bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Family mediation: Problems and prospects
Authors: Sander Frank E. A.
Published: September 2008

What does the development of alternative means of dispute resolution suggest for the future of family mediation? What challenges face practicing mediators?
The role of the lawyer outside the mediation process
Authors: Samuels M. Dee , Shawn Joel A.
Published: September 2008

What are guidelines for the nonmediating lawyer before, during, and after mediation?
The attorney as divorce mediator
Authors: Berg Adriane G.
Published: September 2008

How does an attorney develop a mediation practice?
Training mediators for family dispute resolution
Authors: Moore Christopher W.
Published: September 2008

Adequate training for mediators assures proficient practitioners and high‐quality performance standards in an emerging field.
A preliminary portrait of client reactions to three court mediation programs
Authors: Pearson Jessica , Thoennes Nancy
Published: September 2008

What do reports by clients suggest for the development of mediation?
Mediation standards: An ethical safety net
Authors: Bishop Thomas A.
Published: September 2008

What guidance is provided by the American Bar Association's Standards of Practice for Family Mediators?
The development of parameters of practice for divorce mediation
Authors: Milne Ann L.
Published: September 2008

Concerns regarding standards and ethics result in the development of parameters of practice for divorce mediation.
The neutral mediator: Value dilemmas in divorce mediation
Authors: Bernard Sydney E. , Folger Joseph P. , Weingarten Helen R. , Zumeta Zena R.
Published: September 2008

Should the mediator remain neutral?
Bargaining in family mediation: Ethical considerations
Authors: Dibble Carl M.
Published: September 2008

Should bargaining have an important place in family mediation? It may have a place and still be ethically questionable.
Neighborhood justice systems: Work, structure, and guiding principles
Authors: Shonholtz Raymond
Published: September 2008

What are the benefits when community members help their neighbors to settle disputes?
Development of spray‐ and freeze‐dried high‐concentration sesamol emulsions and antioxidant evaluation in fibroblasts and UV‐exposed rat skin slices
Authors: Alencar Juliana , Gosset Gaëlle , Rahmouni Hidayat , Culcasi Marcel , Robin Maxime , Reynier Jean‐Pierre , Piccerelle Philippe , Pietri Sylvia
Published: September 2008

Dry sesamol emulsions were synthesized from several combinations of saccharose with hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) or sodium caseinate (SC) using spray‐drying techniques at 120° to 180°C, or freeze‐drying. On the basis of physical characteristics such as droplet size distribution, residual moisture, and microscopic structure, the best material was obtained when spray‐drying was applied at either 150° or 180°C with SC or HPMC as excipients, respectively. The extent to which the antioxidant properties of free sesamol towards a set of free radicals (galvinoxyl, diphenylpicrylhydrazyl, superoxide, and hydroxyl) were altered in the starting and reconstituted liquid emulsions submitted to normal storage or pre‐exposed to a flux hydroxyl radicals was investigated. Emulsions were further evaluated for their antioxidant properties in cultured 3T3 murine fibroblasts and in an ex vivo model of ultraviolet irradiated rat skin. It was found that, in the material having the best physical properties, encapsulation was decisive in: (1) improving the overall antioxidant behavior of reconstituted versus starting liquid emulsions: (2) sparing sesamol consumption due to free radical attack; and (3) significantly protecting cells and skin against free radical‐ or irradiation‐induced enzymatic release and/or lipid peroxidation. Demonstrating a high activity at high dilutions where interactions of excipient become negligible, the new emulsions could be of great interest in sesamol‐based pharmacology or topical applications. Drug Dev Res 69:251–266, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of clomiphene on [Ca2+]i rises and cell viability in rabbit corneal epithelial cells
Authors: Huang Chorng‐Chih , Huang Chun‐Jen , Cheng Jin‐Shiung , Liu Shiuh‐In , Chen I‐Shu , Tsai Jeng‐Yu , Chou Chiang‐Ting , Lin Muh‐Chiou , Jan Chung‐Ren
Published: September 2008

The effect of clomiphene a first‐line therapy for WHO group II (eu‐estrogenic) infertility on cytosolic free Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]i) and viability has not been explored in rabbit corneal epithelial cells (SIRC). This study examined whether clomiphene altered [Ca2+]i levels and caused cell death in SIRC cells. [Ca2+]i and cell viability were measured using the fluorescent dyes fura‐2 and WST‐1, respectively. Clomiphene at concentrations ≥5 µM increased [Ca2+]i in a concentration‐dependent manner. The Ca2+ signal was reduced partly by removing extracellular Ca2+. The clomiphene‐induced Ca2+ influx was insensitive to blockade of L‐type Ca2+ channel blockers. In Ca2+‐free medium, after pretreatment with 1 µM thapsigargin (an endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump inhibitor), clomiphene failed to increase [Ca2+]i. Inhibition of phospholipase C with 2 µM U73122 did not change clomiphene‐induced [Ca2+]i rises. At concentrations of 0.5–20 µM, clomiphene killed cells in a concentration‐dependent manner. The cytotoxic effect of 15 µM clomiphene was not reversed by prechelating cytosolic Ca2+ with BAPTA/AM. Collectively, in SIRC cells, clomiphene‐induced [Ca2+]i rises by causing Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum and Ca2+ influx from non‐L‐type Ca2+ channels. Clomiphene‐caused cytotoxicity was not mediated by a preceding [Ca2+]i rise. Drug Dev Res 69:272–278, 2008 ©2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cellular cholesterol efflux to serum is impaired in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Zhou Huali , Tan Kathryn C. B. , Shiu Sammy W. M. , Wong Ying
Published: September 2008

Background

Cholesterol efflux from cells is an early step of reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) and the capacity of serum to induce cellular cholesterol efflux has recently been shown to be an independent predictor of coronary artery atherosclerosis. Our aim is to evaluate the capacity of serum to induce ATP‐binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) and scavenger receptor class B type I (SR‐BI) mediated cholesterol efflux in type 2 diabetic patients with nephropathy.

