bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Activity of alternative oxidase and plant uncoupling mitochondrial protein in potato tubers stored at low temperature or submitted to artificial aging
Authors: Pinheiro Hugo Alves , Borges Regis , Silva Marco Aurélio Pedron e , Centeno Danilo Cruz
Published: April 2005

Potato tubers (Solanum tuberosum L. cv. Binje) were stored at 18 and 4ºC in order to verify changes in mitochondrial metabolism, especially in the activities of the alternative oxidase (AOX) and plant uncoupling mitochondria protein (PUMP). Tubers were also sliced and submitted to artificial aging. The oxygen consumption rate (OCR), respiratory control (RC) and ADP/O ratio for mitochondria obtained after storage at 18ºC were not altered, regardless of the time of storage. Considerable increment in OCR, for both respiratory states 3 and 4, was observed after storing the tubers for five and ten days at 4ºC; and it was accomplished by reductions in RC and ADP/O. The AOX activity was evident after five days at 4ºC, and it was enhanced after ten days of storage at that temperature. No significant changes in PUMP activities were observed after one day at 18ºC or at 4ºC, neither after artificial aging. However, increased swelling of potato mitochondria was observed in the presence of valinomycin and linoleic acid when the tubers were kept at 4ºC for five and ten days. Besides the changes in AOX and PUMP activities, slight alterations in ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and catalase (CAT) activities were observed after storing the tubers at 4ºC for 5 days. The activities of these enzymes were higher after storage at 4ºC for 10 days. The results suggest the combined effect of low temperature and time of exposure in promoting AOX activity, probably as a protective mechanism against cell damage in response to mitochondrial oxidative stress.
Changes in network connectance and temporal dynamics of gas exchange in Citrus sinensis under different evaporative demands
Authors: Souza Gustavo M. , Ribeiro Rafael V. , Pincus Steven M.
Published: April 2005

Stomatal aperture is an essential factor both in regulation of transpiration and net photosynthesis. This regulation is especially important in the response of plants to drought or to an increase in leaf-to-air vapor pressure difference (VPD); however, such a regulation is part of a complex dynamical environment, associated with multiple regulatory pathways. Accordingly, we studied the effects of VPD on gas exchange of Citrus sinensis via the evaluation of two complementary analytic approaches, to approach an understanding of the full scope of the system interactions. First, we used classical statistical methodologies, e.g., means, coefficient of variation, and linear correlation. Second, we used measures developed for more model-independent applications, Approximate Entropy (ApEn) to evaluate the irregularity or complexity of gas exchange time-series, and network connectance to evaluate changes in the extent of linkage among specified gas exchange parameters. The analyses of experiments carried out under constant environmental conditions in each VPD treatment (1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 kPa) showed a number of relatively subtle results of physiological consequence, such as differences in network connectance during the period of measurements at the same condition showing different patterns of gas exchange regulation. Additionally, VPD changes affect the dynamics of gas exchange by alterations in the irregularity of the time-series. These experiments highlight the endogenous and self-organized mechanisms that underlie the gas exchange process with further theoretical findings and possible practical applications.
The relationship between radiographic and clinical parameters in periodontal maintenance in class II furcation defects
Authors: Cury Patricia Ramos , Araújo Ney Soares de , Bowie Jon , Sallum Enilson Antonio , Jeffcoat Marjorie
Published: April 2005

The goal of the present study was to investigate the relationship between probing and radiographic parameters, and the reliability of repeated longitudinal periodontal probing measurements for early diagnosis of periodontal breakdown in class II furcation defects. Eighteen class II furcation defects in lower molars were included in this study. Standardized radiographs and clinical measurements, relative vertical clinical attachment level (CAL-v) and probing depth (PD) were obtained immediately before periodontal surgeries and at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after surgery. A total of 72 pairs of radiographs were subtracted following correction for contrast and planar geometric discrepancies, and the bone loss/gain (in mm) was measured. There was no statistically significant correlation between CAL-v and bone height (BH) measurements. A statistically significant correlation for PD reduction at 24 months and BH increase at 18 months was found (r = 0.5, p < 0.05). These results suggest that clinical measurements and radiographic bone height reflect different features of periodontal destruction and periodontal healing, and repeated longitudinal measurements of vertical clinical attachment level are not reliable for early diagnosis of periodontal breakdown in class II furcation defects.
Systemic use of metronidazole in the treatment of chronic periodontitis: a pilot study using clinical, microbiological, and enzymatic evaluation
Authors: Vergani Solange Alonso , Silva Emílio Barbosa e , Vinholis Adriana Helena , Marcantonio Rosemary Adriana Chiérici
Published: April 2005

