‐lactones from peach essential oil was assessed. For that purpose, optimization of different variables, namely PTV temperatures during sampling, purge times, and desorption temperatures, involved in the solvent elimination was performed. Additionally, the information obtained was compared with that acquired for the adsorbent material Tenax TA. The results shown in this work proved not only the viability of using this superabsorbent polymer in analytical procedures but also demonstrated its advantages over the adsorbent Tenax TA in attaining internal GC concentration of a sample by introducing large volumes via PTV.
Phosphatfreie Wasch‐ und Reinigungsmittel
Authors: Niederstebruch A.
Published: October 2006

Die in neuester Zeit aus der Patentliteratur bekannt gewordenen phosphatfreien Wasch‐ und Reinigungsmittel lassen sich in zwei Gruppen einordnen. Die erste umfaßt solche, die weder Phosphate noch deren Ersatzstoffe betreffen. Die vergleichsweise gute Reinigungswirkung dieser Mittel wird durch den Einsatz solcher Tenside erzielt, die im Vergleich zu bisher üblichen eine größere Anzahl von polaren Gruppen enthalten. Beispiele hierfür werden genannt. Die zweite Gruppe betrifft Phosphatersatzstoffe, insbesondere niedermolekulare anorganische bzw. organische Verbindungen, höhermolekulare wasserlösliche organische Verbindungen und anorganische sowie organische Ionenaustauscher. Auch hierfür werden Beispiele genannt. Die Reinigungskraft insbesondere tripolyphosphathaltiger Waschmittel wird solchen ohne Phosphatanteile gegenübergestellt.
Vergleichende Messungen der Hornschichthydratation
Authors: Tronnier H.
Published: October 2006

Da eine gut hydratisierte Hornschicht eines der wichtigsten Ziele der Hautpflege darstellt, besteht an der Bestimmung der Hornschichthydratation ein besonderes Interesse. Eine Messung der Wasserabgabe von der Haut ist mit verschiedenen Methoden möglich, am geeignetsten dürfte das Evaporimeter sein. Auch an der Hautoberfläche ist eine Messung des Wassergehaltes möglich. Die Hornschichthydratation läßt sich durch Widerstandsmessung, mit der Kondensatormethode und dem Resonanzfrequenzverfahren bestimmen. Vergleichende Untersuchungen zeigten eine Übereinstimmung der Meßwerte der Kondensatormethode und dem Resonanzfrequenzverfahren, während sich Ähnlichkeiten in den ermittelten Verlaufskurven für die Wasserabgabe und Widerstandsmessung ergaben. Bei der Widerstandsmessung und in geringem Umfang auch bei der Kondensatormethode wird das an der Hautoberfläche, z. B. in aufgetragenen Emulsionen befindliche Wasser mitbestimmt, woraus sich die unterschiedlichen Wirkungszeiten für kosmetische Produkte erklären.
50 Jahre DGF ‐ Erinnerungen an die Gründung und die Jahre des Aufbaus der Gesellschaft
Authors: Pardun H.
Published: October 2006

Der Autor war in den Jahren 1932‐1936 Assistent von H. P. Kaufmann und hatte Gelegenheit, die Gründung und den Aufbau der DGF aus nächster Nähe zu beobachten. Als Hitler 1933 die Macht übernommen hatte, sah er es als wichtigste Aufgabe an, Deutschland in der Lebensmittelversorgung vom Ausland unabhängig zu machen. Das sollte u. a. durch Drosselung der Einfuhr von Ölen und Fetten und durch Steigerung des Ölsaatenanbaus erreicht werden. Zur Lösung der damit verbundenen Probleme wurde im Dezember 1935 auf Veranlassung der Regierung die Deutsche Gesellschaft fü Fettforschung (DGF) gegründet, die die Tätigkeit aller auf dem Fettgebiet maßgebenden Personen und Institutionen koordinieren sollte. Zum Vorsitzenden wurde Kaufmann bestellt, der bereits damals als Pionier der Fettforschung international anerkannt war. Er wurde 1983 zum Präsidenten der Internationalen Gesellschaft zum Studium der Fettstoffe (IC) gewählt. Während des Krieges lag der Schwerpunkt der DGF‐Aktivität auf dem Gebiet der Fettversorgung. Die DGF mußte 1944/45 ihre Tätigkeit beenden, nachdem ihre Laboratorien und Geschäftsräume durch Bomben zerstört waren. 1948 wurde die Gesellschaft neu gegründet. Das Lebenswerk Kaufmanns fand seine Krönung in den beiden Fettinstitute im Jahr 1964 bzw. 1968.
Mechanical response of a jointed rock beam—numerical study of centrifuge models
Authors: Tsesarsky Michael , Talesnick Mark L.
Published: October 2006

