bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simvastatin, 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitor, suppresses osteoclastogenesis induced by receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB ligand through modulation of NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Ahn Kwang Seok , Sethi Gautam , Chaturvedi Madan M. , Aggarwal Bharat B.
Published: August 2008

Simvastatin, an inhibitor of 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase, is a cholesterol‐lowering drug that may play a role in bone metabolism through a mechanism that is not fully understood. Recently, receptor activator of NF‐κB ligand (RANKL), a member of the TNF superfamily, has emerged as a major mediator of bone loss via activation of osteoclastogenesis. The latter is also associated with certain cancers such as multiple myeloma and breast cancer. Whether simvastatin can modulate RANKL‐induced or cancer induced osteoclastogenesis was investigated. The effect of simvastatin on RANKL signaling and consequent osteoclastogenesis was investigated. RANKL induced NF‐κB activation, whereas pretreatment with simvastatin completely suppressed such activation and correlated with suppression of RANKL‐induced activation of IκBα kinase, IκBα phosphorylation and IκBα degradation. Similarly, RANKL induced the differentiation of monocytic cells to osteoclasts, whereas simvastatin suppressed it. The inhibition was maximal when cells were exposed to both simvastatin and RANKL simultaneously and minimal when simvastatin was added 1 day after RANKL treatment. Simvastatin also inhibited the osteoclastogenesis induced by human breast cancer and by multiple myeloma cells. Together, our results indicate that simvastatin inhibits the RANKL‐induced NF‐κB activation pathway that leads to suppression of osteoclastogenesis induced by RANKL and by tumor cells, thereby suggesting its therapeutic potential in osteoporosis and in cancer‐related bone loss. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Overexpression of a secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor in human gastric cancer
Authors: Cheng Wan‐Li , Wang Chia‐Siu , Huang Ya‐Hui , Liang Ying , Lin Paul Y. , Hsueh Chuen , Wu Yi‐Chin , Chen Wei‐Jan , Yu Chia‐Jung , Lin Sheue‐Rong , Lin Kwang‐Huei
Published: August 2008

Complementary DNA microarrays have identified aberrantly expressed genes in patients with gastric cancer. One that encodes secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) is among the aberrantly expressed genes and is associated with metastasis in gastric cancers. We evaluated the potential of SLPI expression as a helpful biomarker for detection of gastric cancer. Tumor tissue and matching noncancerous mucosa were obtained from 60 patients immediately after gastric resection. SLPI expression levels were determined by Northern and Western blot tests and quantitative‐reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (Q‐RT‐PCR). Paraffin‐fixed tumor tissues were used for immunohistochemistry study in 119 patients. A consistent result was obtained between all examinations except plasma SLPI. SLPI mRNA transcripts and protein were overexpressed in gastric cancer cells, and the depth of wall invasion was significantly greater in serosa‐invading (T3 and T4) cancers compared to the serosa‐free (T1 and T2) cancers. These enhanced expressions were significantly associated with lymph node metastasis, and were significantly higher in stages III and IV, and higher than those in stages I and II. Five‐year survival of patients with lower expression of the SLPI gene was significantly better than among patients with a higher expression. To better understand the function of SLPI in human gastric cancer cells, isogenic SLPI overexpressing cell lines (AZ521) were prepared. The migratory and invasive abilities were increased 4.4‐fold to 6.9‐fold, or 3.0‐fold to 4.1‐fold, respectively, in SLPI‐overexpressing cell lines. The results point to SLPI as a potential prognostic marker for gastric cancer and its function in cell invasion. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Promoter methylation of the bone morphogenetic protein‐6 gene in association with adult T‐cell leukemia
Authors: Taniguchi Ayuko , Nemoto Yuiko , Yokoyama Akihito , Kotani Norihiro , Imai Shosuke , Shuin Taro , Daibata Masanori
Published: August 2008

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP), belonging to the transforming growth factor‐β superfamily, are multifunctional regulators of cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis in various types of malignant cells. In this study, we investigated BMP‐6 promoter methylation in patients with various types of leukemias. The BMP‐6 methylation was found preferentially in adult T‐cell leukemia (ATL) (49 of 60, 82%) compared with other types of leukemias studied including acute myeloid leukemia (3 of 67, 5%), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (6 of 38, 16%) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (1 of 21, 5%). Among subtypes of ATL, the BMP‐6 gene was more frequently methylated in aggressive ATL forms of acute (96%) and lymphoma (94%) types than less malignant chronic ATL (44%) and smoldering ATL (20%). We also analyzed the methylation status of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy donors and nonmalignant lymph nodes with reactive lymphadenopathy, none of which showed detectable BMP‐6 methylation in this study. The BMP‐6 methyaltion was correlated with decreased mRNA transcript and protein expression. Expression of BMP‐6 was restored by the demethylating agent 5‐aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine, suggesting that methylation was associated with the transcriptional silencing. Serial analysis demonstrated an increasing methylation of CpG sites in the BMP‐6 promoter and the resultant suppression of BMP‐6 expression as ATL progressed. These findings suggested that BMP‐6 promoter methylation is likely to be a common epigenetic event at later stages of ATL and that the methylation profiles may be useful for the staging of ATL as well as for evaluation of the individual risk of developing the disease. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Thiazolides inhibit growth and induce glutathione‐S‐transferase Pi (GSTP1)‐dependent cell death in human colon cancer cells
Authors: Müller Joachim , Sidler Daniel , Nachbur Ueli , Wastling Jonathan , Brunner Thomas , Hemphill Andrew
Published: August 2008

