bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unfolding and refolding of dimeric creatine kinase equilibrium and kinetic studies
Authors: Fan Ying‐Xin , Zhou Jun‐Mei , Tsou Chen‐Lu , Kihara Hiroshi
Published: February 2009

Equilibrium and kinetic studies of the guanidine hydrochloride induced unfolding‐refolding of dimeric cytoplasmic creatine kinase have been monitored by intrinsic fluorescence, far ultraviolet circular dichroism, and 1‐anilinonaphthalene‐8‐sulfonate binding. The GuHCl induced equilibrium‐unfolding curve shows two transitions, indicating the presence of at least one stable equilibrium intermediate in GuHCl solutions of moderate concentrations. This intermediate is an inactive monomer with all of the thiol groups exposed. The thermodynamic parameters obtained by analysis using a three‐state model indicate that this intermediate is similar in energy to the fully unfolded state. There is a burst phase in the refolding kinetics due to formation of an intermediate within the dead time of mixing (15 ms) in the stopped‐flow apparatus. Further refolding to the native state after the burst phase follows biphasic kinetics. The properties of the burst phase and equilibrium intermediates were studied and compared. The results indicate that these intermediates are similar in some respects, but different in others. Both are characterized by pronounced secondary structure, compact globularity, exposed hydrophobic surface area, and the absence of rigid side‐chain packing, resembling the “molten globule” state. However, the burst phase intermediate shows more secondary structure, more exposed hydrophobic surface area, and more flexible side‐chain packing than the equilibrium intermediate. Following the burst phase, there is a fast phase corresponding to folding of the monomer to a compact conformation. This is followed by rapid assembly to form the dimer. Neither of the equilibrium unfolding transitions are protein concentration dependent. The refolding kinetics are also not concentration dependent. This suggests that association of the subunits is not rate limiting for refolding, and that under equilibrium conditions, dissociation occurs in the region between the two unfolding transitions. Based upon the above results, schemes of unfolding and refolding of creatine kinase are proposed.
Quantum chemical calculations of the reorganization energy of blue‐copper proteins
Authors: Olsson Mats H.M. , Ryde Ulf , Roos Björn O.
Published: February 2009

The inner‐sphere reorganization energy for several copper complexes related to the active site in blue‐copper protein has been calculated with the density functional B3LYP method. The best model of the blue‐copper proteins, Cu(Im)2(SCH3)(S(CH3)2)0/+, has a self‐exchange inner‐sphere reorganization energy of 62 kJ/mol, which is at least 120 kJ/mol lower than for Cu(H2O)4+/2+. This lowering of the reorganization energy is caused by the soft ligands in the blue‐copper site, especially the cysteine thiolate and the methionine thioether groups. Soft ligands both make the potential surfaces of the complexes flatter and give rise to oxidized structures that are quite close to a tetrahedron (rather than tetragonal). Approximately half of the reorganization energy originates from changes in the copper‐ligand bond lengths and half of this contribution comes from the Cu‐SCys bond. A tetragonal site, which is present in the rhombic type 1 blue‐copper proteins, has a slightly higher (16 kJ/mol) inner‐sphere reorganization energy than a trigonal site, present in the axial type 1 copper proteins. A site with the methionine ligand replaced by an amide group, as in stellacyanin, has an even higher reorganization energy, about 90 kJ/mol.
Atomic resolution structure of the cytoplasmic domain of Yersinia pestis YscU, a regulatory switch involved in type III secretion
Authors: Lountos George T. , Austin Brian P. , Nallamsetty Sreedevi , Waugh David S.
Published: February 2009

Crystal structures of cleaved and uncleaved forms of the YscU cytoplasmic domain, an essential component of the type III secretion system (T3SS) in Yersinia pestis, have been solved by single‐wavelength anomolous dispersion and refined with X‐ray diffraction data extending up to atomic resolution (1.13 Å). These crystallographic studies provide structural insights into the conformational changes induced upon auto‐cleavage of the cytoplasmic domain of YscU. The structures indicate that the cleaved fragments remain bound to each other. The conserved NPTH sequence that contains the site of the N263‐P264 peptide bond cleavage is found on a β‐turn which, upon cleavage, undergoes a major reorientation of the loop away from the catalytic N263, resulting in altered electrostatic surface features at the site of cleavage. Additionally, a significant conformational change was observed in the N‐terminal linker regions of the cleaved and noncleaved forms of YscU which may correspond to the molecular switch that influences substrate specificity. The YscU structures determined here also are in good agreement with the auto‐cleavage mechanism described for the flagellar homolog FlhB and E. coli EscU.
Dematin exhibits a natively unfolded core domain and an independently folded headpiece domain
Authors: Chen Lin , Jiang Zhenghui G. , Khan Anwar A. , Chishti Athar H. , McKnight C. James
Published: February 2009