The aim of the present parallel, double-blind investigation was to evaluate the effect of using systemic metronidazole alone or associated to scaling and root planing on adult chronic periodontal disease, monitored at baseline, 30, 60 and 90 days. Twelve subjects were divided into three groups: the first group (Group I - 22 sites) was submitted to scaling and root planing (SRP) alone; the second group (Group II - 30 sites) received SRP and 250 mg of metronidazole (3 times a day for 10 days), and the third group (Group III - 31 sites) was treated with metronidazole alone. The clinical parameters evaluated were probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), plaque index (PlI), gingival index (GI) and bleeding upon probing (BP). Microbiological (BANA test) and enzymatic (Pocket Watch) tests were also performed. All three proposed treatments produced significant improvements in clinical conditions of subjects, from baseline, 30, 60 and 90-day period, except for clinical attachment level. The results obtained by microbiological and enzymatic tests did not show statistical differences among the groups for the 90-day period (r = 0.7924 and r = 0.7757, respectively). In relation to clinical parameters, statistical differences among groups were observed only for the gingival index (p = 0.0261) between Groups I and II, and probing depth (p = 0.0124) between Group I and the others. We conclude that the use of systemic metronidazole did not produce additional effects on the microbiological conditions of these patients with chronic periodontal disease.
Pediatric dental treatment: manifestations of stress in patients, mothers and dental school students
Authors: Cardoso Cármen Lúcia , Loureiro Sônia Regina , Nelson-Filho Paulo
Published: April 2005

The aim of this study was to compare a group of children with high levels of anxiety during dental treatment who required physical restraint (group 1) to a group of children who collaborated with treatment (group 2). Child stress and its relationship with the manifestations of stress of the mothers and the dental students were assessed. The following psychological evaluation techniques were applied: the Child Stress Scale, the Rutter Parent Scale A2, Dental Fear Survey, and Lipp Stress Symptoms Inventory for Adults. Group 1 presented higher stress indicators, and emotional and behavior difficulties than group 2 (p < 0.01). The stress indicators and the dental fear presented by mothers from group 1 were higher than that from group 2 (p < 0.01). The dental students who treated the children from both groups presented high stress levels. We conclude that the difficulties experienced by the child and the mother, associated to the student's diminished ability to control the situation, may negatively influence the perception that the child has of dental treatment. A set of factors related to the children, mothers or dental students may cause poor collaboration during the dental treatment.
Susceptibility of some oral microorganisms to chlorhexidine and paramonochlorophenol
Authors: Amorim Crystiane Venditi Gomes do , Aun Carlos Eduardo , Mayer Marcia Pinto Alves
Published: April 2005

Since the use of antimicrobial agents is required in endodontic therapies, this study aimed at determining the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of chlorhexidine digluconate and paramonochlorophenol (PMC) against microorganisms commonly found in endodontic infections. Both agents were tested by agar dilution tests against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans, Prevotella intermedia, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Porphyromonas endodontalis, Prevotella denticola and Prevotella melaninogenica. The MIC of chlorhexidine ranged from 2.67 to 80.00 µg/ml, and the MIC of PMC from 46.67 to 213.33 µg/ml. The highest MIC value of PMC was detected for E. faecalis whereas E. coli was the most susceptible microorganism to this agent. The highest MIC values of chlorhexidine were observed for P. aeruginosa whereas E. coli and P. denticola were the most susceptible microorganisms to this agent. Since the MIC values observed are much lower than the concentrations currently used in the endodontic therapy, it is suggested that both agents are effective in reducing the microbiota in the root canal.
Effectiveness of composite resin polymerization using light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or halogen-based light-curing units
Authors: Micali Bianca , Basting Roberta Tarkany
Published: April 2005

The clinical performance of composite resins is greatly influenced by the quality of the light-curing unit used. The aim of this study was to compare the efficiency of a commercial light-emitting diode (LED) with that of a halogen-based light-curing unit by means of dye penetration of a micro hybrid composite resin. The composite resin evaluated was Filtek Z250 (3M Dental). The composite was filled into acrylic moulds that were randomly polymerized for 40 seconds by each of the light-emitting systems: light-emitting diode Ultraled (Dabi Atlante) or halogen light Degulux (Degussa Hüls) curing units. Immediately after polymerization, each specimen was individually immersed in 1 ml of 2% methylene blue solution at 37°C ± 2°C. After 24 hours, the specimens were rinsed under running distilled water for 1 minute and stored at 37°C ± 2°C at relative humidity for 24 hours. The composite resins were removed from the moulds and individually triturated before being immersed in new test tubes containing 1 ml of absolute alcohol for 24 hours. The solutions were filtered and centrifuged for 3 minutes at 4,000 rpm and the supernatant was used to determine absorbance in a spectrophotometer at 590 nm. To verify the differences between groups polymerized by LED or halogen light t-test was applied. No significant differences were found between composite resins light-cured by LED or halogen light-curing unit (p > 0.05). The commercially LED-based light-curing unit is as effective to polymerize hybrid composite resins as the halogen-based unit.
Healing Presence
Authors: Perez Jacqueline C.
Published: April 2005

