bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cadexomer as well as cadexomer iodine induces the production of proinflammatory cytokines and vascular endothelial growth factor by human macrophages
Authors: Ohtani Tomoyuki , Mizuashi Masato , Ito Yumiko , Aiba Setsuya
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  Although cadexomer iodine is widely used for the treatment of skin ulcers such as decubitus ulcers, the mechanism by which it enhances wound healing is not clear. Recently, it has been demonstrated that macrophages play an important role in wound healing by inducing inflammation and angiogenesis.

We examined the effects of cadexomer and cadexomer iodine on tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10, IL‐12p40, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) production by macrophages.

Human macrophages were obtained by culturing CD14+ monocytes with macrophage colony stimulating factor (M‐CSF) in the presence or absence of cadexomer or cadexomer iodine. The production of cytokines and the expression of mRNA were evaluated by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) of the culture supernatants and by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) analysis, respectively. In addition, we examined the tissue concentration of VEGF in the wounds treated with or without cadexomer iodine.

Cadexomer and cadexomer iodine significantly increased the expression of IL‐1β, IL‐8, TNF‐α and VEGF mRNA, while they did not affect that of IL‐6, IL‐10, IL‐12p40 or bFGF mRNA. In addition, they significantly increased the production of IL‐1β and TNF‐α. Although we could not detect increased production of VEGF in the culture supernatants, the western blot analysis of macrophages demonstrated the increased production of VEGF by the treatment with either cadexomer or cadexomer iodine. The treatment with cadexomer iodine increased the tissue concentration of VEGF in the skin wounds.

These data suggest that cadexomer and cadexomer iodine have beneficial effects on wound healing in addition to those related to their antibacterial activity.
Hypotonic stress influence the membrane potential and alter the proliferation of keratinocytes in vitro
Authors: Gönczi Mónika , Szentandrássy Norbert , Fülöp László , Telek Andrea , Szigeti Gyula P. , Magyar János , Bíró Tamás , Nánási Péter P. , Csernoch László
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  Keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation is strongly influenced by mechanical forces. We investigated the effect of osmotic changes in the development of HaCaT cells in culture using intracellular calcium measurements, electrophysiological recordings and molecular biology techniques. The application of hypotonic stress (174 mOsmol/l) caused a sustained hyperpolarization of HaCaT cells from a resting potential of −27 ± 4 to −51 ± 9 mV. This change was partially reversible. The surface membrane channels involved in the hyperpolarization were identified as chloride channels due to the lack of response in the absence of the anion. Cells responded with an elevation of intracellular calcium concentration to hypotonic stress, which critically depended on external calcium. The presence of phorbol‐12‐myristate‐13‐acetate in the culture medium for 12 h augmented the subsequent response to hypotonic stress. A sudden switch from iso‐ to hypotonic solution increased cell proliferation and suppressed the production of involucrin, filaggrin and transglutaminase, markers of keratinocyte differentiation. It is concluded that sudden mechanical forces increase the proliferation of keratinocytes through alterations in their membrane potential and intracellular calcium concentration. These changes together with additional modifications in channel expression and intracellular signalling mechanisms could underlie the increased proliferation of keratinocytes in hyperproliferative skin diseases.
The Welsh Torgoch (Salvelinus alpinus): a short review of its distribution and ecology
Authors: McCarthy I. D.
Published: February 2007

Abstract –  The Arctic charr Salvelinus alpinus (L.), or Torgoch (‘red belly’) in Welsh, is found in seven lakes in North Wales comprising three native populations (Bodlyn, Cwellyn and Padarn) and four translocated populations (Cowlyd, Diwaunedd, Dulyn and Ffynnon Llugwy). The Welsh charr populations have not been studied much, but the available data are summarised in this short review. Analysis of stomach contents of the native charr populations shows that they are planktivores feeding mainly on cladocerans and copepods. Adult fish attain a size of 14–24 cm (fork length) and fecundity is low (100–800 eggs per female). The available growth data reveal that Welsh charr grow at a similar rate and attain a size similar to most other planktivorous charr populations that have been studied in the UK. Genetic studies using allozymes indicate that the three native populations are distinct from each other.
Phosphorylation of the large subunit of replication factor C is associated with adipocyte differentiation
Authors: Park Min Jung , Lee Min Young , Choi Jung Hae , Cho Hyun Kook , Choi Yung Hyun , Yang Ung Suk , Cheong JaeHun
Published: February 2007

Adipocyte differentiation is an ordered multistep process requiring the sequential activation of several groups of adipogenic transcription factors, including CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein‐α and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ, and coactivators. Here we show that replication factor C 140, which was known to act as a coactivator for CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein‐α in our previous study, was phosphorylated on the proliferating cell nuclear antigen‐bindng domain during the adipocyte differentiation process. Calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II was responsible for phosphorylating replication factor C 140 in the process of adipocyte differentiation. Ser518 of replication factor C 140 was identified as a major target of calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II phosphorylation in vitro. Calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II inhibitor attenuated phosphorylation of replication factor C 140 by differentiation inducers and blocked replication factor C 140‐derived transcriptional activation. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II signaling leads the cooperative transactivation of CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein‐α and replication factor C 140 through an increase in replication factor C 140 phosphorylation, and subsequently enhances the transcriptional activation of target genes involved in adipocyte differentiation.
Neuroglobin and cytoglobin expression in mice
Authors: Fordel Elke , Thijs Liesbet , Moens Luc , Dewilde Sylvia
Published: February 2007

