bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Philadelphia Prisons: Amour, Alcohol, and Other Forbidden Pleasures
Authors: Johnston Norman
Published: December 2009

Philadelphia from the end of the Revolution until the mid-19th century was known worldwide for its innovations and ideals in the treatment of offenders. This article examines conditions, albeit for limited time periods, when the iconic Walnut Street Jail and Eastern State Penitentiary were sites for parties, drinking, and sexual escapades, which were a far cry from the image projected by officials and reformers. Although in each case the accusations were acutely embarrassing and serious, both institutions weathered them. At Eastern State Penitentiary, a low-ranking woman on the staff was well qualified by her behavior to be the scapegoat, and the unsavory facts concerning the warden and others soon dissipated, with little discernable damage to the image of the prison as an ideal of a new form of treatment for criminals.
Doing the Devil’s Work: Heavy Metal and the Threat to Public Order in the Muslim World
Authors: Levine Mark
Published: December 2009

The author explores how the millennia-old concept of Satan in the three Abrahamic faiths has shaped the cultural landscape in which heavy metal as a musical genre has been experienced and responded to in the Muslim world. He first surveys the evolution of Satan from the Hebrew Scriptures through the Quran, and its subsequent development in Islamic thought through the contemporary period. He then discusses the socio-economic and political environment that influenced the development of heavy metal as an art form, and why it has had such resonance in the Middle East and the larger Muslim world. Finally, he explores the largely negative reaction to the music by Muslim governments and societies, and how, in a certain sense, today’s Muslim metalheads are fulfilling a historic function of Satan in Islamic theology.
Effects of combined exposure to dichlorvos and monocrotophos on blood and brain biochemical variables in rats
Authors: Dwivedi Nidhi , Bhutia Yangchen D , Kumar Vinesh , Yadav Preeti , Kushwaha Pramod , Swarnkar Harimohan , Flora SJS
Published: December 2009

Dichlorvos (DDVP) and monocrotophos (MC) are systemic insecticides and known to produce cholinergic and non-cholinergic effects. Individual toxic effects of these chemicals are known but their combined effects have not been studied. We studied the effect of concomitant exposure to DDVP and MC on selected biochemical variables suggestive of liver damage, changes in whole brain biogenic amines levels, acetylcholinesterase (AchE) and monoamine oxidase (MAO) activities in rats. Female rats were exposed to DDVP (2.5 mg/kg subcutaneously) and MC (1.8 mg/kg oral) either individually or in combination for 4 weeks. We observed significant decrease in more pronounced depletion in norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA) levels during co-exposure to DDVP and MC. Brain AChE activity increased and activity of MAO showed significant depletion on co-exposure to DDVP and MC. Brain glutathione (GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) ratio decreased significantly during exposure to DDVP or MC while co-exposure to these toxicants led to a more pronounced depletion of GSH: GSSG ratio. Serum aspartate amino transferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities increased significantly on exposure to MC suggesting liver injury, while DDVP alone had no effect on these variables. There were no effects of DDVP and MC exposure on haematological biochemical variables except for depletion in serum glucose level after MC exposure which was more pronounced DDVP + MC during co-exposure. It can be concluded that only moderate synergistic effects occur between MC and DDVP during co-exposure. A more detailed study with variable doses, prolonged exposure and alterations in different brain regions is recommended.
ADHD candidate gene (DRD4 exon III) affects inhibitory control in a healthy sample
Authors: Krämer Ulrike M , Rojo Nuria , Schüle Rebecca , Cunillera Toni , Schöls Ludger , Marco-Pallarés Josep , Cucurell David , Camara Estela , Rodriguez-Fornells Antoni , Münte Thomas F
Published: December 2009

Background

Dopamine is believed to be a key neurotransmitter in the development of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Several recent studies point to an association of the dopamine D4 receptor (DRD4) gene and this condition. More specifically, the 7 repeat variant of a variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR) polymorphism in exon III of this gene is suggested to bear a higher risk for ADHD. In the present study, we investigated the role of this polymorphism in the modulation of neurophysiological correlates of response inhibition (Go/Nogo task) in a healthy, high-functioning sample.

Results

Homozygous 7 repeat carriers showed a tendency for more accurate behavior in the Go/Nogo task compared to homozygous 4 repeat carriers. Moreover, 7 repeat carriers presented an increased nogo-related theta band response together with a reduced go-related beta decrease.

Conclusions

These data point to improved cognitive functions and prefrontal control in the 7 repeat carriers, probably due to the D4 receptor's modulatory role in prefrontal areas. The results are discussed with respect to previous behavioral data on this polymorphism and animal studies on the impact of the D4 receptor on cognitive functions.
CXCR4 expression heterogeneity in neuroblastoma cells due to ligand-independent regulation
Authors: Carlisle Alex J , Lyttle Christopher A , Carlisle Rosalind Y , Maris John M
Published: December 2009

Background

CXCR4, the receptor for the chemokine stromal-derived factor 1 (SDF-1), has been shown to mediate many of the processes essential for cancer progression such as tumor cell proliferation, metastasis, and angiogenesis. To understand the role of CXCR4 in the biology of neuroblastoma, a disease that presents with wide spread metastases in over 50% of patients, we screened ten patient derived-neuroblastoma cell-lines for basal CXCR4 expression and sought to identify characteristics that correlate with tumor cell phenotype.

