bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of topography of nanofibrils of three‐dimensional collagen gel beads on the phenotype, proliferation, and maturation of osteoblasts
Authors: Tsai Shiao‐Wen , Chen Chia‐Chun , Chen Pao‐Liang , Hsu Fu‐Yin
Published: December 2008

Our objectives were to fabricate three‐dimensional collagen/chondroitin sulfate beads using mild conditions and no chemical reagents, and subsequently to investigate the influence of the nanotopography of these beads on primary osteoblast and MG63 cell responses, including cell morphology, proliferation rate, and gene expression. The major principle used to prepare beads was complex coacervation, with which we could obtain a three‐dimensional collagen matrix with or without a characteristic D‐pattern. Therefore, we utilized primary osteoblasts and MG63, an osteoblast‐like cell line, to examine the effects of specific structures on cellular behaviors. We found that the phenotype of primary osteoblasts grown on D‐periodic beads was a polygonal shape with extending lamellipodia; however, a greater number of cells displayed a circular morphology on the non‐D‐periodic carriers. After 7 and 14 days, MG63 cells on D‐periodic beads expressed higher levels of osteopontin, alkaline phosphatase activity, type I collagen, and osteocalcin than those on the non‐D‐periodic beads. Together, these data demonstrate that the unique D‐pattern of collagen not only enhances the gene expression and mineralization of osteoblasts but also induces the cells to display the normal phenotype, which indicates that the nanotopography of carriers may regulate cellular responses through the spatial control of downstream signaling. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
Thermomechanical properties, collapse pressure, and expansion of shape memory polymer neurovascular stent prototypes
Authors: Baer Géraldine M. , Wilson Thomas S. , Small Ward , Hartman Jonathan , Benett William J. , Matthews Dennis L. , Maitland Duncan J.
Published: December 2008

Shape memory polymer stent prototypes were fabricated from thermoplastic polyurethane. Commercial stents are generally made of stainless steel or other alloys. These alloys are too stiff and prevent most stent designs from being able to navigate small and tortuous vessels to reach intracranial lesions. A solid tubular model and a high flexibility laser etched model are presented. The stents were tested for collapse in a pressure chamber. At 37°C, the full collapse pressure was comparable to that of commercially available stents, and higher than the estimated maximum pressure exerted by intracranial arteries. However, there is a potential for onset of collapse, which needs further study. The stents were crimped and expanded, the laser‐etched stent showed full recovery with an expansion ratio of 2.7 and a 1% axial shortening. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
Direct and tumor microenvironment mediated influences of 5′‐deoxy‐5′‐(methylthio)adenosine on tumor progression of malignant melanoma
Authors: Stevens Axel P. , Spangler Barbara , Wallner Susanne , Kreutz Marina , Dettmer Katja , Oefner Peter J. , Bosserhoff Anja K.
Published: December 2008

Recent studies have shown that a loss of methylthioadenosine phosphorylase (MTAP) gene expression exerts a tumor‐promoting effect, including induction of invasiveness, enhanced cell proliferation, and resistance against cytokines. To date, the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects remain unknown. Since the loss of MTAP expression resulted in induced secretion of 5′‐deoxy‐5′‐(methylthio)adenosine (MTA), we hypothesized that MTA might modulate the observed effects. We first determined MTA levels produced by tumor cells in vitro and in situ by means of stable isotope dilution liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Subsequently, we revealed induction of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and growth factor gene expression in melanoma cells accompanied by enhanced invasion and vasculogenic mimicry. In addition, MTA induced the secretion of basis fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and MMP3 from fibroblasts and the upregulation of activator protein‐1 (AP‐1) activity in melanoma cells and fibroblasts. In summary, we demonstrated a tumor‐supporting role of MTA. J. Cell. Biochem. 106: 210–219, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
IL‐1β induces urokinse‐plasminogen activator expression and cell migration through PKCα, JNK1/2, and NF‐κB in A549 cells
Authors: Cheng Ching‐Yi , Hsieh Hsi‐Lung , Sun Chi‐Chin , Lin Chih‐Chung , Luo Shue‐Fen , Yang Chuen‐Mao
Published: December 2008

Breakdown of the extracellular matrix (ECM) is accomplished by the concerted action of several proteases, including the urokinase plasminogen‐activator (uPA) system and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which is crucial for cancer invasion and metastasis. Several reports have shown that the levels of IL‐1β and MMPs in plasma of the patients with lung cancer are significantly elevated and link to the invasion of tumor cells. Therefore, we investigated whether IL‐1β‐induced expression of uPA participated in lung cancer progression. In this study, IL‐1β significantly induced uPA expression and activity via PKCα‐dependent JNK1/2 and NIK cascades, linking to IKKα/β activation, p65 translocation and transcription activity, using pharmacological inhibitors and transfection with dominant negative mutants and siRNAs. IL‐1β‐induced uPA protein and mRNA expression in a time‐ and concentration‐dependent manner, which was inhibited by pretreatment with the inhibitors of JNK1/2 (SP600125), PKC (Ro31‐8220, Gö6976), or NF‐κB (helenalin), and transfection with dominant negative mutants of PKCα, NIK, and IKKβ, and siRNAs of JNK1/2 and p65. IL‐1β stimulated PKCα translocation to plasma membrane leading to phosphorylation of JNK1/2, which was attenuated by PKC inhibitors and transfection with shRNAs of JNK1/2, but not by helenalin. In addition, IL‐1β stimulated p65 phosphorylation and translocation into nucleus concomitant with IκBα phosphorylation and IκBα degradation, which was mediated via activation of PKCα‐dependent JNK1/2–NIK/IKKβ cascade. These results demonstrated that in A549 cells, activation of p50/p65 heterodimer through sequential activation of PKCα–JNK–NIK–IKKβ–NF‐κB was required for IL‐1β‐induced uPA expression associated with migration of tumor cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 219: 183–193, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Unstructured kinetic model for reuterin and 1,3‐propanediol production by Lactobacillus reuteri from glycerol/glucose cofermentation
Authors: Tobajas Montserrat , Mohedano Angel F. , Casas José Antonio , Rodríguez Juan José
Published: December 2008

