bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellular wave computer algorithms with spatial semantic embedding for handwritten text recognition
Authors: Karacs Kristóf , Prószéky Gábor , Roska Tamás
Published: August 2008

The recognition of cursive handwritten texts is a complex, in some cases unsolvable, task. One problem is that in most cases it is difficult or impossible to identify each letter, even if the words are separated. In our new method, the identification of letters is not needed due to the extensive and iterative use of semantic and morphological information of a given language. We are using a spatial feature code, generated by a cellular nonlinear network (CNN) based cellular wave computer algorithm, and combine it with the linguistic properties of the given language. Most general‐purpose handwriting recognition systems lack the ability to integrate linguistic background knowledge because they use it only for post‐processing recognition results. The high‐levela prioribackground knowledge is, however, crucial in human reading and similarly it can boost recognition rates dramatically in case of recognition systems. In our new system we do not treat the visual source as the only input: geometric and linguistic information are given equal importance. On the geometric side we use word‐level holistic feature detection without letter segmentation by analogic CNN algorithms designed for cellular wave computers (IEEE Trans. Circuits Syst.1993;40:163–173;Cellular Neural Networks and Visual Computing,Foundations and Applications. Cambridge University Press: Cambridge, U.K., New York, 2002). The linguistic side is based on a morpho‐syntactic linguistic system (Proceedings of COLING‐2002, vol. II, Taipei, Taiwan, 2002; 1263–1267). A novel shape coding method is used to interface them, and their interaction is enhanced via an inverse filtering technique based on features that are global or of a low confidence value. A statistical context selection method is also applied to further reduce the output word lists. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using drinking in the dark to model prenatal binge‐like exposure to ethanol in C57BL/6J mice
Authors: Boehm Stephen L. , Moore Eileen M. , Walsh Cherie D. , Gross Carly D. , Cavelli Austin M. , Gigante Eduardo , Linsenbardt David N.
Published: August 2008

Animal models of prenatal ethanol exposure are necessary to more fully understand the effects of ethanol on the developing embryo/fetus. However, most models employ procedures that may produce additional maternal stress beyond that produced by ethanol alone. We employed a daily limited‐access ethanol intake model called Drinking in the Dark (DID) to assess the effects of voluntary maternal binge‐like ethanol intake on the developing mouse. Evidence suggests that binge exposure may be particularly harmful to the embryo/fetus, perhaps due to the relatively higher blood ethanol concentrations achieved. Pregnant females had mean daily ethanol intakes ranging from 4.2 to 6.4 g/kg ethanol over gestation, producing blood ethanol concentrations ranging from 115 to 182 mg/dL. This level of ethanol intake produced behavioral alterations among adolescent offspring that disappeared by adulthood, including altered sensitivity to ethanol's hypnotic actions. The DID model may provide a useful tool for studying the effects of prenatal ethanol exposure in mice. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 50: 566–578, 2008.
The Effects of Pendant vs. Fused Thiophene Attachment upon the Luminescence Lifetimes and Electrochemistry of Tris(2,2′‐bipyridine)ruthenium(II) Complexes
Authors: Nurkkala Lasse J. , Steen Robert O. , Friberg Henrik K. J. , Häggström Johanna A. , Bernhardt Paul V. , Riley Mark J. , Dunne Simon J.
Published: August 2008

The electrochemical and photophysical properties for a range of tris(2,2′‐bipyridine)ruthenium(II) complexes in which a thiophene substituent is attached to one of the bipyridine ligands by either a pendant or a fused mode have been determined. The fused mode of attachment eliminates torsional movement between the thiophene unit and the chelating bipyridine, thereby offering optimal overlap between the π‐systems of the chelating unit and the attached thiophene unit. The electrochemical properties of these complexes were found to be similar; however, the luminescence lifetimes and intensities (in CH3CN at room temperature) were found to be correlated to the mode of attachment. The longest luminescence lifetime was observed for the complex [Ru(bpy)2{4‐(thiophen‐2‐yl)‐2,2′‐bipyridine}]2+ (3000 ns), as compared to the prototypic [Ru(bpy)3]2+ (1745 ns). This complex also had the highest quantum yield (0.045). In the four isomeric complexes, where the thiophene ring was fused to the b or c face of the pyridine ring, the lifetimes fell in the interval 275–1510 ns, and the quantum yield ranged between 0.0047 and 0.014. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Experimental validation of two depth‐averaged turbulence models
Authors: Fe J. , Navarrina F. , Puertas J. , Vellando P. , Ruiz D.
Published: August 2008

A finite volume turbulence model for the resolution of the two‐dimensional shallow water equations with turbulent term is presented. After making a finite volume discretization of the depth‐averaged k–ε equations in conservative form, the q–r equations, that give stability to the process, are obtained. Wall and inlet boundary conditions for the turbulent equations and wall conditions for the hydrodynamic equations are discussed. A comparison between the k–ε and q–r models and some experimental results is made. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
GluR6‐containing KA receptor mediates the activation of p38 MAP kinase in rat hippocampal CA1 region during brain ischemia injury
Authors: Chen Juan , Li Chong , Pei Dong‐Sheng , Han Dong , Liu Xiao‐Mei , Jiang Hai‐Xia , Wang Xiao‐Tian , Guan Qiu‐Hua , Wen Xiang‐Ru , Hou Xiao‐Yu , Zhang Guang‐Yi
Published: August 2008