In this paper we present a comparison between a set of benchmark centrifuge models of a jointed beam and the predictions of two numerical models: fast Lagrangian analysis of continua (FLAC) and discontinuous deformation analysis (DDA). The primary objective of this paper is a comparison between the measured deformation profiles and thrust evolution to predictions of the numerical methods employed. A secondary objective is an attempt to clarify the issue of compressive arch geometry which is still in controversy among researchers.

It is found that both FLAC and DDA result in insufficiently accurate predictions to the measured displacements. The mode of deformation is only partially captured and is dependent on the aspect ratio of the individual blocks which made up the beam. It is shown that the accuracy of the predicted displacements is a function of the assigned interface stiffness. The thrust predicted by both methods is found to be considerably lower than that measured in the model; however, the linear evolution of thrust and equilibrium conditions are correctly captured.

The geometry of the compressive arch as predicted by FLAC compares extremely well with the data measured in the physical model. Based on the FLAC analysis it is found that for a beam composed of equidimensional blocks the thickness of the compressive arch varies from 0.8t at the abutment interface to the entire beam thickness (1t) at a distance of a half block width from the abutment face, extending across the interface separating the block and its neighbour, and attains a value of 0.5t at the beam mid span. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Urinary flow disturbance as an early sign of autonomic neuropathy in diabetic children and adolescents
Authors: Szabo Laszlo , Barkai Laszlo , Lombay Bela
Published: October 2006

Aims

Urinary bladder dysfunction is a frequent complication of diabetes mellitus in adults. The aim of this study is to determine the early disturbances of the detrusor contractility in children, and adolescents with type 1 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

The bladder urine flow parameters were investigated in 37 children with type 1 diabetes, 10/37 with cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction (CAD) voided 482 ± 128 mils (Group A), 27/37 without CAD voided 258 ± 52 mils (Group B). From an earlier uroflow screening study 20 healthy children formed group control A, who had voided 488 ± 94 mils, and another 30 healthy children formed group control B, who had voided 260 ± 50 mils. The compared groups were matched for voided volume, age, weight, and height. There was no evidence of urinary tract abnormalities in any of the children.

Results

Time to maximum flow was longer in both diabetic groups as compared with controls (P < 0.01), and the acceleration (the ratio of maximum flow and the time to maximum flow) of diabetics was significantly lower (P < 0.01). Bladder emptying was complete in each subject. Bladder wall disturbances were not seen by ultrasound.

Conclusions

The decreased acceleration of detrusor muscle contraction may be interpreted as an early sign of autonomic neuropathy in children and adolescent with type 1 diabetes, even in patients without CAD. Clinicians may be able to determine autonomic neuropathy by using uroflowmetry that is easy to perform, sensitive, reproducible, and needs only a child's minimal cooperation. Neurourol. Urodynam. 26:218–221, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Are there differences between women with urge predominant and stress predominant mixed urinary incontinence?
Authors: Lewis Jack B. , Ng Alexander V. , O'Connor R. Corey , Guralnick Michael L.
Published: October 2006

Objective

We sought to determine if there are differences in clinical and urodynamic parameters between women with urge predominant and those with stress predominant mixed urinary incontinence (MUI).

Methods

Charts of 99 female patients with complaints of MUI were reviewed. Patients were divided into two groups based on the subjective predominance of either stress incontinence (MSUI) or urge incontinence (MUUI). All patients completed a subjective evaluation including an AUA Symptom Index, Urogenital Distress Inventory (UDI‐6), and Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ‐7). Objective non‐invasive measures included physical exam, 48‐hr voiding diary, and a 24‐hr pad test. Videourodynamics studies (VUDS), performed in all patients, were reviewed and the presence and characteristics of detrusor overactivity (DO) and stress incontinence were noted.

Results

There were no significant differences between groups with respect to symptom scores. MUUI patients had significantly higher pad usage, and lower maximum and average voided volumes than MSUI patients. They were also more likely to have lower urodynamic bladder capacities and demonstrable DO (70% vs. 26%) on VUDS with contractions occurring at lower bladder volumes and with higher amplitude. MSUI patients were more likely to have demonstrable SUI on physical examination (63% vs. 16%) and on VUDS (100% vs. 61%).