BACKGROUND: Lactobacillus reuteri is unable to grow on glycerol as sole carbon and energy source hence, glycerol is used as an alternative hydrogen acceptor during growth on available carbohydrates. Thus, glycerol is converted to reuterin and 1,3‐propanediol (1,3‐PDL), both products with interesting industrial applications. These compounds are commonly produced by using resting cells in two‐step fermentation processes.

RESULTS: The glycerol/glucose cofermentation by L. reuteri yields reuterin and 1,3‐PDL at a glycerol concentration higher than 100 mmol L−1. An increase of glycerol concentration from 200 to 400 mmol L−1 showed no additional stimulatory effect on ethanol and acetate production but consistently reduced the lactate concentration. It was also found that reuterin concentration reached a maximum value and subsequently decreased due to its conversion to 1,3‐PDL. An unstructured kinetic model was proposed to describe simultaneously microbial growth, substrates consumption and products formation. A multi‐response nonlinear regression analysis based on Marquardt algorithm combined with a Runge‐Kutta integration method was used to obtain the values of the fitting parameters.

CONCLUSIONS: The optimum concentration of glycerol for maximum reuterin and 1,3‐PDL production was 200 mmol L−1. The complete process was satisfactorily described by the kinetic model proposed. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
The chorionic bump in an ectopic pregnancy
Authors: Northrup Benjamin E. , Harris Robert D.
Published: December 2008

The chorionic bump, an irregular, convex bulge of the choriodecidual surface into the gestational sac (GS), is a recently described, uncommon abnormality of the 1st‐trimester GS and is associated with a guarded prognosis for early pregnancy. The case of this 42‐year‐old female demonstrates a previously unreported relationship: a transvaginal sonographic finding of a chorionic bump associated with a spontaneous tubal ectopic pregnancy. This might support the hypothesis that the chorionic bump represents a small hematoma that bulges into the GS. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2009
Synthesis of [2H]‐ and [13C]‐labeled pyronaridine tetraphosphate—an antimalarial drug
Authors: Park Sang Hyun , Jeong Yeon Jun , Pradeep Kannampalli
Published: December 2008

The increasing prevalence of strains of Plasmodium falciparum resistant to chloroquine and other antimalarial drugs, necessitates the need for developing novel antimalarial drugs with a potent pharmacological activity. Pyronaridine tetraphosphate (PNDP) is one such drug that is currently undergoing preclinical and clinical trials for use in a chemotherapy treatment of malaria. The present investigation was carried out with the objective of synthesizing carbon‐13 [13C]‐ and deuterium [2H]‐labeled PNDP for use in studying the ADME and pharmacokinetics of the drug. Here, we present a methodology to synthesize [13C]‐ and [2H]‐PNDP using a microwave irradiation technique as this method was found to be more advantageous than the classical method. The labeled compounds thus synthesized had a chemical purity of >99% as determined by HPLC and were also found to be relatively stable up to 3 months when stored under standard conditions. Further they also revealed satisfactory instrumental analysis data. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of [14C]‐ and [13C6]‐labeled potent HIV non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor
Authors: Latli Bachir , Hrapchak Matt , Busacca Carl A. , Krishnamurthy Dhileepkumar , Senanayake Chris H.
Published: December 2008

5,11‐Dihydro‐11‐ethyl‐5‐methyl‐8‐{2‐{(1‐oxido‐4‐quinolinyl)oxy}ethyl}‐6H‐dipyrido[3,2‐b:2′,3′‐e][1,4]diazepin‐6‐one, (1), labeled with carbon‐14 in the quinoline–benzene ring, in one of the pyridine rings of the dipyridodiazepinone tricyclic moiety, and in the side chain, was prepared in three different syntheses with specific activities ranging from 44 to 47 mCi/mmol (1.63–1.75 GBq/mmol). In the first synthesis, 5,11‐dihydro‐11‐ethyl‐8‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)‐5‐methyl‐6H‐dipyrido[3,2‐b:2′,3′‐e][1,4]diazepin‐6‐one (2) was coupled to 4‐hydroxyquinoline, [benzene‐14C(U)]‐, using Mitsunobu's reaction conditions, followed by the oxidation of the quinoline nitrogen with 3‐chloroperoxybenzoic acid to give ([14C]‐(1a)) in 43% radiochemical yield. Second, 3‐amino‐2‐chloropyridine, [2,6‐14C]‐, was used to prepare 8‐bromo‐5,11‐dihydro‐11‐ethyl‐5‐methyl‐6H‐dipyrido[3,2‐b:2′,3′‐e][1,4]diazepin‐6‐one (8), and then Stille coupled to allyl(tributyl)tin followed by ozonolysis of the terminal double bond and in situ reduction of the resulting aldehyde to alcohol (10). Mitsunobu etherification and oxidation as seen before gave ([14C]‐(1b)) in eight steps and in 11% radiochemical yield. Finally, carbon‐14 potassium cyanide was used to prepare isopropyl cyanoacetate (12), which was used to transform bromide (8) to labeled aryl acetic acid (13) under palladium catalysis. Trihydroborane reduction of the acid gave alcohol (14) labeled in the side chain, which was used as described above to prepare ([14C]‐(1c)) in 4.3% radiochemical yield. The radiochemical purities of these compounds were determined by radio‐HPLC and radio‐TLC to be more than 98%. To prepare [13C6]‐(1), [13C6]‐4‐hydroxyquinoline was prepared from [13C6]‐aniline and then coupled to (2) and oxidized as seen before. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Three‐dimensional reconstruction and neural map of the serotonergic brain of Asplanchna brightwellii (Rotifera, Monogononta)
Authors: Hochberg Rick
Published: December 2008