Results

All cell lines expressedCXCR4mRNA at variable levels, that correlated well with three distinct classes of CXCR4 surface expression (low, moderate, or high) as defined by flow cytometry. Analysis of the kinetics of CXCR4 surface expression on moderate and high expressing cell lines showed a time-dependent down-regulation of the receptor that directly correlated with cell confluency, and was independent of SDF1. Cell lysates showed the presence of multiple CXCR4 isoforms with three major species of approximately 87, 67 and 55 kDa associating with high surface expression, and two distinct species of 45 and 38 kDa correlating with low to null surface expression. Western blot analysis of CXCR4 immunoprecipitates showed that the 87 and 67 kDa forms were ubiquitinated, while the others were not. Finally, treatment of cells with a proteasome inhibitor resulted in down regulation of CXCR4 surface expression.

Conclusions

Taken together, these data show that regulation of CXCR4 surface expression in neuroblastoma cells can occur independently of SDF-1 contribution arguing against an autocrine mechanism. Additionally these data suggest that post-translational modifications of CXCR4, in part through direct ubiquitination, can influence trafficking of CXCR4 to the surface of neuroblastoma cells in a ligand-independent manner.
Differential Involvement of Trigeminal Transition Zone and Laminated Subnucleus Caudalis in Orofacial Deep and Cutaneous Hyperalgesia: the Effects of Interleukin-10 and Glial Inhibitors
Authors: Shimizu Kohei , Guo Wei , Wang Hu , Zou Shiping , LaGraize Stacey C , Iwata Koichi , Wei Feng , Dubner Ronald , Ren Ke
Published: December 2009

Background

In addition to caudal subnucleus caudalis (Vc) of the spinal trigeminal complex, recent studies indicate that the subnuclei interpolaris/caudalis (Vi/Vc) transition zone plays a unique role in processing deep orofacial nociceptive input. Studies also suggest that glia and inflammatory cytokines contribute to the development of persistent pain. By systematically comparing the effects of microinjection of the antiinflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-10 and two glial inhibitors, fluorocitrate and minocycline, we tested the hypothesis that there was a differential involvement of Vi/Vc and caudal Vc structures in deep and cutaneous orofacial pain.

Results

Deep or cutaneous inflammatory hyperalgesia, assessed with von Frey filaments, was induced in rats by injecting complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) into the masseter muscle or skin overlying the masseter, respectively. A unilateral injection of CFA into the masseter or skin induced ipsilateral hyperalgesia that started at 30 min, peaked at 1 d and lasted for 1–1 weeks. Secondary hyperalgesia on the contralateral site also developed in masseter-, but not skin-inflamed rats. Focal microinjection of IL-10 (0.006-1 ng), fluorocitrate (1 μg), and minocycline (0.1-1 μg) into the ventral Vi/Vc significantly attenuated masseter hyperalgesia bilaterally but without an effect on hyperalgesia after cutaneous inflammation. Injection of the same doses of these agents into the caudal Vc attenuated ipsilateral hyperalgesia after masseter and skin inflammation, but had no effect on contralateral hyperalgesia after masseter inflammation. Injection of CFA into the masseter produced significant increases in N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor NR1 serine 896 phosphorylation and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) levels, a marker of reactive astrocytes, in Vi/Vc and caudal Vc. In contrast, cutaneous inflammation only produced similar increases in the Vc.

Conclusion

These results support the hypothesis that the Vi/Vc transition zone is involved in deep orofacial injury and suggest that glial inhibition and interruption of the cytokine cascade after inflammation may provide pain relief.
Management of Disseminated Nonseminomatous Germ Cell Tumors With Risk-Based Chemotherapy Followed by Response-Guided Postchemotherapy Surgery
Authors: Kollmannsberger Christian , Daneshmand Siamak , So Alan , Chi Kim N. , Murray Nevin , Moore Christie , Hayes-Lattin Brandon , Nichols Craig
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The management of patients with a radiographic complete response after chemotherapy remains controversial. The current study assesses the outcome for a modern, unselected patient population with disseminated testicular cancer with particular emphasis on those achieving a radiographic complete remission to combination chemotherapy.

Patients and Methods

All patients with disseminated nonseminoma seen between 1999 and 2007 at the British Columbia Cancer Agency (BCCA) as well as through the Oregon Testis Cancer Program were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 276 patients treated with combination chemotherapy were identified. A radiographic complete remission (CR) was defined as disappearance of all metastatic lesions or minimal residual tissue ≤ 1 cm.

Results

One hundred sixty-one patients achieved a CR. Results for the total population and CR subset were as follows: International Germ Cell Cancer Consensus Group stage good/intermediate/poor 84%/5%/11% (CR subset, 94%/3%/3%), presence of teratoma in the primary tumor 40% (CR subset, 55%), relapses 13%, death from disease 3% (CR subset, 6% and 0%, respectively). Two of the total 10 relapses in the CR group occurred beyond 2 years. Eight of the 10 relapses in the CR group were treated surgically for teratoma alone, whereas two required salvage chemotherapy. Disease-specific survival for the CR group was 100% after a median follow-up of 52 months (range, 3 to 135 months).