Conclusions

There do appear to be differences in clinical and urodynamic parameters between patients with stress predominant and urge predominant MUI. These may help to determine which component of the mixed incontinence is more problematic. Neurourol. Urodynam. 26:204–207, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantitative MRI for the assessment of bone structure and function
Authors: Wehrli Felix W. , Song Hee Kwon , Saha Punam K. , Wright Alexander C.
Published: October 2006

Osteoporosis is the most common degenerative disease in the elderly. It is characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to morbidity and increased fracture risk in the hip, spine and wrist–all sites of predominantly trabecular bone. Bone densitometry, currently the standard methodology for diagnosis and treatment monitoring, has significant limitations in that it cannot provide information on the structural manifestations of the disease. Recent advances in imaging, in particular MRI, can now provide detailed insight into the architectural consequences of disease progression and regression in response to treatment. The focus of this review is on the emerging methodology of quantitative MRI for the assessment of structure and function of trabecular bone. During the past 10 years, various approaches have been explored for obtaining image‐based quantitative information on trabecular architecture. Indirect methods that do not require resolution on the scale of individual trabeculae and therefore can be practiced at any skeletal location, make use of the induced magnetic fields in the intertrabecular space. These fields, which have their origin in the greater diamagnetism of bone relative to surrounding marrow, can be measured in various ways, most typically in the form of R2′, the recoverable component of the total transverse relaxation rate. Alternatively, the trabecular network can be quantified by high‐resolution MRI (µ‐MRI), which requires resolution adequate to at least partially resolve individual trabeculae. Micro‐MRI‐based structure analysis is therefore technically demanding in terms of image acquisition and algorithms needed to extract the structural information under conditions of limited signal‐to‐noise ratio and resolution. Other requirements that must be met include motion correction and image registration, both critical for achieving the reproducibility needed in repeat studies. Key clinical applications targeted involve fracture risk prediction and evaluation of the effect of therapeutic intervention. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy of the intervertebral disc
Authors: Majumdar S.
Published: October 2006

Intervertebral disc disease is an emerging health concern and has a considerable negative effect on the economy and on society. MRI has a critical role in assessing the disc, but it is still a challenge to objectively correlate disc health and pain with images. In this paper, a review of MR disc imaging techniques including grading, relaxation time measurements, diffusion, and contrast perfusion is presented. In addition, high‐resolution magic‐angle spinning methods to correlate in vitro disc degeneration (with pain, etc) are discussed. With the potential for gaining morphological and biochemical information, MRI shows promise for quantitative assessment of disc health. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preseismic lithosphere‐atmosphere‐ionosphere coupling
Authors: Kamogawa Masashi
Published: October 2006

Preseismic anomalous states in the atmosphere and ionosphere as well as those in the near‐Earth (telluric) currents and ultralowfrequency electromagnetic variations have been, since the 1970s, reported as occurring prior to earthquakes. These preseismic phenomena have not yet been universally accepted, partly because the low occurrence frequency of large earthquakes has hindered establishing their statistical significance. Recent achievements in this respect, however, seem to be highly encouraging for promoting further studies on preseismic lithosphere‐atmosphere‐ionosphere (LAI) coupling.
Hearings highlight International Polar Year
Authors: Zielinski Sarah
Published: October 2006

The upcoming International Polar Year will incorporate education and outreach activities into its major scientific themes, scientists told members of Congress at a 20 September hearing before the U.S. House of Representatives Science Subcommittee on Research. A second hearing was held on 26 September before the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Solar‐B satellite launches
Authors: Kumar Mohi
Published: October 2006

Solar‐B, a satellite designed to study the Sun's magnetic field through coordinated measurements of the solar atmosphere, successfully launched from Uchinoura Space Center in Kagoshima, Japan, on 23 September. Data from the satellite's instruments will allow scientists to study in detail how changes in the Sun's magnetic field propagate from the surface through the solar atmosphere to create the magnetic storms that effect Earth.
Jones receives 2006 Charles S. Falkenberg Award
Authors: Wertz Richard C. , Jones Dave
Published: October 2006

Dave Jones received the Charles S. Falkenberg Award at the 2006 Summer Federation of Earth Science Information Partners Conference, which was held on 19 Jury 2006, in Nanuet, N.Y. The award honors “a scientist under 45 years of age who has contributed to the quality of life, economic opportunities, and stewardship of the planet through the use of Earth science information and to the public awareness of the importance of understanding our planet.”
Breaking the ties with the printed page
Authors: Holoviak Judy C.
Published: October 2006

Authors will soon be able to calculate for themselves, via a Web interface, the likely fees for publishing in any AGU journal. In this way authors will be able to minimize the potential fees before they submit a contribution for publication.