Dematin is an actin‐binding protein originally identified in the junctional complex of the erythrocyte plasma membrane, and is present in many nonerythroid cells. Dematin headpiece knockout mice display a spherical red cell phenotype and develop a compensated anemia. Dematin has two domains: a 315‐residue, proline‐rich “core” domain and a 68‐residue carboxyl‐terminal villin‐type “headpiece” domain. Expression of full‐length dematin in E. coli as a GST recombinant protein results in truncation within a proline, glutamic acid, serine, threonine rich region (PEST). Therefore, we designed a mutant construct that replaces the PEST sequence. The modified dematin has high actin binding activity as determined by actin sedimentation assays. Negative stain electron microscopy demonstrates that the modified dematin also exhibits actin bundling activity like that of native dematin. Circular dichroism (CD) and NMR spectral analysis, however, show little secondary structure in the modified dematin. The lack of secondary structure is also observed in native dematin purified from human red blood cells. 15N‐HSQC NMR spectra of modified dematin indicate that the headpiece domain is fully folded whereas the core region is primarily unfolded. Our finding suggests that the core is natively unfolded and may serve as a scaffold to organize the components of the junctional complex.
Structure and function of Pseudomonas aeruginosa protein PA1324 (21–170)
Authors: Mercier Kelly A. , Cort John R. , Kennedy Michael A. , Lockert Erin E. , Ni Shuisong , Shortridge Matthew D. , Powers Robert
Published: February 2009

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the prototypical biofilm‐forming gram‐negative opportunistic human pathogen. P. aeruginosa is causatively associated with nosocomial infections and with cystic fibrosis. Antibiotic resistance in some strains adds to the inherent difficulties that result from biofilm formation when treating P. aeruginosa infections. Transcriptional profiling studies suggest widespread changes in the proteome during quorum sensing and biofilm development. Many of the proteins found to be upregulated during these processes are poorly characterized from a functional standpoint. Here, we report the solution NMR structure of PA1324, a protein of unknown function identified in these studies, and provide a putative biological functional assignment based on the observed prealbumin‐like fold and FAST‐NMR ligand screening studies. PA1324 is postulated to be involved in the binding and transport of sugars or polysaccharides associated with the peptidoglycan matrix during biofilm formation.
Conformation of a plasmid replication initiator protein affects its proteolysis by ClpXP system
Authors: Pierechod Marcin , Nowak Agnieszka , Saari Anna , Purta Elzbieta , Bujnicki Janusz M. , Konieczny Igor
Published: February 2009

Proteins from the Rep family of DNA replication initiators exist mainly as dimers, but only monomers can initiate DNA replication by interaction with the replication origin (ori). In this study, we investigated both the activation (monomerization) and the degradation of the broad‐host‐range plasmid RK2 replication initiation protein TrfA, which we found to be a member of a class of DNA replication initiators containing winged helix (WH) domains. Our in vivo and in vitro experiments demonstrated that the ClpX‐dependent activation of TrfA leading to replicationally active protein monomers and mutations affecting TrfA dimer formation, result in the inhibition of TrfA protein degradation by the ClpXP proteolytic system. These data revealed that the TrfA monomers and dimers are degraded at substantially different rates. Our data also show that the plasmid replication initiator activity and stability in E. coli cells are affected by ClpXP system only when the protein sustains dimeric form.
Computational studies of H5N1 influenza virus resistance to oseltamivir
Authors: Wang Nick X. , Zheng Jie J.
Published: February 2009

Influenza A (H5N1) virus is one of the world's greatest pandemic threats. Neuraminidase (NA) inhibitors, oseltamivir and zanamivir, prevent the spread of influenza, but drug‐resistant viruses have reduced their effectiveness. Resistance depends on the binding properties of NA‐drug complexes. Key residue mutations within the active site of NA glycoproteins diminish binding, thereby resulting in drug resistance. We performed molecular simulations and calculations to characterize the mechanisms of H5N1 influenza virus resistance to oseltamivir and predict potential drug‐resistant mutations. We examined two resistant NA mutations, H274Y and N294S, and one non‐drug‐resistant mutation, E119G. Six‐nanosecond unrestrained molecular dynamic simulations with explicit solvent were performed using NA‐oseltamivir complexes containing either NA wild‐type H5N1 virus or a variant. MM_PBSA techniques were then used to rank the binding free energies of these complexes. Detailed analyses indicated that conformational change of E276 in the Pocket 1 region of NA is a key source of drug resistance in the H274Y mutant but not in the N294S mutant.
Opposite allosteric mechanisms in TetR and CAP
Authors: Seedorff Jennifer E. , Rodgers Michael E. , Schleif Robert
Published: February 2009

Regulation of the DNA binding affinity of an oligomeric protein can be considered to consist of an intrinsic component, in which the affinity of an individual DNA‐binding domain is modulated in response to effector binding, and an extrinsic component, in which the relative position of the protein's two DNA‐binding domains are altered so that they can or cannot contact both half‐site operators simultaneously. We demonstrated directly that the TetR repressor utilizes an extrinsic mechanism and CAP, the catabolite activator protein, utilizes an intrinsic mechanism.
Effect of seven new orchard pesticides on Galendromus occidentalis in laboratory studies
Authors: Bostanian Noubar J , Thistlewood Howard A , Hardman John M , Laurin Marie‐Claude , Racette Gaétan
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND: Biological control of phytophagous mites in orchards requires that pesticides used to manage other arthropod pests or diseases are harmless to predacious mites, as these are essential to keep phytophagous mites at non‐injurious population levels. This study evaluates the possible toxic attributes of acetamiprid, imidacloprid, thiacloprid, thiamethoxam, spirodiclofen, spinosad and methoxyfenoxide currently used in western Canadian orchards.

