bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of ten new designer drugs by GC‐MS, UPLC‐QTOF‐MS, and NMR as part of a police investigation of a Danish Internet company
Authors: Reitzel Lotte A. , Dalsgaard Petur W. , Müller Irene B. , Cornett Claus
Published: November 2011

The ability of forensic laboratories to detect and identify unknown compounds is highly important since new, non‐controlled designer drugs are appearing on the market with increasing frequency. In this study, the combined use of gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) and ultra performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time of flight‐mass spectrometry (UPLC‐QTOF‐MS) was used for screening of new unknowns. In one large seizure from a Danish Internet company, ten different drugs were identified. Several of the compounds were seized for the first time in Denmark. The GC‐MS and UPLC‐QTOF‐MS analyses were supplemented by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra for the structural elucidation of p‐fluoroamphetamine, mephedrone (4‐methylmethcathinone), flephedrone (4‐fluoromethcathinone), PPP (α‐pyrrolidinopropiophenone), MDPV (3,4‐methylenedioxypyrovalerone), Bk‐MBDB (2‐methylamino‐1‐(3,4‐methylenedioxyphenyl)butan‐1‐one), pFBT (3‐(pfluorobenzoyl)‐tropane), and JWH‐073 (1‐butyl‐3‐(1‐naphthoyl)indol), whereas methylone (3,4‐methylenedioxymethcathinone) and N‐ethylcathinone matched electron impact‐mass spectrometry (EI‐MS) library spectra and therefore the screenings were considered sufficient.

EI‐MS spectra and the proposed main fragmentation patterns are presented as well as QTOF‐MS exact masses and fragments and NMR chemical shifts. For the β‐ketophenylethylamines (mephedrone, flephedrone, PPP, MDPV, Bk‐MBDB, methylone, and N‐ethylcathinone) some general fragmentation patterns observed in the EI‐MS and QTOF‐MS spectra are further discussed and compared to other β‐ketophenylethylamines. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hydrogel Membrane Improves Batch‐to‐Batch Reproducibility of an Enzymatic Glucose Biosensor
Authors: Trzebinski Jakub , Moniz Anna Radomska‐Botelho , Sharma Sanjiv , Burugapalli Krishna , Moussy Francis , Cass Anthony E. G.
Published: November 2011

A permselective membrane is a critical component that defines the linear detection limits, the sensitivity, and thus the ultimate efficacy of an enzymatic biosensor. Although membranes like epoxy‐polyurethane (epoxy‐PU) and Nafion are widely used and provide the desired glucose detection limits of 2 to 30 mM, both the within batch and batch‐to‐batch variability of sensors that use these materials is a concern. The hypothesis for this study was that a crosslinked hydrogel would have a sufficiently uniform porosity and hydrophilicity to address the variability in sensor sensitivity. The hydrogel was prepared by crosslinking di‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate, hydroxyethyl methacrylate andN‐vinyl pyrrolidone with 2.5 mol% ethylene glycol dimethacrylate using water soluble initiators – ammonium persulfate and sodium metabisulfite under a nitrogen atmosphere. The hydrogel was applied to the sensor by dip coating during polymerisation. Electrochemical measurements revealed that the response characteristics of sensors coated with this membrane are highly consistent. Scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) was used to spatially resolve glucose diffusion through the membrane by measuring the consequent H2O2release and compared with an epoxy‐PU membrane. Hydrogen peroxide measurements using SECM revealed that the epoxy‐PU membranes had uneven lateral diffusion profiles compared to the uniform profile of the hydrogel membranes. The uneven diffusion profiles of epoxy‐PU membranes are attributed to a fabrication method that results in uneven membrane properties, while the uniform diffusion profiles of the hydrogel membranes are primarily dictated by their uniform pore size.
Single‐walled Carbon Nanotube Strings for Biosensor Development
Authors: Ferrance Jerome P.
Published: November 2011

Strings of single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) were prepared using an aqueous dispersion of gellan gum wrapped nanotubes and crosslinked using Ca2+ ions. Various formulations were evaluated to determine the parameters for successful string formation; these included 8–12 % nanotube by weight, 60–70 % gellan gum, and 20–30 % KCl. Strings showed electrical conductivity when dried between ITO electrodes. Conductivity variations were observed and potential sources of the variation identified. Proteins were attached to the carbon nanotube strings with peroxidase enzymatic activity detected following horseradish peroxidase attachment. This work provides a basis for development of electronic biosensors based on these carbon nanotube strings.
Reassemblable quasi‐chip free‐flow electrophoresis with simple heating dispersion for rapid micropreparation of trypsin in crude porcine pancreatin
Authors: Geng Jia‐Zhen , Shao Jing , Yang Jing‐Hua , Pang Bo , Cao Cheng‐Xi , Fan Liu‐Yin
Published: November 2011