Methods

Diabetic patients were recruited according to their urinary albumin excretion rate (normoalbuminuria, microalbuminuria and proteinuria) with 20 subjects in each group and compared with 20 age‐matched controls. The ability of the serum to induce cholesterol efflux was measured using a cell culture system.

Results

Serum capacity to induce ABCA1‐mediated cholesterol efflux was decreased in patients with microalbuminuria or proteinuria (p < 0.05) whereas SR‐BI‐mediated cholesterol efflux was impaired in all three groups of diabetic patients (p < 0.05). Plasma high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and apoAI were reduced in all groups of diabetic patients, but pre‐β‐HDL was only significantly decreased in those with microalbuminuria or proteinuria. Serum advanced glycation end products (AGEs) were significantly increased in diabetic patients with microalbuminuria or proteinuria. Serum AGEs and pre‐β‐HDL were the significant independent determinants of ABCA1‐mediated cholesterol efflux, whereas plasma HDL and log (creatinine) were the significant determinants of SR‐BI‐mediated cholesterol efflux.

Conclusion

The capacity of serum to induce ABCA1‐ and SR‐BI‐mediated cholesterol efflux was impaired in diabetic patients with incipient or overt nephropathy. These abnormalities may contribute to the accelerated development of atherosclerotic vascular disease in these patients. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conservation of notochord gene expression across chordates: Insights from the Leprecan gene family
Authors: Capellini Terence D. , Dunn Matthew P. , Passamaneck Yale J. , Selleri Licia , Di Gregorio Anna
Published: September 2008

The notochord is a defining character of the chordates, and the T‐box transcription factor Brachyury has been shown to be required for notochord development in all chordates examined. In the ascidian Ciona intestinalis, at least 44 notochord genes have been identified as bona fide transcriptional targets of Brachyury. We examined the embryonic expression of a subset of murine orthologs of Ciona Brachyury target genes in the notochord to assess its conservation throughout chordate evolution. We focused on analyzing the Leprecan gene family, which in mouse is composed of three genes, as opposed to the single‐copy Ciona gene. We found that all three mouse Leprecan genes are expressed in the notochord. Additionally, while Leprecan expression in C. intestinalis is confined to the notochord, expression of its mouse orthologs includes dorsal root ganglia, limb buds, branchial arches, and developing kidneys. These results have interesting implications for the evolution and development of chordates. genesis 46:683–696, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Phenotypic analyses of a medaka mutant reveal the importance of bilaterally synchronized expression of isthmic fgf8 for bilaterally symmetric formation of the optic tectum
Authors: Takashima Shigeo , Kage Takahiro , Yasuda Takako , Inohaya Keiji , Maruyama Kouichi , Araki Kazuo , Takeda Hiroyuki , Ishikawa Yuji
Published: September 2008

Developing neural tubes are bilaterally symmetric in all vertebrate embryos, irrespective of the presence of gene networks that generate left‐right asymmetry. To explore the mechanisms that underlie the bilaterally symmetric formation of the neural tube, we examined a medaka (Oryzias latipes) dominant mutant, Oot, the neural tube of which transiently lacks normal symmetry in the optic tectum. We found that spatial changes in isthmic fgf8 expression do not occur on one side of the mutant, resulting in a transient desynchronized expression that correlates with tectal asymmetry. The application of exogenous FGF8 on one side of a wild‐type embryo mimics the Oot phenotype, indicating that the bilaterally equivalent expression of isthmic fgf8 is crucial for the bilaterally symmetric development of the tectum. These results suggest that tectal symmetry is not a “default” state, but rather is maintained actively by a bilaterally coupled and synchronized regulation of isthmic fgf8 expression. genesis 46:537–545, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Generation of a conditional null allele for Cftr in mice
Authors: Hodges Craig A. , Cotton Calvin U. , Palmert Mark R. , Drumm Mitchell L.
Published: September 2008