The basic organization of the rotifer brain has been known for nearly a century; yet, fine details on its structure and organization remain limited despite the importance of rotifers in studies of evolution and population biology. To gain insight into the structure of the rotifer brain, and provide a foundation for future neurophysiologic and neurophylogenetic research, the brain of Asplanchna brightwellii was studied with immunohistochemistry, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and computer modeling. A three‐dimensional map of serotonergic connections reveals a complex network of approximately 28 mostly unipolar, cerebral perikarya and associated neurites. Cells and their projections display symmetry in quantity, size, connections, and pathways between cerebral hemispheres within and among individuals. Most immunopositive cells are distributed close to the brain midline. Three pairs of neurites form decussations at the brain midline and may innervate sensory receptors in the corona. A single neuronal pathway appears to connect both the lateral horns and dorsolateral apical receptors, suggesting that convergence of synaptic connections may be common in the afferent sensory systems of rotifers. Results show that the neural map of A. brightwellii is much more intricate than that of other monogonont rotifers; nevertheless, the consistency in neural circuits provides opportunities to identify homologous neurons, distinguish functional regions based on neurotransmitter phenotype, and explore new avenues of neurophylogeny in Rotifera. J. Morphol. 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ultrastructure and the importance of wear in the dentition of the halfbeak (Pisces: Hemiramphidae) pharyngeal mill
Authors: Buddery Alexander , Kemp Anne , Day Ryan D. , Tibbetts Ian R.
Published: December 2008

To assess how tooth microstructure and composition might facilitate the pharyngeal mill mechanism of halfbeaks, apatite structure and iron content were determined by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X‐ray analysis for Hyporhamphus regularis ardelio, Arrhamphus sclerolepis krefftii, and Hemiramphus robustus. Iron was present in developing teeth and was concentrated along the shearing edge of spatulate incisiform teeth, which dominate the occlusive wear zone in all three species. A model based on tooth structure and wear rate is proposed to explain how halfbeaks maintain a fully functional occlusion zone throughout growth and consequent tooth addition and replacement. Replacement teeth erupt and wear rapidly so that a constant occlusion plane is always present. Iron within the tooth tissue reduces the wear rate of the cutting edge while simultaneously maintaining its sharpness and efficiency. J. Morphol. 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Imaging age‐related cognitive decline: A comparison of diffusion tensor and magnetization transfer MRI
Authors: Schiavone Francesca , Charlton Rebecca Ann , Barrick Thomas Richard , Morris Robin Guy , Markus Hugh Stephen
Published: December 2008

Purpose

To determine which MR technique was the most sensitive to age‐related white matter damage. We compared both diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and magnetization transfer (MT) maps to determine which technique correlated most strongly with cognitive function in a middle‐aged and elderly community population.

Materials and Methods

In all, 64 healthy subjects (aged 50–90) underwent MRI and neuropsychology. Histograms were generated for white matter mean diffusivity (MD), fractional anisotropy (FA), and MT ratio (MTR). White matter hyperintensity volume (WMH) and brain volume were also determined. Composite neuropsychological scores were derived for 4 cognitive domains (executive function, working memory, episodic memory, and information processing speed).

Results

All MRI parameters correlated with age (FA r = 0.726, P < 0.001; MD r = −0.619 P < 0.001, MTR r = −0.566, P < 0.001, WMH r = 0.511, P < 0.001). All MRI parameters correlated with cognition, but DTI, and particularly FA, correlated most strongly. Adding DTI parameters explained more variance in cognition than WMH alone; the increase was greatest with FA, which alone explained 45%, 33%, and 25% of the variance in cognition for information processing speed, episodic memory, and executive function, respectively.

Conclusion

DTI appears the most sensitive imaging parameter to determine age‐related white matter damage. The stronger relationship with FA suggests that axonal damage is important in age‐related cognitive decline. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;29:23–30. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Magnetic resonance imaging enhanced by superparamagnetic iron oxide particles: Usefulness for distinguishing between focused ultrasound‐induced blood–brain barrier disruption and brain hemorrhage
Authors: Liu Hao‐Li , Hsu Po‐Hong , Chu Po‐Chun , Wai Yau‐Yau , Chen Jin‐Chung , Shen Chia‐Rui , Yen Tzu‐Chen , Wang Jiun‐Jie
Published: December 2008

Purpose

To investigate the usefulness of a fully flow‐compensated heavy T2*‐weighted imaging enhanced by superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) particles for distinguishing between focused ultrasound‐induced disruption of blood–brain barrier (BBB) and brain hemorrhage.