Conclusion

Modern risk-adapted systemic chemotherapy with or without surgery for current populations of patients with disseminated testicular nonseminoma results in superb outcomes. Patients with disseminated germ cell tumors who obtain a complete serologic remission and no or minimal radiographic residual can be safely observed without adjunctive regional surgery.
Immunocytochemical Localization of Sex Steroid Hormone Receptors in Normal Human Mammary Gland
Authors: Li Sijie , Han Bing , Liu Guojin , Li Songyun , Ouellet Johanne , Labrie Fernand , Pelletier Georges
Published: December 2009

The sex steroids, estrogens, progesterone, and androgens, all play a role in mammary development and function. To precisely identify the sites of action of these steroids, we studied the localization of the estrogen receptor α (ERα) and ERβ, the progesterone receptor A (PRA) and PRB, and androgen receptors (AR) in the normal human mammary gland. Immunocytochemical localization of ERα, ERβ, PRA, PRB, and AR was performed with reduction mammoplasty specimens from premenopausal women. ERα, PRA, PRB, and AR were localized mostly to the inner layer of epithelial cells lining acini and intralobular ducts, as well as to myoepithelial cells scattered in the external layer of interlobular ducts. AR was also found in some stromal cells. ERβ staining was more widespread, resulting in epithelial and myoepithelial cells being labeled in acini and ducts as well as stromal cells. These results suggest that all sex steroids can directly act on epithelial cells to modulate development and function of the human mammary gland. Estrogens and androgens can also indirectly influence epithelial cell activity by an action on stromal cells.
Synthesis and Organization of Hyaluronan and Versican by Embryonic Stem Cells Undergoing Embryoid Body Differentiation
Authors: Shukla Shreya , Nair Rekha , Rolle Marsha W. , Braun Kathleen R. , Chan Christina K. , Johnson Pamela Y. , Wight Thomas N. , McDevitt Todd C.
Published: December 2009

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) provide a convenient model to probe the molecular and cellular dynamics of developmental cell morphogenesis. ESC differentiation in vitro via embryoid bodies (EBs) recapitulates many aspects of early stages of development, including the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) of pluripotent cells into more differentiated progeny. Hyaluronan and versican are important extracellular mediators of EMT processes, yet the temporal expression and spatial distribution of these extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules during EB differentiation remains undefined. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the synthesis and organization of hyaluronan and versican by using murine ESCs during EB differentiation. Hyaluronan and versican (V0 and V1 isoforms), visualized by immunohistochemistry and evaluated biochemically, accumulated within EBs during the course of differentiation. Interestingly, increasing amounts of a 70-kDa proteolytic fragment of versican were also detected over time, along with ADAMTS-1 and −5 protein expression. ESCs expressed each of the hyaluronan synthases (HAS) −1, −2, and −3 and versican splice variants (V0, V1, V2, and V3) throughout EB differentiation, but HAS-2, V0, and V1 were expressed at significantly increased levels at each time point examined. Hyaluronan and versican exhibited overlapping expression patterns within EBs in regions of low cell density, and versican expression was excluded from clusters of epithelial (cytokeratin-positive) cells but was enriched within the vicinity of mesenchymal (N-cadherin-positive) cells. These results indicate that hyaluronan and versican synthesized by ESCs within EB microenviron-ments are associated with EMT processes and furthermore suggest that endogenously produced ECM molecules play a role in ESC differentiation. This manuscript contains online supplemental material at http://www.jhc.org . Please visit this article online to view these materials.
Regulation by Blue Light of the fluffy Gene Encoding a Major Regulator of Conidiation in Neurospora crassa
Authors: Olmedo María , Ruger-Herreros Carmen , Corrochano Luis M
Published: December 2009

The development of asexual spores, that is, the process of conidiation, in the fungus Neurospora crassa is increased by light. The fluffy (fl) gene, encoding a major regulator of conidiation, is activated by light. We describe here a detailed characterization of the regulation by blue light of fl in vegetative hyphae. This induction requires the white collar complex (WCC) while the FLD protein acts as a dark repressor of fl transcription. We show that the WCC directly regulates fl transcription in response to blue light after transiently binding the promoter. We propose that fl is repressed by FLD in vegetative mycelia and that the repression is lost after light exposure and WCC activation. The increase in fl mRNA in vegetative mycelia after light exposure, and the corresponding increase in the amount of the regulatory FL protein, should promote the activation of the conidiation pathway. The activation by light of fl provides a simple mechanism for the activation of conidiation by blue light in Neurospora that may be at work in other fungi.
On the Classification of Epistatic Interactions
Authors: Gao Hong , Granka Julie M , Feldman Marcus W
Published: December 2009