RESULTS: None of these pesticides has any ovicidal properties against Galendromus occidentalis (Nesbitt). Imidacloprid and acetamiprid were highly toxic to the adults and reduced fecundity significantly. Thiamethoxam and spirodiclofen were non‐toxic to adults, but they slightly reduced fecundity. Thiacloprid, spinosad and methoxyfenoxide were harmless to adults and had no effect on fecundity. All compounds showed some repellence at 24 h intervals for 72 h.

CONCLUSIONS: Imidacloprid and acetamiprid are incompatible with IPM programs because they are toxic to adults and negatively affect fecundity. Thiamethoxam and spirodiclofen need further field evaluation to determine if they are compatible with IPM programs because they slightly reduced fecundity. Thiacloprid, spinosad and methoxyfenoxide are harmless to adults, but they are slightly repellent. Therefore, with the exception of imidacloprid and acetamiprid, all these compounds should be field tested for compatibility in an IPM program. © Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of Agriculture and Agri‐Food Canada. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Hypertension in older people: current management options
Authors: Bancroft Rebecca , Clague John
Published: February 2009

Our series Prescribing in older people gives practical advice for successful management of the special problems experienced by this patient group. Here, the authors discuss current management approaches to hypertension. Copyright © 2006 Wiley Interface Ltd
Premenstrual syndrome: current approaches to drug treatment
Authors: Indusekhar Radha , O'Brien Shaughn
Published: February 2009

Mild premenstrual syndrome is experienced by the majority of women, but when PMS disrupts daily life GP intervention may be helpful. Here, the authors describe the wide range of claimed treatments currently available. Copyright © 2006 Wiley Interface Ltd
The oxidation metabolites of endomorphin 1 and its fragments induced by free radicals
Authors: Gong Pin , Chen Fu Xin , Zhao Qianyu , Ma Guo Fen , Wang Rui
Published: February 2009

Endomorphin 1 (EM1), an endogenous µ‐opioid receptor agonist, acts as a free radical scavenger in vitro and an antioxidant in vivo. The modification of EM1 by ROS and the properties of the OM attracted our attention. In vitro assays were performed via RP‐HPLC, spectrophotometric measurements, EPR and amino acid analysis, Schmorl's reaction to define the formation of melanin‐like compounds transformed from EM1, collectively named EM1–melanin and by solubility assay, radioligand‐binding assay, NADH oxidation, superoxide anion scavenging assay to study some physical and chemical properties of EM1–melanin. Possible pathways of the formation of EM1–melanin were proposed. Copyright © 2009 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assimilation of IASI at the Met Office and assessment of its impact through observing system experiments
Authors: Hilton F. , Atkinson N. C. , English S. J. , Eyre J. R.
Published: February 2009

Observations from the Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer (IASI), onboard EUMETSAT's MetOp satellite, have been assimilated at the Met Office in global and regional numerical weather‐prediction systems since 27 November 2007. Pre‐operational trials of IASI assimilation in the global model during the summer of 2007 delivered a positive impact on forecasts approximately twice as large as that shown by the Atmospheric InfraRed Sounder (AIRS) on the EOS‐Aqua satellite. A series of observing system experiments confirmed the relative performance of IASI and AIRS, and showed that impact from IASI is equivalent to a single Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit‐A (AMSU‐A) combined with a single Microwave Humidity Sounder (MHS). The results of an IASI assimilation trial for the winter of 2007 were consistent with those of the summer trial, although the impact was slightly lower overall. The assessment of impact is strongly dependent on the variables and methods chosen for verification: assimilation trials with the regional model showed similar improvements to the large‐scale fields (e.g. mean‐sea‐level pressure and geopotential height) as seen in the global model, but no forecast impact was seen for variables such as visibility and rain‐rate. © Crown Copyright 2009. Reproduced with the permission of the Controller of HMSO. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ground verification of the feasibility of telepresent on‐orbit servicing
Authors: Stoll Enrico , Walter Ulrich , Artigas Jordi , Preusche Carsten , Kremer Philipp , Hirzinger Gerd , Letschnik Jürgen , Pongrac Helena
Published: February 2009

In an ideal casetelepresenceachieves a state in which a human operator can no longer differentiate between an interaction with a real environment and a technical mediated one. This state is called transparent telepresence. The applicability of telepresence to on‐orbit servicing (OOS), i.e., an unmanned servicing operation in space, teleoperated from ground in real time, is verified in this paper. For this purpose, a communication test environment was set up on the ground, which involved the Institute of Astronautics (LRT) ground station in Garching, Germany, and the European Space Agency (ESA) ground station in Redu, Belgium. Both were connected via the geostationary ESA data relay satellite ARTEMIS. Utilizing the data relay satellite, a teleoperation was accomplished in which the human operator as well as the (space) teleoperator was located on the ground. The feasibility of telepresent OOS was evaluated, using an OOS test bed at the Institute of Mechatronics and Robotics at the German Aerospace Center (DLR). The manipulation task was representative for OOS and supported real‐time feedback from the haptic‐visual workspace. The tests showed that complex manipulation tasks can be fulfilled by utilizing geostationary data relay satellites. For verifying the feasibility of telepresent OOS, different evaluation methods were used. The properties of the space link were measured and related to subjective perceptions of participants, who had to fulfill manipulation tasks. An evaluation of the transparency of the system, including the data relay satellite, was accomplished as well. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The onset of dominance in balls‐in‐bins processes with feedback
Authors: Oliveira Roberto Imbuzeiro
Published: February 2009

Consider a balls‐in‐bins process in which each new ball goes into a given bin with probability proportional to f(n), where n is the number of balls currently in the bin and f is a fixed positive function. It is known that these so‐called balls‐in‐bins processes with feedback have a monopolistic regime: if f(x) = xp for p > 1, then there is a finite time after which one of the bins will receive all incoming balls.