Medicine is the art and science of restoring and preserving health through the healing process. The science of medicine lies in evidenced based practices and the technological achievements of the last century, which enable practitioners to preserve the physical body. A growing number of research articles and writings have also appeared addressing the spiritual dimension of healing (the art of medicine), which often ignored creates a gap in the medical care of the patient. The spiritual aspects of medical care are explored based on the experience of the doctor-patient encounter. Three case studies of various clinical settings are presented to begin to look at the spiritual aspect of healing and better define its incorporation in the encounters with patients. The author reflects on the skills and concepts that begin to define the spiritual dimension of care: communication (listening, speaking), connection (space, safety, and sacredness), and communion through which healing can occur. As health care professionals we can be a “healing” (Hopeful, Empathetic, Attentive, Loving, Intentional, Nourishing, Grateful) presence taking care of the physical, mental, and spiritual needs of our patients in our encounters with them, bringing them back to health and wholeness.
Gene delivery to embryonic stem cells
Authors: Kobayashi Naoya , Rivas‐Carrillo Jorge David , Soto‐Gutierrez Alejandro , Fukazawa Takuya , Chen Yong , Navarro‐Alvarez Nalu , Tanaka Noriaki
Published: April 2005

Since the establishment of embryonic stem (ES) cells and the identification of tissue‐specific stem cells, researchers have made great strides in the analysis of the natural biology of such stem cells for the development of therapeutic applications. Specifically, ES cells are capable of differentiating into all of the cell types that constitute the whole body. Thus, ES cell research promises new type of treatments and possible cures for a variety of debilitating diseases and injuries. The potential medical benefits obtained from stem cell technology are compelling and stem cell research sees a bright future. Control of the growth and differentiation of stem cells is a critical tool in the fields of regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, drug discovery, and toxicity testing. Toward such a goal, we present here an overview of gene delivery in ES cells, covering the following topics: significance of gene delivery in ES cells, stable versus transient gene delivery, cytotoxicity, suspension versus adherent cells, expertise, time, cost, viral vectors for gene transduction (lentiviruses, adenoviruses, and adeno‐associated viruses, chemical methods for gene delivery, and mechanical or physical gene delivery methods (electroporation. nucleofection, microinjection, and nuclear transfer). Birth Defects Research (Part C) 75:10–18, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of segment substitution on the structure and stability of immunoglobulin G binding domain of streptococcal protein G
Authors: Du Hai‐Ning , Zhang Tie‐Ying , Chang Yong‐Gang , Lin Dong‐Hai , Hu Hong‐Yu
Published: April 2005

Structural formation of segments plays pivotal roles in protein folding and stability, but how the segment influences the structural ensemble remains elusive. We engineered two hybrid proteins by replacing the central helical segment of immunoglobulin G binding domain of streptococcal protein G with an α‐helix or β2‐strand element of a structural homologue, the immunoglobulin G binding domain of streptococcal protein L. The results show that substitution by the α‐helical sequence retains a folded structure predominantly with a three‐stranded β‐sheet but slightly destabilizes the compact ensemble, while substitution by the β2‐strand sequence completely destroys the structural formation. The finding implies that the local segment may influence the tertiary structure and overall stability, and the tertiary interactions may modulate structural formation of the segment, which might be considered when studying protein folding, prediction, design, and engineering. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 79: 9–17, 2005

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Discrete-choice experiment to measure patient preferences for the surgical management of colorectal cancer
Authors: Salkeld G , Solomon M , Butow P , Short L
Published: April 2005

Background

Establishing trust between a patient and his or her surgeon is of paramount importance. The aim of this study was to assess the relative importance of the ‘attributes of trust’ between surgeon and patient with colorectal cancer.

Methods

A discrete-choice questionnaire was conducted with 60 men and 43 women who had completed primary treatment for colorectal cancer in two teaching hospitals in Sydney, Australia.

Results

Forty-seven of the 103 patients based their choice of surgical management on a single attribute and the remainder were willing to trade between different attributes. In order of importance, patients based their choice of surgical management on specialty training (β coefficient = 0·83), surgeon's communication (β = 0·82), type of hospital (β = 0·72) and who decides treatment (β = 0·01). Patients who were vigilant in their decision-making style and those who did not have tertiary education were more likely to change their preferences in the repeat interview.

Conclusion

Clinicians may have a better chance of meeting a patient's expectations about the process of care if they assess the patient's desire for knowledge and give those who do not have tertiary education more time to assimilate information about their treatment.
An electro‐optic monitor of the behavior of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cilia
Authors: Josef Keith , Saranak Jureepan , Foster Kenneth W.
Published: April 2005

The unicellular green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii steers through water with a pair of cilia (eukaryotic flagella). Long‐term observation of the beating of its cilia with controlled stimulation is improving our understanding of how a cell responds to sensory inputs. Here we describe how to record ciliary motion continuously for long periods. We also report experiments on the network of intracellular signaling that connects the environment inputs with response outputs. Local spatial changes in ciliary response on the time scale of the underlying biochemical dynamics are observed. Near‐infrared light monitors the cells held by a micropipette. This condition is tolerated well for hours, not interfering with ciliary beating or sensory transduction. A computer integrates the light stimulation of the eye of Chlamydomonas with the ciliary motion making possible long‐term correlations. Measures of ciliary responses include the beating frequency, stroke velocity, and stroke duration of each cilium, and the relative phase of the cis and trans cilia. The stationarity and dependence of the system on light intensity was investigated. About 150,000,000 total beat cycles and up to 8 h on one cell have been recorded. Each beat cycle is resolved so that each asynchronous beat is detected. Responses extend only a few hundred milliseconds, but there is a persistence of momentary changes that last much longer. Interestingly, we see a response that is linear with absolute light intensity as well as different kinds of response that are clearly nonlinear, implying two signaling pathways from the cell body to the cilia. Cell Motil. Cytoskeleton 61:83–96, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Refractive index, band gap and oscillator parameters of amorphous GaSe thin films
Authors: Qasrawi A. F.
Published: April 2005