This development is possible because author fees will no longer be calculated according to the final printed pages. Rather, fees will be based on the number of word equivalents in the accepted article and the number of figures or dynamic files. This change will break the last vestige of AGU publication that is tied to the real estate of a printed page.
National hurricane research initiative proposed
Authors: Zielinski Sarah
Published: October 2006

The U.S. National Science Board (NSB) has proposed in a draft report the creation of a focused, sustained, and multi‐agency government initiative that would enhance the nation's ability to predict, mitigate, and respond to the effects of hurricanes, several board members announced at a 29 September briefing.

Steven Beering, chairman of the NSB, said, “This is a critical area for national science policy that requires a focused research effort to address the destructive social, economic, and physical infrastructure impacts from hurricanes…We have experienced altogether too many in the last few years.”
Changes needed in U.S. science education
Authors: Zielinki Sarah
Published: October 2006

Improvements in U.S. science education require a coordinated curriculum from kindergarten through grade eight (K‐8),with standards focused on several core ideas, according to a 21 September report from the National Research Council of the U.S. National Academies. The committee that authored the report recommended that K‐8 science education offer students the opportunity to become versed in knowing, using, and interpreting scientific explanations of the natural world, and in other ‘strands’ that comprise proficiency in science. Students also should receive a variety of learning experiences, including conducting investigations, sharing ideas with their peers, and using models. The report urges policymakers, researchers, and leaders in education to tackle gaps in science achievement that persist between white students and non‐Asian minority students, and between economically advantaged and disadvantaged children. In addition, the committee found that although studies show that children can think in sophisticated ways, science education usually assumes that children are simplistic thinkers.
Suppression of hurricane report investigated
Authors: Zielinski Sarah
Published: October 2006

Rep. Bart Gordon (D‐Tenn.), ranking member of the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Science, has asked Conrad Lautenbacher, Jr., administrator of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for any information related to the suppression of a set of hurricane frequently asked questions (FAQ) that was prepared by NOAA scientists earlier this year. An internal NOAA panel produced the consensus statement, which examined the role between hurricanes and climate and which was supposed to be released at the start of the 2006 hurricane season.The FAQ had received the necessary approvals within NOAA, but an unidentified official in the Department of Commerce instructed the chair of the panel that created the report not to release it.
Scientists examine seismic data from North Korean nuclear test
Authors: Zielinski Sarah
Published: October 2006

North Korea's unconfirmed nuclear test on 9 October displayed several characteristics not typical of earthquakes that indicate it was indeed a nuclear test, according to Paul Richards, a seismologist with the Lamont‐Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University, Palisades, N.Y.

Richards said these characteristics include a type of seismic surface wave indicating the event occurred at shallow depth (less than one or two kilometers) and thus likely of anthropogenic origin; impulsive quality of the waves at the beginning of the seismogram; and very weak shear waves.
Modeling interactions between marine ecosystems and climate
Authors: Le Quéré Corinne , Prentice I. Colin , Rivkin Richard B.
Published: October 2006

During the past 100 years or so, the ocean surface has become more acidic by 0.1 pH units [Orr et al., 2005] and has warmed by 0.6°C [Folland et al., 2001]. In recent decades, temperature and salinity changes [Curry et al., 2003] suggest modifications in ocean circulation and thus in the distribution of surface nutrients. Surface nutrients also are being modified by changes in fluvial supply and by changes in aeolian transport of nutrient‐enriched dust. In addition, over‐fishing modifies the predation on large zooplankton by small fish and could have topdown effects on the lower food web. These changes affect marine ecosystems in ways that are neither well understood nor quantified.
Erythropoietin-Induced Neurovascular Protection, Angiogenesis, and Cerebral Blood Flow Restoration after Focal Ischemia in Mice
Authors: Li Ying , Lu Zhongyang , Keogh Christine L , Yu Shan P , Wei Ling
Published: October 2006