Our previous study showed that kainate (KA) receptor subunit GluR6 played an important role in ischemia‐induced MLK3 and JNK activation and neuronal degeneration through the GluR6‐PSD95‐MLK3 signaling module. However, whether the KA receptors subunit GluR6 is involved in the activation of p38 MAP kinase during the transient brain ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) in the rat hippocampal CA1 subfield is still unknown. In this present study, we first evaluated the time‐course of phospho‐p38 MAP kinase at various time‐points after 15 min of ischemia and then observed the effects of antagonist of KA receptor subunit GluR6, GluR6 antisence oligodeoxynucleotides on the phosphorylation of p38 MAP kinase induced by I/R. Results showed that inhibiting KA receptor GluR6 or suppressing the expression of KA receptor GluR6 could down‐regulate the elevation of phospho‐p38 MAP kinase induced by I/R. These drugs also reduced the phosphorylation of MLK3, MKK3/MKK6, MKK4, and MAPKAPK2. Additionally, our results indicated administration of three drugs, including p38 MAP kinase inhibitor before brain ischemia significantly decreased the number of TUNEL‐positive cells detected at 3 days of reperfusion and increased the number of the surviving CA1 pyramidal cells at 5 days of reperfusion after 15 min of ischemia. Taken together, we suggest that GluR6‐contained KA receptors can mediate p38 MAP kinase activation through a kinase cascade, including MLK3, MKK3/MKK6, and MKK4 and then induce increased phosphorylation of MAPKAPK‐2 during ischemia injury and ultimately result in neuronal cell death in the rat hippocampal CA1 region. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
ATP‐dependent looping of DNA by ISWI
Authors: Lia Giuseppe , Indrieri Marco , Owen‐Hughes Tom , Finzi Laura , Podesta Alessandro , Milani Paolo , Dunlap David
Published: August 2008

Snf2 related chromatin remodelling enzymes possess an ATPase subunit similar to that of the SF‐II helicases which hydrolyzes ATP to track along DNA. Translocation and any resulting torque in the DNA could drive chromatin remodeling. To determine whether the ISWI protein can translocate and generate torque, tethered particle motion experiments and atomic force microscopy have been performed using recombinant ISWI expressed in E. coli. In the absence of ATP, ISWI bound to and wrapped DNA thereby shortening the overall contour length measured in atomic force micrographs. Although naked DNA only weakly stimulates ATP hydrolysis by ISWI, both atomic force microscopy and tethered particle motion data indicate that the protein generated loops in the presence of ATP. The duration of the looped state of the DNA measured using tethered particle motion was ATP‐dependent. Finally, ISWI relaxed positively supercoiled plasmids visualized by atomic force microscopy. While other chromatin remodeling ATPases catalyze either DNA wrapping or looping, both are catalyzed by ISWI. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Nuclear and nuclear envelope localization of dystrophin Dp71 and dystrophin‐associated proteins (DAPs) in the C2C12 muscle cells: DAPs nuclear localization is modulated during myogenesis
Authors: González‐Ramírez R. , Morales‐Lázaro S.L. , Tapia‐Ramírez V. , Mornet D. , Cisneros B.
Published: August 2008

Dystrophin and dystrophin‐associated proteins (DAPs) form a complex around the sarcolemma, which gives stability to the sarcolemma and leads signal transduction. Recently, the nuclear presence of dystrophin Dp71 and DAPs has been revealed in different non‐muscle cell types, opening the possibility that these proteins could also be present in the nucleus of muscle cells. In this study, we analyzed by Immunofluorescence assays and Immunoblotting analysis of cell fractions the subcellular localization of Dp71 and DAPs in the C2C12 muscle cell line. We demonstrated the presence of Dp71, α‐sarcoglycan, α‐dystrobrevin, β‐dystroglycan and α‐syntrophin not only in plasma membrane but also in the nucleus of muscle cells. In addition, we found by Immunoprecipitation assays that these proteins form a nuclear complex. Interestingly, myogenesis modulates the presence and/or relative abundance of DAPs in the plasma membrane and nucleus as well as the composition of the nuclear complex. Finally, we demonstrated the presence of Dp71, α‐sarcoglycan, β‐dystroglycan, α‐dystrobrevin and α‐syntrophin in the C2C12 nuclear envelope fraction. Interestingly, α‐sarcoglycan and β‐dystroglycan proteins showed enrichment in the nuclear envelope, compared with the nuclear fraction, suggesting that they could function as inner nuclear membrane proteins underlying the secondary association of Dp71 and the remaining DAPs to the nuclear envelope. Nuclear envelope localization of Dp71 and DAPs might be involved in the nuclear envelope‐associated functions, such as nuclear structure and modulation of nuclear processes. J. Cell. Biochem. 105: 735–745, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Diacylglycerol kinase ζ is associated with chromatin, but dissociates from condensed chromatin during mitotic phase in NIH3T3 cells
Authors: Hasegawa Hiroshi , Nakano Tomoyuki , Hozumi Yasukazu , Takagi Michiaki , Ogino Toshihiko , Okada Masashi , Iseki Ken , Kondo Hisatake , Watanabe Masahiko , Martelli Alberto M. , Goto Kaoru
Published: August 2008