Thiazolides are a novel class of broad‐spectrum anti‐infective drugs with promising in vitro and in vivo activities against intracellular and extracellular protozoan parasites. The nitrothiazole‐analogue nitazoxanide (NTZ; 2‐acetolyloxy‐N‐(5‐nitro 2‐thiazolyl) benzamide) represents the thiazolide parent compound, and a number of bromo‐ and carboxy‐derivatives with differing activities have been synthesized. Here we report that NTZ and the bromo‐thiazolide RM4819, but not the carboxy‐thiazolide RM4825, inhibited proliferation of the colon cancer cell line Caco2 and nontransformed human foreskin fibroblasts (HFF) at or below concentrations the compounds normally exhibit anti‐parasitic activity. Thiazolides induced typical signs of apoptosis, such as nuclear condensation, DNA fragmentation and phosphatidylserine exposure. Interestingly, the apoptosis‐inducing effect of thiazolides appeared to be cell cycle‐dependent and induction of cell cycle arrest substantially inhibited the cell death‐inducing activity of these compounds. Using affinity chromatography and mass spectrometry glutathione‐S‐transferase P1 (GSTP1) from the GST class Pi was identified as a major thiazolide‐binding protein. GSTP1 expression was more than 10 times higher in the thiazolide‐sensitive Caco2 cells than in the less sensitive HFF cells. The enzymatic activity of recombinant GSTP1 was strongly inhibited by thiazolides. Silencing of GSTP1 using siRNA rendered cells insensitive to RM4819, while overexpression of GSTP1 increased sensitivity to RM4819‐induced cell death. Thiazolides may thus represent an interesting novel class of future cancer therapeutics. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Human acute leukemia cells injected in NOD/LtSz‐scid/IL‐2Rγ null mice generate a faster and more efficient disease compared to other NOD/scid‐related strains
Authors: Agliano Alice , Martin‐Padura Ines , Mancuso Patrizia , Marighetti Paola , Rabascio Cristina , Pruneri Giancarlo , Shultz Leonard D. , Bertolini Francesco
Published: August 2008

Transplantation of human acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) primary cells and cell lines in different strains of immunodeficient mice has led to preclinical models extensively used to investigate acute leukemia stem cells, biology and drug sensitivity. We studied the engraftment kinetics of AML and ALL cell lines and primary cells in 3 strains of NOD.CB17‐Prkdcscid (NOD/scid, NS)‐related mice (NOD.Cg‐PrkdcscidB2mtm1Unc/J, abbreviated NOD/scid/β2 null, NSB; and NOD.Cg‐PrkdcscidIl2rgtm1Wjll/SzJ, abbreviated NOD/scid/IL‐2Rγ null, NSG). The engraftment of human malignant cells was investigated by means of clinicopathological criteria, flow cytometry, PCR and immunohistochemistry. In NSG mice, we observed a significantly faster development of leukemia‐related symptoms and a higher percentage of leukemia cells in the blood, in the marrow and in the spleen. The leukemia‐related angiogenic switch (measured as the number of circulating endothelial cells and progenitors) was faster in NSG compared to NS and NSB mice. These models will be instrumental to studies on leukemia‐initiating stem cells, leukemia biology, preclinical treatment studies, and to obtain patient‐specific preclinical models to design and investigate patient‐tailored therapies. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Determination of salt leaching and gypsum requirements with field tests of saline–sodic soils in central Turkey
Authors: Bahçecİ İdris
Published: August 2008

This study was conducted to determine the best method for leaching salt from saline–sodic soils in central Anatolia in Turkey. The field experiment was set up in a randomized block with three replications. As reclamation material, mined gypsum was applied to the treatment plots in 0, 20, 40 and 60 t ha−1 dosages and 3.60 m leaching waters were applied to the plots. The infiltration capacities of the soil increased in proportion to the amount of gypsum applied. Leaching of 70% of the soluble salt from the soil profile required a depth of leaching water of approximately six times the soil depth to be reclaimed. Relationships between theoretically calculated and required actual gypsum could be described by exponential equations. Gypsum application showed a good response. It was concluded that gypsum or other reclamation materials have to be applied to reclaim sodic soils in the Ereğli plain. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nonwoven supported temperature‐sensitive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)/polyurethane copolymer hydrogel with antibacterial activity
Authors: Liu Baohua , Hu Jinlian , Meng Qinghao
Published: August 2008

This article is focused on the study of the antibacterial activity of temperature sensitive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide/polyurethane (PNIPAAm/PU) hydrogel grafted nonwoven fabrics with chitosan modification. A series of temperature sensitive hydrogel grafted nonwoven fabrics with different N‐isopropylacrylamide/polyurethane (NIPAAm/PU) feeding ratios have been synthesized by using ammonium persulfate (APS) as initiator and N,N,N′,N′‐tetramethyl‐ethane‐1,2‐diamine (TEMED) as accelerator. FTIR and XPS were used to examine the surface modification of chitosan. The phase transition temperature of hydrogel grafted nonwoven fabrics was about 32°C by DSC. S. aureus and E. coli were used to evaluate the antibacterial efficiency of the fabric composite. After chitosan modification, the hydrogel grafted nonwoven cellulose fabrics demonstrates an antibacterial activity to S. aureus. and E. coli and the antibacterial efficiency is about 80%. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
Aspects of phosphorus transfer from soils in Europe
Authors: Delgado Antonio , Scalenghe Riccardo
Published: August 2008

