bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GAP43 overexpression and enhanced neurite outgrowth in mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIB cortical neuron cultures
Authors: Hocquemiller Michaël , Vitry Sandrine , Bigou Stéphanie , Bruyère Julie , Ausseil Jérôme , Heard Jean Michel
Published: August 2009

Behavioral manifestations mark the onset of disease expression in children with mucopolysaccharidosis type III (MPSIII, Sanfilippo syndrome), a genetic disorder resulting from interruption of the lysosomal degradation of heparan sulfate. In the mouse model of MPSIII type B (MPSIIIB), cortical neuron pathology and dysfunction occur several months before neuronal loss and are primarily cell autonomous. The gene coding for GAP43, a neurite growth potentiator, is overexpressed in the MPSIIIB mouse cortex, and neurite dystrophy was reported in other types of lysosomal storage diseases. We therefore examined the development of the neuritic trees in pure populations of MPSIIIB mouse embryo cortical neurons grown for up to 12 days in primary culture. Dynamic observation of living neurons and quantification of neurite growth parameters indicated more frequent neurite elongation and branching and less frequent neurite retraction, resulting in a relative overgrowth of MPSIIIB neuron neuritic trees, involving both dendrites and axons, compared with normal controls. Neurite overgrowth was concomitant with more than twofold increased expression of GAP43 mRNAs and proteins. Correction of the genetic defect leads to expression of the missing lysosomal enzyme, normal GAP43 mRNA expression, and reduced neurite outgrowth. These results indicate that heparan sulfate oligosaccharide storage modifies GAP43 expression in MPSIIIB cortical neurons with potential consequences for neurite development and neuronal functions that may be relevant to clinical manifestations. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Targets of the nuclear factor I regulon involved in early and late development of postmitotic cerebellar granule neurons
Authors: Wang Wei , Crandall James E. , Litwack E. David , Gronostajski Richard M. , Kilpatrick Daniel L.
Published: August 2009

Recent studies have shown that the nuclear factor I (NFI) family controls multiple stages of the postmitotic differentiation of cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs). Regulation of cell–cell signaling is an integral part of this NFI program, which involves expression of the cell adhesion molecules N cadherin and ephrin B1 throughout postmitotic CGN development. Here, we identify two additional downstream targets of NFI that are involved in extracellular CGN interactions. The cell adhesion molecule Tag‐1 is highly enriched in CGNs undergoing parallel fiber formation and is down‐regulated prior to onset of radial migration. We found that Tag‐1 expression was strongly reduced by NFI dominant repression in immature primary CGNs and in the cerebella of E18 Nfib‐null mice. Transient transfection and chromatin immunoprecipitation suggested that the Tag‐1 gene is directly regulated by NFI. Furthermore, functional, Nfi knockout and chromatin immunoprecipitation studies implicated Wnt7a as a direct target of NFI in maturing CGNs. Wnt7a is secreted by developing CGNs and is required for maturation of mossy fiber–CGN synaptic rosettes. Consistent with this, synapsin I was greatly reduced within the internal granule cell layer of P17 Nfia‐null mice. These findings indicated that NFI controls CGN postmitotic maturation through a combination of extracellular signaling molecules that operate either continuously to regulate multiple stages of development (N cadherin and ephrin B1) or primarily at early (Tag‐1) or late (Wnt7a) maturation steps. They also illustrate the importance of NFI as a critical link between cell‐intrinsic mechanisms and cell–cell interactions in the development of the mouse cerebellum. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Changes in the probability of extreme daily precipitation observed from 1951 to 2002 in the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Rodrigo F. S.
Published: August 2009

In this study trends in the probability of extreme rainfall in the Iberian Peninsula at a daily scale from 1951 to 2002 have been analysed. A simple statistical model of daily precipitation based on the gamma distribution is applied to data from 22 stations in the Iberian Peninsula from 1951 to 2002. The Mann–Kendall test was applied to look for trends of the distribution parameters. It is shown that the scale parameter remains stable, while the shape parameter is most variable, spatially and temporally, with significant negative trends in many stations. As a consequence, the trend of the probability of daily rainfall lesser than the 5th percentile is positive, mainly to the north and to the south of the Iberian Peninsula; meanwhile the probability of daily rainfall higher than the 95th percentile is negative. This behaviour, with slight spatial differences, is observed in the four seasons of the year. Results corresponding to the probability of heavy rainfalls are confirmed using the stretched exponential distribution. The possible influence of teleconnection patterns (North Atlantic Oscillation, East Atlantic, Mediterranean Oscillation pattern) is analysed calculating the correlation coefficients between teleconnection indices and the gamma distribution parameters. The winter NAO index shows significant relationships with the scale parameter, but not with the shape parameter. The East Atlantic pattern shows significant correlation coefficients with the shape parameter of 5 stations in winter, and 5 stations in autumn, but these results are not conclusive. These results suggest that the decrease of this parameter, and the behaviour of extreme rainfall probabilities, must be explained by other mechanisms. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Skeletal effects of whole‐body vibration in adult and aged mice
Authors: Lynch Michelle A. , Brodt Michael D. , Silva Matthew J.
Published: August 2009