Modern genomewide association studies are characterized by the problem of “missing heritability.” Epistasis, or genetic interaction, has been suggested as a possible explanation for the relatively small contribution of single significant associations to the fraction of variance explained. Of particular concern to investigators of genetic interactions is how to best represent and define epistasis. Previous studies have found that the use of different quantitative definitions for genetic interaction can lead to different conclusions when constructing genetic interaction networks and when addressing evolutionary questions. We suggest that instead, multiple representations of epistasis, or epistatic “subtypes,” may be valid within a given system. Selecting among these epistatic subtypes may provide additional insight into the biological and functional relationships among pairs of genes. In this study, we propose maximum-likelihood and model selection methods in a hypothesis-testing framework to choose epistatic subtypes that best represent functional relationships for pairs of genes on the basis of fitness data from both single and double mutants in haploid systems. We gauge the performance of our method with extensive simulations under various interaction scenarios. Our approach performs reasonably well in detecting the most likely epistatic subtype for pairs of genes, as well as in reducing bias when estimating the epistatic parameter (ε). We apply our approach to two available data sets from yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and demonstrate through overlap of our identified epistatic pairs with experimentally verified interactions and functional links that our results are likely of biological significance in understanding interaction mechanisms. We anticipate that our method will improve detection of epistatic interactions and will help to unravel the mysteries of complex biological systems.
p53+/mdm2− Atypical Lipomatous Tumor/Well-Differentiated Liposarcoma in Young Children: An Early Expression of Li-Fraumeni Syndrome
Authors: Debelenko Larisa V. , Perez-Atayde Antonio R. , Dubois Steven G. , Grier Holcombe E. , Pai Sung-Yun , Shamberger Robert C. , Kozakewich Harry P.W.
Published: December 2009

The spectrum of lipomatous tumors differs in the adult and pediatric populations, with liposarcoma being rare in children. Nearly 10% of individuals with Li-Fraumeni syndrome develop sarcomas in the first 2 decades of life; however, the frequency of sarcoma types and subtypes in this syndrome is unknown. Two atypical lipomatous tumors/well-differentiated liposarcomas (ALT/WDLS) were identified in the pathology files of our institution in young children from “classical” Li-Fraumeni and Li-Fraumeni variant kindreds with a known germline TP53 mutation (Y220C) in one of the families. The patients were 5 and 6 years of age and the ALT/WDLSs were the first expression of the syndrome. The tumors had a high degree of cellular atypia and differed from sporadic ALT/WDLS by strong nuclear immunoreactivity for p53 and absent mdm2 expression. This is the first report of 2 ALT/WDLSs presenting in children before 10 years of age, both in association with Li-Fraumeni syndrome/variant. ALT/WDLS in a young child should raise the possibility of a cancer predisposition syndrome and, in this setting, the p53+/mdm2− immunophenotype might be characteristic. Recognition of this lesion and its association is important for early diagnosis and subsequent tumor surveillance in the proband and affected family members.
Reflections on a Century of College Admissions Tests
Authors: Atkinson Richard C. , Geiser Saul
Published: December 2009

The College Boards started as achievement tests designed to measure students’ mastery of college preparatory subjects. Admissions testing has significantly changed since then with the introduction of the Scholastic Aptitude Test, Lindquist’s creation of the ACT, renewed interest in subject-specific assessments, and current efforts to adapt K–12 standards-based tests for use in college admissions. We have come full circle to a renewed appreciation for the value of achievement tests. Curriculum-based achievement tests are more valid indicators of college readiness than other tests and have important incentive or signaling effects for K–12 schools as well: They help reinforce a rigorous academic curriculum and create better alignment of teaching, learning, and assessment along the pathway from high school to college.
The Brazilian Pampa: A Fragile Biome
Authors: Roesch Luiz Fernando Wurdig , Vieira Frederico Costa Beber , Pereira Vilmar Alves , Schünemann Adriano Luis , Teixeira Italo Filippi , Senna Ana Julia Teixeira , Stefenon Valdir Marcos
Published: December 2009

Biodiversity is one of the most fundamental properties of Nature. It underpins the stability of ecosystems, provides vast bioresources for economic use, and has important cultural significance for many people. The Pampa biome, located in the southernmost state of Brazil, Rio Grande do Sul, illustrates the direct and indirect interdependence of humans and biodiversity. The Brazilian Pampa lies within the South Temperate Zone where grasslands scattered with shrubs and trees are the dominant vegetation. The soil, originating from sedimentary rocks, often has an extremely sandy texture that makes them fragile—highly prone to water and wind erosion. Human activities have converted or degraded many areas of this biome. In this review we discuss our state-of-the-art knowledge of the diversity and the major biological features of this regions and the cultural factors that have shaped it. Our aim is to contribute toward a better understanding of the current status of this special biome and to describe how the interaction between human activities and environment affects the region, highlighting the fragility of the Brazilian Pampa.
Immune Response among Patients Exposed to Molds
Authors: Edmondson David  A. , Barrios Christy  S. , Brasel Trevor  L. , Straus David   C. , Kurup Viswanath   P. , Fink Jordan  N.
Published: December 2009

Macrocyclic trichothecenes, mycotoxins produced by Stachybotrys chartarum, have been implicated in adverse reactions in individuals exposed to mold-contaminated environments. Cellular and humoral immune responses and the presence of trichothecenes were evaluated in patients with mold-related health complaints. Patients underwent history, physical examination, skin prick/puncture tests with mold extracts, immunological evaluations and their sera were analyzed for trichothecenes. T-cell proliferation, macrocyclic trichothecenes, and mold specific IgG and IgA levels were not significantly different than controls; however 70% of the patients had positive skin tests to molds. Thus, IgE mediated or other non-immune mechanisms could be the cause of their symptoms.
Trial Designs Likely to Meet Valid Long-Term Alzheimer's Disease Progression Effects: Learning from the Past, Preparing for the Future
Authors: Kemp Aaron S. , Grossberg George T. , Romano Steven J. , Arnold Douglas L. , Ryan J. Michael , Bullock Roger , Streiner David L.
Published: December 2009

