bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure and Biosynthesis of Myxochromides S1–3 in Stigmatella aurantiaca: Evidence for an Iterative Bacterial Type I Polyketide Synthase and for Module Skipping in Nonribosomal Peptide Biosynthesis
Authors: Wenzel Silke C. , Kunze Brigitte , Höfle Gerhard , Silakowski Barbara , Scharfe Maren , Blöcker Helmut , Müller Rolf
Published: January 2005

The myxobacterium Stigmatella aurantiaca DW4/3–1 harbours an astonishing variety of secondary metabolic gene clusters, at least two of which were found by gene inactivation experiments to be connected to the biosynthesis of previously unknown metabolites. In this study, we elucidate the structures of myxochromides S1–3, novel cyclic pentapeptide natural products possessing unsaturated polyketide side chains, and identify the corresponding biosynthetic gene locus, made up of six nonribosomal peptide synthetase modules. By analyzing the deduced substrate specificities of the adenylation domains, it is shown that module 4 is most probably skipped during the biosynthetic process. The polyketide synthase MchA harbours only one module and is presumably responsible for the formation of the variable complete polyketide side chains. These data indicate that MchA is responsible for an unusual iterative polyketide chain assembly.
Intramolecular, Reductive Cyclization of β‐Ketoisothiocyanates Promoted by Using Samarium Diiodide
Authors: Cho Min Seok , Lee In Sang , Kang Sung Ho , Kim Yong Hae
Published: January 2005

A novel samarium diiodide (SmI2) promoted intramolecular cyclization of β‐ketoisothiocyanate, derived from α,β‐unsaturated esters and ammonium thiocyanate led to α‐hydroxythiolactams and/or thiolactams in high yields. Treatment of β‐ketoisothiocyanate with two equivalents of SmI2 gave a mixture of α‐hydroxythiolactam and thiolactam. Four equivalents of SmI2 afforded only thiolactam in high yields. The intramolecular cyclization took place with high to complete stereoselectivity. A mechanism to explain this transformation is proposed.
Steric Control over Hydrogen Bonding in Crystalline Organic Solids: A Structural Study of N,N′‐Dialkylthioureas
Authors: Custelcean Radu , Gorbunova Maryna G. , Bonnesen Peter V.
Published: January 2005

Hydrogen bonding in crystalline N,N′‐dialkylthioureas was examined with the help of single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, DFT calculations, and Cambridge Structural Database (CSD) analysis. A CSD survey indicated that unlike the related urea derivatives, which persistently self‐assemble into one‐dimensional hydrogen‐bonded chains, the analogous thioureas can form two different hydrogen‐bonding motifs in the solid state: chains, structurally similar with those found in ureas, and dimers, that further associate into hydrogen‐bonded layers. The formation of one motif or another can be manipulated by the bulkiness of the organic substituents on the thiourea group, which provides a clear example of steric control over the hydrogen bonding arrangement in crystalline organic solids.
Analytische Basisreaktionen aus einem chemischen Probierkabinett der Goethezeit
Authors: Schwedt Georg
Published: January 2005

Schon vor Liebig und Fresenius entwickelte sich eine systematische qualitative Analyse, die erstmals einem breiteren Interessiertenkreis durch das „chemische Probierkabinett”︁ des Chemieprofessors Göttling in Jena ab 1790 bekannt gemacht wurde. Das Anleitungsbuch war zugleich auch das erste Hochschullehrbuch für Analytische Chemie. Ausgewählte, noch heute angewendete Nachweisreaktionen bzw. Reagenzien werden anhand der historischen Texte vorgestellt und mit dem Wissen von heute interpretiert. Goethe war ein Förderer des ehemaligen Apothekenprovisors Göttling in Weimar und hat dessen Probierkabinett im Roman „Die Wahlverwandtschaften”︁ ein literarisches Denkmal gesetzt. Das Probierkabinett ist zugleich ein Vorläufer der chemischen Experimentierkästen unserer Zeit.
Die Chemielehrer‐Ausbildung in Rheinpreußen in der Mitte des 19. Jahrhunderts — Wegweiser in der heutigen Reformdiskussion?
Authors: Schmitz‐Wallrafen Norbert
Published: January 2005

Vergleicht man die didaktische Konzeption des Seminars für die gesamten Naturwissenschaften an der Universität zu Bonn um 1850 mit den heutigen Forderungen zur Neustrukturierung der Gymnasiallehrerausbildung und den Vorschlägen zur Verbesserung des naturwissenschaftlichen Unterrichts an Schulen, so findet man auffällige Parallelen, auch wenn die Rahmenbedingungen damals und heute nicht vergleichbar sind. Diese Parallelen gilt es aufzuzeigen, denn dadurch wird erst deutlich, welche herausragende Rolle das Seminar zu Bonn bei der Umsetzung seiner didaktischen Konzeption für die Lehrerausbildung in Naturwissenschaften spielte, eine Konzeption, die auch heute noch besticht und von deren ungebrochener Aktualität über die Zeiten hinweg man überrascht wird. Hierbei sei natürlich zugestanden, dass zeitliche Umstände damals wie heute bei der Umsetzung der einen oder anderen Konzeption eine nicht zu unterschätzende Rolle spielen.
Geocryological processes linked to High Arctic proglacial stream suspended sediment dynamics: examples from Bylot Island, Nunavut, and Spitsbergen, Svalbard
Authors: Irvine‐Fynn T. D. L. , Moorman B. J. , Willis I. C. , Sjogren D. B. , Hodson A. J. , Mumford P. N. , Walter F. S. A. , Williams J. L. M.
Published: January 2005