An increasing number of small biosamples (e.g. proteins and enzymes) need micropreparation in lab. However, neither large‐scale free‐flow electrophoresis (LS‐FFE) nor chip FFE (C‐FFE) could fit the growing demands. Herein, a simple quasi‐chip FFE (QC‐FFE) was constructed. In contrast to C‐FFE, the features of QC‐FFE are as follows: (i) its separation chamber is reassemblable and rewashable avoiding discard of C‐FFE due to blockage of solute precipitation in chamber; (ii) its chamber size is 45 mm×30 mm×(80–500) μm (108–654 μL volume) having function of micropreparation; (iii) there are up to 16 outlets in QC‐FFE bestowing fine fraction for micropurification. The QC‐FFE was used for the micropurification of model enzyme of self‐digestible trypsin in crude pancreatin. Under the given conditions, the purification factor of enzyme was 11.7, the specific activity reached 6236 U/mg, the run time for 19 μL sample purification was 45 s and the throughput of trypsin was 3.34 mg/h, and the yield of pure trypsin was 55.2%. All of the results show the feasibility of enzyme micropreparation via QC‐FFE. The developed device and procedure have potential use to other micropurification of protein or peptide sample.
Passive sampling provides evidence for Newark Bay as a source of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and furans to the New York/New Jersey, USA, atmosphere
Authors: Friedman Carey L. , Cantwell Mark G. , Lohmann Rainer
Published: November 2011

Freely dissolved and gas phase polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) were measured in the water column and atmosphere at five locations within Newark Bay (New Jersey, USA) from May 2008 to August 2009 with polyethylene (PE) passive samplers. Mono- to octa-CDDs and mono- to hepta-CDFs were detected in bottom and surface waters at ≤20 pg/L with no clear gradient between sampling locations, suggesting freely dissolved PCDD/Fs are well mixed in Newark Bay. The most concentrated, freely dissolved gas phase congener was 2,7/2,8-dichlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (2,7/2,8-DiCDD), likely originating from photochemical conversion of triclosan in Newark Bay. Air–surface water gradients strongly favored net volatilization of PCDD/PCDFs from Newark Bay. Water-to-air fluxes of 2,7/2,8-DiCDD and 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (2,3,7,8-TCDD), the most concentrated and the most toxic PCDD/PCDFs, respectively, were approximately 60 ng/m2 per month and 14 to 51 pg/m2 per month. Significant decreases in freely dissolved 2,3,7,8-TCDD concentrations with increasing freshwater near the Passaic River and conservative behavior during the summer of 2009 suggested Passaic sediments as a likely source of 2,3,7,8-TCDD to Newark Bay. Mass balance calculations implied that almost 50% of freely dissolved 2,3,7,8-TCDD delivered to Newark Bay from the Hackensack and Passaic Rivers was lost to volatilization in the summer of 2009. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2012;31:253–261. © 2011 SETAC
Transplacental transfer of polychlorinated biphenyls and polybrominated diphenyl ethers in arctic beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas)
Authors: Desforges Jean-Pierre W. , Ross Peter S. , Loseto Lisa L.
Published: November 2011

This study found that arctic beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas) transferred, on average, 11.4% (7.5 mg) and 11.1% (0.1 mg) of their polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) and polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) blubber burden to their near-term fetuses. A single physicochemical parameter, log KOW, largely explained this transplacental transfer for PCBs (r2 = 0.79, p < 0.00001) and PBDEs (r2 = 0.37, p = 0.007), with congeners having a log KOW < 6.5 preferentially transferred to the fetus. Blubber concentrations of 257 ng/g lipid weight (lw) PCBs and 3.8 ng/g (lw) PBDEs in beluga fetuses highlights the exposure to endocrine-disrupting compounds during a critical developmental stage. The implications of detecting these levels of legacy PCBs and the flame retardant PBDEs in unborn arctic beluga are unclear. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2012;31:296–300. © 2011 SETAC
Clinical impairment in premanifest and early Huntington's disease is associated with regionally specific atrophy
Authors: Scahill Rachael I. , Hobbs Nicola Z. , Say Miranda J. , Bechtel Natalie , Henley Susie M.D. , Hyare Harpreet , Langbehn Douglas R. , Jones Rebecca , Leavitt Blair R. , Roos Raymund A.C. , Durr Alexandra , Johnson Hans , Lehéricy Stéphane , Craufurd David , Kennard Christopher , Hicks Stephen L. , Stout Julie C. , Reilmann Ralf , Tabrizi Sarah J. ,   the TRACK‐HD investigators
Published: November 2011

TRACK‐HD is a multicentre longitudinal observational study investigating the use of clinical assessments and 3‐Tesla magnetic resonance imaging as potential biomarkers for future therapeutic trials in Huntington's disease (HD). The cross‐sectional data from this large well‐characterized dataset provide the opportunity to improve our knowledge of how the underlying neuropathology of HD may contribute to the clinical manifestations of the disease across the spectrum of premanifest (PreHD) and early HD. Two hundred and thirty nine gene‐positive subjects (120 PreHD and 119 early HD) from the TRACK‐HD study were included. Using voxel‐based morphometry (VBM), grey and white matter volumes were correlated with performance in four domains: quantitative motor (tongue force, metronome tapping, and gait); oculomotor [anti‐saccade error rate (ASE)]; cognition (negative emotion recognition, spot the change and the University of Pennsylvania smell identification test) and neuropsychiatric measures (apathy, affect and irritability). After adjusting for estimated disease severity, regionally specific associations between structural loss and task performance were found (familywise error corrected, P < 0.05); impairment in tongue force, metronome tapping and ASE were all associated with striatal loss. Additionally, tongue force deficits and ASE were associated with volume reduction in the occipital lobe. Impaired recognition of negative emotions was associated with volumetric reductions in the precuneus and cuneus. Our study reveals specific associations between atrophy and decline in a range of clinical modalities, demonstrating the utility of VBM correlation analysis for investigating these relationships in HD. Hum Brain Mapp, 2013. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The cerebral representation of temporomandibular joint occlusion and its alternation by occlusal splints
Authors: Lotze Martin , Lucas Christian , Domin Martin , Kordass Bernd
Published: November 2011