GaSe thin films are obtained by evaporating GaSe crystals onto ultrasonically cleaned glass substrates kept at room temperature under a pressure of ∼10–5 Torr. The X‐ray analysis revealed that these films are of amorphous nature. The reflectance and transmittance of the films are measured in the incident photon energy range of 1.1–3.0 eV. The absorption coefficient spectral analysis revealed the existence of long and wide band tails of the localized states in the low absorption region. The band tails width is calculated to be 0.42 eV. The analysis of the absorption coefficient in the high absorption region revealed an indirect forbidden band gap of 1.93 eV. The transmittance analysis in the incidence photon wavelength range of 500–1100 nm allowed the determination of refractive index as function of wave length. The refractive index–wavelength variation leads to the determination of dispersion and oscillator energies as 31.23 and 3.90 eV, respectively. The static refractive index and static dielectric constant were also calculated as a result of the later data and found to be 9.0 and 3.0, respectively. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Influence of tunneling rays to baseband frequency response of step‐index plastic optical fibers
Authors: Yoshimura Tomonari , Koyamada Yahei
Published: April 2005

The transmission bandwidth of a stepped‐index plastic optical fiber (POF) is found to vary significantly with the location of incidence of the light at the POF edge plane. In order to determine the cause, the effect of a tunneling leaky ray on the baseband frequency characteristics of the POF is studied both numerically and experimentally. It is found that the transmission bandwidth becomes narrower due to excitation of tunneling leaky rays if the light is incident from a light source with a wide radiating angle, such as that in a light‐emitting diode (LED), on a position far from the center on the POF edge plane. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 1, 88(8): 12–17, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecja.20166
Radiation and ohmic resistances in very small meander line antennas of less than 0.1 wavelength
Authors: Takiguchi Masato , Yamada Yoshihide
Published: April 2005

Demands for extremely small antennas to be used in radiofrequency identification tags for ubiquitous communication have increased. Examples of very small antennas utilizing meander line structures are seen. To date, important studies have been carried out on basic design and on improvement of the radiation efficiency by a folded configuration. Most of the structures studied have dimensions of more than 0.1 wavelength. For the demands of ultracompact antennas, this paper deals with meander line antennas whose dimensions are less than 0.1 wavelength. First, the parameters for resonant configurations are derived for antennas with dimensions of 0.1 to 0.025 wavelength. Next, the radiation resistance and the ohmic resistance are studied in the folded structures. First, through a transmission line model analysis, it is shown that the step‐up ratios of radiation and ohmic resistances in the case of folded structures are different. In addition, these resistances that are basic values of electrical performances are derived through electromagnetic simulations. Further, in order to confirm the validity of the numerical results and the realizable performance, antennas with dimensions of 0.1 and 0.05 wavelength were fabricated. Electrical characteristics are compared, and good agreements are found. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 1, 88(8): 1–11, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecja.20204
Chemical composition of the essential oils of Marrubium parviﬂorum Fisch. & C. A. Mey. and Marrubium vulgare L. from Iran
Authors: Khanavi Mahnaz , Ghasemian Leila , Motlagh Elham Hosseiny , Hadjiakhoondi Abbas , Shaﬁee Abbas
Published: April 2005

The composition of essential oil samples obtained by hydrodistillation of the aerial parts of Marrubium parviﬂorum Fisch. & C. A. Mey. and Marrubium vulgare L. (family Lamiaceae), were investigated by GC and GC–MS. Fifty‐one components in the oil of M. parviﬂorum, representing 96.8% of the total oil, and 34 components in the oil of M. vulgare, representing 95.1% of the total oil, were identiﬁed. Both essential oils were characterized by a high amount of sesqiterpenes (77.8% and 82.5%, respectively) with bicyclogermacrene (26.3%), germacrene D (21.5%) and β‐caryophyllene (15.6%) as the major constituents of M. parviﬂorum, and β‐bisabolene (25.4%), β‐caryophyllene (11.6%), germacrene D (9.7%) and E‐β‐farnesene (8.3%) as the major component of M. vulgare. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Current awareness in flavour and fragrance
Authors:   John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Published: April 2005