Recent research has identified differences in processes contributing to suspended sediment concentration (SSC) dynamics in proglacial streams between High Arctic and alpine catchments, but does not examine processes explicitly linked to the periglacial environment. Three glacierized basins were studied: Austre Brøggerbreen and Midre Lovénbreen, Svalbard (79°N, 12°E) and Glacier B28, unofficially named Stagnation Glacier, Bylot Island, Nunavut (73°N, 78°W). SSC variations were modelled from continuous turbidity, discharge and meteorological data throughout the summer months. Three statistical tools were utilized: principal component analysis, change‐point analysis and multivariate regression. These are shown to be effective in identifying subperiods of distinctive geocryological and glaciofluvial characteristics. Multivariate regression for the subseasons included autoregressive integrated moving‐average modelling, and showed that SSC variations were related not only to discharge variability, but also to fluctuations in energy fluxes. The results are interpreted in terms of spatio‐temporal changes in sediment mobilization and supply associated with changes in the relative importance of fluvial, glacial and periglacial processes. This evidence supports the notion of important linkages between glacial, fluvial and periglacial systems, but exemplifies distinct variability between High Arctic glaciers. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluating runoff generation during summer using hydrometric, stable isotope and hydrochemical methods in a discontinuous permafrost alpine catchment
Authors: Carey S. K. , Quinton W. L.
Published: January 2005

Research on runoff generation in catchments with discontinuous permafrost has focused primarily upon the role of surface organic layers and frozen soils (both permanent and seasonal). Much of this work has been hydrometric, with isotope and hydrochemical methods receiving only limited application in delineating old and new water contributions and chemically inferred hydrological pathways. In a small subarctic alpine catchment within the Wolf Creek Research Basin, Yukon, runoff generation processes were studied in the summer of 2001 using a mixed method approach to evaluate the mechanisms and pathways of flow from the hillslopes to the stream during rainfall events. Two storms had δ18O isotopic ratios that differed significantly from baseflow and water within hillslopes, allowing for two‐component hydrograph separation to infer new and old water contributions. Event water contributions ranged between 7 and 9%, exhibiting little variability despite the large differences in event water and stormflow volume. Utilizing δ18O‐dissolved organic carbon and δ18O‐specific conductance data, two tracer three‐component hydrograph separations were attempted to isolate rainfall, water within the organic layer and mineral layer contributions to stormflow. Three‐component separations suggest that water from the mineral soil dominates the stormflow hydrograph, yet the contribution of organic‐layer water varies greatly depending upon the choice of tracers. Hydrometric data indicate that slopes with permafrost likely supply much of the stormflow water due to near‐surface water tables and transmissive organic soils. However, this signal was not clearly discernable in the streamflow hydrochemistry. More integrated studies are required to establish a greater understanding of hillslope processes in mountainous discontinuous permafrost catchments. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Progress in isotope tracer hydrology in Canada
Authors: Gibson J. J. , Edwards T. W. D. , Birks S. J. , St Amour N. A. , Buhay W. M. , McEachern P. , Wolfe B. B. , Peters D. L.
Published: January 2005

An overview of current research in isotope hydrology, focusing on recent Canadian contributions, is discussed under the headings: precipitation networks, hydrograph separation and groundwater studies, river basin hydrology, lake and catchment water balance, and isotope palaeohydrology from lake sediment records. Tracer‐based techniques, relying primarily on the naturally occurring environmental isotopes, have been integrated into a range of hydrological and biogeochemical research programmes, as they effectively complement physical and chemical techniques. A significant geographic focus of Canadian isotope hydrology research has been on the Mackenzie River basin, forming contributions to programmes such as the Global Energy and Water Cycle Experiment. Canadian research has also directly supported international efforts such as the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) Global Network for Isotopes in Precipitation and IAEAs Coordinated Research Project on Large River Basins. One significant trend in Canadian research is toward sustained long‐term monitoring of precipitation and river discharge to enable better characterization of spatial and temporal variability in isotope signatures and their underlying causes. One fundamental conclusion drawn from previous studies in Canada is that combined use of δ18O and δ2H enables the distinction of precipitation variability from evaporation effects, which offers significant advantages over use of the individual tracers alone. The study of hydrological controls on water chemistry is one emerging research trend that stems from the unique ability to integrate isotope sampling within both water quality and water quantity surveys. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Advances in river ice hydrology 1999–2003
Authors: Morse Brian , Hicks Faye
Published: January 2005