Imbalanced nutrient management has caused soil phosphorus (P) to become an environmental rather an agronomic problem in more economically developed countries. This subject has been the topic of numerous journal special issues, conferences, and reviews but we consider yet another review of this subject is necessary with the main target of providing a point of view on nonpoint transfer from soils and control strategies for an improved environmental management of P. This review considers the causes of the excessive P transfer from soil to surface water in Europe and the scientific knowledge necessary to develop control strategies.
Effects of charcoal production on soil physical properties in Ghana
Authors: Oguntunde Philip G. , Abiodun Babatunde J. , Ajayi Ayodele E. , van de Giesen Nick
Published: August 2008

Charcoal production, widespread in Ghana like in other W African countries, is a major driver of land‐cover change. Effects of charcoal production on soil physical, including hydrological, properties, were studied in the forest–savannah transition zone of Ghana. Core and composite samples from 12 randomly selected sites across the width of Kotokosu watershed were taken from 0–10 cm layer at charcoal‐site soils and adjacent field soils (control). These were used to determine saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ksat), bulk density, total porosity, soil texture, and color. Infiltration rates, surface albedo, and soil‐surface temperature were also measured on both sites.

The results showed that the saturated hydraulic conductivity of soils under charcoal kilns increased significantly (p < 0.01) from 6.1 ± 2.0 cm h–1 to 11.4 ± 5.0 cm h–1, resulting to a relative increase of 88%. Soil color became darkened under charcoal kilns with hue, value, and chroma decreasing by 8%, 20%, and 20%, respectively. Bulk density on charcoal‐site soils reduced by 9% compared to adjacent field soils. Total porosity increased from 45.7% on adjacent field soils to 50.6% on earth kilns. Surface albedo reduced by 37% on charcoal‐site soils while soil‐surface temperature increased up to 4°C on average. Higher infiltration rates were measured on charcoal‐site soils, which suggest a possible decrease in overland flow and less erosion on those kiln sites.
Near‐surface paleosols in coastal sands at the outlet of Hadera stream (Israel) in the light of archeology and luminescence chronology
Authors: Tsatskin Alexander , Gendler Tatyana S. , Heller Friedrich , Ronen Avraham
Published: August 2008

Catenary changes, archeology, micromorphology, and magnetic mineralogy of paleosols in coastal sands, Israel, were investigated under chronostratigraphic control by available luminescence datings from adjacent sites. At the outlet of Hadera stream, eolianites (Hebrew: “kurkar”) underlie paleosols with Epipaleolithic (approx. 17–20 ky) artifacts at the top and occasional Mousterian (>40 ky) artifacts in the subsoil. The optically stimulated–luminescence/infrared stimulated–luminescence (OSL/IRSL) dates (>50–12 ky) from adjacent sites roughly agree with the archeological findings. The paleosols show a magnetically depleted Vertisol superimposed on a magnetically enhanced cumulative Chromic Luvisol (WRB) (USDA: Rhodoxeralf, Israeli class.: Hamra). The latter contain approx. 0.25 mm thick, isotropic clay infillings distinctly separated from the soil matrix. These infillings are tentatively interpreted as the result of strong environmental disturbances, such as surface desiccation, subsequent waterlogging, and enhanced dust deposition, presumably at the time of the Last Glacial Maximum. In addition to the massive accumulation of eolian dust, diverse pedogeomorphic changes lagging in time from the onset of climatic deterioration may have taken place in coastal settings. Recurrent desiccation cracks may have exposed subsurface materials repeatedly to sunlight, consequently resetting the luminescence signal. The eolianite sequences are thus distinct from loess/paleosol sequences from temperate climates and have to be treated more rigorously at a site‐specific level.
Paleosols of the southern coastal plain of Israel
Authors: Wieder Moshe , Gvirtzman Gedaliahu , Porat Naomi , Dassa Maoz
Published: August 2008