Occlusal splints are a common and effective therapy for temporomandibular joint disorder. Latest hypotheses on the impact of occlusal splints suggest an altered cerebral control on the occlusion movements after using a splint. However, the impact of using a splint during chewing on its cerebral representation is quite unknown. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate brain activities during occlusal function in centric occlusion on natural teeth or on occlusal splints in fifteen healthy subjects. Comparisons between conditions revealed an increased activation for the bilateral occlusion without a splint in bilateral primary and secondary sensorimotor areas, the putamen, inferior parietal and prefrontal cortex (left dorsal and bilateral orbital) and anterior insular. In contrast, using a splint increased activation in the bilateral prefrontal lobe (bilateral BA 10), bilateral temporo‐parietal (BA 39), occipital and cerebellar hemispheres. An additionally applied individually based evaluation of representation sites in regions of interest demonstrated that the somatotopic representation for both conditions in the pre‐ and postcentral gyri did not significantly differ. Furthermore, this analysis confirmed the decreasing effect of the splint on bilateral primary and secondary motor and somatosensory cortical activation. In contrast to the decreasing effect on sensorimotor areas, an increased level of activity in the fronto‐parieto‐occipital and cerebellar network might be associated with the therapeutic effect of occlusal splints. Hum Brain Mapp, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Topographic, pedologic and climatic interactions influencing streamflow generation at multiple catchment scales
Authors: Ali Geneviève , Tetzlaff Doerthe , Soulsby Chris , McDonnell Jeffrey J.
Published: November 2011

Dominant flow pathways (DFPs) in mesoscale watersheds are poorly characterized and understood. Here, we make use of a conservative tracer (Gran alkalinity) and detailed information about climatic conditions and physical properties to examine how temporally and spatially variable factors interact to determine DFPs in 12 catchments draining areas from 3.4 to 1829.5 km² (Cairngorms, Scotland). After end‐member mixing was applied to discriminate between near surface and deep groundwater flow pathways, variation partitioning, canonical redundancy analyses and regression models were used to resolve: (i) What is the temporal variability of DFPs in each catchment?; (ii) How do DFPs change across spatial scales and what factors control the differences in hydrological responses?; and (iii) Can a conceptual model be developed to explain the spatiotemporal variability of DFPs as a function of climatic, topographic and soil characteristics? Overall, catchment characteristics were only useful to explain the temporal variability of DFPs but not their spatial variation across scale. The temporal variability of DFPs was influenced most by prevailing hydroclimatic conditions and secondarily soil drainability. The predictability of active DFPs was better in catchments with soils supporting fast runoff generation on the basis of factors such as the cumulative precipitation from the seven previous days, mean daily air temperature and the fractional area covered by Rankers. The best regression model R2 was 0.54, thus suggesting that the catchments’ internal complexity was not fully captured by the factors included in the analysis. Nevertheless, this study highlights the utility of combining tracer studies with digital landscape analysis and multivariate statistical techniques to gain insights into the temporal (climatic) and spatial (topographic and pedologic) controls on DFPs. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hepatoblastoma in the Nordic countries
Authors: de Fine Licht S. , Schmidt L.S. , Rod N.H. , Schmiegelow K. , Lähteenmäki P.M. , Kogner P. , Träger C. , Stokland T. , Schüz J.
Published: November 2011

Little is known about the etiology of hepatoblastoma. Because of the young age at diagnosis, several studies have looked at various birth characteristics. The purpose of our study was to investigate the incidence of hepatoblastoma in the Nordic countries and the association between selected birth characteristics and hepatoblastoma. Data from national cancer registries and birth registries in Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland 1985–2006 was used. Overall, 155 children with hepatoblastoma aged 0–14 years were included and individually matched to five controls drawn randomly from national population registries. The incidence rate of hepatoblastoma was 1.7 per million person‐years with a predominance of boys (1.5:1). Incidence rate was highest before the age of 1 year (8.3 per million person‐years). A higher risk of hepatoblastoma was found in children with birth weight <1,500 g [odds ratio (OR) = 9.5; 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.3–38.2], born preterm in week 22–32 (OR = 4.5; CI: 1.8–11.5) and Apgar scores <7 after 1 min (OR = 3.1; CI: 1.3–7.1) and 5 min (OR = 7.5; CI: 1.8–32.4). A doubling in risk was found in children who were large for gestational age (OR = 2.3; CI: 1.0–5.3). No associations were found with birth order, maternal age or maternal smoking. Our study indicates that intrauterine and/or neonatal factors are associated with increased risk of hepatoblastoma. These may include low birth weight and asphyxia leading to neonatal intensive care. Alternatively, the factors may be a consequence of hepatoblastoma developing in utero.
Defining Identities Through Multiliteracies: EL Teens Narrate Their Immigration Experiences as Graphic Stories
Authors: Danzak Robin L.
Published: November 2011