The International Society for CNS Clinical Trials and Methodology (ISCTM) held its 4th Annual Autumn Conference in Toronto, Ontario, October 6-7, 2008. The purpose of the present report is to provide an overview of one of the sessions at the conference which focused on the designs and methodologies to be applied in clinical trials of new treatments for Alzheimer's disease (AD) with purported “disease-modifying” effects. The session began with a discussion of how neuroimaging has been applied in multiple sclerosis clinical trials (another condition for which disease modification claims have been achieved). The next two lectures provided a pharmaceutical industry perspective on some of the specific challenges and possible solutions for designing trials to measure disease progression and/or modification. The final lecture provided an academic viewpoint and the closing discussion included additional academic and regulatory perspectives on trial designs, methodologies, and statistical issues relevant to the disease modification concept.
Analytic validity of genetic tests to identify factor V Leiden and prothrombin G20210A
Authors: Emadi Ashkan , Crim Matthew T. , Brotman Daniel J. , Necochea Alejandro J. , Samal Lipika , Wilson Lisa M. , Bass Eric B. , Segal Jodi B.
Published: December 2009

The objective of this study is to systematically review methods for detecting Factor V Leiden or prothrombin G20210A. English‐language literature from MEDLINE®, EMBASE®, The Cochrane Library, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PsycInfo©, 2000‐December 2008. Studies assessed methods for detection of these mutations in at least 10 human blood samples and reported concordance, discordance, or reproducibility. Two investigators abstracted data on the sample selection criteria, test operators, DNA extraction, experimental test, reference standard, commercial instruments, concordance rates, explanation of any discordance, and whether discordance resolved after repetition. We assessed strength of the evidence using the GRADE criteria. We reviewed 7,777 titles and included 66 articles. The majority of the reviewed studies used PCR‐RFLP or AS‐PCR as the reference standard. The studies demonstrated that commercially available and precommercial tests have high analytic validity with all having greater than 99% concordance with the reference standard. With a few exceptions, discordance resolved with repetition of the test, suggesting operator or administrative errors were responsible for the discordant results. In the quality assurance studies, greater than 98% of laboratories demonstrated high, even perfect, accuracy when asked to diagnose a sample with a known mutation. The majority of errors came from a limited number of laboratories. Although not all methods may be accurate, there is high‐grade evidence that genetic tests for the detection of FVL and prothrombin G20210A have excellent analytic validity. There is high‐grade evidence that most, but not all, clinical laboratories test for FVL and prothrombin G20210A accurately. Am. J. Hematol., 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Co‐crystals with Acetylene: Small Is not Simple!
Authors: Kirchner Michael T. , Bläser Dieter , Boese Roland
Published: December 2009

Acetylene is an amazingly versatile component for the formation of co‐crystals. It requires careful handling and special techniques for crystallisation, but the efforts seem to be rewarding when attaining co‐crystals with small molecules as partners. Many basic questions such as the dominance of specific heterogeneous intermolecular interactions, their driving force for the formation of multicomponent crystals instead of neat ones are expected to be easily analysed. The underlying packing patterns and resulting stoichiometries based on the known supramolecular synthons seem to be straightforward for such small molecules and crystal engineering, considered as the prototype of supramolecular synthesis, should be a simple task. Nineteen co‐crystals with acetylene are presented in this paper, some of which have been previously reported individually. An attempt has been made to find features shared by the groups of co‐crystals, including those that could not be co‐crystallised. But in spite of clear ideas and experiences from previous experiments, surprisingly almost none of systems reached our expectations. Our intuitive approach was not fulfilled, which demonstrates that multicomponent crystals even of small molecules will remain a great challenge for theoretical methods and the crystal structures shown herein represent good candidates for future testing. On the other hand, we wish to encourage other groups to present their views on the crystal structures with an unbiased approach that may offer a better explanation than we are able to outline in this article.
Ionic‐Liquid‐Grafted Rigid Poly(p‐Phenylene) Microspheres: Efficient Heterogeneous Media for Metal Scavenging and Catalysis
Authors: Li Shenghai , Wang Junhua , Kou Yongli , Zhang Suobo
Published: December 2009

Novel guanidinium ionic liquid‐grafted rigid poly(p‐phenylene) (PPPIL) microspheres have been developed for metal scavenging and catalysis. The noble‐metal nanoparticles supported on the microspheres surface can be used as efficient heterogeneous catalysts. The combination of nanoparticles and ionic liquid fragments on the microsphere surfaces enhance the activity and durability of the catalyst. The PPPIL⋅Pd0 catalyst has been tested in the Suzuki cross‐coupling reaction, and exhibits much higher catalytic activity than Pd catalysts supported on porous polymer matrices. The PPPIL⋅Pd0 catalyst can be recycled at least for nine runs without any significant loss of activity. The present approach may, therefore, have potential applications in transition‐metal‐nanocatalyzed reactions.
Gene expression signatures in breast cancer distinguish phenotype characteristics, histologic subtypes, and tumor invasiveness
Authors: Pedraza Vincente , Gomez‐Capilla Jose A. , Escaramis Georgia , Gomez Carolina , Torné Pablo , Rivera Jose M. , Gil Angel , Araque Patricia , Olea Nicolas , Estivill Xavier , Fárez‐Vidal M. Esther
Published: December 2009

BACKGROUND:

The development of reliable gene expression profiling technology is having an increasing impact on the understanding of breast cancer biology.