Paleosols of the S coastal plain of Israel were studied in a characteristic sequence situated in the Ruhama badlands area. At the upper part of the sequence, there is a Loessial Arid Brown Soil (Calciorthids), characteristic of the mildly arid climate of the area. The soil has two calcic horizons and four clayey layers alternating with four calcareous layers which are beneath them. Physical, chemical, and magnetic‐susceptibility data and micromorphological evidence indicate that each clayey layer together with the calcareous layer beneath it forms a single pedogenic unit. These units are similar to modern Grumusolic soils (Xeric Paleargids or Xererthic Calciargids) that occur in the semiarid belt of the S coastal plain and develop on eolian‐dust parent material. The calcareous layers are in fact calcic horizons formed by leaching of the carbonates from the clayey layers and accumulated in the form of in situ carbonate nodules. The leaching of the carbonates is not complete; they were never completely leached in the past. This feature together with a typical brown color is also characteristic of the modern soils developed in the semiarid water regime of the area. The four superimposed paleosols represent four cycles. It is suggested that they were formed in two phases. During a dry environment, a short phase of rapid eolian‐dust accumulation prevailed, followed by a stable phase of soil development in a somewhat wetter climate. Dating by optically stimulated luminescence and previous dating by 14C in the area suggest that the upper two paleosol cycles belong to the Last Glacial period whereas the other two cycles are of an earlier age. The magnetic‐susceptibility values decrease with age and react different from temperate areas. Below the four cycles, two totally leached paleosols developed on sandy parent material occur. Both paleosols have a reversed magnetic polarity and are hence older than 780 ky BP. The upper one is a Brown Mediterranean soil, and the lower one is a Red Mediterranean soil. Thin‐section evidence suggests that they formed on terrestrial sand dunes.
Pedostratigraphy of Terra Rossa and Quaternary geological evolution of a lacustrine limestone plateau in central Italy
Authors: Priori Simone , Costantini Edoardo A. C. , Capezzuoli Enrico , Protano Guiseppe , Hilgers Alexandra , Sauer Daniela , Sandrelli Fabio
Published: August 2008

Pedostratigraphic levels (PLs) are typical assemblages of soil‐genetic horizons, formed by materials having the same degree of weathering. The pedostratigraphic approach can be very useful to comprehend the formation of the Quaternary soil cover, the environmental evolution of a territory, and to estimate the age of paleosols. A pedostratigraphic study of a Terra Rossa was carried out to understand the soil–parent material origin and to estimate the time of the beginning of pedogenesis.

Besides soil and geomorphological survey, the Terra Rossa was analyzed for Fe forms, geochemistry, clay mineralogy, micromorphology, and with scanning electron microscope. Optical dating was applied to obtain age estimates for the deposition of the parent material of soil formation. The insoluble residue of limestone was obtained and analyzed for geochemistry and clay mineralogy.

The bedrock is constituted by Quaternary lacustrine limestone, showing pronounced karst landforms. The soil profile is situated in a little dissolution doline and was divided into three PLs: PL1 (0–110 cm) is constituted by cambic and ochric horizons, formed during Holocene in a mixture of colluvial soil sediments and fresh limestone, with aeolian components; PL2 (110–290 cm) includes two argic horizons, which began to form during Late‐Middle Pleistocene in colluvial soil sediments, with few aeolian additions; PL3 (290–330 cm) is constituted by a red argic horizon, with nitic properties, which developed from the insoluble residue of the limestone. The age of PL3 was calculated through a mass balance and an estimation of the limestone‐dissolution rate during the Quaternary, which led to an approximate age of Middle Pleistocene, between 250 and 500 ky BP. The time of the beginning of pedogenesis on limestone can be used as a reference for the tectonic uplifting of the area and emersion of the plateau.
Yellow‐brown earth on Quaternary red clay in Langxi County, Anhui Province in subtropical China: Evidence for paleoclimatic change in late Quaternary period
Authors: Hu Xue‐Feng , Jiang Wei , Ye Wei , Shen Ming‐Neng , Zhang Wei‐Guo , Wang Hong‐Bo , Lu Cheng‐Wen , Zhu Li‐Dong
Published: August 2008

In order to investigate the paleoclimatic changes in S China during the late Quaternary and their influence on pedogenesis and soil classification, a yellow‐brown earth (YBE)–red clay (RC) profile in Langxi County, Anhui Province was studied. The grain‐size distribution and the major‐ and trace‐element compositions of the profile indicate that the YBE of the profile shares the same origin with the YBE in Jiujiang and Xuancheng and the Xiashu loess in Zhenjiang, and the underlying RC also has aeolian characteristics and shares the same origin with the Xiashu loess. Grain‐size characteristics, molecular ratios of SiO2/Al2O3, SiO2/(Al2O3+Fe2O3), and BA ([CaO+MgO+K2O+Na2O]/Al2O3) and other weathering indices (CaO/TiO2, MgO/TiO2, K2O/TiO2, Na2O/TiO2, and Rb/Sr) of the profile indicate that the RC is more strongly weathered than the YBE. Magnetic susceptibility (χlf) of the uniform red clay (URC) of the profile is significantly enhanced. However, that of the underlying reticulate red clay (RRC) is significantly decreased because of the paleogroundwater movement and cannot indicate its strong weathering properties. The YBE‐RC profile in Langxi County recorded a great climatic change during late Quaternary: At that time, the pedogenic development of the RC was terminated and widespread dust deposition occurred. The parent material of the RC may be aeolian deposits which were accumulated before the last interglacial and were strongly weathered and rubified under the subsequent interglacial climate. It is observed that red soils, derived from the RC, and yellow‐brown soils, derived from the YBE, coexist in the study area, which is contradictive to the theory of the zonal distribution of soils. Therefore, it is necessary to take into account the history of Quaternary climatic changes when studying pedogenesis.
Podzol development with time in sandy beach deposits in southern Norway
Authors: Sauer Daniela , Schülli‐Maurer Isabelle , Sperstad Ragnhild , Sørensen Rolf , Stahr Karl
Published: August 2008