Based on a framework of identity‐as‐narrative and multiliteracies, this article describes Graphic Journeys, a multimedia literacy project in which English learners (ELs) in middle school created graphic stories that expressed their families’ immigration experiences. The process involved reading graphic novels, journaling, interviewing, and integrating written text with family photos and other images to produce original graphic stories with computer software. The components of Graphic Journeys supported a multiliteracies pedagogy in that the students engaged with various linguistic modalities and multiple means of communication, including collaborative learning, composing, visual and graphic arts, and technology. The project also provided a powerful forum where the students could express their individual and family identities, explore their cultural heritage, and share their immigration stories with others. Suggestions are provided as to how the components of Graphic Journeys can be extended to EL academic language and writing development.
Estimation of properties of a photoinitiated silorane‐based composite with potential for orthopaedic applications
Authors: Melander Jennifer R. , Weiler Rachel A. , Miller Bradley D. , Schuman Thomas P. , Kilway Kathleen V. , Day Delbert E. , Velez Mariano , Eick J. David
Published: November 2011

We have synthesized a filler‐reinforced silorane composite that has potential applications in orthopaedic surgery, such as for a bone stabilizer. The purpose of the present work was to develop a method for estimating four properties of this material; namely, maximum exotherm temperature, flexural strength, flexural modulus, and fracture toughness. The method involved the use of mixture design‐of‐experiments and regression analysis of results obtained using 23 formulations of the composite. We validated the estimation method by showing that, for each of four composite formulations that were not included in the method development, the value of each of the aforementioned properties was not significantly different from that obtained experimentally. Our estimation method has the potential for use in the development of a wide range of orthopaedic materials. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2012.
Influence of femtosecond laser treatment on shear bond strength of composite resin bonding to human dentin under simulated pulpal pressure
Authors: Gerhardt‐Szep Susanne , Werelius Kristian , de Weerth Francoise , Heidemann Detlef , Weigl Paul
Published: November 2011

This in vitro study evaluated the influence of femtosecond laser (fs‐laser)‐generated patterns on shear bond strength (SBS) of composite resin bonded to human dentin under simulated pulpal pressure. Laser treatment was used to produce two different patterns on dentin surfaces. Three test groups and a control group without laser treatment under pulpal pressure were investigated. Dentin discs of 800 nm thickness were cut from 60 extracted caries‐free human molars. Using a perfusion machine, the discs were exposed to Ringer solution on their basal surfaces. Clearfil SE Bond/Herculite XRV system was used. The samples were stored in distilled water and thermocycled. Bonding failures caused by a test set‐up to challenge SBS were analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). An 80 μm‐sized cube‐shaped pattern caused more cohesive failures in dentin or resin compared with the 160 μm‐sized cube‐shaped pattern. Weibull statistics demonstrated a significant difference between the two laser patterns, but only the test group with small‐sized laser pattern was significantly different from the control group. The Weibull moduli ranged from 4.3 to 9.6 (control group). The 160 μm‐sized pattern enhanced the bonding quality and avoided dentin weakening. It was concluded that fs‐laser treatment in a 160 μm‐sized cube‐shaped pattern enabled a simplified bonding procedure by dispensing the primer without affecting SBS, compared with the control group. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2012.
Diagnosis of a female urethral diverticulum using transvaginal contrast‐enhanced sonourethrography
Authors: Dai Yi , Shen Hong , Li Yong Zhong
Published: November 2011

The diagnosis of female urethral diverticulum is difficult due to its nonspecific symptoms, and invasive diagnostic procedures are often necessary. We report a case in which the diagnosis was made with contrast‐enhanced transvaginal sonourethrography. The microbubble contrast agent could be seen filling the diverticular cavity via its opening. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2011;
Characterization of procyanidin B2 oxidation products in an apple juice model solution and confirmation of their presence in apple juice by high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ion trap mass spectrometry
Authors: Poupard Pascal , Sanoner Philippe , Baron Alain , Renard Catherine M. G. C. , Guyot Sylvain
Published: November 2011

Procyanidins (i.e. condensed tannins) are polyphenols commonly found in fruits. During juice and cider making, apple polyphenol oxidase catalyzes the oxidation of caffeoylquinic acid (CQA) into its corresponding o‐quinone which further reacts with procyanidins and other polyphenols, leading to the formation of numerous oxidation products. However, the structure and the reaction pathways of these neoformed phenolic compounds are still largely unknown. Experiments were carried out on a model system to gain insights into the chemical processes occurring during the initial steps of fruit processing. Procyanidin B2 was oxidized by caffeoylquinic acid o‐quinone (CQAoq) in an apple juice model solution. The reaction products were monitored using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled to ultraviolet (UV)‐visible and electrospray tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS/MS) in the negative mode. Oxidative conversion of procyanidin B2 ([M‐H]− at m/z 577) into procyanidin A2 at m/z 575 was unambiguously confirmed. In addition, several classes of products were characterized by their deprotonated molecules ([M‐H]−) and their MS/MS fragmentation patterns: hetero‐dimers (m/z 929) and homo‐dimers (m/z 1153 and 705) resulting from dimerization involving procyanidin and CQA molecules; intramolecular addition products at m/z 575, 573, 927, 1151 and 703. Interestingly, no extensive polymerization was observed. Analysis of a cider apple juice enabled comparison with the results obtained on a biosynthetic model solution. However, procyanidin A2 did not accumulate but seemed to be an intermediate in the formation of an end‐product at m/z 573 for which two structural hypotheses are given. These structural modifications of native polyphenols as a consequence of oxidation probably have an impact on the organoleptic and nutritional properties of apple juices and other apple‐derived foods. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genetic risk load and age at symptom onset of knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Rodriguez‐Fontenla Cristina , López‐Golán Yolanda , Calaza Manuel , Pombo‐Suarez Manuel , Gómez‐Reino Juan J. , González Antonio
Published: November 2011