Our goal in this article is to quantify the onset of monopoly. We show that the initial number of balls is large and bin 1 starts with a fraction α > 1/2 of the balls, then with very high probability its share of the total number of balls never decreases significantly below α. Thus a bin that obtains more than half of the balls at a “large time” will most likely preserve its position of leadership. However, the probability that the winning bin has a non‐negligible advantage after n balls are in the system is ∼const. × n1‐p, and the number of balls in the losing bin has a power‐law tail. Similar results also hold for more general functions f. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 2009
Greedy colorings of uniform hypergraphs
Authors: Pluhár András
Published: February 2009

We give a very short proof of an Erdős conjecture that the number of edges in a non‐2‐colorable n‐uniform hypergraph is at least f(n)2n, where f(n) goes to infinity. Originally it was solved by József Beck in 1977, showing that f(n) at least clog n. With an ingenious recoloring idea he later proved that f(n) ≥ cn1/3+o(1). Here we prove a weaker bound on f(n), namely f(n) ≥ cn1/4. Instead of recoloring a random coloring, we take the ground set in random order and use a greedy algorithm to color. The same technique works for getting bounds on k‐colorability. It is also possible to combine this idea with the Lovász Local Lemma, reproving some known results for sparse hypergraphs (e.g., the n‐uniform, n‐regular hypergraphs are 2‐colorable if n ≥ 8). © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 2009
Regression analysis of mean quality‐adjusted survival time based on pseudo‐observations
Authors: Tunes‐da‐Silva G. , Klein J. P.
Published: February 2009

Regression models for the mean quality‐adjusted survival time are specified from hazard functions of transitions between two states and the mean quality‐adjusted survival time may be a complex function of covariates. We discuss a regression model for the mean quality‐adjusted survival (QAS) time based on pseudo‐observations, which has the advantage of directly modeling the effect of covariates in the QAS time. Both Monte Carlo simulations and a real data set are studied. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adaptive designs for confirmatory clinical trials
Authors: Bretz Frank , Koenig Franz , Brannath Werner , Glimm Ekkehard , Posch Martin
Published: February 2009

Adaptive designs play an increasingly important role in clinical drug development. Such designs use accumulating data of an ongoing trial to decide how to modify design aspects without undermining the validity and integrity of the trial. Adaptive designs thus allow for a number of possible adaptations at midterm: Early stopping either for futility or success, sample size reassessment, change of population, etc. A particularly appealing application is the use of adaptive designs in combined phase II/III studies with treatment selection at interim. The expectation has arisen that carefully planned and conducted studies based on adaptive designs increase the efficiency of the drug development process by making better use of the observed data, thus leading to a higher information value per patient.

In this paper we focus on adaptive designs for confirmatory clinical trials. We review the adaptive design methodology for a single null hypothesis and how to perform adaptive designs with multiple hypotheses using closed test procedures. We report the results of an extensive simulation study to evaluate the operational characteristics of the various methods. A case study and related numerical examples are used to illustrate the key results. In addition we provide a detailed discussion of current methods to calculate point estimates and confidence intervals for relevant parameters. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental and Modeling Studies on the Synthesis and Properties of Higher Fatty Esters of Corn Starch
Authors: Junistia Laura , Sugih Asaf K. , Manurung Robert , Picchioni Francesco , Janssen Leon P. B. M. , Heeres Hero J.
Published: February 2009

This paper describes a systematic study on the synthesis of higher fatty esters of corn starch (starch laurate and starch stearate) by using the corresponding vinyl esters. The reactions were carried out in DMSO using basic catalysts (Na2HPO4, K2CO3, and Na‐acetate). The effect of the process variables (vinyl ester to starch ratio, catalyst intake, reaction temperature and type of the catalyst) on the degree of substitution (DS) of the starch laurate and starch stearate esters was determined by performing a total of 54 experiments. The results were adequately modeled using a non‐linear multivariable regression model (R2≥0.96). The basicity of the catalyst and the reaction temperature have the highest impact on the product DS. The thermal and mechanical properties of some representative product samples were determined. High‐DS products (DS = 2.26‐2.39) are totally amorphous whereas the low‐DS ones (DS = 1.45‐1.75) are still partially crystalline. The thermal stability of the esterified products is higher than that of native starch. Mechanical tests show that the products have a tensile strength (stress at break) between 2.7–3.5 MPa, elongation at break of 3–26%, and modulus of elasticity of 46–113 MPa.
A review of wind energy activities in Japan
Authors: Maeda Takao , Kamada Yasunari
Published: February 2009