In the period 1999 to 2003, river ice has continued to have important socio‐economic impacts in Canada and other Nordic countries. Concurrently, there have been many important advances in all areas of Canadian research into river ice engineering and hydrology. For example: (1) River ice processes were highlighted in two special journal issues (Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering in 2003 and Hydrological Processes in 2002) and at five conferences (Canadian Committee on River Ice Processes and the Environment in 1999, 2001 and 2003, and International Association of Hydraulic Research in 2000 and 2002). (2) A number of workers have clearly advanced our understanding of river ice processes by bringing together disparate information in comprehensive review articles. (3) There have been significant advances in river ice modelling. For example, both one‐dimensional (e.g. RIVICE, RIVJAM, ICEJAM, HEC‐RAS, etc.) and two‐dimensional (2‐D; www.river2d.ca) public‐domain ice‐jam models are now available. Work is ongoing to improve RIVER2D, and a commercial 2‐D ice‐process model is being developed. (4) The 1999–2003 period is notable for the number of distinctly hydrological and ecological studies. On the quantitative side, many are making efforts to determine streamflow during the winter period. On the ecological side, some new publications have addressed the link to water quality (temperature, dissolved oxygen, nutrients and pollutants), and others have dealt with sediment transport and geomorphology (particularly as it relates to break‐up), stream ecology (plants, food cycle, etc.) and fish habitat.

There is the growing recognition, that these types of study require collaborative efforts. In our view, the main areas requiring further work are: (1) to interface geomorphological and habitat models with quantitative river ice hydrodynamic models; (2) to develop a manager's toolbox (database management, remote sensing, forecasting, intervention methodologies, etc.) to enable agencies to intervene better at the time of ice‐jam‐induced floods; and (3) finalize ice‐jam prevention methods on the St Lawrence River to safeguard its $2 billion commercial navigation industry. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A review of Canadian remote sensing and hydrology, 1999–2003
Authors: Pietroniro Alain , Leconte Robert
Published: January 2005

Over the years, research and applications of remote sensing in Canadian hydrology have embraced a variety of topics. In particular, research conducted over the last 5 years has emphasized the development of microwave remote sensing, both active and passive. This paper reviews recent (1999–2003) remote‐sensing contributions to hydrology in Canada. Topics include surface water and wetlands detection, soil moisture, snow cover extent and snow water equivalent estimates, freshwater ice, and glaciers, as well as distributed hydrological modelling. A very brief description of the theory underlying each application, as well as relevant sensors, is presented. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Advances in Canadian wetland hydrology, 1999–2003
Authors: Price Jonathan S. , Branfireun Brian A. , Michael Waddington J. , Devito Kevin J.
Published: January 2005

Wetlands form 14% of the Canadian landscape and, consequently, have considerable interaction with the hydrological resources, including water quantity and quality, both within and downstream of them. Most of these are peatlands, particularly in boreal and northern environments, and these have been well researched recently. New data also exist for mineral wetlands (e.g. prairie sloughs). Relatively little attention has been given to coastal wetlands, or the complicated systems in the Western Cordillera. This paper reviews the current studies in Canada. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Distribution of soil carbon stocks in Canada's forests and wetlands simulated based on drainage class, topography and remotely sensed vegetation parameters
Authors: Ju Weimin , Chen Jing M.
Published: January 2005

A quasi‐three‐dimensional hydrological model was developed and integrated into the integrated terrestrial ecosystem carbon‐budget model (InTEC V3·0) to improve the estimation of the carbon (C) dynamics in Canadian forests and wetlands. Climate, soil, digital elevation map, and drainage class data, in conjunction with remotely sensed vegetation parameters, including leaf area index, land cover type, and stand age, are used to drive the model. Soil is divided into three layers, for which temperature and moisture dynamics are simulated. Individual 1 km × 1 km pixels are hydrologically linked with neighbouring pixels through subsurface saturated base‐flow, which is simulated using a TOPMODEL‐based scheme. Soil C and nitrogen (N) dynamics are simulated using the soil submodel of CENTURY suitably modified for forests and wetlands. The interannual variation in net primary productivity is iteratively computed after integrating the effects of N, climate, stand age and atmospheric CO2concentration on productivity. Compared with data in the Soil Landscape of Canada, the newly updated InTEC V3·0 can capture 66·6% of spatial variations in soil C and effectively alleviate soil C underestimation in wetland areas from its predecessor (InTEC V2·0) by considering the lateral water flow and the water table variation. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expression of p53, or targeting towards EGFR, enhances the oncolytic potency of conditionally replicative adenovirus against neuroblastoma
Authors: Geoerger Birgit , van Beusechem Victor W. , Opolon Paule , Morizet Jackie , Laudani Lysiane , Lecluse Yann , Barrois Michel , Idema Sander , Grill Jacques , Gerritsen Winald R. , Vassal Gilles
Published: January 2005

Background

Advanced stage and relapsing neuroblastoma (NB) has a poor prognosis with frequent treatment failures, warranting new treatment options and enhanced local tumor control. Treatment with conditionally replicative adenoviruses (CRAds) has shown effectiveness in various preclinical cancer models, but has not yet been evaluated for local control of NB. Here, we tested the efficacy of the CRAd AdΔ24 and of two AdΔ24 derivatives against NB. Derivative AdΔ24‐425S11 infects cells deficient in coxsackie/adenovirus receptor (CAR) via the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Derivative AdΔ24‐p53 expresses the tumor suppressor protein p53 to promote oncolysis.

Methods

Expression of CAR and EGFR, and p53 pathway and DNA damage responses were analyzed in six NB cell lines and two xenografts derived from primary NB using immunohistochemistry, reporter gene transactivation, Western blot and fluorescence‐activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis. Efficacy of AdΔ24, AdΔ24‐425S11 and AdΔ24‐p53 against NB was evaluated in vitro by cell viability analysis and in vivo by monitoring subcutaneous xenograft tumor growth in mice and by histological analysis of treated tumors.