Low‐amplitude, whole‐body vibration (WBV) may be anabolic for bone. Animal studies of WBV have not evaluated skeletal effects in aged animals. We exposed 75 male BALB/c mice (7 month/young‐adult; 22 month/aged) to 5 weeks of daily WBV (15 min/day, 5 day/wk; 90 Hz sine wave) at acceleration amplitudes of 0 (sham), 0.3, or 1.0 g. Whole‐body bone mineral content (BMC) increased with time in 7 month (p < 0.001) but not 22 month (p = 0.34) mice, independent of WBV (p = 0.60). In 7 month mice, lower‐leg BMC increased with time in 0.3 and 1.0 g groups (p < 0.005) but not in the sham group (p = 0.09), indicating a positive WBV effect. In 22 month mice, there were no changes with time in lower‐leg BMC (p = 0.11). WBV did not affect tibial trabecular or cortical bone structure (by µCT), dynamic indices of trabecular or cortical bone formation, trabecular osteoclast surface, or the mass of the reproductive fat pad (p > 0.05). Each of these outcomes was diminished in 7 month versus 22 month animals (p < 0.05). In summary, 5 weeks of daily exposure to low‐amplitude WBV had no skeletal effects in aged male mice. The potential of WBV to enhance bone mass in age‐related osteoporosis is not supported in this preclinical study. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 28:241–247, 2010
Phenolic compounds and fatty acid composition of organic and conventional grown pecan kernels
Authors: Malik Nasir SA , Perez Jose L , Lombardini Leonardo , Cornacchia Rosaria , Cisneros‐Zevallos Luis , Braford Joe
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND: In this study, differences in contents of phenolic compounds and fatty acids in pecan kernels of organically versus conventionally grown pecan cultivars (Cheyenne, Desirable, and Wichita) were evaluated.

RESULTS: Although nine phenolic compounds (gallic acid, catechol, catechin, epicatechin, m‐coumaric acid, chlorogenic acid, ellagic acid, caffeic acid and an ellagic acid derivative) were identified in the methanol extract (80% methanol) of defatted kernels, only three compounds (gallic acid, catechin and ellagic acid) existed in sufficient amounts to accurately quantify levels in different cultivars and to study differences in organic versus conventional cultivation. Levels of ellagic acid and catechin found in organically grown ‘Desirable’ were fourfold and twofold higher than in conventional samples, respectively. Furthermore, significant differences in these two compounds were also observed when comparing values between cultivars. Oil content was also significantly greater only in organically grown ‘Desirable’. Oleic acid was the major fatty acid present and its content was significantly higher in organically versus conventionally grown ‘Desirable’ pecans, while there was no difference in levels of oleic acid in ‘Wichita’ and ‘Cheyenne’. On the other hand, linoleic acid content was significantly less in organically versus conventionally grown ‘Desirable’ pecans.

CONCLUSION: Overall, these results showed that the effects of cultural differences (i.e. organic versus conventional cultivation) on kernel composition largely depend on the type of pecan cultivar. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Antioxidant content of edible sprouts: effects of environmental shocks
Authors: Oh Myung‐Min , Rajashekar C. B.
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND: Edible sprouts are thought to be rich in health‐promoting phytochemicals that are known to prevent a number of chronic and degenerative diseases. In mature plants, environmental shocks have been used to enhance health‐promoting phytochemicals. The primary objective of this study was to use environmental shocks involving high light and chilling in sprouts of alfalfa, broccoli and radish to improve their phenolic composition.

RESULTS: Young sprouts had high total phenolic content and correspondingly high antioxidant capacity, both of which declined sharply with plant age. Exposure of sprouts to high light or chilling resulted in higher total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity compared with untreated controls. During recovery following shock treatments, high light produced a stronger response in increasing the levels of individual phenolic compounds. Alfalfa sprouts subjected to high light and chilling accumulated about 2.0 and 1.5 times significantly higher concentration of ferulic acid respectively, while high light induced 83% more sinapic acid in broccoli sprouts compared with untreated controls. Myricetin, while not detected in 5‐day‐old control or chilling‐treated radish sprouts, accumulated in response to high light. Environmental shocks did not adversely affect the dry biomass accumulation.

CONCLUSION: Environmental shocks involving high light and chilling enhanced the antioxidant phenolic content in sprouts of alfalfa, broccoli and radish, suggesting that this approach can be successfully used to enhance the health‐promoting qualities of these sprouts. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Humor and ad liking: Evidence that sensation seeking moderates the effects of incongruity‐resolution humor
Authors: Galloway Graeme
Published: August 2009

It is widely reported that humorous ads are better liked and therefore more effective than are non‐humorous ones. This study examines whether the liking advantage associated with ads containing incongruity‐resolution humor depends on sensation seeking. Higher sensation seekers are assumed to enjoy arousal induction because they are lower in base arousal level. From this it can be predicted that ads containing incongruity‐resolution humor will not be liked better by such people than will equivalently arousing non‐humorous ads. However, the higher base arousal assumed to characterize lower sensation seekers is claimed to be associated with a preference for reduction of induced arousal. Incongruity‐resolution humor provides a mechanism for reduction of the arousal occasioned by the incongruity. As a result, it is expected that lower sensation seekers will like ads containing such humor more than non‐humorous ads matched in arousal to the humorous ones. The results support those suggestions. The relevance of the findings for advertising is discussed, and requirements for further research are indicated. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The reflection effect in time‐related decisions
Authors: Zushi Nobuhide , Curlo Eleonora , Thomas Gloria P.
Published: August 2009