By 2012, Japan must cut down on its annual emissions of greenhouse gases by 6% from 1990 levels. However, greenhouse emissions increased by 6.4% in 2006. More effective responses to reduce greenhouse gases are required. Attention is currently focused on increasing the use of renewable energy, and wind energy has received a lot of attention. The national target for wind power capacity in the year 2010 is 3000 MW; however, there are many barriers to the development of wind energy. Japan's climate differs from that of the European Union countries. It often experiences typhoons and lightning strikes because of its meteorological characteristics. Wind has a stronger turbulence level due to the complex terrain. Furthermore, power fluctuation of wind causes power system problems because of issues related to the grid connection. Many endeavours have been made to find the best solutions for these problems. This paper reviews the wind energy activities in Japan, including wind resources, market trends, environment, prospects and research and development. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification of wind turbines in closed‐loop operation in the presence of three‐dimensional turbulence wind speed: torque demand to measured generator speed loop
Authors: Iribas M. , Landau I.‐D.
Published: February 2009

In order to get reliable linear models for tuning controllers in real operation conditions, a procedure for identification in closed‐loop operation of wind turbine (WT) models at any time and placement is presented in this paper. This procedure has been tested using data from a nonlinear aeroelastic code, generated in a context reproducing real operation conditions of WTs, with the presence of three‐dimensional turbulence. The algorithms for model identification of WTs operating in closed loop together with the corresponding validation techniques are presented. To illustrate the procedure, data from one Bladed® WT model is used. Identification and validation of the model are presented and the resulting model is analysed and its characteristics are plotted. In the final sections of the paper, the model obtained from identification in closed loop and the model obtained by linearization are comparatively tested in terms of the performances obtained with the corresponding model‐based designed controllers applied to the Bladed® WT model. A description of future work concludes the paper. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
PRE‐ and POST‐THIN: a tool for the probabilistic design and analysis of composite rotor blade strength
Authors: Lekou D. J. , Philippidis T. P.
Published: February 2009

Structural reliability is a key factor in the design of wind turbine rotor blades. However, the use of composite materials in the blade structure and the many stochastic variables that are thus involved in the analysis makes the available probabilistic methods unattractive for integration in the design procedure. To overcome this, a numerical tool is developed for the probabilistic strength analysis of Fibre Reinforced Plastic (FRP) rotor blades. The stochastic nature of the anisotropic material properties is considered for the reliability estimation of the laminate and in turn the information is included in a pre‐ and post‐processor of current aero‐elastic codes. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Growth responses of Salix gracilistyla cuttings to a range of substrate moisture and oxygen availability
Authors: Nakai Arisa , Yurugi Yutaka , Kisanuki Hiromitsu
Published: February 2009

The objective of this study is to determine the effects of substrate moisture and oxygen availability on growth traits of Salix gracilistyla Miquel, which colonizes gravel bars along rivers, the shoot growth schedule, biomass production, and resource allocation were examined under greenhouse conditions. We used four treatments representing a range of substrate moisture and oxygen availability: drought (D), flooding with standing water (FS), flooding with running water (FR), and control without drought or flooding (C). Cuttings in D stopped flushing and had low biomass production, reduced total leaf mass, and small leaves. Under anaerobic conditions, cuttings in FS stopped flushing and had low biomass production, small root biomass, low biomass allocation to roots, shallow roots, high biomass allocation to hypertrophied lenticels, and a few small, thick leaves. Under aerobic conditions, cuttings in FR showed continuous branch elongation and flushing, large biomass production, and large leaf biomass, similar to cuttings in C, in addition to low allocation to hypertrophied lenticels and many large leaves. The growth of cuttings was not inhibited by flooding of the roots throughout the experiment unless the conditions were anaerobic. Thus, cuttings respond to water stress under low moisture conditions by reducing the transpiration area and respond to flooding under low oxygen conditions by high allocation to hypertrophied lenticels and reduced transpiration area. Plasticity in the shoot growth schedule, biomass production, and resource allocation according to moisture conditions and the ability to develop hypertrophied lenticels upon flooding allow S. gracilistyla to colonize sites in which both desiccation and flooding occur.
Global well-posedness and scattering for the defocusing \( H^{\frac{1}{2}} \)-subcritical Hartree equation in \( R^{d} \)
Authors: Miao Changxing , Xu Guixiang , Zhao Lifeng
Published: February 2009

We prove the global well-posedness and scattering for the defocusing

H^{\frac{1}{2}}

-subcritical (that is,

2 < \gamma < 3

) Hartree equation with low regularity data in

\mathbb{R}^{d}

,

d⩾3

. Precisely, we show that a unique and global solution exists for initial data in the Sobolev space

H^{s}(\mathbb{R}^{d})

with

s > 4(\gamma −2)/ (3\gamma −4)

, which also scatters in both time directions. This improves the result in [M. Chae, S. Hong, J. Kim, C.W. Yang, Scattering theory below energy for a class of Hartree type equations, Comm. Partial Differential Equations 33 (2008) 321–348], where the global well-posedness was established for any

s > \mathrm{\max }(1/ 2,4(\gamma −2)/ (3\gamma −4))

. The new ingredients in our proof are that we make use of an interaction Morawetz estimate for the smoothed out solution