Results

Neuroblastoma cell lines were sensitive to oncolysis by AdΔ24, with a higher susceptibility of those with functional p53 and intact DNA damage responses. Compared to AdΔ24, AdΔ24‐p53 exhibited enhanced oncolytic potency on all NB cell lines independent of their p53 status and AdΔ24‐425S11 was more effective against CAR‐low IGR‐NB8 cells. Moreover, five daily intratumoral injections of 108 plaque‐forming units (pfu) of AdΔ24‐p53 or AdΔ24‐425S11 into subcutaneous IGR‐NB8 and IGR‐N91 xenografts at an advanced tumor stage yielded significant tumor growth delays (TGD). In contrast, at this dose, AdΔ24 did not cause significant TGD of neuroblastoma xenografts. Injection of AdΔ24‐p53 was associated with extensive cell lysis, apoptotic cell death, and fibrous fascicles in the tumors.

Conclusion

CRAds expressing p53 and targeted towards EGFR appear promising new agents for local control in the treatment of neuroblastoma. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Catheter‐mediated subselective intracoronary gene delivery to the rabbit heart: introduction of a novel method
Authors: Parsa Cyrus J. , Reed Robyn C. , Brant Walton G. , Pascal Laura S. , Thompson Richard B. , Petrofski Jason A. , Emani Sitaram M. , Folgar Francisco , Riel Ryan U. , Nicchitta Christopher V. , Koch Walter J.
Published: January 2005

Background

Recent studies suggest that gene therapy using replication‐deficient adenoviruses will benefit treatment of cardiovascular diseases including heart failure. A persistent hurdle is the effective and reproducible delivery of a transgene to the myocardium with minimal iatrogenic morbidity. In this study, we sought to design a relatively non‐invasive percutaneous gene delivery system that would maximize cardiac transgene expression and minimize mortality after intracoronary adenovirus injection.

Methods

Adult rabbits received a left circumflex coronary artery (LCx) infusion of 5 × 1011 total viral particles of an adenovirus containing the marker transgene β‐galactosidase (Adeno‐βGal) via either a continuous infusion method utilizing an oxygenated, normothermic, physiologic pH Krebs solution driven by a Langendorff apparatus (n = 12) or a timed bolus and set concentration at a constant infusion rate to the LCx (n = 12). Six rabbits underwent global transgene delivery via an invasive method involving intraventricular delivery and aortic root cross‐clamping. The efficacy of transgene expression via these three distinct delivery methods was determined in the left ventricle at 5 days by histological staining and colorimetric quantification assay.

Results

While the open‐chest, aortic cross‐clamping method provides the highest level of gene expression throughout the heart, the morbidity of this procedure is clinically prohibitive. Percutaneous LCx delivery of Adeno‐βGal using the Langendorff apparatus was associated with the lowest morbidity and mortality while still supporting significant myocardial gene expression.

Conclusions

Percutaneous delivery of an adenovirus solution using a continuous infusion of oxygenated Krebs solution via a Langendorff apparatus appears to be a gene delivery modality offering the best compromise of gene expression and clinical utility to maximize any potential therapeutic outcome. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Viral vectors as tools to model and treat neurodegenerative disorders
Authors: Déglon N. , Hantraye P.
Published: January 2005

The identification of disease‐causing genes in familial forms of neurodegenerative disorders and the development of genetic models closely replicating human central nervous system (CNS) pathologies have drastically changed our understanding of the molecular events leading to neuronal cell death. If these achievements open new opportunities of therapeutic interventions, including gene‐based therapies, the presence of the blood‐brain barrier and the post‐mitotic and poor regenerative nature of the target cells constitute important challenges. Efficient delivery systems taking into account the specificity of the CNS are required to administer potential therapeutic candidates. In addition, genetic models in large animals that replicate the late stages of the diseases are in most cases not available for pre‐clinical studies. The present review summarizes the potential of viral vectors as tools to create new genetic models of CNS disorders in various species including primates and the recent progress toward viral gene therapy clinical trials for the administration of therapeutic candidates into the brain. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Signals of anthropogenic influence on European warming as seen in the trend patterns of daily temperature variance
Authors: Klein Tank A. M. G. , Können G. P. , Selten F. M.
Published: January 2005

Signals of anthropogenic warming over Europe are searched for in the spatial trend patterns for the variance and skewness (expressed by the 10th and 90th percentiles) of the distribution of daily mean temperature. Comparisons are made between these patterns in the station records of the European Climate Assessment dataset for the 1976–99 period, the patterns associated with natural variability in the observations (which were empirically derived from the observations in the 1946–75 period), and the patterns of future warming and natural variability as simulated by the National Center for Atmospheric Research Community Climate System Model in the Challenge ensemble experiment.