In order to keep subscribers up‐to‐date with the latest developments in their field, John Wiley & Sons are providing a current awareness service in each issue of the journal. The bibliography contains newly published material in the field of flavour and fragrance. Each bibliography is divided into 7 sections: 1 Flavour of food; 2 Fragrances; 3 Essential oils; 4 Food constituents; 5 Taints & off‐flavours; 6 Sensory evaluation & psychophysics; 7 Apparatus & methodology. Within each section, articles are listed in alphabetical order with respect to author. If, in the preceding period, no publications are located relevant to any one of these headings, that section will be omitted (10 weeks journals. Search ended 15th. Dec. 2004)
The effect of nabilone on neuropsychological functions related to driving ability: an extended case series
Authors: Kurzthaler Ilsemarie , Bodner Thomas , Kemmler Georg , Entner Tanja , Wissel Joerg , Berger Thomas , Fleischhacker W. Wolfgang
Published: April 2005

The primary goal of this prospective extended case series was to obtain the first data about the potential influence of nabilone intake on driving ability related neuropsychological functions. Six patients were investigated within a placebo controlled, double‐blind crossover study of this synthetic cannabinoid (2 mg/day) in patients with multiple sclerosis and spasticity associated pain. Five neuropsychological functions (reaction time, working memory, divided attention, psychomotor speed and mental flexibility) were assessed.

No indication was found of a deterioration of any of the five investigated neuropsychological functions during the 4‐week treatment period with nabilone. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fighting costly health care fraud
Authors: Goldberg Stephen R. , Lindquist Stanton C.
Published: April 2005

There is a rising tide of health care fraud in this country. And it is costing all of us upwards of $100 billion each year, adding to already skyrocketing medical costs. Many companies do not have adequate internal controls over their health care system. And even when they do, monitoring or auditing is lax. The authors explore the scope of these problems and offer practical advice on stemming the tide. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF‐A) expression in human mesenchymal stem cells: Autocrine and paracrine role on osteoblastic and endothelial differentiation
Authors: Mayer Hubert , Bertram Helge , Lindenmaier Werner , Korff Thomas , Weber Holger , Weich Herbert
Published: April 2005

Angiogenesis is essential in bone fracture healing for restoring blood flow to the fracture site. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptor have been implicated in this process. Despite the importance of angiogenesis for the healing processes of damaged bones, the role of VEGF signaling in modulation of osteogenic differentiation in human mesenchymal stem cells has not been investigated in great detail. We examined the expression of VEGF‐A and VEGFR‐1 in human adult mesenchymal stem cells derived from trabecular bone (hTBCs). VEGF‐A was found to be secreted in a differentiation dependent manner during osteogenesis. Transcripts for VEGF‐A were also seen to be elevated during osteogenesis. In addition, transcripts for VEGF‐A and the corresponding receptor VEGFR‐1 were upregulated under hypoxic conditions in undifferentiated hTBCs. To investigate the signaling of VEGF‐A on osteogenesis recombinant hTBCs were generated. High expression of VEGF‐A stimulated mineralization, whereas high expression of sFLT‐1, an antagonist to VEGF‐A, reduced mineralization suggesting that VEGF‐A acts as autocrine factor for osteoblast differentiation. In addition, VEGF‐A secreted by hTBCs promotes sprouting of endothelial cells (HUVE) demonstrating a paracrine role in blood vessel formation. In summary, an in vitro analysis of transgene effects on cellular behavior can be used to predict an effective ex vivo gene therapy. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Membrane localization of all class I PI 3‐kinase isoforms suppresses c‐Myc‐induced apoptosis in Rat1 fibroblasts via Akt
Authors: Link Wolfgang , Rosado Aranzazu , Fominaya Jesus , Thomas James E. , Carnero Amancio
Published: April 2005

Phosphoinositide 3′‐kinases (PI3Ks) constitute a family of lipid kinases implicated in signal transduction through tyrosine kinase receptors and heterotrimeric G protein‐linked receptors. PI3Ks are heterodimers made up of four different 110‐kDa catalytic subunits (p110α, p110β, p110γ, and p110δ) and a smaller regulatory subunit. Despite a clear implication of PI3Ks in survival signaling, the contribution of the individual PI3K isoforms has not been elucidated. To address this issue, we generated Rat1 fibroblasts that co‐express c‐Myc and membrane targeted derivates of the different p110 isoforms. Here we present data for the first time showing that activation of PI3‐kinase signaling through membrane localization of p110β, p110γ, and p110δ protects c‐Myc overexpressing Rat1 fibroblasts from apoptosis caused by serum deprivation like it has been described for p110α. Expression of each p110 isoform reduces significantly caspase‐3 like activity in this apoptosis model. Decreased caspase‐3 activity correlates with the increase in Akt phosphorylation in cells that contain one of the myristoylated p110 isoforms. p110 isoform‐mediated protection from cell death was abrogated upon expression of a kinase‐negative version of Akt. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Radiosynthesis of carbon‐11‐labelled GI181771, a new selective CCK‐A agonist
Authors: Dollé F. , Martarello L. , Bramoullé Y. , Bottlaender M. , Gee A.D.
Published: April 2005