Despite the intuitive appeal of conceptualizing time as a resource, like money, to which prospect theory should apply, the application of prospect theory to time‐related decisions has met with mixed results. Existing literature has failed repeatedly to find evidence of loss aversion and the characteristic reflection effect in the realm of time, leading researchers to conclude that consumers have an overriding preference for certainty with respect to time, unlike other resources. This article presents evidence to the contrary. Drawing on literature from organizational behavior, the authors posit that consumers' schedules provide the reference points necessary to produce the reflection effect in time‐related decisions. Two experimental studies support this expectation. Potential rationales and limiting conditions are explored. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cell surface changes in the egg at fertilization
Authors: Wessel Gary M. , Wong Julian L.
Published: August 2009

An egg changes dramatically at fertilization. These changes include its developmental potential, its physiology, its gene expression profile, and its cell surface. This review highlights the changes in the cell surface of the egg that occur in response to sperm. These changes include modifications to the extracellular matrix, to the plasma membrane, and to the secretory vesicles whose contents direct many of these events. In some species, these changes occur within minutes of fertilization, and are sufficiently dramatic so that they can be seen by the light microscope. Many of these morphological changes were documented in remarkable detail early in the 1900s by Ernest Everett Just. A recent conference in honor of his contributions stimulated this overview. We highlight the major cell surface changes that occur in echinoderms, one of Just's preferred research organisms. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 76: 942–953, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Elements of a function analytic approach to probability
Authors: Red‐Horse John R. , Ghanem Roger G.
Published: August 2009

Three hundred‐plus years of successful theoretical development and application of probability theory provide sufficient justification for it as the mathematical context in which to analyze the uncertainty in the performance of engineering and scientific systems. In this document, we propose a joint probabilistic and deterministic function analytic approach as the means for the development of advanced techniques that feature a strong connection between classical deterministic and probabilistic methods. We know of no other means to achieve simultaneous, balanced approximations across these two constituents. We present foundational materials on the general approach to particular aspects of functional analysis, which are relevant to probability, and emphasize the common elements it shares, and the close connections it provides, to various classical deterministic mathematical analysis elements. Finally, we describe how to use the joint approach as a means to augment deterministic analysis methods in a particular Hilbert space context, and thus enable a rigorous framework for commingling deterministic and probabilistic analysis tools in an application setting. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A bilinear shell element based on a refined shallow shell model
Authors: Niemi Antti H.
Published: August 2009

A four‐node shell finite element of arbitrary quadrilateral shape is developed and applied to the solution of static and vibration problems. The element incorporates five generalized degrees of freedom per node, namely the three displacements of the curved middle surface and the two rotations of its normal vector. The stiffness properties of the element are defined using isoparametric principles in a local co‐ordinate system with axes approximately parallel to the edges of the element. The formulation is based on a modern, refined variant of the shallow shell models found from the classical books on shell theory. In addition, the bending behavior of the element is improved with numerical modifications, which include mixed interpolation of the membrane and transverse shear strains. The numerical experiments show that the element is able to compete in accuracy with the highly reputable bilinear elements of the commercial codes ABAQUS and ADINA. The new formulation even outperforms its commercial rivals in problems with strong layers such as vibration problems or problems with concentrated loads. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The lobbyist with ‘balls of iron and a spine of steel’: why Ireland needs lobbying reform
Authors: McGrath Conor
Published: August 2009

In common with most other nations, Ireland currently has no statutory regulation of lobbying activities. Equally, and also in common with many countries, lobbying regulation is becoming a more prominent subject of political debate. This paper considers the pervasive context of political corruption and scandal highlighted by one lobbyist now in jail, analyses various suggestions for lobbying regulation which have been proposed, and concludes with a potential reform agenda. The opportunity exists for Ireland to take a lead in producing a comprehensive and meaningful regulatory regime—genuine and principled reform, rather than a muddled compromise.

Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In situ crosslinked hydrogels formed using Cu(I)‐free Huisgen cycloaddition reaction
Authors: Clark Meredith , Kiser Patrick
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND: ‘Click’ chemistry, or the 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of organic azides with alkynes, has been evaluated for many biomedical purposes; however, its utility in crosslinking hydrogels in situ is limited by the toxicity of the requisite copper(I) catalyst. We report the first use of catalyst‐free Huisgen cycloaddition to generate crosslinked hydrogels under physiological conditions using multivalent azide‐functionalized polymers and an electron‐deficient dialkyne crosslinker.

RESULTS: Water‐soluble azide‐functionalized polymers were crosslinked with an electron‐deficient dialkyne crosslinker to form hydrogels at physiological temperature without the addition of copper(I) catalyst. Crosslinking was confirmed using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared and 1H NMR analyses. Flow by vial inversion and dynamic rheological methodologies were implemented to evaluate gelation kinetics at 37 °C of variable polymer compositions, concentrations and stoichiometric ratios. Kinetic studies revealed gelation in as little as 12 h at 37 °C, although strong gels that withstand inversion were observed by 1–8 days.

