bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Induction of HIV‐specific T and B cell responses with a replicating and conditionally infectious lentiviral vaccine
Authors: Wingard Jeremy B. , Anderson Bart , Weissman Drew
Published: April 2008

The development of an HIV vaccine that induces broad and potent immunity is critically needed. Viruses, including lentiviruses, have been used as vectors for ex vivo transduction of antigens into dendritic cells (DC). We hypothesized that DC transduced with a vector that allows selective infection of DC could induce potent immunity by continually priming DC. A lentiviral vector encoding HIV gag‐pol without env would form viral cores in transduced DC, but would release non‐infectious particles by budding into endosomes and releasing apoptotic bodies or exosomes containing viral cores. DC function by endocytosing DC‐derived apoptotic bodies, and they are specialized in their ability to move endocytic contents into the cytoplasm. We postulated that endocytosis of vector cores could lead to transduction of a second round of DC. In this report, we demonstrate accumulation of viral cores inside transduced DC and show second‐round transduction of immature DC that endocytose transduced DC in vitro. The effectiveness of immunization of mice with transduced DC to induce specific lymphocyte activation was assessed. Mice developed antigen‐specific T cell responses and specific antibodies after immunization. Transduction of DC with a replication‐competent but conditionally infectious lentivirus could be a novel vaccine strategy for HIV.
BINOLate–Magnesium Catalysts for Enantioselective Hetero‐Diels–Alder Reaction of Danishefsky's Diene with Aldehydes
Authors: Du Haifeng , Zhang Xue , Wang Zheng , Bao Hongli , You Tianpa , Ding Kuiling
Published: April 2008

An efficient catalytic enantioselective hetero‐Diels–Alder reaction of Danishefsky's diene with aldehydes using the magnesium binaphthoxide system has been developed, affording a variety of 2‐substituted 2,3‐dihydro‐4H‐pyran‐4‐ones in high yields and with excellenteevalues. The aggregation behavior and nonlinear effect of the catalytic system, as well as the remarkable stereoelectronic effects of ligands on the catalysis, have also been investigated. On the basis of the structure of the isolated reaction intermediate, the stereochemistry of the products, and the information attained from a study of the nonlinear effect, a plausible asymmetric induction model has been proposed. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Novel Protoilludane Lead Structure for Veterinary Antibiotics: Total Synthesis of Pasteurestins A and B and Assignment of Their Configurations
Authors: Kögl Marion , Brecker Lothar , Warrass Ralf , Mulzer Johann
Published: April 2008

Two novel protoilludane sesquiterpenoids, named pasteurestins A and B (1 and 2), were disclosed in a recent patent. These compounds were reported to exhibit strong and selective activity against some Mannheimia haemolytica strains, pathogen causatives for bovine respiratory disease. These properties qualified 1 and 2 as potential lead structures for new veterinary antibiotics; however, neither the absolute nor the relative configurations had been determined, nor were the compounds available any longer. We thus developed total syntheses of 1 and 2 and clarified their structures and their biological profiles. Key steps were two [2+2+2] CpCo(CO)2‐mediated Vollhardt cycloadditions in both syntheses, and a tin‐mediated asymmetric Reformatsky‐type condensation in the synthesis of 2 with a temperature‐dependent product distribution.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Investigations on the self‐ignition of deposits containing combustibles
Authors: Berger Anka , Krause Ulrich
Published: April 2008

Self‐ignition of deposited combustibles is a possible reason for excessive fires occurring on deposits for recycling materials or on waste dumps. Two series of experiments were performed to assess the hazard of self‐ignition: hot storage tests with different homogeneous mixtures of combustible material and inert material and tests with pockets of combustible material embedded in inert matter. In the first test series considerable exothermicity (ΔT>60K) was observed for mass fractions of combustible material as low as 2.5%. In the second series it could be shown that the heat transfer from a pocket of burning material through the inert matter can ignite a second pocket of combustible matter.

Based on the experimental data, numerical simulations were performed to predict self‐ignition on real‐scale waste deposits. For a deposit of specific size and shape, the influence of the ambient temperature on the occurrence of self‐ignition has been investigated. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Numerical Modelling of the Dynamics of Debris Flows and Rock Avalanches
Authors: Hungr Oldrich
Published: April 2008

Prediction of velocity and travel distance of potential rapid landslides such as debris flows, debris avalanches, flow slides and rock avalanches is useful for quantitative hazard and risk assessment. This article describes some methods that are becoming available for practical use. The proposed approach uses calibration of relatively simple numerical landslide dynamics models against observed behaviour of real landslide events. Two example cases of runout back‐analyses, selected from a recent International Benchmarking Exercise conducted in Hong Kong, are presented.
Risk Management for Natural Perils – The View of a Global Reinsurer
Authors: Smolka Anselm , Hollnack Dirk
Published: April 2008