Although essentially unknown, several functions are hypothesized for neuroglobin and cytoglobin, two new members of the globin family. In this article, we try to shed more light on their possible roles in hypoxia and detoxification of reactive oxygen species in vivo. The relative transcriptional changes of neuroglobin and cytoglobin in a situation of chronic hypoxia in mice were examined using real‐time quantitative PCR. The kinetics of the hypoxic expression of neuroglobin (brain, eyes) and cytoglobin (brain, eyes, liver, heart, skeletal muscle) is organ‐specific. Moreover, reactive oxygen species production is higher in liver than in the other tissues. In eyes, the negative correlation, after reoxygenation, between neuroglobin protein level and H2O2 concentration is a first proof of a reactive oxygen species‐scavenging function for neuroglobin. In addition, apoptotic cell death after hypoxia is for the first time demonstrated in heart and liver.
Two New Triterpenoid Saponins from Akebia quinata (Thunb.) Decne.
Authors: Liu Gui‐Yan , Ma Shuang‐Cheng , Zheng Jian , Zhang Ji , Lin Rui‐Chao
Published: February 2007

Two new triterpenoid saponins, hederagenin 3‐O‐α‐L‐arabinopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐α‐L‐arabinopyranoside named akeboside La (compound 1), oleanolic acid 3‐O‐α‐L‐arabinopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐(β‐D‐glucopyranoside named akeboside Lb (compound 2), along with five known saponins, oleanolic acid 3‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐ot‐L‐arabinopyranoside (compound 3), hederagenin 3‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐α‐L‐arabinopyranoside (compound 4), oleanolic acid 3‐O‐β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→3)‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐α‐L‐arabinopyranoside (compound 5), 3‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐α‐L‐arabinopyranosyl oleanolic acid 28‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→4)‐α‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→6)‐(β‐D‐glucopyranoside (compound 6), 3‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐α‐L‐arabinopyranosyl hederagenin 28‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→4)‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→6)‐(β‐D‐glucopyranoside (compound 7) were isolated from the n‐butanol part of the 80% ethanol extracts of the dried stems of Akebia quinata (Thunb.) Decne. Compound 5 was isolated from plants of genus Akebia for the first time. The structures were elucidated on the basis of physicochemical properties and spectral data.
Plant Terpenoids: Biosynthesis and Ecological Functions
Authors: Cheng Ai‐Xia , Lou Yong‐Gen , Mao Ying‐Bo , Lu Shan , Wang Ling‐Jian , Chen Xiao‐Ya
Published: February 2007

Among plant secondary metabolites terpenoids are a structurally most diverse group; they function as phytoalex‐ins in plant direct defense, or as signals in indirect defense responses which involves herbivores and their natural enemies. In recent years, more and more attention has been paid to the investigation of the ecological role of plant terpenoids. The biosynthesis pathways of monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and diterpenes include the synthesis of C5 precursor isopentenyl diphosphate (IPP) and its allylic isomer dimethylallyl diphosphate (DMAPP), the synthesis of the immediate diphosphate precursors, and the formation of the diverse terpenoids. Terpene synthases (TPSs) play a key role in volatile terpene synthesis. By expression of the TPS genes, significant achievements have been made on metabolic engineering to increase terpenoid production. This review mainly summarizes the recent research progress in elucidating the ecological role of terpenoids and characterization of the enzymes involved in the terpenoid biosynthesis. Spatial and temporal regulations of terpenoids metabolism are also discussed.
Growth Rings of Roots in Perennial Forbs in Duolun Grassland, Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Liu Yong‐Bo , Zhang Qi‐Bin
Published: February 2007

Annual growth rings of roots in perennial forbs have been used in studies of climate change and the ecology of grasslands. However, little has been done in this aspect of research in China. In this study, we report the characteristics of growth rings in the main roots of 13 herb species sampled in Duolun of the Inner Mongolia grassland in northern China. The results show that around two thirds of the species possess clearly demarcated annual rings in the root xylem. Some species of the same genera show different patterns in anatomical structure of the root xylem. Standardized annual ring widths of three species, Potentilla anserine L., Cymbaria dahurica L. and Lespedeza daurica (Laxm.) Schindl., show a common linear trend, indicating a continued favorable growth condition in the sampling sites. Our results provide evidence that growth rings in roots of some perennial forbs in the Inner Mongolia grassland can serve as a new and useful indicator of past changes in the grassland environment.
Overexpression of OsJAC1, a Lectin Gene, Suppresses the Coleoptile and Stem Elongation in Rice
Authors: Jiang Jia‐Fu , Xu Yun‐Yuan , Chong Kang
Published: February 2007

Lectin plays an important role in defense signaling in plants, but its function in plant growth and development is not well known. Previously, we cloned a rice (Oryza sativa L.) gene OsJAC1 encoding a mannose‐binding jacalin‐related lectin, and found that OsJAC1 was jasmonic acid (JA) inducible. Here we cloned the promoter of OsJAC1, and GUS activity was detected in young roots, coleoptiles, sheaths, leaves, nodes of stems, stems, rachises, pistils, stamens and lemmas of OsJAC1::GUS transgenic rice, suggesting that OsJAC1 is a constitutive expression gene in rice. Moreover, OsJAC1‐overexpressed (Ubi::OsJAC1) rice showed dwarfism with shorter coleptiles resulting from the failure of cell elongation of coleoptiles. In addition, compared with coleoptiles of wild‐type plants, those of OsJAC1 overexpression rice were more sensitive to JA treatment. These data revealed that, besides its roles in defense response, lectin plays an important role in rice growth and development.
Epidemiology of the brown recluse spider bite
Authors: Rhoads Jacqueline
Published: February 2007

Purpose: The purpose of this article was to provide a comprehensive epidemiological and clinical description of the brown recluse spider bite.