The results indicate that, on the basis of the patterns for the variance, a distinction can be made between temperature change due to natural variability and temperature change due to changes in external forcing. The observed variance trend patterns for the spring (March–May) and summer (June–August) warming 1976–99 are clearly different from the patterns for the change in variance associated with a warming due to natural variability in the observations. This led us to conclude that a change in an external forcing has to be invoked to explain the observed spring and summer warming. From the evaluation of the greenhouse and natural variability patterns in the climate model simulations, we infer that the observed spring and summer variance trend patterns contain imprints consistent with anthropogenic warming. The analysis of the variance trend patterns for the winter (December–February) season is inconclusive about identifying causes of the observed warming for that season. Unlike the other three seasons, the autumn (September–November) is for Europe a period of cooling in recent decades. The observed variance trend pattern for this season closely resembles the estimated pattern for the change in variance associated with a cooling due to natural variability, indicating that the observed autumn cooling can be ascribed to random weather variations in the period under consideration. Copyright © 2005 Royal Meteorological Society
Characterizing the spatial and temporal variability of June–July moisture conditions in the Canadian prairies
Authors: Quiring S. M. , Papakyriakou T. N.
Published: January 2005

Palmer's moisture anomaly index (Z‐index) was used to characterize the frequency, severity, and spatial extent of June–July moisture anomalies for 43 crop districts across the Canadian prairies during 1920–99. In addition, the main modes of spatial and temporal variability in moisture conditions were identified and used to elucidate the physical mechanisms responsible for causing these moisture anomalies to occur. The crop districts were divided into five relatively homogeneous moisture regions using cluster analysis, and moisture anomaly statistics were analysed for each region.

The single most severe June–July drought on the Canadian prairies occurred in 1961. This drought covered more than 86% of the study region and had a mean severity (Z‐index) of −5.67. Other severe June–July droughts occurred in the Canadian prairies (in order of severity) in 1988, 1936, 1929, and 1937. The results demonstrated that the severity and spatial extent of moisture anomalies on the Canadian prairies are strongly correlated, indicating that the more severe events tend to affect larger areas. The most drought‐prone regions experienced moisture conditions detrimental to crop production in approximately one year out of every six years.

The spatial analysis revealed the existence of three preferred spatial patterns of moisture variability on the Canadian prairies and each pattern can be attributed to a unique set of atmospheric and oceanic forcings. The temporal analysis verified the presence of coherent periodicities (in particular quasi‐2, ‐4, and ‐10–15 year oscillations) in the moisture time series. Copyright © 2005 Royal Meteorological Society
UFMG Sydenham's chorea rating scale (USCRS): Reliability and consistency
Authors: Teixeira Antônio Lúcio , Maia Débora P. , Cardoso Francisco
Published: January 2005

Despite the renewed interest in Sydenham's chorea (SC) in recent years, there were no valid and reliable scales to rate the several signs and symptoms of patients with SC and related disorders. The Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG) Sydenham's Chorea Rating Scale (USCRS) was designed to provide a detailed quantitative description of the performance of activities of daily living, behavioral abnormalities, and motor function of subjects with SC. The scale comprises 27 items and each one is scored from 0 (no symptom or sign) to 4 (severe disability or finding). Data from 84 subjects, aged 4.9 to 33.6 years, support the interrater reliability and internal consistency of the scale. The USCRS is a promising instrument for rating the clinical features of SC as well as their functional impact in children and adults. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Photoluminescence of manganese‐ and copper‐doped CdS nanowires
Authors: Ghiordanescu V. , Sima M. , Enculescu I. , Grecu M. N. , Mihut L. , Secu M. , Neumann R.
Published: January 2005

Arrays of CdS:Mn2+:Cu+ micro‐ and nanowires grown in polycarbonate ion‐track templates exhibit photoluminescence in the spectral domain ranging from 500 to 800 nm at room temperature. A comparison with similar CdS and CdS:Mn2+ wire arrays is presented. The individual contributions to the emission spectra of Cu+ and Mn2+ ions in the CdS matrix are explained using their energy level schemes. Also SEM, EDX and EPR data are given for these wires. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Trends in calculation of point and extended defects in wide‐gap solids: periodic models of aperiodic systems
Authors: Evarestov R. A.
Published: January 2005

The periodic models of aperiodic systems are described. For the point defects supercell and cyclic cluster models are compared for the oxygen vacancy in the corundum Al2O3. The single and repeated slab models of (001) surface of MgO crystal are compared using the results of LCAO Hartree–Fock and DFT calculations. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Solutions of the energy gap equation for D‐wave paired systems
Authors: Kumala W. , Gonczarek R.
Published: January 2005

D‐wave paired isotropic Fermi system is considered in the frame of BCS approach. All admissible solutions of the energy gap equation are given for arbitrary temperatures. The geometry, value of the energy gap and the thermodynamic properties in the ground state as well in the critical temperature is presented. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Offering predictive testing for Huntington disease in a medical genetics clinic: Practical applications
Authors: Bennett Robin L. , Bird Thomas D. , Teri Linda
Published: January 2005

Predictive testing for Huntington disease is presently offered in a select few medical genetics centers in the United States. This is in part due to the labor intensive counseling and psychological testing suggested by the research protocols. We discuss some specific suggestions for establishing programs for Huntington disease predictive testing within pre‐existing medical genetics clinics to encourage more centers to offer presymptomatic testing. This will allow more at risk individuals the opportunity to consider predictive testing and cut down the expenses of traveling to the few predictive testing centers that currently exist. The counseling principals will remain similar to those discussed here, even following the identification of the Huntington disease mutation.
Follow‐up survey of pregnancies with diagnoses of chromosomal abnormality
Authors: Palmer Shane , Spencer Joann , Kushnick Theodore , Wiley John , Bowyer Susan
Published: January 2005