The novel CCK‐A agonist, (S)‐3‐(3‐{1‐[(isopropylphenylcarbamoyl)methyl]‐2,4‐dioxo‐5‐phenyl‐2,3,4,5‐tetrahydro‐1H‐benzo[b][1,4]diazepin‐3‐yl}ureido)benzoic acid, GI181771 ((S)‐1) has been isotopically labelled with carbon‐11 at its urea site using [11C]phosgene in a one‐pot two‐step process, via the intermediate preparation of an [11C]isocyanate derivative. Optimized conditions for the preparation of (S)‐[11C]‐1 were the following: (1) Trapping of [11C]phosgene (radiosynthesized from cyclotron‐produced [11C]methane via [11C]carbon tetrachloride using minor modifications of published processes) at room temperature for 1–2 min in 300 µl of acetonitrile containing 0.6 µmol of the appropriate (structurally complex) chiral‐amine giving the corresponding [11C]isocyanate followed by (2) addition of an excess of 3‐aminobenzoic acid (40 µmol in 100 µl of THF) as the second amine giving the desired urea derivative (S)‐[11C]‐1 and (3) high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) purification on a semi‐preparative Waters Symmetry® C18. Starting from a typical 1.2 Ci (44.4 GBq) batch of [11C]methane, 25–35 mCi (0.92–1.29 GBq, 6.8–9.6% decay‐corrected yield based on starting [11C] methane, n = 5) of (S)‐[11C]‐1 could be obtained within 35 min of radiosynthesis (HPLC purification and formulation as an i.v. injectable solution using a home‐made Sep‐pak®Plus C18 device included) with specific radioactivities ranging from 500 to 1500 mCi/µmol (18.5–55.5 GBq/µmol). The radiotracer preparation was a clear and colourless solution and its pH was between 5 and 7. As demonstrated by HPLC analysis, the radiolabelled product was found to be >99% chemically and radiochemically pure and the preparation was shown to be free of non‐radioactive precursors (starting amines) and radiochemically stable for at least 60 min. Finally, enantiomeric purity was found to be >99% according to chiral HPLC, demonstrating the absence of racemization during the process. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ultrastructure, development, and homology of insect embryonic cuticles
Authors: Konopová Barbora , Zrzavý Jan
Published: April 2005

Ultrastructure and deposition of the cuticles secreted by embryos representing eight insect orders were examined by transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Embryos of the apterygote silverfish Thermobia domestica deposit two embryonic cuticles. Deposition of the first (EC1) is initiated at the beginning of appendage development when the intercalary segment and the neural groove are clearly visible. This cuticle lacks surface microsculpture and consists of an outer epicuticle and an underlying fibrous layer, thought to represent procuticle. At the time of dorsal closure, deposition of a second embryonic cuticle (EC2) begins; this bears sensilla and functions in the first instar larva. In representative embryos of seven pterygote orders (Ephemeroptera, Odonata, Plecoptera, Neuroptera, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, and Mecoptera), three cuticles were found to be secreted. The first cuticle in pterygotes is homologous to EC1 of T. domestica, but consists solely of outer epicuticle. EC2, the “prolarval cuticle,” bears a characteristic surface microsculpture in embryos of some species and egg‐teeth and other hatching devices, and consists of outer and inner epicuticles and a more or less reduced procuticle. EC2 is reduced in the embryos of derived endopterygotes, where a procuticle is lacking and the inner epicuticle is reduced. After hatching, when EC2 is shed, the first instar larva is covered by a third embryonic cuticle (EC3), whose deposition was initiated while the insect was still within the egg. Presence of only two embryonic cuticles in cyclorrhaphous flies is due to the total loss of prolarval cuticle. Investigated exopterygote and endopterygote insects excluding flies thus deposit three embryonic cuticles, and their juveniles (exopterygote “nymphs”; endopterygote “larvae”) seem to hatch at equivalent stages of development. Differences between the modes of cuticulogenesis in silverfish and pterygote embryos suggest that the apterygote first larval instar was embryonized and became a fully embryonic prolarva in pterygotes. J. Morphol. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The Orbitrap: a new mass spectrometer
Authors: Hu Qizhi , Noll Robert J. , Li Hongyan , Makarov Alexander , Hardman Mark , Graham Cooks R.
Published: April 2005

Research areas such as proteomics and metabolomics are driving the demand for mass spectrometers that have high performance but modest power requirements, size, and cost. This paper describes such an instrument, the Orbitrap, based on a new type of mass analyzer invented by Makarov. The Orbitrap operates by radially trapping ions about a central spindle electrode. An outer barrel‐like electrode is coaxial with the inner spindlelike electrode and mass/charge values are measured from the frequency of harmonic ion oscillations, along the axis of the electric field, undergone by the orbitally trapped ions. This axial frequency is independent of the energy and spatial spread of the ions. Ion frequencies are measured non‐destructively by acquisition of time‐domain image current transients, with subsequent fast Fourier transforms (FFTs) being used to obtain the mass spectra.