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene encodes a cAMP‐regulated chloride channel that is important in controlling the exchange of fluid and electrolytes across epithelial cells. Mutation of CFTR can lead to cystic fibrosis (CF), the most common lethal genetic disease in Caucasians. CF is a systemic illness with multiple organ systems affected including pulmonary, gastrointestinal, pancreatic, immune, endocrine, and reproductive systems. To understand the role of CFTR in the various tissues in which it is expressed, we generated a murine conditional null allele of Cftr (Cftrfl10) in which loxP sites were inserted around exon 10 of the Cftr gene. The Cftrfl10 allele was validated by generating constitutive Cftr null (CftrΔ10) mice using the protamine‐cre system. The CftrΔ10/Δ10 mice displayed almost identical phenotypes to previously published CF mouse models, including poor growth, decreased survival, intestinal obstruction, and loss of Cftr function as assessed by electrophysiology measurements on gut and nasal epithelium. Mice containing the conditional null Cftr allele will be useful in future studies to understand the role of Cftr in specific tissues and developmental time points and lead to a better understanding of CF disease. genesis 46:546–552, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stem‐Loop DNA Probes for the Voltammetric Determination of Legionella pneumophila on Disposable Screen‐Printed Gold Electrodes
Authors: Miranda‐Castro Rebeca , Lobo‐Castañón M. Jesús , Miranda‐Ordieres Arturo J. , Tuñón‐Blanco Paulino
Published: September 2008

A disposable voltammetric sensor for the detection of DNA sequences specific of Legionella pneumophila is presented. The sensor is based on a sandwich‐hybridization format assay, using a stem‐loop DNA structure as capture probe immobilized onto a screen‐printed gold electrode. The signaling‐DNA probe is labeled with biotin, and streptavidin‐alkaline phosphatase is used as reporter molecule. 1‐Naphthol, the enzymatic hydrolysis product of α‐naphthyl phosphate, is voltammetrically detected. The hairpin‐modified screen‐printed gold electrode allows the detection of a 52‐mer DNA sequence at 400 pM level. With a sample volume of 40 μL, this concentration corresponds to ca. 16 fmol of a DNA sequence specific of L. pneumophila. The analytical performance of this platform is compared with that previously obtained for a sensor constructed on a conventional disk gold electrode with the same geometry (Ø=1.6 mm) and design. A lower quantification limit is obtained with the SPE. In addition, the selectivity is improved as the disposable device shows a better discrimination between L. pneumophila and L. longbeachae or L. micdadei under identical nonstringent conditions.
Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Nanophase Hexagonal Poly(2,5‐dimethoxyaniline)
Authors: Mavundla Sipho E. , Malgas Gerald F. , Baker Priscilla , Iwuoha Emmanuel. I.
Published: September 2008

Novel nanophase hexagonal structured polyaniline (PANI) and poly(2,5‐dimethoxyanilines) (PDMA) were synthesized by oxidative polymerization involving the respective anilines and a mixture of ferric chloride and ammonium persulfate. The morphological, spectral and electrochemical characteristics of the polymers were determined from the results of SEM, FTIR, UV‐vis, TGA and cyclic voltammetry experiments. The hexagonal PANI and PDMA nanorods (15–200 nm diameter) exhibited very good thermal stabilities, losing only 10% of their weight on heating to 400 °C. Electrochemical data indicated a pernigraniline state of the polymers with formal potential, E°′, values of 394±6 mV and 400±1 mV, for PANI (conductance, C=0.37×10−3 S) and PDMA (conductance, C=2.02×10−3 S), respectively. The pernigraniline state was confirmed by sharp FTIR pernigraniline quinoidic peaks (PANI: 1414 cm−1; PDMA: 1157 cm−1), and UV‐vis absorption maxima at 340–370 nm (PANI) and 450–650 nm (PDMA) which are characteristic of charge transfer excitons of the quinoid structures of pernigraniline.
CuO Nanospheres Based Nonenzymatic Glucose Sensor
Authors: Reitz Eliot , Jia Wenzhao , Gentile Michael , Wang Ying , Lei Yu
Published: September 2008

CuO nanospheres, synthesized by a simple one‐step hydrothermal method, have been applied to modify the glassy carbon (GC) electrode for sensitive nonenzymatic glucose detection. The CuO nanospheres modified electrode, compared to the Nafion modified GC electrode, exhibits an enhanced electrocatalytic property for direct glucose oxidation and shows a fast response and a high sensitivity for the amperometric detection of glucose. It has been determined that the dissolved oxygen is not involved in glucose oxidation and the high concentration of NaCl does not poison the electrode. These results also indicate that CuO nanospheres have great potential application in electrochemical detection.
Self‐centering steel connections with steel bars and a discontinuous composite slab
Authors: Chou Chung‐Che , Tsai Keh‐Chyuan , Yang Wen‐Chia
Published: September 2008

Six cyclic tests were conducted on three full‐scale subassemblies to investigate the behavior of interior beam‐to‐column post‐tensioned (PT) connections. Strands were placed along each side of the steel beam web, passing through the steel column to provide precompression between the beams and a column. Top and bottom energy‐dissipating (ED) bars, passing through the column and welded to the beam, were used to increase the moment capacity and ED capacity of the connection. One of the subassemblies also had a composite concrete slab with discontinuity at the column centerline to eliminate restraint from the metal deck, reinforcement, and welded wire mesh. The objectives of this paper were to investigate the following: the durability of the connection by loading each specimen twice, the ED capacity of the ED bar, and the effects that the type of ED bar and type of composite slab have on the self‐centering behavior of the connection. The experimental results showed that: (1) the connection could sustain severe inelastic cyclic loading at least twice without strength degradation, (2) the ED capacity of the bar was much larger than that dissipated by a single AISC loading protocol, and (3) a specimen with a discontinuous composite slab, which opened freely at the centerline of the column, ensured the same self‐centering hysteretic behavior as the bare steel specimen. However, the decompression moment of the PT connection decreased significantly at each interstory drift, resulting in an early opening of a gap at the beam–column interface. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Leptin regulation of proangiogenic molecules in benign and cancerous endometrial cells
Authors: Carino Cecilia , Olawaiye Alexander B. , Cherfils Salandre , Serikawa Takehiro , Lynch Maureen P. , Rueda Bo R. , Gonzalez Ruben R.
Published: September 2008