A small clinical survey was undertaken at East Carolina University School of Medicine to examine the factors which influenced the decisions of five families to continue pregnancies after a chromosomal abnormality was detected. Little has been published concerning the psychosocial effects after continuing pregnancies in which the fetus was diagnosed with a chromosome abnormality by amniocentesis. In order to identify the factors that influenced their decisions, an interview with each couple was undertaken using a 25‐part questionnaire. This paper addresses the method of interviewing, case material, and background concerning each couple and the summary of the results.
The human genome project: A public forum. Report on a model conference for genetics professionals and consumers
Authors: Eunpu Deborah L. , Weiss Joan O.
Published: January 2005

This paper reports on the rationale, objectives, and outcome of a conference titled “The Human Genome Project: A Public Forum.” One of the distinguishing features of this conference was that it included both genetics professionals and consumers of genetics services in a dialogue about the potential ethical, legal, and social implications of learning more about one's genes. The conference was planned to yield two products: (1) a set of recommendations for planners of future educational, research, and public policy efforts related to the Human Genome Project; and (2) an assessment of participants' pre‐ and post‐conference knowledge and opinions about the Human Genome Project.
Presymptomatic testing for huntington diseases: Recommendations for counseling
Authors: Quaid Kimberly A.
Published: January 2005

The discovery of a genetic marker linked to the Huntington disease (HD) gene made it possible to perform presymptomatic genetic testing for this late onset disorder. The first two pilot research programs in the United States, at Massachusetts General Hospital and Johns Hopkins Hospital, began offering testing in the Fall of 1986. Twenty‐three centers are now offering this testing as part of their clinical service. As testing for this and other late onset diseases becomes more widespread, it is important to assess what we have learned about offering this test to those at risk. This article presents recommendations based on the author's 5 years of experience offering presymptomatic testing for HD in order to alert counselors to the complexities of offering this type of service.
Long‐term Follow‐up after Adrenalectomy for Primary Aldosteronism
Authors: Meyer Andreas , Brabant Georg , Behrend Matthias
Published: January 2005

The objective of this study was to assess the long‐term effects of adrenalectomy on the blood pressure and antihypertensive medication in patients with primary aldosteronism (PA). Twenty‐four patients (15 female and 9 male) with a mean age of 48.3 ± 10.8 years underwent surgery for PA in our institution between 1988 and 2001. All subjects were re‐examined with a complete clinical work‐up after a mean follow‐up period of 86 ± 48 months, including blood pressure readings (<140/90 mmHg defined as normal), endocrine adrenal function, and specific medication. All patients suffered from hypertension (onset 8.5 ± 5.5 years prior to surgery). In 92% of the patients, hypokalemia was present (onset 2.0 ± 2.6 years prior to surgery). The histopathologic examinations revealed unilateral adenomas in 23 patients and a bilateral hyperplasia in one patient. At follow‐up, 33% (8) of the patients were completely cured (normal blood pressure and no antihypertensive treatment), with seven of these eight patients being under 50 years of age at the time of surgery. One patient revealed a contralateral aldosterone‐secreting adrenal adenoma during the subsequent endocrine and imaging examination 44 months after the first operation. Despite normalized plasma‐aldosterone concentration (PAC), plasma‐renin‐activity (PRA) and serum potassium levels, a long‐lasting insufficiently treated hypertension due to the delayed diagnosis in patients with PA may explain the persistent blood pressure elevation, indicating the necessity of a life‐long, regular control of the blood pressure and antihypertensive medication.
Bacterial Translocation: Not a Clinically Relevant Phenomenon in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Takesue Yoshio , Kakehashi Masayuki , Ohge Hiroki , Uemura Kenichiro , Imamura Yuuji , Murakami Yoshiaki , Sasaki Masaru , Morifuji Masahiko , Yokoyama Yujiro , Kouyama Mohei , Okii Kazuya , Sueda Taijiro
Published: January 2005

The aim of this study was to identify the risk factors for bacterial translocation and to determine the clinical significance of bacterial translocation in patients with colorectal cancer. Mesenteric lymph node sampling was performed to identify the presence of bacterial translocation in 75 patients with colorectal cancer undergoing laparotomy. Bacterial translocation was identified in 29 patients (39%), with the most common organism beingEscherichia coli(31%). Three factors for bacterial translocation were identified, including a preoperative low peripheral lymphocyte count, metastasis to lymph nodes, and invasion depth (= T3). Stepwise regression analysis, however, selected only = T3 [odds ratio (OR) 4.0, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.2‐13.5]. Altogether, 35% of patients with bacterial translocation developed septic complications, compared with 20% in patients without bacterial translocation. In the multivariate analysis, bacterial translocation was not an independent risk factor for infection, with an OR of 1.8 (95% CI 0.56‐5.96). Systemic inflammatory response syndrome developed on the first day in 62% of patients with bacterial translocation, compared with 50% of patients without bacterial translocation. Adjusting for the other factors, bacterial translocation was not a significant risk factor in the occurrence of systemic inflammatory response syndrome after surgery (OR 1.1, 95% CI 0.37‐3.29). We concluded that n patients with colorectal cancers bacterial translocation does occur and is increased in patients with deep invasion. However, it appears to be of no clinical significance.
New Pancreas‐preserving Total Duodenectomy Technique
Authors: Imamura Masayuki , Komoto Izumi , Doi Ryuichiro , Onodera Hisashi , Kobayashi Hiroyuki , Kawai Yasuhiro
Published: January 2005