Iu

, instead of an interaction Morawetz estimate for the solution

u

, and that we make careful analysis of the monotonicity property of the multiplier

m(\xi ) \cdot \langle \xi \rangle^{p}

. As a byproduct of our proof, we obtain that the

H^{s}

norm of the solution obeys the uniform-in-time bounds.
Quasistatic evolution in the theory of perfect elasto-plastic plates. Part II: Regularity of bending moments
Authors: Demyanov A.
Published: February 2009

We study differentiability of solutions of quasistatic problems for perfect elasto-plastic plates. We prove that in the isotropic case bending moments has locally square-integrable first derivatives:

M \in L^{\infty }([0,T];W_{\mathrm{loc}}^{1,2}(\Omega ;\mathbb{M}_{\mathrm{sym}}^{2 \times 2}))

. The result is based on discretization of time and uniform estimates of solutions of the incremental problems, which generalize the estimates in the static case of perfect elasto-plastic plates.
Proposed diagnostic criteria for apathy in Alzheimer’s disease and other neuropsychiatric disorders
Authors: Robert P. , Onyike C.U. , Leentjens A.F.G. , Dujardin K. , Aalten P. , Starkstein S. , Verhey F.R.J. , Yessavage J. , Clement J.P. , Drapier D. , Bayle F. , Benoit M. , Boyer P. , Lorca P.M. , Thibaut F. , Gauthier S. , Grossberg G. , Vellas B. , Byrne J.
Published: February 2009

There is wide acknowledgement that apathy is an important behavioural syndrome in Alzheimer’s disease and in various neuropsychiatric disorders. In light of recent research and the renewed interest in the correlates and impacts of apathy, and in its treatments, it is important to develop criteria for apathy that will be widely accepted, have clear operational steps, and that will be easily applied in practice and research settings. Meeting these needs is the focus of the task force work reported here.

The task force includes members of the Association Française de Psychiatrie Biologique, the European Psychiatric Association, the European Alzheimer’s Disease Consortium and experts from Europe, Australia and North America. An advanced draft was discussed at the consensus meeting (during the EPA conference in April 7th 2008) and a final agreement reached concerning operational definitions and hierarchy of the criteria.

Apathy is defined as a disorder of motivation that persists over time and should meet the following requirements. Firstly, the core feature of apathy, diminished motivation, must be present for at least four weeks; secondly two of the three dimensions of apathy (reduced goal-directed behaviour, goal-directed cognitive activity, and emotions) must also be present; thirdly there should be identifiable functional impairments attributable to the apathy. Finally, exclusion criteria are specified to exclude symptoms and states that mimic apathy.
Three‐dimensional power Doppler imaging in the diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Mala Yedla M. , Ghosh Sharda B. , Tripathi Reva
Published: February 2009

Objective

To determine the role of three‐dimensional (3D) power Doppler imaging in the diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Methods

Pulsatility index (PI) and resistance index (RI) of the uterine artery and ovary were measured by two‐dimensional (2D) Doppler imaging, while vascularization index (VI), flow index (FI), and vascularization flow index (VFI) were measured by 3D power Doppler in 25 patients with PCOS and 25 women with normal menstrual cycles used as a control group.

Results

Uterine artery PI and RI were significantly higher (P < 0.001) and ovarian PI and RI were significantly lower (P < 0.001) in women with PCOS compared with controls. Ovarian VI and VFI were significantly higher in women with PCOS compared with the control group (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

3D power Doppler indices were higher in women with PCOS than in the control group and were positively correlated with 2D color Doppler indices, and clinical and hormonal parameters. High 3D power Doppler indices may be useful as one of the diagnostic criteria for PCOS.
Fluoxetine treatment for anxiety in women undergoing in vitro fertilization
Authors: Serafini Paulo , Lobo Daniela Sabatini , Grosman Adriana , Seibel Debora , Rocha Andre M. , Motta Eduardo L.A.
Published: February 2009

Objective

To compare anxiety levels experienced during 4 stressful periods of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and treatment outcomes between women taking fluoxetine and a placebo.

Methods

A prospective, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial of patients allocated to receive either fluoxetine (FLX) or folic acid (FA). Anxiety state was assessed at the beginning of ovarian stimulation (OS), ovum pick‐up, embryo transfer, and on the day of the pregnancy test (DPT) using the State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI).

Results

Baseline STAI‐S and STAI‐T were normal. From OS to DPT, STAI‐S increased from 42.8 ± 10.6 to 44 ± 9.0 in the FLX group and from 40.9 ± 8.1 to 45.3 ± 8.3 in the FA group (P = 0.03 and P = 0.001, respectively). IVF outcome was not affected by the treatment in the two groups.

Conclusions

Caution is needed in prescribing fluoxetine to alleviate anxiety in patients undergoing IVF. Studies are needed to determine whether other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or higher fluoxetine doses can relieve emotional distress without affecting IVF outcome.
Maternal mortality in low‐income countries: What interventions have been evaluated and how should the evidence base be developed further?
Authors: Burchett Helen E. , Mayhew Susannah H.
Published: February 2009

Objective

This article reviews the evidence for the effectiveness of non‐clinical interventions to reduce maternal mortality in low‐income settings and identifies the gaps in the evidence base.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted to identify reviews and evaluations of non‐clinical interventions to reduce maternal mortality in lower‐income countries with high maternal mortality published between 1997 and 2008. Studies were reviewed to identify the topic focus, study design, and outcomes measured.