Several proangiogenic/proinflammatory factors involved in endometrial cancer are regulated by leptin, but the signaling mechanisms responsible for these leptin‐induced actions are largely unknown. Here, we report that in benign (primary and HES) and cancerous‐endometrial epithelial cells (EEC) (An3Ca, SK‐UT2 and Ishikawa), leptin in a dose‐dependent manner regulates vascular endothelial growth factor, (VEGF); interleukin‐1 beta, (IL‐1β); leukemia inhibitory factor, (LIF) and their respective receptors, VEGFR2, IL‐1R tI and LIFR. Remarkably, leptin induces a greater increase in VEGF/VEGFR2 and LIF levels in cancer than in benign cells. However, IL‐1β was only increased by leptin in benign primary‐EEC. Cancer‐EEC expressed higher levels of leptin receptor (full‐length OB‐Rb and short isoforms) in contrast to benign primary‐EEC. Leptin‐mediated activation of JAK2 (janus kinase 2) was upstream to the activation of PI‐3K (phosphatidylinositol‐3 kinase) and/or MAPK (mitogen‐activated protein kinase) signaling pathways. Leptin induction of cytokines/receptors generally involved JAK2 and MAPK activation, but PI‐3K phosphorylation was required for leptin increase of LIF, IL‐1/IL‐1R tI. Leptin‐mediated activation of mTOR (mammalian target of Rapamycin), mainly linked to MAPK, played a central role in leptin regulation of all cytokines and receptors. These results suggest that leptin's effects are cell‐specific and could confer a proliferative or cell survival advantage or possibly promote endometrial thickness. Leptin's effects on proangiogenic molecules were more evident in malignant versus benign cells and may imply that there is an underlying shift in leptin‐induced cell signaling pathways in endometrial cancer cells. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Decorin and its galactosaminoglycan chain: Extracellular regulator of cellular function?
Authors: Seidler Daniela G. , Dreier Rita
Published: September 2008

A molecular network of extracellular matrix molecules determines the tissue architecture and accounts for mechanical properties like compressibility or stretch resistance. It is widely accepted that the elements of the cellular microenvironment are important regulators of the cellular behavior in vitro and in vivo. One large group comprising these molecules is the family of proteoglycans. Both, the core proteins and, in particular, the attached galactosaminoglycans, contribute to the regulation network as they bind a variety of signaling molecules, e.g. cytokines, chemokines, growth, and differentiation factors. We would like to emphasize specific patterns of epimerization and sulfation within the galactosaminoglycans chains, because these result in “motifs” that are responsible for the modulation of signal factor binding, release and activity. This property is crucial in physiological and pathological conditions, for example development and wound healing. © 2008 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 60(11): 729–733, 2008
How an obscure archaeal gene inspired the discovery of selenocysteine biosynthesis in humans
Authors: Su Dan , Hohn Michael J. , Palioura Sotiria , Sherrer R. Lynn , Yuan Jing , Söll Dieter , O'Donoghue Patrick
Published: September 2008

Selenocysteine (Sec) is the 21st genetically encoded amino acid found in organisms from all three domains of life. Sec biosynthesis is unique in that it always proceeds from an aminoacyl‐tRNA precursor. Even though Sec biosynthesis in bacteria was established almost two decades ago, only recently the pathway was elucidated in archaea and eukaryotes. While other aspects of Sec biology have been reviewed previously (Allmang and Krol, Biochimie 2006;88:1561–1571, Hatfield et al., Prog Nucleic Acid Res Mol Biol 2006;81:97–142, Squires and Berry, IUBMB Life 2008;60:232–235), here we review the biochemistry and evolution of Sec biosynthesis and coding and show how the knowledge of an archaeal cysteine biosynthesis pathway helped to uncover the route to Sec formation in archaea and eukaryotes. © 2008 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 61(1): 35–39, 2009
Human head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells are both targets and effectors for the angiogenic cytokine, VEGF
Authors: Tong Meng , Lloyd Brandon , Pei Ping , Mallery Susan R.
Published: September 2008