To test whether a higher genetic risk load for knee osteoarthritis (OA) is associated with an earlier age at symptom onset. Six polymorphisms in GDF5, PTGS2, 7q22 locus, DVWA, DIO3, and ASPN that have been associated with knee OA were analyzed in 255 patients that had undergone total knee replacement (TKR) because of primary OA and in 457 healthy controls. We looked for association between the number of risk alleles in each patient and his age at symptom onset with linear regression and t‐tests between the upper and lower quartiles. There was not even a weak trend in the direction of a younger age at symptom onset in the patients carrying more risk alleles. Patients in the upper quartile of age at symptom onset (67.0 ± 2.8 years) carried the same number of OA risk alleles (5.4 ± 1.4 vs. 5.3 ± 1.0) than patients in the lower quartile (44.6 ± 5.5 years). We did not find any evidence in support of the hypothesis of an earlier knee OA symptom onset associated with higher genetic risk load as determined by the six loci. This result suggests that old age and genetic risk act as independent factors in the pathogenesis of OA. It also indicates that designing OA genetic studies with patients selected for early symptom onset will not provide any substantial power gain. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:905–909, 2012
Mobilisation of inorganic phosphorus induced by rice straw in aggregates of a highly weathered upland soil
Authors: Ding Longjun , Wu Jinshui , Xiao Heai , Zhou Ping , Syers J Keith
Published: November 2011

BACKGROUND: Microorganisms mediate biochemical transformations of phosphorus (P) in soil. This is of particular importance in highly weathered soils, which are usually P deficient. This study aimed to extend understanding of the separate role of bacteria and fungi in P transformations in aggregates of a highly weathered soil, by adding P‐stripped rice straw and microorganism inhibitors to aggregates.

RESULTS: The amount of microbial biomass phosphorus (MB‐P) in the treatment with rice straw alone increased by over two‐fold during 16 days. At the end of 28 d, the amount of inorganic‐P in Fe‐, Al‐, and Ca‐bound fractions decreased, whilst the amount of organic‐P increased substantially (P < 0.01). The effect of bacterial inhibitors (tetracycline and streptomycin sulphate) on P immobilisation was very small in the early phase (0–4 d), but became pronounced after 8 days, whilst the fungal inhibitor (actidione) initially caused a decrease in P immobilisation by about 60%, but had no effect after that.

CONCLUSION: Fungi and bacteria immobilise P in soil aggregates, with fungi being responsible initially. However, bacteria become dominant subsequently and immobilise P from the inorganic fractions. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Food resource availability for American black ducks wintering in southern New Jersey
Authors: Cramer Dane M. , Castelli Paul M. , Yerkes Tina , Williams Christopher K.
Published: November 2011

Midwinter waterfowl survey data indicates a long‐term decline in the number of wintering American black ducks (Anas rubripes), potentially due to habitat limitations. In order for future estimates of carrying capacity to be determined, it is critical that regional food availability is estimated. We collected pairs of habitat core samples (n = 510) from 5 habitat types in southern New Jersey, USA, during October, January, and April 2006–2008 to estimate resource availability and variability. We collected upper gastrointestinal tracts from hunter‐killed birds (n = 45) and late season collections (n = 19) to identify food items and limited our estimates of resource availability to only winter food items; thereby reducing the availability of seed foods found in our core samples by 38% and animal foods by 96%. We did not detect differences in years or sampling period, but did between habitat types. Mudflat habitat had the greatest availability of invertebrate and vertebrate food items and appeared to supply the bulk of energy to black ducks wintering in southern New Jersey. We suggest conservation efforts to be focused on restoring or enhancing mudflat habitat as an integral component of an ecologically functioning salt marsh to increase food availability. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Annual and seasonal survival of trumpeter swans in the upper midwest
Authors: Varner Dana M. , Eichholz Michael W.
Published: November 2011

The reintroduction of trumpeter swans to the north central United States appears to be a conservation success story. For the most part, population management goals have been met or exceeded. The population cannot be considered self‐sustaining, however, because 90% of the swans migrate short distances to wintering sites where supplemental feeding occurs. The remaining 10% migrate longer distances to areas where adequate open water and forage occur naturally. To determine how these 2 different wintering habits might affect mortality, we used mark‐resight data gathered between 2000 and 2008 to estimate and compare annual survival rates for long‐ and short‐distance migrant swans marked in Wisconsin. Apparent annual survival rates were similar for long‐ (0.81, SE = 0.019) and short‐ (0.81, SE = 0.022) distant adult migrants but were higher for long‐distance sub‐adult (0.86, SE = 0.036) migrants than for short‐distance sub‐adult migrants (0.7, SE = 0.046). We also estimated seasonal survival of long‐distance migrants to determine if the migratory periods are a time of high mortality. We found little evidence for seasonal variation in survival and estimates for both migratory and non‐migratory seasons were very high (>0.97). Overall, the results suggest that little mortality occurs during migration and long‐distance migrants are able to survive at rates at least equal to, but probably higher than, short‐distance migrants. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Acorn production prediction models for five common oak species of the eastern United States
Authors: Rose Anita K. , Greenberg Cathryn H. , Fearer Todd M.
Published: November 2011