METHODS:

In this study, microarray analysis was performed to establish gene signatures for different breast cancer phenotypes, to determine differentially expressed gene sequences at different stages of the disease, and to identify sequences with biologic significance for tumor progression. Samples were taken from patients before their treatment. After microarray analysis, the expression level of 153 selected genes was studied by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis.

RESULTS:

Several gene sequences were expressed differentially in tumor samples versus control samples and also were associated with different breast cancer phenotypes, estrogen receptor status, tumor histology, and grade of tumor differentiation. In lymph node‐negative tumors were identified a set of genes related to tumor differentiation grade.

CONCLUSIONS:

Several differentially expressed gene sequences were identified at different stages of breast cancer. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Supramolecular Dimers of Copper(II) Complexes Resulting from Designed Host–Guest Interactions
Authors: Nayak Malabika , Sarkar Sohini , Lemoine Pascale , Sasmal Sujit , Koner Rajesh , Sparkes Hazel A. , Howard Judith A. K. , Mohanta Sasankasekhar
Published: December 2009

Syntheses, characterization and crystal structures of fourdesigned host–guest compounds of the compositions [{CuIIL1}2⊂(H3N(ethylene)NH3)](NO3)2 (1), [{CuIIL1}2⊂(H3N(propylene)NH3)](NO3)2 (2), [{CuIIL1}2⊂(H3N(butylene)NH3)](NO3)2 (3) and [{CuIIL2}2⊂(H3N(ethylene)NH3)](NO3)2 (4) are described in this investigation [H2L1 = N,N′‐ethylenebis(3‐methoxysalicylaldimine); H2L2 = N,N′‐ethylenebis(3‐ethoxysalicylaldimine); ethylene = (CH2)2; propylene = (CH2)3; butylene = (CH2)4]. Compounds 2 and 3 crystallize in the orthorhombic Pcab and monoclinic C2/c systems, respectively, while the space group of compounds 1 and 4 is triclinic P$\bar {1}$. In all of these four compounds 1–4, the two +NH3 sites of the [H3N(CH2)nNH3]2+ dication (n = 2–4) behave as guests in the O4 compartment of two [CuIIL1/L2] moieties through bifurcated N–H···O(phenoxo) and N–H···O(methoxy/ethoxy) hydrogen‐bonding interactions. Evidently, two mononuclear copper(II) moieties are interlinked by bridging supramolecular synthons, resulting in the formation of a supramolecular dimer in the title compounds. From the extent of displacement of the N atoms of [H3N(CH2)nNH3]2+ from the least‐squares O(phenoxo)2O(methoxy/ethoxy)2 plane, it is clear that [CuIIL1] is a better host than [CuIIL2] for the diprotonated diamine guests. Comparison of the inclusion of water and diprotonated diamines in [CuIIL1/L2] is also described in the present investigation. Interestingly, of the two guest species, water and diprotonated diamines, [CuIIL2] prefers the former and [CuIIL1] prefers the latter.
Reappraising the geomorphology‐ecology link
Authors: Darby Stephen E
Published: December 2009

This thematic Virtual Special Issue highlights a personal selection of 18 recent (2007–2009) contributions to Earth Surface Processes and Landforms. These papers provide a flavour of recent research that is concerned with furthering our understanding of the many ways in which the biosphere interacts with the physical and chemical processes of sediment transfer/transformation. Much of this research has focused on understanding the mechanics by which the biota can modulate sediment transport and the strength of earth surface materials, often with the aim of applying that knowledge to enhance bioremediation methods of erosion control. This work continues to be fundamentally important in enhancing our understanding of earth surface processes, but often treats the biosphere and physical world as uncoupled entities. This selection therefore also provides samples of work that point to an ongoing but significant disciplinary reappraisal in which it is the interactions between ecological and geomorphological realms that are of primary interest. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prognostic value of MAGE‐A and NY‐ESO‐1 expression in pharyngeal cancer
Authors: Pastorcic‐Grgic Marija , Sarcevic Bozena , Dosen Danijel , Juretic Antonio , Spagnoli Giulio C. , Grgic Marko
Published: December 2009

Background

The prognostic value of cancer testis antigens in pharyngeal cancer is understudied.

Methods

We recruited 90 patients who were treated for pharyngeal cancer. Monoclonal antibodies 57B and B9.8.1.1 were used for detection of MAGE‐A and NY‐ESO‐1 genes.

Results

MAGE‐A and NY‐ESO‐1 gene products were detectable in 70.0% and 33.3% of pharyngeal tumors, respectively. No correlation was established between MAGE‐A and NY‐ESO‐1 expression and TNM staging at presentation. Survival analysis showed a trend toward a shorter 5‐year disease‐free survival in the group of patients with MAGE‐A–positive tumors (log‐rank test, p = .122). In contrast, a trend toward a prolonged 5‐year disease‐free survival was observed in the group of patients with NY‐ESO‐1–positive tumors (log‐rank test, p = .219).