CONCLUSION: The ability to form hydrogel networks under mild conditions demonstrates the potential viability of the catalyst‐free ‘click’ crosslinking chemistry for in situ gelling and other biological applications. Further chemical modifications in the crosslinking moieties, as well as polymer and crosslinker conformations, are expected to enhance gelation kinetics to a more biomedically practical rate. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
A new approach for detecting C‐terminal amidation of proteins and peptides by mass spectrometry in conjunction with chemical derivatization
Authors: Kuyama Hiroki , Nakajima Chihiro , Nakazawa Takashi , Nishimura Osamu , Tsunasawa Susumu
Published: August 2009

We describe a mass spectrometric method for distinguishing between free and modified forms of the C‐terminal carboxyl group of peptides and proteins, in combination with chemical approaches for the isolation of C‐terminal peptides and site‐specific derivatization of the C‐terminal carboxyl group. This method could most advantageously be exploited to discriminate between peptides having C‐terminal carboxyl groups in the free (COOH) and amide (CONH2) forms by increasing their mass difference from 1 to 14 Da by selectively converting the free carboxyl group into methylamide (CONHCH3). This method has been proven to be applicable to peptides containing aspartic and glutamic acids, because all the carboxyl groups except the C‐terminal one are inert to derivatization, according to oxazolone chemistry. The efficiency of the method is illustrated by a comparison of the peaks of processed peptides obtained from a mixture of adrenomedullin, calcitonin, and BSA. Among these components of the mixture, only the C‐terminal peptide of BSA exhibited the mass shift of 13 Da upon treatment, eventually unambiguously validating the C‐terminal amide structures of adrenomedullin and calcitonin. The possibility of extending this method for the analysis of C‐terminal PTMs is also discussed.
A novel type of optically active helical liquid crystalline polymers: Synthesis and characterization of poly(p‐phenylene)s containing terphenyl mesogen with different terminal groups
Authors: Chen Lie , Chen Yiwang , Yao Kai , Zhou Weihua , Li Fan , Chen Liping , Hu Rongrong , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: August 2009

Series of poly(p‐phenylene)s (PPPs) containing terphenyl mesogenic pendants with cyano and methoxy terminal groups by flexible COO(CH2)6O bridge [P(CN) and P(OCH3)] are synthesized through Yamamoto polycondensation with Ni‐based complex catalysts. The effects of the structural variation on their properties, especially their mesomorphism, ultraviolet–visible (UV), and photoluminescence behaviors, are studied. All of the polymers are stable, losing little of their weights when heated to ≥340 °C. The polymers show good solubility and can be dissolved in common solvents. P(CN) with cyano terminal group shows enantiotropic SmAd phase with bilayer packing arrangement, while P(OCH3) with methoxy terminal group readily forms nematic and SmAd phase when heated and cooled. Photoexcitation of their solutions induces strong blue light emission. Compared with P(OCH3), the light‐emitting bands of polymer P(CN) is slightly redshifted to 428 nm and the emission intensity of P(CN) is much stronger, due to the existence of donor–acceptor pairs. More interestingly, both of the polymers exhibit obvious Cotton effect on the CD spectra, resulting from the predominant screw sense of the backbone. This indicates that the bulky mesogenic pendant orientating around the backbone will force the main chain with helical conformation in the long region due to steric crowdedness. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4723–4735, 2009
A wide band gap polymer derived from 3,6‐carbazole and tetraphenylsilane as host for green and blue phosphorescent complexes
Authors: Fei Teng , Cheng Gang , Hu Dehua , Lu Ping , Ma Yuguang
Published: August 2009

We have synthesized a novel wide band gap polymer P36HCTPSi derived from 3,6‐carbazole and tetraphenylsilane by palladium‐catalyzed Suzuki coupling reaction. The resultant polymer shows a high glass transition temperature (217 °C) and good thermal stability. The conjugation length of P36HCTPSi is effectively confined because of the δ‐Si interrupted polymer backbone. The polymer exhibits a violet emission with a peak at 392 nm in solution, and the band gap estimated from the onset of its absorption is 3.26 eV. The high energy emission and wide band gap of P36HCTPSi make it appropriate host for green and blue emission phosphorescent materials. Efficient energy transfers from P36HCTPSi to both fac‐tris[2‐(2‐pyridyl‐kN)‐5‐methylphenyl]iridium(III) (green emission) and bis[(4,6‐difluorophenyl)pyridinato‐N,C2]‐(picolinato)iridium(III) (blue emission) were observed in photoluminescence (PL) spectra. Highly efficient phosphorescent polymer light‐emitting devices were realized by using P36HCTPSi as the host for iridium complexes, the maximum luminous efficiencies for green and blue devices were 27.6 and 3.4 cd/A, respectively. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4784–4792, 2009
Sequential photodecomposition of bisacylgermane type photoinitiator: Synthesis of block copolymers by combination of free radical promoted cationic and free radical polymerization mechanisms
Authors: Durmaz Yasemin Yuksel , Kukut Manolya , Moszner Norbert , Yagci Yusuf
Published: August 2009