Data sources: Review of evidenced‐based scientific literature and practice guidelines. A specific descriptive case study is interwoven through the article to tie in the clinical presenting figure associated with this bite.

Conclusions: The brown recluse lives in a circumscribed area of the United States (the south central Midwest) with a few less common recluse species living in the more sparsely populated southwest United States. In these areas, where spider populations may be dense, recluse spiders may be a cause of significant morbidity.

Implications for practice: Most spider bites are asymptomatic but what makes this bite so devastating is the toxin injected by the brown recluse spider, which can cause considerable systemic symptoms as well as necrotic skin ulcers (necrotic arachnidism). The article presents process for diagnosis and stresses the importance of identifying the spider if at all possible.
Vedaprofen therapy in cats with upper respiratory tract infection or following ovariohysterectomy
Authors: Lopez S. , Pertuy S. , Horspool L. , Van Laar P. , Rutten A.
Published: February 2007

Objectives: The antipyretic and analgesic efficacy of vedaprofen (at a dose of 0·5 mg/kg) was evaluated after repeated once‐daily administration (for three or five days) to 80 cats with upper respiratory tract disease or 302 cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy.

Methods: Both clinical trials were randomised, double blinded and placebo controlled.

Results: In the upper respiratory tract disease trial, vedaprofen produced a significant reduction in rectal temperature when compared with cats administered antimicrobial treatment only. This antipyretic activity lasted at least four hours after administration on the first day of treatment (day 0) and at least eight hours on day 1 and day 2. Significantly more cats in the treatment group were classified as having returned to normal on day 5, day 6 and day 7 compared with the placebo group. In the ovariohysterectomy trial, scores for behaviour (on day 1, day 2 and day 3) and appetite (on day 1 and day 2) were significantly better in the vedaprofen group than in the placebo‐treated cats.

Clinical Significance: Vedaprofen produced a clinically relevant reduction in body temperature and a more rapid return to normality in cats with upper respiratory tract disease. Vedaprofen treatment also resulted in more rapid recovery, presumably through the relief of pain and inflammation, in cats that had undergone soft tissue surgery.
Sample size and statistical power in the small‐animal analgesia literature
Authors: Hofmeister E. H. , King J. , Read M. R. , Budsberg S. C.
Published: February 2007

Objective: To document the power and required sample sizes to achieve certain treatment objectives in the veterinary analgesia literature.

Methods: Pubmed’s MEDLINE database and selected journals were searched. Only publications produced between 1994 and 2004 that reported ‘no difference’ between experimental groups in the abstract, results or conclusion sections and those that were randomised, prospective and blinded were reviewed. The data reported in the publications were then subjected to power analyses to determine the power and necessary sample size (to achieve a power of 0·8) to allow detection of 20 per cent, 50 per cent and 80 per cent treatment effects.

Results: Twenty‐two studies provided sufficient data for analysis. Five out of 22 (23 per cent) had sufficient power to detect a 20 per cent treatment effect, 12 of 22 (54 per cent) had sufficient power to detect a 50 per cent treatment effect and 18 of 22 (82 per cent) had sufficient power to detect an 80 per cent treatment effect. The mean number of animals required per group to document a 20 per cent, 50 per cent and 80 per cent treatment effect were 90, 15 and 7, respectively.

Clinical Significance: Publications that report no significant difference between analgesic regimens may have committed a Type II error. The reader may inappropriately conclude that there is no difference between treatments when there may, in fact, be a superior analgesic regimen. Clinical practice based on the principles of evidence‐based medicine could therefore result in suboptimal care for patients.
Understanding High Saving Rate in China
Authors: He Xinhua , Cao Yongfu
Published: February 2007

This paper presents a detailed analysis of the Chinese saving rate based on the flow of funds data. It finds that the most widely adopted view of precautionary saving, which is regarded as the top reason for maintaining a high saving rate in China, is misleading because this conclusion is drawn from the household survey data. In fact, the household saving rate has declined dramatically since the mid‐1990s, as is observed from the flow of funds framework. The high national saving rate is attributed to the increasing shares of both government and corporation disposable incomes. Insufficient consumption demand is caused by the persistent decrease in percentage share of household to national disposable income. Government‐ directed income redistribution urgently needs to be improved to accelerate consumption, which in turn would make the Chinese economy less investment‐led and help to reduce the current account surplus.