Conclusion

In a large population of patients with pharyngeal cancer and available 5‐year survival data, prognosis tended to be poorer with MAGE‐A expression and better with NY‐ESO‐1 expression, but the correlations did not reach statistical significance. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2010
Clean synthesis of spiro[indole‐3,8′‐phenaleno[1,2‐b]pyran]‐9′‐carbonitriles and spiro[indole‐3,4′‐pyrano[4,3‐b]pyran]‐3′‐carbonitriles by one‐pot, three‐component reactions
Authors: Ghahremanzadeh Ramin , Amanpour Tayebeh , Bazgir Ayoob
Published: December 2009

magnified image

An environmentally benign three‐component reaction in aqueous media has been reported for the synthesis of spiro[indole‐3,8′‐phenaleno[1,2‐b]pyran]‐9′‐carbonitriles and spiro[indole‐3,4′‐pyrano[4,3‐b]pyran]‐3′‐carbonitriles. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2010).
Mycotoxin profiles in the grain of Triticum monococcum, Triticum dicoccum and Triticum spelta after head infection with Fusarium culmorum
Authors: Suchowilska Elżbieta , Kandler Wolfgang , Sulyok Michael , Wiwart Marian , Krska Rudolf
Published: December 2009

BACKGROUND: The aim of study was to investigate mycotoxin profiles in the grain of spring lines of Triticum monococcum (12 lines), T. dicoccum (13 lines) and T. spelta (five lines), in comparison to the T. aestivum cultivar Sumai‐3 which is resistant to Fusarium head blight. The grain was obtained from control heads and heads artificially inoculated in the field with Fusarium culmorum. Mycotoxins were determined by LC‐MS/MS.

RESULTS: A total of 11 toxins were identified in control grain samples. Deoxynivalenol (DON) concentrations exceeded 0.5 mg kg−1 in only three samples of T. monococcum grain and in one sample of T. dicoccum grain. Inoculation with F. culmorum resulted in a substantial increase in the concentrations of DON (to 63 mg kg−1) in the T. monococcum and DON‐3‐glucoside (to 5.6 mg kg−1) in the T. dicoccum. Inoculation contributed to a drop in tentoxin levels (by 57% in T. spelta) and to an increase of cyclodepsipeptide concentrations (in particular enniatins B and B1) being two‐fold (T. monococcum) to four‐fold (T. dicoccum) higher on average than in control samples. The Sumai‐3 responded to inoculation with nearly a two‐fold drop in the levels of the cyclodepsipeptides.

CONCLUSION: The results of a discriminant analysis for all identified toxins indicate that einkorn, emmer and spelt differ significantly with regard to the mycotoxin profiles of their grain. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
A bivariate optimal replacement policy for a cold standby repairable system with repair priority
Authors: Leung Kit Nam Francis , Zhang Yuan Lin , Lai Kin Keung
Published: December 2009

In this article, an optimal replacement policy for a cold standby repairable system consisting of two dissimilar components with repair priority is studied. Assume that both Components 1 and 2, after repair, are not as good as new, and the main component (Component 1) has repair priority. Both the sequence of working times and that of the components'repair times are generated by geometric processes. We consider a bivariate replacement policy (T,N) in which the system is replaced when either cumulative working time of Component 1 reaches T, or the number of failures of Component 1 reaches N, whichever occurs first. The problem is to determine the optimal replacement policy (T,N)* such that the long run average loss per unit time (or simply the average loss rate) of the system is minimized. An explicit expression of this rate is derived, and then optimal policy (T,N)* can be numerically determined through a two‐dimensional‐search procedure. A numerical example is given to illustrate the model's applicability and procedure, and to illustrate some properties of the optimal solution. We also show that if replacements are made solely on the basis of the number of failures N, or solely on the basis of the cumulative working time T, the former class of policies performs better than the latter, albeit only under some mild conditions. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2010
Molecular weight effects on gelation and rheological properties of konjac glucomannan–xanthan mixtures
Authors: Shen Dan , Wan Chao , Gao Shanjun
Published: December 2009

Fractions of konjac glucomannan (KGM) with various viscosity‐average molecular weights (Mv) ranging from 4.00 × 105 to 2.50 × 106 were prepared by hydrolysis degradation in hydrochloride acid/ethanol. Effect of Mv of KGM on the critical gelation temperature (Tgel) determined by Winter–Chambon criterion and the elasticity of KGM/xanthan mixed gels, a kind of binary gel formed by synergistic gelation, were investigated by dynamic viscoelastic measurements. It was shown that the value of Tgel of the gel was shifted to a higher temperature and the gel strength was enhanced when Mv of KGM was increased. The critical Mv (1.91 × 106) was observed, above which the Tgel and elasticity of the mixed gels showed no or slight increase. It was suggested that Tgel and elasticity of KGM/xanthan mixed gels mainly depend on the structure of junction zones driven by the strong interaction between KGM and xanthan, which was gradually improved with increasing Mv of KGM. It was found that the critical strain and yield stress of the mixed gels increased monotonically with the increasing Mv of KGM. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 48: 313–321, 2010
Multiple morphologies of the aggregates from self‐assembly of diblock copolymer with relatively long corona‐forming block in dilute aqueous solution
Authors: Zhao Fabao , Sun Jianping , Liu Zhilei , Feng Liang , Hu Jiwen
Published: December 2009