Loss statistics for natural disasters demonstrate, also after correction for inflation, a dramatic increase in the loss burden since 1950 which was well confirmed by recent disasters like Hurricane Katrina 2005 and the South Asian tsunami 2004. This increase is driven by a concentration of population and values in urban areas, the development of highly exposed coastal and valley regions, the complexity of modern societies and technologies and probably also by the emerging consequences of global warming. This process will continue unless remedial action is taken. This requires a holistic risk management process which starts with hazard identification and moves on to hazard and risk evaluation. Risk evaluation forms the basis for controlling and financing future losses. Natural disaster insurance plays a key role in this context, but also private parties and governments have to share a part of the risk. A main responsibility of governments is to formulate regulations for building construction and land use. The insurance sector and the state have to act together in order to create incentives for building and business owners to take loss prevention measures.
Hazard Map, Risk Assessment, Planning of Mitigation Measures and their Realization in Alpine Regions – Case Study of Cortaccia, South Tyrol
Authors: Willerich Sebastian , Mair Volkmar , Thuro Kurosch
Published: April 2008

As part of a pilot‐scheme that was initialised by the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, the municipality of Cortaccia was one of the first regions of South Tyrol to receive an area wide hazard map (HM). In 2007 the gradual elaboration of HM for all municipalities started after the completion of all pilot‐schemes in several parts of South Tyrol. The experiences made in Cortaccia are taken into account for all these new and definite HM. During the past few years HM have established as a cartographic basis for clear‐sighted urban and infrastructural planning in alpine areas. For the elaboration of HM the local risk must not be considered, i.e. without respect of the potential material damage in the wake of occurrence of natural hazards. But later on, the local management of the urban and infrastructural development as well as the planning of particular precautionary measures and targeted technical actions have to be carried out taking into account each location's specific risk. Almost three years after handing over the HM to the mayor of Cortaccia urban consequences for the municipality are described and the first precautionary measures and technical actions that were taken are presented.
A new vibrator to stimulate muscle proprioceptors in fMRI
Authors: Montant Marie , Romaiguère Patricia , Roll Jean‐Pierre
Published: April 2008

Studying cognitive brain functions by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) requires appropriate stimulation devices that do not interfere with the magnetic fields. Since the emergence of fMRI in the 90s, a number of stimulation devices have been developed for the visual and auditory modalities. Only few devices, however, have been developed for the somesthesic modality. Here, we present a vibration device for studying somesthesia that is compatible with high magnetic field environments and that can be used in fMRI machines. This device consists of a poly vinyl chloride (PVC) vibrator containing a wind turbine and of a pneumatic apparatus that controls 1–6 vibrators simultaneously. Just like classical electromagnetic vibrators, our device stimulates muscle mechanoreceptors (muscle spindles) and generates reliable illusions of movement. We provide the fMRI compatibility data (phantom test), the calibration curve (vibration frequency as a function of air flow), as well as the results of a kinesthetic test (perceived speed of the illusory movement as a function of vibration frequency). This device was used successfully in several brain imaging studies using both fMRI and magnetoencephalography. Hum Brain Mapp, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
TNF‐α‐inducing protein, a carcinogenic factor secreted from H. pylori, enters gastric cancer cells
Authors: Suganuma Masami , Yamaguchi Kensei , Ono Yoshie , Matsumoto Haruo , Hayashi Tomonori , Ogawa Takahiko , Imai Kazue , Kuzuhara Takashi , Nishizono Akira , Fujiki Hirota
Published: April 2008

TNF‐α inducing protein (Tipα) is secreted from Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori): it is a potent inducer of TNF‐α and chemokine genes, mediated through NF‐κB activation, and it also induces tumor‐promoting activity in Bhas 42 cells. To investigate the carcinogenic mechanisms of H. pylori with Tipα, we first examined how Tipα acts on gastric epithelial cells. We found that fluorescent‐Tipα specifically bound to, and then entered, the cells in a dose‐ and temperature‐dependent manner, whereas deletion mutant of Tipα (del‐Tipα), an inactive form, neither bound to nor entered the cells, suggesting the presence of a specific binding molecule. Mutagenesis analysis of Tipα revealed that a dimer formation of Tipα with a disulfide bond is required for both specific binding and induction of TNF‐α gene expression. A confocal laser scanning microscope revealed some Tipα in the nuclei, but del‐Tipα was not present, which indicated that an active form of Tipα can penetrate the nucleus and may be involved in the induction of TNF‐α gene expression. Examination of Tipα production and secretion in 28 clinical isolates revealed that H. pylori obtained from gastric cancer patients secreted Tipα in significantly higher amounts than did H. pylori from patients with chronic gastritis, suggesting that Tipα is an essential factor in H. pylori inflammation and cancer microenvironment in the human stomach. Tipα is thus a new carcinogenic factor of H. pylori that can enter the nucleus through a specific binding molecule, and its mechanism of action is completely different from that of CagA. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fetal growth and the risk of childhood CNS tumors and lymphomas in Western Australia
Authors: Milne Elizabeth , Laurvick Crystal L. , Blair Eve , de Klerk Nicholas , Charles Adrian K. , Bower Carol
Published: April 2008