Restoration of local blood supply in the post-ischemic brain plays a critical role in tissue repair and functional recovery. The present investigation explored beneficial effects of recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) on vascular endothelial cell survival, angiogenesis, and restoration of local cerebral blood flow (LCBF) after permanent focal cerebral ischemia in adult mice. Saline or rhEPO (5,000 U/kg, intraperitoneal) was administered 30 mins before ischemia and once daily after ischemic stroke. Immunohistochemistry showed an enhancing effect of rhEPO on expression of EPO receptor (EPOR) of endothelial cells in the penumbra region 3 to 21 days after the ischemic insult. The treatment with rhEPO decreased ischemia-induced cell death and infarct volume 3 days after stroke. Specifically, rhEPO reduced the number of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase biotin-dUPT nick end labeling- and caspase-3-positive endothelial cells in the penumbra region. Colocalization of the vessel marker glucose transporter-1 (Glut-1) and cell proliferation marker 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine indicated enhanced angiogenic activity in rhEPO-treated mice 7 to 21 days after stroke. Western blot showed upregulation of the expression of angiogenic factors Tie-2, Angiopoietin-2, and vascular endothelial growth factor in rhEPO-treated animals. Local cerebral blood flow was measured by laser scanning imaging 3 to 21 days after stroke. At 14 days, LCBF in the penumbra was recovered to preischemia levels in rhEPO-treated mice but not in control mice. Our data suggest that rhEPO treatment upregulates the EPOR level in vascular endothelial cells, confers neurovascular protection, and enhances angiogenesis. We further show a promoting effect of rhEPO on LCBF recovery in the ischemic brain. These rhEPO-induced effects may contribute to therapeutic benefits in the treatment of ischemic stroke.
A structurally unrelated mimic of a
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
acyl-homoserine lactone quorum-sensing signal
Authors: Müh Ute , Hare Brian J. , Duerkop Breck A. , Schuster Martin , Hanzelka Brian L. , Heim Roger , Olson Eric R. , Greenberg E. Peter
Published: October 2006

The pathogenic bacterium
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
uses acyl-homoserine lactone quorum-sensing signals to coordinate the expression of a battery of virulence genes in a cascade of regulatory events. The quorum-sensing signal that triggers the cascade is
N
-3-oxo-dodecanoyl homoserine lactone (3OC12-HSL), which interacts with two signal receptor-transcription factors, LasR and QscR. This signal is base labile, and it is degraded by mammalian PON lactonases. We have identified a structurally unrelated triphenyl mimic of 3OC12-HSL that is base-insensitive and PON-resistant. The triphenyl mimic seems to interact specifically with LasR but not with QscR.
In silico
analysis suggests that the mimic fits into the 3OC12-HSL-binding site of LasR and makes key contacts with LasR. The triphenyl mimic is an excellent scaffold for developing quorum-sensing inhibitors, and its stability and potency make it ideal for biotechnology uses such as heterologous gene expression.
Myomatous erythrocytosis syndrome: a case report
Authors: Patel P. B. , Radin R.
Published: October 2006

We report the case of a 36-year-old woman with erythrocytosis due to ectopic erythropoietin production by a very large uterine leiomyoma. Awareness of this uncommon condition is important so that the correct diagnosis can be suggested prior to surgery and radical resection can be avoided.
Increasing benefit of magnetic resonance imaging in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Pyhtinen J. , Karttunen A. , Tikkakoski T.
Published: October 2006

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has emerged as an essential tool of multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis and has opened up completely new prospects in MS research and treatment trials. It is a sensitive method that gives direct evidence of tissue pathology and has greatly increased our knowledge of MS. In clinical work, MRI is used to confirm and exclude the diagnosis of MS. The international recommendation is that every suspected MS patient should undergo at least one brain MRI. T2-weighted images are the standard tool in clinical work, and functional imaging methods are mainly used in MS research. The subtypes and the course of the disease cause variation in MRI findings. Here, we present a general overview of MR findings in MS.
Magnetic resonance imaging of the ovaries of healthy women: determination of normal values
Authors: Hauth E. A. M. , Jaeger H. J. , Libera H. , Lange S. , Forsting M.
Published: October 2006

Purpose: To establish normal values for the volume and maximal diameter of ovaries and ovarian follicles and for the number of ovarian follicles in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) based on menstrual cycle phase and age.

Material and Methods: We performed MRI of the pelvis on 100 healthy women. Volume of the ovaries and largest ovarian follicles and the number of ovarian follicles were determined by menstrual cycle phase and age.