Materials and Methods

Focused ultrasound (frequency: 1.5 MHz) was used to induce disruption of the BBB in 39 rats. Two T2*‐weighted images were obtained before and after SPIO administration. Preenhanced T2*‐weighted images were used to detect hemorrhage. Detection of BBB disruption was performed on SPIO‐enhanced images. Thirty‐four rats were sacrificed after magnetic resonance (MR) scanning for histological confirmation of brain lesions. Theremaining five animals were followed up for 35 days. Prussian blue staining was performed on histological sections to detect SPIO particles in the brain.

Results

After SPIO injection the areas of BBB disruption in rat brain were significantly enlarged. The area of mismatch between the T2*‐weighted images indicated a safe region where BBB opening occurred without hemorrhagic complications. In the longitudinal study, removal of SPIO occurred at a faster rate in hemorrhagic areas, albeit being closer to that occurring in the liver. The presence of SPIO was confirmed by Prussian blue staining in brain parenchyma and capillary endothelial cells in areas of BBB disruption.

Conclusion

T2*‐weighted images—either with and without SPIO enhancement—may differentiate focused ultrasound‐induced BBB disruption from brain hemorrhage. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;29:31–38. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Strain‐encoded (SENC) magnetic resonance imaging to evaluate regional heterogeneity of myocardial strain in healthy volunteers: Comparison with conventional tagging
Authors: Neizel Mirja , Lossnitzer Dirk , Korosoglou Grigorios , Schäufele Tim , Lewien Antje , Steen Henning , Katus Hugo A. , Osman Nael F. , Giannitsis Evangelos
Published: December 2008

Purpose

To evaluate the ability of strain‐encoded (SENC) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for regional systolic and diastolic strain analysis of the myocardium in healthy volunteers.

Materials and Methods

Circumferential and longitudinal peak systolic strain values of 75 healthy volunteers (35 women and 40 men, mean age 44 ± 12 years) were measured using SENC at 1.5T. MR tagging was used as the reference standard for measuring regional function. Diastolic function was assessed in the 10 youngest (24 ± 8 years) and 10 oldest (62 ± 5 years) subjects.

Results

Peak strain values assessed with SENC were comparable to those obtained by MR tagging, showing narrow limits of agreement (limits of agreement −5.6% to 8.1%). Regional heterogeneity was observed between different segments of the left ventricle (LV) by both techniques (P < 0.001). Longitudinal strain obtained by SENC was also heterogenous (P < 0.001). Interestingly, no age‐ or gender‐specific differences in peak systolic strain were observed, whereas the peak rate of relaxation of circumferential strain rate was decreased in the older group.

Conclusion

SENC is a reliable tool for accurate and objective quantification of regional myocardial systolic as well as diastolic function. In agreement with tagged MRI, SENC detected slightly heterogeneous myocardial strain within LV segments. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;29:99–105. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification of calcification with MRI using susceptibility‐weighted imaging: A case study
Authors: Wu Zhen , Mittal Sandeep , Kish Karl , Yu Yingjian , Hu J. , Haacke E. Mark
Published: December 2008

Susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI) is a new MRI technique that can identify calcification by using phase images. We present a single case with a partially calcified oligodendroglioma, multiple calcified cysticercosis lesions, and multiple physiologic calcifications in the same patient. SWI phase images and computed tomography (CT) images are compared. SWI phase images showed the same calcified lesions as shown on CT and sometimes some new calcifications. Our conclusion is that SWI filtered phase images can identify calcifications as well as CT in this case. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;29:177–182. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Advances of 3T MR imaging in visualizing trabecular bone structure of the calcaneus are partially SNR‐independent: Analysis using simulated noise in relation to micro‐CT, 1.5T MRI, and biomechanical strength
Authors: Bauer Jan S. , Monetti Roberto , Krug Roland , Matsuura Maiko , Mueller Dirk , Eckstein Felix , Rummeny Ernst J. , Lochmueller Eva‐Maria , Raeth Christoph W. , Link Thomas M.
Published: December 2008

Purpose

To investigate differences in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of trabecular bone at 1.5T and 3.0T and to specifically study noise effects on the visualization and quantification of trabecular architecture using conventional histomorphometric and nonlinear measures of bone structure.

Materials and Methods

Sagittal MR images of 43 calcaneus specimens (donor age: 81 ± 10 years) were acquired at 1.5T and 3.0T using gradient echo sequences. Noise was added to obtain six sets of images with decreasing signal‐to‐noise ratios (SNRs). Micro‐CT images were obtained from biopsies taken from 37 calcaneus samples and bone strength was determined. Morphometric and nonlinear structure parameters were calculated in all datasets.

Results

Originally, SNR was 1.5 times higher at 3.0T. In the simulated image sets, SNR was similar at both fields. Trabecular dimensions measured by μCT were adequately estimated by MRI, with residual errors (er), ranging from 16% to 2.7% at 3.0T. Comparing er at similar SNR, 3.0T consistently displayed lower errors than 1.5T (eg, bone fraction at SNR ≈4: er[3.0T] = 15%; er[1.5T] = 21%, P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The advances of 3.0T compared to 1.5T in visualizing trabecular bone structure are partially SNR‐independent. The better performance at 3.0T may be explained by pronounced susceptibility, enhancing the visualization of thin trabecular structures. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;29:132–140. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
HIV‐1 seroconversion promotes rapid changes in cervical human papillomavirus (HPV) prevalence and HPV‐16 antibodies in female sex workers
Authors: Marais Dianne J. , Carrara Henri , Ramjee Gita , Kay Patti , Williamson Anna‐Lise
Published: December 2008