Acorn production varies considerably among oak (Quercus) species, individual trees, years, and locations, which directly affects oak regeneration and populations of wildlife species that depend on acorns for food. Hard mast indices provide a relative ranking and basis for comparison of within‐ and between‐year acorn crop size at a broad scale, but do not provide an estimate of actual acorn yield—the number of acorns that can potentially be produced on a given land area unit based on the species, number, and diameter at breast height (dbh) of oak trees present. We used 10 years of acorn production data from 475 oak trees to develop predictive models of potential average annual hard mast production by five common eastern oak species, based on tree diameter and estimated crown area. We found a weak (R2 = 0.08–0.28) relationship between tree dbh and acorn production per unit crown area for most species. The relationship between tree dbh and acorn production per tree was stronger (R2 = 0.33–0.57). However, this is because larger‐dbh trees generally have larger crowns, not because they have a greater capacity to produce more acorns per unit crown area. Acorn production is highly variable among individual trees. We estimated that dbh of at least 60 dominant or codominant oak trees per species should be randomly sampled to obtain an adequate representation of the range of dbhs (≥12.7 cm dbh) in a given forest area, and achieve precise estimates when using these equations to predict potential acorn production. Our predictive models provide a tool for estimating potential acorn production that land managers and forest planners can apply to oak inventory data to tailor estimates of potential average annual acorn production to different forest management scenarios and multiple spatial scales. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Critical Evaluation of the Microwave Effect on Radical (Co)Polymerizations
Authors: Kwak Yungwan , Mathers Robert T. , Matyjaszewski Krzysztof
Published: November 2011

Critical evaluations of the microwave effect on initiation, propagation, and termination during conventional radical polymerizations (RPs) of methyl methacrylate (MMA) and random copolymerization of styrene (St) with (meth)acrylates are examined by comparing microwave heating (MWH) and conventional heating (CH). Poly(methyl methacrylate) with similar , /, and conversion are obtained under precisely controlled temperature, indicating very small changes of propagation rate constant. Rate enhancement in the absence of precise temperature control is mostly due to the higher reaction temperature of the reaction mixture than the apparent value indicated on display. Rates of initiator decomposition under well‐controlled temperature are essentially the same for MWH and CH.
LINE‐1 retrotransposon copies are amplified during murine early embryo development
Authors: Vitullo Patrizia , Sciamanna Ilaria , Baiocchi Marta , Sinibaldi‐Vallebona Paola , Spadafora Corrado
Published: November 2011

Two large families of retrotransposons, that is, LINE‐1 (Long Interspersed Nuclear Elements‐1) and endogenous retroviruses, encode reverse transcriptase (RT) proteins in vertebrates. We previously showed that mouse preimplantation embryos are endowed with an endogenous, functional RT activity. Inhibiting that activity by microinjecting antisense oligonucleotides against a highly active LINE‐1 family member in mouse oocytes blocked developmental progression between the two‐ and four‐blastomere stages, indicating that LINE‐1‐encoded RT activity is strictly required at this critical transition in early development. Here we show that incubation of mouse zygotes with 5′‐bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) yields massive incorporation of this nucleoside analogue in newly synthesized DNA; surprisingly, a significant incorporation still occurs in both zygotic pronuclei in the presence of aphidicolin, a specific inhibitor of DNA replication. This aphidicolin‐resistant BrdU incorporation is quantitatively abolished when embryos are simultaneously exposed to abacavir, a nucleoside RT inhibitor, indicating its retrotranscription‐dependent nature. Moreover, quantitative PCR analysis revealed a burst of new synthesis of LINE‐1 copies at the zygote‐ and two‐cell embryo stages. These findings support the conclusion that RT‐dependent amplification of LINE‐1 retrotransposons is a distinctive feature of early embryonic genomes. Its physiological involvement in preimplantation murine development is discussed. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 79:118–127, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Endplate contributions to the safety factor for neuromuscular transmission
Authors: Ruff Robert L.
Published: November 2011

The neuromuscular junction (NMJ), for most extremity and axial skeletal muscle fibers, with the exception of extraocular, middle ear, and some facial and pharyngeal muscles, is a “slave” synapse that is designed to activate the muscle fiber every time the nerve terminal is activated. The fidelity of the NMJ hinges upon the electrical depolarization produced by activation of acetylcholine receptors (AChRs), called the endplate potential (EPP), being larger than is needed to trigger an action potential (AP) in the skeletal muscle fiber. The safety factor (SF) is a measure of how much larger the EPP is than the depolarization needed to trigger an AP (EAP). The SF depends on the amount of transmitter released, AChR density, EAP, and the effectiveness of the EPP in stimulating the Na+ channels that trigger the AP. This study focuses on the postsynaptic factors that influence the SF and how the SF is altered in myasthenia gravis. Muscle Nerve, 2011
Autoimmune stiff person syndrome and related myelopathies: Understanding of electrophysiological and immunological processes
Authors: Rakocevic Goran , Floeter Mary Kay
Published: November 2011