Results

There were 109 intervention evaluations and 30 reviews identified. Studies had been conducted in less than half of the countries and were generally poor quality. More studies focused on tertiary prevention (i.e., preventing death) rather than secondary prevention (i.e., preventing complications). More interventions sought to address quality of care than delays in seeking or accessing care.

Conclusions

While evidence partly reflects difficulties in evaluating complex public health interventions, more robust study designs are possible to evaluate interventions to reduce maternal mortality. In addition, better standardized outcome measures are needed. This overview identifies topic areas neglected by intervention research.
Effect of sample collection methodology on nasal culture results in cats
Authors: Johnson Lynelle R. , Kass Philip H.
Published: February 2009

Empiric antibiotic therapy is often employed to treat feline chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), however, collection of samples for culture should result in improved antibiotic selection and development of less antibacterial resistance. This study evaluated the effect of sampling method on culture results in 44 cats and found that aerobic and anaerobic cultures were positive significantly more often from nasal flush samples than from tissue biopsy samples. Frequency of positive Mycoplasma species culture did not differ between the two sampling methodologies, although results were discordant in eight sample pairs. Mycoplasma species were cultured from flush samples only in three cats and from biopsy samples only in five cats. These results suggest that a nasal flush sample is adequate for determining the presence of bacterial organisms in feline nasal disease, however, failure to culture Mycoplasma species from a nasal flush must be interpreted with caution.
A Nosocomial Outbreak of Feline Calicivirus Associated Virulent Systemic Disease in France
Authors: Reynolds Brice S. , Poulet Hervé , Pingret Jean-Luc , Jas Dominique , Brunet Sylvie , Lemeter Celine , Etievant Mélanie , Boucraut-Baralon Corine
Published: February 2009

This report describes a nosocomial outbreak of feline calicivirus (FCV) associated virulent systemic disease (VSD) in a French veterinary teaching hospital in 2005. The outbreak started in March and resolved within 1 month. Signs, clinical course, clinicopathological findings and lesions were typical of FCV-induced VSD. FCV infection was confirmed by quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Among the eight infected cats, two had to be euthanased, three died, and three recovered after medical treatment. Virus could not be confined inside the animal hospital and on two occasions, students' own cats became infected. Subsequent genetic sequencing studies confirmed that the eight cats were infected with the same strain of virus, and that it was distinct from those involved in the US and UK outbreaks of VSD. Virulence and viral excretion patterns of the isolated strain were further characterised by experimental infection.
Decreased FoxP3 gene expression in the nasal secretions from patients with allergic rhinitis
Authors: Lee Sang‐Myeong , Gao Beixue , Dahl Matthew , Calhoun Karen , Fang Deyu
Published: February 2009

Objective

To determine whether patients with allergic rhinitis have altered FoxP3 gene expression and/or mutations.

Study Design and Methods

We collected nasal secretions from 14 volunteers (five of whom have allergic rhinitis) and five ENT allergy patients. Total RNA was isolated from these nasal secretions. The gene expression levels of FoxP3 were quantified by both semi‐quantitative RT‐PCR and real‐time PCR using Actin as a housekeeping gene. The cDNA fragments amplified by RT‐PCR were analyzed by DNA sequencing.

Results

We found that patients with allergic rhinitis had significantly lower FoxP3 mRNA compared to nonallergic controls (P < 0.01). In addition, we found a point mutation in the FoxP3 gene from a patient who not only has severe allergic rhinitis, but also has asthma. This mutation locates in a highly conserved region of FoxP3 gene and partially impaired FoxP3 functions.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that either reduced FoxP3 gene expression or impaired FoxP3 functions are involved in the development of allergic disease in humans.
1α,25‐Dihydroxyvitamin D3 to skew intratumoral levels of immune inhibitory CD34+ progenitor cells into dendritic cells
Authors: Kulbersh Jonathan S. , Day Terry A. , Gillespie M. Boyd , Young M. Rita I.
Published: February 2009

Objectives

Prior studies showed that immune inhibitory CD34+ progenitor cells, whose numbers are increased in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients, can be differentiated into immune stimulatory dendritic cells by culture with 1α,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25[OH]2D3). This was extended to a pilot study to diminish intratumoral levels of CD34+ progenitor cells by inducing their maturation into dendritic cells with 1,25(OH)2D3.

Study Design

Newly diagnosed HNSCC patients were untreated for 3 weeks or received 3 weeks of 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment befoer surgical treatment.

Subjects and Methods

HNSCC tissue was collected by biopsy from six patients who had no prior 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment and at the time of surgical treatment from six untreated patients and 11 patients who completed 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment. Tissues were analyzed by immunohistochemistry for levels of CD34+ cells and dendritic cells.

Results

After 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment, intratumoral levels of CD34+ cells and levels of immature dendritic cells declined. However, levels of intratumoral mature dendritic cells increased. Clinical effects of 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment are premature to analyze.