The etiology of childhood cancers is largely unknown, although the early age at diagnosis has led to particular interest in in utero and perinatal factors. Birth weight is the most frequently studied perinatal factor in relation to risk of childhood cancers, and results have been inconsistent. We investigated whether the risk of CNS tumors and lymphomas in children was associated with three measures of the appropriateness of intra‐uterine growth: proportion of optimal birth weight (POBW), birth length (POBL) and weight for length (POWFL). A cohort of 576,633 infants born in Western Australia in 1980–2004 were followed from birth to diagnosis of a CNS tumor (n = 183) or lymphoma (n = 84) before age 15, death, or December 31, 2005, and analyzed with Cox regression. Overall, there was little evidence of any association between fetal growth and risk of CNS tumors, although risk of ependymoma/choroid plexus tumors was positively associated with POBL and negatively associated with POWFL. The risk of Hodgkin and Burkitt lymphoma increased with increasing fetal growth among boys only, whereas the increased risk observed with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma was only in girls. These associations between fetal growth and disease risk were also observed among children not classified as high birth weight, suggesting that accelerated growth is more important than birth weight per se. Results were similar when cases were compared with their unaffected siblings, suggesting that the increased growth associated with cancer risk was not general to the family. The associations we observed are consistent with causal pathways involving fetal growth factors. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
“Severe” wear challenge to 36 mm mechanically enhanced highly crosslinked polyethylene hip liners
Authors: Bowsher J. G. , Williams P. A. , Clarke I. C. , Green D. D. , Donaldson T. K.
Published: April 2008

Our purpose was to compare the wear performance of mechanically enhanced 5Mrad highly crosslinked polyethylene (MEP, ArComXL®) hip liners to (control) 3Mrad UHMWPE liners (ArCom®) in 36 mm head size. As a more severe synergy of clinically relevant test models, we contrasted wear with custom roughened Co–Cr surfaces (Ra 500 nm) to the standard pristine Co–Cr heads (Ra < 20 nm) using a severe microseparation test mode in our hip simulator. We adopted a previously published model to estimate potential biological activity. On new Co–Cr heads, the MEP liners showed a 47% reduction in volumetric wear a 13% reduction in wear particle size and a 27% reduction in Functional Biological Activity (FBA) compared to our control. On rough Co–Cr heads, the MEP liners showed little advantage in terms of volumetric wear compared with the control. However, the MEP liners overall showed a 38% reduction in FBA compared to the control owing to a larger volume fraction of larger particles. Thus overall the MEP liners appeared to offer advantages in terms of reduced FBA indices. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2008
An integrated biodesulfurization process, including inoculum preparation, desulfurization and sulfate removal in a single step, for removing sulfur from oils
Authors: Tangaromsuk Jantana , Borole Abhijeet P. , Kruatrachue Maleeya , Pokethitiyook Prayad
Published: April 2008

BACKGROUND: A single‐stage reactor, in which the growth of bacterial culture, induction of desulfurizing enzymes, and desulfurization reaction are carried out in a single step, was adopted to investigate desulfurization of dibenzothiophene (DBT) at high cell densities. Rhodococcus erythropolis, IGTS8 was used as the biocatalyst. Optimal conditions for bacterial growth and DBT desulfurization were investigated.

RESULTS: Optimization of fermentation conditions was necessary to obtain high cell densities including controlling accumulation of acetate. Under optimal operating conditions, the maximum optical density at 600 nm (OD600) was measured to be 26.6 at 118 h of cultivation. When biodesulfurization of DBT in model oil with a high cell density culture of IGTS8 was investigated, accumulation of sulfate was found to limit the extent of desulfurization. A sulfate removal step was added to obtain a single‐stage integrated biodesulfurization process. Sulfate removal was achieved via an aqueous bleed stream and use of a separation unit to recycle the organic phase.

CONCLUSION: A proof of principle of a complete system capable of biocatalyst growth, induction, desulfurization and by‐product separation was demonstrated. This system enables simplification of the biodesulfurization process and has potential to lower the operating cost of the bioprocess. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Pleurocutaneous fistula after tube thoracostomy: Sonographic findings
Authors: Lin Ming‐Tzer , Shih Jin‐Yuan , Lee Yung‐Chie , Yang Pan‐Chyr
Published: April 2008

Pleurocutaneous fistula is defined as a pathologic communication between the pleural space and the subcutaneous tissues. It can occur as a complication of an infectious process, neoplasm, foreign body aspiration, or iatrogenic procedures. Diagnosis is usually made on imaging studies, such as CT. We describe a 72‐year‐old woman with esophageal cancer who underwent chest tube placement for postesophagectomy drainage. After removal of the chest tube, a right chest wall mass was noted. Transcutaneous sonographic evaluation confirmed the diagnosis of pleurocutaneous fistula. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2008
Changes in germ cells population and in vitro oocyte maturation in female mice with imperforated vagina
Authors: Lenartowicz Małgorzata , Brzęk Barbara , Polański Zbigniew , Sierpniowska Aleksandra , Galas Jerzy , Bilińska Barbara
Published: April 2008