Diacylglycerol kinase (DGK) converts diacylglycerol (DG) to phosphatidic acid, both of which act as second messengers to mediate a variety of cellular mechanisms. Therefore, DGK contributes to the regulation of these messengers in cellular signal transduction. Of DGK isozymes cloned, DGKζ is characterized by a nuclear localization signal that overlaps with a sequence similar to the myristoylated alanine‐rich C‐kinase substrate. Previous studies showed that nuclear DG is differentially regulated from plasma membrane DG and that the nuclear DG levels fluctuate in correlation with cell cycle progression, suggesting the importance of nuclear DG in cell cycle control. In this connection, DGKζ has been shown to localize to the nucleus in fully differentiated cells, such as neurons and lung cells, although it remains elusive how DGK behaves during the cell cycle in proliferating cells. Here we demonstrate that DGKζ localizes to the nucleus during interphase including G1, S, and G2 phases and is associated with chromatin although it dissociates from condensed chromatin during mitotic phase in NIH3T3 cells. Furthermore, this localization pattern is also observed in proliferating spermatogonia in the testis. These results suggest a reversible association of DGKζ with histone or its related proteins in cell cycle, plausibly dependent on their post‐translational modifications. J. Cell. Biochem. 105: 756–765, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of exercise duration on the key pathways of ceramide metabolism in rat skeletal muscles
Authors: Błachnio‐Zabielska Agnieszka , Baranowski Marcin , Zabielski Piotr , Górski Jan
Published: August 2008

Ceramide is the key compound on crossroads of sphingolipid metabolism. The content and composition of ceramides in skeletal muscles have been shown to be affected by prolonged exercise. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of exercise on the activity of key enzymes of ceramide metabolism in skeletal muscles. The experiments were carried out on male Wistar rats (200–250 g) divided into four groups: sedentary, exercised for 30 min, 90 min, and until exhaustion. The activity of serine palmitoyltransferase (SPT), neutral and acid sphingomyelinase (nSMase and aSMase), neutral and alkaline ceramidases (nCDase and alCDase) and the content of ceramide, sphingosine, sphinganine and sphingosine‐1‐phosphate were determined in three types of muscle. We have found that the activity and expression of SPT increase gradually in each muscle with duration of exercise. These changes were followed by elevation in the content of sphinganine. These data indicate that exercise increases de novo synthesis of ceramide. The aSMase activity gradually decreased with duration of exercise in each type of muscle. After exhaustive exercise the activity of both isoforms of ceramidase were reduced in each muscle. The ceramide level depends both on duration of exercise and muscle type. The ceramide level in the soleus and white gastrocnemius decreased after 30 min of running. After exhaustive exercise it was elevated in the soleus and red gastrocnemius. It is concluded that exercise strongly affects the activity of key enzymes involved in ceramide metabolism and in consequence the level of sphingolipid intermediates in skeletal muscles. J. Cell. Biochem. 105: 776–784, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
FIAT represses bone matrix mineralization by interacting with ATF4 through its second leucine zipper
Authors: Yu Vionnie W.C. , Gauthier Claude , St‐Arnaud René
Published: August 2008

We have characterized FIAT, a 66 kDa leucine zipper (LZ) protein that dimerizes with activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) to form inactive dimers that cannot bind DNA. Computer analysis identifies three putative LZ motifs within the FIAT amino acid sequence. We have used deletion‐ and/or site‐specific mutagenesis to individually inactivate these motifs in order to identify the functional LZ that mediates the FIAT–ATF4 interaction. Amino acids 194–222 that encode the FIAT LZ2 were deleted (mutant FIAT ZIP2 DEL). We inactivated each zipper individually by replacing two or three leucine residues within each zipper by alanine residues. The engineered mutations were L142A/L149A (mutant M1, first zipper), L208A/L215A/L222A (mutant M2, second zipper), and L441A/L448A (mutant M3, third zipper). MC3T3‐E1 osteoblastic cells with an integrated 1.3 kb mouse osteocalcin gene promoter fragment driving expression of luciferase were transfected with expression vectors for ATF4 and the various FIAT deletion‐ or site‐specific mutants. Inhibition of ATF4‐mediated transcription was compared between wild‐type (WT) and LZ FIAT mutants. The deletion mutant FIAT ZIP2 DEL and the sequence‐specific M2 mutant did not interact with ATF4 and were unable to inhibit ATF4‐mediated transcription. The M1 or M3 mutations did not affect the ability of FIAT to contact ATF4 or to inhibit its transcriptional activity. Stable expression of WT FIAT in osteoblastic cells inhibited mineralization, but not expression of the FIAT ZIP2 DEL and M2 mutants. This structure–function analysis reveals that FIAT interacts with ATF4 and modulates its activity through its second leucine zipper motif. J. Cell. Biochem. 105: 859–865, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Psychometric perspectives on diagnostic systems
Authors: Borsboom Denny
Published: August 2008

The author identifies four conceptualizations of the relation between symptoms and disorders as utilized in diagnostic systems such as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM‐IV; American Psychiatric Association, 1994): A constructivist perspective, which holds that disorders are conveniently grouped sets of symptoms; a diagnostic perspective, which holds that disorders are latent classes underlying the symptoms; a dimensional perspective, which holds that symptoms measure latent continua; and a causal systems perspective, which holds that disorders are causal networks consisting of symptoms and direct causal relations between them. Advantages and disadvantages of these conceptualizations are discussed. The author concludes that the psychometric analysis of diagnostic systems is not settled, and that these systems require deeper psychometric analysis than they currently receive. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 64: 1089–1108, 2008.
Estimating WISC‐IV indexes: proration versus linear scaling
Authors: Glass Laura A. , Ryan Joseph J. , Bartels Jared M. , Morris Jeri
Published: August 2008