The coastal areas of SE Norway provide suitable conditions for studying soil development with time, because unweathered land surfaces have continuously been raised above sea level by glacio‐isostatic uplift since the termination of the last ice age. We investigated Podzol development in a chronosequence of six soils on sandy beach deposits with ages ranging from 2,300 to 9,650 y at the W coast of the Oslofjord. The climate in this area is rather mild with a mean annual temperature of 6°C and an annual precipitation of 975 mm (Sandefjord). The youngest soil showed no evidence of podzolization, while slight lightening of the A horizon of the second soil (3,800 years) indicated initial leaching of organic matter (OM). In the 4,300 y–old soil also Fe and humus accumulation in the B horizon were perceptible, but only the 6,600 y–old and older soils exhibited spodic horizons. Accumulation of OM in the A horizons reached a steady state in <2,300 y, while in the B horizons OM accumulated at increasing rates. pH dropped from 6.6 (H2O)/5.9 (KCl) in the recent beach sand to 4.5 (H2O)/3.8 (KCl) within approx. 4,500 y (pHH2O)/2,500 y (pHKCl) and stayed constant thereafter, which was attributed to sesquioxide buffering. Base saturation showed an exponential decrease with time. Progressive weathering was reflected by increasing Fed and Ald contents, and proceeding podzolization by increasing amounts of pyrophophate‐ and oxalate‐soluble Fe and Al with soil age. These increases could be best described for most Fe and Al fractions by exponential models. Only the increasing amounts of Fep could be better described by a power function and those of Feo by a linear model.
PaleoVertisols of the northwest Caucasus: (Micro)morphological, physical, chemical, and isotopic constraints on early to late Pleistocene climate
Authors: Kovda Irina , Mora Claudia I. , Wilding Larry P.
Published: August 2008

Physical and chemical properties, macro‐ and micromorphology, clay mineralogy, and stable‐isotope compositions of paleosols within a pedostratigraphic column (PSC) of early to late Pleistocene age, interstratified paleosols, and loess (NW Caucasus, S Russia) were examined to better understand the evolution of the pedogenic environment over this time period, separating the effects of postpedogenic diagenesis. The column includes eight paleosols and six intercalated loessic horizons. Most of paleosols represent Vertisols or vertic intergrades. Vertic features increase in the middle of the PSC, where the paleosols are more clayey in texture and reddish in color. The morphology of carbonate nodules and soft masses, morphology‐ and depth(age)‐related changes in stable C and O isotope compositions, soil color, redoximorphic features, clay mineralogy, and illuviated clay indicate periods of wetter pedoenvironment in the past and suggest the Pleistocene paleosols are polygenetic and were formed with several wet/dry stages under a climate generally similar to the modern environment in the N Caucasus (mean annual temperature approx. 9°C–12°C). Interpretation of the time sequence of climate/environmental change requires careful separation of pedogenic mineral phases from phases altered by later diagenesis. The early Pleistocene period of paleosol formation appeared to be wetter or more humid, resulting in more significant development of vertic features. The terrestrial ecosystem remained dominated by C3 vegetation throughout the formation of the PSC, with four small periods of change towards a greater proportion of C4 plants or increased moisture stress.
Pollutants in drainage channels following long‐term application of Mancozeb to banana plantations in southeastern Mexico
Authors: Melgar Carolina , Geissen Violette , Cram Silke , Sokolov Mikhail , Bastidas Pedro , Ruiz Suárez Luz E. , Javier Que Ramos Francisco , Jarquín Sanchez Aaron
Published: August 2008

The aim of this study was to investigate how long‐term Mancozeb application to banana plantations affects the occurrence of pollutants in drainage‐channel sediment and water under tropical conditions. We estimated the possible accumulation of Mancozeb's principal metabolite ethylenethiourea (ETU), as well as manganese (Mn) and zinc (Zn) as components in channel sediment and water. We took samples during the tropical‐rainfall season and the low‐rainfall season. For sediment samples, we determined the contents of ETU, Mn, and Zn. For water samples, we determined the concentration of ETU. Additionally, we took water samples from a runnel that is the receiving body of hydraulic flow from the system. In both seasons, ETU in the sediment was near the detection limit (0.01 mg kg–1) and did not show any accumulation. However, Mn in sediment at all sampling sites exceeded the threshold values for aquatic life of 630 mg kg–1 with values between 635 and 7256 mg kg–1. The Zn concentrations in sediment varied from 87 to 190 mg kg–1 and exceeded the threshold values for aquatic life of 98 mg kg–1 at several sites. Furthermore, we determined an accumulation of these heavy metals in the sediments of the banana‐planted zone in comparison with sediments in pasture reference sites. In contrast to the low concentration of ETU in sediment, its concentration in drainage and runnel water (5.9–13.8 μg L–1) exceeded the EU threshold value for drinking water (0.1 μg L–1) by up to nearly 140 times. However, the threshold value for aquatic life was not exceeded. We conclude that long‐term Mancozeb application does lead to a severe accumulation of Mn in sediments and of ETU in surface water. New strategies should be used to control black Sigatoka, including integrated methods of pest control so that long‐term negative effects on the environment can be avoided.
Impact of different nitrogen fertilizers and an additional sulfur supply on grain yield, quality, and the potential of acrylamide formation in winter wheat
Authors: Albrecht Weber Ernst , Koller Wolf‐Dietrich , Graeff Simone , Hermann Wilfried , Merkt Nikolaus , Claupein Wilhelm
Published: August 2008