(Edited by Zhinan Zhang)
How Mobile Are Resources in Chinese Agriculture?— Implications for China's Agricultural Trade Policy
Authors: Zhong Funing , Zhu Jing , Xie Zhengqin
Published: February 2007

Agricultural trade policy in China has been the subject of heated discussion since China's accession to the WTO. Studies have been carried out and propositions put forth regarding comparative advantage, food security, development of the industry, and farmers’ income. In this paper, we attempt to provide an analysis from another important perspective: resource mobility, which is an essential assumption in free trade theory. By examining the mobility of different production resources in Chinese agriculture, namely natural resources, capital inputs, human resources and institutional arrangements, we found that for most production resources in Chinese agriculture, mobility is low. The results have significant policy implications in two respects: first, protective measures in the transitional period for certain crops in certain areas in China are legitimate and necessary to ensure social stability; and second, policy instruments to improve resource mobility in Chinese agricultural should be explored and implemented to realize more trade benefit in the future.

(Edited by Xinyu Fan)
Is Asian Currency Unit Attractive to East Asian Economies?
Authors: Zhang Bin , He Fan
Published: February 2007

Pegging the RMB exchange rate to the Asian currency unit (ACU) has not, at least in the short term, been proved a better solution than pegging to the US dollar or pegging to a G‐3 (US$, Japanese yen and euro) currency basket. Although the Asian currency unit can help Asian economies to keep the relative price of regional currencies stable, the cost of joining a formal regional monetary cooperation is the relinquishment of the autonomy of their domestic policies. Asian monetary cooperation needs to provide more potential benefits if it is to attract Asian economies. We argue that Asian monetary cooperation should be designed to solve the problem of regional trade imbalance, and regional exchange rate policy coordination should be adopted as the first step towards exchange rate cooperation.

(Edited by Zhinan Zhang)
China's FDI Net Inflow and Deterioration of Terms of Trade: Paradox and Explanation
Authors: Li Huizhong , Huang Ping , Li Jialun
Published: February 2007

Starting from the contradiction between China's sustained growth in foreign direct investment (FDI) net inflow and deterioration of the terms of trade, this paper analyzes the characteristics of FDI sectoral structure since the 1990. Moreover, considering the international market competitive environment, this paper gives a concrete analysis of the influence mechanism and concludes that the flowing of FDI into labor‐intensive export sectors caused the deterioration of China's terms of trade. To improve its terms of trade, China needs to direct FDI inflow into capital‐ and technology‐intensive sectors and service sectors.