This investigation compared proration and linear scaling for estimating Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children–Fourth Edition (WISC‐IV) verbal comprehension (VCI) and perceptual reasoning (PRI) composites from all relevant two subtest combinations. Using 57 primary school students and 41 clinical referrals, actual VCI and PRI scores were highly correlated with estimated index scores based on proration and linear scaling (all rs≥.90). In the school sample, significant mean score differences between the actual and estimated composites were found in two comparisons; however, differences between mean scores were less than three points. No significant differences emerged in the clinical sample. Results indicate that any of the two subtest combinations produced reasonably accurate estimates of actual indexes. There was no advantage of one computational method over the other. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 64:1–6, 2008.
Cleaner water using bimetallic nanoparticle catalysts
Authors: Wong Michael S. , Alvarez Pedro J. J. , Fang Yu‐lun , Akçin Nurgül , Nutt Michael O. , Miller Jeffrey T. , Heck Kimberly N.
Published: August 2008

Groundwater contaminated by hazardous chlorinated compounds, especially chlorinated ethenes, continues to be a significant environmental problem in industrialized nations. The conventional treatment methods of activated carbon adsorption and air‐stripping successfully remove these compounds by way of transferring them from the water phase into the solid or gas phase. Catalysis is a promising approach to remove chlorinated compounds completely from the environment, by converting them into safer, non‐chlorinated compounds. Palladium‐based materials have been shown to be very effective as hydrodechlorination catalysts for the removal of chlorinated ethenes and other related compounds. However, relatively low catalytic activity and a propensity for deactivation are significant issues that prevent their widespread use in groundwater remediation. Palladium‐on‐gold bimetallic nanoparticles, in contrast, were recently discovered to exhibit superior catalyst activity and improved deactivation resistance. This new type of material is a significant next‐step in the development of a viable hydrodechlorination catalysis technology. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Dexamethasone inhibition of confluence‐induced apoptosis in human mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Song In‐Hwan , Caplan Arnold I. , Dennis James E.
Published: August 2008

Human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been extensively characterized with respect to their in vitro expansion and differentiation potential, especially with respect to osteogenesis. Dexamethasone (Dex) is a well‐known inducer of osteogenic differentiation of MSCs, but little is known about the effect of Dex treatment on apoptosis in MSCs. In this study, apoptosis in MSCs was examined with respect to cell density and Dex supplementation, using DAPI staining and DNA fragmentation ELISA Assay. In MSC cultures initiated at 1.0, 3.0, and 9.0 × 103 cells per cm2, it was found that higher MSC density correlated with increased apoptosis and that this apoptotic effect was diminished in cultures containing 100 nM Dex. MSCs and fibroblasts were co‐cultured, along with empty insert controls, and assayed for apoptosis by ELISA and DAPI counts to determine if soluble factors accounted for the cell density‐related apoptosis. No difference was seen between MSCs cultured with inserts containing either MSCs, fibroblasts, or empty control. To determine cell contact effects, BrdU‐labeled MSCs were cultured alone or with unlabeled chondrocytes at 2× and 8× the number of MSCs, with and without Dex, and apoptosis levels quantified. The results showed increased apoptosis at greater cell densities, and that the amount of apoptosis was greatly diminished in cultures containing Dex. These results show that apoptosis in MSCs is cell density‐related, requires direct cell contact, and that Dex treatment reduces or eliminates this density‐related apoptosis. These results may impact how MSCs should be cultured for clinical applications. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 27:216–221, 2009
A mouse model for glucocorticoid‐induced osteonecrosis: Effect of a steroid holiday
Authors: Yang Lei , Boyd Kelli , Kaste Sue C. , Kamdem Kamdem Landry , Rahija Richard J. , Relling Mary V.
Published: August 2008

Glucocorticoid‐induced osteonecrosis is a common and dose‐limiting adverse event. The goal of this study was to establish a mouse model of glucocorticoid‐induced osteonecrosis suitable for testing the effects of different treatment strategies on its frequency. Fourteen murine strains were screened using various glucocorticoids, routes of administration, and diets. Four‐week‐old male BALB/cJ mice were treated with oral dexamethasone for up to 12 weeks either by continuous dosing or by discontinuous dosing, with or without asparaginase. Histopathological features of the distal femurs were examined by light microscopy. Osteonecrotic lesions were characterized by empty lacunae and osteocyte ghosts in trabecular bone surrounded by necrotic marrow and edema. The incidence of dexamethasone induced osteonecrosis in BALB/cJ mice was 40–45% (4/10 or 5/11) at 12 weeks. The frequency of osteonecrosis trended lower after discontinuous compared to continuous dosing for 12 weeks (8 vs. 45%) (p = 0.06) despite comparable cumulative plasma exposure. Asparaginase hastened the occurrence of osteonecrosis, which was observed as early as 4 weeks and the incidence was 50% after 6 weeks. A mouse model of glucocorticoid‐induced osteonecrosis was established. Discontinuous was less osteonecrotic than continuous dexamethasone treatment, consistent with the possible benefits of a “steroid holiday” seen in clinical settings. Moreover, asparaginase hastened osteonecrosis, indicating that drugs may interact with glucocorticoids to affect osteonecrosis risk. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 27:169–175, 2009
Investigation of an unnatural amino acid for use as a resonance Raman probe: detection limits and solvent and temperature dependence of the νCN band of 4‐cyanophenylalanine
Authors: Weeks Colin L. , Polishchuk Alexei , Getahun Zelleka , DeGrado William F. , Spiro Thomas G.
Published: August 2008