In addition to describing the Orbitrap mass analyzer, this paper also describes a complete Orbitrap‐based mass spectrometer, equipped with an electrospray ionization source (ESI). Ions are transferred from the ESI source through three stages of differential pumping using RF guide quadrupoles. The third quadrupole, pressurized to less than 10−3 Torr with collision gas, acts as an ion accumulator; ion/neutral collisions slow the ions and cause them to pool in an axial potential well at the end of the quadrupole. Ion bunches are injected from this pool into the Orbitrap analyzer for mass analysis. The ion injection process is described in a simplified way, including a description of electrodynamic squeezing, field compensation for the effects of the ion injection slit, and criteria for orbital stability. Features of the Orbitrap at its present stage of development include high mass resolution (up to 150 000), large space charge capacity, high mass accuracy (2–5 ppm), a mass/charge range of at least 6000, and dynamic range greater than 10.3

Applications based on electrospray ionization are described, including characterization of transition‐metal complexes, oligosaccharides, peptides, and proteins. Use is also made of the high‐resolution capabilities of the Orbitrap to confirm the presence of metaclusters of serine octamers in ESI mass spectra and to perform H/D exchange experiments on these ions in the storage quadrupole. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spectroscopic arguments for a new crystal phase of glycolaldehyde
Authors: Mohaček‐Grošev Vlasta
Published: April 2005

In an attempt to elucidate the nature of glycolaldehyde dimer solid phases further, low‐temperature Raman spectroscopy was employed and phonon spectra were recorded in the temperature in range 10–300 K. It seems probable that the α phase of glycolaldehyde dimer belongs to the P21/n space group with Z = 2, the same crystal class in which 1,4‐dioxane and DL‐glyceraldehyde crystallize. Studying the temperature dependence of the low‐wavenumber Raman bands of glycolaldehyde dimer α phase, one observes an increase in the number of phonons from six to 13 when the sample is cooled below 80 K. We suggest that a phase transformation into a new phase γ takes place, with the number of molecules per unit cell probably equal to Z = 4. Normal coordinate analysis was performed for glycolaldehyde dimer with two equatorial and with two axial hydroxyl groups, in order to predict the number of internal modes falling in the phonon region. If there were any centrosymmetric dimers with two axial hydroxyl groups present, than a band around 150 cm−1 would have been expected in the Raman spectrum, which was not observed. This is by far the strongest argument in favour of the hypothesis that the α phase consists of dimers with two equatorially placed hydroxyl groups. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Improved rat liver preservation by hypothermic continuous machine perfusion using polysol, a new, enriched preservation solution
Authors: Bessems Maud , Doorschodt Benedict M. , van Vliet Arlène K. , van Gulik Thomas M.
Published: April 2005

For experimental machine perfusion (MP) of the liver, the modified University of Wisconsin solution (UW-G) is most often used. In our search for an enriched MP preservation solution, Polysol was developed. Polysol is enriched with various amino acids, vitamins, and other nutrients for the liver metabolism. The aim of this study was to compare Polysol with UW-G for MP preservation of the liver. Rat livers were preserved during 24 hours with hypothermic MP using UW-G (n = 5) or Polysol (n = 5). Hepatocellular damage (aspartate aminotransferase [AST], alanine aminotransferase [ALT], lactate dehydrogenase [LDH], alpha-glutathione-
S

-transferase [alpha-GST]) and bile production were measured during 60 minutes of reperfusion (37°C) with Krebs-Henseleit buffer. Control livers were reperfused after 24 hours of cold storage in UW (n = 5). MP using UW-G or Polysol showed less liver damage when compared with controls. Livers machine perfused with Polysol showed less enzyme release when compared to UW-G. Bile production was higher after MP using either UW-G or Polysol compared with controls. In conclusion, machine perfusion using Polysol results in better quality liver preservation than cold storage with UW and machine perfusion using UW-G. (Liver Transpl 2005;11:539–546.)
Liver transplantation for severe hepatic graft-versus-host disease: An analysis of aggregate survival data
Authors: Barshes Neal R. , Myers Douglas G. , Lee Dean , Karpen Saul J. , Lee Timothy C. , Patel Akash J. , Finegold Milton , Goss John A.
Published: April 2005

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) often occurs after bone marrow transplantation (BMT). GVHD may lead to cirrhosis or complete destruction of the bile ducts, and few effective treatment options exist for such cases. Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) has been described as an option, but to date the patient survival, graft survival, and GVHD recurrence rates after OLT have been unknown. Cases of OLT for GVHD were accumulated from several sources: (1) cases of OLT performed at a single institution, (2) the English-language medical literature, and (3) the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) liver transplant registry. Descriptive data were derived from pre- and post-OLT information; survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method. One case of OLT for GVHD after BMT was found at our institution, and another 6 cases were previously reported in the literature. Extrahepatic GVHD recurred in 2 cases, but no recurrence of hepatic GVHD was reported. The UNOS registry contained an additional 73 patients who underwent OLT for hepatic GVHD. The 1- and 5-year actuarial patient survival rates were 72.4% and 62.9%, respectively. Although 4 patients required retransplantation, no deaths or retransplants were attributed to the recurrence of hepatic GVHD. OLT is an effective treatment for hepatic GVHD after BMT or non-liver organ transplant. Long-term disease-free survival is obtainable in these cases, and recurrence of hepatic GVHD has not been reported. These findings suggest that OLT should be considered as an effective treatment option for cases of hepatic GVHD recalcitrant to medical treatment. (Liver Transpl 2005;11:525–531.)
Ablation therapy in containing extension of hepatocellular carcinoma: A simulative analysis of dropout from the waiting list for liver transplantation
Authors: Yamashiki Noriyo , Tateishi Ryosuke , Yoshida Haruhiko , Shiina Shuichiro , Teratani Takuma , Sato Shinpei , Mine Norio , Kondo Yuji , Kawabe Takao , Omata Masao
Published: April 2005