A block copolymer of cyclohexene oxide (CHO) and styrene (St) was prepared by using bifunctional visible light photoinitiator dibenzoyldiethylgermane (DBDEG) via a two‐step procedure. The bifunctionality of the photoinitiator pertains to the sequential photodecomposition of DBDEG through acyl germane bonds. In the first step, photoinitiated free radical promoted cationic polymerization of CHO using DBDEG in the presence of diphenyliodonium hexafluorophosphate (Ph2I+PF) was carried out to yield polymers with photoactive monobenzoyl germane end groups. These poly(cyclohexene oxide) (PCHO) prepolymers were used to induce photoinitiated free radical polymerization of styrene (St) resulting in the formation of poly(cyclohexene oxide‐block‐styrene) (P(CHO‐b‐St)). Successful blocking has been confirmed by a strong change in the molecular weight of the prepolymer and the block copolymer as well as NMR, IR, and DSC spectral measurements. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4793–4799, 2009
Chlorotitanium (IV) tetradentate Schiff‐base complex immobilized on inorganic supports: Support type and other factors having effect on ethylene polymerization activity
Authors: BiaŁek Marzena , GarŁowska Anna , Liboska Ozanna
Published: August 2009

A titanium complex with [O,N,N,O]‐type tetradentate Schiff base (LTiCl2), never used before in polymerization of olefins, was immobilized on silica‐ and magnesium‐type carriers, and it was used in ethylene polymerization. The conducted research revealed that the catalytic properties of the complex LTiCl2 supported on those carriers were different for both the catalytic systems studied, and simultaneously they turned out different from those of the unsupported system. The supported catalysts require the use of Me3Al, Et3Al, or MAO as the activator to be able to offer high catalytic activities, whereas Et2AlCl is needed for the nonsupported catalyst. This finding, together with considerable changes in polymerization yields and in properties of polymers versus composition of the catalytic system, suggest that there are different types of active sites in the studied catalysts. The catalyst anchored on the carrier produced in the reaction of MgCl2·3.4EtOH with Et2AlCl is definitely the most active one within the support systems tested. Its activity remarkably increases with the increasing reaction temperature. Moreover, that catalyst does not undergo deactivation over the studied period of time, irrespective of the type of the activator used and of the process temperature. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4811–4821, 2009
Issues and methods in disparities research: The Rhode Island–Puerto Rico asthma center
Authors: Canino Glorisa , McQuaid Elizabeth L. , Alvarez Maria , Colon Angel , Esteban Cynthia , Febo Vivian , Klein Robert B. , Mitchell Daphne Koinis , Kopel Sheryl J. , Montealegre Federico , Ortega Alexander N. , Rodriguez‐Santana Jose , Seifer Ronald , Fritz Gregory K.
Published: August 2009

Background

Epidemiologic studies have documented higher rates of asthma prevalence and morbidity in minority children compared to non‐Latino white (NLW) children. Few studies focus on the mechanisms involved in explaining this disparity, and fewer still on the methodological challenges involved in rigorous disparities research.

Objectives and Methods

This article provides an overview of challenges and potential solutions to research design for studies of health disparities. The methodological issues described in this article were framed on an empirical model of asthma health disparities that views disparities as resulting from several factors related to the healthcare system and the individual/community system. The methods used in the Rhode Island–Puerto Rico Asthma Center are provided as examples, illustrating the challenges in executing disparities research.

Results

Several methods are described: distinguishing ethnic/racial differences from methodological artifacts, identifying and adapting culturally sensitive measures to explain disparities, and addressing the challenges involved in determining asthma and its severity in Latino and other minority children. The measures employed are framed within each of the components of the conceptual model presented.

Conclusions

Understanding ethnic and/or cultural disparities in asthma morbidity is a complicated process. Methodologic approaches to studying the problem must reflect this complexity, allowing us to move from documenting disparities to understanding them, and ultimately to reducing them. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2009; 44:899–908. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Protein flexibility from discrete molecular dynamics simulations using quasi‐physical potentials
Authors: Emperador Agustí , Meyer Tim , Orozco Modesto
Published: August 2009

We have applied all atoms discrete molecular dynamics (DMD) based on a quasi‐physical potential to study the flexibility of an extended set of proteins for which atomistic MD simulations are available. The method uses pure physical potentials supplemented by information on secondary structure and despite its simplicity is able to reproduce with good accuracy the dynamics of proteins in solution. The method presents a clear improvement with respect to coarse‐grained methods based on structure potentials and opens the possibility to explore dynamics of proteins out from the equilibrium and to trace conformational changes induced by interaction of proteins with both small and macromolecular ligands. Proteins 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The energetics of the acetylation switch in p53‐mediated transcriptional activation
Authors: Eichenbaum Kenneth D. , Rodríguez Yoel , Mezei Mihaly , Osman Roman
Published: August 2009