The incorporation of unnatural amino acids into proteins that act as spectroscopic probes can be used to study protein structure and function. One such probe is 4‐cyanophenylalanine (PheCN), the nitrile group of which has a stretching mode that occurs in a region of the vibrational spectrum that does not contain any modes from the usual components of proteins and whose wavenumber is sensitive to the polarity of its environment. In this work we evaluate the potential of UV resonance Raman spectroscopy for monitoring the sensitivity of the νCN band of PheCN incorporated into proteins to the protein environment. Measurement of the Raman excitation profile of PheCN showed that considerable resonance enhancement of the Raman signal was obtained using UV excitation and the best signal‐to‐noise ratios were obtained with excitation wavelengths of 229 and 244 nm. The detection limit for PheCN in proteins was ∼10 µM, approximately 100‐fold lower than the concentrations used in infrared (IR) studies, which increases the potential applications of PheCN as a vibrational probe. The wavenumber of the PheCN νCN band was strongly dependent on the polarity of its environment; when the solvent was changed from H2O to tetrahydrofuran (THF) it decreased by 8 cm−1. The presence of liposomes caused a similar though smaller decrease in νCN for a peptide, mastoparan X, modified to contain PheCN. The selectivity and sensitivity of resonance Raman spectroscopy of PheCN mean that it can be a useful probe of intra‐ and intermolecular interactions in proteins and opens the door to its application in the study of protein dynamics using time‐resolved resonance Raman spectroscopy. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Isolation and characterisation of a coffee melanoidin fraction
Authors: Gniechwitz Diana , Reichardt Nicole , Ralph John , Blaut Michael , Steinhart Hans , Bunzel Mirko
Published: August 2008

BACKGROUND: Melanoidins contribute to the colour and flavour of coffee brews and are also reported to be physiologically active components. However, structural information about coffee melanoidins is rare and current models are supported by few data.

RESULTS: Using hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC), melanoidin fractions were isolated from different high‐molecular‐weight fractions of coffee brews obtained by ultrafiltration. Generally, melanoidin fractions isolated by HIC showed three‐ to fourfold higher antioxidant activities than the remaining high‐molecular‐weight material in the ultrafiltration fractions. Melanoidin fractions showed an intense brown colour: aqueous solutions with a concentration as low as 40 µg mL−1 were distinguishable from pure water. The melanoidin fractions contained less than 6% each of releasable carbohydrates and amino acids. The molecular masses of the melanoidins were estimated to be between 3 and 22 kDa, irrespective of the ultrafiltration fraction from which they were obtained. Two‐dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance studies revealed an enrichment of phenolic/aromatic/olefinic structural units and did not support the idea of intact ferulate or caffeate moieties integrated into the melanoidin polymer.

CONCLUSION: These studies support melanoidin models describing them as high‐molecular‐weight compounds themselves as opposed to models describing them as low‐molecular‐weight chromophores bound to polysaccharides or proteins. Phenolic constituents are more likely integrated into melanoidins as condensed phenolics than as intact hydroxycinnamates from chlorogenic acids. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Orbitrap mass spectrometry: Instrumentation, ion motion and applications
Authors: Perry Richard H. , Cooks R. Graham , Noll Robert J.
Published: August 2008

Since its introduction, the orbitrap has proven to be a robust mass analyzer that can routinely deliver high resolving power and mass accuracy. Unlike conventional ion traps such as the Paul and Penning traps, the orbitrap uses only electrostatic fields to confine and to analyze injected ion populations. In addition, its relatively low cost, simple design and high space‐charge capacity make it suitable for tackling complex scientific problems in which high performance is required. This review begins with a brief account of the set of inventions that led to the orbitrap, followed by a qualitative description of ion capture, ion motion in the trap and modes of detection. Various orbitrap instruments, including the commercially available linear ion trap–orbitrap hybrid mass spectrometers, are also discussed with emphasis on the different methods used to inject ions into the trap. Figures of merit such as resolving power, mass accuracy, dynamic range and sensitivity of each type of instrument are compared. In addition, experimental techniques that allow mass‐selective manipulation of the motion of confined ions and their potential application in tandem mass spectrometry in the orbitrap are described. Finally, some specific applications are reviewed to illustrate the performance and versatility of the orbitrap mass spectrometers. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 27: 661–699, 2008
Downstream targets of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A2 mediate cell proliferation
Authors: He Yaowu , Rothnagel Joseph A. , Epis Michael R. , Leedman Peter J. , Smith Ross
Published: August 2008