This study characterized female mice with a congenital defect in their reproductive tract. In females derived from an outbred colony maintained in the Department of Genetics and Evolution, the frequency of the imperforated vaginae was approximately 2%. A consequence of this defect is infertility. Affected animals developed hydrometrocolpos (the uterus and vagina were greatly distended by fluid). Morphology of the ovary and oviduct was normal and similar to that of control mice. In the females with an imperforated vagina numerous corpora lutea were observed. Accordingly, we have found that both spontaneous as well as exogenous gonadotrophin‐induced ovulation occurs in such females. Nevertheless, oocytes derived from ovaries of occluded females exhibited a partial block during in vitro maturation. Histological analysis of ovarian tissue revealed an increase in the number of primary follicles (type I follicles) and a decrease in the number of secondary and antral follicles (type IV and type VI follicles) when compared with control mice. The concentration of androgens in the ovarian tissue was higher in the affected females. Our data show that females with an imperforated vagina can be a useful model for studying the mechanism of genetic control of the development of the urogenital tract in mammals. J. Exp. Zool. 309A:269–277, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
On minimum sets of 1‐factors covering a complete multipartite graph
Authors: Cariolaro David , Fu Hung‐Lin
Published: April 2008

We determine necessary and sufficient conditions for a complete multipartite graph to admit a set of 1‐factors whose union is the whole graph and, when these conditions are satisfied, we determine the minimum size of such a set. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory 58:239‐250, 2008
The use of SST and SOI anomalies as indicators of crop yield variability
Authors: Travasso Maria I. , Magrin Graciela O. , Grondona Martin O. , Rodriguez Gabriel R.
Published: April 2008

Interannual climate variability accounts for most of the observed crop yield fluctuations in the main agricultural region of Argentina. Moreover, in this region climatic variations are related to sea surface temperatures (SST) and the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI). In the present study, we aimed to obtain indicators of crop yield variability based on these drivers. For this purpose, monthly anomalies corresponding to SSTs from the Equatorial Pacific (SSTN3) and South Atlantic (SSTSA) Oceans and the SOI were related to maize, sunflower and soybean grain yield anomalies. Historical data (1923–2000 for maize, 1934–2000 for sunflower and 1969–2000 for soybean) were used to obtain grain yield anomalies at the county level after removing technology trends by smoothing techniques. By means of correlation analysis, we obtained the counties presenting significant association (p < 0.05) between monthly SST/SOI anomalies and yield anomalies, for the period 1950–1997. Those indicators showing spatial consistency were classified in percentiles, and the values corresponding to the upper and lower terciles showed to be useful to discriminate between positive and negative yield anomalies (high and low yields). In general, SOI for maize and SSTSA for soybean and sunflower were the best indicators of crop yield variability. SOI corresponding to September and May were useful in counties contributing to 71% of maize production. SSTa_SA (June) was the best for soybean in the main producing region, which includes 72% of the total production. SSTa_SA (March) could be useful for sunflower in the northern part of the region, which accounts for 27% of the regional production. Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society
Accelerated leadership development tops the talent management menu at McDonald's
Authors: Williams‐Lee Audrey
Published: April 2008

The fast‐food giant played catch‐up after unprecedented top management turnover drew down its pool of high‐potential “ready now” leaders. By aggressively focusing on talent management and leadership development, the company now has a tempting selection of accelerated leadership development programs for high potentials, and is rapidly building bench strength around the globe. The evolution of its efforts began with its first leadership competency model and the integration of key talent processes. Regional, functional, and global leadership development initiatives soon followed, along with a rigorous companywide talent planning process. The company is now turning its attention to high potential talent at lower organizational levels. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Microsubthalamotomy: An immediate predictor of long‐term subthalamic stimulation efficacy in Parkinson disease
Authors: Maltête David , Derrey Stéphane , Chastan Nathalie , Debono Bertrand , Gérardin Emmanuel , Fréger Pierre , Mihout Bruno , Menard Jean François , Hannequin Didier
Published: April 2008

A microsubthalamotomy (mSTN) effect is commonly described after implantation that improves Parkinson's motor disability and is considered to be an obvious sign of good placement of the definitive electrode within the subthalamic nucleus (STN). There has been no formal study, however, demonstrating whether this mSTN effect can predict the long‐term efficacy of STN stimulation in Parkinson Disease. The mSTN effect was defined by the percentage improvement of unified parkinson's disease rating scale (UPDRS III) baseline score assessed the third day morning following STN implantation, after at least a 12 hour withdrawal of dopaminergic treatment and before the programmable pulse generator was switched on. It was assessed in 30 consecutive patients with PD submitted for STN stimulation. Multiple stepwise regression analysis showed that mSTN effect (P = 0.005) and global mean intensity of stimulation (P = 0.004) were accurate independent predictors of the 6‐month postoperative UPDRS III motor score improvement in the off‐drug/on‐stimulation condition. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
PET study of brain acetylcholinesterase in cerebellar degenerative disorders
Authors: Hirano Shigeki , Shinotoh Hitoshi , Arai Kimihito , Aotsuka Akiyo , Yasuno Fumihiko , Tanaka Noriko , Ota Tsuneyoshi , Sato Koichi , Fukushi Kiyoshi , Tanada Shuji , Hattori Takamichi , Irie Toshiaki
Published: April 2008