Targeted therapeutic intervention in receptor‐ligand interactions of p53‐mediated tumor suppression can impact progression of disease, aging, and variation in genetic expression. Here, we conducted a number of molecular simulations, based on structures of p53 in complex with its transcriptional coactivating CBP bromodomain, determined by NMR spectroscopy, to investigate the energetics of the binding complex. Building on the observation that acetylation of K382 in p53 serves as the essential triggering switch for a specific interaction with CBP, we assessed the differential effect of acetylation on binding from simulations of an octapeptide derived from p53 with acetylated and nonacetylated K382 (residues 379–386). Cluster analysis of the simulations shows that acetylation of the free peptide does not significantly change the population of the preferred conformation of the peptide in solution for binding to CBP. Conversion of the acetylated K382 to nonacetylated form with free energy perturbation (FEP) simulations of the p53 CBP complex and the free peptide showed that the relative contribution of the acetyl group to binding is 4.8 kcal/mol. An analysis of residue contributions to the binding energy using an MM‐GBSA approach agrees with the FEP results and sheds additional light on the origin of selectivity in p53 binding to the CBP bromodomain. Proteins 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Thermal stability of the Al2O3 passivation on p‐type silicon surfaces for solar cell applications
Authors: Benick Jan , Richter Armin , Hermle Martin , Glunz Stefan W.
Published: August 2009

Al2O3 has been shown to provide an outstanding passivation quality on p‐type surfaces after annealing at moderate temperatures (∼425 °C). However, most industrial silicon solar cells are based on printing technologies for metallization, including a high temperature firing step for the contact formation. To investigate the thermal stability of the Al2O3 passivation, symmetrical p and p+ np+ lifetime samples were coated with Al2O3 and exposed to typical firing processes at temperatures between 700 °C and 850 °C. Up to a firing temperature of 825 °C the Al2O3 passivation is shown to be stable on highly boron‐doped surfaces. An emitter saturation current density of ∼60 fA/cm2 could be measured for the p+ np+ samples, allowing a maximum open circuit voltage (Voc) >695 mV. The firing stability of the Al2O3 is an important step for the realization of an industrial n‐type silicon solar cell. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Caffeic acid phenethyl ester, a component of beehive propolis, is a novel selective estrogen receptor modulator
Authors: Jung Bo‐in , Kim Min‐su , Kim Hyun‐Ae , Kim Dasom , Yang Jiwon , Her Song , Song Yun Seon
Published: August 2009

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) is an active ingredient of beehive propolis with a structure similar to phenolic acid. The estrogenic effects of propolis were previously demonstrated through the activation of an estrogen receptor. To identify the estrogenic properties of propolis, CAPE was evaluated using in vitro and in vivo methods. CAPE showed selective binding affinity to human estrogen receptor β (hERβ) rather than hERα. CAPE also reduced ERα expression in MCF‐7 and MDA 231 cells. In the yeast estrogen receptor transcription assay, CAPE produced the transcriptional activity of estrogen‐responsive element with EC50 values of 3.72 × 10−6 M. CAPE did not increase the growth of MCF‐7 estrogen receptor‐positive breast cancer cells in doses ranging from 10−7 to 10−5 M. In order to understand how CAPE acts in animals, CAPE was tested by a uterotrophic bioassay. Treatment with CAPE (100, 500 mg/kg) did not increase the uterine weight relative to 3 μg/kg 17β‐estradiol treatment. The results indicate that CAPE, which is a selective agonist to hERβ, but does not show any estrogenic effect on estrogen receptor‐positive breast cancer cells and in immature rat uterine tissue, is a potential selective estrogen receptor modulator. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Global Expression Profile of Highly Enriched Cardiomyocytes Derived from Human Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Xu Xiu Qin , Soo Set Yen , Sun William , Zweigerdt Robert
Published: August 2009

Human embryonic stem cells (hESC), with their ability to differentiate into cardiomyocytes in culture, hold great potential for cell replacement therapies and provide an in vitro model of human heart development. A genomewide characterization of the molecular phenotype of hESC-derived cardiomyocytes is important for their envisioned applications. We have employed a lineage selection strategy to generate a pure population of cardiomyocytes (>99%) from transgenic hESC lines. Global gene expression profiling showed that these cardiomyocytes are distinct from pluripotent and differentiated hESC cultures. Pure cardiomyocytes displayed similarities with heart tissue, but in many aspects presented an individual transcriptome pattern. A subset of 1,311 cardiac-enriched transcripts was identified, which were significantly overpresented (p < .01) in the Gene Ontology (GO) categories of heart function and heart development. Focused analysis of the GO categories ion transport, sarcomere, and heart development uncovered a unique molecular signature of hESC cardiomyocytes. Pathway analysis revealed an extensive cardiac transcription factor network and novel peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor signaling components within the cardiac-enriched genes. Notably, approximately 80% of these genes were previously uncharacterized. We have evaluated the biological relevance of four candidates—Rbm24, Tcea3, Fhod3, and C15orf52—by in situ hybridization during early mouse development and report that all were prominently expressed in cardiac structures. Our results provide the fundamental basis for a comprehensive understanding of gene expression patterns of hESC cardiomyocytes and will greatly help define biological processes and signaling pathways involved in hESC cardiomyogenic differentiation and in human heart development.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Targeting Interleukin 6 Signaling Suppresses Glioma Stem Cell Survival and Tumor Growth
Authors: Wang Hui , Lathia Justin D. , Wu Qiulian , Wang Jialiang , Li Zhizhong , Heddleston John M. , Eyler Christine E. , Elderbroom Jennifer , Gallagher Joseph , Schuschu Jesse , MacSwords Jennifer , Cao Yiting , McLendon Roger E. , Wang Xiao-Fan , Hjelmeland Anita B. , Rich Jeremy N.
Published: August 2009