Over‐expression of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) A2/B1 is regarded as an early marker for several cancers. This protein is associated with proto‐oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes and has itself been described as a proto‐oncogene. Our earlier experiments drew a connection between hnRNP A2/B1 levels and cell proliferation and raised the possibility that this protein contributes to the uncontrolled cell division that characterizes cancer. Limited knowledge of the downstream targets of hnRNP A2/B1 has, however, precluded a clear understanding of their roles in cancer cell growth. To define the pathways in which this protein acts we have now carried out microarray experiments with total RNA from Colo16 epithelial cells transfected with an shRNA that markedly suppresses hnRNP A2/B1 expression. The microarray data identified 123 genes, among 22 283 human gene probe sets, with altered expression levels in hnRNP A2/B1‐depleted cells. Ontological analysis showed that many of these downstream targets are involved in regulation of the cell cycle and cell proliferation and that this group of proteins is significantly over‐represented amongst the affected proteins. The changes detected in the microarray experiments were confirmed by real‐time PCR for a subset of proliferation‐related genes. Immunoprecipitation‐RT‐PCR demonstrated that hnRNP A2/B1 formed complexes with the transcripts of many of the verified downstream genes, suggesting that hnRNP A2/B1 contributes to the regulation of these genes. These results reinforce the conclusion that hnRNP A2/B1 is associated with cellular processes that affect the cell cycle and proliferation. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Postconditioning attenuates ischemia‐reperfusion injury in rat skin flap
Authors: Moon Jun Gyu , Lim Hong Chul , Gye Myeoung Ryoung , Oh Joon Seo , Park Jong Woong
Published: August 2008

Reperfusion injury by the abrupt restoration of circulation after the prolonged ischemia has been remained unsolved problem in the reconstructive microsurgery. We tested the hypothesis that a procedure of intermittent interruption of reperfusion, i.e., postconditioning (post‐con) attenuates ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury of rat epigastric skin flap. A complete 4 hours of ischemia was generated by occlusion of the pedicle of dissected flap. The post‐con procedure was started at the end of ischemia. A cycle of 15 seconds of full reperfusion, followed by 15 seconds of complete reocclusion was repeated six times (3 min of total intervention) prior to the unlimited reperfusion. Flap necrosis area of post‐con group was compared with sham (no ischemic exposure) and control (4 hours of ischemia followed by full reperfusion without intervention) groups at postreperfusion day 5. Histology and MPO activities of flaps were evaluated. The post‐con group showed significantly reduced flap necrosis at the end of 5 days of reperfusion compared with the control. Decreased inflammatory cell infiltration and MPO activity indicated post‐con attenuated acute inflammatory reaction caused by I/R. This study reports for the first time that ischemic post‐con effectively attenuates skin flap I/R injury. With further study, post‐con may eventually be clinically applicable for the I/R injury as an “after‐injury strategy.” © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2008.
Meat‐based functional foods for dietary equilibrium omega‐6/omega‐3
Authors: Reglero Guillermo , Frial Paloma , Cifuentes Alejandro , García‐Risco Mónica R. , Jaime Laura , Marin Francisco R. , Palanca Vicente , Ruiz‐Rodríguez Alejandro , Santoyo Susana , Señoráns Francisco J. , Soler‐Rivas Cristina , Torres Carlos , Ibañez Elena
Published: August 2008

Nutritionists encourage improving the diet by combining meat products with fish or other sea‐related foods, in order to equilibrate the omega‐6/omega‐3 ratio. Strong scientific evidence supports the beneficial health effects of a balanced omega‐6/omega‐3 PUFA (poly unsaturated fatty acids) diets. In the present work, the scientific bases of new functional meat products with both a balanced omega‐6/omega‐3 ratio and a synergic combination of antioxidants are discussed. The aim is to contribute to the dietary equilibrium omega‐6/omega‐3 and to increase the antioxidant intake. Conventional meat products supplemented with a specific fatty acids and antioxidants combination led to functional foods with healthier nutritional parameters.
Isolation of tyrosinase inhibitors from Artocarpus heterophyllus and use of its extract as antibrowning agent
Authors: Zheng Zong‐Ping , Cheng Ka‐Wing , To James Tsz‐Kin , Li Haitao , Wang Mingfu
Published: August 2008

A new furanoflavone, 7‐(2,4‐dihydroxyphenyl)‐4‐hydroxy‐2‐(2‐hydroxy propan‐2‐yl)‐2, 3‐dihydrofuro(3, 2‐g)chromen‐5‐one (artocarpfuranol, 1), together with 14 known compounds, dihydromorin (2), steppogenin (3), norartocarpetin (4), artocarpanone (5), artocarpesin (6), artocarpin (7), cycloartocarpin (8), cycloartocarpesin (9), artocarpetin (10), brosimone I (11), cudraflavone B (12), carpachromene (13), isoartocarpesin (14), and cyanomaclurin (15) were isolated from the wood of Artocarpus heterophyllus. Their structures were identified by interpretation of MS, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, HMQC, and HMBC spectroscopic data. Among them, compounds 1–6 and 14 showed strong mushroom tyrosinase inhibitory activity with IC50 values lower than 50 μM, more potent than kojic acid (IC50 = 71.6 μM), a well‐known tyrosinase inhibitor. In addition, extract of A. heterophyllus was evaluated for its antibrowning effect on fresh‐cut apple slices. It was discovered that fresh‐cut apple slices treated by dipping in solution of 0.03 or 0.05% of A. heterophyllus extract with 0.5% ascorbic acid did not undergo any substantial browning reaction after storage at room temperature for 24 h. The antibrowning effect was significantly better than samples treated with the extract (0.03 or 0.05%) or ascorbic acid (0.5%) alone. The results provide preliminary evidence supporting the potential of this natural extract as antibrowning agent in food systems.
6‐Shogaol suppressed lipopolysaccharide‐induced up‐expression of iNOS and COX‐2 in murine macrophages
Authors: Pan Min‐Hsiung , Hsieh Min‐Chi , Hsu Ping‐Chi , Ho Sheng‐Yow , Lai Ching‐Shu , Wu Hou , Sang Shengmin , Ho Chi‐Tang
Published: August 2008