The amino acid asparagine (Asn) plays a key role in acrylamide (AA) formation in strongly heated cereal foodstuffs. The influence of different nitrogen (N) fertilizers (calcium ammonium nitrate, CAN; urea ammonium sulfate solution, UAS, applied according to the CULTAN method; urea; urea ammonium nitrate, UAN; ammonium nitrate sulfate containing the nitrification inhibitor 3,4‐dimethyl pyrazole phosphate, Entec 26®; and a combination of liquid manure and CAN) at a nitrogen level of 180 kg N ha–1 and an additional sulfur (S) supply on grain yield, quality, Asn concentration, and the potential of AA formation of winter wheat were studied in a 2‐year field experiment. Grain yields varied between 61 und 104 dt ha–1 dry matter depending on cultivar (cv), fertilization, and year. Quality demands concerning crude protein concentration and sedimentation value were reached when CAN, CAN+S, urea, or a combination of liquid manure and CAN were applied. Asparagine concentrations in flours varied from 2.6 to 13.6 mg per 100 g flour dry matter depending on cultivar, fertilization, and year. In both years, a close nonlinear correlation between crude protein concentration and the concentration of free Asn with r²2004 = 0.93 and r²2005 = 0.94 was observed. Nitrogen fertilizers leading to high crude protein concentrations caused significantly increased Asn concentrations. In both years, a correlation between the concentration of free Asn and the potential of AA formation with r²2004 = 0.72 and r²2005 = 0.84 was found. The application of S (CAN compared to CAN+S) had no beneficial effect on the Asn concentration and the potential of AA formation, most likely because S concentration in grains was sufficient even without additional S supply.
Phosphorus in sequentially extracted fen peat soils: A K‐edge X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy study
Authors: Kruse Jens , Leinweber Peter
Published: August 2008

The speciation of phosphorus (P) in native and degraded peat soils is an analytical challenge, and synchrotron‐based P K‐edge X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure (XANES) is a suitable method to gain information on P species in soils and organic materials. The objective of the present study was to test if P K‐edge XANES reflected differences in P fractions in fen peat due to sequential extraction and peat degradation. We investigated each one top‐ and subsoil sample of a Fibric Histosol, which differed in the degree of humification (H8 vs. H5) and concentration of total P (Pt) (1944 mg kg–1 vs. 436 mg kg–1). In the topsoil, residual P, H2SO4‐P, and NaOH‐P accounted for roughly the same proportions of Pt (≈30%). In the subsoil, residual P (64% of Pt) was more abundant than NaOH‐P (21% of Pt) and H2SO4‐P (10% of Pt). Among many different P reference standards, the P XANES spectra reflected differences in mineral P more distinctive than in organic P compounds. Phosphorus XANES spectra of the residues after each sequential extraction step all showed a prominent white‐line peak at around 2152 eV. Stepwise removal of resin‐P, NaHCO3‐P, and NaOH‐P were reflected mainly by the peak intensity but scarcely by distinct spectral features. Extraction with H2SO4 led to the disappearance of spectral features of Ca and Mg phosphates which is a first direct hint to these compounds in the peat. In conclusion, a combined sequential fractionation and spectroscopic (31P NMR, P K‐ and L‐edge XANES with linear‐combination fits) approach is proposed to overcome limitations of the present study and gain more insight into the P species in peat soils.
The significance of organic‐anion exudation for the aluminum resistance of primary triticale derived from wheat and rye parents differing in aluminum resistance
Authors: Stass Angelika , Smit Inga , Eticha Dejene , Oettler Gisela , Johannes Horst Walter
Published: August 2008

Eight primary octoploid triticale genotypes (xTriticosecale Wittmack) derived from four wheat cultivars (Triticum aestivum L.) and two rye inbred lines (Secale cereale L.) differing in aluminum (Al) resistance were investigated with respect to their response to Al supply. Aluminum‐induced inhibition of root elongation (48 h, 25 µM Al supply), callose formation, and the accumulation of Al in root tips (4 h, 25 µM Al supply) were used as parameters to assess Al resistance. Using these parameters, the existing information on Al resistance of the wheat and rye cultivars was generally confirmed. The triticale cultivars showed a wide range of Al resistance amongst the Al‐sensitive wheat and the Al‐resistant rye cultivars. The rye parents and the Al‐resistant wheat parent Carazinho were characterized by Al‐induced exudation particularly of citrate but also of malate from whole root systems of 14 d old seedlings (8 h, 50 µM Al supply). Regression analysis revealed that the degree of Al resistance of the triticale genotypes was closely related to the Al‐induced citrate exudation, which was mainly controlled by the Al resistance of the wheat parent.
Analytical implications of routine clinical testing for omega‐3 fatty acid biomarkers
Authors: Stark Ken
Published: August 2008

Blood biomarkers of omega‐3 (ω3) fatty acids can be used as markers of optimal health and disease risk. Rapid, high‐throughput and cost efficient fatty acid analyses would enable routine clinical screening for ω3 fatty acid status by health professionals. Clinical monitoring of ω3 fatty acid status of individuals would enable prevention strategies for cardiovascular disease and prenatal nutrition.
Effect of emulsifiers on shortenings
Authors: Martini Silvana , Herrera Maria Lidia
Published: August 2008