Glioblastomas are the most common and most lethal primary brain tumor. Recent studies implicate an important role for a restricted population of neoplastic cells (glioma stem cells (GSCs)) in glioma maintenance and recurrence. We now demonstrate that GSCs preferentially express two interleukin 6 (IL6) receptors: IL6 receptor alpha (IL6Rα) and glycoprotein 130 (gp130). Targeting IL6Rα or IL6 ligand expression in GSCs with the use of short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) significantly reduces growth and neurosphere formation capacity while increasing apoptosis. Perturbation of IL6 signaling in GSCs attenuates signal transducers and activators of transcription three (STAT3) activation, and small molecule inhibitors of STAT3 potently induce GSC apoptosis. These data indicate that STAT3 is a downstream mediator of prosurvival IL6 signals in GSCs. Targeting of IL6Rα or IL6 expression in GSCs increases the survival of mice bearing intracranial human glioma xenografts. IL6 is clinically significant because elevated IL6 ligand and receptor expression are associated with poor glioma patient survival. The potential utility of anti-IL6 therapies is demonstrated by decreased growth of subcutaneous human GSC-derived xenografts treated with IL6 antibody. Together, our data indicate that IL6 signaling contributes to glioma malignancy through the promotion of GSC growth and survival, and that targeting IL6 may offer benefit for glioma patients.
Test‐based accountability: Potential benefits and pitfalls of science assessment with student diversity
Authors: Penfield Randall D. , Lee Okhee
Published: August 2009

Recent test‐based accountability policy in the U.S. has involved annually assessing all students in core subjects and holding schools accountable for adequate progress of all students by implementing sanctions when adequate progress is not met. Despite its potential benefits, basing educational policy on assessments developed for a student population of White, middle‐ and upper‐class, and native speakers of English opens the door for numerous pitfalls when the assessments are applied to minority populations including students of color, low SES, and learning English as a new language. There exists a paradox; while minority students are a primary intended beneficiary of the test‐based accountability policy, the assessments used in the policy have been shown to have many shortcomings when applied to these students. This article weighs the benefits and pitfalls that test‐based accountability brings for minority students. Resolutions to the pitfalls are discussed, and areas for future research are recommended. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 47: 6–24, 2010
The development of dynamic inquiry performances within an open inquiry setting: A comparison to guided inquiry setting
Authors: Sadeh Irit , Zion Michal
Published: August 2009

Dynamic inquiry learning emphasizes aspects of change, intellectual flexibility, and critical thinking. Dynamic inquiry learning is characterized by the following criteria: learning as a process, changes during the inquiry, procedural understanding, and affective points of view. This study compared the influence of open versus guided inquiry learning approaches on dynamic inquiry performances among high‐school biology students. We hypothesized that open inquiry students who engage in the inquiry process from its initial stage, participating in the decision making process of asking inquiry questions and planning all aspects of the inquiry, will outperform students who experienced guided inquiry, in terms of developing dynamic inquiry performances. Students were divided into two groups: guided and open inquiry learning approaches. Both groups were followed throughout their 2‐year inquiry learning process. The data sources included interviews, students' inquiry summary papers, logbooks, and reflections. A quantitative content analysis of the two groups, using a dynamic inquiry performances index, revealed that open inquiry students used significantly higher levels of performances in the criteria “changes during inquiry” and “procedural understanding.” However, the study's results indicated no significant differences in the criteria “learning as a process” and “affective points of view.” The implementation of dynamic inquiry performances during inquiry learning may shed light on the procedural and epistemological scientific understanding of students conducting inquiries. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 46: 1137–1160, 2009
Oncoplastic Techniques Extend Breast‐Conserving Surgery to Patients with Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Response Unfit for Conventional Techniques
Authors: Regaño Sara , Hernanz Fernando , Ortega Estrella , Redondo‐Figuero Carlos , Gómez‐Fleitas Manuel
Published: August 2009

Background

Oncoplastic surgery is extending the role of breast‐conserving surgery in an increasing number of patients who are unsuitable for conventional breast‐conserving techniques. The aim of this retrospective study was to analyze the surgical approach, oncoplastic surgery guided by bracketing, used in the treatment of patients who required a wide breast tissue excision after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The parameters evaluated were as follows: margin status, rate of re‐excision for positive margin, early ipsilateral recurrence, and cosmetic outcomes.

Methods

A total of 23 patients were treated with an oncoplastic breast‐conserving surgery one‐stage procedure using volume‐replacement (20) and volume‐displacement techniques (3). We reviewed medical records, mammograms and magnetic resonance images. Cosmetic assessment was carried out by a mixed panel made up of three women: a general practitioner, a resident general surgeon and a nurse.

Results

All margins were negative and none of the patients had to have a re‐excision for positive margins. One ipsilateral local recurrence was observed after a 32‐month follow‐up period. Cosmetic outcome was good, with an overall score of 8 out of 10.