Ginger, the rhizome ofZingiber officinale, is a traditional medicine with carminative effect, antinausea, anti‐inflammatory, and anticarcinogenic properties. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of 6‐shogaol and a related compound, 6‐gingerol, on the induction of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) in murine RAW 264.7 cells activated with LPS. Western blotting and reverse transcription‐PCR analyses demonstrated that 6‐shogaol significantly blocked protein and mRNA expression of inducible NOS (iNOS) and COX‐2 in LPS‐induced macrophages. Thein vivoanti‐inflammatory activity was evaluated by a topical 12‐O‐tetradecanoylphorbol 13‐acetate (TPA) application to mouse skin. When applied topically onto the shaven backs of mice prior to TPA, 6‐shogaol markedly inhibited the expression of iNOS and COX‐2 proteins. Treatment with 6‐shogaol resulted in the reduction of LPS‐induced nuclear translocation of nuclear factor‐κB (NFκB) subunit and the dependent transcriptional activity of NFκB by blocking phosphorylation of inhibitor κB (IκB)α and p65 and subsequent degradation of IκBα. Transient transfection experiments using NFκB reporter constructs indicated that 6‐shogaol inhibits the transcriptional activity of NFκB in LPS‐stimulated mouse macrophages. We found that 6‐shogaol also inhibited LPS‐induced activation of PI3K/Akt and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2, but not p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK). Taken together, these results show that 6‐shogaol downregulates inflammatory iNOS and COX‐2 gene expression in macrophages by inhibiting the activation of NFκB by interfering with the activation PI3K/Akt/IκB kinases IKK and MAPK.
On the numerical solution of the Klein‐Gordon equation
Authors: Bratsos A.G.
Published: August 2008

A predictor–corrector (P–C) scheme based on the use of rational approximants of second‐order to the matrix‐exponential term in a three‐time level reccurence relation is applied to the nonlinear Klein‐Gordon equation. This scheme is accelerated by using a modification (MPC) in which the already evaluated values are used for the corrector. Both the predictor and the corrector scheme are analyzed for local truncation error and stability. The proposed method is applied to problems possessing periodic, kinks and single, double‐soliton waves. The accuracy as well as the long time behavior of the proposed scheme is discussed. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2009
Structure and mechanical properties in drawn poly(l‐lactide)/clay hybrid films
Authors: Fujimori Atsuhiro , Ninomiya Naoya , Masuko Toru
Published: August 2008

Films composed of poly(l‐lactide) (PLLA)/organophilic montmorillonite hybrids (PLACHs) have been prepared via a melt‐compounding process, which is followed by uniaxial drawing at 90°C in air. In addition, an enhancement of the mechanical properties of these drawn PLACH films, which is expected to differ depending on the drawn ratios, is also estimated by dynamic viscoelastic measurements. Three different organoclay concentrations in the hybrid of 3, 5, and 9 wt% were investigated. The structural parameters for the PLLA crystallites in the drawn films, such as the c‐axis orientation function (fPLLA) and crystallite size, were measured by X‐ray diffraction, and their drawn ratio (λ) and clay concentration dependence were examined from a textural viewpoint. Another orientation function (fclay) of the organoclay particles was obtained by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The values of fPLLA and crystallinity for PLLA sharply increased with λ for λ < 3, although fclay was unchanged during the initial stage of elongation. In the high‐λ region (>5), the organoclay particles in the PLACHs started orienting themselves parallel to the draw direction. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Syntheses and properties of superabsorbent composites based on natural guar gum and attapulgite
Authors: Wang Wenbo , Zheng Yian , Wang Aiqin
Published: August 2008

Utilization of raw materials available in nature and their application to derive other useful products without any adverse impact on the environment has long been a desired goal. In this work, guar gum (GG) and attapulgite (APT) clay were used as raw materials for preparing guar gum‐g‐poly(acrylic acid)/attapulgite (GG‐g‐PAA/APT) superabsorbent composites through the graft copolymerization of GG, partially neutralized acrylic acid (AA) and APT in aqueous solution. The effects of reaction conditions such as concentrations of the initiator and crosslinker, APT content, etc. on water absorbency were investigated. The composite prepared under optimal conditions gave the best absorption of 529 g/g sample in distilled water and 61 g/g sample in 0.9 wt% NaCl solution. Swelling behaviors revealed that the superabsorbent composites retained a high water absorbency over a wide pH range of 4–11, and the developed composites also exhibited improved reswelling and water‐retention capabilities. The superabsorbent composites can be utilized as eco‐friendly water‐manageable materials for agricultural and horticultural applications. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Limb salvage surgery for children and adolescents with malignant bone tumors in a developing country
Authors: Haidar Rachid , Sagghieh Said , Muwakitt Samar , Mumtaz Ghina , Akel Samir , Kamzoul Rami , Farah Roula , Noun Peter , Khalifeh Hassan , Farhat Fadi , Razzouk Bassem , Rodriguez Galindo Carlos , Rao Bhaskar , Abboud Miguel R.
Published: August 2008

Purpose

To describe the 5‐year experience of a multidisciplinary limb salvage program for children and adolescents with malignant bone tumors in Lebanon.