Results: The mean volume of the ovaries significantly increased with age and reached its peak between 31 and 40 years, and subsequently decreased. The mean volume of the largest ovarian follicles also significantly increased with age to reach its peak at 41–50 years. The highest mean numbers of ovarian follicles were found at 20–40 years. When the volumes of ovaries and of the largest ovarian follicles, and the number of ovarian follicles were compared between the first and second phase of the menstrual cycle, no significant differences were found.

Conclusion: The volume and maximal diameter of ovaries and ovarian follicles and the number of ovarian follicles differ significantly with age, but not between the two phases of the menstrual cycle. Knowledge of MRI-related normal values can be expected to aid the early identification of ovarian pathologies.
Imaging of post-traumatic cardiac rhabdomyolysis with normal coronary arteries
Authors: De Filippo M. , De Blasi M. , Paoli G. , Sverzellati N. , Beghi C. , Ardissino D. , Zompatori M.
Published: October 2006

Numerous cases of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) have been reported in the literature following closed chest injuries, due to post-traumatic dissection or thrombosis of a coronary artery. In the follow-up of AMI, wall thickness during diastole and systole provides important information on heart viability. Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) is currently the only noninvasive instrumental investigation which provides an appreciable assessment of the coronary arteries, as well as heart wall thickness measurements. We describe and discuss the clinical and imaging findings, especially of MDCT, in a case of post-traumatic regional myocardial necrosis with normal coronary arteries.
Diagnostic performance of computed tomography colonography in symptomatic patients and in patients with increased risk for colorectal disease
Authors: Reuterskiöld M. H. , Lasson A. , Svensson E. , Kilander A. , Stotzer P.-O. , Hellström M.
Published: October 2006

Purpose: To evaluate the diagnostic performance (colorectal lesions) of computed tomography (CT) colonography in 111 patients, a majority of whom were at high risk for colorectal neoplasia.

Material and Methods: After bowel preparation, CT colonography was performed, immediately followed by conventional colonoscopy. The diagnostic performance of CT colonography was analyzed relative to lesion size, histological diagnosis, and diagnostic certainty.

Results: The sensitivity of CT colonography increased with lesion size ( P<0.001), and was 91% (21/23) for lesions ⩾10 mm. All 10 carcinomas and 86% (19/22) of adenomas ⩾5 mm were detected. Unconfirmed or false-positive CT findings were generally small and/or reported with low diagnostic certainty. The specificity of CT colonography would be 45% (30/66; 95% CI 34% to 57%) if patients with findings of any size and any diagnostic certainty were selected for follow-up, and 92% (85/92; 95% CI 85% to 96%) if only patients with CT findings ⩾10 mm classified as certain were selected.

Conclusion: CT colonography had a high sensitivity for lesions ⩾5 mm. The diagnostic performance increased with lesion size and degree of diagnostic certainty, and was higher for adenomas.
Can dynamic susceptibility contrast magnetic resonance imaging replace single-photon emission computed tomography in the diagnosis of patients with alzheimer's disease? a pilot study
Authors: Cavallin L. , Danielsson R. , Öksengard A. R. , Wahlund L. O. , Julin P. , Frank A. , Engman E. L. , Svensson L. , Wiberg Kristoffersen M.
Published: October 2006

Purpose: To compare single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in a cohort of patients examined for suspected dementia, including patients with no objective cognitive impairment (control group), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Material and Methods: Twenty-four patients, eight with AD, 10 with MCI, and six controls were investigated with SPECT using 99mTc-hexamethylpropyleneamine oxime (HMPAO) and dynamic susceptibility contrast magnetic resonance imaging (DSC-MRI) with gadobutrol. Three observers performed a visual interpretation of the SPECT and MR images using a four-point visual scale.

Results: SPECT was superior to DSC-MRI in differentiating normal from pathological. All three observers showed statistically significant results in discriminating between the control group, AD, and MCI by SPECT, with a P value of 0.0006, 0.04, and 0.01 for each observer. The statistical results were not significant for MR ( P values 0.8, 0.1, and 0.2, respectively).