(Edited by Xiaoming Feng)
Antioxidant Activities of Different Colored Sweet Bell Peppers (Capsicum annuum L.)
Authors: Sun T. , Xu Z. , Wu C.‐T. , Janes M. , Prinyawiwatkul W. , No H. K.
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT:  Antioxidant compounds and their antioxidant activity in 4 different colored (green, yellow, orange, and red) sweet bell peppers (Capsicum annuum L.) were investigated. The total phenolics content of green, yellow, orange, and red peppers determined by the Folin‐Ciocalteau method were 2.4, 3.3, 3.4, and 4.2 μmol catechin equivalent/g fresh weight, respectively. The red pepper had significantly higher total phenolics content than the green pepper. Among the 4 different colored peppers, red pepper contained a higher level of β‐carotene (5.4 μg/g), capsanthin (8.0 μg/g), quercetin (34.0 μg/g), and luteolin (11.0 μg/g). The yellow pepper had the lowest β‐carotene content (0.2 μg/g), while the green one had undetectable capsanthin and the lowest content of luteolin (2.0 μg/g). The free radical scavenging abilities of peppers determined by the 2,2′‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method were lowest for the green pepper (2.1 μmol Trolox equivalent/g) but not significantly different from the other 3 peppers. All 4 colored peppers exhibited significant abilities in preventing the oxidation of cholesterol or docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (C22:6) during heating. However, these 4 peppers did not show significant differences in their abilities in preventing cholesterol oxidation. The green pepper showed slightly higher capability in preventing the oxidation of DHA compared to the other 3 peppers.
Quality Changes of Salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) Muscle during Thermal Processing
Authors: Kong Fanbin , Tang Juming , Rasco Barbara , Crapo Chuck , Smiley Scott
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT:  The objective of this study was to investigate quality changes of salmon fillet muscle during thermal sterilization processes. Small samples (D 30 mm × H 6 mm) from the central dorsal region were heated in an oil bath at 121.1 °C for periods varying from 5 to 120 min. The quality variations along the longitudinal axis of salmon fillets (raw and heated) were examined. The quality properties studied included shear force, color, cook loss, and shrinkage. To minimize the influence of the heterogeneity of the salmon muscle, a multiple thin blade texture device was developed for shear force measurement and a computer vision system was used to facilitate accurate measurements of color and shrinkage. The red muscle was firmer than the white muscle in the raw but not in heated samples. Muscle from the central dorsal region had a lower cook loss and less shrinkage than samples from either the anterior or posterior region following heating. The greatest change in quality occurred within the 1st 10 min of heating at 121.1 °C. Shear force measurements following heating indicated 2 peaks, one corresponding to 5 min and the second for 60 min processing at 121.1 °C. Possible mechanisms were discussed.
Characterization of Hydrolysates Derived from Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Wheat Gluten
Authors: Wang Jin‐shui , Zhao Mou‐ming , Zhao Qiang‐zhong , Bao Yang , Jiang Yue‐ming
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT:  The aim of this study is to investigate the characteristics of wheat gluten hydrolysates. Enzymatic hydrolysis was performed using a papain (food‐grade enzyme) in the present study. The gluten proteins were hydrolyzed for 8 h. During enzymatic hydrolysis, average peptide chain length in the hydrolysate decreased rapidly. Increasing proteolysis resulted in the increase in the contents of the soluble forms of nitrogen. However, the content of peptide nitrogen increased within the 1st 6 h, and then began to decrease. The percentage of the released peptides with molecular weight (MW) of over 15 kD decreased with extending enzymatic hydrolysis, while those with MW below 5 kD increased significantly (P < 0.05). The peptides with MW 10 to 15 kD and those having the MW 5 to 10 kD had different changes. The polymeric glutenin and monomeric gliadin in gluten complex showed different behavior after enzymatic hydrolysis. The monomeric protein (gliadin) and soluble glutenin were prone to enzymatic hydrolysis, while insoluble glutenin was resistance to enzymatic hydrolysis.
Effect of Components Extracted from Okara on the Physicochemical Properties of Soymilk and Tofu Texture
Authors: Toda Kyoko , Chiba Kyoko , Ono Tomotada
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT:  The physicochemical properties of soymilk and the texture of tofu were compared with regard to 2 kinds of soymilk, one of which was prepared by squeezing homogenates before heating and the other was prepared by squeezing after heating raw soymilk with okara, residue of soymilk production. Relative particulate protein content and viscosity were higher and pH was lower in the soymilk prepared by the latter method, in which liberated lipid bodies were decreased and more lipids were precipitated with protein after centrifugation, suggesting a change in the interaction between proteins and lipids. A difference in the distribution of proteins and lipids was also implied by analysis with a laser particle size analyzer. The breaking stress of tofu made with 0.30% glucono‐delta‐lactone increased in accordance with an increase in particulate protein. The calcium and magnesium contents increased in soymilk prepared by squeezing after heating with okara. Viscosity was slightly increased and pH decreased by adding calcium to the soymilk, but the particulate protein content and breaking stress of tofu did not increase significantly. To examine the effect of macromolecules, okara was extracted by boiling and dialyzed. Viscosity and particulate protein content in soymilk increased as the dialyzed extracts of the okara were added. The breaking stress of tofu was increased by adding the dialyzed extracts but excessive amounts of the extracts resulted in softer tofu. Spectra of Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and electrophoresis‐separated patterns of proteins indicated that the dialyzed extracts contained mainly polysaccharides and the Basic 7S globulin protein.
Effects of Phosphorus Contents on the Gelatinization and Retrogradation of Potato Starch
Authors: Karim A.A. , Toon L.C. , Lee V.P.L. , Ong W.Y. , Fazilah A. , Noda T.
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT:  Effects of phosphorus content (510 to 987 ppm) on the gelatinization and retrogradation of 6 potato cultivars (Benimaru, Hokkaikogane, Irish Cobbler, Konafubuki, Sakurafubuki, and Touya) were studied. Pasting properties were analyzed by RVA, thermal properties by DSC, and mechanical properties of the starch gels by TA. Phosphorus was positively correlated with swelling power (r= 0.84) and negatively correlated with solubility (r= 0.83). Phosphorus content showed significant effect on certain pasting properties of potato starch such as peak viscosity, breakdown, and setback. Phosphorus content showed a significant positive correlation with peak viscosity (r= 0.95) and breakdown (r= 0.90). Increasing concentration of phosphorus tends to decrease the setback. Phosphorus content had no influence on thermal properties and mechanical properties of potato starch gel.
Genetic Manipulations of PPARs: Effects on Obesity and Metabolic Disease
Authors: Barak Yaacov , Kim Suyeon
Published: February 2007

The interest in genetic manipulations of PPARs is as old as their discovery as receptors of ligands with beneficial clinical activities. Considering the effects of PPAR ligands on critical aspects of systemic physiology, including obesity, lipid metabolism, insulin resistance, and diabetes, gene knockout (KO) in mice is the ideal platform for both hypothesis testing and discovery of new PPAR functions in vivo. With the fervent pursuit of the magic bullet to eradicate the obesity epidemic, special emphasis has been placed on the impacts of PPARs on obesity and its associated diseases. As detailed in this review, understanding how PPARs regulate gene expression and basic metabolic pathways is a necessary intermediate en route to deciphering their effects on obesity. Over a decade and dozens of genetic modifications of PPARs into this effort, valuable lessons have been learned, but we are left with more questions to be answered. These lessons and future prospects are the subject of this review.
Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha and Interleukin 6 in Human Periapical Lesions
Authors: Brekalo Pršo Ivana , Kocjan Willy , Šimic Hrvoje , Brumini Gordana , Pezelj-Ribaric Sonja , Borcic Josipa , Ferreri Silvio , Miletic Karlovic Ivana
Published: February 2007

Aim. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of the cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in human periapical lesions.Subjects and methods. Samples were obtained from three groups of teeth: symptomatic teeth, asymptomatic lesions, and uninflamed periradicular tissues as a control.Results. TNF-alpha levels were significantly increased in symptomatic lesions compared to control. Group with asymptomatic lesions had significantly higher concentrations compared to control. There were no significant differences in TNF-alpha levels between symptomatic and asymptomatic lesions. In group with symptomatic lesions, IL-6 levels were significantly higher than in group with asymptomatic lesions. The IL-6 levels in symptomatic group also showed significantly higher concentration in comparison with control group. In asymptomatic group, the IL-6 level had significantly higher concentrations compared to control.Conclusion. These results indicate that symptomatic lesions represent an immunologically active stage of disease, and asymptomatic lesions are the point from which the process advances toward healing.
Numerical Effectiveness of Models and Methods of Integration of the Equations of Motion of a Car
Authors: Szczotka Marek , Tengler Szymon , Wojciech Stanislaw
Published: February 2007