The dropout from the waiting list for liver transplantation among patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is reportedly as high as 12% to 40% per year, mostly due to tumor progression. Considering the scarcity of donor organs, it would be beneficial if we could retain them within the Milan criteria with a bridging therapy. We retrospectively analyzed the prognosis of 288 HCC patients with relatively preserved liver function we treated with ablation therapy between 1997 and 2001, concentrating on whether they subsequently remained in the criteria, and analyzed the risk factors of dropout with Cox proportional hazards model. During a median follow-up period of 39 months (range, 1–86 months), 33 (11%) died without tumor progression, while 85 (30%) dropped out due to tumor progression. The overall dropout rate was 9.0% and 32.8% at 1 and 3 years, respectively, and that due to tumor progression was 6.2% and 23.0%. Cox regression analysis indicated that a high serum level of alpha-fetoprotein or des-γ-carboxy prothrombin, and a tumor size exceeding 3 cm in diameter affected the dropout due to tumor progression, while low albumin concentration was a risk factor of death independently of tumor progression. In conclusion, local ablation therapy for HCC was effective in containing the tumor progression within the Milan criteria in selected patients. (Liver Transpl 2005;11:508–514.)
Detailed Molecular Structure Modeling – A Path Forward to Designing Application Properties of ldPE
Authors: Schmidt Christian‐Ulrich , Busch Markus , Lilge Dieter , Wulkow Michael
Published: April 2005

Summary: This paper describes a step on the ambitious aim to “design” application properties of ldPE by first simulating the detailed molecular structure of a high‐pressure tubular reactor product. The reactor of a certain configuration produces under well‐defined operating conditions. The next step is to correlate the structure with the application properties. Finally, the sequence will be reversed in order to deduce the operating conditions, which lead to the desired product quality. Two‐dimensional distributions, in molecular weight and branching frequency, as well a two compartment models with a core and a shell stream were simulated and compared with experimental results. Therefore, CFD simulations were carried out to discretize the reaction medium. Samples were taken from both pilot and commercial plants. The TREF‐SEC analytical method was successfully applied in order to measure the microscopic structure of the material. The tremendous numerical problems were solved with the help of the software PREDICI.

Detailed MWD for a pilot scale reactor product.

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Detailed MWD for a pilot scale reactor product.
Lesion of the dorsorostral midbrain sparing the nigrostriatal tract mimics axial rigidity seen in progressive supranuclear palsy
Authors: Lewerenz Jan , Zurowski Bartosz , Jenicke Lars , Bäumer Tobias , Lees Andrew J. , Münchau Alexander
Published: April 2005

We report on a patient with a residual dorsorostral midbrain lesion after resection of a pineal gland tumor. In addition to severe vertical gaze palsy, this patient exhibited other neurological features closely resembling progressive supranuclear palsy. Normal dopamine transporter single‐photon emission computed tomography imaging excluded significant dopamine deficiency. We suggest that dorsorostral midbrain pathology rather than dopamine deficiency due to degeneration of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons or basal ganglia nuclei might be responsible for axial rigidity in extension. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
On the stability of the FDTD method for solving a time‐dependent Schrödinger equation
Authors: Dai Weizhong , Li Guang , Nassar Raja , Su Shengjun
Published: April 2005

The finite difference time domain (FDTD) method is often employed in simulation of electromagnetic fields. The scheme is explicit and two‐level in time. However, it is not clear what the time step, Δt, should be when the FDTD method is applied for solving a time‐dependent Schrödinger equation. In this study, we analyze the stability of the FDTD scheme for solving the time‐dependent Schrödinger equation. A condition for choosing the time step is obtained in order that the scheme is stable. A numerical example is illustrated. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2005
Livelihood strategies and performance of Ghana's health and education sectors: exploring the connections
Authors: Owusu Francis
Published: April 2005

The public sector in Africa is riddled with widespread ineffectiveness. Although some countries have implemented various reform programmes with the support of international development agencies, the results so far have been disappointing. One reason for the failure is that the policies have focussed more on achieving macroeconomic stability than making the organisations effective. This article explores a fundamental problem of the policies—the need to focus on the human component of organisational performance. Using education and health organisations in Ghana as examples, the article advances a hypothesis that the livelihood strategies of public sector employees and the performance of their organisations are interconnected. Specifically, it is argued that as public sector employees have become more dependent on multiple sources of income, they have developed multiple social identities, which influence the culture of their organisations. The organisational culture may have encouraged employee effectiveness in some cases, but for most organisations, it has resulted in practices that perpetuate inefficiency and poor performance. To be successful, public sector reform policies must therefore involve deliberate efforts to change organisational cultures. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.