Conclusion: DSC-MRI could not replace SPECT in the diagnosis of patients with Alzheimer's disease. Several patient- and method-related improvements should be made before this method can be recommended for clinical practice.
Pseudoaneurysm of the renal interlobar artery in behçet's disease
Authors: Ozkurt H. , Oztora F. , Tunc S. , Basak M.
Published: October 2006

Behçet's disease is a rare clinical event characterized by recurrent oral and genital ulcers, and iridocyclitis. Vascular involvement is a rare but serious form of the disease. We present a case of renal interlobar artery pseudoaneurysm occurring in a 20-year-old male patient with a 5-year history of Behçet's disease, who had been admitted because of right flank pain. Findings obtained on abdominal ultrasonography, abdominal computed tomography, and renal angiography confirmed a right renal pseudoaneurysm and subcapsular hematoma.
When One Cue is not Enough: Combining Fast and Frugal Heuristics with Compound Cue Processing
Authors: Garcia-Retamero Rocio , Hoffrage Ulrich , Dieckmann Anja
Published: October 2006

One-reason decision-making heuristics as proposed by Gigerenzer, Todd, and the ABC Research Group (1999) have been shown to perform accurately. However, such strategies cannot deal with compound cues. We propose the Take The Best Configural Cue (TTB-Configural) as a fast and frugal heuristic that processes compound cues. In a series of three experiments, we analysed whether participants used this heuristic when making cue-based inferences on which of two alternatives had a higher criterion value. In two of the experiments, two cues were amalgamated into a valid compound cue by applying the AND or the OR logical rule, respectively. In the third experiment, there was no valid compound cue. Within each experiment, we also manipulated causal mental models through instructions. In the configural causal model, cues were said to act through the same causal mechanism. In the elemental causal model, cues were said to act through different causal mechanisms. In the neutral causal model, the causal mechanism was not specified. When a highly valid compound existed, and participants had a configural causal model, for the majority of them the strategy that could best account for their choices was TTB-Configural. Otherwise, the strategy that best predicted their choices was the Take The Best (TTB) heuristic.
Solvent‐tuning the collapse and helix formation time scales of λ6‐85*
Authors: Dumont Charles , Matsumura Yoshitaka , Kim Seung Joong , Li Jinsong , Kondrashkina Elena , Kihara Hiroshi , Gruebele Martin
Published: October 2006

The λ6‐85* pseudo‐wild type of lambda repressor fragment is a fast two‐state folder (kf ≈ 35 μsec−1 at 58°C). Previously, highly stable λ6‐85* mutants with kf > 30 μsec−1 have been engineered to fold nearly or fully downhill. Stabilization of the native state by solvent tuning might also tune λ6‐85* away from two‐state folding. We test this prediction by examining the folding thermodynamics and kinetics of λ6‐85* in a stabilizing solvent, 45% by weight aqueous ethylene glycol at −28°C. Detection of kinetics by circular dichroism at 222 nm (sensitive to helix content) and small angle X‐ray scattering (measuring the radius of gyration) shows that refolding from guanidine hydrochloride denatured conditions exhibits very different time scales for collapse and secondary structure formation: the two processes become decoupled. Collapse remains a low‐barrier activated process, while the fastest of several secondary structure formation time scales approaches the downhill folding limit. Two‐state folding of λ6‐85* is not a robust process.
Maternally derived Cu tolerance in larval fathead minnows: how long does it persist?
Authors: Sellin M. K. , Kolok A. S.
Published: October 2006

Fathead minnow Pimephales promelas larvae were produced by either copper (Cu)‐exposed or naïve females and then subjected to a 96 h survival test using Cu concentrations of 400 and 800 μg l−1. Three survival challenges were conducted: the first survival test featured 0 day‐old larvae while the second and third featured 8 and 15 day‐old larvae, respectively. The results of this study show that maternally derived Cu tolerance was relatively short‐lived as it persisted for <8 days.
Evaluating the potential of night spotlighting as a method for assessing species composition and brown trout abundance: a comparison with electrofishing in small streams
Authors: Hickey M. A. , Closs G. P.
Published: October 2006

Direct counts of fish obtained by night spotlighting were compared with species composition and population estimates obtained from three‐pass electrofishing obtained across 29 sites along small clear streams in the Otago region of New Zealand. The influence of habitat variables on the relative efficiency of each method was also examined. The same seven species of fishes were identified by both methods. Juvenile brown trout Salmo trutta were the only species present in sufficient numbers to allow comparison of abundance estimates using the two methods. A total of 777 brown trout were counted by spotlight and 803 brown trout were caught using electrofishing. Estimates of abundance obtained by spotlighting reflected population estimates obtained by three‐pass electrofishing across most habitats. Electrofishing produced higher population estimates relative to spotlighting in fast‐flowing turbulent riffle habitats, whereas counts obtained by spotlighting tended to be higher relative to electrofishing in slow‐flowing pool habitats. The results suggest that spotlighting is an effective method for assessing fish composition and brown trout abundance in small clear water streams, although the extremes of water velocity may influence efficiency of both spotlighting and electrofishing.
Habitat use by radio‐tagged Namib Desert golden moles (Eremitalpa granti namibensis)
Authors: Rathbun Galen B. , Rathbun Carolyn D.
Published: October 2006