To elucidate characteristic changes of brain acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in cerebellar degenerative disorders. Eight patients with the cerebellar variant of multiple system atrophy (MSA‐C), 7 patients with spinocerebellar ataxia type‐3 (SCA‐3), 3 patients with SCA‐6, and 13 healthy age‐matched volunteers participated in this study. Brain AChE activity was measured by [11C] N‐methylpiperidin‐4‐yl propionate PET in all subjects. Brain AChE activities were significantly decreased in the thalamus (−27%) and the posterior lobe of cerebellar cortex (−36%) in patients with MSA‐C and in the thalamus (−23%) in patients with SCA‐3 compared with healthy controls (P < 0.01). Thalamic AChE activities of SCA‐3 patients were negatively correlated with the unified Parkinson's disease rating scale motor subscore (P < 0.001). AChE activities were not significantly altered in the cerebral cortex in any disease group. Reduction of AChE activities in the thalamus and cerebellum in MSA and in the thalamus in SCA‐3 suggest that cholinergic modulating drugs may have a role in the treatment of ataxia and other symptoms in these disorders. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
Extreme structural response analysis of truss structures under material uncertainty via linear mixed 0–1 programming
Authors: Guo Xu , Bai Wei , Zhang Weisheng
Published: April 2008

This paper concerns the extreme structural response analysis of truss structures taking the possible uncertainties of Young's moduli of the bars into consideration. The uncertainty of Young's modulus is described by a non‐probability but bounded interval model. With the use of this uncertain model, it is shown that the structural responses such as nodal displacement and bar stress will attain their extreme values when Young's moduli of the bars take either their upper or lower bound value. Based on this conclusion and simultaneous analysis and design formulation, a linear mixed 0–1 programming problem can be constructed to find the extreme values of the structural response by the well‐established branch‐and‐bound approach with global optimality. The proposed approach is applied to several test problems for the demonstration of its validity. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An adhesive interphase element for structural analyses
Authors: Salomonsson Kent , Stigh Ulf
Published: April 2008

A special purpose finite element is developed for structural simulations of complex adhesively bonded structures. In the interphase element, the adhesive is explicitly regarded as a material phase between two substrates. The element considers large rotations. Furthermore, it considers in‐plane straining of the adhesive due to large curvatures of the bonded shells. This feature appears especially important when considering bonding of thin plastically deforming metallic shell structures. Simulations are made on specimens where the adherends deform both elastically and plastically. The results are in good agreement with previously performed experiments. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Management of women with epilepsy before and during pregnancy
Authors: Hart Yvonne
Published: April 2008

In pregnancy is a series of reviews focusing on the management of women with psychiatric and neurological conditions during pregnancy.In this article,Dr Hart discusses the special precautions that need to be taken when caring for women with epilepsy before and during pregnancy, including preconception counselling, adjustment of antiepileptic drugs and monitoring of the mother and fetus. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Interface Ltd
Alzheimer's Society
Authors: Evers Clive
Published: April 2008

The Alzheimer's Society is the UK's leading care and research charity for people with dementia and those who care for them. Its vision is of a radically improved world for people with dementia, in which their needs are fully met, their rights are recognised and they are free from discrimination. Here, Clive Evers, director of information, describes some of the work the society is currently doing towards achieving these aims. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Interface Ltd
Antiperoxidative, antithyroidal, antihyperglycemic and cardioprotective role of Citrus sinensis peel extract in male mice
Authors: Parmar H. S. , Kar A.
Published: April 2008

An extract of Citrus sinensis (CS) peel was evaluated for its efficacy in ameliorating L‐thyroxine (L‐T4) induced tissue lipid peroxidation (LPO), hyperthyroidism and hyperglycemia in mice. In a preliminary investigation, of the three different doses of CS (12.5 mg/kg, 25 mg/kg and 50.0 mg/kg) peel extract, 25 mg/kg was found to be the most effective and antiperoxidative, while 50 mg/kg was proved to be hepatotoxic. Therefore in the pilot experiment the effects of 25 mg/kg/day of CS for 10 days were studied in L‐T4 induced hyperthyroid animals. L‐T4 (500 µg/kg/day for 10 days) increased the levels of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) with a concomitant increase in serum glucose concentration, alpha‐amylase activity, heart/body weight ratio (HW/BW), kidney/body weight ratio (KW/BW) and cardiac as well as hepatic LPO. However, it decreased the concentration of different serum lipids such as total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) and very low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL‐C). Administration of CS extract (25 mg/kg/day) in hyperthyroid animals reversed most of these observations revealing the ameliorating potential of CS extract against various adverse effects of hyperthyroidism. It appears that the test extract primarily acts through its antioxidative/free radical‐scavenging, antithyroidal and HDL‐C stimulating properties. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
QSAR Analysis of Platelet‐derived Growth Inhibitors Using GA‐ANN and Shuffling Crossvalidation
Authors: Jalali‐Heravi Mehdi , Asadollahi‐Baboli Mohammad
Published: April 2008