Former vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)–head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) studies have focused on VEGF's contributions toward tumor‐associated angiogenesis. Previously, we have shown that HNSCC cells produce high levels of VEGF. We therefore hypothesized that VEGF serves a biphasic role, that is, pro‐angiogenic and pro‐tumorigenic in HNSCC pathogenesis. Western blots confirmed the presence of VEGF's primary mitogenic receptors, VEGFR‐2/KDR and VEGFR‐1/Flt‐1 in cultured HNSCC cells. Subsequent studies evaluated VEGF's effects on HNSCC intracellular signaling, mitogenesis, invasive capacities, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) activities. Introduction of hrVEGF165 initiated ROS‐mediated intracellular signaling, resulting in kinase activation and phosphorylation of KDR and Erk1/2. As high endogenous VEGF production rendered HNSCC cells refractory to exogenous VEGF's mitogenic effects, siRNA was employed, inhibiting endogenous VEGF production for up to 96 h. Relative to transfection vector matched controls, siRNA treated HNSCC cells showed a significant decrease in proliferation at both 30 and 50 nM siRNA doses. Addition of exogenous hrVEGF165 (30 and 50 ng/ml) to siRNA‐silenced HNSCC cells resulted in dose‐dependent increases in cell proliferation. Cell invasion assays showed VEGF is a potent HNSCC chemoattractant and demonstrated that VEGF pre‐treatment enhanced invasiveness of HNSCC cells. Conditioned media from VEGF challenged HNSCC cells showed a moderate increase in gelatinase activity. Our results demonstrate, for the first time, that HNSCC cells are both targets and effectors for VEGF. These data introduce the prospect that VEGF targeted therapy has the potential to fulfill both anti‐angiogenic and anti‐tumorigenic functions. J. Cell. Biochem. 105: 1202–1210, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Secretion of active membrane type 1 matrix metalloproteinase (MMP‐14) into extracellular space in microvesicular exosomes
Authors: Hakulinen Juha , Sankkila Lotta , Sugiyama Nami , Lehti Kaisa , Keski‐Oja Jorma
Published: September 2008

Membrane type 1 matrix metalloproteinase (MT1‐MMP, MMP14) is an efficient extracellular matrix (ECM) degrading enzyme that plays important roles in tissue homeostasis and cell invasion. Like a number of type I membrane proteins, MT1‐MMP can be internalized from the cell surface through early and recycling endosomes to late endosomes, and recycled to the plasma membrane. Late endosomes participate in the biogenesis of small (30–100 nm) vesicles, exosomes, which redirect plasma membrane proteins for extracellular secretion. We hypothesized that some of the endosomal MT1‐MMP could be directed to exosomes for extracellular release. Using cultured human fibrosarcoma (HT‐1080) and melanoma (G361) cells we provide evidence that both the full‐length 60 kDa and the proteolytically processed 43 kDa forms of MT1‐MMP are secreted in exosomes. The isolated exosomes were identified by their vesicular structure in electron microscopy and by exosomal marker proteins CD9 and tumor susceptibility gene (TSG101). Furthermore, exosomes contained β1‐integrin (CD29). The exosomes were able to activate pro‐MMP‐2 and degrade type 1 collagen and gelatin, suggesting that the exosomal MT1‐MMP was functionally active. The targeting of MT1‐MMP in exosomes represents a novel mechanism for cancer cells to secrete membrane type metalloproteolytic activity into the extracellular space. J. Cell. Biochem. 105: 1211–1218, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Specific signaling cascades involved in cell spreading during healing of micro‐wounded gastric epithelial monolayers
Authors: Tétreault Marie‐Pier , Chailler Pierre , Beaulieu Jean‐François , Rivard Nathalie , Ménard Daniel
Published: September 2008

Mechanisms that specifically modulate cell spreading and/or cell migration following epithelial wounding are poorly understood. Using micro‐wounded human gastric epithelial monolayers, we show herein that EGF and TGFα maximally increase spreading of epithelial sheets under a cell proliferation‐independent mechanism. Treatment of confluent HGE‐17 cells with the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase inhibitor, LY294002, and the epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor, PD153035, strongly reduced basal and TGFα‐stimulated cell spreading. While pharmacological inhibition of pp60src‐kinase activity also attenuated basal epithelial spreading, addition of the mTOR/p70S6K inhibitor rapamycin or a specific siRNA targeting ILK sequence did not affect the kinetic rates of wound closure. Epithelial wound healing was initiated by actin purse‐string contraction followed by lamellae formation. Conversely, disruption of actin and tubulin stability with cytochalasin D and nocodazole, respectively, inhibited epithelial sheet spreading. Finally, antibodies directed against the α3 integrin subunit, but not against the α6 or α2 subunits, attenuated epithelial sheet spreading as well as lamellae formation. In conclusion, the current investigation establishes that EGF/TGFα and the α3β1 integrin, pp60c‐src, EGFR and PI3K pathways are mainly associated with the cell spreading of the restitution process during healing of human gastric epithelial wounds. J. Cell. Biochem. 105: 1240–1249, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hybridization between Crocodylus acutus and Crocodylus moreletii in the Yucatan Peninsula: II. evidence from microsatellites
Authors: Rodriguez David , Cedeño‐Vázquez José Rogelio , Forstner Michael R. J. , Densmore Llewellyn D.
Published: September 2008