The extent to which human immunodeficiency virus (HIV‐1) infection impacts on the ability to mount an effective immune response to HPV is unknown, but is relevant in planning HPV vaccine strategies for HIV‐1 infected individuals. This longitudinal study investigated changes shortly after HIV‐1 seroconversion on cervical HPV types and HPV‐16 antibody responses in serum and at the cervix of female sex workers. Typing of HPV DNA from cervical cells was done prior to HIV‐1 seroconversion and within 1 year and greater than 2 years after HIV‐1 seroconversion. Antibody determinations on serum and cervico‐vaginal rinse samples were by HPV‐16 virus‐like particle‐based, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Of 104 women tested, 40 (38.4%) became HIV‐1 seropositive (HIV‐positive) during the course of the study. Shortly after HIV‐1 seroconversion a significant increase in multiple (>1) HPV infection (OR 4.0, 95% CI 1.3–11.9) was observed compared with HIV‐1 seronegative (HIV‐negative) women and certain changes in HPV type infection. HIV‐1 seroconversion resulted in a reduced prevalence of serum HPV‐16 IgA and cervico‐vaginal IgA and IgG but an increased prevalence of serum HPV‐16 IgG. All HIV‐positive women had been exposed to HPV‐16 as all displayed serum HPV‐16 IgG. Serum HPV‐16 responses were maintained at a high magnitude in the presence of HPV‐16 infection irrespective of HIV infection, but decreased in the absence of HPV‐16 infection. In conclusion, HIV‐1 seroconversion in sex workers rapidly increased cervical HPV infection and caused a reduced ability to produce cervical HPV‐16 antibodies but a continued ability to generate serum IgG antibodies. J. Med. Virol. 81:203–210, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Human herpesvirus 8 seroprevalence among Tobago women and the role of sexual lifestyle behavior
Authors: McDonald Alicia C. , Ragin Camille C. , Jenkins Frank J. , Weissfeld Joel , Wilson John , Wheeler Victor W. , Wilson Jaquie B. , Bunker Clareann H. , Taioli Emanuela
Published: December 2008

Human herpesvirus 8 (HHV‐8) infection is present in 22.9% of Tobago men. However, seroprevalence and modes of transmission of HHV‐8 among Tobago women are not known. HHV‐8 seropositivity rates in Tobago women were examined and compared rates to Tobago men of similar ages. To assess possible modes of transmission, sexual behavior among Tobago women was examined to determine its association with HHV‐8 seropositivity. A cross‐sectional study was conducted in 213 Tobago women, ages 18–65 years, who participated in the Tobago Cervical and Oral Cancer Screening Study. HHV‐8 seropositivity was determined by a monoclonal immunofluorescence assay. Age‐specific rates were compared to those previously observed in men. Logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the association between HHV‐8 seropositivity and sexual behavior among the women. HHV‐8 seroprevalence among Tobago women was 14.1% (95% CI, 10–19%), with no significant difference with men of similar age (P‐value = 0.741). Age ≤17 years at first sexual intercourse was found to have a minimal significant association with HHV‐8 seropositivity (OR = 2.51, 95% CI = 1.09–5.78) in women. HHV‐8 age‐specific rates were similar between genders. Sexual activity may not be a major contributor to HHV‐8 infection among Tobago women. J. Med. Virol. 81:264–270, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molecular characterization of rotaviruses, noroviruses, sapovirus, and adenoviruses in patients with acute gastroenteritis in Thailand
Authors: Kittigul Leera , Pombubpa Kannika , Taweekate Yuthana , Yeephoo Thanapat , Khamrin Pattara , Ushijima Hiroshi
Published: December 2008

Outbreaks of viral gastroenteritis occur worldwide including Thailand. Unfortunately, there is limited information since etiologic agents have not been identified in several outbreaks of nonbacterial gastroenteritis. The genotype of enteric viruses causing acute gastroenteritis in Thailand was determined using reverse transcription‐multiplex polymerase chain reaction and DNA sequencing. From January 2006 to February 2007, stool samples were collected from patients with acute gastroenteritis of all age groups attending a hospital in Thailand, and patients with nonbacterial acute gastroenteritis (262 patients) were tested for enteric viruses. The overall positive detection rate of enteric viruses was 14.9%; group A rotaviruses (6.1%), noroviruses (6.5%): GI (0.8%) and GII (5.7%), adenoviruses (1.5%), and sapoviruses (0.8%) were found. Group B and C rotaviruses, and astroviruses were not detected in the enrolled patients. Viral acute gastroenteritis occurred in children less than 15 years of age (25.2%, 33/131) with higher frequency than in adults (4.6%, 6/131),P‐value <0.001. Rotavirus G1 was the most predominant genotype, followed by G3, and G9. Among noroviruses, GI‐2 was identified; whereas, GII was predominant with a high frequency of GII‐4 observed, followed by GII‐16, GII‐2, GII‐3, and GII‐12. Sapovirus GII‐3 and human adenoviruses were identified. This study suggests that enteric viruses play an essential role in patients with acute gastroenteritis attending hospital and mainly in children who have a higher prevalence of group A rotaviruses and noroviruses. The genetic analyses provide molecular epidemiological data for viruses important to public health. J. Med. Virol. 81:345–353, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prevalence of tick‐borne encephalitis virus in Ixodes Ricinus from a novel endemic area of North Eastern Italy
Authors: D'Agaro P. , Martinelli E. , Burgnich P. , Nazzi F. , Del Fabbro S. , Iob A. , Ruscio M. , Pischiutti P. , Campello C.
Published: December 2008