Quantitative Structure–Activity Relationship (QSAR) models for the inhibition action of some 1‐phenylbenzimidazoles on platelet‐derived growth are constructed using Genetic Algorithm and Artificial Neural Network (GA‐ANN) method. The statistical parameters of R2 and root‐mean‐square error are 0.82 and 0.21, respectively using this method. These parameters show a considerable improvement compared to the stepwise multiple linear regression combined with ANN (stepwise MLR‐ANN). Ten‐fold shuffling crossvalidations are carried out to select the most important descriptors. Five descriptors of index of Balaban (J), average molecular weight (AMW), 3D‐Wiener index (W3D), mean atomic van der Waals volume (Sv), and total charge (Qtotal) appear in most of the models. The results of GA‐ANN are superior compared with those of GA‐MLR and GA‐PLS, which indicate that the inhibition behavior has nonlinear characteristics. The ability of GA‐ANN model in predicting inhibition behavior of 1‐phenylbenzimidazoles [log(1/IC50)] and its robustness is illustrated by validation techniques of leave‐one‐out and leave‐multiple‐out crossvalidations and also by Y‐randomization technique.
Quantitative structure‐antibacterial activity relationship modeling using a combination of piecewise linear regression‐discriminant analysis (I): Quantum chemical, topographic, and topological descriptors
Authors: Molina Enrique , Estrada Ernesto , Nodarse Delvin , Torres Luis A. , González Humberto , Uriarte Eugenio
Published: April 2008

Time‐dependent antibacterial activity of 2‐furylethylenes using quantum chemical, topographic, and topological indices is described as inhibition of respiration inE. coli. A QSAR strategy based on the combination of the linear piecewise regression and the discriminant analysis is used to predict the biological activity values of strong and moderates antibacterial furylethylenes. The breakpoint in the values of the biological activity was detected. The biological activities of the compounds are described by two linear regression equations. A discriminant analysis is carried out to classify the compounds in one of the biological activity two groups. The results showed using different kind of descriptors were compared. In all cases the piecewise linear regression—discriminant analysis (PLR‐DA) method produced significantly better QSAR models than the linear regression analysis. The QSAR models were validated using an external validation previously extracted from the original data. A prediction of reported antibacterial activity analysis was carried out showing dependence between the probability of a good classification and the experimental antibacterial activity. Statistical parameters showed the quality of quantum‐chemical descriptors based models prediction in LDA having an accuracy of 0.9 and aCof 0.9. The best PLR‐DA model explains more than 92% of the variance of experimental activity. Models with best prediction results were those based on quantum‐chemical descriptors. An interpretation of quantum‐chemical descriptors entered in models was carried out. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2008
Jojoba—Variability in oil content and composition in a collection of 1156 native plants
Authors: Clarke J. A. , Yermanos D. M.
Published: April 2008

Data are presented on the oil content and composition in the seeds of 1156 native jojoba plants harvested individually from inland and coastal areas of California and Arizona in the U.S. and from Sonora and Baja California in Mexico. The mean oil content of these samples was 53.2%; 34.2% of the samples exceeded 53%. The mean single seed weight was 0.56 g. A significant correlation between single seed weight and oil content was found but there was no correlation between oil content of the seed and seed yield per plant. Analysis of the oil for fatty acids and fatty alcohols showed very little variability among samples. This compositional uniformity is a major asset in terms of industrial application of this oil. Half the seeds studied in 144 samples had a mean oil content of 49.5% and mean single seed weight of 0.39 g. Simple correlations between fatty acids and oil content were similar to those reported earlier.
Silica content of dusts from five texas cottonseed oil mills
Authors: Brown D. F. , Mitcham D. , Berni R. J.
Published: April 2008

Total dust samples, collected with high‐volume samplers, were ashed and then analyzed for aluminum, silicon and silica (SiO2). Ash and aluminum contents agreed with earlier reported data, but the silicon content was lower. The amounts of silica ranged from 2–7% in dusts from the cleaning rooms to 0.01–0.05% in dusts from the baling rooms. Agreement with silica contents determined by infrared (IR) spectrometry was good. IR spectra indicated silica particle diameters were in the range of 6–8 µm in the cleaning rooms and 10 µm or more in the delintering and baling rooms. Threshold limit values (TLV) calculated on the basis of total silica in the high‐volume samples suggest silica values above the limit in 4 of the cleaning rooms, and possibly one at the delintering rooms. Calculation of respirable silica concentrations and TLV for respirable silica was precluded by the sampling method.
Importance of endogenous feedback controlling the long‐term abundance of tropical mosquito species
Authors: Yang Guo‐Jing , Bradshaw Corey J. A. , Whelan Peter I. , Brook Barry W.
Published: April 2008

Mosquitoes are a major vector for tropical diseases, so understanding aspects that modify their population dynamics is vital for their control and protecting human health. Maximising the efficiency of control strategies for reducing transmission risk requires as a first step the understanding of the intrinsic population dynamics of vectors. We fitted a set of density‐dependent and density‐independent models to the long‐term time series of six tropical mosquito species from northern Australia. The models’ strength of evidence was assessed using Akaike's Information Criterion (AICc), Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) and jack‐knifed cross‐validation (C‐V). Density dependence accounted for more than 99% of the model weight in all model‐selection methods, with the Gompertz‐logistic (Cushing model) being the best‐supported model for all mosquito species (negative density feedback expressed even at low densities). The second‐most abundant species, Aedes vigilax (a saline breeder), showed no spatial heterogeneity in its density‐dependent response, but the remaining five species had different intrinsic growth rates across 11 study sites. Population densities of saline species were high only during the late dry to early wet season following the highest tides of the month or early flood rains when swamps were mostly saline, whereas those of freshwater species were highest during the mid‐wet and mid‐dry seasons. These findings demonstrate remarkably strong density dependence in mosquito populations, but also suggest that environmental drivers, such as rainfall and tides, are important in modifying seasonal densities. Neglecting to account for strong density feedback in tropical mosquito populations will clearly result in less effective control.
Mefolinate (5‐methyltetrahydrofolate), but not folic acid, decreases mortality in an animal model of severe methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase deficiency
Authors: Li D. , Karp N. , Wu Q. , Wang X‐L. , Melnyk S. , James S. J. , Rozen R.
Published: April 2008