Conclusions

Treatment of HNSCC patients with 1,25(OH)2D3 reduced levels of immune inhibitory CD34+ cells while increasing maturation of dendritic cells. This supports added studies to determine the effect of 1,25(OH)2D3 on intratumoral immune competence.
A devastating outcome after adenoidectomy and tonsillectomy: Ideas for improved prevention and management
Authors: Windfuhr Jochen P. , Schloendorff Georg , Sesterhenn Andreas M. , Prescher Andreas , Kremer Bernd
Published: February 2009

Objective

To develop strategies that may assist the surgeon to prevent and manage severe bleeding complications after adenoidectomy and tonsillectomy.

Study Design

Retrospective.

Subjects and Methods

Expert reports for malpractice lawsuits or professional boards were reviewed. The review was restricted to “deaths” and “permanent generalized neurological deficiencies.”

Results

Forty‐three cases matched our search criteria, including 32 deaths. Adenoidectomy cases (2) were associated with immediate bleeding because of direct vascular injury resulting in one death. Tonsillectomy cases were associated with delayed and repeated episodes of bleeding resulting in 31 deaths, including 19 children. Autopsy verified predominantly aspiration and vascular injuries. An apallic syndrome prevailed in surviving patients.

Conclusion

Careful inspection of the nasopharynx immediately before adenoidectomy and curettage in a piecemeal fashion under visual control is helpful to prevent direct injury to aberrant arteries. Tonsillectomy cases are associated with delayed and episodic bleeding with spontaneous cessation and young age. Inpatient observation should be strongly considered in cases with repeated bleeding episodes to provide immediate treatment. The follow‐up should be focused on disturbed wound healing. Outcome appears to be dependant on adequate airway management. Rigid instruments and tracheotomy in case of intubation failure are highly recommended to facilitate airway protection and ventilation.
Reporting of harms and adverse events in otolaryngology journals
Authors: Bibawy Haidy , Cossu Anne , Cogan Sophia , Rosenfeld Richard
Published: February 2009

Objective

To identify the frequency and quality of harms and adverse events reporting in otolaryngology journals.

Study Design

A literature review.

Methods

Four major otolaryngology journals from 2006 and 1996 were reviewed. Clinical research studies offering therapeutic recommendations were evaluated for frequency and quality of harms and adverse events reporting.

Results

Of 1,835 total articles reviewed, 576 (31%) offered therapeutic recommendations. Sixty‐five percent provided any mention of harms or adverse events, 47 percent explicitly defined the events, and 24 percent described methodology for collecting harms data. The median number of harms or adverse events reported was three. Studies concluding a beneficial effect of therapy were more likely to not mention adverse events (odds ratio 2.99, P =. 007) compared with studies concluding no benefit. Studies of surgical therapy were more likely to report harms or adverse events (odds ratio 1.46, P =. 046).

Conclusions

Harms and adverse events are underreported and poorly described in otolaryngology journals with about one third of clinical research not mentioning adverse events at all. Most authors do not explicitly describe harms or adverse events (53%) or the methodology behind collecting adverse events data (76%). Underreporting is more likely when a therapeutic effect is found to be beneficial.
Otitis media with effusion: A possible role for Helicobacter pylori?
Authors: Fancy Tanya , Mathers Peter H. , Ramadan Hassan H.
Published: February 2009

Objectives

To compare Helicobacter pylori prevalence rates in the nasopharynx of pediatric patients with and without otitis media with effusion (OME).

Study Design

Prospective, controlled.

Methods

The study group consisted of patients undergoing adenoidectomy for persistent OME. A control group of patients with no history of OME undergoing adenoidectomy was simultaneously enrolled. As a substudy, middle ear effusion samples were also analyzed for Helicobacter pylori. Polymerase chain reaction assays were run by using primers against the Helicobacter pylori gene.

Results

Helicobacter pylori was detected in the adenoids of 10 of 45 study group patients, and 6 of 37 controls (P = 0.49). Thirty‐two percent of middle ear aspirates were positive for Helicobacter pylori.

Conclusion

The current study confirms the presence of Helicobacter pylori in the nasopharynx and middle ear space, but our results do not support a role for this bacterium in the pathogenesis of otitis media with effusion.
Die Bedeutung von Bäumen und Wäldern für die Gesundheit des Menschen
Authors: Seeland Klaus
Published: February 2009

Einleitung

Die Bedeutung von Bäumen und Wäldern für die Gesundheit in vorwiegend städtischen Lebensräumen nimmt seit Jahren zu. Die Sozialfunktionen natürlicher Lebensumgebungen gehören seit geraumer Zeit zur „sozio-politischen Architektur“ der grossen Ballungszentren, und ihnen ist in der Raumplanung vermehrt Beachtung geschenkt worden. Indizien hierfür sind die Zunahme innerstädtischer Grünflächen, die Entstehung neuer Parks und Naturerlebnisräume.
The emergence of renewable heating and cooling policy in the United States
Authors: Rickerson Wilson , Halfpenny Tina , Cohan Sander
Published: February 2009

This article discusses the lack of integrated renewable heating and cooling policy in the United States in light of the Obama Administration's proposed energy and climate strategies. The article argues that renewable heating and cooling will be a necessary component of future climate mitigation and fuel diversification strategies in the US, and surveys emerging state-level renewable heating and cooling policies as potential models for future policy development.