Detecting and quantifying hybridization between endangered or threatened taxa can provide valuable information with regards to conservation and management strategies. Hybridization between members of the genus Crocodylus has been known to occur in captivity and in some wild populations. We tested for hybridization among wild populations of American crocodile (C. acutus) and Morelet's crocodile (C. moreletii) in the Yucatan Peninsula by comparing Bayesian assignment tests, based on microsatellite data, to mitochondrial and morphological assignments. Skin clips from 83 individuals were taken for genetic identification, and a total of 32 individuals (38.6%) exhibited some evidence of hybridization by combined morphological, mitochondrial and microsatellite analyses. The majority of hybrids were classified as F2 hybrids and backcrosses to C. moreletii. Most of the introgression occurs in two national biosphere reserves located on the northern and eastern coasts of the Yucatan Peninsula. Preliminary tests did not find a significant decrease in hybridity across three life stages, thus far indicating a low level of selection against hybrids. Model‐based analyses on multilocus genotypes of pure individuals returned little geographic partitioning in both C. acutus and C. moreletii. J. Exp. Zool. 309A:674–686, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Probing the limits of molecular imprinting: strategies with a template of limited size and functionality
Authors: Petcu Miruna , Karlsson Jesper G. , Whitcombe Michael J. , Nicholls Ian A.
Published: September 2008

A series of polymers molecularly imprinted with the general anaesthetic propofol were synthesized using both semi‐ and non‐covalent approaches. The polymers were evaluated with respect to template rebinding in both aqueous and organic media. In aqueous media, the observed propofol binding in these polymer systems was largely hydrophobic and non‐specific in nature. In non‐polar solvents such as hexane, electrostatic (hydrogen bonding) interactions dominate resulting in some selectivity. The implication of these results, in conjunction with those obtained using structures of similar size in other studies, is that propofol, a template possessing limited functionality and size, appears to define the lower limit for template size and degree of functionalization that can be used for the creation of ligand‐selective recognition sites in molecularly imprinted polymers. Furthermore, studies with alternative ligands indicate that the steric crowding of a ligand's functionality to the polymer contributes to the extent of polymer–ligand recognition. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stepwise examination for differential diagnosis of primary lung cancer and breast cancer relapse presenting as a solitary pulmonary nodule in patients after mastectomy
Authors: Okasaka Toshiki , Usami Noriyasu , Mitsudomi Tetsuya , Yatabe Yasushi , Matsuo Keitaro , Yokoi Kohei
Published: September 2008

Background and Objectives

The distinction of primary lung from metastatic breast cancer is crucial in patients presenting with a solitary pulmonary nodule after mastectomy, because treatment strategies are completely different. Definitive diagnosis of these nodules, however, is often difficult. We assessed the feasibility of our diagnostic approach for these nodules and estimated the frequency of primary lung cancer occurrence in patients after mastectomy.

Methods

We evaluated solitary pulmonary nodules appearing in 48 patients after mastectomy. For histological examination, CT‐guided needle aspiration biopsy (CT‐NAB) or trans‐bronchial lung biopsy (TBLB) was performed. Besides conventional morphopathological examination, differential diagnosis was performed by immunohistochemical examination and evaluation using a molecular marker (mammaglobin 1).

Results

Biopsy specimens were obtained using minimally invasive methods, namely CT‐NAB and TBLB, in 91.7% of patients. From 48 patients, differential diagnosis was obtained by morphopathological methods alone in 32, and by immunohistochemical and molecular marker examination in the remaining 16. Final diagnosis was metastatic breast and primary lung cancer in 40 (83.3%) and 8 patients (16.7%), respectively.

Conclusions

Our results show the clinical feasibility of our stepwise approach to the differential diagnosis of primary lung cancer and breast cancer relapse presenting as a solitary nodule in patients after mastectomy. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;98:510–514. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Gastric Cancer histology: Clinicopathologic characteristics and prognostic value
Authors: Park Joong‐Min , Jang You‐Jin , Kim Jong‐Han , Park Sung‐Soo , Park Seong‐Heum , Kim Seung‐Joo , Mok Young‐Jae , Kim Chong‐Suk
Published: September 2008

Background and Objectives

Gastric cancer can be divided into two major histologic categories, that is, differentiated and undifferentiated types. In the present study, we sought to clarify the prognoses and clinicopathologic characteristics of signet ring cell carcinoma and mucinous carcinoma, both of which are mucin‐producing tumors of the undifferentiated type.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed medical records of 2,275 patients who underwent gastric resection. Cases were divided into four histologic groups: differentiated carcinoma (well differentiated and moderately differentiated, WMD), poorly differentiated (PD), signet ring cell carcinoma (SRC), and mucinous carcinoma (MC).

Results

The overall cumulative 5‐year survival rates for patients were 67% for WMD, 54% for PD, 65% for SRC, and 48% for MC. The outcome of SRC was similar to that of WMD, whereas that of MC was similar to that of PD. Stage‐stratified analysis revealed that histologic type was not statistically related to survival in patients with stage I, II, or III. On the other hand, histologic type in patients with stage IV disease was found to be significantly associated with survival.

Conclusions

Histologic classifications of mucin‐producing gastric cancers should separately be considered from other histologic types. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;98:520–525. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis of Collagen‐Like Sequential Polypeptides Containing O‐Phospho‐L‐Hydroxyproline and Preparation of Electrospun Composite Fibers for Possible Dental Application
Authors: Ohkawa Kousaku , Hayashi Shinya , Kameyama Naoto , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Yamaguchi Mina , Kimoto Shigenari , Kurata Shigeaki , Shinji Hisaaki
Published: September 2008

A synthetic route is described for collagen‐like polypeptides constructed from O‐phospho‐L‐hydroxyproline [Hyp(PO3H2)] residues. Using the synthetic polypeptides and a natural protein, gelatin, fine fibers and their network structures (ESNWs) were prepared via electrospinning. The composite ESNWs can induce the mineralization of calcium phosphate. The phosphoryl groups of the Hyp(PO3H2) residues affect both the crystalline phase and amount of the calcium phosphate, depending on the chemical structure in the repeating sequence. The composite ESNWs can be developed as a biocompatible replacement of the extracellular matrix of hard tissues, and thus can be applied as dental materials for restoration of dental cavities or as a sealant for pits and fissures.