The paper presents models of car dynamics with varying complexity.
Joint coordinates and homogenous transformations are used to model the motion
of a car. Having formulated the models of the car, we discuss the influence of the
complexity of the model on numerical efficiency of integrating the equations
describing car dynamics. Methods with both constant and adaptive step size have
been applied. The results of numerical calculations are presented and conclusions
are formulated.
Existence of Positive Solutions for a Discrete Three-Point Boundary Value Problem
Authors: Yuan Huting , Zhang Guang , Zhao Hongliang
Published: February 2007

A discrete three-point boundary value problemΔ2xk−1+λfk(xk)=0,k=1,2,…,n, x0=0,axl=xn+1, is considered, where1≤l≤nis a fixed integer,ais a real constant number, andλis a positive parameter. A characterization of the values ofλis carried out so that the boundary value problem has the positive solutions. Particularly, in this paper the constantacan be negative numbers. The similar results are not valid for the three-point boundary value problem of differential equations.
Expression byStreptomyces lividansof the RatαIntegrin CD11b A-Domain as a Secreted and Soluble Recombinant Protein
Authors: Ayadi Dorra Zouari , Chouayekh Hichem , Mhiri Sonda , Zerria Khaled , Fathallah Dahmani M. , Bejar Samir
Published: February 2007

We already reported the use of a long synthetic signal peptide (LSSP) to secrete theStreptomycessp. TO1 amylase byStreptomyces lividansstrain. We herein report the expression and secretion of the rat CD11b A-domain using the same LSSP andS. lividansas host strain. We have used theEscherichia coli/Streptomycesshuttle vector pIJ699 for the cloning of the A-domain DNA sequence downstream of LSSP and under the control of the constitutiveermE-uppromoter ofStreptomyces erythraeus. Using this construct andS. lividansas a host strain, we achieved the expression of 8 mg/L of soluble secreted recombinant form of the A-domain of the rat leukocyteβ2 integrin CD11/CD18 alpha M subunit (CD11b). This secreted recombinant CD11b A-domain reacted with a function blocking antibody showing that this protein is properly folded and probably functional. These data support the capability ofStreptomycesto produce heterologous recombinant proteins as soluble secreted form using the “LSSP” synthetic signal peptide.
Existence of Triple Positive Solutions for Second-Order Discrete Boundary Value Problems
Authors: Guo Yanping , Zhang Jiehua , Ji Yude
Published: February 2007

By using a new fixed-point theorem introduced by Avery and Peterson (2001), we obtain sufficient conditions for the existence of at least three positive solutions for the equationΔ2x(k−1)+q(k)f(k,x(k),Δx(k))=0, fork∈{1,2,…,n−1}, subject to the following two boundary conditions:x(0)=x(n)=0orx(0)=Δx(n−1)=0, wheren≥3.
Two-Dimensional Electrostatic Problem in a Plane with Earthed Elliptic Cavity due to One or Two Collinear Charged Electrostatic Strips
Authors: Singh B. M. , Rokne J. G. , Dhaliwal R. S.
Published: February 2007

A two-dimensional electrostatic problem in a plane with earthed elliptic cavity due to one or two charged electrostatic strips is considered. Using the integral transform technique, each problem is reduced to the solution of triple integral equations with sine kernels and weight functions. Closed-form solutions of the set of triple integral equations are obtained. Also closed-form expressions are obtained for charge density of the strips. Finally, the numerical results for the charge density are given in the form of tables.
The Effect of Gaussian Blurring on the Extraction of Peaks and Pits from Digital Elevation Models
Authors: Pathmanabhan A. , Dinesh S.
Published: February 2007

Gaussian blurring is an isotropic smoothing operator that is used to remove noise and detail from images. In this paper, the effect of Gaussian blurring on the extraction of peaks and pits from digital elevation models (DEMs) is studied. First, a mathematical morphological-based algorithm to extract peaks and pits from DEMs is developed. Gaussian blurring is then implemented on the global digital elevation model (GTOPO30) of Great Basin using Gaussian kernels of different sizes and standard deviation values. The number of peaks and pits extracted from the resultant DEMs is computed using connected component labeling and the results are compared. The application of Gaussian blurring to perform the treatment of spurious peaks and pits in DEMs is also discussed. This work is aimed at studying the capabilities of Gaussian blurring in the modeling of objects and processes operating within an environment.
No Correlation Exists between Disease Activity and the Expression of Killer-Cell Immunoglobulin-Like Receptors in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Kogure Toshiaki , Tatsumi Takeshi , Niizawa Atsushi , Fujinaga Hiroshi , Ito Tomoyuki , Shimada Yutaka , Terasawa Katsutoshi
Published: February 2007