Reported here is self‐assembly behavior in selective solvent of diblock copolymers with relatively long corona‐forming block compared to core‐forming block. Three diblock copolymers, poly(ethylene glycol) monomethyl ether‐b‐poly(methacryloyl‐L‐leucine methyl ester), also denoted as MPEG‐b‐PMALM copolymer, were prepared by fixing MPEG block with an average number of repeating units of 115, whereas varying PMALM block with an average number of repeating unit of 44, 23, 9, respectively. Multiple morphologies, such as sphere, cylinder, vesicle, and their coexisted structures from self‐assembly of these diblock copolymers in aqueous media by changing block nonselective solvent and initial polymer concentration used in preparation, were demonstrated directly via TEM observation. These results herein might, therefore, demonstrate as an example that a wide range of morphologies can be accessed not only from “crew‐cut micelles” but also from “star‐micelles” by controlling over preparation strategies. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 48: 364–371, 2010
Role of dopamine D1receptors in caffeine‐mediated ERK phosphorylation in the rat brain
Authors: Acquas Elio , Vinci Stefania , Ibba Federico , Spiga Saturnino , De Luca Maria Antonietta , Di Chiara Gaetano
Published: December 2009

The aim of this research was to study the role of dopamine D1receptors in caffeine elicited ERK phosphorylation in the prefrontal and other cortical (cingulate and motor) and subcortical (shell and core of the nucleus accumbens) regions. To this end, caffeine (3 and 10 mg/kg) was administered before phosphoERK immunohistochemistry. Caffeine dose‐dependently increased the number of phosphoERK‐positive neurons in the prefrontal and cingulate cortices but not in the secondary motor cortex and in the nucleus accumbens shell and core. The dopamine D1receptor antagonist, SCH 39166 (50 μg/kg), fully prevented phosphoERK activation by caffeine (10 mg/kg) in the superficial and deep layers of the prefrontal cortex but failed to prevent it in the cingulate cortex. Given that phosphoERK can be regarded as a postsynaptic marker of neuronal activation, the present results indicate that psychotropic properties of caffeine may result from the activation of prefrontal, via dopamine D1receptors, and cingulate cortices. Failure of caffeine to activate ERK in the nucleus accumbens further supports, indirectly, the observation that caffeine fails to activate dopamine transmission in this structure and is consistent with the tenet that caffeine lacks of true addictive properties. Synapse 64:341–349, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The idea of anthropogenic global climate change in the 20th century
Authors: Weart Spencer R.
Published: December 2009

People had long speculated that human activities might affect a region's climate. But a developed conjecture that humanity might change the climate of the entire planet first appeared in 1896: a calculation that carbon dioxide from fossil fuel combustion could gradually warm the globe. Scientists soon rejected the idea. Most people thought it incredible that climate could change globally except on a geological timescale, pushed by forces far stronger than human activity. In midcentury, a few scientists revived the hypothesis of global warming. Meanwhile, the exponential growth of human activity, especially chemical pollution and nuclear armaments, was showing that humanity really could affect the entire atmosphere. Moreover, during the 1960s research suggested that small perturbations might lead to an abrupt change in the climate system. Although nobody expected serious impacts until the distant 21st century, some began to frame global warming not just as a scientific puzzle but as an environmental risk, a security risk, a practical policy question, an international relations issue, and even a moral problem. In the late 1970s a scientific consensus began to take shape, culminating around the end of the century in unanimous agreement among government representatives on essential points, although many uncertainties remained. Meanwhile, increasing media warnings of peril made most of the literate world public aware of the issue, which had deep implications for the human relationship with nature. Skepticism persisted, correlated with aversion to regulation. The majority of the world public were now concerned, but disinclined to take action Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

This article is categorized under:

Climate, History, Society, Culture > Ideas and Knowledge
State‐of‐the‐art with regional climate models
Authors: Rummukainen Markku
Published: December 2009

Regional climate models are used by a large number of groups, for more or less all regions of the world. Regional climate models are complementary to global climate models. A typical use of regional climate models is to add further detail to global climate analyses or simulations, or to study climate processes in more detail than global models allow. The relationship between global and regional climate models is much akin to that of global and regional weather forecasting models. Over the past 20 years, the development of regional climate models has led to increased resolution, longer model runs, and steps towards regional climate system models. During recent years, community efforts have started to emerge in earnest, which can be expected to further advance the state‐of‐the‐art in regional climate modeling. Applications of regional climate models span both the past and possible future climates, facilitating climate impact studies, information and support to climate policy, and adaptation. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

This article is categorized under:

Climate Models and Modeling > Earth System Models
Market and regulatory aspects of trans‐national offshore electricity networks for wind power interconnection
Authors: Roggenkamp Martha M. , Hendriks Ralph L. , Ummels Bart C. , Kling Wil L.
Published: December 2009

Subsea cable connections are an essential part of offshore wind power projects. Apart from direct connections between an offshore wind park to the national grid, several alternatives can be envisaged, including the connection to interconnectors between countries or direct connection to a country outside the jurisdiction where the wind park is based. Besides the technical‐economical constraints of these new types of grid connection, market and regulatory aspects need to be assessed. The paper gives an overview of these trans‐national connection schemes for wind power and considers integration into electricity markets and discusses regulatory implications. The scope of the research is Western Europe. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.