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Comonomer Length Influence on the Structure and Mechanical Response of Metallocenic Polypropylenic Materials
Authors: Palza Humberto , López‐Majada Juan M. , Quijada Raúl , Pereña José M. , Benavente Rosario , Pérez Ernesto , Cerrada María L.
Published: September 2008

The structure and properties have been comprehensively studied for metallocene copolymers of propylene‐1‐hexene (CiPH) and propylene‐1‐octadecene (CiPOD). The comonomer content constitutes the most important factor affecting both structure and properties in these CiPH and CiPOD copolymers, although the length of the comonomer is also very important. Thus, a considerable decrease in crystallinity and an easier obtainment of mesomorphic‐like ordered entities are observed in the two kinds of copolymers as comonomer content increases. The variations in crystalline structure significantly influence the viscoelastic and mechanical behaviors of these CiPH and CiPOD copolymers. Consequently, the location and intensity of the different relaxation mechanisms as well as stiffness parameters (storage, Young's moduli, and microhardness) and deformation mechanism are strongly dependent upon composition.

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Smart Surface of Gold Nanoparticles Fabricated by Combination of RAFT and Click Chemistry
Authors: Zhang Tao , Zheng Zhaohui , Ding Xiaobin , Peng Yuxing
Published: September 2008

A simple efficient post‐modification route to the fabrication of hybrid gold nanoparticles with poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAm) based on click chemistry is described. The PNIPAm was prepared by reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer radical polymerization (RAFT). The PNIPAm was immobilized onto gold nanoparticles with grafting densities of 5.8 chains · nm−2 by a click reaction. The hybrid gold nanoparticles showed a temperature responsive phenomenon as the temperature changed between 20 and 45 °C.

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A New pH Sensor Using the Fluorescence Quenching of Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Cho Eun Seon , Hong Sung Woo , Jo Won Ho
Published: September 2008

A new pH sensor based on carbon nanotubes (CNTs), which consist of a fluorescent molecule and a CNT attached to each chain end of a pH sensitive polysulfonamide, respectively, is synthesized, and its pH sensitivity is examined in terms of the fluorescent quenching efficiency of the CNT. The pH sensitive polymeric linker shows an abrupt conformational change between an expanded coil structure and a collapsed globule structure, which results in the drastic on‐and‐off fluorescent quenching efficiency because of the change in the distance between the fluorophore and CNT. This CNT‐based sensor responds to a small change in pH with well‐defined on‐and‐off behavior, and also shows an excellent reversibility against pH change, which explains its feasibility to be widely used in the areas of biological and environmental applications.

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The FOOTSTEP self‐management foot care programme: Are rheumatoid arthritis patients physically able to participate?
Authors: Semple R. , Newcombe L.W. , Finlayson G.L. , Hutchison C.R. , Forlow J.H. , Woodburn J.
Published: September 2008

Background: The FOOTSTEP self‐management foot care programme is a clinical and cost‐effective programme for basic foot care in the elderly. The aim of this study was to determine if patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) would be physically able to participate.

Methods: A consecutive cohort of RA patients undergoing podiatry care underwent tests for sight, reach and grip strength to determine their physical ability to undertake self‐managed foot care.

Results: Thirty RA patients (10 male, 20 female), with a median age of 61 years (range 42 to 84) and disease duration of 10 years (range one to 40), were recruited. All patients passed the sight test, whereas the reach and grip tests were passed by 77% and 67% of patients, respectively. Only 57% of patients passed all the physical tests. Patients who failed the physical tests were older, and had longer disease duration and higher physical disability, pain and general health scores but these were not statistically different.

Conclusions: Just over half the patients in this present cohort may be physically able to undertake some aspects of self‐managed foot care, including nail clipping and filing, callus filing and daily hygiene and inspection. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A generalized midpoint algorithm for the integration of a generalized plasticity model for sands
Authors: Mira P. , Tonni L. , Pastor M. , Fernández Merodo J. A.
Published: September 2008

This paper describes a method of performing the integration of generalized plasticity models, in which, unlike classical elastoplasticity, the yield surface is not explicitly defined. The algorithm is based on a generalized midpoint scheme and is applied to a specific generalized plasticity model for sands, in which a hyperelastic formulation is introduced to describe the reversible component of the soil response instead of the hypoelastic approach originally proposed. In this way, an efficient integration scheme is developed in the elastic strain space. The consistent, algorithmic tangent operator is derived. Isoerror maps are generated to study the local accuracy of the numerical integration algorithm. Results from a series of numerical examples based on the simulation of drained triaxial tests are given to illustrate the accuracy and convergence properties of the algorithm, both at the local and at the global level. Finally an example is given of the simulation of a cyclic triaxial test to illustrate the improvement on accuracy caused by the use of a hyperelastic law into the constitutive equations, as opposed to the hypoelastic formulation initially adopted in the model. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reversal of the Hall coefficient sign under homogenization
Authors: Briane Marc , Milton Graeme
Published: September 2008