Pancreas‐preserving total duodenectomy (PPTD) was first described by Chung et al. in 1994. Since then, several surgeons have used PPTD to treat diseases that involve the duodenum diffusely but not the head of the pancreas, mostly familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). The PPTD method has been changed in each report and seems to have improved over time. We performed PPTD on three patients with different diseases‐one with intestinal hemorrhage due to small intestinal amyloidosis; another with numerous duodenal gastrinomas in a patient with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN‐1) and Zollinger‐Ellison syndrome (ZES); and the third with numerous duodenal polyposis and FAP‐using a new method that is simpler and safer than those previously reported. When resecting the whole duodenum, we performed mucosectomy of the major papillar portion and saved the structure of the major papilla. After an approximately 8 mm long sphincteropapillotomy, the opened major papilla was anastomosed to an incisional opening of the small intestine. The orifice of the main pancreatic duct (MPD) was stented by a catheter, and the MPD was kept intact under direct vision during the operative procedures. The head of the pancreas was fixed with the small intestine by interrupted 4‐0 silk sutures. Reconstruction of the alimentary tract was performed after either the Billroth I or the Billroth II method. This is the first report of PPTD in which the entire MPD was preserved to simplify the biliopancreatic‐ductal reconstruction.
Variations in life‐form composition and foliar carbon isotope discrimination among eight plant communities under different soil moisture conditions in the Xilin River Basin, Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Chen Shiping , Bai Yongfei , Lin Guanghui , Han Xingguo
Published: January 2005

Water is one of the key limiting factors for the survival and growth of plant species in arid and semi‐arid steppe regions. Different plant functional groups (PFGs) based on life‐forms differ in their strategies to cope with limited water availability. The foliar carbon isotope discrimination (Δ) value provides an integrated measurement of internal plant physiological and external environmental properties affecting photosynthetic gas exchange over the time interval when the carbon was fixed. In this study, we surveyed the composition and Δ values of various life‐forms (shrubs, sub‐shrubs, perennial grasses, perennial forbs and annuals) in eight different plant communities along a soil moisture gradient in the Xilin River Basin, Inner Mongolia, China. Our results showed that: (1) life‐forms occurred variously in eight steppe communities with different soil moisture status; (2) in wetter habitats, forbs were more abundant and accounted for the majority of aboveground biomass, whereas grasses became more important in drier habitats. Shrubs and sub‐shrubs increased with decreasing soil water availability and their relative biomass rapidly increased in degraded steppe and sand dune communities. (3) The numerical order of the mean Δ values of life‐forms is as follows: perennial grasses (15.86‰) < shrubs (16.10‰) < perennial forbs (16.45‰)=annuals (16.41‰) < sub‐shrubs (17.55‰), reflecting their differences in water use efficiencies. The significant differences in the Δ values among these life‐forms suggested that life‐form‐based PFGs not only represent a morphological classification of these plants, but could also represent a functional group integrating different physiological processes such as water use strategies, which may partially explain the differences in PFG composition and competitive ability of co‐existing species along environmental gradients in the Xilin River Basin.
Endogenous nitric oxide activation protects against cigarette smoking induced apoptosis in endothelial cells
Authors: Raveendran Muthuswamy , Wang Jing , Senthil Duraisamy , Wang Jian , Utama Budi , Shen Ying , Dudley Donald , Zhang Yun , Wang Xing Li
Published: January 2005

Cigarette‐induced endothelial dysfunction could be an early mediator of atherosclerosis. In this study, we explored the mechanisms of cigarette smoke extract (CSE)‐induced human aortic endothelial cells (HAEC) apoptosis. We found that 10–65% of HAECs underwent apoptotic changes when HAECs were exposed to 0.001–0.02 cigarette equivalent unit of CSE for 4 h. CSE activated the caspases‐3 and 8, the p38 MAP kinase and stress activated protein kinase/c‐Jun N‐terminal protein kinase (SAPK/JNK). Specific inhibitors of p38 MAP or SAPK/JNK reduced CSE‐induced caspase activation. We further showed that eNOS pre‐activation by l‐arginine reduced endothelial apoptosis from 65% to 5%; and eNOS inhibition by N‐ω‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester accentuated CSE‐induced endothelial apoptosis. We suggest that appropriate endogenous NO production may be an important protective mechanism against smoking‐induced endothelial damage.
Expression of SERCA2a is not regulated by calcineurin or upon mechanical unloading in skeletal muscle regeneration
Authors: Zádor Ernő , Fenyvesi Rita , Wuytack Frank
Published: January 2005

This study investigates to what extent the expression of the slow myosin heavy chain (MyHCI) isoform and the slow type sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA2a) isoform are co‐regulated in fibers of regenerating skeletal soleus muscle. Both overexpression of cain, a calcineurin inhibitor, or partial tenotomy prevented the expression of MyHCI but left SERCA2a expression unaffected in fibers of regenerating soleus muscles. These data complement those from different experimental models and clearly show that the expression of MyHCI and SERCA2a – the major proteins mediating, respectively, the slow type of contraction and relaxation – are not coregulated in regenerating soleus muscle.
Inhibition of N‐ and P/Q‐type Ca2+ channels by cannabinoid receptors in single cerebrocortical nerve terminals
Authors: Godino M.C. , Torres M. , Sánchez-Prieto J.
Published: January 2005