In Alpine area of extreme North Eastern Italy the first autochthonous case of TBE was reported in 1998 and was followed by 45 cases during the period 2001–2007, thus defining this area as definitely endemic. An ecological survey evaluated the tick density and the Tick‐borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) infection prevalence in tick collected in selected sites. In addition, TBE strains were characterized by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Overall, 2,361 ticks (2,198 nymphs and 163 adults) of the Ixodes ricinus L. species collected during 2005 and 2006 were examined. Five samples were positive for TBEV, corresponding to an overall prevalence rate of 0.21%. When analyzed by place, TBEV was discovered in three sites where the highest tick density was found. The difference of prevalence between high and low density areas tested to be statistically significant (P = 0.028). Phylogenetic analysis showed that four sequences clustered with the Neudoerfl prototype, while the other clustered with the Isosaari 17 strain and with a number of Slovenian isolates. In addition, a sequence detected in archival samples from one human case segregated with another variant, namely the Swedish Torö strain. J. Med. Virol. 81:309–316, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Spatial variability in correlation decay distance and influence on angular‐distance weighting interpolation of daily precipitation over Europe
Authors: Hofstra Nynke , New Mark
Published: December 2008

Angular‐distance weighting (ADW) is a common approach for interpolation of an irregular network of meteorological observations to a regular grid. A widely used version of ADW employs the correlation decay distance (CDD) to (1) select stations that should contribute to each grid‐point estimate and (2) define the distance component of the station weights. We show, for Europe, that the CDD of daily precipitation varies spatially, as well as by season and synoptic state, and is also anisotropic. However, ADW interpolation using CDDs that varies spatially by season or synoptic state yield only small improvements in interpolation skill, relative to the use of a fixed CDD across the entire domain. If CDDs are optimized through cross validation, a larger improvement in interpolation skill is achieved. Improvements are larger for the determination of the state of precipitation (wet/dry) than for the magnitude. These or other attempts to improve interpolation skill appear to be fundamentally limited by the available station network. Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society
Effect of hot air treatment on quality and ripening of Chinese bayberry fruit
Authors: Luo Zisheng , Xu Tingqiao , Xie Jing , Zhang Li , Xi Yufang
Published: December 2008

BACKGROUND: Postharvest decay and softening are the major factors limiting the extension of storage life of Chinese bayberry fruit. To evaluate the effects of hot air treatment (HAT) on Chinese bayberry fruit, fruits were stored at 2 °C after exposure to 20 °C (control), 40 °C (HAT40), 45 °C (HAT45) or 50 °C (HAT50) hot air for 3 h. The effects of HAT on firmness, disease incidence, soluble solid content (SSC), titratable acidity (TA), respiration, ethylene production, pectic substances and activities of pectinmethylesterase (PME) and polygalacturonase (PG) were examined.

RESULTS: HAT inhibited decrease in firmness, SSC and TA and retarded increase in disease incidence, while it promoted decrease in respiration rate and ethylene production. HAT suppressed the activities of PME and PG, which resulted in delaying the depolymerisation of chelator‐soluble and alkali‐soluble pectic substances and reducing the increase in water‐soluble pectic substances compared with control fruits.

CONCLUSION: The present findings show that HAT can maintain postharvest quality and delay ripening of Chinese bayberry fruit and suggest that HAT could be considered for commercial use to extend the postharvest life of Chinese bayberry fruit. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Cranberry extract and quercetin modulate the expression of cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) and IκBα in human colon cancer cells
Authors: Narayansingh Richard , Hurta Robert AR
Published: December 2008

BACKGROUND: Cranberry (Vaccinium marcocarpon) fruit and quercetin, a major flavonoid found in cranberries, are likely contributors to chemoprevention, and their anti‐inflammatory activities may play a potential role in colon cancer prevention. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of cranberry extract and quercetin on basal expression of cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) and IκBα as well as the effect on phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA)‐induced COX‐2 expression in colon cancer cells.

RESULTS: HT‐29 human colon adenocarcinoma cells were treated with various concentrations of cranberry extract or quercetin and/or PMA, and the protein expression of COX‐2 and IκBα was determined. The results indicated that cranberry extract and quercetin decreased COX‐2 expression and suppressed degradation of IκBα in unstimulated cells. In PMA‐stimulated cells, cranberry extract was also able to decrease COX‐2 expression and suppress degradation of IκBα.

CONCLUSION: The results suggest that a possible mechanism involved in the anti‐cancer activity of cranberry and quercetin is partly mediated through its anti‐inflammatory action. These findings indicate that cranberry and quercetin may reduce the risk of colon cancer possibly by suppressing inflammatory responses. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of the milling process on quality characteristics of rye flour
Authors: Gómez Manuel , Pardo Jose , Oliete Bonastre , Caballero Pedro A
Published: December 2008

BACKGROUND: Most of rye flour is obtained by a gradual reduction system using roller flour mills, which generate different flour streams. The study of the different flour streams composition is necessary since it determines the flour quality and the flour uses. Four break streams and nine reduction streams were analysed for moisture, ash, starch, protein, damaged starch, falling number, amylose/amylopectin ratio, β‐glucans and colour. Mixing and pasting properties were also determined with a doughLAB and a Rapid Visco Analyser respectively.

RESULTS: As the milling process advanced, moisture and starch content decreased but protein, ash, β‐glucans and damaged starch increased. The differences in composition are probably related to the effect of the roller mills and the increase in the contamination with bran. The absorption, development time, and pasting viscosity increased as the milling proceeded, in detriment of the peak time. The β‐glucan content was positively correlated to absorption, mixing tolerance index and pasting viscosity, and negatively correlated to peak time.