Conclusions

Oncoplastic techniques extend breast‐conserving surgery to patients with neoadjuvant chemotherapy response unfit for conventional techniques. The surgical approach combining oncoplastic techniques with bracketing allows breast‐conserving surgery to be performed in these patients.
Heat shock protein 60: Evidence for receptor‐mediated induction of proinflammatory mediators during adipocyte differentiation
Authors: Gülden Elke , Märker Tina , Kriebel Jennifer , Kolb-Bachofen Victoria , Burkart Volker , Habich Christiane
Published: August 2009

Adipocytes play important roles in lipid metabolism but also in the control of inflammatory processes. Based on our previous findings of heat shock protein (Hsp) 60‐induced activation of preadipocytes we investigated whether the capacity of heat shock protein 60 (Hsp60) to interact with adipocytes and to stimulate their proinflammatory activity is determined by the differentiation state of the cells. Hsp60 bound to adipocytes and stimulated the release of inflammatory mediators independent of their differentiation state. Hsp60‐adipocyte interactions revealed basic characteristics of a receptor‐mediated process. Our findings characterize Hsp60 binding and Hsp60‐induced release of proinflammatory mediators as fundamental properties of adipocytes independent of their differentiation state.
Tyrosine kinase inhibition: Ligand binding and conformational change in c‐Kit and c‐Abl
Authors: Healy Eamonn F. , Johnson Skylar , Hauser Charles R. , King Peter J.
Published: August 2009

The conformational flexibility exhibited by protein kinases poses an enormous challenge to the design of cancer therapeutics. Additionally the high degree of structural conservation within the kinase superfamily often leads to inhibitors that exhibit little selectivity and substantial cross reactivity. This work investigates the conformational changes that accompany the binding of Gleevec, or imatinib mesylate, to the tyrosine kinases c‐Kit and c‐Abl. Our analysis is that this fit is driven, at least in part, by the need to exclude water from solvent‐exposed backbone hydrogen bonds. Both experimental and molecular modeling studies of the active state inhibitor of the tyrosine kinase c‐Abl indicate that solvent exclusion also plays a role in this system.
Glucose induces FGF21 mRNA expression through ChREBP activation in rat hepatocytes
Authors: Iizuka Katsumi , Takeda Jun , Horikawa Yukio
Published: August 2009

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) has beneficial effects of improving the plasma glucose and lipid profiles in diabetic rodents. Here, we investigated carbohydrate response element binding protein (ChREBP) involvement in the regulation of FGF21 mRNA expression in liver. Glucose stimulation and adenoviral overexpression of dominant active ChREBP increased FGF21 mRNA. Consistently, adenoviral expression of dominant negative Mlx inhibited glucose induction of FGF21 mRNA. Furthermore, deletion studies of mouse FGF21 gene promoter (−2000 to +65 bp) revealed a glucose responsive region between −74 and −52 bp. These findings suggest that FGF21 expression is regulated by ChREBP.
N9L and L9N mutations toggle Hha binding and hemolysin regulation by Escherichia coli and Vibrio cholerae H‐NS
Authors: García Jesús , Madrid Cristina , Cendra Mar , Juárez Antonio , Pons Miquel
Published: August 2009

Proteins of the Hha/YmoA family co‐regulate with H‐NS the expression of virulence factors in Enterobacteriaceae. Vibrio cholerae lacks Hha‐like proteins and its H‐NS (vcH‐NS) is unable to bind Hha, in spite of the conservation of a key residue for Hha binding by Escherichia coli H‐NS (ecH‐NS). Exchange of the residues in position 9 between vcH‐NS and ecH‐NS strongly reduces Hha binding by ecH‐NS and introduces it in vcH‐NS. These mutations strongly affect the repression of the hemolysin operon in E. coli and the electrophoretic mobility of complexes formed with a DNA fragment containing its regulatory region.
A comparison of 24 h urinary deoxynivalenol with recent v. average cereal consumption for UK adults
Authors: Turner Paul C. , Taylor Elizabeth F. , White Kay L. M. , Cade Janet E. , Wild Christopher P.
Published: August 2009

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a toxic fungal metabolite found on wheat, maize and barley. We previously reported a significant association between the amount of DON in a single 24 h urine sample and the average cereal intake over 7 d for 300 UK adults. In this more detailed analysis of the data, food diary information (n 255) for the day of urine collection (model I), the previous 24 h period (model II) and the day of urine collection plus the previous 24 h combined (model III) were further examined to assess whether the recent intake of cereal correlated more strongly with urinary DON, compared with the longer-term assessment of usual cereal intake from 7 d food diaries (model IV). DON was detected in 254/255 (99·6 %) urine samples (mean 12·0 μg/d; range not detected–66 μg/d). For all the models, total cereal intake was positively associated with urinary DON (P < 0·001) in each model. The goodness of fit (adjusted R2 value) was used to assess how well each model explained the variation in urinary DON. Model I provided a better goodness of fit (adjusted R2 0·22) than model IV (adjusted R2 0·19), whereas model III provided the best fit (adjusted R2 0·27). These data suggest that the inter-individual variation in urinary DON was somewhat better explained by recent cereal intake compared with usual cereal intake assessed over 7 d.