Since cannabinoid receptors inhibit excitatory synaptic transmission by reducing glutamate release, we have examined whether this might occur through the direct inhibition of presynaptic Ca2+ channels. In cerebrocortical nerve terminals, activation of cannabinoid receptors with WIN55,212‐2 reduces the KCl‐evoked release of glutamate. However, this inhibition is attenuated when N‐ and P/Q‐type Ca2+ channels are blocked. Through Ca2+ imaging in single nerve terminals, we found that WIN55,212‐2 reduced the influx of Ca2+ both in nerve terminals that contain N‐type Ca2+ channels and those that contain P/Q‐type Ca2+ channels. Thus, cannabinoid receptors modulate the two major Ca2+ channels coupled to glutamate release in the cerebral cortex.
Pharmacoeconomic comparison between homeopathic and antibiotic treatment strategies in recurrent acute rhinopharyngitis in children
Authors: Chaufferin G , Nicoloyannis N , Trichard M
Published: January 2005

Objectives: A pharmacoeconomic study to compare, in terms of: medical effectiveness, quality of life and costs two treatment strategies (‘homeopathic strategy’ vs ‘antibiotic strategy’) used in routine medical practice by allopathic and homeopathic GPs in the treatment of recurrent acute rhinopharyngitis in 18-month to 4-year-old children.

Methods: Statistical analysis of data obtained from a population of 499 patients included in a previous 6-month prospective, pragmatic study. The patients were re-grouped according to type of drug prescribed. Medical effectiveness was assessed in terms of (i) episodes of acute rhinopharyngitis, (ii) complications, (iii) adverse effects. Quality of life was assessed using the Par-Ent-Qol© scale. Direct medical costs (medical consultations, drug prescriptions, prescriptions for further tests) and indirect medical costs (sick-leave) were evaluated from three viewpoints (society, patient, Social Security) using public prices and French Social Security tariffs.

Results: The ‘homeopathic strategy’ yielded significantly better results than the ‘antibiotic strategy’ in terms of medical effectiveness (number of episodes of rhinopharyngitis: 2.71 vs 3.97,

; number of complications: 1.25 vs 1.95,

), and quality of life (global score: 21.38 vs 30.43,

), with lower direct medical costs covered by Social Security (

vs

,

) and significantly less sick-leave (9.5% of parents vs 31.6% of parents,

).

Conclusions: Homeopathy may be a cost-effective alternative to antibiotics in the treatment of recurrent infantile rhinopharyngitis.
Centennial-to-millennial fluctuations in July temperatures in North Finland as recorded by timberline tree rings of Scots pine
Authors: Ogurtsov Maxim , Helama Samuli , Eronen Matti , Lindholm Markus
Published: January 2005

A tree-ring proxy of summer temperature anomalies for northern Finland for the past 7500 yr was analyzed using Fourier spectrum and wavelet approaches. Multicentennial (250–450 yr) variability is present in the proxy record during most of the time range. This variability is suggested to reflect low-frequency variability in the North Atlantic Oscillation. Century-scale (90–130 yr) variation is another important feature of the tree-ring proxy data during the Holocene and may be attributed to Glessberg solar activity variations. In addition, an approximately 2000-yr quasi-period is found in this temperature proxy data, similar to the millennial-scale variability, present in many climate records from the North Atlantic region. The results point to the importance of multiple forcings underlying significant Holocene climatic fluctuations.
Colonization by Lichens and the Development of Lichen-Dominated Communities in the Maritime Antarctic
Authors: Lewis Smith R.I.
Published: January 2005

Three long-term studies of lichen growth and colonization have been undertaken at Signy Island, South Orkney Islands, in the maritime Antarctic. Small individual thalli of several crustose species and uncolonized plots on 12 fresh rock surfaces were photographically monitored at intervals of 3–4 years over a period of up to 20 years. The development of Ochrolechia frigida colonies on a regenerating moss bank, recently uncovered by a receding glacier, was similarly monitored. The results indicate that many lichens growing in sites enriched by nitrogenous compounds derived from populations of sea birds, have relatively rapid colonization and growth rates. Mean percentage increase in thallus area can be as high as 15–32% per annum in some nitrophilous saxicolous species (e.g. Acarospora macrocyclos, Xanthoria elegans and species of Buellia and Caloplaca), but as low as, 0·4–4% in nitrophobous species (Lecanora physciella, Lecidea sp., Rhizocarpon geographicum). Umbilicaria antarctica and Usnea Antarctica also yielded data indicating high growth rates, with colonist plants reaching several centimetres after 20 years. Colonization by mixed assemblages of lichens of new rock surfaces can attain 40->90% cover after 20 years in nutrient-enriched sites, and even 20–25% in non-biotically influenced sites. Colonization by or increase in extant O. frigida on the regenerating moribund moss bank was also quite rapid. It is suggested that the exceptionally large thalli of several lichen species and the locally extensive dense lichen fellfield communities in the maritime Antarctic may be much younger than previously supposed.