The quality of a shortening depends on its physicochemical characteristics. These include amount of solids, texture and melting behavior, among others. The type of shortening, the processing and storage conditions strongly affect these characteristics. Different strategies can be used to formulate shortenings with low trans fatty acids content while maintaining their physicochemical characteristics. This article describes some of these strategies and aims to provide information about the different variables that need to be controlled to obtain a high quality shortening.
Monte Carlo Simulation of the Reactive Formation of Co‐Continuous Nanostructured Polymers
Authors: John Andreas , Sommer Jens‐Uwe
Published: August 2008

Structure formation during high‐temperature reactive blending of randomly functionalized poly‐disperse backbone polymers (such as polyethylene) with end‐functionalized graft polymers (such as polyamide 6) forming co‐continuous nanostructured microphases was investigated by means of MC simulations using the bond fluctuation algorithm. We compared reacted and non‐reacted systems under the same conditions. For the non‐reacted system at low temperatures, phase separation was observed. In the system with grafting reactions, macroscopic phase separation was inhibited even if the consumption of reactive sites was only 50%. The calculated structure factor indicates a distinct difference between the two simulation states in accordance with the 3D visualization of the system and the box‐counting method.

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Autologous fat grafting: A technique for stabilization of the microvascular pedicle in DIEP flap reconstruction
Authors: Bar‐Meir Eran D. , Yueh Janet H. , Tobias Adam M. , Lee Bernard T.
Published: August 2008

Proper orientation of the microvascular pedicle is essential to ensure a high success rate in microvascular surgery. The inset of a deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction can sometimes be problematic given the long vascular pedicle, the acute takeoff from an internal mammary anastomosis, and the positioning of the flap on top of the vascular pedicle. In the postoperative period, the flap can also shift as the patient's activity level increases. We present a technique where nonvascularized autologous fat grafts are used to stabilize and cushion the vascular pedicle. Over a 14‐month period, 117 consecutive DIEP flaps were performed to the internal mammary vessels with autologous fat grafting to the microvascular pedicle. Six flaps (5.1%) were explored during the immediate postoperative period for anastomotic compromise. Only one total flap failure (0.8%) was observed during this time. We had no direct complications related to the fat grafts. The use of nonvascularized autologous fat grafts is a simple and safe technique for stabilization of a microvascular pedicle. It should be considered in DIEP flap breast reconstruction and other microvascular cases where the vascular pedicle might be compressed by adjacent structures. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2008.
Piloting education days for patients with early rheumatoid arthritis and their partners: A multidisciplinary approach
Authors: Ellard D.R. , Barlow J.H. , Paskins Z. , Stapley J. , Wild A. , Rowe I.F.
Published: August 2008

Objectives: To develop, pilot, refine and reassess an education day presented by a rheumatology multidisciplinary team (MDT) for recently diagnosed (less than six months) rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and their partners/carers.

Methods: A patient education day was developed drawing on an assessment of local patient educational needs and preferences and input from a rheumatology MDT. Feedback from the first education day (2004) (Day 1; 12 patients; age range 19–63 years (median 46); 10 of whom were accompanied by a partner) informed the development of a second education day (2005) (Day 2; 19 patients; age range 36–75 years (median 57.5); 13 of whom were accompanied by a partner). Participants completed evaluation forms on both days and at follow‐up between six and seven weeks later, rating each session on a 5‐point scale on dimensions of ‘informative’, ‘useful’, ‘interesting’ and ‘enjoyable’. A global rating of the day's ‘usefulness’ was completed at the end of each day on a 10‐point scale. Participants were asked to write comments on each session and on aspects of the entire day. RA knowledge, and general and RA‐specific self‐efficacy were also measured on day 2 (and at follow‐up) using the 12‐item Patient Knowledge Questionnaire, the 10‐item generalized self‐efficacy scale and a four‐item RA‐specific self‐efficacy scale. Both qualitative and quantitative methodologies were used in the analysis.

Results: Ratings for individual sessions were all high, with no session being rated below 4 out of 5 (1 = ‘totally disagree’ to 5 = ‘totally agree’) on both days. The majority of patients (84%) and their partners (57%) responded to the follow‐up. Many had used the information package distributed on the day. Some patients and their partners reported positive changes in RA management. Although patient knowledge did not increase significantly (medians 11 at both time points, p = 0.054) (Day 2), RA self‐efficacy improved (baseline 11 and 14, respectively), suggesting that patients were more confident in managing their condition (p = 0.010).

Conclusions: The development of this ‘local’ education and information intervention was carried out in line with Medical Research Council guidelines, and the lessons learned from Day 1 informed further development for Day 2. A one‐day format for education of early RA involving the rheumatology MDT was rated highly by participants and warrants further examination. Although this study was a small ‘local’ intervention, its strengths are that it informs the possibility of wider developments of this kind using a MDT. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A multi‐agent self‐adaptative management framework
Authors: Lavinal E. , Desprats T. , Raynaud Y.
Published: August 2008