Severe deficiency of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) results in homocystinuria, with a variety of neurological and vascular complications, and sometimes death in the first year of life. MTHFR (EC 1.5.1.20) catalyses the synthesis of 5‐methyltetrahydrofolate (5‐methylTHF) which is required for homocysteine remethylation to methionine. Mthfr−/− mice are a good animal model of severe MTHFR deficiency in humans. They have marked hyperhomocysteinaemia and a high rate of mortality in the neonatal period. We attempted to rescue Mthfr−/− mice from postnatal death by treating their Mthfr+/− mothers with mefolinate (a synthetic form of 5‐methylTHF, dissolved in their drinking water) or with a folic acid‐enriched diet throughout pregnancy and lactation. We monitored pups’ vitality and body weights until 3 weeks of age. The majority of Mthfr−/− pups from the control groups died during the first week of life. Body weights of −/− pups from control groups were significantly less than those of their Mthfr+/− and Mthfr+/+ littermates. Mefolinate treatment significantly improved survival rates (64% survival) in the −/− pups and improved morphology of the cerebellum. Folic acid supplementation did not affect the survival rate or body weights of the −/− pups. Our study suggests that MTHFR is important for postnatal growth and vitality, and that 5‐methylTHF deficiency contributes to the high postnatal mortality. Mefolinate may be a good candidate drug for treatment of severe MTHFR deficiency.
Reduced carbohydrate intake in citrin‐deficient subjects
Authors: Saheki T. , Kobayashi K. , Terashi M. , Ohura T. , Yanagawa Y. , Okano Y. , Hattori T. , Fujimoto H. , Mutoh K. , Kizaki Z. , Inui A.
Published: April 2008

Citrin is the liver‐type aspartate‐glutamate carrier that resides within the inner mitochondrial membrane. Citrin deficiency (due to homozygous or compound heterozygous mutations in the gene SLC25A13) causes both adult‐onset type II citrullinaemia (CTLN2) and neonatal intrahepatic cholestasis (NICCD). Clinically, CTLN2 is characterized by hyperammonaemia and citrullinaemia, whereas NICCD has a much more varied and transient presentation that can include multiple aminoacidaemias, hypoproteinaemia, galactosaemia, hypoglycaemia, and jaundice. Personal histories from CTLN2 patients have repeatedly described an aversion to carbohydrate‐rich foods, and clinical observations of dietary and therapeutic outcomes have suggested that their unusual food preferences may be directly related to their pathophysiology. In the present study, we monitored the food intake of 18 Japanese citrin‐deficient subjects whose ages ranged from 1 to 33 years, comparing them against published values for the general Japanese population. Our survey confirmed a marked decrease in carbohydrate intake, which accounts for a smaller proportion of carbohydrates contributing to the total energy intake (PFC ratio) as well as a shift towards a lower centile distribution for carbohydrate intake relative to age‐ and sex‐matched controls. These results strongly support an avoidance of carbohydrate‐rich foods by citrin‐deficient patients that may lead to worsening of symptoms.
Inherited epithelial transporter disorders—an overview
Authors: Bergeron M. J. , Simonin A. , Bürzle M. , Hediger M. A.
Published: April 2008

In the late 1990s, the identification of transporters and transporter‐associated genes progressed substantially due to the development of new cloning approaches such as expression cloning and, subsequently, to the implementation of the human genome project. Since then, the role of many transporter genes in human diseases has been elucidated. In this overview, we focus on inherited disorders of epithelial transporters. In particular, we review genetic defects of the genes encoding glucose transporters (SLC2 and SLC5 families) and amino acid transporters (SLC1, SLC3, SLC6 and SLC7 families).
Housing Loan Patterns toward Minority Borrowers in Mississippi: Analysis of Some Micro Data Evidence of Redlining
Authors: Ezeala-Harrison Fidel , Glover Glenda B. , Shaw-Jackson Jane
Published: April 2008

We apply a cross-regional probit analysis to examine the existence or otherwise of the discriminatory practice of “redlining” in housing loan lending practices of banks in Mississippi. Data on loan denial rates across three Mississippi regions of Tri-County Metro-Jackson, Southern Mississippi Corridor, and the Northern district are studied to determine the pattern of bank lending activities regarding owner-occupied housing loan extensions to minority members of Mississippi's population. The purpose is to determine the degree to which the banks have or have not observed fair and equitable lending practices toward minority borrowers, relative to the members of the majority population. The results suggest that there is a consistently high denial rates against minorities. The results indicate strong evidence of redlining practices in housing loan decisions, which contribute to the growth of racial segregation in the state.
The use of E/Em and the time interval difference of isovolumic relaxation (TIVRT−IVRTm) in estimating left ventricular filling pressures
Authors: Lindqvist Per , Wikström Gerhard , Waldenström Anders
Published: April 2008

Background and aims:

The ratio of the transmitral and myocardial early diastolic velocities (E/Em) can be used to estimate LV filling pressures (LVFP). Additionally, the time difference between the onset of E and Em also correlates to LVFP. The aim of this study was to evaluate which of these two indices is the best marker of LVFP in a heterogeneous group of patients during a simultaneous invasive procedure.