Stiff person syndrome (SPS) is a disabling autoimmune central nervous system disorder characterized by progressive muscle rigidity and gait impairment with superimposed painful spasms that involve axial and limb musculature, triggered by heightened sensitivity to external stimuli. Impaired synaptic GABAergic inhibition resulting from intrathecal B‐cell–mediated clonal synthesis of autoantibodies against various presynaptic and synaptic proteins in the inhibitory neurons of the brain and spinal cord is believed to be an underlying pathogenic mechanism. SPS is most often idiopathic, but it can occur as a paraneoplastic condition. Despite evidence that anti‐GAD and related autoantibodies impair GABA synthesis, the exact pathogenic mechanism of SPS is not fully elucidated. The strong association with several MHC‐II alleles and improvement of symptoms with immune‐modulating therapies support an autoimmune etiology of SPS. In this review, we discuss the clinical spectrum, neurophysiological mechanisms, and therapeutic options, including a rationale for agents that modulate B‐cell function in SPS. Muscle Nerve, 2012
Testing of the Akt/PKB inhibitor MK‐2206 by the pediatric preclinical testing program
Authors: Gorlick Richard , Maris John M. , Houghton Peter J. , Lock Richard , Carol Hernan , Kurmasheva Raushan T. , Kolb E. Anders , Keir Stephen T. , Reynolds C. Patrick , Kang Min H. , Billups Catherine A. , Smith Malcolm A.
Published: November 2011

Background

MK‐2206 is a small molecule allosteric inhibitor of Akt/PKB that is undergoing clinical trials for treatment of cancer.

Procedures

MK‐2206 was tested against the PPTP in vitro panel using a 96‐hour exposure (1.0 nM–10 µM), and in vivo using thrice weekly dosing for a planned 4 weeks at its maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of 180 mg/kg.

Results

In vitro, the median relative IC50 value for MK‐2206 was 2.2 µM. Four cell lines with IC50 values < 200 nM included two ALL cell lines (COG‐LL‐317 and RS4;11), an AML cell line with an activating KIT mutation (Kasumi‐1), and a Ewing sarcoma cell line (CHLA‐10). In vivo, MK‐2206 induced significant differences in EFS distribution compared to control in 12 of 29 (41%) of the evaluable solid tumor xenografts and in 2 of 8 (25%) of the evaluable ALL xenografts. Significant differences in EFS distribution were most frequently noted in the osteosarcoma panel (6 of 6). A single solid tumor xenograft (OS‐31) had a greater than twofold increase in time to event compared to control animals, with all other solid tumor xenografts showing lesser degrees of tumor growth inhibition. Objective responses were not observed for either the solid tumor or ALL xenografts.

Conclusions

MK‐2206 showed its most consistent activity in vitro against ALL cell lines and in vivo against osteosarcoma xenografts. However, no objective responses were observed in solid tumor or ALL xenografts. Further preclinical work evaluating MK‐2206 in pediatric models in the combination therapy setting may contribute to its pediatric development. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012;59:518–524. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Epidemiology and potential preventative measures for viral infections in children with malignancy and those undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Fisher Brian T. , Alexander Sarah , Dvorak Christopher C. , Zaoutis Theoklis E. , Zerr Danielle M. , Sung Lillian
Published: November 2011

In pediatric patients with malignancy and those receiving hematopoietic stem cell transplants, bacterial and fungal infections have been the focus of fever and neutropenia episodes for decades. However, improved diagnostic capabilities have revealed viral pathogens as a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. Because of limited effective antiviral therapies, prevention of viral infections is paramount. Pre‐exposure and post‐exposure prophylaxis and antiviral suppressive therapeutic approaches are reviewed. Additionally, infection control practices specific to this patient population are discussed. A comprehensive approach utilizing each of these can be effective at reducing the negative impact of viral infections. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 59: 11–15. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Validated Method for the Simultaneous Quantitation of Bioactive Alkaloid Markers in the Leaf Ethanolic Extract of Cissampelos sympodialis Eichl.: a Phenological Variation Study
Authors: Marinho A. F. , Barbosa‐Filho J. M. , Oliveira E. J.
Published: November 2011

Introduction

The leaf hydroalcoholic extract of Cissampelos sympodialis Eichl. (Menispermaceae) has shown promising activity in different animal models of asthma. Several alkaloids have been identified in the extract, including warifteine and methylwarifteine (bisbenzylisoquinoline), as well as milonine (morphinandienone).

Objective

To develop and validate an analytical method for the simultaneous quantitation of the bioactive markers of C. sympodialis hydroalcoholic leaf extract and to apply the method to a seasonal (phenological) study of the concentration of the alkaloid markers.

Methodology

The method used reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography with UV detection and calibration by standard addition. Separation was achieved using a C18‐column (250 × 4.6 mm, 5 µm) and a mobile phase consisting of a mixture of 0.05% aqueous (Et)3NH2(A):MeOH(B) in gradient mode at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min.

Results

The method proved to be linear in the concentration range tested (2–100 µg/mL, r2 > 0,99), precise (RSD ≤ 15%), accurate (85–115%), selective and robust. Detection limits for warifteine, methyl‐warifteine and milonine were 0.39, 1.10 and 1.77 µg/mL respectively. The highest concentration of total alkaloids (determined as the sum of the three alkaloids) in the hydroalcoholic extract of the leaves was 2.9 ± 0.2 mg/g extract (n = 3), prior to fruit development. Both warifteine and methylwarifteine were detected in the total alkaloid fraction of the ripened fruits.