CONCLUSION: Differences in composition, above all, in bran, showed different mixing and pasting properties in rye streams. The most different streams corresponded to the last streams in the break process, in the sizings and in the middlings. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Modification in physical properties of rice gel by microbial transglutaminase
Authors: Lin Chih‐Fang , Wang Yuh Tai , Wu James Swi‐Bea
Published: December 2008

BACKGROUND: Microbial transglutaminase (MTGase) may catalyse the cross‐linking between a peptide‐bound glutaminyl residue and an ε‐amino group of lysine residue in protein. MTGase has been used to modify many food proteins for improving the physical properties of products. However, its effect on the physical properties of rice products has not been investigated before. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of MTGase, as an additive in rice flour, on the rheological, textural and thermal properties of rice gel.

RESULTS: Both the elastic and the viscous moduli of rice gel were increased as a result of the addition of MTGase to rice flour. The addition of MTGase at 0.01–0.3 U mg−1 increased textural parameters (hardness and gumminess) and rheological properties. Differential scanning calorimetry also showed that MTGase treatment decreased the enthalpy change in gelation. Sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS–PAGE) confirmed that rice proteins were polymerised through the MTGase reaction.

CONCLUSION: The present study proved that the cross‐linking of protein molecules in rice flour by the action of MTGase may improve the physical properties of rice gel. The addition of MTGase in rice flour in an adequate amount is essential for achieving appropriate physical properties of the product. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of foliar urea on the antioxidant response and fruit color of sweet pepper under limited N supply
Authors: del Amor Francisco M , Cuadra‐Crespo Paula , Varó Plácido , Gómez Maria C
Published: December 2008

BACKGROUND:Foliar fertilizer methods could provide a rapid and efficient response when uptake by plant roots is limited. This work studies the effect of foliar urea sprays (15 g L−1) at different frequencies on the antioxidant metabolism and fruit quality of sweet pepper fruits under N‐limited nutrient solution (3.5 mmol L−1NO3−) and fully N‐supplied (12.5 mmol L−1NO3−) plants.

RESULTS:Foliar applications of urea in root N‐limited plants increased the total N concentration in the fruits and no significant differences were found with respect to control fruits (plants fully supplied with N by the roots). Fruit color was significantly affected by the urea sprays, and at the highest frequency (twice a week) the largest overall color difference (ΔE) with respect the non‐sprayed fruits was obtained. Foliar urea increased anthocyanin concentration to control values but flavonoids were only affected at the highest application frequency. N deficiency induced oxidative stress but foliar application of urea altered this response, significantly diminishing catalase and ascorbate peroxidase activity.

CONCLUSION:Sweet pepper fruits showed a significant and positive response to foliar fertilization on the studied parameters, compensating to a major extent the reduction of N by the roots. In addition to the environmental issues in reducing N contamination, fully monitored automatically sprayed foliar fertilizer could utilize N more efficiently and at lower cost than applying the full recommended rate of other N fertilizers to the nutrient solution, providing flexibility in correcting N nutrition in the plant, and especially the control of nutrient supply independent of the water supply. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Internet interventions for traumatic stress: A review and theoretically based example
Authors: Benight Charles C. , Ruzek Josef I. , Waldrep Eddie
Published: December 2008

Trauma recovery Web sites are proliferating with limited supportive evidence for effectiveness. In this article, the authors review the current very early studies on trauma recovery Web sites highlighting the different approaches, the empirical support provided, and the critical development issues facing this exciting frontier. An example site based on social cognitive theory is also reviewed.
Mapping sensitivity to land degradation in Extremadura. SW Spain
Authors: Contador J. F. Lavado , Schnabel S. , Gutiérrez A. Gómez , Fernández M. Pulido
Published: December 2008

An assessment of sensitivity to land degradation has been carried out in the Extremadura region, SW Spain, by means of a modelling approach developed by the European Commission funded MEDALUS project (Mediterranean Desertification and Land Use) which identifies such areas on the basis of an index (Environmentally Sensitive Area index, ESA index) that incorporates data on environmental quality (climate, vegetation, soil) as well as anthropogenic factors (management). Two maps of environmental sensitivity (ES) to degradation with different legend resolution (four and eight classes of sensitivity) have been made and tested by comparing classes of the legends with an extensive number (2690) of true field data gathered from plots distributed all over the study region. Independent variables of validation consisted of nine degradation‐related types of data and the method tested the performance of the whole model and the statistical separability among classes of sensitivity, as well as the capability of the variables in delimiting the classes. Results showed a good performance of the whole model to both, the map of four and eighth classes of sensitivity. Separation among classes of sensitivity showed a slightly different behaviour of both maps, identifying transitional classes in the map of eight classes where classification could be improved in terms of the ranges of ESA index values assigned to the different classes. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Integration of modified universal soil loss equation (MUSLE) into a gis framework to assess soil erosion risk
Authors: Zhang Y. , Degroote J. , Wolter C. , Sugumaran R.
Published: December 2008