Methods and results:

Thirty two patients were studied. Em and the isovolumic relaxation time (IVRTm) at four segments of the LV were measured using pulsed tissue Doppler echocardiography. Pulsed Doppler echocardiography was used to measure E and IVRT. E/Em and IVRT−IVRTm (TIVRT−IVRTm) were then calculated. Highly significant correlations were found between TIVRT−IVRTm and PCWP at the lateral (r=−0.80, p<0.001) and posterior (r=−0.71, p<0.001) segments whereas only a weak relationship was found between PCWP and E/Em (p<0.05). The sensitivity and specificity of using a negative TIVRT−IVRTm for identifying patients with PCWP >12 mm Hg were 89 and 90%, respectively.

Conclusion:

We found a highly significant correlation between TIVRT−IVRTm and PCWP, which was not seen for E/Em. We propose TIVRT−IVRTm as a stronger predictor of LVFP. TIVRT−IVRTm also seems to correlate to LVFP for many different clinical aetiologies of elevated LVFP.
Glucuronic acid can extend O‐linked core 1 glycans, but it contributes only weakly to the negative surface charge of Drosophila melanogaster Schneider‐2 cells
Authors: Breloy Isabelle , Schwientek Tilo , Lehr Stefan , Hanisch Franz-Georg
Published: April 2008

Previous studies of the mucin‐type O‐glycome of the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster have revealed a restricted pattern of neutral core‐type glycans corresponding to the Tn‐(GalNAcα) and the T‐antigen (Galβ1‐3GalNAcα). In particular, no extension of the core 1 glycan with acidic sugars, like sialic acid, was detected. Here we report on the identification of an acidic O‐linked trisaccharide expressed on secreted endogenous and recombinant glycoproteins of the embryonal hemocyte‐like Drosophila Schneider‐2 (S2) cell line. The glycan is composed of glucuronic acid, galactose and N‐acetylgalactosamine and its structure was determined as GlcA1‐3Gal1‐3GalNAc. The O‐linked trisaccharide resembles the peripheral structures of acidic D. melanogaster glycosphingolipids. Glucuronic acid may substitute for sialic acid in this organism, however its expression on the S2 cell surface may only marginally contribute to the negative surface charge as revealed by free‐flow cell electrophoresis prior to and after β‐glucuronidase treatment of the cells.
Altered bone metabolism in inflammatory disease: role for nutrition
Authors: Cashman Kevin D.
Published: April 2008

Osteoporosis is a major public health problem, and as life expectancy and the world's population continue to increase will become even more important. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop and implement nutritional approaches and policies for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Patients with some chronic inflammatory diseases appear to be more likely to develop osteopenia, and in some cases earlier in life, which is of particular concern as the incidence of inflammatory diseases in the Western world is increasing. While the cause of bone loss in patients with inflammatory disease is multifactorial, nutrition may have a role. Many of these patients may have one or more nutritional deficiencies, which can lead to altered rates of bone metabolism. On the other hand, some nutritional factors may attenuate the inflammatory process itself, and thus may indirectly benefit bone metabolism and bone health in patients with inflammatory disease. The present review will consider these issues, particularly in the context of inflammatory bowel disease, coeliac diease and atherosclerosis.
Alcohol and illicit drug dependence among parents: associations with offspring externalizing disorders
Authors: Marmorstein N. R. , Iacono W. G. , McGue M.
Published: April 2008

Background

Previous research indicates that alcohol and drug dependence constitute aspects of a general vulnerability to externalizing disorders that accounts for much of the parent-offspring resemblance for these and related disorders. This study examined how adolescent offspring risk for externalizing psychopathology varies with respect to parental alcoholism and illicit drug dependence.

Method

Data from the Minnesota Twin Family Study, a community-based investigation of adolescents (age 17 years, n=1252) and their parents, were used. Lifetime diagnoses of alcohol and drug dependence (among both parents and offspring) and offspring attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, adult antisocial behavior, and nicotine dependence were assessed via structured interviews.

Results

Parental alcohol dependence and parental drug dependence were similarly associated with increased risk for nearly all offspring disorders, with offspring of alcohol and drug-dependent parents having approximately 2–3 times the odds for developing a disorder by late adolescence compared to low-risk offspring. Compared to parental dependence on other illicit drugs, parental cannabis dependence was associated with weaker increased risk for offspring externalizing disorders.

Conclusions

Both parental alcohol and drug dependence are independently associated with an increased risk for a broad range of externalizing psychopathology among late-adolescent offspring.