Objective. The genes for killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) have been cloned and their functions and expression in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have been partially clarified. However, the correlation between their expression and disease activity has not been analyzed in patients with RA. Thus, we measured KIR expression on lymphocytes in patients with RA, and assessed the correlation between KIR expression and disease activity.Patients and Methods. In the cross-sectional study, 15 patients (9 females and 6 males) who fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for RA were assessed. In the longitudinal study, patients who were followed-up for 3 months were assessed. CD158a/b expression on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of RA patients was analyzed using flow cytometry.Results. No significant correlation between KIR expression and CRP, ESR, or IgM-RF was observed. There was no remarkable change in the expression of KIRs between the baseline and after 3 months. Additionally, in the 5 patients whose expression of KIRs particularly changed, the time-related changes in the expression of KIRs were independent from those of inflammation parameters and IgM-RF.Conclusion. There was no correlation between KIR expression and disease activity; therefore, the clinical use of KIR expression should be limited, while unnatural KIR expression may be involved in the pathogenesis of RA, but not a recruitment of chronic inflammation to induce joint damage.
Adaptive Panel Representation for 3D Vortex Ring Motion and Instability
Authors: Kaganovskiy Leon
Published: February 2007

A hierarchical panel method for representing vortex sheet surface motion in 3D flow is presented. Unlike previously employed filament methods, each panel is a leaf of the tree, so it can be subdivided locally, which allows an efficient adaptive point insertion. In addition, we developed curvature-based insertion criteria which allow to localize point insertion to the most complicated curved regions of the sheet. The particles representing the sheet are advected by a regularized Biot-Savart integral with Rosenhead-Moore kernel. The particle velocities are evaluated by an adaptive treecode algorithm based on Taylor expansions in Cartesian coordinates due to Lindsay and Krasny (2001). The method allows to consider much later stages of a vortex ring instability, which may shed light on this complicated flow phase directly leading to the turbulent flow.
Strong Laws of Large Numbers for Arrays of Rowwiseρ∗-Mixing Random Variables
Authors: Zhu Meng-Hu
Published: February 2007

Some strong laws of large numbers for arrays of rowwiseρ∗-mixing random variables are obtained. The result obtainted not only generalizes the result of Hu and Taylor (1997) toρ∗-mixing random variables, but also improves it.
Nonrepetitive Colorings of GraphsA Survey
Authors: Grytczuk Jaroslaw
Published: February 2007

A vertex coloringfof a graphGisnonrepetitiveif there are no integerr≥1and a simple pathv1,…,v2rinGsuch thatf(vi)=f(vr+i)for alli=1,…,r. This notion is a graph-theoretic variant of nonrepetitive sequences of Thue. The paper surveys problems and results on this topic.
Effect of Substrate Sodium Content on Crystallization and Photocatalytic Activity of TiO2Films Prepared by DC Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Tomaszewski Henryk , Eufinger Karin , Poelman Hilde , Poelman Dirk , De Gryse Roger , Smet Philippe F. , Marin Guy B.
Published: February 2007

The effect of sodium content of the glass support on the crystallinity of sputteredTiO2films and photocatalytic breakdown of ethanol has been studied. It was found that the activity of the as-deposited (amorphous) films does not depend on the type of support used. The chemical composition of the glass support does influence the activity of annealed films. When using soda-lime glass support sodium diffuses into the film upon annealing, suppressing anatase crystallization and decreasing its photocatalytic activity. To decrease the influence of sodium, soda-lime glass coated with an e-beam evaporatedSiO2barrier layer was used with good result. A reduced sodium concentration in the film leads to well crystallized anatase after annealing. An increased photocatalytic activity was observed for these films.
Orbital Maneuvers Using Low Thrust to Place a Satellite in a Constellation
Authors: Gomes Vivian Martins , Almeida Prado Antonio Fernando Bertachini de , Kuga Helio Koiti
Published: February 2007

This paper considers the problem of low thrust suboptimal maneuvers to insert a satellite in a constellation. It is assumed that a satellite constellation is given with all the Keplerian elements of the satellite members having known values. Then, it is necessary to maneuver a new satellite from a parking orbit to its position in the constellation. The control available to perform this maneuver is the application of a low thrust to the satellite and the objective is to perform this maneuver with minimum fuel consumption.
Homotopy Perturbation Method for Solving Fourth-Order Boundary Value Problems
Authors: Mohyud-Din Syed Tauseef , Noor Muhammad Aslam
Published: February 2007

We apply the homotopy perturbation method for solving the fourth-order boundary value problems. The analytical results of the boundary value problems have been obtained in terms of convergent series with easily computable components. Several examples are given to illustrate the efficiency and implementation of the homotopy perturbation method. Comparisons are made to confirm the reliability of the method. Homotopy method can be considered an alternative method to Adomian decomposition method and its variant forms.
A discrete‐time interpretation of the Planck‐Einstein equation
Authors: Boyarsky A.
Published: February 2007

An important conclusion of both string theory and loop quantum gravity
theory is that space and time are ultimately discrete. A consequence of
discrete space is that there is empty space between the basic elements of
space. Analogously, there are empty times between the times where time
exists. When time does not exist, it is meaningless to consider the existence
of the universe. In this note we consider a discrete‐time interpretation of
the Planck‐Einstein equation and draw a curious conclusion about the real
age of the universe.
Preface to “A discrete‐time interpretation of the Planck‐Einstein equation”
Authors: Gontar Vladimir
Published: February 2007