Conclusion

The results demonstrated that significant variations in the concentration of the biomarkers occurred throughout the vegetative cycle. The lowest concentration of the alkaloids in the leaves coincided with their appearance in the ripened fruits. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cognitive Bias Modification Using Mental Imagery for Depression: Developing A Novel Computerized Intervention to Change Negative Thinking Styles
Authors: Lang Tamara J. , Blackwell Simon E. , Harmer Catherine J. , Davison Phil , Holmes Emily A.
Published: November 2011

Why do some people see their glass as half–empty rather than half–full or even imagine that the glass will be filled in the future? Experimental methods can illuminate how individual differences in information processing style can profoundly impact mood or even result in disorders such as depression. A computerized cognitive bias modification intervention targeting interpretation bias in depression via positive mental imagery (CBM–I) was evaluated by investigating its impact on mental health and cognitive bias compared with a control condition. Twenty–six depressed individuals completed either positive imagery–focussed CBM–I or a control condition daily at home over one week. Outcome measures were collected pre–treatment and post–treatment and at two–week follow–up. Individuals in the positive condition demonstrated significant improvements from pre–treatment to post–treatment in depressive symptoms, cognitive bias and intrusive symptoms compared with the control condition. Improvements in depressive symptoms at two–week follow–up were at trend level. The results of this first controlled comparison of positive imagery–focussed CBM–I for depression further support the clinical potential of CBM–I and the development of a novel computerized treatment that could help patients imagine a more positive future. Broader implications concern the modification of individual differences in personality variables via their interaction with key information processing targets. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
End‐tidal carbon dioxide monitoring in very low birth weight infants: Correlation and agreement with arterial carbon dioxide
Authors: Trevisanuto Daniele , Giuliotto Stephanie , Cavallin Francesco , Doglioni Nicoletta , Toniazzo Silvia , Zanardo Vincenzo
Published: November 2011

Objective

We aimed to determine the correlation and the agreement between end‐tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2) and partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide (PaCO2) in very low birth weight infants (VLBWI); furthermore, we assessed factors that could affect the ETCO2–PaCO2 relationship.

Methods

Simultaneous end‐tidal and arterial CO2 pairs were obtained from ventilated VLBWI who were monitored by mainstream capnography and had umbilical arterial catheter. Correlation and agreement between ETCO2 and PaCO2 were evaluated by using Spearman test and Bland‐Altman method, respectively.

Results

A total of 143 simultaneous ETCO2–PaCO2 pairs were analyzed from 45 ventilated VLBWI. There was a significant correlation (r = 0.69; P < 0.0001) between ETCO2 and PaCO2 values. The ETCO2 value was lower than the corresponding PaCO2 value in 94% pairs, with a mean bias of 13.5 ± 8.4 mmHg (95% agreement levels, −3.0 to 29.9 mmHg). Mean PaCO2–ETCO2 bias was similar between ELBWI (13.1 ± 7.7 mmHg; 95% agreement levels, −1.9 and 28.2 mmHg) and infants with birth weight 1,001–1,500 g (14.8 ± 9.7 mmHg; 95% agreement levels −4.3 and 33.8 mmHg). The bias between ETCO2 and PaCO2 was significantly increased with increasing FiO2, mean airway pressure and oxygenation index. Within each patient, there was a positive correlation (r = 0.78, P < 0.0001) between the changes in PaCO2 and the simultaneous changes in ETCO2.

Conclusions

In ventilated VLBWI, the correlation between mainstream ETCO2 and PaCO2 is good, but the agreement is poor and negatively influenced by the severity of pulmonary disease. Capnography is feasible in ELBWI. ETCO2 should not replace PaCO2 measurements in ventilated VLBWI, but may have a role to detect trends of PaCO2. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2012; 47:367–372. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The prohormone proenkephalin possesses differential conformational features of subdomains revealed by rapid H‐D exchange mass spectrometry
Authors: Lu Weiya D. , Liu Tong , Li Sheng , Woods Virgil L. , Hook Vivian
Published: November 2011

Active enkephalin and related peptide hormones or neurotransmitters are generated by proteolytic processing of inactive prohormone precursors. Little is known about the relative accessibilities of prohormone cleavage sites and conformations of subdomains that undergo proteolytic processing. Therefore, this study investigated the conformational features of the prohormone proenkephalin (PE) by rapid hydrogen‐deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (DXMS). DXMS analyzes rates of hydrogen exchange of the polypeptide backbone of PE with deuterium from D2O (heavy water) by mass spectrometry, accomplished at sub‐second and multisecond time periods. Results showed differential accessibilities of cleavage sites and adjacent subdomains of PE to the aqueous environment. Importantly, protease cleavage sites of PE with greater relative accessibilities correspond to sites most readily cleaved by processing proteases to generate active peptide neurotransmitters. For comparison, peptides derived from PE (by pepsin digestion) displayed greater accessibility to the solvent environment, illustrated by their higher rates of H‐D exchange compared to that of intact PE protein. The more limited H‐D exchange accessibilities of PE protein, compared to peptides derived from PE, indicate that PE possesses tertiary conformation. These results demonstrate that differential tertiary conformations of PE subdomains undergo ordered proteolytic processing to generate active enkephalin peptides for cell‐cell communication in the nervous and endocrine systems.