The Namib Desert golden mole (Eremitalpa granti namibensis) is morphologically, physiologically and behaviourally specialized for living in the harsh loose‐sand desert. Ecological studies have relied on visually tracking animals on the surface of sand dunes. A radio tag would allow individuals to be more reliably located, even while under the sand. We developed a radio attachment and gathered preliminary data on winter habitat use by six individuals during 21 days. We compare data from previous studies and suggest that the greater diurnal activity, smaller home ranges, and more restricted movement patterns that we found are related to the unusual thermal and metabolic biology of Eremitalpa.
In vivoeffects of cyclic administration of 15-deoxyspergualin on leucocyte function in patients with Wegener's granulomatosis
Authors: Kälsch A-I , Schmitt W H , Breedijk A , Marinaki S , Weigerding S , Nebe T C , Nemoto K , Van Der Woude F J , Yard B A , Birck R
Published: October 2006

15-Deoxyspergualin (DSG) is an alternative treatment modality for Wegener's granulomatosis (WG) patients refractory to conventional treatment. Nevertheless, it is unclear how DSG modulates disease activity in these patients. This study was conducted to investigate which parameters of adaptive and acquired immunity were influenced during two subsequent cycles of DSG treatment. Emphasis was put upon T cell and monocyte activation, neutrophil function and surface expression of proteinase-3 (PR-3). Anti-CD3/anti-CD28 and interleukin (IL)-15/IL-7-mediated T cell proliferation were assessed by fluorescence activated cell sorter (FACS) analysis using carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CSFE) labelling. Interferon (IFN)-γ and IL-10 production were determined in the supernatants of these cultures by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Monocyte activation was assessed in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated whole blood, using tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α as read-out. Neutrophil function was determined by measuring oxidative burst, chemotaxis and phagocytosis. T cell activation markers and PR3 expression were measured by FACS. All parameters were determined directly before and after each DSG cycle. Anti-CD3/anti-CD28-mediated T cell proliferation was reduced directly after DSG treatment. Directly before a subsequent cycle of DSG was started, T cell proliferation was increased. Similar findings were observed for IFN-γ and IL-10 production by T cells. DSG did not influence IL-15/IL-7-mediated T cell proliferation. LPS-mediated TNF-α production was also impaired directly after DSG treatment. No influence on T cell activation markers, neutrophil function and surface PR-3 expression was observed in peripheral blood of these patients. Our data demonstrate that DSG influences T cell and monocyte activation in a reversible fashion. Although DSG causes neutropenia in these patients, it does not influence neutrophil function.
Proinflammatory effects of tumour necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) on human gingival fibroblasts
Authors: Hosokawa Y , Hosokawa I , Ozaki K , Nakae H , Matsuo T
Published: October 2006

Tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK), a member of the TNF family, is a multi-functional cytokine that regulates cellular proliferation, angiogenesis, inflammation and apoptosis. In this study, we investigated TWEAK expression in periodontally diseased tissues and the effect of TWEAK on human gingival fibroblasts (HGF). Reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) analysis and immunohistochemistry revealed that TWEAK and the TWEAK receptor, fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 (Fn14), mRNA and protein were expressed in periodontally diseased tissues. HGF expressed Fn14 and produced interleukin (IL)-8 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production upon TWEAK stimulation in a dose-dependent manner. The IL-8 and VEGF production induced by TWEAK was augmented synergistically by simultaneous stimulation with transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 or IL-1β. IL-1β and TGF-β1 enhanced Fn14 expression in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, TWEAK induced intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) expression on HGF in a dose-dependent manner. The ICAM-1 expression induced by TWEAK was augmented by TGF-β1. On the other hand, the TWEAK-induced VCAM-1 expression was inhibited by TGF-β1. Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) inhibitor inhibit both ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 expression induced by TWEAK. However, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MEK) and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor enhanced only VCAM-1 expression on HGF. These results suggest that TWEAK may be involved in the pathophysiology of periodontal disease. Moreover, in combination with IL-1β or TGF-β1, TWEAK may be related to the exacerbation of periodontal disease to induce proinflammatory cytokines and adherent molecules by HGF.