Soil erosion is an important economic and environmental concern throughout the world. In order to assess soil erosion risk and conserve water and soil resources, soil erosion modeling at the watershed scale is urgently needed. This study integrated the Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation (MUSLE) in a Geographic Information System (GIS) framework in the form of a tool called ArcMUSLE, an extension of ArcGIS® software, to assist soil and water conservation agencies in soil erosion risk assessment and prioritization of critical areas for soil erosion control practices. With widely available spatial data, this tool can be applied to determine curve numbers, to estimate runoff, peak flow, and soil loss for a rainfall event within a watershed. An application example for a watershed in Black Hawk County, Iowa, USA, is presented. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crystallization Kinetics and Melting Behaviour of the Novel Biodegradable Polyesters Poly(propylene azelate) and Poly(propylene sebacate)
Authors: Papageorgiou George Z. , Achilias Dimitris S. , Bikiaris Dimitrios N.
Published: December 2008

Novel biodegradable poly(propylene sebacate) (PPSeb) and poly(propylene azelate) (PPAz) polyesters were synthesized and fully characterized using WAXD, standard DSC, high‐rate DSC, and modulated‐temperature DSC. Multiple‐melting behaviour, observed for samples isothermally crystallized from the melt, was attributed to sequential melting–recrystallization–remelting. Study of isothermal and nonisothermal crystallization kinetics revealed a higher crystallization rate for PPSeb compared to PPAz. The Avrami and the Lauritzen‐Hoffman models were successfully applied to DSC measurements, using also data obtained after self‐nucleation, in order to diminish the effect of primary nucleation. Finally, the effective activation energy was estimated using the differential isoconversional method of Friedman.

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Invariant curves and boundedness of solutions of a class of reversible systems
Authors: Yang Xiaojing , Lo Kueiming
Published: December 2008

In this paper, the boundedness of all solutions for the following planar reversible system
Ju ′ = ∇H (u) + G (u) + h (t)
is discussed, where the function H (u) ∈ C2(ℝ2, ℝ+) is positive for u ≠ 0 and positively (q, p)‐quasihomogeneous of quasi‐degree pq, G ∈ C5 is bounded, h ∈ C6 is 2π ‐periodic and J is the standard symplectic matrix. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Generalization of the B *‐algebra (C0(X),∥ ∥∞)
Authors: Arhippainen Jorma , Kauppi Jukka
Published: December 2008

We give a generalization of the Stone–Weierstrass property for subalgebras of C (X), with X a completely regular Hausdorff space. In particular, we study in this paper some subalgebras of C0(X), with X a locally compact Hausdorff space, provided with weighted norm topology. By using the Stone–Weierstrass property, we then describe the ideal structure of these algebras. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Discrete characterisations of Lipschitz spaces on fractals
Authors: Bodin Mats
Published: December 2008

A. Kamont has discretely characterised Besov spaces on intervals. In this paper, we give a discrete characterisation of Lipschitz spaces on fractals admitting a type of regular sequence of triangulations, and for a class of post critically finite self‐similar sets. This shows that on some fractals, certain discretely defined Besov spaces, introduced by R. Strichartz, coincide with Lipschitz spaces introduced by A. Jonsson and H. Wallin for low order of smoothness. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A New Disubstituted Polyacetylene for the Detection of α‐Amino Acids
Authors: Zeng Qi , Jim Cathy K. W. , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Dong Yongqiang , Li Zhen , Qin Jingui , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: December 2008

New imidazole‐functionalized disubstituted polyacetylene was synthesized by utilizing the postfunctional strategy. In addition, its ability to sense copper ions and α‐amino acids by fluorescence quenching has been studied. The quenching of the fluorescence of the imidazole‐functionalized disubstituted polyacetylene was observed at a very low level of Cu2+ (7.0 × 10−7 mol · L−1). The fluorescent intensity decreased rapidly upon the increase of the concentration of the added solution of Cu2+. It was expected that the addition of α‐amino acids to the solution of the polyacetylene/Cu2+ complex could turn on the fluorescence of the polyacetylene, if α‐amino acids could remove the copper ions from the complex. Glycine, was used for testing: upon the addition of glycine the quenched fluorescence of P1 turned on immediately. The detection limit was as low as 6.0 × 10−5 mol · L−1.

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The Ludwig‐Soret Effect on the Thermally Induced Phase Separation Process in Polymer Solutions: A Computational Study
Authors: Kukadiya Sureshkumar B. , Chan Philip K. , Mehrvar Mehrab
Published: December 2008

The Ludwig‐Soret effect was investigated in the thermally induced phase separation process via SD in polymer solutions under an externally imposed spatial linear temperature gradient using mathematical modeling and computer simulation. The mathematical model incorporated non‐linear Cahn‐Hilliard theory for SD, Flory‐Huggins theory for thermodynamics, and the Ludwig‐Soret effect for thermal diffusion. 2D simulation results revealed that the Ludwig‐Soret effect had negligible impact on the phase separation mechanism in binary polymer solutions under a non‐uniform temperature field, as reflected by the time evolution of the dimensionless structure factor and the transition time from the early to the intermediate stages of SD.

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Bandpass performance of the short‐circuited quarter‐wavelength parallel‐coupled line excited by the slot‐line resonator
Authors: Hon‐Kuan  , Weng Min‐Hang , Yang Ru‐Yuan , Chen Wen‐Lang
Published: December 2008

In this article, a wideband bandpass performance of the short‐circuited quarter‐wavelength parallel‐coupled line excited by the slot‐line resonator (SLR) is proposed. The filter performance is characterized based on the even and odd‐mode analysis of the microstrip parallel‐coupled line. And the coupling consideration between the short‐circuited quarter‐wavelength parallel‐coupled line and the SLR is also discussed for obtaining the proper wide passband response. With the multiple transmission zeros, the designed filter exhibits an improved passband selectivity and a good out‐of‐band performance. Predicted results are confirmed by the experiment. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 301–303, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24026