Patients and Methods

Between January 2002 to February 2007, 30 children and adolescents (2 with Ewing sarcoma and 28 with osteosarcoma) underwent Limb Salvage Surgeries (LSS) at the American University of Beirut Medical Center after partnering with the multidisciplinary team at St. Judes Children's Research Hospital (SJCRH). Procedures performed included 12 Repiphysis, noninvasively expandable, prostheses inserted in skeletally immature children, 15 modular prostheses, 2 allografts and 1 rotationplasty. All patients received pre‐ and postoperative chemotherapy.

Results

With a mean follow‐up of 31 months, 20 patients are now off therapy, 4 died, and 6 are receiving chemotherapy (3 due to pulmonary recurrence). Complications of surgery included infections in three cases, failure of the expansion mechanism in two, femoral stem fracture in one, prostheses femoral stem loosening in one and wound dehiscence in one. Lengthening of Repiphysis prostheses was achieved by subjecting the limb to an electromagnetic field that would allow controlled release of the Repiphysis expansion mechanism. Ten patients underwent a total of 42 lengthening procedures with an average of 9 mm lengthened per procedure (range 2–15 mm). All patients have good function of the affected limb.

Conclusion

Our LSS results are comparable to those reported in the literature. Collaboration with SJCRH and fund raising were critical to the program's success. This endeavor could serve as a model for establishing LSS programs in developing countries. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;51:787–791. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neurocognitive late effects of chemotherapy in children: The past 10 years of research on brain structure and function
Authors: Anderson Fiona S. , Kunin‐Batson Alicia S.
Published: August 2008

Advances in the treatment of childhood cancers have greatly improved survivorship. Success has not come without cost, however, as survivors are at risk for late effects of treatment, including neurocognitive late effects (e.g., difficulties with thinking and reasoning). In the advent of chemotherapy‐only protocols, researchers are examining neurocognitive sequelae of these agents to understand the specific role of chemotherapy in neurocognitive changes and the mechanism through which these occur. In this review, we examine the state of the literature on neurocognitive late effects after chemotherapy and their proposed neural mechanisms. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:159–164. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Risk factors for umbilical venous catheter‐associated thrombosis in very low birth weight infants
Authors: Narang Shalu , Roy Jason , Stevens Timothy P. , Butler‐O'Hara Meggan , Mullen Craig A. , D'Angio Carl T.
Published: August 2008

Background

Thrombosis in neonates is a rare but serious occurrence, usually associated with central catheterization. The objective of this study was to investigate the risk factors associated with catheter related thrombosis in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants.

Procedure

The present retrospective study was performed using data from a randomized trial of duration of umbilical venous catheters (UVC) placement among infants <1,250 g birth weight. Twenty‐two cases of UVC‐associated thrombosis were identified in this sample. The remaining study sample (n = 188) served as the comparison group. Data on thrombosis, platelets, gestational age, birth weight, hematocrit, serum sodium, maternal preeclampsia, blood group, infant of diabetic mother (IDM) and demographic factors were collected using database and record review.

Results

Among the total subjects (n = 210), 112 (53%) were males and 126 (60%) were Caucasians, with mean gestational age of 27.7 ± 2.1 weeks (standard deviation) and mean birth weight of 923 ± 195 g. Bivariate analysis revealed significant association of thrombosis with hematocrit >55% in the first week (odds ratio [OR] 5.4; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.0–14.6; P = 0.0003), being small for gestational age (SGA) (OR, 2.9; 95% CI, 1.2–7.4; P = 0.02) and maternal preeclampsia (OR, 3.97; 95% CI, 1.6–9.84; P = 0.0017). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, only hematocrit >55% was independently associated with thrombus (OR, 3.7; 95% CI 1.1–11.8; P = 0.03).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates a significant, independent association between elevated hematocrit and development of UVC‐associated thrombosis. Careful monitoring for catheter‐associated thrombosis may be indicated in VLBW infants who have hematocrit >55% in the first week of life. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:75–79. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Monitoring the interference of protein‐protein interactions in vivo by bimolecular fluorescence complementation: the DnaK case
Authors: Morell Montse , Czihal Patricia , Hoffmann Ralf , Otvos Laszlo , Avilés Francesc X. , Ventura Salvador
Published: August 2008

Many cellular processes depend on protein‐protein interactions. The identification of molecules able to modulate protein contacts is of significant interest for drug discovery and chemical biology. Nevertheless, finding antagonists of protein interactions that work efficiently within the cell is a challenging task. Here, we describe the novel use of bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BIFC) to detect compounds that block the interaction of target proteins in vivo. In the BIFC method, each interaction partner is fused to a complementary fragment of a fluorescent protein and interactions are detected by fluorescence restoration after reporter reassembly. Here, we demonstrate that the inhibition of specific intracellular protein interactions results in a concomitant decrease in fluorescence emission. We also show that integration of BIFC with flow cytometry might provide an effective means to detect interaction modulators by directly reading out changes in the reporter signal. The in vivo application of this approach is illustrated through monitoring the inhibition of the interaction between the Escherichia coli Hsp70 chaperone and a short peptidic substrate by pyrrhocoricin‐derived antibacterial peptides.