The article titled “A discrete‐time interpretation of the Planck‐Einstein equation” by
A. Boyarsky intends to stimulate open discussions about the physical meaning of discretetime
space dynamics. All your comments on this article are most welcome.
Uniform limit power‐type function spaces
Authors: Zhang Chuanyi , Liu Weiguo
Published: February 2007

To answer a question proposed by Mari in 1996, we propose 𝒰ℒ𝒫α(ℝ+), the space of uniform limit power functions. We show that 𝒰ℒ𝒫α(ℝ+) has properties similar to that of 𝒜𝒫(ℝ+). We also proposed three other limit power function spaces.
Veronese curves and webs: interpolation
Authors: Bouetou T. B. , Dufour J. P.
Published: February 2007

We review basic results, essentially due to J. Turiel, concerning the link between classical multidimensional webs and Veronese webs.
Modeling the optical properties of excitons in linear and tubular J‐aggregates
Authors: Knoester Jasper
Published: February 2007

The theory of the optical properties of linear and tubular molecular J‐aggregates is reviewed. The primary optical excitations in these systems are Frenkel excitons, which may be delocalized over many molecules. The collective nature of these
excitations gives rise to special optical properties and dynamics, which are of interest for purely scientific reasons, but also enable the application of J‐aggregates as photographic sensitizers and artificial light‐harvesting systems. The focus of this paper
is on the effect of aggregate geometry, disorder, and temperature on the absorption and fluorescence spectra. Also transport of excitations between J‐aggregates is discussed. Connection is made to experiments on aggregates of cyanine dyes and natural
light‐harvesting systems.
A one‐dimensional spot welding model
Authors: Andrews K. T. , Guessous L. , Nassar S. , Putta S. V. , Shillor M.
Published: February 2007

A one‐dimensional model is proposed for the simulations of resistance spot
welding, which is a common industrial method used to join metallic plates by electrical
heating. The model consists of the Stefan problem, in enthalpy form, coupled with
the equation of charge conservation for the electrical potential. The temperature
dependence of the density, thermal conductivity, specific heat, and electrical
conductivity are taken into account, since the process generally involves a large
temperature range, on the order of 1000 K. The model is general enough to
allow for the welding of plates of different thicknesses or dissimilar materials and
to account for variations in the Joule heating through the material
thickness due to the dependence of electrical resistivity on the
temperature. A novel feature in the model is the inclusion of the effects of interface
resistance between the plates which is also assumed to be temperature dependent.
In addition to constructing the model, a finite difference scheme for its numerical
approximations is described, and representative computer simulations are depicted.
These describe welding processes involving different interface resistances,
different thicknesses, different materials, and different voltage forms.
The differences in the process due to AC or DC currents are depicted as well.
Microstructure and Thermomechanical Properties of Polyimide‐Silica Nanocomposites
Authors: Al Arbash A. , Ahmad Z. , Al-Sagheer F. , Ali A. A. M.
Published: February 2007

Novel polyimide‐silica nanocomposites with interphase chemical bonding have been prepared using the sol‐gel process. The morphology, thermal and mechanical properties were studied as a function of silica content and compared with the similar composites having no interphase interaction. The polyimide precursors, polyamic acids (PAAs) with or without pendant hydroxyl groups were prepared from the reaction of pyromellitic dianhydride with a mixture of oxydianiline and 1,3 phenylenediamine or 2,4‐diminophenol in dimethylacetamide. The PAA with pendant hydroxyl groups was reacted with isocyanatopropyltriethoxysilane to produce alkoxy groups on the chain. The reinforcement of PAA matrices with or without alkoxy groups on the chain was carried out by mixing appropriate amount of tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) and carrying out its hydrolysis and condensation in a sol‐gel process. Thin hybrid films were imidized by successive heating up to 300C∘. The presence of alkoxy groups on the polymer chain and their cocondensation with TEOS developed the silica network which was interconnected chemically with the polyimide matrix. SEM studies show a drastic decrease in the silica particle size in the chemically bonded system. Higher thermal stability and mechanical strength, improved transparency, and low values of thermal coefficient of expansion were observed in case of chemically bonded composites.
Silica‐Polystyrene Nanocomposite Particles Synthesized by Nitroxide‐Mediated Polymerization and Their Encapsulation through Miniemulsion Polymerization
Authors: Bailly Bérangère , Donnenwirth Anne-Carole , Bartholome Christèle , Beyou Emmanuel , Bourgeat-Lami Elodie
Published: February 2007

Polystyrene (PS) chains with molecular weights comprised between 8000 and 64000
g⋅mol-1 and narrow polydispersities were grown from the surface of silica nanoparticles (Aerosil A200 fumed silica and Stöber silica, resp.) through nitroxide‐mediated polymerization (NMP). Alkoxyamine initiators based on N‐tert‐butyl‐1‐diethylphosphono‐2,2‐dimethylpropyl nitroxide (DEPN) and carrying a terminal functional group have been synthesized in situ and grafted to the silica surface. The resulting grafted alkoxyamines have been employed to initiate the growth of polystyrene chains from the inorganic surface. The maximum grafting density of the surface‐tethered PS chains was estimated and seemed to be limited by initiator confinement at the interface. Then, the PS‐grafted Stöber silica nanoparticles were entrapped inside latex particles via miniemulsion polymerization. Transmission electron microscopy indicated the successful formation of silica‐polystyrene core‐shell particles.