The self‐management vision, which has raised much interest in recent years, is only an operational aim that does not provide any solution in its definition on how to attain this management autonomy. The general contribution of this article suggests concepts, methods and mechanisms to conceive a self‐adaptative management framework, thus participating in this self‐management vision. This framework is composed of organizational aspects based on multi‐agent concepts, informational aspects based on different management ontologies and cooperative aspects based on specific agent behaviours which automate the accomplishment of management actions on the overall distributed environment. We have also implemented a prototype of this work to validate the feasibility of our approach and confirm the self‐adaptation capacities of the system. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Skeletal evidence for morbidity and mortality in Copper Age samples from northeastern Hungary
Authors: Ubelaker D. H. , Pap I.
Published: August 2008

Analysis of 183 human skeletons representing the Copper Age in northeastern Hungary indicates slightly less morbidity and mortality than found in previous studies of later Bronze Age and Iron Age samples from the same area. Mean adult age at death was 33.4 years for males and 32.9 years for females. Life table reconstruction revealed a life expectancy at birth of about 28 years, and at age 15 of about 17 years. Frequencies of dental hypoplasia (<1%) and carious lesions (2.3%) were relatively low. Comparisons of the Copper Age data reported here with previously published studies of later Bronze Age and Iron Age samples from the same area revealed little or no change in life expectancy at age 15, long bone diaphyseal circumference, estimated living stature, frequencies of dental hypoplasia, alveolar abscesses, tooth loss, adult porotic hyperostosis or trauma. Temporal increases were detected in life expectancy at birth, dental caries frequency, cribra orbitalia, subadult periosteal lesions and vertebral osteoarthritis. The study is part of a larger effort to examine long‐term temporal changes in skeletal samples from that region. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tracking and ground cover ratio
Authors: Narvarte L. , Lorenzo E.
Published: August 2008

Energy yield and occupation of land are two parameters that must be optimized when designing a large PV plant. This paper presents the results of simulating the energy yield of flat panels for some locations and different tracking strategies as a function of the ground cover ratio. Some interesting results for design purposes, such as the optimal solar trackers depending on the land availability or the energy gains of every tracking strategy, are shown. For example, the energy gains associated to one north–south axis tracking, referenced to static surfaces, ranges from 18 to 25%, and from 37 to 45% for the two‐axes tracker for reasonable ground cover ratios. To achieve these results, a simulation tool with appropriate models to calculate the energy yield for different solar trackers has been developed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Does life satisfaction predict victimization experiences in adolescence?
Authors: Martin Kellie , Huebner E. Scott , Valois Robert F.
Published: August 2008

Longitudinal relationships between adolescents' life satisfaction and peer victimization and prosocial experiences were assessed. A total of 417 students in Grades 6–8 completed the Multidimensional Students' Life Satisfaction Scale (MSLSS: Huebner, 1994) and the Children's Social Experience Questionnaire – Self Report (SEQ‐SR: Crick & Grotpeter, 1996) on two occasions (Time 1 and Time 2), 1 year apart. The results revealed that Time 1 life satisfaction scores did not add to the prediction of Time 2 overt victimization scores but did add to the prediction of Time 2 relational victimization scores and prosocial experiences. Additionally, Time 1 overt victimization, relational victimization, and prosocial experiences did not significantly add to the prediction of Time 2 general life satisfaction. However, the predictive equations for Time 1 relational victimization and prosocial experiences approached significance, suggesting the possibility of bidirectional effects between life satisfaction and relational victimization and prosocial peer experiences. Most interestingly, lower levels of life satisfaction appeared to be a newly identified risk factor for two qualitatively distinct types of adverse peer relationships (relational victimization and lack of prosocial experiences). © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Adolescents' collaboration in the classroom: Do peer relationships or gender matter?
Authors: Swenson Lisa M. , Strough Jonell
Published: August 2008

Peer collaboration can be a useful tool in a school classroom to help students perform at their best. With whom should students be paired, though? Previous research yields inconsistent findings regarding whether the benefits of peer collaboration depend on the gender or friendship of collaborators. We paired students with a same‐gender friend or a nonfriend in their classroom to examine whether friendship and specific dimensions of relationship quality were important for understanding adolescent (N = 132 high‐school students) boys' and girls' performance on a scientific reasoning task. Dimensions of relationship quality were related to task performance with greater perceived conflict predicting poorer performance. Girls outperformed boys, but the difference was marginal and nonsignificant after accounting for dimensions of relationship quality. Friends' and nonfriends' performance was similar. Results are informative for educators who use collaboration as an instructional technique and for other professionals who work to support the development of effective reasoning and problem‐solving skills among adolescents. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The role of social competence in predicting gifted enrollment
Authors: Curby Timothy W. , Rudasill Kathleen Moritz , Rimm‐Kaufman Sara E. , Konold Timothy R.
Published: August 2008

The purpose of this study is to examine how children's starting level and development of social competence (i.e., task orientation and peer sociability) during kindergarten and first grade predict gifted program enrollment by third grade, even after considering children's cognitive ability. A second purpose is to examine the extent to which the relationship between children's social competence and gifted program enrollment differs depending on children's socioeconomic status (SES), ethnicity, and gender. Latent growth curve analyses conducted on 347 children revealed that students enrolled in gifted programming were not only those high in cognitive ability, but also those showing early task orientation. Neither peer sociability's initial status nor growth was a significant predictor of gifted enrollment. Multigroup comparisons demonstrated different predictive paths for higher versus lower SES groups. Implications are discussed including important questions raised by this study and the need for teacher training in the identification of giftedness. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.