This work deals with the homogenization of the Hall effect in dimension three. The effective Hall coefficient preserves the bounds of the local Hall coefficient in dimension two. This is not the case in dimension three. We present a three‐dimensional composite for which the homogenized Hall coefficient has opposite sign to the local Hall coefficient. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Retrieving topological information from the phase‐field description of geometric evolution
Authors: Du Qiang
Published: September 2008

Phase field and diffuse interface are popular methods for the modeling and simulations of evolving interfaces. They do not track the interface explicitly, and are insensitive to topological events. In some areas of applications, detecting and controlling topological change may be important. In this talk, we discuss some recent works with current and former colleagues at Penn State (C. Liu, R. Ryham, and X. Wang) on the development of effective formula for retrieving topological information within the phase field framework. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Optimal control for networks of gas‐pipelines
Authors: Dymkou Siarhei , Leugering Guenter
Published: September 2008

We consider the optimization and control of gas‐flow in networks of pipelines. The main objective is to maximize the throughput through the pipeline from the providers to the customers by choosing proper valve‐ and release‐configurations as well as compressors in order to maintain the pressure in given bounds. This problem is considered in the context of a multistage mathematical formalization. Namely on the first stage we use the graph model in order to define the “basic regime” for the pressure and flow gas. On the second stage the detailed description of dynamic processes in gas pipeline units based on nonlinear partial hyperbolic equation which are linearized in some neighborhood of the “basic regime” defined on the first stage. In the presented paper the mathematical model and the corresponding optimization problem of gas transport networks are introduced on the basis of the constructive approach in the graph and 2‐D system setting. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Stability and bound‐exceeding elastic and viscoelastic response of composite materials having a negative‐stiffness phase
Authors: Kochmann D. M. , Drugan W. J.
Published: September 2008

We show that a composite material with one phase having negative bulk and Young's moduli (and therefore being unstable by itself) can be stable overall under dead traction boundary conditions if the encapsulating phase is sufficiently stiff. We also show experimental evidence that appropriate tuning of the negative‐stiffness phase can lead to bound‐exceeding elastic and viscoelastic overall material response. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Algebraic substructuring (AS) for eigenvalue and frequency response calculations
Authors: Bai Zhaojun , Gao Weiguo , Ko Jin‐Hwan , Li Xiaoye S. , Yang Chao
Published: September 2008

Eigenvalue and frequency response calculations are ubiquitous in scientific modeling and engineering analysis. Algebraic substructuring (AS) method is a powerful numerical technique for solving extremely large scale problems. We developed a unified framework and AS code that can solve both problems efficiently. Furthermore, we addressed some of the open problems in this field, including resolving arbitrary eigenmodes, performing high frequency response analysis, accuracy and performance. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Existence and uniqueness results for a nonlinear differential system
Authors: Luca‐Tudorache Rodica
Published: September 2008

We study the existence, uniqueness and asymptotic behavior of the strong and weak solutions of a nonlinear differential system with 2Nequations in a real Hilbert spaceH, subject to a boundary condition and initial data. This problem is a discrete version with respect to spatial variable x of some partial differential problems (withH= ℝn), which have applications in integrated circuits modelling
On a numerical solution of the Cauchy problem for the Laplace equation by the fundamental solutions method
Authors: Ohe Takashi , Yamatani Katsu , Ohnaka Kohzaburo
Published: September 2008

We discuss a numerical method to solve a Cauchy problem for the Laplace equation in the two‐dimensional annular domain.

We consider the case that the Cauchy data is given on an arc. We develop an approximation method based of the fundamental solutions method using the least squares method with Tikhonov regularization. The effectiveness of our method is examined by a numerical experiment. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Aspects of vortex dynamics in Ginzburg‐Landau models
Authors: Bethuel Fabrice , Orlandi Giandomenico , Smets Didier
Published: September 2008

We survey some recent work concerning the asymptotic dynamics of vortices in the 2‐dimensional parabolic Ginzburg‐Landau equation, the interaction of vortices with the phase field and the limiting initial value problem for both vortices and phase. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Towards the problem of hydrodynamic stability of plane‐parallel dusty‐gas flows
Authors: Osiptsov Alexander , Boronin Sergei
Published: September 2008

Several modifications of the classical Saffman formulation of the dusty‐gas flow linear stability problem are considered. Dispersed flows are described by a two‐fluid model. Linear stability problems are reduced to the solution of modified Orr‐Sommerfeld equations which are solved by the orthogonalization method. It is shown, that the additional factors taken into account in the problem formulation affect significantly the flow stability limits. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A new stretch‐twist‐fold model for fast dynamo
Authors: Ricca Renzo L. , Maggioni Francesca
Published: September 2008

Preliminary results on a new Stretch‐Twist‐Fold (STF) kinematic model for fast dynamo are presented. The evolution is prescribed by equations that govern the simultaneous stretching, writhing and coiling of a magnetic flux‐tube by diffeomorphism of the initial circular configuration. Simple estimates based on minimized magnetic energy show that exponential growth of the magnetic field is indeed possible. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)